Is Halloween Anti-Chrisitan?

It's Halloween! Time for dress up and candy. That is what it meant to us growing up and when our children were young, and now my grandson! (He is Mario this year...his mother learned to sew and made him a nice costume, but Friday he changed his mind and decided a pirate would be fun.  Gotta love 4 year olds.)  The towns around here have debated trick-or-treat Saturday night or Sunday night.  Several have left it up to people.  Leave your light on Saturday night for trick-or-treaters if you want.  Why?  I don't understand the debate.  Is it about work/school the next day? I hardly think so because 5 years in a row it will fall on a school night and no one says a word.  My only thought is that it is a Sunday and they are concerned about church.  However, no one mentions this.
    
OK. If you are concerned about a pagan holiday on the Sabbath.... you should not be celebrating Halloween at all.  Here's my opinion, folks, whether you want it or not:  Christmas and Easter are such important holidays to me, as a Christian.  They have been commercialized and secularized (is that a word?) until they are hardly recognizable.  I STILL CELEBRATE THEM.  It is important because of what they mean to me... in my heart. How I celebrate is my choice.

Halloween today, in America, for 90+% of people is only a day set aside for people to dress in costume, have treats, and the occasional scare. (Yes, and college kids to "party" heavily... that's no big surprise, they'll use any excuse. I was once one of them, remember?  Drunkeness is another story).  There is no malice or evilness in their hearts that drive them, it's just for fun.  Heck, they can even leave out the "scare" part and just have fun.  I think God knows the heart of His children.  He loves to see us happy and having fun.  He doesn't want us harming ourselves (sin is harmful), so I'm not advocating the 60's "If it feels good, do it" mentality. (or was that the 70's??)  I'm saying: "LIGHTEN UP, PEOPLE!" 

Years ago we had this debate at our church and people were very divided.  10 years fast forward and those same people are now saying they were too legalistic and it's not a big deal.  They see the fun for the kids and that it is not harmful, not satanic.  That's my point of view.  What's yours?

Time with Jesus

I really need to be doing some housework today... you know... the nitty-gritty, down on your knees scrubbing kind of clean.  It's been awhile since I've done that (right before surgery last week), so it's overdue.  BUT, before I started, I needed to spend time with Jesus.  I love that phrase so much.  I used to call it "time reading my Bible", or "devotional time", but my Sister (she's the best, by the way) would always remind me to "spend time with Jesus".  OF COURSE! This time alone with the Savior should not be a chore!  Something we HAVE to do.  It is a privilege, a joy, an honor! 

Why do I resist the good things He has for me?  Satan loves to make me procrastinate.  If he can keep me from spending time with Jesus, he can work on my mind and my heart to turn me away from the King.  I often find myself busy with things I enjoy (writing, sewing, reading) and things I feel I have to do (cleaning, baking, working) and put off my time with Jesus.  I say things like, "I'll just finish this chapter." or "I'll get this room cleaned up first."  When He comes to mind, I need to drop all else and visit with Him.  My day can then start!  I have a much better outlook after my time with Him. He puts all other things into perspective.  I am more apt to hear the Holy Spirit and obey His promptings (sometimes His "shoves") when I have spent my morning with Jesus.

I get to talk to Him about my family, their spiritual needs and their physical needs; I talk to Him about me and MY needs as well as my desires and my wants.  Christians are good at reminding that God said He would supply our NEEDS not our WANTS and I whole-heartedly agree.  But, just like with any friend, I still love to to talk over my wants with Jesus.  Just as I love to hear what my children want (I usually know what they need) so perhaps someday I can surprise them with a treat.  Sometimes He will remind me that what I want is pretty unimportant and unnecessary and perhaps even detrimental.  I will accept whatever He tells me (OK-sometimes I accept grudgingly or with a growl) and praise Him for knowing best and supplying my needs! 

My Bible is sort of like those search engine (Bing) commercials; one verse leads me to another thought, then another, then another.  It's really quite fun.  One of the reasons I started this blog was to write about some of the things I find in those searches and see if other people have thoughts as well.  I love talking about Jesus and how He loves us and wants to be the center of our lives.  Non-believers will roll their eyes at that and consider me a Jesus Freak.  It's not like that is all I can talk about, but when He is the center...all things revolve around Him and all thoughts are filtered through Him, right?  You try to get the perspective of the situation by looking through His eyes (the best we can). 

