31 Dec, 2008
Wacky Laws Still on the Books in America
Tuesday , December 30, 2008
From changing the color of baby chicks to shooting effigies to properly honoring the glory of the log cabin, Americans have spent valuable legislative hours throughout the years making sure we're on the straight and narrow.
As a New Year arrives, here are wacky laws that remain on the books across the country.
(Read the rest of the laws at: http://www.foxnews.com/printer_friendly_story/0,3566,473971,00.html)
Rule #1
36"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" 37Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' 38This is the first and greatest commandment. 39And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' 40All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
What does God's Story scripture teach us about what is important?
An expert comes to Jesus and asks, "Okay, you've answered every one else well, now I have a question." Matthew tells us the expert wants to know what is most important. It takes Jesus about one breath to answer the question, "Love God, love people, in that order, and everything else will take care of itself."
How can we connect today's God's story Scripture to our lives?
Here are some ways you can make God's story come to life.
- Memorize Matthew 22:36-40
- Find 3 things in the Bible that God appreciates (i.e. visiting the sick).
- Tell God how much you love Him.
- Do something to serve someone else.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?
- Rules and laws fill our world, school, home, and public areas. When they come up, use it as a chance to move into conversations about the rules and what God desires from us (the greatest commandments).
- At the start of 2009 there will be changes happening in our executive and legislative branches of government. As it shows up on TV and in the papers, talk with friends about how our system compares to God's system.
30 Dec, 2008
Over 400 dress like Jesus
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Dressed in flowing robes and thorny crowns, about 400 churchgoers promised their pastor they'd dress like Jesus as a hard-to-miss reminder of the holiday's religious roots.
Members of Praise Chapel Christian Fellowship began showing up that way last week at jobs, shopping malls and restaurants. The demonstration wrapped up Wednesday.
"I know it's a crazy idea," said pastor Kelly Lohrke, whose 600 members attend services in Kansas City, Kan., and nearby Lee's Summit, Mo. "I know it's a radical idea. Christians can have fun with their faith and sharing their faith."
Lohrke said he came up with the idea out of frustration over the removal of crosses, nativity scenes and other religious symbols from public view.
"It's just absurd," he said, "that Jesus is taken out (of Christmas)."
Lohrke brought up the idea at services on Dec. 14, telling parishioners: "We aren't going to preach." If asked about their attire, he said, participants are free to share their faith.
"We've gotten nothing but positives," said Lohrke, who has dressed like Jesus at a Starbucks, a Target store and a post office.
(Story by Heather Hollingsworth, the Associated Press. Picture by Shawn Johnston. Full story can be found at www.torontosun.com Dec.24, 2008)
Now that's hard to miss!
Ephesians 5:1 [NIV]
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.
What does God's Story Scripture teach us about "looking like Jesus"?
Today's story is pretty amazing. Whether you agree with the idea or not, these are obviously some pretty radical followers of Christ. Getting dressed up to actually resemble Jesus on the outside definitely caught the attention of many people in Kansas City.
In the verse in Ephesians today, it is clear that we are to resemble God as Paul calls us to "be imitators of God"...though I am not sure He was referring to dressing as His Jewish Son did over 2,000 years ago.
In fact, the verse goes on to clarify that we are to reflect Him to others through living a "life of love, just as Christ loves us and gave Himself up for us".
How can we connect today's story and God's story to my story?
Though you can be certain that these people that dressed up like Jesus on the outside were noticed...you can be equally confident that living your life like Jesus from the inside will be really hard to miss. Just imagine if we...
- loved like Jesus
- forgave like Jesus
- showed compassion like Jesus
- served like Jesus
- stood for truth like Jesus
- prayed like Jesus
Do you think anyone could possibly miss that!?! Not a chance!
How can we connect today's story, God's story and my story with others' story?
- Think of two lost friends right now...got 'em in mind?
- Now, as God calls you to imitate Him for them...to be Jesus to them...what is it that they need? Do they need His love? Do they need His forgiveness? Do they need His truth?
- Pray and ask God to help you know how to be Jesus to them...not because you have it all together...but because of what Jesus has done for you too.
I'll bet you get "nothing but positives".
29 Dec, 2008
A New Year's Resolution is a commitment that an individual makes to a project or the reforming of a habit, often a lifestyle change that is generally interpreted as advantageous. The name comes from the fact that these commitments normally go into effect on New Year's Day and remain until fulfilled or abandoned. More socio-centric examples include resolutions to donate to the poor more often, to become more assertive, or to become more economically or environmentally responsible (Wikipidia).
As the new year quickly approaches, are you making any New Year's Resolutions? Are there things in your life that you would like to change for the future? According to Wikipidia, while 52% of individuals who made resolutions believed that they would achieve the goals they set, only 12% successfully accomplished them!
(Photo courtesy of Google Images)
Making Changes
Philippians 1:6 "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (NIV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about God's plans for our future?
I have to admit, I've been one of the 40% of individuals (time and again!) who makes a New Year's Resolution only to find myself giving up on it just a month or two later! And yet, every year, I find something else I want to try to change about myself or the direction I'm heading and optimistically set another goal. But no matter how flighty I may seem be with my resolutions and plans, God never is!
Today's scripture promises that God already has a plan for each one of us in the coming year and that plan is perfect and good. God is working on us and finishing His work in us with every passing day, and every new year! So maybe, instead of resolving to accomplish your own desires and goals this year, perhaps, instead, you should resolve to seek out and discover what God's plans and goals are for 2009. What things is HE wanting to accomplish in you and through you next year?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Take some time to pray about the upcoming year. Ask God to reveal to you some of the things in your life that He wants to work through or change, for His glory. Don't just talk to Him . . . take time to actually listen for what God might be saying to you!
- Memorize Jeremiah 29:11 and Phil. 1:6. Remind yourself daily (throughout the year) of God's promise to you of hope and a future, as well as His promise to finish the work He has begun in you, His child.
- Talk to a trusted friend about the things God has laid on your heart, regarding any changes you feel you need to make in your life over the next year. Give him/her specific ways to pray for you and hold you accountable to making those changes . . . so that YOU don't become one of the 40% who fails to accomplish your resolutions!
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?
- In what ways does God want to use you to touch the lives of your friends and acquaintances next year? As you make your resolutions for the new year, ask God to show you how He can better use you to love others and connect stories.
- Find out what resolutions your friends are making for the new year - share the statistics of those who succeed and fail at New Year's resolutions and use it as a spring board into conversation with them. If you're willing to, tell your friend about the resolutions you've decided to make and don't be afraid to share with them your struggles and success with them along the way. Remember, sharing and connecting stories means being real and authentic!
26 Dec, 2008
If you could go back in time and talk to the Christmas Shepherds, what would you say to them or ask them? Why?
picture courtesy www.images.google.com
"Angels In The Sheep Field ..."
Luke 2:8-20 (ESV)
The Shepherds and the Angels
8And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. 10And the angel said to them, "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger." 13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
14 "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!"
15When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us." 16And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. 17And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. 19But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.
After reading today's God's Story scripture, think about how you would apply these truths from the shepherds' response to the news of Jesus' birth:
- The shepherds were in the middle of their ordinary worklife when the angel appeared.
- The shepherds went with haste in search of baby Jesus.
