THE OTHER SIDE OF CHRISTMAS

Philippians 2 - 3 

Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit,

but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.

Christmas Day dawned crisp and clear.   There had been an overnight frost and the morning brought clear blue skies.   Celia was home alone but she had her precious memories of the past.   Christmas had long lost its significance for her in the melee.   She had never quite seen anything like the mad push and grab antics of a greedy society.   A small glimpse into how human nature would react in a catastrophe.

Christmas Eve she had watched Catherine Hardwicke's "The Nativity Story" very aware that the date of 25th December was inaccurate but nevertheless she loved the film with its attention to detail of life at that time and there was always a box of hankies at the ready for the realistic birth. 

Perhaps later she would make an evening meal but for now she was sitting in front of a roaring fire in her cosy cottage.   "Thank you Lord" she murmured "for your provision I have enough."   

A loud knock on the door interrupted her thoughts.  Jeff stood in the doorway.   "Merry Christmas Celia" he grinned "any chance of a cuppa and a mince pie"    "Of course you clown" she replied "come on in.   Have you had your Christmas dinner" she enquired.   "Hardly worth bothering just for me" he suggested.   "Right, you are to join me, there's enough for two"   He looked longingly at the roaring fire in the grate "gosh it's really cosy in here, much better than my modern flat"   

His eye caught sight of a wooden box sitting on top of a small chest of drawers.   "That's new" he commented "is it a Christmas present"   Celia smiled "yes, its from me to me, I have a whole heap of old vinyl albums I haven't played for years so I decided to buy this unit.   It was cheap, you can't expect quality sound but as I am profoundly deaf in one ear and going deaf in the other I am not going to nit pick.

"It so reminds me of the old record players" said Jeff as he picked up the arm, moved it backwards then forward onto the edge of the vinyl.   It was a tad scratchy and crackly.    "That particular record starts off quietly" said Celia.    Jeff reached for the album cover "good gracious" he laughed "its Chris Rea's The Road to Hell"

"It certainly is" said Celia smiling.   "He made that album in 1989 and I wonder what he would be thinking today.   A musical prophet that lad.   The next track is even truer "You must be evil"  They are corrupting this generation at every given opportunity. 

"Sit down Jeff" said Celia.  "Make yourself comfortable, dinner will be about an hour.   Fancy a brandy?" she enquired.   "That would be great lass" he replied grateful he didn't have to face an empty flat.   The album had now reached it's last track.   "Tell me there's a heaven"   Jeff listened quietly to the words.   "Do you believe there's a heaven Celia" he asked "Certainly do" she replied "some people are in a living hell on this earth but they are heading for Abraham's bosom (Luke 16-25)  

Eventually they sat down to the usual turkey and trimmings with a small glass of wine.   "That was absolutely gorgeous Celia" said Jeff "you're a great cook"   She blushed and considered she could never hold her wine "well I've had a lifetime to get it right but I will be back to basic simple living next week.  God is gracious, he has always provided for me."

"How long is it since William died" Jeff enquired gently.   "Fifteen years next February" she replied "Christmas is a sad time for so many people.   They miss those they have lost.  But I count my blessings.  Many people are homeless, some living on the streets, we seem to be going backwards as a society.   People don't really care as long as their boat floats.   Rather than buy expensive presents I have given money to charity.   My family and friends have more than enough.

"Do you prefer living alone" asked Jeff suddenly it was his turn to blush realising Celia might consider she was being propositioned.    "I am never alone" replied Celia "my faith sustained me when William died and what is left of my life is unto the Lord.   My focus is fixed on Yeshua.

"Wow" said Jeff "I didn't realise you were religious"  Celia face was positively glowing, she  considered she should not have had that second glass of wine.  "Don't ever call me religious Jeff that's an insult.   Yeshua hated the religious establishment and observing todays wonky shepherds not much has changed.   Remind me to tell you some time how I came to know the Lord but that's strong stuff for another day.

"Oh Elaine Page and Barbara Dickson - Chess" said Jeff eagerly sorting through the box of albums.   "Yes" said Celia "put that one on and we can join in the chorus"  Any passerby would have been amused by the highly enthusiastic pair as they gave it their all finally getting up to dance to "One night in Bangkok.  Not that either of them had the remotest idea what that was all about.

"I didn't expect to have such a lovely meal" said Jeff "especially as I only called for a cuppa."  

"Well I couldn't have you sitting alone on Christmas Day now could I" she smiled.   "If we all loved our neighbour as ourself it would be a very different world wouldn't it?"    "Didn't your Jesus say something along those lines" said Jeff.    "He certainly did" replied Celia.    She handed him a small parcel.   "Now you can catch up on everything else he said"    

A quiet voice whispered "keep sowing" and she murmured "todah Adonai"

********************

REFLECTION 

It would be easy to fall into a pit of depression watching this decadent society no matter how strong your belief.   Encouragement and hope arrived as David Wilkerson's You.Tube video "GOD HAS NOT PASSED YOU BY" caught my attention.

Yes and Amen David - the Samuel Company is alive and well.  The corrupt state church has no hold over God's chosen, as in China the real bride is unseen, quietly awaiting her Lord.  

This great man of God still sends encouragement and hope to the battle weary thanks to modern technology even though he now walks with His Lord.  One positive side of the internet.  

This week one can only be truly ashamed of the state church in the U.K which appears to be reinventing dogma to neatly fit with the homosexual and lesbian fraternity. 

If you call yourself a Christian you follow Christ.   If you follow Christ your roots are in the Old Testament.  Exodus 3 - 6 "Moreover He said (to Moses) "I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob.   As a child and later as a rabbi Yeshua (Jesus) taught scripture and the Law.   

Matthew 5 - 17 "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets.  I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. (18) For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled."

If you actually believe in God you would do well to keep his commandments.   If you are His supposed representative on earth then you stand condemned.   You will be called to account for the sheep you have led astray and dealt with more harshly than any unbeliever.

But it also says in John 3-3

Jesus answered and said to him "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

One can only presume those concerned are BLIND GUIDES.   

Yes, God is Love but reading through the Old Testament those concerned might like to consider the trail of His wrath poured out on a disobedient nation.   The church stands in filthy rags and those who truly know their Lord have abandoned a leadership that mocks the Word of God.

When you don't believe in any God other than self the results are self evident in the appalling stampede of pre.christmas greed and a deteriorating society.   Sadly most live for the day, they have no hope, empty hollow vessels that will not be able to cope when the rubber eventually hits the road and everything they value goes up in a puff of smoke.     

When a country ignores the commandments of God prepare to receive His wrath.   Those in power are not only corrupting the future generation but continue to bleed the poor whilst fueling their own extravagant life styles.   They stand condemned.

We are all equal before God but sadly some consider themselves more equal than others, but they will die as surely as the sun rises on a new day.   They will be judged and the fact that they consider their life ends with death will not alter their eternal destiny in the wrong place.

