Illness and the Disappearing Act

In October 2021, my Mother was sick and I traveled to my home in Ohio hoping to help out, and when I returned home to NC, my husband Chris was sick. Was it heartburn, indigestion, or maybe the usual flare-up of sinus or allergies causing him to lose weight? He already has these issues, so I thought it couldn't be serious and I was glad he was losing weight due to his threat of obesity. 

I said goodbye to Mother on December 1, 2021, and after her funeral, I returned home and Chris had an endoscopy. The doctor came into the recovery room and asked us to pray for him, I carried anointing oil and applied a bit to the doctor's forehead and the three of us prayed. I felt honored actually believing the godly doctor was asking for intercession for himself. A minute after 'amen,' he showed us the results and a walnut-sized tumor was blocking my husband's esophagus. Chris had cancer.

Now, after two years of very proactive medical help, successful surgery removing all the threats, and constant, caring medical intervention, Chris is still sick, and unable to digest his meals. I'm watching my Dearest disappear in front of me when I wake up, return home from work, see him before bedtime, and try to cuddle against his back. At every encounter, he is thinner. 

Chris wears loose clothing to hide his bones, but I know he is even thinner than the man I married. I thought he was bony then, but nothing compares to what he looks like now. I pray with the image of holding on to the foot of the cross believing God has a purpose for this terrifying reality while praying for healing. I plead the blood of Christ over my own lack of faith. Are we being impatient? Am I hoping to become a widow and free of parish life? Should I plan to survive without Dearest in my life?

There are times I am so very selfish, and sinful that I actually wish he would pass and be free of such misery. His constant pain and nausea keep him confined to limited spaces. He vacuums, cooks, and keeps his office hours at the church parish and averages 9-10 thousand steps on his Fitbit everyday. Chris has always been diligent with his personal responsibilities; he has to because I have to work with no choice. Yet, despite all the highest efforts by medical and our best diet habits, he still cannot gain weight. All we can do is pray believing and pursue the best health habits possible, then the rest belongs to God. Please God heal...please heal my Dearest. Is it wrong that I pray, 'please?'

Thank God for the best of health insurance, health care, a loving family, and a loving church family. Thank God for His mercy and grace in our lives...Thank God for He is with us, guiding us in His Perfect Will as we follow Jesus in His Way...Thank God Our Lord took stripes and our sickness on Himself...Thank God for His perfect salvation from all sin...Thank God for the mind to pray and help us trust and obey Him...Thank God for Our Lord's Triumphant Ressurection...Thank God for His Mercy on my life...

...Oh God, what have I done to hurt my Dearest so? Is my failing the cause of his suffering? Can you really hear my cries for his healing even though I am frail and weak in faith? Have I become so hideous from my many poor choices in life that You cannot see me or hear me? What must I do to see Dearest healed in every wholistic sense and living with me?...What must I DO?

Ok, Faith without works is dead...the just shall live by faith...by faith are we saved through grace and not of works lest any man should boast...

Alright, nothing I haven't heard before...trying to believe. 'AT the Cross...' at the very foot of the cross...the muddy, bloody, smelly, even the awful stench of the vinegar and decaying corpses not far away...I'll stay here and wait and hold on for Dearest's Life.

Thank God that He is the Supreme Ruler of all our unknowns.

I will Trust in God who knows I am dust. 

Sly Pagans: The Everyday People

Call me Pagan. My DNA doesn't lie. I am Celtic, Scandinavian, and Eastern European. The very civilizations that fought against the educated Roman elite government. 

My parents were shocked at the results when there is solid, legal proof of Native American ancestry and my Mother was very animated to remind me that I am from her and my Dad. Now, my inability to tolerate heat, sun, and many food groups seems to make a lot of sense. My body says Northeastern Europe, but the spirit given to me by family traditions and stories about my ancestors has shaped me into who I am today. 

When Mother died, I returned to religious customs and traditions that gave me a great sense of security. I am most comfortable in a buttoned oxford blouse, maxi skirt, and a loose sweater or dress jacket. My constant weight issues make the supportive oxford shoes a necessity.  I've simply neglected to apply jewelry and makeup for tasks more enjoyable. 

