Rev. Sean's Testimony
The emptiness of a tomb; the fullness of
a heart. That's it, exactly.
My calling is one that grew out of, and
into, an absolute awareness; one that
took over 30 years to come to some
meaningful conclusion. I am evidence
that all is well in God’s time, proving that
God uses broken vessels to carry living
water. I am a Stephen Minister, and
recently received ordination rather than
pursue an MBA. Priorities.
When I was very young, fourth grade as I
recall, I tried to visualize what the end of
the universe looked like. I was not
successful (it was almost physically
painful to think that hard and that far) but I
did learn to accept certain things that I
could not understand. That is faith.
Even at that age I understood God's
vastness and His mystery. I knew His
Son.
My Sunday school Superintendent back
then was a truly gentle man by the name
of John Matthews. His name alone I will
never forget. The impact was profound,
as he was the first concept of the holy I
can actually remember.
I am a sinner. I could go into intimate
detail, but let's leave it at that. Suffice it
to say that I am blessed to be here to
tell about it. Remember it was the
sixties, seventies and eighties ... a
cauldron of opportunity, so to speak ... not
all bad, not all good. I'm sure you get the
drift. Hopefully, that provides some
perspective … but it is not a devaluation
of me as a Christian. In fact it provides
me the opportunity to look to God for my
fullness and my inspiration. It is a clear
reminder that if we could fix it we would
have.
God loves us for who we are, not in
spite of it. Through Jesus the Christ all
is made whole and good. God believes
in us even though we have not always
believed in Him. That is true faith.
My calling is obviously not on par with
the more historic and well-publicized
conversions … let’s say a St. Paul or a
Martin Luther, but inspired and
impassioned nonetheless. My ordination
is a calling by God through the activity of
the Holy Spirit over, as I indicated, a very
long period of time. To be true to Christ, I
am an independent minister beholden to
no particular organization,
denomination or doctrine. In keeping
with this approach my ministry is
absolutely Christ-centered. He is the
gate; He is the gatekeeper. There is no
other path; there is no other Savior.
John 10: 7 & 9 So again Jesus said to
them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the
gate for the sheep … I am the gate.
Whoever enters by Me will be saved,
and will come in and go out and find
pasture.”
I am about doing my various ministries,
because like Christ’s disciples I am
engaged in a higher calling: the highest
calling. Originally this was conferred by
God through the Holy Spirit without any
document or degree, but by blessing. The
same is true today, but with certain
stipulations. Unfortunately, many have
attempted to incorporate a process that
was once a matter of faith.
In closing … while I would not
recommend that anyone follow in my
footsteps, it is exactly why I am here
today. Any other path would not have
delivered me to my decision for Christ.
It is true to say that “we are where we are
because of where we have been.” And
right here, right now, is apparently where
God needs me to be to fulfill His
purpose. It is about God’s timing and His
will. My confidence in that fact is
unwavering. There are no accidents for
believers. Certainly not for this believer!
(2006)
The emptiness of a tomb; the fullness of
a heart. That's it, exactly.
My calling is one that grew out of, and
into, an absolute awareness; one that
took over 30 years to come to some
meaningful conclusion. I am evidence
that all is well in God’s time, proving that
God uses broken vessels to carry living
water. I am a Stephen Minister, and
recently received ordination rather than
pursue an MBA. Priorities.
When I was very young, fourth grade as I
recall, I tried to visualize what the end of
the universe looked like. I was not
successful (it was almost physically
painful to think that hard and that far) but I
did learn to accept certain things that I
could not understand. That is faith.
Even at that age I understood God's
vastness and His mystery. I knew His
Son.
My Sunday school Superintendent back
then was a truly gentle man by the name
of John Matthews. His name alone I will
never forget. The impact was profound,
as he was the first concept of the holy I
can actually remember.
I am a sinner. I could go into intimate
detail, but let's leave it at that. Suffice it
to say that I am blessed to be here to
tell about it. Remember it was the
sixties, seventies and eighties ... a
cauldron of opportunity, so to speak ... not
all bad, not all good. I'm sure you get the
drift. Hopefully, that provides some
perspective … but it is not a devaluation
of me as a Christian. In fact it provides
me the opportunity to look to God for my
fullness and my inspiration. It is a clear
reminder that if we could fix it we would
have.
God loves us for who we are, not in
spite of it. Through Jesus the Christ all
is made whole and good. God believes
in us even though we have not always
believed in Him. That is true faith.
My calling is obviously not on par with
the more historic and well-publicized
conversions … let’s say a St. Paul or a
Martin Luther, but inspired and
impassioned nonetheless. My ordination
is a calling by God through the activity of
the Holy Spirit over, as I indicated, a very
long period of time. To be true to Christ, I
am an independent minister beholden to
no particular organization,
denomination or doctrine. In keeping
with this approach my ministry is
absolutely Christ-centered. He is the
gate; He is the gatekeeper. There is no
other path; there is no other Savior.
John 10: 7 & 9 So again Jesus said to
them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the
gate for the sheep … I am the gate.
Whoever enters by Me will be saved,
and will come in and go out and find
pasture.”
I am about doing my various ministries,
because like Christ’s disciples I am
engaged in a higher calling: the highest
calling. Originally this was conferred by
God through the Holy Spirit without any
document or degree, but by blessing. The
same is true today, but with certain
stipulations. Unfortunately, many have
attempted to incorporate a process that
was once a matter of faith.
In closing … while I would not
recommend that anyone follow in my
footsteps, it is exactly why I am here
today. Any other path would not have
delivered me to my decision for Christ.
It is true to say that “we are where we are
because of where we have been.” And
right here, right now, is apparently where
God needs me to be to fulfill His
purpose. It is about God’s timing and His
will. My confidence in that fact is
unwavering. There are no accidents for
believers. Certainly not for this believer!
