Thinking About The New Earth

By Stewart Whittmore

"For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former shall not be remembered or come to mind.” Isaiah 65:17

“In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” John 14:2,3

“Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.” 2 Peter 3:13

Every year my daughter Sue and her husband, Jeff, take my oldest grandson, Brandon, on a special camping and fishing trip for his birthday. This year it was in the beautiful foothills of Southern Oregon to Howard Prairie Lake. My words will not do justice to the picture of this lake nestled among the rolling hills that are around it. The scene of the green foliage contrasted against the crisp clear water would refresh even the most wearied among us.

As I drove to their campsite to be with Brandon for his birthday celebration, I could hardly keep my eyes on the winding road to this picturesque lake as I gazed upon God's exquisite portrait of His creation all around me. I could not help wondering again how much more beautiful His "New Earth" would be. Even if this colorfast scenery that I was gazing upon did not change, the fact that we would no longer have to struggle with the evil of this world made the thought of it even more appealing. No more pain, no more suffering, no more tears, no more wars to go back to face like we have today. That would be heaven on earth!

After the birthday dinner of tacos and some of Brandon's favorite chocolate cake we went out to do some fishing before the night set in. There was an impromptu fishing tournament between the two boats of fishermen to see which boat could catch the biggest and most fish. I wondered if fishing will be part of this "New Earth" too. After all, it was part of Brandon's heaven on this old earth now. Didn't Jesus gather fishermen to be with Him to become His first disciples? He has a wonderful plan for all of us in the New Earth. I can hardly wait!

Stewart Whittmore writes from Grants Pass, Oregon.

The Ultimate Sacrifice

By Willa Johnson

Every adult has made some kind of a sacrifice at some point in life. Young newlyweds have been known to sacrifice by one of them putting education on hold while the other one obtains a desired degree. That happens frequently. Sadly, some of those sacrifices end in divorce because the one who worked to pay expenses never “caught up” to the one who attained the educated status.

During The Great Depression, my father sacrificed by working on a farm away from the family so he could earn a pittance to send back to us. As circumstances improved and he returned home, every summer he spent hours putting in a large garden so our family would have enough food to keep from starving. He didn’t have a motorized tractor to till his garden; rather, he developed a strong body with hard muscles by using a push plow. He wasn’t the only one. That was the norm for that era. Mother and most other women back then canned to store up food for the winter. Much like the story of the ant in the Proverbs 6:6-8.

A great many parents make sacrifices to give their children advantages they themselves never had. Some are wise enough to not over do it so their children can learn the meaning of hard work and rightly earn their own reward. Unfortunately, some parents through good intentions don’t want their children to be deprived as they were and consequently, their offspring never reap a valuable lesson.

Our forefathers strove for freedom and all of the emblems of our history indicate that they looked to God Almighty for help. “Nowhere is this heritage seen more clearly than on the Liberty Bell. In 1751, the Pennsylvania Assembly called for the forging of a bell to commemorate William Penn's original charter of the state. They included instructions requiring that a Scripture verse be included on the bell. The verse is Leviticus 25:10: ‘Proclaim Liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.’ Our Founding Fathers considered it important for all generations to know that God is the source of all our freedoms.” (Copied from Presidential Prayer Team Update for July 19, 2007) The sacrifices they made are unnumbered, and too often unappreciated, so that we might continue to have freedom.

As one who dislikes, no hates, hot weather, I’ve been known to complain when the temperature gets over 90 degrees. Then I’m reminded of our troops who are willingly giving their utmost to keep us free. Many of them are serving in places where there are unbearable temperatures up to140 degrees all the while burdened down with gear. Talk about sacrifice! The Bible states: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 Our service people know this and still they volunteer.

No human being can die for another and give eternal life. But 2000+ years ago, one God/man did just that. He died that we might have eternal life. “For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45. That was Christ’s sole purpose for leaving a glorious heaven and coming to earth as a human infant later to be crucified.

No matter what sacrifices we may think we make, none can ever compare to the ultimate sacrifice God made when he sent his Only Begotten Son to earth to be our Sacrificial Lamb.

Willa Johnson writes from Phoenix, Oregon. wjhat@ccountry.com

The Power Of Christian Fiction

By Chad McComas

I recently picked up two Christian fiction books at the Oregon Christian Writers Conference in the Portland area in early August. I have known one author for some time and wanted to read one of her books. The other book was from a young author I met at the conference and was impressed with.

I first read Karen Ball’s “The Breaking Point” printed by Multnomah. Karen is a native of Southern Oregon and has a wonderful spirit of love and service for her lord. I was especially intrigued with the book’s topic of a broken marriage and the healing of it. Marriage is not an easy journey as statistics tell us that over 50% of them (Christian marriages as well!) fail. From personal experience I know that it takes a strong commitment and a genuine humbleness to build and grow a marriage. Most are not willing to do that. My 17 year-old son shares with me that almost all of his friends don’t have both parents at home. Those teens are growing up missing the joy of a strong home with the consistent input and love from a dad and a mom.

So, I was anxious to see how Karen would approach the subject. I know she is a great writer, but would a powerful message come out of her book?

It did! I could barely put the book down. I was so touched by Karen’s fiction story that was truly a personal journey into healing. Karen was able to share valuable Christian insights and encouragement throughout the story. Her use of scripture and short one-line thoughts from others stimulated and inspired as well.

Because the book was a “fictional” story it was easy to read. I didn’t feel like I was being preached to while in reality it was one of the strongest sermons I’ve ever heard. I didn’t feel condemned only encouraged that the heart of all marriage problems is laid at the feet of each person. In the story Gabe and Renee both have to deal with their own stubbornness and false expectations that have led them to a marriage born in hell rather than heaven. Their healing is the reader’s healing. I can’t recommend this book highly enough for any Christian Journal reader wanting to repair, rebuild or strengthen his or her marriage.

In essence I believe that Karen Ball has caught the vision of what Christian fiction needs to do. It must entertain and provide enjoyable reading, but it also much build up the Christian reader to a stronger relationship with Christ and His kingdom.

The other book I read was “Relentless” by Robin Parrish. It is published by Bethany House. I was filled with expectation when I read on the front cover this comment from Ted Dekker. “Robin Parrish is the kind of writer who understands how to entertain from the word go. His stories are sure to shape fiction for years to come.”

There is no doubt that the book grabs one’s attention. It is truly hard to put down. Robbin is an excellent writer and can weave a story that is brilliant and fast moving. It didn’t take long for the 440+ pages to disappear. But, when I was done I felt cheated. The story had no point. There was no purpose to reading it rather than just good entertainment. I kept waiting for the story to have some redemption value and it had none. Now, there is a follow-up book I haven’t read and perhaps that book brings the story to a more wonderful, powerful end, but it seems like each book needs to stand alone in value.

What’s my point?

There is no doubt that in the last 20 years Christian fiction has exploded. There are so many books to chose from published by so many Christian publishers. I’d hope that each writer understands the writing gift God has given him or her to touching lives and impacting others to as Paul says in Colossians: “Set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Colossians 3:1,2 The power of fiction is to take an entertaining story and teach profound lessons that stick…much like Jesus did when He told parables.

There is no doubt that in the case of Karen’s book this is all true. There is extreme value in her work.

Chad McComas writes from Medford, Oregon

The Lit Up Cross

By Melinda Preciado

Driving down the freeway in my 18-wheeler
Far away from home,
I was feeling so despaired
So very alone.
As darkness fell,
I was glancing in the side mirror
when I saw a lit up cross approaching from behind.
The cross was on a truck which
soon followed me into a truck stop.
The chaplain who drove this truck
invited me to sit and visit
over a cup of coffee.
He led me to the Lord that night
And I no longer feel despaired or alone.
Thank you for those men
Who are out there in the truck stops
Reaching out to all
To lead them to the Lord Jesus Christ.

Melinda Preciado writes from Fremont, Ohio

Teaching Kids The Difference Between Needs And Wants

By Ron Edmondson

My first car was a 1969 Pontiac Lemans, driven by a little old lady who parked in it a garage, and never drove over 35. It was in mint condition and proved to be a good, dependable, classic car. After the first year, I traded it for a “had to have” 1975 Audi Fox complete with sunroof and a stereo with cassette player …and a huge repair bill every 3,000 miles. Something was always going wrong with that car. I wish I had my ’69 Lemans even today.

I’ve had conflict most of my life between what I think I want and what I really need. Most of us have times when there is a conflict between what we want and what we really need. That conflict “suddenly” seems to appear in our children as well. It is understandable why it is difficult to raise children who understand the difference between a need and a want and are generous people when their parents struggle with the same issues.

It is not my intent to advocate parents not give their children some of the things they want. That wouldn’t even be the God-way of doing things. We can give our children stuff they want and be okay with God. I do think it is important that all parents consider their system of meeting needs verses wants. I wonder what gets more attention in the home? Does having the latest technology in a TV take a bigger role than teaching children to be good citizens and to generously love others? If so, I’m not sure that’s a good plan for parenting. Sometimes we set children up for success or failure in life by how we treat them in this whole area of providing for their needs and their wants.

As parents who want to raise generous children we may have to model simple living sometimes for our children. It’s okay to say NO to our child or to say WAIT. In fact, that may sometimes be the exact thing we need to say.

I think we must teach our children to value the “need” more than the “want” by first modeling it for them. We cannot ask children to do something we are not willing to do ourselves. Children are smarter than that. Today’s generation is far more interested in truth and integrity than earlier generations. This generation despises hypocrisy. If children see parents saying one thing and doing another, they will reject that as being truth. We need to model and teach our children the proper concepts concerning money and ultimately that we are to be responsible with what God has allowed us to have.