I suppose God must be the supreme artist, after all, He is God and I must be His blank canvas. People who wear piercings, tattoos, and individual fashion designs are beautiful. Far more beautiful are the countless cultures people represent; one reason Heaven is such a wonder. Imagine the languages, music, and foods that thrive in Heaven will be the best because Christ Himself is the Creator who gave us such beauty. 

Regardless of our external choices, we are all pagans whom God so loves. 

"Sometimes I'm right and I can be wrong
My own beliefs are in my song
The butcher, the banker, the drummer and then
Makes no difference what group I'm in

I am everyday people, 

There is a blue one who can't accept the green one
For living with a fat one, trying to be a skinny one
And different strokes for different folks
And so on and so on and scooby dooby doo-bee

We got to live together

I am no better and neither are you
We are the same whatever we do
You love me, you hate me, you know me and then
You can't figure out the bag I'm in

I am everyday people,  

There is a long hair that doesn't like the short hair
For being such a rich one, that will not help the poor one
And different strokes for different folks
And so on and so on and scooby dooby doo-bee

We got to live together

There is a yellow one that won't accept the black one
That won't accept the red one, that won't accept the white one
Different strokes for different folks
And so on and so on and scooby dooby doo-bee

I am everyday people" 1

1. "Everyday People." Https://Genius.Com/Sly-and-the-family-stone-everyday-people-lyrics. November 1, 1968. https://doi.org/https://genius.com/Sly-and-the-family-stone-everyday-people-lyrics.

 

 

My Friend Grace

My friend walks beside me; not in front or behind.

My friend tells me I'm doing a great job; never jealous.

My friend tells me when I'm being bad; always honest wanting me to be the best human being. 

My friend tells me that I am loved when I am bad; a friend who loves me despite my worst form.

My friend forgives me for my worst form; I learn to forgive. 

My friend uses my name truthfully; people seem to listen so I get more friends. 

My friend always helps me when I need help; never imposes, but is available. 

My friend wants my company; never tolerates or tires of me. 

My friend is my constant companion; I am never alone.

My friend stands beside me when I am mocked or slandered; and holds my hand so I will forgive.

My friend knows me more than myself; truthfully.

My friend is so very selfless for my good; I could never earn such a privilege as my Friend.

My friend is a perfect gift.

My friend the Grace given by my Lord Jesus. 

At My Age?

 I love Korean Pop music. In fact, it's the only secular music I listen to except for Woodstock and earlier American folk music. It seems after the 1960's the music died just as Don McLean wrote about in his song, 'By, By, Miss American Pie.' It seems all American dignity, modesty, and self-respect died after the 1960's. Open, free sex activity and drugs destroyed all that was good in our media, the very source of our information and influence. I weep for our precious country destroyed by the filth and lack of any good in our media. 

As a little girl, I was totally taken by Asian culture via Public Broadcasting television and radio. Chinese, Japanese, and Korean characters had my full attention. I watched programs I didn't like just to see the Asian character on screen. I read about Asian American soldiers who fought for my own freedom and yet were uncelebrated. The Chinese Opera, the Kabuki theater, and Korean traditional music flooded my imagination. Mother was a Gospel singer and her backup was male quartets; probably why I prefer male vocals to this day. I love King's Singers and Chinese Nandan singers for the balance color of their voices. When Korean men sing, there is a balance of tone and color that makes the heart message of the work understood. 

Korean traditional culture dictates a strict modest appearance and behavior, and a diligent and effective work ethic that infiltrates their arts. Personally, I am offended by exposed skin and graphic sexual content. I find suited men and modestly dressed females quite attractive and pleasing for the screen. Korean dramas make me want to improve my own work ethic, behavior, and appearance. 

On the rare moments, I watch K-pop music videos, they remind me of the 'sharp' presentation that the Temptations and other 'DooWap' groups included in their performances. K-pop has restored this dignity and work ethic. 

