Really?! People Still Make Resolutions??!

What2Say2Day? In these days filled with empty promises by those in whom we should trust the most it's difficult to imagine people still make New Years Resolutions. Of course I can speak from almost 50 years of experience (almost) and say that I don't know anyone, not a single person, who has stuck to their resolution. For those of you out there who have, I apologize for my cynicism. I, too, have pledged to lose weight or start exercising only to be thwarted in my plan by the second week by a good steak or the need to watch football.

I think we know what's good for us, or what things we need to do to live better lives; eat right, exercise, live compassionately for others, etc. What confuses me is how someone who has not been doing these things for a long time suddenly believes they'll change. For those of us who believe they can, well, I don't know what to say. For those who want to change but don't know how to go about it let me offer you a story from The Old Testament.

Genesis 32:9-19 talks of a little banter between Moses and God. In this part of the story God has decided that enough is enough with the insolence of the Hebrew people and decides to unleash a wrath so hot that it'll burn hot against them and consume them (yeah, God was upset). In a final attempt to calm the situation Moses reminds God of the promise made to Abraham and Isaac and the other forefathers of the Hebrews.

Verse 14 then says, "And the Lord changed his mind about the disaster that he planned to bring on his people." The Hebrew people are spared a terrible fate (again) and God shows us that it's okay to change our minds. 

So, to all of you who make those resolutions in a few days, I wish you the best in your endeavors. And in a few weeks when you feel like you just can't do it, that's okay too. Change takes time, change takes commitment, change takes the involvement of as many people around you as you can possibly involve. Change happens all the time. In fact, without change we wouldn't be the people we are today, would we?

This will most likely be my last post until the New Year so Happy New Year to you all. Be safe, be smart, remember you are loved just the way you are, even when you change.

Feeling the After Christmas Blues?

What2Say2Day? Ever notice that the week between Christmas and New Years is a quiet one. Many offices are closed or seriously down-staffed, the malls are emptier, the home decorations begin to come down and even the city lights seem to have less glow. It's almost as though Christmas is over.

Let me repeat again today a very Merry Christmas to you! Yes, We're still in Christmastime. And, if we want it to be, Christmas is with us every day all year long. Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Christ in the lives of mankind. Therefore, every time Christ is born in the heart, soul and mind of one person isn't that a celebration of Christmas?

Christmas is not about the giant Santa in the mall, nor is it about the bright ribbon and tinsel displays on every tree lining the streets of your town. We don't need television commercials with cute children singing catchy tunes set to Christmas carols to remind us. All we need is the knowledge that Jesus is born in us, and lives through us, so that we will bring the Christmas message of hope, peace, joy and love to everyone we meet.

So, as the decorations come down and the radios stop playing your favorite songs remember that we carry
the Light of God through the one that was born within us on a day that was most likely not December the 25th. May Christ live in you forever and may you bring Christmas to others all year long.

Let the Preparations Begin

What2Say2Day? It's a family tradition to give our home a detailed cleaning before the New Year. We do this by moving furniture and getting to all the corners, reaching high to wipe the ledges, and cleaning louvers, windows and screens as well as other things we only clean a couple times a year. It's a chore, especially since it's just my wife and I these days (being empty-nesters and all). But we get through it, slowly with teamwork and patience.

Doing a quick research of the word "prepare" in the Gospels I found it was listed 28 times. What I found more interesting, though, is that the word is only listed twice in the Gospel of John. In John 14 Jesus is talking to his disciples about going to prepare a place for them and is questioned by the disciples about how they'll know where to go. I want to focus on verses 2 and 3:

²In my Father’s house there are many dwelling-places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?^{* 3}And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also.  (NRSV)

I find it interesting that Jesus tells his disciples that he goes to prepare a place in heaven for them, and if he does that then he'll come back to take them there himself. To me Jesus is saying that if he's going to go through all that trouble of cleaning behind the couch and removing water stains from the windows, we better believe he'll want us in his house. So much so that he'll come and get us himself and do what it takes to make sure we enter his home and sit at his table to share a meal and, more so, share our lives.

In this week when we all prepare for the coming of the New Year let's remember to also prepare our hearts and minds for a New Life in Christ. Oh, and by the way - Merry Christmas!

On the first day of Christmas....

What2Say2Day? Merry Christmas! I know, I know. Christmas Day was yesterday, but we're now in the season of Christmas, which lasts 12 wonderful, glorious days. Christmastide, as it's called on the Christian calendar, is when we're told the wonderful stories of Simeon's visit at the temple and the visit of the magi and other stories which remind us that Christ came to bring the Love of God to all people regardless of race or political hierarchy. In today's society we need to remember God's love is the same for us no matter what. It doesn't matter if you are man, woman, transgender, straight, gay, bisexual, rich, poor, middle class, living in a mansion, living in a tent, living in an apartment, working part time, working full time, looking for work, black, brown, white, red, yellow, Islam, Buddhist, Muslim, Christian, Atheist, Pagan or whatever. God loves you, yes you, just as you are for the person you are. How can a love like that get any easier to accept. We don't have to pretend to be someone else to receive this love, nor do we have to go out of our way to find it. God loves you for you. I don't know how else to say it. In this Christmastide let's look for ways to be Christlike in God's love and begin accepting people for who, or where in life, they are.

Advent - Week 4, Day 4: Steadfast Love

What2Say2Day? Today I want to talk about what it is we can do to show the steadfast love of Christ to those around us. During the season of Advent we took a look at bringing hope to people through encouragement and prayer. We also talked about finding our inner peace and bringing that peaceful presence to others. The third week we spoke about the joy we will know (or already know) through God's promises and ways that God's people dealt with times of trouble and devastation. This week is about love and what we can do to make God's Kingdom a better place to live in. The answer, my friends, is within the messages of Advent. By bringing Hope, Peace and Joy to those around us Love will have no choice but to grow in the lives and hearts of humankind. Advent will soon be done, and we'll celebrate the season of Christmas, a time when we realize that Christ came to this world for everyone, not to condemn it, but to bring everlasting peace. As John 3:16 and 17 reminds us: 

 ‘God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.
 ‘Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

 Be the Christ our world is looking for. Love, do not condemn.

This is going to be my final post until after Christmas. Merry Christmas to all, and may your lives and the lives of those around you be filled with Hope, Peace, Joy and Love!

Advent - Week 4, Day 3: Steadfast Love

What2Say2Day? You had an entire day to think about what steadfast love means to you and where in your life you see examples of this kind of love. Today let's take a look at how Christ showed examples of God's steadfast love. I want to use this past Sunday's talk with our youth as an example again. I asked this same question to them and they were able to come up with great answers. I was genuinely touched when they talked about different bible stories which highlighted Jesus' ministry for the outcasts. From allowing the woman to wash his feet with oil to healing lepers to blessing the Samaritan woman at the well they each had a story that shared what unconditional, steadfast love looked like. Then they were asked what they do in their lives that are similar to the acts of Jesus. Again, a little effort to come up with examples from their own lives. I'm sure we all do things which show God's steadfast love all the time without realizing it. My wife tells me that she sees God's love every time someone holds the door open for her or looks her in the eye and smiles when saying hello. I have to agree with her and say that God's love comes in different ways to different people. God gives each of us a gift according to our abilities and all we're asked to do is share this gift to the best of our abilities. So whatever you consistently do for someone else, whether it's holding the door open or healing a leper, without an expectation of a favor in return is what I think unconditional, steadfast love is. As it says in Matthew 25:40

"And the king will answer them, “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family,^* you did it to me."

Advent - Week 4, Day 2: Steadfast Love

What2Say2Day? Okay, so yesterday we asked three questions to focus on for the week. I'm not going to repeat them here, you can go back and take a look at them if you want. Today I just want to focus on what steadfast love is. When this question was asked to the youth of our church yesterday the answers were exactly what you would expect. "It's love that never stops" or "it's a love that never fades no matter what we do" and "a love that is steady and forever". All great answers, and all very much correct. Then we asked what that kind of love would look like. Hmmm, that seemed to be a little more difficult to answer. So, yes, what would that kind of love look like? Steadfast love takes a lot of searching for in today's world. For some reason it would seem everywhere we turn love isn't so, well, steadfast. Divorces, families infighting, governments in turmoil, people revolting, wars, hunger, and the list goes on. And yet as Christians we are expected to find and promote steadfast love. How can we do this? The answers lay before us in ways that are more than likely too close for us to see. As the adage says, sometimes we can't see the forest for the trees. For today, though, think about what steadfast love means to you, put a definition on it. Then, purposefully look for examples of where you see this kind of love. I'm sure you'll find it, just try not to look too hard and/or too far away (hint).

Advent - Week 4, Day 1: Steadfast Love

What2Say2Day? Today I want to only leave you with these questions.

1.  What does steadfast love mean to you?
2. How does Christ personify God's steadfast love?
3. What can you do to show the steadfast love of Christ to the world around you?