If children are encouraged by example to have a love of money…a love of stuff…chances are they will never have enough possessions in this world to be satisfied. We must plant within them a love of God, a love of people and a love of life they will want to bless others; and the joy of their life will be much greater.

Perhaps the greatest thing we as parents can do to help our children succeed in life is to help them desire the things of God more than the things of this world. That is God’s heart for us as His children and it is the heart He desires for us to pass on to the children He’s placed in our homes.

Ron Edmondson writes from Clarksville, Tennessee. mustardseed@charter.net

Surfing Life

By Connie Folwer

"We are more than conquerors through Him that loved us." Romans 8:37

Oswald Chambers says: "We are SUPER-VICTORS" because of the "Fathomless marvel" of the love of God exhibited on the cross. We are victors with a JOY we wouldn't have but for the very things that look like they are going to overwhelm us.”

When I was a kid, my parents took my brother and me to Carpinteria, California where Dad grew up. The warm California surf was a new experience and a bit overwhelming. Dad patiently taught me how to body surf the breaking waves.

I learned If I waited too long, the wave passed me by. If I hurried too fast it crashed over me and pounded me into the sand. I had to be patient for just the right moment when the swelling wave was about to break. Then, paddling furiously for a few moments, I caught the wave, letting myself be propelled along on the crest until it foamed out onto the waiting shore. I gleefully dug sand out of my bathing suit and headed back into the water to do it all over again.

In the California surf, I experienced JOY in the very thing I thought was going to overwhelm me.

It’s much like life. I need to trust God to show me how to ride it out. When I trust Him, I catch the waves of circumstances, trials and testings, and am buoyed up by his unfailing love. If I fight against the tides of life I sink and am tumbled head over heels. But, if I keep my head up, do some paddling and trust my Heavenly Father’s patient instruction I am lifted and propelled along. I'm still in the water (circumstances etc.) but not overwhelmed. Life and its challenges then become a rush instead of a ruin.

“The experiences of life, terrible or monotonous, are impotent (ineffective, powerless) to touch the love of God which is in Christ Jesus." Oswald Chambers

Connie Fowler writes from Jacksonville, Oregon

Something To Think About

1. There are at least two people in this world that you would die for.

2. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way.

3. The only reason anyone would ever hate you is because they want to be just like you.

4. A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.

5. Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.

6. You mean the world to someone.

7. You are special and unique.

8. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.

9. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good comes from it.

10. When you think the world has turned its back on you take another look.

11. Always remember the compliments you received. Forget about the rude remarks.

Some Good Clean Laughs

STORY OF ELIJAH
The Sunday school teacher was carefully explaining the story of Elijah the Prophet and the false prophets of Baal. She explained how Elijah built the altar, put wood upon it, cut the steer in pieces, and laid it upon the altar. And then, Elijah commanded the people of God to fill four barrels of water and pour it over the altar. He had them do this four times. "Now, said the teacher, "can anyone in the class tell me why the Lord would have Elijah pour water over the steer on the altar?" A little girl in the back of the room started waving her hand, "I know! I know!" she said, "To make the gravy!"

LOT'S WIFE
The teacher was describing how Lot's wife looked back and turned into a pillar of salt, when little Jason interrupted, "My Mummy looked back once, while she was driving," he announced triumphantly, "and she turned into a telephone pole!"

GOOD SAMARITAN
A teacher was telling her class the story of the Good Samaritan, in which a man was beaten, robbed and left for dead. She described the situation in vivid detail so her students would catch the drama. Then, she asked the class, "If you saw a person lying on the roadside, all wounded and bleeding, what would you do?" A thoughtful little girl broke the hushed silence, "I think I'd throw up."

DID NOAH FISH?
"Johnny, do you think Noah did a lot of fishing when he was on the Ark?" "No," replied David. "How could he, with just two worms?"

HIGHER POWER
A teacher said to her children, " We have been learning how powerful kings and queens were in Bible times. But, there is a higher power. Can anybody tell me what it is?" One child blurted out, "Aces!"

MOSES &THE RED SEA
Nine-year-old Joey, was asked by his mother what he had learned in Sunday school. "Well, Mom, our teacher told us how God sent Moses behind enemy lines on a rescue mission to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. When he got to the Red Sea he had his army build a pontoon bridge and all the people walked across safely. Then, he radioed headquarters for reinforcements. They sent bombers to blow up the bridge and all the Israelites were saved." "Now, Joey, is that really what your teacher taught you?" his mother asked. "Well, no, Mom. But, if I told it the way the teacher did, you'd never believe it!"

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD
A teacher decided to have her young class memorize one of the most quoted passages in the Bible; Psalm 23. She gave the youngsters a month to learn the verse. Little Rick was excited about the task, but he just couldn't remember the Psalm. After much practice, he could barely get past the first line. On the day that the kids were scheduled to recite Psalm 23 in front of the congregation, Ricky was so nervous. When it was his turn, he stepped up to the microphone and said proudly, "The Lord is my Shepherd, and that's all I need to know."

ANYTHING BREAKABLE?
There was a very gracious lady who was mailing an old family Bible to her brother in another part of the country. "Is there anything breakable in here?" asked the postal clerk. "Only the Ten Commandments," answered the lady.

AN AMISH WARNING
While driving in Pennsylvania , a family caught up to an Amish carriage. The owner of the carriage obviously had a sense of humor, because attached to the back of the carriage was a hand printed sign. "Energy efficient vehicle: Runs on oats and grass. Caution: Do not step in exhaust.''

THE QUILT
After church, a mom asked her very young daughter what the lesson was about. The daughter answered, "Don't be scared, you'll get your quilt." Needless to say, mom was perplexed. Later in the day, the pastor stopped by for tea and the mother asked him what that morning's lesson was about. He said "Be not afraid, thy comforter is coming."

Gayla Vick from Medford, Oregon sent these in.

Sacrificial Silence

By Patti Iverson

Everyone who knows me is well aware of the fact that I have opinions on practically everything, but no one is asking, hence, I write! It is a real sacrifice for me to shut up sometimes. I always tell my husband, “Ah, but you should hear all the things I DON”T say.” Sometimes he cares, and we’ll just forget about the times he doesn’t…

Henry Liddon said: “nothing is really lost by a life of sacrifice; everything is lost by failure to obey God’s call.” God’s call sometimes is for me to just plain shut up. Ouch! I do believe the statement: “I will not sacrifice to the Lord that which costs me nothing.” Sacrifices do not have to be huge, major things. Sometimes, as “anon” wrote: “It’s silence when your words would hurt. Patience when your neighbor’s curt. It’s deafness when a scandal flows. It’s thoughtfulness for others’ woes. It’s promptness when stern duty calls. It’s courage when misfortune falls.”

Sacrifice is the opposite of selfishness. Many people conduct their lives on the cafeteria plan: “Self-service only.” Scripture tells us we are “to not just think of ourselves, but to sacrifice and do what is best for the other person.”

I could live my life totally “My way or the highway.” I could have, and know everything from faith, to prophecy, to riches, but if I don’t sacrifice myself for others it’s all worth nothing. Nothing at all, without love. Hey! That sure sounds a lot like ! Corinthians 13 to me.

This world really has a goofed up version of sacrifice.

1. There’s a very popular poster of a gleaming gold toilet as a throne. Captioned above it is the word, SACRIFICE. Beneath is “After a night of too much alcohol and spirits, Thou must kneel, embrace Thy throne, and sacrifice to the Porcelain God.”

2. There’s a Game Pro called “Sacrifice”. It’s rated” M for Mature”, with intense violence, language, and sexual themes. They call it “fantasy and strategy with offbeat humor”. It borders on the occult, and what you may sacrifice might be your soul.

3. “YOUTH MISSIONARY NEWS”: In Michigan, after a Missions Conference, a youth group from a mainstream church wanted to sacrifice their spring break. The Pastor and congregation backed them 100% so God would be glorified and they would make a difference in the lives they served. Their destination? Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Ohhhh! Sufferin’ for Jesus! They vowed to witness as they rode rides saying, “Thank God that’s over.” They promised to pray silently before meals and wear “Jars of Clay” t-shirts. They admit it will be hard giving up their Spring break at home. Did I mention the church is putting up $1200 per kid and chaperones to house them at a Disney resort, plus purchases of 6-day passes to all the parks? Aurrrrgh!

Is sacrifice doing without something, or doing something you don’t want to do? Both. In sports, team players often sacrifice. A baseball batter has to bunt so as to move the runners. He gives up his home run slam and glory. At the Tour de France a bicyclist may wish to be a front leader, but has to play the strategy game to help the team’s #1 cyclist get over the finish line first.

One Catholic said his idea of a sacrifice was being a designated driver so he and his buddies could get their friend, Ahmed, hammered on green beer for Saint Patrick’s Day. He truly believed he was acting sacrificially, and to him, he was. He was both doing without and also doing what he really didn’t want to be doing. Well, that is some sacrifice. Poor Ahmed…

Environmentalists are now all talking about how we need to give up some of our creature comforts for the whole of this God-given earth. To sacrifice water, heat, oil, pesticides and now grocery bags. Some sacrifice, others take. Can we just send more money? Some wealthy folks refuse to sacrifice or give up anything. They just pour out more money and let others do the sacrificing, simply because they can.