- The shepherds made known to others what was made known to them.
- The shepherds returned to their ordinary life, but did it praising and glorifying God.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Expect God to do something extraordinary in the middle of ordinary times.
- Run toward Jesus! Actively search for his presence.
- Make God's Story known to others in your life by telling them about how you met Jesus.
- Remember to praise God and give Him the glory in your everyday routine life.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Ask God to give you an opportunity today to share His Story - to make known what has been made known to you.
- As life slows down a little after the Christmas rush, praise God for sending Jesus and give Him the Glory for your changed life by telling someone your story. Tell them how you met Jesus.
25 Dec, 2008
If you could go back in time and talk to the Christmas Wise Men, what would you say to them or ask them? Why?
picture courtesy images.google.com
Wise people keep seeking Him
Matthew 2:1-23 (ESV)
1Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, 2saying, "Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him." 3When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet:
6 "'And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
who will shepherd my people Israel.'"
7Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. 8And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him." 9After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. 10When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. 12And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.
13Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him." 14And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt 15and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, "Out of Egypt I called my son." 16Then
Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked by the wise men, became
furious, and he sent and killed all the male children in Bethlehem and
in all that region who were two years old or under, according to the
time that he had ascertained from the wise men. 17Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Jeremiah:
18 "A voice was heard in Ramah,
weeping and loud lamentation,
Rachel weeping for her children;
she refused to be comforted, because they are no more."
19But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, 20saying, "Rise, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child’s life are dead." 21And he rose and took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. 22But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. 23And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled: "He shall be called a Nazarene."
After reading today's God's Story scripture, think about how would you apply these truths and answer these questions:
The wise men were focused on seeking the Savior.
WHAT DIFFERENCE WOULD IT MAKE IN YOUR OWN LIFE IF YOU DID WHATEVER IT TAKES TO EXPERIENCE INTIMACY WITH JESUS CHRIST?
The wise men were focused on worshipping Christ.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WORSHIPPING CHRIST FOR WHO HE IS RATHER THAN WHAT HE CAN DO FOR US? WHICH DO YOU USUALLY DO?
The wise men were focused on following Christ.
HOW WOULD IT AFFECT THE DIRECTION OF YOUR LIFE IF YOU LOOKED TO JESUS CONSISTENTLY?
The wise men were focused on trusting God, even when circumstances were very difficult.
WHEN YOUR WORLD SEEMS OUT OF CONTROL, ARE YOU ABLE TO LIVE UNDER GOD'S CONTROL? WHY OR WHY NOT?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank God for the practical lessons in His Word from the story of the three kings. Confess any way in which you have not been living as a "wise" follower of Christ. Thank God for desiring intimacy with you. Ask His Spirit to teach you to truly worship Him for who He is. Ask Him to show you the direction you need in life, both for tomorrow and for the rest of your life. Offer yourself as a gift to Him this Christmas season and in the new year.
- Pray every day for the faith you need to recognize God's wisdom at work in your life and for the courage to live it.
- Whenever you realize that you have learned more of God's wisdom, write it down in your journal and thank Him for it.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Rent and watch the movie, 'THE NATIVITY STORY' with someone you are trying to reach for Christ. Use the three wise men part to talk about what you have learned in today's DAILYBIDE.
- When someone in your storysphere comments on their need for wisdom, ask questions, listen, and offer to pray for them to experience wisdom from God.
24 Dec, 2008
Israeli archaeologists find rare gold coins
JERUSALEM (CNN) -- Some Israeli archaeologists are having a particularly happy Hanukkah, thanks in part to a British volunteer who took time off from her job to work on a dig.
The Israel Antiquities Authority reported a thrilling find Sunday -- the discovery of 264 ancient gold coins in Jerusalem National Park.
The coins were minted during the early 7th century.
(For the full story visit: http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/meast/12/22/israel.rare.coins/index.html)
Finders keepers!
Matthew 13:44-46 (New Living Translation)
44 "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field.
45 "Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. 46 When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!
What does God's Story Scripture teach us about how we treat the "treasure" we find?
This parable, a simple story used to teach a moral, emphasizes how important the gift God gave us in Jesus is. The gospel writer wants his readers to know that there is nothing material that has greater worth than the Kingdom God is building through Jesus. In these stories we see two people giving everything they have for the treasure they have found. God longs for us to have the same enthusiasm for His Kingdom and the relationship we can have with Him.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
We set aside tomorrow as a day of celebration for Jesus coming and taking on flesh. As you prepare to open the gifts you receive and the presents you give think about these question...
- How important is the gift of Jesus to you?
- Like the parables suggest, are you willing to give everything for the Kingdom of Heaven?
- What do you want to keep back and not spend for Jesus?
How can we connect today's story, God's Story Scripture, and our story to others?
This is a great time of year to share the love of Jesus with your friends. It is natural to talk about the gift Jesus is to you as you are giving gifts. Here are few conversation starters for you.
- As you and a friend exchange gifts share with your friend how God gave you new life in Jesus.
- Ask your friend if they have ever found something that excited them (like finding their Christmas gifts early). Then share these two parables with them.
23 Dec, 2008
Doctors complete first US face transplant
US surgeons have replaced 80 percent of a woman's face in what is considered the world's first nearly complete facial transplant, the Cleveland Clinic has announced.
It was the first such operation in the United States and the fourth known facial transplant to have been successfully performed to date. The procedure took place in recent weeks on a patient disfigured by a traumatic injury.
Facial transplants are controversial because they carry heavy risks and are performed to improve a patient's quality of life rather than as a life-saving operation.
(To see the full story go to news.yahoo.com 12/17/08)
A brand new look
What does God's Story scripture teach us about the most important transplant ever?
Today's story is amazing! Whether you agree with this controversial procedure or not, it is simply astounding that it is even possible. A brand new face in less than one day!
Still, it is not nearly as important as the heart transplant that God wants to perform on each one of us. Today's scripture talks above the removal of our hearts of stone...with the replacement being a heart of flesh. So what does that even mean!?!
The "flesh" that God is referring to is a soft and teachable heart...as opposed to the "stone" of a stubborn and prideful heart. This new heart is open to what God would have. It places us in a position of humility that allows God to radically change us from the inside out!
This woman who recently received a new face wanted to do so to "improve the quality of life". I hope that she finds that to be the case. But if any of us truly want to improve the quality of life, our hearts must be made new...so that He can put a new Spirit in us and save us from all of our uncleanness.
Connecting Today's story and God's story to my story
The truth is, many of us live out our faith attempting to make the outside look like a Christian should look. Throughout scripture, however, God teaches us something very different...to Him, it's all a heart issue.
Proverbs 4:23 Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
I Samuel 16:7 Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.
Romans 10:10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified...
You know all of those thoughts, words and actions that you have been working so hard to change so that you can look like God wants you to look? Well, you aren't going to change them...sorry to break the news.
But HE can as you allow HIS SPIRIT to do the work. It doesn't even take a 22 hour surgery with 8 different surgeons...just one simple prayer of humility is all it takes for that heart transplant that may be needed!
Connecting today's story, God's story and my story with their story
Some of us have friends who do some not-so-Christian things. Maybe they swear, use drugs, look at pornography...the list of tools the enemy uses is quite long.