Also, if you get a chance read Psalm 89. This is a psalm that was written over time (most believe it was started in the time of King David and finished during the expulsion of the Hebrew people in the Babylonian exile of 597) and talks about God's promises and the reminder of God's steadfast love.

We'll spend more time on these during this week; the week we celebrate God's steadfast love through Christ.

Advent - Week 3, Day 6: Joy In The World!

What2Say2Day? Sometimes someone has something to say that is so much better than what we had planned to say. I received this devotional in my email yesterday and want to share it with everyone. It truly sums up what this new Advent-ure is about for me.

Ark
2 Samuel 6:3-5

"They carried the ark of God on a new cart, and brought it out of the house of Abinadab….David and all the house of Israel were dancing before the Lord with all their might . . . "

Reflection by Quinn G. Caldwell

A few miles west of Jerusalem is a town called Abu Ghosh. Tradition says it's the location of Abinadab's house, where the Ark of the Covenant rested before coming to Jerusalem. The Ark was the chest—now lost—that contained the Ten Commandments.

On the highest point in Abu Ghosh, on the place where Abinadab's house is supposed to have stood, is a church called Notre Dame de l'Arche d'Alliance. In English, that's Our Lady, Ark of the Covenant.

The original Ark of the Covenant bore inside itself the terms of God's relationship with the people. That, claimed the ancient Christians, is exactly what Mary did in carrying Jesus, and so, in a splendid leap of Christian imagination, they gave her the same title.

But these days neither Ark is around anymore, and so the world needs a new one: you. It's your turn to bear the terms of God's relationship with the people—devotion, gentleness, honesty, self-control, respect, love—to the world. Nobody else is going to if you don't, and God knows the world needs it.

If it seems like too grand a task, if it sounds altogether too presumptuous to refer to yourself as the Ark of the Covenant, remember this: that’s just what Mary would have said.

Prayer

God, you call me to tasks too big for me and too magnificent for me to have thought of on my own. Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word. Amen.

 May you find a way to carry the Lord of hope, peace and joy in you always; sharing your God with all you meet.

Advent - Week 3, Day 5: Joy In The World!

What2Say2Day? On our 5th day of searching the scriptures for reasons we can feel joy in a tumultuous world we're going to take a look at the second half of the words given to us through the prophet Isaiah. If we look at Isaiah 61: 8-11 we see a promise from God that he will once again make the covenant with the Hebrew people that "Their descendants shall be known among the nations, and their offspring among the peoples". This makes Isaiah rejoice in th knowledge that everything will be as it should, that God will once again provide for them as a people and that God will once again bless them with greatness. Isaiah reminds us that it is God who "has clothed [him] with the garments of salvation" and "has covered [him] with the robe of righteousness". The key words there are salvation and righteousness. Hawaiians would say ola and pono. Ola is a word used for salvation and is also used for life, heal or thrive. The word pono also has several meanings, amongst which are goodness, virtuous, and in perfect order. It should be no surprise that the Hebrew words used in this passage are very similar; yesha meaning deliverance, safety and prosperity and tsedaqah also meaning truthfulness and prosperity. These are the promises God makes to us through Isaiah; that God was with us in better times and is with us now, and through God we will once again live in a time that is filled with truthfulness and prosperity. God's promise to us through Christ is that by putting our trust in God we'll always have the hope that times will once again be filled with peace and joy. Or as Isaiah says it, "as the earth brings forth its shoots, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to spring up, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring up before all the nations" Go into our world, my friends, be the sowers of seeds filled with the promise of joy and nurture your garden so that your flowers grow high and strong.

Advent - Week 3, Day 4: Joy In The World!

What2Say2Day? The last two days we've taken a closer look at Psalm 126 and how it spoke to a people that were looking for hope in the midst of despair. The Psalmist tried to remind us that God is with us in all aspects of our lives; sad or joyous. Psalm 126 reminded us that we need to go out and spread the seeds of goodness so that the weepings of heartbreak will turn into cries of joy. Today, as we continue our Advent weekly study on how to find joy in a tumultuous world, we'll be taking a look at a passage from Isaiah 61. Again, to recap the background to our passage we only need to remember that the Hebrew people were returning to a land that went from plentiful and joy-filled to desolate and bleak. Isaiah is writing to these people in an effort to remind them that God is with them and everything will be good once again. A closer look at Isaiah 61:1-4 shows us just what Isaiah may be trying to say. (It may help here to remember that a prophet is someone who speaks on God's behalf.)  

The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to provide for those who mourn in Zion —  t o give them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit. They will be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, to display his glory. They shall build up the ancient ruins, they shall raise up the former devastations; they shall repair the ruined cities, the devastations of many generations.

I'll stop here for today so we can reflect on these words spoken by God through his prophet Isaiah and how it speaks to us about what it is God does for and can bring to us.

Advent - Week 3, Day 3: Joy In The World!

What2Say2Day? Continuing with our journey on seeking peace in a troubled life/world let's take a look at the second half of our Psalm. Psalm 126:4-6 says, "Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like the watercourses in the Negeb. May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy. Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves." If you'll allow me to do a quick recap...Jerusalem in ruins, Hebrew people return, must rebuild, Psalmist wants to encourage. There, that wasn't too bad, was it? In the first half of this Psalm the Psalmist reminds the Hebrews that God was with them in better times and, truth be told, has never left. In the second half of the Psalm the writer gives somewhat of a blessing to those who are doing the work of rebuilding. Reminding them that the work ahead will be difficult and most likely filled with sadness. But in the end, when the restoration is done, everything will be joyful. As I've said on more than one occasion these past few weeks (and I apologize for the few more times I'll be saying this) this Advent I'm trying to take a different journey of having Christ live through me in order that those who are looking and waiting for Christ can perhaps find him in me. Every time I read about sowers and seeds I cannot help but think about the parables of Jesus that talk about the same topics. I wonder, just wonder, if the Psalmist had the same idea. Maybe in the time of restoration and rebuilding the Psalmist isn't talking about buildings and farmland. Maybe the Psalmist is talking about people. I believe we are the seed bearers who go out to sow the truths of God and as any good farmer knows once the seeds are planted we need to nurture them until the day of harvest. This is what I think Psalm 126 is trying to say to us today. We need to never forget the God has always been with us, through good times and bad, and when things seem to be at their worst we need to go out and replant the seeds of God's love. Be the sowers, nurture the seeds we plant, and enjoy God's garden.

Advent - Week 3, Day 2: Joy In The World!

What2Say2Day? Yesterday we talked about the historical setting behind our two passages; Psalm 126 and Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11. We learned it was a tumultuous time for the Hebrew people after coming back to a home devastated by war, political infighting, assassinations, and general mayhem for 60 years. If we needed to put a more current face on it think about what the people from Sendai, Japan came back to after the earthquake earlier this year. Sure, the dangers were over, but the devastation was overwhelming. But, as it was with the people of Sendai, the Hebrew people had a strong yearning to rebuild; so rebuild they did. Today I want to focus on The first half of our Psalm. If you take a look at the language used in verses 1-3 of Psalm 126 you'll notice it's written in the past tense. Words like "were", "has", "was" and references such as "then it was said" help us to recognize the language of past times. Not just past times, but better times. The psalmist is reminding the Hebrew people that God was with them in good times and is with them now. This is a good reminder from our psalmist; God is with us no matter what we're going through. In this Advent season we need to know that God has never left us and that God is and will always be our source of strength and courage as we "rebuild" our own lives. Better yet, as this Advent I'm looking for ways to let Christ live through me to help others find him, I'm reminded that God gives me what I need to help people get through their difficult times and be with them as they rebuild their lives. God has been with us all, in better times and in difficult times, we just sometimes need a reminder that God has never left our side. Thank you, writer of Psalm 126, for helping us to remember.

Advent - Week 3, Day 1: Joy In The World!

What2Say2Day? In week one of Advent we covered hope and how we can share it through Healing Others with Prayer and Encouragement. Week two proved to be a challenge with not just finding our inner peace but being the source of peace for others. This week we're going to be asked to find Joy in the world. I'll be asking us to take a different look at two passages from the Old Testament; Psalm 126 and Isaiah 61:1-4 and 8-11. These passages are believed to be written after the return of the Hebrew people to Jerusalem in 537 BCE. In 597 or 598 BCE Jerusalem was taken by the Babylonians and the Hebrew leaders were forced to leave. Over the next 60 years Jerusalem was met with political, economical and social disruptions which left it in complete and total disarray. During those 60 years more Hebrew people were forced out of the land that was considered to be promised to them by God. In 587 the Persians conquered Babylonians and returned Jerusalem to the Hebrew people, allowing them to continue with the religious and personal freedoms they once had. Of course, and as you can imagine, the Hebrews returned to a land that was completely destroyed by wars and revolts. They needed to rebuild their land and more importantly they needed to rebuild their temple. The two passages we'll be using this week will talk about how the Hebrew people found ways to praise God and be joyful even in the midst of the turmoil in which they were living. My hope is you'll find their stories inspiring and they will bring you the knowledge that peace and joy can be found even in the direst situations.

