With elections drawing close, and as we live through this period of fast moving, unusual political and social movements, it is interesting to see the human race, and particularly the American people, taking pains to point out their depravity. In the past few years, most especially, the insanity of things has reached a stage that makes our nation and our people not only the laziest people on earth, but the most entertaining. I can only imagine the other nations of the world looking on and laughing.
Yes, be warned: This is a rant.
As the elections come near, everyone starts to once again pay attention to the thing that makes us, as Americans, different and unique, and our greatest national tradition. Every four years, people from one state to the next buzz about various political figures, the media, poll figures, and every kind of social and ethical issue in our world today. We also sit back and watch contenders for the various offices debate over them, and make our judgments accordingly. You know what I mean. We're Americans. This is what we do.
Though recently, in the past couple of years, I recently realized a pattern in all of these movements and political/social events that all seem to push for the same thing.
We all know of the recent Occupy Wall Street movement. In short, the movement was a group of broke college students, bums, and many outright freaks protesting that they were being deprived of goods and wealth because of the corruption of corporations and the government. In other words, they felt these evil, powerful organizations were oppressing themselves and the nation by hoarding wealth for themselves. And more importantly, demanded that they share.
Now, I heard every opinion and side to the issue I think existed, from the most radical supporters to the most disgusted reporters. And it seemed the nation had mixed feelings about it. Some supported it, some shrugged and went on, and some groaned and told them all to get jobs. But mostly, I saw many people condemn the movement, for varying reasons. The people were greedy, spoiled, or perhaps just ungrateful.
Such a movement is simply unbiblical. It demonstrates nothing more than ingratitude, greed, and a poor idea of “rights” they are delusional in believing they have. I am sorry, ladies and gentlemen, but you don't deserve anything but death and Hell. Furthermore, I have my doubts about if these protesters were in the other side's shoes, if they were the rich, powerful CEOs and government officials…would they not do the exact same thing, and hoard the wealth? They've already demonstrated greed well enough.
HOWEVER.
This post is not just a rant on the ingratitude of these people. Generally, this movement is considered liberal, socialist, and far left on the political scale of conservative estimate. Right? The liberal student crowd, of course.
But I recall something else. Let's look back perhaps two or three years. Anyone remember the Tea Party movement? Somewhere around the last election period, all over the nation the Tea Party movement developed, mostly of angry conservatives, irritated families and also some outright freaks. The movement's bottom line was this: The government must be changed and people's rights must be reinstated, rights such as rights to bear arms, rights to rule the government by the people, and definitely, to protest being taxed so much. Less taxes, more rights, and less government was the core belief of the Tea Party people.
Sound familiar? Exactly.
Brothers and sisters, this reeks of the exact same core mindset that disgusted people with the Occupy movement. Entitlement. Ingratitude. And definitely a major misunderstanding of people's “rights.” In all frankness, the Occupy Wall Street movement, the Tea Party movement, and many other movements in the past recent years all demonstrate this same human, depraved quality of feeling as though we “deserve” something, either from the government, other people, or businesses. Whoever it may be. We're being mistreated, and deserve better. And I notice it usually has a lot to do with money and their lack of it, both for Tea Party and Occupy Wall Street people.
And these, the Tea Party personages, were considered the far right, conservative, radically republican/libertarian people. Interesting how both left and right, politics and society, really center on the same mindsets. We're Americans.
These two come principally to mind, but I can think of other movements too in recent years. The feminist movement. The socialist movement. Various voices in Congress, or every other commercial on television. All of these send the same message: You deserve better. You have rights. You should be free and allowed to do thus and so, whatever it may be.
Excuse me, but a few Scriptures come to mind.
“Do all things without complaining or arguing.” - Philippians 2:14
“Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute, custom to whom custom, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.” -Romans 13:7
“But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, and unholy.” -2nd Timothy 3:1-2 (emphasis added)
I thought that the entire understanding of the Gospel, and of Jesus Christ Himself, was that we deserved nothing? Nothing but Hell and punishment! We are commanded to avoid ingratitude, to respect and love fellow men, and especially those in authority and in government. What part of 'undeserved life and grace' did we decide to disregard?
While I see this as a human problem, throughout the world, it has especially taken root here in America, where we are so concerned with rights and money. Since when did human beings have “rights?” Since when did human beings “deserve” anything? Since when were we entitled to any kind of standard of living? We have so much forgotten that we live by undeserved grace. We do not deserve anything, nor have any rights or claim on any material possessions! Especially material possessions!
The people of this nation, and the world, would do better to stop living and fighting for their rights, and demand what they believe is their just due. Because if we were given our justice, we would all be in Hell tonight. I thank God that we do not, or should not, live by rights. We live by undeserved grace. And that alone.
Therefore, liberal or conservative, right or left, let us stop fighting for our 'rights,' and live by grace. We are not entitled to anything. If the very air we breathe and food we eat is a undeserved gift from God Almighty, then let us rely on His faithfulness and mercy upon us, instead of fighting over 'rights' we do not deserve in the first place.
If the early churches of the New Testament could submit to a hateful, persecuting government that burned Christians alive and threw them into lions' dens, if they could scratch a living off of rock because they were shunned for their faith, could trust in God to provide for them, and rejoice at the opportunity to give away all their goods and wealth to serve their brothers and sisters…surely, SURELY, good brothers and sisters, WE can strive to live by gratitude, peace, and grace.
