Age: Is It Just A Number?

Today the USA Swimming National Championships in Indianapolis, IN ended.  Those that placed in their respective events punched a ticket to the world championships that will be held in Rome, Italy beginning July 17.

Dara Torres has been on the international scene competitively swimming, with great success, and has won 12 Olympic medals (four gold, four silver, four bronze) over 24 years. During last summer’s Olympics, while Michael Phelps caught most of the prime time headlines in route to winning an Olympic record 8 gold medals, Torres caught my attention.  Here is a gal that many thought was past her prime, swimming in her fifth Olympic games.  She caught my attention not because of her age, but because of her disciplined determination to be the best she can be.

A Rise & Walk.

“Some time later, Jesus went up to Jerusalem for a feast of the Jews. Now there is in Jerusalem near the Sheep Gate a pool, which in Aramaic is called Bethesdaa and which is surrounded by five covered colonnades. Here a great number of disabled people used to lie—the blind, the lame, the paralyzed. One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?” “Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” At once the man was cured; 

he picked up his mat and walked.” (John 5:1-9)

Imagine not being able to walk for 38 years.  As you read this post that period of time could be all or most of your life!  As I have been on crutches for the last year, I can relate to that man who could not walk that Jesus miraculously healed in John 5.  What was his life like before he was healed? We do not know from the text but can assume it was not easy.  Yet on that day the man’s physical condition was radically changed forever—for the good!

As I have been on this journey during the last 12+ plus of surgeries, recovery, and rehab the Lord has graciously been with me through it all.  Recently, I began to wear both shoes on my feet. I have not done been able to do this, due to surgeries, swollen feet, and rehab, since March 11, 2008. I am walking longer distances.  At first ¼ mile was the limit and now I am up to 1 mile.

The Newberry.

I am getting into going to libraries. I think some of it stems from the need to read, study, and write for the thesis I am working on, “A Practical Theology of Living with a Physical Affliction to the Glory of God”. But it is also a place for quiet and solitude as I seek the Lord through His Word.

Earlier this year I discovered The Newberry Library in Chicago. I wish I would have known about it sooner. When I was a student at the Moody Bible Institute the Newberry would have been a great option for studying.

This place is loaded with books, a lot of them rare, plus a many volumes written by the Puritans including John Owen, John Bunyan, and John Flavel.

A Man. A Mission: 360/365.

"However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me--the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace"

(Acts 20:24).

Some people impact your life more than others. Dr. Calenberg, one of my professors when I attended Moody Grad School, is one of them. Dr. C, as he was fondly known, has a contagious passion to know the Lord and make Him known God through sharing the gospel—the good news of Jesus Christ—especially through missions.  Before returning to Moody Grad School with his family, Dr. C served on the faculty of the Jos ECWA (Evangelical Church of West Africa) Theological Seminary (JETS) in Jos, Nigeria from 1984-91.  While ministering at JETS, he was involved in outreach with students and started a basketball evangelistic ministry.

During my time at Moody, I always came away challenged and my heart encouraged through the time in the Word with Dr. C.  The first semester he instructed and challenged me in the importance of making sure I knew how to rightly divide God’s word (2 Timothy 2:15) through the art and science of biblical interpretation, also known hermeneutics. The “Church and Mission” class and a semester long book study of Daniel and Revelation quickened my heart to see God’s work accomplished through His church and the fulfillment Scripture when Christ will reign for eternity (Revelation 22:7-21).

Earlier this year I had the opportunity to see and hear Dr. Calenberg preach as he was in town for a mission’s conference in Wheaton, IL. The theme of the conference was 360/365. Be an intentional, global (360) Christian with the gospel every day (365)!  I have heard it said for the follower of Jesus Christ in regards to missions, “You are either sending (financial/prayer support), going, or you are disobedient.” (See Matthew 28:18-20) Dr. C preached that “God has call on every moment and on every area of our lives.”  This is not just for missionaries.  It is for all followers of Jesus Christ.  All of us should be involved proclaiming the Gospel where He has placed us!

"By Prayer".  Dr. C reminded us on the importance of prayer in ministering the Gospel.  God accomplishes great things through prayer through those who are completely dependent on Him for the work that He will do.  "If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.  This is my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples" (John 15:7-8).

Better Than Playoff Hockey...

Hockey is back in Chicago! I mentioned that in a December 27, 2008 post, but it really is back! Hockey is to Chicago as deep dish it to pizza, Michael Jordan is to basketball, and sub-zero windchills are to a Chicago winter. Without them, you don’t have Chicago!

After a few pitiful seasons of hockey, the Chicago Blackhawks made a great run through the playoffs this year. In fact, they made it all the way to the Western Conference Finals before getting knocked out in a 4-1 series by their perennial nemesis—the Detroit Red Wings.