(2006)
| A Seeker's answers to critical questions These are the responses (in blue) from a friend I have been talking to for the past 6 months or so. This individual asked me some pretty pointed questions, and was honest about not being absolutely sold on the whole “Christian” thing. From the kind of questions I asked I think you can see that there was some strong interest regarding good works and that being sufficient for an eternal reward. (2007) My response was …. "if we do good, and don’t believe in Christ it will undoubtedly create a better situation (temporarily) in the “here and now,” however it will not have the lasting eternal effect that most are hoping for." As you read you will see that this person has actually answered the most critical questions about the need for Christ, and yet … taking that step into the unknown is always a difficult decision. I have great hope for this individual ... a good friend. Q) How do you know when you have done enough good? A) I don't think you do, we can never be as good as God or Christ; you have to keep trying. Q) How do you know what God really wants? A) I don't think anyone can know that for certain. I think we have been given guidelines, like the Commandments to work toward, what we think he wants from us. Maybe all he wants is our love and faith in him, and love and care of each other? Q) If you don't do enough of the right things, then what happens? A) How could any of us know that? God is the only one with that answer, I would think? Q) Can you do enough of the good things to offset the bad? How do you know when there is a balance? Where do you (we) draw the line? A) Whew, hard questions. I think you always have to draw the line at intentionally doing harm to other beings, we do not have that right in my humble opinion - something deep inside of me just tells me so. But then what about "the death penalty", mass murders - I guess the only thing we can do, is keep them caged away from others, till they die of natural causes and let God deal with them? Q) How can you possibly abide by rules that have no distinct guidelines ... or are impossible to uphold? A) Can't you only do what your soul tells you to do? Q) Have you ever felt like you couldn't do enough ... that it seems overwhelming? A) The older I get, the more I feel this way Q) If you sin a little (missing the mark is the actual translation) does it matter? Is sin relative or absolute? A) You mean like the "little white lie" to keep from hurting someone's feelings? Another answer from God? I operate on instinct, sometimes the truth is cruel and hurtful, so I choose "the sin" of lying instead of "the sin" of humiliating or hurting someone. I can't do that. A sin is a sin, as to what degree - only God knows? Q) Have you ever violated any of the 10 Commandments (even just a little)? A) Of course, I can't believe that there isn't a human being that hasn't. Q) Are there consequences for this or are they just guidelines? A) I have already paid consequences to some degree. |
| Communication from those who have received the weekly Meditations or visited the site. Isn’t it amazing how something comes to you at the right time? My sister is dying at this moment at a Hospice facility in Albuquerque . She has a brain tumor and is not expected to live more than a week. I was with her Sunday and cradled her and shared similar thoughts with her. I was with my mother in her last days and hours. My experience with her death was what I say was a privilege, the best way I can describe it is this, it is like being a midwife and helping with a labor to deliver a person to life everlasting. It was an honor and blessing to be a part of this process. It saddens me that I can not be with my sister in her hour of death. Thank you for continuing to include me in your meditations – I look forward to them. --V. (2007) Gents, Please read and consider this meditation from my friend Reverend Sean Lawrence who I have talked of over the past 2 yrs. He writes a meditation every week and emails it to his friends. See his website http://www.gatheringspirit. org/index.html. I will look for an opportunity for you to meet him this summer. Talk about being on fire for Christ. His website is packed with information and his challenging style of ministry. --T. (2008) From a recipient of Meditation wk31 in July 2008. This after I was asked to remove yet another individual from my email lists. It was a welcome sign from God that I am touching right hearts. Again I am humbled. That you know, I just prayed that you may continue to be a vessel for the message of our Lord, and I am grateful for our Lord having placed me in a position to hear his word(s) from you. I've been a contractor/builder, Real Estate Developer (multi residential), and am at present an Investment Broker dealing in commodities, options, foreign currencies, and tax lien acquisitions. I have about 7,000 hours in studying the legal system. If it is not the will of the Lord, no endeavor is worth undertaking. I have said all that, to say this; If I can ever be of assistance in anything you need do not hesitate to call on me. This is not a solicitation for business, the Lord blesses me with what he deems I need (Praise God for both the feast and famines in my life!). Rather, I'm merely offering myself to the Lord should he need me and you happen to be the vessel he uses to reach me. May Peace, Blessings, and the joy of the Lord abound in your life. Adieu, --G From Rev. Sean to an email respondent regarding a meditation early in 2009: I am privileged to provide these meditations, as they also keep me dialed in. You would think that a focus on God would be natural, and it is I believe in a general way, except that it is tempered by sin and our natural tendencies to rebel & explore. So, in reality, our worship is intentional and always a conscious choice. Jesus Christ is a specific choice among many avenues that would put a face on our relationship with God. The problem, if you want to call it that, is that it isn't the easy choice. Christ asks us to commit and lift His name up above all others. That will not always make you the most popular individual on your block, but it seals your concerns about where, and with whom, you will be spending eternity. Praise Him & Amen! |
taken late
December
2006 by
Starbucks'
employee.
December
2006 by
Starbucks'
employee.
FRIDAYmen meditations will
be added each week for 2007.
******************************
be added each week for 2007.
******************************
Friday men's group ... Pete, Tom,
Steve and Gerry ... and of course,
Sean. This was a good run, I think.
Steve and Gerry ... and of course,
Sean. This was a good run, I think.
| This was sent as a barb of sorts, but what the sender didn't know was that this is accurate. It's not about religion, but a relationship. Sadly, the Cross is often misunderstood ... used as a representation of all that is perceived to be wrong with Christianity. That thinking couldn't be further from the truth. The Cross convicts hearts, and most are simply not ready for that. And yet, we all carry crosses. Most folks, however, are so used to the dead weight that they no longer recognize the true shape of the void in their lives. (Yes, I know it's a rock band). |
Creation
without
God is
like a
body
without a
soul.
--Rev. Sean
without
God is
like a
body
without a
soul.
--Rev. Sean
the Hand of God
Matthew 17:18-20 Then Jesus
rebuked the demon, and it came
out of him, and from that
moment the boy was healed.
Then the disciples approached
Jesus privately and said, "Why
couldn't we drive it out?"
"Because of your little faith," He
told them. "For I assure you: If
you have faith the size of a
mustard seed, you will tell this
mountain, 'Move from here to
there,' and it will move. Nothing
will be impossible for you."
(e-Sword copyright 2007
Holman translation)
rebuked the demon, and it came
out of him, and from that
moment the boy was healed.
Then the disciples approached
Jesus privately and said, "Why
couldn't we drive it out?"
"Because of your little faith," He
told them. "For I assure you: If
you have faith the size of a
mustard seed, you will tell this
mountain, 'Move from here to
there,' and it will move. Nothing
will be impossible for you."
(e-Sword copyright 2007
Holman translation)
Mark 4:30-32 And He said:
"How can we illustrate the
kingdom of God, or what parable
can we use to describe it?
It's like a mustard seed that,
when sown in the soil, is smaller
than all the seeds on the ground.
And when sown, it comes up and
grows taller than all the
vegetables, and produces large
branches, so that the birds of
the sky can nest in its shade."
(e-Sword copyright 2007
Holman translation))
"How can we illustrate the
kingdom of God, or what parable
can we use to describe it?
It's like a mustard seed that,
when sown in the soil, is smaller
than all the seeds on the ground.
And when sown, it comes up and
grows taller than all the
vegetables, and produces large
branches, so that the birds of
the sky can nest in its shade."
(e-Sword copyright 2007
Holman translation))
House band and
stage setup at 4
Corners Church,
Fairfield, OH.
So this is how we
reassemble the
modern man?
The metaphor is a
painful, but
necessary,
reminder about
the blessing of
choice and freewill.
I guess this is
what we would be
without the breath
of God: just
lifeless
mannequins.
stage setup at 4
Corners Church,
Fairfield, OH.
So this is how we
reassemble the
modern man?
The metaphor is a
painful, but
necessary,
reminder about
the blessing of
choice and freewill.
I guess this is
what we would be
without the breath
of God: just
lifeless
mannequins.
