"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." [1st Peter 5:8].
This is not the time to grow careless nor let down our guard. Satan is looking for even the smallest niche in our armor; a place where he can find entry to our mind; the window of our soul. The devil has six thousand years experience reading the lives of men and women. He knows who to attack and who to leave alone; he doesn't bother with those already in his barn.
Peter also says this: "Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, 'Be holy, for I am holy.'" [1st Peter 1:13-16].
The lessons Peter learned while with Christ were hard fought but the results were long lasting...even until his crucifixion; hanging head down because he did not feel worthy as did his Master. Ellen White says this about Christs disciples: "Under the training of Christ the disciples had been led to feel their need of the Spirit. Under the Spirit's teaching they received the final qualification, and went forth to their lifework. No longer were they ignorant and uncultured. No longer were they a collection of independent units or discordant, conflicting elements. No longer were their hopes set on worldly greatness. They were of "one accord," "of one heart and of one soul." Acts 2:46; 4:32. Christ filled their thoughts; the advancement of His kingdom was their aim. In mind and character they had become like their Master, and men "took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus." Acts 4:13. {AA 45.2}
Pentecost brought them the heavenly illumination. The truths they could not understand while Christ was with them were now unfolded. With a faith and assurance that
Pray that we will be of one mind, one accord, and one purpose under the unction of the Holy Spirit. World events shout the news that Christ is coming soon!
Blessings on your day. e.c.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
How To Avoid Being Popular In This World: A Primer
If anyone likes to be liked, and that's probably most of us, neither the present nor the future are not bright for believers...that is if one believes the Word of God and Jesus Christ.
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." [1st Peter 5:8]
"If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. "If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you." [John 15:18, 19]
"Do not marvel, my brethren, if the world hates you." [1st John 3:13]
It's really very simple and should come as no surprise to anyone. If we are a friend of Jesus we are targets of our adversary, the devil, and enemies of the world.
Not to worry!
"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." [John 16:33]
And;
"You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." [1st John 4:4].
So, what are we to conclude? Christ has prayed for us and that prayer is answered.
"I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one." [John 17:15]
Recommended reading, John Chapter 17; the prayer of Christ.
A Sabbath's blessing. e.c.
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." [1st Peter 5:8]
"If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. "If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you." [John 15:18, 19]
"Do not marvel, my brethren, if the world hates you." [1st John 3:13]
It's really very simple and should come as no surprise to anyone. If we are a friend of Jesus we are targets of our adversary, the devil, and enemies of the world.
Not to worry!
"These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." [John 16:33]
And;
"You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." [1st John 4:4].
So, what are we to conclude? Christ has prayed for us and that prayer is answered.
"I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one." [John 17:15]
Recommended reading, John Chapter 17; the prayer of Christ.
A Sabbath's blessing. e.c.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Tears In A Bottle
David was on the run from the Philistines (Phoenicians) when he was captured in Gath. Somewhere along the path from Gath to freedom he composed a Michtam. He instructed the Chief Musician that it be...Set to "The Silent Dove in Distant Lands." What is a Michtam?
Bible Dictionary
Michtam definition:
(a) writing; i.e., a poem or song found in the titles of Ps. (chapters 16 and 56-60). by a word meaning "tablet inscription" or a "stelograph." The root of the word means to stamp or grave, and hence it is regarded as denoting a composition so precious as to be worthy to be engraven on a durable tablet for preservation; or, as others render, "a psalm precious as stamped gold," from the word _kethem_, "fine or stamped gold."
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Michtam
So much for instruction and information; what about inspiration?
"Be merciful to me, O God, for man would swallow me up;
Fighting all day he oppresses me.
My enemies would hound me all day,
For there are many who fight against me, O Most High.
Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
In God (I will praise His word),
In God I have put my trust; I will not fear.
What can flesh do to me?
All day they twist my words;
All their thoughts are against me for evil.
They gather together,
They hide, they mark my steps,
When they lie in wait for my life.
Shall they escape by iniquity?
In anger cast down the peoples, O God?
You number my wanderings;
Put my tears in a bottle;
Are they not in Your book?
When I cry out to You,
Then my enemies will turn back;
This I know, because, God is for me.
In God (I will praise His word),
In the Lord (I will praise His word),
In God I have put my trust;
I will not be afraid.
What can man do to me.
Vows made to You are binding upon me, O God;
For You have delivered my soul from death.
Have you not kept my feet from falling,
That I may walk before God
In the light of the living?
[Psalms 56:1-13] [Emphasis added]
We serve a loving God; a God so caring that David poetically describes Him as 'putting (our) tears into (a) bottle.' And what does He do with that bottle? I like to believe that we will empty them into the River of Life.
Blessings. e.c.
Bible Dictionary
Michtam definition:
(a) writing; i.e., a poem or song found in the titles of Ps. (chapters 16 and 56-60). by a word meaning "tablet inscription" or a "stelograph." The root of the word means to stamp or grave, and hence it is regarded as denoting a composition so precious as to be worthy to be engraven on a durable tablet for preservation; or, as others render, "a psalm precious as stamped gold," from the word _kethem_, "fine or stamped gold."
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Michtam
So much for instruction and information; what about inspiration?
"Be merciful to me, O God, for man would swallow me up;
Fighting all day he oppresses me.
My enemies would hound me all day,
For there are many who fight against me, O Most High.
Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.
In God (I will praise His word),
In God I have put my trust; I will not fear.
What can flesh do to me?
All day they twist my words;
All their thoughts are against me for evil.
They gather together,
They hide, they mark my steps,
When they lie in wait for my life.