Ted the Clown said, “Life is too serious to take too seriously.” We sacrifice humor and sometimes reality in search for truth or what’s real, and then, in our story of life, realize we must suffer and or sacrifice one way or the other. It’s always one thing or yer muther. Sorry, couldn’t resist…J

Poor Abraham was sacrificial in a way I could never have imagined. I could not, would not sacrifice my 12-year-old son to God. Of course, I might have considered it a few times when he was a teenager… Here, Lord, YOU take him!
Jesus prepared for the ultimate sacrifice, as it was God’s will for humanity. He had to be in that desert forty days, hungry, dirty, thirsty. Am I willing to sacrifice any of my worldly comforts: my morning coffee, cushy bed, great car, or even just a good life to make this world better for the masses? Or am I a “Here am I, Lord. Send Aaron!” Sacrificing chocolate or time off just isn’t the same as it was for Jesus, sacrificing His deity for you and me.

Sacrifice is not a sign of punishment, but one of holiness and love. The sacrifice our great God requires of us is our heart, soul, and mind. In Psalms 51:16 it states: ” He desires our broken and humble spirit.” Before I can sacrifice anything to the God I love I must simply, in childlike humility give Him my heart. And so I do. Every day. Well, I’m still workin’ on the sacrificial silence part. How ‘bout you?

Patti Iverson randpi@charter.net

Supernatural Encounter With God

J.B. Wester

Jesus is known for His sacrifice. His death on the cross for our sins was the greatest sacrificial act of mercy the world will ever see. What we sometimes forget is that the crucifixion was not Jesus' only sacrifice. In truth Jesus lived a lifestyle of sacrifice. He sacrificed his deity to live as a mortal man here on earth, He sacrificed his reputation to reach out to outcasts and sinners, He sacrificed his time and convenience to heal the sick and raise the dead.

This lifestyle of sacrifice placed Jesus in a unique position. Where Jesus walked, the Kingdom of God followed. Everywhere He went people were healed, forgiven, accepted and miraculously fed. Those who followed Jesus were constantly exposed to the realities of the Kingdom and their lives were changed. This supernatural outpouring was released because Jesus was continually willing to lay down his life for the purposes of the Father. "…My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." Matthew 26:8
In our present cultural climate Jesus' lifestyle of sacrifice is an important model. We live in an age when the goal of most people's lives is convenience. We work and strive for no greater goal than comfort. Owning a house or a nice car become the motivations that push us forward in our daily lives. There's nothing wrong with owning a house or a nice car, but too often living our lives for these pursuits creates a stronghold of selfishness in our lives. We find ourselves making decisions based on what's best for us instead of what's best for the Kingdom.

Jesus commissioned His people to carry on his legacy. John 13:34 Jesus' love was played out through sacrifice. "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.""This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." 1 John 4:10

If we want to live and love as Jesus did then we need to embrace a lifestyle of sacrifice. "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship." Romans 12:1

As Christians we are well aware of our commission to follow Jesus' example of sacrificial living. We are reminded that even a small sacrifice made for another person can have profound impact in their lives. The problem however is that at times the concept of sacrifice is reduced to going out of our way for our fellow man. It's true that stepping outside of the realm of convenience is essential to a lifestyle of sacrifice, but it is far from the fullness.

The example set by Jesus is that true sacrifice is laying down our own agenda to take up God's plans. Reducing sacrifice to acts of selflessness robs it of its power. True sacrifice provides God with an opportunity to reveal Himself to the people around us. In its rightful place sacrifice becomes the fuel that ignites supernatural encounter with the Lord. When we lay ourselves down and surrender to the will of God we will see people's lives transformed by His presence. In this way we follow the example of Jesus who said: "…I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son does also." John 5:19

J.B. Wester writes from Grants Pass, Oregon. scotlandjeff@hotmail.com

Sacrifice Is Loosing Control

By Chad McComas

The real issue facing all believers is who is in charge? The sacrifice that we are asked to make is to give up the right to control our own lives and put ourselves under the control of God. Paul reminds us: “…you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.” 1 Corinthians 6:20

The daily tug-a-war is whether or not I am willing to let God have His way or not. Jesus understood this and gave us the secret to real life. He said: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it. What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?” Matthew 16:24-26

Loosing control is exactly what we all need to do, but is exactly what we all fight to maintain. And holding on so tight is a false sense of power. It leads to destruction. Solomn understood this when he wrote: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.” Proverbs 14:12 He also wrote: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5,6

Paul says in Romans 12:1,2 we are to be “living sacrifices.” Our lives are under God’s control…not ours. Jesus told us that our primary job in life is to: “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33 We have seen awesome examples of people who have sought after God’s kingdom and His righteousness in their lives. I think of people like George Mueller, Mother Teresa, Bill Bright, Billy Graham and others. These people have learned that true Sacrifice isn’t judged in resources, but in committing their lives to God’s control.

I believe that this is the primary issue that Jesus was referring to when He warned us to “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near." Matthew 4:17 Will we repent of trying to do things our way and sacrifice control of our lives for God to have His way with us? That’s the real issue today.

Chad McComas writes from Medford, Oregon.

Sacrifice And Rest

By Chad McComas

Who wants to sacrifice in today’s culture? Obviously not too many. We do hear the occasional story of an Olympian putting in the horrendous hours to become an excellent enough athlete to compete in his/her chosen field in the Olympics. Or, we will read about the long hours a young man or woman put in during their high school and college years to become a professional player in sports. We may even enjoy a story like the one that inspired the recent movie “The Pursuit of Happyness” that led a homeless man to excel in changing his life and the life of his son.

But…we see far too many people around us not willing to put in the “sacrifice” it takes to become what they want to become. Most of us want something for nothing. We want to lose our excess pounds by eating crispy crème donuts. We want to get out of debt and get rich by using credit cards. We want to have the perfect marriage by short dating, short engagement, and a quick trip to Reno. We want perfect kids while expecting them to be “seen and not heard.” The result…a messed up world with messed up people.

When it comes to our experience with God…we consider sacrifice the effort we make to get to a worship service a couple of times a year. And don’t forget the money I spent on that new “leather bound” Bible a few years ago. Now…where did I put that?

Mention “Sacrifice” to a group of believers and they think that it’s just the introduction for the local church to begin a new fund-raising program to get a new building or pay off the mortgage on the old one.

But “Sacrifice” in the Word is so much more. More work…right? NO! Less work!
Sacrifice is about trust. It’s about enjoying life, not giving it up.

Paul encouraged all believers to understand that how they live is what pleases God. It isn’t about doing or not doing certain things. (All religions have their lists) Rather, living for God on the daily adventure is the “Sacrifice” He wants. Notice: “Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – which is your spiritual worship.” Romans 12:1

A living sacrifice is in contrast with a dead sacrifice. In the Old Testament we were to kill a lamb, dove, bull, or ear of corn and give it to God. It had to be repeated over and over for yesterday’s sacrifice couldn’t cover today’s relationship with God.

In the New Testament God isn’t wanting the old dead things…He wants a new living relationship with each of us. That relationship is ever changing, ever growing, ever blessing God and those around us.

And how are we to live? Paul told us that our “living sacrifice” is to watch God close enough so we can imitate Him. That’s what Jesus did. That’s what God wants us to do too.

“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:1,2

In the dictionary one definition of Sacrifice is: “to surrender or give up.” Our sacrifice is to surrender and give up the need to be in charge of our personal lives. We surrender to God. We give up the decision making and let Him give our thoughts, our lives, our resources, our relationships. It is like Jesus said in Matthew 11:28 that He wants to give us rest. Sacrifice and rest.

This is so different from the world that says sacrifice and work hard. Religion says sacrifice and work hard. Jesus says sacrifice and rest. I like His way best.

Chad McComas writes from Medford, Oregon.

Sacrifice For A Double Amputee

By Judith Ann Squier


Pinch me. Did I, the Queen of Creature Comforts, just complete my third mission trip to Romania? I vowed I’d never go back. But God’s Specialty is to turn our “Not I’s” into “I, I Sirs!” He loves breaking down our strong wills so that we can enjoy His Good Plan.

For me, a full time wheelchair user, traveling to Romania spells SACRIFICE. But I’m learning that crawling into trains and planes and inaccessible bathrooms is well worth the sacrifice. That must be why I go back for more.

My husband, David, and I were privileged to be team members for Joni Eareckson Tada’s Wheels for the World wheelchair distribution in Romania. Our work was done in Bucharest’s 100 degree temperatures. Our lodging was alongside young adult orphans at the Broken Heart Foundation. My Creature Comfort List included a lopsided fan, a bird chorus at dawn, a single hollyhock surviving in bone dry dirt, a nearby gas station with a wheelchair accessible toilet and a small plastic washtub just big enough for me, a double amputee.

Stripped of my air conditioned home, my three accessible toilets and my rose bushes, I was able to see in new ways God’s Hand in my life. As I welcomed Romanian families touched by disability to the wheelchair distribution site, I saw myself: I, the disabled child, carried by a loving father. The teen, the young adult, the white haired lady – they were me too. My life flashed before me. I saw - in the bleak faces - my own family who doubted their daughter born without legs would ever get a life.

But wait a minute. Was it not God’s bountiful blessings gushing over my six decades of life that propelled me to Romania to bless others? A chill cooled my perspiring spine as I led yet another family into the Romanian church to receive a wheelchair. The mechanic, adapting each of the seventy some wheelchairs, was a stranger to them but a husband to me. And our team’s three young female physical therapists fitting the wheelchairs to the recipients were the equivalent of our three adult daughters praying for us back in America.

The good side of sacrifice is that it clears life’s stage of stuff so we can see the Hand of God. In Romania I saw the Mighty Hand of God again and again and again. Ministering to the broken in Romania, in some strange way, helped heal the wounds of my brokenness. Confidently and comfortably I would hold up my deformed left hand with its three fingers and deliver a three point sermon.

