A rare political posting

In less than one week, California will vote on the following proposition: "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California.” 

As you can imagine, the outcry is great.  In fact, the proposition is being called "Opposition to Gay Marriage."  Let me state clearly my position on this issue.  I am voting YES on Proposition 8, not because I am opposed to gay marriage (though I am).  I am voting YES on Proposition 8 because I am COMMITTED to TRADTIONAL MARRIAGE.

Opponents are crying "discrimination."  Proposition 8 has nothing to do with discrimination.  Oh, I hear the cries already "You are discriminating against the homosexual lifestyle."  Proposition 8 does no such thing.  Let me explain.  Discrimination is "the power of making fine distinctions; discriminating judgment" according to www.dictionary.com (their 3rd definition).  "Wait, you just sank your own boat!  You're judgmental!" comes the cry.  No, and yes.

Judgment is always necessary.  You discriminate every day.  You chose to come to this web site above any other (unless you just clicked "next blog").  You chose the type of computer you are using to read this, the wallpaper on your screen, even the password for your sensitive files.  And you did so to the exclusion of a lot of other choices.  You and I discriminate every single day.  And that is a good thing.

You see, I am the victim of discrimination.  For years, my dreams and hopes, all my plans for life centered around one thing.  And then, discrimination reared its ugly head and denied me my dreams and shattered my hopes.  There is no chance for restitution or reparation; and I will always be the victim of discrimination at the hands of my government.  You see, my hopes dreams and plans centered on flying Apache helicopters.  But I was discriminated against - because of what I am.  I am colorblind; and no military will give me a million-dollar piece of equipment when I cannot tell which troops are the enemy and which are friendly.  Nothing I can do will change my colorblindness.  It is part of who I am genetically; and the source of discrimination - and yet it is a good thing!

Fast forward to the issue on the ballot.  To say that this proposition is discriminating is true.  We must make a distinction between what is acceptable and what is not.  This discrimination is not made judgmentally based on what a person is; but it is made to differentiate between what a person does to qualify for the label "married" in the state of California.

Jeremiah 20 - 21

Jeremiah faces political pressure to change his message.  This pressure comes from the chief of the temple police.  Yet, Jeremiah does not - indeed, he cannot - change his message.  He states, that when he attempts to hold back what God has given him to share, it is physically painful to him.  The message is unchanged; Judah will fall.  Those who are willing to defect to the side of the attackers will live; but none who try to 'tough it out' will survive.

Jeremiah 18 - 19

Jeremiah is given the assignment to go to the potter's house and observe the actions of the potter.  God uses this as an illustration of what He will do to the nation.  He will do as He plans, and nothing will stand in His way.  After Jeremiah gives the message, the people revolt and try to imprison the prophet.  He gives them another illustration, breaking a dish before them symbolizing the way that their destruction will come and the total calamity that will result.

Jeremiah 15 - 17

God is determined to bring judgment to the nation of Judah.  Nothing will dissuade Him from punishing his rebellious people.  However, He promises Jeremiah that those who return to Him will not suffer as greatly as those who refuse to repent.  As a sign of God's displeasure with the nation, He commands Jeremiah to not marry or attend funerals or weddings.  God was going to take away all the reasons for rejoicing; and Jeremiah's absence at these events would speak to that fact.  There would be those who trusted their own conscience's message of peace; but God states that the heart of man is desperately wicked and its thoughts unknowable by humankind.  God repeatedly calls the nation to a restoration of its former ways, a reinstitution of the law He had given them.  But the nation would not listen or obey.

Jeremiah 12 - 14

Nestled in this passage is a chilling indictment of the prophets in the land of Israel concurrent with Jeremiah.  God states that the majority of those claiming to speak on His behalf are lying prophets.  They do not know, do not represent, and do not stand as a representative for God.  What a statement!  Many were being deceived, thinking they were hearing from one called the "man of God" who knew less than the people they claimed to instruct.  Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident.  Even today, there are many who do not know God or His ways, and yet seek to communicate His words to the detriment of those who hear and the damnation of their very souls.  Anyone who claims to speak on behalf of the Almighty would do well to be sure that when they say "thus saith the Lord" they are accurately representing Deity.  Those who fail to heed this warning do so at their own peril.

Jeremiah 9 - 11

The prophet reminds his hearers that strength, glory, power or wisdom are not qualities in which one can rest.  The only quality in which one can find reason to rejoice is in knowing and understanding God.  Knowing that God is just, holy, supportive of mercy and loving loyalty will give a man a reason to rest and find comfort.  So ... where do you find YOUR comfort?

Jeremiah 6 - 8

Among this prophecy that predicts the coming destruction of the nation, Israel is challenged to return to "the old ways and the former paths" of following God.  Too often today, we as a society are so enamored of the new and that which is different that we hardly notice we have gotten off the old path of following God.  By following after fads and fame, we have forsaken the Father.  God in heaven, keep me on the right path, the old path of following You.

