"Of a sane man there is only one safe definition. He is a man who can have tragedy in his heart and comedy in his head." G.K. Chesterton.

When I read this quote it really struck me; as Christians we do not hide our eyes from the desperate and stricken in our world. Often we can but pray, and the world is big and the sorrows are great.

But we are not a sad people because tragedy resides in our hearts, we have God's joy in our minds. We can laugh and tease and play, and in some ways we may enjoy it more knowing it is a privilege.

In looking for a picture to go with this quote I had some difficulty until I remembered this picture of two boys in an orphanage. The boy on the right, with the face aglow, no doubt senses the struggles of his friend, but with that tragedy withing his heart he has laughter in his head, just what the doctor ordered for both.

Photo by Banhup Teh

I hope you will watch the one and a half minute video that was sent to me from a friend. King David said his heart was stirred by a noble theme: this is a noble theme.

http://www.maniacworld.com/are-you-going-to-finish-strong.html

The context of the following illustrious quote by Jeremy Taylor is from his book titled "Holy Dying" (a serious call to prepare ourselves, by a good and holy life, for death) and this piece is from the chapter called “The miseries of Life”, in it he speaks to the madness and folly of loving the world, being infatuated with wealth and pleasure and trusting in one’s self and not God. It is difficult to lead in to but I will begin as he is speaking to the miseries in this world and how we should soberly consider if we would put our affections here instead of in heaven –

He that is no fool but can consider wisely, can see that loving this world is –
“to think charitably about dwelling with Vipers and Dragons, and entertaining his guests with the shrieks of Mandrakes, Cats and Screech Owls, with the filling of iron, and the harshness of rending silk; or to admire the harmony that is made of a herd of evening wolves when they miss their draught of blood in their midnight revels. The groans of a man in a fit of passing a stone are worse than these; and the distractions of a troubled conscience are worse than those groans; and yet a carefree merry sinner is worse than all that. But if we could from one of the battlements of heaven see how many men and women at this time lye fainting and dying for want of bread, how many young men are hewn down by the sword of war; how many poor orphans are now weeping over graves of their father, by whose life they were enabled to eat. If we could but hear how many Mariners, and passengers are at this present in a storm, and shriek out because their keel dashed against a rock, or bulges under them; how many people there are that weep with want, and are mad with oppression, or are desperate by too quick a sense of a constant infelicity, in all reason we should be glad to be out of the noise and participation of so many evils. This is a place of sorrows and tears,
of great evils and a constant calamity; let us remove from hence, at least in affections and preparation of mind.”

When you list the sorrows, calamities and want that truly is being experienced by thousands if not millions at this very time, it is a sobering thought and makes me so grateful that I live in peace and am spared nearly all of these horrors. But heaven’s windows are open and will hold us accountable if we help, or close the window. Oh Lord Jesus, let me not close my eyes!

Photo sent to me by Mel from the Internet -- and just as a side note: the look on the child that is carrying the baby, just pierces my heart, I see a determination to hold the precious load without resentment, no, but with a smile. God spare me for my pathetic complaints.

I have been so enjoying my new book “Treasures New and Old”. In it are so many delicious and wholesome thoughts. Now the one below is a piece by Lord Bulwer Lytton, in it he is prescribing different subjects as antidotes for different maladies.
It is just fun to read; he ends with a summation and recommendation of the “Book of Books”, the cardinal medicine for all, but I want to post his prescription for sectarianism and then on to a remedy for the cry baby. I enjoy his colorful and humorous illustrations, hope you do as well.

“Then, for that vice of the mind which I call sectarianism – not in the religious sense of the word, but little, narrow prejudices, that make you hate your next-door neighbor, because he has his eggs roasted when you have yours boiled; and gossiping and prying into people’s affairs, and backbiting, and thinking heaven and earth are coming together, if some broom touch a cobweb that you have let grow over the window-sill of your brains – for this, a large and generous course of history.”

“But,” continued my father, more gravely, “when some one sorrow that is yet reparable gets hold of your mind like a monomania – when you think, because heaven has denied you this or that, on which you had set your heart, that all your life must be a blank – oh! then diet your self well on biography – that biography of good and great men. See how little a space one sorrow really makes in life. See scarce a page, perhaps, given to some grief similar to your own; and how triumphantly the life sails on beyond it! You thought the wing was broken! – Tut – tut – it was but a bruised feather! See what life leaves behind it when all is done!

Painting by Leon Augustin

The Holy Scriptures

I read the following poem from my new book "Treasures New and Old", and I really like it, although I don’t understand it all.
He is speaking to the mystery and secrets of the scriptures -
their glory, and how they find us out, speak to us and point the way to
destiny and eternal life.

"Oh, that I knew how all thy lights combine,
And the configurations of their glory!
Seeing not only how each verse doth shine,
But all the constellations of the story.
This verse marks that, and both do make a motion
Unto a third that ten leaves off doth lie.
Then, as dispersed herbs do make a potion,
These three make up some Christian's destiny.
Such are thy secrets, which my life makes good,
And comments on thee. For in everything
Thy words do find me out, and parallels bring,
And in another make me understood.
Stars are poor books, and oftentimes do miss:
This book of stars lights to eternal bliss." George Herbert.

Here is a quote with similar content –

"In the Bible there is more that finds me than I have experienced in all other books put together; the words of the Bible find me at greater depths of my being; and whatever finds me brings with it an irresistible evidence of its having proceeded from the Holy Spirit." S. T. Coleridge.

Photo by Metin Demiralay

Sue and I went out visiting some antique stores for a few hours today, and I ran across this gem. This is what I hope to find when poking around; a Christian classic filled with quotes, stories and poems, copyrighted 1883. This 750 page beauty titled, "Treasures New and Old", is filled with hours of reading and will of course look like a work of art on my bookshelf. You should smell it! How sweet it is!
Can't wait to post something from it.