1) Can’t do life without God
2) Life is difficult
3) Jesus shows up.

It’s true, Jesus shows up so we can face the impossible.

As our mission trip ended and our plane descended into Washington DC, my heart soared expecting all was over except the Alleluias. Little did I know, the trip’s biggest challenge was ahead for me. After delivering 200 plus wheelchairs, my chair was lost at the airport. I sang no alleluias that night as David carried me into our home and I crawled to the bathroom.

Now that my chair and I have been reunited, I can lean back and see God’s Hand even in this. Early on, I had prayed for goose bump stories from Romania. I get not only goose bumps, but a chill when I ponder the paradox of my lost wheelchair: I delivered wheelchairs so no one need crawl and in the end I was forced to crawl.

Does no good deed go unpunished? Or is there a lesson here? I realize now my going to Romania was a sacrifice. But the supreme sacrifice is not one that you or I engineer. It’s a moment by moment acceptance of the Heavenly Father’s will, putting our strong wills on the altar as a sacrifice, abandoning ourselves to His Good Plan even when it feels bad. I, as a human being, fall far short of that. That’s why I join the angels in applauding Jesus as the King of Sacrifice.

Judith Ann Squier writes from Grants Pass, Oregon. judyann777@aol.com

Sacrifice? Or Joyful Exchange?

By Fred Wikoff

There was a time when to sacrifice meant the practice of offering food, or the lives of animals or humans to God or some other entity as an act of worship or appeasement. But through the years the public definition of sacrifice has changed so drastically that today the word is used in most everyway imaginable.
We sacrifice so our kids can go to summer camp, be in little league, and attend college. In baseball we bunt or hit a sacrifice fly ball so another player can score or advance to another base. In politics we have sacrificial lambs that take the blame for politically damaging allegations or discretions so someone considered more valuable to the party can escape judgment.

Even Christians, who regularly observe Christ’s sacrifice on the cross by partaking in the Lords Supper, freely use the word in its broadest sense. For instance, it’s popular for Christian young people to “sacrifice” their spring break by spending a few days working on a mission field. Contrast this short, fun filled outing with the life of a full time missionary that has left family, friends, and the conveniences of the modern world to live and work under primal conditions year after year, and the true meaning of sacrifice becomes obvious.

But ironically, most missionaries do not view what they have given up as sacrificial. Instead they feel blessed to be chosen to serve Christ in this way, and joyfully view their austere life as a small price to pay to win lost souls. And in their service they have learned a happy truth about sacrifice: when you receive something of higher value in exchange for what you have given it’s no longer a sacrifice, but a wise and joyful exchange.

This is especially true of Christian sacrifice. It is the exchange of our old life of sin, for the gift of eternal life with Christ. Combined with faith and love this joyful exchange is the motivation behind all Christian service. It enabled Christ to endure the cross and Paul and Silas to sing while in prison. It is the “secret” source of much of the joy that Christians radiate and so puzzles the skeptics.
“How can anyone be truly joyful if they must give up so much?” They ask.

It’s a valid question. There is indeed a price to pay. Personal sacrifice is truly a central part of Christianity, not only for the missionary, but for all true believers.
Christ said: “he who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.” Matthew 10:38

In the process we will have unwelcome experiences and face ridicule and conflict. Satan will foster doubt and tempt us mercilessly. And you can be sure that the skeptics will always be there to question our sincerity and test our resolve at every turn. (See 1 Corinthians 1:18)

But every encounter we have with another person, skeptic or not, gives the Holy Spirit a chance to work through us to save that person’s soul. And when we see the result of the Lord working through us, no price is too high to pay, and our joy is overpowering.

We are like the man that found a hidden treasure in a field “and in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” (See Matthew 13:44) Or like the merchant that found a pearl of great value and sacrificed everything he had to obtain it. (See Matthew 13:45-46)

We rejoice that Christ has chosen us as tools for revealing his truth, and in our joy, “appeal to you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” Romans 12:1

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

Fred Wikoff writes from Eugene, Oregon. EugeneSpud@msn.com

Cutting Covenant - The Lord's Supreme Sacrifice

By Barry N. Shaw

“On that day the Lord made a covenant [literally ‘cut a covenant’] with Abram and said, ‘To your descendants I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates...” Genesis 15:18 Thus the Lord made a solemn contract with Abram (Abraham) by which He promised Abram and his descendants the land of Israel.

To be binding, every contract must be supported by a cost to the one making the promise. In order to bind His covenant, the Lord instructed Abram to bring Him “...a heifer, a goat and a ram...Abram brought all these to Him, cut them in two and arranged the halves opposite each other...” Genesis 15:9,10 “As the sun was setting, Abram fell into a deep sleep, and a thick and dreadful darkness came over him...When the sun had set and darkness had fallen, a smoking firepot with a blazing torch [symbolizing the presence of God] appeared and passed between the pieces.” Genesis 15:12, 17

“In ancient times in order to bind a contract, the parties cut an animal in two, stood in the midst of the carcass, and clasped each other’s wrist to show they were deadly serious about keeping their end of the bargain.” Jon Courson’s Application Commentary at Genesis 15:10. This is called “cutting covenant.”
God later saw it necessary to cut another covenant with His people—the Mosaic Covenant also known as the Ten Commandments. God gave them His Law to shed light on their sinful ways. But the people, by their sinful nature, continued to disobey His Law.

Being a gracious God and slow to anger, the Lord cut yet another covenant with His children, a new and final covenant which He spoke through His prophet Jeremiah: “The time is coming...when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah. It will not be like the covenant I made with their forefathers...because they broke my covenant [the Law]...I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people...I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.” Jeremiah 31:31-34

The New Covenant, to be binding, also had to be supported by consideration—“it was necessary for this one also to have something to offer.” Hebrews 8:3,8 There had to be a cost to the one making the Promise!

Under the Law, the high priest entered the Most Holy Place in the temple once a year, and never without the blood of sacrificed animals “which he offered for himself and for the sins the people had committed in ignorance.” Hebrews 9:7
The Law required “that nearly everything had to be cleansed with blood for without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” Hebrews 9:22; Leviticus 17:11

But the sacrifices being offered to support the old covenant “were not able to clear the conscience of the worshiper.” Hebrews 9:9 Under the ceremonial sacrifices of the Law, there was no remission of sin.

In order to assuage His wrath at the people for their sinful and disobedient ways and to bind His New Covenant, God sent His Son Jesus Christ to enter the Most Holy Place in heaven itself, to appear for us in the Father’s presence, once for all, to do away with sin by cutting covenant, by shedding His own blood; by the sacrifice of Himself. (Hebrews 9:11, 12, 24, 26) By one supreme sacrifice, God Himself has made perfect forever those who are being made holy—us. (See Hebrews 10:14)

When Jesus breathed His last on the Cross, just as at the time of the Lord’s Abrahamic Covenant, “darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour.” Mark 15:33

In a symbolic cutting of covenant, as with the Abrahamic Covenant where the animals were cut in two, the curtain of the temple separating the Most Holy Place, was torn in two from top to bottom. “The thick veil that separated the holy place from the holy of holies was a barrier between people and God. Only the death of Christ could tear that veil...and open the way into the heavenly sanctuary where God dwells.” Wiersbe, Be Confident, 114.

Just as Abram cut in two the heifer, the goat and the ram to provide an offering, with His blood Christ cut His covenant by cutting the veil separating us from God. Now we “have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place ourselves by the blood of Jesus by a new and living way opened to us through the curtain, that is His body...since we have a great priest over the house of God.” Hebrews 10:19-21

Thank you Jesus!

Barry N. Shaw writes from Applegate Valley, Oregon.

Rediscover The Music Of Your Heart

By Randy Knapp

My shoulders ached. My feet hurt. The muscles in my legs burned with fatigue and threatened to cramp at any moment. The remaining muscles voiced their protests, as I stood gazing across Gibson Meadow, complained with one accusing voice, “And you say we used to enjoy this torture?” I had only a half-mile to go to reach our destination at Granite Lake and I was out of gas.

I was backpacking with my son and two friends up to Granite Lake in the Trinity Alps of Northern California in an attempt to find my heart. It’s not that I had really lost it, but the pressures of life, the weight of years, the nagging pain of injuries suffered a decade and a half ago, and the slow drain of mental fatigue had drawn my thoughts back in search of easier times when I was uninjured and carefree.

Through my teenage years and well into my twenties I spent time backpacking and mountain climbing around the American northwest and in the Rockies of British Columbia. During those years I felt strong and confident. I deemed myself invincible. I ran seven and a half miles a day to maintain my fitness for the next quest into the wild heights.

In those days, each time I arrived at a trailhead in anticipation of a new climb - that’s when the music started. I could climb anything. Often I climbed solo, and when my muscles grew tired, I dug deep and found strength I never thought I had. When I climbed with a partner, we climbed on the edge – a symphony of strength and skill that conquered the summit of any mountain, by any reasonable route. I often faced exposure and fear, and subdued them. Many times I faced life-threatening dangers, and each time I pushed through and emerged unscathed.

I found who I was as a man on the rock and ice in the mountains of my youth.
But as I stood on that rock outcrop in the Trinity Alps a couple of weekends ago, and gazed across the beautiful grassy meadow, I heard no symphony. The muscles I had counted on so many years ago seemed about to mutiny as they contemplated the ignominy of unconditional surrender.

My legs were shaking - my muscles protesting, but I sensed a close proximity to the object of my quest. As I reached past the pain to the depth of my spirit I heard what seemed like the distant notes of a long forgotten melody. Amidst the screaming of my aching muscles, I focused on the breeze that eddied through the trees, on the chirping of the birds, and on the ceaseless drone of busy insects. I looked around at the gleaming granite cliffs on the surrounding ridges and sensed their towering strength. As I immersed myself in the majesty of this mountain cathedral, I felt a spark of new fire ignite deep in my long lost heart. Its warmth radiated through my spirit, and I heard a new kind of music begin to play.