I pray always for k entertainment labels, especially SM. I know they are tough, but the discipline shows in their productions. I am thankful to be American and love my country, but our entertainment died in the 1950-60's and Kpop has made it totally Perfect. They are Frankie Avalon, Temptations, Joe Croker, Tokens, Bob Dillon, James Taylor all made to perfection. Perfect vocals, dance, visuals...perfect work ethic always produces perfect returns. Exo, NCT, and Shinee are some of my faves. Yes, I prefer male vocals...even counter singers and nandans. I love the suiting, hairstyles, and even the exciting theme costumes. Modest, and clean visuals always make perfect artistry. I pray for the management to have God's wisdom in directing and leading these stunning entertainers. God help them if they compromise the work ethic in the industry because the result would be mediocre and trash. God bless the brilliant artist for maintaining the highest standards. K-pop groups become spiritual siblings and respect each other due to traditional customs. 

I am fully aware there are always failings in ethics and morals; we have all sinned and need to repent. God have mercy on us and on the whole world when we fail to do so. 

I may be a 'prude' far too old to enjoy the young entertainers and their dance. I may be called every insult by all of society, but at least I know what I like...a life without chemical dependence and inner dignity that reflects the Great Image of God to Honor God and Humanity. 

• Like

Study - Let's make it Easy. Thoughts on 'Easy' by Key.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KEqHYJhHZPY  [1]

    What did you do this time? Did you cause the malfunction? I wish you were like her. We just have to make sure you don't get hurt. Thank you for the offer, but he is more qualified. Maybe when you're older. You're too old for this task. You can't do this yourself. Thank you for your offer, but we want to maintain the highest standards. You didn't know?... It's just common sense...I thought everyone knew that.  I hope you can think of me as your mom away from home. You are of no use to me. You are a zero. You are worthless. Please catch up...you are holding back the others. 

Never let these messages distract you from your study because they only destroy the human spirit and drive to excel.  They are words the world uses to destroy and crush rather than edify. College students prepare themselves to improve the quality of life for others and are on a mission to make the world better. Never be distracted by evil. 

I dream of a tailor who will take me seriously and make me tailored business skirt suits even though I am a fat, old, white lady. 

I dream of a doctor who takes time to study my lab work to find out the why and a cure for this horrible digestive disorder. 

I dream of a world where people will return the respect and trust they expect from others. How wonderful that would be. 

I dream of a Christ-loving community that trusts and obeys the Word of God and what Our Lord did for all of us on the cross. 

I dream of Christ-loving elders who can look at me and say that I make serving God look easy. 

I want to remember everyone in my past with a smile knowing they made my drive to excel look easy.

I dream of Christ who can look at me and say what I am, what I do for Him is wonderful and God is proud of me. 

When people beat my head with the shovel, I remember, Our Lord Jesus is with me and He will lift me to a higher and better place. His yoke is easy, and His burden is light. Mt. 11.28-30

[1] Credits:
https://genius.com/Key-shinee-easy-lyrics
Written By
박태원 (Park Tae Won), Hayden Chapman, Greg Bonnick, Patrick JQ Smith & Dewain Whitmore
Lyricist
박태원 (Park Tae Won)
Composer
Hayden Chapman, Greg Bonnick, Patrick JQ Smith & Dewain Whitmore
Label
SM Entertainment
Release Date
February 13, 2023
Easy Translations
KEY - Easy (English Translation) by Genius English Translations & KEY - Easy (Romanized) by Genius Romanizations
 

TLPHC Sunday Sermon, February 5, 2023, James HC 'Chris' Brown

TLPHC Sunday School, January 8, 2023

The Fat Old White Lady at the Chinese Table

     I am usually the 'elephant in the room' that makes everyone wonder why I have to be present; the only English speaker, the only white person, and the infamous problem with nothing in common with others, and the only Northerner in the room, etc. Most of the time I have to be present without choice. I made the life choices so consequences must be accepted.

    My first most wonderful experience was being invited to a Passover Seder several years ago. I thought that was the one perfect experience that was the event to end all and I was ready to meet my Lord Jesus. Now in the year of the white rabbit, I'm extremely 'spiritually high' and very sleepy this morning after being invited to a Lunar New Year's Eve party. The love and welcome I received last night was what I would feel at the Wedding Feast of the Lamb. 

