The average age of the Infantryman is 19 years. He is a short haired, tight-muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by society as half man, half boy. Not yet dry behind the ears, not old enough to buy a beer, but old enough to die for his country. He never really cared much for work and he would rather wax his own car than wash his father's; but he has never collected unemployment either.
He's a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student, pursued some form of sport activities, drives a ten year old jalopy, and has a steady girlfriend that either broke up with him when he left, or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away. He listens to rock and roll or hip hop or rap or jazz or swing and 155mm Howitzers. He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk.
He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him, but he can field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less-in the dark. He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either one effectively if he must. He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a professional. He can march until he is told to stop or stop until he is told to march. He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without spirit or individual dignity.
He is self-sufficient. He has two sets of fatigues he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry. He sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle. He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts. If you're thirsty, he'll share his water with you; if you are hungry, his food. He'll even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when you run low. He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons like they were his hands. He can save your life -or take it, because that is his job.
He will often do twice the work of a civilian, draw half the pay and still find ironic humor in it all. He has seen more suffering and death then he should have in his short lifetime. He has stood atop mountains of dead bodies, and helped to create them. He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in combat and is unashamed.
He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to 'square-away' those around him who haven't bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking. In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their right to be disrespectful. Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, he is paying the price for our freedom. Beardless or not, he is not a boy. He is the American Fighting Man that has kept this country free for over 200 years. He has asked nothing in return, except our friendship and understanding. Remember him, always, for he has earned our respect and admiration with his blood.
Michael Mack
An American
Friday, December 31, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
What a Great Song.....My Cup has Overflowed..........
Had this song sent to me today, what a great message................
I've never made a fortune,
It's probably too late now.
Oh, but I don't worry about that much,
'Cause I'm happy anyhow.
As I go along life's journey,
I'm reaping better than I sowed.
I'm drinking from my saucer,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.
Ain't got a lot of riches,
Sometimes the going's rough.
But I've got a friend in Jesus,
And that makes me rich enough.
I thank God for all His Blessings on me,
And the mercy that He's bestowed.
I'm drinking from my saucer,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.
Oh sure, I've been thru some storms,
And yes, I'm sure there were times when my,
Well, my Faith must have got a little thin,
But you know what it seemed like?
One day all at once, those dark clouds broke,
And that old sun, she started shinin' again.
So Lord, help me not to grumble and complain,
About the tough rows I have hoed.
I'm drinking from my saucer,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.
And if I should go on living,
If the way gets steep and rough.
I won't ask for other Blessings,
'Cause I'm already Blessed enough.
May I never be too busy,
To help another bear his load.
And I'll keep drinking from my saucer,Lord,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.
Yes, I'll keep drinkin' from my saucer, Lord,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.
My Cup Has Overflowed.
Copyright © Michael Combs
Michael Combs you have a hit!
Ephesians 3:20
Michael Mack
An American
I've never made a fortune,
It's probably too late now.
Oh, but I don't worry about that much,
'Cause I'm happy anyhow.
As I go along life's journey,
I'm reaping better than I sowed.
I'm drinking from my saucer,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.
Ain't got a lot of riches,
Sometimes the going's rough.
But I've got a friend in Jesus,
And that makes me rich enough.
I thank God for all His Blessings on me,
And the mercy that He's bestowed.
I'm drinking from my saucer,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.
Oh sure, I've been thru some storms,
And yes, I'm sure there were times when my,
Well, my Faith must have got a little thin,
But you know what it seemed like?
One day all at once, those dark clouds broke,
And that old sun, she started shinin' again.
So Lord, help me not to grumble and complain,
About the tough rows I have hoed.
I'm drinking from my saucer,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.
And if I should go on living,
If the way gets steep and rough.
I won't ask for other Blessings,
'Cause I'm already Blessed enough.
May I never be too busy,
To help another bear his load.
And I'll keep drinking from my saucer,Lord,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.
Yes, I'll keep drinkin' from my saucer, Lord,
'Cause my cup has overflowed.
My Cup Has Overflowed.
Copyright © Michael Combs
Michael Combs you have a hit!
Ephesians 3:20
Michael Mack
An American
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Jesus is Lord
It was Dr. James Allan Francis who penned the following words that aptly describe the influence of Jesus through the history of mankind:
"Here is a man who was born in an obscure village, the child of a peasant woman. He grew up in another village. He worked in a carpenter shop until He was thirty. Then for three years He was an itinerant preacher.
"He never owned a home. He never wrote a book. He never held an office. He never had a family. He never went to college. He never put His foot inside a big city. He never traveled two hundred miles from the place He was born. He never did one of the things that usually accompany greatness. He had no credentials but Himself. . . .
"While still a young man, the tide of popular opinion turned against Him. His friends ran away. One of them denied Him. He was turned over to His enemies. He went through the mockery of a trial. He was nailed upon a cross between two thieves. While He was dying His executioners gambled for the only piece of property He had on earth—His coat. When He was dead, He was laid in a borrowed grave through the pity of a friend.
"Nineteen long centuries have come and gone, and today He is a centerpiece of the human race and leader of the column of progress.
"I am far within the mark when I say that all the armies that ever marched, all the navies that were ever built; all the parliaments that ever sat and all the kings that ever reigned, put together, have not affected the life of man upon this earth as powerfully as has that one solitary life."
The late Wilbur Smith, respected Bible scholar of the last generation, once wrote, “The latest edition of the Encyclopedia Britannica gives twenty thousand words to this person, Jesus, and does not even hint that He did not exist—more words, by the way, than are given to Aristotle, Alexander, Cicero, Julius Caesar, or Napoleon Bonaparte.”
George Buttrick, recognized as one of the ten greatest preachers of the twentieth century, wrote: “Jesus gave history a new beginning. In every land he is at home. . . . His birthday is kept across the world. His death-day set a gallows against every skyline.”
Even Napoleon himself admitted, "I know men and I tell you that Jesus Christ was no mere man: between him and whoever else in the world there is no possible term of comparison."
Amen
Michael Mack
An American
"Here is a man who was born in an obscure village, the child of a peasant woman. He grew up in another village. He worked in a carpenter shop until He was thirty. Then for three years He was an itinerant preacher.
"He never owned a home. He never wrote a book. He never held an office. He never had a family. He never went to college. He never put His foot inside a big city. He never traveled two hundred miles from the place He was born. He never did one of the things that usually accompany greatness. He had no credentials but Himself. . . .
"While still a young man, the tide of popular opinion turned against Him. His friends ran away. One of them denied Him. He was turned over to His enemies. He went through the mockery of a trial. He was nailed upon a cross between two thieves. While He was dying His executioners gambled for the only piece of property He had on earth—His coat. When He was dead, He was laid in a borrowed grave through the pity of a friend.
"Nineteen long centuries have come and gone, and today He is a centerpiece of the human race and leader of the column of progress.
"I am far within the mark when I say that all the armies that ever marched, all the navies that were ever built; all the parliaments that ever sat and all the kings that ever reigned, put together, have not affected the life of man upon this earth as powerfully as has that one solitary life."
The late Wilbur Smith, respected Bible scholar of the last generation, once wrote, “The latest edition of the Encyclopedia Britannica gives twenty thousand words to this person, Jesus, and does not even hint that He did not exist—more words, by the way, than are given to Aristotle, Alexander, Cicero, Julius Caesar, or Napoleon Bonaparte.”
George Buttrick, recognized as one of the ten greatest preachers of the twentieth century, wrote: “Jesus gave history a new beginning. In every land he is at home. . . . His birthday is kept across the world. His death-day set a gallows against every skyline.”
Even Napoleon himself admitted, "I know men and I tell you that Jesus Christ was no mere man: between him and whoever else in the world there is no possible term of comparison."
Amen
Michael Mack
An American
Friday, December 24, 2010
The Christmas Story of the Birth of Jesus
This Christmas story gives a biblical account of the events surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ. The Christmas story is paraphrased from the New Testament Books of Matthew and Luke in the Bible.
References:
Matthew 1:18-25; Matthew 2:1-12; Luke 1:26-38; Luke 2:1-20.
The Conception of Jesus Foretold
Mary, a virgin, was living in Galilee of Nazareth and was engaged to be married to Joseph, a Jewish carpenter. An angel visited her and explained to her that she would conceive a son by the power of the Holy Spirit. She would carry and give birth to this child and she would name him Jesus.
At first Mary was afraid and troubled by the angel's words. Being a virgin, Mary questioned the angel, "How will this be?" The angel explained that the child would be God's own Son and, therefore, "nothing is impossible with God." Humbled and in awe, Mary believed the angel of the Lord and rejoiced in God her Savior.
Surely Mary reflected with wonder on the words found in Isaiah 7:14 foretelling this event, "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." (NIV)
The Birth of Jesus:
While Mary was still engaged to Joseph, she miraculously became pregnant through the Holy Spirit, as foretold to her by the angel. When Mary told Joseph she was pregnant, he had every right to feel disgraced. He knew the child was not his own, and Mary's apparent unfaithfulness carried a grave social stigma. Joseph not only had the right to divorce Mary, under Jewish law she could be put to death by stoning.
Although Joseph's initial reaction was to break the engagement, the appropriate thing for a righteous man to do, he treated Mary with extreme kindness. He did not want to cause her further shame, so he decided to act quietly. But God sent an angel to Joseph in a dream to verify Mary's story and reassure him that his marriage to her was God's will. The angel explained that the child within Mary was conceived by the Holy Spirit, that his name would be Jesus and that he was the Messiah, God with us.
When Joseph woke from his dream, he willingly obeyed God and took Mary home to be his wife, in spite of the public humiliation he would face. Perhaps this noble quality is one of the reasons God chose him to be the Messiah's earthly father.
Joseph too must have wondered in awe as he remembered the words found in Isaiah 7:14, "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." (NIV)
At that time, Caesar Augustus decreed that a census be taken, and every person in the entire Roman world had to go to his own town to register. Joseph, being of the line of David, was required to go to Bethlehem to register with Mary. While in Bethlehem, Mary gave birth to Jesus. Probably due to the census, the inn was too crowded, and Mary gave birth in a crude stable. She wrapped the baby in cloths and placed him in a manger.
The Shepherd's Worship the Savior:
Out in the fields, an angel of the Lord appeared to the shepherds who were tending their flocks of sheep by night. The angel announced that the Savior had been born in the town of David. Suddenly a great host of heavenly beings appeared with the angels and began singing praises to God. As the angelic beings departed, the shepherds decided to travel to Bethlehem and see the Christ-child.
There they found Mary, Joseph and the baby, in the stable. After their visit, they began to spread the word about this amazing child and everything the angel had said about him. They went on their way still praising and glorifying God. But Mary kept quiet, treasuring their words and pondering them in her heart. It must have been beyond her ability to grasp, that sleeping in her arms—the tender child she had just borne—was the Savior of the world.
The Magi Bring Gifts:
After Jesus' birth, Herod was king of Judea. At this time wise men (Magi) from the east saw a star, they came in search, knowing the star signified the birth of the king of the Jews. The wise men came to the Jewish rulers in Jerusalem and asked where the Christ was to be born. The rulers explained, "In Bethlehem in Judea," referring to Micah 5:2. Herod secretly met with the Magi and asked them to report back after they had found the child. Herod told the Magi that he too wanted to go and worship the babe. But secretly Herod was plotting to kill the child.
So the wise men continued to follow the star in search of the new born king and found Jesus with his mother in Bethlehem. (Most likely Jesus was already two years of age by this time.) They bowed and worshipped him, offering treasures of gold, incense and myrrh. When they left, they did not return to Herod. They had been warned in a dream of his plot to destroy the child.
The Christmas Story of the Birth of Jesus
By Mary Fairchild, About.com Guide
Merry Christmas to All
Michael Mack
An American
References:
Matthew 1:18-25; Matthew 2:1-12; Luke 1:26-38; Luke 2:1-20.
The Conception of Jesus Foretold
Mary, a virgin, was living in Galilee of Nazareth and was engaged to be married to Joseph, a Jewish carpenter. An angel visited her and explained to her that she would conceive a son by the power of the Holy Spirit. She would carry and give birth to this child and she would name him Jesus.
At first Mary was afraid and troubled by the angel's words. Being a virgin, Mary questioned the angel, "How will this be?" The angel explained that the child would be God's own Son and, therefore, "nothing is impossible with God." Humbled and in awe, Mary believed the angel of the Lord and rejoiced in God her Savior.
Surely Mary reflected with wonder on the words found in Isaiah 7:14 foretelling this event, "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." (NIV)
The Birth of Jesus:
While Mary was still engaged to Joseph, she miraculously became pregnant through the Holy Spirit, as foretold to her by the angel. When Mary told Joseph she was pregnant, he had every right to feel disgraced. He knew the child was not his own, and Mary's apparent unfaithfulness carried a grave social stigma. Joseph not only had the right to divorce Mary, under Jewish law she could be put to death by stoning.
Although Joseph's initial reaction was to break the engagement, the appropriate thing for a righteous man to do, he treated Mary with extreme kindness. He did not want to cause her further shame, so he decided to act quietly. But God sent an angel to Joseph in a dream to verify Mary's story and reassure him that his marriage to her was God's will. The angel explained that the child within Mary was conceived by the Holy Spirit, that his name would be Jesus and that he was the Messiah, God with us.
When Joseph woke from his dream, he willingly obeyed God and took Mary home to be his wife, in spite of the public humiliation he would face. Perhaps this noble quality is one of the reasons God chose him to be the Messiah's earthly father.
Joseph too must have wondered in awe as he remembered the words found in Isaiah 7:14, "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." (NIV)
At that time, Caesar Augustus decreed that a census be taken, and every person in the entire Roman world had to go to his own town to register. Joseph, being of the line of David, was required to go to Bethlehem to register with Mary. While in Bethlehem, Mary gave birth to Jesus. Probably due to the census, the inn was too crowded, and Mary gave birth in a crude stable. She wrapped the baby in cloths and placed him in a manger.
The Shepherd's Worship the Savior:
Out in the fields, an angel of the Lord appeared to the shepherds who were tending their flocks of sheep by night. The angel announced that the Savior had been born in the town of David. Suddenly a great host of heavenly beings appeared with the angels and began singing praises to God. As the angelic beings departed, the shepherds decided to travel to Bethlehem and see the Christ-child.
There they found Mary, Joseph and the baby, in the stable. After their visit, they began to spread the word about this amazing child and everything the angel had said about him. They went on their way still praising and glorifying God. But Mary kept quiet, treasuring their words and pondering them in her heart. It must have been beyond her ability to grasp, that sleeping in her arms—the tender child she had just borne—was the Savior of the world.
The Magi Bring Gifts:
After Jesus' birth, Herod was king of Judea. At this time wise men (Magi) from the east saw a star, they came in search, knowing the star signified the birth of the king of the Jews. The wise men came to the Jewish rulers in Jerusalem and asked where the Christ was to be born. The rulers explained, "In Bethlehem in Judea," referring to Micah 5:2. Herod secretly met with the Magi and asked them to report back after they had found the child. Herod told the Magi that he too wanted to go and worship the babe. But secretly Herod was plotting to kill the child.
So the wise men continued to follow the star in search of the new born king and found Jesus with his mother in Bethlehem. (Most likely Jesus was already two years of age by this time.) They bowed and worshipped him, offering treasures of gold, incense and myrrh. When they left, they did not return to Herod. They had been warned in a dream of his plot to destroy the child.
The Christmas Story of the Birth of Jesus
By Mary Fairchild, About.com Guide
Merry Christmas to All
Michael Mack
An American
Thursday, December 23, 2010
The Christmas Guest
It happened one day at the year's white end,
Two neighbors called on an old-time friend
And they found his shop so meager and mean,
Made gay with a thousand boughs of green,
And Conrad was sitting with face a-shine
When he suddenly stopped as he stitched a twine
And said, "Old friends, at dawn today,
When the cock was crowing the night away,
The Lord appeared in a dream to me
And said, 'I am coming your guest to be'.
So I've been busy with feet astir,
Strewing my shop with branches of fir,
The table is spread and the kettle is shined
And over the rafters the holly is twined,
And now I will wait for my Lord to appear
And listen closely so I will hear
His step as He nears my humble place,
And I open the door and look in His face. . ."
So his friends went home and left Conrad alone,
For this was the happiest day he had known,
For, long since, his family had passed away
And Conrad has spent a sad Christmas Day.
But he knew with the Lord as his Christmas guest
This Christmas would be the dearest and best,
And he listened with only joy in his heart.
And with every sound he would rise with a start
And look for the Lord to be standing there
In answer to his earnest prayer
So he ran to the window after hearing a sound,
But all that he saw on the snow-covered ground
Was a shabby beggar whose shoes were torn
And all of his clothes were ragged and worn.
So Conrad was touched and went to the door
And he said, "Your feet must be frozen and sore,
And I have some shoes in my shop for you
And a coat that will keep you warmer, too."
So with grateful heart the man went away,
But as Conrad noticed the time of day
He wondered what made the dear Lord so late
And how much longer he'd have to wait,
When he heard a knock and ran to the door,
But it was only a stranger once more,
A bent, old crone with a shawl of black,
A bundle of faggots piled on her back.
She asked for only a place to rest,
But that was reserved for Conrad's Great Guest.
But her voice seemed to plead, "Don't send me away
Let me rest awhile on Christmas day."
So Conrad brewed her a steaming cup
And told her to sit at the table and sip.
