Who is my Neighbour?

Have you ever questioned...Who is my neighbour? The person living next door to me? The people living on my block? The ones who are nice to me? The ones who agree with my thinking? The people living in my town? The people living in my province? The people living in my country? My countries allies? I think that we over analyse this question.

Who is my neighbour?  I like what Jesus has to say about this. I believe this lesson is as applicable today as it was 2000 years ago.

One day an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: “Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?”
Jesus replied, “What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?”
The man answered, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’”
“Right!” Jesus told him. “Do this and you will live!”

The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbour?”

Jesus replied with a story: “A Jewish man was travelling from Jerusalem down to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road.
“By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by. A Temple assistant walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side.
“Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him. The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I'm here.’
“Now which of these three would you say was a neighbour to the man who was attacked by bandits?” Jesus asked.

The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.”
Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.”      Luke 10:25-37 New Living Translation (NLT)

The next time you get to help someone, do it. The Samaritan could have walked on past, waited for someone else to help - maybe someone of the same faith, rationalized that it would be too expensive to care for this wounded man, worried that the man had alternative motives for getting beat up, or just thought that it was too dangerous...The Samaritan could have done all these things and had justification. But he didn't. He showed mercy.
And Jesus said - "Now go and do the same." 
Who is my neighbour? I think Jesus answered that question very clearly. :)

Thoughts of a dad with children on the Autistic Spectrum.

Life is ever increasingly speeding up – at least that is the way it seems - and because of this, just gathering my thoughts has been an ever increasing challenge.

If you know my family, we are a mom, a dad, 4 children and 3 dogs. 3 of our children have special needs (neurodivergant) – 2 autistic and one who is globally developmentally delayed. Our oldest daughter is neurotypical. So trust me when I say, we have adjusted to life in a unique way.

I work in a small northern community (population around 1300) as a pastor of a beautiful group of people. The main language here is French, we are English. 2 of our children go to a school each day that is 67 km's away. That is where the English high school is.

Constant advocacy for our children is a must. We communicate with the school on a daily basis through “communication booklets” If warranted, the school will call us to let us know something out of the ordinary has happened. This usually is a couple times a week. Our family life is planned meticulously. Because it has to be. Detailed routine schedules, doctor appointments, special needs workers, school meetings, more doctor appointments. Manoeuvring daily while adapting to life.

It has been years since our first son was diagnosed as being on the autistic spectrum and still it is hard for me to explain. Not the explanation, but just communicating to people in a way that they understand. Now we have 3 children that are unique. As I wrote that last line, I smiled. I smiled because I know that there are families facing even greater challenges than us and I want to show you my heartfelt empathy to you. :)

So, how do we explain what is going on? Explaining to family, to friends, and to strangers that ask - “what is the matter with your kids?” Actually instead of explaining, I like to use the word “educate”

Here is what we do - my wife or I put on a smile and then start to educate the person who asked the question. We explain that this behaviour is normal for our older son...or our younger son...or our youngest daughter. He/she has trouble focusing, can't sit for periods of time, is easily distracted (unless it sparks a interest, and then for hours at a time they will focus on that item). There are specific textures that drive them to gag, so they are 'picky' on what is eaten. That 'jumping around' that they do (each child is unique – one flaps and nods his head, one jumps, one flaps his hands) is not because they are trying to be disruptive...to them it is a release. A release of anxiety, release of daily pressures, release of being teased, release of over the stimulation of their senses.

Now this is usually what happens – I am then told of a new diet, a new treatment, a new study by the person I am trying to explain (educate) too. I usually smile. 99% of the people are actually trying to be helpful and compassionate so I don't confront, I don't argue, I don't rebut...I smile... and hope that they heard me.

In the back of my mind I sometimes think – and I am sure parents of neurodivergent children would concur - If people knew how much scientific research I have read, how many experts I have talked too, how many doctors I have consulted, how many seminars I have participated in...if people only knew.

I just want to say one last little thing for today – maybe it will help someone in a similar situation or life challenge. One thing that I hold tightly onto is my faith in God. That is what gives me hope. That is what keeps me sane. You see, I was told by a man one day (who has a son with autism) - “Tim, do you know why you and your wife have 3 special needs children? It is because God trusted you enough to watch over them.”

Have a great day friends.