    We live at an evil time when people choose to hate differences rather than know the One Creator who made us for His joy. At the Passover Sader and the Lunar New Year party, I was so loved and welcomed even though I am a 'fat old white lady...Celt, Scandinavian, Eastern European.' I sampled every kind of Chinese food served and even though my taste may not agree, I knew it was all from My Lord Jesus Himself. I thank selfless people who allowed me to learn more about China and made me feel like one of their own. I weep in gratitude for people who loved me even though I am different than them. 

    Dear Lord Jesus, please bless them all with your presence and bless their work, home, and rest. We in the US have been so blessed with freedoms our Asian friends can only dream of. Very Happy New Year to all...恭喜发财, 新年好, 万事如意, 새해 복 많이 받으세요, Chúc mừng năm mới. (google help).

TLPHC, Sunday Sermon, James HC Brown, January 15, 2023

TLPHC Sunday School, January 1, 2023

TLPHC, James H.C. 'Chris' Brown, 10022022

TLPHC Sunday School, November 20, 2022

TLPHC Sunday School 11132022

TLPHC Sunday School 11062022

TLPHC, Sunday School, October 30, 2022

TLPHC Sunday School, 10232022

TLPHC Sunday School 10092022

TLPHC, 10092022, James H.C. 'Chris' Brown

TLPHC SUNDAY SCHOOL 10022022

TLPHC, James H.C. 'Chris' Brown, 10022022

TLPHC Sunday School 09252022

TLPHC Sunday 09252022

TLPHC Sunday School 09182022

TLPHC Sunday School 09112022

TLPHC Sunday School 09042022

TLPHC July 31, 2022, James HC 'Chris' Brown

TLPHC, James HC Brown, 03272022, Acts 3

Mommy, It's Nita. May I come in? Mother's illness.

I knocked on Mom's bedroom door and said, "Mommy, it's Nita. May I come in?"

No answer for a long time.

"Ok. I'll come back a little later. Let me know if you want anything."

A little later, like one or two minutes, I knocked on Mom's bedroom door and said, "Mommy, it's Nita. May I come in now?"

No answer for a long time.

I'm an adult child, married and barren by choice, yet want somehow to enter Mommy's world. I want to, at least, freely give her my hands and feet. It's very difficult for a saint, like my mother, to receive any help at all much less from me, so she doesn't answer her bedroom door, and somehow I understand, because I too strive for self-reliance, independence.

I'm ok, but Mother is not.

One month later:

No more chemotherapy for Mommy. One treatment will temporarily stop the cancer growth and symptoms, but cruel doctors tell her she will not live past the weekend. 

I rush home, and I find a house full of people, some strangers, and some friends, and Mom is in a hospital bed in the living room sleeping. Everyone but Mom is telling me she is dying. People cry, wonder, and look at the house furnishings. I sit by Mom and sing old-shaped note songs she taught me and worry about disturbing her rest. 

"Mommy, are you comfortable? Am I disturbing you?"

No answer for a long time.

Then I help Mom wash, change, and sit comfortably in her recliner. She hates her bald head, scarves, and walker.

'Nit, I want you to gather all your things and leave, go home and get back to your job.'

"Yes, Mom. I love you."

Mom is ok, but I'm not. 

Because of Mom, I will be ok.

Juanita Long Mullins 12301930-12012021

Gold Rush: Don't Rush Into It

       What does gold mean to you? How important is gold to you? Throughout history, gold has been a desired possession. Kingdoms have flaunted themselves using their gold furnishings and funding. The rich became poor just to seek out gold during the great Gold Rush of 1849.1 Today precious metal is a heavily advertised investment. 

      What is your gold? What is the gold you wish for to such an extent that you dream of it when you sleep, worry if you can't obtain it, or strategize about it during your daily life? What is the picture on your mind when you go to sleep and wake up?

"Cause everybody in the back room's
Spinning up
Don't remember what you're asking for
And everybody's in the front room's
Tripping out
You left your bottle at the door"2

      Whatever your gold is to you, here are a few questions to ask yourself as a guide to determine your gold's true value:

        1. Is it true? Does it honor the sanctity of the Creator and humanity?

        2. Is it worth your distraction? Time is a sacred gift and time should be used to honor to Creator and humanity. 

        3. Is it right in God's judgment? Does your gold compare with Holy Scripture?

        4. Is it pure? Will it cause harm to anyone resulting in harming your conscience because it robbed the wellbeing of another?

