Devotion inspiration and epiphanies

[matt_hatter]

Well, my first attempt to start a thread. The bunny trail series started with the ramblings of a madman, JRJ, which I miss. The trail, with the presence of Miltie and uhm..me..looks like it is a hopeless cause for this this kind of discourse.

I have seen factnet evolve into several different areas, all good. Information on EN issues, testimonies, some very haunting, humor and sarcasm to the extreme.

What I would like is a place to hear your ramblings. Not Red Book/Purple Book stuff. No corny internet 'inspirational' stories making the rounds (Dang I hate those), but the personal epiphanies that make you tick. Doesn't have to be heavy, just give me something to meditate on during the day.

Matt

[matt_hatter]

And I get to start. The other day, I spoke of friendship. Listen to what Jesus said about it:

JN15:15 "No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you.

I made a post to Wildwood last night on the trail after I found out they were a military family. I used the term 'instant connection'.

I has also occured to me that all of our links to the past with MCM/EN have also created that instant connection. We may have different reasons for being here, but our link is the friendship and love we have for one another in Christ. For that, I thank you. It has been an amazing ride for me.

Tikie called me yesterday from Yankeeland and I wanted him to know what his blog had meant to me. My friend--Tikie---who has made the next words of Christ come alive:

Jn15:16" You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit..."

I spoke of the need the other day to hear from friends old and new, and have heard from both, either on factnet or email.

I throw it at there once again for all comers.

mvee207@yahoo.com

Mark (matt)

[speakword2004]

Hmmm . . .personal revelations. Well, opening the Book of the Revelation it says "The Revelation of Jesus Christ . . ." which basically sealed it for me. Nothing to fear,m but fear itslef. I realised that it was not about the revelation of the best or the mystical world system. Just plain opening ones eyes to Jesus. And that's the problem with religion. It doesn't open one's eyes to Jesus. It blinds you. It consumes you. It gives you complex answers that only a few truely understand. It becomes a consuming energy that eats you up. It traps you. It always haunts you and eventually it tries to kill you.

With that in mind, this morning I got to watch another video on TV from THE CURE. I missed 10 years of their music by my sanctimonious separation from "worldly music".

From one of their best albums :"Disintergration"is a track:

On candystripe legs the spiderman comes
Softly through the shadow of the evening sun
Stealing past the windows of the blissfully dead
Looking for the victim shivering in bed
Searching out fear in the gathering gloom and
Suddenly!
A movement in the corner of the room!
And there is nothing I can do
When I realise with fright
That the spiderman is having me for dinner tonight!

Quietly he laughs and shaking his head
Creeps closer now
Closer to the foot of the bed
And softer than shadow and quicker than flies
His arms are all around me and his tongue in my eyes
"Be still be calm be quiet now my precious boy
Don't struggle like that or I will only love you more
For it's much too late to get away or turn on the light
The spiderman is having you for dinner tonight"

And I feel like I'm being eaten
By a thousand million shivering furry holes
And I know that in the morning I will wake up
In the shivering cold

And the spiderman is always hungry...

[matt_hatter]

Of course, I meant "I throw it OUT there once again for all comers." Blasted 30 minute edit feature.

[matt_hatter]

Speak said: Just plain opening ones eyes to Jesus. And that's the problem with religion. It doesn't open one's eyes to Jesus. It blinds you.

This is so true. The older I get, the simpler it gets. The old song, "I have returned to the God of my Childhood" used to sound so cornball to me, but I was so smart then. I had finished the Red Book.

Speak, it seems now that when I read the words of Christ in the gospels, it is like I have never read them before. The great paradox of religion MCM/EN--you've read it all, know it all, but actually haven't read it AT all, and know nothing at all.

Open my eyes to Your words, Lord! http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/happy.gif

Matt

[annelewis]

ooh ooh! I have one! This one is also about friendship.

Last Saturday, I had coffee with a woman I got to know last fall. Both of our sons were seniors playing football and the season was incredibly intense as the team had a chance of winning the division for the first time since 1982. (Ultimately they didn't as the division winner went on to be #2 in the state). This created a lot of bonding amongst the parents, so much so that when the season was over I actually mourned the end. And I don't even particularly like football.

Anyway, both of our sons have enlisted in the military, hers in the Army, mine in the Marines. Two weeks after her son enlisted, her other son in the Army shipped to Iraq with one of those outside the wire type units.

So there we sat having coffee and in talking about her children she started to cry (understandably). And I let her cry. "It's ok," I told her. "That is going to be me soon." "I'll call you," she said. And I know she will.

I knew that she didn't need empty promises or platitudes. She needed to be understood. She needed someone to walk with her while she's in that particular valley. And I needed her too since she is breaking the path that I will probably walk in a year or two.

I've been thinking about that moment this past week and whether or not it is possible to have similar moments with others, whether this is a good model for what should occur w/i the body of Christ. And I realize that I would have to do hecka lot of changing, a lot more trusting of people, of letting down my guard. And quite honestly, I think others would have to do some changing too - our common experiences in MCM/MSI/EN have shown that not everyone will accept you in your weakness.

Anyway, it was a neat moment. I'm not sure what to make of it other than I realized I had been substituting "ministry" for moments of friendship. This sounds unbelievably lame but I can see where I've done this a lot over my life. It's a habit I picked up in Maranatha and have had reinforced in our therapeutic culture.

[john_r_jones]

Matt,
not trying to be coy I'm thinking through some things which when I post may bug some folks I hope I have enough capital to be indulged in this.
John

[miltietoast]

me too

[jesusisawesome]

Me three.

[dust]

Well, I hadn't seen my father in years. Long story, but we were really really close when I was a child. I got saved as an adult. And, by a miracle God brought me back to relationship with him. And for one whole year before my father's death, we talked daily for one-two hours on the phone. We talked about EVERYTHING...wonderful times.


During a lot of that time, I was able to witness to my father and eventually see him come to the Lord. At first, he didn't feel he deserved heaven. I didn't have fancy words...I was still new Christian. I didn't have the RIGHT scriptures. But, I believed my father deserved salvation and I never quit.

His last words to me the night before he died, "I want to thank you for what you did for my spiritual life." He was 70.

They are still the BEST WORDS I ever heard ever. Maybe in a perfect world, the father should lead the daughter to Christ, but there were so many things he did for my life and my self-esteem that made it easy for me to accept a loving God, because I had a loving father. I just paid it back to him the love he had already given me.

This is something that has KEPT my faith so strong, no matter what I've seen men do!

[matt_hatter]

Anne said: " I'm not sure what to make of it other than I realized I had been substituting "ministry" for moments of friendship.'

What a wonderful thought! If we would just substitue the word friendship for all our goofy spiritual terms, (sheparding, accountability, etc) Jesus said, "but I have called you friends".

Dust said: I didn't have fancy words...They are still the BEST WORDS I ever heard ever.

Sounds like He took your words and made them music to your ears.

John wrote: some things which when I post may bug some folks.

I hope so JRJ, Miltie, JIA.

Matt

[john_r_jones]

http://johnshutch.blogspot.com/ New stuff in the hutch, two posts. I'm trying to learn the tiny url stuff better luck next time.
John

[matt_hatter]

"First of all let me say that I'm learning more at fifty than I have at any other point in life it seems.

...just an illustration of how things we learn change us."

The Hutch

Excuse my crudity, but I told a dear, dear friend recently by email that I am thinking of writing a book: "As***** at 50: A Liberating Experience."

There is a song out (country of course) that has this in the chorus:

I raise my hands, bow my head
I'm finding more and more truth in the words written in red
They tell me that there's more to life than just what I can see
Oh I believe.

The words written in red. As I have stated, how did I miss it all?

Luke 18:10-14
10"Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. 12I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.'
13"But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, 'God, have mercy on me, a sinner.'

14"I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."

July 1979... my meditation: "C'mon, the first guy isn't all bad, tell you the truth Lord, I'm kinda proud I tithe, and robbery, adultery, no worries here... but that second guy, well, praise God you can even save creeps like that....ok, done for the day, time logged in the word, let's GET BUSY for the KINGDOM!"


July 2006: "God, have mercy on me a sinner."

Lord, thank you for the words written in red. And thank you that you have been patient with this old fool. I have so much more to learn that I missed on the way.

Matt

[matt_hatter]

Amazing side note to all my 'sinners saved by grace friends":

This was the first thread I went to this morning. Was totally unaware of the discussion on the membership 101 thread. Ain't God good!