Smoothing out the road

It has been a while...18 months since I last updated my Blog. I took a look and it has had a little over 13,000 views. Not too bad ...lol

I sit in my office today as the road crew replaces the street in front of the church. Normally, the birds are singing and the odd car drives by. Today, there is a constant roar of a machine eating pavement. And in a few days, that noise will be gone and the new road will be complete.

Our minds can be like that pavement machine – every now and then it gets loud, noisy, the earth shakes, things look terrible and traffic slows to a halt.

Watchman Nee said, “An unpeaceful mind cannot operate normally. Hence the Apostle teaches us to “have no anxiety [stress] about anything” (Phil. 4:6). Deliver all anxious thoughts to God as soon as they arise. Let the peace of God maintain your heart and mind (v. 7).

I would like to share some Scriptures with you – Scripture to help bring peace back to your mind:

Philippians 4:6,7 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Psalms 55:22 Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.
Proverbs 16:3 Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established.
James 1:2-4 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Matthew 11:28-30 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Dr. Henry Brandt puts it like this:

TAKE A STEP
Find a little time to evaluate your reactions to your current situations.

What is keeping you from experiencing God’s love, joy, and peace?

Are you willing to yield yourself to the Lord?

Are you willing to release the emotions to Him that are affecting your life in a negative way?

Do you truly desire His peace?

Ask God to fill you with His peace and to show you how you can change.

My final thought...The road eventually will be smooth, once the builder is finished with it :)

Do you know your weakness?

 

Good morning friends and family....Do you know that our enemy knows our weaknesses? He designs temptations to carefully match your personality. Think with me for a moment...Fear in the path of an introvert, ease and release of the uncontrolled tongue to the exhausted person, uncontrolled desire for food for the lonely or busy, false promises of a better life to the love starved spouse, numbness of alcohol to the depressed, ultimate self sufficiency to the strong willed with the fantasy that he or she needs no one else...the list goes on and on...What is your weak spot? I bet you know what it is. 1 Peter 5:8 says "Be self controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." Be aware...be alert...Today, give it over to God. Ask for His grace, ask for His help....then allow Him help you. You may need to change your habits by removing yourself from situations that are not helpful to you...you may need to change your friends - not all friends are friends - if someone is tearing you down and using you, you need to rethink that friendship...you may need to change how you see life - Do you realize the God REALLY LOVES YOU and wants the best for you....you may need to change how you view yourself - You are a beautiful creation, designed by God and have great value...Remember friends, one day at a time and the learning happens "during" the journey Have a great day friends !

What I learned in 2013.

It has been a while since I blogged...A lot has gone on in the last 6 months - So where do I start? 2013 will be a year I never will forget. I've learned a lot. A lot that is deeply personal to me. A lot about myself and I will share some of it with you – my friends, my family.
I learned that life is like a vapour, here one minute, gone the next. I talked to my mom at 5:20pm one day...and that very night she went home to be with the Lord.
I learned priorities. God, my family then church, and that and is making me a better husband, a better dad, and a better pastor.
I learned that I have friends that deeply care for me and my family.
I learned that if you do not get the rest you need, your body will force you to rest.
I learned that God is in control and He will accomplish His will, with or without my help.
I also learned that if I get in God's way, He will gently correct – as a loving Father does.
I learned that it doesn't matter what people say about me – my confidence and self worth comes from God, not people.
I learned that my children are a beautiful gift...a gift that God has entrusted into my and wife's hands. They are precious flowers, delicate and in need of constant caring and love.
I learned that my wife means more to me now, than ever before.
I learned that God is not in a rush, nothing catches Him by surprise...God's plan is not according to my timing, it's according to His.
I learned that Bethel really loves my family and me. God has His hand on this Assembly – Good things are happening – we must remain faithful to God's timing, one day at a time, one step at a time.
I learned that the people of Smooth Rock Falls are loving, caring and considerate – even more than I ever dreamed.
I learned that 2013 was just that....a learning year for me. A year of refining. I'd be lying if I said it was painless. I'd be lying if I said it was comfortable. I'd be lying if I said it was fun...it wasn't. But here is the thing that I learned...joy comes in the morning. The morning may or may not be 2014...I don't know. But I do know Who is in control. I do know that He is just. And I know that He loves me, my cherished wife, my blessed children, my precious Bethel family, and the wonderful people of Smooth Rock Falls. What better place to be May God bless you in 2014 !