Shall they escape by iniquity?
In anger cast down the peoples, O God?
You number my wanderings;
Put my tears in a bottle;
Are they not in Your book?
When I cry out to You,
Then my enemies will turn back;
This I know, because, God is for me.
In God (I will praise His word),
In the Lord (I will praise His word),
In God I have put my trust;
I will not be afraid.
What can man do to me.
Vows made to You are binding upon me, O God;
For You have delivered my soul from death.
Have you not kept my feet from falling,
That I may walk before God
In the light of the living?
[Psalms 56:1-13] [Emphasis added]
We serve a loving God; a God so caring that David poetically describes Him as 'putting (our) tears into (a) bottle.' And what does He do with that bottle? I like to believe that we will empty them into the River of Life.
Blessings. e.c.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Politics: A Syrup of Ipecac
I have been nauseated for days and will probably remain so until November third, at which time the only thing I'll heave is a sigh of relief. But until then...we all have to suffer the noxious, obnoxious, nauseating, noisy insulting stammerings of frantic politicians doing and saying whatever their fertile minds can conjure that they think will give them an edge.
Meanwhile, back at the emesis basin, we the innocent are left to suffer an ever rising tide of pollution designed to sway us even though it is mostly devoid of reason and truth.
Truth begins in the Word of God and ends in the mind and mouth of man (a gender-inclusive word for all politicians). Of course, I am over stating, but that's what blogs are for. The quadriplegic physician cum political analyst (Charles Krauthammer) recently commented on the toxicity of current political blogs where meanness is prerequisite to admittance.
I like the story of Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel chapter 4) where his arrogance results in his loss of reason and his kingdom...for seven years. But after seven years of eating grass the king of Babylon had this to say: "And at the end of the time I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted up my eyes to heaven and my understanding returned to me; and I blessed the Most High and praised Him who lives forever. For His dominion is an everlasting dominion, and His kingdom is from generation to generation. All the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing; He does according to His will in the army of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth. No one can restrain His hand or say to Him, 'What have you done?' ...Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, all of whose works are truth, and His ways justice. And those who walk in pride He is able to put down." [Daniel 4: 34, 35, and 37].
America, and especially its leaders, need to lift their eyes to heaven. Perhaps their understanding, like that of Nebuchadnezzar, will return to them. I do not hold much hope.
But I did vote... You bet'cha! e.c.
Meanwhile, back at the emesis basin, we the innocent are left to suffer an ever rising tide of pollution designed to sway us even though it is mostly devoid of reason and truth.
Truth begins in the Word of God and ends in the mind and mouth of man (a gender-inclusive word for all politicians). Of course, I am over stating, but that's what blogs are for. The quadriplegic physician cum political analyst (Charles Krauthammer) recently commented on the toxicity of current political blogs where meanness is prerequisite to admittance.
I like the story of Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel chapter 4) where his arrogance results in his loss of reason and his kingdom...for seven years. But after seven years of eating grass the king of Babylon had this to say: "And at the end of the time I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted up my eyes to heaven and my understanding returned to me; and I blessed the Most High and praised Him who lives forever. For His dominion is an everlasting dominion, and His kingdom is from generation to generation. All the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing; He does according to His will in the army of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth. No one can restrain His hand or say to Him, 'What have you done?' ...Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, all of whose works are truth, and His ways justice. And those who walk in pride He is able to put down." [Daniel 4: 34, 35, and 37].
America, and especially its leaders, need to lift their eyes to heaven. Perhaps their understanding, like that of Nebuchadnezzar, will return to them. I do not hold much hope.
But I did vote... You bet'cha! e.c.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
What Is His Name?
I was twiddling through the dials (so to speak) of the Internet when I happened upon a Messianic Jewish website that gave me Strong's Hebrew Lexicon Search Results.
After doing a Control-C and Control-V of what I wanted, there at the bottom of the page was this "Discovering the Hebrew Roots of Christianity" which happened to be a long but interesting discussion about the names of God and His Christ. Here are a few of the highlights.
The word, hallelujah, is more accurately rendered, halleluyah, and that one word is made up of two words; hallelu and Yah, which is translated as Praise God. One can easily see here the Hebrew word for God...Yah.
Over time devout Jews came to consider the name of God (YAHWEH) to be too holy to utter or render in full spelling and it was reduced to the tetragrammaton, YHWH.
The name Jesus, known to most, is actually derived from the Latin Iesus, which reportedly appeared in the 1611* first edition of the King James translation of Scripture and which is a departure from our present understanding of the name of the Christ. Controversy over the name of Jesus has been raging back and forth (in the minds of some) since the 1930's.
Interestingly, the Hebrew name for Jesus is very much like the name of the man who led the children of Israel into the promised land; Joshua. The Hebrew rendering of that name is this; Y'hoshua. (The parallel of Joshua and Christ leading God's people from captivity [Egypt/sin] into the promised land [Literal Canaan/Heavenly Canaan] should not be lost here).
The Complete Hebrew Bible (translated by David H. Stern) translates the name of the Messiah as Yeshua. The narrated Power Point presentation alluded to above made a case for the name of the Christ: YAHUSHUA. One instantly makes the connection; YAH, YAHUSHUA, YAHWEH, YHWH. But is this correct, and perhaps more importantly, is it a critical issue in our worship? Most probably not.