*******************

I must ask Lord - where are you when they behead your servants.

He whispers "there"

I must ask Lord - where are you when that baby screams her last scream in the hands of those drug crazed animals from hell.

He whispers "there"

As they exit this world their REAL home, My Kingdom slips into view.  Death has no hold over them.

Hell will open her mouth to receive the murdering butchers along with the hirlings still clad in their robes of office the orgy they encouraged surrounding them for all eternity.

Sons and daughters of the living God ride with the armies of heaven a great tidal surge and evil is flushed down the plug hole to hell - forever.

Perhaps the study note in my Jack Hayford bible "Truth - Action" also speaks into every believer's heart.   DO NOT FEAR DEATH because being in heaven with Jesus will be wonderful.

Where ever you are on this fragile damaged planet walk with your head held high.   Children of a Holy God you are His precious jewels.   If they won't listen to your warning cries just keep running (like Christian in Pilgrims Progress) away from the cities and towns of sin, head for the hills and shelter under the shadow of His wings.    For the day approaches..................................................... 

Baruch ha ba b'shem Adonai.

SHALOM

SERVING NOT SELF SERVING

Matthew 20 - 23

So He said to them,

"You will indeed drink my cup, and be baptized with the

baptism that I am baptized with;

but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give,

but it is for those for whom it is prepared by My Father."

Did she have any idea what she was asking?    Her son James did indeed drink the Lord's cup.   He was the first disciple to be martyred.  Acts - 12-2

Isn't it always the way, proud mother seeks special position/place/acknowledgement for her sons/daughters, but Yeshua (Jesus) is quite clear "it is for those His Father chooses"  Nevertheless she had just requested their death warrant.

Jealousy and rivalry are twin sisters, a deadly human weakness.    It really doesn't matter that the last will be first and the first last.   For many are called, but few are chosen.  Matthew 20 - 16.

JUST BE GRATEFUL THAT YOU STAND IN HIS QUEUE BY THE NARROW GATE - THAT YOU ARE CONSIDERED WORTHY TO PASS THROUGH.

If you truly follow the Lord you will have a heart for those society rejects.   Those imprisoned by their addictions, bodies rotting away, lost, hopeless.  Those who have succumbed to the deadly drip of porn and the permissive dictates of a rotten godless society.   All damaged and in need of a Saviour.   

I remember well a young man called Stephen.   He sat huddled on the pavement in the posh part of the city.   He wasn't begging.   He didn't ask for help.   The mother of the street boys arrived with her two large trollies filled with soup, tea, coffee and biscuits.   Large bread rolls filled with ham, eggs, cheese and pickles were carried in her companion's trolley along with toilet requisites, clean underwear and socks.

Stephen wanted none of it.    He was just another rejected boy.   He couldn't accept his new father-in-law and only his sister had no idea of his plight as she lived on the other side of the globe.    He turned to drugs.      

How could I tell him Jesus loved him.   Yeah, yeah - one look said it all -  they all say that.   How I wanted to take him in my arms and give him shelter, food and the love I gave my own two children.   All he would accept was a plastic cup of tea and a packet of biscuits.  It was time to move on to the next victim.

That night I had to do something.    I phoned the Salvation Army surprised they excluded those on drugs and drink from their night shelters.    I phoned the police.   "Sorry" said an officer "we can only pick him up if he collapses and then we'll get him into rehab.    "I don't think you will have to wait long" I replied "he is literally skin and bone" and I gave them Stephen's location.

That night I prayed "Lord - please let them take Stephen off the street.   There is such potential in this young man but he needs to know he is loved, that Your love is unconditional regardless of his habit, that You will walk with him through detox.   I phoned a local Christian station.    "Please pray for Stephen, he's in a bad way" and I gave a brief outline of his situation.   

The last report I had regarding this young man was that he was free of his habit and studying at college to get the necessary qualifications to work on computers.   I pray to God he has employment and has found the grace to forgive those who caused his pain.   Thank you Lord for answered prayer. 

There are people out there working to bring hope to the hopeless and often they are on the receiving end of abuse but they continue to reach out knowing time is short.

Six years ago I was blessed with a trip to the Holy Land.   Someone in our coach party suggested a book I might like to read when I got back to the U.K.   Not wishing to breach copyright I would merely say it was all about a town under siege.

The pastor and his wife were getting hit time and time again by demonic forces.   The pastor's little flock were frightened by the supernatural activity.   An elderly housebound woman knew exactly what was "going down" and she battled prayers of protection over the young people.  In this book the battle weary christians of that town won the fight along with considerable angelic support.

From which ever direction it comes sincere prayer will reach the throne.   However humble the request it will be heard.   It will be heard, but will it be answered?

The mother struggling with her grief at the loss of a child will find that a bitter pill to swallow, likewise the wife of the voluntary worker brutally murdered by an evil psychopath.  For those suffering souls hell is right here on earth.

As I gazed down at the face of the only man I had ever loved as he lay cold and lifeless gone so suddenly out of my life I knew there was only one prayer left.    THY WILL BE DONE.      One day the veil will be lifted and we will understand.  

2 Corinthians 18  
while we do not look at things which are seen, but at things that are not seen.  For the things that are seen are temporary, but the things that are not seen are eternal. 

There was another example of hopelessness.   He was just a grumpy old man she passed in the street most days.  He was so full of misery and angst.   Deep in his heart he knew the end was near.   That's it.   Everything he treasured and coveted useless.   The devil will be dancing as his possessions burnt.   Yet still he denied God - "its a load of rubbish" he sneered at the local child of God.   "There's nothing, religion is load of rubbish, end of"   The child of God smiled "it has nothing to do with religion and everything to do with a relationship with Jesus the son of the living God.   The old man continued to sneer and walked on his way.

How sad the painful emptiness that fills his miserable existence.  He has backed the wrong horse all his life.   "Just give him a dream about hell - that should do it" considered the child of God.   

She prayed for his enlightenment, sooner rather than later because his time was running out fast.   Perhaps his final nightmare will be opening his eyes and realising he is still conscious of self facing    eternity in the biggest sink hole imaginable shared with every conceivable evil the devil and man are capable of.

Psalm 11 - 4 - 7

The Lord is in His holy temple,

The Lord's throne is in heaven;

His eyes behold,

His eyelids test the sons of men.

The Lord tests the righteous,

But the wicked and the one who loves violence His soul hates.

Upon the wicked He will rain coals;

Fire and brimstone and a burning wind

Shall be the portion of their cup.

For the Lord is righteous,

He loves righteousness;

His countenance beholds the upright.

Raui ata Adon Yeshua

Raui ata Malkenu.

HIS TIME

Revelation 1 - 3

Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy,

and keep those things which are written in it;

for the time is near.

The two elderly widows sat enjoying a cup of coffee watching the spectacular sunset.   Despite the onset of winter the birds still sang in the garden content with the ready supply of food.  The youngsters  chattered quietly in the tall branches, summer had extended into the autumn, now they faced their first winter.