Jesus retired to the refuge of the olive grove, fatigued after a long day serving needy people. He was reclining against the sturdy trunk of an ancient tree when an old and tired teacher of Israel came to question him. Nicodemus bore the burden of the spiritual health of his nation, and served as a guide to a people he knew had desperately lost their way. He came to the olive grove in hope of finding his heart.

Jesus turned to him with a statement that to Nicodemus seemed completely out of context to his quest. He said, “You have to be born again in order to see the Kingdom of Heaven.” In effect He said, “You’re a dead man walking.” Nicodemus was incredulous! “That can’t be done. If what you are saying is true, I’m finished.”

Jesus responded with calm authority. “No, Nicodemus, there is a God-sculpted life created deep inside of you that age and frailty can never extinguish. If you allow the Holy Spirit access to your life, He’ll show you what it looks like. When you see past the distractions of flesh and bone and view the beauty of real life in the Spirit, you will know your future. You’ll know what to teach your people.”
Jesus talked about a love so deep that only God could express its full measure. And He said that that love is available to each person who wants to experience it.

And Nicodemus understood. He heard the faint notes of a new song emerging from deep within his soul. Nicodemus had the experience of a sage and felt as lithe and energetic as a six-year old boy. He left that olive grove as a new man and he changed the world.

It is not only long trails and muscle fatigue that quell the beautiful music God placed deep within our souls. Disappointments, loss, struggling relationships, and the conflicting commitments of everyday life create a cacophony of noise that can weaken us to our core and wound our hearts.

Whenever we can, we should find a place where the distracting noises of life can be silenced. Invite the Holy Spirit there and let Him take us deep inside our souls where the music of heaven is playing. Listen to it. Trust in the presence of God’s unconditional love for us and we’ll emerge from the encounter refreshed and beaming with new life.

As I hiked out of the Trinity Alps four days later, the trail was just as long. My muscles were nearly as fatigued as on the trip in. About a quarter mile from the waiting cars I saw my son jogging up the trail toward me. He had made it back to the car fifteen minutes ahead of me. “Here Dad, let me carry your pack,” he said. And Heaven’s music echoed through the trees and around that dusty trail and I watched with a father’s pride as my much-loved son lifted the backpack from my shoulders. I knew he could hear the music too.

Randy writes from Medford, Oregon where his aching shoulders and cramping legs have fully recovered. knappsnest@msn.com You can see a video series by Randy at LiftingTheCross.com

Reach For the Brass Ring

By Lynn Ludwick

Atop my noble stallion, I traversed the rolling countryside. A soft breeze ruffled my hair as we galloped along. All right, the “soft breeze” gives me away. No rushing wind or pounding hooves here—my noble steed was carved in wood and tethered by a pole to a merry-go-round. My sister, brother-in-law, four-year old great niece and I rolled the circular path to the accompaniment of an original band organ. We were all smiling, but no camera could rightly capture the explosion of childlike joy stretched across my niece’s face.

The carousel sat amid a half-dozen kiddy rides in a Western New York amusement park. The only thing missing was the brass ring. In days gone by a metal arm swung out and the lucky young man who grabbed it not only impressed his lady friend, but received a free ride. Now we speak of reaching for the brass ring as an opportunity to attain something prized, to overcome a challenge. The merry-go-round version of another ride sounds appealing, but in real life the re-ride means returning to the same old situation in order to complete the lesson we only partly learned.

Dramatic changes mark my life these days. At times the path I travel is as smooth and predictable as the carousel’s course. On other days it’s as though the wooden horse has come to life and galloped at breakneck speeds over rocky terrain, rife with danger and detours.

No matter the nature of the ride, however, I want to be on the lookout for that illusive brass ring. I like prizes. And with God there are no booby prizes. I used to imagine a huge pile heaped with my unclaimed blessings, my missed opportunities. I know better now. It’s not in His nature to wave failure in my face, to strut with arrogance and sneer as He reminds me how my life could have been better.

I wonder how many times the brass ring has dangled close by while I was busy looking the other direction, navigating the journey on my own and barely surviving. How many prizes have I missed? Thankfully God caught my attention and I attained the grandest prize of all—my salvation—securely tucked in my pocket. What sort of other prizes do I desire? One of Paul’s lists comes to mind, God’s blessings we call the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. (Galatians 5:22,23) Oh my, what a list of choices. I want them all! But for now I’ll focus on just a few. Joy, peace and kindness.

Joy.
Not the happy feeling that comes from buying a new car or having life go my way, but a deeply internalized knowing that God is good, watching over me, guiding my circumstances, ready at any given moment to listen to me and reply. That knowledge, camped on and reaffirmed, will give truer joy than any BMW or momentary happiness could.

Peace.
Shalom. The calm and comfort rooted as deeply as joy, which carries me through the thorny challenges that face me daily. God’s true inner peace is something I can draw on in the midst of turmoil and no one can take it from me. Such peace enables me to survive the most difficult times.

Kindness.
I often told my children when they were young to be kind and now I tell my grandchildren. This requires effort on my part. I need to bite my tongue rather than put someone down, to avoid the clever comeback, to affirm people and defend them when folks mistreat them, to treat all people with respect. This fruit enables me to go the extra mile when it’s anything but convenient.

I truly desire the prizes God offers, and the brass ring dangles within my reach. My Bible provides a roadmap and God promises personal directions through the Holy Spirit. The path of my life may not be as smooth and gentle as the merry-go-round, but I hope my smile will be as sweet as my great niece’s because my ride is in God’s hands.

“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:14

Lynn Ludwick writes from Medford, OR. lynniegirl45@hotmail.com

My Grandma’s Life Quilt

By Melody Roberts


For many years, my grandma enjoyed piecing together quilt patterns. Macular degeneration eventually brought Grandma’s quilting to an end, but there is one pattern that still endures. More beautiful than any quilt she ever created, Grandma practiced a pattern for godly living.

The Backing
Until a quilt is turned over, the backing remains hidden. But the pattern Grandma used, prompted by her faith in Christ, stood behind everything she did and bordered the edges of her life. This backing was based on the Word of God. When I was growing up, I stayed with my grandparents for a week every summer. Faithfully, together, they started their day with Bible reading and prayer. When I visited them, I considered it a privilege to join them. Their devotion to God’s Word helped anchor my own faith in the Word of God.

The Batting
Like a quilt, Grandma’s life has been filled with heavy batting. She’s weathered many storms such as the loss of her brother, who was killed as a young man in a tragic work-related accident, and the heartache she endured as she watched her husband slowly lose his battle with Alzheimer’s. Suffering from macular degeneration and the debilitating pain of arthritis, Grandma keeps busy doing what she can. Recently, the arthritis in her right hip became unbearable, and Grandma’s mobility decreased. Then one day, she fell in a restaurant and broke her good hip. So the good hip, not the bad hip, was replaced. After her surgery, I called my grandma to see how she was doing. Her response encouraged me, for she still believed that, despite her circumstances, God had been good to her. The strength of her character, the batting, has held up, even well into her eighties.

The Design
Comprised of many pieces of fabric, each quilt pattern is unique in design. The design of Grandma’s life is depictive of the many roles she has played: wife, mother, grandma, great grandma, friend, neighbor, faithful church member, Sunday School teacher, church treasurer, and many more. My favorite role of all? Grandma, of course. All good quilts are named by their distinct design. The name of her design? I call it The Workmanship of Christ.

Quilt Ties
Just as quilt tying is a popular method used to bind the three basic parts of a quilt, strong knots of prayer tied the layers of Grandma’s legacy. Whether in the comfort of their home or in a restaurant, my grandparents offered thanks before each meal (a rare sight in today’s society).

I am thankful for the many quilts my grandma stitched for me; but even more, I am thankful to God for giving me a grandma (and grandpa) who left a pattern for me to follow. A godly example, strengthened with a double-stitch of prayer, provided a blanket of God’s love to her family. This blanket can be passed down from generation to generation without the worry of worn thread or torn edges. When applied in faith, the legacy we leave our children becomes a priceless heritage worthy of keepsake.

Melody Roberts writes from Oregon City, Oregon. melodyroberts@comcast.net

Less Is More

David Norris

“Tis a gift to live simple, tis a gift to live free” goes an old Shaker verse. We all admire the words and the thought behind them, but how many of us in the American Christian church try to live out this truth?

Within the past twenty years the Lord has led my wife and me to move our family from a metropolis of several million people to a city of several hundred thousand to the town of Medford.

Along the way we have discarded much of the stuff we once thought was so essential, and in so doing we have begun to find our freedom. There’s truth in the saying that “the more things you own the more things that own you.”

We have found that the fewer things we allow to own our time, energy and attention the more we are able to focus on the needs of other people. Without the clutter we can more easily see and reach out… a simple truth lived out for us by Jesus, who as a man owned only what he carried and could thereby touch and care for anyone He met.

There’s an old lie loose among us and its voice grows louder day-by-day. It’s core ideal is captured on bumper stickers saying: “He that dies with the most toys wins.” What does he win?

On the other hand we can all sell everything we own in a giant garage sale and move into monastic cells, but Solomon in Ecclesiastes 7:18 teaches us that a man of wisdom avoids all extremes. Instead, we each need to listen for that still small voice and obey what we hear.

The Lord speaks to each of us right where we are. He’s told our family to spend less on things and more on people. He told the rich young ruler to sell it all and follow Him.

