31 Aug, 2007
A future home and city?
U.S. marks Katrina anniversary
U.S. President George W. Bush hugs new homeowner Gen White at a mixed housing development in New Orleans, Louisiana, August 29, 2007. The area used to be low income and was in the process of being switched before Hurricane Katrina.
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- U.S. President George W. Bush said Wednesday that recovery is well under way and there's "hope for the future" as the nation marks the 2nd anniversary of the disaster caused by Hurricane Katrina.
"Hurricane Katrina broke through the levees, it broke a lot of hearts, it destroyed buildings but it did not affect the spirit of a lot of citizens in this community," said Bush in a speech during his trip to New Orleans, La.
Katrina hit U.S. Gulf Coast two ago, killing roughly 1,600 people and left tens of thousands homeless.
The whole city of New Orleans was virtually wiped out.
Bush acknowledged the task of rebuilding remains enormous, but noted that there is "hope in the future."
The president spoke of the billions of U.S. dollars earmarked for infrastructure, homes and help people put their lives back together.
He said a priority has been repairing and strengthening the levees that broke during the storm, pouring flood waters into the city, much of which lies at or below sea level.
Major repairs on the levees have been completed, and a further to strengthen them will be finished by 2011.
photo & story courtesy xinhuanet.com, 8/30/07
Hebrews 13:14-16 (NLT)
14 For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come.
15 Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. 16 And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about our real home?
I thought of this passage of scripture because of the second anniversary of Katrina. Who could ever forget the images of the despair and homeless people, especially in New Orleans? Well...I could and I did. Perhaps you did too?
The media coverage is reminding us that there are still people who lost their homes who are still homeless. I doubt that most of us can imagine the feeling of being suddenly "homeless", unless we went to the Gulf area to help and personally saw the devastation in the landscape and looked into the eyes of the victims.
It's so easy to forget the plight of others and go back to being comfortable with our attachment to "things" and our earthly homes. Yes, most of us have "the good life". But you know what? Life changed for over one million people two years ago and it could suddenly change for you or me tomorrow. Are we ready?
Here's the point of today's verses: we should not be so attached to this world, because it could be gone tomorrow and so could we! Our personal relationship with God through Christ is forever. This earthly home is only temporary.
Jesus talked about this in Matthew 6:19-21. He instructed His followers to store up our treasures in Heaven, not here on earth. Our service to Him and for His glory will last. Being Christ-like with kindness and giving to others really honors our Heavenly Father even when the world around us doesn't notice.
Remember, if we are followers of Jesus Christ, this world is not our home...
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank God for His promise to take all of His children (those who have received Jesus Christ as Savior) to live in His eternal Heavenly home some day! Praise Jesus that you will not be homeless after this earthly life is over! Confess any way in which you have become too attached to the "things" and "stuff" of this world. Ask God's Spirit to daily remind you that this life is temporary. Ask God to show you how to express the love and compassion of Jesus to others in need.
- Live each day with a pretty loose grip on our earthly "stuff".
- Live each day like it's our last, because we could be in our eternal "home" tomorrow.
- Live each day with an attitude of giving and sharing, rather than taking and storing.
- Do a weekly review of how we're doing with the challenge of remembering that this world is not our "home".
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Look for ways to help the victims of Katrina, now, two years later. If you need help in finding options you can trust, talk to your youth leader or pastor at your church.
- Pray for the Katrina victims who are still trying to find a home. Pray that each of them will come to recognize that the ultimate home is in Heaven through Jesus Christ.
- Talk to others in your "storysphere" about the anniversary of Katrina. Use it as an opportunity to share how part of God's Story includes the promise of living with Him and never being homeless.
30 Aug, 2007
Is Michael Vick sincere?
Michael Vick Says He's Sorry
Written by Doug Buchanan
At this stage of a story that certainly rivals any tragedy of Shakespeare’s day - it remains hard to tell if Michael Vick means what he says.
He has nothing to lose. His freedom will soon be taken from him. And just minutes after pleading guilty to financing a brutal and deadly dog fighting operation on his Virginia property, Michael Vick made his first public comments surrounding the case that will almost certainly cost the suspended quarterback millions of dollars.
Before dozens of cameras, Vick apologized for the lies he told his bosses with the Atlanta Falcons. He initially denied having any involvement in a dog fighting ring, but now admits to not only financing - but endorsing the killing of poorly performing dogs.
And then their was Michael Vick on Religion - "I'm upset with myself, and, you know through this situation I found Jesus and asked him for forgiveness and turned my life over to God. And I think that's the right thing to do as of right now."
And while some may doubt Vick's new-found faith, other's say it's not for us to judge - at least on this matter.
Reverend Bill Finch of Rockville's St. Raphael Church tells 9NEWS NOW it's in difficult and trying times when many people seek help and forgiveness in Jesus and that God is in no position to turn his back on anyone seeking forgiveness.
Michael Vick could be sentenced to as much as five years in prison when he is sentenced on December 10th. But it is more likely he will receive between a year to a year and half behind bars when he returns to the Federal Courthouse in Richmond.
photo & story courtesy wusa9.com, 8/28/07
Numbers 14:34-45 (NLT)
34 “‘Because your men explored the land for forty days, you must wander in the wilderness for forty years—a year for each day, suffering the consequences of your sins. Then you will discover what it is like to have me for an enemy.’ 35 I, the Lord, have spoken! I will certainly do these things to every member of the community who has conspired against me. They will be destroyed here in this wilderness, and here they will die!”
36 The ten men Moses had sent to explore the land—the ones who incited rebellion against the Lord with their bad report—37 were struck dead with a plague before the Lord. 38 Of the twelve who had explored the land, only Joshua and Caleb remained alive.
39 When Moses reported the Lord’s words to all the Israelites, the people were filled with grief. 40 Then they got up early the next morning and went to the top of the range of hills. “Let’s go,” they said. “We realize that we have sinned, but now we are ready to enter the land the Lord has promised us.”
41 But Moses said, “Why are you now disobeying the Lord’s orders to return to the wilderness? It won’t work. 42 Do not go up into the land now. You will only be crushed by your enemies because the Lord is not with you. 43 When you face the Amalekites and Canaanites in battle, you will be slaughtered. The Lord will abandon you because you have abandoned the Lord.”
44 But the people defiantly pushed ahead toward the hill country, even though neither Moses nor the Ark of the Lord’s Covenant left the camp. 45 Then the Amalekites and the Canaanites who lived in those hills came down and attacked them and chased them back as far as Hormah.
If you grew up going to church, you probably remember parts of this familiar Old Testament story. The Israelites were going to be punished by God for their disobedience and unsuccessful attempt to enter the Promised Land. The consequences? They were going to wander for 40 years in the wilderness! Whoa! That got their attention! But it was too late!
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about true repentance to God?
Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes explain it this way:
14:40-44 When the Israelites realized their foolish mistake, they were suddenly ready to return to God. But God didn't confuse their admission of guilt with true repentance because he knew their hearts. Sure enough, they soon went their own way again. Sometimes right actions or good intentions come too late. We must not only do what is right, but also do it at the right time. God wants complete and instant obedience.
Michael Vick's confession and apology may be sincere or he may be trying to solicit public support in order to play football again in the future.
Only God knows his heart right now.
I hope Vick really has "found Jesus". Either way, he now faces the consequences for his crimes.
- Praise God for being Holy and for His desire for you to be holy! Let His Spirit show you right now any way in which you have been holding back on God and demanding your independence from Him. Confess any self-centered attitudes or actions and receive His complete forgiveness through Jesus Christ's death and resurrection. Praise God for His mercy and grace!
- Pray every day for God's Spirit to keep you sensitive to recognizing sin in your life and to confess it immediately.