I chose this picture by Martin Bushue which pictures all of our hopes for children; a carefree childhood with joy, laughter and safety. But it is not to be for all. The disturbing report from The Free Burma Rangers reminds us that our world is in desperate need of Christians to bring the love of the gospel and fight injustice and oppression. May 2009 be a year of greater action and support in Christendom.

2nd January, 2009
Urgent Statement by the Karen Women's Organization
KWO demands accountability for SPDC rape and killing of 7-year-old girl
The Karen Women's Organization is demanding the immediate arrest and prosecution of an SPDC soldier who raped and killed a young girl in Burma's northern Karen State last week, as well as punishment of his commanding officer for failing to take action over the crime.
The body of the 7-year-old girl was found near her house with gunshot wounds in her chest and signs of rape in the village of Ma Oo Bin, Kyauk Kyi Township, Nyaunglebin District, in the evening of December 27, 2008. Villagers had seen a soldier from SPDC Light Infantry enter the village shortly beforehand, and then heard sounds of a girl crying out and rifle shots.
The girl's parents and village leaders went to report the case the next day to Captain Thet Khaing, the local commander of SPDC LI 350, stationed near the village, but no action has been taken yet.
The KWO is appalled at this horrific crime, and that the SPDC authorities have failed to take any action over the case. If such impunity continues, the SPDC military will continue to commit such crimes, threatening the lives of women and girls throughout the country.
The KWO demands the immediate arrest of the rapist and prosecution in accordance with the severity of his crime. His commanding officer, Captain Thet Khaing, must also be held accountable for this crime and be punished for failing to ensure prosecution of the offender.
The KWO urges the international community to pressure the SPDC authorities to take action over this case, and to ensure that the victim's family and other community members face no retaliation for their attempts to seek justice.

"Men ought always to pray".

The Narrow Way

I love the words of Christ and His apostles who lay out the way of perfection for all followers to aspire to. I love the Puritan writers who hold up the standard of holiness and righteousness like few today. I want the word and I want it full strength without adulteration. Give me Jesus and don’t water it down.
Now, that said, what about the sad reality that all Christians sense when reading or hearing a soul piercing sermon that exposes their many faults and inadequacies? We are called to follow a way that is far above our ability and if we contrast what needs be done, to what we actually do, we can fall into discouragement.
Then let this following scripture become the healing salve for your wounds.
This heartening scripture, tucked away in the third chapter of Philippians the 12th verse, where God’s valiant servant gives succor to our fears—

“Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.”

Here Paul explains that Christ has called and possessed each one of us for His wonderful purposes but while He is using us He condescends to our weaknesses.
Not that we have already obtained all that will be apprehended, but still we are loved, accepted and used in spite of our deficiencies.
There is great comfort in this and to me it is an ingredient that must be included in any preacher or brother that I will sit under or allow to influence me.
The Pharisees applied the word without this humility and made the easy way of the Spirit a heavy load which brought control and condemnation to the hearers.
This same spirit has been present in all of Christendom past and present.

I look for Paul’s humble spirit in anyone I read, and if it isn’t there, I realize I have detected legalism and will not return to that table for food.

Here is an example of Phil. 3:12 that ends a sermon written by John Newton who was preaching strongly on our need for a full surrender to the Lord; it expresses my above thoughts perfectly.

“I hope I may say that I desire to be thus entirely given up to the Lord; I am sure I must say that what I have written is far from being my actual experience. Alas! I might be condemned out of my own mouth were the Lord strict to mark what is amiss. But oh the comfort! We are not under the law but under grace.”

Now here is another example at the end of another sermon –

“I have touched upon a topic of great importance to myself. I am one among many who have suffered greatly for lack of paying more attention to my need of this prayer. Oh that I could be wiser hereafter, and always act and speak as knowing that I am always upon a field of battle, and beset by legions!”

I consider this candid expression of humility among the most necessary ingredients of preaching and witnessing, and if you are the victim of discouragement or despondency in your Christian walk, you may find comfort in this, and I cannot exaggerate the importance of this issue.
The above picture DOES NOT illustrate "The narrow way".

Photo by Daniel Bayer

I wrote the following poem 11 years ago about that feeling most of us have at some time that we aren't as much a part of the whole as we would like to be. Now this feeling is far less in some than others but I think everyone can relate to some degree based on my conversations over a lifetime. I decided to post it, not because my claim to fame is writing poetry, but I read a post on Candice's blog that reminded me of it.

The Black Sheep

Haunting deep within
lurks accusing me I've been,
seen or done things less,
much less than the throng
where I don't fit, or belong
here the way the majority
are accepted in life's fraternity.

An outsider, with the obvious lack
of social grace, or some black
sheep sense of deficiency
keeping others at distance from me.
I'm fifty years old and then some
and can't evade or outrun
the lifelong shadow that clings.

I've learned to display a sanguine face,
covering the fear without a trace
of insecurity, giving me away.

Survival provides the missing part
pride takes over and rules the heart,
but the sister that shares prides home,
drives others away
and you end up alone.

Picture from the Internet

In William Gurnall's classic book "The Christian in Complete Armour", he gives much practical advice to Christians. This little snippet is encouragement for us when our peace is robbed.


"When Satan comes to take away your peace, if you do not understand the full significance of your justification in Christ you will be easily overcome. A saint without assurance of salvation is as unprotected as the rabbit that darts into a thicket to escape a fox, but is easily followed by the print of her own feet and the scent she leaves behind. In Christ you have a hiding place where the enemy dare not come: 'the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs' (Song of Sol. 2:14). While the devil may be in hot pursuit of your soul, the very scent of Christ's blood, by which you are justified, is noxious to him and will stop him in his tracks. Run straight into this tower of the gospel covenant, and roll this truth on the head of Satan, as the woman cast the stone on the head of Abimelech: 'To him....that....believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness' Rom. 4:5

Picture from the Internet

The following poem speaks of a time in England when the common peasant enjoyed the simple pleasures of the little village. But then the wealthy came and exploited the land, developed it and pushed out the common man who used to live off the land and replaced it with luxury and folly, and now nothing remains of simplicity of life. It reminds me of the sight where Ruby’s Cafe once stood, but now replaced with a Starbucks, the mom and pop Cook’s store was ploughed down to be replaced with a 7-11. As you age you see much of the landmarks change and become but a memory. This poem captures that thought to me.