        5. Is it necessary? Does your survival depend on obtaining this gold or will it destroy your conscience?

        6. Is it respected by yourself and others? 

        7. Is it beautiful? Will it always be beautiful to you or will you grow tired of it in time?

      At this point in my life, I have found my Gold in my Lord Jesus. 

1. https://www.history.com/topics/westward-expansion/gold-rush-of-1849

2. Lyrics.com, STANDS4 LLC, 2022. "Glitter & Gold Lyrics." Accessed January 5, 2022. https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/34282641/Barns+Courtney.

Systemic Racism: We Lost our Wonderful Child

The electrified sounds of screams, shouting, tambourines, piano, organ after dark

and we shouted the glory down and felt better after church;

The sights and smell of sweat as we ran the church isles, jumping, cheering, waving our hands

and we shouted the glory down and we felt better after church;

The intermitted rest as we lay on the floor with our modest towel over our legs

and we shouted the glory down and we felt better after church;

At home, when our parents felt powerless by world conflicts and threats

and waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

At school, we kept our eyes circumspect lest we may be touched by sin

and waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

At the grocery store, we counted the cost so to fill the cart

and waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

At the downtown dress store and the clerk suggesting a more suitable thrift shop down at the harbor

and waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

At a morning church with the tense insults, shepherd's criticism, borning storytime, gossip raging

and waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

At home, when news of young rebels unhappy with God and country

and waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We lost our Wonderful Child 1

but always waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We were not able to touch His fingers and toes

but always waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We were not able to listen to His Words

but always waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We were not able to know His longing for our attention

but always waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We were not able to know His pleading for our souls

but always waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We were not able to know His Wonderful Spirit

but always waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We were not able to know His Wonderful Love for us

but always waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We were not able to watch Him grow in us

but always waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We were not able to know His perfect Purity of heart

but always waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We were not able to celebrate His birthdays

but always waited until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We lost that Wonderful Child in the manger kit; it's somewhere in the closet or may be sold in the yard sale

but we can always wait until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We lost that Wonderful Child and the flowers are gone 2 

but we can always wait until the next time we can shout the glory down and feel better; 

We lost that Wonderful Child and found fun glitter and gold 3

and we shouted the glory down and felt better after church;

Wonderful Child grew up somewhere else and sent us a letter and we smiled and put it on top of the fridge

and we shouted the glory down and felt better after church.

"Isaiah 53.3. If sin rules in me, God's life in me will be killed; if God rules in me, sin in me will be killed. The final culmination of sin was the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, and what was true in the history of God on earth will also be true in your history and in mine-that is, sin will kill the life of God in us. It is the only explanation why Jesus Christ came to earth, and it is the explanation of the grief and sorrow of life." 4

1 https://hymnary.org/hymn/LUYH2013/99
2 http://www.folkarchive.de/where.html
3 https://www.songfacts.com/lyrics/barns-courtney/glitter-and-gold
4 My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers

Systemic Racism - People Like You

When Al Franken created the character, Stuart Smalley, on Saturday Night Live, Stewart was an annoying, self-proclaimed counselor who always ended his sessions with 'people like me.' 1

When I was little, I heard this line because I belonged to a social and religious group that was not always welcomed.

• People like you are good for our workforce.
• People like you don't need formal education.
• People like you are stout and easy to have children.
• People like you have lower standards than others.
• People like you can work in the mines rather than go to school.
• People like you will be happy with anything.
• People like you are easy to please.
• People like you had slaves.
• People like you are bad.
• People like you are guilty.
• People like you...