Well, I don't want this to become too long and tedious. Today's reading reminded me that sin leaves scars even when it's forgiven. (David killing Uriah the Hittite 2Sam 12:1-14)  Lord help me to avoid sin so I do not leave the scars! I loved the prayer at the end: 

"May I not presume upon Your mercy by assuming there will be no consequences for my sin."

God Bless!

 

Awaiting your thoughts on Psychic Kids

So, today, as I think about my writing, I know I need to capture ideas as I think about them. I jot down every thought. But, I also know, I have pretty strong ideas in my own head and in order to create full, true characters in  a novel, one must understand many types of people.  After all, the Lord created us all very different and unique. We think, act and react very differently from one another. So, what better way, than to get reactions and comments from other readers and bloggers? 

During my husband's channel surfing, he stopped, briefly, on a show about psychic kids.  While I have made it perfectly clear my own beliefs about psychics and mediums (being empowered by Satan, not God, whether they do good or bad), and that they allow Satan control of their mind when they do these things, I really had to stop and wonder about these kids!  Some were old enough to understand these things about not being under control of their own minds, but some were young!  Were they capable of "allowing" or "vanquishing" these spirits that I  believe have a hold on their thoughts?  Why does it happen to them?  Some call it a gift... I call it a curse!  Is it because the family believes and allows?  I would love to hear other's thoughts on the idea and the concept. 

I know not everyone feels as I do about this subject.  I welcome all views and beliefs.  Just be civil, please, and express yourself in a respectable manner.  Thank you for your thoughts!

Christians need to stop acting like heathens

I've been reading information on "Hate Crimes Legislation" and the pros and cons against it. Actually, I've been reading about a lot of supposedly "controversial" issues. (Research for some stories I am writing) I am constantly saddened by my Christian brothers and sisters who speak out on things without proper research and knowledge.  I am especially disheartened when those who profess their Christianity instantly spew hatred and anger from their lips which further adds fuel to the enemy's fire.  You do not have to be an intellectual to respond or discuss issues of any magnitude; but you do need to speak as what you are... an ambassador of Christ.  If you profess, "I am a Christian", please do the rest of us a favor and act/speak like one.  PLEASE.

Jesus, as our example, only spoke the truth.  He had thousands follow Him. The "big-wigs" of the church were amazed at his knowledge.  (After all, he was merely the son of a carpenter!) I think it's important for Christians to be bold in their faith and their opinions; but boldness, in this case, does not translate to loud and offensive.  I read comments in blogs all the time by people who belittle and demean Christians and their faith by intimating they are ignorant, uneducated, bigoted, and hateful.  Then a professed "Christian" gets his/her nose bent out of joint and begins the rant.... and totally justifies the accusations. 

Jesus LISTENED to people. He knew their hearts, he understood their circumstances, he advised them to stop sinning and heed the word of the Father.  We may not know our adversary's hearts, but we can still listen, see where people are coming from. Then ask yourself, what is YOUR motive?  To change the person's mind? Their heart? Or is it to put down or humiliate?  Are you trying to retaliate for the sake of your own ego?  I have caught myself in the throes of righteous anger when I have realized my own motivation was to draw blood from my enemy..... unfortunately, I lost sight of the true enemy.  The person who lashes out against me and my faith is not my enemy. 

The enemy of all Christians is one and the same. The one who longs to steal, kill, and destroy; the father of lies; Satan himself. The person pouring out his venom upon me is the one for whom I need to pray!  I have seen evidence of people getting angry when someone says, "I'll pray for you", in these instances.  If they think God and praying to Him is fruitless, why do they care?  It's like someone telling me they will place a curse on me or use a voodoo doll on me.  I do not believe such things can harm me, so why should I care?

My request is this: be civil! People have differing opinions.  It's expected.  There is no need to attack or belittle on either side. AND if someone does act in such a manner toward you, remember the quote by Abraham Lincoln, "Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt."  Brothers and sisters in Christ, remember who you are: A child of the King.  Act accordingly.
In Love.