The conversation turned to aches and pains, deteriorating mobility and how the days were flying past at an alarming rate.    Judy's relatives were rather like buses, they came in threes followed by months of silence.  Now the two women were for the most part housebound their lives consisting of frequent medical appointments, the daily struggle to cope with simple chores, nevertheless remaining fiercely independent.  "Hard to believe how we raced through our lives, giving our all, but this time is my time"

declared Judy.   

She was sure she heard a voice say "No - it isn't"  but Mavis appeared to have nodded off.   "Right" Judy murmured "now I'm hearing things, how long before they decide I have dementia.    Not that anyone would know until I was found wandering around the streets in the middle of the night" 

As she observed her snoring companion she considered the many times in life she had misread the sign posts only to shoot off in a wrong direction and her stubborn refusal to see what was blatantly obvious until God removed the object of her desire or the log jam of self.   She had to learn God won't play second fiddle to our ego, ambition or comfort zone.   Now more than ever Judy knew it was a case of  "Thy Will be done"   That in these last days she was called to pray, stand and patiently wait.

She was a prayer warrior waiting for the final curtain but when ever the opportunity arose she would witness to a hurting world knowing full well her Saviour was never far from that wrecked life, the sick, disadvantaged, persecuted and lost sheep.

Those who considered themselves intelligent and superior to other mere mortals were the hardest nuts to crack.   They didn't need anything other than their own exalted opinion and worldly status.   Soon her Saviour would return and He would deal with the pharisees, hirelings and those who feathered their own nests along with those who scoff and mock. 

THE DAY OF THE LORD WILL BE TERRIBLE.   Hades will receive her fill.   It will be too late for many their place lost forever.   Evil will not be allowed to contaminate His Kingdom.

Judy knew most didn't believe in either heaven or hell, their dreams filled with that lottery win and the desire for celebrity status.   They actually preferred their hellish existence.  It mattered little that greed was rapidly turning this once beautiful planet into a living scrap yard of metal structures and dirty contaminated pools of sludge.   How long before that enforced injection became a lethal injection.  She shuddered at the future her grandchildren might face if the downslide continued.   And yet people were amused when she suggested they take a long hard look at their lives before its too late, that God will  always hear a cry of repentance, His arms open wide to receive a prodigal son or daughter.

P               That is the PROMISE.

E               For EACH and every soul.

A              ABSOLUTE and eternal.

C              Through CHRIST - the door to salvation.

E               ETERNAL life in His Kingdom come. 

Mavis awoke with a grunt.   "How long have I been asleep" she enquired.   "Not long" Judy replied.  "Sorry about that" said Mavis "I just hate the long dark evenings, I am ready for bed at four o'clock perhaps we should all hibernate until the spring"

Judy laughed "now there's positive thinking, the way America is pushing Russia do you think we will see another spring?"    "Only God knows" replied Mavis "but I thank Him for my slot in time, and just pray I'm heaven bound before it all kicks off."

That night Judy had a dream that she would cling to in the dark days ahead.

She was a mere observer standing on the edge of a scene that left her breathless.   The building was huge with a forecourt leading down into beautiful gardens.   Massive white columns in the hall had the appearance of marble, cool to the touch.   People were walking in and out of the building.  The atmosphere was one of amazing joy and peace.  They were laughing and talking excitedly crowding around a young man in uniform.    They were completely unaware they were being observed.  Suddenly the man saw Judy and moved towards her.   He kissed her gently on the cheek.  The crowd swelled around him and she felt abandoned and alone waking suddenly in her room.  

She knew without a shadow of doubt her time would come, blessed with a glimpse of her future home, encouragement for the dark days ahead that would light her way to the finish line.        

Baruch ha ba b'shem Adonai

SHALOM    

         

STATEMENT OF INTENT

MATTHEW 10 - 13-15

Jesus said "if the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it.

But if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you.

And whoever will not receive you nor hear your words,

when you depart from that house or city, shake the dust off your feet.

There is no agenda by this writer.    

FOR HIS GLORY ONLY

I do not use His precious gift as a salary cheque, royalty or blog fee.  Freely I was given and freely I give to bless others.   

This blog is written with the hope that someone might stumble across the internet site.   Crushed spirits, beaten sheep or just the curious.   If it pricks the conscience or uplifts a soul that is enough reward for the writer.  

The Word of God is freely available to anyone who reads the KJV of the Holy Bible. 

The writer is merely an observer a watchman on the wall.    The internet is a global platform for those who search.  There is no need to travel, charge admission fees, or bleed the poor to sustain a life style.   It's all there at the click of a button.   The good, the bad and the ugly.

Jesus told his disciples to "freely give"   Many too numerous to mention have obeyed His will from the Sisters of Mercy who nursed alongside Florence Nightingale to John Wycliffe's Lollards.
Wesley, Wilberforce, Bunyan, the Foundation Fathers, all great men of God.

Others have palaces and planes on the backs of the broken.   The church circus today is apostate - it is not of Christ - it's anti.christ.  The pews are emptying at an alarming rate.   The Word of God is twisted.

My only desire is that the words penned will be copied and used for His glory.   I remain anonymous.

My prayer is simple, that of a prodigal daughter.  

Thank you Lord for saving me,

when I was drowning You lifted my head,

 and placed my feet on solid ground.

Seeing with your eyes is painful,

I weep for Your children persecuted and martyred

but rejoice, they are safe, with You.

I weep for the lost, 

I see their destination outside Your love.

Lord if for one moment we would repent of our sins and turn to You,

we would find You waiting with open arms.

Thank you for never abandoning me,

I am unworthy of such great love.

AMEN.

YOURS IS THE KINGDOM THE POWER AND THE GLORY FOREVER. 


John 6 - 44

No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me  

draws him,
and I will raise him up on the last day.

John 6 - 47 - 48

Yeshua said "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me
has everlasting life.



SHALOM

    

MESSENGER

PSALM 4 - (2)

How long oh you sons of men,

will you turn my glory to shame.

How long will you love worthlessness

and seek falsehood.

Selah  

Miriam was watching a news report on the internet about an American veteran who had been arrested for feeding those living on the street.   The door bell interrupted her attention and as she moved across the room to the hallway she looked back not wanting to miss the report.   A man appeared to be presenting his case to a rather grim faced committee which included the Mayor of Fort Lauderdale, America.

The bell rang again.   "Okay I coming" she shouted.   The young man standing on her doorstep beamed.   "Hello, I'm from Fort Lauderdale" he announced "I am researching public opinion regarding homeless both in this country and my own.

That is strange thought Miriam.    "Actually I was just watching a video showing the arrest of someone called Arnold Abbot from your area"   "Ah yes" replied the handsome young man "He is highly valued by our CEO at H.Q.   He has served us well but at the moment he is up against the authorities.   We will do all we can to protect him from this rather dark council.  He doesn't court publicity but for the moment he is safer in the spotlight.   