Hearing this in my life always made me wonder why people never took the time to find out the truth about the people they were speaking about. Now at this point in my life, I have complete compassion for those who freely use that line. Some of them are neighbors, teachers, professional health care providers,  church members, classmates, and very influential television/radio programming.  They just didn't know that the One True God's love for them 'endureth forever.' 2 Those who believed in Our Lord Jesus,  just like me, didn't know that we could have a friendship with God the Son who loved us so much and made it possible to call us His friends. How little did we know we were created in the image of God and it is God who made us and not we ourselves. 3 It is God who decided I would be born just as I am and loves everything He made and called me good. 4 

One of my favorite prayers is the Charlotte Elliott hymn, 'Just as I Am Without One Plea.' 5

1 Just as I am, without one plea,

but that thy blood was shed for me,

and that thou bidd'st me come to thee,

O Lamb of God, I come, I come

2 Just as I am, and waiting not

to rid my soul of one dark blot,

to thee, whose blood can cleanse each spot,

O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

3 Just as I am, though tossed about

with many a conflict, many a doubt,

fightings and fears within, without,

O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

4 Just as I am, thou wilt receive,

wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;

because thy promise I believe,

O Lamb of God, I come, I come. 5

 So now, when I meet people who use the line, 'people like me,' I will ask them if they know God personally? Are they friends with God like dear Abraham? 

Maybe if we can like God, then maybe we can like each other. 

God have mercy on me and on the whole world. 

1. https://snltranscripts.jt.org/91/91asmalley.phtml
2. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+136-140&version=KJV
3. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20100%3A3&version=KJV
4. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+1-2&version=KJV
5 - https://hymnary.org/text/just_as_i_am_without_one_plea

Culture War: First Thing in the Morning

What's on your mind the first thing in the morning? Usually, it will be the most important motivation and guide throughout your day. The first waking thought is rooted and grounded in the very inner core of what guides, directs, and leads you through every decision you make.

I like the old gospel song that taught me that my first waking thought must be on God and His supreme rulership in my life. Before my eyes and ears open, I want to be sure that God alone has my fullest attention and my complete submission. If my mind and heart are rushed to put on slippers and robe and move to finish daily chores, then my thoughts will produce a wasted leading to unrest, hast to judge, flippant comments about others, and untrue imaginations.

I thank God for the physical ability to get up in the morning; I ask for His guidance as I put on my houseshoes; when brushing my teeth, I ask God to bridle my tongue and place a watch over my lips1; I pray God will control my thoughts as I wash and groom my hair.

"Oh I woke up this morning with my mind
And it was stayed on Jesus
Can't hate your neighbor in your mind
If you keep it stayed on Jesus
Makes you love everybody with your mind
When you keep it stayed on Jesus
The devil can't catch you in your mind
If you keep it stayed on Jesus
Jesus is the captain in your mind
When you keep it stayed on Jesus." 2

I'm reminded of a line from 'Absolute Power' spoken by Clint Eastwood, " When you're alone and rage takes over and you want revenge. . .what face do you put with your enemy?" 3  Sometimes I struggle to keep Jesus on my mind at all times rather than the faces of many who want to be my enemy. It would be so easy to resent and hate the evil deeds others have done.

What if we could simply pray and ask God to fight our battles for us as He promised 4 or we can pray that our minds and hearts be acceptable to Him. 5  Rather than wasting on the uncertain truth that always produces hate, why not try to simply talk to God. Pray and ask God to heal the open wounds that only He can heal.

After all, what we think first thing in the morning is what we do all day.

1. Psalms 141:3
2. "I woke up this morning with my mind," lyrics provided by http://www.allgospellyrics.com/?sec=listing&lyricid=7824
3. http://www.script-o-rama.com/movie_scripts/a/absolute-power-script-transcript-eastwood.html
4. 1 Samuel 17:47; 2 Chronicles 20:15
5. Psalms 19:14

Lest We Forget the Cost

When Elie Wiesel and other WWII survivors spoke at the opening of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, I will never forget the two lessons I learned:

"Lest We Forget" 1

"Thank God for a routine and boring life." 2

I may never fully understand these truths just as most Biblical principals. However, the longer I live, I find it less urgent to forget my failings, and the need to accomplish. I have found the best teachers are the failings in my life and the best comfort is a boring and routine schedule. 

God made us in His image and we are given such freedom to use holy talents to the point we are capable of doing anything we want. It is so tragic when mankind finds power in evil; blasphemy against God and destruction of humanity.

Sometimes people take positive comfort from tangible holy reminders such as the Bible, crosses, Magen David, or Hamsa. The deeper reminders usually come from sorrow, failings, and the remnants of object lessons found in cemeteries as we visit the graves of our family or museums which teach us of what evil can do and should encourage us to reverence God and humanity above our own desires. 