Jeremiah 3 - 5

God reveals to Jeremiah the terrible condition of the nation of Judah.  She has not learned the lessons intended to be learnt from her sister nation, Israel (the northern 10 tribes carried away by Assyria).  As a result of Israel's sin, she was taken captive; yet Judah did not see this as a call to repentence and change.  Instead, she acted much like an adulterous woman, going after as many strange bedfellows as possible.  Jewish law prohibited such a woman from being returned to her husband; but God demonstrates His great love and mercy by wooing His beloved nation back to Himself.  Those who would respond would be restored; while those who continued their lecherous ways would be destroyed.

Jeremiah 1 - 2

Jeremiah is commissioned to take a message of judgment to God's people.  He records for us that he served the Lord during the time leading up to the captivity of Jerusalem by Babylon.  God's commission of Jeremiah reminds me that God has a purpose for each person - a design for life that extends far beyond the borders of one's existence.  Jeremiah is sent ot a peoplet hat have turned their backs on God and His ways.  He is to call them back in repentance so that they will avoid the punishment that must surely follow disobedience.  Israel is unconvinced of her sin, all the while continuing to engage in it.  She has been blinded by her actions and will be held accountable.

Isaiah 65 - 66

God promises that in the last day, at the final judgment, His servants will not suffer want of anything; but that His enemies will know only want and destitution.  In that day, God will recreate the heavens and the earth and this new creation will not know the stain of sin.  Time will be greatly different from what we understand it to be currently.  God will be the focus of everyone's attention; and all will gladly and willingly serve Him the way He deserves and demands to be worshipped.

Isaiah 62 - 64

God again promises the salvation and deliverance of His people.  Those who would be tempted to write them off as desolate and forsaken, will find that they are the ones in whom God delights - and their joy rivals that of newlyweds.  The people of Israel will not be forgotten or forsaken.  In light of this fact, the nation calls out to God and begs for forgiveness and restoration.  They seek to be reunited with the God Who chose them.  They humbly return to the One who loves them and ask for all to be made right.

Isaiah 59 - 61

When man tries to redeem himself from the problems he faces, he encounters only more trouble.  God sees man's vain attempts to perform a self-rescue; and it prompts Him to offer Himself as the Ransom in the person of His Son.  The Son (also called the Servant in Isaiah) will provide rescue, release and relief.  He brings the brightness and clarity that is needed in a dark and wandering society.  He provides a vast contrast from the world around Him; in fact, events take a drastic 180-degree turn from darkness to light, mourning to rejoicing, and sadness to gladness.

Isaiah 56 - 58

The one who follows themself, will always find themselves following a fool!  Those who attempt to make their own rules and live the way they please will find themselves at odds against the God who created them.  For this reason, these people are called to come to the Lord and learn His ways, so that they might be prosperous.

Isaiah 53 - 55

God's Servant is described as One Who will demonstrate God's love at a great cost.  Misunderstood and mistreated, the Servant is greatly rewarded and is seen by God as being highly successful.  God's ways are carried out in the life of this Servant; and we are the beneficiaries, we who are so undesrving.  For this reason, we can sing and rejoice in the peace that the Servant initiates on our behalf.  An invitation is extended to those who will respond to God's offer of peace and abundance.  This is not a life of ease; but a life that is blessed by having God as its Director and Sustainer.  His ways and words are right and righteous.  His plans bring the way of life and rejoicing.

Isaiah 50 - 52

God continues to call for those who will respond to His voice and come repentently to His side.  Those who do will find solace, comfort and protection.  Those who look to their heritage (national, family, etc.) will be disappointed.  But those who turn to God will never be disappointed.  In fact, far from knowing disappointment, they will know true joy and peace while the rest of the world knows nothing but destruction.  In the midst of this, Jerusalem becomes a place of joy and delight.

Isaiah 47 - 49

Judgment is pronounced on Babylon.  Unfortunately, pride will overcome Babylon, so that she does not even perceive the danger she is in until it is too late.  She has taken pride in her dealings conducted seemingly unseen by anyone; but she has not escaped the view of the Holy One of Israel.

Even through this process, Israel will be brought into a greater relationship with her God.  Although they are stubborn and refuse to acknowledge their dependence on God, He performs His mighty works in order to magnify His own great name.  His plan from the beginning has been to redeem the nation of Israel and give no rest to the wicked.

To fulfill this plan, God will send His Servant to do His work and bring Israel back to Him.  Not only will this Servant redeem Israel; but He will bring salvation to the ends of the earth.  This should result (and will result) in global expressions of praise and thanksgiving.  God will not abandon the nation He has set apart to display His glory.

