Saturday, September 4, 2010

lightheartedness on white beds

Summer has ended and Fall is about to come with the rushing, gushing wings of birds and gushing winds to and fro. This is the time when our kids would need a change of their room-environment and all that are in their room that showed signs of gloominess as it is a significant factor in maintaining their balanced psychological makeup. The utmost that parents can do to avoid from getting serious problems with their children during these time of the year is to really give them an atmosphere inside their room with such ambiance that will prevent them from getting depressed.

The depressive moods of children can be avoided if parents will secure their rooms with a white bedroom furniture that will give their children such a feeling of lightheartedness and delight despite the overcast sky and gloomy gray-colored atmosphere around them. It is very important that their children must not get distracted from their studies and the only way to do that is to provide them with their own white beds that will make them feel a lighthearted feelings of joy and peace. These furniture can be acquired through an online store that offers a great and affordable furniture. Go online now and buy your kids the kind of beds that will help them encouraged in their study habits and make them feel that they are important and loved.

Sunday's Gospel:Glory and power

Scripture: Luke 14:25-33

25 Now great multitudes accompanied him; and he turned and said to them,
26 "If any one comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. 27 Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me, cannot be my disciple.
28 For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?
29 Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, `This man began to build, and was not able to finish.'
31 Or what king, going to encounter another king in war, will not sit down first and take counsel whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand?
32 And if not, while the other is yet a great way off, he sends an embassy and asks terms of peace.
33 So therefore, whoever of you does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.

Reflections
Why does Jesus say we must 'hate' our families and even ourselves? The expression 'to hate' often meant to 'prefer less'. Jesus used strong language to make clear that nothing should take precedence or first place in our lives over God. Jesus knew that the way of the cross was the Father's way to glory and victory over sin and death. He counted the cost and said 'yes' to his Father's will. We, too, must "count the cost" and be ready to follow Jesus in the way of the cross if we want to share in his glory and victory.

What is the "way of the cross" for you and for me? When my will crosses with God's will, then his will must be done. The way of the cross involves sacrifice, the sacrifice of laying down my life each and every day for Jesus' sake. What makes such sacrifice possible and "sweet" for us is the love of God poured out for us in the blood of Jesus Christ. Paul the Apostle reminds us that "God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit" (Romans 5:5). We can never outgive God. He always gives us more than we can expect or imagine. Do you allow the Holy Spirit to fill your heart with the love of God?

What does the parable of the tower builder and a ruler on a war campaign have in common? Both risk serious loss if they don't carefully plan ahead. In a shame and honor culture people want to avoid at all costs being mocked by their community for failing to complete a task they began in earnest. This double parable echoes the instruction of Proverbs: "By wisdom a house is built" and "by wise guidance you can wage a war" to ensure victory (Proverbs 24:3-6).

Every landowner who could afford it walled in his orchard as a protection from intruders who might steal or harm his produce. A tower was usually built in a corner of the wall and a guard posted especially during harvest time when thieves would likely try to make off with the goods. Starting a building-project, like a watchtower, and leaving it unfinished because of poor planning would invite the scorn of the whole village. Likewise a king who decided to wage a war against an opponent who was much stronger, would be considered foolish if he did not come up with a plan that had a decent chance of success.

Jesus tells his would-be disciples that they, too, must count the cost if they want to succeed as his disciples. Jesus assures success for those willing to pay the price. All it cost is everything! What does Jesus have to offer that's worth giving up everything else? More than we can imagine! Jesus offers the gift of abundant life and everlasting peace and happiness with God. (See the parable of the treasure hidden in the field and the pearl of great price in Matthew 13:44-45).

It's natural to ask what will it require of me or cost me before I sign up or agree to pay for something. Jesus was utterly honest and spared no words to tell his disciples that it would cost them dearly to follow after him. There can be no room for compromise or concession with God. We either give our lives over to him completely or we keep them for ourselves. Paul the Apostle says, "We are not our own. We were bought with a price" ( 1 Cor. 6:19b,20). That price is the precious blood of Jesus Christ shed for us upon the cross to redeem us from slavery to sin and death.

