Does God Smile a Bit After All the Fuss?

Why do the nations rage, and the people plot a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD and against His Anointed, saying, "Let us break Their bonds in pieces and cast away Their cords from us." He who sits in the heavens shall laugh; the LORD shall hold them in derision. Then He shall speak to them in His wrath, and distress them in His deep displeasure: "Yet I have set My King on My holy hill of Zion." --- Psalm 2:1-6

We went through it again during Christmas 2008 with controversy just about everywhere over the subject of Christmas -- can you really use the term "Merry Christmas" in a public setting? It's pretty much off limits in the public school systems across the nation. And there are the idiotic court decisions handed down by judges who have a dangerous vacuum existing between their ears in regard to the legality of displaying nativity scenes in certain places, etc! They say it all has something to do with a misleading phrase, "separation of church and state," plus other professed "intellectual" nonsense.

It's no secret that there is a fervent resistance to and a hatred for anything that provides a reminder of Jesus Christ, and this stuff is growing like a fast spreading deadly cancer.

But here's the one thing they can't change and even the most ignorant of that crowd of judges probably wouldn't want to try to change it in any way by yet another stupid decision -- it's a daily reminder of that very controversial Person known as Jesus Christ!

Even an atheist when he opens his check book to write a check and places the date on it -- for example, January 12, 2009 -- what does that date mean? Literally it means January 12, 2009 A.D. -- in the year of our Lord!

Granted that some try to get around this by using the term Current Era (C.E.) but that doesn't change the significance of what happened that caused the calendar to take this shape in terms of days, months and years! Like it or not, the agreement is rather widespread with the vast majority using what is known as the Gregorian calendar -- and if you go back to 0 on the calendar, you come to why that is the dividing point and you end up with a measurement in time using "B. C. (Before Christ was born)" or A. D. "Anno Domini (after Christ was born). Any way you slice it, Jesus Christ comes into the picture. You can use your B.C.E. or C.E. initials if you want, but that will not take Him out of the picture at all -- He is still the dividing point in the centuries of time -- He is the Alpha and the Omega -- the beginning and the end -- the first and the last!

Wikipedia had the following comments about the calendar:

Anno Domini (Medieval Latin: In the year of (the/Our) Lord), abbreviated as AD or A.D., is a designation used to number years in the Julian and Gregorian calendars. More fully, years may be also specified as Anno Domini Nostri Iesu (Jesu) Christi ("In the Year of Our Lord Jesus Christ").

The calendar era that it numbers is based on the traditionally reckoned year of the conception or birth of Jesus. Before Christ, abbreviated as BC or B.C., is used in the English language to denote years before the start of this epoch.

Though the Anno Domini dating system was devised in 525, it was not until the 8th century that the system began to be adopted in Western Europe. According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, even popes continued to date documents according to regnal years, and usage of AD only gradually became more common in Europe from the 11th to the 14th centuries. In 1422, Portugal became the last Western European country to adopt the Anno Domini system.

Year numbering using the Anno Domini system (or its alternative Common Era (CE) designation) is the most widespread numbering system in the world today, including numbering of decades, centuries, and millennia. It is a de facto standard as used by international agencies such as the United Nations and the Universal Postal Union. Its preeminence is a consequence of the European colonisation of the other continents, thus spreading the Gregorian calendar.

Does God smile at all these feeble attempts to keep any reference to Him and His Son far removed from public consciousness? There is one reference at least to the fact that He laughs a bit at the sheer ignorance exhibited by nations and their leaders when it comes to failure to honor and obey Him as He expects. And this leads us on to the fact that He is going to directly intervene in human affairs on this planet at some point in the future.

This can mean only one thing -- it is imperative for the leaders of nations and the citizens they claim to be leading to set their houses in order -- it will not be pleasant if they fail to do so! At this moment in human history it is obvious that most choose to identify with the ways and world view of the generation living at the time of a man named Noah. It is likely that they also did not want any reference made to the living God Who created a majestic universe for His pleasure and purposes in spite of the fact that Noah is described in the apostle Peter's writings as a "preacher of righteousness" and he was at that for many, many years.

So when you look at a calendar to reference some date, make an entry in your check book, or do some writing in a daily journal, remember the reason behind why that date is the way it is -- and smile a little bit as you remember also that even the most hard core bunch of atheists can't do a thing about changing it, and who knows, maybe our God is smiling a bit with you!

Now therefore, be wise, O kings; be instructed, you judges of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and you perish in the way, when His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him. --- Psalm 2:10-12

Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!" --- Revelation 11:15

Does This Little Guy Have Anything to Which He Can Look Forward?

Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; and I ordained you a prophet to the nations." --- Jeremiah 1:4, 5

His name is Owen and he reached the age of 1 year on July 19, 2008, the same day as a much older 1st cousin of his was getting married with the wedding being performed by his grandfather. The grandchildren on his father’s side of the family have quite a span in age – the oldest of the 9 grandchildren is 28 years old with Owen being the youngest.

Above you see Owen getting into one of his Christmas presents at his grandparents’ home on Christmas Day, 2008. It was an exciting time for him. He is a very adventurous little guy and always on the go. For him there is a big world out there to investigate. It is agreed in the family that he doesn’t like to be held in anyone’s arms – he has to be let down on the earth or the floor in a home – his legs are already churning in high gear when he hits the surface and off he goes! His grandmother H. already has confessed that she cannot keep him by herself – the reason is very simple – she says, “I could never keep up with him to make sure he doesn’t get into something he shouldn’t!”

But on to more serious matters in light of the question asked above about whether Owen and many others his age have anything to which to look forward as they grow up in what used to be a nation of some standards and principles.

Right now Owen could not care less who is president or who is going to be president – what persons comprise the U. S. Congress – what persons come forth with judicial decisions which more often than not cause further erosion of the moral and spiritual fabric of our republic.

At the age of 1 ½ years he will not be aware that the most pro-death administration in the history of our country will take control on January 20, 2009. Further, at this point in time he is unaware that the republic is unraveling at the seams due to its lack of respect for human life, its deeply entrenched idolatry, its pandemic sexual immorality, and its lack of respect for the one day in the week in which Almighty God is to be honored and worshipped. Also, he will likely be exposed to a deadly teaching in his young years in a public school system which attempts to brainwash us into believing that we humans have evolved from lower life forms.

However, within his family will be teaching and training that will counter the aforementioned stuff. He will be made aware that God also knew him before he was conceived in his mother’s womb as was the case with a man by the name of Jeremiah. He will be learning that through Jesus Christ there is a wonderful plan and purpose for his life.

And he will be made aware that human governments are unreliable and that we dare not place our hope and expectations for the future in elected officials – they will disappoint us constantly because they fail to face the root problem of the human race and therefore cannot provide satisfactory solutions to human problems – the most serious one has to be dealt with first.

Most important of all he will be informed that God has shown us that the human race will do a devastating repeat of those chaotic times in which Noah lived before the judgment of the flood and conditions with which Lot contended when he and his family lived in Sodom. But this is counter balanced by the possession of what the Scripture says is the “blessed hope” – a hope that centers in the personal return of Jesus Christ to this earth to set up His Kingdom and rule it forever!

No, he doesn’t have much to which to look forward so far as the future prospects of this country and the world at large are concerned, but he does have much by way of hope and purpose in living when his faith is centered in Jesus Christ as Savior, Lord and our soon returning King! And so it is for every person who chooses to march to the beat of a very different Drummer in times such as these!

And Jesus answered and said to them: "Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake. And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved. --- Matthew 24:4-13

Christmas Benefits Excel All Others!

When it comes to wages and benefits in times such as these the major issue often centers on the "benefits" -- what kind of health care benefits are there -- are there eye and dental care provisions -- what kind of pension benefits and how about vacation time -- and how many sick days does one get in a year's time -- can I accumulate them over the years and get paid for the ones I haven't used when I retire? Yes, indeed, there is a lot of preoccupation about the "benefits" and then after settling that, we get into the wage issues.

Sad, but true -- with all the hostility and controversy that now surrounds Christmas along with focusing on the materialistic aspects of life, the Christmas "benefit" package is ignored or flat out rejected by a vast majority of U. S. citizens, not to mention most of this world's 6 billion inhabitants!

A few can testify that the "benefit" package of Christmas beats all the others hands down! Because of God becoming human and visiting this world in the Person of Jesus Christ -- because of His death on our behalf on a Roman cross and because of His victorious resurrection here is what we have by way of benefits:

• His peace - Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (Romans 5:1,2).
  
  
• His presence with us always - "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (Jesus speaking in Matthew 28:19, 20).
  
  
• His power - Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, "Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?" And He said to them, "It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (Acts 1:6-8).
  
  
• His promises that apply to all areas of our concern - Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. (2 Peter 1:2-4).
  
  
• His provisions that are always sufficient - I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me..... And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:13, 19).
  