God bless,
~Alex
Philippians 4:13
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
The Tall Tale Of Carlyle
Once in a land of dragons and dames,
a land of much life, and few video games,
there was a kingdom, great and strong,
where humans lived, yes, for good or wrong.
And to the point, in this land of olde
there was a man. The tale is told,
of such a one, a lesser knight
who lived by goodness, wisdom, and might.
He had a castle, he had a dog,
and more oft than not he had a hog
upon his table or in his house
in short, yes reader…a rich, strong man
of great standing among his clan,
all lived richly with him…even his mouse!
However, this knight, indeed lacked one thing
to make his life whole, full of meaning.
Sadly he missed a great part of life,
for to his dismay, he lacked a wife
to make his castle a home.
This good knight, Carlyle by name,
could thus hardly believe his luck
when he heard tell of a lady of fame;
a lady apparently now run amuck
and taken a wrong turn upon the road,
thus finding instead, a dragon’s abode.
You can imagine, good reader, the stress
not to mention her condition of dress
of this poor lady, now captive held
by a beast who did often, iron weld
together the swords of those he quelled.
Carlyle quickly set to his task,
gathering sword and battle mask.
He, bent on freeing a poor lady soul
with dreams and thoughts of wedding bells,
and fame for slaying our Dragon, so cruel.
And so, dear friends, buying ring with care
our man Carlyle set out for the dragon’s lair
with thoughts of gorgeous princess, light and fair
to decorate his castle, and perhaps let it air
only stopping once, to secure the cake
and have it sent home, post-haste
should romance take to air amid dragon blood.
Lo, the arrival of proportions untold!
As Carlyle arrived, confident and bold
knocking upon the door of our dragon’s lair,
to win his prize, a lady fair.
“Come forth, you lout!” He shouted aloud,
and to his mild surprise, a roar within
confirmed his luck: Yes! The dragon, proud
furious and red, to fire akin.
Perhaps a lady’s cry behind the monster’s rage?
A true sound, or merely giddy knight’s mirage?
At any rate, the duel raged
and lo and behold, our man rampaged
with zeal hacking up dragon’s tail
until poor dragon could but flop and flail
and eventually made his powerful foe
an offer: Mercy! He would bestow
the lady upon Carlyle, won just and fair
in exchange for a dragon’s life and wear.
To this, of course, our knight agreed,
(and even returned the dragon’s tail!)
and thus fair lady was hurriedly freed
behold: sometimes the knight does prevail!
Imagine then, our knight’s dismay
when into the dawning light of day
there stepped his princess, fought and claimed:
Though not what was oft beauty named,
a damsel, yes, but hardly lightning
what Disney Kingdom calls not shining;
a homely girl, tall and plain
awkward, with spots, and a tangled mane.
She was no stunning jewel, sadly enough
her face was scarred, her voice was rough
a little limp made her walking tough
her ears so big, she used a muff!
What then did our man Carlyle see?
This awkward, homely, rough girl, he
had come so far to love and free
barely even a princess, she!
At first, the knight did stop and stare
as she stepped out of Dragon’s lair
his first thoughts, unsure, nervous, and blank
until she opened her mouth and spake:
“My deepest thanks, strong knight,” she said,
her eyes melting thanks, her smiling lips red.
“Though truly, you didst but waste you time
coming so far to free a soul like mine.”
The knight felt a pang of shock.
“Why sayest thus?” He asked, afraid.
“Because you came a long, hard way,
to kindly free homely, slow, poor maid.”
She said these words with smile and thanks
her heart flowing with awe and grace
towards her knight, all shining in eyes.
She attempted no enchanting disguise,
and no impressive show or play
for her knight’s love or dismay.
“I am what I am, I’m sorry you came,
to free a homely, foolish dame.
Please forgive the pain I’ve wrought,
I fear I’m not the beauty you sought.”
However, what this girl did not now know,
was that these words struck the killing blow.
It was this grace, and sweet charity,
combined with her honest humility
that completely bought Carlyle’s heart,
Now totally given, and in no part.
Good Carlyle, you see, was also wise
and did not trust in any disguise
of faked beauty, or skin-deep charm,
but instead sought out the very thing
with which his heart she did disarm:
the heart of a daughter of the King.
Carlyle replied with pounding heart:
“Dear lady, your understanding is quite awry
for I see in your eyes the beautiful art
for which thousands of men would fight and die.
Charm is fleeting; skin-beauty fades
but the alluring beauty of grace remains.”
He then further said, “I do not seek
princess proud and selfish, with a streak
of foolish wisdom; but rather still,
give me a sweet and gracious will
of wisdom and meekness: A gentle wife.
For you, sweet girl, I’ll give heart and life.”
With that, of course, her heart was lost
to this wise knight, strong and true.
They married before next winter’s frost
and started a chapter of life anew.
They live still in Carlyle’s court;
joyously happy, full of love,
of the most generous and honest sort
growing in that alluring quality thereof;
an attraction far deeper than eyes can see.
The lesson then? To ladies, take heed:
Seek to build the beauty indeed
that draws true hearts, and wise ones too!
The beauty of grace, wisdom, and true,
sweet kindness and gentility
in service to our God and King.
For this, fair lady, could be such truth!
Think of the time spent on outward face,
if as much time we spend, perfecting youth,
we spent on studying God’s truth and grace.