I toured a museum and a living history village on a Native American reservation and I was offended by the evil man can do.

The mental hospital where I volunteered playing music had a treatment history exhibit and I was terribly offended.

Holocaust Museum with artifacts of human remains offends me;
Bull Run National Park where women and children were massacred offends me;
Chinese Railroad Workers Exhibit in San Francisco showing once noble human being reduced to slaves offends me;
Japanese Internment Camp that jailed innocent Americans offends me;
Factory Museum with pictures of poor women and child labor offends me;
A cinema history museum offends me;
Coal Mine exhibit in West Virginia offends me...

Surely I would never be so capable of such inhumanity... or would I? It pleases God that I am UK Celtic, Scandinavian, and Eastern Europe Semitic, but money always talks and I may have a price.

Oh God, Oh God have mercy on me and on the whole world for our rejection of God and humanity.
What are we to do without the reminders? After all, we are only human and money talks.

Money talks. Do I have a price? What is my price to Blaspheme God and destroy man? How much would I be paid?

Would my name be in the paper, billboards, on the cover of magazines, and praised by many followers? I would be paid much for my picture on the cover of magazines. 

Would my influence pound on the hearts of all those who hear me? They will be happy to follow me. 

Would I enjoy the thrill of minions, subordinates, underlings, my own slaves who follow me? I would feel empowered by their gratitude toward me. 

Would I beat their backs or pull on their chains if they don't agree or keep up with me; better yet, I could slowly take away their ideas, stifle their imaginations, and really just throw them a bone once in a while. After all table scraps are better than no food at all and they will get used to it soon enough. 

Would I laugh all the way to the bank completely careless of the destruction of life behind me? 

I passified, comforted my followers and they had no idea they were slowly being erased...dust.

Surely I would never be so capable of such evil... or would I? The Cross of Jesus reminds me that I am offended by sin, by My Sin. What would I do without Holy Reminders?

Thank God I still cry when Remembering. I still cry for the sake of others. I still cry for the pain of others. I remember and I cry. I hold, kiss the cross...listen to speeches by Holocaust survivors...study the scriptures...try, try, try to hold on to the honor of Creator and humanity.

My teachers told me, 'You don't need college.' 

My church, faith, denomination, people who claimed they loved me told me, 'You don't need college' and 'You need to detach from your family when you get married.'  

My own colleagues are disappointed that I don't scrub their toilets.  

O God, please save me from the luxury of this world's endless wealth of hate, self-loving power, greed, and blood lust vengeance and start the work in me first, lest I forget. Give me a heart and longing to serve rather than be served (3) and to be just a doorkeeper in Your House in heaven (4). 

I will cry. Every time I want revenge and I want to hate...o my I cry Lest I forget to pay the cost of following Jesus.

1. https://www.ushmm.org/information/about-the-museum/mission-and-history/meyerhoff
2. https://www.ushmm.org/exhibition/personal-history/media_oi.php?MediaId=2867&th=children
3. http://www.shrinesf.org/franciscan-prayer.html
4. Psalm 84:10

TLPHC Sunday School Galatians 6

TLPHC Sunday School Galatians 5 (some audio issue)

Maestro Tribute: Playtime with Bach

    When Maestro Cameron Carpenter performs J. S. Bach, everyone can hear the complete joy and happiness through the music. It sounds as though the Maestro is actually a little, giggling child at play full of delight and fun. This is what makes his performances stand out. Not the sights, but only the sounds. I can actually hear the heart of the Maestro and without any visual, I know he is smiling as he plays the organ. 

    It's very rare to experience the work of any artist and experience their fullest joy as they produce their work. Many great painters expressed their sorrows and experiences such as Marc Chagall or Vincent Van Gogh, or the great cellist, Jacqueline du Pre'. I hope I never know the grief and horrors many artists have suffered to produce such brilliant work. I know nothing of Maestro Carpenter, but often wonder and pray for him, and sometimes see him on the internet freely giving his performances. When I hear him play while working on other tasks, I can only hear delight. I am partial to early music and especially J. S. Bach, but when he plays it's carefree and fun. 

Playtime can be very fun when we Honor God and Humanity. The more giving we are the more we are at play in the Father's House, our own souls.