  
• His place which He is preparing for His people -- the perfect environment with no negatives as constantly experienced in this present world - "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. (Jesus speaking in John 14:1-3). A PS on this one -- can you imagine living in a place where there is perfect peace -- no conflicts of any kind whatsoever -- a place where there are no hospitals, doctors, drug stores, funeral homes and cemeteries -- a place where you have perfect health and no aches and pains -- and where you do not age?
  

That Christmas "benefit" package makes even the most luxurious ones dreamed up by the biggest corporations in this world quickly shrink into dust by comparison, does it not?

Have a blessed Christmas and rejoice much in the benefits it makes available through the Lord Jesus Christ as you celebrate with family and friends!

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." --- Jesus speaking in John 3:16

A Tightrope Christmas!

Whoever transgresses and does not abide in the doctrine of Christ does not have God. He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds. --- 2 John 1:9-11

Here we go again – do we dare mention the word, Christmas, or back off and simply refer to the days of December as a holiday season and wish people a cheery “Happy Holidays?” It seems to be an adventure similar to walking a tightrope!

Reaction to the Christmas controversy is varied again this year – from allowing atheists to post a sign near a nativity display in one part of the country to the aggressive distribution of badges and bumper stickers boldly stating “Merry Christmas.”

Mike Huckabee on his Fox News program perhaps best expressed thoughts about Christmas to which those professing to be “evangelical” would say a hearty “Amen!” I just happened to accidentally catch those remarks while surfing a bit during the ad blitz on a channel showing a Christmas movie which I was attempting to watch. I very rarely view Fox News – you know, the channel that highly qualifies as a competitive beauty pageant for females, jam packed with oodles of ads, has flashy and splashy graphics and throws in a few tidbits of news with a ticker tape moving across the bottom when the ads aren’t running!

Anyway, Mike got into explaining about Christmas and the Biblical account behind it. He mentioned that God came and took on human form. He then became almost apologetic and stated that he did not want to offend those of other faiths such as Muslims, Hindus etc. but that his intent was to explain what Christmas means to those who follow the Christian faith. His explanation will probably be accepted by many with no offense.

However, the real hostility against Christmas lies not so much in a few people believing that God became human at some point in the flow of human history – it is due to a fewer number who believe and proclaim without apology that Jesus Christ is absolutely the only way of forgiveness, experiencing peace with Almighty God, and eventual entrance into God’s eternal Kingdom after death ends our existence on earth! You see, by doing this, one is stating that all other religious expressions outside of Christianity are false and without a reliable foundation! This does not sit well with most who are devotees of something other than genuine Christianity. The consequence is resentment, hostile responses and in some places, violent acts of persecution. Unfortunately there are within the ranks of professing Christianity those, including church leaders, who have backed off from being in agreement with Jesus on this issue, and have indicated one way or another that other religions in the world have legitimate claims to speak on issues related to deity, life's purpose and eternal destiny. In taking such a compromising position it has also been necessary to shift in one's view of the Scriptures with the conclusion that they are simply human produced writings with errors here and there! You can go for many miles once you start down that trail, but it will cause the vehement objections from religionists outside of Christianity to settle down a bit!

It is not a theory or some far fetched idea that bring these few to such a conclusion of what some describe as being very intolerant and narrow minded. It is based on the personal and very radical exclusive statements made by Jesus Himself – each of those statements begins with “I am…”

Further, these statements rest on the solid facts of His sacrificial death on behalf of every human being, His subsequent resurrection from the dead 3 days after crucifixion and His ascension back to Heaven after a 40 day period spent with a number of His followers. He has also specifically promised to return to this planet again and we are informed that He will rule it with a "rod of iron!"

He gave a parting command to go into all the world, issue a call to repent from sin, accept Him as Savior and Lord, and exhort all to obey His teachings – there were to be no exceptions to this – never once did He say, “Do this except for those who are of the ________ faith.” (insert any one of the vast number of religious expressions of your preference in today’s world in the blank space.).

But He also stressed one other thing which we often overlook. And that was in regard to Christians who are faithful to carry out that parting command to confront the world about His call and claims upon all members of the human race – the radical nature of that message and witness will cause them to be hated among all nations! The reason? Simple – Jesus’ followers represent light and truth which is often rejected as stated by Jesus in John 3:19-21:

"And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God."

In my years of hunting there were times as I walked through the woods that I would come across a piece of a dead log – I would kick the log over to see what would happen. Underneath were all kinds of creepy crawly things – as soon as they were exposed to the light they scurried quickly to find a hole into which they might crawl – they didn’t want to remain where there was light -- it made them too uncomfortable! A majority of human beings are much the same – the light and truth that comes through Jesus Christ Whose birth we celebrate at this time of year is more than they can stand – the reaction is hatred and hostility as they scramble to get back into the darkness and away from the light which exposes them for what they really are!