Church [now] meets at Zion Global Mission on Westchester Rd. just past
Rte 42 (on the left)at 10:00 A.M. each Sunday ... Great gig! The message
is fresh and powerful. Come and hear Christian truth. (summer 2007)
Rte 42 (on the left)at 10:00 A.M. each Sunday ... Great gig! The message
is fresh and powerful. Come and hear Christian truth. (summer 2007)
The cool refreshing
waters of baptism.
But this isn't just a public
display:
it is the conviction of a
spirit-filled
heart.
I don't believe it alone
will save you, but it is a
strong symbolic state-
ment to the members of
the body of Christ that
you are ready to act, and
that this is truly a rebirth.
The waters have broken
and you have come up to
meet God in the breach.
Baptism is not a
removal of dirt from
your body; it is an
appeal to God from a
clean conscience.
--1Peter 3:21
waters of baptism.
But this isn't just a public
display:
it is the conviction of a
spirit-filled
heart.
I don't believe it alone
will save you, but it is a
strong symbolic state-
ment to the members of
the body of Christ that
you are ready to act, and
that this is truly a rebirth.
The waters have broken
and you have come up to
meet God in the breach.
Baptism is not a
removal of dirt from
your body; it is an
appeal to God from a
clean conscience.
--1Peter 3:21
| Majestic! New Mexico, up near Cuba. God's country |
Do you believe in the Devil, Satan, Legion, or whatever alias
he is going by these days? You should. Here is a picture that both
concerns and intrigues me ... what do you think? I think it's scary!
My camera caught a glimpse of what we should not see.
he is going by these days? You should. Here is a picture that both
concerns and intrigues me ... what do you think? I think it's scary!
My camera caught a glimpse of what we should not see.
The Accuser is
looking for an
invitation into
our lives, so that
he can implant
the cancer of lies.
looking for an
invitation into
our lives, so that
he can implant
the cancer of lies.
Lucifer
Morning Star
Angel of light
Author of Lies
False messiah
What are the
names of
your demons?
Who holds
the leash?
Morning Star
Angel of light
Author of Lies
False messiah
What are the
names of
your demons?
Who holds
the leash?
| WHO RU4? |
Gotta Serve Somebody
It may be the Devil or it may be the
Lord, but you're gonna serve
somebody!
--Bob Dylan
It may be the Devil or it may be the
Lord, but you're gonna serve
somebody!
--Bob Dylan
| Help me to be, Lord, what You want me to be. Amen. |
I will, in good faith, preface this page by reminding the reader that it is
ALWAYS about Christ, not about us. Do we fall short of this remedy
bending to the gravity of ego and arrogance? You bet! And that is
exactly why I am hosting this site ... so that I focus, and you focus, on
who brought us out of bondage.
ALWAYS about Christ, not about us. Do we fall short of this remedy
bending to the gravity of ego and arrogance? You bet! And that is
exactly why I am hosting this site ... so that I focus, and you focus, on
who brought us out of bondage.
I am hosting this site because I am called to the ministry of the Way, or what is referred to in the
current era as Christianity. This, for the Holy Spirit to work, has taken 30 years to smolder and
finally catch fire. While I am an ordained minister through the International Theological University
it is not for the purpose of lending credibility to my calling. My ordination is for the sole purpose
of binding legally believers in the rite of certain sacraments such as Holy Baptism, Marriage, etc. It
is not for civil ceremonies and the like.
So as not to confuse, I am in no way mediating for God. I am simply focusing my life on the only
activity that really matters [in the end]. It is ALL about Jesus Christ. Maranatha!
In my humble way I am attempting to maintain all focus on Him. Even if my life falls short of the
mark (I shall sin), and my actions betray my humanity ... it is Christ who must be remembered
and glorified. It is not about me or you. I see my role as [another] voice crying in the wilderness,
not unlike John and others of us who make every effort to hold strong in a world that tells us that
we are dead wrong to believe.
My journey my Passion
I have come to the understanding that my ministry is about touching lives. My passion involves
research into the Gospel of Thomas codex as it directs our attention to Holy Scripture, among other
similar gifts of discipleship, as I am lead by the Spirit. This would include lesson preparation and
small group study, tract dissemination, and garment design. My ministry is to uplift and reassure
other believers through what I experience. This knowledge is Spiritually discerned insight into the
nature and person of Jesus Christ for the gathering [of what I understand is the third reformation
of true believers]. This is, in fact, the End of the Age … the corporate church and the world are
becoming one. One will consume the other. The Body will remain.
I am blessed to be able to use my talents and spiritual gifts to spread the Word …Who, as stated in
John 1:1 is the second aspect of the Holy Trinity … the person of Jesus Christ. This has been
made possible through the written word (prose & poetry), photography, theological research and
study leadership.
I find more inspired discernment through the Holy Spirit each day. There is ample evidence in our
daily lives to support the notion that there are no accidents, no coincidences, no random acts. I
am convinced that God is directing my life in a way that will truly praise and glorify Him.
As an ordained independent minister, I continue to follow what I know [in my heart] is the best use
of my talents. My research is relentless, and I continue to be blessed with opportunities to minister
to believers or the curious. Believers have dissimilar faith walks, but it is about planting seeds, not
about taking full responsibility for cultivation and fruit bearing. Those acts are the realm of the
Holy Spirit who touches us from the inside out. It remains the option of personal choice,
however, and that is at the heart of any calling.
The Kabbalah says that God is infinite in His wisdom and perfect in the management of His
creation: we can exist to serve at a level that provides us a place and at a time for a singular purpose,
a specific encounter that can change a life. Yet we may be destined to remain unaware ... never
knowing the outcome, lest we become arrogant and self-serving. It is for God, not His servants, to
understand … at least in this world. We must continue to pursue our calling at all costs.
I absolutely trust God to do what He says He can do. That is our faith.
Joel 2:28 & 32 “…that I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind … your old men will dream
dreams, your young men will see visions. I will pour out My Spirit in those days. And it will
come about that whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be delivered.” (13B;pg 1193)
These days are "those days."
current era as Christianity. This, for the Holy Spirit to work, has taken 30 years to smolder and
finally catch fire. While I am an ordained minister through the International Theological University
it is not for the purpose of lending credibility to my calling. My ordination is for the sole purpose
of binding legally believers in the rite of certain sacraments such as Holy Baptism, Marriage, etc. It
is not for civil ceremonies and the like.
So as not to confuse, I am in no way mediating for God. I am simply focusing my life on the only
activity that really matters [in the end]. It is ALL about Jesus Christ. Maranatha!
In my humble way I am attempting to maintain all focus on Him. Even if my life falls short of the
mark (I shall sin), and my actions betray my humanity ... it is Christ who must be remembered
and glorified. It is not about me or you. I see my role as [another] voice crying in the wilderness,
not unlike John and others of us who make every effort to hold strong in a world that tells us that
we are dead wrong to believe.
My journey my Passion
I have come to the understanding that my ministry is about touching lives. My passion involves
research into the Gospel of Thomas codex as it directs our attention to Holy Scripture, among other
similar gifts of discipleship, as I am lead by the Spirit. This would include lesson preparation and
small group study, tract dissemination, and garment design. My ministry is to uplift and reassure
other believers through what I experience. This knowledge is Spiritually discerned insight into the
nature and person of Jesus Christ for the gathering [of what I understand is the third reformation
of true believers]. This is, in fact, the End of the Age … the corporate church and the world are
becoming one. One will consume the other. The Body will remain.
I am blessed to be able to use my talents and spiritual gifts to spread the Word …Who, as stated in
John 1:1 is the second aspect of the Holy Trinity … the person of Jesus Christ. This has been
made possible through the written word (prose & poetry), photography, theological research and
study leadership.
I find more inspired discernment through the Holy Spirit each day. There is ample evidence in our
daily lives to support the notion that there are no accidents, no coincidences, no random acts. I
am convinced that God is directing my life in a way that will truly praise and glorify Him.
As an ordained independent minister, I continue to follow what I know [in my heart] is the best use
of my talents. My research is relentless, and I continue to be blessed with opportunities to minister
to believers or the curious. Believers have dissimilar faith walks, but it is about planting seeds, not
about taking full responsibility for cultivation and fruit bearing. Those acts are the realm of the
Holy Spirit who touches us from the inside out. It remains the option of personal choice,
however, and that is at the heart of any calling.
The Kabbalah says that God is infinite in His wisdom and perfect in the management of His
creation: we can exist to serve at a level that provides us a place and at a time for a singular purpose,
a specific encounter that can change a life. Yet we may be destined to remain unaware ... never
knowing the outcome, lest we become arrogant and self-serving. It is for God, not His servants, to
understand … at least in this world. We must continue to pursue our calling at all costs.
I absolutely trust God to do what He says He can do. That is our faith.
Joel 2:28 & 32 “…that I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind … your old men will dream
dreams, your young men will see visions. I will pour out My Spirit in those days. And it will
come about that whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be delivered.” (13B;pg 1193)
These days are "those days."
Who is Reverend Sean and why is he doing this? Time out for testimony.
about faith, and all that is embodied in an amplified life
in Jesus Christ ... life and life abundant. RU4JESUS?
in Jesus Christ ... life and life abundant. RU4JESUS?
the gathering
How did you bring in the New Year?
What: the Ministry of leaving the Word in the hands
of those who need it most... precisely where they
need to be (i.e., where they are).
?? Have you ever wondered who needs the Word,
and where they are?? Look around. They are
waiters and waitresses, clerks, small business
operators, shuttle drivers, passersby, etc.
America is the most needy and the most fertile
mission field in the world. Look no further than your
hometown for those in need of the Message of Hope
in Christ Jesus.
Note: these are .pdf files ... 10 card templates. it is
recommended that you use a 5.0 or higher revision to view.
of those who need it most... precisely where they
need to be (i.e., where they are).
?? Have you ever wondered who needs the Word,
and where they are?? Look around. They are
waiters and waitresses, clerks, small business
operators, shuttle drivers, passersby, etc.
America is the most needy and the most fertile
mission field in the world. Look no further than your
hometown for those in need of the Message of Hope
in Christ Jesus.
Note: these are .pdf files ... 10 card templates. it is
recommended that you use a 5.0 or higher revision to view.
Note: feel free to download and distribute, but please do not misuse. The
photographs are my own, and copywritten, while the "tiny face" of the Shroud of
Turin is copywritten by Barrie Schwartz of www.Shroud.com. While these
images can be downloaded, they are not to be sold. These are for ministerial
purposes, and are meant to intrigue, inspire and convict. They are planted
seeds to be cultivated and nurtured by the Holy Spirit. You have my permission
to alter the designs to make your own personal statement for the cause of
Christ!
photographs are my own, and copywritten, while the "tiny face" of the Shroud of
Turin is copywritten by Barrie Schwartz of www.Shroud.com. While these
images can be downloaded, they are not to be sold. These are for ministerial
purposes, and are meant to intrigue, inspire and convict. They are planted
seeds to be cultivated and nurtured by the Holy Spirit. You have my permission
to alter the designs to make your own personal statement for the cause of
Christ!
contact me at ... revsean@gatheringspirit.org
| Testimony: this is the place where excerpts from personal testimony will be listed. we want to know how God is working in your life. |
Farmington, NM
if i recall correctly this was 2003 in
February, maybe mid-month. it started
to rain & hail like crazy, and this funnel
cloud appeared, disappeared and then
reappeared a couple of times in the
San Juan River basin north of the
mesa ...a pretty decent size funnel
if you reference the cars, and the fact
that it was at least a mile away from
where i took the photo.
if i recall correctly this was 2003 in
February, maybe mid-month. it started
to rain & hail like crazy, and this funnel
cloud appeared, disappeared and then
reappeared a couple of times in the
San Juan River basin north of the
mesa ...a pretty decent size funnel
if you reference the cars, and the fact
that it was at least a mile away from
where i took the photo.
Behold, the lowly mustard seed.
(actual size)
(actual size)
nailed
4U
Jesus died on the
cross so that Satan
and his army of fallen
angels might not have
dominion over our
souls. This is a free
gift for the asking. It
conquers death and
hell!
Be careful whose
hand you are shaking:
beware the marketing
hype and false
prophets.
But God
demonstrates His
love toward us, in
that while we were
still sinners, Christ
died for us.
--Romans 5:8
cross so that Satan
and his army of fallen
angels might not have
dominion over our
souls. This is a free
gift for the asking. It
conquers death and
hell!
Be careful whose
hand you are shaking:
beware the marketing
hype and false
prophets.
But God
demonstrates His
love toward us, in
that while we were
still sinners, Christ
died for us.
--Romans 5:8
Jesus is the answer. What is your question? |
| RU Prepared? |
These are prom and senior pics of
Katrina, Malachi, Nick and Eric ... my
niece, nephews and significant other
(don't ya hate that?!). Is it wrong to be
good looking, young & well-heeled?
No ... however, if that is all you can
muster, and your life is that empty,
then it is criminal in the most basic
sense of the definition.
Being a beautiful shell with nothing of
substance [inside] will eventually spell
disaster. All shells crack and all things
young grow old.
Be young, have fun, find out what life
has to offer, and then offer what you
have been blessed with to others.
Growing means growing beyond self ...
the essence of selflessness.
This is the art of becoming Christ-like.
Katrina, Malachi, Nick and Eric ... my
niece, nephews and significant other
(don't ya hate that?!). Is it wrong to be
good looking, young & well-heeled?
No ... however, if that is all you can
muster, and your life is that empty,
then it is criminal in the most basic
sense of the definition.
Being a beautiful shell with nothing of
substance [inside] will eventually spell
disaster. All shells crack and all things
young grow old.