YAHUSHUA, Yeshua, Y'hoshua, Jesus, the Christ, carried the name of God because He was God incarnate; He was the Creator God and the Passover Lamb of God. The Oneness of the Trinity and the truth of His deity is summarized in the words; "I and [my] Father are One." [John 10:30]. The core of the question/issue is this; have we given our hearts and minds to our Savior, and are we serving Him by telling others of His soon coming. I firmly believe that there will be those who are saved who have never heard the name of Jesus...in any form...because they followed the leading of the Holy Spirit in surrender and obedience.
Blessings as we think on the Name above all names. e.c.
*Further Study Sources:
http://www.seekgod.ca/htwhatsinaname.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesus_(name)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominus_Iesus
After doing a Control-C and Control-V of what I wanted, there at the bottom of the page was this "Discovering the Hebrew Roots of Christianity" which happened to be a long but interesting discussion about the names of God and His Christ. Here are a few of the highlights.
The word, hallelujah, is more accurately rendered, halleluyah, and that one word is made up of two words; hallelu and Yah, which is translated as Praise God. One can easily see here the Hebrew word for God...Yah.
Over time devout Jews came to consider the name of God (YAHWEH) to be too holy to utter or render in full spelling and it was reduced to the tetragrammaton, YHWH.
The name Jesus, known to most, is actually derived from the Latin Iesus, which reportedly appeared in the 1611* first edition of the King James translation of Scripture and which is a departure from our present understanding of the name of the Christ. Controversy over the name of Jesus has been raging back and forth (in the minds of some) since the 1930's.
Interestingly, the Hebrew name for Jesus is very much like the name of the man who led the children of Israel into the promised land; Joshua. The Hebrew rendering of that name is this; Y'hoshua. (The parallel of Joshua and Christ leading God's people from captivity [Egypt/sin] into the promised land [Literal Canaan/Heavenly Canaan] should not be lost here).
The Complete Hebrew Bible (translated by David H. Stern) translates the name of the Messiah as Yeshua. The narrated Power Point presentation alluded to above made a case for the name of the Christ: YAHUSHUA. One instantly makes the connection; YAH, YAHUSHUA, YAHWEH, YHWH. But is this correct, and perhaps more importantly, is it a critical issue in our worship? Most probably not.
YAHUSHUA, Yeshua, Y'hoshua, Jesus, the Christ, carried the name of God because He was God incarnate; He was the Creator God and the Passover Lamb of God. The Oneness of the Trinity and the truth of His deity is summarized in the words; "I and [my] Father are One." [John 10:30]. The core of the question/issue is this; have we given our hearts and minds to our Savior, and are we serving Him by telling others of His soon coming. I firmly believe that there will be those who are saved who have never heard the name of Jesus...in any form...because they followed the leading of the Holy Spirit in surrender and obedience.
Blessings as we think on the Name above all names. e.c.
*Further Study Sources:
http://www.seekgod.ca/htwhatsinaname.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesus_(name)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominus_Iesus
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Lessons from Zechariah
"Then he showed me Joshua, the high priest standing before the Angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to oppose him. And the Lord said to Satan, 'The Lord rebuke you, Satan! The Lord who has chosen Jerusalem rebuke you! Is this not a brand plucked from the fire?'"
"Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and was standing before the Angel. Then He answered and spoke to those who stood before Him saying, 'Take away the filthy garments from Him.' And to him He said, 'See, I have removed your iniquity from you, and I will clothe you with rich robes.'
"And I said, 'Let them put a clean turban on his head.' So they put a clean turban on his head, and they put the clothes on him. And the Angel of the Lord stood by."
Who was this Angel of the Lord. In three words...it was our Lord Jesus Christ. How do I know this? [Exodus 3:1, 2, 6, 13, 14 and John 8:56-58]. Interestingly, neither the KJV nor the NIV capitalize the word, angel, as does the NKJV. This is no ordinary angel spoken of in Zechariah; this Angel has power to remove iniquity, and that power belongs only to God.
The filthy garments are not merely dirty, as when one works in the garden or other potentially grimy tasks. In the Hebrew the word used for filthy is referring to garments soiled by dung or human excrement. (Strong's online Concordance)
Result of search for "6674":
6674 tsow' tso or tsov {tso}; from an unused root meaning to issue; soiled (as if excrementitious):--filthy.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6675 tsow'ah tso-aw' or tsovah {tso-aw'}: feminine of 6674; excrement; generally, dirt; figuratively, pollution:--dung, filth(-iness). Marg. for 2716.
Source: http://www.eliyah.com/cgi-bin/strongs.cgi?file=hebrewlexicon&isindex=6674
Notice that the first thing changed is the turban; symbolizing a changing and renewing of the mind. Here is how Strong treats the Greek word used here for mind; [G5426 phroneĊ]1) to have understanding, be wise
2) to feel, to think
a) to have an opinion of one's self, think of one's self, to be modest, not let one's opinion (though just) of himself exceed the bounds of modesty
b) to think or judge what one's opinion is
c) to be of the same mind i.e. agreed together, cherish the same views, be harmonious
3) to direct one's mind to a thing, to seek, to strive for
a) to seek one's interest or advantage
b) to be of one's party, side with him (in public affairs)
Source: http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G5426&t=KJV
To be a follower of Jesus Christ is to undergo change and transformation, and it begins with the mind which is the seat of our sinfulness and our salvation. From a neuroanatomic and neurological point of view, it is the frontal lobe (just behind the forehead) of our brain, and its executive, weighing, deciding, and directing functions that are utilized when we choose to serve Jesus. As Paul says, "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." [Phil. 2:5]
Think on these things. e.c.
"Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and was standing before the Angel. Then He answered and spoke to those who stood before Him saying, 'Take away the filthy garments from Him.' And to him He said, 'See, I have removed your iniquity from you, and I will clothe you with rich robes.'