[john_r_jones]

Matt, He is. I'm reading two books that are dealing with this issue and how secular the kingdom is. That what got Jesus in Dutch was His inclusiveness. The Jews were not missional people, they were concerned with getting it right in the religious practice department. Jesus on the other hand told of the world becoming the place where the Kingdom would flourish, not the Christianized, tidy perfectionist world, but one that had weeds and stuff in it. The scripture "For God so loved the world" is often translated "For God so loved some of the world that paid their country club dues." and finished with "...and the rest can go to hell!"
Oops there's that pesky outloud voice again.
John

[matt_hatter]

This stuff was so good and fit so well, I am posting it without permission. Sorry Miss Kitty:

As for sinners saved by grace...Ok-I know I'm a sinner...and I know it's only by God's grace that I have been accepted by HIM. For some reason I just like it better down here on the ground...rather than my head way up in those glorious saintly clouds. I understand the whole "we are Ambassadors of God" stuff...but it wasn't until I re-joined the real world that I got an appreciation for the JOY of being a sinner saved by grace. I found JOY in that! I found freedom and my passion for Jesus again at the foot of the cross....remembering why I am saved in the first place. I got saved in the Baptist church and was "On fire for Jesus!"(proclaiming He saved ME, a sinner) then spent 8 yrs in Maranatha-proclaiming loudly my inheritance, and how saintly I was... lost ALL joy while going around shooting off at the mouth about it. Then left maranatha-and fortunately fell on my face...and realized once again, how much I needed HIM, and that I really AM just a "sinner saved by grace." I must say, I really like this place. I like the gratitude in my heart, and the slight desperateness I feel for my need in daily calling on Him. I like being reminded of my own weakness....keeps me real...keeps me humble. And I like being able to see the hurt in someones eyes, and finally FEEL compassion again. But I understand the whole saint/ thing. I don't judge anyone for being there. It's just not for me.

I DO believe that GOD as my Father will bless me..if HE so chooses. And I know about all the promises in the Bible to HIS saints/sinner children. I just don't want to be the spoiled rich kid-who isn't approachable. I want to be the kid who has the rich(not necessarily speaking materially) father, but doesn't flaunt it...and who is still down to earth-and folks feel comfortable around. MOST of us, leaving Mar/En feel or felt beat up, worn out, and crapped on. There is something wrong when people find more compassion from sinners than "Saints." Maybe that's why Jesus preferred hanging out with them(sinners) more.
I guess maybe my definition of saint is they are more like sinners who have been saved by grace, who know they need God. Rather than feel entitled to. In my part of the country I live amongst some very wealthy people. (unfortunately I'm not one of them) ha But these people, being in the horse industry, are the most down to earth, real people you'd ever meet. They aren't snooty, and will talk to anyone. They know how to get dirty, and work in horse poop-and are approachable. Unlike people who have alot and won't give the average guy the time of day.(this is a generalization for the sake of explaining) Not opposed to the wealthy. So, I think the SINNER christian who knows it's only by God's grace...is the saint too. I'm confident in God's love for me....I'm not a whupped puppy. I don't fear..because I know God loves me. It's even more powerful knowing He loves me "Anyway." (In my weakness He is strong)

Just keepin' it real. Just keep me in the back of the bus...lol that's just where I personally am at on this journey, at this time. And I happen to prefer it.

Matt speaking: I am just blown away by all of this. As Miltie said, "well said sameo"

I remember when the bus metaphor started, a week ago or so...I said... the view sure is different back here. Thanks same-o for another perspective.

Matt

(Message edited by matt hatter on July 16, 2006)

[wildwood_]

Typed last night, forgot to post...searching for coffee now.

Here are the basics…and it goes hand in hand with the bunny thread, your topic, friendship, legalism issues and JESUS…

During the time Jesus walked the earth; the Torah was passed down verbally and handwritten by scribes. Most of the population could not read or write. They had no documents to pour over for the correct and exact interpretation of the specific original or closest to it Greek or Hebrew or Aramaic Text. They had Jesus walking among them and He changed Lives by His presence. Now, we do have record of selected miracles but not of thousands…. He could have commanded Love, but he didn’t. He could have chosen disciples who would not have been frightened and hid when he was taken—those personalities were in abundance among the Hebrew nation of that time. But He didn’t.
In fact, the disciples really didn’t have a clue about Jesus when HE was standing right there in front of them…oh, sometimes they got things by flashes of the Spirit… but the following Him at the time…I’m not sure they knew why they followed HIM. They just knew when He said “Come” they did. God walked with Adam & Eve in the Garden. Jesus walked with the Disciples in Galilee. Because God made Man for fellowship with God…they were at “Home”. Sometimes, I believe that’s why we enjoy being, laughing, crying, worshiping with each other…because by doing that in it’s purest sense we are fellowshipping with Jesus. The exact interpretations are important; critical for wisdom, but valueless if I do not “SEE JESUS”.

And people cannot see JESUS if I am not willing to let them see through “Me”. And people cannot “see through a wall” or a pretend “Me”. Nope…for my “health’ & ‘theirs it has got to be the real sadly flawed version…the work in progress…the one that says… I’m good at good at making pot roast, but cannot bake a pie to save my life, or biscuits either …really. Or, I have a wicked temper and a fierce tongue that even after all these years still gets away from me…and it’s not a demon it’s just my vocabulary… Not a flawed version to wave like merit badges, parade around & announce needlessly (ya’ll don’t need to know just how messed up I am in specific details…I’ve been in some Churches not even Charismatic where they go thru a laundry list at baptism…sigh…why? God knows already. ) or be “delivered” of…but flawed so that those who have not met Our Loving Savior yet…know that there’s nothing new, nothing that’s going to shock Him or His Sheep…Baaaaa. Personally that’s one of the most overlooked sermon topics that the Old Testament does not overlook any sin…it listed some I’d never heard of as a child, sadly they’re on Cable News Nightly now. The Sheep have got to be able to talk to each other… not about make up or diets or how to dress to impress… But how about these topics: I am afraid of being alone, I am afraid if ‘you really knew me, you wouldn’t like me’… I am afraid of trusting people because I’ve been in a rotten relationship… I have a weakness for a substances…I’m struggling…. I’m not “feeling” spiritual today or maybe even I’m wondering if God exists. Jesus walked right into the middle of all those questions and knew they’d be coming…AND still LOVES US. AND SAYS “Hey, that your Joy may be full. He walked into the Temple when He was twelve…WHEN HE WAS A GROWN MAN He went out fishing. There’s a reason the Lord did things in that order…

[matt_hatter]

Wildwood: The Sheep have got to be able to talk to each other…

Isn't it strange and wonderful that God has united a bunch of internet strangers into a vibrant New Testament body?

One of my purposes with this thread was to show that , although we can have a lot of fun, there are some deep spiritual thoughts that need to be shared with fellow 'church members'. Thanks for sharing yours.


Praying for my family in BDU's today! (a little military lingo for the uninformed).

Matt

(Message edited by matt hatter on July 16, 2006)

[jesusisawesome]

Hi Matt, I was brain dead the other day and could not think of anything that seemed worth posting, hence my attempt at harrassment and humor by posting "Me three" . . . haha! Ah well, at least I got a laugh out of it, even if I was the only one. LMBO!

I'm sending to Forword & Dust a beautiful CD that was recorded by a friend of mine in the music ministry. This CD has ministered to me deeply, and also another friend of mine that has walked through spiritual abuse said that it has also greatly ministered to her.

My friend created this CD as a result of his own experience with this same issue. As I was pondering this, I was reminded of the words of a father in the Lord. He and his wife were listening to a sermon in church one day. As they left the church, his wife made the following statement. "That was a beautiful sermon, but this man has not experienced what he is preaching. Because he hasn't experienced this, a beautiful sermon is all it was; it didn't produce life."

To me, that is where the annointing on this beautiful music comes from . . . a personal experience with the healing touch of God and deliverance from the spiritual bondage of manmade religiosity that only produces slavery and death.

There's a saying, and I'm probably going to bungle it, don't trust anyone that doesn't walk with a limp. It is through the shattered, broken areas of our lives that Christ can shine the most powerfully. Through our own brokeness can flow the pure fountain of life, which is Christ. In heaven, we will not be boasting about our great walk on earth and how good of Christians we have been. Instead, we will all be bowed before Christ, laying all crowns at His feet. He alone is worthy of glory, honor and praise.

[matt_hatter]

Lk 5:29 And Levi gave a big reception for Him in his house; and there was a great crowd of tax collectors and other people who were reclining at the table with them.
30 The Pharisees and their scribes began grumbling at His disciples, saying, "Why do you eat and drink with the tax collectors and sinners?"
31And Jesus answered and said to them, "It is not those who are well who need a physician, but those who are sick. 32 "I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance."

What goes on here? More hanging with the wrong people? Why didn't somebody tell me about this years ago that it was OK to have friends of all types? It is not the ultra snobby religious people who chap my tail as much as the religious people who are tremendously uncomfortable around someone who is not their "peeps".

This is what I became in Maranatha, and even in that venue, as Tikie has stated so well, there were pockets of discrimination within every church.

How did we miss all of this? ( the above scriptures) What is it you want me to do now Lord? That twice a year thing at the Faith Rescue Mission....who even was I doing that for? I need to hear from you Lord, I honestly don't know how to deal with the above holy scriptures. I guess I can start at square one: He said He had come to call sinners to repentance.

Matt

[matt_hatter]

JIA said. There's a saying, and I'm probably going to bungle it, don't trust anyone that doesn't walk with a limp. It is through the shattered, broken areas of our lives that Christ can shine the most powerfully."

Maybe some of my questions are going to be answered by some of my buddies...

[forword]

The following lyric is from one of my favorite artist, Nik Kershaw. To my knowledge, he is not a Christian, but no matter...all truth is God's truth.