 I had the opportunity to attend two playoff games with my dad. The first game was a 5-1 rout over the Calgary Flames and the second one was a 7-5 win over the Vancouver Cannucks to win the series.  The later was one of the most exciting and loudest sporting events I have attended in my life.  There were five lead changes.   In the 3rd period the Blackhawks were down 4 goals to 5. It did not look good for the team get the W (win), but they did not give up.  They worked hard not only to tie the game, but to win!  In the 3rd period Jonathan Toews scored the go ahead goal.  Then   the youthful star, Patrick Kane, scored his third goal of the game and his first “hat trick” in his NHL career. (A “hat trick” occurs when a player scores three goals in one game.  It’s not easy to do.)

But you know something?  As I cheered for the Blackhawks, and experienced the excitement of “an electric atmosphere” of 20,000+ frenzied fans going nuts for their team, (1 million plus for the season) I began to reflect on the fact that there is something better—so much better and satisfying—than a hockey win, even if it is for your favorite team.  That something better is worshipping Jesus Christ throughout the week and corporately with the body of Christ, His church, through music and the preaching of His Word on Sunday morning!

“Come, let us sing for joy to the LORD; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.  Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.  For the LORD is a great God, the great King above all gods” (Psalm 95:1-3).

The Pastor as Scholar, and The Scholar as Pastor.

It has been more than a month, Thursday night, April 23, that I heard Drs. D. A. Carson and John Piper give hour long lectures on their life and ministry at Park Community Church in Chicago.  Carson and Piper have impacted many, including me, through their preaching and books that focus on a passionate proclamation of the Gospel for the glory of God.  I have have been blessed to sit under the teaching these humble servants whether at Bible conference or at my church.

Tonight these brothers shared their hearts what God has taught them during their life and ministry.  Here are some "nuggets" I took away from the time. 

D. A. Carson: 12 Lessons Learned

1.   Take steps from being a mere quarter master. In other words, one who brings supplies to the frontlines.

2.  Beware of the seduction of applause.

3.  It’s more important to be learned than to learn.  Keep in mind that on the last day of my life I ultimately stand before Jesus Christ and will give an account to Him alone.

4.  Fight with every part of my being the objective study of Scripture and devotion to God through His Word.

5.  Be worshipful and devout in the most critical exegesis of the text.  Never develop an upstairs objective thought and downstairs devotion.

6.  Never forget that there are people out there. People for whom Christ has died.

7.  Recognize the giftedness in others.  Avoid pride at all costs. Apostle Paul wrote, “I am what I am by the grace of God" (1 Corinthians 15:10).

8. Recognize that students don’t learn everything I teach.  What do they learn? What I am most excited about.

9. Keep the main thing “the main thing”.  Be more than a master of the New Testament, but mastered by the New Testament.

Pray and work for a scholarly vision beyond a publisher’s vision. (Probably doesn't apply to most of us since we do not write books, but maybe we will.)  Where is my vision beyond what a publisher asks me to write?

10.  Love the church!

11.  Avoid “Lone Ranger scholarship”.

Sir Francis Bacon:  “Reading maketh a full man, conference a ready man, and writing an exact man.”

12.  Take the work seriously, but not myself.  Laugh at yourself regularly.

Whiter Than Snow.

“Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. 

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow.” (Isaiah 1:18a-b)

“Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean;

 wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.” 

(Psalm 51:7)

God has a sense of humor.  Earlier this month we had our last snow—in April!?  It’s really not unusual to get snow in the Chicago suburbs; but after a long winter, with a lot of snow, most of the natives, including me, are looking forward to spring!

Snow provides a momentary graphic of what “is clean”.  But that snow, depending on where it lands, can become dirty quickly. More importantly, snow reminds me that getting clean (asking God’s forgiveness and other(s) if I’ve sinned against them) from my own sin is through Christ’s blood alone.  “In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22).

What’s sweet is that not only am I forgiven when I seek God for it, but He cleanses me too!

“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.  If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.  If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives” (1 John 1:7-10).

Not only does God clean us up when we mess up (sin)! we seek His for forgiveness, but He makes us whiter than snow! I need this every day!

“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess.  For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin.  Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:14-16).

30 Days of Thanksgiving.

God’s word is clear; the follower of Jesus Christ is to be thankful and live with an attitude of thanksgiving.  “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

In culmination a year of four ankle surgeries in 2008 with the first one, March 11, I took thirty days to reflect on God and His goodness.  Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to make an entry everyday from February 17 to March 17.  In fact, a couple entries were made today, March 31.

This post is dedicated to my dad and mom.  I love you.  Thanks for your support and running with me during these last 12 months of surgeries, recoveries, and rehab.  It’s been quite a run. One I wouldn’t exchange for anything!

Sunday, March 17: Lord, Thank You for Perseverance!

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body” (2 Corinthians 4:7-10).

By and through God’s grace, strength, and mercy He carries me. He gives me the perseverance to press on!  Thank you, Father, for Jesus Christ who is The Model for perseverance and directing my heart to see it!  “May the Lord direct your hearts to God’s love and Christ’s perseverance” (2 Thessalonians 3:5).

Monday, March 16: Heaven: Here, But Not Yet!

