Two Mormons and a Five Year Old Boy

We had just exited the Branch Avenue Metro Rail stop when two Mormon young people engaged us in conversation. Like a magnet quickly adheres to the refrigerator, they stuck to us and began reciting their jargon in what was seeming to be a one-sided conversation. When the conversation began including references to Jesus, I quickly interjected and introduced myself as an Air Force Chaplain and that I was had a pretty good handle on "the Jesus thing." They politely chuckled at my attempt at "religious humor" and appeared somewhat out-of-step because "another religious guy" got their "scripted words" off track. I then proceeded to let them know that even my children had "the Jesus thing" as well. It was at that moment that God appeared on the scene in the form of a five-year-old boy. My son, Tristian, who I thought was distracted by a caterpillar slugging along the sidewalk, decided to chime in on the discussion. What would at first appear to be "out of nowhere" comes the small juvenile voice proclaiming "Jesus is Lord and Savior! He died on the Cross for our sins!" I will assume he picked up that the conversation was about Jesus. Duh! I have to admit that there was no way I could have said that any better. Here I was, a spiritual leader...a pastor...a chaplain...making light on the subject of faith with two Mormon "recruiters" and I am put in my place by my five-year-old son. I was probably blown away just as much as these two finely dressed men in white shirts and ties. My son taught me a lesson that day...a valuable lesson...issues of faith are not for jesting, but professing. I am proud of my son. Never underestimate the investment in the lives of your children to teach them about Jesus Christ and the salvation he offers to us and why we need it...and don't forget to include telling them about the price Jesus paid to make salvation possible in the first place. Proverbs 22:6, "Train up a child in the way they should go; even when they are old, they will not depart from it." Invest in your children...invest not just in their "future" but in their eternity...by doing so, the dividends will be out of this world!

April 1st - The Overlooked Holiday

Most people are just content with using the first day of April to play practical jokes on each other to gain a chuckle or hearty laugh. If one could just pull off the grand-daddy of all pranks, then they are satisfied with fulfilling the revelry of "April Fool's Day." Unbeknownst to them, there lies within this 24-hour period a long forgotten, or should I say "overlooked," holiday. Yes, April 1st, of each year is, for the most part, a holiday. Although not recognized by the government as an official holiday (sorry, you can't have the day off), it could be recognized in Scripture. In the Old Testament book of Psalms in chapter 53, we find an intriguing comment that says in verse 1, "The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God.'" Nothing could be more foolish than to come to a conclusion that there cannot be a God...a Higher Power, Creator and Sustainer of our life, this world, planets, sun, stars, universe and galaxies all discovered to date. So, my conclusion would be to say that those who claim there cannot be a God (whether they refer to themselves as Atheists, Agnostic, etc) should ban together on the first day of April (every year) and celebrate their holiday...the day for fools.

What Does Your Name Mean?

Our name not only gives us identity, but a sense of belonging. Names mean something. Names have meaning. As written in Matthew 1:21, "She shall give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name JESUS, because he will save his people from their sins." Philippians 2:9, also emphasises the meaning and power behind the identity of one's name. It says, "Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name [Jesus] which is above every name...." The name given to Jesus wasn't haphazardly picked or randomly thought up off the cuff because "it sounded nice" since "Jesus" or "Yeshua" in Hebrew was a very popular boys name at that time. No, it was given to him for what the name means. Jesus means "the Lord saves." That is pretty specific when the whole point behind Jesus's coming to earth was to save us. God loved us so much that he sent his only Son to die on the cross to save us from our sin. The Bible tells us that there is no other name that we can cry out to that can save us. So, what does your name signify? What does it mean? Do you even know what your name means? If your name is John it means "God's gracious gift." How about Daniel or Danielle? Your name means "God is my judge." How about Michael or Michaela? This is a great name that means "one who is like God." My name is Charles. In German it means "Free Man" which is pretty cool since I am a Chaplain endorsed by the Free Methodist Church!! Learn the meaning of your name and your name will have new meaning. Identify who you are by discovering what your name means.