Isaiah 45 - 46

God promises to support and direct a leader named Cyrus who will be His servant, though he does not know God.  This demonstrates that God has power to orchestrate even the lives and names of those not yet born to prove His power to provide what He has promised.  He also promises to be found by those seeking Him - for He alone is God.  There is none other.  Nothing can be compared to Him, for He is unique in His character.

Isaiah 43 - 44

God steps in and reminds Israel that they have no need to fear when He is present.  Over and again, He reminds them "Fear not" and even lists the times when He will be present.  Floods, darkness, fire - none of these present a barrier to God's protective powers.  He simply states "You are Mine."

The nation will not always respond to the call to fear not, and to come into His presence.  They will rebel and suffer the punishment necessitated by their actions.  But yet God still promises forgiveness and restoration.

No matter what I face today, I do not have to fear.  God is always beside me.

Isaiah 41 - 42

Isaiah states to the nation that God is their peace.  In the light of all that goes on in their midst, God is present to deliver and bless.  Would they return to Him?  Would they turn from their wicked ways?  He had promised to strengthen and help them; but would they accept that offer?

Isaiah 39 - 40

Hezekiah, in a foolish rush to display the blessing of God on his life, shows the wealth of the nation to emissaries from Babylon.  Isaiah tells him that due to this arrogant display of wealth, the riches of Israel will be carried away to Babylon.

The nation is then given a message of comfort from God.  He has heard their cries and will answer them with deliverance, protection and provision.

Isaiah 37 - 38

The Hebrews were at the point of frustration due to the Assyrian invasion.  However, God promised them that they would be delivered; and not an arrow would be fired in the battle.  The next morning, over 185,000 of the Assyrian army lay dead; the rest fled home.  The leader was later assassinated in his hometown by his own family.  God prevailed.

King Hezekiah then faced another challenge - this one to his own health and livelihood.  Unless he repented, God would take his life.  Due to his repentence, God prolonged his life for 15 years.

Isaiah 34 - 36

Isaiah gives a description of the day when God's vengeance is poured out upon the nations.  In that day, nations will attempt to flee from His wrath, but will be unsuccessful.  Isaiah then describes the joy that will be found among God's people when the way of blessing has been prepared for them.

Then it all gets put to the test.  Emissaries from Assyria come and threaten the city of Jerusalem, warning the citizens to not listen to Hezekiah's pleas to trust in God.  These messages are delivered, not in the Aramaic language used in the government, but in Hebrew so that all the citizens would know the terror intended by the Assyrian army.

Hezekiah's command is simple:  do not answer these men.

Isaiah 32 - 33

When God judges the nations, He will establish His own reign.  This reign will be characterized by righteousness and justice.  All will be treatly appropriately; all will see that God is the fair Judge of the Universe, as His reign is a time of peace.  He will be upheld as a beautiful ruler with impeccable judgment.  None can compare to Him.

Isaiah 30 - 31

When the nation of Israel comes under judgment, Isaiah warns her inhabitants to NOT look to the oppressors as the ones in whom trust should be placed.  Even these oppressors - who would seemingly be initially victorious - would be defeated by God's great power.  Turning to other nations for help and rescue is futile when it abandons God in the process.

Isaiah 28 - 29

Just because one is an inhabitant of Jerusalem, their safety and blessing is not guaranteed.  God promises that He will judge based on personal criteria, and that place of residence is not one of the qualifying parameters.  Those who despise God's word and teaching will be judged.  Yet those who profess to love God while their hearts want nothing to do with Him will also be chastened, as God desires a pure and sincere worship.  In spite of all the promises of punishment and discipline, God will still bring about good to those who love, fear and serve Him.

Isaiah 26 - 27

A song of praise is predicted for the day when God will give rest to His people from the oppressors on every side.  This song of praise focuses not on the position or blessing the people enjoy; but on the One Who provides it.  This song elevates God and highlights His actions without being boastful or proud or gloating.  What a lesson for me today!

Isaiah 23 - 25

In the midst of the destruction that God will bring to His enemies, He will still remember His people.  The destruction will be complete; God will not tolerate any, nor will He show favoritism based on social standing or status.  All will be treated fairly and justly.  However, He will show kindness to His people and will preserve them in the midst of trouble.

Weekend Lite

Thanks to a friend (HT:  Jen), I now have this list.  How many of these things have YOU done?  My answers are in bold.  Things I haven't done are in italics.