"Ill fares the land, to hastening ills a prey,
Where wealth accumulates and men decay:
Princes and lords may flourish or may fade;
A breath can make them, as a breath has made,
But a bold peasantry, their country’s pride,
When once destroyed can never be supplied.
A time there was, ere England’s griefs began,
When every rood of ground maintained its man;
For him light labor spread her wholesome store,
Just gave what life required, but gave no more;
His best companions, innocence and health;
And his best riches, ignorance of wealth.
But times are altered: trade’s unfeeling train
Usurp the land, and dispossess the swain;
Along the lawn, where scattered hamlets rose,
Unwieldy wealth and cumbrous pomp repose;
And every want to luxury allied,
And every pang that folly pays to pride.
Those gentle hours that plenty bade to bloom,
Those calm desires that asked but little room,
Those healthful sports that graced the peaceful scene,
Lived in each look, and brightened all the green;
These, far departing, seek a kinder shore,
And rural mirth and manners are no more."

Poem by Goldsmith - Photo by Erik Lewandowski

I have seen the topic I address below cause more frustration for young people, and I mean people under 40, than any other issue. Not compatibility, wealth, position or location; although location can remove us from family and friends that in most cases can contribute to alleviating the problem discussed below to some degree. So if you are married and under forty, maybe there will be some practical help in this.


I think the most difficult season of life is when we have left single life where we are free to make choices for ourselves; when we have complete freedom to come and go; we report to few and are accountable to none; and no one depends on us. And then we enter into marriage where much of this comes to an abrupt end.
With the advent of children, we are taken further from this time of freedom and for some it comes suddenly, within a few years or less. That is not much time to make such a profound emotional change. We have duties that demand nearly all of our time, we have others that depend on us, our alone time is gone, and financial concerns are often pressing, babies crying, spouses needing, what an adjustment to make! Such a contrast! We leave one world and are ushered into another with memories like this --

“Everyone, probably, will be able to recall hours when, amid the competitive gladness of school or college companions, the impulses of enjoyment seemed to burst all bounds, and ran into the most riotous excitement; and in the reminiscences of such hours there may be the charm as of a long lost pleasure never to be felt again.

Our own natural and healthy instincts for wholesome enjoyment constantly reassert their power, and to deny them is to introduce an element of hurtful perplexity into the life.
It is vain to enter into this struggle with nature; it is cruel and wrong to do it. Nature must have play, and of course, it is to be kept within bounds by its own wise training and responsibilities. But human nature, as a prime condition of health, mental and physical, must have recreation, must have its moments of play, when it throws off the burden of work, and rejoices in the mere sensation of its own free activity. The younger we are the more we need these opportunities; we thirst for them – we are on the alert to catch them; and if denied them, we dwindle from our proper strength, emotionally or physically, and can pursue illegitimate and hurtful gratifications.”

I paraphrased the above from a chapter from Room at the Top, by A. Craig.

The solutions to this dilemma will be up to you to solve, and it is no easy task, but to deny it is to invite “illegitimate and hurtful gratifications.” Finding the time for oneself and one’s spouse, without neglecting our obligations requires continuing investigation and creativity, because circumstances and obligations seem to grow, not lessen, as the years go rapidly by. Some of us stretch to meet these growing duties with far more ease than others. Some feel chafed, caged and cornered while others may make the adjustments with little emotional distress. But all are affected to some degree. So, for those who are struggling I hope this will be of some help.


"Youth must have its healthy recreations. Enjoyment must mingle largely in the life of every healthy young person."

Top photo by Mike Roberts, bottom by Thomas.

I thought I would share the following pictures just for fun; both are so dramatic. It made me wonder why all cultures have gone to such lengths to beautify. There is so much craft in these two pictures and I don't consider either evil, but looking for a quote to shed light on the question, I was unable to find anything that did not either condemn or encourage, but nothing expressed my question or thoughts. The man is from Peru and I assume the girl is from the U.S. I decided to post some of the quotes I ran across: they differ greatly in opinion, and I endorse none. I did find them all interesting, maybe you will as well.

"Many a one, for the sake of finery on the back,
Has gone with a hungry belly, and half-starved their families.
“Silks and satins, scarlets and velvets, put out the kitchen fire.”
B. Franklin

"The tulip and the butterfly
Appear in gayer coats than I:
Let me be dressed fine as I will,
Flies, worms, and flowers exceed me still.”
Isaac Watts.


The adorning thee with so much art
Is but a barbarous skill;
‘Tis like the poisoning of a dart
Too apt before to kill.”
Abraham Cowley.

As for clothing…..perhaps we are led oftener by
The love of novelty and a regard for the opinions
Of men, in procuring it, than a true utility.” H.D. Thoreau


“With silken coats, and caps, and golden rings,
With ruffs, and cuffs, and fardingales, and things;
With scarfs, and fans, and double change of bravery,
With amber bracelets, beads, and all this knavery.”
Shakespeare.

“Never teach false morality. How exquisitely absurd to tell
girls that beauty is of no value, dress of no use! Beauty is of value;
her whole prospects and happiness in life may often depend upon
A new gown or a becoming bonnet, and if she has five grains of common
Sense, she will find this out.” Sydney Smith.

Oh man! it is good he lives in a different century!

"A gaudy dress and gentle air,
May slightly touch the heart,
But it’s innocence and modesty
That polishes the dart.”
Burns.

Top photo by James Pam, bottom photo by Sergio Passolano.