But after she left he was filled with dismay
For he saw that the hours were passing away
And the Lord had not come as He said He would,
And Conrad felt sure he had misunderstood.
When out of the stillness he heard a cry,
"Please help me and tell me where am I."
So again he opened his friendly door
And stood disappointed as twice before,
It was only a child who had wandered away
And was lost from her family on Christmas Day. .
Again Conrad's heart was heavy and sad,
But he knew he should make this little child glad,
So he called her in and wiped her tears
And quieted her childish fears.
Then he led her back to her home once more
But as he entered his own darkened door,
He knew that the Lord was not coming today
For the hours of Christmas had passed away.
So he went to his room and knelt down to pray
And he said, "Dear Lord, why did you delay,
What kept You from coming to call on me,
For I wanted so much Your face to see. . ."
When soft in the silence a voice he heard,
"Lift up your head for I kept My word--
Three times My shadow crossed your floor--
Three times I came to your lonely door--
For I was the beggar with bruised, cold feet,
I was the woman you gave to eat,
And I was the child on the homeless street."
Helen Steiner Rice
Merry Christmas
Michael Mack
An American
Two neighbors called on an old-time friend
And they found his shop so meager and mean,
Made gay with a thousand boughs of green,
And Conrad was sitting with face a-shine
When he suddenly stopped as he stitched a twine
And said, "Old friends, at dawn today,
When the cock was crowing the night away,
The Lord appeared in a dream to me
And said, 'I am coming your guest to be'.
So I've been busy with feet astir,
Strewing my shop with branches of fir,
The table is spread and the kettle is shined
And over the rafters the holly is twined,
And now I will wait for my Lord to appear
And listen closely so I will hear
His step as He nears my humble place,
And I open the door and look in His face. . ."
So his friends went home and left Conrad alone,
For this was the happiest day he had known,
For, long since, his family had passed away
And Conrad has spent a sad Christmas Day.
But he knew with the Lord as his Christmas guest
This Christmas would be the dearest and best,
And he listened with only joy in his heart.
And with every sound he would rise with a start
And look for the Lord to be standing there
In answer to his earnest prayer
So he ran to the window after hearing a sound,
But all that he saw on the snow-covered ground
Was a shabby beggar whose shoes were torn
And all of his clothes were ragged and worn.
So Conrad was touched and went to the door
And he said, "Your feet must be frozen and sore,
And I have some shoes in my shop for you
And a coat that will keep you warmer, too."
So with grateful heart the man went away,
But as Conrad noticed the time of day
He wondered what made the dear Lord so late
And how much longer he'd have to wait,
When he heard a knock and ran to the door,
But it was only a stranger once more,
A bent, old crone with a shawl of black,
A bundle of faggots piled on her back.
She asked for only a place to rest,
But that was reserved for Conrad's Great Guest.
But her voice seemed to plead, "Don't send me away
Let me rest awhile on Christmas day."
So Conrad brewed her a steaming cup
And told her to sit at the table and sip.
But after she left he was filled with dismay
For he saw that the hours were passing away
And the Lord had not come as He said He would,
And Conrad felt sure he had misunderstood.
When out of the stillness he heard a cry,
"Please help me and tell me where am I."
So again he opened his friendly door
And stood disappointed as twice before,
It was only a child who had wandered away
And was lost from her family on Christmas Day. .
Again Conrad's heart was heavy and sad,
But he knew he should make this little child glad,
So he called her in and wiped her tears
And quieted her childish fears.
Then he led her back to her home once more
But as he entered his own darkened door,
He knew that the Lord was not coming today
For the hours of Christmas had passed away.
So he went to his room and knelt down to pray
And he said, "Dear Lord, why did you delay,
What kept You from coming to call on me,
For I wanted so much Your face to see. . ."
When soft in the silence a voice he heard,
"Lift up your head for I kept My word--
Three times My shadow crossed your floor--
Three times I came to your lonely door--
For I was the beggar with bruised, cold feet,
I was the woman you gave to eat,
And I was the child on the homeless street."
Helen Steiner Rice
Merry Christmas
Michael Mack
An American
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Being Thankful
As many of us take time to be reflective during this Thanksgiving Holiday I gathered some quotes that reflect this mood.
I am thankful for the grace of God, without it I could not exist and would have no hope.
I am grateful to my family who continue to believe in me.
I am grateful my son-n-law returned from Afghanistan.
I am grateful for my son-n-law who will soon finish his MBA.
I am grateful for my church and brothers and sisters in Christ.
I am grateful for my wife.
I am grateful fro My beautiful daughters who are just as pretty on the inside as they are on the outside.
I am thankful for my grandchildren who are working on being just as pretty and handsome on the inside as they are on the outside.
I am thankful for my brothers.
I am thankful for forgiveness.
I am thankful for my Country and the constitution we live by.
I am thankful I live in a Country where we can peacefully vote out people who by their actions show they do not believe in our constitution or American exceptional-ism.
I am thankful for the American soldier that protects me because he wants to and he does not even know me, but he loves the American way of Life, and will die if called upon.
I am thankful for the Trials in Life that teach me to depend on God and him only.
I am thankful for the blessings God has given me in the past and I am thankful for the blessings he has prepared for me in the future.
I am thankful I choose to be in Gratitude everyday.
Being Thankful Thoughts
" The past does not equal the future" Anthony Robbins
"Feeling grateful or appreciative of someone or something in your life actually attracts more of the things that you appreciate and value into your life."
- Northrup Christiane
"If the only prayer you ever say in your life is thank you, it will be enough." - Meister Eckhart
"To receive more you must first be thankful for what you already have. Thanksgiving opens the doors for good ideas to flow, while cynicism blocks the door of good ideas." - Jim Rohn
"Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful." - Buddha
"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, and confusion into clarity.... It turns problems into gifts, failures into success, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow."
- Melodie Beattie
"Gratitude is merely the secret hope of further favors." - Francois De La Rochefoucauld
"Appreciation can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it into words is all that is necessary." - Margaret Cousins
"Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation." -Brian Tracy
"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." -John Fitzgerald Kennedy
"God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say thank you?" -William A. Ward
"In all things, give thanks." -Holy Bible
"For today and its blessings, I owe the world an attitude of gratitude."
-Clarence E. Hodges
"A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all other virtues." -Cicero
"Sometimes we need to remind ourselves that thankfulness is indeed virtue." -William J. Bennett
"A grateful mind is a great mind which eventually attracts to itself great things." -Plato
"Whatever we are waiting for -- peace of mind, contentment, grace, the inner awareness of simple abundance-- it will surely come to us, but only when we are ready to receive it with an open and grateful heart." -Sarah Ban Breathnach
"At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us." -Albert Schweitzer
"Many successful men and women claim they are "self-made." But the fact is that no one reaches the pinnacle without help. Once you have set your definite major goal for success-and taken your first steps to achieve it-you find yourself receiving help from many unexpected quarters. You must be prepared to give thanks..."
- Napoleon Hill
"What we think about and THANK about is what we bring about..." The Secret
"What can you do right now to turn your life around?? Gratitude" The Secret
"It's not what's happening to you now or what has happened in your past that determines who you become. Rather, it's your decisions about what to focus on, what things mean to you, and what you're going to do about them that will determine your ultimate destiny." Anthony Robbins
"Everything you do matters" Andy Andrews
"one of the hardest things to do is to learn to receive" Michael Mack
Michael Mack
A Grateful American
I am thankful for the grace of God, without it I could not exist and would have no hope.
I am grateful to my family who continue to believe in me.
I am grateful my son-n-law returned from Afghanistan.
I am grateful for my son-n-law who will soon finish his MBA.
I am grateful for my church and brothers and sisters in Christ.
I am grateful for my wife.
I am grateful fro My beautiful daughters who are just as pretty on the inside as they are on the outside.
I am thankful for my grandchildren who are working on being just as pretty and handsome on the inside as they are on the outside.
I am thankful for my brothers.
I am thankful for forgiveness.
I am thankful for my Country and the constitution we live by.
I am thankful I live in a Country where we can peacefully vote out people who by their actions show they do not believe in our constitution or American exceptional-ism.
I am thankful for the American soldier that protects me because he wants to and he does not even know me, but he loves the American way of Life, and will die if called upon.
I am thankful for the Trials in Life that teach me to depend on God and him only.
I am thankful for the blessings God has given me in the past and I am thankful for the blessings he has prepared for me in the future.
I am thankful I choose to be in Gratitude everyday.
Being Thankful Thoughts
" The past does not equal the future" Anthony Robbins
"Feeling grateful or appreciative of someone or something in your life actually attracts more of the things that you appreciate and value into your life."
- Northrup Christiane
"If the only prayer you ever say in your life is thank you, it will be enough." - Meister Eckhart
"To receive more you must first be thankful for what you already have. Thanksgiving opens the doors for good ideas to flow, while cynicism blocks the door of good ideas." - Jim Rohn
"Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn't learn a little, at least we didn't get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn't die; so, let us all be thankful." - Buddha
"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, and confusion into clarity.... It turns problems into gifts, failures into success, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow."
- Melodie Beattie
"Gratitude is merely the secret hope of further favors." - Francois De La Rochefoucauld
"Appreciation can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it into words is all that is necessary." - Margaret Cousins
"Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation." -Brian Tracy
"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." -John Fitzgerald Kennedy
"God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say thank you?" -William A. Ward
"In all things, give thanks." -Holy Bible
"For today and its blessings, I owe the world an attitude of gratitude."
-Clarence E. Hodges
"A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all other virtues." -Cicero
"Sometimes we need to remind ourselves that thankfulness is indeed virtue." -William J. Bennett
"A grateful mind is a great mind which eventually attracts to itself great things." -Plato
"Whatever we are waiting for -- peace of mind, contentment, grace, the inner awareness of simple abundance-- it will surely come to us, but only when we are ready to receive it with an open and grateful heart." -Sarah Ban Breathnach
"At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us." -Albert Schweitzer
"Many successful men and women claim they are "self-made." But the fact is that no one reaches the pinnacle without help. Once you have set your definite major goal for success-and taken your first steps to achieve it-you find yourself receiving help from many unexpected quarters. You must be prepared to give thanks..."
- Napoleon Hill
"What we think about and THANK about is what we bring about..." The Secret
"What can you do right now to turn your life around?? Gratitude" The Secret
"It's not what's happening to you now or what has happened in your past that determines who you become. Rather, it's your decisions about what to focus on, what things mean to you, and what you're going to do about them that will determine your ultimate destiny." Anthony Robbins
"Everything you do matters" Andy Andrews
"one of the hardest things to do is to learn to receive" Michael Mack
Michael Mack
A Grateful American
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Some Lessons In Life to Live by
An Angel says, 'Never borrow from the future. If you worry about what may happen tomorrow and it doesn't happen, you have worried in vain. Even if it does happen, you have to worry twice.'
1. Pray
2. Go to bed on time.
3. Get up on time so you can start the day unrushed.
4. Say No to projects that won't fit into your time schedule, or that will compromise your mental health.
5. Delegate tasks to capable others.
6. Simplify and unclutter your life.
7. Less is more. (Although one is often not enough, two are often too many.)
8. Allow extra time to do things and to get to places.
9. Pace yourself. Spread out big changes and difficult projects over time; don't lump the hard things all together.
10. Take one day at a time.
11. Separate worries from concerns. If a situation is a concern, find out what God would have you do and let go of the anxiety. If you can't do anything about a situation, forget it.
12. Live within your budget; don't use credit cards for ordinary purchases.
13.. Have backups; an extra car key in your wallet, an extra house key buried in the garden, extra stamps, etc.
14. K.M.S. (Keep Mouth Shut). This single piece of advice can prevent an enormous amount of trouble.
15. Do something for the Kid in You everyday.
16. Carry a spiritually enlightening book with you to read while waiting in line.
17. Get enough rest.
18. Eat right.
19. Get organized so everything has its place.
20.. Listen to a tape while driving that can help improve your quality of life..
21. Write down thoughts and inspirations.
22. Every day, find time to be alone.
23. Having problems? Talk to God on the spot. Try to nip small problems in the bud. Don't wait until it's time to go to bed to try and pray.
24. Make friends with Godly people.
25.. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures on hand.
26. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a good 'Thank you Jesus .'
27. Laugh.
28. Laugh some more!
29. Take your work seriously, but not yourself at all.
30. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can).
31.. Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most).
32. Sit on your ego.
33. Talk less; listen more.
34. Slow down.
35. Remind yourself that you are not the general manager of the universe.
36. Every night before bed, think of one thing you're grateful for that you've never been grateful for before. GOD HAS A WAY OF TURNING THINGS AROUND FOR YOU.
'If God is for us, who can be against us?'
(Romans 8:31)
Michael Mack
An American
1. Pray
2. Go to bed on time.
3. Get up on time so you can start the day unrushed.
4. Say No to projects that won't fit into your time schedule, or that will compromise your mental health.
5. Delegate tasks to capable others.
6. Simplify and unclutter your life.
7. Less is more. (Although one is often not enough, two are often too many.)
8. Allow extra time to do things and to get to places.
9. Pace yourself. Spread out big changes and difficult projects over time; don't lump the hard things all together.
10. Take one day at a time.
11. Separate worries from concerns. If a situation is a concern, find out what God would have you do and let go of the anxiety. If you can't do anything about a situation, forget it.
12. Live within your budget; don't use credit cards for ordinary purchases.
13.. Have backups; an extra car key in your wallet, an extra house key buried in the garden, extra stamps, etc.
14. K.M.S. (Keep Mouth Shut). This single piece of advice can prevent an enormous amount of trouble.
15. Do something for the Kid in You everyday.
16. Carry a spiritually enlightening book with you to read while waiting in line.
17. Get enough rest.
18. Eat right.
19. Get organized so everything has its place.
20.. Listen to a tape while driving that can help improve your quality of life..
21. Write down thoughts and inspirations.
22. Every day, find time to be alone.
23. Having problems? Talk to God on the spot. Try to nip small problems in the bud. Don't wait until it's time to go to bed to try and pray.
24. Make friends with Godly people.
25.. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures on hand.
26. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a good 'Thank you Jesus .'
27. Laugh.
28. Laugh some more!
29. Take your work seriously, but not yourself at all.
30. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can).
31.. Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most).
32. Sit on your ego.
33. Talk less; listen more.
34. Slow down.
35. Remind yourself that you are not the general manager of the universe.
36. Every night before bed, think of one thing you're grateful for that you've never been grateful for before. GOD HAS A WAY OF TURNING THINGS AROUND FOR YOU.
'If God is for us, who can be against us?'
(Romans 8:31)
Michael Mack
An American
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Do You Qualify as a True American?
I Think You Qualify
TRUE AMERICAN
It is time to change from REDNECK humor to TRUE AMERICAN Humor!
Only it isn't seen as HUMOR, but the correct way to LIVE YOUR LIFE!
If you feel the same, pass this on to your True American friends.
Y'all know who they are...
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
It never occurred to you to be offended by the phrase, 'One nation, under God.'
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You've never protested about seeing the 10 Commandments posted in public places.
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You still say 'Christmas' instead of 'Winter Festival.'
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You bow your head when someone prays.
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You stand and place your hand over your heart when they play the National Anthem.
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You treat Viet Nam vets with great respect, and always have.
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You've never burned an American flag.
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You know what you believe and you aren't afraid to say so, no matter who is listening..
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You respect your elders and expect your kids to do the same.
God Bless the U S A ! Amen
AND YOU ARE A TRUE AMERICAN, IF YOU THINK THE NATIONAL ANTHEM SHOULD ONLY BE SUNG
IN ENGLISH!
Michael Mack
An American
TRUE AMERICAN
It is time to change from REDNECK humor to TRUE AMERICAN Humor!
Only it isn't seen as HUMOR, but the correct way to LIVE YOUR LIFE!
If you feel the same, pass this on to your True American friends.
Y'all know who they are...
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
It never occurred to you to be offended by the phrase, 'One nation, under God.'
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You've never protested about seeing the 10 Commandments posted in public places.
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You still say 'Christmas' instead of 'Winter Festival.'
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You bow your head when someone prays.
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You stand and place your hand over your heart when they play the National Anthem.
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You treat Viet Nam vets with great respect, and always have.
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You've never burned an American flag.
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You know what you believe and you aren't afraid to say so, no matter who is listening..
You might be a TRUE AMERICAN if:
You respect your elders and expect your kids to do the same.
God Bless the U S A ! Amen
AND YOU ARE A TRUE AMERICAN, IF YOU THINK THE NATIONAL ANTHEM SHOULD ONLY BE SUNG
IN ENGLISH!
Michael Mack
An American
Thursday, November 18, 2010
The Return of Many Hero's
On Sunday my family and I had the opportunity to attend the welcome home ceremony for part of the 3rd Infantry Division at Hunter Army Air Field in Georgia. The unit left November 14th, 2009 and returned on Sunday. The Flight for the Freedom Fighters was delayed from Friday to Saturday and Finally arrived on Sunday. We went there for one Freedom Fighter in particular., a Captain of the 3rd Infantry Division, Warlords Attack Helicopter Company. What an emotional Roller Coaster. The emotions were running high all week as the days were counted down and the delays mounted by the day, by the hour, by the minute. We finally arrived at the air field to see the veterans and USO Volunteers, and workers planning for the arrival. Announcements were made, telling you what was happening with them, where they were going to march in, what we were suppose to do, etc. There were friends who had supported the families there, whose fathers, mothers, brothers, sons, who were still deployed but were only there for support. Old acquaintances from wars past were rekindled, memories and stories swapped like bees goin from flower to flower. An old veteran and I swapped stories of being spat on when we returned from VietNam by War protesters. No Fan fair, no thank you other than from immediate family.