Advent - Week 2, Day 6: Peace Is With You

What2Say2Day? My quest to find peace is becoming more of a journey in being the one people seek peace from. Yesterday I found myself listening to a couple of my high school students tell me how much stress they were under. I feel for them with their multiple projects due, semester finals starting today, grades not where they need them to be and only a few days to get them up, fights at home with parents, teachers pushing them to the brink, boyfriends and girlfriends not being supportive, etc. As I sat and listened to these young people pour out their hearts all I could hear in the back of my mind were the Psalmists words; "Let me hear what God the LORD will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts" (Psalm 85:8). Again, I find myself in the humble position of being the one who represents God and has the awesome opportunity to help others begin to understand who God is and how God loves them no matter what. These teens will usually mention somewhere in the conversation that they don't feel like the efforts they put into things are worthy. They tell me that they aren't good enough and don't know why they even try. My reply was, is, and will always be, that they - you - are perfect. The times you're going through right now will pass, and you will become a stronger person because of it. Until then it's important to know that you are loved, that there will always be someone who cares for you just the way you are, that there is someone whose love will never stop. This someone is God, and in God you will find the peace you seek. All you need to do is open your hearts, and your minds, and let God in.

Advent - Week 2, Day 5: Peace Is With You

What2Say2Day? The Common Lectionary lists Isaiah 40:1-11 as one of the readings for the second week of Advent. The passage begins with the words, "Comfort, O Comfort my people, says your God." Notice Isaiah doesn't say "my" God, or "our" God, or "their" God. No, Isaiah is very specific in saying "your" God. In this second week of Advent, a week where we search for peace, I find it very comforting indeed that this God of whom Isaiah speaks is a personal God. I truly hope you've found the time to listen for God this week. If you haven't found the time, or are not sure how, follow these steps...

1) Be Quiet
2) Be still
3) Listen

Yes, seriously, really, that's it. Once you can do that just let God take care of the rest. Your God is asking permission to comfort you, and all you have to do is let it happen. Then, as the rest of that passage goes, the paths will be made straight and smooth. Find your inner peace, let God into that place, and be the one who "makes the uneven ground level" for those around you.

Advent - Week 2, Day 4: Peace Is With You

What2Say2Day? Today I'm at somewhat at a loss of what to say. On the one hand I want to talk about peace and all people of the world living in unity. On the other hand I feel the need to mention the 70th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor which pushed the US, and Hawaii, into a war that involved the whole world. On the one hand I detest war and wish something that took lives simply for the progress of stronger nations didn't exist. On the other hand I understand that as long as these stronger nations attempt to get stronger for nothing other than "world domination" there will always be a need for other nations to stop them. So, you see, I'm at a loss on how to talk about peace in a week where peace is celebrated on a day when unfortunate violence is remembered. When this week began I said this wasn't going to be easy, but little did I realize just how difficult it would be on this day. In remembering the events from December 7, 1941 I also remember the riots which took place during the Civil Rights movement during the 60's and 70's, I remember the hate crimes against people who are considered "different" because of their sexual preferences, I remember innocent teens and young adults and children who have thought about and/or committed suicide because of bullying in their schools. I remember unnecessary deaths after the crumbling of two buildings in New York City. On this day when we celebrate the remembrance of the events which ultimately led to a more peaceful world, let's remember why these events happen in the first place; a lack of inner peace. My friends, find the Christ that lives within you and look for ways to live in this Christ-like way. Do so before we have to remember another event that takes lives away from loved ones. So, now I understand my dilemma. On the one hand we have those who are living with deep hurt from the belief that nobody loves them, and on the other hand we have those who are living with the absolute knowledge that God loves them no matter what - let's shake hands and see what happens.

Advent - Week 2, Day 3: Peace Is With You

What2Say2Day? I was hard-pressed to find some time to listen yesterday. My day was a complete non-stop of tutoring, mentoring, assisting, advising, and selling. Yet, as I look back on the entire day I didn't feel any stress. In fact I had a rather peaceful day. As I sat at home with my wife, her sister and my step-son I began to finally relax and think through the day. This is what I realized; I was the one being listened to. Whoa. As I ran through more of the day in my mind I began to see the faces and body language of those I was with and what I saw were faces turning from anxious to comfortable, pouts turn into smiles, and frustration turn towards acceptance of the situation. Is it possible, then, that yesterday I was the one who brought peace to others? In this Advent journey I am really keeping an eye out for Christ and looking for him in every situation. I am believing more and more that as Christians we need to stop waiting for Christ and instead know Christ is already here...in us. It only goes to follow, then, that we need to be the Christ everyone else is looking for. And we'll be this Christ by showing the love God gives to us; that unconditional-I-accept-you-for-who-you-are love. As I mentioned on Sunday peace would be the most difficult of the four themes of Advent to live out, only because we find it hard to find peace with ourselves. After yesterday I don't think it's about us any more (well, not all the time; we still need to find peace with ourselves) but maybe that God is asking us to bring peace to those around us. And how do we do this? The same way God did; listen, guide, listen, tutor, listen, assist, listen, and mentor. I told you this one would be difficult.

Advent - Week 2, Day 2: Peace Is With You

What2Say2Day? Last night I had a very peaceful time. My sister-in-law is in town to visit family for a few days before she flies to The Big Island for a "real" vacation. My mom has been thinking about my sister-in-law a lot lately and was very happy to know she was coming to town so she insisted we all get together for dinner. We decided to go to one of their favorite Japanese restaurants, which seemed to be everyone's favorite Japanese restaurant as well. My mom and two sisters-in-law waited inside the restaurant while I waited outside with my wife and dad. It didn't take more than a few minutes before people we knew came by. One of my dad's friends had a seat next to him on the bench and as they talked the conversation soon turned into teasing (in fun). A friend of my dad's friend came by with family and the conversation really began to get lively. Not too much later a couple of coworkers of mine and my wife came by and before we knew it there must've been a crowd of a dozen people gathered outside the restaurant, all laughing, talking, teasing, and laughing more. We were a little sad to leave everyone when they called us to have a seat in the restaurant but we were hungry so that feeling soon went away. The frivolity continued at the table with the six of us laughing and talking. As I looked around the restaurant I saw the same going on at every table; people seemed to be very happy. I sat there, a plate of tonkatsu in front of me, and took a few minutes to listen. While listening I could hear nothing but lively conversation filled with smiles. Then it hit me - God was in that place. That knowledge filled me with peace. This is where we find our peace, my friends; in the listening. I invite you to go into this day and listen. You don't need to be anywhere special, just listen to the moment you are in. Who knows, maybe you'll find God and be witness to the peace he has to offer you.

Advent - Week 2, Day 1: Peace Is With You

What2Say2Day? I took a day off from writing this blog yesterday because, well, yesterday was just one of those days. To give you an example we did laundry until midnight. Yep, one of those days. I wasn't stressed out, I didn't feel anxious, I was never upset; it was just a very busy day. I have to admit, though, it was a very productive busy day and in the end I had one of the best sleeps I've had in a long time. Which brings me to this week's theme - Peace. As I may or may not have mentioned Advent is a four-week period before Christmas that focuses on different themes. The themes traditionally are hope, peace, joy and love. We focused on hope last week which we defined as Healing Others with Prayer and Encouragement. This week we'll talk about something a little more difficult - Peace. I say this is a more difficult topic because it sometimes seems that our days are bombarded by so many things out of our control that interfere with us being able to achieve peace. It'll be an even more difficult topic because once again I'm not talking about achieving peace for yourselves, but to instead find ways to bring peace to each other. For today, though, find your own peace by turning off everything that could possibly distract you and find a place where you can listen to God. That will be somewhere different for each of us. Some will find God in the voices of children playing in the park, others will find God in the voices of the trees as the wind blows through its branches. Others will find God on the mountaintop where practically no sound exists and others will find God in a mall filled with shoppers. Wherever your place is, wherever you think your God to be, just go there with all your personal distractions removed (cell phones, mp3 players, personal tablets, etc.) and just listen, listen, listen for at least 30 minutes. To find peace we must first find God. I'm looking forward to this week and all the moments I can share my peace with others.