Stars...They Already Have a Name!

Have you ever sung this nursery rhyme:

"Twinkle, twinkle, little star, how I wonder what you are!
Up above the world so high, like a diamond in the sky.
Twinkle, twinkle, little star, how I wonder what you are!"

Stars are amazing! I find it fascinating and never tiring to take a moment to look up at the stars at night. I was particularly mindful of stars this past week as my family gathered outside to look at the lunar eclipse. What a spectacular cosmic display of beauty! I was also reminded about stars while I was listening to the radio as I was driving home from work and heard a very interesting advertisement that invited me to pay nearly $55 to "name a star after someone." I thought that was very interesting. If I sent this company my money, I would receive a "Star Chart" containing the name of the constellation and the telescopic coordinates where I could "find my star" by looking through a telescope. The more I thought about this the more it sounded like a waste of money…although at first it sounded like a neat idea. I began to wonder about what God would think about a company taking peoples’ money to "name a star" after someone. So, I looked in the Bible to see what God had to say. I found the answer in Psalm 147:4 which says in the Contemporary English Version that "[God] decided how many stars there would be in the sky and gave each one a name." WOW! All the stars in the sky ALREADY have a name! Although we may never know all the names God has given to the stars, we can take comfort in realizing that God not only knows how many stars are in the Universe, but that He knows each one by their name. So, the next time you look up at the sky at night and see all the stars, just remember that YOU CAN KEEP YOUR MONEY and your suggestions as to "what to name a star" because the God who placed each one of those stars in the universe is the same God who has already given each one of them their name. May astronomy never be the same again! Happy star-gazing!

Lent - Finding Identity

The forty days of Lent is a time for us to remember that we are to give up something that is a sacrifice, an act of self-denial, or some act that will remind us of Christ. Lent is sacred and spiritual for every Christian. This is the season that reminds us of the great sacrifice of Christ for each one of us. Centuries ago Jesus Christ went through an agony, a scourging, a crowning and a crucifixion. The tragedy of Good Friday led to the triumph of Easter Sunday. The acts of self-denial, the acts of sacrifice we make during this season helps us identify with the sacrifices of Christ. Uniting our sacrifice with that of Christ, uniting our pain with his, Lent is set aside just to remind us of these factors. Lent is not just a season we reflect upon and apply only to ourselves. Our acts of self-denial, our acts of sacrifices not only are directed to Christ, but to our neighbor. The whole thrust of the season of Lent is to increase one's spirituality. This comes from the simple knowledge that anything worthwhile in life demands a sacrifice. I think it's safe to say that all of us have experienced some sort of agony, a scourging, a crucifixion. It might be the agony of trying to forget a past mistake, it might be the scourging of some physical illness that just won't go away, or watching a loved one make tragic mistakes over and over again in life. You, in this year, might be going through a crucifixion of a different kind. Lent reminds you that Christ has already been where you are. Lent reminds you that if you identify your suffering with the suffering of Christ your cross will become lighter. Lent reminds you not only of the suffering of Christ, but of the love of Christ. The more you realize the sacredness of this season, the more you offer your suffering in union with the suffering of Christ, the more you identify with Christ, the more spiritual you become, the more sacred your Lent becomes.