I remembered my own journey to and from Vietnam in 1971 and 1972, a much different atmosphere today more than 38 years ago. Leaving my mother crying on the front porch after an emotional good bye; "Michael come back!" Back then you came home one at a time when your time was up or in a flagged draped casket which ever came first, there were some 58,236 killed in Viet-Nam who never made that trip home. I was one of the lucky ones!
Operation Enduring Freedom has had 1396 US Casualties, and in Operation Iraqi Freedom 4427 US Casualties.
As I sat there listening to the Patriotic songs, God Bless the USA, Brought to you Courtesy of the Red White and Blue, The Green Beret song, The National Anthem: I remembered my own friends who never made it back, I remembered some of Travis's classmates from West Point who gave it all for all, I remembered the soldiers from the most recent conflicts who have come home with one less arm, leg, eye, hand, or in some cases quadriplegic, and the concerts that I have been to raise money for homes they could live in that were specialty built for their needs.
I saw Mother and Fathers crying with tears of joy.
I saw little boys and girls crying because their daddy was not there.
Then they opened the doors of the Hanger and the formation of our Hero's came marching in: The pride, the chills and goose bumps, the tears began flowing with joy, gratitude and happiness. Everyone got their hugs in the proper order Wife, Mom, then dad.......then the rest....no particular order after that...
I am a member of The Patriot Guard, a motorcycle group which began to protect families of returning hero's who had made the ultimate sacrifice, to keep protesters away from the funeral. I remember one funeral I went to and rode and stood the line, did not know who he was, did not know his family, did know anything about him other than he gave his life for this country and all that live here. In a small Middle Tn town the widow was 23, no children, much the same age of my daughter. Although the ride from the funeral home to the cemetery was only 2 miles there was not a space along the street where a person was not standing holding an American flag paying their respects.
The now widow was escorted to the funeral by an officer, As the American flag was carefully folded by members of the Honor Guard, hundreds sat in silent reverence of a hero laid to rest, an Army Colonel in Dress Blues told the widow your husband served your country and your community well. He fought the good fight, his job is done. We are in awe of his courage, steadfast loyalty and dedication. We thank him for exchanging all of your tomorrows as the price for our Freedom. May your family’s pain be eased by the pride they have in you. They will remain in my prayers and you will always be a Hero to me.
All gave some and some gave all.
We enjoyed the ceremony and the joyful reunion of family and friends.
Welcome Home Travis
Michael Mack
An American
I remembered my own journey to and from Vietnam in 1971 and 1972, a much different atmosphere today more than 38 years ago. Leaving my mother crying on the front porch after an emotional good bye; "Michael come back!" Back then you came home one at a time when your time was up or in a flagged draped casket which ever came first, there were some 58,236 killed in Viet-Nam who never made that trip home. I was one of the lucky ones!
Operation Enduring Freedom has had 1396 US Casualties, and in Operation Iraqi Freedom 4427 US Casualties.
As I sat there listening to the Patriotic songs, God Bless the USA, Brought to you Courtesy of the Red White and Blue, The Green Beret song, The National Anthem: I remembered my own friends who never made it back, I remembered some of Travis's classmates from West Point who gave it all for all, I remembered the soldiers from the most recent conflicts who have come home with one less arm, leg, eye, hand, or in some cases quadriplegic, and the concerts that I have been to raise money for homes they could live in that were specialty built for their needs.
I saw Mother and Fathers crying with tears of joy.
I saw little boys and girls crying because their daddy was not there.
Then they opened the doors of the Hanger and the formation of our Hero's came marching in: The pride, the chills and goose bumps, the tears began flowing with joy, gratitude and happiness. Everyone got their hugs in the proper order Wife, Mom, then dad.......then the rest....no particular order after that...
I am a member of The Patriot Guard, a motorcycle group which began to protect families of returning hero's who had made the ultimate sacrifice, to keep protesters away from the funeral. I remember one funeral I went to and rode and stood the line, did not know who he was, did not know his family, did know anything about him other than he gave his life for this country and all that live here. In a small Middle Tn town the widow was 23, no children, much the same age of my daughter. Although the ride from the funeral home to the cemetery was only 2 miles there was not a space along the street where a person was not standing holding an American flag paying their respects.
The now widow was escorted to the funeral by an officer, As the American flag was carefully folded by members of the Honor Guard, hundreds sat in silent reverence of a hero laid to rest, an Army Colonel in Dress Blues told the widow your husband served your country and your community well. He fought the good fight, his job is done. We are in awe of his courage, steadfast loyalty and dedication. We thank him for exchanging all of your tomorrows as the price for our Freedom. May your family’s pain be eased by the pride they have in you. They will remain in my prayers and you will always be a Hero to me.
All gave some and some gave all.
We enjoyed the ceremony and the joyful reunion of family and friends.
Welcome Home Travis
Michael Mack
An American
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
What is your Perspective?
Perspective-the state of one's ideas
I Thessalonians 5: 16Be joyful always; 17pray continually; 18give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
What is going on your life? How do you look at things today?
Do you get out of bed thinking this is going to be a bad day? Or do you thank God you have the ability to get out of bed.
Do you complain about putting on your shoes? What about the man that has no feet?
Do you complain about the food you eat? What about the thousands that have no food?
Do you complain about the house you live in? What about the people who have no bed?
Lord everything that I need — physically, spiritually and emotionally — today. Help me to trust in You!
God doesn’t give us grace for a year at a time or even a month at a time. No, every twenty-four hours God has a fresh new supply of grace, favor, wisdom and forgiveness. How are you going to make it through the seasons of your life?
One day at a time.
Look for His grace today. Look for His provision today. Look for His hand of favor and blessing today because He promises to supply everything you need for today.
Colossians 3 15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Michael Mack
An American
I Thessalonians 5: 16Be joyful always; 17pray continually; 18give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
What is going on your life? How do you look at things today?
Do you get out of bed thinking this is going to be a bad day? Or do you thank God you have the ability to get out of bed.
Do you complain about putting on your shoes? What about the man that has no feet?
Do you complain about the food you eat? What about the thousands that have no food?
Do you complain about the house you live in? What about the people who have no bed?
Lord everything that I need — physically, spiritually and emotionally — today. Help me to trust in You!
God doesn’t give us grace for a year at a time or even a month at a time. No, every twenty-four hours God has a fresh new supply of grace, favor, wisdom and forgiveness. How are you going to make it through the seasons of your life?
One day at a time.
Look for His grace today. Look for His provision today. Look for His hand of favor and blessing today because He promises to supply everything you need for today.
Colossians 3 15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Michael Mack
An American
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Realizing Value
Never look down on anybody, unless you're helping them up!
To realize
The value of a sister or brother
Ask someone
Who doesn't have one.
To realize
The value of ten years:
Ask a newly
Divorced couple.
To realize
The value of four years:
Ask a graduate.
To realize
The value of one year:
Ask a student who
Has failed a final exam.
To realize
The value of nine months:
Ask a mother who has given birth to a stillborn.
To realize
The value of one month:
Ask a mother
Who has given birth to a premature baby..
To realize
The value of one week:
Ask an editor of a weekly newspaper.
To realize
The value of one minute:
Ask a person
Who has missed the train, bus or plane.
To realize
The value of one-second:
Ask a person
Who has survived an accident.
Time waits for no one.
Treasure every moment you have.
You will treasure it even more when
You can share it with someone special.
To realize the value of a friend or family member:
LOSE ONE.
The origin of this letter is unknown,
But it brings good luck to everyone who passes it on.
Remember....
Hold on tight to the ones you love!
To realize
The value of a sister or brother
Ask someone
Who doesn't have one.
To realize
The value of ten years:
Ask a newly
Divorced couple.
To realize
The value of four years:
Ask a graduate.
To realize
The value of one year:
Ask a student who
Has failed a final exam.
To realize
The value of nine months:
Ask a mother who has given birth to a stillborn.
To realize
The value of one month:
Ask a mother
Who has given birth to a premature baby..
To realize
The value of one week:
Ask an editor of a weekly newspaper.
To realize
The value of one minute:
Ask a person
Who has missed the train, bus or plane.
To realize
The value of one-second:
Ask a person
Who has survived an accident.
Time waits for no one.
Treasure every moment you have.
You will treasure it even more when
You can share it with someone special.
To realize the value of a friend or family member:
LOSE ONE.
The origin of this letter is unknown,
But it brings good luck to everyone who passes it on.
Remember....
Hold on tight to the ones you love!
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Positive Thoughts Will Make You Successful
Positive thinking is actually very simple, here are a few ways you can get started...and have a positive impact on all areas of your life:
* If you find yourself thinking a negative thought, change it to a positive thought.
* Surround your life with positive people, don't allow negativity into your life.
* Spend your time on activities that bring you happiness.
* Invoke positive memories whenever you can.
* Cherish the simple pleasures in your life.
* Be around people that make you laugh.
* Love yourself.
* Serve others by volunteering your time to those less fortunate.
A positive mind anticipates happiness, joy, health and a successful outcome of every situation and action. Whatever the mind expects, it finds.
Negative thoughts, words and attitude bring up negative and unhappy moods and actions. When the mind is negative, poisons are released into the blood, which cause more unhappiness and negativity. This is the way to failure, frustration and disappointment.
Hebrews 13
5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,
"Never will I leave you;
never will I forsake you."
6 So we say with confidence,
"The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.
What can human beings do to me?"
Michael Mack
An American
* If you find yourself thinking a negative thought, change it to a positive thought.
* Surround your life with positive people, don't allow negativity into your life.
* Spend your time on activities that bring you happiness.
* Invoke positive memories whenever you can.
* Cherish the simple pleasures in your life.
* Be around people that make you laugh.
* Love yourself.
* Serve others by volunteering your time to those less fortunate.
A positive mind anticipates happiness, joy, health and a successful outcome of every situation and action. Whatever the mind expects, it finds.
Negative thoughts, words and attitude bring up negative and unhappy moods and actions. When the mind is negative, poisons are released into the blood, which cause more unhappiness and negativity. This is the way to failure, frustration and disappointment.
Hebrews 13
5 Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,
"Never will I leave you;
never will I forsake you."
6 So we say with confidence,
"The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.
What can human beings do to me?"
Michael Mack
An American
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Islam is the Biggest Religious Threat in the World Today!
Adapted from Dr. Peter Hammond's book: Slavery, Terrorism and Islam:
· The Historical Roots and Contemporary Threat
Islam is not a religion, nor is it a cult. In its fullest form, it is a complete, total, 100% system of life.
Islam has religious, legal, political, economic, social, and military components. The religious component is a beard for all of the other components.
Islamization begins when there are sufficient Muslims in a country to agitate for their religious privileges.
When politically correct, tolerant, and culturally diverse societies agree to Muslim demands for their religious privileges, some of the other components tend to creep in as well.
Here's how it works:
As long as the Muslim population remains around or under 2% in any given country, they will be for the most part be regarded as a peace-loving minority, and not as a threat to other citizens. This is the case in:
United States à Muslim 0.6%
Australia à Muslim 1.5%
Canada à Muslim 1.9%
China à Muslim 1.8%
Italy à Muslim 1.5%
Norway à Muslim 1.8%
At 2% to 5%, they begin to proselytize from other ethnic minorities and disaffected groups, often with major recruiting from the jails and among street gangs. This is happening in:
Denmark à Muslim 2%
Germany à Muslim 3.7%
United Kingdom à Muslim 2.7%
Spain à Muslim 4%
Thailand à Muslim 4.6%
From 5% on, they exercise an inordinate influence in proportion to their percentage of the population. For example, they will push for the introduction of halal (clean by Islamic standards) food, thereby securing food preparation jobs for Muslims. They will increase pressure on supermarket chains to feature halal on their shelves -- along with threats for failure to comply. This is occurring in:
France à Muslim 8%
Philippines à 5%
Sweden à Muslim 5%
Switzerland à Muslim 4.3%
The Netherlands à Muslim 5.5%
Trinidad & Tobago à Muslim 5.8%
At this point, they will work to get the ruling government to allow them to rule themselves (within their ghettos) under Sharia, the Islamic Law. The ultimate goal of Islamists is to establish Sharia law over the entire world.
When Muslims approach 10% of the population, they tend to increase lawlessness as a means of complaint about their conditions. In Paris, we are already seeing car-burnings. Any non-Muslim action offends Islam and results in uprisings and threats, such as in Amsterdam, with opposition to Mohammed cartoons and films about Islam. Such tensions are seen
daily, particularly in Muslim sections in:
Guyana à Muslim 10%
India à Muslim 13.4%
Israel à Muslim 16%
Kenya à Muslim 10%
Russia à Muslim 15%
After reaching 20%, nations can expect hair-trigger rioting, jihad
militia formations, sporadic killings, and the burnings of Christian
churches and Jewish synagogues, such as in:
Ethiopia à Muslim 32.8%
At 40%, nations experience widespread massacres, chronic terror attacks,
and ongoing militia warfare, such as in:
Bosnia à Muslim 40%
Chad à Muslim 53.1%
Lebanon à Muslim 59.7%
From 60%, nations experience unfettered persecution of non-believers of all other religions (including non-conforming Muslims), sporadic ethnic cleansing (genocide), use of Sharia Law as a weapon, and Jizya, the tax placed on infidels, such as in:
Albania à Muslim 70%
Malaysia à Muslim 60.4%
Qatar à Muslim 77.5%
Sudan à Muslim 70%
After 80%, expect daily intimidation and violent jihad, some State-run
ethnic cleansing, and even some genocide, as these nations drive out the
infidels, and move toward 100% Muslim, such as has been experienced and
in some ways is on-going in:
Bangladesh à Muslim 83%
Egypt à Muslim 90%
Gaza à Muslim 98.7%
Indonesia à Muslim 86.1%
Iran à Muslim 98%
Iraq à Muslim 97%
Jordan à Muslim 92%
Morocco à Muslim 98.7%
Pakistan à Muslim 97%
Palestine à Muslim 99%
Syria à Muslim 90%
Tajikistan à Muslim 90%
Turkey à Muslim 99.8%
United Arab Emirates à Muslim 96%
100% will usher in the peace of 'Dar-es-Salaam' -- the Islamic House of Peace. Here there's supposed to be peace, because everybody is a Muslim, the Madrasses are the only schools, and the Koran is the only word, such as in:
Afghanistan à Muslim 100%
Saudi Arabia à Muslim 100%
Somalia à Muslim 100%
Yemen à Muslim 100%
Unfortunately, peace is never achieved, as in these 100% states the most radical Muslims intimidate and spew hatred, and satisfy their blood lust by killing less radical Muslims, for a variety of reasons.
'Before I was nine, I had learned the basic canon of Arab life. It was me against my brother; me and my brother against our father; my family against my cousins and the clan; the clan against the tribe; the tribe against the world, and all of us against the infidel. -- Leon Uris, 'TheHaj'
It is important to understand that in some countries, with well under 100% Muslim populations, such as France, the minority Muslim populations live in ghettos, within which they are 100% Muslim, and within which they live by Sharia Law. The national police do not even enter these ghettos. There are no national courts, nor schools, nor non-Muslim religious facilities. In such situations, Muslims do not integrate into the community at large. The children attend madrasses. They learn only
the Koran. To even associate with an infidel is a crime punishable with death. Therefore, in some areas of certain nations, Muslim Imams and extremists exercise more power than the national average would indicate.
Today's 1.5 billion Muslims make up 22% of the world's population. But their birth rates dwarf the birth rates of Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, Jews, and all other believers. Muslims will exceed 50% of the world's population by the end of this century.
Well, boys and girls, today we are letting the fox guard the henhouse. The wolves will be herding the sheep!
Obama appoints two devout Muslims to Homeland Security posts. Doesn't this make you feel safer already?
Obama and Janet Napolitano appoint Arif Alikhan, a devout Muslim, as Assistant Secretary for Policy Development.
DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano swore in Kareem Shora, a devout Muslim who was born in Damascus, Syria, as ADC National Executive Director as a member of the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC).
NOTE: Has anyone ever heard a new government official being identified as a devout Catholic, a devout Jew or a devout Protestant...? Just wondering.
Devout Muslims being appointed to critical Homeland Security positions?
Doesn't this make you feel safer already??
That should make the US' homeland much safer, huh!!
Was it not "Devout Muslim men" that flew planes into U.S. buildings 8 years ago?
Was it not a Devout Muslim who killed 13 at Fort Hood?
Also: This is very interesting and we all need to read it from start to finish. Maybe this is why our American Muslims are so quiet and not speaking out about any atrocities.
Can a good Muslim be a good American? This question was forwarded to a friend who worked in Saudi Arabia for 20 years.
The following is his reply:
Theologically à no � Because his allegiance is to Allah, The moon God of Arabia
Religiously à no � Because no other religion is accepted by His Allah except Islam (Quran, 2:256)(Koran)
Scripturally à no � Because his allegiance is to the five Pillars of Islam and the Quran.
Geographically à no � Because his allegiance is to Mecca, to which he turns in prayer five times a day.
Socially à no � Because his allegiance to Islam forbids him to make friends with Christians or Jews..