As we pray for those around us to be connected to the God who loves them...may we not focus on helping them change the messy stuff on the outside first (a mere face transplant)...but may we ask God to work in their hearts because once He replaces the stone with flesh...He will be able to save them from all of their uncleanness.
19 Dec, 2008
Iowa city uses garlic salt to melt snow and ice
No, it's not Pizza Street -- but it smelled like it.
Road crews in a Des Moines, Iowa, suburb used garlic salt to melt snow and ice after a storm this week. The spicy road treatment was donated by Tone Brothers, a company headquartered in the area.
The spice company says the nine tons of garlic salt would have ended up in a landfill. Public Works Administrator Al Olson says the city mixed the garlic salt with regular road salt and it works just fine. He adds some members of the road crew said using the spicy mixture made them a little hungry.
Story and Photo from www.news.yahoo.com.
Please Pass the (Garlic) Salt
Matthew 5:13
"You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it useful again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless." (NLT)
What does God's Story scripture teach us about being the salt of the earth?
Check out what the Life Application Study Bible has to say about today's scripture ...
If a seasoning has no flavor, it has no value. If Christians make no effort to affect the world around them, they are of little value to God. If we are too much like the world, we are worthless. Christians should not blend in with everyone else. Instead, we should affect others positively, just as seasoning brings out the best flavor in food.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Full of Flavor! God has created you to be full of flavor. You have your own personality and your own set of experiences. Thank God for making you who you are.
- Ask for Help! Sometimes it gets difficult to affect the world around us without blending in with everyone and everything. Ask someone in your life - a parent, a friend, a youth pastor, a campus club director - how they think you are doing.
- "Thank You!" Who is it that seems to bring out the best in you? Who adds salt to your life? Whoever it is, get in touch with them and say thanks this weekend.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others?
- An Extra Dash of Salt! Where can you add a little salt in your community? Is there a homeless shelter where you could volunteer to serve a meal? Maybe you could organize some friends to ring bells for the Salvation Army? Get some friends together and come up with some ideas on how you can reach out to those in need during this Christmas season.
- Bring out the Best! Is there someone in your everyday life who needs to know they are valued? Do something with them this weekend to bring out the best in them, just as salt brings out the flavor in food.
- Melt Away the Ice! Is there someone in your everyday life who seems to have grown cold to God's Story? Today's story reminds us that melting ice is yet another use for salt (even if it's garlic). Do something with that friend that will warm them up to God again.
18 Dec, 2008
Bad Smells Linked To Fatigue And Other Complaints
Common physical symptoms such as fatigue, chest pain and lower back pain are related to the perception of everyday smells, University of Nottingham researchers told delegates at a health psychology conference on campus last month.
They studied 194 individuals, who completed a structured diary twice a day for eight days, recording their experiences of common physical symptoms, odours, sounds and stress. Seventy different odours were reported with hot food, paint, smoke/fire, coffee, and chemicals the most frequently mentioned.
Professor Eamonn Ferguson said: “These results highlight the importance of everyday odour with respect to the experience of common physical symptom, showing that common environmental experiences, rather than stress, predict symptoms over short intervals. It may be that people come to associate particular odours with symptoms and the experience of the odour 'triggers' the experience of symptoms.”
Professor Ferguson and Dr Helen Cassaday, with colleague Dr Jane Ward of the University of Loughborough, described their findings to fellow academics from all over the country at a British Psychological Society (BPS) event.
photo courtesy images.google.com & story sciencedaily.com, 9/17/07
Do you smell good?
We need to smell like Jesus.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the important issue of how we smell?
Paul lived in the day of the Roman Empire. When the Roman army would return from another battle victory, the Roman general would show off their prisoners and loot in a parade of triumph. The streets would be lined with people burning incense to honor their false gods. This aroma was sweet for the victors, but it was a foul stench for the captives because they faced slavery and death.
When we (followers of Christ) talk about God's Story and our story, it smells great to some and to others - it stinks!
Other believers will like the fragrance of Christ in us, unless they're not living to please Jesus at the time.
For those who are not followers of Christ, it may smell like death at first, because deep in their souls, the Holy Spirit will convict them of their eternal destination without the forgiveness of Christ. But this is good - it's part of God's Story - His Spirit is pointing out their need for spiritual rescue and will attract them to the sweet smell of life in Christ!
Today's story reports that bad smells can make people sick and tired.
So how do you smell to your peers? If we not living for Christ, others will be turned off to our story and God's Story by our "smell".
But if we are full of His grace and love, Jesus will use our lives to be like a sweet aroma to others. Be honest. How do you smell?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Remember today's story - bad smells can make people sick and tired. Be honest and do a little evaluation. Does your relationship with Jesus stink or is it like a sweet perfume to others?
- Talk to God right now. Praise Him for the sweet aroma of Christ's forgiveness which keeps you from the stench of eternal death! Confess any way in which you have been smelling more like the decay of this world rather than new life in Jesus Christ. Ask God's Spirit to keep pointing out anything unclean in your life so that you will give off the fragrance of Christ to others. Thank Jesus for keeping you spiritually fresh every day!
- Memorize 2nd Corinthians 2:15 as a daily reminder of the need to smell good!
- Whenever you put on perfume, cologne, or some body spray, pray that God's Spirit will empower you to give off the aroma of Christ to others.
How can you connect today's story, God's Story scripture and your story to the lives of others?
- Use today's DAILYBIDE as a resource for your next youth group meeting or small group time. (Be sure to start off the discussion with some bad smells and then you can pass around the perfumes and air freshner.)
- The next time you're hanging out with friends at school, at work, or with your family, talk about the study in today's story. Have fun discussing bad and good smells. You can follow this up by asking the others, "How would you describe the smell of people who claim to be Christians?" This should create some interesting discussion which may give you the opportunity to share how God's Story affects your story.
17 Dec, 2008
Afraid to die?
Proverbs 14:27
The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.17 Dec, 2008
Mekong Valley a Treasure Trove of New Species
Tuesday , December 16, 2008
Striped rabbits, bright pink millipedes laced with cyanide and a spider bigger than a dinner plate are among a host of new species discovered in a remote wildlife hotspot.
The Greater Mekong is described as one of the last scientifically unexplored regions of the world and it abounds in life seen nowhere else in the world, according to a new report from the World Wide Fund for Nature.
So little is known about the ecology of the region that previously unknown animals and plants have been turning up at a rate of two a week for a decade.
At least 1,068 new species were identified in the Greater Mekong from 1997 to 2007, along with several thousand tiny invertebrates.
Annamite striped rabbits, Nesolagus timminsi, with black and brown fur, were discovered in Vietnam and Laos in 2000 and are only the second species of striped rabbit to be identified. The other is in Sumatra, the two sharing a common ancestor that lived several million years ago.
Among the most bizarre to be discovered was a hot-pink, spiny dragon millipede, Desmoxytes purpurosea. Several were found simultaneously in Thailand as they crawled over limestone rocks and palm leaves.
(Picture Caption: A dragon millipede, Desmoxytes purpurosea, from the Thai side of the Mekong river.)
(Article Provided by: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,467144,00.html)
The Wonder of it all...
Psalm 104:24-30 (The Message)
What a wildly wonderful world, God!