Off the Cuff is Off the Mark

Most 'off the cuff' remarks, although paritally true, cannot stand up to scruitiny simply because they are laced with as much inaccuracy as fact. If you are going to make claims, statements, and rebuttals always take the time to think through what you are going to say. It is so easy in "the heat of battle" such as arguments and disagreements to fly off the handle with accusations such as "you're always late!" "You always say that!" and "I've had to work every weekend!" These are what I call "off the cuff remarks" because the person making these statements has not taken the time to "think through" what they are actually saying. For example, if an employee arrives late to a staff meeting and you verbally assualt the person with "you're always late" then you better make sure that it can be proven by fact that this person has been late to every single meeting since they were employed. If they have been late to 4 out of 30 meetings then how can you rightfully say "you're always late" to them? If you, after seeing the newly posted work schedule, exclaim "I'm always working weekends" but, just three months ago, were given not only Christmas, but New Year's AND the Martin Luther King holiday weekend off, how can you rightfully say "I've worked EVERY weekend? You may be RIGHT in saying "it seems like I am working every weekend" or "it seems like you've been late for a few meetings this year" but you are totally WRONG when stating these facts with the words such as "always" and "every" to make it appear like it happens all the time. Proverbs 16:13, "Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value a man who speaks the truth." Exodus 20:16 "You must not testify falsely against your neighbor." When speaking and addressing issues of interest just make sure you're not speaking "off the cuff" because you could end up "losing your shirt."

The Revelation of EPIPHANY

Epiphany...my, what a word! To most, what looks like the small spattering of letters a child would randomly type on the computer, is actually a significant event of the Church Calendar. Epiphany, the twelfth day after Christmas, is the conclusion of the Christmas season. The word "Epiphany" means "to show" or "to reveal." It is also a historical date because it marks the arrival of the "three wise men" from the east who came "to show" and "to reveal" to all the world that this little 2-year-old toddler was Lord and King (Matthew 2:9-11) This is why we celebrate Epiphany! We celebrate to recall how God has been "showing" and "revealing" Himself to us ever since that one night the Kings of the Orient bowed their knees and presented their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to this little boy named Jesus. Be on guard! Watch! Our transcendent God is ever present and working in His creation to show us and to reveal to us how much He loves us and desires to have a close, personal, intimate, and loving relationship with us. A brilliant sunset, the warm hug of a grandparent, a confirming compliment from a parent, the warmth of the sun's rays on a cold winter day, the purring of a cat, the rambunctious playfulness of a dog, and the joy of fellowship with our family during the holidays...all things God uses to show and reveal His presence...His love for us. "Happy Epiphany!" How will you be "on the look out" for God's "Epiphany" to you today...this week...this year? My prayer is that you'll take notice and see a lot of God the Father in 2008!

2008: Will I "BE" or Will I "DO?"

When I was a kid, it seems that every time an adult asked me about "my future" the question was always stated as "what do you want to be when you grow up?" I can't say that anyone ever asked me "what do you want to do when you grow up?" I think I know why! I've learned there is a HUGE difference between "doing" and "being." What we want to do in life is not nearly as important as what we want to be in life. "Doing" is related to earthly things such as "vocation" or "career." But, "being," on the other hand, goes much deeper because it relates to character, who we are, and how we use our life. "Doing" is related more to tangible things such as annual income, trophies, medals, awards or material possessions. "Being" has more to do with the things in life that can't be measured by literal yardsticks, trophy cases, or bank statements. "Being" is built on character, morals, integrity and, most importantly, upon the foundation of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of our lives. That means, by "being," we are trustworthy, dependable, loyal, kind, and loving people who give generously of themselves and of their possessions. By "being" we live out what Jim Elliot so eloquently stated that, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." As the New Year approaches, vow to "be" in 2008...and beyond. Happy New Year!

Presents or Presence for Christmas?

Commercialism, consumer spending, gifts, trees, office parties, and decorations...many things we associate with Christmas. Unfortunately, if you noticed, Jesus was not mentioned in the list. I did that intentionally just to see if you noticed it or not. We can sometimes get so wound up and caught up in the "concept" of Christmas that we forget the "Christ" who gives us Christmas. It is rather difficult to forget about Jesus at Christmas. Jesus is our Master, the Bridegroom, the Good Shepherd, our Prophet, Priest, and King. He is the Lord of lords and King of kings. Jesus Christ...the Holy One of God. He truly is "Emmanuel," God with us. Christmas isn't about a "holiday season" called Christmas...it is about Jesus Christ. It isn't about "presents" of toys or clothing, but Jesus Christ's "presence" in our lives. It is my prayer that you will desire God's presence within you more than presents from under the tree this season (and always). Don't get consumed in the consumerism of celebrating Christmas. Just celebrate Jesus! May your life be a continual declaration of Thomas' revelation in John 20:28, "My Lord and my God!" Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year in 2008.

