2010 Resolution- No More 'Mr. Jerk'

This is my last blog for 2009. I have been distracted and not as faithful in updating my blog. Hopefully, I will do better in 2010. This blog today is about a resolution that I have already made for 2010!

One of the many things that one encounters in ministry are those that make personal insults towards you or your family. I am talking about people that take cheap shots, make hurtful comments, demean, belittle, chastise, and say and do other caustic things directed at you.

I call them Jerks! Dictionary definition- ‘an annoyingly stupid or foolish person; an unlikable person; especially: one who is cruel, rude, or small-minded.’ There are other ways to describe them as you will see from the next paragraph. But, I prefer to be civil in this blog and ‘jerk’ will suffice. Of course, we all can put names to the word ‘jerk.’

And what is worse, are those times when I have been a ‘jerk!’ Yes, I confess that there have been times when I have been a ‘class A jerk!’ I plan to change that in 2010.

As I was studying and meditating on this issue; I came across a book by Robert Sutton entitled, The No A**hole Rule: Building a Civilized Workplace and Surviving One That Isn’t. (Yes, it really does say that in the title; I edited it here for the sensitive and in an effort not to offend). It’s called the definitive guide to understanding, counteracting, and not becoming an a**hole. Obviously the workplace is a prime place for this type of person. But, it is not exclusive to it as we all have seen our fair share in the church and among its leadership.

Sutton has a dirty-dozen list of everyday ‘jerk’ actions:
1. Personal insults
2. Invading one’s personal territory
3. Uninvited personal contact
4. Threats and intimidation, both verbal and non-verbal
5. Sarcastic jokes and teasing used as insult delivery systems
6. Withering email flames
7. Status slaps intended to humiliate their victims
8. Public shaming or status degradation rituals
9. Rude interruptions
10. Two-faced attacks
11. Dirty looks
12. Treating people as if they are invisible

I am sure that you can identify with some of these or maybe all of them. We all have seen them and experienced them.

In his book, Sutton tells you how to avoid a jerk and how not to become one yourself. On his blog he tells of a church Sunday class that even used his book! That’s bold!!!!

Obviously, the Bible tells us how to live with and respond to jerks. “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;…” Matt 5:44 KJV (there are many other references in the Bible).

I heard Loren Cunningham, founder of YWAM, answer a question last night about all the criticism and attempted character assassinations directed at him over his lifetime, ‘How did he survive and stay full of joy?’ He said he forgave them all. Therein lays the key on how to deal with jerks! Don’t respond to them, forgive them!

If I have been a ‘jerk’ to you, please forgive me and pray that I will, by God’s grace, change and refrain from being one in the future.

Does anyone want to join me in the pursuit of this New Year’s Resolution?

Encouragement- Oxygen to the Soul

Last night I watched Demarcus Ware of the Dallas Cowboys lying on the football field with a sprained neck injury. I watched as the medical personnel attended to him eventually immobilizing him and putting him on to a stretcher. What got my attention was as he was placed on the cart to be taken off the field, a few Cowboy players went over to him and talked with him and encouraged him.

They are a team. When one player is down they all respond with support. Probably not one of them brought up Ware’s play that day, not one of them tried to settle a problem with him, but all wanted to help!

And then I thought about the church and church leadership. What did I think? I thought how often we don’t respond in kind when someone is hurting and down. We can be a most vicious group. Rather than circling around that person with support and encouragement, we add to the suffering.

We all should seize every opportunity to give encouragement, especially when someone is hurting. Encouragement is oxygen to the soul. The Message Bible, 1Thess 5.11: So speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you'll all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you're already doing this; just keep on doing it.

One day a guy vacationing in the Bahamas noticed a big crowd gathered at the end of the pier. As he got closer he observed someone preparing for a solo journey around the world in a tiny homemade boat. Without exception everybody was telling him all the things that could go wrong. Suddenly the guy felt an irresistible urge to offer some encouragement. So as the little boat drifted toward the horizon he began jumping up and down shouting, 'Go for it! You can make it! We're proud of you!'"

This man had what we need more of - the gift of encouragement. We need fewer critics and more cheerleaders: those who see over the heads of the nay-sayers and shout to someone launching out in faith "Go for it! You can make it! We're proud of you!"

Give the gift here at Christmas that is priceless but costs you nothing by acknowledging the needs around you and then speaking words of encouragement to others.

Open Letter to Lou Dobbs and all Government Officials

Americans for Legal Immigration PAC (ALIPAC), a grassroots immigration enforcement advocacy organization, is withdrawing its support for Lou Dobbs' possible presidential bid after the former CNN anchor and commentator told a Spanish language television network that he now supports amnesty for illegal aliens. During his long tenure at CNN, Dobbs became a champion of the pro-enforcement cause. But is now signaling a change!

Here is the email I sent to Lou Dobbs and is open reading for any government official about the current ineptness of the immigration system! You bet I am frustrated as it has now been 5 months that Lina is in Costa Rica!

Lou,
I saw your interview with Bill O'Reilly and was impressed. However, all that has changed with your support of amnesty for illegals.

My son married a Costa Rican in January of this year. They set up their home here in Texas. On returning in July from visiting her parents, she was denied entry into the US because she was coming in on a tourist visa. Now that she was married, she is an impending immigrant thus needs that visa. