Cherish Me as I Cherish You- it only gets better with time

Cherish Me

If you had five minutes to evacuate your home in case of a fire, what would you choose to take with you? Living out here in the Mountain West, every summer families, unfortunately, need to make that difficult decision. A few minutes to pack your vehicle (out here the ranchers call them "rigs") and to escape a raging inferno. So, think about it for a moment. What would you leave behind to perish, and what would you value enough to take with you? Or, to use another descriptive word, what do you cherish?

Most families leave big screen flat screen television sets- too bulky. With insurance, we can replace all the gadgets and appliances. But, those irreplaceable items like the family albums filled with memories that we cherish is what most people choose to save as they evacuate their home.

Cherish- that is my word for the day. Cherish is a word that I seldom spoke even though it was always in my working vocabulary. But when Mary, wife of fifty years and lover of good fiction, discovered the word "cherish" in one of her favorite series, "The Mitford Years", by Jan Karon, the word cherish has become more frequently spoken in our home. In the book, a young couple preparing to wed are counseled that the secret of a long, happy marriage is the word cherish. 

Now I have several things that I value. I often say I love my truck, but if I had to leave it in the garage if the house was on fire, I wouldn't hesitate a moment. A few years ago, I received a KitchenAid mixer. It remains one of my favorite gifts in recent memory (it has to be recent because I forget so much anymore). I love to watch the dough hook turn and twist and kneed that whole wheat bread dough. But, the KitchenAid mixer would not be on my "cherish" list of things to save. 

Isn't it strange, that some of the least expensive and simplest items are what we learn to cherish? Usually these are things that have sentimental value. Often the older the item is the more we have come to cherish it. That is the way with marriage.

Mary and I have shared life- both good times and painful times- for over a half-century. In our retirement years we have enjoyed several memorable long road trips in our truck. Recently we returned from a 5,670 mile trip through the Midwest and then back to our beloved Oregon country. The last two days of the trip Mary began to feel ill. All she wanted when we stopped to eat each night was a bowl of chicken noodle soup. Now for the past two weeks Mary's condition has worsened. She finally went to her physician a week ago today and received a couple of prescriptions. But, she still struggles with nausea. Her severe coughing spells seem endless. She is tired and very weak. I know that it true because she even asked if I would clean the bathroom last week. That is significant because Mary prides herself in doing her homemaking chores. She seems to feel guilty when I just pitch in and do chores around the house. Frankly, I enjoy helping around the home, but when Mary asks for help I know she is very weary.

But after all, what else does an old retired preacher have to do? No more days in the office. No more sermons always in the incubator preparing for the next Sunday. So, all this chatter is just to make a point about the word of the day, "cherish".

Why do I want to help Mary with housekeeping and cooking? Honestly, I like to cook and bake, but that is not why I chose to do it these past two weeks. I want to prepare meals, to refill her ice-water glass, to fetch her medicine etc. I want to do these things because I cherish her!

Yes, I also do these things because that is what I said I would do when I held her hand and vowed to "love her like Christ loves the church and gave Himself up for her." So, in a manner of speaking, I am just doing what I promised to do fifty years ago.

Also, I am not serving Mary through this difficult time because she has done it for me twice when I fractured my spine back in 1984 and again in 2015. The first time required six weeks hospitalization. Because she cherished me back then she was there every day with me. For six months she nursed me and helped me get back on my feet again. Mary has had to do everything for me that any nurse or what we used to call nurses aids, has to do for a patient that is immobile.

But, today, after fifty years sharing life and love together, I choose to serve Mary simply because I cherish her.

When we make these long road trips Mary always takes along a bunch of CD tapes including religious, country and western (her favorite genre) and the pop songs from the sixties. One of pop songs that we heard at least twice on this last trip was, "Cherish Me as Much as I Cherish You." The lyrics were by Terry Kirkman. “Cherish Me” was number two on the hit parade for three weeks in 1966. (Yes, youngsters, we also had music back then too.)

So, in this blog about my favorite person and my very best friend, I share a few lyrics for your edification and contemplation. But, mostly I share them in honor of the wife I cherish deeply.

Cherish is the word I use to describe

All the feeling that I have hiding here for you inside

You don't know how many times I've wished that I had told you

You don't know how many times I've wished that I could hold you

You don't know how many times I've wished that I could

Mold you into someone who could

Cherish me as much as I cherish you

And I do cherish you

And I do cherish you

Cherish is the word

Engaging the Culture without Losing the Gospel

A Must Read Book by Russell Moore

While on our recent road trip in the Midwest, as usual, I took along reading material. I like the feel of a book in my hands and know that dates me. One of the books that I began to read was Onward- Engaging the Culture without Losing the Gospel by Russell Moore. Moore was a new author to me, but I suspect that I will read anything he has or will write. Moore has a unique ability to speak as a prophet to our culture without coming across as angry or manipulative. On the trip I did not have the marker pen that I usually use when reading a book, but after a few chapters I knew that this was a book I needed to read a second time.

As the subtitle suggests, Moore is challenging Christians to engage the culture by learning to apply the Gospel. It is my desire in this blog to stimulate some of you readers, if there are any of you, to read this relevant book. I believe the book would make a good study for any small group or Sunday School Class, and it comes with a workbook to stimulate discussion.

So, to hopefully whet your appetite, let me share a few quotations from the book:

In the chapter, From Moral Majority to Prophetic Minority consider this: "The church of Jesus Christ ought to be the last people to fall for hucksters and demagogues. After all, the church bears the Spirit of God, who gifts the Body with discernment and wisdom. But too often we do. We receive celebrities simply because they are 'conservative', without asking what are they conserving. If you are angry with the same people we are, you must be one of us. But it would be a tragedy to get the right president, the right congress, and the wrong Christ." (emphasis mine, pages 31-32)

From the chapter entitled Kingdom: "The church is a signpost of God's coming kingdom (Eph. 3:10), a preview to the watching world of what the reign of God in Christ is to look like, a colony of the kingdom coming."