- Read the rest of the story about the Israelites wandering in the wilderness in Numbers 15:1 - 21:35.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Pray for Michael Vick when you see his photo or story in the news. Even though his actions are selfish and awful, remember that God loves him and wants him to turn from his ways and turn to Christ. BUT maybe Vick has done this already? Pray that his new found "religion" is sincere.
- Use today's Vick story and "finding Jesus" as a way to find out what those in your storysphere are really thinking about religion versus a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Ask them if they think Vick is sincere? Ask them what they think is the real evidence of someone having a real relationship with Jesus? If you're real brave, you can ask if they see this in you?
29 Aug, 2007
I'm so mad...I could spit!
Spitting Little Leaguers are blow to Coon Rapids' image
Under the glare of the national spotlight, Coon Rapids Little Leaguers got caught with spit on their hands.
After a bruising 9-2 loss in the Little League World Series, two of the team's star players were captured on ESPN spitting into their hands before exchanging handshakes with the team from Chandler, Ariz.
The bad sportsmanship caught teammates, coaches and parents by surprise, prompted a series of apologies, launched tirades in blogs and e-mails and has experts suggesting that this is a "teaching moment" about how to be a good sport.
Parents and league officials point out that the offenders on the team of 12- and 13-year-olds are "just kids," but they also quickly note that they need to be accountable for their actions.
The incident went unnoticed by other players, the coaches and the parents, said Pat Freese, the vice president of the Little League in Coon Rapids. Freese said he was at the game but learned about the spitting only when he got a phone call from someone who saw it on TV.
"We were all shocked, thinking no way could that happen," Freese said. Then he and the team's coaches sought out the video.
"The coaches looked at it and they were disgusted. They were beside themselves," he said. The team immediately issued an apology for the "inappropriate behavior."We recognize that through our actions we have reflected poorly on the community and disappointed a number of people," the team said in a written statement. "In addition, we apologize to the Little League organization and the Little League Baseball World Series."
The team also personally apologized to the players and coaches from Chandler.
photo courtesy images.google.com & story startribune.com, 8/24/07
Ephesians 4:26-27 (NLT)
26 And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, 27 for anger gives a foothold to the devil.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about dealing with anger?
God's Word doesn't say that we should never feel angry. It does teach us that we must learn to handle it properly.
What kinds of situations tend to make you angry? What do you do?
Today's story about the little league losers spitting on the hands of the kids who beat them is a great illustration of our human sinful nature.
Most of us have probably felt so mad at someone that we wanted to spit. In fact, I remember aiming some angry saliva toward my siblings. You too? Even though it wasn't on national TV, my mother caught it and then I caught it!
If we let our anger be demonstrated with a "temper tantrum" (like a little child), we can hurt others and ruin relationships. But if we stuff our anger deep down inside of us, it can result in bitterness and destroy us from within.
Do you tend to vent your anger or bottle it up inside? What happens?
Paul writes about the need to deal with our anger immediately. We can't let it simmer and heat up. Satan will always use our anger to hurt us and our relationships with others.
Don't spit! Begin to work on mending relationships.
- Thank God for His patience with you, even when you're struggling with anger. If you've been stuffing it inside, ask His Spirit to help you deal with it and experience healing from the hurt you may be feeling. If you have a tendency to lose your temper when you're angry, ask Jesus to give you His heart and mind so that you can learn to let His Spirit give you control over your anger. Finally, give the situation or person causing you to feel angry over to God. Ask Him to fill you with His forgiveness, patience and love.
- The next time you feel out of control because you are angry at someone, rather than spitting, swallow hard and let Jesus help you get control.
- For two weeks, keep a written journal of what makes you feel angry. This will help you learn some patterns in your emotions and allow you to be specific in asking God to help you.
- Whenever you are feeling like your anger is getting the best (or worst) of you, spend some time listening to praise and worship music and reading the Psalms.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Apologize to anyone who has been on the receiving end of the wrong kind of anger from you.
- Use today's story about the Little League spitting as a way to share more of your story with someone you are trying to connect to Jesus. Be vulnerable about your own struggle with anger and share how you are learning to depend on Jesus to deal with it.
27 Aug, 2007
Eternal fear or hope?
Child killer sentenced to death
John Evander Couey was sentenced Friday to death for abducting, raping and killing a 9-year-old Florida girl by burying her alive in 2005.
Couey did not speak during the almost hour long hearing and showed no emotion when the sentence was pronounced in an Inverness, Florida, courtroom.
Members of Jessica Lunsford's family embraced and cried. 200.jpg)
"[Couey] said one time that when he gets to heaven that he was gonna tell Jessie he is sorry. I got bad news, I don't think you're gonna make it there," the girl's father, Mark Lunsford, said afterward, wiping tears from his eyes.
He also urged his daughter's killer not to appeal the sentence.
"Take your punishment. Be done with it. You want to do something for her, give your life for the life you took," Lunsford said.
photos courtesy images.google.com & story cnn.com, 8/24/07
Proverbs 10:24 (NLT)
24 The fears of the wicked will be fulfilled;
the hopes of the godly will be granted.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the fear of death?
Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes provide this insight:
10:24 The wicked person dreads death. Those who do not believe in God usually fear death, and with good reason. By contrast, believers desire eternal life and God's salvation - their hopes will be rewarded. This verse offers a choice: You can have either your fears or your hopes come true. You make that choice by rejecting God and living your own way or by accepting God and following Him.
Do you believe that John Couey is not afraid to die? There is no doubt that his heart is hard to have done such horrible acts to this little girl. He says he will apologize when he gets to heaven.
I believe that deep down in his soul, John Couey is wondering about his eternal destination.
How about you? Do you fear death or do you have peace, knowing that in Christ, your eternal destination is secure?
How can we connect today's verse, which is part of God's Story, to our lives?
- Praise God for the peace He provides you in facing death. Thank Him that because Christ died for your sins and rose from the dead, you can know that your eternal hope in heaven is a promise that your loving Heavenly Father will keep.
- Remember today's verse as you continue to watch news events that include people talking about what happens after death.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Pray for John Couey to turn to the living God and receive Christ as his Savior before he is executed. Yes, God's grace is big enough to save this evil man and change the final outcome of his eternal story.
- Pray for the family of Jessica Lunsford to experience God's peace and to be drawn to the truth of Christ if they don't know Him as their Savior.
Use this DAILYBIDE as a conversation starter to encourage someone else in your storysphere. You could email it to him or her and ask them if they think someone can know for sure their eternal destination after death?
23 Aug, 2007
Cat collection!
Are you a pack "cat" or do you hoard anything?
LONG BEACH, Calif.—Authorities euthanized dozens of sickly cats found in a cockroach-infested apartment shared by an elderly woman and her adult daughter, officials said.
Police found 76 unhealthy cats and four dead ones in the women's apartment when they arrived to mediate a dispute with a downstairs neighbor, Officer Jackie Bezart said Tuesday. She said the two women were being held for psychiatric evaluation.
Neighbor Mary Cuevas told KCAL-TV that cockroaches had swarmed from the women's apartment into her own unit.
"I was at my wits end about this, so I yelled out my window that they were filthy pigs," she said. "And so they called the police and said I was harassing them."
Lt. Michelle Quigley of the city's animal control department, which was called to remove the cats, said responding officers found "bags and bags of just trash and defecation, urine, insects, floor-to-ceiling."
All but two of the cats had to be euthanized.
photo courtesy images.google.com & story twincities.com, 8/22/07
Ecclesiastes 5:13 (NLT)
13 There is another serious problem I have seen under the sun. Hoarding riches harms the saver.
King Solomon was the wisest man in the world according to the Bible. Actually, I'm not super smart, but I know enough to not keep 76 cats in our house! (Dogs would be OK...just kidding you cat lovers!)