Politically à no � Because he must submit to the mullahs (spiritual leaders), who teach annihilation of Israel and destruction of America, the great Satan.
Domestically à no � Because he is instructed to marry four Women and beat and scourge his wife when she disobeys him (Quran 4:34)
Intellectually à no � Because he cannot accept the American Constitution since it is based on Biblical principles and he believes the Bible to be corrupt.
Philosophically à no � Because Islam, Muhammad, and the Quran do not allow freedom of religion and expression.. Democracy and Islam cannot co-exist. Every Muslim government is either dictatorial or autocratic.
Spiritually à no � Because when we declare 'one nation under God,' the Christian's God is loving and kind, while Allah is NEVER referred to as Heavenly father, nor is he ever called love in The Quran's 99 excellent names.
Therefore, after much study and deliberation....
Perhaps we should be very suspicious of ALL MUSLIMS in this country. - - - They obviously cannot be both 'good' Muslims and good Americans.
Call it what you wish, it's still the truth. You had better believe it. The more who understand this, the better it will be for our country and our future. The religious war is bigger than we know or understand.
Can a Muslim be a good soldier???
Army Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, opened fire at Ft. Hood and Killed 13. He is a good Muslim!!!
Footnote: The Muslims have said they will destroy us from within.
· SO FREEDOM IS NOT FREE.
· THE MARINES WANT THIS TO ROLL ALL OVER THE U.S.
· The Historical Roots and Contemporary Threat
Islam is not a religion, nor is it a cult. In its fullest form, it is a complete, total, 100% system of life.
Islam has religious, legal, political, economic, social, and military components. The religious component is a beard for all of the other components.
Islamization begins when there are sufficient Muslims in a country to agitate for their religious privileges.
When politically correct, tolerant, and culturally diverse societies agree to Muslim demands for their religious privileges, some of the other components tend to creep in as well.
Here's how it works:
As long as the Muslim population remains around or under 2% in any given country, they will be for the most part be regarded as a peace-loving minority, and not as a threat to other citizens. This is the case in:
United States à Muslim 0.6%
Australia à Muslim 1.5%
Canada à Muslim 1.9%
China à Muslim 1.8%
Italy à Muslim 1.5%
Norway à Muslim 1.8%
At 2% to 5%, they begin to proselytize from other ethnic minorities and disaffected groups, often with major recruiting from the jails and among street gangs. This is happening in:
Denmark à Muslim 2%
Germany à Muslim 3.7%
United Kingdom à Muslim 2.7%
Spain à Muslim 4%
Thailand à Muslim 4.6%
From 5% on, they exercise an inordinate influence in proportion to their percentage of the population. For example, they will push for the introduction of halal (clean by Islamic standards) food, thereby securing food preparation jobs for Muslims. They will increase pressure on supermarket chains to feature halal on their shelves -- along with threats for failure to comply. This is occurring in:
France à Muslim 8%
Philippines à 5%
Sweden à Muslim 5%
Switzerland à Muslim 4.3%
The Netherlands à Muslim 5.5%
Trinidad & Tobago à Muslim 5.8%
At this point, they will work to get the ruling government to allow them to rule themselves (within their ghettos) under Sharia, the Islamic Law. The ultimate goal of Islamists is to establish Sharia law over the entire world.
When Muslims approach 10% of the population, they tend to increase lawlessness as a means of complaint about their conditions. In Paris, we are already seeing car-burnings. Any non-Muslim action offends Islam and results in uprisings and threats, such as in Amsterdam, with opposition to Mohammed cartoons and films about Islam. Such tensions are seen
daily, particularly in Muslim sections in:
Guyana à Muslim 10%
India à Muslim 13.4%
Israel à Muslim 16%
Kenya à Muslim 10%
Russia à Muslim 15%
After reaching 20%, nations can expect hair-trigger rioting, jihad
militia formations, sporadic killings, and the burnings of Christian
churches and Jewish synagogues, such as in:
Ethiopia à Muslim 32.8%
At 40%, nations experience widespread massacres, chronic terror attacks,
and ongoing militia warfare, such as in:
Bosnia à Muslim 40%
Chad à Muslim 53.1%
Lebanon à Muslim 59.7%
From 60%, nations experience unfettered persecution of non-believers of all other religions (including non-conforming Muslims), sporadic ethnic cleansing (genocide), use of Sharia Law as a weapon, and Jizya, the tax placed on infidels, such as in:
Albania à Muslim 70%
Malaysia à Muslim 60.4%
Qatar à Muslim 77.5%
Sudan à Muslim 70%
After 80%, expect daily intimidation and violent jihad, some State-run
ethnic cleansing, and even some genocide, as these nations drive out the
infidels, and move toward 100% Muslim, such as has been experienced and
in some ways is on-going in:
Bangladesh à Muslim 83%
Egypt à Muslim 90%
Gaza à Muslim 98.7%
Indonesia à Muslim 86.1%
Iran à Muslim 98%
Iraq à Muslim 97%
Jordan à Muslim 92%
Morocco à Muslim 98.7%
Pakistan à Muslim 97%
Palestine à Muslim 99%
Syria à Muslim 90%
Tajikistan à Muslim 90%
Turkey à Muslim 99.8%
United Arab Emirates à Muslim 96%
100% will usher in the peace of 'Dar-es-Salaam' -- the Islamic House of Peace. Here there's supposed to be peace, because everybody is a Muslim, the Madrasses are the only schools, and the Koran is the only word, such as in:
Afghanistan à Muslim 100%
Saudi Arabia à Muslim 100%
Somalia à Muslim 100%
Yemen à Muslim 100%
Unfortunately, peace is never achieved, as in these 100% states the most radical Muslims intimidate and spew hatred, and satisfy their blood lust by killing less radical Muslims, for a variety of reasons.
'Before I was nine, I had learned the basic canon of Arab life. It was me against my brother; me and my brother against our father; my family against my cousins and the clan; the clan against the tribe; the tribe against the world, and all of us against the infidel. -- Leon Uris, 'TheHaj'
It is important to understand that in some countries, with well under 100% Muslim populations, such as France, the minority Muslim populations live in ghettos, within which they are 100% Muslim, and within which they live by Sharia Law. The national police do not even enter these ghettos. There are no national courts, nor schools, nor non-Muslim religious facilities. In such situations, Muslims do not integrate into the community at large. The children attend madrasses. They learn only
the Koran. To even associate with an infidel is a crime punishable with death. Therefore, in some areas of certain nations, Muslim Imams and extremists exercise more power than the national average would indicate.
Today's 1.5 billion Muslims make up 22% of the world's population. But their birth rates dwarf the birth rates of Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, Jews, and all other believers. Muslims will exceed 50% of the world's population by the end of this century.
Well, boys and girls, today we are letting the fox guard the henhouse. The wolves will be herding the sheep!
Obama appoints two devout Muslims to Homeland Security posts. Doesn't this make you feel safer already?
Obama and Janet Napolitano appoint Arif Alikhan, a devout Muslim, as Assistant Secretary for Policy Development.
DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano swore in Kareem Shora, a devout Muslim who was born in Damascus, Syria, as ADC National Executive Director as a member of the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC).
NOTE: Has anyone ever heard a new government official being identified as a devout Catholic, a devout Jew or a devout Protestant...? Just wondering.
Devout Muslims being appointed to critical Homeland Security positions?
Doesn't this make you feel safer already??
That should make the US' homeland much safer, huh!!
Was it not "Devout Muslim men" that flew planes into U.S. buildings 8 years ago?
Was it not a Devout Muslim who killed 13 at Fort Hood?
Also: This is very interesting and we all need to read it from start to finish. Maybe this is why our American Muslims are so quiet and not speaking out about any atrocities.
Can a good Muslim be a good American? This question was forwarded to a friend who worked in Saudi Arabia for 20 years.
The following is his reply:
Theologically à no � Because his allegiance is to Allah, The moon God of Arabia
Religiously à no � Because no other religion is accepted by His Allah except Islam (Quran, 2:256)(Koran)
Scripturally à no � Because his allegiance is to the five Pillars of Islam and the Quran.
Geographically à no � Because his allegiance is to Mecca, to which he turns in prayer five times a day.
Socially à no � Because his allegiance to Islam forbids him to make friends with Christians or Jews..
Politically à no � Because he must submit to the mullahs (spiritual leaders), who teach annihilation of Israel and destruction of America, the great Satan.
Domestically à no � Because he is instructed to marry four Women and beat and scourge his wife when she disobeys him (Quran 4:34)
Intellectually à no � Because he cannot accept the American Constitution since it is based on Biblical principles and he believes the Bible to be corrupt.
Philosophically à no � Because Islam, Muhammad, and the Quran do not allow freedom of religion and expression.. Democracy and Islam cannot co-exist. Every Muslim government is either dictatorial or autocratic.
Spiritually à no � Because when we declare 'one nation under God,' the Christian's God is loving and kind, while Allah is NEVER referred to as Heavenly father, nor is he ever called love in The Quran's 99 excellent names.
Therefore, after much study and deliberation....
Perhaps we should be very suspicious of ALL MUSLIMS in this country. - - - They obviously cannot be both 'good' Muslims and good Americans.
Call it what you wish, it's still the truth. You had better believe it. The more who understand this, the better it will be for our country and our future. The religious war is bigger than we know or understand.
Can a Muslim be a good soldier???
Army Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, opened fire at Ft. Hood and Killed 13. He is a good Muslim!!!
Footnote: The Muslims have said they will destroy us from within.
· SO FREEDOM IS NOT FREE.
· THE MARINES WANT THIS TO ROLL ALL OVER THE U.S.
Friday, July 16, 2010
The Blessing -
I asked a friend of mine Mason Trenaman, to write this down for me. He says it as a blessing to the congregation when he leads singing form time to time He stole it (with permission) from a former pastor at his last Church.
Some research shows that much of the language actually originated with an Episcopalian minister named Phillips Brooks in the late 1800’s. He is most famous for writing the Christmas hymn “O Little Town of Bethlehem”. Here is the version I use (taken from George Strunk, my former pastor).
And now Friends, As you leave this place, do not pray for easy lives, but pray to be strong Christian men and women.
Do not pray for tasks that shall be equal to your power, but pray for power that shall be equal to all your tasks.
And then, the doing of the work will be no miracle, but you will be the miracle, and you will be constantly amazed at what God can accomplish through the power of Jesus Christ living and working in you.
For unto Him be all power , dominion, glory and majesty, now and forever, Amen.
How true it is..............
Some research shows that much of the language actually originated with an Episcopalian minister named Phillips Brooks in the late 1800’s. He is most famous for writing the Christmas hymn “O Little Town of Bethlehem”. Here is the version I use (taken from George Strunk, my former pastor).
And now Friends, As you leave this place, do not pray for easy lives, but pray to be strong Christian men and women.
Do not pray for tasks that shall be equal to your power, but pray for power that shall be equal to all your tasks.
And then, the doing of the work will be no miracle, but you will be the miracle, and you will be constantly amazed at what God can accomplish through the power of Jesus Christ living and working in you.
For unto Him be all power , dominion, glory and majesty, now and forever, Amen.
How true it is..............
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Faith Filled Words.......
This a Prayer that I pray everyday. It gets my day started right! I hope it helps you!
This is going to be a great day I have God’s Favor. He is directing my steps; whatever I touch will prosper and succeed.
Father I thank you that my children are making good decisions, there are no strongholds against them and I speak Victory over their lives.
I’m Grateful for the blessing in the past and I am grateful for the blessings you have prepared for me in the future
Romans 4:17 “call the things that are not as if they already are.”
I am getting younger and stronger and healthier, My Best days are ahead of me.
I am getting better looking everyday: some days I look good and some days I look really good: Today I am looking really good!
I am made in the Image of the almighty God I am creative and today is going to be a productive day; everything I touch will turn to Gold.
The economy may be slow but I am blessed I am prosperous I will lend and will not borrow.
This is going to be my best year so far, I am in Gods favor, and any setback will be small and it is setting me up for a huge comeback.
I am a great listener and a great communicator. ·
I Believe In Myself. Believe In My Abilities. I Believe In My Skills.
People like me and when they meet me and talk to me they do not want to end the conversation.
Father, I want to thank you that I have your favor on my life today you are directing my steps causing me to be at the right place at the right time. Thank you that your favor is bringing opportunity to me, bringing increase and promotion and prosperity so I can share my abundance and blessing me: so I can be a blessing to someone else.
Psalms 91:2, 3: “I will say to the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress. He… will deliver me..Cover me.. And shield me.”
You are my provider, my healer; you are my guide through life. I will fulfill my destiny. I am more than a conqueror; I am blessed and my cup runs over.
I declare that I am in Gods favor, I am leading others, I am strong and prosperous, I am free, and I am faithful. The seeds I am sowing will reap great rewards!
I will hold fast to your promises, I will declare that your favor is upon me and your blessing surrounds me. God is showering favor and blessings all day long: I am happy, I am blessed, I am prosperous, I am healthy, and I am free.
I will speak faith and be in agreement with God. I am well able, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, this will be the best day of my Life and my best days are still ahead of me. I cannot do anything about the past, it is gone and I have asked for forgiveness and I am focused on today because that is all I am promised. I choose the voice of faith.
I am blessed, I am favored, I am prosperous I am healthy, I am victorious, I am a victor not a victim. I will speak favor and victory over all my obstacles and challenges. My mountains will become mere mole hills. No problem or obstacle will defeat me for God is knocking them down. Every dream and every promise will come true; I believe and declare they will come to pass. In Jesus blessed name. Amen
This is going to be a great day I have God’s Favor. He is directing my steps; whatever I touch will prosper and succeed.
Father I thank you that my children are making good decisions, there are no strongholds against them and I speak Victory over their lives.
I’m Grateful for the blessing in the past and I am grateful for the blessings you have prepared for me in the future
Romans 4:17 “call the things that are not as if they already are.”
I am getting younger and stronger and healthier, My Best days are ahead of me.
I am getting better looking everyday: some days I look good and some days I look really good: Today I am looking really good!
I am made in the Image of the almighty God I am creative and today is going to be a productive day; everything I touch will turn to Gold.
The economy may be slow but I am blessed I am prosperous I will lend and will not borrow.
This is going to be my best year so far, I am in Gods favor, and any setback will be small and it is setting me up for a huge comeback.
I am a great listener and a great communicator. ·
I Believe In Myself. Believe In My Abilities. I Believe In My Skills.
People like me and when they meet me and talk to me they do not want to end the conversation.
Father, I want to thank you that I have your favor on my life today you are directing my steps causing me to be at the right place at the right time. Thank you that your favor is bringing opportunity to me, bringing increase and promotion and prosperity so I can share my abundance and blessing me: so I can be a blessing to someone else.
Psalms 91:2, 3: “I will say to the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress. He… will deliver me..Cover me.. And shield me.”
You are my provider, my healer; you are my guide through life. I will fulfill my destiny. I am more than a conqueror; I am blessed and my cup runs over.
I declare that I am in Gods favor, I am leading others, I am strong and prosperous, I am free, and I am faithful. The seeds I am sowing will reap great rewards!
I will hold fast to your promises, I will declare that your favor is upon me and your blessing surrounds me. God is showering favor and blessings all day long: I am happy, I am blessed, I am prosperous, I am healthy, and I am free.
I will speak faith and be in agreement with God. I am well able, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, this will be the best day of my Life and my best days are still ahead of me. I cannot do anything about the past, it is gone and I have asked for forgiveness and I am focused on today because that is all I am promised. I choose the voice of faith.
I am blessed, I am favored, I am prosperous I am healthy, I am victorious, I am a victor not a victim. I will speak favor and victory over all my obstacles and challenges. My mountains will become mere mole hills. No problem or obstacle will defeat me for God is knocking them down. Every dream and every promise will come true; I believe and declare they will come to pass. In Jesus blessed name. Amen
Saturday, June 26, 2010
You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
1. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The finance committee refuses to provide funds for the purchase of a chandelier because none of the members knows how to play one.
2. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
People ask, when they learn that Jesus fed the 5000, whether the two fish were bass or catfish, and what bait was used to catch 'em.
3. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
When the pastor says, "I'd like to ask Bubba to help take up the offering" and five guys and two women stand up.
4. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
Opening day of deer season is recognized as an official church holiday.
5. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if...
A member of the church requests to be buried in his 4-wheel-drive truck because "It ain't never been in a hole it couldn't get out of" (Love it!)
6. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The choir is known as the "OK Chorale".
7. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
In a congregation of 500 members, there are only seven last names in the church directory.
8. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
People think "rapture" is what you get when you lift something too heavy.
9. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The baptismal pool is a #2 galvanized " Wheeling " washtub.
10. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ....
The choir robes were donated by (and embroidered with the logo from) Billy Bob's Barbecue.
11. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The collection plates are really hubcaps from a '56 Chevy.
12. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ..
Instead of a bell you are called to service by a duck call.
13. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The minister and his wife drive matching pickup trucks.
14. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The communion wine is Boone's Farm "Tickled Pink".
15. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if...
"Thou shall not covet" applies to huntin' dogs, too.
16. You know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The final words of the benediction are, "Y'all come back now, Ya hear".
God Bless and don't fergit ta say yer prayers...
The finance committee refuses to provide funds for the purchase of a chandelier because none of the members knows how to play one.
2. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
People ask, when they learn that Jesus fed the 5000, whether the two fish were bass or catfish, and what bait was used to catch 'em.
3. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
When the pastor says, "I'd like to ask Bubba to help take up the offering" and five guys and two women stand up.
4. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
Opening day of deer season is recognized as an official church holiday.
5. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if...
A member of the church requests to be buried in his 4-wheel-drive truck because "It ain't never been in a hole it couldn't get out of" (Love it!)
6. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The choir is known as the "OK Chorale".
7. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
In a congregation of 500 members, there are only seven last names in the church directory.
8. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
People think "rapture" is what you get when you lift something too heavy.
9. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The baptismal pool is a #2 galvanized " Wheeling " washtub.
10. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ....
The choir robes were donated by (and embroidered with the logo from) Billy Bob's Barbecue.
11. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The collection plates are really hubcaps from a '56 Chevy.
12. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ..
Instead of a bell you are called to service by a duck call.
13. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The minister and his wife drive matching pickup trucks.
14. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The communion wine is Boone's Farm "Tickled Pink".
15. You Know You're in a Redneck Church if...
"Thou shall not covet" applies to huntin' dogs, too.
16. You know You're in a Redneck Church if ...
The final words of the benediction are, "Y'all come back now, Ya hear".
God Bless and don't fergit ta say yer prayers...
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Happy Father's Day - From a Father's Perspective
I was there when both daughters were born. My oldest daughter I was in the delivery room, saw her full head of hair heard her scream and was the first to hold her. What a blessing. Many health complications had beset us when my second daughter was born. My wife became a diabetic, brought on from the first child berth, She was born at Vanderbilt hospital and watched very carefully. My wife was in labor for nearly 24 hours in a very controlled environment. I was in the delivery room, but the doctor asked me to leave as the birth began, I heard her cry and then I was invited back in the room, and enjoyed hold her and showing her to my beautiful wife.
My wife is an angel like most wives are tending to their every need: homemaker, paying the bills,doctor and dentist appointments, grocery shopping, taxicab driver to everything.
But where was I? I was working. 60-70 hours a week traveling,home on weekends, but other that that I was absent. My wife ran the Show, and God Bless her for it! I owe a lot to her she is an angel. I would attend baseball and basketball games, teacher conferences,plays,events my children were in, but other than that I was married to my "JOB." I tried to make each weekend special,: I would cook breakfast, pancakes in many shapes, special egg dishes, vacations were a treat as well! But come Monday morning at 6AM I was off to the races- MY JOB! At My retirement I said it was like a "34 year marathon."
If you are a Young Father read some excerpts from a couple of studies I have read and also some things I have learned through the world of Hard Knocks.
Believe when I tell you this
You will take time for your kids now or you will make time for them later!
A study from the National Center of Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University found a connection between "frequent family dinners" and lower rates of teen smoking, drinking and drug use. Specifically:
"Compared with teens who frequently had dinner with their families, (five nights or more per week) those who had dinner with their families only two nights per week or less were twice as likely to be involved in substance abuse. They were 2.5 times as likely to smoke cigarettes, more than 1.5 times as likely to drink alcohol, and nearly three times as likely to try marijuana."
Another study, published in the journal Family Relations:
It noted that children who succeed in school tend to have mothers "who frequently talk and listen to them." Fathers, too, make quite a difference. Here's how familyfacts.org sums up a study on the impact of dads that ran in the Journal of Marriage and the Family: "Compared to peers with less paternal attention, children whose fathers spent leisure time, shared meals, helped with homework or reading, and engaged in other home activities with them have significantly higher levels of academic performance.
Harry Chapin Wrote a Song "Cats in the Cradle" in 1974.
I listened to this song and lived it. The song is told in first-person by a father who is too busy to spend time with his son. Though the son repeatedly asks him to join in childhood activities, the father always responds with little more than vague promises of spending time together in the future, which is peppered with images from nursery rhymes. While the son longs to spend time with his father, he continues to admire his father as a role model and tells him that he will be just like him when he is an adult. The third verse shows the son now having his own life in college and the father now wants to spend time with him. However, like his father, the son now does not have time for his father, pursuing his own life.
My child arrived just the other day
He came to the world in the usual way
But there were planes to catch and bills to pay
He learned to walk while I was away
And he was talkin' 'fore I knew it, and as he grew
He'd say "I'm gonna be like you dad
You know I'm gonna be like you"
And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man on the moon
When you comin' home dad?
I don't know when, but we'll get together then son
You know we'll have a good time then
My son turned ten just the other day
He said, "Thanks for the ball, Dad, come on let's play
Can you teach me to throw", I said "Not today
I got a lot to do", he said, "That's ok"
And he walked away but his smile never dimmed
And said, "I'm gonna be like him, yeah
You know I'm gonna be like him"
And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man on the moon
When you comin' home son?
I don't know when, but we'll get together then son
You know we'll have a good time then
Well, he came home from college just the other day
So much like a man I just had to say
"Son, I'm proud of you, can you sit for a while?"
He shook his head and said with a smile
"What I'd really like, Dad, is to borrow the car keys
See you later, can I have them please?"
And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man on the moon
When you comin' home son?
I don't know when, but we'll get together then son
You know we'll have a good time then
I've long since retired, my son's moved away
I called him up just the other day
I said, "I'd like to see you if you don't mind"
He said, "I'd love to, Dad, if I can find the time
You see my new job's a hassle and kids have the flu
But it's sure nice talking to you, Dad
It's been sure nice talking to you"
And as I hung up the phone it occurred to me
He'd grown up just like me
My boy was just like me
And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man on the moon
When you comin' home son?
I don't know when, but we'll get together then son
You know we'll have a good time then
I have 2 beautiful daughters that are just as pretty on the inside as they are on the outside and they LOVE the LORD, Their FAMILIES, and Their COUNTRY what more could a father ask?
Michael Mack
A Dad and An American
My wife is an angel like most wives are tending to their every need: homemaker, paying the bills,doctor and dentist appointments, grocery shopping, taxicab driver to everything.
But where was I? I was working. 60-70 hours a week traveling,home on weekends, but other that that I was absent. My wife ran the Show, and God Bless her for it! I owe a lot to her she is an angel. I would attend baseball and basketball games, teacher conferences,plays,events my children were in, but other than that I was married to my "JOB." I tried to make each weekend special,: I would cook breakfast, pancakes in many shapes, special egg dishes, vacations were a treat as well! But come Monday morning at 6AM I was off to the races- MY JOB! At My retirement I said it was like a "34 year marathon."
If you are a Young Father read some excerpts from a couple of studies I have read and also some things I have learned through the world of Hard Knocks.
Believe when I tell you this
You will take time for your kids now or you will make time for them later!
A study from the National Center of Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University found a connection between "frequent family dinners" and lower rates of teen smoking, drinking and drug use. Specifically:
"Compared with teens who frequently had dinner with their families, (five nights or more per week) those who had dinner with their families only two nights per week or less were twice as likely to be involved in substance abuse. They were 2.5 times as likely to smoke cigarettes, more than 1.5 times as likely to drink alcohol, and nearly three times as likely to try marijuana."
Another study, published in the journal Family Relations:
It noted that children who succeed in school tend to have mothers "who frequently talk and listen to them." Fathers, too, make quite a difference. Here's how familyfacts.org sums up a study on the impact of dads that ran in the Journal of Marriage and the Family: "Compared to peers with less paternal attention, children whose fathers spent leisure time, shared meals, helped with homework or reading, and engaged in other home activities with them have significantly higher levels of academic performance.
Harry Chapin Wrote a Song "Cats in the Cradle" in 1974.
I listened to this song and lived it. The song is told in first-person by a father who is too busy to spend time with his son. Though the son repeatedly asks him to join in childhood activities, the father always responds with little more than vague promises of spending time together in the future, which is peppered with images from nursery rhymes. While the son longs to spend time with his father, he continues to admire his father as a role model and tells him that he will be just like him when he is an adult. The third verse shows the son now having his own life in college and the father now wants to spend time with him. However, like his father, the son now does not have time for his father, pursuing his own life.
My child arrived just the other day
He came to the world in the usual way
But there were planes to catch and bills to pay
He learned to walk while I was away
And he was talkin' 'fore I knew it, and as he grew
He'd say "I'm gonna be like you dad
You know I'm gonna be like you"
And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man on the moon
When you comin' home dad?
I don't know when, but we'll get together then son
You know we'll have a good time then
My son turned ten just the other day
He said, "Thanks for the ball, Dad, come on let's play
Can you teach me to throw", I said "Not today
I got a lot to do", he said, "That's ok"
And he walked away but his smile never dimmed
And said, "I'm gonna be like him, yeah
You know I'm gonna be like him"
And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man on the moon
When you comin' home son?
I don't know when, but we'll get together then son
You know we'll have a good time then
Well, he came home from college just the other day
So much like a man I just had to say
"Son, I'm proud of you, can you sit for a while?"
He shook his head and said with a smile
"What I'd really like, Dad, is to borrow the car keys
See you later, can I have them please?"
And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man on the moon
When you comin' home son?
I don't know when, but we'll get together then son
You know we'll have a good time then
I've long since retired, my son's moved away
I called him up just the other day
I said, "I'd like to see you if you don't mind"
He said, "I'd love to, Dad, if I can find the time
You see my new job's a hassle and kids have the flu
But it's sure nice talking to you, Dad
It's been sure nice talking to you"
And as I hung up the phone it occurred to me
He'd grown up just like me
My boy was just like me
And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon
Little boy blue and the man on the moon
When you comin' home son?
I don't know when, but we'll get together then son
You know we'll have a good time then
I have 2 beautiful daughters that are just as pretty on the inside as they are on the outside and they LOVE the LORD, Their FAMILIES, and Their COUNTRY what more could a father ask?
Michael Mack
A Dad and An American
Saturday, May 22, 2010
God Is Great! sometimes life ain't good...But I Pray anyway,,,,,
In the song I do it anyway by Martina McBride she relates different ideas that people have faced recently in experiencing life.
Like so many people in Nashville experienced recently with the surprise 500 year flood that washed away everything they owned, they spent a life building a home, a shelter for their family, a safe haven, away from the world, a storm can come along and wash it away, But they build it anyway and will do it again,,,,,,,,,
Like my friend Joe who spent his life building a business for his family; and his lovely wife began a battle with cancer 7 years ago, battle she fought valiantly but finally lost. Not only did he loose a wife and friend but lost his business as well. Knowing Joe like I do he would do it anyway, and is rebuilding his life again, He would dream it anyway and do it anyway,,,,,,,,
On 9/11/01, four airliners were hijacked; two were used as missiles to take out the World Trade Centers and of the remaining two, one crashed into the US Pentagon and the other was diverted and crashed by the passengers.
In 2009, 31 people wounded and 13 American Soldiers murdered on base at Fort Hood by a Major that was is now known as a Muslim Extremist.
In 2010 The people who live within 60 to 80 miles of the Arizona/Mexico Border have for years been terrorized and have pleaded for help to stop the daily invasion of humans who cross their property . One Rancher testified that 300 to 1200 people a DAY come across his ranch vandalizing his property, stealing his vehicles and property, cutting down his fences, and leaving trash. In the last two years he has found 17 dead bodies and two Koran bibles,,,,,,,,,
This worlds gone crazy And it's hard to believe
That tomorrow will be better than today
Believe it anyway,,,,,,,,,,,
God is great but sometimes life aint good
And when I pray
It doesn't always turn out like I think it should
But I do it anyway
I do it anyway
Romans 8:38-39 (New International Version)
38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[a] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
May God Bless
Do It Anyway Lyrics
by Martina McBride
You can spend your whole life buildin'
Something from nothin
One storm can come and blow it all away
Build it anyway
You can chase a dream
That seems so out of reach
And you know it might not ever come your way
Dream it anyway
God is great but sometimes life aint good
And when I pray
It doesn't always turn out like I think it should
But I do it anyway
I do it anyway
This worlds gone crazy
And it's hard to believe
That tomorrow will be better than today
Believe it anyway
You can love someone with all YOUR heart
For all the right reasons
And in a moment they can choose to walk away
love em anyway
God is great but sometimes life aint good
And when I pray
It doesn't always turn out like I think it should
But I do it anyway
Yeah I do it anyway, yeah,
You can pour your soul out singin'
A song you believe in
That tomorrow they'll forget you ever sang
Sing it anyway
Yeah sing it anyway, yeah, yeah
I sing
I dream
I love anyway, yeah.
Like so many people in Nashville experienced recently with the surprise 500 year flood that washed away everything they owned, they spent a life building a home, a shelter for their family, a safe haven, away from the world, a storm can come along and wash it away, But they build it anyway and will do it again,,,,,,,,,
Like my friend Joe who spent his life building a business for his family; and his lovely wife began a battle with cancer 7 years ago, battle she fought valiantly but finally lost. Not only did he loose a wife and friend but lost his business as well. Knowing Joe like I do he would do it anyway, and is rebuilding his life again, He would dream it anyway and do it anyway,,,,,,,,
On 9/11/01, four airliners were hijacked; two were used as missiles to take out the World Trade Centers and of the remaining two, one crashed into the US Pentagon and the other was diverted and crashed by the passengers.
In 2009, 31 people wounded and 13 American Soldiers murdered on base at Fort Hood by a Major that was is now known as a Muslim Extremist.
In 2010 The people who live within 60 to 80 miles of the Arizona/Mexico Border have for years been terrorized and have pleaded for help to stop the daily invasion of humans who cross their property . One Rancher testified that 300 to 1200 people a DAY come across his ranch vandalizing his property, stealing his vehicles and property, cutting down his fences, and leaving trash. In the last two years he has found 17 dead bodies and two Koran bibles,,,,,,,,,
This worlds gone crazy And it's hard to believe
That tomorrow will be better than today
Believe it anyway,,,,,,,,,,,
God is great but sometimes life aint good
And when I pray
It doesn't always turn out like I think it should
But I do it anyway
I do it anyway
Romans 8:38-39 (New International Version)
38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[a] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
May God Bless
Do It Anyway Lyrics
by Martina McBride
You can spend your whole life buildin'
Something from nothin
One storm can come and blow it all away
Build it anyway
You can chase a dream
That seems so out of reach
And you know it might not ever come your way
Dream it anyway
God is great but sometimes life aint good
And when I pray
It doesn't always turn out like I think it should
But I do it anyway
I do it anyway
This worlds gone crazy
And it's hard to believe
That tomorrow will be better than today
Believe it anyway
You can love someone with all YOUR heart
For all the right reasons
And in a moment they can choose to walk away
love em anyway
God is great but sometimes life aint good
And when I pray
It doesn't always turn out like I think it should
But I do it anyway
Yeah I do it anyway, yeah,
You can pour your soul out singin'
A song you believe in
That tomorrow they'll forget you ever sang
Sing it anyway
Yeah sing it anyway, yeah, yeah
I sing
I dream
I love anyway, yeah.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
A Christian's argument - WHAT IS OUR FUTURE?
This is not written by a Jew, but by a Christian in Holland . He knows we
are all in danger, whether Christian, Jewish or else other than Islamic
Muslim
Geert Wilders is a Dutch Member of Parliament
Here is the speech of Geert Wilders, Chairman, Party for Freedom, the
Netherlands , at the Four Seasons, New York , introducing an Alliance of
Patriots and announcing the Facing Jihad Conference in Jerusalem .
Dear friends,
Thank you very much for inviting me.
I come to America with a mission. All is not well in the old world. There
is a tremendous danger looming, and it is very difficult to be optimistic.
We might be in the final stages of the Islamization of Europe. This not
only is a clear and present danger to the future of Europe itself, it is a
threat to America and the sheer survival of the West. The United States as
the last bastion of Western civilization, facing an Islamic Europe.
First I will describe the situation on the ground in Europe . Then, I will
say a few things about Islam. To close I will tell you about a meeting in
Jerusalem . The Europe you know is changing.
You have probably seen the landmarks. But in all of these cities, sometimes
a few blocks away from your tourist destination, there is another world. It
is the world of the parallel society created by Muslim mass-migration.
All throughout Europe a new reality is rising: entire Muslim neighborhoods
where very few indigenous people reside or are even seen. And if they are,
they might regret it. This goes for the police as well. It's the world of
head scarves, where women walk around in figureless tents, with baby
strollers and a group of children. Their husbands, or slaveholders if you
prefer, walk three steps ahead. With mosques on many street corners. The
shops have signs you and I cannot read. You will be hard-pressed to find
any economic activity. These are Muslim ghettos controlled by religious
fanatics. These are Muslim neighborhoods, and they are mushrooming in every
city across Europe . These are the building-blocks for territorial control
of increasingly larger portions of Europe , street by street, neighborhood by
neighborhood, city by city.
There are now thousands of mosques throughout Europe . With larger
congregations than there are in churches. And in every European city there
are plans to build super-mosques that will dwarf every church in the region.
Clearly, the signal is: we rule.
Many European cities are already one-quarter Muslim: just take Amsterdam ,
Marseille and Malmo in Sweden . In many cities the majority of the under-18
population is Muslim. Paris is now surrounded by a ring of Muslim
neighborhoods. Mohammed is the most popular name among boys in many cities.
In some elementary schools in Amsterdam the farm can no longer be mentioned,
because that would also mean mentioning the pig, and that would be an insult
to Muslims.
Many state schools in Belgium and Denmark only serve halal food to all
pupils. In once-tolerant Amsterdam gays are beaten up almost exclusively by
Muslims. Non-Muslim women routinely hear, 'whore, whore.' Satellite dishes
are not pointed to local TV stations, but to stations in the country of
origin.