"And I said, 'Let them put a clean turban on his head.' So they put a clean turban on his head, and they put the clothes on him. And the Angel of the Lord stood by."
Who was this Angel of the Lord. In three words...it was our Lord Jesus Christ. How do I know this? [Exodus 3:1, 2, 6, 13, 14 and John 8:56-58]. Interestingly, neither the KJV nor the NIV capitalize the word, angel, as does the NKJV. This is no ordinary angel spoken of in Zechariah; this Angel has power to remove iniquity, and that power belongs only to God.
The filthy garments are not merely dirty, as when one works in the garden or other potentially grimy tasks. In the Hebrew the word used for filthy is referring to garments soiled by dung or human excrement. (Strong's online Concordance)
Result of search for "6674":
6674 tsow' tso or tsov {tso}; from an unused root meaning to issue; soiled (as if excrementitious):--filthy.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6675 tsow'ah tso-aw' or tsovah {tso-aw'}: feminine of 6674; excrement; generally, dirt; figuratively, pollution:--dung, filth(-iness). Marg. for 2716.
Source: http://www.eliyah.com/cgi-bin/strongs.cgi?file=hebrewlexicon&isindex=6674
Notice that the first thing changed is the turban; symbolizing a changing and renewing of the mind. Here is how Strong treats the Greek word used here for mind; [G5426 phroneĊ]1) to have understanding, be wise
2) to feel, to think
a) to have an opinion of one's self, think of one's self, to be modest, not let one's opinion (though just) of himself exceed the bounds of modesty
b) to think or judge what one's opinion is
c) to be of the same mind i.e. agreed together, cherish the same views, be harmonious
3) to direct one's mind to a thing, to seek, to strive for
a) to seek one's interest or advantage
b) to be of one's party, side with him (in public affairs)
Source: http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G5426&t=KJV
To be a follower of Jesus Christ is to undergo change and transformation, and it begins with the mind which is the seat of our sinfulness and our salvation. From a neuroanatomic and neurological point of view, it is the frontal lobe (just behind the forehead) of our brain, and its executive, weighing, deciding, and directing functions that are utilized when we choose to serve Jesus. As Paul says, "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus." [Phil. 2:5]
Think on these things. e.c.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Last Church of A' La Carte
Going out to eat is as much a part of life as going to church; more so these days. In an upscale restaurant we will be greeted by a Maitre' d (hotel); literally, Master of the Hotel..or restaurant. We can elect to have dinner a' la carte or table d'hote. The first means, essentially, that we pick and choose what appeals to us, whereas the second indicates a menu where multi-course meals with only a few choices are charged at a fixed price.
What has this to do with things spiritual? I think you see it, but I will explain.
There are picky diners and picky Christians; they eat and worship the way they want rather than in obedience to Jesus Christ. But here is the issue: A dinner has been prepared, all are invited, attendees are provided the required attire, and the price of admission has been set and paid. (The following parable told by Christ traces the gospel from Moses and the Jews coming out of Egypt [Hebrews 3:16 - 4:2] through the prophets, the destruction of Jerusalem, the spreading of the gospel, and the final wedding feast.)
"The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son, and sent out his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding; and they were not willing to come. Again he sent out other servants saying, 'Tell those who are invited, "See, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and fatted cattle are killed, and all things are ready. Come to the wedding."' "But they made light of it and went their ways, one to his own farm, another to his business. And the rest seized his servants, treated them spitefully, and killed them.
"But when the king heard about it, he was furious. And he sent out his armies, destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then he said to his servants, 'The wedding is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy. Therefore go into the highways, and as many as you find, invite to the wedding.' So those servants went out into the highways and gathered together all whom they found, both bad and good. And the wedding hall was filled with guests. But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment.
So the king said to him, 'Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. Then the king said to the servants, 'Bind him hand and foot, take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' For many are called, but few are chosen." [Matthew 22:2-14].
The points of the parable are clear; God has prepared both a wedding and a dinner. Invitations have been sent (prophets, missionaries) to all the world and many have come so that the hall (church) is filled. The costs of the dinner are paid in full by the king (the blood of Christ). When the King inspects the guests he finds one who prefers his own garment (his own good works) over the one provided (the righteousness of Jesus Christ).
Salvation in Christ is accepting Him and doing His will by our obedience. It is not what we want to do (a' la carte).
Friend, put on the pure garment of righteousness provided by the death of the Christ on the cross. Accept what is served (table d'hote) at an inestimable price.
Be at peace; the Sabbath of our Lord is coming [Matthew 12:8 and Mark 2:27, 28]. e.c.
What has this to do with things spiritual? I think you see it, but I will explain.
There are picky diners and picky Christians; they eat and worship the way they want rather than in obedience to Jesus Christ. But here is the issue: A dinner has been prepared, all are invited, attendees are provided the required attire, and the price of admission has been set and paid. (The following parable told by Christ traces the gospel from Moses and the Jews coming out of Egypt [Hebrews 3:16 - 4:2] through the prophets, the destruction of Jerusalem, the spreading of the gospel, and the final wedding feast.)
"The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son, and sent out his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding; and they were not willing to come. Again he sent out other servants saying, 'Tell those who are invited, "See, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and fatted cattle are killed, and all things are ready. Come to the wedding."' "But they made light of it and went their ways, one to his own farm, another to his business. And the rest seized his servants, treated them spitefully, and killed them.