Be young, have fun, find out what life
has to offer, and then offer what you
have been blessed with to others.
Growing means growing beyond self ...
the essence of selflessness.
This is the art of becoming Christ-like.
Eulogy
This is Ronnie
In a manner of speaking.
Yes, it is his Body
But the important part is gone.
This temple has fallen on Hard times
Is in disrepair
And so its resident has fled
To higher ground.
We gathered as were we taught
Around him hands held in The
circle of Light ...
While he prayed his last prayer with us
Through an oxygen mask.
He is not here.
This is Ronnie
In a manner of speaking.
Yes, it is his Body
But the important part is gone.
This temple has fallen on Hard times
Is in disrepair
And so its resident has fled
To higher ground.
We gathered as were we taught
Around him hands held in The
circle of Light ...
While he prayed his last prayer with us
Through an oxygen mask.
He is not here.
This is the recessed ceiling at the Crosspoint Church in
Middletown that, when lit, displays a cross the length of
the auditorium. I laid flat on my back to get this!
Middletown that, when lit, displays a cross the length of
the auditorium. I laid flat on my back to get this!
| I have always loved Monarch butterflies, so I had my wife take a picture with me and one of them warming its wings ... preparing for the long migration to Mexico. --Rev Sean |
| This is life folks ... full and abundant. This new life takes on a more vibrant hue and a deeper saturation. That is, in fact, exactly what all the fuss is ABOUT! We are amplified, and reborn, versions of our former selves in Jesus Christ. |
Re: email sent to Alexei Fillipenko, Professor of Astrophysics at the U of C at Berkley, on 9/05/07.
Alex,
I recently saw a program on the universe where you said that 98% of all that exists was created
(or manifested itself) in about 3 minutes. Do I have that right? Being a pastor, I wonder if you
see the "hand of God" in that explosive manifestation? Also, what do you think about the dark
matter-dark energy notion? Isn't this really a way of saying we really don't know what is driving
the cosmic expansion ... something that should be slowing, not gaining momentum? Could that
also be viewed as "the hand of God," if we were honest with ourselves? I am not trying to be
adversarial, but am obviously biased. Having said that, I believe strongly that the language of
God is science, i.e. mathematics/physics. Thanks for taking the time to respond.
I really appreciate your passion for your field(s) of study. And, thanks for entertaining my
thoughts on cosmic stuff. I see myself as a realist, and therefore am concerned that our
scientific realities should not necessarily be in conflict with our faith ... that our reality contains
both ends of the spectrum and everything in between. This is possible isn't it?
Thanks,
Sean A. Lawrence
I wrote this months ago in 2007, and it probably should not come as any surprise that it has not been
responded to. I am disappointed, but … maybe the real surprise is yet to come. I still hold out hope for
dialogue. Note: I discovered that scientists still lose reputations and jobs if it is known that the "believe."
In the final analysis, however, it really does not matter what we call it: “creation,” the “big bang,” or a “a
herd of turtles playing with firecrackers.” Regardless of the terms we use, it has more to do with what we
know about it. We, as rational believers, know that it is God’s creative force at work, and more than this
we can only observe and marvel at.
(See Patrick Glynn's commentary on the page below)
Alex,
I recently saw a program on the universe where you said that 98% of all that exists was created
(or manifested itself) in about 3 minutes. Do I have that right? Being a pastor, I wonder if you
see the "hand of God" in that explosive manifestation? Also, what do you think about the dark
matter-dark energy notion? Isn't this really a way of saying we really don't know what is driving
the cosmic expansion ... something that should be slowing, not gaining momentum? Could that
also be viewed as "the hand of God," if we were honest with ourselves? I am not trying to be
adversarial, but am obviously biased. Having said that, I believe strongly that the language of
God is science, i.e. mathematics/physics. Thanks for taking the time to respond.
I really appreciate your passion for your field(s) of study. And, thanks for entertaining my
thoughts on cosmic stuff. I see myself as a realist, and therefore am concerned that our
scientific realities should not necessarily be in conflict with our faith ... that our reality contains
both ends of the spectrum and everything in between. This is possible isn't it?
Thanks,
Sean A. Lawrence
I wrote this months ago in 2007, and it probably should not come as any surprise that it has not been
responded to. I am disappointed, but … maybe the real surprise is yet to come. I still hold out hope for
dialogue. Note: I discovered that scientists still lose reputations and jobs if it is known that the "believe."
In the final analysis, however, it really does not matter what we call it: “creation,” the “big bang,” or a “a
herd of turtles playing with firecrackers.” Regardless of the terms we use, it has more to do with what we
know about it. We, as rational believers, know that it is God’s creative force at work, and more than this
we can only observe and marvel at.
(See Patrick Glynn's commentary on the page below)
| About the beginning: In about 3 minutes 98% of all existing matter came into existence. This from a professor of Astrophysics. But you knew that! His name is Alex Fillipenko; email him at alex@astro.berkeley.edu and tell him that he is on the right track ... and we call it CREATION! |
| Yahweh (YHWH) is singular and means "I Am who I Am." Elohim is the plural ... taken to be a trinitarian reference to "We Are who We Are." |
HOT!
| Is your faith hot like habaneros or lukewarm? Your passion for Christ should burn like a fire that cannot be doused. Guess what? The darkness can't handle it, and ... that is our secret weapon! |
From an interview with Father
Jose Antonio Fortea in UN&WP
Special edition 2007 on Christianity
and faith pgs 80-81
What is a demon?
A demon is a spiritual being of an
angelic stature that has been
condemned for eternity due to his
rebellion against God. As pure spirits,
demons are not made up of matter.
Because they do not have bodies,
demons are not inclined to any "sins of
the flesh" (i.e., it is impossible for them
to commit the sins of lust or gluttony).
The sins of demons are exclusively
spiritual. But they can tempt human
beings to sin in matters of the flesh.
Does the demon also possess the
soul of the possessed?
No ... Possession is a phenomenon
that affects the body, not the soul. ...
The possessed person is not
responsible, morally speaking, for what
he says and does during the periods
of fury when he loses consciousness
and the "second personality" emerges.
Jose Antonio Fortea in UN&WP
Special edition 2007 on Christianity
and faith pgs 80-81
What is a demon?
A demon is a spiritual being of an
angelic stature that has been
condemned for eternity due to his
rebellion against God. As pure spirits,
demons are not made up of matter.
Because they do not have bodies,
demons are not inclined to any "sins of
the flesh" (i.e., it is impossible for them
to commit the sins of lust or gluttony).
The sins of demons are exclusively
spiritual. But they can tempt human
beings to sin in matters of the flesh.
Does the demon also possess the
soul of the possessed?
No ... Possession is a phenomenon
that affects the body, not the soul. ...