My Mom - Eulogy that I gave at my mom's funeral, June 29th, 2013

My Mom

I stand here today to tell you what my mom means to me:

When I was sick, she was my nurse, - I can remember having the mumps. I could not open my mouth...mom bought me a bag of Doritos...I was able to slide them between my teeth and then let them dissolve in my mouth...

When I needed to go to hockey or baseball, she was my personal chauffeur- one time we were coming back from a hockey game in Mitchell...it was snowing so bad we could not see the road...mom had me stick my head out the window so we could see where the shoulder of the road was. We made it home safely...

When I was in trouble, she was my advocate, - we aren't going to talk about this one :)

When I was confused, she was my voice of clarity,

When I was depressed, she lifted my spirit,

When I was angry, she calmed me down, - my sister (I won't say which one (Faith)) had the ability to turn a kind, gentle me...into the incredible hulk....one night my sister and I had a minor disagreement...I got mad and put my foot through the side of the couch..picture a hole ...a big hole...through the side of the couch...I then went outside, got my hockey stick and started to shoot the puck....mom came home from work saw me outside and said...What did Your sister do?... I caused the damage...my sister got in trouble :)

When I was bitter, she sweetened my mood,

When I got mad at God, She reminded me that " all things work together for good to those who love God"

When my Papa (grandfather) passed away, I got very mad at God. I asked my mom a couple questions...questions that a lot of you are probably asking right now...."How could a kind and loving God take such a wonderful person?" or "Why did mom suffer painfully for her last 15 years and then die suddenly?"

I'll answer the second question first....I truly believe that my mom was specifically chosen by God and given His grace, to be an example for me...an example for us all here today.... an example that no matter what my situation is, I have a choice...I can choose to praise or I can choose to complain...I can choose to honour God, or I can choose to ignore God...I can choose to focus on what I don't have, or I can choose to make the most out of what I do have... I can choose to focus on my shortcomings or I can choose to focus on my strengths....I can choose to be bitter or I can choose to let go...I can choose to hate or I can choose to forgive.... I can choose ...The choice is mine...but the choice is also yours.... My mom was an example for us...an example God used to draw us closer to Him...if we choose....

Now back to the first question - How could a kind and loving God take such a wonderful person...my mom answered it to me this way..."Papa was ready...Papa loved the Lord with all his heart...God was giving more time to others - time for people to come to know Him."

My mom told me that...and I chose to be mad at God....I chose...But my mom prayed for me...she loved me...she encouraged me...she believed God would get a hold of me....and He did.

Today, I mourn my mom. I miss her dearly. I wish I could talk to her one more time – the last time I talked with her was Monday afternoon at 5:35pm...On Tuesday morning @ 2:45am she was gone....I wish I could give her one more kiss, give her one more hug....just one more... .she's my mom....But even as I mourn, even as I miss her...I know where my mom is. Do Not say that I Lost My Mom...When you lose something, you don't know where it is – I know where my mom is !!! I know that she has finished her race...she has gained her prize....I know that the Lord welcomed her by saying...."Well done, my good and faithful servant."

I know that one day, I will see her again. And on that day, I will talk with her... I will give her a kiss...I will hug her...and I will thank her for being a loving... Godly.... Mom to me...

I Love You Mom :)

Fishing and God Speaking

Wow, it has been a long time since I wrote on this blog...I thought this may be an interesting story to tell -

Over the last 3 months, I've gone out ice fishing several times. Never catching anything. Often the other people I go with catch fish, and I like that. It adds a bit of excitement to a quiet time. Then a week ago I decided to go out by myself. Just some quiet time, a chance to get away and commune with God. Nice and quiet, no one around – the odd bird singing, but that is few and far between. It's cold here – really cold. The ice is 4 feet thick. The warmest day fishing was -7 C. Most days were between -20 and -12C. (Not including the windchill).