“But we our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body” (Philippians 3:20-21).

Heaven—Ready to Go!

During the course of the last 12 months heaven has been on my heart.  Hey, it should be! Disciplining my mind to think about it daily takes work.  But if I am living like “a citizen of heaven” this must be my pursuit!  A good friend of asked me last year, “Are you ready to go to heaven?”  “Yes,” was my answer.  In the meantime, my heartbeat is like that of Paul, “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:20).

David Brainerd (1718-1747), a missionary to Indians in eighteenth century New England.  Died of tuberculosis in the home of Jonathan Edwards at age twenty-nine.  Edwards published Brainerd’s journal, The Life and Diary of David Brainerd.  One of Brainerd’s journal entries captures his passionate pursuit of heaven…

Saturday, June 12, 1742, “Spent much time in prayer this morning, and enjoyed much sweetness. Felt insatiable longings after God much of the day.  I wondered how poor souls do to live that have no God.  The world with all its enjoyments quite vanished. I see myself very helpless, but I have a blessed God to go to.  I longed exceedingly to be dissolved and to be with Christ, to behold His glory.  Oh, my weak, weary soul longs to arrive at my Father’s house!"

Sunday, March 15: Thanks, Lord, for the Body of Christ.

“The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body.  So it is with Christ.  For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink.  Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it” (1 Corinthians 12:12-13, 27).

I am grateful for the God’s church, the body of Christ, that He has called to be His bride and uses for His glory.  I am thankful that He gives spiritual gifts to the body to glorify Him and build up the body of Christ.  Praise Lord that He uses sinners saved by grace to glorify Him and minister to others.  Thanks, Lord, for so many in the body of Christ who have ministered to me during these last 12 months!

Saturday, March 14: Thanks, Lord, for My Parents.

“May your father and mother be glad; may she who gave you birth rejoice!”(Proverb 24:25)

Lord, thanks for a dad and mom who have remained faithful to you, faithful in marriage, and faithful to me, my sister, brother-n-law, grandkids, and our extended family you have blessed us with.

Thanks, dad and mom, for loving me just because, for the time you give to listen to what’s on my heart, giving me counsel, encouragement and support, and for just being you.  Praying you finish well!

Friday, March 13: Thanks, Lord, for gifted doctors, physical therapists, and medical staff.

A good doctor is like a good mechanic, either he can fix it or he cannot.  Lord, grateful for many men and women, you have gifted, who have been instrumental in helping me.

Thursday, March 12: Thank you, Jesus, for the privilege, in a small way, to fellowship in the sharing of your sufferings.

“I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings” (Philippians 3:10).

Wednesday, March 11: Heavenly Father, thanks for healing me and protecting me from infection.

August 22, 2007, is one day I will not forget.  For two months I had waited for my appointment with Dr. Haddad.  He looked at my ankles, x-rays, and gave me the options to consider.  Bottom line: he encouraged me to get my ankles replaced.  I asked him, “Could I get them both done in a year?” “Yes,” was his answer.  My next question, “How long before you can do the first surgery?”  His assistant told me he’s booked out for six months.  “Wow, I thought this guy must be pretty good.”  As I drove home, I contemplated my options and praying.  A few days later I scheduled all of my surgeries still not knowing if this was the best route to take and looking to the Lord for wisdom. 

A few weeks later I received Dr. Haddad’s report of my visit.  As I read it, and got to the diagnosis, he discussed ankle replacements.  What I wasn’t expecting were the facts of potential infection especially for those who maybe overweight, diabetic, or smoke.  At the extreme, one could lose their foot.  What?!  I thought surgery was supposed to help, not hurt in the long run.

Thankfully, by God’s grace, infection never was problem.  Thank you, Father, for watching over me!

I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you—the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life;
the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
(Psalm 121:1-8)

Tuesday, March 10: Faithful brothers and sisters in Christ who keep pressing on even when it’s tough.

Lord, thanks for so many people you have brought—past, present, and future—into my life who have gone through physical affliction, financial loss, loss of a spouse, loss of a child, loss of a job, a wayward child, and still remain stayed upon You.  They rely on the promises of your Word.  “Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you” (Psalm 9:10).

Monday, March 9: Jehovah Jireh—“My Provider”.

Lord, thanks for providing a place I could stay that had a bedroom and bathroom, with a walk-in-shower, on the same floor.  Thanks for the left foot accelerator that I used from April to September 2008 since I couldn’t use my right foot drive.  Thanks for medical insurance that covered $250,000+ in medical expenses and for the funds to cover the other expenses not covered by insurance.

Sunday, March 8: The Unchanging (Immutable) God.

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).

Lord, I am thankful that you are ever constant, ever sure!  Thanks for always remaining reliable, trustworthy, and being there for me.

“A Mighty Fortress is My God, A Bulwark Never Failing!”

Saturday, March 7: God is The Rock.

“Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD, is the Rock eternal” (Isaiah 26:4).