The possessed person is not
responsible, morally speaking, for what
he says and does during the periods
of fury when he loses consciousness
and the "second personality" emerges.
| Faith isn't simply something you can live with, but something worth dying for. The consequences of our choices in the "here and now" will determine what we reap in the "hereafter." This isn't intended to be a threat, but a promise that in our hearts we know is true. |
PRACTICAL theology
I have studied & researched for hours on end, and found real academic satisfaction in doing so, but the truth is this:
our faith must be practical. God is practical in a very painstaking way over long periods of time, especially in the
protection and survivability of His people … both the Hebrews of old and Gentiles of the Messianic age.
If worship is to be a lifestyle, then all that we do in our worship should be applicable to daily living. Is it? Please
understand this: I am aware that all of this may not be obvious at a glance, but I challenge anyone to show me where
Biblical truth cannot be applied to our lives here and now.
Even though Paul says that to live is Christ, and to die is gain, he is referring to spiritual loss and spiritual gain. And,
yes, there are times that what is being said in Scripture is offered in the form of a parable, and does not seem to meet
our immediate needs on the surface. Sometimes it is to be taken at face value, and the sacrifice is tangible. But, don’t
be afraid to dig a little deeper … remember that if it is a parable, it is a story meant to convey truth.
Belief and living are not separate activities. As you live and breathe you do so believing in some things and not in
others. And these beliefs are being fine tuned over the course of our lives. To live means to believe, as that is where
we derive meaning and the fuel for living. What you believe, and how you practice that belief system is what has
lasting eternal consequence. This is not about perfect adherence or obedience. It’s about showing up and being
willing.
God and Jesus Christ both said, “Follow Me.” That is an active, physical process, not mental gymnastics. God said,
“Follow Me through the Red sea, into the desert, and into Canaan, the land of milk and honey.” Jesus said, “Take up
your own cross and follow Me.” Our God never said, “Go there and I’ll catch up with you later.” He is there and He is
at the head of the procession. In the desert God leads as a column of smoke and a pillar of Fire. Christ leads us
directly to the cross. God has already been where He asks us to go. It is practical leadership in its purest and most
vibrant form.
Live it! Worship is a lifestyle. Live the amplified life!!
I have studied & researched for hours on end, and found real academic satisfaction in doing so, but the truth is this:
our faith must be practical. God is practical in a very painstaking way over long periods of time, especially in the
protection and survivability of His people … both the Hebrews of old and Gentiles of the Messianic age.
If worship is to be a lifestyle, then all that we do in our worship should be applicable to daily living. Is it? Please
understand this: I am aware that all of this may not be obvious at a glance, but I challenge anyone to show me where
Biblical truth cannot be applied to our lives here and now.
Even though Paul says that to live is Christ, and to die is gain, he is referring to spiritual loss and spiritual gain. And,
yes, there are times that what is being said in Scripture is offered in the form of a parable, and does not seem to meet
our immediate needs on the surface. Sometimes it is to be taken at face value, and the sacrifice is tangible. But, don’t
be afraid to dig a little deeper … remember that if it is a parable, it is a story meant to convey truth.
Belief and living are not separate activities. As you live and breathe you do so believing in some things and not in
others. And these beliefs are being fine tuned over the course of our lives. To live means to believe, as that is where
we derive meaning and the fuel for living. What you believe, and how you practice that belief system is what has
lasting eternal consequence. This is not about perfect adherence or obedience. It’s about showing up and being
willing.
God and Jesus Christ both said, “Follow Me.” That is an active, physical process, not mental gymnastics. God said,
“Follow Me through the Red sea, into the desert, and into Canaan, the land of milk and honey.” Jesus said, “Take up
your own cross and follow Me.” Our God never said, “Go there and I’ll catch up with you later.” He is there and He is
at the head of the procession. In the desert God leads as a column of smoke and a pillar of Fire. Christ leads us
directly to the cross. God has already been where He asks us to go. It is practical leadership in its purest and most
vibrant form.
Live it! Worship is a lifestyle. Live the amplified life!!
WORSHIP IS A LIFESTYLE!! Don't
believe it? Read this and tell me what
you think. Is our God practical or deeply
inconvenient? email your thoughts.
believe it? Read this and tell me what
you think. Is our God practical or deeply
inconvenient? email your thoughts.
Santa's not the bad guy
Think about this. I will probably be back to continue this theme, because, while I am
dead set against a pagan Christmas, it isn't Santa Claus that creates the problem ... it
is Satan with our absolute willingness to worship all things material. Visits to Santa
can be fun and need not be a crisis of faith for parents or children. Keep it in
perspective, be honest and provide a balance of faith in a world that isn't always the
we would have it. Have fun and have a laugh ... children learn a lot more from our
actions than our rhetoric.
dead set against a pagan Christmas, it isn't Santa Claus that creates the problem ... it
is Satan with our absolute willingness to worship all things material. Visits to Santa
can be fun and need not be a crisis of faith for parents or children. Keep it in
perspective, be honest and provide a balance of faith in a world that isn't always the
we would have it. Have fun and have a laugh ... children learn a lot more from our
actions than our rhetoric.
To anyone who has a child ... does this
look accidental to you? Parents may
make mistakes, but God doesn't.
This is Chad, our newest grandbaby.
December 2007
look accidental to you? Parents may
make mistakes, but God doesn't.
This is Chad, our newest grandbaby.
December 2007
Interesting commentary in the U.S.News & World Report special edition entitled Mysteries of
Faith, Secrets of Christianity c. 2007
From the article entitled God: The Evidence by Patrick Glynn, pgs. 73-75 (from the book of the same title
copyright 1997).
Preface: Patrick Glynn is the associate director at the George Washington University Institute for Communitarian Policy
Studies in Washington, DC.
“Few people at the time seemed to be thinking deeply about the philosophical implications of this discovery (about the values
of fundamental constraints, like gravity, electromagnetism and other basic unexplained mysteries; in essence the “why’s”
behind the “what’s,” and that these fundamentals are connected in such a way as to ultimately support the creation of life …
that would be us). But they were nothing short of astounding. In effect, the “random universe” was out the window.
There was nothing at all random about the arrangement of the cosmos-as physicists began to see. The vast, 15-
billion-year-evolution of the universe had apparently been directed toward one goal: the creation of human life
… The notion that the whole process could be reduced to the workings of a single, simple “blind” mechanism
was fundamentally flawed … Indeed, what 20th century cosmology had come up with was something of a scientific
embarrassment: the universe with a definite beginning, expressly designed for life. Ironically, the picture of the universe
bequeathed to us by the most advanced 20th century science is closer in spirit to the vision presented in the Book of
Genesis than anything offered by science since Copernicus. The irony is deepened by the fact that modern cosmology is
the result of extending the concept of “evolution’-an idea once viewed as deeply inimical to faith.’
Note: The bold print is mine, as I thought those comments to be particularly enlightening, as well as the parenthetical
explanation about fundamental constraints.
What is Communitarianism?
In contrast to conventional "right" or "left" approaches to social policy, Communitarians emphasize the need for a balance
between rights and responsibilities. Communitarians believe that strong rights presume strong responsibilities and that the
pendulum of contemporary society has swung too far in the direction of individual autonomy at the expense of individual and
social responsibility. One key to solving contemporary America’s social problems is replacing our pervasive "rights talk" with
"responsibility talk."