Actually, it ought not to be considered walking a tightrope at Christmas or at any other time in regard to our faith in Jesus Christ – just continue to bear witness to the fact that He is still the only way of salvation and hope in spite of the majority responding in a negative fashion – always bear in mind the inspired words of the apostle Paul – they give a powerful encouragement and challenge to keep on going because somewhere in the future when that statement is totally fulfilled we will wholeheartedly agree that it has been worth it all to have fulfilled the calling of Jesus Christ upon our lives each day of our journey on earth!

Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. --- Philippians 2:9-10

How About One Half of An Abortion?

Then the king said, "Bring me a sword." So they brought a sword before the king. And the king said, "Divide the living child in two, and give half to one, and half to the other." --- 1 Kings 3:24, 25

The announcement has just been made and as could be expected, there has been reaction from some persons who have not been real positive. B. Hussein Obama has tapped Rick Warren, pastor of the Saddleback Church which comprises about 24,000 members, to give the invocation at the Inauguration on January 20, 2009.

Warren managed to set up a “forum” at his church during the presidential campaign in which he “interviewed” B. Hussein Obama and John McCain on issues a number of which related somehow to faith.

Shortly after this episode Time Magazine placed Mr. Warren on its front cover with a caption noting that he was America’s most powerful pastor. That of course can be seriously questioned. But there is talk that he will be Billy Graham’s “replacement” as a kind of #1 preacher, evangelist, and whatever else might be included in being elevated to the top of the religious totem pole in the republic of the U.S.A.

A writer for the New York Times noted that B. O. was extending an “olive branch” to the “evangelicals” and conservatives by selecting Rick Warren to do the invocation on January 20, 2009. One interesting thing to watch for in that moment is whether "evangelical" Rick Warren will do that prayer in the name of Jesus Christ or choose to avoid the mention of that name which is declared to be above all other names -- the name to which at some point in the future all will bow whether they be in heaven, on earth or under the earth and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father! (Philippians 2:9-11). We have to admit, do we not, that it is not common practice to acknowledge that special name at the federal government level at the present time!

Warren is described as being “evangelical” with a claim to being strong pro-life and supportive of traditional marriage in his pastoral position. In his “interview” with B. O. the issue of abortion was briefly discussed. B. O. made it plain that he wants to “work with” those opposed to abortion and that by working together the number of abortions taking place in the nation will be reduced. He did not ever mention an objective of eliminating abortions and the evidence is overwhelming that he wants to do everything possible to remove any and all restrictions relative to abortion now in place by signing the Freedom of Choice Act after becoming president.

B. Hussein Obama is attempting to build a reputation as a “peacemaker” among opposing factions. Comments made as he assembles his staff and Cabinet draw attention to the fact that there are persons on his “team” who hold opposing views and in some cases, these are in disagreement with the president-elect himself!

So, back to the abortion issue – does this mean then that in working with those opposed to abortion that we can meet half way and be offered situations where only half an abortion will be done – and in the case of the partial birth abortion, which will be resumed under the FOCA where it is now restricted, that only half the baby’s brains will be sucked out instead of all of them? That was the approach that Solomon offered in a conflict involving two mothers, a dead baby and a living baby. Each mother claimed the living baby was hers – Solomon’s recommendation was to cut the living baby in half and give each mother a half of a baby. As superior a compromise as could ever be proposed, wouldn’t you say? Those familiar with the story know that the real mother insisted that the baby be given to her opponent, while the opponent insisted on dividing it as originally suggested by the king. The wise king then ordered that the baby be given to its real mother.

B. O. has mentioned that “dialog” will be an important part of his administration – sitting down and engaging in discussion where there is strong disagreement, so that a compromise is reached. Professed “evangelicals” have been pressured for some time to engage in discussion and resolve differences so that peace prevails and everyone gets along – we’re all just one big happy family! After all, we are all God’s children, aren’t we? Or are we? If you want to see how God looks at who are really His children and who are not, take a slow read through 1 John 3 sometime – it’s a real eye opener!

With all the compromising in values that has been taking place in recent years, maybe at that table it can be suggested to just do half abortions. Yes, yes – I know – to even suggest such a thing is unreal – it’s crazy – it’s more than a tad preposterous! You either do an abortion or you don’t do it, because in this situation there is no half way deal.