It has been pouring rain today.  Flash flood warnings are up until tomorrow, Sunday morning.  I am reminded and grateful that in the midst of heavy downpours of rain and even “heavy downpours” in life that God is The Rock, The Rock Eternal!

Friday, March 6: God is Peace.

“The God of peace be with you all. Amen” (Romans 15:33).

“There is no peace for the wicked,” says the Lord” (Isaiah 48:22)

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).

Lord, thanks that through your Son Jesus Christ death on the cross for my sins, there can be peace. Thank you for the blessing of living in your peace.  “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:7).

Thursday, March 5: The Holiness of God.

“And they (the seraphs) were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory” (Isaiah 40:3).

Lord you are awesome in perfection.  Nothing and No one compares to you!

Thank you for your son, Jesus Christ, perfect in holiness who you gave as perfect sacrifice for mans’ sins.  “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
All Thy works shall praise Thy Name in earth and sky and sea; 
Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!
God in three Persons, blessed Trinity! 

Wednesday, March 4: The Patience of God.

“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.  He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities” (Psalm 103:8-10).

Thank you, Father, for your patience with me.  When I go my own way, focus on self rather than others, you are gracious to discipline and guide me back to You and the promises of your word. Help me, Lord, to be patient and gracious with others.

Tuesday, March 3: The All Wise God.

Lord, thanks for your unfathomable wisdom.  Thanks for the book of Proverbs that instructs me and helps me to walk in wisdom.

“Blessed is the man who finds wisdom, the man who gains understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold” (Proverbs 3:13-14).

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverb 9:10).

Monday, March 2: Mighty God.

“Lift up your heads, O you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is this King of glory?  The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is he, the King of glory?  The LORD Almighty—He is the King of glory” Selah (Psalm 24:7-10)

The mightiness of God, it’s a great think to contemplate.

Sunday, March 1: God is True.

"Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent" (John 17:3).

“Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).

Saturday, February 28: Awesome God.

Ever think about what “awesome” means?  I know it’s easy for me to say, “That was an awesome dinner!”  Or, “What an awesome sunset!” Or “What an awesome shot/play (i.e., basketball or sporting event).  But these things are nothing, absolutely nothing compared to the awesomeness of God!

“You are awesome, O God, in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. Praise be to God!” (Psalm 68:35)

Friday, February 27: God of Mercy.

“Remember my affliction and my wanderings, the wormwood and the gall! My soul continually remembers it and is bowed down within me. But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:19-23).

Lord, thanks for your mercies new every day.  More than ever I am mindful of them each day you give me life to live.

Thursday, February 26: The Faithful God.

“He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful” (1 Corinthians 1:8-9).

Wednesday, February 25: The God of Hope.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).

Man needs hope. I need hope every day. But true, confident, sure hope comes in God alone.

The New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology further defines biblical hope:

The hope of faith…is a concrete personal expectation. Despite the “not yet” of the realization of salvation, it looks forward confidently though not without tension. However, Yahweh, for whom it waits, is not like us men. He knows, promises, and brings to pass what the future holds for his people, hope attains unparalleled assurance in the realm of revelation. Despite everything which at present runs counter to the promise, the one who hopes trusts God for his faithfulness sake not to disappoint the hope he has awakened through his word (Isa 8:17; Mic 7:7; Ps. 42:5).

Grateful for the Hope that comes in and through God Alone!

Tuesday, February 24: The Omnipotent God (All Powerful God).

“God thunders marvelously with His voice; He does great things which we cannot comprehend” (Job 37:5).

The verse above, from the book of Job, throttles my heart on the indescribable weight and greatness of God.  The verse was on a get well card I received in 2000 or 2001 from a Coach Rex, a high school football coach, and his wife, during my time of recovery of having my hips replaced a second time.  Coach Rex and his wife are now with the Lord.

I praise God that He does marvelous things.  Things that I cannot nor man can comprehend for His glory and the sake of His name!

Monday, February 23: The Omnipresent God (Ever Present God).

“All this took place to fulfill what the LORD had said through the prophet: “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel!”—which means, “God with us” (Matthew 1:22-23).

I am grateful and in awe for the presence of the Lord today, during the last year, and all the years He has given me to live.  Praising God for Immanuel, God with me!

Sunday, February 22: The Omniscient (All-Knowing) God.

“But He knows the way I take; When He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold”(Job 23:10).

The Lord laid this verse on my heart in 2003 as I began working on a master’s degree.  It resonated with me then and even more so today.  I know what’s it like to go through the Refiner’s fire.  Although not easy, I wouldn’t trade it for anything, because it chips away self and lets Jesus shine for His glory!

Saturday, February 21: Joy in the Lord.

“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines,

though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food,

though there are not sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls,

yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior” (Habakkuk 3:17-18)

Thanks Lord for allowing me to know your Joy that comes in you alone. It starts at salvation (Romans 5:1-2) and culminates in glory (Revelation 19:7)!  Help me to daily walk in your Joy!