Advent - Week 1, Day 6: The Message of Hope

What2Say2Day? Hope is the knowledge that things will get better. Hope is the feeling we have when maybe, just maybe, there's a chance things will turn out as we wish - maybe. There's never a guarantee the things we hope for will happen, nor is there a guarantee they won't. and in the latter part of that last statement lays hope. If we believe there is a chance things will be okay in the end we can get through and accomplish everything; because all things are possible with hope. Besides my work with Youth in my church I also work with high school students as a classroom helper and tutor. Yesterday, with the help of one of the Youth I work with, I saw hope in action. This student has a high desire to play on a sports team, but had very little chance because of his grades. Weeks of encouragement from many of his adult mentors (aka teachers and coaches) produced little results in the student. I found out he was so deeply buried with missing work that the chances of him catching up and getting the grade necessary to play in high school sports were dismal; the young man had no hope. We worked and worked, whittling away at his back work while he continued to go to practices. His coaches and teachers kept telling him he could do it, he could make the team before the first game, just keep working hard. Within two weeks he got his grade in most classes to where it needed to be - except for one. This is a class that has been a contention for the student all year. On Wednesday the student finally approached that class' teacher and they spoke about what was going on and why the class was a difficult one for him. In the conversation a new relationship was formed; a relationship which allowed the barriers to be broken down. Then out of nowhere and with renewed hope the student did enough work to get the grade in that class he needs to be on the team. There's still no guarantee he'll be on the team, but the hope has never been greater. HOPE - Healing Others with Prayer and Encouragement.

Advent - Week 1, Day 5: The Message of Hope

What2Say2Day? Today's post will be simple and to the point - sort of. This past Sunday's scripture was from Isaiah 64:1-9. In it Isaiah paints a very bleak picture of where the people of Israel are headed if they don't shape up. He uses phrases like, "O that you would tear open the heavens and come down, so that the mountains would quake at your presence" and, "We all fade like a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away", and my favorite, "There is no one who calls on your name, or attempts to take hold of you." All words talking about how we no longer look for God, and because of this they were living in a time of destruction of creation in general. Then, out of nowhere Isaiah gives us these words, "Yet, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand." Wow - a glimmer of hope in the middle of words of destruction. A reminder that God is still in control and we are still able to be molded to live lives worthy of the love God gives us; if only we allow ourselves to be shaped. Friends, listen to the words of Isaiah, we're living in a time very similar to the days of the Prophet. If we will allow God to live through us this Advent season to bring hope to those looking and waiting for it, maybe, just maybe things will get better. We only have a few more days in our journey to bring HOPE to others, use this time wisely. Remember, it's as easy as Healing Others with Prayer and Encouragement.

Advent - Week 1, Day 4: The Message of Hope

What2Say2Day? Yesterday was a day filled with opportunities to heal others with prayer and encouragement. So many, in fact, I don't know where to begin. maybe a quick summation would be enough; maybe. Angels are mentioned 52 times in the Gospels. I find it comforting to know that even in the first centuries of Christianity we believed in messengers from God. This fact is that's what yesterday was about. I know of 3 instances where I personally touched the lives of those around me and I know of 4 times when others touched my life. I have no idea how many times others touched me, or I others, through the simple act of stopping to say hi, or smiling, or just listening for a minute or two. When I decided to take on this journey of HOPE I had no idea it would become what it has. Matthew 18: 5 has Jesus saying, "Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me." To put this in the context of the story in which its told Jesus is asked who will be going to heaven. His answer is you have to be like a child. It might help to remember that children in those days were thought to be useless; having no place in society until they grow up and can contribute to the community in a way that helps the village to survive. And yet Jesus says to welcome them, make them feel comfortable, and by doing that to them we also do it to him. Jesus makes many comparisons to treating others being similar to how we treat him. This, I am seeing, is what spreading hope is about. If we all treated each other with kindness, acceptance, charity, justice and unconditional love wouldn't this be a better world? Well, wouldn't it? Continue to spread HOPE - Heal Others with Prayer and Encouragement. 

Advent - Week 1, Day 3: The Message of Hope

What2Say2Day? I was not in the mood in any way whatsoever to go to work last night. My sinuses were flaring up, my throat was getting tight, i was tired, and I was in complete grouch mode. To add to the frustrations as soon as I walked in I was written up for not doing something at work nobody at work does or likes to do (to be fair to my boss everyone was written up because nobody did it, so I was not being picked on). As the night went on it was apparent no sales were going to be made, adding to my already disenchanted evening. I was working with a new salesperson, and we began to talk, getting to know more about each other. We discovered we had a lot in common; especially the fact we both used to sell cars (yes, I was a car salesman). We began to talk about that business and the fun it was. We also talked about why we both stopped selling cars and it surprised me we had the same reason; we no longer had that "killer instinct". We both had started going to church and found it difficult to be comfortable with some of the things a car salesperson needs to be comfortable with. We then launched into a discussion on church and how our lives were changed because of a new-found relationship with God. Before I knew it I was out of my "funk". We never know when God will send his son to meet us in our time of need. More and more each and every day I see how Christ is alive in this world and how he lives in and through the lives of those around us. My co-worker and new friend showed me through his encouragement (if that's what we can call it, because that's what it felt like) that things weren't really that bad. One could even say he gave me hope. Things did get better, and are better this morning and it looks like it'll be good all day. Thank you, God, for sending people into our lives that give us HOPE - Heal Others with Prayer and Encouragement.

Advent - Week 1, Day 2: The Message of Hope

What2Say2Say? Yesterday our Youth group from church did community service at The Hawaiian Humane Society (HHS). It was a different kind of service than what HHS was used to. Instead of cleaning the cages or walking dogs or spreading mulch in the dog park we took lunch for the staff and volunteers who were working during the Thanksgiving weekend. On the menu was homemade soups, refreshing salads, and slow-cooked pulled pork sandwiches.  I've never seen a more happy, grateful group of people than what we saw yesterday. Amongst the comments I heard were, "we never get to sit down and have lunch, we're always so busy" and, "This sure beats the cold sandwich I usually bring" and, "now I don't have to drive to (insert fast food restaurant I will not name). My favorite comment, though, was this one; "Most people who want to volunteer here want to work with the animals, this is the first time a group has offered to do something for those who work with the animals." As the staff and volunteers sat and talked and laughed and ate there was a general feeling of, well, relaxation. Often we forget to serve those who serve the ones who take care of others; the caretakers of our world. These are the people who sit with our aged and make them smile and give them the much needed human companionship everyone needs. These are the people who are foster parents to the youth and young children that need a stable home and the love of a family. These are the nurses who come to visit you in the hospital room, five minutes at a time, and make you laugh, or listen as you complain about the food. These are the people who bring hope to those who may not have any. We need to be caretakers of the world and the people around us. It's really not that difficult - just remember that HOPE is Healing Others with Prayer and Encouragement.

Advent - Week 1, Day 1: The Message of Hope

What2Say2Day? Today is the first day of Advent. The dictionary definition of Advent as "a coming into place, view, or being". The next four weeks are when Christians celebrate the coming of Jesus the Christ-child and the season which leads to Christmas day when we celebrate the actual arrival of our Christ. There are four weeks in the Advent season, each week with its own theme; hope, peace, joy and love. The first day of Advent is also the first day of the year in the Christian calendar (Happy New Year!). So, what does this all mean? Today is the day we can start over in our spiritual lives and renew that which is in us to bring those things that Advent represents to others. In the next four weeks I hope to show that Christ is already here, that we are already living in his kingdom and that we are in a battle against the things that take us away from all that is good in this world. How do I plan to do this? The same way I'm asking you to; by sharing hope, peace, joy and love with everyone around us. This week we'll focus on hope which I define as the knowledge that things will get better. I recently discovered a story about Reece Goo. Reece is a 12 year old who is recovering from a form of brain cancer. He credits the Make-A-Wish Foundation with bringing him the hope he needed to get through the most difficult part of his rehabilitation. Because his soul was so deeply touched by the Make-A-Wish Foundation he has decided to do his part to spread hope to by encouraging others to write letters to Santa that tell of why they believe in the magic of Christmas. For each letter written Macy's will donate one dollar up to a grand total of one million dollars. Reece is hoping the people from Hawaii will write 5000 letters. This is just one example of what someone can do to spread hope. If it helps here is an easy way to remember what hope is: Healing Others with Prayer and Encouragement. I look forward to this week and the opportunities to share the Christ that is alive in me.

Tis the Season, falalalalalalalala

What2Say2Day? It's here! Like it or not it's here. This is the time of year everyone's emotions begin its race to a feverish pitch. Welcome, my friends, to (insert buh buh bummmm) The Holidays. I know Thanksgiving hasn't come yet, but it is only a couple days away. I know it feels like Halloween just happened; get over it. I know you've just begun calculating if you have enough saved up to get all those important gifts for all those important people and have come to the realization you'll need to use the credit cards - again. I know, I know, I know...but ready or not it's here. Put up the trees, hang the lights, and look for the ribbons, bows, wrapping paper, transparent tape, and gift tags. Go shopping for your new party outfits and be sure to get the matching shoes. Oops, I seriously hope you have your turkey because it takes forever to defrost in the refrigerator. Oh, and that reminds me...I still need to buy cilantro or my stuffing won't taste as it should. Had enough yet? In the months before Jesus was born my guess is that the lives of Joseph and Mary and the unborn Christ-child were just as hectic as ours are at this time. Imagine having to uproot your family in the middle of all you're going through, taking only what you can fit in your family car (Joseph and Mary had a donkey), and relocating to a place where you don't really know anyone and definitely don't have anything (except what the donkey brought). Now, think, think harder, does this story remind you of someone? Or, does this story remind you of you? Joseph and Mary knew beyond any doubt God was with them. You need to know, beyond any doubt, that this same God is with you. As the "Holiday Chaos" begins, try your best to remember the "Christmas Message" that when we receive Christ as our constant partner and friend through life we will also receive the hope, peace, joy and love which comes with it. During the season of Advent I'll want to focus on this theme: Christ is already here and we're just not seeing it. For today, though,  Happy Thanksgiving, my friends. Go into the world and find a way to make someone's life just as thankful as yours, OR allow someone to make your life thankful by accepting the gifts they want to give. This Sunday is the first day of Advent. Have fun this weekend, enjoy being surrounded by family, friends and a few strangers. Then, think about how Christ has brought you hope, and how you can also do the same for others. I'll need to take the next few days off due to obligations (such as a job) and I will see you on the other side of this weekend.