In France school teachers are advised to avoid authors deemed offensive to
Muslims, including Voltaire and Diderot; the same is increasingly true of
Darwin . The history of the Holocaust can no longer be taught because of
Muslim sensitivity.
In England sharia courts are now officially part of the British legal
system. Many neighborhoods in France are no-go areas for women without head
scarves. Last week a man almost died after being beaten up by Muslims in
Brussels , because he was drinking during the Ramadan.
Jews are fleeing France in record numbers, on the run for the worst wave of
anti-Semitism since World War II. French is now commonly spoken on the
streets of Tel Aviv and Netanya , Israel . I could go on forever with stories
like this. Stories about Islamization.
A total of fifty-four million Muslims now live in Europe . San Diego
University recently calculated that a staggering 25 percent of the
population in Europe will be Muslim just 12 years from now. Bernhard Lewis
has predicted a Muslim majority by the end of this century.
Now these are just numbers. And the numbers would not be threatening if the
Muslim-immigrants had a strong desire to assimilate. But there are few
signs of that. The Pew Research Center reported that half of French Muslims
see their loyalty to Islam as greater than their loyalty to France .
One-third of French Muslims do not object to suicide attacks. The British
Centre for Social Cohesion reported that one-third of British Muslim
students are in favor of a worldwide caliphate. Muslims demand what they
call 'respect'. And this is how we give them respect. We have Muslim
official state holidays.
The Christian-Democratic attorney general is willing to accept sharia in the
Netherlands if there is a Muslim majority. We have cabinet members with
passports from Morocco and Turkey .
Muslim demands are supported by unlawful behavior, ranging from petty crimes
and random violence, for example against ambulance workers and bus drivers,
to small-scale riots. Paris has seen its uprising in the low-income
suburbs, the banlieus. I call the perpetrators 'settlers'. Because that is
what they are. They do not come to integrate into our societies; they come
to integrate our society into their Dar-al-Islam. Therefore, they are
settlers.
Much of this street violence I mentioned is directed exclusively against
non-Muslims, forcing many native people to leave their neighborhoods, their
cities, their countries. Moreover, Muslims are now a swing vote not to be
ignored.
The second thing you need to know is the importance of Mohammed the prophet.
His behavior is an example to all Muslims and cannot be criticized. Now, if
Mohammed had been a man of peace, let us say like Ghandi and Mother Theresa
wrapped in one, there would be no problem. But Mohammed was a warlord, a
mass murderer, a pedophile, and had several marriages - at the same time.
Islamic tradition tells us how he fought in battles, how he had his enemies
murdered and even had prisoners of war executed. Mohammed himself
slaughtered the Jewish tribe of Banu Qurayza. If it is good for Islam, it
is good. If it is bad for Islam, it is bad.
Let no one fool you about Islam being a religion. Sure, it has a god, and a
here-after, and 72 virgins. But in its essence Islam is a political
ideology. It is a system that lays down detailed rules for society and the
life of every person. Islam wants to dictate every aspect of life. Islam
means 'submission'. Islam is not compatible with freedom and democracy,
because what it strives for is sharia. If you want to compare Islam to
anything, compare it to communism or national-socialism, these are all
totalitarian ideologies.
Now you know why Winston Churchill called Islam 'the most retrograde force
in the world', and why he compared Mein Kampf to the Quran. The public has
wholeheartedly accepted the Palestinian narrative, and sees Israel as the
aggressor. I have lived in this country and visited it dozens of times. I
support Israel . First, because it is the Jewish homeland after two
thousand years of exile up to and including Auschwitz , second because it is
a democracy, and third because Israel is our first line of defense.
This tiny country is situated on the fault line of jihad, frustrating
Islam's territorial advance. Israel is facing the front lines of jihad,
like Kashmir, Kosovo, the Philippines , Southern Thailand, Darfur in Sudan ,
Lebanon , and Aceh in Indonesia . Israel is simply in the way. The same way
West-Berlin was during the Cold War.
The war against Israel is not a war against Israel . It is a war against the
West. It is jihad. Israel is simply receiving the blows that are meant for
all of us. If there would have been no Israel , Islamic imperialism would
have found other venues to release its energy and its desire for conquest.
Thanks to Israeli parents who send their children to the army and lay awake
at night, parents in Europe and America can sleep well and dream, unaware
of the dangers looming.
Many in Europe argue in favor of abandoning Israel in order to address the
grievances of our Muslim minorities. But if Israel were, God forbid, to go
down, it would not bring any solace to the West It would not mean our Muslim
minorities would all of a sudden change their behavior, and accept our
values. On the contrary, the end of Israel would give enormous
encouragement to the forces of Islam. They would, and rightly so, see the
demise of Israel as proof that the West is weak, and doomed. The end of
Israel would not mean the end of our problems with Islam, but only the
beginning. It would mean the start of the final battle for world
domination. If they can get Israel , they can get everything.
So-called journalists volunteer to label any and all critics of Islamization
as a 'right-wing extremists' or 'racists'. In my country, the Netherlands ,
60 percent of the population now sees the mass immigration of Muslims as the
number one policy mistake since World War II. And another 60 percent sees
Islam as the biggest threat. Yet there is a danger greater danger than
terrorist attacks, the scenario of America as the last man standing. The
lights may go out in Europe faster than you can imagine. An Islamic Europe
means a Europe without freedom and democracy, an economic wasteland, an
intellectual nightmare, and a loss of military might for America - as its
allies will turn into enemies, enemies with atomic bombs. With an Islamic
Europe, it would be up to America alone to preserve the heritage of Rome ,
Athens and Jerusalem . Does the OBAMA administration recognize this? They
BETTER!
Dear friends, liberty is the most precious of gifts. My generation never
had to fight for this freedom, it was offered to us on a silver platter, by
people who fought for it with their lives. All throughout Europe, American
cemeteries remind us of the young boys who never made it home, and whose
memory we cherish. My generation does not own this freedom; we are merely
its custodians. We can only hand over this hard won liberty to Europe 's
children in the same state in which it was offered to us. We cannot strike
a deal with mullahs and imams. Future generations would never forgive us.
We cannot squander our liberties. We simply do not have the right to do so.
We have to take the necessary action now to stop this Islamic stupidity from
destroying the free world that we know.
Please take the time to read and understand what is written here. Please
send it to every free person that you know, it is so very important.
Geert Wilders is a Dutch Member of Parliament
Now what side of this debate is President Obama on?
Today is the National Day of Prayer. The Pentagon withdrew an invitation to Franklin Graham. During the meeting Obama had with Billy Graham, Franklin Graham asked President Obama to put him back on the agenda for today's National Day of Prayer.
Rev. Franklin Graham prayed outside the Pentagon Thursday -- not inside leading an official National Day of Prayer service. Instead, he and a half-dozen others stood on the sidewalk and bowed their heads in prayer for about five minutes.
GOD BLESS Geert Wilders and GOD BLESS Franklin Graham.
Our rights are being trampled on, Christians are under attack. Our Liberties are being taken away from us.
GOD BLESS AMERICA
are all in danger, whether Christian, Jewish or else other than Islamic
Muslim
Geert Wilders is a Dutch Member of Parliament
Here is the speech of Geert Wilders, Chairman, Party for Freedom, the
Netherlands , at the Four Seasons, New York , introducing an Alliance of
Patriots and announcing the Facing Jihad Conference in Jerusalem .
Dear friends,
Thank you very much for inviting me.
I come to America with a mission. All is not well in the old world. There
is a tremendous danger looming, and it is very difficult to be optimistic.
We might be in the final stages of the Islamization of Europe. This not
only is a clear and present danger to the future of Europe itself, it is a
threat to America and the sheer survival of the West. The United States as
the last bastion of Western civilization, facing an Islamic Europe.
First I will describe the situation on the ground in Europe . Then, I will
say a few things about Islam. To close I will tell you about a meeting in
Jerusalem . The Europe you know is changing.
You have probably seen the landmarks. But in all of these cities, sometimes
a few blocks away from your tourist destination, there is another world. It
is the world of the parallel society created by Muslim mass-migration.
All throughout Europe a new reality is rising: entire Muslim neighborhoods
where very few indigenous people reside or are even seen. And if they are,
they might regret it. This goes for the police as well. It's the world of
head scarves, where women walk around in figureless tents, with baby
strollers and a group of children. Their husbands, or slaveholders if you
prefer, walk three steps ahead. With mosques on many street corners. The
shops have signs you and I cannot read. You will be hard-pressed to find
any economic activity. These are Muslim ghettos controlled by religious
fanatics. These are Muslim neighborhoods, and they are mushrooming in every
city across Europe . These are the building-blocks for territorial control
of increasingly larger portions of Europe , street by street, neighborhood by
neighborhood, city by city.
There are now thousands of mosques throughout Europe . With larger
congregations than there are in churches. And in every European city there
are plans to build super-mosques that will dwarf every church in the region.
Clearly, the signal is: we rule.
Many European cities are already one-quarter Muslim: just take Amsterdam ,
Marseille and Malmo in Sweden . In many cities the majority of the under-18
population is Muslim. Paris is now surrounded by a ring of Muslim
neighborhoods. Mohammed is the most popular name among boys in many cities.
In some elementary schools in Amsterdam the farm can no longer be mentioned,
because that would also mean mentioning the pig, and that would be an insult
to Muslims.
Many state schools in Belgium and Denmark only serve halal food to all
pupils. In once-tolerant Amsterdam gays are beaten up almost exclusively by
Muslims. Non-Muslim women routinely hear, 'whore, whore.' Satellite dishes
are not pointed to local TV stations, but to stations in the country of
origin.
In France school teachers are advised to avoid authors deemed offensive to
Muslims, including Voltaire and Diderot; the same is increasingly true of
Darwin . The history of the Holocaust can no longer be taught because of
Muslim sensitivity.
In England sharia courts are now officially part of the British legal
system. Many neighborhoods in France are no-go areas for women without head
scarves. Last week a man almost died after being beaten up by Muslims in
Brussels , because he was drinking during the Ramadan.
Jews are fleeing France in record numbers, on the run for the worst wave of
anti-Semitism since World War II. French is now commonly spoken on the
streets of Tel Aviv and Netanya , Israel . I could go on forever with stories
like this. Stories about Islamization.
A total of fifty-four million Muslims now live in Europe . San Diego
University recently calculated that a staggering 25 percent of the
population in Europe will be Muslim just 12 years from now. Bernhard Lewis
has predicted a Muslim majority by the end of this century.
Now these are just numbers. And the numbers would not be threatening if the
Muslim-immigrants had a strong desire to assimilate. But there are few
signs of that. The Pew Research Center reported that half of French Muslims
see their loyalty to Islam as greater than their loyalty to France .
One-third of French Muslims do not object to suicide attacks. The British
Centre for Social Cohesion reported that one-third of British Muslim
students are in favor of a worldwide caliphate. Muslims demand what they
call 'respect'. And this is how we give them respect. We have Muslim
official state holidays.
The Christian-Democratic attorney general is willing to accept sharia in the
Netherlands if there is a Muslim majority. We have cabinet members with
passports from Morocco and Turkey .
Muslim demands are supported by unlawful behavior, ranging from petty crimes
and random violence, for example against ambulance workers and bus drivers,
to small-scale riots. Paris has seen its uprising in the low-income
suburbs, the banlieus. I call the perpetrators 'settlers'. Because that is
what they are. They do not come to integrate into our societies; they come
to integrate our society into their Dar-al-Islam. Therefore, they are
settlers.
Much of this street violence I mentioned is directed exclusively against
non-Muslims, forcing many native people to leave their neighborhoods, their
cities, their countries. Moreover, Muslims are now a swing vote not to be
ignored.
The second thing you need to know is the importance of Mohammed the prophet.
His behavior is an example to all Muslims and cannot be criticized. Now, if
Mohammed had been a man of peace, let us say like Ghandi and Mother Theresa
wrapped in one, there would be no problem. But Mohammed was a warlord, a
mass murderer, a pedophile, and had several marriages - at the same time.
Islamic tradition tells us how he fought in battles, how he had his enemies
murdered and even had prisoners of war executed. Mohammed himself
slaughtered the Jewish tribe of Banu Qurayza. If it is good for Islam, it
is good. If it is bad for Islam, it is bad.
Let no one fool you about Islam being a religion. Sure, it has a god, and a
here-after, and 72 virgins. But in its essence Islam is a political
ideology. It is a system that lays down detailed rules for society and the
life of every person. Islam wants to dictate every aspect of life. Islam
means 'submission'. Islam is not compatible with freedom and democracy,
because what it strives for is sharia. If you want to compare Islam to
anything, compare it to communism or national-socialism, these are all
totalitarian ideologies.
Now you know why Winston Churchill called Islam 'the most retrograde force
in the world', and why he compared Mein Kampf to the Quran. The public has
wholeheartedly accepted the Palestinian narrative, and sees Israel as the
aggressor. I have lived in this country and visited it dozens of times. I
support Israel . First, because it is the Jewish homeland after two
thousand years of exile up to and including Auschwitz , second because it is
a democracy, and third because Israel is our first line of defense.
This tiny country is situated on the fault line of jihad, frustrating
Islam's territorial advance. Israel is facing the front lines of jihad,
like Kashmir, Kosovo, the Philippines , Southern Thailand, Darfur in Sudan ,
Lebanon , and Aceh in Indonesia . Israel is simply in the way. The same way
West-Berlin was during the Cold War.
The war against Israel is not a war against Israel . It is a war against the
West. It is jihad. Israel is simply receiving the blows that are meant for
all of us. If there would have been no Israel , Islamic imperialism would
have found other venues to release its energy and its desire for conquest.
Thanks to Israeli parents who send their children to the army and lay awake
at night, parents in Europe and America can sleep well and dream, unaware
of the dangers looming.
Many in Europe argue in favor of abandoning Israel in order to address the
grievances of our Muslim minorities. But if Israel were, God forbid, to go
down, it would not bring any solace to the West It would not mean our Muslim
minorities would all of a sudden change their behavior, and accept our
values. On the contrary, the end of Israel would give enormous
encouragement to the forces of Islam. They would, and rightly so, see the
demise of Israel as proof that the West is weak, and doomed. The end of
Israel would not mean the end of our problems with Islam, but only the
beginning. It would mean the start of the final battle for world
domination. If they can get Israel , they can get everything.
So-called journalists volunteer to label any and all critics of Islamization
as a 'right-wing extremists' or 'racists'. In my country, the Netherlands ,
60 percent of the population now sees the mass immigration of Muslims as the
number one policy mistake since World War II. And another 60 percent sees
Islam as the biggest threat. Yet there is a danger greater danger than
terrorist attacks, the scenario of America as the last man standing. The
lights may go out in Europe faster than you can imagine. An Islamic Europe
means a Europe without freedom and democracy, an economic wasteland, an
intellectual nightmare, and a loss of military might for America - as its
allies will turn into enemies, enemies with atomic bombs. With an Islamic
Europe, it would be up to America alone to preserve the heritage of Rome ,
Athens and Jerusalem . Does the OBAMA administration recognize this? They
BETTER!
Dear friends, liberty is the most precious of gifts. My generation never
had to fight for this freedom, it was offered to us on a silver platter, by
people who fought for it with their lives. All throughout Europe, American
cemeteries remind us of the young boys who never made it home, and whose
memory we cherish. My generation does not own this freedom; we are merely
its custodians. We can only hand over this hard won liberty to Europe 's
children in the same state in which it was offered to us. We cannot strike
a deal with mullahs and imams. Future generations would never forgive us.
We cannot squander our liberties. We simply do not have the right to do so.
We have to take the necessary action now to stop this Islamic stupidity from
destroying the free world that we know.
Please take the time to read and understand what is written here. Please
send it to every free person that you know, it is so very important.
Geert Wilders is a Dutch Member of Parliament
Now what side of this debate is President Obama on?
Today is the National Day of Prayer. The Pentagon withdrew an invitation to Franklin Graham. During the meeting Obama had with Billy Graham, Franklin Graham asked President Obama to put him back on the agenda for today's National Day of Prayer.
Rev. Franklin Graham prayed outside the Pentagon Thursday -- not inside leading an official National Day of Prayer service. Instead, he and a half-dozen others stood on the sidewalk and bowed their heads in prayer for about five minutes.
GOD BLESS Geert Wilders and GOD BLESS Franklin Graham.
Our rights are being trampled on, Christians are under attack. Our Liberties are being taken away from us.
GOD BLESS AMERICA
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
This is Chilling!!!
In 1952 President Truman established one day a year as a "National Day of Prayer."
In 1988 President Reagan designated the First Thursday in May of each year as
the National Day of Prayer.
In June 2007 (then) Presidential Candidate Barack Obama declared that the USA Was no longer a Christian nation.
This year President Obama, canceled the 21st annual National Day of Prayer ceremony
at the White House under the rouse Of "not wanting to offend anyone"
On September 25, 2009 from 4 am until 7 pm, a National Day of Prayer for
the Muslim religion was Held on Capitol Hill, Beside the White House.
There were over 50,000 Muslims that Day in DC.
I guess it Doesn't matter if "Christians" Are offended by this event -
We obviously Don't count as "anyone" Anymore.
The direction This country is headed Should strike fear in the heart of every Christian.