In the following quote by Chrysostom, he is referring to the leper who came to Jesus saying, ‘if thou will, Thou canst make me clean.’ Chrysostom brings out some interesting points surrounding his response in word and action –


“But Jesus did not merely say, “I will, be thou clean,” but He also “put forth His hand, and touched him;” a thing especially worthy of inquiry. For then why after cleansing him by His will and word, did He add also the touch of His hand?
It seems to me, for no other purpose, but that He might signify by this that He is not subject to the law, but is set over it; and that to the clean, henceforth, nothing is unclean. For this cause we see Elisha did not so much as see Naaman, but though he perceived that he was offended at his not coming out and touching him, thereby observing the strictness of the law, he abides at home, and sends him to Jordan to wash. Whereas the Lord, to signify that He heals not as a servant, but as absolute master, does also touch. For His hand became not unclean from the leprosy, but the leprous body was rendered clean by His holy hand.”


In another place Jesus uses His own saliva to heal the blind man; this too was forbidden by the law for sanitary purposes. Somehow that always touched me, it made me wonder at the purity of Christ not only in spirit but in body, that His saliva gives sight and His blood cleanses sin. Such mystery, such glory.

I also thought that there may be some instruction for us, in principle, in the way Jesus worked; He had the will to serve, the word for power, and the touch for loving.

Picture taken from the Internet

I ran across this little optimism evaluation and thought it was interesting and it did make me think. Maybe you will enjoy it.
After you have promised to be honest with yourself, jot down you numbers on a sheet of paper and add them up when done for an evaluation.

Answer the questions with a number from 1 to 5 that best describes you.
1 = Never
2 = Rarely
3 = Sometimes
4 = Often
5 = Always

Do you welcome change and feel comfortable with it?

Do you spend time in prayer and meditation?

Do you stop to admire flowers?

How often do you stop to have a conversation with a child?

Do you try to communicate with animals?

How often do you stop to wonder at the sky?

Do you adopt the philosophy of taking things lightly?

Do you feel grateful for life?

Do you ever have peak experiences of ecstasy?

How often do you find the humor in situations?

When you feel confused or worried about something, are you able
To trust in a higher power to help you through your difficulty?

When reading a mystery, does your enjoyment come from the mystery itself?

How often do you feel passionate about something?

How often are you able to keep your center when things around you seem to be falling apart?

Do you find more virtue in happiness than suffering?

How often do you wish on a star, a moonbeam, or a rainbow?

How often do you see beyond popular explanations held by your social group?

How often do you call in sick to work just because you need a day of fun?

Do you find enjoyment in little things?

Do you respect your intuition?

How often are you willing to accept pain in your life as a teacher rather than a tormentor?

Do you keep an open mind, even when you don’t understand something?

Do you take the time to remember others in little ways?

How often do you ask for – and expect – a miracle?

How often do you believe that you have the right to live a peaceful and happy life, even in the midst of disaster and sorrow?

How often do you believe that you have the power and the responsibility to bring joy and meaning to the lives of others?

Are you aware of and attuned to the cycles of nature?

When its gray and gloomy out, do you still take time to appreciate the more subtle beauty of the sky, the moods of the clouds, the coolness of the air?

Do you put a high premium on pleasure?

How often do you experience good old-fashioned synchronicity? (Coincidence of events that seem to be meaningfully related.)

Do you leave perfectionism to God?

Regardless of your age, do you feel young?

Do you ever think about the reason you are here?

Add up the numbers and here is an “optimistic” evaluation scale –
182-155 You are exceedingly optimistic.
154-125 very good,
124-85 It seems as though you’re having a little trouble deciding if life is infinitely beautiful or just a place to hang out; you have what it takes but you need a good dose of trust and faith.
84-55 Let this be your encouragement to start looking for and believing in greater possibilities.
54 and under – You may be too cynical and need to allow some passion, enthusiasm, love, generosity, humor, trust, peace and joy into your life.

Photo by Jose A. Gallego

Midnight musings

Last night I awoke in the early morning and two thoughts came to me with more clarity than normal, to my way of thinking, so I decided to jot them down. This post and the one below are what came to mind.



My thoughts are not your thoughts, mine are free from the stain of sin, no blush or hint of corruption; my thoughts are not clouded with self-love, my mind is not divided between good and evil, but my thoughts are the highest thoughts; pure and undefiled, as displayed in my Son, perfect in all ways; no root of bitterness, not guided by revenge, able to read plainly the mind and motives, dividing even to bone and marrow.
My ways are not as your ways; this way is without partiality, void of selfish ambition, the way of perfect love, justice and mercy. My way is the highway of holiness, and there is no oppression found on this way, no cast nor color, gender or prejudice: perfect equality.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways.

This photo was taken from the Internet and her name was written in letters I am unable to read, maybe Arabic? Wish I could give her credit for this great photo.

Midnight museings

Milk is to nurture us as a child -- meat to serve as an adult.

Milk establishes us in grace -- meat for sinew and muscle to share one another’s burdens.

Milk, to bond us to the breast we suckle -- meat, to share the fruit of this bond.

Top photo by Jothy John, bottom photo by Wojtek Slesandrowic.

Conscientiousness in small things.

A woman employed a man to paint a house she had just built. The painter was a member of a Christian church, active in the prayer-meeting and in church work, and apparently a man of exemplary piety. His work was seemingly well done, but it was afterwards discovered that he had slighted his work in places where he thought the neglect would not be noticed. His employer remarked: “I have discounted the man’s piety and prayers ever since. I prefer Christians who will fill up the nail holes with putty, and paint the tops of the doors in the upper story.” How many professed Christians fail to realize that piety has a connection with paint and putty – that the little things of life are the truest, as they are the severest tests of Christian character.

The painter Opie replied to a query as to how he mixed his colors, ‘With brains, sir.’ The best type of Christian character must be that of the man who mixes his daily work with conscience, and strives to do everything, even the most insignificant, as unto the Lord. Until this shall be the standard of everyday Christian living, there must be a great deal done in the way of discounting piety and prayers. – Christian Union.

I like this quote, although there is needed wisdom on what to attend to and what can be left. I'm reminded when I was asked to sweep the floor of a warehouse when I was employed in a factory at about age 19. I swept the floor fastidiously, as though my father was watching over my shoulder, which he often was when I worked for him. But the foreman came up to me and said, "Fred, this is a warehouse not a hospital." Suggesting I was overdoing it and needed to get the task done and on to more pressing work. Lesson learned.

