I WONDER WHAT THE VOTE WAS

In the Bible Study we attend on Tuesday evenings, we came to the passage in Ephesians that tells us that we were chosen by God to be holy and blameless and adopted by Him before the creation of the world. And besides that, for His pleasure and His glory. And it is so human to think we had something to do with that choosing. But, joyfully, it was God the Father who drew me to His Son, Jesus. Takes away a lot of the pressure to do it all on my power. That is cool.

It did get me to thinking how the conversation went when God preordained me to be His own. In light of all the politics that decides so much of our lives on earth now, I worry that the creation was delayed because of the debate in Heaven. I mean here is God, ready to create the world and before that creation He chose me to be in His family. I wonder if the vote was a split decision, like two to one or something like that. Makes me think my response to what He did for me should be more of appreciation and obedience rather than questioning everything I dont understand.

Family Issues

Wow, people, this was a family discussion. Rick Warren was speaking to his congregation. There are needs in every family. If some in the family take it outside the family, it is not his fault. The guy doesn't benefit from the funds. He takes no salary.
Here, at Central, the exact areas of need that Rick Warren shared about are hurting as well. I know some people feel better giving "their" money to ministry rather than buildings. I feel it all goes to good whatever the designation may be.
It is still a fact that all areas of ministry, as well as all areas of the economy, are lacking. Good thing God is bigger than all the squabbling.

2010, GOOD YEAR, SO FAR

First off, I didn't know a gala mean't suits or tuxes. I was not the only one who was not "dressed up". I didn't stand out but there were few enough of us that we were noticed. Jean bought a new top and I had on a new shirt. But I haven't seen that many ties in a long time.

Second, after a very "dry" year of not much Smooth, I have to thank Brian Bromberg for inviting some of his friends, and some of our favorite smooth jazz stars, to bring in the new year. Richard Elliot, Rick Braun and David Benoit are three of our favorites. As chance would have it, sitting at our table was the morning voice of the KYOT, Melissa Sharpe and her husband.

And at midnight, I could only reflect on how thankful I am that I am starting another year with Jean.