Individually, He may not be saying those specific things to anyone else, but to all of us as the current Christian community, I believe we would please Him if we were to follow His example and live more simply so that others may simply live.
It’s simple to say, but harder to do. Yet Jesus assured us that we will know the truth and the truth will set us free.

David Norris writes from Medford, Oregon.

Helping Kids Co-operate With Red Hot Monogamy

Pam Farrell

We were at some friends’ home for dinner, and they brought up our book,
Red Hot Monogamy. The wife said, “Most women I know would like more red hot romance, but after the housework, the carpool, the homework, the laundry . . . sex is the last thing on my mind when my head finally hits the pillow.” Then her husband chimed in, “Kids are the enemy of a great sex life!” We all laughed, then we proceeded to share a few innovative ideas to helps this couple create more time for each other. If you are looking for ways to create more time together try a few of these tips. (Some are only good for older aged children, or when one child is old enough to over see his/her siblings) To get kids to co-operate with Red Hot Monogamy, try:

1. Tossing all your change into the ice plant and tell them they can keep any coins they can find. This usually buys an hour or so.

2. Do an Easter egg hunt all year round. Hide a designated number of eggs (plastic work well with toys, candy or coins inside). Tell them none of the kids can come inside the house until all the eggs are found by everyone. (To prolong this game, tell the kids the total eggs hidden, then take one egg out so they can’t find the last one). When you are finished spending time together, bring the last egg out and ask, “Were you looking for this one?” )

3. A Video Break! For Cartoon age kiddos, get a favorite video going (be sure to check the time—you might only have 30 min! For older kids: rent or buy a new video. Use a realistic line like, “Mom and Dad are taking some grown up time” “Mom and dad are going to take a nap.” Or our favorite line is: “We are going to clean our room and can’t be interrupted.” (Then after sex, you better hurry and pick up your room!) For teens: give them free movie tickets so the house is all yours for about three hours!

4. Doing an Easter egg hut all year round. Hide a designated number of eggs (plastic work well with toys, candy or coins inside). Tell them none of the kids can come inside the house until all the eggs are found (then take one egg out so they can’t find the last one). When you are finished, bring the last egg out, “Were you looking for this one?”

5. Trading time off with your friends so that each of you couples get a few hours a week alone. You can create a code with your girlfriends, like, “I need to “clean the oven.” This way you can talk about the topic and arrange childcare within earshot of little ones.

6. A wholesome distraction: Since we are pastors, we can get away recommending this: Send the kids to a youth group or Christian education activity. If this tip is used occasionally, your pastor won’t mind because you will have a strong marriage and family and that makes for a strong church.

7. Hiring a neighborhood sitter an ask her to take the kids to her home to watch the kids for a few hours.

8. Going to the garage: When the movie is playing in the living room, Tell the kids you are going to clean the garage. Lock the garage door on your way out and enjoy some sex in the back seat of your own car as it’s parked in the garage.

9. Hiding in a closet and kiss until one of the kids finally find you.

10. Recruiting grandma to take the kids for ice cream or to Mc Donald’s—or for an extra treat, ask her to take them to the zoo all day!

11. Enrolling the kids in preschool and arrange for you and your spouse to go in late to work once a week.

12. Taking a long lunch once a week on a school day. Block off from Noon til 2 or three. Write in the calendar: Appointment: R.H.M. (Your secretary won’t know it stands for Red Hot Monogamy.)

13. Taking advantage of those precious hours kids sleep. The dishes can wait, when junior nods off head to the bedroom first, then go back to responsibilities. Or wake each other up in the early morning for sex, or in the middle of the night just start fondling your spouse and he or she will most likely wake up. You’ll get less sleep, but at least you’ll be smiling the next day!

14. Once a year, pay for an overnight camp for your children, or a day camp, and you and your spouse take a vacation day or week together while the kids are in great care. You might need to save up for it, but the payoff will be well worth it.

Fan the flame on your love by planning in a little time for the two of you. The kids will be happier with a happier mom and Dad.


Bill and Pam Farrel are the authors of Red Hot Monogamy an 8 week guide to fan the flame on your sex life. The Farrels also penned best selling Men are like Waffles, Women are like Spaghetti. Lifeway has created a 7 session DVD couples and small groups enjoy. www.farrelcommunications.com

Ground Water

By Eleanor Cowles

We thought Arizona in October would be comfortable. How wrong we were, at least from our perspective, as two Oregonians unused to any temperature over 78 degrees. We were attending the Copper State Air Show. Airplanes, vendor’s booths, food stands, and tents set up for seminars were spread out over a large area under the unflagging sun. The ground had been recently planted with grass seed for this event. Thankful for the green grass to walk on, I looked around at the dry terrain beyond the grass, wondering how anything could grow here. It was explained to me that underground water had been tapped and piped in to grow the grass.

It occurred to me that this ground water is like joy in our lives. There are times when I have no happiness, when problems are so big I wonder if there is s any solution. I see only the dust and the hard ground. I feel only the hot wind. Then, in prayer or reading God’s word, I am reminded of the ground water of joy which is always there, can never be quenched, and will revive me. I must tap into it, however, and drink deeply of it.

The land is still arid and harsh. There may be no spring of laughter bubbling up, but the ground water is there, steady and unchanging.

“Jesus answered, ‘Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become a spring of water welling up to eternal life.’” John 4:13

Eleanor Cowles writes from Independence, Oregon.

God’s Hotel

Unknown

This is a short written piece that can be found in the Jackson County Jail for those coming in.

I checked you in again last night my child because it hurt me so badly to see you out there…running wild.

You appeared to be all tired and messed up. Even if I put a mirror in front of you, you can’t see that you number among the walking dead…sores all over your body, confusion in your head.

Jail is not where you want to be, but my hotel is where I can work on you.
You were not just arrested you were rescued from yourself. I had to bring you back here to put your drug use on the shelf.

I want to give you some rest some food and some talk. I want to encourage you and love you before I let you walk. I don’t like bringing you here again and again, but I have rules too. You break them and you are back in.

I love you enough to bring you here 100 more times if that is what it takes to break you so you will give up and be mine. Don’t be like a mule that’s led around by a bit.

Listen to my warnings and I can help you quit. Perhaps this could be the last time you come back to this place…it’s up to you.

Just follow me…the creator of all…with tears upon my face.

Using The Internet To Meet Needs…E-Blessing Serves The Rogue Valley

By Katherine and David Hall

E-Blessing has started serving people in the Rogue Valley. This new internet ministry which started April 11 this year is described: "A Community Resource to meet the needs of others by providing access to people with the items to meet those needs. If you have it and don't need it, then post it. If you need it and don't have it, post your need. If you see it offered on the e-blessing group postings, arrange with the posting member to get it. No item will be sold, everything must be free. This group is open to anyone who wishes to be involved in helping others by donating usable items. E-Blessing - Meeting Needs, "We'd rather re-cycle while blessing than bless while re-cycling!"

We have been amazed at what the Lord is accomplishing in the communities of Southern Oregon through E-Blessing. Donors have fully furnished eight homes and have partially furnished approximately 40 others. When we felt the Lord urging us to start E-Blessing we certainly had nothing like this in mind.

As longtime residents of Cave Junction we have been in charge of the Helps Ministry at Praise Center for many years. Recently we’ve seen a tremendous move of God bringing Met amphetamine users to Himself and our church. They all had great needs, most of them had no furniture or anything to sustain themselves in life. So, we started putting out the word to our membership to donate furniture and other utilitarian items. The church people gave until they had no more to give, but there was still a huge need. E-Blessing was born.

At first it was opened up to the Cave Junction area, then Grants Pass and then as people began to hear of it and inquire, eventually to Medford and the surrounding communities. We now have 139 members reaching from California to the South, Glendale to the North, White City to Ashland, east of Cave Junction and all the communities in between.

As we have grown we’ve added two co-moderators, Susan and Deena, who graciously monitor the work when we need to be away from the computer.
In the beginning we planned to make it strictly a Christian outreach, but the response from non-Christians who want to help others, was so great we opened it up.

One of our first recipients outside of Cave Junction was a lady in Grants Pass just coming out of a Domestic Abuse Safe House. She had nothing but the clothes on her back. E-Blessing was able to furnish her apartment completely. She wasn’t a Christian and kept looking for an ulterior motive from the ministry. When she couldn’t find one she she thanked E-Blessing with tears in her eyes. We were able to pray with her for her well-being and when we were done she responded: "Thank you, Lord.”

All items listed on the website are free. We don't allow any Spam or anyone to make solicitations of items for sale. There is no room for profiteering. All messages are monitored. Offers must be free, legal and appropriate for all ages or they are banned.

E-Blessing isn't an attempt to recruit new church members, but is a genuine exercise in the true Christian principles of love, kindness and compassion. We have no plans to indoctrinate anyone into participating in our theological position or do anything to convert them to our way of thinking. We just want to love them with the love of Jesus and let the Holy Spirit do whatever He will do.

We appeal to Christians to join us in our outreach to those in need. For more information on this help project contact eblessing@yahoogroups.com or go to the website http://groups.yahoo.com/group/eblessing/


Katherine and David Hall writes from Cave Junction, Oregon.

Dad Will Always Catch Me

By Troy Pomeroy

Some of my earliest childhood memories involve hanging out with my dad. Dad was an elementary teacher (retired now), but he has always enjoyed raising cattle. Consequently, he spent many hours working the herd, running the tractor, or putting up hay. It really didn’t matter what he did – it was my joy to tag along whenever I could.