Or try this one on for size: "Our vote for President of the Untied States is important. We are held accountable, as we'll discuss, for the discharge of our ruling responsibilities in this life. But our vote for President is less important than our vote to receive new members for baptism into our churches. A President is term-limited and, for that matter, so is the United States (and every other nation). The reception of members into the church, however, marks out the future kings and queens of the universe. Our church membership rolls say to the people on them, and to the outside world, 'These are those we believe will inherit the universe as joint-heirs with Christ.'" (pg. 63)

In the chapter entitled, Mission, consider this: "In our attempts to keep the gospel from being too big, we must not end up with a gospel to small to do what Jesus commanded us to do." 

Moore is addressing the issue of how the G\gospel and, what we call the Great Commission, call for Christ-followers to be involved in confronting social injustices that are embedded in every culture. We cannot choose between evangelism and justice. But, how do we biblically address injustices? Two other quotes to consider in answering that question: "We empower darkness when we refuse to warn of judgment....The gospel does not expose sin in order to condemn but in order to reconcile...We speak of sin, and we warn of judgment, but in order to see persons made right with God, not in order to vent our spleens."

Moore effectively deals with issues such as abortion and capital punishment when he addresses human dignity or what it means to be image bearers of Deity. As usual, Moore ties every point back to the gospel. 

So, without boring you (and because I want to get back to finishing the book) let me share one more quote about human dignity and the gospel. "Our mission then is defined not just by precepts and principles and priorities but by a person."

After all, isn't it all about Jesus? Isn't He the only hope for our culture and our world? Isn't He the coming king who will set up the only perfect culture?

So, consider my challenge to read this relevant book. I welcome your feedback.

Forgive me for one more quote from the back cover: The signs of the times tell us we are in for days our parents and grandparents never knew. But that's no call for panic or surrender or outrage. Jesus is alive. Let's act like it. Let's follow him, onward to the future."

Precious Memories - visiting friends from our past churches

Precious Memories- revisiting friends in Ohio

Mary and I recently completed a twenty-six day road trip through the Midwest. The odometer registered 5,670 miles when we arrived back home in Bend. Although physically exhausted, our hearts and minds were filled with precious memories. I believe the apostle John captured our emotions best when he wrote, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."

The primary focus for the trip was to visit friends from our first two churches in Ohio where we spent ten years at The Pulaskiville Bible Church near Mt. Gilead and at the Berean Baptist Church in Marion Ohio. Since we are both getting much older we wanted to visit old friends one more time.

While in Chicago we also visited two classmates from our days at Moody. Sam was my best man and Laura was one of Mary's bridesmaids. The four of us visited Moody Bible Institute and attended the President's chapel. Listening to the Moody Chorale in Torrey Gray Auditorium brought back memories as we were reminded of the quality of the music program at Moody.

Bob and Debbie Barnett

On our return trip from Ohio we visited Bob and Debbie Barnett in Woodstock, Illinois. Bob was a student at Western Seminary and served as the custodian at Powellhurst Baptist Church in Portland where I was the pastor. Bob and I spent lots of hours discussing Scripture, and Bob would pick my brain about ministry. After years in the pastorate, Bob is training to be a professional counselor.

Don and Joan Bowman

We spent a week and a half with friends from Pulaskiville; some of them now live in Kalamazoo Michigan where we spent time with the Bowman family en route to Ohio. Don and his four sons each professed faith in Christ through our ministry at Pulaskiville. Three of their sons have served in local church ministry. Bruce even served as the pastor at the Pulaskiville church. However, we will need to wait to re-acquaint with Bruce since he died around age forty. But, we enjoyed sharing with his brothers Dan and Brian. I felt such joy hearing them share their about passion for Jesus and their leadership in the local churches where they serve.

Jim Rupp and I at the pulpit in Pulaskiville where we both have served

 

Jim and Shirley Rupp- our hosts for a week

A week was spent with Jim and Shirley Rupp who live only a few miles from the Pulaskiville Church building. Jim was saved under our ministry and immediately had a passion to study God's Word. He was part of a group of men that I mentored and taught biblical studies on Saturday mornings. Jim has also served as the pastor of Pulaskiville Church where he was saved. Today Jim serves as the interim pastor of The Edison Bible Church near Mt. Gilead. As usual, Jim was filled with questions about theology; it was just like old times. We were able to listen to Jim expound the Word on Sunday, and I was so proud of him. I suspect he has outgrown his old pastor and mentor.

We also visited with Chuck and Beryl Reed. He was my co-pastor at Berean Baptist in Marion. While in Marion we visited the Wilson's, a very special family at Berean.

        Rick and Kathryn Van Horn                                           Two preachers on the throne

                             

After a week in Ohio we spent three days with Rick and Kathryn Van Horn in Indiana. Rick was in Middle School when we went to Pulaskiville. He was always a great kid. Rick has planted Christ Community Church near Fort Wayne, and we were able to attend a Sunday service in the local high school. Again, I felt such joy and satisfaction as I listened to Rick preach so creatively and effectively. I was also impressed as I watched how he loved and shepherded his flock. Rick also fired questions at me and even asked me for input into his next sermon.

Man, how much I love these two guys! They are like sons to me, and it gives me such joy to see they still preach grace and truth so effectively. It was great to spend time with them and their wives. The fellowship was so sweet that we have asked them to visit us next summer so we can show them Central Oregon. But, the highlight of their visit will be the wonderful fellowship we will enjoy.

When we were at the Rupp's in Ohio, they had invited several people from the Pulaskiville Church to an open house. Wow! It was almost overwhelming to see so many of them again and to hear them, one after another, share how they came to faith through the preaching of The Word under our ministry. Those seven years at Pulaskiville are still the most exciting and memorable of the forty-five years that I have served as a pastor. I have served as pastor of larger churches and have led building programs and other significant ministries, but the memories we have from Pulaskiville are the most precious. I was so young when I began serving as their pastor. Looking back I wonder why anybody would even listen to me or follow my leadership. But, God did such amazing things in that small country church!