Now – try some serious thinking – is it not even more insane to believe we can sit down at a table with the likes of a B. Hussein Obama and “work together” to reduce the number of abortions? At least a few of us (the ones labeled as having narrow beady eyes, a Neanderthal shaped forehead and breathing fire out our nostrils) are not interested in reducing the number of abortions – we want to see them stopped, because that is what Almighty God wants! His view of human life, identifying us humans before conception in the womb and a special purpose for each human life has been made abundantly clear. Mr. Obama has yet to honestly face up to this revelation as well as a lot of other politicians, judges and too many church leaders!

We are now at the doorway and about to be ushered into living under the most pro-death government ever to exist in United States history. When a professed “pro-life” president sat in the White House and professed “pro-life” Republicans controlled the U. S. Congress and nothing significant was done to stop the massive “shedding of innocent blood,” do we, as we sit comfortably in our compromising positions, really believe that there will be any serious attempt to respect unborn human life beginning on January 20, 2009 – further, that we will demonstrate before the nations of the world that we indeed are a people who believe and practice that ALL persons have the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness?

Perhaps we should just scuttle that historic document known as the Declaration of Independence in which the following words appear:

We hold these truths to be self–evident,
That all men are created equal,
That they are endowed by their Creator
with certain unalienable Rights,
That among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.–
That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men,
Deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed

Isn't it true that as a nation we have provided brazen testimony for years to the fact that within our borders about 100,000 persons each month do not have those unalienable rights, do they? And with a pro-death administration in control starting the 3rd week of January 2009 those rights are not going to be reinstated! So be wary if someone says to you, “Let’s work together and try to reduce the number of abortions taking place each year in this country.” A simple reply is this – “The issue is not reduction, but termination!” Would the person making that suggestion be satisfied if his or her surgeon said, “We’re going to reduce the number of cancer cells we have found in your body!” Is it not the practice of surgeons to use such terms as "We got all of it." or "We weren't able to get all of it." when referring to the cancer that they were trying to remove? So, even a rabid abortionist would not likely be satisfied if told by his surgeon, "We reduced the number of cancer cells in your body by about 50 per cent!"

Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Therefore come out from among them and be separate,” says the Lord. “Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you. I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters,” says the LORD Almighty. Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. --- 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, 7:1

Will the New President Mark This Milestone After Taking Office?

Senator Barack Obama debated his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton on Tuesday night and said his biggest mistake was voting with a unanimous Senate to help save Terri Schiavo. Terri is the disabled Florida woman whose husband won the legal right to starve her to death. --- quote from Steven Ertelt, Editor of Lifenews.com, reporting on debate at Cleveland OH on February 26, 2008

It's like a darkening cloud with lightning flashing moving toward us and by the time January 20, 2009 arrives that cloud with its accompanying lightning bolts will be hovering over us!

The evidence is there for anyone with sufficient vision to see it -- the new administration will be rabidly pro-death in its approach to human life as none other preceding it has ever been.

Many appointments by B. Hussein Obama involve persons who are radical when it comes to supporting the policy of destroying unborn children at any stage in their development as God forms them in their mothers' (term used loosely) wombs. If you are not afraid to do so, take some time to ponder God's statement made to one man some time ago and all the implications of that statement: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you; and I ordained you a prophet to the nations." --- Jeremiah 1:4, 5

B. O. himself has vowed to sign the Freedom of Choice Act into law once he takes over the presidency. This will be a federal statute that basically will erase whatever limited protection of unborn children has been put in place in the past. Literally, it will be "open season" on the unborn!

Now the question is this -- will the president issue some kind of proclamation marking a significant milestone in this matter of the destruction of the unborn? In just a few days following B.O.'s inauguration the republic of the United States will have destroyed 50,000,000 unborn children since the infamous Roe v. Wade decision of January 22, 1973! So it is only fitting that one who is so dedicated to continuing the practice of destroying unborn children in the name of a so-called "constitutional right" should issue a proclamation -- maybe even make the day on which the 50 millionth victim is executed a holiday and everyone make merry and celebrate the occasion with uplifted glasses!

His many statements about his low view of human life, including the one above related to Terry Schiavo, provide solid proof that B. O. intends to widen and deepen the stream of the shedding of innocent blood in the future -- well, that is, until Almighty God chooses to step in and put a stop to this abomination and rest assured, He will stop it -- it's not a question of whether, but when! It would be most fitting if that interruption in the flow of U. S. history would take place while B. Hussein Obama is occupying the Oval Office at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington DC. Further, if it should happen under his "watch," it will be interesting to see what B. O. and his Democratic controlled Congress will attempt to do to in a feeble and vain effort to counter the anger of a holy God!