Sol's point is simple. If we get too focused on riches, it will cost us! He's really talking about hoarding. What is hoarding? Hoarding is when we obsess to possess! Keeping too much of anything earthly can hurt us.
I don't know if anyone would consider cats to be like "riches", but today's story is a great example of keeping too much.
You and I are poorly mistaken if we think that hoarding some earthly possessions will not be a problem in our lives. We may never go to extreme cat collections, but maybe it's something else like...money...clothes...CDs...video games...food...DVDs...
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
Answer this question honestly: Are you trying to possess or letting God control your possessions?
- If you think you have a problem with hoarding (that is getting out of control) please talk to your youth leader, your pastor or a Christian counselor.
- Do an inventory of your possessions. Be honest. Is there something that you accumulate that gets in the way of your focus being on Christ?
- The next time you go shopping and you're looking for something you already have a lot of...ask yourself why you want to buy it?
Pray right now...Thank God for His blessings in your life. Praise Him because "every good gift is from above"! Confess anything in this earthly life that has gotten in the way of your relationship with Jesus. If you have been hoarding some possessions, ask God to forgive you and He will. Ask His Spirit to enable you to daily pursue intimacy with Christ rather than earthly possessions.
- If you have a friend or family member in your "storysphere" who owns a cat, use today's story to start a conversation about earthly possessions.
- When you are talking with your friends about possessions, look for opportunities to share part of your story about what God is teaching you about the "obsession for possessions".
22 Aug, 2007
Thirst quencher
What kind of water do you drink?
photos courtesy images.google.com
John 4:10
10 Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.”
John 7:37-39
Rivers of Living Water
37 On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” 39 Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. (ESV)
What do you think Jesus means when He talks about "living water" in today's God's Story scripture?
In His conversation with the woman at the well in John 4:10, Jesus is refering to eternal life when He offers living water. In John 7:37-39, Jesus is refering to the Holy Spirit. Eternal life and the Holy Spirit go hand in hand.
Jesus' invitation to drink of His living water means that He is claiming to be the Messiah, the only One Who can forgive sins and promise eternal life in Heaven. Everyone who drinks His living water (receives His gift of salvation) receives the Holy Spirit into their lives to lead and guide them as His followers.
It doesn't matter if you prefer to drink tap water or bottled water to quench your physical thirst, but it does matter how you quench your spiritual thirst.
How about you? Have you drank of Christ's living water? Are you helping others find His well? Is there a river overflowing from your life?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Talk to God right now. Praise Him for giving His Son as the "living water" you need to live. Thank Him for His forgiveness and the power of His Holy Spirit at work within you. Confess any way in which you have been ignoring Jesus' living water to quench your thirst. Pray that Jesus will fill you up so much that His overflow will be a river of life that meets the spiritual thirst of others in your life.
- Memorize today's scripture - it will remind you to drink plenty of "water" every day.
- For two weeks, keep a written record of how you spend your time. It may help you realize why you get so "thirsty". Let God help you make the needed changes.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others?
- During the rest of this week, whenever you drink water, pray for God to quench your spiritual thirst and to show you someone who is "thirsty".
- Encourage other followers of Christ to use drinking fountains as a 3Story connecting place during the next month. This could be at school, at your work place, at the mall, or at your church. Be ready to silently pray for someone else getting a drink; be ready to learn the story of someone who is getting a drink; be ready to share part of your story and how Jesus takes care of your "thirst".
21 Aug, 2007
"Don't panic"
Bombings are deadliest since Iraq war began
BAGHDAD - Rescuers used bare hands and shovels Wednesday to claw through clay houses shattered by an onslaught of suicide bombings that killed at least 250 and possibly as many as 500 members of an ancient religious sect in the deadliest attack of the Iraq war.
The U.S. military blamed al-Qaida in Iraq, and an American commander called the assault an "act of ethnic cleansing."
The victims of Tuesday night's coordinated attack by four suicide bombers were Yazidis, a small Kurdish-speaking sect that has been targeted by Muslim extremists who consider its members to be blasphemers.
The blasts in two villages near the Syrian border crumbled buildings, trapping entire families beneath mud bricks and other wreckage. Entire neighborhoods were flattened.
"This is an act of ethnic cleansing, if you will, almost genocide," Army Maj. Gen. Benjamin Mixon, commander of U.S. forces in northern Iraq, told CNN. He said that was evident from the fact Yazidis live in a remote part of Ninevah province that has been far from Iraq's conflict.
Some 350 people were injured, but the death toll was put as high as 500 by some local officials.
photo courtesy ap & story msnbc.msn.com, 8/15/07
Mark 13:3-8 (NLT)
Signs of the Close of the Age
3 Later, Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives across the valley from the Temple. Peter, James, John, and Andrew came to him privately and asked him, 4 “Tell us, when will all this happen? What sign will show us that these things are about to be fulfilled?”
5 Jesus replied,
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us to remember during so many troubling times in our world today?
When Jesus gave these words to his disciples on the Mount of Olives, he was not talking specifically about the current war in Iraq or the ethnic cleansing (murder) going on around the world, but there is a connection.
Every day that goes by brings us one day closer to Christ's return. Wars and rumors of wars (can you say Iran?)) are all part of what's coming - the end of the world as we know it today.
But don't panic! Jesus encouraged his disciples then and he does the same for his followers today to remember that God is in control. If you are a follower of Jesus, meaning that you have received his gift of salvation and you strive to live for him every day, you can have peace in a very troubled world. That's a promise from Jesus!
Also, don't get sucked into believing anyone who claims they know exactly when the world will end and Jesus will come back. Many false teachers have already misled people by claiming to have revelations from God and have given out many dates - none of which were true, because Christ's followers are still here!
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank Jesus every day for being in control even when the world seems more out of control.
- Memorize verse 7 as a reminder of why you don't need to panic with all the crisis in the world.
- Keep up with what's happening in the world. Look at current events in light of God's Word.
- Don't listen to 'religious' leaders and others who claim to know the exact time of the end of the world.
- Talk to God right now... Heavenly Father, thank you that you sent your Son Jesus to give me life, both now and forever. Thank you that you already know the exact perfect time of when Jesus is coming back to get His followers. Jesus, thank you for your promise to never leave me and to give me peace because you have already overcome the world. Jesus, use your power to bring a peaceful solution to the war in Iraq and the rumor of war with Iran. Give world leaders the insight and courage they need. Give me the courage I need to represent you in a troubled world. In Jesus' name....amen.
How can we connect all of this to our friends and family who need Jesus?
- Keep praying for them by name every day. God often uses change and difficult circumstances to help people recognize their need for Jesus.
- Someone you know may have fears about the future and the end of the world. You could use the current wars and rumors of the coming conflict with Iran to start up a conversation about world events and future events. Don't worry about knowing all about the war or the politics involved or all about the Biblical explanation of the end times. Just give others the opportunity to express themselves. Remember to listen to their hearts. Remember to listen to Jesus guiding your thoughts and words. Simply talk about the peace and confidence you have in knowing that God is in control. This is part of telling your story!
20 Aug, 2007
Chicken blood sprinkle?
Principal ousted over NYC school ritual
NEW YORK—A public school principal accused of paying a woman to sprinkle chicken blood on the high school in an attempt to cleanse it of negative energy will be fired, the Department of Education said Tuesday.
Maritza Tamayo, principal of the Unity Center for Urban Technologies, paid a woman named Gilda Fonte to lead several Santeria rituals at the Manhattan school during midwinter break in 2006, when students were not there, according to Richard Condon, the special commissioner of investigation for city schools.
