A Dad's Influence

Blogging buddy Susan wrote the following "piece" on the influence a father can have! Good stuff! We fathers know, all too well, what our shortcomings have been. I thank God that He has protected a lot of children (including mine) from many destructive influences and circumstances brought about by fathers who haven't fulfilled their God-ordained calling. For those fathers out there who read this article, may God equip and enable us to be the men He has called us to be!


Fishing With Dad

Susan writes:

As Father's Day fast approaches...I've been reflecting upon dads and the impact they make on their daughters life. Specifically my dad...Frank. My dad died when I was 10 years old. Unless my dad had a deathbed conversion...he was not saved...and I will not see him in heaven. I don't remember too awfully much about my dad. My memories are very few and faint. I think I can see the effect of a father on a daughter...based on the holes left behind by my dad's absence.

A daughter's self esteem and the value with which she sees in herself is rooted and established in her relationship with her father. When a daughter knows she is loved for who and what she is, she will not seek out that love in promiscuous relationships...seeking to be affirmed by a man. She will have been affirmed by her dad and be able to have healthy relationships with men. She will be secure and know that she is loved.She will make better choices in her relationships with men. She will have a better shot at having a good, loving and health marriage. Last and most important...a father influences how a child will view God.

This is not limited solely to daughters but also impacts sons. God is viewed as our Heavenly Father. If our view of our earthly father is negative, unloving or abusive...it will impact how we view God the Father. Fathers...God has called you to an all important and impactful job...that of being a father. Your influence is one that effects your child’s earthly life greatly. It may also have an eternal impact on the lives of your children and grandchildren. Choose and live each day carefully, in the light of eternity.

Check out Susan's web site at: http://www.thesusanblog.blogspot.com

Face to Face

On Saturday morning I received the following e-mail from Norma Dorey concerning her husband Gordon who is battling cancer. Gordon has been a faithful servant of the Lord for many years, a pastor who has truly cared for people and shepherded his flock with integrity.

God has certainly poured out His grace on Gord's wife Norma for her to able to write this update on her dear husband.

Norma wrote:

"Thanks for remembering us in prayer during these days of Gord's illness. It would appear that very soon he will be with Jesus. It's hard to think of being without him but I don't want him to suffer unduly. Last Tuesday we went to the hospital for another bone marrow biopsy to see if the cancer had spread. He was so weak I had to get help to get there and after the test they admitted him (Oshawa General Hospital). He's still getting dialysis 3 times a week while in hospital. Yesterday the oncologist told us the cancer has now spread to the blood and the only treatment available is a very aggressive type that would make him very ill and possibly shorten his life due to weakness. He feels he may have 2 weeks. In a miraculous way the Lord has arranged for him to have a private room which enables us to read, share and pray. He knows he can't get better and is ready to meet the Lord. In fact he was asking the Lord to take him last night. He's in His hands and it's His timing. He's been a wonderful husband, father, grandpa and mentor and encourager to many. We love him dearly. Thanks for praying! Love in Jesus, Norma"

After receiving Norma's update, I called to see if I could go to Oshawa to visit Gordon. Norma agreed and I drove to the hospital for perhaps a final "goodbye".

Gordon certainly didn't look well (physically) but there was a holy glow about him when he repeatedly said, "I want to see Him face to face" and "it's been worth it all".

As I drove home I thanked God for the assurance we as believers have that there's a better life beyond this veil of tears where we will see Jesus "face to face". Gordon is anxiously looking forward to that wonderful moment when he will gaze upon the King of Glory. What a blessed assurance!

What about you? Are you ready to meet the Lord should He call you "home" today? Gord Dorey is ready.

Gord can say, as the apostle Paul declared, "For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day - and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing." - 2 Timothy 4: 6-8

Looking or Gazing

I've always enjoyed the radio ministry of J. Vernon McGee and his Thru the Bible Radio broadcasts. He's been "home" for some time now but his voice is still around around the world.


J. Vernon McGee

The other morning I heard him say something that "stuck" in my mind. I immediately called my mentor/friend Paul Collet and shared it with him.

McGee said, "The look saves but the gaze sanctifies."

Maybe his quote is self-explanatory but let me expound on it for a moment. His premise (and I agree) is that when we look to Christ as our Savior, Substitute, Sacrifice and Sin-Bearer we receive His salvation and are forgiven and made new creatures in Christ. Following our salvation, we become more like Him, more conformed to His image, more set apart or sanctified as we lovingly gaze on Him in worship, praise and adoration. The longer we gaze, the more like Him we become.

Some take passing glimpes at Jesus, others look and live and there are some (all too few) who gaze upon Him in all His glory.

So, what will it be? Glimpse, Look or Gaze?

Rise, my soul, behold 'tis Jesus!
Jesus fills thy wondering eyes;
See Him there, in glory seated,
Where thy sins no more can rise!

Gazing on the Lord in glory,
While our hearts in worship bow;
There we read the wondrous story
Of the cross, its shame and woe.

P. Ritter, 1760-1846

Check out the Thru The Bible Radio web site and read more about J. Vernon McGee at http://www.thruthebible.org

Divine Appointments

I'm back...after a brief excursion to Buffalo. Over the last two days I realized how God has orchestrated my life in ways that I could never have planned. He has brought individuals across my path over the years who have had such a positive and lasting effect.

On Thursday afternoon I enjoyed a ballgame between the Buffalo Bisons and the Syracuse Skychiefs (the Blue Jays' AAA affiliate). Following the game I had dinner with Gabe & Kelly Gross, a dear couple who I've come to love in a special way. Gabe has been up with the Blue Jays this season for two brief stints and has a bright future in Toronto. While waiting for Gabe following the game, I saw a long-time friend, Gary Larder, who is President of the Rochester Red Wings AAA ballclub. Gary and I met in Dunedin back in the late 70's and we've been friends ever since.

Friday morning I had breakfast with Bob Cushing, a dear friend in Niagara Falls, ON who God put in my life several years ago. He's a godly man with a heart for God's work and world missions. Following breakfast I stopped at a men's fellowship breakfast/Bible study where I saw Murray Johnston again. Murray came into my life the same time Bob Cushing did when I spoke at the Mayor's Prayer Breakfasts in St. Catherines and Niagara Falls.