What2Say2Day? This morning's devotional came from Revelation 3:15-22. The author of the devotional decided to focus on verse 20 (Listen, I am knocking at the door...) and had a nice devotional based on opening the door with great expectations because we never know who may be knocking; it just might be Christ. I read the passage and (as often happens) came out of it with a different point of view. The passage has Jesus speaking to a few churches and telling them (paraphrasing) "You think you're all that, but let me tell you that you are nothing, worthless. But, let me come be with you and I can make you rich in the things you should be rich in the things that matter." (Remember, please, this is just my interpretation and not meant to rile anyone.) This reading speaks to where I see things in our communities today. There are a few, who seem to be a majority, that act as though they have it all - money, homes, nice clothes, high-paying jobs, etc. Then there are those, more of whom is in the real majority, who barely have, are hanging on to very little, or have nothing; or seem to have nothing. The latter group, my friends, are those with whom I would rather be. These are the people who realize there is more to life than material belongings. Jesus tells us in this passage from Revelations that we shouldn't fool ourselves into thinking we are filled with the riches of the world because without him in our lives we actually have nothing of true value. So, yes, when we hear his voice and he comes knocking at the door, open it, let him in, and enjoy all the riches his love can bring.

Pepper Spray? Really?!

What2Say2Day? This morning as I eat my egg (yes, egg, not eggs) and as my mind slowly awakens with the help of coffee I begin to focus on the morning news. As the morning fog slowly lifts my eyes are caught by the video of police pepper-spraying students at UC Davis who were part of the "Occupy" movement. (Follow this link if you want to see it for yourself - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6AdDLhPwpp4). Let me preface my comments by saying I do not know the events that lead to this particular moment in the videos and with that said; WHAT THE HECK IS HAPPENING IN OUR WORLD!!! From what I can see the students were just sitting there. They were not standing, they were not showing any signs of aggression, they were not threatening in any way; they were sitting. Okay, I'm sure they were vocal, chanting loudly, and maybe they were being disruptive by blocking a walkway, but, seriously...pepper spray?! I cannot help but think about what Jesus went through in his trials with Pontius Pilate and Herod as he too stood silent, accused of being disobedient. The more he remained silent, the worse the beatings got until, finally, his life was given for us. Today we're going to have a discussion on Matthew 25:31-46. We're going to be discussing what it means to judge and be judged and more importantly what we're judged on. And the king will answer them, “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” What have you done to Jesus today? And that, my dear friends, is where I'll end this rant.

Sheep or Goat?

What2Say2Day? I'm preparing for this week's lesson for our Youth group at church and the scripture is from Matthew 25:31-46. This passage is filled with many lessons, and is most times cut into little parts to send those messages as separate themes. I've just gotten through reading one reflection that suggests this passage as an entire teaching moment about what it will be like when Jesus returns, changing the theme of Matthew from the Kingdom of God to the Reign of Christ. Christians believe that Christ and God are one and the same, therefore this "change" is not one that suggests a changing of our God, but rather one that brings a new understanding of our God. God never changes, God is who God is through time eternal. It is our understanding of God that changes as God chooses to reveal parts of God's mystery to us. With this new found vision I re-read the passage and discovered so much. I ask you to re-read it with these questions in mind.

1) Who is Jesus associating the sheep and the goats with?
2) Are we judged on sins such as sexual preference or drug abuse OR are we judged on what we do for those in need?
3) When Jesus comes to take his throne (which I want to argue is happening now) will you be with the shepherd or the goatherd?

This Sunday, the first day of the last week of the church's calendar year, pledge to find a way not to be the judge, but to live a life that will bring hope, peace and joy to those around you through love.
















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Childlike? Good!

What2Say2Day? Mark 10:15 reminds us that, "whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it." At some time today I want you to take a look at a little child (by little I mean between 3 and 5 or 6 years old). Just watch her as she talks with her parents. Observe him as he plays with friends. Take notes on the things they do or the words they say. Take notice of their innocence and their lack of judgment. Smile as their endless questions are understood as nothing more than the need to understand how everything around them is different and yet somehow connected. Once you've done your investigations (hopefully without interference) I want you to watch a few adults. Note the differences in their conversations, or their play. If done properly you'll soon begin to understand how we are to be like children to enter the Kingdom of God. One of the most difficult things for me to do was to accept acts of love to be shown for me. And yet, this is all a child really wants. Think of the times you were given a picture drawn and colored by a child and you chose to show it on the refrigerator, or maybe they gave you a small trinket which you wore or carried around and saw how this always brought a smile to their faces. Now, think of all the times you were a child and gave someone a gift, only to have it ignored. Which one of those acts do you think is what the Rule of God is more like. Be a child, rather be childlike in your actions; give and receive love freely. It's difficult, I agree, but oh so worth it.

There's No Love Like...

What2Say2Day? John 15:12-15 really speaks to me about what true love is about. The passage reads ‘This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing; but I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father." This passage comes during the final night Jesus is spending with his disciples. It is one of the greatest teaching moments recorded in the four Gospels (of course that's my opinion). In this "sermon" Jesus is recapping what his ministry was all about; love one another, trust in God, a life with me is not easy but will be rewarding, etc. This passage, though, is when Jesus looks each of his disciples in the eye and says, "I love you and to prove this I am going to die for you. All I ask in return is that you love others in the same way" (excuse the paraphrase). Imagine a love so strong, so unconditional that another's life is more important than yours. Imagine relationships so strong that there are no secrets, no back stabbing, no gossiping or no ulterior motives. The only thing we have to worry about in these kinds of relationships is, well, I can't think of anything to worry about in these kinds of relationships. With Advent right around the corner let's remember Jesus came into this world for one reason; to die for us and in his death show us what true love is. How amazing is that?!

Slow But Sure

What2Say2Day? In my full time job I assist students in the classroom who may need the extra help doing their work. Every week I'm amazed at how this number seems to rise, and fall. There seems to be a trend to how some of our students are doing their work. They start the quarter with good intentions, giving it their best, working hard to be as successful as they can. Then, a few weeks into it we look at progress reports and it seems we have lots of students missing lots of work and we begin playing catch up. We get them caught up, and they relax (gads) after which, yes, we have to play catch up again. I notice, too, the same routine in many of the lives around me. We go full speed until we reach a burn out, discover we're buried in life, play catch up then rest; only to get bogged down again. I'm sure most of you know the story of the hare and the tortoise (if you don't know it, look it up, it has a great message). We seem to be living our lives as the hare, racing, trying to beat the tortoise, knowing we're faster and better and therefore can't be beat. We take a moment to rest when we don't even notice the tortoise, who is moving slow and steady, pass us and win the race. I'm not suggesting we move as slow as a tortoise all the time, but we need to stop moving like the hare all the time. Slow and steady always wins the race.

Let The Healing Begin

What2Say2Day? Yesterday the pastor of the church I go to spoke about getting back to the true meaning of Christmas. Sort of a pre-Advent advent topic. He spoke about how the Romans already had a King of Kings, and  Lord of Lords, and a Prince of Peace, and a Light of the World . His name was Caesar. So, when the bible talks of Jesus as being these things, it's meant to show the conflict between the ways of the world and the way of God. As Advent (the 4 weeks preceding Christmas) approaches we're already being bombarded with Christmas offers enticing us to buy at this store or that store. We're being asked to remember our family and friends with memorable gifts. We're being told that this may be a good season filled with good opportunities to be good people and do good things in this world. What we're not being told is the reason Christmas even exists; to celebrate the birth of Christ and the message the true Light of the World, Prince of Peace, Lord of Lords and King of Kings brought with his birth. Dictionary.com uses this definition for the word advent: a coming into place, view, or being; arrival: the advent of the holiday season (even they don't mention Christ or Christmas). As Advent approaches let's look for ways to bring to life the message Christ's birth, life, death and resurrection brings; that of hope, peace, joy and love. It's time to let the healing begin. 

The Poor Are What?!