God Bless
God bless this happy home
God bless the hugs and kisses
Keep us all safe and warm
Keep us in ignorant bliss

Heaven help old Joseph Bloggs in his
cardboard box
Reaching out his hand for a piece of me
Heaven give his dog a bone, leave my
conscience well alone
Then make them jump about as
happy as can be

And the Devil take the rest of them,
the Devil take the rest of them

God bless the beautiful
God bless the loved and lauded
Save them from what they do
Save those who can afford it
God bless the stock exchange
God bless the corporations
Give us our daily bread
Forgive us poor relations

Heaven help the little man,
getting by the best he can
Say's that it's no life but it's a living
Heaven help the down at heel,
I wonder how they feel
Does anybody know,
I simply can't imagine

And the Devil take the rest of them,
the Devil take the rest of them

God bless our football team
God bless my red Diablo
Praise be this coffee machine
Amen to all I know

Heaven help the human race,
put a smile upon it's face
With it's sad and sorry eyes
upon my television
Heaven help with all it's might so I can
sleep at night
So I can enjoy what I've been given

And the Devil take the rest of them,
the Devil take the rest of them
The devil take my soul from me,
the devil take my soul

[forword]

The above song accurately describes the attitude towards the poor and down and out that I experienced at Bethel. I heard so many prayers for blessing, for my wants, my new car, my football team, for my $800,000 house to sell quickly so I can pay for my new $1,800,000 house, etc.

However, when a woman from a battered women's shelter needed help, no one seemed to have the time. When someone came looking for food at the Church at the Globe in downtown Nashville (which is also a restaurant) they were going to be sent away...until a young female member there begged (with tears) the usher who was sending her away to give her some food. The usher finally relented...so they gave her a plate of food to eat outside in the cold. When the down and out came forward for prayer at Bethel, we were told not to waste any time on them. Say a quick prayer and send them to another ministry for help because that is not our ministry...we are looking for leaders.

It is exactly as described in the song...we just want the young, the beautiful, the rich, the popular, the influential, the prominent...let the devil take the rest of them. We just don't want them around to make us feel guilty for our wealth. Oh, we want them if they are willing to pay their tithes, drive us to the airport, be our free movers, mow our lawns.... but not if THEY have needs... send them somewhere else.

[miltietoast]

Say a quick prayer and send them to another ministry for help because that is not our ministry...we are looking for leaders.
EXACTLY!! forward as mentioned in TIKS blog I asked leadership,"Lead who? We do not like "those people"I see a room full of arrogant people tryig to one -up each other while crushing and destroying the people they profess to lead.Rocks and stones fall on me ,hide me from the anger of the Lamb!

[40days40years]

yeah and what is our ministry here? Our ministry is to kick their blanks.

About 8 months a go a snide poster made the comment about deluded christians thinking they have a ministry here posting such things. I think not!

[wiseasaserpentgentleasadove]

I have to jump in and share something that a young girl got up and shared at our church yesterday.
She has a horse. When they got the horse, who is completely blind, the horse was so fearful, it would not budge. It wouldn't walk anywhere, it would just stay put. As the horse learned to trust the rider more and more each day, he abandoned his fear, and runs at top speed, making sharp turns as the rider leads, making high jumps as the rider requests. The word of the Lord to this young girl was that the horse, when they first got him, represents a new (and sometimes not so new) Christian, whose faith is small. As Christians grow and mature, their faith grows and we are to learn to trust our Master. We are to run where/when He says run, and speak when he says speak, and dance (this one's for you, Miltie) when He says dance. We walk by faith and NOT BY SIGHT, just like that blind horse. She added that whenever the horse DID get fearful and try to do something that she wasn't asking him to do, he would get hurt. People used to ask them why they didn't just put him down b/c he couldn't see. There is a lesson for all of us from this blind horse.

[mdillon]

forword that is a powerful word of Truth you have shared through the song and testimony. As I posted somewhere before, this is what makes me think that EN is Maranatha on crack.

"And the Devil take the rest of them..."

looks like he's got competition


or not



md

[matt_hatter]

Thank y'all for the great stories. Readers will jump from one thread to this one and think these are not the same people posting. That is the beauty of it---yes we are!

Galatians 5
1) It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.

Matt

[ulyankee]

forward, I wrote a song a long time ago, before I was saved, about the very same issue... It's obvious it wasn't written from a Christian perspective, but I was going through a difficult time in my life where I was just a step away from homelessness and realized I wasn't much different from the mentally ill bag lady I used to see every day on the bus to work/school.

Bag lady on the bus
Who is she talking to?
Could she be one of us
I mean like me or you

It's easy to turn away
What will you do?
Hurry up, run away

We pretend that our dreams can save us
Or that our beauty won't fade with time
But this life has a way of eroding us
'Till we become one of those disposable lives

Fortunately, in God's eyes, my life is NOT disposable, and neither are the "least of these." But the world certainly sees them that way. And any church who teaches that the least of these should be treated the same way is coming from the WORLD'S perspective, not JESUS'!!!!

I'm not sure where Paul Simon is at spiritually, but I love Outrageous which is on his new CD...

It's outrageous to line your pockets off the misery of the poor.
Outrageous the crime some human beings must endure.
It's a blessing to wash your face in the summer solstice rain.
It's outrageous a man like me stand here and complain.

But I'm tired, nine hundred sit-ups a day.
I'm painting my hair the colour of mud, mud, okay?
I'm tired, tired
Anybody care what I say? No!
I'm painting my hair the colour of mud.

Who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?
Tell me, who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?
Aw, who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?
Who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?
Who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?
Who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?
Who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?

It's outrageous the food they try to serve in a public school.
Outrageous, the way they talk to you like you're some kind of clinical fool
It's a blessing to rest my head in the circle of your love.
It's outrageous I can't stop thinking about the things I'm thinking of.

And I'm tired, nine hundred sit-ups a day.
I'm painting my hair the colour of mud, mud, okay?
I'm tired, tired, anybody care what I say? No!
Painting my hair the colour of mud.

Who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?
Tell me, who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?
Tell me, who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?

God will,
Like he waters the flowers on your window sill.
Take me, I'm an ordinary player in the key of C,
And my will was broken by my pride and my vanity

Who's gonna love you when your looks are gone?
God will,
Like he waters the flowers on your window sill.

(Paul Simon is about a gabazillion times more talented a songwriter than I'll ever be, hehehehe)

[dust]

Forword, I have to correct you. Regarding the story of the homeless woman wanting food. It was not an USHER that sent her away. It was a PASTOR.

Steve Murrel, I hope you're happy to be here. Dave Spring it's the ground you're preaching on. The young girl who "witnessed" this act of unkindness left the church. She felt like she would be put on the street next because she wasn't in the "in" crowd.

In ULYANKEE's words:

Bag lady on the bus
Who is she talking to?
Could she be one of us
I mean like me or you

It's easy to turn away
What will you do?
Hurry up, run away

[matt_hatter]

Set up for yourself roadmarks,Place for yourself guideposts; Direct your mind to the highway,The way by which you went Return, O virgin of Israel,Return to these your cities. Jer 31:21


There was nothing better than growing up on an Army Post in the 60's. A great protected enclave of kids everywhere. Ft. Rucker was my stomping grounds. Helicopters droned day and night as Vietnam had created quite a stir with the Army's new calvary horse, the Huey chopper.

Carved out of the red dirt and hardwoods of Dale Co, Alabama, it was an explorer's dream. If I would have known then what I know now about the crawling critters that inhabit this area, I wouldn't have ventured as far from our quarters (Army ligo for your home).

We were always getting lost in the woods. We knew eventually, we would find a jeep trail and it would take us to some familiar territory and we would find our way home.

I am at the point in my life of finding something familiar.Like those early years of my walk with Christ. I am almost back home, but just finding that familiar path is so great. Been a long time on the bottom side of the circle not knowing the territory at all--- and now ---hmmm--compassion, I recognize that----forgiveness---yea, I remember. Friendship for friendship sake? Wow! Those ignored words in red....How long has it been?

Well, I have occasionally encountered God, the Lord, etc, but tell you the truth, all that whooping an hollering kind of burned me out on You, Jesus. You didn't need all of that you say? I should have been Mary instead of Martha? Wow, the path is getting more familiar to me....keep talking, I'll listen.....

Matt

[mdillon]

mattie i want you to know right here in front of everybody that i consider reconnecting with you after TheseDays an absolute honor and privelege from our Lord Jesus Christ. One day we will slam two Red Stripes together over miltie's head and toast to Phil B's deliverance whether's he's received it or not. (tikie your coming)

A Former Maranatha Clackerhole (hopefully)

md

[matt_hatter]

A Former Maranatha Clackerhole (hopefully)

From one clackerhole to the next, thank you, the feeling is more than mutual. Miltie's place in Oct. I want to talk to you about your town. Ms Hatter and I will be making the move to Middle Tn one day when I finally break the bank on this state job, speaking of which, time to work.

Thanks again. You are one of those instant connections. (For the uninformed, md and I were not running buddies in Maranatha--never had a face to face--met here on little old factnet)

[miltietoast]

you clacker holes can untie your boots pull up a rocker or adirondack chair (that mdillon and I are going to mass produce) and sit on my porch anyday and sip some ice tea hehehe

[sameo]

I just love the new word thanks to Cupatea..."Clacker." I'm beginning to feel a sense of pride in my being a "Clackerhole."