Home of The Pulaskiville Community Church- many memories to cherish forever

Worship center where God released His amazing power one special Sunday

It was not the excitement of having the attendance grow from around 45 to over 200. No, it was the number of entire families that came to faith in Jesus Christ and then brought their friends and neighbors to hear the gospel. Pulaskiville was no longer a little country church because people came from surrounding towns to see what God was doing. Mary has always said, "It was only true revival I have ever experienced." Personally, I don't know if it was a revival, since that usually refers to God's people coming back to Him after drifting away, but I do know that what happened in that little country church in Ohio was a "God-thing." I had no strategy for church growth. I didn't even have a great vision for the church. I only know that one Sunday The Holy Spirit moved mightily among us. Don Bowman was the first to respond, followed by his family. Then another man followed by his wife and children. And, then another. Soon the front of the church was filled with more seekers than we had trained counselors. From that Sunday on (as I write this the tears still come to my eyes) God grew the church in numbers and more deeply into Himself! Like the church in Acts, the power of the gospel spread outward from a small country church.  I thank God for the privilege to have been the recipient of His grace and power and have always said Pulaskiville was the best seminary I ever attended.

As precious as it was for me to listen to their stories of how they came to The Faith through our ministry, the most fulfilling experience of all was seeing that so many were still walking and loving Jesus. After all, it is not how we start a race but how we persevere and finish the race.
However, on a sadder note, there were some painful memories from our trip. I grieve over those who once professed faith in Christ and had followed Him in baptism but who have drifted away. Some who began so well no longer follow Jesus. Their eternal destiny is not for me to determine; God knows those who are truly His children. The Good Shepherd will not abandon His sheep.

Bob Jenkins- teenager saved under our ministry

Jean Bush- we paid her a surprise visit near Delaware Ohio

There were so many visits with special people that I cannot share. Two stand out because of recent losses in their lives. Jean Bush recently lost her adult son, Eric, but her faith is strong even though her heart grieves deeply. Bob Jenkins' wife Peggy was killed in an auto accident in May. They both recently retired and anticipated traveling together. Again, Bob is grieving but his confidence in God remains firm. Seeing these two people made the trip worth all the miles and weariness.

With all the precious memories from our trip, there was another observation that grieved me. I learned that churches, including Pulaskiville, have split over less than significant things. Small, struggling churches now dot the landscape. Each church seems to be competing for survival. None seem to be thriving. Their witness in the community is being weakened by a petty and divisive spirit.

If John could say that he had no greater joy than knowing some of his converts were still walking in the truth, I suspect Jesus might say that He has no greater grief than knowing that some of His disciples are not walking in love. Did He not say, "By this the world will know you are my disciples that you have love for one another?" The Gospel has power to reconcile us to God, but it also has the power to reconcile us to one another.
Now that we are home again, I thank God for those precious memories and those precious people He brought into our lives so many years ago and so many miles away.

The Power of Pedagogy or why is Trump, Trump and Hillary, Hillary?

The Power of Pedagogy 

Who made Trump, Trump and Hillary, Hillary?

I love the father of the bride in the movie, My Big Fat Greek Wedding. "Gus" Portokalos, the patriarch of the family and father of the bride, is Greek through and through. Every word has its origin in the Greek language according to Gus. 

My first exposure to Greek was as a freshman at The Moody Bible Institute back in 1964. Even before my first Koine Greek class began, I was exposed to a brand new word, pedagogy, when I perused the curriculum Moody offered. Pedagogy is Academia's $50,000 word for educating a child. It is derived from two Greek words: "pais" or child and "ago" the verb to go or to lead. Hence, pedagogy means to teach or to lead a child or young person.This involves more than simply expounding information but also influencing the child as a mentor.

Up front, I need to give credit for information in this blog. A week or so ago I read an article on line and this week read the hard copy in the September, 2016 edition of World Magazine. This article by Jamie Dean was an eye opener for me. I share brief thoughts from the article and encourage you to read it in its entirety. World Magazine  is a monthly news magazine from a conservative Christian worldview. I highly recommend it for your consideration. 

The Bible frequently uses the image of a teacher or mentor training a youth on how to live life effectively or wisely.  Paul taught that The Law was a pedagogue (teacher or mentor) to lead us to the ultimate reality in Jesus Christ. 

So who influenced our presidential candidates? Who helped shape their worldview and value systems? 

Jamie Dean shares that Hillary Rodham was raised in a traditional Methodist Church in Park Ridge, Ill. But, First United Methodist Church hired a youth pastor who was unorthodox. "He introduced the youth group to the civil rights movement but also to existentialist philosophy and radical thinkers like Saul Alinsky, who skewered capitalism and religion." (quoted from the World Magazine article) The youth pastor, Don Jones, gave Hillary a subscription to Motive, a progressive journal that at one time ran a mock obituary of God.

As a freshman at Wellesly College in 1965 Hillary joined the Young Republicans and was a "bona fide 'Goldwater Girl'". A liberal college education and the mentor-ship of a youth pastor shaped Hillary's present worldview including supporting abortion and gay marriage. The Marxist ideas of Alinsky have also influenced her greatly. She eventually campaigned for Eugene McCarthy.

Now who shaped Trump's worldview? His story has similarities with that of Hillary. Donald Trump was baptized as an infant at First Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). His parents began to attend Marble Collegiate Church in Manhattan were Norman Vincent Peale was pastor. Peale, the author of The Power of Positive Thinking became the first major "self-help" advocate of the 20th Century. The youthful Trump was fascinated by Peale's positive thinking and saw how it could relate to business. Is it any wonder Trump has such difficulty admitting error or confessing sin? Do we need to wonder why Trump boasts that he alone can fix the mess we are in?

Enough of that! Read the article for yourself. 

But, now an old retired preacher needs to land the plane quickly. So what is my point? First, remember how much influence a mentor or teacher can have on a youth? Parents, help your child choose friends and mentors wisely. We become what we think. We think like those who taught us. Do we need to wonder why so many  "Church-raised" youth lose their faith after four years of a liberal education with professors who belittle the Bible and Christianity?

My second application is this: Let us humble ourselves like Daniel, in chapter nine, where he prays for his nation while still living in captivity in Persia. Let us confess our corporate sins as a nation. Our national sins run deep and wide. We have tossed aside truth and righteousness for a mess of pottage. We dare to call evil good and good evil. 