Friday, February 20: God is in Control (Sovereign).

“Who can speak and have it happen if the Lord has not decreed it? Is it not from the mouth of the Most High that both calamities and good things come?” (Lamentations 3:37-38)

The scriptures are clear: God is completely sovereign, or in control, over creation, people, events, salvation of believers, and your life (Ps 146:10; Lam 3:37-38;Tit 3:3-7).  If God were not sovereign, He would not be God nor could He be trusted.  A.W. Pink succinctly states, “In a word, to deny the sovereignty of God is to enter upon a path which, if followed to its logical terminus, leads to blank atheism.”

Lord, thanks for being in control of my life, especially the past year of four surgeries, anesthesiologists, doctors, medical staff, walking on crutches, pain, recovery, physical therapy, no infection, and being able to walk again with two new ankle joints.

Thursday, February 19: God is Good (All the Time).

Just like God’s love, His goodness is an inherent attribute of who God is.  I have seen this even through trials, pain, and physical affliction.  Shoot, God is working all things together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28)!

A.W. Pink writes, “God is not only the Greatest of all beings, but the Best. All the goodness there is in any creature has been imparted from the Creator, but God’s goodness is underived, for it is the essence of His eternal nature.”  God first demonstrated His is goodness in His creation (Genesis 1).  He summarized each successive day as “good” and after everything was made, He called it “very good” (Genesis 1:4,10,12, 8, 21, 25, 31).

Wednesday, February 18: God is Love.

“This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1 John 4:10)

Bottom line: God is love.  It’s inherent to who He is.

The Love of God, Frederick M. Lehman, 1917

Could we with ink the ocean fill,
And were the skies of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill,
And every man a scribe by trade;
To write the love of God above

Would drain the ocean dry;
Nor could the scroll contain the whole
Though stretched from sky to sky.

Grateful, Lord, that you loved me first!

Tuesday, February 17: God of Grace: Grace to Save, Grace to Sustain.

“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be power for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 5:10-11)

These verses at the end of 1 Peter throttle and thrill my heart to praise, depend, and persevere for the glory of the Lord!  In the words of the prophet Jeremiah, “When your words came, I ate them; they were a joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, O LORD God Almighty” (Jeremiah 15:16).  Thanks for your scriptures, Lord, that keep me focused and going through the work of your Spirit.

Praise the Lord for His grace that saved me and his grace that keeps me.  “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved” (Ephesians 2:4-5).

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power my rest on me” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Praise you, Lord, that you are “the God of all grace”!  I need it every day!

Final Four: Part 4: "Cleanse Me."

“Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.  Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice.  Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity” (Psalm 51:7-9).

Have ever felt truly clean?   From a hard day working outside on a hot and humid summer day to a great physical work out at the gym to taking care of little children—dirt, sweat, and grime are bound to be there. It is easy to get dirty.  But how do you get clean?

To reduce the risk of infection from each ankle surgery, Dr. Haddad instructed me to scrub my ankle the night before and morning of surgery. Not only was the ankle scrubbed, but all the toes, toenails and in between the toes received a thorough wash of Hibiclens.  The scrub kept going up the front and back of my calf and knee to mid-thigh. All of this to prevent infection, be clean, and ready to go for surgery!

As I went through those pre-surgery “scrub sessions” before the four surgeries 2008, my heart was gripped by the fact, how do I get cleansed from my sin?  There is nothing I can do to remove it.  “Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin”? (Proverb 20:9)  Only the precious blood of Jesus Christ—shed on the cross for your and my sins—provides the means for forgiveness of sins!  “And without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22b).

David, “a man after God’s own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14; Psalm 89:20-24; Acts 13:22), may be characterized as one of the greatest sinners, but he’s also one of the greatest repenters. Psalms 32 & 51 prove it.

Grateful for the forgiveness that comes through the shed blood of Jesus Christ.

“If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 2:8-9)

A Year Ago The Marathon Began.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith”

(2 Timothy 4:7).

Time, they say, never stands still. A year ago today, March 11, it all began: the first of four ankle surgeries.  With surgeries, recovery, and rehab spaced every 12 weeks since March 11, 2008, it’s been a quick year a very, quick year.  “What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes” (James 4:14b).

So how do I summarize the best year of my life in one post on a blog? It’s not easy, especially when the Lord has worked in so many great ways (Ephesians 3:20-21).  These words summarize the last year: pure joy, the gospel, sanctification, God’s faithfulness, Jesus Christ, Heaven, and You.

Pure Joy.  “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds” (James 1:2).

This year has not always been easy, but I would not trade it for anything. There were days of discouragement when I couldn’t comb my hair because of the arthritic pain in my right shoulder. Fighting to think right thoughts (Philippians 4:8) about the surgeries, rehab, and future is essential to live for glory of the Lord rather than focus on self. I can truly say I have known “pure joy” that comes through Jesus Christ during this trial (Galatians 5:22).

Sanctification.  “It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees” (Psalm 119:71).