1. Touched an iceberg

2. Slept under the stars

3. Been a part of a hockey fight

4. Changed a baby's diaper

5. Watched a meteor shower

6. Given more than you can afford to charity

7. Swam with wild dolphins

8. Climbed a mountain

9. Held a tarantula

10. Said "I love you" and meant it!!

11. Bungee jumped

12. Visited Paris

13. Watched a lightning storm at sea

14. Stayed up all night long and watched the sun rise 

15. Seen the NorthernLights

16. Gone to a huge sports game 

17. Walked the stairs to the top of the Statue of Liberty

18. Grown and eaten your own vegetables

19. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope

20. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment

21. Had a pillow fight

22. Bet on a winning horse

23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill

24. Built a snow fort

25. Held a lamb

26. Gone skinny dipping (never quite brave enough for this one)

27. Taken an ice cold bath

28. Had a meaningful conversation with a beggar

29. Seen a total eclipse

30. Ridden a roller coaster

31. Hit a home run

32. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking!!

33. Adopted an accent for fun

34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors

35. Felt very happy about your life, even for just a moment

36. Loved your job 90% of the time

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied

38. Watched wild whales

39. Gone rock climbing(Do rock walls count?)

40. Gone on a midnight walk on the beach

41. Gone sky diving

42. Visited Ireland( I wish!)

43. Ever bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant

44. Visited India

45. Bench-pressed your own weight

46. Milked a cow

47. Alphabetized your personal files

48. Ever worn a superhero costume

49. Sung karaoke

50. Lounged around in bed all day

51. Gone scuba diving

52. Kissed in the rain

53. Played in the mud

54. Gone to a drive-in theater

55. Done something you should regret, but don't

56. Visited the Great Wall of China

57. Started a business

58. Taken a martial arts class

59. Been in a movie

60. Gone without food for 3 days

61. Made cookies from scratch

62. Won first prize in a costume contest

63. Got flowers for no reason (got them FOR someone)

64. Been in a combat zone

65. Spoken more than one language fluently

66. Gotten into a fight while attempting to defend someone - verbal not physical

67. Bounced a check

68. Read - and understood - your credit report

69. Recently bought and played with a favorite childhood toy

70. Found out something significant that your ancestors did (like inventing the dishwasher!)

71. Called or written your Congress person

72. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over

73. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge

74. Helped an animal give birth

75. Been fired or laid off from a job

76. Won money

77. Broken a bone

78. Ridden a motorcycle

79. Driven any land vehicle at a speed of greater than 100 mph

80. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon

81. Slept through an entire flight: takeoff, flight, and landing

82. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days

83. Eaten sushi

84. Had your picture in the newspaper

85. Read The Bible cover to cover

86. Changed someone's mind about something you care deeply about

87. Gotten someone fired for their actions

88. Gone back to school

89. Changed your name

90. Caught a fly in the air with your bare hands

91. Eaten fried green tomatoes

92. Read The Iliad

93. Taught yourself an art from scratch

94. Killed and prepared an animal for eating

95. Apologized to someone years after inflicting the hurt

96. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language

97. Been elected to public office

99. Had to put someone you love into hospice care

100. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn't know you

101. Had a booth at a street fair

102. Dyed your hair

103. Been a DJ

104. Rocked a baby to sleep

105. Ever dropped a cat from a high place to see if it really lands on all fours. 

106. Raked your carpet(HUH?)

107. Brought out the best in people 

108. Brought out the worst in people (I think there may be a few...)

109. Worn a mood ring 

110. Ridden a horse

111. Carved an animal from a piece of wood or bar of soap 

112. Cooked a dish where four people asked for the recipe.

113. Buried a child (not my own)

114. Gone to a Broadway (or equivalent to your country) play

115. Been inside the pyramids

116. Shot a basketball into a basket

117. Danced at a disco 

118. Played in a band

119. Shot a bird

120. Gone to an arboretum

121. Tutored someone

122. Ridden a train

123. Brought an old fad back into style

124. Eaten caviar

125. Let a salesman talk you into something you didn’t need

126. Ridden a giraffe or elephant

127. Published a book

128. Pieced a quilt

129. Lived in an historic place

130. Acted in a play or performed on a stage

131. Asked for a raise

132. Made a hole-in-one

133. Gone deep sea fishing

134. Gone roller skating

135. Run a marathon

136. Learned to surf

137. Invented something

138. Flown first class

139. Spent the night in a 5-star luxury suite

140. Flown in a helicopter

141. Visited Africa

142. Sang a solo

143. Gone spelunking

144. Learned how to take a compliment

145. Written a love-story 

146. Seen Michelangelo’s David

147. Had your portrait painted

148. Written a fan letter

149. Spent the night in something haunted

150. Owned a St. Bernard or Great Dane

151. Ran away

152. Learned to juggle

153. Been a boss

154. Sat on a jury

155. Lied about your weight

156.Gone on a diet

157. Found an arrowhead or a gold nugget

158. Written a poem

159. Carried your lunch in a lunch box

160. Gotten food poisoning

161. Gone on a service, humanitarian or religious mission

162. Hiked the Grand Canyon

163. Sat on a park bench and fed the ducks