Embryonic Stem Cell Research Ethics and Moral Obligations

I was looking up information about stem-cell research. Interesting enough, the most credible looking sites (well, the most sites period!) were very scientific and explained all the reasons why it was a good thing.  When I tried to find ethical arguments for and against, I didn't find as much as I thought I would.  What I found, again, were very scientific explanations about how and why it is done.  They glossed around the ethical portion. 
I found one Times article from 2004 which basically called anyone against it, stupid.  His argument was, that proponents of in-vitro fertilization with implantation of the embryo into the mother could not possibly be against embryonic stem (ES) cell research.  He had a valid point.  Unused fertilized eggs (embryos) are often discarded unless they are donated for research.  So what is the difference between "throwing them away" and "using them for research"? 
     The argument against ES cell research in general is that it is using "fertilized" eggs.  If your view is (as mine is) that human life begins at conception and is worthy of all rights of any human being, they you cannot advocate research on embryos any more than you could aborted fetuses or full term babies.
     My original question was why, with in-vitro fertilization and implantation, do you have to fertilize more eggs than you are going to implant, thus the need for discarding unused ones?  The reasoning is understandable.  They (doctors, lab personnel) do not know which eggs will become viable.  If they only fertilized 3 at a time, with a large percentage rate of failure expected, they may be wasting a lot of valuable time for the mother.  At least, that's my limited knowledge on the subject surmising.  So, the idea is to be more efficient and cost effective.  Fertilize a bunch, hope a few "take", implant those that do (another question of ethics implanting 7 embryos vs. only 2 or even 3), and pray that at least one will become the baby the parents are hoping for. 
     I think it comes down to those odds, and cost effectiveness, and time that drives the dilemma.  What if you could fertilize 2 at a time, implant them if they became viable, and retry if they didn't?  Cost... Time....  So, perhaps THAT should be our discussion.
     The author the Times article stated at the end than UNLESS you were an absolutist (aka. fanatic) you needed to "get out of the way" of ES cell research.  At least he gave me a leg to stand on. I'm one of those fanatics!

Psychics and Christianity

I'm frequently amazed that intelligent, normal seeming human beings can actually believe in horoscopes and psychic readings.  I am even MORE amazed that Christians would dare involve themselves in such activity.  I have to admit, I've always had a fascination with the super-natural.  But I also had an underlying fear of it as well. Thankfully for that fear (God's protection I now believe) I never got involved in witchcraft, ouiji boards, and the like. 

Reading the Bible I have learned, and God has shown me, that there are things we just don't need to get involved in.  Reminds me a bit of the Garden of Eden.  So much that Adam and Eve could have.  Absolutely everything... if they would just avoid that ONE TREE!  Well, we know how that ended.... 

Getting involved in psychic activity and encouraging it in our children is frightening.  If it is not an act and real information is being "divined" then it is from Satan.  That's right, people, demons.  I fully believe that "real" psychics (those who are not liars, charlatans, and thieves) are demon-possessed.  Doesn't Satan masquerade as an angel of light? How could he deceive if he presented his real self?  He'd be so frightening no sane person would be drawn to him.  So, of course, he's making himself appear good and helpful. 

This is the reason, I believe, that "real" psychics can do good things.  But I cannot believe it to be a gift from God.  Gifts from God are used to glorify the Father.  They bring honor to Him and to His Son.  If glory is given anyplace else (to the psychic or to his 'spirit-guide') then it is NOT a gift from God.   If your actions are not glorifying to God, they are against Him.  AND, giving credit to "some" god is not the same as acknowledging God, the Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ. 

I've been told I'm too closed-minded.  Well, if my faith were in "some" god and I had not firm belief in TRUTH, it would not be much of a faith, now, would it?  Why in the world would I say I believed in something, only to say in the same breath that it is open to interpretation?  Truth is black and white. But that's yet another conversation!
Love to you all!

Writer's block

Writer's block. Amazing. I can write for hours about nothing. Think of things to write when I'm not in a position to write anything, but the minute a blank screen or page appears before me, my mind is like a vast cavern totally void of any life or even light! Completely empty and just echoing back the nothingness.  How the heck does that happen?  How  do you break that and move on with ideas? 

Somehow you have to let your mind open up and start receiving signals again, but it seems all you can concentrate on is the emptiness of it all.  I suppose thinking about movies and books you've read would help. But if you're looking for ideas for a book or story, you want to be unique.  Of course there are books out there that duplicate ideas, and, as I've read, any book you write will be uniquely your own regardless of the idea. YOU will be the one writing it, so even if the idea is the same for a bunch of people, different books will come of it. Lately, I cant even come up with ideas.  I need to work on that.

I need to start jotting down my ideas and letting them expand.  One writer said to write what you love to read. Well, I love to read mysteries and courtroom drama... I think that takes someone who really knows all about that stuff. I don't know if I could do all that research. I love to read stories about animals... that is something I know. I think I could do that...

May the Lord Bless you this Sunday and grant you peace.

Blankets and Broncos

"You alone are God". Psalm 86 today.  Beautiful.  What a wonderful reminder that we are in the hands of the one and only God of the universe. The one who created ALL.