What2Say2Day? The other day I was talking about the Youth from our church doing community service. I talked about how we were going to the Humane Society to feed the volunteers and staff and how we just went to a Homeless shelter to play with the children. I spoke of how we would like to do more things such as feeding the hungry or school supply drives for a school. One of the people in the conversation made a comment similar to this - "The poor are so lucky." It took everything I had in me to not let my face show what was in my mind (because this is a family-friendly blog I won't say it here either). After the initial shock of that comment subsided I asked her what she meant. "Well, "she said, "People are always doing things for them, aren't they? I mean, when was the last time anyone reached out to the rich to help them with their needs?" I became intrigued. "Interesting point," I replied. I decided to ask a question, hoping to get a little more of her reasoning out. "What do you see as some of the needs rich people have?" Her reply floored me - "They need to be more in touch with what's happening in the world and realize their money can't fix anything, rather it's only in the relationships they ignore that the world we live in will be a better place." Not the reply I was expecting. I have to agree she really hit the point of what "community" service should be. Many times we think it's only the poor and hungry who need help because we perceive them as not having anything. Of course we base this assumption on material things. We, as community servers, usually get upset at the rich for not sharing their wealth more. My friends, it's not their money we need, it's their time and talents. On the other side of that coin the rich feel as though all they have to give is money, so they don't get into the service aspect and build relationships that people crave. Okay, so now what? Here will be my personal challenge for the near future, and I hope yours as well. Let's focus not on material things, albeit with the understanding that is a piece of the puzzle. Let's instead focus on building relationships and finding ways for all people, rich or poor or somewhere in between, to be with one another in love, bringing hope through joy so that peace in the world might actually happen.

To Veterans Everywhere

What2Say2Day? As much as I wish war was an obsolete idea, I agree it is sometimes a necessary thing to do as long as evil persists in our world. This picture is to all our men and women that serve and or served around the world to ensure justice and freedom on earth.

God bless you and your families!

It's (almost) A Small World, Afterall

What2Say2Day? In case I haven't mentioned it before I live in Honolulu, Hawaii. This week is a very exciting one as our city and state host 21 leaders from around the world in a conference focusing on world economy (aka APEC). One of the youth I work with asked me yesterday what APEC was about. Understanding he probably didn't know much about world economics I did my best to answer him. "It's a conference between countries from around the Pacific area that will be focusing on how we can better the economic opportunities for everyone." I went on to explain how even though something is thought to be American, that doesn't necessarily mean it was made in America. "Take cars, for instance. A Ford truck is definitely American, but a closer examination of the truck will show that it was assembled in Mexico with parts made in Japan." That seemed to amaze him; and I must admit that on further thought I became amazed. My chosen Christian denomination is The United Church of Christ and our motto is taken from John 17:21; That they may all be one. This thought was what came to me when I began to explain further how countries around the world are connected in ways we never thought possible 50 or 75 or 100 years ago. Even in the last 25 years we have seen a unification of peoples around the world in ways that bring us closer in politics, business and economics. What we need now is to become one people in the areas of kindness, gentleness, acceptance, justice and love. Now that would truly be a small world.

Don't Touch That Lever

What2Say2Day? There's a story I remember about a truck driver who is heading west across the Arizona desert. He has been driving all night, and as the sun starts to rise, he feels the need to stop and commune with nature. He pulls to the side of the road, parks, and walks out into the sage brush.

As he is standing there, looking around at the beauty of the early morn, he notices a lever sticking out of the ground. After a few moments, he walks over, walks all the way around, and then reaches out to grasp the lever. Just as he does, he hears a voice say, "Don't touch that lever."

The driver jumps about two feet off the ground, and as hecomes down, he looks around. No one is to be seen. Thinking it was just his imagination, he again reaches for the lever. Again the voice yells, "I said don't touch that lever!"

Being more prepared, the driver senses the location of thevoice and looks down under a sage brush. There he sees a small snake. The driver, in much astonishment, said, "Was that you that just spoke?"

The snake said, "Yes. I have to keep people from touching that lever. If the lever is moved, it will be the end of the world."

The driver, still rather astonished, said, "What is your name? And will you talk on TV?" The snake said his name was Nate and that he wasn't interested in going on TV; anyway, he had to stay and watch the lever to see that it wasn't moved. The driver said, "Look, I will get the networks to send out camera crews. That way, you can inform the entire world about the danger of the lever."

Nate thought that over and agreed there was a great deal of sense to the idea. The driver, true to his word, got the network camera crews out. They put on broadcasts in which Nate warned the entire world of the dangers of moving the lever.

A few weeks later, another truck driver was going through the area. He was following an oil tanker, and the tanker sprang a leak. When the driver's truck hit the slick, it went out of control, and he found himself headed straight for the lever. He remembered seeing Nate on the TV telling
about the lever and so he knew that if he hit it, he would cause the world to end. He strove, with all his might to maneuver the truck. Finally, at the last moment, he was able to swerve, but he ran over Nate, the snake, and killed him flat!

The truck driver was heard to say "Well, better Nate than lever."

My note: I first heard this joke in grade school. For some reason it cam to me that I should share it for those who may never had heard it. I actually found a copy of it on line (I guess you can find anything on the internet). Take it for what it is. In case you didn't get it the saying is better late than never, not Nate than lever.

In Times Like This

What2Say2Day? The last few days have been a little stressful, to say the least. Without going into details, because I would like to keep these things private, let's just say there is a lot to be said about families and friends who are close and together can endure all things. There were a few moments during these days when I just wanted to say, "Really! Who needs the stress?" But, because God is awesome and our family is strong and friends are amazing I found myself learning something; we are connected in a way that only our Creator could have connected us. I don't mean "us" as in family, friends, colleagues or fellow human beings. I mean "us" as in all of creation. Don't get me wrong, if not for the kind words of those around me these last days would have been more difficult. It was, however, the quiet time in the darkness looking at the stars, listening to the sounds of the world as it slept and feeling the cool night air against my skin that really put the final touches on my healing. We are blessed far beyond our knowing and those blessings are more than how much "stuff" we have. Our Creator gave to us a world filled with beauty in everything we see (except cockroaches and centipedes - maybe) and He gave everything we see the gift of us (wow, that was deep). We are a gift to creation, we are supposed to take care of it and handle it with extreme care. Let's start doing this - now! In times like this I'm glad to have had the stars to gaze on and clean, fresh air on my skin. I just hope my children's children can celebrate with our Creator in the same way with their children.

What2Say2Day?: Some Things Are Better Left Unsaid

What2Say2Day?: Some Things Are Better Left Unsaid: What2Say2Day? If you've been reading my blogs you'd see that one of the things I like to talk about is the need for quiet. I often like to s...

Some Things Are Better Left Unsaid

What2Say2Day? If you've been reading my blogs you'd see that one of the things I like to talk about is the need for quiet. I often like to say we need to find a quiet place to reconnect with creation. I also like to say how much just 15 minutes of this quiet time can rejuvenate your soul, usually melting away a lot of the stresses that pile on your shoulders during the day. Today, however, I want to talk about the other kind of silence, the one that is most difficult for many of us. This silence can be one of the greatest gifts you can give others as well as yourself. This is the silence achieved when nothing is said. Today's blog is going to be short, mostly because I want to practice what I preach, so here is the thought and the challenge for today...Would it be better, sometimes, to offer a hug or the squeeze of a hand or a smile or a shoulder to cry on OR to talk about it?

Justice vs. Grace

What2Say2Day? Firstly, let me apologize for taking yesterday as a day off. I'm making it up, though by submitting something today; and today is a day mixed with blessings and challenges. Church was good, especially the time I spent with our youth in Sunday school. We spoke about  how grace and justice are intertwined. The passage we looked at was about the 10 bridesmaids found in Matthew 25. According to the commentary I read in preparation of today we are to live our lives on constant readiness of the coming of God's Kingdom because we're living under God's Reign (aka His Kingdom) now. To live our lives constantly waiting for the end is counterproductive. We should instead live on the now, in full readiness, just as the 5 wide bridesmaids did. To do this means we need to live our lives looking for opportunities to make things right (justice) while at the same time be sure we love unconditionally, freely giving ourselves to make others' lives better (grace). Not an easy task, Io agree, but something to work towards.