164. Gone to the opera

165. Gotten a letter from someone famous

166. Worn knickers

167. Ridden in a limousine 

168. Attended the Olympics

169. Can hula or waltz

170. Read a half dozen Nancy Drew or Hardy Boys books

171. Been stuck in an elevator

172. Had a revelatory dream

173. Thought you might crash in an airplane

174. Had a song dedicated to you on the radio or at a concert

175. Saved someone’s life

176. Eaten raw whale(again, why would anyone!?)

177. Know how to tat, smock or do needlepoint

178. Laughed till your side hurt

179. Straddled the equator

180. Taken a photograph of something other than people that is worth framing

181. Gone to a Shakespeare Festival

182. Sent a message in a bottle

183. Spent the night in a hostel

184. Been a cashier

185. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt

186. Joined a union

187. Donated blood or plasma

188. Built a camp fire

189. Kept a blog( well, duh!)

190. Had hives

191. Worn custom made shoes or boots

192. Made a PowerPoint presentation

193. Taken a Hunter’s Safety Course (of course)

194. Served at a soup kitchen

195. Conquered the Rubik’s cube

196. Know CPR

197. Ridden in or owned a convertible( does a jeep count?)

198. Found a long lost friend( Thank God for Facebook!)

199. Helped solve a crime

OK, your turn!

Isaiah 20 - 22

For three years, Isaiah walked through the city barefoot and naked.  This was a sign to the nation that God would allow the nation to be led away captive.  When that occurred, the nations would know that God had exacted His promised revenge on the nation's sin; and would punish other nations that offended Him as well.

Isaiah 17 - 19

When God destroys the nations opposing Israel, it will cause mankind to reflect on the objects of their worship and abandon their false idols.  All eyes will be riveted on the God of the Universe, for He alone displays the power over all others.  Rest and safety are found in none other, not in places of refuge or people of strength.  Even the strongest of opponents is no match for the Almighty.  God is able to make them fight among themselves and destroy themselves from within.  In that day, small insignificant Israel will strike terror in the hearts of those who oppose her - not because of her great strength or massive army - but because of the One Who gives them victory.  Even in the midst of such turmoil, worship will flourish.  Those who turn to the Lord in repentance will find blessing even in the midst of the destruction taking place around them.

Isaiah 14 - 16

On the day that God establishes His unquestioned rule over all, those who have been most vocal in their opposition to Him will be vanquished and destroyed.  Isaiah lists several who will be among that list:  Babylon, Lucifer, Assyria, Philistia and Moab.  These predictions had immediate and future consequences.  In the immediate future they would come to pass; in the distant future they would occur again - this time with finality.

Isaiah 11 - 13

When Messiah comes to rule, all acquiesce to His will.  Blessing is given to those meeting His favor; while those opposing Him will be brought to destruction.  His strength will be seen as the driving force of the universe; and praise is given for His wisdom and glory.  As His displeasure is given out against those opposing Him, it causes other nations to take note and fear for their own existence.  It IS a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the wrathful Lord and Judge of the Universe.

Isaiah 9 - 10

Even though there would be great calamity, God would still protect and provide for those who looked to Him for guidance and protection.  The government of this future promised Son (the Jewish Messiah) is described as one of prosperity, peace and longevity.  Those who sought to rebuild in their own strength would be brought to nothing; such is the price to those who seek to operate without God's leadership and blessing.  Indeed, God will come and bring destruction to those nations who seek to not only undermine His authority, but also eliminate His people.  Those who come to attack and plunder need not be feared for one day they, too, will be conquered and God's people will still remain.

Isaiah 7 - 8

Isaiah speaks to the king, who is distressed at the approaching invading armies.  God desires to comfort the king, and invites him to ask for signal proof of his security.  The king, in an act of false piety, arrogantly declines to ask God to display His glory; so God designs His own sign - a baby born that will prove God's ability to perform on HIs own time schedule.  This promise also foreshadows the birth of Christ.  The baby born in Isaiah's day would see - in his lifetime, before he could even develop to maturity - God fulfilling His promises of deliverance.  God keeps His word in His time.

Isaiah 5 - 6

The highlight of Isaiah's lifetime was seeing a vision of God at the low point of the nation's history.  A beloved king had died; and during the time of mourning and transition, Isaiah's vision was focused on God and His sovereignty and His purposes for Isaiah's life.  This strikes particularly close to me.  In the last 10 days, I have walked through the valley of the shadow of death.  A dear friend - one I've known and worked with for 8 years - passed into eternity.  For the last 10 days, my focus has been on the loss suffered and the grief of the situation.  My focus needs to be kept on The Sovereign; and His call on my life needs to be paramount.  God, in the midst of grief, keep my focus on You!

Isaiah 3 - 4

Isaiah continues to describe the desolation that will befall Judah.  The poverty will be so great that anyone with a garment will be seen as a man of great wealth and give them the qualifications to be a leader.  Others will do whatever it takes to be able to have a standing in society.  The economic crisis will be vast and far-spread.