I had a relaxing lunch at the home of Jack & Dorothy Scruton. Jack became a close friend when I owned the Christian bookstore in Peterborough and he was a salesman for Scripture Press and Beacon Distributing.

On my way home I stopped to visit my Uncle Bram in Ajax, ON. Bram's health has been failing in recent months and it was good to have a heart-to-heart chat with a dear man who loves the Lord and has served Him faithfully for many years.

Driving home I praised God for the special people that my Father has given to me as friends. These are forever friends. Gabe & Kelly, Bob, Murray, Jack & Dorothy and my Uncle Bram. My life has been enriched as each of these dear friends have added a unique flavor and tone.

Thank you, eternal God, for friends who love me and care. I trust that I will have the same powerful impact on others that these fellow pilgrims have had on me.

It was a great two days!

Home...at last!

Write On, Brother

As an aspiring writer (or a perspiring one these days), I found the following "post" quite amusing. It has been bouncing around cyberspace for quite some time and I've seen it on several blogs. - David

"When you write copy you have the right to copyright the copy you write, if the copy is right. If however, your copy falls over, you must right your copy. If you write religious services you write rite, and have the right to copyright the rite you write. Very conservative people write right copy, and have the right to copyright the right copy they write. A right wing cleric would write right rite, and has the right to copyright the right rite he has the right to write. His editor has the job of making the right rite copy right before the copyright can be right. Should Jim Wright decide to write right rite, then Wright would write right rite, which Wright has the right to copyright. Duplicating that rite would copy Wright right rite, and violate copyright, which Wright would have the right to right. Right? I didn't right wright rite compose that, but I shall be forever indebted to whomever did!"

I bet you're thinking "small things amuse small minds". Well, you're rite, I mean write. Whatever!

More "Book Stuff"

There are numerous "tag" games going on in the blogging world. I love questionnaires (usually) so I'm always ready to respond when I'm asked to list something.

People are being "tagged" with the following questions. I gladly give my answers and would encourage you, my readers, to respond and let me know what your book preferences are.

Here are the questions:

Total books owned...ever: I haven't counted recently but I would estimate that I have about 3,000 - 4,000 books in my library.

Last book I bought: I bought about 50 books at a garage sale. I paid $.75 for Explore the Book by J. Sidlow Baxter which retails for over $125.00 CDN. now. A fantastic bargain!

Last book I read: I have several on the go at any one time. I re-read The Red Sea Rules most recently.

Five Books that mean a lot to me: The Red Sea Rules by Robert Morgan, By Searching by Isobel Kuhn, George Muller of Bristol by A. T. Pierson, Running on Empty by Fil Anderson & Found Faithful by Elizabeth Skoglund

So, my friends, send me your answers! E-mail me at dwfisher@nexicom.net or post your answers in my "Comments" section. Thank you!

A Man and His Books

Show me someone's library and I can get a fairly accurate picture of that person's heart. Leave me in a pastor's library for a few hours and I'm a contented man. One of my favourite places to visit is my pastor/friend Reid Cook's library. There's a special peace about that place. We've often prayed there and God meets us amongst the books. Any Christian book lover is a friend of mine!

Here's another great photo from the D. L. Moody book, a picture of his study at Northfield. The picture on the wall behind his desk is a portrait of his mother. Yes, I love books but I wouldn't want you to visit my study right now. The shelves, the desks and the floor are all covered with books. What a mess! But it's a "good" mess because it's books that are everywhere. And I can't forget that pile of books beside my bed that Carol keeps asking me to weed out. I guess I'm an incurable bookaholic and I'm fine with that!


Moody's Study/Library at Northfield

The apostle Paul must have been a bibliophile too. He wrote young Timothy and asked him to bring him the cloak he had left with Carpus at Troas, his scrolls but especially the parchments. - 2 Timothy 4:13

Out on a Limb

One of the priceless treasures I picked up at a recent garage sale was a book about D. L. Moody written by about a dozen contemporaries of his. The book is replete with sepia illustrations of Moody's life, his conference centre at Northfield, MA, friends and family.

This is a picture of the great author, pastor and preacher, F. B. Meyer. While staying at Northfield during a ministry tour, Meyer would often climb a nearby tree and enjoy the presence of God...on a higher plane...literally. Where do you go to be quiet before the Lord? My mentor, Keith Price, was mentored by the highly esteemed A. W. Tozer. Tozer challenged Keith to find a quiet place without distractions, even if it was behind the furnace in the basement. My dear friend Paul Collet has a special place in his apartment where he meets with God every morning. Then, when the weather is favourable, he drives to the highest point in Peterborough, Armour Hill, and revels in God's handiwork.


High Time for Quiet Time for F. B. Meyer

Whether on a tree branch or behind a furnace, find a place! God will meet us anywhere! He's just waiting for us to be quiet and still and He'll show up!

In one of Keith Price's messages he spoke of Moses meeting with God is a pre-determined place. "Then the Lord said, 'There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock'." - Exodus 33:21

Where's YOUR place?

An Uninvited Predator

Recently we had special visitors, our family from Saskatchewan, who stayed at my mother's place for about 10 days. They were invited guests and we enjoyed our time with them. We were sorry to see them leave. Their visit was too short!

Lately another guest, or maybe I should call him a predator has been lingering around my "house". The dreaded "D" word...depression... has been lurking. Many of you, no doubt, have had to deal with this unwelcome visitor. Back in January I penned a brief "post" entitled Dark Night of the Soul. In the midst of our darkness may we experience His deliverance, His delight, His divine presence.