Truly that is beauty, strong
better than the deepest song
a beauty that remains through years
after suffering, strife and many tears
take away disguise and younger years.
This you should build, a beauty unique
If you want a man of God…for that, they seek.
And to the men: Heed Carlyle’s heart.
For often now our world rips apart,
what true allure and attraction raw
a sweet and gracious heart can draw.
The world’s shallow beauty we often see
sleek, polished bodies, seductive lies
and many an alluring disguise.
And now often forget the beauty, deep
that grows stronger, not weaker, with time.
This, my brothers, let us look past.
a land of much life, and few video games,
there was a kingdom, great and strong,
where humans lived, yes, for good or wrong.
And to the point, in this land of olde
there was a man. The tale is told,
of such a one, a lesser knight
who lived by goodness, wisdom, and might.
He had a castle, he had a dog,
and more oft than not he had a hog
upon his table or in his house
in short, yes reader…a rich, strong man
of great standing among his clan,
all lived richly with him…even his mouse!
However, this knight, indeed lacked one thing
to make his life whole, full of meaning.
Sadly he missed a great part of life,
for to his dismay, he lacked a wife
to make his castle a home.
This good knight, Carlyle by name,
could thus hardly believe his luck
when he heard tell of a lady of fame;
a lady apparently now run amuck
and taken a wrong turn upon the road,
thus finding instead, a dragon’s abode.
You can imagine, good reader, the stress
not to mention her condition of dress
of this poor lady, now captive held
by a beast who did often, iron weld
together the swords of those he quelled.
Carlyle quickly set to his task,
gathering sword and battle mask.
He, bent on freeing a poor lady soul
with dreams and thoughts of wedding bells,
and fame for slaying our Dragon, so cruel.
And so, dear friends, buying ring with care
our man Carlyle set out for the dragon’s lair
with thoughts of gorgeous princess, light and fair
to decorate his castle, and perhaps let it air
only stopping once, to secure the cake
and have it sent home, post-haste
should romance take to air amid dragon blood.
Lo, the arrival of proportions untold!
As Carlyle arrived, confident and bold
knocking upon the door of our dragon’s lair,
to win his prize, a lady fair.
“Come forth, you lout!” He shouted aloud,
and to his mild surprise, a roar within
confirmed his luck: Yes! The dragon, proud
furious and red, to fire akin.
Perhaps a lady’s cry behind the monster’s rage?
A true sound, or merely giddy knight’s mirage?
At any rate, the duel raged
and lo and behold, our man rampaged
with zeal hacking up dragon’s tail
until poor dragon could but flop and flail
and eventually made his powerful foe
an offer: Mercy! He would bestow
the lady upon Carlyle, won just and fair
in exchange for a dragon’s life and wear.
To this, of course, our knight agreed,
(and even returned the dragon’s tail!)
and thus fair lady was hurriedly freed
behold: sometimes the knight does prevail!
Imagine then, our knight’s dismay
when into the dawning light of day
there stepped his princess, fought and claimed:
Though not what was oft beauty named,
a damsel, yes, but hardly lightning
what Disney Kingdom calls not shining;
a homely girl, tall and plain
awkward, with spots, and a tangled mane.
She was no stunning jewel, sadly enough
her face was scarred, her voice was rough
a little limp made her walking tough
her ears so big, she used a muff!
What then did our man Carlyle see?
This awkward, homely, rough girl, he
had come so far to love and free
barely even a princess, she!
At first, the knight did stop and stare
as she stepped out of Dragon’s lair
his first thoughts, unsure, nervous, and blank
until she opened her mouth and spake:
“My deepest thanks, strong knight,” she said,
her eyes melting thanks, her smiling lips red.
“Though truly, you didst but waste you time
coming so far to free a soul like mine.”
The knight felt a pang of shock.
“Why sayest thus?” He asked, afraid.
“Because you came a long, hard way,
to kindly free homely, slow, poor maid.”
She said these words with smile and thanks
her heart flowing with awe and grace
towards her knight, all shining in eyes.
She attempted no enchanting disguise,
and no impressive show or play
for her knight’s love or dismay.
“I am what I am, I’m sorry you came,
to free a homely, foolish dame.
Please forgive the pain I’ve wrought,
I fear I’m not the beauty you sought.”
However, what this girl did not now know,
was that these words struck the killing blow.
It was this grace, and sweet charity,
combined with her honest humility
that completely bought Carlyle’s heart,
Now totally given, and in no part.
Good Carlyle, you see, was also wise
and did not trust in any disguise
of faked beauty, or skin-deep charm,
but instead sought out the very thing
with which his heart she did disarm:
the heart of a daughter of the King.
Carlyle replied with pounding heart:
“Dear lady, your understanding is quite awry
for I see in your eyes the beautiful art
for which thousands of men would fight and die.
Charm is fleeting; skin-beauty fades
but the alluring beauty of grace remains.”
He then further said, “I do not seek
princess proud and selfish, with a streak
of foolish wisdom; but rather still,
give me a sweet and gracious will
of wisdom and meekness: A gentle wife.
For you, sweet girl, I’ll give heart and life.”
With that, of course, her heart was lost
to this wise knight, strong and true.
They married before next winter’s frost
and started a chapter of life anew.
They live still in Carlyle’s court;
joyously happy, full of love,
of the most generous and honest sort
growing in that alluring quality thereof;
an attraction far deeper than eyes can see.