So there I am, Snowshoeing, the snow a couple feet deep, and drifted on the frozen lake. A light wind, but it is enough to bring a bit of a chill. I walked out to the middle of the lake, drilled a couple holes, and started fishing. Fortunately a few days before I went out, some others had been to the same place. The holes were only slightly frozen (a few inches of ice) and they were easy to punch through.
There I sat. Sled in front of me, snowshoes sticking up from the snow to create a wind shield and my portable heater pumping out some warm air. For an hour, nothing...It was a nice time to look around at the trees. The sun was behind the clouds and no one...absolutely no one was around. No snowmobiles, no cars, no trucks, no other fishermen....Just me and God. You never know how loud silence is, until there is nothing making a sound.
I prayed, and prayed and prayed some more. Fishing was secondary – an excuse to get away and be alone with God. It was really nice.
Then I heard the ringing of a bell....ding ding...ding...ding ding... That's when it hit me - “I had a fish on !” I have bells on the end of my ice fishing rods in case I get a fish on and I am not looking at it....well it worked.
I looked over to see my rod tip in the hole...the pole still in the holder but bending and bouncing violently. I ran over and grabbed my line by hand. A few seconds later, my first fish caught ice fishing was laying beside me. I was happy. Finally, I got that gorilla off my back.
Of course I had to take a picture of it, so I did. Then I released the Northern Pike back down the hole, into the lake.
I fished and prayed and enjoyed His creation for another 2 hours – not even a nibble...That was ok.
I went home, and had really enjoyed my time on the lake.
The next day I was talking to a friend and I had told him about catching my first fish ice fishing. He said one thing that intrigued me. He asked me what time I caught my fish – I looked at the picture that I took and the time stamp was 13:51. So that means I caught the fish between 13:47 and 13:51. He said to me – look up that scripture.
So I typed 13:47-51 into Google and guess what came up. Matthew 13:47-51 Parable of the Fishing Net :) Here is that scripture -

Matthew 13:47-51 Parable of the Fishing Net

47 “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a fishing net that was thrown into the water and caught fish of every kind. 48 When the net was full, they dragged it up onto the shore, sat down, and sorted the good fish into crates, but threw the bad ones away. 


49 That is the way it will be at the end of the world. The angels will come and separate the wicked people from the righteous, 50 throwing the wicked into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 51 Do you understand all these things?”
“Yes,” they said, “we do.”


I sit at the computer thinking – “You are so good Lord !” “You even speak to me when I am fishing :)” 
There is a lot in this passage of Scripture...next Blog, I'll expand on this passage - Be blessed friends !

Ontario Teachers Strike, Government Blinks, Kids Lose

On Wednesday my children brought home papers informing us that on Monday December 10th there will be  no classes for them as the teachers are striking for one day. Later that night, I heard that the union has picked 2 school Boards - Avon/Maitland in Southern Ontario (60,000 students) and Ontario North East - a relatively small school board. That is where my children go. 

Across the street from my house is a French Catholic School (also know as private school that is funded by the public) They will be teaching on Monday. The students that go there will be getting an education.
Now before you start putting your comments on what this strike is all about...save it for the spin doctors. I have heard both arguments and I know how each side is "staying on message". The French Catholic & French Public Teachers unions both accepted the same deal that the ETFO rejected. Here's what it boils down to. The Union is in a power struggle with the Government. A struggle that in all likelihood will be won in court. That is what the experts are saying. Unfortunately that is not good enough. 

Then is the locations of the strikes...2 relatively small boards - Not Toronto...that is where the majority of the Liberal seats are...but in Northern Ontario (NDP) and in Southern Ontario (PC). Does no one else see what is happening here. First of all, it is a test. A test to see what the Government will do...the answer is - Nothing.  Second, there is a Provincial election coming up...soon - The Union recognizes this - they have been very close to this Government for the last 8 years - they don't want to burn all the bridges. Third, this effects a relatively small number of students. The Union doesn't want to upset the cart totally until they see what the Government will do.

I have family as teachers, I have friends as teachers. They  are hard working, energetic and devoted to their jobs. I also went through a teachers strike when I was in high school....a long strike...very long. I lost a math credit - I couldn't "cram" everything I needed to know in a short period of time when the teachers returned. And all through the strike the message was "no student has ever lost a credit because of a strike" I would disagree.

This is not the right move by the ETFO - They talk about Democracy...having their rights taken away. Yet if a teachers breaks rank and chooses to teach while a strike is on that teacher can be fined up to $500 a day. Not very Democratic. 

The Government has been voted in to lead. The government has been voted in to make tough choices. I see neither leadership or choices....I see politicians looking towards the next election.

In all this - The kids Lose.