"What is going on across the pond" asked Miriam "it all sounds dreadful" the young man smiled and said gently "it will happen here if people don't rise against it, and those that stick their head above the parapet will probably get the same treatment in this country.   There is an answer but those in power have a strong agenda.

"The way things are heading" said Miriam "there won't be anything left to have an agenda about.   Someone is very keen to start another world war.  But the answer to homeless is blatantly obvious we GIVE.

Give land - goodness you have enough of that in America your country is vast.

How many empty buildings, factories and empty homes could be used to shelter those who have fallen through the net.   At least in this country we still have a benefit system of sorts, housing associations and the relief organisation Shelter. 

"That's what my CEO approves.  He wants people to give.    Arnold is loved and blessed and he believes he is his brothers keeper.   His organisation is called "Love thy neighbour" and that is what he does.   He spreads God's love for the disenfranchised, victims of his city and great will be his reward.   

"Here comes the punch line" thought Miriam "he's going to ask me for a donation and right now I only have five pounds in my purse"   

The man continued  "we need more workers in the field.   Arnold is 90 and he has spent 23 years in our service.  We need people to pick up the baton.   It is going to get very dark for a while then our CEO will take charge.

"They are starting to arrest people here for protesting" Miriam continued "how long before they decide to euthanase the homeless, elderly, sick and handicapped.   Our health service the pride of this once great country is falling apart.   Too many chiefs. 

"We have many good people working for us across the globe" said the American "it is better to focus on their progress rather than watch the competition at work."

"Thank you for your time" said the young man as he turned and walked away.    "Just a minute" shouted Miriam "Who did you say you worked for?" but the man disappeared from view.

She had missed the rest of the video report but was relieved when a later news report stated the elderly gentleman had not been kept in prison, nevertheless he had to pay a 500 dollar fine.   

The door bell rang again.  Here we go, he did want a donation Miriam suggested to herself. 

Her niece stood at the gate.   "Just paying my taxi fare" shouted Jenny "with you in a minute."

Jenny came down the drive, rucksack on her back, a bright orange furry orangoutang cuddly toy dangling out of one compartment.   "Lovely to see you Aunty Mim" and with a bear hug and kiss she followed her aunt inside.

Later that evening Miriam recounted the incident with the handsome American.   "Which organisation did he work for" asked Jenny.   "Do you know I have no idea" Miriam replied.   "And strangely I was just watching a video on the internet about a 90 year old veteran American who was feeding the homeless on the streets of Fort Lauderdale in US.   He knew about this man and he said his organisation needed more people in the field. 

"Sounds like he was from some Christian organisation, did he ask for money" Jenny questioned.   "Actually he didn't" said Miriam "it was almost as though he was quizzing my reaction to homeless people but he did suggest they were short of workers.   Miriam sighed "I just wish I had my youth and health, I would be out there.   I am afraid I would be more of a liability these days.   It makes one feel so helpless.   At the final interview when Jesus asks me "what did you do, I am going to be in deep trouble."

"Oh Mim" said Jenny "it's not about being good, its all about accepting Jesus as your Lord and Saviour"

"Really" said her aunt "tell me then why is it written: 

Matthew 25 

(37)   Lord when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink?

(38) When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You?

(39) Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?

(40) And the King will answer and say to them  'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to me.'

"If you truly know the Lord, my dear,  you will see with His eyes and that in itself will prompt you to help others.  

We start off in a right direction but we lose our way, we can become obsessed with our own importance and personal creed.   God chooses who he uses, the place and the time and there is no room for self gratification or the idea that we are precious and preferred.   When we look at the world through His eyes it is easy to love those the world sees as unlovable.   I certainly wouldn't want to be around to see what happens to the Men of Power in the dreadful Day of the Lord which is surely coming or the Mayor and his cronies in Fort Lauderdale.

When I was a young girl the school I attended had 4 houses.   Honour, Fidelity, Loyalty and Victory.   We were placed in house and we wore a coloured badge on our uniform.   I was in Honour and sported a yellow badge.   We received merit marks for good behaviour and black marks for bad behaviour.   Every month the person with the most black marks was named and shamed at the morning assembly.   It was punishment enough to have let your house down.   That system produced excellent results and ensured and maintained discipline.   There was relative order and peace.  The house with the highest number of merits received congratulations that too was enough reward, how the world has changed.       

Sadly today few practice what they preach and they dishonour the name of the Lord.   Their behaviour is questionable and a critical world watches.

Walking paths of righteousness according to God's Word brings honour to His name.

Walking in our own agenda brings dishonour to His name.

"Wow" said Jenny "strong stuff, they don't take things quite that seriously at our church, they are are pretty flexible in fact they had a gay marriage service the other week.   Plenty of fun stuff going on and the band is great"

"Be very care Jenny" said Miriam "it sounds apostate.   There is no messing with God's word.  You are either "in or out"   You pick up your cross and you can expect attack from every direction.

"Did you say you wanted to study medicine Jenny" asked Miriam "yes" replied Jenny.   "As long as I can get the grades I need."    "Will you hold to the Hippocratic Oath" asked Miriam.   "Do they still do that?  asked Jenny.   "I hope so" replied Miriam "although when you consider the present state of the Health Service it does beg the question has it just become another highly paid profession.

Of course people in America are in an even worse state.   They won't do an operation unless you can pay.  Homeless people can't afford insurance it looks bleak, unless the "Patch Adams" increase and doctors work for nothing, or on the basis if the sick really can't pay they will still get treatment.   Those doctors won't get rich, but prayerfully they will get sponsorship.   People with a conscience who care about their fellow man and are prepared to donate to a worthy cause.

It's an interesting read on the internet.   The first Hippocratic oath was to the Greek Gods and by the early twentieth century only 20% of the medical students took that oath because the use of the knife was forbidden as was abortion and euthanasia. 

In 1948 the 2nd General Assembly of the World Medical Association adopted the Declaration of Geneva to prevent any repeat of the appalling atrocities the Germans inflicted on the Jews in the concentration camps.  They were required to take the oath before they started practicing medicine, whereas the original oath was required before they could even start to train.

There is probably yet another up to date version,  and you can be sure Gods or God has been removed from the equation.

I think the Geneva version should apply.  The first three verses went as follows:-

I solemnly pledge to consecrate my life to the service of humanity...

I will practice my profession with conscience and dignity;

The health of my patient will be my first consideration.

The last two verses:

I will maintain the utmost respect for human life;

I will not use my medical knowledge to violate human rights and civil liberties, even under threat.

That version was written in 1964 by Louis Lasagna.   Academic Dean of the School of Medicine at Tufts University. 

When you read those profound words you can't help wondering exactly what has happened to the medical profession and they must surely be at odds with the government.   In the days before the National Health Service did they show compassion for the poor who couldn't pay.   Or was it a case of breaking their oath and turning away a suffering individual.   How on earth could they do that." 