God through His great patience and grace has revealed and reminded me of pride, a lack of dependence on Him, and living for self rather than His kingdom and others (Galatians 2:20; Matthew 6:33).

Earlier this year I attended a men’s conference at my church.  I was cut and diced to the quick when the speaker shared about how Joni Eareckson-Tada longs more for personal holiness than a new a body.

People say, “You must be looking forward to Heaven,” thinking I am looking forward to getting my new body. And after more than twenty-five years in a wheelchair, it’s true that I am. But more than I am looking forward to my new body [she said with her voice choking with emotion] I am looking forward to a heart without sin.” (“The Best Part of Heaven”, Moody, March 1995, p. 32.)

The Gospel.  “However I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given to me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace” (Acts 20:24).

The opportunity to share the love Christ through the gospel and encourage others with it has been incredible.   I would never have dreamed that the Lord could use this year like He has to plant so many gospel seeds and encourage others with His Word.

God’s Faithfulness.  “God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful” (1 Corinthians 1:9).

Through surgeries, recoveries, rehab, and a myriad of medical bills God has, is, and will remain faithful to His character and the promises in His Word.  What encouragement, hope, and confidence this brings to my heart!

Jesus Christ.   “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28)

I praise the Lord for the salvation that comes in Christ alone, by grace alone, and through faith alone.  The word and work of the Holy Spirit continues to impress on my heart how sinfully wretched I am, but God can rescue a spiritually dead man from his sins.

I am thankful for the privilege, in a very small way, that I can experience the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings (Philippians 3:10).  Praising Him that for the joy set before Him (Jesus), He endured the cross scorning its shame and now sits at the right hand of God (Hebrews 12:2).

Heaven.  “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20).

My heart is throttled to keep pursuing Heaven more than ever before.  No, it’s not to get rid of this beat-up body that gets older and decays each day.  It’s mind girded with the Word and using it to filter every thought (2 Corinthians 10:4-5; Philippians 4:8).  By going to Heaven I will be free from sin and able to worship the Lord Jesus Christ with an absolutely pure heart forever and ever.

You.  I am grateful for you! Whether this is your first time visiting/reading the blog or you’ve been tracking my progress over the course of 2008 and 2009, I am thankful for your prayers and encouragement.

Are you running the race with perseverance? Will I see you in Heaven?

For His Glory—Finish Well!

March Madness: It's Here!

Although the 2009 NCAA Tournament does not begin until Thursday, March 19, it began for me in Louisville, KY on Sunday, March 1.  The Louisville Cardinals took on Big East Conference foe Marquette Golden Eagles. The very competitive match-up between these two nationally ranked teams was all that it was predicted to be!

The atmosphere in historic Freedom Hall was close to electric and an experience to remember. Six NCAA Finals have been staged here as it's home of the Louisville men's basketball team since 1956. After the 2009-10 season, the Cards will move to their “new digs” (a.k.a., arena) in downtown Louisville.

White Out.
In support of the team, Louisville designated the day as “white out day”.  Everyone, but us were sporting white threads when they entered the arena.  The Cards sported throwback uniforms and Dapper-Dandy coach, Rick Pitino, donned some sweet white threads reminiscent of the Godfather.

Road Trip to The ‘Ville.
Part of the fun going to Louisville was the road trip with my friend, Dave.  Louisville to Chicago on I-65 is about a 5+ hour drive.   We had a great time of fellowship and spurring one another on in our walk with Jesus Christ.  Plus, on the way and on the return we saw a lot of interesting sights.  I like Indiana. It’s got a lot to offer and here’s a pictorial of our journey.

Is This The Year?

Only 28 days until April 13 and the Chicago Cubs embark on their new season with their Home Opener against the Milwaukee Brewers!  Question: Will this team, that has not won The World Series since 1908, win it this year?  Many a Cub fan will say, “This is the year!” We’ll see.  If you're a Sox fan...hold your comments.

This year’s team should contend.  Last year the Cubs headed into the All-Star break with the National League's best record, and tied the league record with eight representatives to the All-Star game, including catcher Geovany Soto, who was named Rookie of the Year.  But will they “lay an egg” in the post-season? Last year the L.A. Dodgers swept the Cubs in 3 straight games.

Two weeks ago, Friday, February 20, the Cubs single game tickets went on sale.  I trekked down to the “Friendly Confines” on Saturday to get some tickets. I had a plan with key games I wanted to see.  The plan “blew away” like the icy wind only found and felt in the Windy City of Chicago and what I experienced during the frigid time at the ticket window.  The ticket salesman greeted me and he said, “All ‘key series’ (i.e., St. Louis, NY Mets, LA Dodgers, Sox) were sold out and most weekends too.”  I said, “What?!?!”  Tickets had only been on sale via the internet and in person purchases for 24 hours!

Thankfully there was a “plan B.”  Tickets were purchased.  

Is this the year? Go Cubs, Go!

Breakfast of Champions: Iron Sharpens Iron.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another” (Proverb 27:17).