You made it all, with Wisdom at your side,
made earth overflow with your wonderful creations.
Oh, look—the deep, wide sea,
brimming with fish past counting,
sardines and sharks and salmon.
Ships plow those waters,
and Leviathan, your pet dragon, romps in them.
All the creatures look expectantly to you
to give them their meals on time.
You come, and they gather around;
you open your hand and they eat from it.
If you turned your back,
they'd die in a minute—
Take back your Spirit and they die,
revert to original mud;
Send out your Spirit and they spring to life—
the whole countryside in bloom and blossom.
What does God's Story scripture teach us about appreciating God's creation?
The NLT Study Bible describes Psalm 104 as a "creation hymn that exalts God's goodness and majesty." This hymn not only exalts God but also gives us another glimpse of how much God loves us. The world and all its unique, bizarre creatures were a gift to us. God desires us to be fascinated by His wonderful handiwork, and for that work to turn us to Him.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
There is a special connection we have with God when we take the time to appreciate His creativity. Here are some ideas to help you stop and admire.
- Sit looking at a tree, plant, or a even a pet and read Psalm 104 out loud.
- Tell God three things you admire in His creation.
- Sit in silence and listen to, smell, and feel God's handiwork around you.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?
We live in a world where seeing is believing, and God has given us an amazing panorama to remind us He is there and that He loves us.
- Next time you're walking with a friend in a park or, watching a TV show about the outdoors share with your friend how you see God in creation.
- Share with someone how God loved us so much he gave us this beautiful work of art (earth) to enjoy!
16 Dec, 2008
Although their service is not often heralded, concierges can make a hotel stay an experience to remember, whether the guest is a celebrity or a mere mortal. It's the concierge's job to fulfill guests' requests, however outlandish. Take the Englishman staying at the Setai in Miami who asked its concierge to figure out how to move his girlfriend's pet tiger to London. Not surprisingly, celebrities often demand the out-of-the-ordinary, like the well-known Australian rugby enthusiast who asked the Ritz-Carlton Georgetown to provide a special satellite dish so he could watch a 24-hour Australian rugby television channel.
Not all requests, however, can be filled. For example, the concierge at the Beverly Hills Hotel was once asked to find replacement parts for an AK47 for a guest, a request that was turned down.
Wanting to surprise his wife on her 40th birthday, a guest at Parrot Cay in the Turks and Caicos asked the hotel to arrange for some fake sharks to appear while he, she and their friends were snorkeling; the concierge declined to do this. Regardless, the best concierges continue to "try to make magic moments, something personalized," as Matthew Daubenspeck, resort concierge at Topnotch Resort and Spa in Stowe, Vt., explains. "...That's why we're here."
(To see the full story go to www.forbestraveler.com 12/08/08)
Please mail my pet tiger
John 14:13-14 (ESV)
13Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.
What does God's Story scripture teach us about asking God for what we need?
These are some pretty bold hotel guests...asking for shipments of exotic animals, fake sharks and replacement parts for their assault weapons. It seems as if no request is out of bounds at the help desks of hotels now.
The same has been true of our God since the beginning of time. God has always been, is and always will be able to handle any request we may need to bring Him. This verse tells us that God wants us to ask Him for the things that we need.
Not only can we ask, but this verse teaches us that He is completely capable of fulfilling whatever request we may have. Jeremiah 32:17 reads, "Ah, Sovereign Lord, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for You."
One other part of this verse that is very important is that it says that we must ask in His name...meaning that it must be according to His will...not ours. This is NOT a verse that says God will give us whatever we want. What it does say is that He is capable of doing great things if we will only ask according to His will.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story to my story?
If we are honest, we probably all have some pretty big requests that we haven't asked of God because they just seem to big...or maybe we have asked but not really expected them to be answered for the same reason.
- Is there a relationship that has fallen apart that seems to be without hope? Ask Him.
- Is there a fear you have that God could help you overcome? Ask Him.
- Is there a mistake you need forgiveness for that just seems to be too much for God to forgive? Ask Him.
- Whatever the emotional, physical, material or spiritual need is...just ask Him...in faith...and believe that He is able to answer!
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and my story to my friend's story?
- Maybe you have someone you know who seems beyond even God's reach. Please know that this simply isn't true. God can change anyone's heart. Just ask Him.
- Maybe you have a friend who doesn't know God and is facing some pretty tough circumstances. You could go to the Father with them and ask for them! What a great way to introduce them to the God who is able to do immeasurably more than all we can ask or imagine! (Ephesians 3:20) Remember, no request is too outrageous.
15 Dec, 2008
Have you ever asked God for something really big? Did you actually ask, believing that He could (or would) do it?! Two years ago a pastor in Longview, Texas, asked God for $1 million and, believing that God could and would provide, he wrote out a bank deposit slip for exactly $1 million, to be deposited whenever the gift came in. Rev. Thomas McDaniels' desire, when he prayed that prayer, was for a new building for his church to meet in. On December 2, 2008, McDaniels spoke with a local business owner who asked what his church needed to be able to move out of the hotel where they'd been meeting. "$1.4 million," was the response. Imagine Rev. McDaniels' excitement when the businessman wrote him a check for $1.5 million - $100,000 more than he'd asked for!
"The Lord wanted to show His power, in that, He is not limited!" exclaimed the reverend's wife, Charlotte.
For the full story, visit www.breakingchristiannews.com
Photo by: Justin Baker/News-Journal photo
Big Dreams
Ephesians 3:20-21
20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about God and His ability to provide?
I can't tell you how many times I've found myself completely in awe of the ways God has provided for me and my family, and for so many of my friends! Even still, I have to admit there are times when I've neglected to ask God for certain things . . . not because I didn't think he could do it, but because I had determined in my mind that he probably wouldn't. My doubts kept me from sharing my thoughts or dreams, even with God. Today's scripture teaches us that whether God does or doesn't do the things we ask, He is 100% able to do it and abundantly more!
Rev. McDaniels understood God's ability to provide and I would guess that he wasn't the least bit surprised by the fact that God provided $1.5 million, instead of "just" the $1 million he'd originally asked for! God wants us to know, understand, and believe that He is able to do anything, no matter how big or how small . . . and he wants us to be able to come to Him and ask! Don't let your doubts get in the way of letting God work! To HIM be the glory!
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- In what ways have you doubted God's ability to answer your prayers or to provide? He could be wanting to do something HUGE through you, but is just waiting for you to believe that He can and expect that He will!
- Is there something that God's put on your heart that you need to bring to Him and lay at His feet? Have you failed to pray for/about a situation because you thought it was too big (or small) for God to consider? Pray and give it to Him! Remember that He is able to do "far more abundantly" than anything you could even dream about! Thank God that He is able to hear you, to answer you, and to provide. Pray that, ultimately, no matter what the outcome, He would be glorified.
How can we connect today's story, God's story, and our story to others?
- Ask your friends if they could ask God to do anything, what would it be? Then ask them if they really thought God could or would do it. Why/why not? Truly listen to their responses. Share today's story and God's story scripture and ask what they think about it.
- Do you have a friend that you've pretty much given up on? You don't think he/she will ever change, let alone turn to God? Reread today's scripture!! God is able to do far more than you could imagine in your friend's heart! Keep praying for your friend and keep asking God to change his/her heart. Then look for opportunities to keep connecting stories.