OK-I have pondered the meaning of what the heck is "faith" with all the WOF talk that I've read. Which riles me up like ca-razy. Anyway, I was recently praying for a friends health...and I began to cry....feeling desperate. I asked God almost begging to please heal this person. It hurt. I realized rarely had I prayed this way in a long time....where I wept....and then it hit me. I thought of how Jesus had wept upon hearing his good ol' buddy, his dear friend ol' Laz. had died. Now, Lazarus was one of HIS peeps..and I imagine having the same repore that some of you guys posting have. Jesus hung out at Lazarus house every time HE came to town, they ate together, cut up and had fun, shared intimate conversations... close. Blood brothers.(not in a witchcraft way, Jbk)So, Jesus wept. THEN HE raised Laz from the dead. But first HE wept....with COMPASSION. And it hit me....maybe the key to FAITH working....is it has to be coupled with compassion.(I mean, who knows, but I like the thought of it) It's the compassion that gives the faith it's power. The faith is the train, and the compassion being the engine?!

I remember reading a post somewhere, I couldn't tell you where, from AnneLewis about her(you) sitting w/ another friend who has a loved one(Son?) over in Iraq?!(you both do?)(my apologies for lack of detail) and how Anne just listened while the woman cried... and She showed compassion. I am so convinced that GOD was more about COMPASSION than HE is about being right...or fancy high falutin' talk....empty positive confessions. I can imagine in Mar days someone telling a crying Mom of a son at war....to just get over it, BE strong and confess positively...blah, blah....BUT who would have simply put an arm around this person, and just held them...and let them cry.....this is the heart of GOD....I must believe that. I don't want a GOD who cannot FEEL! I need a GOD who can CRY and weep....Jesus WEPT! Hallelujah!!!! This makes me Praise His Name! And for those whose hearts hurt now....it is NOT a weakness....you are not weak...just as Jesus was NOT weak(OR ashamed) for weeping for HIS friend. IN our weakness HE is strong...and in our times of mourning we can find faith to have hope. IN our lowest moments can come HOPE...not just our "on top of the world times."

That's why-I cherish my sufferings at the foot of the cross.(I didn't say ENJOY) This is where John, the favored disciple(according to himself) and the two Mary's were at(one being HIS Mother)...those who loved Jesus, perhaps, the most! And just as Jesus didn't stay at the cross, nor do we have to stay there....but it's at the cross where we may find compassion.

These are my rambling thoughts...just can't seem to articulate like you guys...but somewhere in there I DO have a point...? maybe.

Sameo

[mdillon]

sameo-"just can't seem to articulate like you guys"

horsebiscuits

that was strong


md

[sameo]

And let me just say this(to clairfy)....I've learned that sometimes things don't go our way....we try so hard to muster up faith....grunting like a pig we try so hard...and things don't go our way. And we think maybe we didn't have the faith. I don't understand this stuff. But I think I'm going to dwell more on the compassion than this thing called FAITH....knowing that with God's LOVE I can get through anything.

[matt_hatter]

just can't seem to articulate like you guys...

Yea, and "grits ain't groceries, eggs ain't poultry and Mona Lisa was a man." (Trivia--what song?) The heck you can't, we got us some real live writing lionesses in here.

And as far as this: "and I imagine having the same repore that some of you guys posting have."

YOU guys? Am I going to be insulted that you don't think you are one of our peeps? We need the bartender in the Blue Bird.

And finally: "maybe the key to FAITH working....is it has to be coupled with compassion.(I mean, who knows, but I like the thought of it) It's the compassion that gives the faith it's power. The faith is the train, and the compassion being the engine?!"

This is just so awesome. I have entered into this place in recent weeks. It is a place I want to live in, not just visit.

Thanks, Peep.

Matt

[miltietoast]

Sameo --As I heard a black preacher say one time,"Thaz it sister,youse got it's by the tail nowsa drags the whole body!"

[sameo]

Matt:"Yea, and "grits ain't groceries, eggs ain't poultry and Mona Lisa was a man." (Trivia--what song"

That'd be "Little Milton!" hehe

....speaking of Milton/aka Miltie...--"As I heard a black preacher say one time,"Thaz it sister,youse got it's by the tail nowsa drags the whole body"

LOLOL----I likes dat' preachin'!! thx!!

Mdillon, thanks for your horsebiscuit's! ;-)

And I'm so glad ALL ya'll my Peeps here...

SameO

[sameo]

My main homeboy(hubby) said to me something I loved..."All I know at this point is that I am saved by grace, and if it gets more complicated then that, I'm lost!"

gotta love that....sense of humor, WOF'ers.

sameO

[wiseasaserpentgentleasadove]

Sameo,
I was wonderin who was gonna give us the sermon on the bus today! Thanks for steppin up to the plate!!!

God Bless you. Enjoy being Mary today, and not Martha..(you too, matt) Yes, men were called to be Mary, also. I think that's where God wants all of us, at Jesus' feet for a while.

dove

[mdillon]

sameo-"Mdillon, thanks for your horsebiscuit's! ;-) "


they weren't mine

md

[miltietoast]

oops they were mine. I licked them and did not like them so I put them back(kinda like tucking and untucking

[matt_hatter]

Miss Sammy Kitty said: "That'd be "Little Milton!"

Dang, even more impressive Chickster (hip female), I was thinking Wet Wille, but you went back even further. Take her Laura Ashley away and give her a peasant skirt.

Matt

[sameo]

Ah,Dove...thanks so much for your enocuragement. YOU know, being encouraged is also so healing and compassionate...as you are. Geez, and my day to get all sappy?! and I liked your Mary thought..."it's a good thing!"(hey, didn't Martha say that?)haha (trivia-which martha?)

Mdillon-am so glad Miltie cleared the horsebiscuit thing up...lol I was so confused...didn't know if they were mine...why am I not surprised...hehe But all I know is I appreciate your pat on the back!(head)

Matty,LOL---glad you were impressed, and most glad I don't gotta wear those confined Laura Ashley dresses no mo'.

Sameo

[miltietoast]

Rae Ann used to chew on unpopped corn kernals then throw them back in bowl,one time Mike Caulk said"Why are these kernals so soggy?"Miss Rae said I thought youwere finished

[coppertree]

<font face="arial,helvetica"></font>
Hi All-yes I think that this a nice place to land. I get fed here, up lifted, by His compassion and love that you all share with all of us. . We are the survivors, of all this control, hurt, the eating of the sheep, bad theology, etc. It is nice to be here.

A small note about Mona Lisa, some art historians now think that ; Mona is a man ei. a self portrait of the artist in reverse. Since Leon loved to write in mirror image, reverse ; what if he used himself as a subject but in reverse. There is a short documentary done on this subject. they used scientific instruments to measure, x-rays to see lower level, and use Leon' other portrait as a guide. It seems to fit.}

[maranatha1984]

MD:Phil B's deliverance whether's he's received it or not. (tikie your coming)

84: I am buying the Grey Hound Bus Ticket now

[maranatha1984]

Sammy:we try so hard to muster up faith....grunting like a pig we try so hard...and things don't go our way. And we think maybe we didn't have the faith. I don't understand this stuff. But I think I'm going to dwell more on the compassion than this thing called FAITH....knowing that with God's LOVE I can get through anything.

84: Amen Sister you preach it

[maranatha1984]

Sammy:we try so hard to muster up faith....grunting like a pig we try so hard...and things don't go our way. And we think maybe we didn't have the faith. I don't understand this stuff. But I think I'm going to dwell more on the compassion than this thing called FAITH....knowing that with God's LOVE I can get through anything.

84: Amen Sister you preach it

[sameo]

"Rae Ann used to chew on unpopped corn kernals then throw them back in bowl,one time Mike Caulk said"Why are these kernals so soggy?"Miss Rae said I thought youwere finished."

LOL--NOW that's just plain ol' funny! If ever there was doubt as to whether you two were meant to be...this should confirm you are infact PErfect for one another. Miltie lickin' horsebiscuits, and Rae Ann sucking on corn kernels...now that's a match made in heaven! ;-)

IT's a beeutiful thang!

Hey Coppertree....good to see ya! interesting tidbit on the Mona Lisa. Hmm.....

sameo

[wiseasaserpentgentleasadove]

tik-your'e double dippin now?!!

Hi, sameo! I like the martha comment. Did you read my idea on another thread that a friend of mine and I wanted to do a talk show called "coffee talk-Whose got time?" It was going to be a spoof on Martha Stewart! Funny stuff. I still want to do this, but have no idea where to start! How do you just start a talk show?!

Coppertree-Hi! welcome! liked what you wrote earlier somewhere in here. This place is like a bad video game maze-you go in one door, come out another, and can't seem to find your way out!!!

Tik-I confess-I have not read all of your blogs. I haven't even read 1 entire blog. Am I gonna get banned from here???http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/sad.gif I think it will take some downloading and long nights to catch up on all of that.

What's for dinner?

[sameo]

Thanks 84!! :-)

Miltie...I'm sorry, Rae Ann "Chewed" on the kernels...to get the facts straight.

Dove: Love the concept of the "Coffeetalk" show. Gosh, if I knew how to have one....I think I'd be doing it too! hehe Good question...maybe JRJ knows? And like, who decides who gets to do it? it's all so complicated...LOL

[mdillon]

wad sorry to butt in but sameo already has her own show called "BourbonTalk"

84: I am buying the Grey Hound Bus Ticket now

where's your faith BROTHER? this is too low realm unless your bringin' Rocks for miltie then I understand.

copper good to see you here and thanks for the MonaLisa scoop. I had a revelation that miltie is the reverse painting of Phil B.

md

[miltietoast]

I had a revelation that miltie is the reverse painting of Phil B.
frappface

[mdillon]

chill miltie, he was the female

md

[j2theperson]

***Dove wrote: Tik-I confess-I have not read all of your blogs. I haven't even read 1 entire blog. Am I gonna get banned from here??? I think it will take some downloading and long nights to catch up on all of that.***

Don't worry, Dove. I haven't read it either. I read maybe the first 6 chapters, but it made me so sad that I stopped after that. I think I'll go and read it when Tik has finished writing all the chapters.