A former assistant principal, Melody Crooks-Simpson, said there was a running joke at the school that sage should be used to cleanse the building because many of the students were ill-behaved. But it seems Tamayo took it seriously, Crooks-Simpson told investigators, and had Fonte lead a ceremony at which she sprinkled chicken blood on the building.
Tamayo coerced staff members to participate in and help pay for the ceremonies, investigators said.
Santeria is a blend of traditional African religions and Catholicism and first was practiced in the Caribbean by slaves who were prohibited from worshipping in other religions.
Crooks-Simpson told investigators she didn't attend the ceremony with the chicken blood, but showed up to school a few days later in a white dress to participate in another ceremony because Tamayo said it wouldn't work without her. She said Tamayo charged her $900 for the rite.
Another teacher saw Tamayo, Fonte and another woman, wearing white dresses, performing a ritual at the school while Fonte balanced a silver tray with 40 lit candles on her head, said investigators.
Fonte told investigators she did not practice Santeria. There was no telephone listing for her.
The problem wasn't that Tamayo was performing bizarre religious rituals but that she was coercing her staff to participate, Condon said.
photo courtesy images.google.com & story twincities.com, 8/7/07
Hebrews 9:11-14 (NLT)
Christ Is the Perfect Sacrifice
11 So Christ has now become the High Priest over all the good things that have come. He has entered that greater, more perfect Tabernacle in heaven, which was not made by human hands and is not part of this created world. 12 With his own blood—not the blood of goats and calves—he entered the Most Holy Place once for all time and secured our redemption forever.
13 Under the old system, the blood of goats and bulls and the ashes of a young cow could cleanse people’s bodies from ceremonial impurity. 14 Just think how much more the blood of Christ will purify our consciences from sinful deeds so that we can worship the living God. For by the power of the eternal Spirit, Christ offered himself to God as a perfect sacrifice for our sins.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about Christ's sacrificial cleansing for us?
Tyndales's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes explain:
9:10-14 The people had to keep Old Testament dietary laws and ceremonial cleansing laws until Christ came with God's new and better way...When the people sacrificed animals, God considered the people's faith and obedience, cleansed them from sin...But Christ's sacrifice transforms our lives and hearts and makes us clean on the inside. His sacrifice is infinitely more effective than animal sacrifices. No barrier of sin or weakness on our part can stifle his forgiveness...let the blood of Christ purify your conscience.
Today's story about the principal trying to clean up the school negativity with a "black magic" chicken blood ritual makes us shake our heads at the bizarre behavior of so many people in our world. While this may make us laugh, it should also break our hearts, because it's another reminder of how Satan takes a small element of truth (Christ's sacrificial blood) and twists it into a pagan ritual.
The result is that deceived people continue to be lost and searching.
Do you understand that a key part of God's Story is the blood sacrifice of Jesus Christ on our behalf?
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Thank God for His loving sacrifice of His Son Jesus. Thank Him for his forgiveness for your sins - every day! Thank Him that you can enjoy a relationship through His grace rather going through rituals.
- Read Hebrews chapters 9-10 for a more detailed understanding of this important part of God's Story.
- Whenever you see your own blood, let it be a reminder of the truth that Christ's blood cleanses you from every sin.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Pray for the students and leadership at that New York school to somehow learn the Biblical truth about Christ's blood sacrifice in God's Story.
- Think about someone in your storysphere who is really interested in God's Story and your story, but they have not yet received Christ as Savior. Use today's story about the chicken blood ritual in the NYC school to start a conversation about Christ's sacrifice. Ask your friend what they think about when they hear this bizarre story? Listen carefully and Jesus will nudge you to know how to share the story of His blood cleansing you from your sins.
17 Aug, 2007
What are your thoughts about church?
Did you know that church is God's idea?
Young adults aren't sticking with church...
...70% of surveyed Protestants stopped attending by age 23
Protestant churches are losing young adults in "sobering" numbers, a survey finds.
Seven in 10 Protestants ages 18 to 30 — both evangelical and mainline — who went to church regularly in high school said they quit attending by age 23, according to the survey by LifeWay Research. And 34% of those said they had not returned, even sporadically, by age 30. That means about one in four Protestant young people have left the church.
"This is sobering news that the church needs to change the way it does ministry," says Ed Stetzer, director of Nashville-based LifeWay Research, which is affiliated with the publishing arm of the Southern Baptist Convention.
"It seems the teen years are like a free trial on a product. By 18, when it's their choice whether to buy in to church life, many don't feel engaged and welcome," says associate director Scott McConnell.
The statistics are based on a survey of 1,023 Protestants ages 18 to 30 who said they had attended church at least twice a month for at least one year during high school. LifeWay did the survey in April and May. Margin of error is plus or minus 3 percentage points.
Few of those surveyed had kind words for fellow Christians when they reflected on how they saw church life in the four years after high school.
Just over half (51%) of Protestant young people surveyed (both the church dropouts and those who stayed on in church after age 22) saw church members as "caring" or had other positive descriptions, such as "welcoming" (48%) or "authentic" (42%).
Among dropouts, nearly all (97%) cited life changes, such as a move. Most (58%) were unhappy with the people or pastor at church. More than half (52%) had religious, ethical or political reasons for quitting.
Dropouts were more than twice as likely than those who continued attending church to describe church members as judgmental (51% for dropouts, 24% for those who stayed), hypocritical (44% vs. 20%) or insincere (41% vs. 19%)
The news was not all bad: 35% of dropouts said they had resumed attending church regularly by age 30. An additional 30% attended sporadically. Twenty-eight percent said "God was calling me to return to the church."
The survey found that those who stayed with or returned to church grew up with both parents committed to the church, pastors whose sermons were relevant and engaging, and church members who invested in their spiritual development.
photo courtesy images.google.com & story usatoday.com, 8/7/07
Acts 2:41-47
41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.
The Fellowship of the Believers
42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about what church was like when it first got started?
It was a pretty amazing story! Can you imagine the excitement of being involved in the early church? These believers knew their purpose and they were firmly commited to trusting the Holy Spirit to lead them to glorify God and build His Kingdom through the Church.
We can use the model found in Acts 2 as God's instructions on how to have an effective church:
WORSHIP: The early believers praised God every day, met for prayer, shared in the Lord's Supper and experienced a deep sense of awe. DO YOU STRIVE TO PRAISE GOD IN YOUR WORSHIP AT YOUR CHURCH, NO MATTER WHAT THE STYLE OF MUSIC MIGHT BE?
FELLOWSHIP: The Acts believers met together constantly and shared their meals and enjoyed each other. ARE YOU INVOLVED ON A REGULAR BASIS WITH A SMALL GROUP IN YOUR CHURCH THAT REALLY CARES FOR EACH OTHER?
DISCIPLESHIP: These early Christians were devoted to the apostles' teaching. ARE YOU INVOLVED IN A CHURCH THAT BELIEVES THE BIBLE IS OUR AUTHORITY AND ARE YOU REGULARLY PARTICIPATING WITH A GROUP THAT STUDIES GOD'S WORD?
MINISTRY: The early church people were committed to praying together and meeting the needs of others, even if they had to sell their possessions. ARE YOU GIVING YOUR TIME, TALENTS AND MONEY TO HELP YOUR YOUTH GROUP AND/OR YOUR CHURCH MEET THE NEEDS OF PEOPLE?
EVANGELISM: The news spread about what God was doing in and through this Acts church! More and more people were becoming followers of Jesus and being added to this church! ARE YOU DOING YOUR PART TO HELP YOUR CHURCH MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY? IS YOUR CHURCH SO IN LOVE WITH JESUS THAT IT'S CONTAGIOUS TO THE WORLD AROUND YOU?