Jenny sighed.   "We appear to be going backwards"   Well perhaps we have to learn to give and expect little in return other than the basic need to earn a crust and put a simple roof over our heads.

"Perhaps" said Miriam "we will all have to learn to be content with what we have - give us this day our daily bread - at least until our Saviour returns."

"How will we cope if our government sells out to American interests and people can't afford medical insurance" asked Jenny.

"Well perhaps we will have to resurrect a Florence Nightingale mentality.   She didn't expect to be paid for caring for the sick.   It is the basis tenet of the Christian faith.   We are called to love one another.  How else do you show that love other than giving of yourself, your time and money to help others.

The Sisters of Mercy were the nuns Florence chose to go with her to the Crimea.   Apparently everyone else failed their interview - of course that's according to the film version which is available on You Tube.   Whether that is accurate who knows, but these women who had already given their life to the Lord also gave to humanity.   They followed His word and witnessed His love.  

Actually the Nightingale Pledge for nurses was written by Mrs Lystra E. Gretter and a committee for the Farrand Training School for nurses in Detriot, Michigan.   The words are just beautiful:

I solemnly pledge myself before God and in the presence of this assembly,

to pass my life in purity and to practice my profession faithfully etc. etc. .............

you can actually hear her Florence Nightingale's voice on You Tube, quite an experience.    For me nursing was never about money.  It was about caring, but I could see the direction the service was taking many years ago.    The horror stories of neglect are commonplace today.   When one nurse was challenged by a distressed parent regarding the appalling mess in which she found her daughter the nurse merely replied "would you wipe bottoms for a few pounds an hour."    That just about sums up the attitude of some, thankfully not all.   The essential qualification needed for any potential nurse is simply "a caring heart"  We will all need to pray for divine healing in the future.

"By the way" said Jenny changing the subject  "I'll be leaving for London in the morning.  Meeting up with uni friends we are joining the protest march.   We have to start somewhere.

"Be very careful" said Miriam "but I understand, if I were your age I would be alongside.   Although I really don't think they would worry about arresting someone my age.  It's a sign of the times.    

"Don't worry Aunty" said Jenny "I am not going to hit a police man.   I will just bore him to death.

The following day Jenny headed for the capital to meet with her friends.   Before she left Miriam handed her a strong cardboard tube it was 36" long.   Inside the tube a large poster of the Desiderata.   "This is a poster for your room Jenny" said Miriam  "When you move among people who are of different religious and political persuasion it will remind you of your place in the scheme of things.
"Thanks so much Aunty Mim" Jenny replied and with another bear hug and kiss she pushed the tube into her back pack alongside Bert the orangoutang and climbed into the waiting taxi.

The embankment was crowded, noisy, and relatively good natured but as the sun sank below the horizon tensions were mounting.

Police in full riot gear stood behind the barrier.   The crowds moved and jostled each other trying to remove the barricades.   An over zealous police officer decided the cardboard tube sticking out of Jenny's back pack had sinister implications.   He lunged to grab the offensive article from her back pack.   Jenny fell her face pressed into the steel barrier and as the crowd surged forward the pain in her face increased and she felt faint.

The crowds were pushed apart as a giant of a man reached for Jenny.   "Hi Jenny" he said as he picked her off the barrier and lifted her into his arms.   "It's okay girl, lets get you out here"   With his height and strength he flicked the crowd out of the way like discarded dominoes.

D.C. Dave Seed was on the other side of the barrier.   He saw the actions of his fellow officer.   He'd make a good mercenary he considered.   He showed little emotion and he loved the challenge shouting "let's smack em boys"

For a brief moment he saw Penny's face bruised and bleeding but she remained calm and mouthed the word "sorry" and was gone.

The next morning D.C. Dave Seed walked into his C.O. office.   "Good morning Dave" said the expressionless figure behind the desk.   Dave couldn't help thinking about the computer in 2001.   "Good morning Sir" he replied as he flung his badge on the desk.   "I'm resigning, they can get someone else to do their dirty work"

"I really would give this some serious consideration Dave" the robotic voice continued "you have an excellent record, we need every man"

"Not this one" replied Dave.

"It's not going to be easy to find alternative employment you will be regarded as disruptive and lacking in team skills.

"I just hope others will follow" replied Dave "I didn't sign up for this.   Bashing kids who care about their future and their country"

"They will find a way round it you know, there's always the army" said the C.O.   "Who are they" asked Dave.   There was no reply and Dave enjoyed slamming the door as he left.

The phone rang in Miriam's house.   "Hi Aunty, Penny here.   I'm in the halls of residence in my room, just about to put your poster on my wall.   Got in a bit of a jam but I'm okay, a bit bruised but nothing serious.   A huge bloke appeared from nowhere and picked me up like a feather and took me to the edge of the crowd.   Then he went with me to the hospital but they said I was okay to go home.   Just about to have a nice cup of tea.

"Gosh" said Miriam "I am well impressed what did this man look like"

"Well" replied Penny "he was an American and he was really tall, dark haired and handsome."   Penny giggled.   "Mim you should have seen the queues in A & E it was quite dreadful.

"This has got to change" said Miriam "but just may be you will be inspired by your poster.   This is still a beautiful world and there are heroes everywhere.   Don't read the broadsheets they are full of porn and junk.   Chuck your television set in the bin.   Don't run with the sheep.   Stay grounded in your beliefs and principles and you won't go wrong.    Oh, and believe His promise.

A couple of months passed and the door bell chimed.    Miriam had visitors, Jenny and a young man.
"It's early days" confided Jenny as she helped her aunt with the tea trolley "but you know how you get that feeling that this is more than just friendship something is happening between you"   Dave found Bert lying in a puddle next to the crash barriers.   One of my friends told him I was a student and gave him my address.    He initially came to return Bert and I now have a very special friend.   He has resigned from the police force, he said he had had enough.    He is thinking of studying forensic science.   We might even end up at the same university.

"God works in mysterious ways" thought Miriam as she closed the door behind the two young people.
"Now I wonder what happened to my American"

Matthew 28 - 20

Jesus said

"teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you,

and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

AMEN and AMEN.

SHALOM.

Todah Yeshua.  

FOR YOUR GLORY LORD.

   

   

EMPATHY

LUKE 16 - 25-26

But Abraham said "Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things,

and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented.

And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed,

so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot,

nor can those from there pass to us.

Empathy, not of a lot of that about any more.   It may be happening over there, but I still care deeply about the dreadful human suffering inflicted on those caught up in the melee.   Expressing my concerns at the future direction of my own country my christian companion suddenly stuck her fingers in her ears chanting "la la la la"

Most people really don't want to hear or even consider anything outside their own agenda or point of view.   They have comfortable homes, a couple of cars, and those that survived Thatcher's axe now sail the good ship retirement into the sunset.   Life is good.