[wiseasaserpentgentleasadove]

j2, whew! I'm not the only one! it's rather overwhelming....perhaps one day. Some of it is over my head. (No, I'm not blonde)

Sameo-let's do it!!!! Can you see it? sittin around a table sippin on coffee and talking about WHATEVER!!!!

[maranatha1984]

J2 and Dove

I am not reading it either LOL! Okay you guys get a refund...http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/wink.gif

I am finally to a happy part BTW Part 35- well it starts out about as bad as can be and flips to as good as a can be...

Tikie

[matt_hatter]

84: "I am finally to a happy part BTW Part 35- well it starts out about as bad as can be and flips to as good as a can be..."

And what a happy memory. I am eating fried mushrooms at the reception like they are going out of style and told Miltie to try one. Miltie said, "Uhh, Mattie you redneck idiot, those are snails."

Never could run with the Tiks, out of my league.
Allie and RaeAnn spent the reception avoiding us, for some odd reason.

Matt

[matt_hatter]

md said: "sorry to butt in but sameo already has her own show called "BourbonTalk"

The dudes in the back are moving on to boilermakers. RR and SC. Miss Kitty, fasten your seat belt.

[sameo]

OK third time I've tried posting right here. Dove, not ignoring you-hope this goes through. Who knows myabe I posted on another thread thinking it was here...Lord knows I had a busy day on here...hehe

Dove...yeh, we should DO the talk show! heehee MDillon can be our agent...course, he might have us spiking our coffee before it's over.

Hatter-my seatbelts on. :-)

My Bourbon talk show....that's funny!(hiccup)

[coppertree]

<font face="arial,helvetica"></font>
Hi All-catching up, now a lost event here; maybe we should do Lost ( the tv show) as MCM/MSI/En, as the darhma bunker;, all the charters, the doctor, the one from mental asylum who may well be the one who is dreaming this up in totality, the Calvinist, sorry M84, the would- be priest who has come lately to the party. That would he, responding to the gospel, and others. They find the bunker after being airplane wrecked on an tropical island. In this bunker is a lone survivor who keeps asking are' you the one.' Then runs out after showing the newly homeless travelers ( half-a plane load) a machine, computer termial
to main frame. They are instructed unless they do this every 108 minutes they will die. They are to press a button, after inputting a given code. This instruction comes from lone survivor and film from The darmha group (ok miltie?) from Ann Arbor. I can see many epiphanies.
It is like Charles Dickins, meets Jonthan Swift, they fallinto a time machine at George Orwell house bringing H.G. Wells along for good measure. Did I say the name of the airline is Oceania?}

[coppertree]

<font face="arial,helvetica"></font>
Hi All-catching up, now a lost event here; maybe we should do Lost ( the tv show) as MCM/MSI/En, as the darhma bunker;, all the charters, the doctor, the one from mental asylum who may well be the one who is dreaming this up in totality, the Calvinist, sorry M84, the would- be priest who has come lately to the party. That would he, responding to the gospel, and others. They find the bunker after being airplane wrecked on an tropical island. In this bunker is a lone survivor who keeps asking are' you the one.' Then runs out after showing the newly homeless travelers ( half-a plane load) a machine, computer termial
to main frame. They are instructed unless they do this every 108 minutes they will die. They are to press a button, after inputting a given code. This instruction comes from lone survivor and film from The darmha group (ok miltie?) from Ann Arbor. I can see many epiphanies.
It is like Charles Dickins, meets Jonthan Swift, they fall into a time machine that ends at George Orwell house bringing H.G. Wells along for good measure. Did I say the name of the airline is Oceania?}

[wiseasaserpentgentleasadove]

pretty good, coppertree!

Sameo-I'm ready when you are! Any one else? Hey, two more people in and we have another "VIEW"...It can be called "ANOTHER VIEW"!

I'm feelin it!

[jesusisawesome]

Sameo, I just read your post 167 about the compassion of God. That is powerful! Fits right in with 1 Corinth 13, about how love never fails. All of our works are dung if we are doing them to earn our righteousness. If it doesn't issue from a heart of compassion and love, then it is dead works. That is what motivated everything Jesus said and did. I think that's where a lot of WOF'ers miss it . . . thought I have the faith to move mountains but do not have love, I am nothing (1 Corinth 13:2.

Jesus saved his biggest rebukes for the religious . . . they were all caught up in works and trying to earn their righteousness, while at the same time looking down on others who they felt didn't measure up. All of our righteousness is as filthy rags, there's not one righteous . . . other than Jesus. I think that's partly why he detests this mindset so much, because we are ALL in the same boat! No matter how hard we try! I love the story in Luke 7 where Jesus is rebuking the Pharisees and Lawyers, when they are judging a woman as a sinner that is annointing the feet of Jesus. That story cuts right to the heart of the matter. He who is forgiven much loves much. If we are walking in the pride of how good we feel we are, and we don't really see the depth of our sin, we have hearts with little love and much judgment (like some ministries). When we really see our sin for what it is, there's such a deep love and gratitude that issues out of that, an appreciation for what the cross of Christ means. We can't add anything to his suffering on the cross! We can only humbly accept forgiveness, and passionately love Him. Then our actions are flowing from a right heart motivation, because we're moving from a heart of love and not trying to earn our righteousness.

[maranatha1984]

Wise:What's for dinner?

84: Ms Tok had broiled Salmon waiting on me. Watching that Tiker...LOL

[maranatha1984]

Copper:It is like Charles Dickins, meets Jonthan Swift, they fallinto a time machine at George Orwell house bringing H.G. Wells along for good measure. Did I say the name of the airline is Oceania?}

84: Dystopia Heaven/ Hell: whew- what a vision...

[maranatha1984]

JIA:Jesus saved his biggest rebukes for the religious . . . they were all caught up in works and trying to earn their righteousness, while at the same time looking down on others who they felt didn't measure up. All of our righteousness is as filthy rags, there's not one righteous . . . other than Jesus. I think that's partly why he detests this mindset so much, because we are ALL in the same boat! No matter how hard we try! I love the story in Luke 7 where Jesus is rebuking the Pharisees and Lawyers, when they are judging a woman as a sinner that is annointing the feet of Jesus. That story cuts right to the heart of the matter. He who is forgiven much loves much.

84:What is interesting is that the Pharisees were a relatively new phenomena- they were trying to "restore' True Religion. You can think of them as the Christian Right and the Saducees as the Liberal Church.

AT MCM the leadership was weighing down the rank and file, burdening them- while there were gigantic logs in their own eyes

[jesusisawesome]

84:What is interesting is that the Pharisees were a relatively new phenomena- they were trying to "restore' True Religion. You can think of them as the Christian Right and the Saducees as the Liberal Church.

JIA: Interesting tidbit I didn't know. Thanks for sharing that 84.

84: AT MCM the leadership was weighing down the rank and file, burdening them- while there were gigantic logs in their own eyes

JIA: It took the madness of what happened in MCM/VCF/MSM, for me to finally understand the book of Galatians http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/happy.gif

[maranatha1984]

J2 Person and Dove

84: I am not in the business of promoting my Blog- but you may want to stick your toes in the water in Part 35- here is a comment from someone who read it

"It is so good to hear this story turning around. It gives me hope."

ANd there is hope- I will show in Part 36 HOW HE got me out of the ditch [thanks Mitlie for the anlogy] and got me out of my little pity party and used my brown eyed girl to gently kick me in the azz (thanks Mattie] and get me back on track...really...it turns out much better than I shuold deserve

[matt_hatter]

Now when Jesus heard about John, He withdrew from there in a boat to a secluded place by Himself; and when the people heard of this, they followed Him on foot from the cities.
When He went ashore, He saw a large crowd, and felt compassion for them and healed their sick.
Matt 14:13-14

So, Jesus wept. THEN HE raised Laz from the dead. But first HE wept....with COMPASSION. And it hit me....maybe the key to FAITH working....is it has to be coupled with compassion.(I mean, who knows, but I like the thought of it) It's the compassion that gives the faith it's power. The faith is the train, and the compassion being the engine?!
Sameo

******
It has been hot down here, brutally hot. Three days in the 100’s. The deep south is always rough in the summer, but it is cussin’ hot right now. As I scurried through our parking lot at work anticipating the cool AC of our building, I noticed something.

An elderly black couple was struggling to get their adult son out of a van and into a wheelchair. I told them to hang loose a minute let me get some help. Knowing my limitations, (upper body strength is shot after my surgery) I hunted up my running buddy Baron. What a guy. A college level linebacker, in his early 30’s now, my roommate when we attend conferences. Don’t ask, and I won’t tell. An inner city guy from Mobile, he has always been one of my favorite work buddies. Baron was a job placement specialist at one of our private non-profit rehab centers that I have liaison duties with. I helped him get on with the state agency, and enroll in Auburn’s masters in rehab program. Inner city kid makes good.

