Thursday May 21, 2009
Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? James 2:15-16
This past week or so has been a time of some feverish activity. Book selling and promotion has been at the top of the list, but both Ann and I have also been checking on our health. Ann’s foot is still not comfortable some six weeks after the operation to remove a bunion. She has checked with the surgeon, and he says to bathe the foot frequently, but it is doing OK. I have also been back to my surgeon who pointed out that I am now a cancer patient and there will be three monthly check ups to ensure I am clear after surgery. While the tests were clear, there is always a possibility of cancer returning.
As a result, we are tired most of the time and being in our early 70s doesn’t help! In addition, our garden has not had the attention it needs, although the weather has been cool and damp—enough to slow things down and wait for us! Today we have a book signing at the university bookstore, and two more signings at local bookstores at the weekend and at our church next month. We have out of town signings at the end of the month and in July we will be at the west coast for a conference and are currently working with more bookstores there. All this in addition to constant emails and book deliveries to stores and purchasers.
But in all this we are warm and well fed. I am in danger of putting back on the ten pounds I lost during surgery! It is easy in the busyness of life to forget those who are not so fortunate. But, as James reminds us, the test of our Christianity is not only in our attitude to those in need, but in our action toward them, and somehow that must be fitted into our personal set of priorities. Ann constantly reminds me of someone who needs some of our time, and I am too ready with meaningful excuses! To be meaningful, life must be full, but we need to measure those things that we fill it with.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Sunday May 17, 2009
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15.
I promised in an earlier blog that I would give an update on our book that has recently been published. We originally planned the book as a legacy for our children and grandchildren on our 50th wedding anniversary, but a friend encouraged us to publish it, and several revisions and years later it is now available as Happy Together: Daily insights for Families from Scripture. It is available from Amazon in Canada, the US and the UK and most North American Christian Bookstores and should be available at Chapters/Indigo. If you are in Lethbridge or Calgary books can be obtained directly from us. E-books are also available on line.
The book is intended for those making the choice to marry or live together, and for others who have young families but little time or theological background. In the book we seek to provide young couples wisdom from Bible passages relating to family dynamics from Genesis to Revelation. Anecdotes and stories from life illustrate many of the concepts expressed. Daily insights provide an incremental learning pattern where small changes can significantly improve relationships over time.
Dr. J I Packer has kindly written a foreword for the book in which he affirms: "Their comments on the chosen passages yield a wealth of wisdom on these themes, far more, I guess, that most of us ever dreamed was there." He goes on to say: "Marriage in the Western world is rocky today, and there could hardly be a more strategic time for this book to come on the market. I heartily recommend it. May it have the rich, wide ministry that it deserves."
As many of you know, Ann and I have been married for 54 years, and have over a dozen children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Ann is completing her Political Science degree and I have a Master of Divinity degree. Before retirement I was an architect and a pastor. We have a number of book signings pending, some in the university and general bookstores and we may encounter questions regarding the Bible’s position on sexual practices. Pray with us that we may be able to answer these questions “with gentleness and respect.”
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15.
I promised in an earlier blog that I would give an update on our book that has recently been published. We originally planned the book as a legacy for our children and grandchildren on our 50th wedding anniversary, but a friend encouraged us to publish it, and several revisions and years later it is now available as Happy Together: Daily insights for Families from Scripture. It is available from Amazon in Canada, the US and the UK and most North American Christian Bookstores and should be available at Chapters/Indigo. If you are in Lethbridge or Calgary books can be obtained directly from us. E-books are also available on line.
The book is intended for those making the choice to marry or live together, and for others who have young families but little time or theological background. In the book we seek to provide young couples wisdom from Bible passages relating to family dynamics from Genesis to Revelation. Anecdotes and stories from life illustrate many of the concepts expressed. Daily insights provide an incremental learning pattern where small changes can significantly improve relationships over time.
Dr. J I Packer has kindly written a foreword for the book in which he affirms: "Their comments on the chosen passages yield a wealth of wisdom on these themes, far more, I guess, that most of us ever dreamed was there." He goes on to say: "Marriage in the Western world is rocky today, and there could hardly be a more strategic time for this book to come on the market. I heartily recommend it. May it have the rich, wide ministry that it deserves."
As many of you know, Ann and I have been married for 54 years, and have over a dozen children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Ann is completing her Political Science degree and I have a Master of Divinity degree. Before retirement I was an architect and a pastor. We have a number of book signings pending, some in the university and general bookstores and we may encounter questions regarding the Bible’s position on sexual practices. Pray with us that we may be able to answer these questions “with gentleness and respect.”
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Thursday May 14, 2009
An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up. Proverbs 12:25.