Faith, Secrets of Christianity c. 2007
From the article entitled God: The Evidence by Patrick Glynn, pgs. 73-75 (from the book of the same title
copyright 1997).
Preface: Patrick Glynn is the associate director at the George Washington University Institute for Communitarian Policy
Studies in Washington, DC.
“Few people at the time seemed to be thinking deeply about the philosophical implications of this discovery (about the values
of fundamental constraints, like gravity, electromagnetism and other basic unexplained mysteries; in essence the “why’s”
behind the “what’s,” and that these fundamentals are connected in such a way as to ultimately support the creation of life …
that would be us). But they were nothing short of astounding. In effect, the “random universe” was out the window.
There was nothing at all random about the arrangement of the cosmos-as physicists began to see. The vast, 15-
billion-year-evolution of the universe had apparently been directed toward one goal: the creation of human life
… The notion that the whole process could be reduced to the workings of a single, simple “blind” mechanism
was fundamentally flawed … Indeed, what 20th century cosmology had come up with was something of a scientific
embarrassment: the universe with a definite beginning, expressly designed for life. Ironically, the picture of the universe
bequeathed to us by the most advanced 20th century science is closer in spirit to the vision presented in the Book of
Genesis than anything offered by science since Copernicus. The irony is deepened by the fact that modern cosmology is
the result of extending the concept of “evolution’-an idea once viewed as deeply inimical to faith.’
Note: The bold print is mine, as I thought those comments to be particularly enlightening, as well as the parenthetical
explanation about fundamental constraints.
What is Communitarianism?
In contrast to conventional "right" or "left" approaches to social policy, Communitarians emphasize the need for a balance
between rights and responsibilities. Communitarians believe that strong rights presume strong responsibilities and that the
pendulum of contemporary society has swung too far in the direction of individual autonomy at the expense of individual and
social responsibility. One key to solving contemporary America’s social problems is replacing our pervasive "rights talk" with
"responsibility talk."
Rev. Sean with the Santa dude
| Comment in WORLD by Marvin Olasky: "If the Gospels were propaganda brochures, their authors were incompetent. One indication: They gave woman vital roles in the founding of a religion." (Dec 6, 2007) |
| This is important because how you bring in the New Year, and what you prioritize, is destined to be what you live out. Yes, I've done it all, and to excess, but until I gave Jesus Christ the first priority in my life I continued the years as I had started them. This is how Rebecca and I began 2008 & 2009. Right after a kiss we made our first act a sacrament: |
The following is the text of an email from a friend in Mexico with whom I had worked. If nothing else, this is what
exemplifies Jesus' ministry, and thus my own. I was honored to have been sought out ...
Hi Sean! Thank you for your nice words, you always give peace in your prayers.
I also will pray for all of us so that next year is full of His love in our lifes.
I will get married on April of next year! Do you recommend any lecture?
Again, thank you for your e-mails and I also wish you a New Year full of blessings!!!
Best regards,
Jazmin
Hola!
It is wonderful to hear from you ... and congratulations. Thank you for the kind words.
I do have some thoughts for you, and they are simple, I think. Keep Christ at the center of your marriage;
include Him in all that you do and all that you plan. If you did nothing more than that you would weather most of
the storms that marriages fall prey to.
Keeping Christ as a full partner makes the burdens we all have lighter because a shared burden is a lighter
burden. Christ bound to you and your husband also creates a likeness of the Holy Trinity. Christ at the center
of anything changes that thing and all that it touches. It changes our perspective, or how we look at things,
and the kinds of decisions we make. Does it mean that it will be easy or that you will never have problems? No
it does not! Pray together and listen for God's answer. In Psalm 46 God tells us to, "Be still, and know that I AM
God." He will never mislead you. Ask the following question, and the answers will come easier to all of your
questions ... "Does what we are about to do praise and glorify God through Jesus Christ?" That small voice
you will hear in response is the Holy Spirit.
What you will do in your marriage will not be perfect, but it will be blessed. And know that forgiveness is
always there for you, and that perfection is only in God through Jesus Christ in the person of the Holy Spirit.
On my website, on the Resources page, is a marriage ceremony that I put together, and the verses below are
passages I think are important to consider.
Isaiah 54:5 For your Maker is your husband, The Lord of Hosts is His name; and your Redeemer is the Holy One
of Israel.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall,
one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.
Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be
overpowered by another, two can withstand him.
Genesis 2:18 And the Lord God said, "It is not good that man should be alone. I will make a helper comparable
to him. Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one
flesh."
Hosea 3:13 "I will betroth you to Me forever; yes, I will betroth you to Me in righteousness and justice, in
lovingkindness and mercy; I will betroth you to Me in faithfulness, And you shall know the Lord."
You will be in my prayers, and I know the Lord will bless you and keep you both. Peace in Christ Jesus,
Rev. Sean
exemplifies Jesus' ministry, and thus my own. I was honored to have been sought out ...
Hi Sean! Thank you for your nice words, you always give peace in your prayers.
I also will pray for all of us so that next year is full of His love in our lifes.
I will get married on April of next year! Do you recommend any lecture?
Again, thank you for your e-mails and I also wish you a New Year full of blessings!!!
Best regards,
Jazmin
Hola!
It is wonderful to hear from you ... and congratulations. Thank you for the kind words.
I do have some thoughts for you, and they are simple, I think. Keep Christ at the center of your marriage;
include Him in all that you do and all that you plan. If you did nothing more than that you would weather most of
the storms that marriages fall prey to.
Keeping Christ as a full partner makes the burdens we all have lighter because a shared burden is a lighter
burden. Christ bound to you and your husband also creates a likeness of the Holy Trinity. Christ at the center
of anything changes that thing and all that it touches. It changes our perspective, or how we look at things,
and the kinds of decisions we make. Does it mean that it will be easy or that you will never have problems? No
it does not! Pray together and listen for God's answer. In Psalm 46 God tells us to, "Be still, and know that I AM
God." He will never mislead you. Ask the following question, and the answers will come easier to all of your
questions ... "Does what we are about to do praise and glorify God through Jesus Christ?" That small voice
you will hear in response is the Holy Spirit.
What you will do in your marriage will not be perfect, but it will be blessed. And know that forgiveness is
always there for you, and that perfection is only in God through Jesus Christ in the person of the Holy Spirit.
On my website, on the Resources page, is a marriage ceremony that I put together, and the verses below are
passages I think are important to consider.
Isaiah 54:5 For your Maker is your husband, The Lord of Hosts is His name; and your Redeemer is the Holy One
of Israel.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall,
one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.
Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be
overpowered by another, two can withstand him.
Genesis 2:18 And the Lord God said, "It is not good that man should be alone. I will make a helper comparable
to him. Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one
flesh."