Photo by Naret Visesvongsa

“One moonlight evening in winter,” writes the biographer of Beethoven, “we were walking through a narrow street of Bonn. ‘Hush!’ exclaimed the great composer, suddenly pausing before a little, mean dwelling, ‘what sound is that? It is from my Sonata in F. Hark! How well it is played!’
“In the midst of the finale there was a break, and a sobbing voice cried: ‘I cannot play any more. It is so beautiful; it is utterly beyond my power to do it justice. Oh, what would I not give to go to the concert at Cologne!’ ‘Ah! My sister,’ said a second voice; ‘why create regrets when there is no remedy? We can scarcely pay our rent.’ ‘You are right,’ said the first speaker, ‘and yet I wish for once in my life to hear some really good music. But it is of no use.’
“’Let us go in,’ said Beethoven. ‘Go in!’ I remonstrated; ‘what should we go in for?’ ‘I will play to her,’ replied Beethoven in an excited tone; ‘here is feeling, - genius, - understanding! I will play to her, and she will understand it. Pardon me,’ he continued, as he opened the door and saw a young man sitting by a table, mending shoes, and a young girl leaning sorrowfully upon an old-fashioned piano; ‘I heard music and was tempted to enter. I am a musician. I – I also overheard something of what you said. You wish to hear – that is, you would like – that is – shall I play for you?’
“’Thank you,’ said the shoemaker, ‘but our piano is so wretched, and we have no music.’
“’No music!’ exclaimed the composer; ‘how then, does the young lady – I – I entreat your pardon,’ he added, stammering as he saw that the girl was blind; ‘I had not perceived before. Then you play by ear? But where do you hear the music, since you frequent no concerts?’
“’We lived at Bruhl for two years; and, while there, I used to hear a lady practicing near us. During the summer evenings her windows were generally open, and I walked to and fro outside to listen to her.’
“Beethoven seated himself at the piano. Never, during all the years I knew him, did I hear him play better than to that blind girl and her brother. Even the old instrument seemed inspired. The young man and woman sat as if entranced by the magical, sweet sounds that flowed out upon the air in rhythmical swell and cadence, until, suddenly, the flame of the single candle wavered, sank, flickered, and went out. The shutters were thrown open, admitting a flood of brilliant moonlight, but the player paused, as if lost in thought.
“’Wonderful man!’ said the shoemaker in a low tone; ‘who and what are you?’
“’Listen!’ replied the master, and he played the opening bars of the Sonata in F. ‘Then you are Beethoven!’ burst from the young people in delighted recognition.
‘Oh, play to us once more,’ they added, as he rose to go, - ‘only once more!’
“’ I will improvise a sonata to the moonlight,’ said he, gazing thoughtfully upon the liquid stars shining so softly out of the depths of a cloudless winter sky. Then he played a sad and infinitely lovely movement, which crept gently over the instrument, like the calm flow of moonlight over the earth. This was followed by a wild, elfin passage in triple time – a sort of grotesque interlude, like the dance of fairies upon the lawn. Then came a swift agitated ending – a breathless, hurrying, trembling movement, descriptive of flight, and uncertainty, and vague impulsive terror, which carried us away on its rustling wings, and left us all in emotion and wonder. ‘Farewell to you.’ He said, as he rose and turned toward the door. ‘You will come again?’ asked the host and hostess in a breath. ‘Yes, yes,’ said Beethoven hurriedly, ‘I will come again, and give the young lady some lessons.
Farewell!’ Then to me he added: ‘Let us make haste back, that I may write out that sonata while I can yet remember it.’ We did return in haste, and not until long past the dawn of day did he rise from his table with the full score of the “Moonlight Sonata” in his hand.”

This story comes from Orison Swett Marden's book "Pushing to the front". When I first read this account I put it down inspired to hear this music. I went and bought a copy and it began my interest in classical piano music. Hard to read an account like that and not want to hear it.

Painting from the Internet

Matt. 7:24

The following is commentary about Matthew 7:24


"Jesus here wills to signify how great is the strength of virtue, even in the present life. What then is this her strength? To live in safety, to be easily subdued by no terror, to stand superior to all that despitefully use us. To this what can be equal? For this, not even he that wears a crown can provide for himself, but only that man who follows after virtue.
The truly marvelous thing being this, that not in fair weather, but when the storm is vehement, and the turmoil great, and the temptations continual, he cannot be shaken ever so little.
“For the rain descended” saith He, “the floods came, the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon the rock.”
By “rain” here, and “floods”, and “winds”, He is expressing metaphorically the calamities and afflictions that befall men; such as false accusations, plots, bereavements, deaths, loss of friends, vexations from strangers, all the ills in our life that any one could mention. “But to none of these,” saith He, “doth such a soul give way; and the cause is, it is founded on the rock.”
He calls the steadfastness of His doctrine a rock; because in truth His commands are stronger than any rock, settling one above all the waves of human affairs.
And now what can be happier than this kind of life? For this, not wealth, not strength of body, not glory, not power, nor ought anything else will be able to secure, but only the possession of virtue.” St. Chrysostom.

I am edified by Chrysostom, one of the early Fathers of the church, and when I read this it reminded me of things shared by fellow bloggers and others that we have all faced in the last few months. I'm not sure I would go so far as Chrysostom in saying that "we cannot be shaken ever so little," when the rain descends and the wind is blowing and beating upon our house; and the flood is rising it is loud, frightful and threatening, but we will not fall. That I can testify of myself and the testimonies of those I know who trust in Christ that have faced, and are still facing, howling wind and beating forces.


I took this photo in Metarie Cemetery just outside New Orleans. Sue and I walked among hundreds of above ground graves with one of the largest array of beautiful sculptured art in the U.S. This woman who is clinging to the cross of Christ was brought to mind with the above passage. She has fled to the only sure safety that this world offers, or the next.