Fishing through the Ice

For the last few days I thought - should I post this? I shared this with my Assembly on Sunday and wanted to expand upon it.

About a week ago during prayer at our church I saw something very interesting: Here is what I saw - There were two rolling hills, one to the left, one to the right. In between was a large bay - I was standing on a dock looking out over the bay. The bay was frozen and there were people ice fishing all across the area. As I looked to my left - boats were tied to the docks, the ice had locked them in. They were perfectly good vessels, just frozen - bound by the ice. 
As I turned and looked over the bay again, I notice that an icebreaker was coming. People that were fishing were happy - they would soon be able to use their boats again. Closer it came. I could see the water now appearing through the breaks in the ice. Good things coming - 

As  I thought and prayed about this, this is what came to me: 
Often our lives are like the people fishing on the ice - we are drilling a hole and trusting the Lord to catch a fish here, catching a fish there. All the while our our boats are locked in the ice. Then along comes the spring and the ice breaker.
But between the ice fishing and boat fishing there is a dormant time - a time when you can't go on the ice and a time when you can't go out in the boat. What are you doing with that time?
Are you preparing your nets? Are you refreshing your supplies? Are you fuelling up? Are you excited about the opportunity to go back out and go fishing?

I believe that Jesus is asking us the same thing - How are you using your time? Have you prepared? Are you ready to venture out when the time is right?  Are you ready to catch not one fish but thousands? Are you tired of being bound by ice, and are you ready to move freely?

It's given me something to think about, it's encouraged me - We are watching you break the ice Jesus - now we have to be ready to fish :)

"Early in the Morning" - a recap of Easter Service

Ark of the Covenant as depicted by bibleplaces.com

I have a vivid imagination - I can't remember a dream that's never been in colour. When I read a book, the story becomes alive to me. When I tell a story, I like to explain, expound and entice my listeners with details that capture their attention. 
As I was preparing for Easter Sunday's service, my mind was running...so many thoughts coming into my mind. I was excited. 
I read from John chapter 20 - the story of Mary going to the tomb of Jesus on that wonderful Easter morning. I couldn't help but picture what it was like...Cool morning air, the birds just starting to wake. The dim light of a lantern as Mary walks toward the garden tomb. How was Mary feeling? Was she nervous? Was she concerned that she was going to a tomb? What was she expecting to find?
Then imagine her astonishment, the stone rolled away. This tomb that was sealed. She immediately ran to tell Peter. She was frantic, her Lord was gone. 
(Here is an interesting thing...did she look into the tomb before she got Peter? She tells Peter that the Lord's body has been taken out of the tomb...Did she look before getting Peter or did she just assume that someone had stolen Jesus's body?)
One other interesting detail that I really like is when the Peter and the other disciple had left, and Mary was at the tomb..she looks in and sees 2 angels. Remember her eyes are filled with tears, she's crying and weeping. 
One angel at the foot of where Jesus laid, and one foot at the head of where Jesus had laid. This got my mind going - where else do we see 2 angels - one at the head and one at the foot? The ark of the covenant. Here is a little history on it - This ark was in the Holy of Holy's in the Jewish temple. The top of the ark was named "The Mercy Seat" This "Mercy Seat" had an angel at the head, and one at the foot. The High Priest would sprinkle blood for the atonement for himself and his family, the other priests, the Tabernacle, and the people of Israel.
Now go back with me to the story of Mary looking into the tomb. 2 angels...one at the head, one at the foot or where Jesus was laid...He was the Sacrifice for our sins...Do you see the similarity?
Just some thoughts :)


Blessings to you.

Busy, Busy, Busy...but to what end ? part 1

It has been a little while since I last posted. Life right now is very busy. Busy at work, busy at home, busy at church, busy planning, busy re-planning, busy writing, busy...busy...busy. Over 40 years have passed me... A little over 15 000 days... 360 000 hours...21 600 000 minutes...1 404 000 000 heart beats ( One billion 404 million heart beats)  and counting. My body is busy without me even thinking about it.

Then I read Haggai 1...⁵ Now this is what the LORD Almighty says: “Give careful thought to your ways. ⁶ You have planted much, but harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it.”  ⁷ This is what the LORD Almighty says: “Give careful thought to your ways"... And I can't help but reflect on what is being said in this chapter. Twice the Lord says "Give careful thought to your ways." What is the Lord talking about? People being busy with what they want to do. For several years the Jewish people had returned to Jerusalem and they did not rebuild the temple...God's house. Their priorities where out of sync. they had a "me" first mentality. I think that today, in our busy lives, we often have this mentality. Me first. 