12 Dec, 2008
A First in Motion Picture History
LOS ANGELES--(Business Wire)--
Twentieth Century Fox makes history by transmitting the first motion picture in to deep space, making THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL the world's first galactic motion picture release. The first deliberate deep space transmission of this highly anticipated science fiction thriller will begin this Friday, December 12, 2008, to coincide with the film's opening day on Planet Earth. If any civilizations are currently orbiting Alpha Centauri, they will be able to receive and view the film approximately four years from now in the year 2012.
In a time when global movie launches are now commonplace, Fox is raising the bar by spearheading, with Deep Space Communications Network located at Cape Canaveral, the ultimate in "wide release" platforms. As millions of Earthbound movie fans get their first look at THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL, starring Keanu Reeves and Jennifer Connelly, the film will be zipping through space at 186,000 miles per second to a heretofore untapped possible consumer base orbiting the three star system, Alpha Centauri.
Industry watchers and film historians will note that due to the distance between our solar system and the Alpha Centauri system, it will take over eight years (accounting for a roundtrip communication) to receive any Alpha Centauri reviews. The transmission is not a single beam aimed at just the Alpha Centauri system, but can be received by any advanced technologically capable civilization along the way to Alpha Centauri, and beyond.
Prior to its arrival at Alpha Centauri, the transmission of THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL can be intercepted and viewed at various points in our own solar system (Distance from Earth - at the speed of light - and transmission time, as follows):
Moon: 0.000000038, 1.1991888 seconds
Sun: 0.000016, 8.41536 minutes
Mercury: 0.0000095, 4.99662 minutes
Venus: 0.00000476, 2.5035696 minutes
Mars: 0.0000076, 3.997296 minutes
Jupiter: 0.0000666, 35.028936 minutes
Saturn: 0.000135, 1.18341 hours
Uranus: 0.000285, 2.49831 hours
Neptune: 0.00046, 4.03236 hours
Pluto: 0.0006183, 5.4200178 hours
Story Courtesy of www.reuters.com.
Photo Courtesy of www.images.google.com.
Never Been A Day Like It
Joshua 10:7-15
7 So Joshua went up from Gilgal, he and all the people of war with him, and all the mighty men of valor. 8 And the Lord said to Joshua, “Do not fear them, for I have given them into your hands. Not a man of them shall stand before you.” 9 So Joshua came upon them suddenly, having marched up all night from Gilgal. 10 And the Lord threw them into a panic before Israel, who struck them with a great blow at Gibeon and chased them by the way of the ascent of Beth-horon and struck them as far as Azekah and Makkedah. 11 And as they fled before Israel, while they were going down the ascent of Beth-horon, the Lord threw down large stones from heaven on them as far as Azekah, and they died. There were more who died because of the hailstones than the sons of Israel killed with the sword.
12 At that time Joshua spoke to the Lord in the day when the Lord gave the Amorites over to the sons of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel,
“Sun, stand still at Gibeon,
and moon, in the Valley of Aijalon.”
13 And the sun stood still, and the moon stopped,
until the nation took vengeance on their enemies.
Is this not written in the Book of Jashar? The sun stopped in the midst of heaven and did not hurry to set for about a whole day. 14 There has been no day like it before or since, when the Lord heeded the voice of a man, for the Lord fought for Israel.
15 So Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, to the camp at Gilgal. (ESV)
What does God's Story scripture teach us?
WOW! Did you know that story was recorded in God's Story? Did you know that God came to the rescue of His people in such a miraculous way? Did you know that Joshua prayed that prayer?
Think about Joshua. First he was Moses' assistant, then his successor. He was one of only two spies who believed that the Israelites could take the Promised Land in the first place. Now, he is one of only two adults who lived to enter the Promised Land, and he is their leader.
Joshua knew what God had commanded him to do, and he knew that God had promised them this land. He knew that God was in control.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Read the first nine chapters of Joshua leading up to today's scripture.
- Study Joshua's life a little deeper this weekend.
- Thank God for the times He has protected you from the enemy.
- Ask God for an opportunity to share His Story with someone over the weekend.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others?
- Listen for conversations about "The Day The Earth Stood Still." There is a good chance that the movie from Today's Story will come up in conversation this weekend.
- If you don't hear anyone talking about the movie, start a conversation yourself.
- Ask a friend if they have ever heard today's scripture. Ask them their thoughts on the event in Joshua.
- Talk about ways you have seen God fulfill His promises to you.
11 Dec, 2008
SAN DIEGO - A Korean immigrant whose wife, two young daughters and mother-in-law perished when a military jet crashed into his house says he doesn't blame the pilot who safely ejected.
The Marine Corps fighter plane was returning from an offshore training mission Monday when it clipped a tree and slammed into homes about two miles from its base. Two homes were incinerated, and three others were damaged. Three generations of a Korean family died in one home.
The family's pastor, the Rev. Kevin Lee of the Korean United Methodist Church in San Diego, identified three of them as Young Mi Yoon, 36; her 2-month-old daughter, Rachel; and her mother, Suk Im Kim, 60, who was visiting from South Korea to help care for her daughter's newborn. The body of 15-month-old Grace Yoon, Rachel's sister, was found in the home Tuesday, Fire Department spokesman Maurice Luque said. No one else remained missing.
The San Diego County medical examiner's office has not officially released the names of the victims.Young Mi Yoon's husband defended the pilot Tuesday.
"I don't have any hard feelings," Dong Yun Yoon, 37, told reporters near the rubble where his home once stood. "I know he did everything he could."
"Please pray for him not to suffer from this accident," Dong Yun Yoon said. "I know he is one of our treasured for the country."
Dong Yun Yoon, who left Korea in 1989 and became a U.S. citizen, wondered aloud how he would persevere after losing his family.
"Please tell me how to do it," he said, surrounded by his pastor, sister, brother and church members. "I don't know what to do."
Story courtesy msn.com 12/10/08
The Ultimate Forgiveness
Mark 11:25 (NIV)
And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
What does God's Story scripture teach us about forgiving others?
Ever been wronged by someone? As in they really crossed you. Have you be so mad you would consider it unforgivable?
Dong Yun Yoon lost his wife, 2 daughters, and mother-in-law in a terrible accident. Yet he is not angry at the piolt who crashed into the house, in fact, he is concerned for him! He responds with, "Please pray for him not to suffer from this accident" Perhaps Don Yun Yoon understands the extravagant power of his own sins being forgiven.
Colossians 3:13 tells us to "forgive as the Lord forgave you." If we can even begin to understand the multitude of sin God has forgiven in our lives, it may be easier to extend a small amount of that forgiveness to others.
So why does God call us to forgive others? Not "because he forgave us so we should forgive others." Rather, God is in the business of restoration and peace. He wants our relationships with others to be restored. (Just as he sent Christ to restore our relationship to him) It is only when we are at peace with others that we can experience the pure Peace of God's presence. If we hold onto anger, bitterness, and unforgiveness we are not allowing God's Peace to rule in our lives.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Forgive. Is there someone in your life that you need to forgive? Whether it is having a conversation with them or working it out with just you and Jesus take some time today to examine the relationships around you.