I was reading a little from Beecher's "Star Papers", which are just random musings. I ran across this account of his travelings on a train or some type of express, it reminded me of all the people that may be traveling overnight this time of year and some of the difficulties.

"We left Albany at half-past ten. At about eleven, the hum of conversation died away. Every one was busy with the unnatural problem of sleep. In the cars, stretching one's self out for a balmy sleep, means, curling ones self up like a cat in a corner. Short limbs are a luxury when a man sleeps by the square inch. First, you lie down by the right side, against the window, till a stitch in your side, worming its way through your uneasy dream, like an awl, leads you to reverse your position. As you lean on the inside end of your seat, the conductor knocks your hat off, or used your head as a support to his steps as he sways along the rocking passage. At length, with a groan which expresses the very feeling of every bone and muscle and individual organ in your body, you try to sit upright, and to sleep erect. But erect sleep is perilous, even when it is possible. You nod and pitch, you collapse and condense, and finally settle down in a promiscuous heap, wishing that you were a squirrel, or a kitten, and curiously remembering dogs that could convolute on a mat, and birds that could tuck their heads under their wings, and draw their feet and legs up under their feathers. O! that I were round like a marble, and could be rid of protruding members! But such slumberous philosophy and somnolent yearnings for circular shapes die out as you sink again into a lethargy, until the scream of the whistle, the grinding of the brakes, the concussions and jerks, rouse you to the fact that you are stopping....."

Photo from the Internet

"How often, in the choice of a text, or in the course of a sermon or in a letter to a friend, have I been led to speak a word in season!

And what I have expressed at large and in general has been so exactly suited to some case which I was utterly unacquainted with that I could hardly have hit it so well had I been previously informed of it. Some instances of this kind have been so striking as hardly to admit a doubt of Superior agency. And, indeed, if believers in Jesus, however unworthy in themselves, are the temples of the Holy Ghost; if the Lord lives, dwells, and walks in them; if He is their life and their light; if He has promised to guide them with His eye; and to work in them to will and to do of His own good pleasure - methinks what I have mentioned, and more, may be reasonably expected." John Newton

I know of no Christian that hasn't had this experience happen many times. We hear a sermon that is so suited to our circumstance we think the preacher has listened in to our private conversations or thoughts!

A ray of hope when we need it most.

Photo by Patrick P.

So, do you know of this singer? If not, like me, you are in for a treat.
I was introduced to her just recently on Candice's blog.
What a gift for Christmas. I can think of few things that continue to give like the introduction of a new singer, author or painter, sometimes a lifetime of enjoyment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3SlsP130xY

I was reading in the Bible today, (lucky to be off work because of the snow), and I began in Matt. 10 when I ran across verse 40--

“He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives Him who sent me.”

I stopped on that verse and considered the context where Jesus is preparing His disciples for their ministry. He was speaking specifically to them but I began to wonder if it has universal application? I remembered a statement Mel said the other day, “That’s why we need each other”. Is there an application to her question here? I think there is.
If I receive you, as a believer in Christ, it makes no difference what your status, whether you are a minister, a brother that walks in victory, or newly converted or struggling, wilted Christian; when I receive you, I will gain something more of Christ.
I limit my own blessings from God when I judge another to be unworthy; and isn’t it just like God to send a Christian brother or sister in disguise, or one I may deem out of the faith and so I dismiss their fellowship. How many blessings will I deny myself? Many, I’m sure. Let me err on the side of liberality.

Painting by Norman Rockwell

After two days of snow the freezing rain began, this is the last rose-bud I had, a Henry Fonda heat loving variety. I thought it looked rather unhappy, eh? If you can enlarge, it is more interesting.

This is a vase I have on my deck, now filled with snow, looks like a snow-cone or a coffee drink with whip cream on top.

When we got our first snow we had our granddaughter take this picture of my wife Sue and I thinking the snow may melt off. Hardly....

"A good archer is not known by his arrows but his aim."


I read this quote today, over cereal, and it sparked so many different thoughts. I replaced the word "archer" with Christian, that was easiest: then to replace arrows, hmmm, that brought up a far broader consideration.
In this picture, this child knows nothing of his mothers "arrows",( beliefs, knowledge, academics, history, status in life), all he knows is her aim, to love, to care for. It reminded me of a quote - "Love is an affection full of inventions, and sets the wit awork to devise good things."

Surely this mother's aim is to offer her child a world of wonder and love, although she may have no education or status in life.

I think young Christians can be discouraged because they know so little of the Bible and feel unqualified or unworthy; but if we remember our admonition to "not be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ", and make our aim to love one another, where ever we are, we shall be remembered for our aim though our arrows be ever so meager.

Photo by Jose A. Gallego

I was reading in Proverbs 8 where Wisdom calls out to all. I really enjoyed the chapter, such a practical chapter highlighting the things that make for a better man and world. Verse 6-8 says - "Listen, for I have worthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right. My mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness. All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse."

So, what does this have to do with the picture? When I read this chapter I was thinking about the story that goes with this picture and how I tend to spiritualize away the simple applications. If you go to Joseph's blog - http://ptjosephrosa.blogspot.com/
you will find a story that violates everthing in these few verses. As I am given a tour of life in India, by Joseph, just everyday things that happens to this Christian man as he walks the streets, with camera in hand, it helps me understand the Bible in a far broader context than when I see it through my cultures eyes alone. I recommend you visit his blog each week for a personal, up-close tour of India.

Photo by Joseph

Possibilities in spare moments

"One hour a day withdrawn from frivolous pursuits and profitably employed would enable any man of ordinary capacity to master a complete science. One hour a day would in ten years make an ignorant man a well-informed man. In an hour a day a boy or girl could read twenty pages thoughtfully - over seven thousand pages, or eighteen large volumes in a year. An hour a day might make all the difference between a bare existence and a useful, happy living. An hour a day might make - nay, has made - an unknown man a famous one, a useless man a benefactor to his race. Consider, then, the mighty possibilities of two -four - yes, six hours a day that are on average, thrown away by young men and women in the restless desire for fun and diversion." Orison Swett Marden.