Let's be honest about the local church. None are perfect. They never will be because the church is made up of imperfect people like us. Churches are very different in style and size. Some are old and maybe not very exciting. Others are new and sort of struggling. But here's the deal: God uses the local church to build His Kingdom and He sees you as a vital part of your church!
- Thank God for your church and for the people in your church. Confess any wrong or critical attitude you may have toward your church. Ask God to help your church leadership follow the instructions in Scripture to be as effective as possible. Ask God's Spirit to show you how to do your part in serving Him by serving your church.
- If you are not currently involved in a church that believes Jesus is the only way to Heaven and that the Bible is completely true, pray for God to show you the church where you should get plugged in! If you are a young person at home, remember to obey your parents regarding where you can attend church. Even if they go to a church that does not believe Christ is the only way to Heaven or that the Bible is completely true, they may let you get involved in another church youth group that does believe these important truths.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Before you attend your church services and youth group meetings this weekend, pray for those who will lead and for Jesus to help everyone understand what the Bible teaches about church.
- Write a thank you note to your Pastor and youth leaders for serving at your church.
- Invite someone with whom you are trying to connect the stories to come to church with you. Afterwards, ask them to give you honest feedback about what they liked and didn't like. Listen and be honest about the fact that churches are not perfect because people are far from perfect and in need of Jesus every day.
15 Aug, 2007
Are you a meteor messenger?
Perseid Meteor Showers: Still a Chance for Sky Watchers
Did you miss the Perseid Meteor Shower early Monday morning? There is still another chance for the light show and sky watchers can still get a glimpse of the wild show in the night sky. Last night was the peak night for the annual shower, and if you were far enough away from the lights of civilization, and blessed with a cloudless sky, this is a small example of what you would have seen.
However many were shut out by cloud cover. Tonight won't be quite as spectacular but some meteors should still be visible in the next few days.
Like all meteor showers, this one gets its name from the constellation it appears to originate from. The showers occur when Earth intersects debris from Comet Swift-Tuttle. Tiny grains of dust ice collide with the earth's atmosphere at speeds of up to 30 miles per second, each creating an arc of incandescent light.
The best places to see the showers is as far away from city lights and other light pollution as possible. More will be visible at night time over the next few days provided that the skies are clear.
photo & story courtesy nationalledger.com, 8/14/07
Matthew 5:14-16
14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (ESV)
What does Jesus teach us about being His "light" in today's God's Story scripture?
I can't say it any better than the study notes in Tyndale's Life Application Study Bible notes:
If we live for Christ, we will glow like lights, showing others what Christ is like. We hide our light by (1) being quiet when we should speak, (2) going along with the crowd, (3) denying the light, (4) letting sin dim our light, (5) not explaining our light to others, or (6) ignoring the needs of others. Be a becaon of truth - don't shut your light off from the rest of the world.
Did you notice in today's story that the meteor show (which happens once a year) is great, but not visible to many because of cloud cover?
This reminds me of the way many of us as followers of Jesus often live. Either we get serious spiritually annually (like at Easter time) or our witness to Christ's truth is covered up by some cloudy choices on our part.
But Jesus calls each of us to put on His "light show" all the time.
No doubt most scientists would want us to believe that these meteors evolved from some monkey-shaped dust particles or something...but we know that ultimately this burning light comes from the the one Who created the dust - Jesus!
In the same way, the power that it takes to be Christ's light in this dark world comes from the One Who created us - Jesus!
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Praise your Heavenly Father for shining the light of Christ into your life. Confess any way in which you have been hiding the light of Christ in your life. Ask His Spirit to make you willing to humble yourself so that your life will draw only on the power of the Son in you.
- Review the LAB study notes and be honest about one way you tend to hide Christ's light. Pray about this every day until you see this part of your life light up!
- Using a Bible study guide, look up five verses that use light as an analogy for living the Christian life.
- For one week, write down at least one daily opportunity Jesus gave you to be a light to someone. At the end of the week, evaluate what you have learned.
How can we connect today's story, God's Story and our story to others?
- Make it your daily goal to shine Christ's light toward one person who is in spiritual darkness...this might be a friend at school, at work, or a family member.
- Ask your friends and family if they heard about the meteor light show this week? Use it as a conversation starter to find out what they believe to be the ultimate source of the meteors? Trust Jesus to show you if this is the time to talk about how He has brought you from darkness into His light.
- Write a note of appreciation to another follower of Jesus who has been "letting a little bit of light into the world".
14 Aug, 2007
"LORD, help us!"
Miners trapped: 'You've just got to pray ... and hope they're OK'
It's the place where Julie Jones, a member of Huntington's City Council, came Monday to buy food to cook for the family members of six miners who are trapped in the Crandall Canyon Mine. It is the place where Dwayne Timothy, a miner, stopped to buy water on his way to participate in the rescue operation.
And it is the place where many residents of this town, with a population of less than 2,000, came to ask each other, "Is there anything new? Have you heard anything?"
The task of waiting for news clearly showed on their faces.
Few people knew the miners' names or the current status of the rescue operation — but that didn't matter. For a town that is comprised mostly of miners, everyone has a husband or a friend or a son who works or has worked in the mine, Jones said, and everyone cares.
"Until you get a phone call that says your son or brother or husband is not one of them, you just don't know," Jones said. "And when you get that phone call, it still pulls at your heart. You're relieved for your personal (situation), but you feel for (everyone else) because you know how it is. You've just got to pray, that's all. Pray and hope they're OK."
photo & story courtesy deseretnews.com, 8/09/07
Psalm 130:1-2 (NLT)
My Soul Waits for the Lord
1From the depths of despair, O LORD, I call for your help.
2Hear my cry, O Lord. Pay attention to my prayer.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about responding to God when we are feeling trapped?
The big story in the news right now is the fate of the trapped miners. Are they still alive? Can they be rescued in time?
Families and friends are crying out to God for help. At this point, only God knows the ending of this story.
This has me thinking about the stories that will happen in your life and mine for the rest of this year. Circumstances may bring us to feeling like we are trapped in the depths of despair. How will we respond?
Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes give some great advice for us as we consider the unknown:
130:1,2 In the depths of despair, the psalmist cried out to God. Despair makes us feel isolated and distant from God, but this is precisely when we need God most. Despair over sin should not lead to self-pity, causing us to think more about ourselves than God. Instead, it should lead to confession and then to God's mercy, forgiveness, and redemption. When we feel overwhelmed by a problem, feeling sorry for ourselves will only increase feelings of hopelessness; but crying out to God will turn our attention to the only one who can really help.
- Thank God for His best and perfect plan He has for your life. Praise Him that you can talk to Him, anytime, anywhere, for any reason. Thank Him that He will always listen to your cry for help, forgiveness, strength, direction....cry out to Him right now for whatever is on your heart....
- Make talking to God about anything and everything part of your daily pattern.
- Keep a written prayer journal to experience the privilege of prayer with God at a deeper level.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Pray for the rescue of the miners and for comfort and courage for their families.
- Pray that God will use this story to draw people to the truth of His Story.
- Ask someone in your storysphere who needs Jesus questions like: Can you imagine what the families and friends of the miners are thinking and feeling? Why do you think most people are OK about God talk and prayer when there's a crisis? Have you ever felt like crying out to God for help? Tell me about it... May I share a story of when I did this?
13 Aug, 2007
Jealousy...Robbery...Murder!
2 arrested in N.J. schoolyard deaths
NEWARK, N.J.—A 28-year-old man and a teenage boy were charged Thursday in the execution-style schoolyard killings of three college students and the wounding of another, a crime that has outraged this violence-marred city.