I confess that I have fretted a lot about our present political situation, but I have never fasted or diligently prayed for my nation or the candidates. Think of this: if a mentor can shape a child's mind for life, can God also use a godly adviser to reshape a politician's values and philosophy? Can God use a Christian Vice President candidate, Pence, to challenge Trump? Can God raise up a godly counselor for Hillary? Or, do I believe God can still humble America to the point we cry out to Him in national repentance/ That is revival! That is what we need in America more than another presidential candidate.

And Now, The Final Word from The Supreme Court

And Now, The Final Word

I just returned from teaching another lesson at The Shepherd's House here in Bend. I love the time I get to spend at "The House"  because the men have become my friends and brothers in Christ. The Shepherd's House is a unique, faith-based residential recovery program. "The House", as we call it, was once a woolen mill the early days of Bend. The ministry is truly "grace based", because unconditional love and acceptance is the heart of the recovery "program". Most of the men have never experienced unconditional love or grace.

Recently I have been leading studies through the book of Daniel. My original intent was to just cover the first six chapters that are filled with familiar stories like the fiery furnace and a lion's den. I wondered how the last six chapters that contain prophecy could be relevant to the men seeking recovery from chemical addictions etc. But, being a retired pastor who has always preferred preaching through a book, it was difficult to toss aside the last six chapters of Daniel. So, yes, you guessed it- we waded  into the prophetic chapters where I discover a universal principle that is still relevant today. That is the point of this blog.

First, a little disclaimer. Prophecy was not included in Scripture to give us a sneak preview about the future or to provide fodder for theological debates. Prophecy, I believe, is meant to motivate us to godly living and deeper faith. Most, if not every, prophetic utterance in the Bible is preceded by or followed by a "therefore"- that is a practical application such as "therefore pray" or "therefore be holy."

Daniel seven and eight include visions that Daniel received about four successive world empires that would rise to world dominance only to fall and be replaced. The visions use animals to describe each successive empire. For example, Babylon was "like a lion". The lion was the national symbol for Babylon. As strong and proud as Babylon was, it fell to the Medes and Persians who were symbolized by a bear. You can read these chapters in Daniel for yourself, but the essence of the vision was that Babylon would be replaced by Persian empire who would then fall to the Alexander the Great and the Greeks. Alexander would die without an heir, and his kingdom would be divided into four parts ruled by four generals. A Greek ruler, Antiochus IV, would invade Jerusalem and defile the temple. Daniel's prophecy  not only predicted the invasion but also the length of time Antiochus Epiphanes would be permitted to defile the temple before the Maccabees liberated Jerusalem. The Greeks eventually fell to Rome just as God had revealed to Daniel.

Now, if Daniel 7-8 were a history lesson we could ask, " what is so special about the Bible?" But, if I take the Bible literally (and I have no reason not to), Daniel wrote hundreds of years before some of these events happened! Greece did not exist as a nation, yet it is actually named by Daniel! The details about the invasion of Antiochus IV include information one could not know in advance unless the author was also in control of history- if it is actually was His Story.

So that leads me to the obvious question: "What does all this have to do with me today? What does it have to do with the men at the Shepherd's House?"

I love how Daniel reverts to poetry in 7:9:

"Thrones were set in place,

 and the Ancient of Days took His seat. 

His clothing was as white as snow;

 the hair of his head was white like wool. 

His throne was flaming with fire,

and its wheels were all ablaze. 

A river of fire was flowing, coming out from before him. 

Thousands upon thousands attended him; 

ten thousand times then thousand stood before Him. 

The court was seated

 and the books were opened."

If you are familiar with Scripture you note similar descriptions of God on the throne. Consider Revelation one and Ezekiel or the transfiguration of Christ. 

But, the words that fascinate me are the first two and last two lines of the poem that I have highlighted. Little men with big egos may sit on their thrones or behind the desk in the Oval Office and rule a limited kingdom for a limited time. They may rattle their sabers and boast their accomplishments, but each one dies and/or falls to another little man on his throne. But, the eternal God, the ruler of the universe, will upon a day take His seat on The Throne and the great judge will be seated to judge every man, woman boy or girl. Some of us will be rewarded; some may lose rewards and others lose their lives forever and ever. The Great Judge will have the final word. Finally, all the earth will be silent before Him. 

So what about me today? What do I take away from these chapters in Daniel? 

When I consider the choices of the major candidates for President of the United States, I don't want to vote for either. I don't want a President that will appoint more liberal justices to our Supreme Court. I say "our Supreme Court", because I realize their is a higher Court- The True Supreme Court. Some day, when the books are opened, five justices will need to answer for their decision that raped the the institution of marriage. Other justices will be accountable or legalizing infanticide in America. Today, more deaths are caused by abortion than any other reason. Yes, I don't want either candidate to win, but I can trust the God who has written the story. Perhaps America deserves less than desirable leaders. After all, such was the case in ancient Israel.

For the men at the Shepherd's House, I asked if they could trust God in their situations? Some need jobs. Some struggle with health issues. Some face a turbulent future without the support of family or friends. But, each of the men, and that includes me, can rest assured God will have the final word. 

Do I believe God is both kind and severe as Paul wrote? Do I believe He is in charge of my life now? Tomorrow? Am I at peace with knowing that He will have the final word?

Another Police Shooting- the rest of the story

Another Police Shooting

Hardly a week passes anymore without a report of another black man (usually young) being shot and killed by the police.  I am wearied from hearing these tragic stories. It certainly seems like this is happening more frequently, but I wonder if the prevalence of smart phones has simply captured what used to remain invisible and unreported in the media. Also, social media facilitates the dissemination of information today so almost nothing escapes being exposed to the public.

It is tragic whenever a young person's life is terminated no matter the cause of death. Whether or not the shooting was legally justified, one cannot help but feel overwhelmed by the needless waste of the potential in that young life. Even when the police action is exonerated, the fact remains- a tragedy has occurred. When public rioting and looting is the response to a police shooting or when there is lethal retaliation against innocent police officers, it is even more tragic.