Dad has always been a very patient man. He must have had great patience to let me tag along while he was trying to get things done. During those times, Dad taught me a lot about farming, but also about life. He gave me things to do to help him, like salt hay bales or roll bales out of the way of the tractor. Probably my greatest thrill “working” with dad was when he let me drive the tractor for him while he loaded bales on the trailer. And then I got to ride on the top of the haystack from the field to the barn!

On one of those days, Dad and I had a defining moment in our relationship. I was a very young boy when it happened. So young, in fact, that I’m not sure how much of the story I remember myself and how much I remember from dad retelling it.

We had been working hard since the break of day and had just finished running the last of the bales up the elevator to the highest point in the barn. By then it was hot. It seems like hay is always ready to be put up during the hottest days of our Southern Oregon summer. I had managed to climb up to the top of the stack, probably trying to “help” dad by salting the bales or something. All of a sudden I realized there was no way for me to get down!

Dad was hot, tired, and itchy from haying all day. He really wanted to be done for the day, and so did everyone else. I can imagine the wheels turning in his head as he went through all the possible ways to get his son down. Standing on the ground in front of the haystack, he hollered “Jump! I’ll catch you!” I think he thought he would have to negotiate with me for awhile before we figured out how I was going to get down safely. I think that because of how surprised he was. Without a moment’s hesitation, I had jumped straight for him. And of course he caught me.

I never doubted for a moment that he’d catch me. In fact, he’s been catching me ever since. Not always in such dramatic ways, but Dad has always been there for me.

Looking back at that defining moment in the hay barn, I can understand why I have such an easy time trusting God. Like my earthly dad, my Heavenly Father has always been there to catch me. No matter what. I don’t claim to understand all His great mysteries or what the future holds, but I have never doubted that God was there. I can trust Him to catch me whenever He asks me to jump or take some other leap of faith.

I owe my dad a lot for showing me a glimpse of the One who is Father to us both. But the blessing doesn’t end there. I’m a dad myself now. My boys are known to tag along with their dad as well. One day my oldest was helping me put a roof on a shed and found himself stuck up there by himself. We were finished for the day and I didn’t want his getting down to be a big ordeal. So I told him to jump, and almost before I could get the words out, he was airborne. The greatest part is that my dad had happened by about that time and witnessed the whole thing. Awestruck, and perhaps a little choked up, he said “I’ve only seen such complete trust like that one other time.”

I now have the honor and responsibility of building into my boys the confidence Dad instilled in me. It’s one of the greatest joys in my life. Yet I am also aware of the startling number of children who don’t have a dad who will show them the way to the Father. That’s why it’s so important that men rise up and live Christ-like lives as an example. It’s also important that as many as are able serve as mentors to younger people. No matter where we’ve been or what we’ve gone through, all God’s children need to have the confidence that He will always be there to catch us.

Troy Pomeroy writes from Eagle Point, Oregon. pastortroy@epacenter.com

Courage For Single Believers

By David Korner

As a single believer we I know God has a wonderful plan for my life. I know that He only wants the best for me and will keep no good thing from me. But, for many singles it's often hard to navigate singleness.

I've read a few books about relationships and how God brought two people together to enjoying their new lives as a married couple. Too often these four words rumble in my heart: “I am SO single!” I much appreciate what married people have to say and the insight they have, but it's as if they are explaining things of great wonder to me in a language I don’t recognize or understand.
So, as a single to singles I want to share what the Lord has been teaching me as I go from day to day.

A wonderful, godly woman told me two important things about how I should handle relationships:

1. I can afford to be picky.
2. I can afford to wait.

Picky, that's easy. I have developed a mental list of the qualities I really want in a future spouse. This list has been further refined as time goes on. Ironically it's getting shorter and more to the point. Lately I've been giving this list to the Lord wanting Him to place in my heart what I should really be looking for.

Waiting, is a different story. When I have gone ahead of the Lord I’ve never ended up glad about it. I've always come back a little roughed up and desiring patience to wait on Him for His timing and plan.

The Bible is my ultimate guide to life. There are so many worldly messages that bombard singles every day. We hear that dating relationships are everything. If we don't have one we are considered a misfit in a world of couples. We are also encouraged to make it happen ourselves, no one else is going to make it happen and we must hurry...time is running out. These messages are very wearing.
The Bible encourages me as a single. It tells me: “Delight yourself in the Lord.” “Cast all of your cares upon Him, for He cares for you.” “God will complete the work He has started (and trust Him, He is at work).”

God has shown me that everything has purpose. Every day, every desire, every event, every hope, every trial, every tear, everything. He shows me that my singleness is not without purpose. God has perfect reasons for where He has me in life. I rest my heart on Him and His truth. I know that every other option is a poor substitute.

With hope and courage we can trust our lives to Him. He loves us with an unquenchable love and wants to be our soul’s satisfaction. He is the only river of life we will ever find.

My encouragement o all singles is to daily drink deep of His fellowship. We must let Him make us whole and trust hiim to bless us with the relationships that will bring true joy.

David Korner writes from Medford, Oregon.

Church Leadership Weakens the Drive to Protect & Preserve Marriage & Morality in Oregon

By David Crowe

For two months now it has become increasingly clear that many, if not most, of the leading Evangelical Churches in Oregon have given up the battle to protect and preserve traditional marriage.

Only three years ago these same churches, at the urging of Dr. James Dobson, mounted a furious and successful effort that Amended the Oregon Constitution to read that marriage was "between a man and a woman only."

With their retreat, which has been glaring, and contradictory to earlier statements, comes the obvious conclusion that the new form of marriage called 'domestic partnerships' created by the legislature, and in violation of the Constitution, is 'okay' with them.

The Reason? Fear of Man rather than fear of God.

Time and time again over the last two months, frustrated Oregon church members who desire to see HB 2007 and SB 2 placed on the ballot through our petitions, have sent me emails noting the same argument as the one received just this morning from a church member in Salem: "I have worked for several months at my church to get permission to have your petitions available for the congregation. I just found out today, that the leaders, (not the senior pastor) but others involved in leadership are afraid we will alienate visitors. I still want to order petitions for myself and others I know who want to participate. I'm sorry our church will not stand up for what is right. It is a good church that preaches the gospel."

Clearly, not allowing petitions in their churches that seek to protect marriage and morality for all Oregonians, demonstrates a willingness to compromise even the most fundamental social and biblical institution, and morality itself, purportedly so they won't 'offend visitors!' As my generation use to say, "What a cop out!" How contradictory is that to the very Christ we love and His words that following him would be an offense to many. Clearly these so called 'leaders' of the Evangelical Church in Oregon fit Dr. Ken Hutcherson's description of "Evanjellyfish."

Oregon pastors, weakened by an unconscious fear of the world and it's misguided, humanistic and vociferous critics, have retreated further into the very reason that men dislike church. The leadership is weak, even cowardly, unwilling to take strong stands to the honor and glory of God in the face of a crumbling social structure, hostility toward the Gospel, and Christ Himself.

Who amongst us really wants to attend that kind of church unless we too prefer to be liked rather than suffer the abuse of others as did our LORD?

If they are willing to compromise the Gospel incrementally and now openly, they are one step away from joining the one world church that the Scriptures warn will come in the last days.

"The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing." Albert Einstein

David Crowe writes from the Portland, Oregon area.

Choice

By Marcia K. Leaser

The pain is real, Lord.
I have good reason to feel this way;
Trying, waiting, striving and failing..
Hate!
It's my right.
Yet- in the stillness of my soul
a voice, a quiet voice, barely audible,
but speaking louder than the pain;
"Love-
It's My command."

Marcia K. Leaser writes from Fremont, Ohio.

Behold the Wonder

By Beverly Hill Mckinney

The fragrance of redwood trees and the chatter of squirrels surrounded me as I sat amongst the redwood trees in the Santa Cruz mountains. All around me I was enveloped by God’s beauty and his creation. The huge redwood forests that have stood thousands of years are like a giant cathedral. Chipmunks scurry amongst the trees and the blue jays send up a constant chatter.

As I sat in this environment, I thought of the verse that says: “The earth is the Lords and the fullness thereof.” What a fullness that is.

But we can’t live in the midst of these lush forests, however, without realizing the tragedies that have made these great trees what they are. The mighty wildfires that push through trees and brush spawn new growth. Torrential rains cause new meadows to grow for the wildlife that live among the trees. Huge root systems stretch out in every direction from these mammoth trees.

The mighty Redwoods can teach us much about our spiritual life.

As the fire is necessary to reseed the giant trees, so God sends fire into our lives to help us grow and strengthen us.

How often during times of glorious peace, tragedy comes in and we wonder why God is allowing this. Why Lord? We cry. Do we realize that in the midst of these fiery times and troubles that overwhelm our lives, God are preparing a rich field of new challenges?

We sit and cry out to God and tell him we can endure no more, but do we see them as a growing season necessary for all Christians?

The Bible tells us that the “steps of a righteous man are ordered by the Lord.” How often we forget this promise and instead assault the throne of grace with our pleas of mercy for the hard times to be over in our lives. If God took these trials out, our lives would be unfruitful and we would be shallow Christians. It is during heaviest of trials that we draw closer to the Lord and once again learn to depend on him to accomplish his will.

Sometimes we don’t understand why we must go through trials and tribulations and, like complaining children, rant and rave to the Lord to spare us. I remember many times in my own life when a terrible trial has occurred, that I have asked over and over “why?” Later I looked back on that time, and saw God’s abundance to me in the midst of those trying circumstances. At those times I remember 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NIV) “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned, struck down, but not destroyed.”