The arrests came within hours of each other, with police taking the 15-year-old boy into custody Wednesday night and the man, Jose Carranza, surrendering to the mayor on Thursday.
"We believe that others were involved in this heinous crime," Essex County Prosecutor Paula T. Dow said. "We're looking for them."
Officials declined Thursday to speculate on a motive, but Police Director Garry McCarthy said: "There is still no indication of a gang angle in this particular endeavor." Authorities have said robbery appeared to be the motive, and robbery charges were brought against the two suspects.
The four victims, friends ages 18 to 20 who were planning to attend Delaware State University this fall, were shot while visiting in a schoolyard not far from their homes Saturday night.
Terrance Aeriel, 18, Dashon Harvey, 20, and Iofemi Hightower, 20, were forced to kneel against a wall and were shot at close range. The fourth victim, 19-year-old Natasha Aeriel, Terrance Aeriel's sister, survived a wound to her head and is hospitalized. Natasha Aeriel was able to help authorities identify the suspects, the mayor said.
photo & story courtesy twincities.com, 8/9/07
Genesis 4:2-8 (NLT)
Cain and Abel
When they grew up, Abel became a shepherd, while Cain cultivated the ground. 3 When it was time for the harvest, Cain presented some of his crops as a gift to the Lord. 4 Abel also brought a gift—the best of the firstborn lambs from his flock. The Lord accepted Abel and his gift, 5 but he did not accept Cain and his gift. This made Cain very angry, and he looked dejected.
6 “Why are you so angry?” the Lord asked Cain. “Why do you look so dejected? 7 You will be accepted if you do what is right. But if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out! Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master.”
8 One day Cain suggested to his brother, “Let’s go out into the fields.” And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother, Abel, and killed him.
Galatians 5:19-20 (NLT)
19 When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division,
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about jealousy?
The sin of jealousy has been around since Adam and Eve's boys. We often just think jealousy is no big deal, but it obviously is because it can be deadly!
Though we are not told the exact reason for the LORD not accepting Cain's offering, it does seem that Cain had a problem with his motives and attitude. While Abel brought his best to the LORD, Cain did not. The fact that the LORD confronted Cain about his sin and gave him a chance to do the right thing and Cain refused - proves that he remained jealous. Amazing! Being jealous for God's blessing led to murder!
Paul makes it real clear in the Galatians passage that the sin of jealousy comes out of our hearts when we refuse to follow the Holy Spirit's leading in our lives. Our natural sinful nature produces evil results - one of which is jealousy.
Be honest. What makes you jealous and why?
How can you connect today's God's Story scripture to your life?
Think through the definition of jealousy - the obsessive desire to have the same as someone else.
Are you obsessed with any of the following?
- some one's good looks
- some one's boyfriend or girlfriend
- some one's car
- some one's money
- some one's clothes
- some one's talent, like musical or athletic
- some one's popularity
- some one's family
- some one's knowledge
- some one's spiritual faith
- some one's (you fill in the blank _______________)
How can you connect today's story and God's Story scripture and your story to others?
- Make a written list of what makes you jealous and keep it handy for the next month. Pray for Jesus to give you victory over the temptations on your list. As you become more aware of jealousy in your life, you will see it in the lives of others. Be careful and ready to forgive, not judge. They may notice a change in your life and you may have the opportunity to share your story.
- Use today's DAILYBIDE with some friends, your small group, or youth group to deal with the problem of jealousy together.
10 Aug, 2007
Snakes!
Python sinks teeth into toddler
Christine Abdelmonem wanted her 15-month-old son to get a better look at the ducks waddling nearby in Freedom Park, so she lowered him to the ground.
Before Adam's feet touched the grass, she felt a sharp tug.
Wrapped around her son's leg was a ball python.
She could see the snake, at least 4 feet long, biting Adam on the leg. Without thinking, she yanked the snake away and screamed for help.
Two maintenance workers rushed over. One tried to kill the snake with a shovel and ended up trapping it in a bucket, said Karla Thornhill of Mecklenburg Park and Recreation.
Adam was taken to Carolinas Medical Center. He was fine Tuesday, a day after the attack, walking around the southeast Charlotte apartment where he lives with his mom and dad.
He has bite marks on his leg. The bite of a ball python isn't poisonous.
Abdelmonem remembers crying when paramedics asked her about the snake.
"I didn't know they bit and I didn't know if they were poisonous," she said. "I felt like a bad mother."
"I've been there all my life," she said, "and I've never seen a snake there."
Thornhill, of the park department, said she could not recall another incident where a snake bit a person at Freedom Park, although she said nonpoisonous black snakes have been seen there.
Looking at Adam toddling happily around the apartment, it's hard to believe anything happened, his mother said. He cried while the snake was on him, but recovered surprisingly fast.
"When I pulled it off, he was fine," she said. "I wasn't."
story courtesy charlotte.com, 8/3/07
2 Corinthians 11:3-4 (NLT)
3 But I fear that somehow your pure and undivided devotion to Christ will be corrupted, just as Eve was deceived by the cunning ways of the serpent. 4 You happily put up with whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different kind of Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed.
Who were the "snakes" that Paul was writing about in today's God's Story scripture?
Paul was writing this letter to the early church in Corinth. He was warning them to look out for false teachers. Just like Eve was deceived by the serpent (Satan), believers were being led away from the true Christ by "religious" people who were preaching ideas that were not based on the Truth of God's Word as revealed through the power of God's Holy Spirit.
Satan is the master of deception. Not much has changed in the last 2000 years. Today, smooth-talking, smart-sounding, spiritual-like teachers and preachers are putting out messages that people like to hear, but they are based on feel-good, politically-correct philosophy rather than the inspired, Holy Word of God.
Just like the snake that came after the child in today's story, Satan will come after God's children, especially those who are very young in their faith.
So the key is to learn more and more of God's Story. Part of God's Story is that He gave us His Word and His Son Jesus, who is the only way to Heaven. And that's the Truth!
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Be careful where you look for spiritual input. There are lots of celebs, events and even churches that are "big" in the news. They can sound pretty good at first, but they are just another form of "spirituality". Religious? Yes. Truth? No, because they are not based on Jesus Christ and the authority of God's Holy Word.
- Study God's Word every day.
- Talk to God about it through prayer. Thank God for His inspired, authoritative, Holy Word. Ask His Holy Spirit to help you learn the Truth and apply it every day in your life. Ask His Spirit to help you recognize what is true and what is false. Ask His Spirit to help you keep your daily focus on the Christ of Scripture rather than on cultural ideas of who Jesus is and who He isn't.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Ask Jesus to give you a heart of compassion and listening ears as you interact with others. Ask them about their spiritual interests. If they seem open to talking about this topic, you could ask them if they think it's possible to really know what is true spiritually? Listen carefully. Be careful not to jump on them with your perspective, but trust Jesus to nudge you if you should share more about your story and God's Story.
- If you have a relationship with someone who is really interested in the Bible, you could show them today's story about the snake and Paul's writing. The bottom line is - stay close to Jesus and He will show you how to connect to their stories.
- Whenever there's a python that comes creeping into your room, pray for your friends who need to know Jesus. OK, so this won't happen very often, but you could still pray regularly for God to protect your friends and family from that creepy master of deception.
9 Aug, 2007
Record-breaking leader!
Bonds Breaks All-Time Home Run Record
For one spectacular moment, Barry Bonds and everybody cheering him could forget about the controversy surrounding his chase and appreciate the phenomenal feat: 756.
Nobody in the majors not Hank Aaron, not Babe Ruth has ever hit more home runs than the San Francisco star.