Dark Night of the Soul

Fear
Pain
Panic
Terror
Shaking
Hot Sweats
Desperation
Cold Sweats
Apprehension
Introspection
Uncertainty
Trembling
Heartache
Insomnia
Anxiety
Horror
Dread
Guilt

"The peace of God which passes all understanding shall GUARD and GARRISON your hearts, through Christ Jesus our Lord." - Philippians 4:7

The Blessing of a Scar

One of the "blessings of blogging" is the opportunity to share things that have touched our hearts with the world of cyberspace. Fellow blogger friend (who shares my name) David tells this heart-tugging story of his upbringing and his scars. Check out David's site at: http://www.davidbarnett.blogspot.com

David writes:

The following is an article I wrote several years ago that was originally published in the www.adoptionjewels.org newsletter:

As Father's Day nears, I am going to spend some time on the blog reflecting on fatherhood. A scar is the signature of a painful event in the life of the body. It is a reminder that informs us that we are not always in control of our lives. I have many scars. Scars on my hands from bee stings received while playing hide and seek; a scar on the lower right side of my abdomen created by a surgeon’s scalpel to remove an angry appendix; and a scar on my left arm as a result of being “cleated” while playing football. Of all my scars, I have a favorite, the scar on my left knee. When I was almost three years old, I was running through the house and tripped and fell on my sister's toy sewing machine. It was made out of metal and had a sharp edge on the base. The gash was severe and the blood began to flow. My father took a sheet, began ripping it, and wrapped my knee to stop the bleeding. What I remember most was sitting in his lap with my mummified leg, being comforted by his big hands.

I will never forget his hands. Those hands are embellished in my mind as a visual reminder of my father's love. Tragically, those hands were taken away from me a very short time after this event. My father died in a one-car accident, four days before Christmas, leaving a wife and three small children behind. One of the local newspapers reported that he hit a sign post at a high rate of speed, leaving no skid marks. As often happens when a parent dies, one tragic event sends a ripple, or more like a tidal wave through the lives of family members. We didn't have any support systems in place and my mother was unable to care for us due to her poor physical and emotional health. She began telling neighbors that she had killed my father. Child protective service was notified.

My sister, brother, and I were sent to an emergency shelter and my mother was admitted to the hospital for psychiatric evaluation and care. We spent the next eighteen months in and out of an orphan’s home and in foster care. My mother struggled to retain her parental rights, but became involved with another man. As a result of a brief relationship, she gave birth to my sister. Four children, under the age of six, to care for was too much for my mother. Feeling threatened by child protective services, she decided it was best to give us to her older sister who lived 280 miles away. My aunt was single, and addicted to alcohol and sex. Again, we were living with someone who could not take care of herself, much less take care of four needy children.

The next two years included almost all forms of child abuse imaginable. This chapter in our lives ended when our aunt died of liver failure."What do you do with four children who have been abandoned, living in essence by themselves?" was the question the neighbor across the street had. She decided to call a nearby church. The church secretary, who received the call, immediately went to check out the situation. The youngest child, now two, was the only one at home. With her big brown eyes and malnourished tiny body, she charmed the church secretary to the point of no return.

Later that evening, the secretary of the Eastridge Church of Christ in Ft. Worth, along with her husband, came and picked us up. We were now a part of a family that included a mom, dad, three older sisters, and a dog named Poochie. Without the aid of any social workers, therapists, or anyone who had any understanding of what it was like to adopt older abused children, the next twelve years were to say the least -- challenging. However, in-spite of the continuation of the affects of the tidal wave, and without the aid of any adoption professionals, four orphaned children stayed together, became a part of a family, and were all introduced to the One who “by his wounds we are healed.”

Yes, scars remind us of a painful past, but they can also lead our minds to a peaceful present. My “favorite scar” reminds me of what God has brought me through. Also, when I see my hands, it often takes me back to my birth father holding and comforting me. It is with this memory that my heart connects with the words of the Apostle Paul who understood the blessings of a difficult life: "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." II Corinthians 1:3-4

Chuckisms

Susan, one of my blogging buddies, attends Chuck Obremski's church, Kindred Community Church, and has included much about Chuck and the church on her site.

Here are a number of quotes from Chuck that she shared. I'll call them Chuckisms for lack of a better name:

"Death is not the end of the road...but a bend in the road."

"Our convictions aren't really ours until we've paid for them."

"God's judgment will make sense in heaven...when we have fuller perspective and see things how God sees them."

"Live life in the light of eternity...and know that He will make everything right in His time."

"What would it take for you to deny your Savior?"

"Rest and have courage...in God's time table."

"We die by divine appointment...on time...on God's time table."

"The first time you quit, it makes quitting easier the next time."

Check out Susan's blog at: http://www.thesusanblog.blogspot.com

Check out Chuck's church's web site: http://www.kindredcommunitychurch.org

Becky's Storm

One of my blogging buddies, Becky, writes from her heart with no holds barred. Such transparency when accompanied by a deep-seated dependece on God's grace is so refreshing!
I check Becky's site each day and I'm always enriched. Here's one of her most recent postings. I'm sure many of your hearts resonate with hers. I know mine does!

Check out her site at: http://www.chinsup.blogspot.com

Becky writes:

My Saturday Storm

On Saturday, I felt utterly and totally alone in this world. It was an excruciating day. I have never felt such complete isolation and the feelings of being 'trapped' in my circumstances shrouded my perceptions and filled me with self-pity and anger. I knew of course that these feelings where not of God and I cried out to Him to help me and fill me with His love and presence. I didn't feel it. Somehow, I made it through to Sunday and things started to look brighter. And as I looked back over Saturday's dark hours I came to the realization that I will now always have a tender heart for the lost and lonely of this world. And then I started to wonder if perhaps God could use this new, first-hand knowledge of loneliness to touch the lives of others. And instead of asking Him to remove this burden, I will now ask Him to use it for His glory.

The second thing I learned from my Saturday Storm, is that feeling God's presence is not as important as believing it. I need to claim the truth of the promise that God will never leave us and is nearest in times of intense sadness regardless of how I feel. This is the essence of true faith. And then I learned that I don't need others to feed me my joy and security, but that the "Joy of the Lord is my strength." Even standing alone in the midst of a vast and at times unfriendly sea, I can still thrive and grow and be strong and sturdy and find joy because my roots are anchored in Jesus and He will hold me fast.

"He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." ~ Jeremiah 17:8

Weighty Matters

Now I know the secret...or the reason...I still need to lose some weight though! I hate it when I have to learn things from a cat...although I like cats!


Now I Know Why...

Major Recall

Note: My friend, Annie Snelgrove, from Nashville, TN sent out the following URGENT NOTICE this afternoon. PLEASE TAKE HEED! - David

Regardless of make or year, all units known as "human beings" are being Recalled by the Manufacturer. This is due to a malfunction in the original prototype units code named "Adam" and "Eve" resulting in the reproduction of the same defect in all subsequent units. This defect is technically termed "Serious Internal Non-morality" but more commonly
known as "SIN".