The mighty redwood forests also cannot survive without the torrential rains that batter the land and give new life to the trees and lush landscape.
In our spiritual walk, we can let the rain of trials overwhelm us or we can look at those times as needed growing periods. When I have gone through a situation and I questioned “why?” I later could share and minister to others going through a similar hard trial. I can tell them I know what they are going through because I have been there. Let’s not miss the blessings that come by questioning why when we can look at trials as an opportunity the Lord is giving us to grow in his grace. We can look at these rainy seasons as times to rest in his promises and watch as we see Him working a new work in our lives.

Remember, the Lord says in Psalms 84:11: “For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.”

The giant redwoods must also have a strong root system to hold the mighty trees during times of storms. Although the roots are not deep, they run in many directions resulting in a strong foundation.

We must be rooted in the Word so we can let our roots spread out to others by our testimony and a victorious life. By daily reading God’s Word and taking it into our lives it will be like water to our souls and help us to grow strong roots. Dwelling on His promises, we can overcome our temptation to ask “why” when trials come our way. Look back on God’s promises and cling to those that he gives us through the Bible. Christ promises us in Ephesians 3:17-19 (NIV): “And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” Just as the mighty redwood thrives in the forest, we can also thrive by continually striving to let God have control of our life and to walk uprightly before him. Then, as the Bible promises in Psalms 84:11: “no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.”

Remember, when looking at a mighty redwood, realize the creator who made them wants to do a work in our lives if we will be willing to be subjected to his cleansing fire, refreshing rain and have sturdy roots in his Word.

Beverly Hill McKinney writes from Rogue River, Oregon. bmckinnehill@yahoo.com

Because of the Cross

By Marcia K. Leaser


We, as humans, seem embarrassed by failure. And, yet... we set goals that are unattainable for our families, our associates and ourselves. We want perfection! Then, when we fall short, we become unhappy with who we are, or who we think we should be.

David in the Bible, was a real scoundrel, he fell in love with someone else's wife, and sent her husband to the front lines of battle to be killed. And God said of David; "He was a man after His own heart."Go figure.

There is nothing God hasn't already seen or forgiven.

Once David repented, God forgave him and used him in a mighty way. We can learn from this example. When we don’t forgive, it’s like a millstone around our necks. It hurts us far more than the one we've not forgiven... especially if that person is ourselves.

Are we harboring something in our past we feel God can't forgive? Because of the cross - He already did. (Read Romans 3:22-26)

A Slice Of Life

By DJ Note

Recently, I had the honor of sharing a slice of my life with a customer. She was burdened with concerns of the emotional growth of her young 11-year-old daughter who is beginning to have problems with friends at school, showing signs of rebellion, and parental resentment. Since girls at this age can be catty, territorial, and just plain well, hormonal, the mother-daughter communication was growing increasingly stagnate. This sweet mom was questioning her parenting skills, her ability to make the right decisions concerning her maturing daughter, when to allow enough freedom and yet not so much as to give her daughter free reign. The plea in her eye whispered, “Help!”

We deliberated, this mom and I, over several books in the youth section when she discovered her youngest had wandered away. “Where are you?” Her hushed shout was answered with an, “Over here.” She followed with a stern command, “Come here,” but to no avail.

“May an empty nester offer a suggestion?” I hoped she would allow me. She nodded, so I continued. “Play the Touch Me game. There is just one rule. When you call, your child must find and touch you. Then you reward with a big hug and a thank you. When they wander off again, give it a few seconds and repeat. That’s it! It keeps your child listening for your voice and waiting for that special embrace. It might sound funny, but it’s a principle I learned in my dog’s obedience class. No matter, it works on kids as well. Try it.” She did, a couple of times. “Come touch me,” she called. The child came running. Mom and youngster embraced and giggled, and all was well.

Our conversation sent me whirling back in a plethora of memories of my own daughter’s youth. I related some of the mistakes I made; a harsh shout of correction over spilled milk night after night interrupting the flow of a peaceful dinner, anger over unfinished chores or neglected homework, and threats of grounding as punishment for unharnessed arguments with her brother fell among my recall.

I regret a particular day I should have taken my daughter at her word and didn’t. Admiring a tiny object while we visited a friend, she placed it in her pocket for safe keeping and returned to her play. Later, confronted with her “crime,” my little one explained she only wanted to look at it again and had no intentions of keeping it. Innocent enough, but in my embarrassment, I chose not to believe her and she was punished. Now years later, my daughter has never forgotten the incident and her broken heart over my disbelief. A misjudgment I wish I could correct.

I worked hard at being at being a most excellent mom, perhaps sometimes, too hard. Looking back, if I could do it again, I would make it a point to lighten up and schedule a day-off now and again. I would take the kids to the park more often, window shop for toys for no special occasion, go to a nearby lake and skip rocks over the water with them in the late afternoon sun. I would smile more often, laugh heartily during funny movies, and try hard not to try-so-hard to be a good mom remembering I’m not alone in this, but that God is helping me. Raising children takes top priority, and it only lasts a short season. And when it’s over, it can’t be relived.

A useful tidbit I learned a tad late in my life is an expression my 89-year-old mother and I now practice. Something I wish I had known early on in my marriage. When a subject becomes uncomfortable such as our missing her mama, my Granny, or the on-going trials of a loved one, or even an impassable differing opinion, one of us simply says, “Let’s talk about Christmas.” It’s an objective way of relating, “This subject is making me sad,” or “Let’s diffuse this conversation.”

When I suggested to my young mom customer that she try these things on her family she replied. “I love it. What a great ideas. And I’m going to practice that signal that either of us can use if an issue gets heated and can’t be discussed just then.”

Well, my customer went away with a useful book resource, some first-hand experience from an older mom, and hope in her heart. Mission accomplished. Perhaps now this younger mom had some tools to help her avoid some of the pitfalls I encountered and wish I could have prevented. One mom helping another, a value passed from one generation to the next. It felt good, and rightly so. After all, the Bible has something to say about older women instructing younger women, doesn’t it?

17, 35, 75

By Bob Hanson

It’s refreshing when a woman reveals one of the secrets that females use to maintain their complete dominance over men. Refreshing—and surprising. These, after all, are the very tools by which women keep us in our helpless state.

At a recent writer’s conference, a group of us were sitting around a table during a break. The conversation centered on the differing perspectives between the genders. That was when it happened. Without any coaxing, cajoling, or arm-twisting, a particular lady simply offered one of her secrets. She said, “$17.00, $35.00, or $75.00. Everything I buy costs one of those three prices.”
Other women at the table knew immediately what she referred to. I was completely lost. When I questioned her, she let me in on some womanly wisdom.
A number of years ago, she had spent a good portion of the day at the beauty parlor. She had her hair washed and waxed—no wait, that’s what you do to spiff up cars. I suppose her hair was shampooed and set. But she hadn’t stopped there. She had also opted for some of the more exotic procedures. Foiled, streaked, frosted, bleached, colored, highlighted, teased and who knows what else. I’m not clear on all the specifics. Anyway, the work had been extensive enough that her husband actually noticed there had been a change in her appearance.

Now, most husbands feel quite proud of their observation skills when they notice that their wife has been to the beauty salon. And we all know the appropriate thing to say—or do we? Allow me to interject a brief quiz to test your skills, men. Which of the following three statements is the correct one to use in this situation?
1) “Wow! What an improvement!”
2) “I liked it better the way it was.”
3) “I love it. Your choice of styling options has optimized your natural, God-given beauty.” Men, if you are unsure of the correct answer, ask your wife. Then duck!
Back to my story. This particular husband, at great personal risk, took a different route with his comment about his wife’s new hairdo. “Please tell me that it cost $17.”

Surprisingly, his wife didn’t punish him for his incorrect response. Instead, she replied, “Husband, you have amazing cost estimating skills. The bill came to exactly $17.” She noticed how this reply, though of dubious accuracy, pleased him. And so she discovered one of the secrets to a happy marriage (according to her).

Over the years, she used the time-honored process of trial and error to discover the cost perimeters that are acceptable to her husband. And so, everything she buys cost $17, $35, or $75.

But what was really interesting to me was the definition of these dollar amounts. If, for instance she had used a twenty and a five to pay for an item, when her husband asks, it cost $17.

Let me break down the specifics as she explained them. Something with a price tag of $17 to $34 she would say cost $17. If the total came to $35 up to $74, the reporting price was $35. And for the higher range amounts, $75-$150, all these cost $75.

I asked her if this wasn’t just the tiniest bit deceptive. She vehemently objected to my suggestion. She claimed that her husband was well aware of, and approved of, the way the math worked out. Although she admitted that they had never specifically spoken about it. It was more of a mutual understanding that they had developed over the years. And she reiterated that the unspoken agreement was one of the secrets to her happy marriage.

I don’t know that I can recommend this technique for widespread use. But I suppose there are similar things in my relationship with my wife. In a Christ –centered marriage, one seeks to understand your mate. In so doing, we learn their strengths and weaknesses. We then adjust ourselves to better serve each other.

Years ago, our family went on vacation. When we stopped a fast food restaurant, I became stressed out—all the indecision about what to get, the proper price range for the kid’s selection etc. (It seemed like they always wanted the most expensive item available). After a couple of go arounds, I tried a new approach. I told my wife what I wanted to eat. I asked her to handle the kid’s orders. “And please don’t tell me what it costs.”

This worked quite well and I appreciated her assistance, considering it as loving service rendered. By not hearing the total amount, I escaped much pain and enjoyed the vacation much more. I guess it’s really the same sort of thing as that lady had told me about.

So, perhaps this isn’t such a bad thing, as long as you aren’t using the technique to deceive. Make sure you are being truly helpful and that you both understand what is going on. Perhaps that is true love.