- Ask. Do you need to ask someone for forgiveness? Pray and ask God to reveal to you any hurt you may have caused others.
- Ponder. In this busy Christmas season take some time each day this week to reflect on the just how much you have been forgiven for. Then you can rejoice in the birth of our Savior even more!
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?
- Do you know someone who is angry, bitter, or just deeply hurt? Share today's story with them of how Dong Yun Yoon was able to not only forgive but pray for someone whose actions resulted in much grief for his own life.
- If those around you are amazed by the incredible forgiveness displayed in today's story, share with them the story of God's ultimate forgiveness.
- Offer to pray with them if they need to forgive someone in their life. Or let them practice the conversation with you, if they need to ask someone for forgiveness.
10 Dec, 2008
Invasion of the body swappers
Karl Ritter
Shaking hands with yourself is an amusing out-of-body experience. The illusion of having your stomach slashed with a knife, not so much.
Both sensations, however, felt real to most participants in a Swedish science project exploring how people can be tricked into the false perception of owning another body.
In a study presented yesterday, neuroscientists at Stockholm's renowned Karolinska Institute show how they got volunteers wearing virtual reality goggles to experience the illusion of swapping bodies with a mannequin and a real person.
- AP
(For the ful story visit: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/strange-but-true/news/article.cfm?c_id=500835&objectid=10546455&ref=rss)
Reality vs. The Really Real
1 Corinthians 13:12 (New Living Translation)
Now we see things imperfectly as in a cloudy mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely.
What does God's Story scripture teach us about what God has in store for us?
First Corinthians was written by Paul to a group of Christians in the city of Corinth. The Christians at Corinth had some messed up ideas on what God wanted, because of their culture. Corinth served as a center of worship for the Aphrodite - the goddess of love. The love Aphrodite represtented was not the love God had in mind. Her love was shallow and stopped at the physical level. God had something deeper in mind.
When Paul wrote verse 12 he had just finished explaining what real love was, the love that God intended. Paul wants his readers to understand what real love is about. He also understands that we aren't going to fully get it until we stand in the presence of God, because sin has clouded what God desired for us.
Paul also offered this as a hope that we would fully know the love God has for us, when we focus fully on Him.
How can we connect today's God's Story to our lives?
What better way to connect God's story to our lives then to make it part of our lives? The Psalmist wrote "I have hidden your word in my heart... (Psalm 119:11 TNIV). Make today's God's Story part of you with these tips:
- Memorize 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
- Read 1 Corinthians 13 aloud. (If possible, look in a mirror while you read.)
- Say a prayer of gratitude for the reality God has to offer. Ask Him to teach you how to love like chapter 13 describes.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?
- Use today's story to start a conversation about the ways we create an alternate reality - video game systems, online games, movies.
- Share with your friend how God offers the truest reality, and how we act independent of God to create our own alternate reality.
- Share with your friend what you would see in a mirror if it reflected all aspects of your life (physical, mental, social and spiritual). Ask what it would show about them.
9 Dec, 2008
Police in Covington, Ky., arrested a 19 year old at a suspected drug market. Though several people were booked that night, this young man stood out as he was the one wearing the T-shirt that read, "Its Not Illegal Unless You Get Caught."
[Kentucky Enquirer, 10-17-08]
Integrity
A life with many benefits
Proverbs 10:9
9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,
but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out. (ESV)
What does God's Story scripture teach us about the benefits of integrity?
In today's story, we see a young man who has fallen victim to one of the oldest lies around...its not illegal, its not a lie, its not cheating, its not a sin...unless I get caught.
The truth is...illegal is illegal...period. The same is true about cheating, lying or anything else we have been trying to hide since the Garden of Eden. For some reason, we feel like we are getting away with something if no one finds out. Today's passage tells us quite plainly that, eventually, we will be found out...even if the authorities in Kentucky don't catch on...God always knows.
God's Story scripture also helps us to know that there is a MUCH better way to live and its called integrity! Much like a good job has benefits...so does a life of integrity! Check out just a few more of those benefits...
Blessings from God (Psalm 24:3-5)
Guidance for our lives (Prov.11:3)
It guards us (Prov.13:6)
Even your children will be blessed! (Pov.20:7)
Provision for our needs (Isaiah 33:15-16)
God is glorified (I Peter 2:12)
No one can talk bad about you (I Peter 3:16)
And that's just a few of the benefits of a life of integrity!
How can we connect today's story and God's story to our lives?
One of the best definitions of integrity that I have ever heard is this: always doing what is right whether anyone is looking or not.
Doing the right thing is pretty easy for most people when it doesn't cost them much. Being a man (or woman) of integrity really starts to define us when we do the right thing even when it costs us a great deal.
- Yes, it could cost you months of your allowance and maybe being grounded to admit that the dent in the car was your fault...but your parents will know that what comes out of your mouth is true and that they can trust you in the future.
- Yes, the person next to you who is cheating on their test might get a better grade...but you will sleep well at night knowing that you earned every grade you received and you will learn more than those with the "good grades".
- At some point in life, you will likely have the option of either cheating the government with some loophole in the tax system or doing the right thing. Yes, it could cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars...here...but it will also earn you eternal rewards that will please God.
Is living a life of integrity easy? NO! That's why it can be so hard to find such people. But when you do, they are always very respected...by man and by God.
How can we connect today's story, God's story and my story to their story?
- Start a conversation with a friend by asking them what they think...is something only wrong when you get caught?
- Ask God to help you do the right thing...no matter the circumstance or the cost.
- Be consistent. Over time, your friends will notice that you always speak the truth, make Godly choices and do the right thing...and this will attract them to the One who makes this possible...the One who lives in you.
8 Dec, 2008
When attacked by a knife wielding, intoxicated man, one neighbor fought back with the only "weapon" he had: an over sized, plastic candy cane! The drunken man showed up and began waving a knife at a group of individuals who were celebrating the holidays on an outside lawn. The attacker cut several people's clothing before one man grabbed the two foot lawn ornament and fought back. Neighbors were able to subdue the attacker until police arrived.
Story from allheadlinenews.com
Photo from Google Images
Back Off!!
Ephesians 6:13-17
13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted withe the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (NIV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about being prepared to fight off Satan's attacks?
Of course the poor, unsuspecting victims of this story had no idea that they would be attacked that day by a man with a knife . . . If they had, I'm certain they would've armed themselves with something other than a plastic candy cane! Likewise, we have no idea when each of us will have to defend ourselves against the evil schemes of the devil. What we do know is that he is out there, prowling like a lion (1 Peter 5:8), waiting to pounce on us in a moment of weakness, and God wants us to be prepared!
Today's scripture makes it clear that preparing ourselves to fight against the devil's schemes means taking an active role. God calls us to "put on" the full armor of God - we must clothe ourselves, daily, with Truth and righteousness. We have to know the Gospel and rest in its promises, stand strong in our faith, and fight the lies of the devil with the Truth of scripture. For without these things, we will be caught off guard, swinging the equivalent of a silly plastic lawn ornament in the face of Satan and hoping for the best.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Be Prepared! Start by praying and asking God to help you better understand your areas of weakness - these are the areas where Satan is most likely to attack. If you can be honest enough with yourself, you'll be able to see the places in your life that may give Satan a foothold.