Merry X-Mas

Merry WHAT??? Grrrrrr! Don't you dare replace the name of "Christ" with an "X!" I'm being a little facetious, but in all honesty, I can't tell you how irritating I use to find people who used "X" instead of "Christ" when displaying or writing out the word "Christmas." The same was true for any marque, business or sign that displayed that big 'ol "X" instead of the name of "Christ." I thought "how lazy, irreverent, and sacrilegious must you be to 'x-out' Christ?" Until I learned an interesting theological point behind the "X" did I finally become comfortable using the "X." You see, we must go back and learn that the Greek word for Christ is Xristos. Did you catch the first letter in that word? YOU GUESSED IT!! It is an "X!" Thus the abbreviation is simply a “X.” Therefore, the term X-mas is not taking Christ out of Christmas at all. So, now, instead of being offended, I simply grin with a modest chuckle realizing that those who THINK they are taking "Christ" out of Christmas by using an "X" are actually KEEPING the name of Christ in Christmas after all! You just can't silence the message of Isaiah 9:6, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Have a blessed Christmas season and, by the way, MERRY X-MAS!!

The Money Song

I was fortunate enough...or should I say "blessed"enough...to grow up in the church. As the years passed it became apparent that beyond the standard flow of the Sunday service such as hymns, prayers, and sermons, there were other "expected" responses such as "The Gloria Patri," "The Lord's Prayer," "Apostles' Creed" and one song known as "The Doxology." Interestingly enough this one particular "song" was always sung right after taking up the offering. I began to believe that this song was the "money song" or the "offering song" since it was sung while the ushers brought the offering plates forward to give to the pastor. However, now that I have become a pastor/chaplain, I have had the opportunity to study and teach the true meaning behind "the money song" which is known in most bulletins as the "DOXOLOGY." I quickly found that this word is anything but "just the money song" sung after the offering. You see, the word doxology is actually two Greek words in one. The first is doxa which means "glory" and logos which means "words" or "to speak." So, doxology can be words, songs, or any other form of speech that is used to give God glory for His provisions, mercy, and love. So, the next time you find yourself in need to thank God (which is basically all the time and for just about everything), try singing the doxology to Him. Also, try singing the doxology as your supper prayer…maybe sing the doxology before concluding your prayer and devotional time, or the first conscious moments of the day as your alarm clock awakes you from your night's sleep. It can make a big difference in your day...or should I say will make a big difference in your day...as much as it will give God worship and glory. I'm so glad to know that this wonderful song is so much more than just "the money song." Let's lift our voices..."Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise him all creatures here below. Praise him above ye heavenly hosts. Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen."

Thankfulness

Today is Thanksgiving which is hopefully a day known more for thankfulness and gratitude than for gorging ourselves on food. I love the traditions and the wonderful memories of a house full of relatives and friends packed with the aroma of cooking and baking. I think it is the only time in late fall that we run the air conditioner due to the heat generated by cookers, ovens, stoves, and the hot air coming from a lot of boisterous conversations!! :) For me, I still feel just an itsy-bitsy twinge of sadness "way down inside" that all these childhood memories are just that...memories...as those days past will never be repeated. My grandparents are no longer with us meaning that "the family"...you know...the uncles, aunts, cousins, brothers and sisters" hardly ever get together any more for the big feast. Now, nine years in the making, the traditions are now with my family. It is just the five of us and we celebrate John 10:10, "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." I have been blessed with "more abundance" than can be measured. I am thankful to God for His gifts of my family...each one that you see in the picture that accompanies this article...from left to right...Jabin, Jennalyn, and Tristian. Our precious children who will, one day, take what we are doing now as a family and pass it on into the future to their children as "family traditions." So, I leave you with some of Colossians 3:15, by saying "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts...and be thankful!"