Don't you hate when you have a headache that nags at you. Is just bad enough that you are frequently reminded it's there?  I pray God will remove it from me and if not, will help me ignore it to the best of my ability. I have much I want to do today and have to go into the office for about an hour at noon.  I dont NEED this interference. 

We (my Christian Peeps and I) are making blankets for needy kids in the community.  Also organizing a book drive for them as well.  What better thing than to snuggle in a warm blankie with a book and read???  At least that is MY favorite activity. Next to rooting for the BSU Broncos.  By the way, "GO BRONCOS!"  Tonight at 6pm we play Toledo on the Blue. 

Well, my head is pounding; a dear friend offered to do my work at noon. ("Love you, Man!") so I am going to take some meds and try to let this thing settle out.  I have blankets to start on!!!
Love to all, and have a blessed day.

conflict

Reading in Acts this AM about Paul and Barnabas and their disagreement over Mark. It's neat that God can use even conflict to advance His ministry. I so dislike conflict that it is hard to imagine it can be for good. I personally would rather avoid it at all costs. 

Speaking out boldly about the truth

People really are funny.  They can jump from one belief to the next. It's so very important to be grounded in truth!  If not, you will truly be led this way and that. I think of Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey and they way people "believed" and were amazed at miracles. They thought Paul and Barnabas were gods themselves. When they were admonished they didn't understand. Then others came and dissuaded even their small belief and they tried to kill Paul.  Seriously; believe or don't. I understand God's reasoning for wanting people hot or cold but not luke warm.  Luke warm people are more dangerous than those who are boldly against God. At least someone against God can be argued with and possibly persuaded into seeing the truth.  But someone who believes everything? Not very convincing.  They just agree with anything and go along with everyone.

I understand that thinking; I love to keep peace with everyone I know. (and don't know for that matter!). I hate conflict. Literally makes me sick to my stomach.  But even agreeing can create conflict within one's self. I know I have heard people say things that just turn my stomach because I know they are false!  But I have held my tongue so as not to  create conflict. Isn't that the same as agreeing? Or as preaching the false teaching yourself? Sometimes it is!  I will say there are sometimes it's better to walk away and wait for the invitation to speak, but most of the time, I think we have an obligation to speak out in love and truth.  How did we learn if someone did not teach us? How will others learn if we do not speak the truth? More importantly, WHAT will they learn if we are not speaking the truth? 

I firmly believe we learn something every day. So, WHAT will be the something we learn?  I want it to be the truth. I want it to be beneficial, useful.  I want it to be pleasing to God.  Even learning something tough to swallow (convicting) is beneficial. It may not be pleasant but it is useful.  Today I will listen to the Holy Spirit's prompting and if He tells me to speak out against an untruth, I will do it. I will do it in love, with compassion and conviction. If I understand the truth in a situation, I will speak out boldly and not sit by and allow untruths to pour out upon my ears and the ears of my loved ones.  Have a blessed and beautiful Thursday everyone!

Miracles

Monday morning, again.  Raining today. I enjoy the rain at times. It's refreshing and clean feeling. (not so much when the dogs come in; they tend to make things NOT clean when it rains). My reading in Acts takes me to Peter and his miraculous escape from prison. To walk right out, past guards, thru locked gates, and no one saw a thing. The Lord is amazing.  I wonder if things like that happen today? I am sure the cover up during Peter's time was amazing as it was. Just as when Jesus rose from the dead and it was reported that the guards fell asleep and his body was stolen.  "There just has to be a logical explanation!" That is what people would be saying.  Then, they invent one.
Well, I for one, believe God can do anything. And, if that is the case, then miracles do happen.  Be on the lookout today for miracles in your world.  God does amazing things regularly. He arranges so many meetings and "chance" happenings, all to work for the good of those who love Him. 
Bless you on this beautiful, rainy, October Monday.

Giving with a cheerful heart

Reading Acts this week.  Peter learned that Gentiles could receive the Holy Spirit as well and shared the news.  Interesting; these days I know more gentile Christians than messianic Jews, although I don't live in a place with a lot of Jews either.... Also read about giving cheerfully.  We are to want in our hearts to give and receive joy from doing so.  Giving to the needy has always been easier for me than other things. Of course, I love to hang onto things, too so I could always do better. I'll try.
Love to all, our Broncos won; it will be interesting to see if those Oregon Ducks think they can jump us in the polls with their win over Stanford last night as well.