Time will tell -- at any rate, this nation continues to exhibit its rebel spirit and shake a defiant clenched fist in the face of the Creator of this universe. The new administration has already served notice that this defiance will continue with whole hearted approval of the United States' version of Holocaust and many other rebel acts added to that as well!

The new president being inaugurated on January 20, 2009 has signaled at this stage by statements and deeds that he will prove to be a 21st Century version of an ancient king who lived centuries ago whose name was Manasseh!

But they paid no attention, and Manasseh seduced them to do more evil than the nations whom the LORD had destroyed before the children of Israel. And the LORD spoke by His servants the prophets, saying, "Because Manasseh king of Judah has done these abominations (he has acted more wickedly than all the Amorites who were before him, and has also made Judah sin with his idols), therefore thus says the LORD God of Israel: 'Behold, I am bringing such calamity upon Jerusalem and Judah, that whoever hears of it, both his ears will tingle.'"...... Moreover Manasseh shed very much innocent blood, till he had filled Jerusalem from one end to another, besides his sin with which he made Judah sin, in doing evil in the sight of the LORD. --- 2 Kings 21:9-12, 16

More About Winter....

Praise the LORD! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and praise is beautiful.... He sends out His command to the earth; His word runs very swiftly. He gives snow like wool; He scatters the frost like ashes; He casts out His hail like morsels; who can stand before His cold? He sends out His word and melts them; He causes His wind to blow, and the waters flow. --- Psalm 147:1, 15-18

Lots and lots of memories about winter over the years -- especially in those growing up years on a farm in Clarion County, Pennsylvania.

My parents made sure my younger sister and I had warm clothing to wear in the winter time. It was a long walk to school. In those years it was common for the younger ones to have what were called "snow suits" -- heavy coats and heavy pullover pants -- sometimes so balky you couldn't walk very well -- the heavy boots added to the problem. And with a heavy cap and heavy gloves or mittens, you were prepared to face the harsh weather of winter!

Many hours were spent outside, especially if we had lots of snow and/or ice. Skating on the local creek was a favorite activity. We didn't have ice skates -- we just took a run onto the ice and then slid for a few feet. Sometimes we would take the boots off and the soles of our shoes made it possible to really slide with the risk of getting off balance and falling. More than one of us knew the experience of falling and hitting the back of our heads on the ice -- a very painful moment!

And there were the sled riding times. The ideal which didn't happen too often was when we got snow, then some rain to wet it down and then a deep freeze which formed a hard crust on the surface. I can remember one time on our fields on a hillside we could go like it seemed forever before getting off the sled and going back to the top for another adventurous ride!

Jean and I had a more updated and modern experience of this a few years back. We had gotten our son a Honda 185 3-wheeler for Christmas (that was before the government which is determined to save us from ourselves decided that 3-wheelers were too dangerous and forced the manufacturers to quit making them!). Anyway, we had a crust factor for ideal sledding. So near our parsonage was a long slope -- one of us would ride the sled down and the other would take the 3-wheeler down and pick up the rider and tow the sled back to top of the slope -- we took turns doing this and had a blessed time, later topped off with hot chocolate!

Another memory of winter time in those early years -- our "menu" prepared by my mother for our meals. One of the main staples was buckwheat cakes with home made syrup. The cakes were made from pure ground buckwheat flour and the batter was started with yeast -- they didn't smell very good, but they sure tasted good. We had them for breakfast and often for supper as well. Mom would just add some flour on a regular basis plus the other ingredients as needed. We usually started having them in November (as soon as flour was available) and went through to spring time). Sausage from our butchered hogs was also a part of the meal with the buckwheat cakes. My dad would not eat syrup on his -- he said that spoiled them -- my mother would make a type of sausage broth which he would put on his cakes.

I have made those same buckwheat cakes and have some going at the present time. But I keep the batter in the refrigerator so they don't get away from me -- if they do, they get too strong due to fermenting. Because we ate them constantly at home, my mom let the batter set out in a crock on the kitchen counter. Before my dad went to be with the Lord he came down for a visit with us and I had started a batch of buckwheat cakes some time earlier. I served him some and received what I considered a very kind compliment -- he said, "They are almost as good as your mother's!"

I did have an adventure one time a few years back in getting the buckwheat cakes started. I start with flour, buttermilk, yeast, water and salt. I mixed them up in a bowl and we left for Bible study. Jean said I had better put a pan under the bowl in case the cake batter raised and ran over. I said they won't do that much till we get back. When we got home there was buckwheat cake batter running all over the counter and the floor -- that stuff had really taken off and guess who said, "I told you so!"