- Make a plan! Remember that putting on the full armor of God requires you to take an active role, on a daily basis! Make a plan for spending time in God's Word and memorizing scripture (after all, it is the sword you will use to fight with!), and look for ways to strengthen your faith.
- Pray!! Pray for God to help prepare you for Satan's attacks. Pray through each piece of armor as you get dressed in the morning (ex. As you put on your shirt, pray that God would clothe you with the "breastplate of righteousness," your belt that you would be wrapped in Truth, etc.).
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others?
- Share a story about a time you were caught off guard by something or someone . . . what was your reaction? Talk about how you could've or should've been more prepared. If the conversation lends itself, share how you and God are preparing you for tough times that may be coming.
- Pray for your friends who have been caught off-guard and are currently suffering through a tough time. Ask God to give you opportunities to encourage them and to help you respond to them in love and grace.
5 Dec, 2008
Lawsuit challenges state's 'reliance upon Almighty God' for homeland security
The Courier-Journal says atheists are suing Kentucky over a clause in state law that says "safety and security of the Commonwealth cannot be achieved apart from reliance upon Almighty God."
Story excerpt from USAToday 12/03/08.
Photos courtesy of http://images.google.com and www.wave3.com.
God & Homeland Security
God is Our Ultimate Protector!
Psalm 121 (New Living Translation)
A song for pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem.
1 I look up to the mountains -
does my help come from there?
2 My help comes from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth!
3 He will not let you stumble;
the one who watches over you will not slumber.
4 Indeed, he who watches over Israel
never slumbers or sleeps.
5 The Lord himself watches over you!
The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade.
6 The sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon at night.
7 The Lord keeps you from all harm
and watches over your life.
8 The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go,
both now and forever.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about God's protection?
"This song expresses assurance and hope in God's protection day and night. He not only made the hills but heaven and earth as well. We should never trust a lesser power than God himself. But not only is he all-powerful, he also watches over us. Nothing diverts or deters him. We are safe. We never outgrow our need for God's untiring watch over our life." (Study Notes, Life Application Study Bible)
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
Do you ever find yourself worrying about your own safety and security? Psalm 121 is a great place to go again and again for these reminders ...
- Look to God and acknowledge that He is your Protector.
- Trust God to watch over you as you sleep, as well as while you are awake.
- Thank God for standing beside you as "your protective shade."
- Thank God for keeping you from all evil.
- Remember that God is with you every step of the way. You can't leave Him at church, in your room, or anywhere else. Jesus promised his followers that he would be here, "even to the end of the age" (Matt. 28:20).
- And as the study notes reminded us so well, we should "never trust a lesser power than God himself."
How can we connect today's story, God's Story, and our story to others?
- When your friends express their fears about their own safety and security in our world today, let them know about God's promise to watch over those who look to Him.
- Ask them if you can share some of the ways that you trust in Him to watch over you each and every day.
- Let them know that they too can have the same peace, to know that God is watching over them, if they put their trust in him.
- Ask them if you can pray for them. Pray that God would become real to them.
4 Dec, 2008
A tool bag lost by astronauts working on the International Space Station should be visible from the Highlands this week over Scotland, according to astronomers. 
Some members of Highland Astronomical Society hope to catch a glimpse of the kit which came loose and drifted away last month.
Ross-shire-based website Heavens Above has given predictions of where to look out for the bag.
They said it should be visible using binoculars or a telescope.
because the bag is moving rapidly against the "fixed" stars in the night sky, it should be easily identified when seen in a telescope.
The kit, reportedly worth over $100,000, has been moving ahead of the space station (ISS) and according to Heavens Above should be visible over the Highlands until 10 December.
Last month, astronaut Heidemarie Stefanyshyn-Piper watched helplessly as the bag drifted away from her as she serviced the solar array system on the orbiting platform.
*Story & photo courtesy news.bbc.co.uk & photo courtesy images.google.com, 12/3/08
Take a Look and Worship
What do you see when you look to the sky?
Psalm 19:1-4
The Law of the Lord Is Perfect
To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David.
19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
2 Day to day pours out speech,
and night to night reveals knowledge.
3 There is no speech, nor are there words,
whose voice is not heard.
4 Their voice goes out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In them he has set a tent for the sun, (ESV)
What does today's scripture teach us about God's creation and how we should view it?
In this psalm, David is meditating on God's power and our limitations. God's ultimate power is displayed all around us through His incredible handiwork! God's creation is all about His Space, not myspace!
When you look at the heavens (sun, moon, stars), you are seeing dramatic proof of God's existence, His power, His love, and His care for you and me. Anyone who says that the universe just happened by chance has their head in outerspace. God's "gihugic" creation and His attention to design and detail just scream out the truth of a Creator Who is personally involved in our lives.
Some individuals in Scotland will have the chance to view something unique in the next week. God wants us to see something unique too - our daily walk with Him will take on His perspective if we take a look at His creation and worship Him. His power and care are undeniable.
How can you connect God's Story today to your story?
- Talk to God right now about His power and care in your life. Confess the times that you take His creation for granted. Praise Him for His amazing display of His creative power and personal care in your life. Thank Him that His creation reveals the Truth about Him to you and the world.
- Try to take a walk every day when you talk to Jesus about your walk with Him. Take a couple of minutes to look at God's creation and then listen to His Spirit at work in you.
- In your journal, write a daily example of how you are amazed by God's creative power.
How can you connect the truth of today's story and God's story to others who need to know Jesus?
- Remember, that even though the psalmist is telling us that part of God's Story is being told to the world through His creation, we still need to do our part. God's creative handiwork communicates His existence and power, but His story of salvation through Jesus Christ is found in the Bible. Jesus has told His followers to tell God's Story to "the ends of the earth".
- So....pray, show others Christ's love, and listen to their stories. Look for those moments when you can talk about God's creation with others. Look for those moments when you can share your story of how Jesus gave you a personal relationship with the Creator despite some huge mistakes you may have made.
3 Dec, 2008
In this scene from the 1983 film 'A Christmas Story,' Peter Billingsley is shown as Ralphie, the main character.
CLEVELAND - Fans of the holiday classic "A Christmas Story" are celebrating the film's 25th anniversary with a convention and trips to the house where the movie was made.
The 1983 film, an adaptation of Jean Shepard's memoir of a boy in the 1940s, was set in Indiana but largely filmed in Ohio. The movie starred Peter Billingsley as Ralphie Parker, a young boy determined to get a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas.
The film was a modest theatrical success, but critics loved it. It eventually joined "It's a Wonderful Life" and "Miracle on 34th Street" as a Christmas cult classic.
"It's a film about being a kid and looking back," said Brian Jones, who owns the house where the movie was shot and the neighboring museum dedicated to the film.
About 4,000 fans are attending the convention at Cleveland's Renaissance Hotel, where they'll meet some of the film's actors, watch three documentaries made about the film and see the original 1938 fire truck from a famous scene in the movie involving a child's tongue stuck to a frozen pole.
"It is unbelievable that a movie has touched the lives of millions of families," said Phil Gillen, son of the late actor Jeff Gillen who played the movie's worn-out Santa Claus. He traveled from Miami with his family to attend the convention.