The love of God compels us to choose who or what will be first in our lives. To place any relationship or any possession above God is a form of idolatry. Jesus challenges his disciples to examine who they love first and foremost. Jesus' way to glory and power is opposite the world's way of glory and power. The choice is ours, but the Lord does not leave us alone if we choose to follow him. Does the love of Christ compel you to put God first in all you do (see 2 Cor. 5)?

Friday, September 3, 2010

Saturday's Gospel: Celebration of the Lords Day

Scripture: Luke 6:1-5

1 On a Sabbath, while he was going through the grainfields, his disciples plucked and ate some heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands.
2 But some of the Pharisees said, "Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?"
3 And Jesus answered, "Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him:
4 how he entered the house of God, and took and ate the bread of the Presence, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and also gave it to those with him?"
5 And he said to them, "The Son of man is lord of the Sabbath."


Reflections
What does the commandment "keep holy the Sabbath" require of us? Or better yet, what is the primary intention behind this command? The religious leaders confronted Jesus on this issue. The "Sabbath rest" was meant to be a time to remember and celebrate God's goodness and the goodness of his work, both in creation and redemption. It was a day set apart for the praise of God, his work of creation, and his saving actions on our behalf. It was intended to bring everyday work to a halt and to provide needed rest and refreshment.

Jesus' disciples are scolded by the scribes and Pharisees, not for plucking and eating corn from the fields, but for doing so on the Sabbath. In defending his disciples, Jesus argues from the scriptures that human need has precedence over ritual custom. In their hunger, David and his men ate of the holy bread offered in the Temple (1 Samuel 21:2-7). On every Sabbath morning twelves loaves were laid before God on a golden table in the Holy Place. Each loaf represented one of the twelve tribes of Israel. No one was allowed to eat this bread except the priests because it represented the very presence of God. David understood that human need took precedence over rules and ritual regulations.

Why didn't the Pharisees recognize the claims of mercy over rules and regulations? Their zeal for ritual observance blinded them from the demands of charity. Jesus' reference to the bread of the Presence alludes to the true bread from heaven which he offers to all who believe in him. Jesus, the Son of David, and the Son of Man, a title for the Messiah, declares that he is "Lord of the Sabbath." Jesus healed on the Sabbath and he showed mercy to those in need. All who are burdened can find true rest and refreshment in him. Do you seek rest and refreshment in the Lord and in the celebration of the Lord's Day?

Withdrawal with ease

Opiate addiction is one of the most complicated types of drug addiction that exists. It is also one of the easiest addictions to fall victim to. but sometimes they are prescribed by doctors to reduce pain associated with an injury or surgery.

Unfortunately, they can be highly addictive for many people and can result in a long-term addiction which is tough to beat. This can ultimately lead to involvement with non-prescribed opiates including drugs as serious as heroin.

The most common form of treatment for opiate addiction is to acknowledge Withdrawal Symptoms. Sometimes through clinical treatment. This may take place in rehab or in an outpatient setting. It starts with detoxification which means quitting the drug and getting through initial withdrawal symptoms. Then it enters a phase of maintenance which means learning to live without the drug. It is based on the idea that addiction is a disease which requires certain medical steps to overcome.

Knowing God

God is interested in us because God is love and has created us for a relationship with Him. God’s love for human beings is made plain in the life of his son Jesus, who valued each and every individual he met and taught us to pray to God as Father.

If God loves us and is concerned for us, if in fact God wants the very best for us, if we can line our lives up with His will, then we will know a purpose and peace in life nothing else can offer.

Austin injury lawyer

There are several legal aspects that are related to personal injurydue to car accidents and this is the basic motive why having a Austin Injury Lawyer Now by your side will certainly help you because your right to seek justice will be safeguarded.

The professional lawyer will file all the necessary paper work on your behalf. Their good track record authenticates their claim. They will aggressively represent you in the court and are committed to offer you the best options. You can count upon their services to receive the maximum settlement you deserve.

So, when times turn rough, do not loose hope,seek the help of austin injury sttorney and get acquainted with all the legal options you have. Austin lawyer is ready to help you sail smoothly through the difficult road of court room and get the right compensation you deserve. The law provides you the right to take legal action against the person who is responsible for your injury. The accused may try to escape from the clutches of law by giving frivolous excuses. Even his insurance company will delay or sometimes try to avoid giving compensation for its own profit. You may find it hard to deal with the accused and his insurance firm. that is why it is a must to seek for a lawyers help.

blessing from God

When we become profitable servants by doing more than is required of us, we can begin to receive blessings from God. What must we do to receive even more blessings? The answer is in II Corinthians 9:6-8:

"6 But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. 7Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. 8And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:".