There are several of our daughter Alex’s In-laws who are going through a period of anxiety and grief. We have mentioned L.’s losing fight with cancer in our last blog and she passed away at 2.30 a.m. yesterday morning. So this is a time for mourning for her parents, her two daughters and a remaining sister and three brothers. It is made harder as one of L.’s daughters has recently had a lump removed from her breast, but the situation is worse than at first diagnosed and it appears that further surgery is probable.
It is difficult to find kind and encouraging words at a time like this; not that the words aren’t there, but they can sound so trite and pat when shared at the wrong time. Grief has to run its course, and in many situations just being there to share in the grief can be a comfort; the offer to pray for God’s comfort is rarely refused in times of distress. And that offer is not just to comfort the grieving ones, because we know that God hears those prayers and responds to our distress, and a sense of his presence will draw the needy one to him.
I know the deep distress felt by Alex, who is firmly part of the family. Others closely associated with them like ourselves, will be praying through this difficult time. For now the kind words are words that share in their sadness. We know that grief washes over like waves, with times of respite in between. It is at those times when grief lifts for a while, words of encouragement and hope will find their place. Please join us to pray for comfort and hope for this deeply hurting family.
An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up. Proverbs 12:25.
There are several of our daughter Alex’s In-laws who are going through a period of anxiety and grief. We have mentioned L.’s losing fight with cancer in our last blog and she passed away at 2.30 a.m. yesterday morning. So this is a time for mourning for her parents, her two daughters and a remaining sister and three brothers. It is made harder as one of L.’s daughters has recently had a lump removed from her breast, but the situation is worse than at first diagnosed and it appears that further surgery is probable.
It is difficult to find kind and encouraging words at a time like this; not that the words aren’t there, but they can sound so trite and pat when shared at the wrong time. Grief has to run its course, and in many situations just being there to share in the grief can be a comfort; the offer to pray for God’s comfort is rarely refused in times of distress. And that offer is not just to comfort the grieving ones, because we know that God hears those prayers and responds to our distress, and a sense of his presence will draw the needy one to him.
I know the deep distress felt by Alex, who is firmly part of the family. Others closely associated with them like ourselves, will be praying through this difficult time. For now the kind words are words that share in their sadness. We know that grief washes over like waves, with times of respite in between. It is at those times when grief lifts for a while, words of encouragement and hope will find their place. Please join us to pray for comfort and hope for this deeply hurting family.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Tuesday May 12, 2009
We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4
This is a peculiarly Christian text. I doubt the average man on the street would agree with it. It is only in the recognition that there is value to be found in the adversities of life, particularly that God is at work in those circumstances, that produces a perseverance of faith, strengthened character and hope for the future. From a general point of view, it is readily noticeable that a life of ease encourages a superficial attitude to life; those that have had much difficulty to deal with frequently have a greater depth of character and personal resources.
We are currently dealing with three areas of adversity. We have already mentioned our daughter’s sister-in-law L. who has been fighting cancer for some time and is still holding on to life. But now she is only given days to live. Faith in these circumstances is the difference between despair and hope. Secondly, we have a niece in England whose son is a dwarf. After much research and soul searching, and committing him to the finest surgeon in the UK, he will commence leg lengthening with a five hour surgery on Monday. He is now five years old, and the process will take him until he is eleven. He is an outgoing, plucky lad, but prayer for him would be appreciated.
Thirdly—hardly adversity now!—I have been told I am free of cancer, that all the numerous samples of tissue taken from around the removed prostate are clear. While I am feeling like my old self again, I am still dealing with some of the after effects of the surgery. But in my case the worst is over, and it would be highly difficult to get prostate cancer again! Many thanks for those of you that prayed for me and to the medical staff and others who worked with me through the surgery. And especially to God who continues to be my rock and stay though all of life.
We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4
This is a peculiarly Christian text. I doubt the average man on the street would agree with it. It is only in the recognition that there is value to be found in the adversities of life, particularly that God is at work in those circumstances, that produces a perseverance of faith, strengthened character and hope for the future. From a general point of view, it is readily noticeable that a life of ease encourages a superficial attitude to life; those that have had much difficulty to deal with frequently have a greater depth of character and personal resources.
We are currently dealing with three areas of adversity. We have already mentioned our daughter’s sister-in-law L. who has been fighting cancer for some time and is still holding on to life. But now she is only given days to live. Faith in these circumstances is the difference between despair and hope. Secondly, we have a niece in England whose son is a dwarf. After much research and soul searching, and committing him to the finest surgeon in the UK, he will commence leg lengthening with a five hour surgery on Monday. He is now five years old, and the process will take him until he is eleven. He is an outgoing, plucky lad, but prayer for him would be appreciated.