Some of the symptoms of the SIN defect:

[a] Loss of direction
[b] Lack of peace and joy
[c] Depression
[d] Foul vocal emissions
[e] Selfishness
[f] Ingratitude
[g] Fearfulness
[h] Rebellion
[i] Jealousy

The Manufacturer is providing factory authorized repair service free of charge to correct the SIN defect. The Repair Technician, Jesus Christ, has most generously offered to bear the entire burden of the staggering cost of these repairs.

To repeat, there is no fee required. The number to call for repair in all areas is: P-R-A-Y-E-R.

Once connected please upload the burden of SIN through the REPENTANCE procedure. Next, download ATONEMENT from the Repair Technician, Christ, into the heart component of the human unit.

No matter how big or small the SIN defect is, Christ will replace it with:

[a] Love
[b] Joy
[c] Peace
[d] Kindness
[e] Goodness
[f] Faithfulness
[g] Gentleness
[h] Patience
[I] Self-control

Please see the operating manual, HOLY BIBLE, for further details on the use of these fixes.

As an added upgrade, the Manufacturer has made available to all repaired units a facility enabling direct monitoring and assistance from the resident Maintenance Technician, the Holy Ghost. Repaired units need only make Him welcome and He will take up residence on the premises.

WARNING: Continuing to operate a human being unit without corrections voids the Manufacturer's warranty, exposing the unit to dangers and problems too numerous to list, and will ultimately result in the human unit being incinerated.

Thank you for your immediate attention!

Please assist by notifying others of this important recall notice!

More Later on the Dream Players

Dream Players

One of Chuck's Sheep

Susan, a member at the church pastored by Chuck Obremski, wrote the following note in response to my "posts" regarding Pastor Chuck:

Here is the link to our church's website: http://www.kindredcommunitychurch.org I would encourage you or others to go to it. You can download Chuck's sermons on line. If you are moved by Chuck's preaching...you can also e-mail the church's audio ministry to have the sermon's sent to you on CD each week. Our church motto is "Reaching the World with the Word". I can't truly begin to explain how much Chuck as touched me personally but also so many people with whom I've shared his CD's. God is using Chuck to bring many people to Christ. Thank you for being faithful to post an article on a true man of God...who will hear those words of our Lord and Savior "Well done good and faithful servant."

Here's Susan's web site: http://www.thesusanblog.blogspot.com

Gentleness is True Strength

I've heard the following quote before but needed to be reminded of it by fellow blogger, Jessica. Check out her other "posts" at http://www.jessijoy.blogspot.com

"There is nothing so strong as gentleness; and nothing so gentle as true strength."

~a quote from a friend who mentioned it when I related how much I love this quality in people. I think I love it so much because in many ways it reflects the character of Christ in that He was lowly and gentle...while also the epitomy of strength and righteousness...He is so perfect in His character. So loving and gentle yet so strong and mighty! What a wonderful Lord and Savior we have! One we can fly to at every moment and bury our hearts in His loving presence! - Jessica

My Buddies Ron & Don

What a strange winter it has been with no NHL hockey! I've missed my buddies Ron & Don as well. They are quite the team! I can think of other teams that have made a greater impact though. Moody and Sankey! Torrey and Alexander! Billy Graham and Cliff Barrows! David Warren Fisher and Bryan Francis Johnson, the great double play combo for the Ambassador All Stars.


My Buddies (?) Ron MacLean & Don Cherry

As you might have guessed, Ron & Don aren't really my buddies but I've written them notes of encouragement over the years and this postcard was in response to a more recent letter I sent.

What "team" are you part of? Do you work well with somebody, making an impact in "your" world? What about those notes of encouragement, those "epistles" than can bless someone at a time of deep need? Why not send off a note today! What better team than you and God working together...encouraging one person at a time!

Immutable...Changeless

This morning while driving home from work at Christian Horizons, I was composing a new song, an anthem of praise to our God for His incredible attributes. The 1st verse is concering the immutability of our God. Webster's definition is - "Immutable - not capable of or susceptible to change". I'm eternally grateful that we don't have to concern ourselves with the moodiness of God. He's not "up" one day and "down" the next like we are. We change, He changes not.

The verse that came to mind as I was driving home was..."Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:17 (NIV). The King James Version rendering is the one that I'm accustomed to and I like it a lot..."with Whom there is no variableness, neither shadow of turning."

Let's worship this eternal, changeless God today. We can count on Him! He has spoken through His Word and He cannot lie, or go back on what He has said. Yes, He is IMMUTABLE! Hallelujah!

Bird Watching

Our family takes great pleasure in watching a variety of different birds feeding in our back yard. If we enjoy this pastime so much, how much more must the Creator of all things take joy in keeping His eyes on us (and feeding us)? My blogging friend Becky wrote the following post recently and it spoke clearly and loudly to me.

Check out Becky's blog at: http://www.chinsup.blogspot.com

Be like a bird that, halting in its flight,
Rests on a limb too slight.
And feeling it give way beneath him sings,
Knowing he has wings.

Oh, such sweet peace just to know that should this branch snap beneath the weight of this sorrow, He has given me wings to soar. The Father watches over each of His little sparrows and tenderly gathers us in the shadow of His wings.


Sparrows Are Never Out of His Care, Neither Are We!

His Eye is on the Sparrow

Why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come,
Why should my heart be lonely, and long for heaven and home,
When Jesus is my portion? My constant friend is He:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

Chorus:

I sing because I'm happy, I sing because I'm free,
For His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

"Let not your heart be troubled," His tender word I hear,
And resting on His goodness, I lose my doubts and fears;
Though by the path He leadeth, but one step I may see;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

This Man Never Quits

Here's yet another inspiring story on the challenges that my friend Chuck Obremski faces every day. What a man! Or, as Chuck would say, "What a God!" Thanks for continuing to pray for this committed servant of Jesus as he lives every moment for God's glory! - David


Pastor Chuck

Note: This is what Chuck looked like a couple of years ago. Please check my posting from earlier this week, "Facing Death...Alive in Jesus" for a recent picture of Chuck and Linda. One day he'll have a brand new body and will see Jesus face to face. Maybe Christ will return before then but if not, Chuck is ready to meet the Lord and enjoy Him forever. Thanks for continuing to pray for this dear man!