BUT NOT FOR LONG.

While they are off on another holiday or weekend break at exactly the same time the bodies of an elderly couple, or should I say what was left of an elderly couple lie in the roadway in Ukraine.

Barely able to comprehend this dreadful atrocity I commented on the situation to be told "oh we don't watch the news"  almost as if to say everything is okay in my back yard.

BUT NOT FOR LONG.

These are people who profess to follow Christ and it has hardly penetrated their mindset.   Is it a question of mere de-sensitization, after all bodies lying around on the ground are paraded on television sets with alarming frequency in our so called civilized world.  Or perhaps will their chickens only come home to roost when their home is a pile of cinders, or Ebola knocks on their door.

Only this week there was a report on the Max Keiser programme about a man about to have both his legs amputated who had been informed he needed to transfer to another benefit.   Immediately his existing benefit ceased and he had no money for food.   He stole £12.60p worth of steak from a supermarket.

What kind of Store Manager knowing the circumstances of this man would turn him in.  What kind of Judge would send him to jail for six weeks.   What was actually meant to be a punishment turned out to be a blessing because at least he would eat the slop they call food for six weeks whilst the authorities processed the paperwork. 

On the other hand a High Frequency Trading Outfit was fined 1 million dollars for stealing money from other NASDAQ investors.    No one is in jail for that crime.  

Evil is advancing and it would appear the scales are very tilted in favour of the rich whilst the less fortunate in society suffer, but perhaps until it actually arrives on our doorstep we are conveniently short of empathy.

SERVANT HEART

ISAIAH 51 - 7

Listen to Me, you who know righteousness,

You people in whose heart is My law:

My dearest sister in Christ has quite a nose for old books and she arrived with a rather faded yellow aged hard back copy of the life story of D.L. Moody.   On the inside cover a faded pencil mark 3/6.

Three shillings and six pence.   She didn't even realise she had given me a signed copy "Your as ever D.L. Moody."   I could only wonder how it came to be abandoned on an old book stall.   Of course I advised my friend it was a signed copy and with her amazing lack of agenda she replied "I just wanted to read about the man"

In the introduction F.B. Meyers wrote about Moody's personality:

"There was an appearance of abruptness in his manner, which was undoubtedly assumed as the protection of a very tender and sensitive spirit, much as an oyster will form itself strong shells against the fret of the waves and rocks.

He had seen others carried away by the adulation of their admirers; he knew that the personal element was apt to intrude between the speaker and the interests of those whom he would fain save for Christ's sake; he was absolutely determined that people should not rest on him, but on the Word of God, to which he was ever pointing them, and he therefore encased himself in the hard shell of an apparently rugged and uncouth manner."    Perhaps good advice these days for all those in ministry.     

He thereby avoided the pitfall of the sirens that hang around the preachers and teachers.   Historical bounty hunters after the considerable compensation paid out for past indiscretions.   The media hounds just love it.  Disgrace the man, disgrace the church, disgrace the profession.

The introduction also mentioned Keswick that beautiful little town in Cumbria that still holds an annual christian rally in the summer but is albeit a very exclusive place for those wishing to live there.   The northern lakes are splendid in themselves, a great retreat for the recluse, a place where one can sojourn and be still.   

It's in that stillness inspiration comes, it's there you hear the inner voice, but the answer to my prayer usually comes unexpectedly when I view a sink full of dirty dishes or the daunting prospect of trying to peel and chop vegetables minus "a la fingers" 

At the end of his life Moody wrote to Meyer saying "I am going to do all I can to get the Christians to take a higher stand, (a deeper spiritual life) and get them together.

Perhaps that is the stumbling block.   Getting people together.   When true Christians come together in one place the Holy Spirit moves in power and it is a very different experience to the "crash, bang, wallop" of the new wave.   

Perhaps because I consider myself totally unworthy to even tie the shoe lace of my closest christian sister/friend (the bearer of hidden gems by the true men of God) that I realise my own glaring inadequacy to even attempt to keep up with this energetic bundle of love.   Always reaching, touching and loving lost souls and those society prefers not to see.    Surely her crown is guaranteed.

She remains totally unaffected by media christians, self appointed prophets and teachers.   She is just her Father's daughter working to reach others until the ambulance finally pulls up outside her house or the "men in white coats" consider she has finally lost the plot.

This small sturdy eighty year old woman is a constant source of encouragement to others and her energy amazes this physically restricted individual who struggles to get through a day without the customary siesta and painkillers.  Within a few years we had both lost husbands that were the love of our lives and only faith pulled us through and focused our attention on a hurting world. 

We both belong to the so called generation of "super mums" in that is we did everything.  With age  most learn to accept physical limitations and adapt accordingly, nevertheless her schedule is amazing and her passion for the lost insatiable.

We learn much about how we should treat widows and orphans in the bible and sadly the time comes when some have to "go it alone" and although we realise we are precious to God many are ignored or considered a burden by their families.   Generally the attitude is we have lived too long.    To merely shop or make the increasing number of medical appointments can leave one exhausted.  We are slowing down, homeward bound.

But praise the Lord I can still cope although my mind goes on "lock down" where routine is concerned, ever chasing hiding keys.   Did I take my medication.   Where on earth did I leave yet another walking stick and I remain totally unable to comprehend the endless tide of bureaucratic literature that pours through the letter box.   How did they arrive at that figure.   Followed by frequent requests for inclusion in my will and would I consider their funeral service.

We giggle over lunch agreeing that our families notify either one of our departure.    My sister in Christ is such a constant source of encouragement I would be reluctant to lose her.   Then she assures me that in the event of my death she would be at my funeral and I cheerfully reply "that will be three then"

She is a true treasure and surely has her Father's eyes.   Worthy to bear the name christian, showing endless unconditional love and understanding for all.    Those who know her remember well her complaining as the ambulance arrived at the church hall to cart her away to hospital.   "No, No" she cried "I want to go to Jesus" her friends assured her "No, it's not time, not yet"   They were right.   She continues to bless others, works with the addict and the homeless, weeps for the appalling apostasy of the church and battles on to the finish line.

James 1 - 27

Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this:

to visit orphans and widows in their trouble,

and to keep one self unspotted from the world.

   

SHALOM

VISIONARY

Imagine there's no heaven,

it's easy if you try.

No hell below us, above us only sky.

Imagine no possessions,

I wonder if you can,

No need for greed or hunger,

a brotherhood of man.

Imagine all the people sharing all the world.

John Lennon

What a fall out that song caused amongst evangelical christians in the American bible belt.   John was describing, in part, a future where Christ will reign.  Along with his statement that the Beatles were more famous than Jesus he was accused of blasphemy.   He was speaking the truth.   Perhaps the zealots didn't even consider that Beatle mania was indicative of the poor state of christianity which today is worse than the seventies.  