The lesson then? To ladies, take heed:
Seek to build the beauty indeed
that draws true hearts, and wise ones too!
The beauty of grace, wisdom, and true,
sweet kindness and gentility
in service to our God and King.
For this, fair lady, could be such truth!
Think of the time spent on outward face,
if as much time we spend, perfecting youth,
we spent on studying God’s truth and grace.
Truly that is beauty, strong
better than the deepest song
a beauty that remains through years
after suffering, strife and many tears
take away disguise and younger years.
This you should build, a beauty unique
If you want a man of God…for that, they seek.
And to the men: Heed Carlyle’s heart.
For often now our world rips apart,
what true allure and attraction raw
a sweet and gracious heart can draw.
The world’s shallow beauty we often see
sleek, polished bodies, seductive lies
and many an alluring disguise.
And now often forget the beauty, deep
that grows stronger, not weaker, with time.
This, my brothers, let us look past.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
A Chance Meeting
As I prepare to go to bed at 1:30 AM in the morning, I felt the urge to blog something (yes, I know, something that hasn't happened in a while), and a particular story that happened recently came to mind. So then, also realizing I haven't yet outlined much of what I did while traveling, I decided to tell you all of my meeting a very impressive young lady.
When my term of work was over and I was to fly back home for about a month to study and take my midterm exams, it was a long, tiring day. Flying from St. Paul to Charlotte was no small flight, and one that required multiple layovers. We were flown from St. Paul to Chicago (Why? Why fly a literal 40 minute flight?), Chicago to D.C., and from D.C. to Charlotte. It was quite a journey, with some 5 total hours of waiting in lines at airports in the meantime. I stood, sat, and finally laid down in the D.C. airport outside our gate while the personnel resolved technical problems and had to reboot their systems to check everyone in...a process that took 30 minutes. Needless to say, as I boarded the small plane heading for Charlotte, I was tired, annoyed, and not in good temper. I was ready to be home.
I was naturally seated at the very back of the airplane, literally the last row, so I somehow managed to scramble aboard first and by a miracle got my bags in. I will never pack them so tightly again. Sitting down, I sighed and laid back, closing my eyes for a minute I remember. I would get home, write a few letters, eat something and immediately go to bed, I decided in my thoughts.
As I opened my eyes, the passenger that would sit next to me scrambled her way back. I raised an eyebrow...she did not look like a typical traveler. As she carefully, almost timidly picked her way back towards the seat next to me, I felt compassion for her...she looked tired, lost, and a little afraid. Maybe a first time flier.
She was wearing a uniform decked out in "USA," dressed in colors of red and blue, and it was indeed an athletic uniform at that. I could tell she was certainly an athlete, given her dress and the tone of her skin. She was used to the sun. A small girl, perhaps a year or two younger than me, blond, shoulder-length hair and blue eyes.
As she jammed her bags into the above compartments and collapsed into the seat next to me, I looked over at her curiously. She immediately leaned forward on the fold-out tray and crossed her arms, laying her head down on them, as if she were going to sleep. I had a moment of fear that she might be about to cry, and I would have to frantically comfort her or render some assistance. But she did not...she wasn't sad or hurt, just tired. Very tired. Every few minutes, as we taxied out onto the runway, she would raise her head, look around almost with a bewildered look, and then rub her eyes as if exhausted. Then occasionally lay her head down again.
This was certainly no typical traveler. After a few minutes, I couldn't help but ask if she was well. There was obviously something wrong.
"...Excuse me, are you okay?" I asked with concern, prepared to get her something if I needed to.
She looked over at me, not surprised. She smiled nervously. "Ah, no, I'm fine! I'm alright, just tired." My look of concern must have not have lessened, because she went on to explain. "I've been flying for about 36 hours straight now, without sleep, so yeah...I'm a little tired." She laughed a little.
My eyes opened very wide I'm sure at that. "Whoa, really?" I replied, very surprised. "36 hours? Where from?"
"From St. Petersburg." She shrugged, as if it were no big deal.
"Oh okay." I said, as if that made total sense. "Wow, long distance visit huh?"
She laughed a little at my attempt at humor. "Yeah something like that." The plane took off finally, and we were in the air. "It was for a contest actually."
"Ah I see...something national?" I looked at the jacket that was covered in "USA" stickers.
"Yeah." She seemed like she was used to explaining this. "Well, I'm a competitor for team USA in the International Biking Race. I'm a pre-Olympics athlete."
I love the Olympics. Honestly I could care less about most sports, but there is something golden and truly epic about seeing the world come together to compete for a global prize, being named the world's fastest man, the world's greatest swimmer, or the world's best fencer. It's a glorious event. So naturally, this was amazing.
"Wow. Really?" I asked, incredulous. "You're on the Olympic team?"
She laughed aloud at that. "No no, not yet. I'm hoping to be for the 2014 Olympics though. We'll see! I'm training for it."
"Seriously? That is awesome!" I was silent for a moment. "And you're...how old?"
"I'm 15."
That blew my mind. Why hadn't I done this?! "No way! Good grief, congrats, that is one serious accomplishment!"
As we got into the conversation, she began to tell me a little about herself. At first I asked if she needed to rest, but she actually refused. "I need to stay awake until my flight ends...you have to get used to the time change thing. Get your body adjusted." That was a braver girl than I was, that's for sure.