There were times in winter that the road conditions were pretty bad. One of the worst I remember was back in about 1944 or so - we had a storm that dumped about 3 feet or so of snow on us. My dad was working for the New York Central Railroad at that time. He usually drove to work about 3 miles away but that day he walked it in order to get the tracks cleared -- trains had to keep running in those days of WW II. I can still remember seeing his footprints in that deep snow. It was quite a while before our roads were opened because of bad drifting where there were cuts and embankments as high as 10 feet or so along the roadways.

A later incident in winter involved Jean and me when we were dating. I was to take her to her sister's place to stay. Lots of snow on the roads and I had a '51 Ford with an overdrive transmission which caused it to be about as helpless as anything could be on winter roads. I had put the chains on the back wheels and we were trying to get up a very steep hill with the Ford pawing around like crazy and then it threw one of the chains off! Where that chain went I had no way of knowing -- so we made it back to my home just a short distance away and Jean spent the night at my house. Her family did not have a phone yet, so we could not call and tell them what happened. Ooooh! When her mom found out what happened, it was like a tornado, blizzard and hurricane all wrapped up in one big blast! She thought the worst -- but I slept in my bed and Jean slept with my sister that winter night! This is a bit delicate -- but in spite of the pressures and temptations of 2 years of dating, we were never intimate until our wedding night! These days such a thing is considered odd, strange and practically unheard of. Much more could be said about the radical change regarding sexual behavior over the years but that has been dealt with in some of my other blogs and in areas of my web site.

Our Christmas times were always wonderfully blessed. Even in those early years when we did not have electricity. Our tree was always decorated with a sense of great excitement and there were always some gifts there on Christmas morning in spite of the fact that we would be considered to be in the poor class of people.

Then came the year we moved into a home with electricity and my mother got a string of Noma electric lights for the tree. What excitement that year -- it had 7 bulbs on it, but you would have thought by looking into the faces of my sister and me that the tree had a thousand lights on it!

Ah, those were the days -- life was so much simpler then and filled with values as revealed in God's holy Word -- winter time, spring time, summer time, and fall -- those were indeed times of blessing with many precious memories.

On my previous post to this one I mentioned about having a pleasant interlude by going to a web site where you can view a series of paintings by a very talented artist named Robert Duncan. We have some of his paintings of winter scenes. If you haven't viewed these, by all means go to Winters of Long Ago. It will be worth the time to do so. You will be blessed and it will be a pleasant interlude! Please use return feature on your web browser if you wish to return to this place.

Have a most blessed and wonderful Christmas experience this year as we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus -- the only One Who offers forgiveness, peace and hope to a sin-saturated world of over 6 billion people!

Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. --- Psalm 51:7

How About a Very Pleasant Interlude?

Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James, and John, and led them up on a high mountain apart by themselves; and He was transfigured before them. His clothes became shining, exceedingly white, like snow, such as no launderer on earth can whiten them. And Elijah appeared to them with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. --- Mark 9:2-4

I have a multitude and then some of memories -- good memories -- blessed memories of childhood and growing up in a home with parents who feared and reverenced God -- who believed that Jesus Christ, God's only begotten Son, is our one and only source of forgiveness, salvation and hope.

Many of those memories are of winter -- many hours were spent out of doors playing in the snow at home and at the one room country school which I attended for 7 years. School lunch hours were spent sled riding -- in those years it seemed that the snow began in November and lasted until mid March at least.

Snow balling was forbidden by our teachers -- I got caught by my 6th Grade teacher violating the rule -- the penalty? I had to write a sentence, "No snow balling on the school ground." on the blackboard, and I had to write that sentence 500 times! After that my hand was so tired I couldn't form a snowball if I had wanted to!

Anyway, another confession at this point in addition to the one just made -- I used to look forward to and enjoy very much the season known as winter. I have changed a bit in my old age in my attitude toward winter, but can still enjoy the scenery and beauty that winter brings, so long as I am inside where it is warm and cozy. On our living room walls we have a number of scenes of winter painted by a very talented artist by the name of Robert Duncan.

Recently a relative sent a link from a web site which presents a series of Duncan's paintings with music. It is most appropriate for this time of year. Two of my favorites which you will see and which we have hanging in our living room are the boy riding the Hampshire hog and the curious Holsteins watching the boy pass by with his sled and dog.

Go to Winters of Long Ago. It will be worth the time to do so. You will be blessed and it will be a pleasant interlude! Please use return feature on your web browser if you wish to return to this place.