The prophet goes on to write:

⁸ Go up into the mountains and bring down timber and build my house, so that I may take pleasure in it and be honored,” says the LORD. ⁹ “You expected much, but see, it turned out to be little. What you brought home, I blew away. Why?” declares the LORD Almighty. “Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with your own house. ¹⁰ Therefore, because of you the heavens have withheld their dew and the earth its crops. ¹¹ I called for a drought on the fields and the mountains, on the grain, the new wine, the olive oil and everything else the ground produces, on people and livestock, and on all the labor of your hands.”

Here we have a very clear, concise, cause and effect. God's house was neglected...and God was not happy. People were busy doing "their own thing." The result was this - there were consequences. There was accountability. 

to be continued....

What if the Bible was as important as a Cell Phone

What if the Bible was as important as a Cell Phone?

1. If you forgot it, you would go and get it
2. it would be checked daily for messages
3. it would be treated as we couldn't live without it
4. it would be close by in case of emergencies
5. it would not get dust on it
6. it would be used hundreds of minutes each month
7. it would always close to you
8. it would be a great communication tool
9. it would be with you during church
10. it would be used during church
11. it may even save your life...

Just imagine....a Bible being as important as a cell phone.

2012 - A New Start to a New Year

I saw this Osprey nest yesterday while out for a drive with my family. Initially I thought that it would make a good picture....sort of unique. Then this morning, the Lord showed me something. This nest once served a purpose, is now empty, but it will be used again. Much like my life...that is why I am excited - 2012 will be a year of renewal. Just yesterday morning while reading the Bible - this is what popped out at me....“This is what the LORD says— he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43:16, 18-19 NIV

2011 is over - and I am so glad that it is. Now it is time to focus on future, not to dwell in the past!

Streams of living water are going to flow, wastelands will be made fertile, and paths through the wilderness will lead to amazing accomplishments! 

My family and I are SO looking forward to this New Year !!!

'Tis the season...

It's been over a month since I updated my Blog...A lot has been going on. The one thing that has been stirring at my heart is this..."How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone." James 4:14... Life is really short. Some can live for more than 90 years, others only minutes. But I started to really think about this...if by God's grace I live to 90, I'm almost half way there. Time is really short. You may think that this is morbid to be talking about death so close to Christmas, but hear me out. This year I've witnessed a younger cousin pass away from cancer, my wife had a miscarriage, another member of the family is very close to meeting the Lord because of cancer, and add to this other family members suffering with debilitating diseases - it is a reality check. But this is what gets me...all this is going on and then I see friends, family and loved ones bickering and fighting over petty meaningless prideful crap. (I'd use other language but this is a family friendly Blog.)

It is a dangerous game to play with bitterness. Bitterness is that root that takes hold and grows faster than any weed in a garden. It chokes life from family, it poisons friendships, it withers joy from the leaves of life. As I started out - life is short...sometimes a lot shorter than you think. Do yourself a favour - this Christmas season, let go of the bitterness. Let go of the offense. Let go of the hurt (because most bitterness has been caused because you have been hurt) It will help your friends. It will help your family, but most of all, it will help you. And by the way....Jesus gave a stern warning in Matthew 6:14-15. Like anything the choice is yours to believe it or not...“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins."

Show love. mercy and forgiveness this season friends. Life really is short.
Merry Christmas.

A little town called Peace

There once was a person who enjoyed life. Each morning as the sun arose he would look outside at the wonderful colours of the sunrise. Red, orange, yellow and purple as the suns rays reflected off of the morning clouds. It was beautiful in this place called Peace.

Then one day a terrible thing happened. A storm came from out of nowhere. The clouds darkened a blackish green colour. The wind all but ceased. Stillness was in the air as all the birds stopped their singing.

The person got scared, but instead of staying in the shelter of Peace, he ventured onto a path - just a small path - called Anger's Path. At first, the path brought some relief. His back was now to the storm. Leaving Peace behind almost felt good. The storm was getting stronger, thunder, lightening and hail - but it was behind him now.