But, I am frustrated by how often the focus in the media seems skewed. Frequently, in the evening newscast, we see pictures of the victim of a police shooting posed in their graduation cap and gown. Yes,the picture emphasizes the tragic waste of another young person's life. The picture of the young man in his cap and gown helps create empathy for the victim and anger toward the police officers who were responsible for the shooting death of the victim.

What often seems to be missing in these reports of police shootings is the fact that several of the victims were involved in criminal activity when they were killed by the police. Being involved in a crime does not in itself justify the death of the perpetrator. But, the near silence in the media about the criminal activity of the victim encourages greater moral outrage against the police. So, all I am asking is what about telling the rest of the story surrounding the incident?

If the motivation for not consistently reporting any criminal activity of the person who was killed by the police is out of respect for the deceased and their loved ones, I can understand. But, when we don't tell the whole story- when we only focus on the tragic death at the hands of police- do we not disrespect the reputation of the police officers and their family if they acted appropriately within the law?

Now, my blog title says that I am a retired preacher so you may ask why am I speaking out on this subject? Every death of a person, young or old, who was involved in criminal activity reminds me of the warnings in the first  chapter of The Proverbs where Wisdom is addressing a young man as a father would address his son.  

         Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction 

         and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. 

         They will be a garland to grace your head 

         and a chain to adorn your neck. 

         My son, if sinners entice you, 

         do not give in to them. 

         If they say, “Come along with us; 

         let’s lie in wait for someone’s blood, 

         let’s waylay some harmless soul; 

         let’s swallow them alive, like the grave,

         and whole, like those who go down to the pit; 

         we will get all sorts of valuable things 

         and fill our houses with plunder; 

         throw in your lot with us, 

         and we will share a common purse”— 

         my son, do not go along with them, 

         do not set foot on their paths; 

         for their feet rush into sin, 

         they are swift to shed blood. 

         How useless to spread a net 

         in full view of all the birds! 

         These men lie in wait for their own blood; 

         they waylay only themselves! 

         Such is the end of all who go after ill-gotten gain; 

         it takes away the lives of those who get it. 

The New International Version. (1984). (Pr 1:8–19). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.

I believe there are really two basic questions  regarding these police shootings. The obvious question is "why are there so many police shootings?" The bigger question though is "what is happening in our culture- especially that of the predominately black neighborhoods in the inner-city?" Some may answer that it is the result of gang activity. Others point to the breakdown of the family, especially in the black community where too often there is an absence of a positive father image in the family. Did you note above in above quote from Proverbs that it was a father counseling his son about the danger of choosing the wrong friends? Destructive activity often boomerangs to come band and destroy the perpetrator.

Do you. like I, wonder why so many inner-city children are being reared without the influence of a father? I will let the sociologists and professionals offer their answers, but could it also be that our social welfare policies share some responsibility? Then, there is also the question about the lack of influence of the local churches? I pray that God will grant the pastors of our churches (whether inner-city or suburbia) the wisdom and boldness to proclaim truth and to provide biblical counsel for strong families.

Meanwhile, when the media posts pictures of victims (I don't like that word) of police shootings, why not share the rest of the story?

7/28/15 -

A Day that will Live in Infamy
When evil became "good"

How in the world did we get to this point in America where a small, but very vocal and militant minority, have forced their values upon the rest of us? When did evil morph into something good? When did what has universally been considered good for thousands of years suddenly become evil?

Only ten years ago who would have conceived we would ever discuss, let alone legitimize same sex marriage?

The 2015 landmark decision by the Supreme Court of The United States stating  that the fundamental right to marry is guaranteed to same sex couples by both the Due Process Clause and the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment of  our Constitution.

Five “progressive” (I choose that label on purpose as you will see later) justices declared same sex marriage was legal. Five justices dismantled the timeless institution of marriage. Five non-elected justices called same sex marriage normal and good.  But, what God ordained as good in Genesis chapter three remains good, and what God calls evil or remains evil.

We live in a new world where right is wrong and wrong has become right. We live in new culture where a fire chief in Atlanta was terminated for writing a book based on the Genesis account of marriage and sexuality. We read of a photographer in New Mexico being forced to pay a stiff penalty for refusing to photograph a same sex marriage ceremony. The list goes on. What about the Christian bakers in Gresham, Oregon who have lost their business and face severe harassment from “progressive” people who insist that everybody- except themselves-  must show tolerance. Then there is the pizza shop in Indiana and another cake baker in Colorado- each have faced litigation and harassment for following their convictions based on Scripture.

This is the brave new world we live in. How did we get here and what can we do? What I share in this blog is the result of years of my personal frustration over this militant takeover of our culture and my concern for the future of my grandchildren. My thoughts about these social earthquakes have been refined and strengthened through reading two books: You Will be Made to Care by Erick Erickson and Bill Blankschaen and Why God won’t Go Away by Allister McGrath.  Another book, The Prodigal Church by Jared Wilson, has confirmed my conviction that the contemporary “seeker friendly” Church with its pragmatic philosophy for “doing church” shares blame in the cultural morass we face today.

So, if I have not already turned you off, please grant me grace to continue to opine about the future of our culture, if not the human race. Yes, I am an old, retired preacher, but perhaps I still can speak with clarity and wisdom.

I believe there are moral absolutes that have and must stand the test of time if we are to survive. Consider the following statement, even though made by an ancient church leader centuries ago, Augustine of Hippo, it still resonates today:

                “Right is right even if no one is doing it; wrong is wrong even if everyone is doing it.”

If that statement is not true, then let the “progressives” have at it. Let them challenge and change every moral value we have always held including the biblical covenant of marriage between a man and a woman. Let them, as they already have, attack and dismantle DOMA- the Defense of Marriage Act signed by President Clinton. Let them force schools and businesses to remove all signage for men’s or women’s restrooms. After all, if everybody wants it, it can’t be wrong. But, not everybody is pushing for genderless restrooms. Truth be told, very few of us are comfortable with the idea and find it both absurd and terribly wrong headed! However, the militant “progressives” want to punish the State of North Carolina for even questioning or tweaking the new normal.