She told me the story of her and perhaps two dozen other high school kids, selected athletes from across the nation, who were invited to participate in Olympic training and some minor International races and sports. Apparently her and a chosen two dozen others were trained and heavily, almost military style, disciplined and honed to be top level athletes. On this occasion, the United States had sent them to St. Petersburg to compete with Russia, Germany, Sweden, and France in an international biking race. She told me of their stay in St. Petersburg, staying in the original Olympic Village. About some of the sights and places in the Russian metropolis, even though they were allowed very little free time. She told me a great deal about how her and the USA team was mocked and outright hated by some of the other nations, Russia especially, and how a good deal of anger and prejudice existed under the blanket of what we see on TV about the Olympics. She told me the USA still carried away the most gold and silver medals though. She told me of being looked down on by the very staff of the Village, and how the other national teams spent their nights partying and drinking, while their team (being minors and thus not allowed to drink or take drugs whatsoever anyway) was drilled constantly. It was quite a story.
The flight went quickly, though several times she practically did nap for a few minutes and I was content to watch the sunset of the world from an altitude of 6000 feet, a beautiful sight. As we came into land, she woke again. Poor thing.
"So are you stopping in Charlotte?"
"Well, overnight, yes..." She shrugged. "But I still have to make it to Denver, Colorado, for training next week by tomorrow. I've got about 10 hours to go yet." She laughed a little. Wow. Brave young lady.
"Wow, well...I wish you luck." I replied, and got her stuff from the above compartment. "And...I'll be looking for you in 2014, on screen!"
She smiled. "Alright, I'll see what I can do." As we exited the plane, I shook my head and walked to baggage claim. Now that was quite an impressive young lady. God bless her, I wish her full luck.
One thing she told me that stuck in my mind. "It's great doing what I do...I do and see things that people twice my age never will get the chance to...I got to experience a lot, and see a lot of things..." She paused, "...but it comes at a cost. I have to make sacrifices...and I mean, a lot of sacrifices. School, friends, family, fun...I don't get much of any of it."
I believe it. She is amazing...but I don't envy her. That's a sacrifice I'm not sure I can make, not even for an international gold medal. But I wish her the best of luck. God bless her, and God bless the USA!
I never was much of a patriot, and at a few times in my life I've wondered if anyone should be. But...you know what? This country may not be perfect, it may not even be entirely biblical...and it certainly has many a flaw. But you know what? Given the other options, it's the best we got. I'm not political scientist, or great governmental philosopher...I have wonderful friends who put me to shame in that regard. But, as a simple country boy: People are depraved, and so no perfect system will ever exist this side of the Kingdom of Heaven. But until that day comes, we do the best we can, and frankly, this country has done a good job of that, if you look around us at what other people lack. For goodness sake, parents DIE so that their children may get to America to live! We take so much for granted. I, truly, am incredibly blessed to live in this nation.
Now, mark, I'm not exactly a patriot. I swear allegiance to only one Kingdom, and as this nation turns its face from God, it turns away from it's Christian people, including myself. But even at that, we're too blessed to even fully understand, having only lived here all our lives. There's a lot of blessing and greatness in this land we live in yet, in spite of it's flaws...and I don't think many things are worth dying for. But I would gladly die so that my children can grow up in the same nation I did, with the same blessings, the same undeserved freedoms. I know not if it will be the same in those days, but I do know, I'd die for what we've got now, if my family could live to enjoy it. God bless the USA. God bless America.
Just some thoughts from a simple, foolish farmer boy at 2 in the morning.
When my term of work was over and I was to fly back home for about a month to study and take my midterm exams, it was a long, tiring day. Flying from St. Paul to Charlotte was no small flight, and one that required multiple layovers. We were flown from St. Paul to Chicago (Why? Why fly a literal 40 minute flight?), Chicago to D.C., and from D.C. to Charlotte. It was quite a journey, with some 5 total hours of waiting in lines at airports in the meantime. I stood, sat, and finally laid down in the D.C. airport outside our gate while the personnel resolved technical problems and had to reboot their systems to check everyone in...a process that took 30 minutes. Needless to say, as I boarded the small plane heading for Charlotte, I was tired, annoyed, and not in good temper. I was ready to be home.
I was naturally seated at the very back of the airplane, literally the last row, so I somehow managed to scramble aboard first and by a miracle got my bags in. I will never pack them so tightly again. Sitting down, I sighed and laid back, closing my eyes for a minute I remember. I would get home, write a few letters, eat something and immediately go to bed, I decided in my thoughts.
As I opened my eyes, the passenger that would sit next to me scrambled her way back. I raised an eyebrow...she did not look like a typical traveler. As she carefully, almost timidly picked her way back towards the seat next to me, I felt compassion for her...she looked tired, lost, and a little afraid. Maybe a first time flier.
She was wearing a uniform decked out in "USA," dressed in colors of red and blue, and it was indeed an athletic uniform at that. I could tell she was certainly an athlete, given her dress and the tone of her skin. She was used to the sun. A small girl, perhaps a year or two younger than me, blond, shoulder-length hair and blue eyes.
As she jammed her bags into the above compartments and collapsed into the seat next to me, I looked over at her curiously. She immediately leaned forward on the fold-out tray and crossed her arms, laying her head down on them, as if she were going to sleep. I had a moment of fear that she might be about to cry, and I would have to frantically comfort her or render some assistance. But she did not...she wasn't sad or hurt, just tired. Very tired. Every few minutes, as we taxied out onto the runway, she would raise her head, look around almost with a bewildered look, and then rub her eyes as if exhausted. Then occasionally lay her head down again.