Back to 100 degrees and the parking lot. Baron and I got on either side of the man, slid him in his wheelchair and I got them to their appointed place. Am I sharing this because I want y’all to think I am such a noble Christian? Hardly.

I passed my secretary, told her to take my calls, and pulled up the door to my office. Hot tears started running down the corners of my eyes. What a piece of crap I have been. These kinds of things go on everyday of my life at our office. Matt Hatter has been known to walk on by. I’m into management, administration, now; I control the authorization of hundreds of thousands of tax dollars. I am too important for such acts of human kindness. What a piece of crap I have been. No more.

I make sure I give the Allie Cat some sugar on the jaw in the morning now. (Sherriff Andy told me to do this, “Give her some sugar, give her some good”) She thinks I am crazy. We usually race to see who can get out first, leaving the other one to the mundane duties of locking doors and turning off the coffee pot.

Guys, we are the idiot species. Think back to a major crises in you life; your wife would almost change places with you if she could. She is wired that way. Don’t forget to give her some sugar on the jaw. She is a precious jewel that needs to be honored above all others.

The journey back to those familiar places continues for this wretched sinner saved by the unfathomable grace and mercy of God.

Faith, without compassion, deader than a doornail.

Matt

(Message edited by matt hatter on July 21, 2006)

[maranatha1984]

JIA:JIA: It took the madness of what happened in MCM/VCF/MSM, for me to finally understand the book of Galatians

84: Galatians...yes...sweet water to those of us coming out of the desert...that and the Book of Romans...thank you God for you Holy and True Word.

[jesusisawesome]

Matt, if I'm not rolling on the floor from your humorous posts, then I'm probably pulling out a hanky for your serious ones. Thanks for sharing. My cup is full this morning.

[maranatha1984]

Matt:Allie Cat some sugar on the jaw in the morning now.

84; You ever get a taste of those sweet rolls before you take off in the morning....http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/blush.gif

[jesusisawesome]

Dog ... no sugar in the morning for me . . . however, I'm a brown-eyed girl, so 84 your story gives me hope . . . http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/lol.gif

[matt_hatter]

Baby steps, baby steps, baby steps....
(Bill Murray---"What about Bob?")
One step at a time, brother. hehe

[miltietoast]

mattie "the man from snowy river"

[matt_hatter]

Try to be serious...dang. I give up. hehe

[miltietoast]

no cast I think maranatha joe is on to something kids at school both of you work for state so no one is missing you. I tried to get rae ann to meet me in the baptismal dressing room at the first baptist last sun night. she just blushed and said," shaw"
thanks for the good word mattie, it is all about balance you know

[jesusisawesome]

mattie "the man from snowy river" http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/lol.gif

Hey Mattie, at least you don't wear four-four's

[mcmstaff78]

Matt: The journey back to those familiar places continues for this wretched sinner saved by the unfathomable grace and mercy of God.

Faith, without compassion, deader than a doornail.

Me: Dang, man, you're making me tear up (seriously). You're right. How many times we walk right on by that man lying in the ditch because we got too many important things to do? How many times do we ignore family, children, wives, take them for granted, because, heh, they're always there? Shoot, we *are* idiots. Big, casting ones!! May God have mercy on us all!

"Let the charity of the brotherhood abide in you. And hospitality do not forget: for by this some, being not aware of it, have entertained angels." (Hebrews 13:1-2)

[speakword2004]

Please stop horsing around. This is a seriou thread. Get your kicks elsewhere. Now with unbridled passion I will now perform my interpretive dance entitled: "Running with Horses and Skipping with Bunnies". Please allow me 5 minutes to change into my white speedo and find my ribbons on a stick.

[maranatha1984]

JIA:Dog ... no sugar in the morning for me . . . however, I'm a brown-eyed girl, so 84 your story gives me hope . .

84: I love it...your time will come...but before you get hitched you might call RaeAnne (Mitlie's), Allie (Matt's) and Sissy (my Brown Eyed Girl) and make sure you know what you are getting into...http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/proud.gif

[matt_hatter]

"Men, especially husbands, are major castheads."
Matt Hatter

Something to consider: In emailing the Thunder Bunny this morning: What about a Bunny trail dictionary thread? RR, cast, frappe, clacker, sound of startrek door closing, we would be able to get all the lurkers informed as to our special lingo. Everyone could just post as one of these terms comes to mind...just a thought....

[maranatha1984]

Matt it could be our own "inside language" and we could start our own movement- but just to be clear I am the top profit...oops, typo or fruedian slip????

[matt_hatter]

Well, if you are going to be the top profit, I will be the cheif apostate.
Matt

[matt_hatter]

Well, if you are going to be the top profit, I will be the cheif apostate.
Matt

[john_r_jones]

Matt,
there is an apostate exam required for that position.

John

[jesusisawesome]

JIA:Dog ... no sugar in the morning for me . . . however, I'm a brown-eyed girl, so 84 your story gives me hope . .

84: I love it...your time will come...but before you get hitched you might call RaeAnne (Mitlie's), Allie (Matt's) and Sissy (my Brown Eyed Girl) and make sure you know what you are getting into...

JIA: Maybe the best wine is being saved for last! http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/rofl.gif

[wiseasaserpentgentleasadove]

turning off the coffee pot.

Matt, you may need to upgrade to one that shuts off automatically! More time for sugar!!

Please stop horsing around. This is a seriou thread. Get your kicks elsewhere. Now with unbridled passion I will now perform my interpretive dance entitled: "Running with Horses and Skipping with Bunnies". Please allow me 5 minutes to change into my white speedo and find my ribbons on a stick.

Speak....cracking up here!!!!!!!!Can't handle it!!! Man, did I need to catch up in here after my last 2 days of near nightmares

[matt_hatter]

JRJ Said: "Matt,
there is an apostate exam required for that position."


John, if'n it involves a rubber glove, I am sending the Thunder Bunny in proxy. And you can "assume the position."

Matt

[jesusisawesome]

Groan . . . Lord, surely you've saved the best wine for last! http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/rofl.gif

[jesusisawesome]

Groan . . . Lord, surely you've saved the best wine for last! http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/rofl.gif

[jesusisawesome]

Groan . . . Lord, surely you've saved the best wine for last! http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/rofl.gif

[jesusisawesome]

Triple post for emphasis I guess . . . ghost in machine wouldn't let me delete the extras, sorry!

[miltietoast]

I had my apostate exam done and the results were not clear,seems I was full of casting. oops wrong end (dyslexic,bass akwards,)
I would like to be profit please please,some say I have the dissension of spirits gifting

[miltietoast]

mattie lexicon hatter we have prayed and decided you should set up the dict thread

[mdillon]

speak its been way over 5 minutes and we're waiting. oh, and I can handle white speedos and stick ribbons....unbridled passion? not so much.

holy cast, miltie, you're right, why mattie's a regular dict thread on two legs.

[speakword2004]

Clickety clack, clickety clack . . . sorry . . . speedo is a bit tight . . .Soundman, Neil Diamond's Crunchy Granola Suite, please. It's what keeps me a "regular" dancer.

[ginger1]

I am going to the store, buy the best and most expensive Cabernet Sauvignon. Saved it. When this EN thing is over, I am going to open this thing up and drink in thanksgiving to the Lord.

God always save the best wine last !

[mdillon]

ginger---name it and claim it and act as though it were done

md

[mdillon]

ginger---the EN thing is over. they just haven't received it yet. quit witholding your thanksgiving to the Lord or me and miltie will have to take up you slack

md

[ginger1]

I saw a $250 one, there goes my tithe and offering LOL !

Be sure to set aside a tenth of all that your fields produce each year. 23 Eat the tithe of your grain, new wine and oil, and the firstborn of your herds and flocks in the presence of the LORD your God at the place he will choose as a dwelling for his Name, so that you may learn to revere the LORD your God always. 24 But if that place is too distant and you have been blessed by the LORD your God and cannot carry your tithe (because the place where the LORD will choose to put his Name is so far away), 25 then exchange your tithe for silver, and take the silver with you and go to the place the LORD your God will choose. 26 Use the silver to buy whatever you like: cattle, sheep, wine or other fermented drink, or anything you wish. Then you and your household shall eat there in the presence of the LORD your God and rejoice.

[ginger1]

Well, Nashville is too far and the Philippines is too far too.

[jesusisawesome]

http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/lol.gif

[sameo]

Jia, thanks for your kind comments waaay up there...1 Cor 13....I appreciate you thinking of that and applying it to what i said. I like it.

Matt-good sermon! and Dove is right....get a new coffee maker! ;-)

[jesusisawesome]

Sammy, glad your back . . . need help keeping these old geezers in line! Heheh! http://www.factnet.org/discus/clipart/lol.gif

[sameo]

YOU girls have been doing a fine job! it is a fulltime job though...heehee

[matt_hatter]

Dove is right....get a new coffee maker! ;-)

Just like a bunch of women...preach a sermon and all they think about is kitchen appliances. Ours does have an automatic cut off, thenkyouverymuch...did it ever occur to you nible brained females that you wouldn't want to put an empty carafe back on a hot burner? Hmm?

[sameo]

OK, Matt-you know waaaay too much about coffeemakers. hehe YOU need the stainless steel kind w/o the hot burner. :-D (hey, Dove, on "Another View" we could compare coffeemakers, whatda'ya think?) teehee

I'm still chewin' on your sermon, Matt. IT was beautiful. I appreciate everything you said.

sameo

[sameo]

Matt:"Faith, without compassion, deader than a doornail."