One of my passions is to encourage men in their walk with the Lord and be encouraged/challenged by them. Usually this happens once or twice a week, early in the morning.  For a season, it was as early as 5 AM. Thanks, Tim T.  I don’t even think the chickens are up at that hour!  But a start time is usually anywhere from 5:30 AM to 6 AM.

“See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none on you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. We have come to share in Christ if we hold firmly till the end the confidence we had at first” (Hebrews 3:12-14).

I cannot think of one time I regretted meeting with another brother or brothers. Sometimes non-Christians are in the mix too.  It’s a time to spur each other on in the faith, to die to self, and live for God’s glory through personal holiness.  "As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.  But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy" (1 Peter 1:14-16).

Tough questions are asked as we “get into each other’s kitchens”, confess sin to one another and plan/discuss how we will forsake sin.  As one former elder of my church said, “If sparks aren’t flying (during our time together) something must be wrong! Jello cannot sharpen iron!”

Last Friday morning I met with Dave.  I don’t regularly see him but I am always encouraged and challenged when I meet with him.  I appreciate his friendship and his pursuit to live his life and lead the family God has entrusted him for Christ’s glory.  “So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it” (2 Corinthians 5:9).

Grateful for "iron that sharpens iron"!

Vomit & Folly.

“As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly” (Proverb 26:11).

Have you ever gone 16 rounds with a heavyweight boxer? A week ago it felt like I was in for 16 rounds with Iron Mike Tyson.  No, I wasn’t literally in the boxing ring with the former world heavyweight champ, but it sure did feel like it when I kept on vomiting!

My stomach and core muscles were maxed. After the eighth heave session I began to wonder if there was still anything left in my tank?!  Apparently there was.  A few more sessions of dry heaves ensued.  I hadn’t been this sick since I was a kid.  I began to think, Lord, I am willing to take another ankle surgery if I don’t get sick again.  Thankfully the vomiting stopped.

I was whipped!  The rest of the day was spent sleeping and beginning to take fluids, Coke and ice.   I slept 12 hours straight.  I can’t remember the last time I did that!

Takeaways from Vomiting & Folly.
I was reminded of this verse during my 24+ hour bout with sickness.  “As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly” (Proverb 26:11).  How often am I like the dog that returns to its vomit?  And thus, like the fool who repeats his folly or repeats sin?

Vomit stinks.  It really stinks!  It’s not worth going to except to clean it up and get rid of it. Shouldn’t this be the same thing for my sin?  God hates it!  Do I?

“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers” (Proverbs 6:16-19).

Fools for Christ.

“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to those who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).

It has been almost two weeks since I attended the Moody Bible Institute's Tuesday evening Founder’s Week session featuring Alistair Begg as the keynote speaker.  Founder’s Week brings back a lot of memories.  I attended my first one with my sister, Beth, in 1991.  As I sat under the teaching of gifted teachers of God’s word, worshipped the Lord with other Moody students’ the week impacted me.  It was so great I quit my job, moved from Lancaster County Pennsylvania to Chicago and began Moody Grad School in August 1992.

Alistair Begg, the preacher from Scotland, pastors Parkside Church in the Cleveland, OH suburbs.  He opened the word to 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5.  Begg, as he always does, clearly communicates God’s word with passion, conviction, and authority.

A high-level summary of what Alistair Begg preached Tuesday night, February 3:

Historic fact declared: something happened sometime to someone and it is the most pivotal event in ALL of human history.   Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross for mans’ sins!  The world views this as silliness.

“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to those whoa are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).

Begg asked, “Do people within the church know and under the gospel and its power?” Begg says, “No!” People in the church must be totally immersed in the gospel!

My note…”The gospel,” writes Jerry Bridges, “is not only the most important message of all of history; it is the only essential message in all of history. Yet we allow thousands of professing Christians to live their entire lives without clearly understanding it and experiencing the joy of living by it.” (p. 15, The Cross Centered Life, C.J. Mahaney)

The heart of man is desperately wicked and rebelliously denies the claims of God.

“The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” 

(Jeremiah 17:7)

“People don’t need less preaching…they need more! Calvin preached every day and even at lunch!”

God has made foolishness the wisdom of the world.

“Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him” (1 Corinthians 1:20-21).

There are two types of people and the reason they don’t believe.
   • The person thinks he/she is so bad that there is no hope.
   • The person who thinks I am “good enough” that I need NO Savior!

‘Foolishness of God’ is Wiser than Man’s Wisdom.

“Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:26-31).

What human wisdom claims for itself it cannot deliver BUT the gospel can! Christ crucified is the message we proclaim!

“For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.  I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling.  My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power” (1 Corinthians 2:2-5).

Final Four: Part 3: The Rock.

“As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him. For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except our God?”