This was certainly no typical traveler. After a few minutes, I couldn't help but ask if she was well. There was obviously something wrong.
"...Excuse me, are you okay?" I asked with concern, prepared to get her something if I needed to.
She looked over at me, not surprised. She smiled nervously. "Ah, no, I'm fine! I'm alright, just tired." My look of concern must have not have lessened, because she went on to explain. "I've been flying for about 36 hours straight now, without sleep, so yeah...I'm a little tired." She laughed a little.
My eyes opened very wide I'm sure at that. "Whoa, really?" I replied, very surprised. "36 hours? Where from?"
"From St. Petersburg." She shrugged, as if it were no big deal.
"Oh okay." I said, as if that made total sense. "Wow, long distance visit huh?"
She laughed a little at my attempt at humor. "Yeah something like that." The plane took off finally, and we were in the air. "It was for a contest actually."
"Ah I see...something national?" I looked at the jacket that was covered in "USA" stickers.
"Yeah." She seemed like she was used to explaining this. "Well, I'm a competitor for team USA in the International Biking Race. I'm a pre-Olympics athlete."
I love the Olympics. Honestly I could care less about most sports, but there is something golden and truly epic about seeing the world come together to compete for a global prize, being named the world's fastest man, the world's greatest swimmer, or the world's best fencer. It's a glorious event. So naturally, this was amazing.
"Wow. Really?" I asked, incredulous. "You're on the Olympic team?"
She laughed aloud at that. "No no, not yet. I'm hoping to be for the 2014 Olympics though. We'll see! I'm training for it."
"Seriously? That is awesome!" I was silent for a moment. "And you're...how old?"
"I'm 15."
That blew my mind. Why hadn't I done this?! "No way! Good grief, congrats, that is one serious accomplishment!"
As we got into the conversation, she began to tell me a little about herself. At first I asked if she needed to rest, but she actually refused. "I need to stay awake until my flight ends...you have to get used to the time change thing. Get your body adjusted." That was a braver girl than I was, that's for sure.
She told me the story of her and perhaps two dozen other high school kids, selected athletes from across the nation, who were invited to participate in Olympic training and some minor International races and sports. Apparently her and a chosen two dozen others were trained and heavily, almost military style, disciplined and honed to be top level athletes. On this occasion, the United States had sent them to St. Petersburg to compete with Russia, Germany, Sweden, and France in an international biking race. She told me of their stay in St. Petersburg, staying in the original Olympic Village. About some of the sights and places in the Russian metropolis, even though they were allowed very little free time. She told me a great deal about how her and the USA team was mocked and outright hated by some of the other nations, Russia especially, and how a good deal of anger and prejudice existed under the blanket of what we see on TV about the Olympics. She told me the USA still carried away the most gold and silver medals though. She told me of being looked down on by the very staff of the Village, and how the other national teams spent their nights partying and drinking, while their team (being minors and thus not allowed to drink or take drugs whatsoever anyway) was drilled constantly. It was quite a story.
The flight went quickly, though several times she practically did nap for a few minutes and I was content to watch the sunset of the world from an altitude of 6000 feet, a beautiful sight. As we came into land, she woke again. Poor thing.
"So are you stopping in Charlotte?"
"Well, overnight, yes..." She shrugged. "But I still have to make it to Denver, Colorado, for training next week by tomorrow. I've got about 10 hours to go yet." She laughed a little. Wow. Brave young lady.
"Wow, well...I wish you luck." I replied, and got her stuff from the above compartment. "And...I'll be looking for you in 2014, on screen!"
She smiled. "Alright, I'll see what I can do." As we exited the plane, I shook my head and walked to baggage claim. Now that was quite an impressive young lady. God bless her, I wish her full luck.
One thing she told me that stuck in my mind. "It's great doing what I do...I do and see things that people twice my age never will get the chance to...I got to experience a lot, and see a lot of things..." She paused, "...but it comes at a cost. I have to make sacrifices...and I mean, a lot of sacrifices. School, friends, family, fun...I don't get much of any of it."
I believe it. She is amazing...but I don't envy her. That's a sacrifice I'm not sure I can make, not even for an international gold medal. But I wish her the best of luck. God bless her, and God bless the USA!
I never was much of a patriot, and at a few times in my life I've wondered if anyone should be. But...you know what? This country may not be perfect, it may not even be entirely biblical...and it certainly has many a flaw. But you know what? Given the other options, it's the best we got. I'm not political scientist, or great governmental philosopher...I have wonderful friends who put me to shame in that regard. But, as a simple country boy: People are depraved, and so no perfect system will ever exist this side of the Kingdom of Heaven. But until that day comes, we do the best we can, and frankly, this country has done a good job of that, if you look around us at what other people lack. For goodness sake, parents DIE so that their children may get to America to live! We take so much for granted. I, truly, am incredibly blessed to live in this nation.
Now, mark, I'm not exactly a patriot. I swear allegiance to only one Kingdom, and as this nation turns its face from God, it turns away from it's Christian people, including myself. But even at that, we're too blessed to even fully understand, having only lived here all our lives. There's a lot of blessing and greatness in this land we live in yet, in spite of it's flaws...and I don't think many things are worth dying for. But I would gladly die so that my children can grow up in the same nation I did, with the same blessings, the same undeserved freedoms. I know not if it will be the same in those days, but I do know, I'd die for what we've got now, if my family could live to enjoy it. God bless the USA. God bless America.