"But when the king heard about it, he was furious. And he sent out his armies, destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then he said to his servants, 'The wedding is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy. Therefore go into the highways, and as many as you find, invite to the wedding.' So those servants went out into the highways and gathered together all whom they found, both bad and good. And the wedding hall was filled with guests. But when the king came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did not have on a wedding garment.
So the king said to him, 'Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?' And he was speechless. Then the king said to the servants, 'Bind him hand and foot, take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' For many are called, but few are chosen." [Matthew 22:2-14].
The points of the parable are clear; God has prepared both a wedding and a dinner. Invitations have been sent (prophets, missionaries) to all the world and many have come so that the hall (church) is filled. The costs of the dinner are paid in full by the king (the blood of Christ). When the King inspects the guests he finds one who prefers his own garment (his own good works) over the one provided (the righteousness of Jesus Christ).
Salvation in Christ is accepting Him and doing His will by our obedience. It is not what we want to do (a' la carte).
Friend, put on the pure garment of righteousness provided by the death of the Christ on the cross. Accept what is served (table d'hote) at an inestimable price.
Be at peace; the Sabbath of our Lord is coming [Matthew 12:8 and Mark 2:27, 28]. e.c.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Seeds of Rebellion
Noxious weeds are sprouting all over the world; the list is long. One has only to hear/read the news flashing across the screens of our TV and computers about rioting in France and unrest everywhere giving rise to angry nations, false prophets and lawlessness [Matthew 24:7, 11, 12]. Seeds of rebellion are sprouting in America as well. Just in recent days there have been rifle shots fired at the Pentagon. There are people on the loose who feel free to take aim (literal or verbal) at their personal and/or political enemies. A lot of shots have been fired as of late and I look at these as desperate acts of "commentary" by desperate people who hold deep, personal, radical feelings about such things as America's foreign policy, America at war, loss of their job, bank foreclosures on their homes, and the economy. And there is a larger picture where the 'discussion' is mean-spirited over almost everything imaginable.
Local militias are looming larger across our nation. Why? Most are secretive and train with sophisticated military and paramilitary equipment. Who is their enemy? What is their target?
Of course, I see spiritual issues lying deep within these events, because at the core of these events is an animal awakening and emerging from a 'long winter's sleep;' the Beast of Daniel and Revelation and the Antichrist. No thinking person who understands who and what these represent would have them for pet or friend.
Understanding these issues is important because of these verses: "Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, 'If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of his indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb." [Revelation 14:8, 9]
This is no small consequence for who choose to worship the Beast that poses as God but that is empowered by the Dragon [Revelation 17:1-9]. There are a multitude of clues in the verses cited above that are waiting to be understood by those wanting and praying to know. (See Revelation 1:3)
Blessings, patience, and courage! e.c.
Local militias are looming larger across our nation. Why? Most are secretive and train with sophisticated military and paramilitary equipment. Who is their enemy? What is their target?
Of course, I see spiritual issues lying deep within these events, because at the core of these events is an animal awakening and emerging from a 'long winter's sleep;' the Beast of Daniel and Revelation and the Antichrist. No thinking person who understands who and what these represent would have them for pet or friend.
Understanding these issues is important because of these verses: "Then a third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, 'If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of his indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb." [Revelation 14:8, 9]
This is no small consequence for who choose to worship the Beast that poses as God but that is empowered by the Dragon [Revelation 17:1-9]. There are a multitude of clues in the verses cited above that are waiting to be understood by those wanting and praying to know. (See Revelation 1:3)
Blessings, patience, and courage! e.c.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Foolishness of Preaching
"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, And bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent." Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe." [1st Corinthians 1:18-21] NKJV
Some members of The View would certainly find foolishness in preaching...and prayer. Here's a supporting quote: "On the June 22 episode of "The View," co-host Joy Behar criticized prayer, saying it "takes the place of logical thinking, then I think that's dangerous."
http://newsbusters.org/blogs/melissa-afable/2010/06/22/behar-prayer-take-place-thinking
Whoopi Goldberg, another member of The View describes herself as atheist:
AKA Caryn Elaine Johnson
Born: 13-Nov-1955
Birthplace: New York City
Gender: Female
Religion: Atheist [1]
Race or Ethnicity: Black
Sexual orientation: Straight [2]
Occupation: Actor, Comic
[1] Steve Brown, "God's Weird Love", Today's Christian, January/February 2007. To Kathy Huffhines in the Dallas Morning News, 10 December 1991, she described herself as a "Jewish-Catholic girl from New York", though this is clearly a cultural rather than belief designation. Her approach to religion is flippant, saying that she changed her name to Whoopi "after encountering a burning bush in the desert." See Miami Herald, 2 June 1985.
http://www.nndb.com/people/242/000025167/#FN2
If there is a question of the day it is this: If you had five minutes to speak of things spiritual (purposely set in neutral context so as not to influence your answer) to Behar and/or Goldberg, what would you say? (Assume that this is their only opportunity for such an encounter. Soberingly, Joy, Whoopi, and others like them have their own "evangelistic" program.) Will it go unanswered?
"Now is the time for the last warning to be given. There is a special power in the presentation of the truth at the present time; but how long will it continue? Only a little while. If there was ever a crisis, it is now." Ellen White; Evangelism, pgs. 16, 17
Or...we could sit on the couch and watch The View...e.c.