Monday, May 30, 2005 - ANAHEIM - Terminal cancer has robbed Chuck Obremski of 55 pounds, half a lung, most of his hair and much of his energy. His faith remains unscathed. Which makes the Angels' team chaplain perhaps more inspirational than ever before.

"I think Chuck is a saint," Kansas City Royals veteran Mike Sweeney said Sunday. "He's coming out here to talk to us even with cancer eating up his body." Obremski, 48, has been the Angels' chaplain since 1997. Whenever the Angels have a Sunday home game, Obremski goes to a spare locker room to conduct 20-minute services - one for the Angels, one for the visiting team.

Even while fighting an aggressive and mysterious cancer for almost two years, Obremski has missed only one Sunday at the ballpark. "If this is the end of my life," he said, "I'm going to do what I do till the very end." He has chosen to use his condition as "one more thing to use as a lesson to teach."

Players are impressed. Even moved. "I wept the last time I was here," Sweeney said. Said Angels outfielder Garret Anderson: "A lot of people wouldn't react that way to a life-altering experience. He's practicing what he preaches." During his Sunday session with the Royals, Obremski sat in a corner of the long, narrow room. Arranged before him were players sitting on folding chairs. A Bible and a single sheet with a lesson from the Bible - English on one side, Spanish on the other - were placed on each chair.

"These bodies are collapsing tents," Obremski told a dozen players an hour before the game. "I never thought the day would come when I look like what I look like." That prompted some to examine him. His eyes remain bright, but his clothes hang on him. He is pale and seems undernourished. He smiled and added, "Every time I go past a mirror, it's like some guy I don't recognize is following me."

He urged the players to make spiritual matters a priority. "When your day comes," he said, "it's not going to matter how many hits you had or how many strikeouts you had. What will matter is whether you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior."

The players sat, quiet and attentive. Said Sweeney: "For him to talk to us helps me put things in perspective. Because sometimes we as professional athletes see an 0-for-4, or a high ERA, and we let it rob us of our joy."

Obremski has a career in construction but was drawn toward the ministry after a religious epiphany in 1978. He found himself conducting Bible studies in Santa Ana, including one that some of the Los Angeles Rams attended. He became the Rams' chaplain in 1984, and conducted services and led Bible studies until the club left for St. Louis after the 1994 season.

He picked up the Angels in 1997. Tim Salmon and Anderson gravitated to the plain-spoken preacher early. Now, John Lackey, Chone Figgins, Scot Shields, Robb Quinlan, Jeff DaVanon, Paul Byrd and Anderson are likely to attend Obremski's Sunday services.

Obremski said pro athletes often are particularly spiritual because "at a young age they already have the things so many of us spend our lives striving for, and they find themselves asking, `Is that all there is?'‚"

In July of 2003, Obremski came in from running when he noticed a lump in his groin. It was a "high grade" sarcoma, and it has metastasized. Five surgeries have been performed to remove tumors from his right lung. The lower lobe of his left lung was removed. He receives two units of blood via transfusion each week. And despite "30 radiation treatments and 20 chemotherapy" sessions, the tumors continue to spread. He said "an inoperable" tumor in his body cavity is causing him the most trouble, pressing on his heart, spleen, diaphragm and what remains of his left lung. "It's like someone is standing on the the left side of my chest," he said. "There's constant pressure. I get winded easily." The medical community doesn't know how much time he has, he said. "It's such a rare cancer. They don't know if it's one month, or two ..."

He has been in and out of the hospital. At times, he has needed morphine to manage the pain. He currently takes Tylenol with codeine three times per day. Still, he has not missed a Sunday in the pulpit of the nondenominational Kindred Community Church in Anaheim Hills, where he serves as pastor. He has three children and two grandchildren. His wife of 30 years supports his decision to use however much time he has left to continue to preach.

Obremski concedes some have suggested he "take six months off and travel or relax. And I say, `Why?' "If I'm going to die, then I have plenty of time to enjoy heaven and rest there. Why would I stop doing what I've done all my life the last month of my life?"

He said he never has questioned why he should be struck down in the prime of life. Anderson and Sweeney agreed they have never heard a word of self-pity come out of the mouth of the man known as "Pastor Chuck."

Said Obremski: "Who am I to question God? If I believe He loves me and controls all things and could heal me if He wants to, it becomes a matter with a purpose behind it."

My Heart's Cry

This morning a prayer the Lord gave me several years ago came to mind. I quoted it in an earlier "post" but felt I should share it again today. Many times I whisper this offering to my Father when the circumstances of life seem overwhelming. If this is the cry of your heart, then offer it to the King today, trusting Him to meet you at the point of your greatest need:

King of Glory

King of Glory
Friend Divine,
Lover of this heart of mine;
Come this moment
Whisper "peace".
And may all my striving cease;
Teach me more of Your great love,
Cleanse me,
Fill me,
Heavenly Dove!

- David Fisher

Rest in His everlasting arms today!

Touching God's Heart

How must the Father feel when He sees the simple faith of a child on her knees? O that we might have that same child-like faith, trusting God with the smallest details of our lives. Someone we've been hoodwinked into believing that He doesn't want to be bothered with the "little" things! It's refreshing to know that a child's simple prayer could change the course of history.

This picture reminded me of the old saying which, I'm sure, has a great deal of truth to it:

"Satan trembles when he sees...the weakest saint upon his knees."


A Child Touching the Heart of God

"Suffer the little children to come unto me." - Mark 10:14

Facing Death...Alive in Jesus

Note: The following story appeared on the Kansas City Royals' web site earlier this week. Those of you who receive my Pilgrim Scribblings e-mails will be aware of Chuck Obremski's valiant battle with cancer. If you wish to be added to this list, please e-mail me at: dwfisher@nexicom.net - David


...Chuck & Linda Obremski

ANAHEIM -- Just one more hit and the Royals might have won Sunday instead of finishing their road trip winless in six games. Tony Graffanino had five hits himself and he felt like a winner -- in faith, not in the win-loss column.