God bless the Genius Givers everywhere. 

O Lord, Where Are You?

Anita, I am with you.

Anita, I am everywhere.

TLPHC Sunday School #11, Galatians 3-4

https://www.loom.com/share/7c3fc42182df4043abd9d49f921b02fc

TLPHC Sunday School #10 Gal. 3

TLPHC Sunday School Galatians 1,2

Covid-19 - Just Give Up

Give up?

'Give up' can be defined in a lot of ways so maybe it's worth an examination; maybe we can think in a little more of a positive light.

My first example in the negative sense was as an adolescent, it was so easy for so many to tell me just to accept my weight and simply eat wisely avoiding bread and sweets. What they didn't know is they were simply saying, 'Just give up' on improving my health. Secondly, because teachers and mentors did not see the importance of my desire for college, they told me many times, 'Don't worry, you won't have to worry about college. You can get a good job in the factories.' Thankfully in this negative sense of the phrase, I did not, and by God's grace will not 'Give up' my weight loss and my vision of education.

At present, the senior stage of my life, the need to 'Give up' becomes increasingly urgent in the lives of those who try to honor Creator and humanity. I want to freely give the lift up to encourage every soul I meet. Many simply cannot understand or accept my 'Giving Up' and there are many who will accept the encouragement. Talk is cheap but when encouragement is 'Given Up' with all our hearts, mind, soul, and strength to fully encourage others, we never need a response of any kind. Encouragement becomes the freely given anonymous offering as the bread cast on the waters with no ducks swimming or birdseed thrown at a wedding.

It is a good thing the news media reports the results of evil deeds, but a far greater thing to know that it is enough to Honor God and humanity with kind, free, 'Give Ups.'

During this Covid-19 pandemic, let us do our best to honor Creator and humanity by praying for Holy wisdom and understanding. Pray that God will help our leaders everywhere: local parish, employers, community, state, federal; and yes, especially those persecuted in this world under abusive and dictating governments. Please help me pray for believers in China, North Korea, Soviet Union, and living in other nations who do not reverence our God or humanity.

TLPHC Sunday School, Daniel 10-12

TLPHC Sunday School Daniel 9

TLPHC Sunday School Daniel 9

Tefillin: Strap in. It's a bumpy ride

We tie shoelaces to walk better, use belts to secure our clothing, and suspenders can be a dashing fashion statement. Straps are used to secure and help keep us safe in our cars and the rides in amusement parks. 

Archers during the ancient empires used arm straps to keep their clothing from interfering with their aim. They were on a mission to protect their families, homes and fight for their country as quiet, invisible warriors. These invisible warriors were completely dedicated to their mission. 

Just as the archer's arm straps protected the body, the tefillin straps protect the soul. Tefillin represents submission to the Creator by submitting the arm as the strongest part of the body. Wrapping seven times around the arm God is declared and implored, "Hear O Israel, the Lord our God the Lord is One." 1 followed by seven blessings, "Blessed are you, Lord our God, Ruler of the Universe, who sanctified us with God’s commandments and commanded us regarding the mitzvah of tefillin." 2

The strap is wrapped around the hand and fingers with the prayer, "I betroth you to me forever. I betroth you to me in righteousness, justice, lovingkindness, and mercy. I betroth you to me in faithfulness — and you shall know God."3

While I am not Jewish and not worthy to lay tefillin, I have a profound need to embrace the Hebrew roots of my faith system. I know that if I do not commit to God first every morning for unknown battles ahead, I will fail. I have to commit my entire being at all times as instructed in the Great Commandment: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength (Deuteronomy 6.5). If I am completely committed to God's perfect plan, then I will rest knowing that He will direct my aim with His Supreme will. 

Our world is full of uncertainty and offers no hope. If we ask God to be the Supreme Ruler in our lives, He will answer our prayer and order our steps. Our aim will be God's Aim. 

Make sure you strap in for a bumpy ride. 

For more detailed information on laying tefillin please visit these websites used in this draft:

https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/how-to-put-on-tefillin/ https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/272666/jewish/How-to-Put-on-Tefillin.htm

https://www.aish.com/jl/m/pb/48969816.html