Thirdly—hardly adversity now!—I have been told I am free of cancer, that all the numerous samples of tissue taken from around the removed prostate are clear. While I am feeling like my old self again, I am still dealing with some of the after effects of the surgery. But in my case the worst is over, and it would be highly difficult to get prostate cancer again! Many thanks for those of you that prayed for me and to the medical staff and others who worked with me through the surgery. And especially to God who continues to be my rock and stay though all of life.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Sunday May 10, 2009
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12.
In our day of tolerance these are fighting words. It goes against the politically correct notion that all religions are equal and none is exclusive, leading to accusations of intolerance and bigotry for those who think different. Today’s text and Jesus words in John 14:6 "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me,” give us little choice in the matter. Jesus’ claim to be the only way to God and Christian desire to share the freedom found in him is the driving force behind Christian evangelisation.
Of all the religions in the world, only Christianity and Islam aggressively seek to expand their message of exclusiveness. Thus the stage is set for confrontation between these faiths, and the current visit of the Pope to the Holy Land and his apparently contradictory statements about Islam highlight this dilemma. Space does not allow for listing all the differences between Christianity and Islam, but one thing stands out: the mass migration of Muslims away from Islamic countries to the west.
From the many Muslim families Ann and I have known, it is clear that the majority seek a place of freedom and safety for their families, away from the oppressive rule of most Islamic states. Given the chance, they are good hardworking citizens glad of the opportunity of living in the west. Contrary to the fears frequently expressed of the inevitable Islamization of the western nations, and apart from the small radical elements in their midst, I believe that most western Muslims don’t want their adopted country turned into the coercive one they left. They want what most Christians want: freedom to practise their faith in peace.
So how do we square our desire to evangelize with the freedom of others to practise their faith? Is conflict between Christianity and Islam at a personal level inevitable? In considering this question, I am brought back to the story of the rich ruler who chose his wealth rather than following Christ (Luke 18:18-23). Jesus was saddened by this man’s choice but allowed him that freedom. While we may have the opportunity to share our faith with those of other beliefs, if we love them and wish to retain their friendship, we will allow them their freedom of choice also.
The current cultural idea of tolerance is one that imposes the idea of the equality of all religions. True tolerance allows for acceptance of another but without compromise of personal belief.
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12.
In our day of tolerance these are fighting words. It goes against the politically correct notion that all religions are equal and none is exclusive, leading to accusations of intolerance and bigotry for those who think different. Today’s text and Jesus words in John 14:6 "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me,” give us little choice in the matter. Jesus’ claim to be the only way to God and Christian desire to share the freedom found in him is the driving force behind Christian evangelisation.
Of all the religions in the world, only Christianity and Islam aggressively seek to expand their message of exclusiveness. Thus the stage is set for confrontation between these faiths, and the current visit of the Pope to the Holy Land and his apparently contradictory statements about Islam highlight this dilemma. Space does not allow for listing all the differences between Christianity and Islam, but one thing stands out: the mass migration of Muslims away from Islamic countries to the west.
From the many Muslim families Ann and I have known, it is clear that the majority seek a place of freedom and safety for their families, away from the oppressive rule of most Islamic states. Given the chance, they are good hardworking citizens glad of the opportunity of living in the west. Contrary to the fears frequently expressed of the inevitable Islamization of the western nations, and apart from the small radical elements in their midst, I believe that most western Muslims don’t want their adopted country turned into the coercive one they left. They want what most Christians want: freedom to practise their faith in peace.
So how do we square our desire to evangelize with the freedom of others to practise their faith? Is conflict between Christianity and Islam at a personal level inevitable? In considering this question, I am brought back to the story of the rich ruler who chose his wealth rather than following Christ (Luke 18:18-23). Jesus was saddened by this man’s choice but allowed him that freedom. While we may have the opportunity to share our faith with those of other beliefs, if we love them and wish to retain their friendship, we will allow them their freedom of choice also.
The current cultural idea of tolerance is one that imposes the idea of the equality of all religions. True tolerance allows for acceptance of another but without compromise of personal belief.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Thursday May 7, 2009
Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16.
Thursday already! I was sure it was only two days ago I last wrote to you! Forget the clichés about time flying; it just slips by unnoticed while we attend to the daily round. In fact, life itself can escape our grasp after “never getting around to it”—whatever “it” is—and leave nothing of value. And there’s nothing like passion for something to fill life with meaning and fervour. And there’s nothing like faith in Christ to arouse lifelong passion for the most startling act of sacrifice by our Creator himself.
You may have noticed a link to “Antinozzi Adventures” on our blogsite. Alexandra is our daughter who updates her family antics in funky and engaging prose, with pics and adornments that make her website a ‘darnsite’ prettier than mine! Today it relates the short time left for her husband Gino’s sister L. after a long fight with cancer. Please read it and pray for Gino’s family at this sad but precious short time.