If we wish to reap a bountiful harvest of blessings, we must sow the field bountifully with the seeds of cheerful giving. If we want to experience real, abundant living, we must practice real, abundant giving.

We are to purpose in our hearts to give to God and others. We should plan our giving carefully. We should give because we want to do so, not because we have to give.

We can give of our money, our time, and our prayers. Is there another way in which we can give to God? II Corinthians 9:9 shows another way to give to God:

"9 (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever."

Proverbs 19:17 also describes the blessings that come from giving to the poor: "He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again."

Giving to the poor is like loaning money to God. God signs the promissory note for what we give to the poor. God will never default, but the note is not a demand note. It is not a note that we can force God to pay on our demand at the time of our choosing. God decides when to repay the debt. Jesus Christ came that we might have life more abundantly, but we will receive most of our reward in the Kingdom of God.

Butler firm

Rachel, a cousin of mine has been laid off or fired recently, she believe that she have lost her job for an unlawful reason, and have a right to bring a claim for wrongful termination against her former employer.

Legal remedies that may be available to her include money damages and, if she haven't been officially released yet, negotiation for an appropriate severance package that includes adequate compensation. at first she really do not know what to do but with some advise of good friend, she immediately seek a lawyers help. Business Litigation Lawyer Austin retained my friend peace of mind. Knowing that this company can help her to solve her delimna. She have learned about her rights upon losing a job, and ensure that those rights are protected.

However,before you try to sue a former employer for wrongful termination, you must determine whether or not the employer's actions were truly illegal. While you may feel that a recent firing was unfair, it may not necessarily be wrongful termination. By studying the at-will employment laws in your state and consulting with a legal professional, you can determine whether or not a lawsuit is a viable option.

acknowledging flaws and fault

The way that we have to communicate our needs to others for them to give us what we need; we have to also communicate those needs to God so he can help us move forward. We all start in different places; I was in a place where I needed to examine where I was and what I was doing in life. My first move was finding out what I needed. We can become some masters of illusion that we sometimes fool ourselves into thinking we are doing ok. We tell everyone else how great we are doing and we start to believe it ourselves. Nothing wrong with that; if you are really starting to do fine and not just harboring all those past hurts and transgressions.

We have to acknowledge our flaws and our faults. We have to admit we aren't perfect. We do things wrong. We speak harshly or harbor ill thoughts about others. We are doing things that aren't right and we sometimes can't stop ourselves or don't want to. We have to acknowledge; and forgive ourselves. And then we have to make the effort to move forward and do things differently.

Franklin Park

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Left alone, depression not only prevents older adults from enjoying life like they could be, it also takes a heavy toll on health. But if you learn how to spot the signs of depression and find effective ways to help, you or your loved ones can remain happy and vibrant throughout the golden years.

Traditionaly elder care has been the responsibility of family members and was provided within the extended family home. However in modern societies, elder care is now being provided by senior living with style through in Independent Living Dallas. Given the choice, most elders would prefer to stay in such kind of place.

Park lifestyle is enhanced with added services and amenities to help them stay healthy, independent and fulfilled throughout ytheir retirement years. With several apartment rental communities to choose from, there’re sure to find the perfect home and lifestyle choice.

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Friday's Gospel:Find joy in knowing

Scripture: Luke 5:33-39

33 And they said to him, "The disciples of John fast often and offer prayers, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours eat and drink."
34 And Jesus said to them, "Can you make wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them?
35 The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days."
36 He told them a parable also: "No one tears a piece from a new garment and puts it upon an old garment; if he does, he will tear the new, and the piece from the new will not match the old.
37 And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; if he does, the new wine will burst the skins and it will be spilled, and the skins will be destroyed.
38 But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins.
39 And no one after drinking old wine desires new; for he says, `The old is good.'"