When I was young, I used to read the cereal box as I ate breakfast. At some point it dawned on me that I could do better.

Photo by Miguel Angel de Arriba Cuadrado

"In all the relations of life, in all the countries of the world, it is with the oppressed that it is necessary to live: those who are happy and powerful are ignorant of half the feelings and ideas of mankind." Camillo Cavour.


This quote reminded me of Kay Warren, who fit the above catagory until she visited Africa and met the AIDS victims and orphans. She was seriously disturbed and gloriously ruined, as she calls it. I have never known anyone who has visited the oppressed and impoverished that is ever left the same; I would almost call it a second work of grace if I didn't know better.

Photo by Lars Gunnar

Few or none are rich in all graces

“It is a hard thing, if possible, to find a soul that is generally rich; that is rich in every grace, that is rich in faith, and rich in wisdom, and rich in love, and rich in patience etc. Abraham was rich in faith, and Job was rich in patience, and Moses was rich in meekness, and David was rich in zeal; but none of these were rich in every grace. And so in these days you may find one Christian rich in one grace, and another Christian that is rich in another grace; but where will you find a Christian that is rich in every grace? Such that are rich in some graces, are yet very defective and lame in other graces. The saints once at Rome were richer in wisdom and knowledge than the saints at Thessalonica, and the saints at Thessalonica were richer in faith, love, patience and charity than the saints at Rome…..” Thomas Brooks

I used this photo by Harry Eggens to illustrate that even the noble eagle misses the mark sometimes.

In my attic I have an old trunk that contains old black and white pictures of my family. Nearly all my family is gone now, save a sister, but on occasion I open up the trunk and walk down memory lane. It is a bitter sweet experience. I would love to sit with my grandfather before he died and have him tell me stories about the people and places in these old photos. What brings up this subject is a song out now that speaks to this very issue and it is one of my favorites. It sung by a man with a deep country voice as he listens to his grandpa telling stories about old black and white pictures. Hope you like it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBk07l2aKrE

Photo taken from the Internet

Opportunities whrere you are

During these hard times I hope that these practical illustrations will encourage some.

“The great natural philosopher, Faraday, who was the son of a blacksmith, wrote, when a young man, to Humphry Davy, asking for employment at the Royal Institution. Davy consulted a friend on the matter. “Here is a letter from a young man named Faraday; he has been attending my lectures, and wants me to give him employment at the Royal Institution – what can I do”, “Do? Put him to washing bottles; if he is good for anything he will do it directly; if he refuses he is good for nothing.” But the boy who could experiment in the attic of an apothecary shop with an old pan and glass vials during every moment he could snatch from his work saw an opportunity in washing bottles, which led to a professorship at the Royal Academy at Woolwich. Tyndall said of this boy with no chance, “He is the greatest experimental philosopher the world has ever seen.” He became the wonder of his age in science.

There is a legend of an artist who long sought for a piece of sandalwood, out of which to carve a Madonna. He was about to give up in despair, leaving the vision of his life unrealized, when in a dream he was bidden to carve his Madonna from a block of oak wood which was destined for the fire. He obeyed, and produced a masterpiece from a log of common firewood. Many of us lose great opportunities in life by waiting to find sandalwood for our carvings, when they really lie hidden in the common logs that we burn.”

Orison Swett Marden - Photo by JF Ochoa

When I read John Newton’s remarks in my post titled “The deep things of God” on Saturday the 13th, regarding his visit with a mentally handicapped girl where he said –

“Sometimes when her heart is enlarged I listen to her with astonishment. I think no books or ministers I ever met with have given me such an impression and understanding of what the apostle calls ‘The deep things of God’ as I have upon some occasions received from her conversation.”

I had to stop and consider what he meant by “The deep things of God’.

I think that day he went to the hospital to share his faith. He knew not in what manner he would share it, either by word, deed, prayer, but off to share it he went. I picture him meeting this girl, who had some degree of mental handicap, and he thought that he would share his faith in words with her or maybe share a deed of kindness, when he came to find that Christ had visited her heart, and in spite of her mental capacity, Christ’s love poured out of her heart in profound simplicity, such as Newton had never witnessed or felt even among great scholars. Her infectious love for the Savior no doubt humbled him and simultaneously caused him to exalt in the mercies of God. He, who came to share, was rapt up in God’s presence as this simpleminded girl rejoiced in God’s love.

I believe these are ‘the deep things of God’; when we have a deep spiritual connection with someone in the midst of serving our God; worshiping in spirit and truth.

It makes no difference how we choose to share our faith; sharing our faith is the act of living out a conviction we hold by faith in the Lord’s teachings. It may be we share our faith in the goodness of doing a kind deed; it may be applying bandages to the wounded as an expression of our faith in Christ’s love, feeding the hungry or it may be we give a word of testimony to a stranger who has never heard the Gospel message. However we act upon our faith, so long as we “Do everything in love”, 1Co. 16:14, it becomes a pleasing sacrifice and this is the will of God for us in Christ Jesus; these are the deep things of God.

This connection that God often graces our deeds of love with is what I think astonished John Newton as he talked with this girl. We too, sense His love in our deeds; where our souls unite with the person we serve in word or deed, and we are moved by God’s manifest love. Sometimes simply displayed by holding a hand we would not like to let go of.

As I look back over my posts this last year, I think this post by Newton and the July 2nd, 5th, and 15th posts by Kay Warren have left indelible marks on my spirit.
Marks left by the deep things of God.

Photo by Sheri Doty

"There was an old deacon in a city in Michigan who was connected with a Church which had had no conversion for sixteen years. He came to his death-bed, and felt that he could not die in peace and leave his children in that cold and lifeless atmosphere. He sent for the minister, and tried to rouse him to the concern for souls which, in the face of death, pressed upon himself. But the minister had been too long accustomed to the darkness be be easily awakened. Failing also with the elders, and with all the male members of the Church, he sent for the leading ladies, and pleaded with them, as mothers, to pray for a revival. He entreated God for this day and night, and the Lord touched those mother's hearts, so that they prayed and fasted before God. In a little while the whole Church was moved. I received a dispatch from the minister. On my arrival, he took me into a room filled with these mothers, praying that the Lord would reveal His power. I felt, as soon as I entered, that God was there.