Hosea 3:13 "I will betroth you to Me forever; yes, I will betroth you to Me in righteousness and justice, in
lovingkindness and mercy; I will betroth you to Me in faithfulness, And you shall know the Lord."
You will be in my prayers, and I know the Lord will bless you and keep you both. Peace in Christ Jesus,
Rev. Sean
| So again Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep … I am the gate. Whoever enters by Me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture.” -- John 10: 7 & 9 |
Have you ever felt like
this: wrapped up in a
web of deceit and
being preyed upon?
Well, if you find Jesus,
and simply reach out
in faith, you can be
freed of this. This is
an unpleasant
prospect ... but it can
be where we end up if
we do not have
someone to pluck us
out of such a place.
It may also be where
we need to be ...
desperate enough to
reach out.
Sometimes no
alternative is the best
alternative.
this: wrapped up in a
web of deceit and
being preyed upon?
Well, if you find Jesus,
and simply reach out
in faith, you can be
freed of this. This is
an unpleasant
prospect ... but it can
be where we end up if
we do not have
someone to pluck us
out of such a place.
It may also be where
we need to be ...
desperate enough to
reach out.
Sometimes no
alternative is the best
alternative.
an uncomfortable
place.
place.
without Jesus:
Do you ever feel like you are barely
clearing the trees? Remember that
God provides the wind that blows
and the buoyancy that lifts us up.
clearing the trees? Remember that
God provides the wind that blows
and the buoyancy that lifts us up.
Cats? Last Supper? There isn't a connection I am
aware of, they just reside on top of the same cabinet in
the front room. I must say, however, happy cats are
certainly a gift from God.
aware of, they just reside on top of the same cabinet in
the front room. I must say, however, happy cats are
certainly a gift from God.
Meditations for 2009
Prayer for the unbeliever after St. Paul
Using Ephesians 3:1-21
I am a captive for Jesus Christ because of you, the
unbeliever; this prayer is for you.
You have probably heard about the grace I carry to you
on God’s behalf, but you have decided not to listen. The
Mystery was revealed to me by God, not by a man, and if
you choose to listen, you will be able to know more
about the Messiah, Jesus Christ.
This Word was not made known to other generations for
a reason, but it is being revealed now to His followers
and those who are prophets through the Holy Spirit.
This is no accident.
The Messiah died for the unbeliever, hoping beyond
hope, that you might also choose to be members of the
same body, partners of the promise, which is Jesus
Christ through the gospel, the Good News.
I was made a servant, not of my own will, but of God’s
grace that works through His power alone; these are not
my words, but God’s words.
This grace of God was given to me, least of all the
saints, to proclaim it to the unbeliever; to proclaim His
incredible spiritual riches.
As believers we are to shed the light which is Christ, not
just say the words. This prayer is about the Mystery of
God, the One who created all things. This message has
been hidden for so long that many of you have forgotten
about it.
I pray this prayer so that God’s excellent and perfect
wisdom can now be broadcast through the church, the
body of Christ, and directly from heaven. There is not
much time left to decide about your eternal life.
The purpose of the ages, and for all time, is the
knowledge of Jesus Christ as the Son of God, and
Savior of the world. In Him we have a boldness, access
to God and confidence in our faith.
I ask you to at least listen to the Word, for I am a willing
servant on your behalf and a prisoner to this cause. No
one forced me to do this. For this reason I bow to my
knees and pray for your soul.
I pray that your inner man might decide for himself, and
serve God, so that the decision and the glory and the
riches might be yours now and forever.
I pray that God through Jesus Christ might dwell and
grow in your heart until it is overflowing. Only then will
you completely understand what has been said about
God’s love by the saints and the martyrs.
Faith in God through Jesus Christ surpasses all of the
world’s knowledge because we know that respecting and
fearing God is the beginning of true wisdom.
I pray that if you hear this that you might listen, and then
truly understand the Word of God; that you will know in
your heart that anything can be accomplished in the
name of His only Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
In Him is the glory, in God is the power. Amen.
Using Ephesians 3:1-21
I am a captive for Jesus Christ because of you, the
unbeliever; this prayer is for you.
You have probably heard about the grace I carry to you
on God’s behalf, but you have decided not to listen. The
Mystery was revealed to me by God, not by a man, and if
you choose to listen, you will be able to know more
about the Messiah, Jesus Christ.
This Word was not made known to other generations for
a reason, but it is being revealed now to His followers
and those who are prophets through the Holy Spirit.
This is no accident.
The Messiah died for the unbeliever, hoping beyond
hope, that you might also choose to be members of the
same body, partners of the promise, which is Jesus
Christ through the gospel, the Good News.
I was made a servant, not of my own will, but of God’s
grace that works through His power alone; these are not
my words, but God’s words.
This grace of God was given to me, least of all the
saints, to proclaim it to the unbeliever; to proclaim His
incredible spiritual riches.
As believers we are to shed the light which is Christ, not
just say the words. This prayer is about the Mystery of
God, the One who created all things. This message has
been hidden for so long that many of you have forgotten
about it.
I pray this prayer so that God’s excellent and perfect
wisdom can now be broadcast through the church, the
body of Christ, and directly from heaven. There is not
much time left to decide about your eternal life.
The purpose of the ages, and for all time, is the
knowledge of Jesus Christ as the Son of God, and
Savior of the world. In Him we have a boldness, access
to God and confidence in our faith.
I ask you to at least listen to the Word, for I am a willing
servant on your behalf and a prisoner to this cause. No
one forced me to do this. For this reason I bow to my
knees and pray for your soul.
I pray that your inner man might decide for himself, and
serve God, so that the decision and the glory and the
riches might be yours now and forever.
I pray that God through Jesus Christ might dwell and
grow in your heart until it is overflowing. Only then will
you completely understand what has been said about
God’s love by the saints and the martyrs.
Faith in God through Jesus Christ surpasses all of the
world’s knowledge because we know that respecting and
fearing God is the beginning of true wisdom.
I pray that if you hear this that you might listen, and then
truly understand the Word of God; that you will know in
your heart that anything can be accomplished in the
name of His only Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
In Him is the glory, in God is the power. Amen.
There is a new group of Bible Studies that
are based around the original intent of
(what was) Gathering 707 in the basement
of the First United Methodist Church in
Middletown, OH.
They will be shown here at some time in
the near future. I am leading these studies
each Sunday morning and Pastor Carrie
Jenna is using the same lectionary
selection to preach on.
We appreciate your prayers for the Holy
Spirit to descend upon us at those times
for greater appreciation of what "Worship
as a Lifestyle" means to each of us.
are based around the original intent of
(what was) Gathering 707 in the basement
of the First United Methodist Church in
Middletown, OH.
They will be shown here at some time in
the near future. I am leading these studies
each Sunday morning and Pastor Carrie
Jenna is using the same lectionary
selection to preach on.
We appreciate your prayers for the Holy
Spirit to descend upon us at those times
for greater appreciation of what "Worship
as a Lifestyle" means to each of us.