Especially knowing that the Muslim religion believes that if Christians cannot be
Converted they should be Annihilated
This is not a Rumor –
Go to the website To confirm this info: http://www.islamoncapitolhill.com/
Pay particular attention to the very bottom of the page: "OUR TIME HAS COME"
I hope that this Information will stir your spirit. The words of 2 Chronicles 7:14
"If my people, Who are called by my Name, Will humble themselves And pray,
And seek my face, and Turn from their Wicked ways, Then will I hear from Heaven
And will forgive their Sin and will heal Their land."
We must pray for Our nation, our communities, Our families, and especially our
children. They are the ones that are going to suffer the most.
If we don't PRAY! May God have Mercy...
IN GOD WE TRUST.
In 1988 President Reagan designated the First Thursday in May of each year as
the National Day of Prayer.
In June 2007 (then) Presidential Candidate Barack Obama declared that the USA Was no longer a Christian nation.
This year President Obama, canceled the 21st annual National Day of Prayer ceremony
at the White House under the rouse Of "not wanting to offend anyone"
On September 25, 2009 from 4 am until 7 pm, a National Day of Prayer for
the Muslim religion was Held on Capitol Hill, Beside the White House.
There were over 50,000 Muslims that Day in DC.
I guess it Doesn't matter if "Christians" Are offended by this event -
We obviously Don't count as "anyone" Anymore.
The direction This country is headed Should strike fear in the heart of every Christian.
Especially knowing that the Muslim religion believes that if Christians cannot be
Converted they should be Annihilated
This is not a Rumor –
Go to the website To confirm this info: http://www.islamoncapitolhill.com/
Pay particular attention to the very bottom of the page: "OUR TIME HAS COME"
I hope that this Information will stir your spirit. The words of 2 Chronicles 7:14
"If my people, Who are called by my Name, Will humble themselves And pray,
And seek my face, and Turn from their Wicked ways, Then will I hear from Heaven
And will forgive their Sin and will heal Their land."
We must pray for Our nation, our communities, Our families, and especially our
children. They are the ones that are going to suffer the most.
If we don't PRAY! May God have Mercy...
IN GOD WE TRUST.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
ONCE YOU READ THIS YOU WILL UNDERSTAND!
A young man learns what's most important in life from the guy next door.
It had been some time since Jack had seen the old man.. College, girls, career, and life itself got in the way.. In fact, Jack moved clear across the country in pursuit of his dreams.
There, in the rush of his busy life, Jack had little time to think about the past and often no time to spend with his wife and son. He was working on his future, and nothing could stop him.
Over the phone, his mother told him, "Mr. Belser died last night. The funeral is Wednesday." Memories flashed through his mind like an old newsreel as he sat quietly remembering his childhood days.
"Jack, did you hear me?"
"Oh, sorry, Mom. Yes, I heard you. It's been so long since I thought of him. I'm sorry, but I honestly thought he died years ago," Jack said.
"Well, he didn't forget you. Every time I saw him he'd ask how you were doing. He'd reminisce about the many days you spent over 'his side of the fence' as he put it," Mom told him.
"I loved that old house he lived in," Jack said.
"You know, Jack, after your father died, Mr. Belser stepped in to make sure you had a man's influence in your life," she said
"He's the one who taught me carpentry," he said. "I wouldn't be in this business if it weren't for him. He spent a lot of time teaching me things he thought were important...Mom, I'll be there for the funeral," Jack said.
As busy as he was, he kept his word. Jack caught the next flight to his hometown. Mr. Belser's funeral was small and uneventful. He had no children of his own, and most of his relatives had passed away.
The night before he had to return home, Jack and his Mom stopped by to see the old house next door one more time.
Standing in the doorway, Jack paused for a moment. It was like crossing over into another dimension, a leap through space and time The house was exactly as he remembered. Every step held memories. Every picture, every piece of furniture....Jack stopped suddenly..
"What's wrong, Jack?" his Mom asked.
"The box is gone," he said
"What box?" Mom asked.
"There was a small gold box that he kept locked on top of his desk. I must have asked him a thousand times what was inside. All he'd ever tell me was 'the thing I value most,'" Jack said.
It was gone. Everything about the house was exactly how Jack remembered it, except for the box. He figured someone from the Belser family had taken it.
"Now I'll never know what was so valuable to him," Jack said. "I better get some sleep. I have an early flight home, Mom."
It had been about two weeks since Mr. Belser died Returning home from work one day Jack discovered a note in his mailbox. "Signature required on a package. No one at home. Please stop by the main post office within the next three days," the note read.
Early the next day Jack retrieved the package. The small box was old and looked like it had been mailed a hundred years ago. The handwriting was difficult to read, but the return address caught his attention. "Mr. Harold Belser" it read. Jack took the box out to his car and ripped open the package. There inside was the gold box and an envelope. Jack's hands shook as he read the note inside.
"Upon my death, please forward this box and its contents to Jack Bennett.. It's the thing I valued most in my life." A small key was taped to the letter. His heart racing, as tears filling his eyes, Jack carefully unlocked the box. There inside he found a beautiful gold pocket watch.
Running his fingers slowly over the finely etched casing, he unlatched the cover. Inside he found these words engraved:
"Jack, Thanks for your time! -Harold Belser."
"The thing he valued most was...my time"
Jack held the watch for a few minutes, then called his office and cleared his appointments for the next two days. "Why?" Janet, his assistant asked
"I need some time to spend with my son," he said.
"Oh, by the way, Janet, thanks for your time!"
"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away,"
Think about this. You may not realize it, but it's 100% true.
1. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way..
2 A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.
3 Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.
4.. You mean the world to someone.
5. If not for you, someone may not be living.
6. You are special and unique.
7. When you think you have no chance of getting what you want, you probably won't get it, but if you trust God to do what's best, and wait on His time, sooner or later, you will get it or something better.
8. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good can still come from it.
9. When you think the world has turned its back on you, take a look: you most likely turned your back on the world.
10. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.
11.. Always remember the compliments you received.. Forget about the rude remarks
12 .. Always tell someone how you feel about them; you will feel much better when they know and you'll both be happy .
13. If you have a great friend, take the time to let them know that they are great.
It had been some time since Jack had seen the old man.. College, girls, career, and life itself got in the way.. In fact, Jack moved clear across the country in pursuit of his dreams.
There, in the rush of his busy life, Jack had little time to think about the past and often no time to spend with his wife and son. He was working on his future, and nothing could stop him.
Over the phone, his mother told him, "Mr. Belser died last night. The funeral is Wednesday." Memories flashed through his mind like an old newsreel as he sat quietly remembering his childhood days.
"Jack, did you hear me?"
"Oh, sorry, Mom. Yes, I heard you. It's been so long since I thought of him. I'm sorry, but I honestly thought he died years ago," Jack said.
"Well, he didn't forget you. Every time I saw him he'd ask how you were doing. He'd reminisce about the many days you spent over 'his side of the fence' as he put it," Mom told him.
"I loved that old house he lived in," Jack said.
"You know, Jack, after your father died, Mr. Belser stepped in to make sure you had a man's influence in your life," she said
"He's the one who taught me carpentry," he said. "I wouldn't be in this business if it weren't for him. He spent a lot of time teaching me things he thought were important...Mom, I'll be there for the funeral," Jack said.
As busy as he was, he kept his word. Jack caught the next flight to his hometown. Mr. Belser's funeral was small and uneventful. He had no children of his own, and most of his relatives had passed away.
The night before he had to return home, Jack and his Mom stopped by to see the old house next door one more time.
Standing in the doorway, Jack paused for a moment. It was like crossing over into another dimension, a leap through space and time The house was exactly as he remembered. Every step held memories. Every picture, every piece of furniture....Jack stopped suddenly..
"What's wrong, Jack?" his Mom asked.
"The box is gone," he said
"What box?" Mom asked.
"There was a small gold box that he kept locked on top of his desk. I must have asked him a thousand times what was inside. All he'd ever tell me was 'the thing I value most,'" Jack said.
It was gone. Everything about the house was exactly how Jack remembered it, except for the box. He figured someone from the Belser family had taken it.
"Now I'll never know what was so valuable to him," Jack said. "I better get some sleep. I have an early flight home, Mom."
It had been about two weeks since Mr. Belser died Returning home from work one day Jack discovered a note in his mailbox. "Signature required on a package. No one at home. Please stop by the main post office within the next three days," the note read.
Early the next day Jack retrieved the package. The small box was old and looked like it had been mailed a hundred years ago. The handwriting was difficult to read, but the return address caught his attention. "Mr. Harold Belser" it read. Jack took the box out to his car and ripped open the package. There inside was the gold box and an envelope. Jack's hands shook as he read the note inside.
"Upon my death, please forward this box and its contents to Jack Bennett.. It's the thing I valued most in my life." A small key was taped to the letter. His heart racing, as tears filling his eyes, Jack carefully unlocked the box. There inside he found a beautiful gold pocket watch.
Running his fingers slowly over the finely etched casing, he unlatched the cover. Inside he found these words engraved:
"Jack, Thanks for your time! -Harold Belser."
"The thing he valued most was...my time"
Jack held the watch for a few minutes, then called his office and cleared his appointments for the next two days. "Why?" Janet, his assistant asked
"I need some time to spend with my son," he said.
"Oh, by the way, Janet, thanks for your time!"
"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away,"
Think about this. You may not realize it, but it's 100% true.
1. At least 15 people in this world love you in some way..
2 A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they don't like you.
3 Every night, SOMEONE thinks about you before they go to sleep.
4.. You mean the world to someone.
5. If not for you, someone may not be living.
6. You are special and unique.
7. When you think you have no chance of getting what you want, you probably won't get it, but if you trust God to do what's best, and wait on His time, sooner or later, you will get it or something better.
8. When you make the biggest mistake ever, something good can still come from it.
9. When you think the world has turned its back on you, take a look: you most likely turned your back on the world.
10. Someone that you don't even know exists loves you.
11.. Always remember the compliments you received.. Forget about the rude remarks
12 .. Always tell someone how you feel about them; you will feel much better when they know and you'll both be happy .
13. If you have a great friend, take the time to let them know that they are great.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
As the Bible speaks we should listen,,,,,,,
From a minister's wife:
We were in slow-moving traffic the other day and the car in
front of us had an Obama bumper sticker on it. It read:
"Pray for Obama. Psalm 109:8".
My husband's Bible was lying on the dash board, he got it
opened it up to the scripture and read it. He started laughing
and laughing. Then he read it to me. I couldn't believe what
it said. I had a good laugh, too.
Psalm 109:8
"Let his days be few; and let another take his place of leadership."
At last - I can voice a Biblical prayer for our president!
Look it up - it is word for word! Let us all bow our heads and pray.
We were in slow-moving traffic the other day and the car in
front of us had an Obama bumper sticker on it. It read:
"Pray for Obama. Psalm 109:8".
My husband's Bible was lying on the dash board, he got it
opened it up to the scripture and read it. He started laughing
and laughing. Then he read it to me. I couldn't believe what
it said. I had a good laugh, too.
Psalm 109:8
"Let his days be few; and let another take his place of leadership."
At last - I can voice a Biblical prayer for our president!
Look it up - it is word for word! Let us all bow our heads and pray.
Friday, April 2, 2010
THE (SCIENTIFIC) DEATH OF JESUS
At the age of 33, Jesus was condemned to the death penalty.
At the time crucifixion was the "worst" death. Only the worst criminals condemned to be crucified. Yet it was even more dreadful for Jesus, unlike other criminals condemned to death by crucifixion Jesus was to be nailed to the cross by His hands and feet.
Each nail was 6 to 8 inches long.
The nails were driven into His wrist. Not into His palms as is commonly portrayed. There's a tendon in the wrist that extends to the shoulder. The Roman guards knew that when the nails were being hammered into the wrist that tendon would tear and break, forcing Jesus to use His back muscles to support himself so that He could breath.
Both of His feet were nailed together. Thus He was forced to support Himself on the single nail that impaled His feet to the cross. Jesus could not support himself with His legs because of the pain so He was forced to alternate between arching His back then using his legs just to continue to breath. Imagine the struggle, the pain, the suffering, the courage.
Jesus endured this reality for over 3 hours.
Yes, over 3 hours! Can you imagine this kind of suffering? A few minutes before He died, Jesus stopped bleeding.
He was simply pouring water from his wounds.
From common images we see wounds to His hands and feet and even the spear wound to His side. But do we realize His wounds were actually made in his body. A hammer driving large nails through the wrist, the feet overlapped and an even large nail hammered through the arches, then a Roman guard piercing His side with a spear. But before the nails and the spear Jesus was whipped and beaten. The whipping was so severe that it tore the flesh from His body. The beating so horrific that His face was torn and his beard ripped from His face. The crown of thorns cut deeply into His scalp. Most men would not have survived this torture.
He had no more blood to bleed out, only water poured from His wounds.
The human adult body contains about 3.5 liters (just less than a gallon) of blood.
Jesus poured all 3.5 liters of his blood; He had three nails hammered into his members; a crown of thorns on his head and, beyond that, a Roman soldier who stabbed a spear into his chest.
All these without mentioning the humiliation He passed after carrying his own cross for almost 2 kilometers, while the crowd spat in his face and threw stones (the cross was almost 30 kg of weight, only for its higher part, where his hands were nailed).
Jesus had to endure this experience, so that you can have free access to God.
So that your sins could be "washed" away. All of them, with no exception! Don't ignore this situation.
JESUS CHRIST DIED FOR YOU! I Cor 15:3
At the time crucifixion was the "worst" death. Only the worst criminals condemned to be crucified. Yet it was even more dreadful for Jesus, unlike other criminals condemned to death by crucifixion Jesus was to be nailed to the cross by His hands and feet.
Each nail was 6 to 8 inches long.
The nails were driven into His wrist. Not into His palms as is commonly portrayed. There's a tendon in the wrist that extends to the shoulder. The Roman guards knew that when the nails were being hammered into the wrist that tendon would tear and break, forcing Jesus to use His back muscles to support himself so that He could breath.
Both of His feet were nailed together. Thus He was forced to support Himself on the single nail that impaled His feet to the cross. Jesus could not support himself with His legs because of the pain so He was forced to alternate between arching His back then using his legs just to continue to breath. Imagine the struggle, the pain, the suffering, the courage.
Jesus endured this reality for over 3 hours.
Yes, over 3 hours! Can you imagine this kind of suffering? A few minutes before He died, Jesus stopped bleeding.
He was simply pouring water from his wounds.
From common images we see wounds to His hands and feet and even the spear wound to His side. But do we realize His wounds were actually made in his body. A hammer driving large nails through the wrist, the feet overlapped and an even large nail hammered through the arches, then a Roman guard piercing His side with a spear. But before the nails and the spear Jesus was whipped and beaten. The whipping was so severe that it tore the flesh from His body. The beating so horrific that His face was torn and his beard ripped from His face. The crown of thorns cut deeply into His scalp. Most men would not have survived this torture.
He had no more blood to bleed out, only water poured from His wounds.
The human adult body contains about 3.5 liters (just less than a gallon) of blood.
Jesus poured all 3.5 liters of his blood; He had three nails hammered into his members; a crown of thorns on his head and, beyond that, a Roman soldier who stabbed a spear into his chest.
All these without mentioning the humiliation He passed after carrying his own cross for almost 2 kilometers, while the crowd spat in his face and threw stones (the cross was almost 30 kg of weight, only for its higher part, where his hands were nailed).
Jesus had to endure this experience, so that you can have free access to God.
So that your sins could be "washed" away. All of them, with no exception! Don't ignore this situation.
JESUS CHRIST DIED FOR YOU! I Cor 15:3
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
What is Your Value?
Your Value In a story...
A hundred dollar bill - if you hold it up and look at it when you first take it out of your pocket, it is clean and crisp and worth $100.
Now throw it on the ground step on it, throw it in the mud and get grass stains on it...Is it still $100. yes it is..nothing changed just a little dirt.
Now take it out in the street lay it in and oil spot or a gasoline spot once again step on it and ground in the grime of oil and gas... you may not want to handle it, but if you took it to the store and tried to spend it is it still worth a $100?
That is how God looks at each one of us.. No matter what you go through you have not lost your value in God's eyes..
Be the Best You can be...
May God Bless..
A hundred dollar bill - if you hold it up and look at it when you first take it out of your pocket, it is clean and crisp and worth $100.
Now throw it on the ground step on it, throw it in the mud and get grass stains on it...Is it still $100. yes it is..nothing changed just a little dirt.
Now take it out in the street lay it in and oil spot or a gasoline spot once again step on it and ground in the grime of oil and gas... you may not want to handle it, but if you took it to the store and tried to spend it is it still worth a $100?
That is how God looks at each one of us.. No matter what you go through you have not lost your value in God's eyes..
Be the Best You can be...
May God Bless..
Thursday, March 18, 2010
How You Deleiver the Message makes all the Difference in the World
The Tone of the Voice
It's not so much what you say,
as the manner in which you say it;
It's not so much the language you use,
as the tone in which you convey it.
"Come here", I sharply said,
And the child cowered and wept.
"Come here", I said, he looked and smiled,
And straight to my lap he crept.
Words may be mild and fair,
But the tone may pierce like a dart;
Words may be soft as the summer air,
But the tone may break my heart;
For words come from the mind
Grow by study and art,
But tone leaps from the inner self,
Revealing the state of heart.
Whether you know it or not,
Whether you mean or care,
Gentleness, kindness, love and hate,
Envy, anger are there.
Then, would you quarrels avoid--
And peace and love rejoice?