Some members of The View would certainly find foolishness in preaching...and prayer. Here's a supporting quote: "On the June 22 episode of "The View," co-host Joy Behar criticized prayer, saying it "takes the place of logical thinking, then I think that's dangerous."
http://newsbusters.org/blogs/melissa-afable/2010/06/22/behar-prayer-take-place-thinking
Whoopi Goldberg, another member of The View describes herself as atheist:
AKA Caryn Elaine Johnson
Born: 13-Nov-1955
Birthplace: New York City
Gender: Female
Religion: Atheist [1]
Race or Ethnicity: Black
Sexual orientation: Straight [2]
Occupation: Actor, Comic
[1] Steve Brown, "God's Weird Love", Today's Christian, January/February 2007. To Kathy Huffhines in the Dallas Morning News, 10 December 1991, she described herself as a "Jewish-Catholic girl from New York", though this is clearly a cultural rather than belief designation. Her approach to religion is flippant, saying that she changed her name to Whoopi "after encountering a burning bush in the desert." See Miami Herald, 2 June 1985.
http://www.nndb.com/people/242/000025167/#FN2
If there is a question of the day it is this: If you had five minutes to speak of things spiritual (purposely set in neutral context so as not to influence your answer) to Behar and/or Goldberg, what would you say? (Assume that this is their only opportunity for such an encounter. Soberingly, Joy, Whoopi, and others like them have their own "evangelistic" program.) Will it go unanswered?
"Now is the time for the last warning to be given. There is a special power in the presentation of the truth at the present time; but how long will it continue? Only a little while. If there was ever a crisis, it is now." Ellen White; Evangelism, pgs. 16, 17
Or...we could sit on the couch and watch The View...e.c.
Friday, October 15, 2010
It wasn't my Idea
I can't take any credit for this post because it wasn't my idea. Last Sabbath E.S. spoke about the miners in Chile and compared their plight...trapped in darkness deep in the belly of the mine...to the condition of man, trapped in the darkness of sin on earth.
Just as a plan was made and perfectly executed to bring the miners from darkness to light, so, perfect plans were made by God for the rescue of His children from the darkness of sin, suffering and death.
It was thrilling to see the men emerge from the capsule and be welcomed by family; men brought back from the edge of death. One at a time they arose to a new life, and for some, the painful reality of and old life.
When Christ returns...soon...here is what it will be like for those who choose to live in the light and life of the cross Today; "For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words." [1st Thessalonians 4:16-18].
We will not rise from this darkness one at a time, but as an unnumbered cloud of the redeemed; witnesses for Jesus Christ to all the worlds* He has created [Hebrews 1:2] *NJKV
Blessings. e.c.
Just as a plan was made and perfectly executed to bring the miners from darkness to light, so, perfect plans were made by God for the rescue of His children from the darkness of sin, suffering and death.
It was thrilling to see the men emerge from the capsule and be welcomed by family; men brought back from the edge of death. One at a time they arose to a new life, and for some, the painful reality of and old life.
When Christ returns...soon...here is what it will be like for those who choose to live in the light and life of the cross Today; "For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words." [1st Thessalonians 4:16-18].
We will not rise from this darkness one at a time, but as an unnumbered cloud of the redeemed; witnesses for Jesus Christ to all the worlds* He has created [Hebrews 1:2] *NJKV
Blessings. e.c.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Training Wheels for The Mind
"Children, don't let anyone deceive you -- it is the person that keeps on doing what is right who is righteous, just as God is righteous. The person who keeps on sinning is from the Adversary, because from the very beginning the Adversary has kept on sinning." [1st John 3:1, 8]
"Let this mind be in you which was is in Christ Jesus." [ Phil. 2:5]
"Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;" [1st Peter 1:13]
"Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; Try my mind and my heart." [Psalms 26:2]
"And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.' This is the first commandment." [Mark 12:30]
"And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind." [Luke 12:29]
"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." [Romans 12:2]
Post script: each of these texts presents an opportunity to exercise our mind by memorization and contemplation. By learning Bible texts we can carry (some of) the Bible where ever we go.e.c.
"Let this mind be in you which was is in Christ Jesus." [ Phil. 2:5]
"Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;" [1st Peter 1:13]
"Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; Try my mind and my heart." [Psalms 26:2]
"And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.' This is the first commandment." [Mark 12:30]
"And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind." [Luke 12:29]
"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." [Romans 12:2]
Post script: each of these texts presents an opportunity to exercise our mind by memorization and contemplation. By learning Bible texts we can carry (some of) the Bible where ever we go.e.c.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Then There Was..."The Sermon"
I purposefully titled this post as ominously as possible. Because... after posting the Power Point of the message I thought, perhaps, maybe, someone out there is just brave enough to listen to what was said. It was recorded, and I didn't know a thing about it...which was good, else I might have been something more than my usual uptight self. For the curious, the brave, the masochistic, the impressionable, and the remnant, here is the link;
http://www.robertdscott.com/files/2010_10_09_Ed_Christiansen_I_Am.mp3
http://www.robertdscott.com/files/2010_10_09_Ed_Christiansen_I_Am.mp3
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Chance to be the hero......
The year was 1953. It was during Phys. Ed. at Lincoln High School in Tacoma. The game was football. In one of the last huddles before the bell, the quarterback pointed a thumb at me and said, "Nobody's watch'n this guy." A clap of the hands, we line up, comes the snap of the ball and I start running...deep. So I stop, turn around, and see this spiraling football coming straight to me. My hands go up to make the heroic catch, and "Thump"! the ball bounces off my chest and weakly dribbles away across the field. The bell rang and I was able to weakly follow the football off the field. I laugh...now.
I can't ever remember playing football again...but I have an excuse (make that, a reason) nobody ever taught me how to catch a football because there aren't that many one-legged football playing fathers.