The first evening I preached it seemed as if every sinner had braced himself up to resist the truth. Many were up all night; they got down in the dust before God, beseeching Him to give the blessing. The next night the power came, and, in forty eight hours, there was scarcely a young man or young woman who was not converted to God, or anxious to be saved....."

D.L.Moody - Painting by Sheri Doty

The deep things of God

"My Lord,
For about six weeks past I have had occasion to spend several hours of almost every day with the sick and dying. These scenes are to a minister like walking the hospitals to a young surgeon. The various cases which occur exemplify, illustrate, and explain, with a commanding energy, many truths which may be learned indeed at home, but cannot be so well understood or their force so sensibly felt without the advantage of experience and observation.

I have a poor girl near me who looks like an idiot (one of weak intellect) and her natural capacity is indeed very small; but the Lord has been pleased to make her acquainted alternately with great temptations and proportionably great discoveries of His love and truth. Some times when her heart is enlarged I listen to her with astonishment. I think no books or ministers I ever met with have given me such an impression and understanding of what the apostle styles “The deep things of God”, as I have upon some occasion received from her conversations.”

John Newton - Photo by Banhup Teh

Table Talk

I read this story about Benjamin Franklin again and I just love it. It is in Orison Swett Marden's book "Pushing to the front" in the chapter called "Possibilities in Spare Moments." He gathers stories about those who have learned to make the best use of time.

"What is the price of that book?" at length asked a man who had been dawdling for an hour in the front store of Benjamin Franklin's newspaper establishment. "One dollar," replied the clerk. "One dollar," echoed the lounger; "can't you take less than that?" "One dollar is the price," was the answer.

The would-be purchaser looked over the books on sale a while longer, and then inquired: "Is Mr. Franklin in?" "Yes," said the clerk, "he is very busy in the press room." "Well, I want to see him," persisted the man. The proprietor was called, and the stranger asked: "What is the lowest, Mr. Franklin, that you can take for that book?" "One dollar and a quarter," was the prompt rejoinder. "One dollar and a quarter! Why, your clerk asked me only a dollar just now." "True," said Franklin, "and I could have better afforded to take a dollar than to leave my work."

The man seemed surprised; but, wishing to end a parley of his own seeking, he demanded; "Well, come now, tell me your lowest price for this book." "One dollar and a half," replied Franklin. "A dollar and a half! Why, you offered it yourself for a dollar and a quarter." "Yes," said Franklin coolly, "and I could better have taken that price then than a dollar and a half now."

The man silently laid the money on the counter, took his book, and left the store, having received a salutary lesson from a master in the art of transmuting time at will, into either wealth or wisdom.

Photo taken from the Internet

"If a mariner is surprised by a storm, and after one night spent in jeopardy is presently brought safe into port; though he may rejoice in his deliverance, it will not affect him so sensibly as if, after being tempest-tossed for a long season and experiencing a great number and variety of hairbreadth escapes, he at last gains the desired haven. The righteous are said to be scarcely saved, not with respect to the certainty of the event, for the purpose of God in their favor cannot be disappointed, but in respect of their own apprehensions and the great difficulties they are brought through. But when, after a long experience of their own deceitful hearts, after repeated proofs of their weakness, willfulness, ingratitude, and insensibility, they find that none of these things can separate them from the love of God in Christ. Jesus becomes more and more precious to their souls. They love much because much has been forgiven them. They dare not, they will not, ascribe anything to themselves, but are glad to acknowledge that they must have perished (if possible) a thousand times over, if Jesus had not been their Savior, their Shepherd, and their Shield. When wandering He brought them back, when fallen He raised them, when wounded He healed them, when fainting He revived them……”

Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus…..

John Newton - Photo from the Internet

"A character which religion does not fructify – does not soften, enlarge, beautify, and enrich – is not benefited by religion – or, rather, has not possessed itself of religion. God loves that which is beautiful and attractive in character, just as much as we do, and it makes no difference where he sees it. He does not dislike the amiable traits of a sinner, because he is a sinner, nor does he admire those traits of a Christian which we feel to be contemptible, simply because they belong to a Christian. A Christian sucked dry of his humanity, is just as juiceless and as flavorless as a sucked orange, and I believe that God regards him in the same light that we do. He will save such I doubt not, for their faith; and, in the coming world, they will learn what they do not know here; but the question whether they are as well worth saving as some of their neighbors, may, I think, be legitimately entertained.” Timothy Titcomb.

I love this post, and the 'tongue in cheek' last line, makes me smile.

Photo from the Internet

After our service at the nursing home today, my wife, granddaughter and I sat down and talked with two fellows. One man named Lewis, 73, who we know, and a newcomer, Rod, 61. Both wheelchair bound. Conversation is very easy because no one ever gets enough visitors and they have stories stored up from months of loneliness. As we sat and listened to Rod pour out his stories without once taking a breath, in what I think was ten minutes, I found an opportunity to sneak a question to Lewis at a blink. Off he went like a dog who just stole another’s bone; he never looked back and were it not for his need to take a breath, there would have been no opportunity for Rod to steal back the bone and run with it. But steal it he did and much to Lewis’s chagrin, he told us about his entire family tree with but two breaths. It was humorous to watch the battle for the floor play out. But sad as well. James tells us that an important part of religion is to listen to orphans and widows, or widowers. It took no skill or education to minister a listening ear, and I enjoyed the stories of 62 pound Salmon, and Grandma’s great age of 103 years. Some, or all, of the stories may have been enhanced for listener’s pleasure I’m sure, but as I settled back in my chair and watched the joy they both shared strolling down memory lane, I couldn’t think of a place I would have rather been.