It speaks volumes about the zealot mindset,  ignorance and immature judgmental attitudes, they actually knock God off the throne of Judgement and condemn anyone outside their interpretation to hell.   In reality they are more likely to arrive at that abode.  How Jesus hated the zealots.

In early 2002 I watched as a small group of children using the church frontage for their skate board activities were drawn into the foyer of the church.    We had an excellent worship team and brilliant musicians.   The kids didn't even know who Jesus was.   They were attracted by the music and that is how God works.   He uses the gifting of artists, writers and musicians.

Someone recently discovered an interview with John Lennon some 30 years ago.   John said "It was just an expression, the Beatles seemed to me to have more influence over youth than Christ.  He was correct in that assumption.  

He continued "Now I wasn't saying that was a good idea, cos I'm one of Christ's biggest fans and if I can turn the focus off the Beatles on to Christ's message then that's what we're here to do.

ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE - how many of us sang that song, how many of us actually show the love of Christ to others.  The old video news report of frenetic zealots stamping on Beatle records in America reminds us little has changed.   They are completely unaware that their behaviour does not encourage the unbeliever to their ranks.

Many years ago a young national service conscript returned home from Berlin.  During his last posting before returning to civilian life he had been to a performance by the Beatles in Germany.     He was excited about the music of four young men from Liverpool and said "these lads are going somewhere"    He certainly didn't consider there was anything sinister or dark about the fresh faced youths with their exuberant sense of humour.   He became a life long fan.    For most normal people that consisted of buying their records, reading about their next performance, appreciating their music.   

Apparently many people watching the movie Jesus of Nazareth and the brilliant acting by Robert Powell suddenly found themselves asking questions and some Jews actually became christians realising this was a story they had never been told.  They found the Messiah they had missed.

The Passion of Christ also left many people in tears at the brutal treatment of an innocent Jewish rabbi.   He was a threat to the establishment, they needed him gone.   Some walked out of the cinema.   Many felt convicted that they were not worthy of such a sacrifice.  They were right.    The film left its impact on people and whilst it was creatively enhanced in parts, it literally banged the message home with every nail.

Religion for centuries has been all about hate, division and bloody mayhem.   Not surprising a gifted young man might suggest there is a better way and that perhaps "ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE"   It's a common theory among the atheists and free thinkers that if religion were removed from the equation there would be no need for wars and we would live in peace.    This will not happen until we remove the ugly face of greed and self and care about the misery of others.   Until every child is fed, clothed and sheltered that is not going to happen because children born into poverty and deprivation are the target of the extremists and easily radicalized.  

Perhaps Lennon's imagination that "the world will live as one" would usher in a perfect world" which of course is the end result of the bible.   The Prince of Peace returns His Kingdom come.

Sometimes God uses men of talent and vision to hint or even speak a truth which others in His service certainly don't manage to get across.    But they must never expect to be popular.  Prophets were considered hostile elements. 

There was absolutely nothing offensive about the lads from Liverpool.     I doubt Americans even appreciated or understood their dry wit and sardonic humour.   They were the "great" in Britain and the  country sang along to their catchy tunes.   It was a better time and I for one thank God for my place in time.

Others followed.

Phil Collins and his brilliant 'LAND OF CONFUSION'  and the darkness continues.

Phil Collins "JUST ANOTHER DAY IN PARADISE" did Jo public get the message.  Do they listen to the lyrics - how greedy and selfish we were and still are.

Police - EVERY BREATH YOU TAKE - yes this was obviously about a man watching infidelity at work but often these lyrics take on a very different significance to the christian.

Yes God is watching every breath, every step, every move we make.   And likewise the world watches our witness.  Ever ready to point the finger.   The press highlighted the fact that the man who murdered Lennon was a born again christian, ex. drug addict etc. etc.    A christian who was truly born again would question the origin of such an evil thought. 

We have prophetic writers and those who write fantasy novels.   THE GREAT DIVORCE by  C.S. Lewis.  Referring to his book Lewis wrote "but the transmortal conditions are solely an imaginative supposal, they are not even a guess or speculation at what may actually await us.   The last thing I wish is to arouse factual curiosity about the details of the after world.

There it is again that word - imagine (ative)

Perhaps if we all had more imagination regarding the consequences of our every actions we might just work towards that end instead of shooting the messenger. 

In the Great Divorce people exist in a place with more than a hint of a dismal day in the depressing terraces of an average town.    Have they missed the direct flight to heaven?  Their miserable lives continue in dank drizzle and permanent twilight.  The usual bright lights and smells of a shopping mall, cinemas, fish and chips, burgers, booze are all there.   Fights at the bus stop.   Perhaps any city today on a Friday/Saturday night except the focus is on a queue at the bus stop.

This brilliant book is a vivid description of those who are in the last chance saloon.  Perhaps very catholic, but kinder than purgatory - just the mind blowing humdrum existence of the average man.   Surprising considering Lewis was an Anglican and layman in the Church of England.   The reader notes with a sense of humour the different characters, ghosts, who are actually being offered a chance to recognise their failings even at this late date and go off in a right direction towards the Kingdom.

They queue for the bus that will take them out of hell to the edge of heaven and a meeting with their  appointed spirit guide who assures them they have to change to continue towards His Kingdom but they still have a choice.   Of course one character actually prefers Hell and probably can't imagine a life without fish chips and booze and gets back on the bus for the return journey to Grey Town.

This truly great writer takes fantasy and punctuates it with gentle prods.  You realise your own imperfections and how unworthy we are to even receive a last minute correction.   I am sure many will have found it offensive in parts.   The Bishop accused of being an apostate.    The ghost who considered he was a "decent chap" only to be advised by his spirit guide "you weren't a decent man, you didn't do your best.  We none of us were and none of us did"    

Perhaps instead of pinning people up against the wall and threatening them with eternal damnation, the ever present zealots might just consider the biblical teaching on JOHN 6 - 43 - 44

JESUS therefore answered and said to them

"Do not murmer amongst yourselves.

No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him;

and I will raise him up on the last day.

GOD CHOOSES WHEN, WHERE AND HOW.

   

It's our christian life that should attract others to want what we have.   Anything else and the media circus has a field day.

An insignificant little article tucked away in the corner of a daily broadsheet suggested that gossip is good for our egos.   Gossiping is considered vital to our self-esteem because it allows us to compare ourselves with others the study claims.  Supposedly according to research at the University of Groningen it boosts self reflection and self-evaluation.    REALLY.   How many people will take that on board.

Gossip can hurt, crush and even cause a sensitive young person to self harm or even commit suicide so where are these supposed academics coming from? from whence the inspiration.    Gossip can be bland or bullying and downright malicious, often inaccurate and should not be encouraged.   Perhaps they should read a bible and repent.

Matthew 5 - 37

Jesus said "But let your Yes be Yes and your No be No

For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.

Are christians even taught that the evil one exists in today's twisted interpretation of scripture.   The man responsible for the death of Lennon was surely a twisted individual listening to a dark Lord.