Thank you, Matt!

SameO

[matt_hatter]

Matthew 6:3
But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.

Ah, continuing with those words in red. I have a friend, Jeff, who is a millionare, simply put. Me, I am a thousandaire. At the end of the month, I am a hundredaire. My friend acts like he is a hundredaire all the time. Made his money through hard work, owning a plumbing business.

Rumor has it that he will write a check to pay the tuition for a struggling family's child at my son's school in a heartbeat. If he ever knew that I knew that and was posting it here, he would kick my butt.

During my recovery last year, our hot water heater went out. I called Jeff, and said I needed his men to come out and put a new one in. Another $900 to squeeze out of that turnip. The guys had a new one installed in record time.

"Ok...where's the bill?", I inquired. "Mr, Jeff said he'll get up with you on it." I knew what that meant. I called immediatley and asked about the bill. "Taken care of, you have enough on your plate right now", was the response. After several "I can't accept that, no way", etc. He got mad at me. "I don't like talking about these kinds of things so drop it." I knew I was licked. Left hand, right hand.

I have made up my mind to attempt this hand trick on a daily basis. My random acts of kindness are small right now, but when I pull it off, and no one knows but me, the other party, and the Father, I chuckle with the glee of a sneaky kid.

Matt

[john_r_jones]

Matt,
one of the things I find humorous is this issue we love to teach about tithing and precise amounts and go on about our giving for all to see. Jesus talked very clearly about our doing things in secret, in so doing what the percentage is doesn't matter. The spirit of doing as unto the Lord does. In reading Brennan Manning's books I found him saying that the needy forgive us the bread we give them, that they might resent the gifts we give, and so do it in a graceful way. Give in a way that doesn't demean those we give to. So much of the church's shenanigans today is about who gave how much and how impressive was their giving. One of the tune-out factors for me is the name brand giving of scripture and teaching and by association "Victory, amen, hallaleuyah!"
Amen or Oh my!

John

[matt_hatter]

John said: "Give in a way that doesn't demean those we give to."

This is the essence of my friend. He would kick me into kingdom-come if he knew I posted that story. I take the risk.

Matthew 6:2
"So when you give to the poor, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be honored by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full.

[miltietoast]

them thar red words? theyd be dangerous to yo religgion surely He don't be ameaning all that stuff literally do He?iffin He do azszz have to say oh cast.

[miltietoast]

the red words have been to me like Josiah finding the law

[matt_hatter]

Jrj said: "one of the things I find humorous is this issue we love to teach about tithing and precise amounts and go on about our giving for all to see."

John, I saw this little squirrel Marcus Lamb (who got his start in Montgomery and fled the creditors) on TV the other night ask people to send him some crazy figure like $47.23 each month for a year. I am thinking, "ok I'll stick around and see what this is all about." It was some scripture verse, and it had been "revealed" to the little fella that this was what he needed to ask for. My only surprise is that it wasn't Psalm 150:6

Lord, have mercy on us for bringing such reproach to your Name.

Matt

[matt_hatter]

My ears were hot as I read the stinging rebuke of our merry band on another thread. My initial thought was to fire back, but I felt my blood brother Tikie took care of business. (10,000 post)

It did leave me contemplating a lot. Have I gone too far? Am I messing up every thread? I want the reader to understand...most of the humor in here is Theater of the Absurd. Hyperbolic humor to the max. A bunch of 'beer guzzlers/rock and rollers? Hardly. How about Gaviscon/Hypertension medication. The humor is meant for fun, freedom, and sometimes shock. Forgive if I have crossed the line and caused you to stumble.

I will say this: I will make every attempt from now on to stay on thread topic. If I see that I am straying and acting crazy, I will ask my fellow loone to meet me on the trail.

And I will also say this. ANYONE is welcome on the "trail" and sister threads--but beware the topic of the thread is no topic, except for the daily exchange that friends have with one another who have let down their guards and thrown off the pretense of religion.

Final comment: Let me say that I have looked through the window of many believers souls on this site. I am a hopeless romantic and will open mine wide as many of you know. There are others, however, that I know nothing about except for "the cause" they so desperately persue. Maybe a little crack in that window may help me understand you better. And just maybe a reading of the devotionals, JRJ's writings etc, may help clear up where the second hand lions and lionesses are coming from. (MCM and EN folks comprise this group)

Factnet is a big beautiful mess, and maybe I will try to keep it beautiful, and try to cut down on the mess. Please respond my dear friends, but no Peters cutting off an ear. Lashing out will only harm. Thoughtful responses.

Matt

[matt_hatter]

http://johnshutch.blogspot.com/

Oh, and a crass commercial moment. Please visit my dear buddy's blog spot. There is always a bunny dropping to pick up there.
Matt

[miltietoast]

Thanks mattie, I am reminded of a teaching in maranatha,that I believe was of God.The title was 'Divine Tension" by CJ Maheney. Any body dare to remember?In a nutshell:the fivefold minsitry has giftings that are opposed to each other,hence divine tension.One example the evangelist wants everybody saved,the pastor says whoa we need to feed these people,the prophet says this way, the teacher says we are not prepared,etc
I see this tension here and love it.The Rodney King gospel"can't we just get along". So while some are trying to clean up the castings,others are reaching out,others are pastoring ,teaching,neatifying, encouraging ,dreaming,even rebuking,and then there is krems our very own sister Maria(what do you do with a Maria?).As long as there is no dancing.(my4x4 is not ready yet) So from this pilgrims pespective "don't worry be happy" can any geeks put up alink for that song? Ohhh Mr Miltie dun uhhhh startin to uhhh preach agin.

[mdillon]

Miltie I remember divine tension. It was preached at papadoc’s so maybe this is why its meaningful to us. Divine tension between giftings but the ballyhoo is who is going to control it Christ or man. We always think we have to have a CEO to run things. Business yes, Body of Christ, I don’t think so anymore. We have taken the position of Christ being Head of the Church and have put men in its place. I don’t think Christ shares or delegates this position or title to anyone. Remember playing in the neighborhood as kids you would settle differences yourselves and deal with bullies yourselves and if you couldn’t do that then maybe there would be a Big Papa come along and settle things. We have lost Big Papa in the churches and most are run by bullies.

md

[matt_hatter]

Thanks Miltie, I am concerned that there has been a thought of a 'split' in the factnet posters. I would rather go start a chat room for all our banter on another web site than for thatto happen. The divine tension is great, but I don't know if I am up for it, maybe just pensive this morning.

[miltietoast]

might create a ghost town
the exponental increase of postings seems to mirror banter, need to check with big Papa on that

[sameo]

I am reminded of all the "parable speak" Jesus did. HE spoke to the people using their life circumstances, whether in farmer terms, or tax collector terms, etc. I am reminded of how Jesus met people right where they were at in life...not where HE was at. I think of Miss Kitty now. Who is she? first let me say, that I, SameO am not really her. As Matt said this is theatre...of sorts. I, SameO am not a drunk. But, I SameO have learned so much from Miss Kitty about LIFE. I've learned so much about Jesus' love and acceptance from her.(And her rowdy crew of guys) And, maybe others haven't, and maybe I've caused a young one to stumble, or been offensive to some. For that, I, SameO am sorry. Let me tell you what Miss Kitty has done for me, however. Keeping in mind that maybe she's only been good for me. Again, with due respect for you the reader.

I think of how easy it is to love the pure, genteel , soft spoken, and perhaps godly woman. Easy enough. I as a christian and as a normal functioning person in society am greatful for these kinds of women.(questionable as to if I'm normal but for the sake of the story) But what about ...the rough women. The hookers, druggies, chain smoking, drinking, hard women....the one's our society deems unlovable....what about women who have been raped....and the shame they feel for having been defiled. What about the women who've commited adultery and don't know how to forgive themselves and can't find a way to love themselves, and maybe want to end their own lives for it. And what about the women who've been physically beaten and abused, who have no will or self esteem left. Who will love them. Who will show respect to them. Who will help them...and who will save their souls? is there no hope? does God shun them and throw them in a pit...and say "Woe is you!"

...to be continued

[sameo]

pt 2(SameO)
We know that answer ..we know HE will and can save them. But what about us... HIS children....what do we do with these women? how do we treat them? I am ashamed to say until I met Miss Kitty on MY personal Emmaus Rd. experience that I was prejudice against these women. But she has shown me how to love them, and to see them in a personal light. I've learned they aren't that far from being me. Their hearts, I mean. And I don't mean their defiled hearts, but the hurts they have, the compassion they have, the strength, and will, the loyalty, their love. I think of JESUS and how many times HE was found talking and ministering to a prostitute, or an adulterer. HOW could HE do that! WHY would HE constantly take up for these horrid sinful women?? had it not been for Jesus we know one woman who would have been stoned to death for her adultery, which leads me to believe other women, in fact had been stoned to death.(probably by the same upstanding men in the community who had USED these women) Jesus talked to and loved women. And didn't limit talking to just the genteel ones.

I think HE saw the potential in the hard women. Maybe HE knew they would be the most loyal. Maybe HE saw beneath their tough exteriors to their soft hearts...the hearts that had been so hurt?

to be continued...final thoughts...