Graffanino's fifth hit drove in two runs in the ninth inning, but that wasn't quite enough as the Royals lost, 7-6, to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in front of a crowd of 42,345. What the fans didn't know was what went on before the game in the Baseball Chapel meeting in the visitors' clubhouse. There the Royals heard from Chuck Obremski, the Angels' chaplain and a man who is dying of cancer.

After the game, Graffanino wanted to talk about Obremski and the inspiration he conveys. "Since the last time we were here, he's lost 30 pounds. His hair is gone. He doesn't have any muscle mass anymore. He knows he has days, weeks to live and he still comes out here and does chapel for us," Graffanino said. "He has an awesome message for us and he puts life in perspective again." The message is that there is more to life than batting average and RBIs and pitching victories and big paychecks.

"He says, 'Guys, I may have only a month to live but I don't want to take away the joy I have in my life. ... Nothing can rob me of it,' " said Mike Sweeney, the Royals' chapel leader.

There was quiet fire, though, and gratitude within Graffanino. He had five hits for the first time in his career. Even in a loss, he was the game's shining performer. But his thoughts were with Obremski.

"Before the game, I was moved to tears just thinking about him -- that he still comes here to do this for us when he could be at home with his family rather than spending his last days or weeks doing this," Graffanino said.

"I was just wondering if there was some way I could honor him. And then talking about him rather than whatever else went on and, obviously, this was my opportunity." So Graffanino talked not about himself but about a man dying of cancer.

"I was allowed to go 5-for-5 today and be able to mention him, and let him know how much he has meant to us and every other team that comes through here," he said.

"I wanted to play well in his honor."

Dick Kaegel is a reporter for MLB.com.

Good Morning

This morning I'm sitting outside with one of the young men I work with at Christian Horizons. The sky is blue with a few scattered clouds, the sun is beating down already and it's only 7:45. I'm rejoicing in the Father's love and care for me and although I know that I will face many challenges today, my sovereign God will walk each step with me.

The verse I learned from my grandmother as a young boy flashes through my mind . . . "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Thee because he trusteth in Thee." - Isaiah 26:3 (KJV) The plaque grandma had in her dining room bearing this scripture now hangs in our upstairs hall (at home) reminding me each day of this truth.


God Gives Perfect Peace

That's a promise from the Father's heart and I want to appropriate it today!

Have a great day, fellow pilgrims! We're closer home than we were yesterday!

Half a Year

It's hard to believe that I've been blogging now for six (6) months! Where has the time gone? This has been an enjoyable exercise! Sharing my bumpy pilgrimage with others has been a good discipline for me. I've tried to be honest and transparent without "hanging out all my dirty laundry". Hopefully with the passing of time and the subsequent maturing, there has been less of that "dirty" stuff and more cleansing through the blood of the Lamb and the renewing of my mind.

Anyhow...blogging has become a hobby that has the potential to bring blessing and encouragement to many others. Thanks to my many blogging buddies who have joined me on the "trip".

May the Lord continue to use His Word to bring healing and heart-change to hurting pilgrims everywhere.

Thanks for joining me on the journey "home"!

David

Thy Strength and My Day

Another special "find" at a recent garage sale was the book "The Making of the Beautiful", a biographical sketch of Annie Johnson Flint. What a choice little volume! Flint's poems have been such a blessing to me over the years.


Her Poems Still Speak Loud and Clear

Here's one I hadn't read before:

Thy Strength and My Day

"Give me Thy strength for my day, Lord,
That whersoe'er I go,
There shall no danger daunt me
And I shall fear no foe;
So shall no task o'ercome me,
So shall no trial fret,
So shall I walk unwearied
The path where my feet are set;
So shall I find no burden
Greater than I can bear,
So shall I have a courage
Equal to all my care;
So shall no grief o'erwhelm me,
So shall no wave o'erflow;
Give me Thy strength for my day, Lord,
Cover my weakness so."

Keep Me Still

One of the treasures I picked up recently at a garage sale is a book by V. Raymond Edman entitled "Storms and Starlight". What a gem of a book! At one time Edman was the President of Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois. He has been "home" for many years and died while preaching in the pulpit.

The following poem was written by an unknown author but it was written for me, I'm sure. It's just one of many great poems including in the book:

Keep Me Still

Lord, keep me still,
Though stormy winds may blow,
And waves my little bark may overflow,
Or even if in darkness I must go,
Yet keep me still, yes keep me still.

Lord, keep me still;
The waves are in Thy hand,
The roughest winds subside at Thy command,
Steer Thou my bark in safety to the land,
And keep me still, and keep me still.

- Author Unknown


He Speaks Peace to Your Storm

More on George Muller

As you know George Muller is one of my heroes. His life of complete dependence on God has inspired many over the years. Maybe few people realize how much Muller influenced another great man of faith, J. Hudson Taylor, founder of the China Inland Mission, now known as the Overseas Missionary Fellowship.

Muller undertook to support Taylor and many other missionaries with the China Inland Mission back in the 1800's.

Muller wrote a letter which accompanied his generous gifts to these missionaries. Here's what he wrote to these servants of the Lord on one occasion:

"My chief object is to tell you that I love you in the Lord; that I feel deeply interested about the Lord's work in China, and that I pray daily for you. I thought it might be a little encouragement to hear of one more who felt for you and who remembered you before the Lord. But were it otherwise, had you even no one to care for you, or did you a least seem to be in a position as if no one cared you you, you will always have the Lord to be with you. Remember Paul's case at Rome (2 Timothy 4:16-18). On Him then reckon, to Him look, on Him depend; and be assured, if you walk with Him and look to Him, and expect help from Him, He will never fail you. An older brother who has known the Lord forty-four years, who writes this, says to you for your encouragement that He has never failed him. In the greatest difficulties, in the heaviest trials, in the deepest poverty and necessities, He has never failed me; but, because I was enabled by His grace to trust in Him, He has always appeared for my help. I delight in speaking well of His Name."

- George Muller

Let's learn to trust Him wholly..."for those who trust Him wholly, find Him wholly true."