Looking up ahead there was a clearing...then another road - a road called Bitterness. This road was wider, smoother and well traveled. It went as far as the eye could see and the great thing was that it was going away from the storm. He walked, and walked and walked some more. Great distance was traveled, but no matter how far he walked...the storm was still in the rear. 

The person grew tired. It took a lot of energy and time to run from the storm. But guess what - Soon the person noticed that there were others. People just like him - People called: Loneliness, Hunger, Thirst, Pain, Struggle, Anxiety and Fear - All running, all on a road that lead to a place called Nowhere.

The person stopped to look back from where he had come, his heart sank - the storm was still there. The clouds where black and lightening flashed - but there was something else... In front of those black as night clouds a rainbow appeared. Red, Orange, Yellow - Green, Blue, Indigo and Violet - brilliant colours. Made more brilliant by the storm behind.

Then it hit him - Running from the storm of life was just that - running. If he had just rested in the shelter of Peace while the storm raged - eventually the storm would pass. The sun would shine and the birds would sing again. The air would be fresh and the flowers would bloom. Peace - the place that gives you shelter in the storm.

John 14:27 - Jesus said "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

What not to say...you cannot un-ring a bell

It's been a while friends since I have updated my Blog. I can't promise I'll be writing as much - things are really busy in my and my families lives right now. I had a few minutes tonight, so here goes.....About seven weeks ago, I had very unfortunate experience....this is what I had started to write, then I stopped...

"You see, my wife and I are expecting again and it is suppose to be a happy time. Funny how one persons happiness, is used by others to rip and tear you down. Some people just don't think...Or maybe they do think, but have no filter between the brain and the mouth? Here are some words NOT to say when someone tells you they are expecting: These are things that I heard in the last couple of days. I am not saying by who or whom, but I heard it more than once.

"I guess you weren't using birth control"

"Really, another one?"

"Oh No...you already have your hands full"

"I guess I should congratulate you?" "

So that was 7 weeks ago. Last week, I sat beside my wife in the hospital, holding her hand, crying with her as she miscarried. I now reflect on those words that were said a few weeks earlier... I am trying not to get bitter. I am trying not to be angry. But it reminds me of how hurtful and damaging words can be. So instead I reflect on how fabulous the nurses were. They treated my wife with compassion and professionalism. One of them cried with her, and they all showed amazing compassion. The doctor was caring. He was very helpful and forthcoming. 

Now here is part 2 of things not to say....this is what was said to me the day after the miscarriage to my wife. "You know, there is a new study out that siblings are 20% more likely to have autism if one sibling has already been diagnosed. So maybe this was a blessing?"

My wife responded - "Well you know that nothing surprises the Lord, so why would this child have to worry"

the response...."Well the Lord took the child...didn't He."

I was amazed....totally speechless.

I actually had to preach the next day. Emotions were flowing. Pain was in my heart. While I sat beside my wife, Jeremiah 29:11-13 came to mind.  

¹¹ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ¹² Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. ¹³ You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart...so that is what I spoke on. A few verses on hope. A few verses of encouragement :)

I had studied and planned on speaking on Psalm 51. While studying, I read about King David losing his son with Bathsheba. When he lost his son, he said - "my son cannot come back to me, but I can go to him." That was on the Monday of the ultrasound....the morning we found out that the baby did not make it. 

I really believe that the Lord was preparing my heart for what was to take place over the next several days.

So in summary we will carry on -  trying to make light of what was said - looking for the best in everything. When all is said and done, it boils down to how you view a child. You see, I believe that children are a gift from God. They are to be loved, cherished, supported and cared for. They are not a "mistake."  You can agree with me, you can disagree with me...but you know what - I'm tired and not in the mood for a fight. Blessings to everyone of you that are reading this :)

Keep Looking UP ↑: Avoiding the obvious - God's Will

Keep Looking UP ↑: Avoiding the obvious - God's Will: "Psalm 23 - The Lord is my Shepherd Have you ever been going down the railroad of life...and your train becomes derailed? So many time, p..."

Avoiding the obvious - God's Will

Psalm 23 - The Lord is my Shepherd

Have you ever been going down the railroad of life...and your train becomes derailed? So many times, people seek God's will. Questions like - "What is God's will for my life?" "What does God want me to do next?" Where should I go?" or "Who should I talk to?"