[sameo]

I think of one of Jesus' most cherished friendships...Mary Magdelene. She who loved HIM So much she poured her dowry(rare expenisve perfume)-all she owned on HIS feet, knowing HE was nearing the time HE would die. IN pouring her life savings on HIS feet was perhaps her way of saying MY love for HIM is worth so much more...and without HIM life isn't worth living anyway. YOU see, I believe she taught us, if we pay attention, how to love Him and listen to HIM, maybe more than anyone. This former prostitute?!

I can only hope and pray that somewhere in me I can learn to love these kinds of women and love HIM as they so often did. Imagine the potential had Jesus come to town and stopped into Miss Kitty's saloon....to hang out with the sinners....and meet the community of REAL people. I think surely HE would have been taken by her good heart...and her good business sense. I can imagine HIM befriending her.....and sharing HIS life with her...for HE would see godly potential in her. And her rowdy boys...much like HIS own rowdy disciples...I imagine HE would see the potential for a Peter, and John, a Mark....a Paul? Jesus looked where the REAL people were.....not necessarily those clothed in robes. For that I am greatful. Because if not, where would I be? Miss Kitty and the guys and a few other brave souls who have alot of fun on the bunny trail......had this been theatre....a play you went to see.....could you have walked away loving these sinners? or would you judge them and condemn them to hell? Do we still have religiosity in our hearts? have we lost our sense of humor? have we forgotten how to laugh....do we judge....do we have compassion....or do we quickly condemn those different from us to hell?

[sameo]

Final thoughts--finally!

*Again, my apologies to those whom I may have offended. Maybe this lesson was for me...and I've been selfish. I hope that GOD will turn this into something good for us all...as HE has used it for my good. **You see, for years after getting out of Maranatha this soft spoken, genteel godly woman could not find the desire to read, pray, go to church, or reconnect with fellow friends. I lost all joy....I was turned off by reading the BIBLE or worshipping. However, since meeting up with my ol' buddies and meeting up with Miss Kitty....all that has changed. And now I have renewed faith, and joy unspeakable...I now pray and read the Bible.....I search and am hungry.....hunger after God. And alittle bit of that thanks goes to Miss Kitty. **YOU see, I'm not that different than Miss Kitty and these women.....IF GOD CAN"T LOVE them....then how can HE LOVE ME???**

God can and does use anyone. Thank you, Miss Kitty, and thank you, my Lord!

Thanks my friends,
Same-O

[matt_hatter]

Ummmm...can you open the window any further? Don't think so....wow awesome.

[wiseasaserpentgentleasadove]

For the sake of time, I will post first and read later....Can't catch up now.

This morning, at my new place of worship, we received a powerful word about personality types in the church, and the focus was on two areas:

Uniformity vs. Unity

Uniformity-everything or everybody is the same. same texture, color, design.
This produces death.
Unity- differently gifted people working together in harmony for the common good.

This produces LIFE.
Our fleshly desire wants uniformity. The enemy hates unity.

Iron Sharpens Iron.

Independence: I can do it by myself.
Inter-dependence: I cannot do it alone; this reflects the unity of the body of Christ in the midst of diversity.

1 Cor. 12:4-27 read and ponder those verses sometime when you can. Here are some that truly ministered to me today.
12:4 There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
12:5 There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord.
12:6 And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works in all.
12:7 But the manifistation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all:
12:22-23 And the eye cannot say to the hand, "I have no need of you", nor again the head to the feet, "I have no need of you." No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. And those members of the body we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty.

Thank God for diversity and acceptance in His body. Thank God I am in a good place now that acknowledges this.

I just wanted to share this with my extended members of the Body of Christ. Thanks.
Dove

[sameo]

Thanks Dove! beautiful lesson. Thanks for sharing. And thank goodness for diversity. LIke a quilt with all the different squares....sewn together makes a beautiful piece of cloth. Or like Joseph's beautiful "technicolored" coat!

[wiseasaserpentgentleasadove]

Wow, Miltie-Divine Tension. I think you would have loved the message from my church today. Instead of going back &amp; forth between the 5-fold, the discussion was on 4 primary personality types in the churh:
The Pray-er "views everything as spiritual.

The Relator- "views everything as relational"

The Analyzer- "views everything as needing to be 'thought-out'"

The Do-er- "views everything from the perspective that action solves problems.

He also went back and forth between each, and what each one thinks the other should do, or how they should function, which would bring us back into a place of UNIFORMITY and not UNITY> Hence, the other part of the message above.
Dove

p.s. Hi! Sameo! I am getting ready to catch up on your long post! I'm sure there's nuggets in there, as well! Thanks!

[miltietoast]

wad- sounds like the same service I attended this morning at The First Bunny Trail. Thanks Sameo for bringing up the rear.The last shall be first

[sameo]

thx miltie-and Matty!

"The last shall be first..."

wow

[matt_hatter]

Sameo said: "I am ashamed to say until I met Miss Kitty on MY personal Emmaus Rd. experience that I was prejudice against these women. But she has shown me how to love them, and to see them in a personal light. I've learned they aren't that far from being me. Their hearts, I mean. And I don't mean their defiled hearts, but the hurts they have, the compassion they have, the strength, and will, the loyalty, their love. I think of JESUS and how many times HE was found talking and ministering to a prostitute, or an adulterer."

Here is where I connect with this. "I am ashamed to say..." of course, my statement has been: "What a piece of crap I have been...." I spoke with Miltie on the cell this morning (many of us are more than "poster" friends, BTW) and this theme occured over and over--What a piece of crap I have been for taking our friendship for granted. I told him I go from nuclear to embarassingly corny in 10 seconds flat, and embrace it all now. My new buddy JRJ and I spoke on the phone last night, part of it invloved a new recipe for fish marinade. The other part resulted in an email that was so poignant that I am savoring it like a fine wine.

Sameo, your words to your rowdy boys are much needed, especially when we start fooling around with bottles and bullets.

Matt the fool--and proud of it.

[sameo]

Let me make clear something that bothers me that I said above..in no way did I mean to say there should be any shame in having been a victim of rape, or abuse.(&amp; for those I never felt prejudice against) For those innocent victims I apologize...didn't make myself clear.

And for those women who are otherwise in this story-nor do I judge you. "All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God!" None of us are exempt from that. And for anyone who has the urge to go but wait....I am NOT justifying sin here. But we all make poor choices, and mistakes. "Unless we've walked a mile in anyone's shoes"....probably shouldn't judge. And GOD is faithful to forgive everytime. Jesus loved and respected ALL women. He saw their potential....and I am so glad HE did! I love these women above....and I say hang on....healing will come...reach out to the Father...and HE won't turn away HIS face from you. There is hope.

Thx Matt...for your uplifting devotion this morning!

SameO

[j2theperson]

This is not really a full out epiphany--more of an observation...

Matt 16:13-23
Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, He began asking His disciples, saying, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?"
And they said, "Some say John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; but still others, Jeremiah, or one of the prophets."
He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?"
And Simon Peter answered and said, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God."
And Jesus answered and said to him, "Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.
"And I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades shall not overpower it.
"I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever you shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."
Then He warned the disciples that they should tell no one that He was the Christ.
From that time Jesus Christ began to show His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised up on the third day.
And Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, "God forbid it, Lord! This shall never happen to You."
But He turned and said to Peter, "Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God's interests, but man's."

My observation is this: Peter started out with a genuine revelation. His insight was true and Jesus commended him for it. But then Peter took that insight and drew some completely wrong conclusions from it and ended up actually rebuking the Son of God (you don't get more arrogant than that). He went from being commended by Christ to being call Satan--pretty harsh.

I'm not sure what conclusions to draw from this other than...just because somebody starts out with the right beliefs doesn't mean that everything they infer from those beliefs are true.

[matt_hatter]

J2, I know I kid a lot, but thank you, the scriptures, especially the gospels have come alive to me again.

I see my walk now as a big circle. The top was when I met Christ. The bottom was when I was ordering people around and acting important, yet having no joy. The very rock bottom of the circle? See tikie's blog, pt. 34.

Now? Slowly climbing up the other side of that circle, recognizing God's incredible grace for me and finding those familiar landmarks and guideposts of my youth. The paradox of the circle: The effort expended coming back up is much less than the effort it took to go down. Gravity in reverse.

And Sameo, you whole story was clear, no qualifications needed. Thank you!

Matt

[matt_hatter]

JRJ has inspired me. Take a peek, if you dare.

http://musingsmadhatter.blogspot.com/

Matt

[sameo]

j2:"My observation is this: Peter started out with a genuine revelation. His insight was true and Jesus commended him for it. But then Peter took that insight and drew some completely wrong conclusions from it and ended up actually rebuking the Son of God (you don't get more arrogant than that). He went from being commended by Christ to being call Satan--pretty harsh.

I'm not sure what conclusions to draw from this other than...just because somebody starts out with the right beliefs doesn't mean that everything they infer from those beliefs are true."

j2--thank you! this was very interesting point you made, and insightful! I've never thought about that from this perspective.

SameO

[wiseasaserpentgentleasadove]

Read your blog, Matt....very well done, and you have this 35 year old young mama of 2 in tears.....of joy, that is, and a little sorrow.

All of you are inspiring.
Dove

[matt_hatter]

Thanks, dove, my Mom called this morning and it was interesting, I told her that it was my memory, and hers may be different. She told me that it was just as I wrote it. It was a story I wanted her to hear before she left this earth. She is 76. Shame it took me so long. <sigh>
Matt