No Ordinary Joe

The following outline was used in my Baseball Chapel messages to the Minnesota Twins and Toronto Blue Jays on Sunday, May 29th, 2005:

Winning the War Against Temptation

The ups and downs of Joseph, Jacob’s favorite son, are well documented in the Bible. He took the following progression of steps during his lifetime:

1. Papa’s Boy (Jacob's favorite son...his brothers were jealous)

2. Pit (left to die by his brothers, then sold to the Ishmaelites)

3. Potiphar's House (bought from the Ishmaelites)

4. Prison (falsely accused of seducing Potiphar's wife)

5. Prime Minister Under Pharaoh

Key verses and phrases from Genesis Chapter 39:

The Blessing of God:
- The Lord was with Joseph and he prospered! – vs. 2
- When Potiphar saw this, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant. – vs. 3
- This blessing that Joseph enjoyed was passed along to the household of Potiphar. – vs. 5

The Body Beautiful:
“Now Joseph was well-built and handsome and after a while his master’s wife took notice of Joseph and said, “Come to bed with me.” – vs. 6(b) & 7

The Blatant Refusal:
“But he refused…and said, ‘How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?’ And though she spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused to go to bed with her or even be with her.” - vs. 8

The Bold Advance:
“She caught him by his cloak and said, ‘Come to bed with me!” - vs.12


The Unsuccessful Seduction of Joseph

The Best Response:
“But he left his cloak in her hand and RAN out of the house.” - vs. 12
When temptation rears its seductive head, the best response by any Christian is to RUN, CLEAR OUT, DON’T ENGAGE!

WARNING: “He who lingers will likely lose the battle with lust!”

God’s Provision: “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so you can stand up against it.” – 1 Cor. 10:13

Two Thumbs Up For Koskie

UPDATE...May 27th - Today's Toronto papers report that there was also ligament damage in Koskie's hand and the prognosis is now 6 - 8 weeks before returning to the lineup. More need to pray than ever! THANKS!

Corey Koskie has been a great addition to the Toronto Blue Jays' roster. He, along with Reed Johnson, serves as a Baseball Chapel player rep with the Jays. Recently Corey broke his thumb on a return visit to Minnesota where he had played all his major league career. Corey had surgery on his thumb yesterday (May 25th) and is expected to be out of the Jays' lineup for 4 - 6 weeks.


Corey Koskie Slugs a Home Run

Please pray for a speedy and complete recovery for Corey as he heals from this setback. Pray too for his wife as she is expecting a baby real soon! Corey is such a critical component of the Jays' lineup and has been and will be an invaluable addition to our chapel program.

Thanks for your prayerful concern!

David

Gaither Girl

My friends Bruce & Tanya Mackay welcomed a brand new little girl into their family yesterday morning (May 24th). Eva Vivian Hannah Mackay made her grand entrance weighing in at 8 lbs. 9 1/2 oz. Proud uncle is my friend Paul Mackay and excited grandparents are Dave & Margaret Mackay. Big brother is in grandpa's arms (see below).

Bruce and I have an ongoing feud regarding music tastes. He is NOT a fan of the Gaither videos and Southern Gospel music. Bruce has a program on the Christian radio station in Belleville and is a great radio man and music lover but our tastes differ drastically. Check out the on-air team for UCB Canada and you'll see Bruce with his Expos hat on. Their address is: http://www.ucbcanada.com/theucbteamc48.php

Grandma and Grandma and Uncle Paul enjoy the same type of music that I love and we often are at concerts together. Paul sings with a group called the Chapelaires. Check out their web site at: http://www.chapelaires.com

In this photo, Grandpa & Grandma Mackay are whisking off Eva to her first Gaither Homecoming Concert only hours after her birth. Bruce and Tanya had slipped out for a moment and when they came back, the room was empty.


Getting Ready for Gaither

Well I better take my tongue out of my cheek and congratulate Bruce & Tanya. Who knows? Eva Vivian Hannah Mackay might be the next Southern Gospel prodigy much to Bruce's dismay!

CONGRATULATIONS to all the Mackays!

Solitude...A Rare Commodity

I just came in from cutting our lawn because I needed a break. It gets noisy riding the ol' John Deere for several hours. This placid photo from Debra's web site made me think of how much I love and need times of solitude. The older I get the busier I seem to get and I need to slow down. I can just imagine sitting by this quiet lake and listening to the loons calling as the sun disappears on the western horizon. Nice thoughts but I better finish the lawn. Hope you make some time for solitude in your busy life. Don't get trapped, like I have so often, by the Tyranny of the Urgent.


...Solitude

Thanks, Debra, for the photo...and for your stories!
Check out Debra's site at: http://www.debrasotherthoughts.blogspot.com

"Be still and know that I am God." - Psalm 46:10

A Thankful Heart

Thanks, Saija, for these graphics and for the reminder that we should have a thankful heart. We have so much to be thankful for as followers of Jesus. He has given us His life!


A Thankful Heart

Have a great day, friends!

A Church on Legs

This morning I called my mentor, Paul Collet, on my way to the ballpark in Toronto. Something in our conversation reminded me of a humorous note I received from a public school student a number of years ago. I had been asked by a Christian teacher to come to a school in Toronto to speak to the students about my work with professional athletes and, in particular, the Toronto Blue Jays.

I told them that, in reality, I am taking Jesus to the ballpark each Sunday because the ballplayers can't get to a regular Sunday service at a local church.

After my visit the teacher had asked her students to each send a note of encouragement to me. In one of those notes the young girl who wrote it referred to me as "a church on legs". I've often thought back to that note. There's a lot of truth in those words when you realize that I'm 6' 5" tall and I "do" take "church" to the ballpark.

Of all the names I could be called, I think "a church on legs" is a real compliment. Are you taking the "good news" of Jesus' love with you wherever you go? I hope so!


A Church on Legs ???

Raising the Roof

Just thought I'd share the outline that I used this morning with the Washington Nationals and the Toronto Blue Jays. The chapels went well although the attendance was less than I would have liked. Here's the outline and ten (10) questions derived from the passage in Mark chapter 2:

Who’s Carrying Your Mat and Other Questions...