(Psalm 18:30-31)

His Way.
Last Wednesday the final cast came off and the sutures were taken out. God is good, all the time, as He heals me through these surgical journeys. I am reminded from Psalm 18, penned by King David, that God’s plan is perfect. Everything happens according to His perfect will even when I do not know why. I must simply trust in Him. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

His Word.
Through these months of surgery, recovery and rehab, God’s word remains a constant and reliable source of encouragement to my heart as I meditate on His promises.  It is awesome to know that God can be fully trusted and His word is completely reliable.  It "is flawless."

I echo the words of the psalmist, “It was good to for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees” (Psalm 119:71).  It in times of trial, God’s word becomes more precious and sweeter to my soul.

He is The Shield.
God protects me and those that are His through the fiercest storms when we take refuge in Him.

The Rock.
Commentator Dr. James M. Boice notes that the common theme found in Psalm 18 is that “God is our Rock!” 

Boice writes, “…This means he is a shelter beside which we can be protected and prosper, a fortress into which we can run and be safe, a firm foundation upon which our shaking feet can stand and upon which we can build.”

Furthermore, Boice states, “We do not know how much of Christ’s future work his lesser ancestor, King David, foresaw.  But we, who stand on this side of the cross, know what Jesus Christ did.  We know that he was smitten for us, crucified, that we might be saved from sin and protected from all harm.  Are you “in him”? Are you sheltered in the cleft of that Rock?  If you are, you can sing David’s song with full reference to the cross and resurrection.  You can sing,

“The Lord lives! Praise be to my Rock!  Exalted be God my Savior!” (Psalm 18:46).

Grateful for The Rock – Jesus Christ.

Pictures that capture last Wednesday’s check-up.

Cast Off.

Sutures Removed.

Photo-Op with April, Physician's Assistant.

X-Ray of The New Wheel.  Now I Am Ready to Race!

Getting After it in PT (Physical Therapy).

Yo, Stephen in Oak Ridge and Frank in Johnson City, TN…Go Vols!  All you UT fans better root harder for those boys playing B-ball. They need help—Big Time!  Too much streetball and no fundamentals.  Coach Pearl and the boys need to kick-it up a notch if they are going to make it to The Big Dance in March!

Final Four: Part 2.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, 

I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)

It is over, but in some ways it is just beginning!  Two weeks ago today the fourth and final ankle surgery was successfully completed—praise the Lord!  A week ago Sunday I came home from the hospital. The past week of recovery has gone very well.  Tomorrow, Lord willing, the cast you see here comes off and the sutures will come out.  Then it is back to a “high fashion” walking boot that will be on the left foot at least three months.

Again the Lord provided numerous opportunities to sow the seed of the gospel with numerous nurses and medical staff.  It seemed like I was on a short-term missions trip during the stay in the hospital.  Nurse Igor from the Ukraine and Anna from South Korea made my stay comfortable.  Anita from Poland and Alma from the Filipino islands daily helped me get cleaned-up and changed my bed.  Pansy from Jamaica delivered my meals.

Final Four Prep.
Keeping with the “Final Four” theme, the infamous hospital gown got “dressed-up” with authentic “Final Four” wear.  Kicking it up an additional notch, my feet were prepped with a pedicure.

For the record, Real Men get pedicures.  For the married man, your wife will be pleased you finally trimmed your toenails with no jagged edges to rub up against her legs.  Plus, a pedicure removes all those toe-jams that normally appear on the floor next to your bed or, even worse, in the sheets in your bed.  Men, for 2009 make a commitment to get a pedicure for you and your wife. You will be a better man for it!

No More Screws.
During the surgery these screws you see here were removed.  The large screws were inserted into my heal and used to fuse the subtalus and calcaneus (heel) bones in the first surgery on the left ankle back in September.  The small screw was used to keep the first metatarsal bone in place after it was broken and realigned in the previous surgery.  The large screws come out when the prosthetic is inserted.

Next Race and Chapter.

With a heart of thanksgiving these surgeries are now over.  Now, after the cast comes off and the sutures come out tomorrow, the next stop is physical therapy (PT) and putting this “new hardware” to work. PT, twice a week, will be on the radar for the coming weeks.  There is a lot of work and rehab ahead, but it will be worth it—a new race begins!

This post is dedicated to Tony Dungy who retired as head coach of the Indianapolis Colts yesterday.  I have never met Dungy, but his commitment to “walk the talk” by daily living for the glory of Jesus Christ challenges and encourages me.  “But if anyone obeys his word, God’s love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did” (1 John 2:5-6).

Derrick Brooks, a player Dungy coached during his tenure with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers recently said,

"I certainly look forward to partnering with him on various community projects. He certainly meant a lot to me as a role model displaying high character, great integrity and consistency as a man. We cannot ask for a better ambassador for the game of football than Coach Dungy as he has always lived his life by faith, family and football, in that order."

Tony Dungy left a mark on the National Football League (NFL) like no other coach in the history of the league.  Even after losing his eighteen year old son, James, through suicide in 2005, Dungy pressed on and became the first black man to win the Super Bowl in 2007 when the Colts beat the Chicago Bears.

Focused on Finishing Well!