I may be over simplifying this, but I think that there is truth to it....Maybe God's will is not so much the minute details, but the overall picture? Often we hear of God's Perfect Will vs God's Permissive Will. I think that this type of thinking can be frustrating to the average person.

Too often, I think that people use the arguement "I need to find God's Will" to do nothing, rather than to do something.  A lot of God's will is really clear when you read the Bible - Give to the poor, care for the sick and needy, help others, love one another, forgive one another, visit the sick and those in prison, seek peace, love the Lord.... Very clear - isn't it?

Today, when you are "Seeking God's Will" try a couple of the above suggestions the Bible gives. Maybe, just maybe, your train of life has become derailed not because you are Seeking God's Will, but because God's Will is being avoided.

The good news is that no matter what situation you find yourself in - God is not taken by surprise and He does not go into a panic because you make a "wrong" decision. God does not leave you when mistakes are made, but He remains close to you in order to help. He will turn things around to serve His purposes...It just may take a little longer than you or I want :)

Have a great day friends !

Interesting Canadian Facts - Eh !

Here are some interesting and fun Canadian Facts:

July 1, 1867 -Confederation of Canada

$1 574 000 000 000 Gross domestic product

34 502 000 population

12 400 000 houses

9 984 670 square kilometers in area

3 854 085 square miles in area

891 163 square kilometers of fresh water

559 105 Immigrant arrivals

381 382 births last year (2010) 

244 000 kms - length of Canada's coastline

7 604 kms - length of the Trans-Canada highway

5 959 meters - height of Mount Logan

614 meters deep - depth of Great Slave Lake

181 stories - height of CN tower

80.7 years is the life expectancy

48 feet - difference between high and low tide, Bay of Fundy

46 year old - age of the Canadian flag

40 C to -40C...Edmonton temperature range

24 Stanley Cups - Montreal Canadians

18 years in a row the Bluenose won the Fishermans Trophy

13 Stanley Cups - Toronto Maple Leafs

10 Provinces 

7 NHL teams

6 time zones

5 recognized parties in the House of Commons

4 Great Lakes

3 Territories

3 Oceans

2 official languages

#1 country in the World !

Happy Birthday Canada !!! The Best Country in the World !!!

The flag of my country

144 years ago, on July 1, 1867, 3 British North American colonies (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and the Province of Canada (Ontario & Quebec) became the 4 provinces of Canada. Today is a time to celebrate the birth of our great nation. It's not a time to protest, criticize, or complain - of course you are free to choose to do so, but there are 364 other days to do this.

I love my country. I believe that Canada is by far the best country in the world. 10 provinces and 3 territories make up the federation. We are a small country by population with 34.5 million people, but we are the second largest country by area in the world (almost 10 million square km's). That gives us one of the lowest population densities in the world. We also have the longest coastline in the world - 202,080 km's.

We enjoy four beautiful seasons - each one is uniquely different. 

In the winter, we get lots of snow and can get to -40 C.  

In the spring flowers bloom and the grass gets green.  

In the summer, it is hot and can get to 40C (104F). We have thousands of fresh water lakes to cool down in - not to mention the three oceans that surround us. 

 In the fall (Autumn) the leaves turn brilliant reds, orange and yellow. 

Yes, Canada is a kaleidoscope of colours:)

We have the Rocky Mountains in the West, and the cliffs of Newfoundland in the East. We have the Arctic in the North and the Great lakes in the South. We have fresh water, clean air, blue skies and green forests all through the Dominion.(Canada Day use to be called Dominion Day).

We have the right to vote. The freedom to practice personal religion. The freedom not to practice religion. We have Universal health care for all Canadians. We are free to go from British Columbia to Newfoundland anytime we want. And the nice thing about our free country, if you don't like it - you are free to leave. No one forces a person to remain here. I am not being sarcastic or trying to be funny. For many people in this world - the country that you are born in, is the country you will die in - you are not allowed the freedom to leave.

Our culture is unique and complicated. We have two official languages - French and English. Different regions of our country are diverse, yet we all try get along. We'd rather sit down and talk an issue over than fight...unless we're playing hockey.

Canada has two official sports - Hockey in the winter, Lacrosse in the summer. 
Yes, Canada is by far the most diverse country in the world...but it is my country :) and I am blessed to live in such beautiful country. 

Happy birthday Canada !