Just some thoughts from a simple, foolish farmer boy at 2 in the morning.
Monday, September 12, 2011
1st Corinthians Overview
Submitted for your personal evaluation and critique! Tell me what you think!
Overview of 1st Corinthians
Main theme: Practical Christian Conduct
First Chapter: Introduction, commands against church divisions, and human perspectives on the Gospel.
Introduction – Paul offers a greeting of grace, blessings, and gives an overall view of God’s overflowing promises.
Commands against Divisions – Paul commands that there be no negative feelings between members of the church who adhere to different pastors/leaders, or have doctrinal differences.
Human Gospel Perspectives – Paul explains that those who have not had their heart/soul opened by the Holy Spirit cannot understand the Gospel. This applies both to Jewish (signs and wonders proof) mindsets, and Greek (Science and Humanism) mindsets.
Note: The conclusion of the chapter is the well known passage concerning Paul’s teaching on how God chooses ‘the base things to shame the mighty, and the foolish to shame the wise,’ etc., explaining the point he will make in the next chapter.
Second Chapter: The simple power of the Gospel, and the revelation through the Holy Spirit to believers in Christ.
Power of the Gospel – Paul capitalizes on the final point of the first chapter, going on to state that the true saving grace, knowledge, and faith that is the Gospel is not found in persuasive argument and high levels of knowledge, but rather is demonstrated by the Holy Spirit with power. This is to say, no human words or wisdom, speech, or great argument, no matter how convincing, will win souls or keep them saved. The Holy Spirit alone is the simple, mighty, immovable power of our faith and it’s Gospel.
Revelation of the Spirit – This being said, Paul simply states that as such, it was not human wisdom that revealed the Gospel to begin with. Not only did man’s natural spirit reject the truth before and after Christ, but now being unconditionally elected, those saved are given the revelations of the Holy Spirit and His teachings. That is, we now have full access to the knowledge of God via the Spirit.
Third Chapter: Returning to Commands against Divisions, Foundation of Christ, and the Pointlessness of Human Wisdom.
Commands Against Divisions - Building on his point from earlier chapters, Paul continues explaining the futility and stupidity of divisions between believing brothers. He rebukes them blatantly by calling them mere babes in Christ, unable to partake of more solid spiritual food because of this handicap. He then goes on to point out though these men of the factions did sow and water, it is God who gives the increase.
Foundation of Christ – From there, Paul explains that the foundation upon which we build all our works is crucial, probably reminding the Corinthians that this foundation of divisions with worthless upon the foundation of Christ. He goes on to state that the works of any believer are tested in fire, and will either stand or fall, according to the spiritual nature, strength, and fruit of those works.
Human Wisdom – With this warning, Paul implies that human wisdom is a major cause of the false, useless works, by concluding to inform us to shun human wisdom, become foolish and humble before God, and to put aside petty human philosophies and reasoning, and surrender to the wisdom of God, which far surpasses our own wisdom. Often, this wisdom of God appears as foolishness before men, and thus, Paul states the importance of being humbled, foolish, and knowing nothing before the infinitely wise Lord.
Note: Paul closes this chapter with an excellent final point in conclusion to his commentary on foundations, divisions, and believers’ works, by stating with authority that all things, believers, Paul, Apollos, Peter (Cephas), even Christ, belongs to God finally. Therefore, let us focus on our unity in our Lord, since in fact, regardless of differences, knowledge and works, we all belong to Him.
Fourth Chapter: Judgment of Believers Being God’s, The Apostolic Example, and the Power of the Gospel.
Judgment Being God’s – Paul rebukes those within the church who would judge and condemn internal believers and different sects or beliefs, reminding them all that the judgment of God’s servants rests solely upon God, and not on us. This is to be distinguished from false teachers, which are not God’s servants, however. But outside of heresy, believers do not have the right to judge other believers.
The Apostolic Example – That being said, Paul then goes on to admonish the believers of Corinth to follow in his superior example, and imitate the apostle in all his actions and beliefs. Being the theological and divine authority as one who speaks for God, Paul and the apostles have full power and authority on earth to proclaim God’s true message. That being said, Paul asks us to imitate His godly example. See Acts and Romans in particular for examples of Paul’s lifestyle and actions.
Power of the Gospel – Paul closes out this section by once again returning to his points earlier on the Gospel, namely, that the true power of the Gospel is not in human wisdom and persuasion, nor in fame or physical achievement, but rather through the sheer power of the Holy Spirit working both in believers, and outworking in the actions of those believers. Also particularly through the apostles. Paul concludes that God is demonstrated through the power given by the Holy Spirit, in miracles, ministry, example and sanctification, not in human words, actions, or wisdom.
Note: Interestingly for the context, Paul is saying these things mostly because he plans to revisit the church at Corinth, and many of those believers have apparently become arrogant, thinking Paul’s return will be delayed. However, Paul warns them that they will be rebuked heavily, and challenged by Paul’s overall authority as an apostle.
Overview of 1st Corinthians
Main theme: Practical Christian Conduct
First Chapter: Introduction, commands against church divisions, and human perspectives on the Gospel.
Introduction – Paul offers a greeting of grace, blessings, and gives an overall view of God’s overflowing promises.