How did we get here? It began long, long ago in the Garden of Eden. But, in recent history, it found its footing in the sexual revolution of the 70’s. While much of the Church slept and enjoyed our privileged position, dark forces were actively using the arts and entertainment and higher educational institutions to sow the seeds. My blog is not the place to dig deeply so I recommend the books listed above.

Erickson and Blankschaen, in They Will Make You Care, share some interesting concepts such as the distinction between “freedom of religion” and “freedom of worship.” Have you noticed the new vocabulary coming from the Obama White house and other liberal institutions and the media? They affirm our right to worship as we please. But, our constitution and Bill of Rights guarantees the freedom to practice our religion. The new vocabulary says we have freedom to worship as we please. However, there is a big difference between practicing my religious convictions and expressing my worship. I can worship with or without music. I can dance or recite liturgy. It is my freedom according to the progressives, but they do not grant me the freedom to practice my religious faith and convictions 24/7 if I own a bakery or if I am a photographer who believes that I would violate my conscience and my core beliefs by using my skills to support a same sex ceremony. My religious freedom ends, according to the progressives, when I walk out the door of my church building.

So let me ask again, how did we get to this place? I believe some (perhaps much) of the blame falls on the church itself. The liberal Church has tossed aside the Bible in favor of social justice (that is a noble pursuit) and other lesser pursuits rather than the Gospel. Some Evangelical Churches have become virtually silent in speaking to the issue of sin and repentance. Pulpits no longer resonate with the voice of a prophet crying out for righteousness. We have lost our saltiness and prefer to appeal to the sweet tooth of our generation. Shouldn’t we apply Scripture to pressing issues like family, marriage and living Christ-like in the business world?

Some pastors have courageously addressed racial justice and prejudice. Movements like Black Lives Matter has made this a front-burner-issue, but do we pastors also remind our congregations about the grave social injustice of abortion and the dangerous challenges against the family and marriage? I suspect racial injustice is a politically correct topic. It is not be politically correct to address same sex marriage and abortion from the pulpit, but they are certainly wrong and do threaten our very survival.

I can hear somebody say that would be “preaching to the choir” to talk about abortion or same sex marriage. My response is somebody must speak to the choir (congregation) about these issues. If we don’t, the media will and already is molding the thinking of our youth and some adults in the church. I agree it is the parents’ responsibility to shape our children’s values, but many of our youth come from broken and non-churched homes. Sadly, many who sit in the worship centers week after week do not have a biblical worldview. There is a vacuum of solid biblical, theological teaching.

We are where we are today in our culture because what we believe shapes what we do. If this is applicable to us as individuals it also applies to the culture at large. When men declare that God is irrelevant or doesn’t exist- when men believe we are not created in God’s image but are the product of random chance (atheistic evolution) it not only affects our understanding of the origin of life, but can and has affected our morals and values.

If evolution is a process that is moving the human race forward- progressing us upwardly- than is it not also reasonable to believe evolution also guides and affects us socially and culturally? In fact, the case is made that one of the motivations behind the militant push to transform culture and throw off traditional values is based on the theory of social evolution. So the liberal progressive considers the Church and Christianity as archaic institutions that block social progress. These social engineers will not stop with same sex marriage. Already there are calls for polygamous, incestuous, and group marriages. The one who led the charge to be free from God in the Garden of Eden will not stop until he has been ultimately defeated by the only King who is sovereignly above all rulers and philosophers and social engineers in this world.

Remember the slogan behind Barak Obama’s first campaign? “Change you can believe in!” Few who voted in anticipation for the promised change dreamed it would include transforming our culture and removing traditional social values like the sanctity of marriage. Do you recall how the White House was lit up to celebrate the wonderful change in the definition of marriage after the Supreme Court decision? Also, by chance did you catch the promises about appointing justices to the Supreme Court in each of the recent political conventions ? One promised justices that would uphold the Constitution and traditional values. The other promised justices that dared to think outside the box and bring more social changes. Hmm! One anticipated “progressive” justices.

Meanwhile, we are in a battle for truth and for righteousness. We must not remain silent. When the Nazis moved to exterminate Jews and homosexuals and other “sub humans” many Germans remained silent because they were not Jewish but members of the Christian Church. Then Hitler came against the church, and there was nobody to cry out for them.

 Have we forgotten Jesus’ call to take up the cross and follow Him- in other words, to prepare to die? Every first Century believer understood what it meant to carry a cross. Someday, we who follow Jesus may also face severe persecution here in America as we become more and more marginalized. Now, is the time for us to be the voice in the wilderness like John, who dared to call wrong- wrong, and lost his head for it. What are we willing to lose?

I leave with a few Scriptures for your contemplation:

Mt. 12:30             Jesus said, “He who is not with me is against Me, and He who does not gather with Me scatters.”

Rom. 1:18-32      There is no clearer description of where we are today and how we have gotten to this place and why the social progressives are so militant. It is as if Paul was speaking to our culture today.

Psalm 37:12-13  “The wicked plots against the righteous, and gnashes at him with his teeth. The Lord laughs at him; for He sees his day is coming.”

By the way, never forget the words of a wise philosopher and baseball legend, “It ain’t over till it’s over.” God will have the last word in this struggle for truth and righteousness. Perhaps He will awaken His church and His prophets to help turn the ship around. Over and over throughout history God has moved in His mysterious to thwart the plans of the wicked. So we can sing “the wrong will fail and right prevail with peace on earth, good will to men.” 

Playing by Their Book- why radical Islamist terrorists act like they do

Playing by Their Book

I may get some push back from this blog, but it is worth the risk. Our president and other politicians may hesitate to identify the actions of ISIS and other radical Islamic groups as terrorism, but it certainly is obvious to anybody who is objective to see that recent brutal murders in America is not "workforce violence" or "gay bashing." Over and over we hear people in the media and in Washington D.C. say that the actions of these radicals discredits the peaceful religion of Islam.

Yes, there are many Muslims in America and around the world who seek to live law abiding lives and to practice charitable actions. They make good neighbors. Many of us may even have Muslim friends. I have friends who minister among Muslim immigrants in America as they seek to develop friendships and provide material and emotional support among the Muslim immigrants. Of course, their ultimate desire is to demonstrate the power of the gospel and eventually share the good news of God's Amazing grace found only in Christ Jesus.