Avid fans Mark and Becky Tompkins also traveled to the meetup with their children, Madison, 9, and Brandon, 5.
"It's a Christmas movie that you can watch and relate to," Mark Tompkins said. "Everyone, whether they want to admit it or not, really wanted a special gift one holiday."
(Article provided by http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,459299,00.html)
The Christmas Story
1 Peter 2:2-3
2 Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation— 3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good. (ESV)
What does God's Story scripture teach us about getting back to the basics?
With my family the Holiday season doesn't really begin until we have watched "A Christmas Story" (in fact my dad got a leg lamp for Christmas last year). Watching this Christmas Classic is one thing that reminds me of laughter shared with my family and the love we have for one another.
The writer of this letter, Peter, is sending word to Christians scattered all over the place. As they are facing persecution Peter wants to remind them where their story started and where their focus needs to be. He wants them to hang on to the basics. The things that remind them of joy they have shared and God's deep love for them.
From the day we are born we consume milk to help us grow and become strong. Peter is encouraging Christians to get back to those basics, to cling to the roots of their faith.
Peter wants the basics to be a source of joy and growth for us.
* Pause right now and ask God to begin restoring the joy you felt in the beginning of your story with Jesus.
* Reread the Christmas story early in the day (Use the Gospel of Matthew)
* Reread the Crucifixion and Resurrection stories later in the day. (Use John's Gospel)
* Before you go to bed spend a few minutes thanking God for the "basics" (you know God taking on human flesh, dieing on cross for us, then coming back to life).
* This can serve as a launching point for traditions you and your friend have in common.
* Share with your friend why the birth of Jesus is an important basic for you.
* Don't be shy about sharing the joy you find in the basics of your faith story.
2 Dec, 2008
Full-size cardboard figure causes NJ bank standoff
TOWNSHIP, N.J. - A standoff at a New Jersey bank is over after police learned a "person" seen inside was actually a full-size cardboard figure.
Officers went to the PNC Bank in Montgomery Township on Thursday night after an alarm went off. They saw what they thought was at least one person through the windows of the bank, which had its blinds drawn.
The area was sealed off and three nearby apartment buildings were evacuated as a precaution. Meanwhile, authorities used bullhorns and made telephone calls in a bid to make contact with whoever might be in the bank.
After repeatedly failing to get a response, a SWAT team entered the building and discovered the cardboard figure.
Story courtesy of news.yahoo.com 11/30/08
Scared Silly
2 Timothy 1:7
7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. (ESV)
What does God's Story scripture teach us about living in fear?
Today's lesson from God's Word is quite simple...God's children are not supposed to live in fear...of anything on earth! Check out what His Word says in some other passages.
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid?
Psalm 34:4 I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all of my fears.
Proverbs 29:25 Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord will be kept safe.
Romans 8:31 If God is for us who can be against us?
Connecting today's story and God's Story to my story
It sounds a bit silly to hear of an entire police squad having a standoff with a cardboard figure. The whole block was paralyzed with fear, three buildings were evacuated and the SWAT team was enlisted...all over a corrugated cutout. This was the POLICE for cryin out loud!!! They carry clubs, tazers and guns! Why were they afraid of something as harmless as this?
We can laugh at that, but if we are honest...we also have fears...and we are GOD'S CHILDREN for cryin out loud!!! We carry weapons such as prayer, God's Spirit and His Word! Why are we afraid of...
...what others think of us?
...what is in the past?
...making mistakes?
...letting others down?
...not being good enough?
...being accepted?
Go to God and admit to Him that you are afraid of whatever it is. Ask Him to give you courage and boldness. Ask Him to fill you with the power that is spoken of in today's scripture...and live no more in fear of the "cardboard cutouts" in your life!
Connecting today's story, God's story and my story to my friend's story
- Share a funny story with a friend about a time when you were little and you were afraid of something silly...maybe the dark or the monster in the closet.
- Go a step deeper and be real about something that has been a fear of yours even as you have gotten older. This may be tough. Maybe God will lead you to share something you have never told anyone before.
- Then share with them about the God that you trust and how He has set you free from such fears! (Or how this is in process.) Pray and ask God to set your friends free as well. Perhaps your transparency is what God will use to help this process begin.
1 Dec, 2008
[Monique] White, 36, posted a two-sentence invitation on the Internet classifieds site last week. The receptionist at a dentist's office was feeling a little lonely, her two sons spending the holiday with their dad. So she figured maybe four or five strangers would reply . . .
Instead, dozens replied. People laid off work. People with no family. People ashamed to bring their children to a charity Thanksgiving dinner at a soup kitchen.
"I thought there was no way I could judge who is worthy of sitting at my table. I have to invite them all," White said, sitting at her dining room table as she went over some of the e-mails.
It's a far cry from last year, when the Whites were living in a motel room. They had a long-haul trucking business that had gone out of business. Doug White was working construction; Monique White was still looking. Their holiday got worse when the window in their motel room caved in after a heavy snow, leaving them with little to give thanks for but a soggy mess.
"Last year it was just us two. It was horrible," she said.
Things have turned around. Both are now working, and they've bought the town house. With the economy as it is, the Whites say they're barely making ends meet. But they feel compelled to share what they do have with others.
"That's what Thanksgiving is about: Helping other people out however you can," Doug White said.
Partial story taken from foxnews.com. Find the full story here.
Picture courtesy of Google Images
Table for 32, Please!
Luke 14:13-14
13 But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, 14 and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.” (ESV)
What does today's God's story teach us about serving others?
I've read this article several times and every time I get chills. What an incredible testimony of love, selflessness, and gratitude! It's not often, these days, that you hear about people truly caring for and serving one another in such a selfless way. I don't know if Monique White is a follower of Christ or not, but what she did for those 30 strangers on Thanksgiving was something straight out of Scripture!
Today's God's story scripture reminds us of our call to humility and service. Jesus was teaching the Pharisees about humbling themselves and offering the resources they'd been given to those who were truly in need . . . those who could not possibly repay them, for their blessings would come later, from the Lord. God is calling us to set aside the "me" mentality and to, instead, without judgment, keep our eyes and ears peeled for those around us who are in need. Out of our love for Christ and our gratitude for what He did for us on the cross, God is calling us to a lifestyle of service and a spirit of love - not just during the holiday season, but year round!
How can you connect today's God's Story scripture to your life?
- Start by praying and thanking God for the blessings He's poured out on you - for His Son and the sacrifice He made for you on the cross, for the people God's placed in your life, the gifts and talents He's given you, and the opportunities that surround you.
- Then pray for God to help you to see others through His eyes - that He would fill you with a spirit of love and the heart of a servant. That you would, in love and without judgment, become more sensitive to the needs of those around you.
How can you connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and your story to others?
- Jot down the names of people He brings to your attention that may be in a state of need. Get creative and find ways to serve them this week. Although their needs may be bigger than something you, alone, can do, be intentional to find small ways to serve them and show them love.
- Recruit some friends to join you in your efforts to serve - include those friends with whom you are trying to share Christ! You'll be amazed at the ways serving others, side-by-side, can open up doors of spiritual conversation! Not only will you connect with him/her on a different level, but it just may give you the doorway you're looking for to connect your friend's story to God's!