Enjoy and be blessed!

PS: When I take my morning 2 mile walk, even in winter, when it is snowing, I am reminded of two things -- each snowflake falling represents a blessing God has bestowed upon me and my family of which we are undeserving -- and, second, though I have been guilty of sinning, I can be forgiven and all defilement removed so that I am "whiter than snow" as mentioned by the prophet Isaiah!

"Come now, and let us reason together," says the LORD, "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Isaiah 1:18

The Obama Administration and the Third Reich – Point of Disagreement Is Merely in Timing!

The cult of personality and hysteria for a charismatic orator are frightening parallels between Obama and Hitler. Like Hitler, Obama too is a phenomenal political figure, extraordinary in American politics. No American politician has made such an impression on Americans. He receives excessive admiration and adoration from his admirers reminiscent of hero worship but with a messianic twist. --- Jerry A. Kane in article, “The Obama-Hitler Parallel”

Not a few persons are quite upset at comments made recently in which B. Hussein Obama is being compared to Adolph Hitler. The comparison involves such things as personality, charisma, oratorical skills and a “love at first sight” response from masses of people of all ages. And all this taking place in a brief period of time after coming literally from out of nowhere!

The intent here is not to pursue many of the foregoing comparisons which have already been discussed, but to point out a common ingredient shared by the newly elected president and his administration with those who gained power about three quarters of a century ago under the banner of a swastika and were eventually identified as the Third Reich!

It is the view of human life in which we see these two governing powers as being quite compatible. Adolph Hitler and cohorts took a view that certain persons should not continue to live and so a “Final Solution” was concocted and a total of about 15 million persons were put to death, 6 million of which were Jewish by racial identity.

B. Hussein Obama and his cohorts are on record that they sanction the deaths of a large number of persons on an ongoing basis. This translates into about 100,000 per month throughout the year!

What’s the difference? It’s only in the timing – in the days of the Third Reich the victims had already been born, but Hitler and cohorts determined that some were not deserving of life, so those lives were terminated. On the other hand, Obama and his cohorts take the position that certain unborn children should not be permitted to live because it is not “convenient” for them to be born! His administration has persons within it that enthusiastically support the Freedom of Choice Act which the newly elected president has vowed to sign into law. B. O. and his Chief of Staff, R. Emanuel, both were co-sponsors of the Freedom of Choice Act when it was introduced into the U. S. Senate and the U. S. House of Representatives. You know the truth of the old saying, do you not -- "Birds of a feather flock together!"

So it’s simply a matter of timing – Hitler and associates arranged for dispatching the unwanted at whatever age the victim happened to be – Obama and associates give their blessing and approval to execution before birth because it’s the most convenient thing to do, right?

Lesson here? The only thing we learn about history is that we miserably fail to learn from the lessons of history. "Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it," as stated by George Santayana (1863–1952)!

In spite of being repetitious – I’ll say it again and will continue to say it – God is not going to let this nation continue to wantonly destroy thousands of unborn children every week of the year – He will respond to this abominable practice and it may be sooner than any of us realize due to the simple fact that on January 20, 2009 we will have in place the most aggressive pro-abortion bunch in charge of our federal government that we have ever had in the history of this republic!

Hitler and his people didn’t get away with it and we in the United States are a bunch of fools (and this includes our "leaders") of the first magnitude if we believe we can prove that we are the exception!

By the way, the United States' tally of unborn victims is fast approaching 50 million who have been deliberately mutilated and murdered in their mothers' wombs -- sort of makes the governing powers of the Third Reich seem like amateurs by way of comparison, doesn't it?

The Third Reich arose in the wake of the loss of land, the heavy reparations, and the perceived national embarrassment imposed through the Treaty of Versailles which ended World War I. Following civil unrest, the worldwide economic depression of the 1930s, the counter-traditionalism of the Weimar period, and the rise of communism in Germany, many voters began turning their support towards the Nazi Party with its promises of strong government, civil peace, radical changes to economic policy and restoration of national pride. --- from Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia

Moreover Manasseh shed very much innocent blood, till he had filled Jerusalem from one end to another, besides his sin with which he made Judah sin, in doing evil in the sight of the LORD........... Surely at the commandment of the LORD this came upon Judah, to remove them from His sight because of the sins of Manasseh, according to all that he had done, and also because of the innocent blood that he had shed; for he had filled Jerusalem with innocent blood, which the LORD would not pardon. --- 2 Kings 21:16; 2 Kings 24:3, 4