Isaiah 1 - 2

Isaiah, a prophet of God during the reign of four kings, delivers a message to the nation of Judah (the two tribes in South Israel) concerning her future.  Because the people had turned away from following God and keeping His commands, punishment would come.  The nation would be turned upside down and severely chastened for their sin.  Those who still listened to God's word were invited to take cover and prepare for the coming punishment.  How well do you listen to God's voice today?  Are you able to see God's hand moving and take appropriate action?  Listen for His voice today.

Song of Solomon 6 - 8

This love story concludes with the couple reuniting and reaffirming their love for one another.  Although kept apart for a period of time, they had not lost their desire for one another; and it was evident to others around them.  Even their friends and neighbors rejoiced at the great love displayed by this couple.  They only had eyes for each other; and made no secret of hiding or withholding their love.

Song of Solomon 4 - 5

In this passage, the lovers describe the joy they take in one another's presence.  They praise each other in creative and richly descriptive terms.  Their love is unbounded and a joy to them.  However, not everything is as would be desired.  The bridegroom approaches his bride, and she turns him away, then seeks out after him; but he has been called away.  Will they reunite or is the relationship damaged almost as soon as it is established?

Song of Solomon 1 - 3

This portion of Scripture has received much attention from commentators.  Some see it as an allegory of Christ's love for the church; others see it as a picture of consumate love; while others see it as love opera written by, produced for and starring King Solomon.  While there may be parallels between the characters in this passage and the love that Christ has for the Church, I believe it was exactly what it claimed to be - the pinnacle of Solomon's songs.

The main characters are Solomon and his love, the Shulamite woman.  In the opening chapters their love is described and displayed in wonderfully creative and personal terms.  Solomon, the Shulamite and the "chorus" who comment on the action are all preoccupied with the magnitude of love shown by these two individuals.  They long for the time when they will be united, and towards the end of the passage, we learn that Solomon has indeed come to claim his bride in marriage.

Ecclesiastes 10 - 12

Solomon concludes his entire study of life and its meaning and implications.  His summary statement is this:  fear God and keep His commandments.  A proper reverence for God will motivate an individual to keep His commands.  Apart from this, life is pointless.  When God is revered and His commands followed, life takes on incredible meaning and purpose.

Ecclesiastes 7 - 9

Solomon develops a theme:  Man does not know his time.  He spends several paragraphs describing the works and attitudes of the wise and foolish, and yet all of them one day come to the end of their life.  There are some good men who die early and some wicked men who live long lives; yet none of them escape death.  The point of wisdom, says Solomon, is preparation for death - and that date cannot be presumed by any factor.

So, are you prepared?

Ecclesiastes 4 - 6

Solomon continues to lay out the futility of life lived without acknowledgment of God.  It makes no difference if life is long or short; without God it is meaningless.

Along those lines, the author of this blog is greatly missing a dear friend.  This friend's time on earth was short yet they left an impact on many.  Pray for a hurting family and a host of hurting friends as we all process this loss.  This dear friend lived life acknowledging God's presence; and for that I can truly be thankful.

Ecclesiastes 1 - 3

"Life is empty."  That is the conclusion to which the preacher of Ecclesiastes came (Ecclesiastes is a term that means "preacher").  This man (also known as Solomon) set out to know the wisdom of all; and he continually came to the conclusion that life is empty.  No one ever learns from the past, folks keep making the same mistakes; and the earth keeps on spinning.

His search led him to experience with pleasure, but it proved empty.  He attempted to find meaning in activity - building, acquiring, excelling, enjoying - and it proved meaningless to him.  He states that he came to the point where he hated life for nothing brought real satisfaction - not even hard labor.

Certainly, there is a time and place for every activity.  God gives each person a task to accomplish, and these tasks are designed to instill in each one a yearning that only God can fill.  The expected result is that man will turn to God; but many do not.

Proverbs 30 - 31

Nestled in the closing chapters of Proverbs is one little verse with a great message.  Proverbs 30:5 states that "every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him."  The word 'pure' indicates a substance that has been tested, refined and found to be without error or imperfection.  As one approaches God's Word, they will find it to be without error; it stands, has stood and will stand the test of time and criticism.  No wonder the author can state that God is a protector for those who trust Him.  One Whose words are found to be true, accurate and without error CAN be trusted in any situation.

Proverbs 27 - 29

Solomon tells us that the citizenry will rejoice at the leadership of a righteous one; but that they groan under the leadership of a wicked authority.  The reason for this is due to the standards they each keep.  The righteous measure themselves by a fixed standard outside of themselves.  The wicked, on the other hand, measures everything by themselves - using themself as the standard.  Thus, what might be appropriate today would be in appropriate tomorrow.  The standard would change on the whim of the leader.