On Tuesday night, in his home ballpark, it didn't matter how many of them might have been fueled by steroids or performance-enhancers. Bonds has the title of home run king all to himself, ending Aaron's 33-year reign.
"This record is not tainted at all. At all. Period," Bonds said.
Conspicuous by their absence were the commissioner and Hammerin' Hank himself.
Though he was on hand for the tying homer three days ago, deciding to put baseball history ahead of the suspicions plaguing the Giants slugger, Bud Selig wasn't there for the record-breaker.
Instead, he sent two emissaries, Major League Baseball executive vice president Jimmie Lee Solomon and Hall of Famer Frank Robinson. Selig also issued a statement.
"While the issues which have swirled around this record will continue to work themselves toward resolution, today is a day for congratulations on a truly remarkable achievement," Selig said.
photo & story courtesy abcnews.com, 8/8/07
2 Timothy 2:5
5 An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. (ESV)
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about living lives of integrity?
Rules in athletic competition exist for several reasons. They make the competition fair and protect the athletes from injury. Most kinds of games include penalties or fouls as consequences for players when they don't play fair or when they are trying to harm someone from the other team.
In today's verse, Paul makes it clear that we must follow the commands or rules that God has given us. His commands are given to us because He loves us and wants us to win the race He has given us to run.
How are you doing at following the "rules" given to us by God, found in His Holy Word?
Barry Bonds was crowned the new "home run king" last night, but he will continue to experience the controversy of whether or not he cheated by using steroids. It's possible that his record will be wiped out if he is proven guilty, or it may stand. Even if the truth is never revealed, Bonds' accomplishment will be tainted because his integrity is in question.
If we ignore or break God's instructions, our integrity in this earthly life will be questioned and our eternal crown will be tainted.
Obeying God's rules not only leads to victory, but it demonstrates our love for Him now and forever.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- As you read God's Word, write down at least one command every week that you know God wants you to keep. This will be your personal list of God's "guiding love" that you know will help you be victorious in this life and receive a crown of reward in Heaven.
- Pray every day for Jesus to help you live a life of integrity.
- Memorize today's verse as a reminder to stay motivated while you strive to serve God with integrity.
- Thank God right now for giving us rules to live by and please Him. Confess any of His instructions in His Word which you know you have been ignoring or breaking. Thank Jesus for providing forgiveness and giving you a "clean record"!
How can you connect today's story and God's Story scripture and your story to others?
- As you talk to friends about Barry Bonds' accomplishment, ask them if they believe he cheated and if he did, does it matter? Look for the moment that Jesus may give you to talk about the truth that only Christ can give us a "clean record" before God. Share your story of how you know that some day Christ's "record-breaking" death and resurrection will take you to live in Heaven forever.
- Use today's DAILYBIDE as a resource in your small group or youth group to talk about the importance of following God's "rules" in His Word.
- Be a good listener to others as you try to learn their stories. When you hear them talk about the rules or restrictions in their lives, use this opportunity to share more about your story as it relates to God's "guiding love" in your life.
8 Aug, 2007
Are you in your write mind?
Pencil removed from woman's head after 55 years
BERLIN – A woman who had a pencil lodged in her head for 55 years after a childhood accident has finally had most of it removed, which should end her chronic headaches and nosebleeds, her doctor said Tuesday.
Margaret Wegner was four years old when she fell while carrying the 3.15-inch pencil, which went through her cheek and into her brain.
"It bored right through the skin and disappeared into my head," Wegner, now 59, told Germany's best-selling newspaper, Bild. "It hurt like crazy."
At the time, the technology did not exist to safely remove the pencil, so Wegner had to live with it – and the ensuing chronic headaches and nosebleeds – for the next 5 1/2 decades.
But on Friday, Dr. Hans Behrbohm, an ear, nose and throat specialist at Berlin's Park-Klinik Weissensee, was able to identify the exact location of the pencil so that he could determine the risks of removing it, and then took most of it out.
The operation was difficult because of the way the pencil had shifted as Wegner grew, Behrbohm told The Associated Press on Tuesday.
Although a piece of a pencil about four-fifths of an inch long could not be removed, Behrbohm said it does not pose a danger.
And now Wegner, the wife of German boxing coach Ulli Wegner, will no longer have the headaches and nosebleeds, and her sense of smell should return soon, Behrbohm said.
photo & story courtesy kvue.com, 8/7/07
Proverbs 7:2-3 (CEV)
2Obey me, and you will live! Let my instructions be your greatest treasure. 3Keep them at your fingertips and write them in your mind.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about obeying God's commands?
The context of Proverbs chapter 7 is that Solomon (with words given him by God's Holy Spirit) is warning God's people about immorality.
While this is a clear warning against sexual sin, the big picture is that Christ followers must obey all of God's commands. If we do, God says we will experience life the way He intends for us. Why would we want to risk everything and do life our way?
God says this is so important - we have to remember it and guard it. How? By writing His instructions in our minds.
Think about it....
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Write down a prayer of confession to God for any instructions from His Word that you have not been following and remember to thank Him for His loving forgiveness.
- Keep a written list of how you are experiencing real life in Christ when you obey God's commands in His Word.
- For the next week, whenever you read the God's scriptures, tape a pencil to your head as a reminder to obey and apply what you learn. (Be ready for some interesting conversations if your friends or family see you doing this!)
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others who need Jesus?
This is real simple but it could be fun, practical and meaningful - think about someone you know who is really thinking about God's Story and becoming a follower of Jesus - tell him or her about the German woman having the pencil removed from her head and then talk about how you're going to try to start writing more and more of God's Story in your mind. Be sure to explain why and then ask your friend what they think?
7 Aug, 2007
Go to sleep
Are you catching enough zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz ?
Sleep pattern affects teen behavior
Those who prefer later bedtimes appear to exhibit more antisocial behavior than those who like to wake early and participate in daytime recreational activities, researchers report.
Staying up late "contributes to lack of sleep and this, in turn, causes problems such as lack of control and attention regulation, which are associated with antisocial behavior and substance use," study co-author Dr. Elizabeth J. Susman, of Pennsylvania State University told.
The researchers found a number of factors were related to antisocial behaviors in the study group, particularly in the boys who tended to exhibit more rule-breaking behaviors than did their peers.
For girls, a preference for evening activities was associated with a higher incidence of relational aggression or aggressive behavior towards their peers.
Boys who experienced prolonged high levels of cortisol -- smaller decreases in cortisol levels from the time of awakening until 4 pm -- tended to have more behavior problems than did their peers, the report indicates. The association was not true for girls, however.
Normally, levels of cortisol, the stress hormone associated with circadian rhythms, peak in the morning upon awakening and plateau during the afternoon and evening hours.
photo courtesy images.google.com & story presstv.ir.com, 7/22/07
Psalm 3:1-5 (NLT)
A psalm of David, regarding the time David fled from his son Absalom.
1 O Lord, I have so many enemies;
so many are against me.
2 So many are saying,
“God will never rescue him!”
Interlude
3 But you, O Lord, are a shield around me;
you are my glory, the one who holds my head high.
4 I cried out to the Lord,
and he answered me from his holy mountain.
Interlude
5 I lay down and slept,
yet I woke up in safety,
for the Lord was watching over me.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about getting enough sleep?
Do you sleep well at night? Maybe you're blessed with the ability to sleep anytime, anywhere, even in class or at work? All of us have to admit that we get kinda cranky when we don't get enough sleep.