Have a good week and remember this; you catch a football running away...with the ball, not into it. It's only 57 years later than I know this.e.c.
I can't ever remember playing football again...but I have an excuse (make that, a reason) nobody ever taught me how to catch a football because there aren't that many one-legged football playing fathers.
Have a good week and remember this; you catch a football running away...with the ball, not into it. It's only 57 years later than I know this.e.c.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Come Holy Spirit
People gathered at our little church last evening for a very special purpose; to pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit; a Pentecost right here in Shelton. We will gather together each week in the month of October and ask to be used of God for sharing the message of His Grace, Mercy, and Salvation that He made freely available to every person willing to accept the gift and live in obedience to His teachings. As the Bible says, "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that comes out of the mouth of God." [Matthew 4:4 quoting Deuteronomy 8:3].
'We have nothing to fear for the future except that we forget how the Lord has led us in the past.'
Be encouraged; soon, our Lord will return and bring eternal closure to all the things that perplex the hearts of those who love and serve Him. e.c.
'We have nothing to fear for the future except that we forget how the Lord has led us in the past.'
Be encouraged; soon, our Lord will return and bring eternal closure to all the things that perplex the hearts of those who love and serve Him. e.c.
Just An Ordinary Bible Study
The title of this Power Point study is, I AM! May you prosper.e.c.
This link to Facebook should take you to the Bible Study. I am presenting this PP study this Sabbath at the 11:00 hour (Note: the Pew Bible pages were inserted for those at the church new to Bible study and/or those who forgot to bring them. Blessings. e.c.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?
This link to Facebook should take you to the Bible Study. I am presenting this PP study this Sabbath at the 11:00 hour (Note: the Pew Bible pages were inserted for those at the church new to Bible study and/or those who forgot to bring them. Blessings. e.c.
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
They Spend! Therefore We Are Taxed
A flyer came in the mail today asking us to support opposition (Yes on 1107) to Washington State's recent imposition of taxes on certain food items. Interestingly, Nalley's Thick Chili is taxed but Hormel Chili is not. Why the difference? Because Nalley Valley (as we always called it is in Tacoma; is made in Washington, whereas (evidently) Hormel is not. So, if we are shopping for chili and are aware of this, and we are on a budget, and we want to save money on groceries, what would be the smartest thing to do? That's right! Buy Hormel. And what is a possible/probable effect of this on those who labor among the chili beans? This can't be good for jobs; and you don't have to be a bean counter to figure this out.
Blue Diamond Almonds (honey roasted) are taxed; Blue Diamond Almonds (roasted salted) are not. Go figure.
It's not hard to figure this out. Washington State has spent itself into a 2-3 billion dollar deficit and is putting it on our backs to get them out. Driving through Belfair I saw this sign in the front yard of a house on the Old Belfair Highway: "Vote No For Incumbent!" "Spot on!" I say.
To my mind the logic (assuming it resides in Olympia politics) is confounding; if the decisions to tax or not to tax are linked to where the items are made, and if they are made in Washington and are taxed, then residents of this state are twice punished; manufacturers and consumers! That is the rant for today.
Blessings to all; Lord knows we need them. e.c.
Blue Diamond Almonds (honey roasted) are taxed; Blue Diamond Almonds (roasted salted) are not. Go figure.
It's not hard to figure this out. Washington State has spent itself into a 2-3 billion dollar deficit and is putting it on our backs to get them out. Driving through Belfair I saw this sign in the front yard of a house on the Old Belfair Highway: "Vote No For Incumbent!" "Spot on!" I say.
To my mind the logic (assuming it resides in Olympia politics) is confounding; if the decisions to tax or not to tax are linked to where the items are made, and if they are made in Washington and are taxed, then residents of this state are twice punished; manufacturers and consumers! That is the rant for today.
Blessings to all; Lord knows we need them. e.c.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Morir, Matar Y Assassionar
To die, to kill and to assassinate...in Spanish.
There is a spirit in the world; a spirit of meanness that exceeds merely being mean; one that is venturing further into talk and acts of murderous hatred.
Much of it has to do with religion; the rest of it is the nation's expressions of their politik mixed with a little religion...or maybe a lot of it. I think of the Ages Dark and Deadly on this Earth when unnumbered souls were tortured and killed in the name of God. (Probably that should be a lower case "g" because it is an insult to the true God to murder in His name). Those who did this thought they were doing a good thing; kind of like ridding the house of bedbugs or roaches; insects to be stepped on until you feel their bodies "pop" under your heel.
It was the union of church and state that crushed annoying, dissident insects to death because they had the audacity to disagree with mainstream thought in the church and the political assembly.
Christ warned the church that such things would happen. He said, "Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake." [Matthew 24:9]
"Nonsense!" you say. "All that is history. We are too civilized to repeat those errors." "Nonsense!" I say. In verse 21 Christ says, "For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect's sake those days will be shortened." [vs.22].
Iran's president is calling for the "...burial of America's leaders..."
North Korea has a new leader...All In The Family...more rabid than his ailing and aging father.
Venezuela is seeking to become another on the list of the world's nuclear powers.
Israel and the Palestinians are at impasse...again...
Terror threat heightened in Europe...
Muslim's blockade streets in France for prayer time. Nothing moves.
The time of renewed religious persecution is coming. More correctly, it is here. John the Revelator wrote of "tomorrow's" news 2000 years ago. He says, "And there went out another horse [that was] red: and [power] was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword." [Revelation 6:4] These will be times when men and nations Morir, Matar, Y Assassionar, for reasons "religious and political," and in His Name???