Reflections
Which comes first, fasting or feasting? The disciples of John the Baptist were upset with Jesus' disciples because they did not fast. Fasting was one of the three most important religious duties, along with prayer and almsgiving. Jesus gave a simple explanation. There's a time for fasting and a time for feasting (or celebrating).

To walk as a disciple with Jesus is to experience a whole new joy of relationship akin to the joy of the wedding party in celebrating with the groom and bride their wedding bliss. But there also comes a time when the Lord's disciples must bear the cross of affliction and purification. For the disciple there is both a time for rejoicing in the Lord's presence and celebrating his goodness and a time for seeking the Lord with humility and fasting and for mourning over sin. Do you take joy in the Lord's presence with you and do you express sorrow and contrition for your sins?

Jesus goes on to warn his disciples about the problem of the "closed mind" that refuses to learn new things. Jesus used an image familiar to his audience – new and old wineskins. In Jesus' times, wine was stored in wineskins, not bottles. New wine poured into skins was still fermenting. The gases exerted gave pressure. New wine skins were elastic enough to take the pressure, but old wine skins easily burst because they were hard. What did Jesus mean by this comparison? Are we to reject the old in place of the new? Just as there is a right place and a right time for fasting and for feasting, so there is a right place for the old as well as the new.

Jesus says the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old (Matthew 13:52). How impoverished we would be if we only had the Old Testament or the New Testament, rather than both. The Lord gives us wisdom so we can make the best use of both the old and the new. He doesn't want us to hold rigidly to the past and to be resistant to the new work of his Holy Spirit in our lives. He wants our minds and hearts to be like the new wine skins – open and ready to receive the new wine of the Holy Spirit. Are you eager to grow in the knowledge and understanding of God's word and plan for your life?

"Lord Jesus, fill me with your Holy Spirit, that I may grow in the knowledge of your great love and truth. Help me to seek you earnestly in prayer and fasting that I may turn away from sin and wilfulness and conform my life more fully to your will. May I always find joy in knowing, loving, and serving you."

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Thursday;s Gospel: Knowledge of His Love

Scripture: Luke 5:1-11

1 While the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennes'aret.
2 And he saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets.
3 Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon's, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat.
4 And when he had ceased speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch."
5 And Simon answered, "Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets."
6 And when they had done this, they enclosed a great shoal of fish; and as their nets were breaking,
7 they beckoned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.
8 But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord."
9 For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the catch of fish which they had taken;
10 and so also were James and John, sons of Zeb'edee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be catching men."
11 And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.

Reflections
Why did Jesus perform the miracle of the great catch of fish? No doubt the great crowd of people who had pressed upon Jesus had something to do with this miracle. They were very hungry for God and were eager to hear his word. Jesus wanted to use this occasion to teach his disciples an important lesson. Although Simon was wearied from a night of fruitless toil, he nonetheless pressed upon Jesus for his word of command: At your word I will let down the nets. When you meet disappointment and failure, do you press upon the Lord, like Simon, to hear his word and to receive his command?

This incident tells us an important truth about how God works in and through each of us for his glory. God expects of us greater things than we can do by ourselves. When we cooperate in his works, we accomplish far beyond what we can do on our own. Therese of Lisieux, A Carmelite nun who died of tuberculosis at the age of twenty-four, wrote to a friend: "..Jesus has so incomprehensible a love for us that he wills that we have a share with him in the salvation of souls.

He wills to do nothing without us. The Creator of the universe awaits the prayer of a poor little soul to save other souls redeemed like it at the price of all his Blood." When God's word is spoken his kingdom is revealed and his power is released. When people respond to God's word with faith and obedience they are changed and made "a new creation" in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

God chooses ordinary people, like you and me, as his ambassadors and he uses the ordinary circumstances of our daily lives and work situations to draw others into his kingdom. Jesus speaks the same message to us today: we will "catch people" for the kingdom of God if we allow the light of Jesus Christ to shine through us. God wants others to see the light of Christ in us in the way we live, speak, and witness the joy of the gospel. Paul the Apostles says, But thanks be to God, who in Christ Jesus always leads us in triumph, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing (2 Cor. 2:15).

Do you witness to those around you the joy of the gospel and do you pray for your neighbors, co-workers, and relatives that they may come to know the Lord Jesus Christ and grow in the knowledge of his love?

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