Stormy Nights and Lives

What2Say2Day? I love a good storm. Thunder, lightning and hard rain somehow soothe me. Not my wife, though, storms like these scare her as I'm sure it scares others. The only thing I don't like about storms is that they don't allow you to proceed with your outdoor plans. We had planned to go to a championship high school game featuring my wife's alma mater tonight and tomorrow I really wanted to cut back a tree in my yard that is overgrown and riddling the ground beneath it with fruit (of course the fruit is rotting in place and bringing insects and animals who like to feed on that sort of stuff). All that aside I absolutely love a storm. I get to stay indoors, cuddle with my wife on the couch and watch TV. I can have a cup of hot cocoa if it gets cold. I can have a certain peace of mind, knowing I am safe and warm as long as my home doesn't fall. I'm hoping you notice the slight hint of sarcasm in my written voice. Even though it's true I love a good storm, my thoughts always go to those without homes in these times. A tent in the park, the stoop of a doorway, or a bench and some cardboard will not protect against  that same pelting rain brought on by a thunderous storm that my (or your) home provides. In the States we have something like 6 times more shelters for lost or abused pets than we have shelters for lost or abused human beings. I learned yesterday there is a foundation for animals with cancer. I didn't look it up, but I wonder how much monies this foundation raises for those animals and I wonder that if they changed their name and focus to, well, something like, ummm, The Foundation for Homeless People with Cancer if they would get as much funding. Please don't get me wrong as I have 2 cats and a dog, and all the pets I've had in the last 10 years have been rescued from the streets or the shelters. All I'm saying is we need to refocus as a people and start putting our efforts where they really count and find a better balance so that all of creation is treated fairly and looked out for. So, tonight while I sit on my couch at home during what is supposed to be a good autumn thunder storm, I don't think I'll be enjoying it as much as I could be.

How Little Can You Be

Those who know me know that I consider Halloween to be the beginning of the Holiday Season. All efforts to try to entice me into an early (and false) start to the holidays usually meet up with the grumpiness of a "humph" - or as Ebeneezer would say, "Bah!"  So, please, let me welcome you to the beginning of the holiday season (even though it's 3 days old). This year let's see how well the world responds to this season of hope, peace, joy and love. World economies are doing better than last year and more people are finding jobs. There is still an unease about the perceived unfairness in the gap of those who have and those who don't (aka the super rich and those below poverty). Injustice still thrives in many places around the globe and it almost seems as though, for now, the countries that could always be counted on for assistance in these places need to refocus on their own problems. Even with all of this going on I still see people walking on the streets with smiles, lovers holding hands, and friends on the beach or in the park enjoying creation. Just yesterday I saw a student laying down by herself on a bench outside her classroom and when I asked her if she was okay she simply said, "I'm just enjoying the outdoors. I don't get to do this enough." So, just maybe that's where the secret to this season's happiness is - in the little things. As our Christ came to us in a little way, maybe, just maybe, this holiday season will be filled of happiness brought to us by the little things. I can wish, right!

How Are You Today?

What2Say2Day? It seems almost everyone I greet today has the same answer when asked, “How are you?” – “Tired.” It’s as though the energy is being taken away from us at a steady rate. I’m not just talking about physical energy either; mental and spiritual energy is being drained from us as well. When I ask them, “What’s going on, why so tired?” the usual reply is, “I’m so busy.” Many of my friends and colleagues these days work more than one job (out of necessity, mostly), have families with active children, are caretakers to their aging parents or doing all of the above in some form or another. Yesterday I decided to ask one of my colleagues, “Why do you do all of that?” The blank, puzzled look spoke louder than his answer (which I don’t remember). It’s a good question, isn’t it. Why do we do the things we do? I mean, we choose to do all those things, don’t we. Seriously, think about it. The things we do may seem they’re done out of necessity, but in the end we choose to do them. Nothing is “making” us do any of the things we do, right? So, again I ask the question, why do we do the things we do? Is it for personal gain or for the betterment of others? Is it to fill in the empty spaces of our days? Is it to teach our children responsibility or to give them a head start on life? I want to know – Why? We all know the story of the man who climbs the world’s highest mountain to seek wisdom from the great sage, only to be told the meaning of life is what he makes of it. And that is where I’ll leave us for today. Friends, find the meaning of your life and make it a worth while life to live. Have a purpose behind all the things we choose to do. Then maybe, just maybe, you won’t be so tired all the time.

What's Love...Final Edition

What2Say2Day? Okay, last part of the series, really. To recap where we are to date our hero, Abraham, is asking for some land so he can bury his wife, Sarah. This request goes against everything he knows to be right, or what the accepted norms of his day were. The people from whom he is asking the land have no problem giving him some. In fact they want to give him the land he asks for and more. Abraham being an honest man refuses to just “take” the land being offered and ends up paying a fair amount (based on what we might call a market value) for the land. Abraham then proceeds to bury his wife of many, many years. This, my friends, is love at its best. How many of you would have the courage to go against everything you know is the accepted norm for someone else? Be honest. When we know our neighbors are abusing drugs, how many of us would tell them what they’re doing is wrong and get them help (or help them ourselves)? How many of us know a family member who is being abused by their spouse or lover and do nothing? How many of us see the younger generations be disrespectful to our elders and just shake our heads and speak out against it under our breath for fear of getting involved? Today’s norms tell us not to get involved, that it’s none of our business. Today’s rules tell us to keep our distance and only get involved when asked. And yet we have this amazing hero, Abraham, whose love for his wife proved more important than the rules of his day. Enough so that he didn’t give the rules a second thought and did what he knew – absolutely knew in his heart – what was right and just. Let’s see if we can follow Abraham’s lead and just do what is right for those we love. Who knows, maybe those you do it for will follow you, and others may follow them and before you know it…everything will be as it should between us, our Creator and all that is created.

What's Love...Part 2

What2Say2Day? (Sorry this is late, been one of those days.) - Happy Halloween!

On Saturday I posted my all time favorite story from the bible; the story of Sarah’s death found in Genesis 23. I asked you to think about why this story showed what ultimate love is like. Did you think about it? It might help to explain a few things before I tell you my reasons why this is about love. In the days of Abraham, and in the location this story takes place, it was not possible to own land somewhere other than the place you were born. Abraham, at the request of God, had left his birthplace to go to a new land, one which was promised to be fruitful and where his family would multiply. It’s in this place the story found in Genesis 23 takes place. Abraham’s wife, Sarah, dies at the age of 127 and because they live in a place where they cannot own land she has no place to be buried. Abraham, after mourning for his wife, asks the towns people if he could please bury is wife in a nice cave on someone else’s land. Can you imagine how much courage it took Abraham to ask this, knowing fully well what the laws of his days were? The town’s people reply by telling Abraham he is a great man (having made their land a wealthy place) and he may have any land he wishes. Abraham offers money for the land, which the town refuses. Abraham tells them (paraphrasing here), “too bad, take my money anyway.” So, here’s why I think this shows ultimate love. Abraham loves his wife enough to have the courage to ask the town if he could have some land, just a tiny little cave, to bury his wife; even though he knew asking such a thing would mean going against the laws of that day. The town has enough love for Abraham because of the wonderful things he did for them to give him what he asks for and more. Ponder these things for just another day and tomorrow I’ll summarize it all.

What's Love Like, Anyway

I'm going to simply post my favorite bible story in  its entirety and I want you to tell me why you think this story is, in my opinion, the best example of love. I'll tell you my reasons why on Monday. Read now the story of Sarah's death and burial as described in Genesis 23:

Sarah lived for one hundred and twenty-seven years; this was the length of Sarah’s life. And Sarah died at Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan; and Abraham went in to mourn for Sarah and to weep for her. Abraham rose up from beside his dead, and said to the Hittites, ‘I am a stranger and an alien residing among you; give me property among you for a burying-place, so that I may bury my dead out of my sight.’ The Hittites answered Abraham, ‘Hear us, my lord; you are a mighty prince among us. Bury your dead in the choicest of our burial places; none of us will withhold from you any burial ground for burying your dead.’ Abraham rose and bowed to the Hittites, the people of the land. He said to them, ‘If you are willing that I should bury my dead out of my sight, hear me, and entreat for me Ephron son of Zohar, so that he may give me the cave of Machpelah, which he owns; it is at the end of his field. For the full price let him give it to me in your presence as a possession for a burying-place.’ Now Ephron was sitting among the Hittites; and Ephron the Hittite answered Abraham in the hearing of the Hittites, of all who went in at the gate of his city, ‘No, my lord, hear me; I give you the field, and I give you the cave that is in it; in the presence of my people I give it to you; bury your dead.’ Then Abraham bowed down before the people of the land. He said to Ephron in the hearing of the people of the land, ‘If you only will listen to me! I will give the price of the field; accept it from me, so that I may bury my dead there.’ Ephron answered Abraham, ‘My lord, listen to me; a piece of land worth four hundred shekels of silver—what is that between you and me? Bury your dead.’ Abraham agreed with Ephron; and Abraham weighed out for Ephron the silver that he had named in the hearing of the Hittites, four hundred shekels of silver, according to the weights current among the merchants.
 So the field of Ephron in Machpelah, which was to the east of Mamre, the field with the cave that was in it and all the trees that were in the field, throughout its whole area, passed to Abraham as a possession in the presence of the Hittites, in the presence of all who went in at the gate of his city. After this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field of Machpelah facing Mamre (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan. The field and the cave that is in it passed from the Hittites into Abraham’s possession as a burying-place.

I can't wait to hear what you think.