“So many gathered that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and He preached the word to them. Some men came, bringing to Him a paralytic, carried by four of them. Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son your sins are forgiven. …He said to the paralytic, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” – Mark 2:3-5,10

The Popularity of the Savior / His Magnetism

1. Were the people there to worship Him or just to investigate and check Him out? Why the crowd?
2. Why are you here in chapel today?

The Paralysis of the Man / His Malady

3. What was the greater need of the sick man, His need for healing of body or forgiveness of sin?
4. What about you? What’s your greatest need today?

The Purpose of the Mat Bearers / Their Mission

5. Were the 4 mat bearers there to genuinely assist this man or were they using this as an opportunity to look good in Jesus’ eyes and be the center of attention?
6. What is our motivation for helping others?
7. Whose mat are you carrying…are you concerned about others or is it all about YOU?
8. Who do you have in your life that carry you when you are in need of a lift? Have you cultivated a support team?

The Power of Jesus’ Word / His Mastery

Jesus had the power and authority to both heal the body and forgive sin. He was the Master of every situation. He
can still do both today through His Word, the Bible.
9. Are you reading His Word regularly and allowing it (the Bible) to transform your life?
10. Who is the Master of your life today? Have you given Jesus Christ complete control of every area of your
life? Is He your Lord and Master? If not, why not?

Changing Homes

Thirteen years ago this morning, our family was busily making funeral arrangements for my father, Chester W. Fisher. Dad passed into the presence of the King just before midnight on the 21st of May, 1992. How we miss him!

Over the course of several months dad changed "homes" several times. He went from the family home he helped to build in the mid 4o's to his home in the hospital and then to his eternal, heavenly home that Jesus had gone to prepare. His body went made a brief stop at the funeral home and then was laid to rest at Rosemount Gardens.


The Old Homestead

Dad was finally "home" with Grandma and Grandpa Fisher (his parents), Uncle Frank (his brother who had died from a wasp sting in 1961) and millions of others who had trusted Christ as Savior and Lord and settled their eternal destiny (and destination).

As Christian pilgrims (ones who have committed our lives to Jesus Christ) we are all heading to that "home" where God reigns and all tears will be wiped from our eyes. We will see Jesus, the One who gave His life to give us eternal life.

Are you on the road to heaven today? Or, are you still wandering in sin, without God and without hope in this world. Confess your sin, accept God's forgiveness, begin the journey "home" today and thank God for His marvelous, amazing grace.

See you at "home"!

Wings

Today I went to a Garage Sale put on by a Christian Day Camp close to Peterborough. The sale is a fund-raiser for the camp and is held the same weekend every spring. This evening I came home with several boxfuls of treasures. I was like a kid in a candy shop, spending less than $50.00 for a selection of books that I would have to pay 10 times that much for. One book alone, Explore the Book by J. Sidlow Baxter would have cost me close to $50.00. I'm still smiling from ear to ear, excited about the additions to my library.

One of the books is entitled Wings and it's a daily devotional book by Jill Briscoe, an excellent writer. She begins the book with the following poem. She echoes the prayer of my heart as I continue to send out encouraging cards and letters through Epistle Sports Ministries. My Pilgrim Scribblings are also published to my web site with the prayer that God will use them to bless and encourage my readers. May the Lord bless you this weekend and give you a real sense of His presence.

Wings...

"Give my words wings, Lord.
May they alight gently on the branches of men's minds
Bending them to the winds of Your will.
May they fly high enough to touch the lofty,
Low enough to breathe the breath
Of sweet encouragement upon the downcast soul.

Give my words wings, Lord.
May they fly swift and far,
Winning the race with the words of the worldly wise,
To the heart of men.

Give my words wings, Lord.
See them now nesting -
Down at Thy feet.
Silenced into ecstasy,
Home at last."

- Jill Briscoe

"The Lord God has given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him who is weary. He awakens me morning by morning, He awakens my ear to hear as the learned."
- Isaiah 50:4

Transformation

I've just read the story of how Scott Harrison's life was transformed. He is now a volunteer Photo Journalist serving with Mercy Ships. Please check out his blog. I've added his link at the top of my "blog list" or you can click on the link at the end of this "post". I'll be writing more about Scott and how God dramatically changed his life but, for now, check out his site and rejoice at what God is doing around the world for His name's sake.

Scott Harrison - http://onamercyship.com/blog.html
Here's another link to Scott - http://onamercyship.com
Mercy Ships Web Site - http://www.mercyships.org

Advice for Bloggers

Dear Friends:

I'm not sure who prepared this list so I can't give credit where it is due. If and when I find out who put it together, I'll let you know. It's excellent material though!

Note: I've just been advised of the source for these excellent points for bloggers. Check out Keith's site, Under the Acacias at:
http://voiceinthedesert.netfirms.com/keith/archives/2005/02/biblical_advice.html - May 26th, 2005

Biblical Advice for Bloggers:

I've been pondering what guidance the Bible has for bloggers. What does it say about how we should blog? what we should blog about? what we read in blogs? how we relate to other bloggers and comments? Here are a few exhortations with questions to ask ourselves for starters:

1. Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your blog, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs. (Eph. 4:29) Is what comes from our blogs wholesome? Is what we are writing helpful for building others up? Or does it tear them down?

2. Blog about others as you would have them blog about you (Luke 6:31) The golden rule. If we blog about others, do we do it with love, respect, and integrity?

3. But in your blogs set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience... (1 Peter 3:15,16) Are we consciously allowing Jesus Christ to rule over our blogs? When people disagree with us, do we respond with gentleness and respect?

4. Each one should use whatever blog he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms (1Peter 4:10) Are we using our blogs to serve others? To encourage, stimulate, and help others? To build them up in Christ? Or to blow our own trumpet?

5. Let us therefore make every effort to blog what leads to peace and to mutual edification. (Ro 14:19) And be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the blog of peace (Eph. 4:2) Do we make every effort to maintain peace and unity in the body of Christ? Or do we focus on what divides us? When we disagree, are we humble and gentle?

6. Accept him whose blog is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters...Let us stop blogging judgment on one another... whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves. (Romans 14: 1-22) Let us be careful not to condemn ourselves by dividing the body of Christ over disputable matters, or by judging the spiritual state of our brothers and sisters with whom we disagree.

7. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - blog about such things. (Phil. 4:8) Amen!