So if Islam is a peaceful religion, why do these fundamentalist Muslims carry out so much inexcusable violence? My response is these terrorists are simply playing by their book- The Koran. This may be simplistic, but it seems to me the problem is not so much with Islam but with the Koran. Many Muslims are Muslims by culture and birth like many Americans are Christians only in name without a relationship with Christ.

I strongly recommend that every American read Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus, a book by Nabeel Quresh. Nabeel was born and raised as a Muslim in a devout Muslim family that practiced non violence. He was devout in his love for Allah and the prophet Mohammed. He said he believed every word in the Koran and would debate anybody willing to try to defend Christianity and the Bible. A deep friendship with a professing Christian in college led to many such debates. But, little by little his confidence in the Koran faded. Risking the loss of friends and family Nabeel surrendered to Jesus Christ's claims on his life. Today he is on staff with Ravi Zacharias, a Christian apologist and author.

In Nabeel's research of the Koran that he had blindly accepted, he discovered that mush of the violent behavior of the radical Islamists was not that radical- rather they were simply living by "The Book". The Koran includes texts that approve and even command some of the violent behavior we see today including raping women and girls captured in battle. The beheading of Christians on the seashore, the burning a Jordanian soldier, the capturing and raping of young girls in Africa and the horrible slaughter in Orlando and San Bernadino and at the Boston Marathon were actions that are approved in the Koran.

So, I agree with the title Fundamentalist Muslims. Yes, they are simply acting according to the book.

Mary and I led the Muslim Prayer Band while at Moody. We thought we would serve as missionaries in a Muslim country, but God led us into the pastorate here in America. I can say with integrity that I love Muslims. It is the Koran I fear.

"All’s Well that Ends”

For those of you who have hung around me over time, you know how I like to misquote and twist familiar sayings. “All’s well that ends” is one of my favorites. In fact, it has become my philosophy of life. I suspect if there is a celebration of my life after I have taken my final breath, somebody may share this memory. 

Of course, I realize the original proverb, or whatever you wish to call it, had one more word to complete the thought. I have had numerous persons try to correct me or to help me by adding the word “well.” Sometimes it feels like they are just trying to be courteous by helping an old man with a memory problem. But, honestly, I prefer my shorter version not just because it gets their attention, but it truly does reflect reality.

Anybody can say, “All’s well that ends well.” It doesn’t take a genius to figure that out. We all like knowing a project or an experience ended well. I prefer winning over losing a game. I selfishly prefer winning by a large margin- none of that “by the skin of your teeth” stuff for me!

Saying “All’s well that ends” is not simply trying to act like a “Smart Alec.” (Yes, there really is such a word in the dictionary with the connotation of being arrogant or a show off.) Perhaps that was my original motive when I first starting leaving off the word, “well”. As a child, I was often (or attempted to be) a Smart Alec. I had a quick tongue and sometimes received the board of education on the seat of knowledge to convince me to change.

Recently I discovered a very wise man who agrees that “All’s well that ends.” Solomon, in Ecclesiastes 7:8, said it this way- “The end of the matter is better than its beginning.” Now, with just a bit of loose hermeneutic I think Solomon is saying, ”All’s well that ends.” No matter how it started or how something progressed or failed to progress, it always ends, and that is good. So even if it ends good- I win by doubling the score on my adversary- or if it ends poorly- I get skunked, either way the game is over. I can leave the field to lick my wounds in private, and that is better than listening to their cat calls and taunting.

But, I ask for your patience as I try to demonstrate that “All’s well that ends” is not only biblical, but it is an appropriate philosophy as a follower of Jesus Christ.

In three more weeks I hit the big 72. I realize how few years I have left to invest or to waste. No longer do I assume Jesus will return before my name is listed in tomorrow’s obituary column. But, whether I live to a ripe old age and keep my mind (what is left of it) or whether I die tomorrow or whether I become a victim of Alzheimer ’s disease, the endgame is great. Paul, writing from prison and expecting to literally lose his head, declared that “to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord which is far better.”

The prophet Habakkuk, facing the severity of the Babylonian siege, and feeling how unjust this was, sang,

“Yet I will wait patiently for the day of calamity to come on the nation invading us.

Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines,

Though olive crop fails and the fields produce no food,

Though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stall,

Yet, I rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my savior.” – Hab. 3:16b-18

Habakkuk could compose this song because he knew “The Sovereign Lord” was his strength.” He believed that all would be well no matter the circumstances or how it all ended. He knew that the “Lord was in His holy temple” so the whole earth should be silent before Him or trust Him.

Didn’t Jesus also teach this principle? “Why”, He asked, ”should we worry about tomorrow if we know Him who knows the endgame and marks the fall of the sparrow? Why fret about the lack of food in our pantry or clothes in my closet if our Father in Heaven feeds birds and wraps the lily in splendor?”

Life is a journey. Some days it is just flat out tough to just hold on. Some days life may be like a bowl of cherries (for Forrest Gump a box of chocolates or for me, Oregon strawberries or cashew nuts). My life and your life is a story being lived out moment by moment. No matter how my life began or how today began, someday it will all be history. I can choose how to live each day. In Paul’s words in Philippians 4, I can choose to worry about the “what ifs” that may never happen or I can choose to trust God. I can complain or I can give thanks in all things. Paul trusted God, like Habakkuk, to bring good things out of life's difficult experiences. Didn’t God promise this in Roman 8:28? Not everything that happens is good. Some experiences in life just plain stink; others are excruciating painful. But, for Christ followers, it always ends well.

Isn’t that the big story throughout Scripture? Things started off really well in the garden. Then sin entered and everything has been negatively affected. The rest of the Bible is God working through every event in history to accomplish His ultimate purpose- His endgame.

When I read the book of The Revelation of Jesus Christ, especially the final chapters, everything sin and Satan defiled will be made new. There will be a new heaven and a new earth. Once again God will dwell among us like He did with Adam and Eve. No more tears to shed. No more pain. No more funerals to attend. No more final goodbyes. All will be new!