Zealots of both today and yesteryear need to remember the Lord's instruction:

  Matthew 7 - 1 - 2

Judge not, that you be not judged.  For with what judgement you judge, you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.  

The Beatles were right.  All we need is Love.   And just perhaps Lennon had a sneak preview of God's kingdom to come.  As for the cowardly killer who shot him in the back.   Just another manic religious zealot.   One of many who are increasing at a dangerous pace.

Revelation 21 - 1 & 4

(1) Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth,

for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away.

Also there was no more sea.

And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes;

there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.

There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.

*************

But what you ask, of earth?

Earth, I think, will not be found by anyone to be in the end a very distinct place.

I think earth, if chosen instead of Heaven, will turn out to have been all along, only a region in Hell:

and earth if put second to heaven, to have been from the beginning a part of Heaven itself.

Preface to The Great Divorce.

C.S. Lewis

April, 1945

Romans: 11 - Even so then, at this present time there is a remnant according to the election of grace.

We are not alone, there are brothers and sisters scattered around the globe who are hearing the Word of the Lord, keeping it close to their hearts and living holy lives.    

In a world where darkness is increasing they trust in their Lord, keep His precepts and patiently wait for His return and His promise.

SHALOM

   

BLINKERED

This most beautiful system of the sun, planets and comets could only proceed

from the counsel and dominion of an intelligent powerful Being.

Sir Isaac Newton

1642 - 1727

How on earth could anyone think differently, but they do, especially those who consider themselves superior in intelligence to other mere mortals.   

I remember well a time when I was caught up in a debate regarding scripture that had sent the opposition into damning condemnation.   "How dare you suggest that just may be the meaning of one particular part of the old testament had perhaps been "lost in translation" the King James Bible was the Word of God, end of.   

Thankfully I was sent a C.D by "Sound Doctrine for the Remnant"  of a Jacob Prasch lecture and the accusation levelled at me was dead in the water.   Jacob's teaching on the correct translation of Psalm 23 is available on You Tube.    He also teaches that to truly interpret scripture you first had to understand the mindset of the Jewish people who always answered a question with another question, and how Yeshua (Jesus) often spoke in hyperboles to get His point across. 

As a young child I doubt I understood much other than the basic stories allowed in the doctrine of my parents' denomination.   Samson and Delilah, Joseph and his coat of many colours etc.    Which leads me nicely into the book of Daniel.

If you haven't actually watched the D.V.D. the Daniel Project which is a study on bible prophecy now is a good time to get on board.  It is a great presentation by Jacob Prasch and Jeremy Hitchen explaining how many of the prophecies written over 2,500 years ago by Isaiah, Ezekiel etc., have already come true and we are hurtling towards the precipice, the clock is ticking.

Studio Scotland have recently completed a full length feature film "The Daniel Connection" based loosely on that documentary.    The World Premiere will be held in Edinburgh, Scotland on the 22nd November.   Tickets £12.50.   Available from premier@studio scotland.com.

The film has been acquired by USA film distributor California Pictures Inc at Paramount Studios in Hollywood and will be released early 2015.

A commercial D.V.D. will also be released both by California Pictures after October 2015 and Studio Scotland hope to produce their own version around the same time.

http://www.thedanielconnection.tv/

Perhaps the end goal is to get people who appear drawn to apocalyptic gloom and doom movies to realise that what is happening globally was foretold by the ancient prophets in the Hebrew scriptures.

Matthew 24 is the countdown to the end, but of course the children of apostasy appear not only to be twisting scripture but re-inventing Yeshua HaMashiach into their own version of Christ marching towards one world religion.    

The hideous face of anti.semitism is rising again and now more than ever it is important to understand that when Christ returns it will be to His people - and the Mount of Olives.

  ACTS 1 - 9-11

  Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched,

He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of sight.

And while they look steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men

stood by them in white apparel,

who also said "Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven?

This same Jesus , who was taken up from you in heaven,

will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.

Enthusiasts of the Daniel project will know Jerusalem sits on the Syrian East African Rift fault line which has small earthquakes from time to time.   

Zechariah 14 - 4

And in that day His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives

Which faces Jerusalem on the east, 

And the Mount of Olives shall be split in two,

From east to west,

Making a very large valley.

Perhaps the commercial production will succeed in getting the message across that the old testament scriptures are historical documents written by the ancient prophets who spoke with deadly accuracy of future world events and prayerfully many will realise their judeo christian roots and others turn back to the God they deny.

Sir Isaac Newton was quite prophetic when he wrote:

About the times of the End, a body of men will be raised up who will turn

their attention to prophecies, and insist on their literal interpretation,

in the midst of much clamour and opposition.

Some years ago I attended a small free church in the local town.   In that fellowship I met a man who was an advocate for Christian Friends of Israel.    He would offer to drive me home after the late evening service and on dark wet evenings I was more than happy to accept.

His birthday was approaching and as a small gesture of appreciation I sent for the music C.D.  "Road to Jerusalem" a selection of messianic praise and worship songs.    Perhaps it was not the acceptable thing to actually play a C.D. before giving it as a gift but I concerned as to whether it would be acceptable.

Something in that C.D. stirred my blood.  The music, singers and musicians were simply amazing and  my love of Jewish music was birthed.   Only then did I fully realise that the Jesus I followed was a Jewish Rabbi who was totally misrepresented in my early religious education with images of a very european Jesus, spotless nativity scenes and little sign of fladulation or mutilation on the crucified body of the Christ.   

I eagerly ordered more copies and distributed them amongst friends and family and the enthusiasm spread like a virus.   The beautiful simplicity of Kadosh sung by Susana Allen became just one of the many songs I would eagerly learn.  Bill McCartney comments at the end of the C.D.   "May this music that you have heard stir your heart and challenge you to get involved."    Well God's blessing was certainly on that C.D. and the blessing remains on all those who received and accepted its message.

When I finally toured Jerusalem in 2008 visiting the albeit commercial but nevertheless historical sites it  was a blessing I will never forget.    Perhaps the highlight was the trip on the sea of Galilee, the water so clear we could see the fish swimming around the sides of the boat.    

Jacob Prasch teaches Jesus came to fulfill the Torah and unlike many evangelists and preachers in the modern church he is adamant that we don't look to himself or any other preacher but to the scriptures.   The Truth will certainly set you free.
     
Sir Isaac Newton put it so simply.

To myself I am only a child playing on the beach,

white vast oceans of truth lie undiscovered before me.

The remnant watch and wait as prophecy unfolds - their destination assured.

Those who choose to dance to the music of this world confident that their thoughts, words and deeds are not seen will tremble in fear.

The darkness is increasing, mass panic will ensue if Ebola spreads to their comfortable corner of the world.   How will they face the prospect of their death without the hope of a saviour.

Matthew 24 - 38
For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and given in marriage, until the day came Noah entered the ark.      

BARUCH HA BA B'SHEM ADONAI

SHALOM