The "peace" that will be taken from the earth is that which men seek and for which they negotiate with fingers crossed behind their backs. We will find true peace in the New Jerusalem (Salem, Shalom) that eternal city of true peace.
Until then, may the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be your house.e.c.
There is a spirit in the world; a spirit of meanness that exceeds merely being mean; one that is venturing further into talk and acts of murderous hatred.
Much of it has to do with religion; the rest of it is the nation's expressions of their politik mixed with a little religion...or maybe a lot of it. I think of the Ages Dark and Deadly on this Earth when unnumbered souls were tortured and killed in the name of God. (Probably that should be a lower case "g" because it is an insult to the true God to murder in His name). Those who did this thought they were doing a good thing; kind of like ridding the house of bedbugs or roaches; insects to be stepped on until you feel their bodies "pop" under your heel.
It was the union of church and state that crushed annoying, dissident insects to death because they had the audacity to disagree with mainstream thought in the church and the political assembly.
Christ warned the church that such things would happen. He said, "Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name's sake." [Matthew 24:9]
"Nonsense!" you say. "All that is history. We are too civilized to repeat those errors." "Nonsense!" I say. In verse 21 Christ says, "For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect's sake those days will be shortened." [vs.22].
Iran's president is calling for the "...burial of America's leaders..."
North Korea has a new leader...All In The Family...more rabid than his ailing and aging father.
Venezuela is seeking to become another on the list of the world's nuclear powers.
Israel and the Palestinians are at impasse...again...
Terror threat heightened in Europe...
Muslim's blockade streets in France for prayer time. Nothing moves.
The time of renewed religious persecution is coming. More correctly, it is here. John the Revelator wrote of "tomorrow's" news 2000 years ago. He says, "And there went out another horse [that was] red: and [power] was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword." [Revelation 6:4] These will be times when men and nations Morir, Matar, Y Assassionar, for reasons "religious and political," and in His Name???
The "peace" that will be taken from the earth is that which men seek and for which they negotiate with fingers crossed behind their backs. We will find true peace in the New Jerusalem (Salem, Shalom) that eternal city of true peace.
Until then, may the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be your house.e.c.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Toxic News Overload
I'm more rattled than usual after perusing the morning news. The issue today is meanness and corruption.
1. The dean of St. John's University was fired for embezzling 1M dollars from school donations. She was also found to be using students as "slaves" to do housekeeping, chauffeuring family members to important events like hair appointments. She used mostly foreign students and intimidated them by threatening to withdraw financial aid.
2. GMAC and J.P. Morgan Chase are charged with illegally processing tens of thousands of foreclosure notices on beleaguered home owners. Evidently there was (in some cases) insufficient or incorrect information that these lending giants did not take the time to review. One executive complained that he signed as many as 10,000 foreclosure notices a month and "didn't have the time" to examine them for accuracy. (That's an excuse?)
3. STD's for fun and profit. The US is going to apologize for it's Mendelian experimentation in the 1940's on Guatemalan citizens (usually mentally challenged) that were intentionally infected with STD (sexually transmitted disease) syphilis. We, that's the U.S., (us) did this to poor blacks in the South before that. So we say, "Oh. We're sorry" and that's supposed to paint everything white and all right; I don't think so!
War for Sport. U.S. troops have given the world another reason to despise us as a nation and bring shame on the real heroes in the war on terrorism: soldiers committed to preventing the spread of a toxic and corrosive root of Islam. Some (thankfully a small number) are charged with killing Afghan citizens just for the sport of it and collecting body parts (fingers) as souvenirs. This isn't new. Both in Europe and China during the WWII era soldiers collected eyes and strung them like beads.
Everyday I wonder if the new can get much worse; and it does. Satan is collecting all the souvenirs he can before the end, just to torment the people of the earth and their Creator. This will come to an end. I'm wondering what I can do today to move that along today; even if it is just a little.
Sabbath is coming. Blessings. e.c.
1. The dean of St. John's University was fired for embezzling 1M dollars from school donations. She was also found to be using students as "slaves" to do housekeeping, chauffeuring family members to important events like hair appointments. She used mostly foreign students and intimidated them by threatening to withdraw financial aid.
2. GMAC and J.P. Morgan Chase are charged with illegally processing tens of thousands of foreclosure notices on beleaguered home owners. Evidently there was (in some cases) insufficient or incorrect information that these lending giants did not take the time to review. One executive complained that he signed as many as 10,000 foreclosure notices a month and "didn't have the time" to examine them for accuracy. (That's an excuse?)
3. STD's for fun and profit. The US is going to apologize for it's Mendelian experimentation in the 1940's on Guatemalan citizens (usually mentally challenged) that were intentionally infected with STD (sexually transmitted disease) syphilis. We, that's the U.S., (us) did this to poor blacks in the South before that. So we say, "Oh. We're sorry" and that's supposed to paint everything white and all right; I don't think so!
War for Sport. U.S. troops have given the world another reason to despise us as a nation and bring shame on the real heroes in the war on terrorism: soldiers committed to preventing the spread of a toxic and corrosive root of Islam. Some (thankfully a small number) are charged with killing Afghan citizens just for the sport of it and collecting body parts (fingers) as souvenirs. This isn't new. Both in Europe and China during the WWII era soldiers collected eyes and strung them like beads.
Everyday I wonder if the new can get much worse; and it does. Satan is collecting all the souvenirs he can before the end, just to torment the people of the earth and their Creator. This will come to an end. I'm wondering what I can do today to move that along today; even if it is just a little.
Sabbath is coming. Blessings. e.c.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)