Commands against Divisions – Paul commands that there be no negative feelings between members of the church who adhere to different pastors/leaders, or have doctrinal differences.
Human Gospel Perspectives – Paul explains that those who have not had their heart/soul opened by the Holy Spirit cannot understand the Gospel. This applies both to Jewish (signs and wonders proof) mindsets, and Greek (Science and Humanism) mindsets.
Note: The conclusion of the chapter is the well known passage concerning Paul’s teaching on how God chooses ‘the base things to shame the mighty, and the foolish to shame the wise,’ etc., explaining the point he will make in the next chapter.
Second Chapter: The simple power of the Gospel, and the revelation through the Holy Spirit to believers in Christ.
Power of the Gospel – Paul capitalizes on the final point of the first chapter, going on to state that the true saving grace, knowledge, and faith that is the Gospel is not found in persuasive argument and high levels of knowledge, but rather is demonstrated by the Holy Spirit with power. This is to say, no human words or wisdom, speech, or great argument, no matter how convincing, will win souls or keep them saved. The Holy Spirit alone is the simple, mighty, immovable power of our faith and it’s Gospel.
Revelation of the Spirit – This being said, Paul simply states that as such, it was not human wisdom that revealed the Gospel to begin with. Not only did man’s natural spirit reject the truth before and after Christ, but now being unconditionally elected, those saved are given the revelations of the Holy Spirit and His teachings. That is, we now have full access to the knowledge of God via the Spirit.
Third Chapter: Returning to Commands against Divisions, Foundation of Christ, and the Pointlessness of Human Wisdom.
Commands Against Divisions - Building on his point from earlier chapters, Paul continues explaining the futility and stupidity of divisions between believing brothers. He rebukes them blatantly by calling them mere babes in Christ, unable to partake of more solid spiritual food because of this handicap. He then goes on to point out though these men of the factions did sow and water, it is God who gives the increase.
Foundation of Christ – From there, Paul explains that the foundation upon which we build all our works is crucial, probably reminding the Corinthians that this foundation of divisions with worthless upon the foundation of Christ. He goes on to state that the works of any believer are tested in fire, and will either stand or fall, according to the spiritual nature, strength, and fruit of those works.
Human Wisdom – With this warning, Paul implies that human wisdom is a major cause of the false, useless works, by concluding to inform us to shun human wisdom, become foolish and humble before God, and to put aside petty human philosophies and reasoning, and surrender to the wisdom of God, which far surpasses our own wisdom. Often, this wisdom of God appears as foolishness before men, and thus, Paul states the importance of being humbled, foolish, and knowing nothing before the infinitely wise Lord.
Note: Paul closes this chapter with an excellent final point in conclusion to his commentary on foundations, divisions, and believers’ works, by stating with authority that all things, believers, Paul, Apollos, Peter (Cephas), even Christ, belongs to God finally. Therefore, let us focus on our unity in our Lord, since in fact, regardless of differences, knowledge and works, we all belong to Him.
Fourth Chapter: Judgment of Believers Being God’s, The Apostolic Example, and the Power of the Gospel.
Judgment Being God’s – Paul rebukes those within the church who would judge and condemn internal believers and different sects or beliefs, reminding them all that the judgment of God’s servants rests solely upon God, and not on us. This is to be distinguished from false teachers, which are not God’s servants, however. But outside of heresy, believers do not have the right to judge other believers.
The Apostolic Example – That being said, Paul then goes on to admonish the believers of Corinth to follow in his superior example, and imitate the apostle in all his actions and beliefs. Being the theological and divine authority as one who speaks for God, Paul and the apostles have full power and authority on earth to proclaim God’s true message. That being said, Paul asks us to imitate His godly example. See Acts and Romans in particular for examples of Paul’s lifestyle and actions.
Power of the Gospel – Paul closes out this section by once again returning to his points earlier on the Gospel, namely, that the true power of the Gospel is not in human wisdom and persuasion, nor in fame or physical achievement, but rather through the sheer power of the Holy Spirit working both in believers, and outworking in the actions of those believers. Also particularly through the apostles. Paul concludes that God is demonstrated through the power given by the Holy Spirit, in miracles, ministry, example and sanctification, not in human words, actions, or wisdom.
Note: Interestingly for the context, Paul is saying these things mostly because he plans to revisit the church at Corinth, and many of those believers have apparently become arrogant, thinking Paul’s return will be delayed. However, Paul warns them that they will be rebuked heavily, and challenged by Paul’s overall authority as an apostle.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
One Word: Whirlyball
Let me be the first to say, there was absolutely nothing in Detroit. And I do mean, just about nothing. Nothing to see, nothing to do, not even many people to do or see it with. The very streets of downtown are all but abandoned, buildings run down, the riverfront mostly covered. My stay in Detroit had very little interest and excitement, that is for certain.
With the sole exception on one thing: Whirlyball. We found. We came. We conquered. And..I kid you not, this sport does exist! We had a night of this, and I officially decided what my new favorite sport is. I don't want to know what madman came up with this idea...but I can tell you it is more fun than anything else I've played. Check this out!
...We are so totally setting this up in Charlotte.
With the sole exception on one thing: Whirlyball. We found. We came. We conquered. And..I kid you not, this sport does exist! We had a night of this, and I officially decided what my new favorite sport is. I don't want to know what madman came up with this idea...but I can tell you it is more fun than anything else I've played. Check this out!
...We are so totally setting this up in Charlotte.
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