As we face a political season unlike any other in (at least recent) history, perhaps it is a good reminder to look for the candidate in every race who most closely follows a standard that does not vary, one that holds true despite the passing of time.  At election times, many rejoice over the outcome; but what is the lasting impression - rejoicing or groaning?

Proverbs 25 - 26

Solomon tells us that the best way to avoid arguments and disagreements is to remove gossip and whispering from the situation.  He describes it as removing wood from a fire.  What fire can burn without fuel?  How damaging gossip and whispering are to relationships; they fuel the fires of disagreement, contempt and arguments.  Today, be on "fire patrol."  Remove all the flammable materials - gossip and whispering - so that your relationships don't go up in smoke.

Proverbs 22 - 24

Proverbs speaks much about the discipline of children.  In these chapters, the sage outlines several guidelines for discipline.  Discipline, he argues, will not destroy a child; rather, it will allow the child to be fully prepared for life in the future.  Another maxim stated by the writer is the invitation to his children to follow along beside him and copy his words and actions.  How often do I set this truism aside in favor of "Do as I say, not as I do."  That is NOT the way of wisdom - for my, or my children.

Proverbs 19 - 21

Proverbs 21 reminds us of the Lord's omniscience (His attribute of knowing all that is and can be known).  Because of this, no wisdom , counsel or understanding can be used against Him.  All that man can think, say or do is pointless and futile unless the Lord intervenes.

Proverbs 16 - 18

The power of the tongue is described in these chapters.  The one who uses their tongue wisely will find their enemies at peace with them, will find their ways pleasing the Lord, will enjoy the blessing of happy, peaceful relationships, and will not destroy themselves with careless, thoughtless words.

How has your tongue been used today?

Proverbs 13 - 15

A phrase common in Christian circles is "Little is much when God is in it."  This axiom is based on Proverbs 15:17 which tells the reader that it is better to have a dinner of only herbs with one you love than to have a full-blown gourmet-prepared meal in the presence of one that is hated.  The emphasis is not on the food; the emphasis is on the attitude.  Am I able to see the benefit of a healthy relationship?  Am I looking at the loving relationships I have as far exceeding the extravagance and wealth of others that I might be tempted to envy?  Who cares what is on my plate, if I am sharing it with someone I love!

Proverbs 10 - 12

Many themes could be pulled and elaborated from this text.  One theme that stood out to my mind this morning was "INTEGRITY".  We live in a world that is, by and large, devoid of integrity.  That curious blend of faith, honor and discipline melding into a life of unquestionable character and action is needed in so many lives today.  What does Proverbs say about integrity?

Proverbs 10:9 tells us that the one who walks with integrity walks securely; conversely, the one who perverts his ways will become known.  It is soon (enough) apparent when a person's words and walk do not align.  The person of integrity, however, does not fear being 'found out' for all that will be known has already been demonstrated.  They, like that Dr. Seuss elephant, say what they mean and mean what they say.

Proverbs 11:3 informs us that a person's integrity will lead them in the right direction.  The one seeking the honorable solution will always find and end - and the means to get there - that are consistent and uncompromisingly true to their core values.  Their life is stable, though the situations they face may be anything but!  On the other hand, the one who is unfaithful to themselves and their core values will find nothing but destruction and ruins where they expected gain and prosperity.

Proverbs 8 - 9

Quick, make a list of all the things you would like to have.  Money is no object, so don't worry about the financing of such a list.  No limits - for what would you ask?  Oil futures?  Precious metals?  Property?

Proverbs 8:11 tells us that wisdom is better than precious gems; and that wisdom is so superior to anything one can desire that a fair comparision cannot be made.  This is the truth of Scripture, but is it lived out in your life?  Take another look at that list, is wisdom on it?  We have such perverted value systems, don't we?

Proverbs 6 - 7

Of the many teachings in this passage, one theme is returned to several times:  the folly of ignoring wisdom and going after an illicit relationship.  The relationship is pictured as deadly and capable of bringing down the strongest of participants.  The remedy is outlined clearly, as well.  The commands and laws taught at an early age lead the adult when they roam, keep the adult while they sleep and commune with one while awake.  These commands are light and life - they are ignored at great risk.  The summary statement is made that folks will forgive a thief who steals in time of need; but an adulterous person demonstrates their lack of true understanding and destroys their soul in the process.

Proverbs 3 - 5

In this passage, Solomon gives us insight into his childhood home.  Chapter 4 passes along the instruction he received from his father (King David).  David's passion for his son was that he gain understanding and wisdom.  Above anthing else, David wanted his son to possess insight into matters.  Knowing that his son would succeed him on the nation's throne, it was imperative that Solomon learn to approach every situation with a singular quest for truth and propriety.  What a great lesson to learn and pass along to our own children.