Lost & Found

What2Say2Day? Sometimes I get the feeling as though I'm just not connected to the people or situations around me. For instance, yesterday I felt as though I was in a cloudy daze. I had problems thinking of words to finish my sentences, I couldn't remember names, I even forgot to attach an important file to a mass email, prompting over 10 reply emails letting me know I'd forgotten. And you know what, that's just how it is some days. What bothered me most, though, was the spiritual disconnect I was feeling. I know my God is always near, and I know all I need to do is open my heart to let him in; it just was a lot more difficult to do than usual for some reason. Those are the days I wish would never happen. In Matthew 9:36 we read that Jesus “had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” That’s exactly what I felt like, a lost sheep. In the rest of this story from Matthew we also see that Jesus sent out his 12 disciples with power to heal the sick. Later, when the school day was done and my tutoring time began, I was privileged to help a young man who was having difficulty writing a thesis paper (I miss high school; his paper only had to be 2 pages, double spaced – sigh). In the time I spent with him I began to feel a connection; not just to the student, but to my purpose. I had forgotten the reasons my Creator placed me where I am, and this young man’s reaching out for assistance allowed me to remember. God sent me one of his chosen to be with me in my time of need; even if this angel was a person 3 times younger than me. I am thankful to have a God who cares enough for me that when I begin to feel lost he sends a shepherd to bring me back into the fold.

Follow The Rules

What2Say2Day?

Rules are meant to be broken. Well, not all rules, but you know what I mean. In recent conversations with some of my co-workers the topic of how to “best” educate our youth seems to be coming up. “Why is it so difficult to take notes while I lecture?” “How come the simple homework I ask for never get’s done?” “What’s wrong with worksheets followed up by written questions?” Now, these teachers have been in their career for a long time; 20, 25, 30 years for some. The ways they teach are proven to have great results and eventually work, but not without some resistance and conformity from the students. On the other side of this conversation are the teachers who have been doing this for 3, 5 or maybe 7 years. They engage students in conversation, use multi-media, force them to think by giving just enough information to tease, and not enough to write a research paper without them having to look up more information on their own. The teachers in the latter group don’t give out too much homework but do expect a lot of their students while in the class. This style of teaching isn’t as proven but still results in the student learning. So, which way is the right way? I say both. When Jesus began his ministry his teaching style was very similar to how it was done in the many centuries before him. He used the scriptures and interpreted them and invited conversation. What Jesus got into trouble for was how he didn’t conform to the “rules” of that day. He healed on the Sabbath, ate with sinners, touched the sick and even talked to Samaritans. What a rebel! In today’s society we focus too much on “how” we do things instead of “what” we’re doing. In the examples of how the teachers do their job I want to point out that they taught and their students learned. Let’s try to look beyond the things we consider “different” or “outdated” and see that in the end it’s all about the message; and that message needs to be one of hope, peace, joy and love.

I Got Nothin'

What2Say2Day? Some days I feel like I should just crawl back into bed and start over. How many of you feel the same way? (Looking around the world I see about 6 billion hands go up.) OK, wait, I just saw a news story about some towns/cities wanting to change Halloween to the last Saturday of October instead of always being on the 31st. What?!?!? have we forgotten the reason Halloween even exists. It's not a commercial holiday for bars and beer companies to make money. No! It's foundations go deep into the many cultures around this world. Mostly it's a set day when harvests from many countries are celebrated. It's also a day when many cultures celebrate the ancestors who have passed. Yes, the day has pagan beginnings, but Christians also celebrated this day in similar ways. November 1 is All saints day, the day when the Church celebrates all of those who have gone before us. In the early days of the church followers of certain disciples of Christ or "saints" who were martyred in the name of Christ would sit at their burial sights and await the morning. This night became known as All Hallows Eve. In the years that followed the church tried many times and many ways to stop the pagan celebrations, but were not able to because of how deeply set the beliefs of what this night would bring were; good harvests, safety from evil spirits, the moving on into a better world of families and friends who needed to move on. So, the church did what they're so good at and joined their night of vigil with that of the cultures around them and today that night is known as Halloween. I invite you to look up the history of Halloween. It's very interesting and not, as is commonly believed, a night of demons and witches and under-dressed people. this Halloween lets remember to find some time to give freely of ourselves (giving candy to children is the best part of this night to me - the way their faces light up as well as the thankfulness of their parents always makes my heart warm) to make at least a few hours on a single night a happy one for those around us.

The Rule of Non-Interference

What2Say2Day? I'm reading Dancing With a Ghost by Rupert Ross. It tells of the differences in ethics between indigenous and western cultures in the Americas and how these differences are often, if not always, misunderstood by the western's legal organizations. So far the most interesting thing I've learned is the idea of non-interference. In indigenous cultures (and my indigenous friends will already know this) one person does not interfere with the decisions of another, no matter what. The belief is that one needs to grow and become the person they are. The adults and elders in that person's community (in other words, their friends and families) are expected to model the correct behavior of how to contribute to that community. It doesn't matter who or what that person is, as long as her/his personal actions do not endanger the community as a whole. What that person ends up becoming in their personal lives holds no bearing whatsoever, as long as they contribute in a positive way to the survival of the community. An example from the book is a story of an indigenous man who visited the dentist on a regular basis. When the dentist mentioned that he's never seen the man's 10 year old son and asked the man to bring him in for a visit the man simply said, "I'll ask him if he wants to." To us, westerners, this seems like the parent hasn't a care about his son's well being. Nothing could be further from the truth in the indigenous culture. This man was showing ultimate respect for his son by allowing him to make his own decisions. Of course, along with making your own decisions comes living with the natural consequences. It is my opinion (just an opinion) that this may be what is missing from today's western cultures. We don't allow our young people to live through natural consequences. As adults we make many, if not all, decisions for our children. We choose their school, sports, extra curricular activities, how they spend every living minute of each day; we even try to choose their friends.  All of this makes for a society where non-decision making is a norm. Along with that norm is the knowledge that we don't have to worry about making the wrong decision, if we make a decision, because nothing bad will happen anyway. As educators (and teachers, I am one of you, please take this constructively) we give our children chance after chance after chance to do their homework or finish their projects without outright failing them. Non-interference does not equal no punishment. Our children need to be able to make their own decisions and understand their will be consequences, and rewards, to the decisions they make. And, more importantly, we, as the adults, need to start modeling what a world like that looks like. Be the example to our children and youth and they will become exemplary additions to a successful community.

The Most Difficult Thing To Be Is Yourself

What2Say2Day? If you remember I went to a conference on creating a safety net for youth who are in the LGBT community. One of the comments a panelist made is we can never be comfortable with the idea of people being LGBT until we become comfortable with the person we are. How true, right. I mean, if you've read any of my previous entries I've said this many times. You have to - have to - love yourself before you can fully love others. but this "self love" doesn't come easily. The most difficult thing in this world to love is ourselves because a lot of times we don't even know who that self is. We spend the first 11 or so years just being a kid with no real clue as to who we are or want to be. Then for the next, oh let's say, 20 years we try seeking that person out. we're influenced by everything from family and friends to magazines and music. Everyone wants us to be something or someone and in that bombardment of opinions we sort of forget we have a say in the whole matter. Who we are, who we have the potential of being, is up to us - period. The best way to discover this person, the only real advice we should be listening to is from our Creator. Our Creator has given us gifts (check out Isaiah 11:2-3 for a sometimes overlooked list of those gifts or 1 Cor 12 for a better known list). These gifts are then to be nurtured and developed to someday be used to help make this world a better place. We all have these gifts, each and everyone of us. You need to believe that. This is where it all starts - with you. No pressure!

Taking the Day Off

What2Say2Day? Today I'm not saying anything. I've decided to take Sundays off unless there is something so compelling I just need to say something about it. Enjoy your day with family, friends and God.

What A Long Day

What2Say2Day? Okay, seems that today is turning out to be a very long day. Lots to do and running out of time to do it. I woke up at 5 am to go on a 2-Mile walk to bring awareness to hunger in Hawaii followed by trips to the pet store, drug store, big-box store and a haircut. Came home to have a late lunch then went outside to do some much needed yard maintenance. After all that i took a nap until I was awakened by the sound of a vacuum at which time I helped my wife finish cleaning the house and started the laundry. Whew! Now all I have left to do in this day is make a newsletter for the parents of the youth from my church and think of ideas on what we can do for Advent. But, as tired as I am and as sore as my body is I feel absolutely, positively, amazingly wonderful. I feel as though I can stand on the roof of my house and yell, "I got something accomplished today!" Days like these make me wonder if Jesus felt the same way whenever he had a very busy day. I would think for the most part the answer would be yes. The New Testament is filled with stories of a busy Jesus who, at the end of the day, finds some way to remind those around him that God is still working in their lives. I bet there were many a time when, after a hard day's work, he stood on the roof of a house (or maybe a mountain top) and yelled, "God loves you, therefore there is nothing you cannot do!" Let's all take a pledge to get busy and do something for others, or for yourself, or maybe we can find something to do for God.