It was because God took on a body like ours, walked the perilous road we all walk, and died an agonizing death, that he can relate to our suffering. That is why we can “approach the throne of grace with confidence” and be sure of finding his “grace to help us in our time of need.” We need never be alone in this life and certainly never need to die alone. Most of us have been where Gino’s family is now, and we will all someday follow L. into eternity. Their suffering is ours as well, but there is grace and comfort for grief in this life, and grace and assurance for the next. Why place ourselves anywhere else but in his hands?
Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16.
Thursday already! I was sure it was only two days ago I last wrote to you! Forget the clichés about time flying; it just slips by unnoticed while we attend to the daily round. In fact, life itself can escape our grasp after “never getting around to it”—whatever “it” is—and leave nothing of value. And there’s nothing like passion for something to fill life with meaning and fervour. And there’s nothing like faith in Christ to arouse lifelong passion for the most startling act of sacrifice by our Creator himself.
You may have noticed a link to “Antinozzi Adventures” on our blogsite. Alexandra is our daughter who updates her family antics in funky and engaging prose, with pics and adornments that make her website a ‘darnsite’ prettier than mine! Today it relates the short time left for her husband Gino’s sister L. after a long fight with cancer. Please read it and pray for Gino’s family at this sad but precious short time.
It was because God took on a body like ours, walked the perilous road we all walk, and died an agonizing death, that he can relate to our suffering. That is why we can “approach the throne of grace with confidence” and be sure of finding his “grace to help us in our time of need.” We need never be alone in this life and certainly never need to die alone. Most of us have been where Gino’s family is now, and we will all someday follow L. into eternity. Their suffering is ours as well, but there is grace and comfort for grief in this life, and grace and assurance for the next. Why place ourselves anywhere else but in his hands?
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Sunday May 3, 2009
But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. Ephesians 4:7.
The context of this passage is the gifting from Christ for various ministries in the Body of Christ. Charisma is the Greek word for gift, but the charis part means grace, for a gift is a gracious act of the giver. So as all of us committed to Christ are in ministry one way or another, he has given each of us specific gifts. In our latter years, Ann and I have discovered our joy of writing and rejoice in this gift that we are now able to exercise. We should have the first printing run of our book, Happy Together: Daily Insights for Families from Scripture, available in two weeks time, and are planning an initial launch of the book locally over the weekend of May 23rd. But more of that in a later blog.
You may recall that last weekend was a difficult time for me, not feeling so well and it seemed to be a definite setback on the road to recovery. Well, this weekend has been the reverse. It is the first time I have felt like my old self since the surgery. Not that I am out of the woods yet, and I recognize a few more weeks until I regain full strength, but It feels significant and is a great encouragement. But there are more instances of God’s grace and gifts. Those that have prayed for me; it is a gift of God’s grace—to the one who prays, and for me the recipient of those prayers. The ability of the body to heal itself is a gift of God’s grace, for he is the ultimate healer.
And especially the support and encouragement of Ann; her gifts are the grace of God for both her and me, as she herself continues to be a gift of God’s grace towards me for nearly sixty years—including our courting time! 2010 will be our fifty fifth year of marriage and will mark sixty years we have know each other—and also known the grace of God to us both.
But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. Ephesians 4:7.
The context of this passage is the gifting from Christ for various ministries in the Body of Christ. Charisma is the Greek word for gift, but the charis part means grace, for a gift is a gracious act of the giver. So as all of us committed to Christ are in ministry one way or another, he has given each of us specific gifts. In our latter years, Ann and I have discovered our joy of writing and rejoice in this gift that we are now able to exercise. We should have the first printing run of our book, Happy Together: Daily Insights for Families from Scripture, available in two weeks time, and are planning an initial launch of the book locally over the weekend of May 23rd. But more of that in a later blog.
You may recall that last weekend was a difficult time for me, not feeling so well and it seemed to be a definite setback on the road to recovery. Well, this weekend has been the reverse. It is the first time I have felt like my old self since the surgery. Not that I am out of the woods yet, and I recognize a few more weeks until I regain full strength, but It feels significant and is a great encouragement. But there are more instances of God’s grace and gifts. Those that have prayed for me; it is a gift of God’s grace—to the one who prays, and for me the recipient of those prayers. The ability of the body to heal itself is a gift of God’s grace, for he is the ultimate healer.
And especially the support and encouragement of Ann; her gifts are the grace of God for both her and me, as she herself continues to be a gift of God’s grace towards me for nearly sixty years—including our courting time! 2010 will be our fifty fifth year of marriage and will mark sixty years we have know each other—and also known the grace of God to us both.
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