It doesn’t get any better than that. So, like I said, “ALL IS WELL THAT ENDS!”  And it will end very, very well! Perhaps, very soon. Wouldn’t that be good?

Oh, yes, how do you like the picture taken on our 50th anniversary. It has been 50 wonderful years with a few tough days mixed in, but what are they when "All's well that ends?"

A Time to Remember

One more day and the anticipation is building. Tomorrow we celebrate our Golden Wedding anniversary. Mary's brother and wife, Gary and Jerry Cline, are here from Cape Coral, Florida to help us celebrate. Their son, Ty, was our ring bearer fifty years ago. Jerry played the organ for our ceremony. Today the old wedding album came out and we enjoyed memories stimulated by the photos. Mary dug out our original wedding rings this morning also, and I printed out our wedding vows and the song I sang to her at the wedding. Nostalgia is burning deeply.

Fifty years with a person you love, trust and share everything creates golden memories. I recall the early days and years with all the stress of finishing college and beginning a family and entering ministry at such a young age. I still wonder why Pulaskiville Community Church in Ohio would call such a neophyte. But, then I remember, they were hard up for somebody to occupy the parsonage and preach on Sundays.Those seven and a half years in that country church was the best seminary I could ever attend. There were so many firsts- my first lead pastorate, our first son, Dan, was born, our first difficult relationship caused by my thoughtlessness of giving away our little dog just before Christmas Eve. How I cherish the memories of that loving church family that grew and grew both in numbers and spiritual depth. I discovered God could use a shy, country boy from Nebraska in His great kingdom work.

When I finally was able to go to seminary, I chose Western in Portland. Those thirteen years at Powellhurst Baptist Church were also filled with memories. My near fatal accident when the scaffolding collapse followed by six weeks in the hospital with a body cast, both legs and one arm in a cast were trying times. Mary came through with flying colors- my first visitor every morning and the last to leave at night. Keeping the home fires burning and being mother to growing boys while I was out of the home was difficult, but she would say she was "only doing what she had promised on our wedding day...."through sickness and in health...". 

Twenty three years serving First Baptist Church (now Foundry Church) have been filled with memories. Most of them very good; a few difficult times. Now retired we choose to remain in Bend because it is such a great place to live and to remain close to our granddaughter, Faith, who is now finishing her Freshman year at Bend Senior High. Now we have lived in Oregon over half of our lives so I think we qualify for being true Oregonians.

Tonight our son, Dan, and his family arrive for the weekend celebration. The house will be filled with laughter. Tomorrow a few close friends will join the family celebration. But, the star of the show will be Mary, my wonderful wife and my very best friend. We have traveled many miles together- most of them delightful but a few very difficult times as well. We survived those storms and trials together. Solomon was correct when he said "two are better than one." I thank God that the one person he put into my life as my help mate (God knew how much help I would need).

So, in my rambling today, I want to share the lyrics of the song I sang to Mary (she joined me on the chorus). The words resonate more today than they did than night, June 11, 1966. Today they are reality.

Darling, the day has come that we've been dreaming of,

When at the altar white we'll say our vows of love;

Oh, what a happy time: all gone the doubt and fear,

And, with the promises, we'll add this one my Dear.

Chorus

Each for the other and both for the Lord.

Oh, Darling Sweetheart, let the angels record;

Vows sweetly spoken; may they never be broken;

Each for the other, and both for the Lord.

We'll walk together Love, thru sunshine- thru the shade,

Weill mingle tears and smiles and travel unafraid;

Halos of happiness will crown each passing day

Til heaven shines ahead and beckons us away.

Chorus

Words and music by John Peterson

Copyright 1957

As I typed those lyrics in the last stanza, my heart is both heavy and yet joyful. After fifty years, we have less time to share together than has already passed. Heaven seems so much more imminent. But, until then, I thank God for the love of my life however long that may be.

Sweeter as the years go by- our 50th anniversary trip

There she is, my sweetheart of fifty plus years counting the courtship days back at Moody. This was our first night in Banff, Canada at a local restaurant. I asked the host for the best seat in the house so they seated us by the big fireplace. It snowed that night so the fireplace was welcome.

To celebrate our anniversary, Mary preferred a road trip together over a reception and social event. So, we chose to chalk off a few of the places we wanted to visit that were on our "bucket lists." Eight days and almost 3,000 miles (all but about 200 were not on Interstate Freeways).

Driving through Banff and Jasper National Parks in Canada, we enjoyed the beauty and wildlife (not what younger people do after dark in the taverns) but bears, mountain goats, Big Horn sheep, moose and wolves. The beauty of the mountains, mile after mile, almost became overwhelming.

After the Canadian Rockies we drove through Glacier National Park in Montana and attended church in Kalispell where we met a great group of brothers and sisters we had never met before but anticipate sharing eternity with them.

Whenever we had the choice, we chose the alternate routes through ranch country in Montana and Idaho while working our way to Clarkston, WA. The route to Enterprise, OR. and the Wallowa Mountains was spectacular! Of course Joseph and Wallowa Lake were memorable. But, a highlight was driving up the steep dirt road above Imnaha, OR. toward Hell's Canyon. The views down into the valleys were spectacular including a four by four point bull elk staring back at us. We went as far as possible until the snow blocked the road.

By the way, if you have never enjoyed a cheeseburger at the general store and tavern in Imnaha, it is a five star event. Rattlesnake skins are stretched out and drying on the bar counter. It was the only place in town where you can buy a cup of coffee for 35 cents- it was the only place in town to be honest. After the muddy road above Imnaha, we arrived home with the pick up truck covered with mud.

So what impressed me most on the trip?

As great as the majestic scenery was, I was most impacted by the reminder that Christian marriage is a wonderful gift from God. Choosing the right woman and living one day at a time through thick and thin is rewarding. The great river of love may seem silent at our age, but it is powerful and very rewarding.

So if there is a moral to this story, let it be this: Hang in there. Keep those vows. Invest in the relationship. Give more than you seek to receive and the reward is worth it all. Love becomes sweeter as the years go by.

I know because I have been there.

By the way, isn't that lady in the pictures beautiful!