Keep anger not only out of your words,
Keep it out of your voice.
(Author unknown)
It's not so much what you say,
as the manner in which you say it;
It's not so much the language you use,
as the tone in which you convey it.
"Come here", I sharply said,
And the child cowered and wept.
"Come here", I said, he looked and smiled,
And straight to my lap he crept.
Words may be mild and fair,
But the tone may pierce like a dart;
Words may be soft as the summer air,
But the tone may break my heart;
For words come from the mind
Grow by study and art,
But tone leaps from the inner self,
Revealing the state of heart.
Whether you know it or not,
Whether you mean or care,
Gentleness, kindness, love and hate,
Envy, anger are there.
Then, would you quarrels avoid--
And peace and love rejoice?
Keep anger not only out of your words,
Keep it out of your voice.
(Author unknown)
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Observations on Growing Older
~Your kids are becoming like you...
...but your grandchildren are perfect!
~Going out is good.
Coming home is better!
~When people say you look "Great"...
they add "for your age!"
~When you needed the discount, you paid full price.
Now you get discounts on everything...
movies, hotels, flights, but you're too tired to use them.
~You forget names ... but it's OK
because other people forgot
they even knew you!!!
~The 5 pounds you wanted to lose
is now 15 and you have a better chance
of losing your keys than the 15 pounds.
~You realize you're never going
to be really good at anything .... especially golf.
~Your spouse is counting on you
to remember things you don't remember.
~The things you used to care to do,
you no longer care to do,
but you really do care that you
don't care to do them anymore.
~Your husband sleeps better on a lounge chair
with the TV blaring than he does in bed.
It's called his "pre-sleep".
~Remember when your mother said,
"Wear clean underwear in case you GET in an accident"?
Now you bring clean underwear in case you HAVE an accident!
~You used to say,
"I hope my kids GET married...
Now, "I hope they STAY married!"
~You miss the days when everything worked
with just an "ON" and "OFF" switch..
~When GOOGLE, ipod, email, modem ....
were unheard of, and a mouse was something
that made you climb on a table.
~You used to use more 4 letter words ....
"what?"..."when?"... ???
~Now that you can afford
expensive jewelry, it's not safe to wear it anywhere.
~Your husband has a night out with the guys,
but he's home by 9:00 P.M. Next week it will be 8:30 P.M.
~You read 100 pages into a book before you realize you've read it.
~Notice everything they sell in stores is "sleeveless"?!!!
~What used to be freckles are now liver spots.
~Everybody whispers.
~Now that your husband has retired ...
you'd give anything if he'd find a job!
~You have 3 sizes of clothes in your closet ...
2 of which you will never wear.
~~~~But old is good in some things:
old songs,
old movies,
And best of all, OLD FRIENDS!!
Love you, "OLD FRIEND!"
...but your grandchildren are perfect!
~Going out is good.
Coming home is better!
~When people say you look "Great"...
they add "for your age!"
~When you needed the discount, you paid full price.
Now you get discounts on everything...
movies, hotels, flights, but you're too tired to use them.
~You forget names ... but it's OK
because other people forgot
they even knew you!!!
~The 5 pounds you wanted to lose
is now 15 and you have a better chance
of losing your keys than the 15 pounds.
~You realize you're never going
to be really good at anything .... especially golf.
~Your spouse is counting on you
to remember things you don't remember.
~The things you used to care to do,
you no longer care to do,
but you really do care that you
don't care to do them anymore.
~Your husband sleeps better on a lounge chair
with the TV blaring than he does in bed.
It's called his "pre-sleep".
~Remember when your mother said,
"Wear clean underwear in case you GET in an accident"?
Now you bring clean underwear in case you HAVE an accident!
~You used to say,
"I hope my kids GET married...
Now, "I hope they STAY married!"
~You miss the days when everything worked
with just an "ON" and "OFF" switch..
~When GOOGLE, ipod, email, modem ....
were unheard of, and a mouse was something
that made you climb on a table.
~You used to use more 4 letter words ....
"what?"..."when?"... ???
~Now that you can afford
expensive jewelry, it's not safe to wear it anywhere.
~Your husband has a night out with the guys,
but he's home by 9:00 P.M. Next week it will be 8:30 P.M.
~You read 100 pages into a book before you realize you've read it.
~Notice everything they sell in stores is "sleeveless"?!!!
~What used to be freckles are now liver spots.
~Everybody whispers.
~Now that your husband has retired ...
you'd give anything if he'd find a job!
~You have 3 sizes of clothes in your closet ...
2 of which you will never wear.
~~~~But old is good in some things:
old songs,
old movies,
And best of all, OLD FRIENDS!!
Love you, "OLD FRIEND!"
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Remind You of Anyone?
Someone Had to remind me, So I'm Reminding You, too.
Perks of reaching 50 Or being over 60 And heading Towards 70!
1. Kidnappers Are not very Interested in you.
2. In a hostage situation, You are likely to be Released first.
3. No one expects You to run -- Anywhere.
4. People call at 9 PM And ask, 'Did I wake you?'
5. People no longer View you as a Hypochondriac.
6. There is nothing left To learn the hard way.
7. Things you buy now Won't wear out..
8. You can eat Supper at 4 PM.
9. You can live without sex(not really) But not your glasses.
10. You no longer think Of speed limits As a challenge.
11. You quit trying To hold Your stomach in No matter who walks Into the room.
12. You sing along With elevator music.
13. Your eyes Won't get Much worse.
14. Your investment In health insurance Is finally beginning To pay off.
15. Your joints are more accurate meteorologists Than the national Weather service.
16. Your secrets are safe With your friends Because they can't Remember them either.
17. Your supply of brain cells Is finally down to A manageable size.
18. You can't remember Who sent you this list. And you notice These are all
In big print For your convenience.
ONE MORE THING:
Never, Never, Ever Under any circumstances,
Take a sleeping pill, And a laxative on The same night!
Perks of reaching 50 Or being over 60 And heading Towards 70!
1. Kidnappers Are not very Interested in you.
2. In a hostage situation, You are likely to be Released first.
3. No one expects You to run -- Anywhere.
4. People call at 9 PM And ask, 'Did I wake you?'
5. People no longer View you as a Hypochondriac.
6. There is nothing left To learn the hard way.
7. Things you buy now Won't wear out..
8. You can eat Supper at 4 PM.
9. You can live without sex(not really) But not your glasses.
10. You no longer think Of speed limits As a challenge.
11. You quit trying To hold Your stomach in No matter who walks Into the room.
12. You sing along With elevator music.
13. Your eyes Won't get Much worse.
14. Your investment In health insurance Is finally beginning To pay off.
15. Your joints are more accurate meteorologists Than the national Weather service.
16. Your secrets are safe With your friends Because they can't Remember them either.
17. Your supply of brain cells Is finally down to A manageable size.
18. You can't remember Who sent you this list. And you notice These are all
In big print For your convenience.
ONE MORE THING:
Never, Never, Ever Under any circumstances,
Take a sleeping pill, And a laxative on The same night!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
ENCOURAGEMENT
A man was sleeping one night in his cabin when suddenly his room filled with light, and God appeared. The Lord told the man he had work for him to do, and showed him a large rock in front of his cabin. The Lord explained that the man was to push against the rock with all his might...
So, this the man did, day after day. For many years he toiled from sunup to sundown, his shoulders set squarely against the cold, massive surface of the unmoving rock, pushing with all his might!
Each night the man returned to his cabin sore and worn out, feeling that his whole day had been spent in vain. Since the man was showing discouragement, the adversary (Satan) decided to enter the picture by placing thoughts into the weary mind: (He will do it every time)!
'You have been pushing against that rock for a long time and it hasn't moved.' Thus, he gave the man the impression that the task was impossible and that he was a failure. These thoughts discouraged and disheartened the man.
Satan said, 'Why kill yourself over this? Just put in your time, giving just the minimum effort; and that will be good enough.' That's what the weary man planned to do, but decided to make it a matter of Prayer and to take his troubled thoughts to the Lord.
'Lord,' he said, 'I have labored long and hard in Your Service, putting all my strength to do that which You have asked. Yet, after all this time, I have not even budged that rock by half a millimeter. What is wrong? Why am I failing?'
The Lord responded compassionately, 'My friend, when I asked you to serve Me and you accepted, I told you that your task was to push against the rock with all of your strength, which you have done.
Never once did I mention to you that I expected you to move it. Your task was to push. And now you come to Me with your strength spent, thinking that you have failed..
But, is that really so? Look at yourself. Your arms are strong and muscled, your back shiny and brown; your hands are callused from constant pressure, your legs have become massive and hard.
Through opposition you have grown much, and your abilities now surpass that which you used to have. True, you haven't moved the rock. But your calling was to be Obedient and to push and to exercise your Faith and trust in My Wisdom. That you have done. Now I, my friend, will move the rock.'
At times, when we hear a word from God, we tend to use our own intellect to decipher what He Wants, when actually what God wants is just simple obedience and faith in Him.
By all means, exercise the Faith that moves mountains, but know that it is still God Who moves the Mountains.
When everything seems to go wrong..........................Just P.U.S.H.
When the job gets you down..................................Just P.U.S.H.
When people don't do as you think they should.............Just P.U.S.H.
When your money is 'gone' and the bills are due...........Just P.U.S.H.
When people just don't understand you .....................Just P.U.S.H.
P = Pray
U = Until
S = Something
H = Happens
Pass this on to all your loved ones and friends who may need it; they may get it just in time. 'Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.'
Friends are like quiet angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly. May God Bless You.
Just Hold ON!!! P.U.S.H.
So, this the man did, day after day. For many years he toiled from sunup to sundown, his shoulders set squarely against the cold, massive surface of the unmoving rock, pushing with all his might!
Each night the man returned to his cabin sore and worn out, feeling that his whole day had been spent in vain. Since the man was showing discouragement, the adversary (Satan) decided to enter the picture by placing thoughts into the weary mind: (He will do it every time)!
'You have been pushing against that rock for a long time and it hasn't moved.' Thus, he gave the man the impression that the task was impossible and that he was a failure. These thoughts discouraged and disheartened the man.
Satan said, 'Why kill yourself over this? Just put in your time, giving just the minimum effort; and that will be good enough.' That's what the weary man planned to do, but decided to make it a matter of Prayer and to take his troubled thoughts to the Lord.
'Lord,' he said, 'I have labored long and hard in Your Service, putting all my strength to do that which You have asked. Yet, after all this time, I have not even budged that rock by half a millimeter. What is wrong? Why am I failing?'
The Lord responded compassionately, 'My friend, when I asked you to serve Me and you accepted, I told you that your task was to push against the rock with all of your strength, which you have done.
Never once did I mention to you that I expected you to move it. Your task was to push. And now you come to Me with your strength spent, thinking that you have failed..
But, is that really so? Look at yourself. Your arms are strong and muscled, your back shiny and brown; your hands are callused from constant pressure, your legs have become massive and hard.
Through opposition you have grown much, and your abilities now surpass that which you used to have. True, you haven't moved the rock. But your calling was to be Obedient and to push and to exercise your Faith and trust in My Wisdom. That you have done. Now I, my friend, will move the rock.'
At times, when we hear a word from God, we tend to use our own intellect to decipher what He Wants, when actually what God wants is just simple obedience and faith in Him.
By all means, exercise the Faith that moves mountains, but know that it is still God Who moves the Mountains.
When everything seems to go wrong..........................Just P.U.S.H.
When the job gets you down..................................Just P.U.S.H.
When people don't do as you think they should.............Just P.U.S.H.
When your money is 'gone' and the bills are due...........Just P.U.S.H.
When people just don't understand you .....................Just P.U.S.H.
P = Pray
U = Until
S = Something
H = Happens
Pass this on to all your loved ones and friends who may need it; they may get it just in time. 'Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.'
Friends are like quiet angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly. May God Bless You.
Just Hold ON!!! P.U.S.H.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Positive Thoughts will Make you Successful
Positive thinking is actually very simple, here are a few ways you can get started...and have a positive impact on all areas of your life:
* If you find yourself thinking a negative thought, change it to a positive thought.
* Surround your life with positive people, don't allow negativity into your life.
* Spend your time on activities that bring you happiness.
* Invoke positive memories whenever you can.
* Cherish the simple pleasures in your life.
* Be around people that make you laugh.
* Love yourself.
* Serve others by volunteering your time to those less fortunate.
A positive mind anticipates happiness, joy, health and a successful outcome of every situation and action. Whatever the mind expects, it finds.
Negative thoughts, words and attitude bring up negative and unhappy moods and actions. When the mind is negative, poisons are released into the blood, which cause more unhappiness and negativity. This is the way to failure, frustration and disappointment.
* If you find yourself thinking a negative thought, change it to a positive thought.
* Surround your life with positive people, don't allow negativity into your life.
* Spend your time on activities that bring you happiness.
* Invoke positive memories whenever you can.
* Cherish the simple pleasures in your life.
* Be around people that make you laugh.
* Love yourself.
* Serve others by volunteering your time to those less fortunate.
A positive mind anticipates happiness, joy, health and a successful outcome of every situation and action. Whatever the mind expects, it finds.
Negative thoughts, words and attitude bring up negative and unhappy moods and actions. When the mind is negative, poisons are released into the blood, which cause more unhappiness and negativity. This is the way to failure, frustration and disappointment.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Facing Your Fears
My cousin Danny Mack has a weekly newsletter he has established to help with Grief Counseling, which is his Life's work and his Legacy. Danny is an awesome man, this is exert from his latest newsletter.
Financial crisis, divorce, terminal illness, and the death of a loved one causes many of us to experience fear. Our worldview has been severely challenged, and we are not too sure what will happen to us tomorrow. Susan Jeffers, the author of Feel the Fear and Do It, has written what I consider to be the best book on overcoming the fears that grip our mind and emotions. In her book she reveals these five truths regarding fear:
TRUTH ONE: The fear will never go away as long as you let it continue to grow.
TRUTH TWO: The only way to get rid of the fear is to go out . . . and do it.
TRUTH THREE: The only way to feel better about yourself is to go out . . . and do it.
TRUTH FOUR: Not only are you going to experience fear when you're in unfamiliar territory, but so is everyone else.
TRUTH FIVE: Pushing through fear is less frightening than living with the underlying fear that comes from a feeling of helplessness.
Jeffers says that the foundation of all fear is the belief that we are going to face situations we will not be able to handle. The reality is that we have handled everything that has happened to us this far in life. When you begin to feel the grip of fear, begin to tell yourself, "I can handle it."
If you would like to receive Danny's newsletter or would like to write Danny an e-mail, write to Danny@DannyMack.info. I highly recommend it for someone who is going through grief or tragedy in their life.
Financial crisis, divorce, terminal illness, and the death of a loved one causes many of us to experience fear. Our worldview has been severely challenged, and we are not too sure what will happen to us tomorrow. Susan Jeffers, the author of Feel the Fear and Do It, has written what I consider to be the best book on overcoming the fears that grip our mind and emotions. In her book she reveals these five truths regarding fear:
TRUTH ONE: The fear will never go away as long as you let it continue to grow.
TRUTH TWO: The only way to get rid of the fear is to go out . . . and do it.
TRUTH THREE: The only way to feel better about yourself is to go out . . . and do it.
TRUTH FOUR: Not only are you going to experience fear when you're in unfamiliar territory, but so is everyone else.
TRUTH FIVE: Pushing through fear is less frightening than living with the underlying fear that comes from a feeling of helplessness.
Jeffers says that the foundation of all fear is the belief that we are going to face situations we will not be able to handle. The reality is that we have handled everything that has happened to us this far in life. When you begin to feel the grip of fear, begin to tell yourself, "I can handle it."
If you would like to receive Danny's newsletter or would like to write Danny an e-mail, write to Danny@DannyMack.info. I highly recommend it for someone who is going through grief or tragedy in their life.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
The Bridge
A man on his Harley was riding along a California beach when suddenly the sky clouded above his head and, in a booming voice, God said, 'because you have tried to be faithful to me in all ways, I will grant you one wish.'
The biker pulled over and said, 'Build a bridge to Hawaii so I can ride over anytime I want.'
God replied, 'Your request is materialistic; think of the enormous challenges for that kind of undertaking; the supports required reaching the bottom of the Pacific and the concrete and steel it would take! I can do it, but it is hard for me to justify your desire for worldly things. Take a little more time and think of something that could possibly help man kind.'
The biker thought about it for a long time. Finally, he said, 'God, I
wish that I , and all men, could understand women; I want to know how she feels inside, what she's thinking when she gives me the silent treatment, why she cries, what she means when she says nothing's wrong, why she snaps and complains when I try to help, and how I can make a woman truly happy.
God replied: 'You want two lanes or four on that bridge?"
The biker pulled over and said, 'Build a bridge to Hawaii so I can ride over anytime I want.'
God replied, 'Your request is materialistic; think of the enormous challenges for that kind of undertaking; the supports required reaching the bottom of the Pacific and the concrete and steel it would take! I can do it, but it is hard for me to justify your desire for worldly things. Take a little more time and think of something that could possibly help man kind.'
The biker thought about it for a long time. Finally, he said, 'God, I
wish that I , and all men, could understand women; I want to know how she feels inside, what she's thinking when she gives me the silent treatment, why she cries, what she means when she says nothing's wrong, why she snaps and complains when I try to help, and how I can make a woman truly happy.
God replied: 'You want two lanes or four on that bridge?"
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)