Proverbs 1 - 2

The book of Proverbs is a compilation of teaching from the wisest man who ever lived, Solomon, as well as of other writers.  In the opening lines, we learn that the secret of wisdom is fear of God.  A healthy relationship with God will set the table for all learning and application of knowledge.  Wisdom from God will be a gracious ornament on any life.  To scoff at such wisdom is not only ill-advised, it is dangerous.

Psalm 148 - 150

The book of Psalms ends with 3 songs inviting praise to God.  First, God is to be praised for His creative powers and His wisdom over creation.  All are invited to join in this celebration of God's person.   Secondly, God is to be praised for His interaction with His creation.  Finally, God is to be praised with every means possible.  If you have breath, the psalmist opines, you ought to be praising God.

Psalm 146 - 147

Psalm 146 highlights the need to have one's trust in the God of heaven.  Others will disappoint and fail; God never does.  His rule is forever.

Psalm 148 praises God for his provisions to the whole planet.  Snow, rain, sun, seasons, wind - all that is needed - comes from God's hand.  He has dealt uniquely with Israel; and they are called to rejoice and praise God for his favor.

Psalm 143 - 145

David sings about God's hearing and answering prayer.  As he sings, he asks God to forgive sin and not punish his wrongdoing.  He lays out a case for the situation he faces:  an enemy is pursuing him, hounding him from place to place and crushing his spirit.  Yet in all this, David remembers God's good treatment of him and asks God to show him that kind of favor yet again.  He pleads for deliverance and renewal of energy.

David then sings about the Lord as his Rock - the one who provides strength, stability and power.  For someone as strong, impenetrable and mighty as God, David is amazed that He would even consider interaction with mankind.  He outlines the course of praise he is ready to take in thankfulness for God's response.  He wants the joy that comes from God's presence among His people to be renewed.

David also extols the greatness of God to his generation.  The theme of this psalm is to pass along the reminders and tokens of God's blessing to the next generation.  We benefit from the past as we are reminded about all that has been done on our behalf.  This encourages and excites us about the present and the future.  Hearing what God has done makes one long to see God at work today and tomorrow.

Psalm 140 - 142

David prays for God's protection from those that would harm him.  He bases his request on his long-standing trust in God for safety, salvation and security.  He asks that those without such a relationship with God be given the end results of such a lack.

After requesting protection from evil doers, David then requests deliverance from evilness.  He asks God to give him the words to say to others, and to God Himself.  He asks God to keep his heart tuned to God's own thoughts and desires.  He states that, if punishment should come, he would rather it come from those who love the Lord instead of those who love wickedness.

David also asks God to provide relief from those that seek after his life.  Even in times when he is completely overwhelmed by life's situations, he acknowledges that the only place where he can turn for safety is to God.  He states "these circumstances are stronger than I; but You are stronger than all."  What a statement of faith and trust!

Psalm 137 - 139

Psalm 137, written after the exile of Judah to Babylon, recounts the lack of joy experienced by the nation; and their longing to return to the land of God's favor. Apart from God's presence, there is no joy. Their captors tried to persuade a joyful song from the Jews, but their source of strength and joy was removed from them. How they longed for the full experience of God's presence.

David expresses the joy found in God's goodness in Psalm 138. God demonstrates His sustaining ability and His strengthening presence to His people. These displays cause other nations to take note, and eventually these nations will turn their voices to praise of the God of Israel.

In the 139th Psalm, David makes a hymn of praise concerning God's knowledge of His creation. God knows man better than man knows himself. God knows our thoughts, intentions, words and actions even before they are formed. His presence is everywhere; and no one can escape His watchful eye. His power forms the unborn in a manner that is wonderful to consider. Not one characteristic is misplaced with God as the Designer. David ends this song with a plea for God to direct His presence, knowledge and power toward his heart. David submits to an honest evaluation at the hands of his Creator; so that he will follow God lovingly and correctly throughout his life.

Psalm 135 - 136

The psalmist invites praise to God for His manifold and prolonged blessing. While other gods are made with hands out of elements that are precious, God alone is unique for He is uncreated and the Source of those precious elements. The psalmist then engages in a prolonged statement concerning God's steadfast love - His merciful nature - which is permanent. No matter the situation, regardless of the circumstance, God's mercy endures forever. This statement is repeated over 20 times to remind the reader, the singer, the hearer of God's unfailing and steadfast love.

Psalm 132 - 134

The pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem are reminded about the promise made to David by God that a descendant of his would inhabit the throne forever. While many understood this to mean that the nation of Israel would always prosper, God's intention is far greater. He will place a leader on the throne one day whose own personal reign would never end. This is a prediction of the Messiah. With this in mind, the travelers rejoice at the unity that comes from a common bond found in relationship with God. It is a blessing that drips with goodness and mercy! The watchmen along the walls of the temple rejoice and invite others to remember and celebrate God's goodness.