I often have trouble sleeping at night. Sometimes it's having coffee too late. Sometimes it's pizza too late. Sometimes it's because I get my best ideas at night! Sometimes it's because even though I know that God is in control, I think He needs my help worrying about life. So, today's DAILYBIDE may help me more than anyone, but just in case you are like me once in awhile, read these study notes from Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE:
3:5 Sleep does not come easily during a crisis. David could have had sleepless nights when his son Absalom rebelled and gathered an army to kill him. But he slept peacefully, even during the rebellion. What made the difference? David cried out to the Lord, and the Lord heard him. The assurance of answered prayer brings peace. It is easier to sleep well when we have full assurance that God is in control of circumstances. If you are lying awake at night worrying about what you can't change, pour out your heart to God, and thank him that he is in control. Then sleep will come.
Sweet dreams...
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Read aloud from Psalm 121. Let it be a prayer of praise to God and a prayer of trust in your Heavenly Father:
I look up to the mountains - does my help come from there? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth! He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber. Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps. The LORD himself watches over you! ... The LORD keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever. Amen.
- Save the Psalm 121 prayer above as God's truth and promise to you on those nights when you have trouble sleeping.
- Write down a list of what seems to keep you awake at night. Change what you can control (caffeine, exercise, eating right, etc.). Whatever you can't control and seems to worry you, write it on a list and place it under your pillow or on your night stand. In prayer, thank God that he will take your list (because he never sleeps) and let you get the sleep you need.
- Share your worries and sleep struggles with a friend and ask him or her to hold you accountable, encourage you and pray for you.
- If you never have trouble sleeping, thank God. Also, could you leave some lights on for those of us who can't sleep. Since we're up, we may as well get some work done! We'll try to be quiet.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
This connection is really obvious, but just in case you're feeling sleepy as you read this, here it is - the next time you're talking with others who need Jesus and the subject of feeling tired and needing sleep comes up - share what today's God's Story scripture has taught you about sleeping.
6 Aug, 2007
The dead among the living?
Workers look for dead in bridge collapse
Divers probed murky Mississippi river waters Friday in search of bodies in the rubble of a collapsed highway bridge as the number of people believed missing dropped dramatically.
Swimming almost blindly through the submerged wreckage of fractured roadbed, twisted bridge supports and mangled vehicles, divers faced fierce currents and chunks of floating concrete as they spotted several bodies underwater but did not retrieve any of them.
But officials offered more hopeful news when they announced that only eight people were considered missing in the tragedy, besides the five already confirmed dead.
That was a sharp downward revision from the 20-30 officials had earlier believed went missing when the eight-lane span fractured and plunged into the river below at the height of rush hour Wednesday.
"Those eight people -- and it's a very fluid number -- I hope they're just mistakes, that they're vacationing or something," said Hennepin County Sheriff Richard Stanek, who was leading the underwater recovery efforts.
The body of one man was extracted Thursday night from a car trapped on the pieces of the bridge that was partially submerged, bringing the official death toll to five. Around 80 people were injured.
"There's no sense of frustration. If I had my way I wouldn't find anyone in the water," Stanek said about the divers not having retrieved any more bodies.
photo & story courtesy turkishpress.com, 8/3/07
Luke 24:4-6 (NLT)
4 As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared to them, clothed in dazzling robes.
5 The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, “Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? 6 He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee,
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the impact of Jesus being alive today?
Let's look at some insight from the study notes in Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE:
24:1-9 The two angels (appearing as "two men...clothed in dazzling robes") asked the women why they were looking in a tomb for someone who was alive. Often we run into people who are looking for God among the dead. They study the Bible as a mere historical document and go to church as if going to a memorial service. But Jesus is not among the dead - he lives! He reigns in the hearts of Christians, and he is the head of his church. Do you look for Jesus among the living? Do you expect him to be active in the world and in the church? Look for signs of his power - they are all around you.
There are many interesting, heart-breaking, and inspiring stories related to the tragic bridge collapse in Minneapolis last week.
It's so sad to watch the divers look for the bodies of the dead in the river. I can't imagine the pain for the families and friends of those killed. They are waiting for the physical evidence of an inevitable reality - their loved ones are gone and will not be returning.
It's also sad that those of us who are Christ followers often live our daily lives as if we have no hope. We approach life's challenges and opportunities as if Jesus were still dead and his body entombed.
The tragic result is that our perspective is usually in the "recovery" mode rather than experiencing daily "rescue" from our Living, Resurrected Christ.
We are Christ's loved ones and He is living in us and He will be returning!
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
- Remember that the truth of Christ's resurrection is for everyday living, not just at Easter time.
- Take several minutes right now and talk to the Risen One about your needs and questions that are easy to identify. Let His Spirit help you uncover those that are buried in the corner of your soul. Listen to God's heart and you will experience His love and hope.
- Read the whole chapter of Luke 24 and let the incredible power of the story of Christ's resurrection impact your daily story.
How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story to others?
- Every day, let Jesus show you someone who is living life "among the dead". Let Jesus empower you to see the little ways you can demonstrate "the Living among the dead" in your life. It might be giving this person a smile, an encouraging word, an act of kindness, five minutes of listening, telling him or her an example of how Jesus rescues you constantly, praying for him or her....
- Whenever you see a news story of workers trying to recover the bodies of the dead, let Jesus remind you to pray for those you know who are not yet alive in Christ.
- Pray for comfort for the families and friends of those affected by the bridge collapse and pray for God to use this national story to draw people to His love and truth.
- Send this DAILYBIDE to another follower of Christ.
3 Aug, 2007
A bridge of death
Divers Look for Bridge Collapse Victims
Divers searched the Mississippi River for bodies still trapped beneath the twisted debris of a collapsed bridge Thursday, as finger-pointing began over a report two years ago that found the bridge was "structurally deficient."
The official death count from Wednesday evening's collapse stood at four, but Police Chief Tim Dolan said more bodies were in the water. Hospitals officials said 79 others were injured.
A strong current and low visibility hampered the search, and divers were pulled out of the water briefly Thursday afternoon so the water could be lowered, said Inspector Jeff Storms of the sheriff's department.
The eight-lane Interstate 35W bridge, a major Minneapolis artery, was in the midst of repairs when it buckled during the evening rush hour. Dozens of cars plummeted more than 60 feet into the Mississippi River, some falling on top one of another. A school bus sat on the angled concrete.
The bridge is the state's busiest, and carries approximately 141,000 vehicles per day.
The White House said an inspection of the 40-year-old bridge in 2005 found problems. The Interstate 35W span rated 50 on a scale of 100 for structural stability and was classified as "structurally deficient," transportation officials said.
The designation means some portions of the bridge needed to be scheduled for repair or replacement. "It didn't mean that the bridge is unsafe," Transportation Secretary Mary Peters said.
photo & story courtesy abcnews.com, 8/2/07
1 Timothy 2:5 (CEV)
5There is only one God, and Christ Jesus is the only one who can bring us to God. Jesus was truly human, and he gave himself to rescue all of us.
1 Peter 3:18 (NLT)
18 Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about our need for Jesus to be our bridge to God?
pictures courtesy time4god.com
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
We don't have to wonder if Jesus' death and resurrection will ever collapse when it comes to providing us forgiveness and bringing us safely to God. Jesus is the Bridge to Life - eternal life!
If you have never become a follower of Jesus, you can do so right now by praying to Jesus. Ask Him to forgive you of your sins and ask Him to come into your life. The following prayer may help you know what to say..
Dear Jesus,
I have sinned against God and I know that my sin keeps me from a relationship with you in this life and in the life after death. Thank you for dying on the cross to pay the penalty for my sins and for rising from the dead to prove that you are the Savior. Please forgive me and come into my life to be my Savior. Take over and lead my life. Thank you for restoring my relationship with God. Thank you for your promise to take me to Heaven some day and live with you and all of God's family forever!
Amen.
Note: If have become a follower of Jesus, please email us so that we can encourage you and send you some materials to help you grow in yo