The Art of Subtraction

We are a society that would probably associate the word "subtraction" with negative things such as "losing" or "things taken away." I wonder if we have ever considered looking at the word "subtraction" as a very positive word. In one book that I was reading I was intrigued by a concept used by Mother Teresa in regards to her ministry when she was surrounded by people who dealt with so much pain, misery, death, and sickness. Someone had asked her how could she not be overwhelmed when there were obviously more people than she could help. She could only scratch the surface. She responded by saying that looking at it that way (by seeing that the need is greater than my ability to "help everyone") was applying the wrong math. She used subtraction. Every time she loved and cared for a destitute and dying person, every time she rescued a girl from prostitution, every time she comforted a hurting soul, she was subtracting from the despair and adding to hope. DON'T EVER UNDERESTIMATE the power of just doing a little!! Remember Matthew 10:24, "And if anyone give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded." Go out and make a difference by doing good things that can subtract from the despair and brokenness of this world.

Offensive Ministry??

Does it bother you and make you feel uncomfortable to be around someone who is known for being verbally aggressive, offensively opinionated, and outwardly negative and critical on "hot topic" subjects such as race, sexual orientation, and the government? Does it also bother you to know that this same person claims to be a Christian? I've come into contact with several. We are not called to threaten, make offensive remarks, make off-colored statements, or even attempt to verbally "corner" a "sinner" to get them to repent. We are not called to beat people over the head with the Bible (nor shove it down their throats). 2 Corinthians 6:3 is a powerful verse because Paul says, "We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed." Yes, I know sin is sin. Yes, I know we all sin...some more than others. But, I also know it is not my calling (nor anyone's) to purposely single out people to confront them for no other purpose than to get some sort of satisfaction with pointing out to them "how sinful" their sin is "according to the Bible." Please reconsider the long-term damage you could inflict upon someone when the urge hits to confront someone over their sin. You never know, but they are probably fully aware of their struggles...and more than likely they could be at the critical point of making a change. DON'T BLOW IT by interfering with how the Holy Spirit may be working in the person's life by making an ill-timed, unwarranted critical statement to them. Work on loving them and reaching out to them. Don't be guilty of hating both the sinner and the sin....don't create an offensive ministry.

Try Anyway

There are a lot of things I really don't know how to do so I am willing to leave those things to those who can. There are a lot of things I don't know how to do that I must attempt anyway despite how anxious, unwilling, or fearful I feel towards having to do it. That's pretty much how the military goes...especially at our service schools. Despite risk of injury in an obstacle course...climb up the 10-foot ladder, hang from the rope, and traverse the bridge 6 feet above water...whatever the risk...try anyway. Despite never running more than 3-4 miles run the 10k race anyway. Despite having no previous knowledge or experience with course subject matter speak up and offer what opinion or thoughts you do have. If there is one thing I've learned in all possible scenarios in the military is that you WILL NOT be criticized for trying. I've also learned (the hard way) that YOU WILL be criticized if you DON'T take a chance, make an attempt or at least speak up and say something as a way of contributing to the conversation. Regardless of what you think of your abilities or what you feel others think of your abilities, people want you to actively participate. In the military, we call that "contributing." Nothing will kill you more in a team-oriented environment than not contributing. No matter what...TRY ANYWAY. ....you face your fears...you overcome your anxiety...you swallow your pride...you boldly stand up and face the unknown with confidence...whatever, whenever, however...try anyway...CONTRIBUTE. Whenever you feel yourself scared to death that is the first indication that it is time to step up to the plate and step out to lead. Take a chance...stop spending so much time worrying over the various probabilities you might have to fall flat on your face...just try and put your effort and energy into the 1 or 2 possibilities that at least have a chance of working. Again, the least that could happen is that you will get applauded for trying. You will be shunned and booed for "playing it safe" and for not trying or contributing. The next time you are challenged to step out of your comfort zone or presented with a situation where "walking away" is so much easier than risking failure, GO FOR IT...LEAD THE WAY...TRY ANYWAY.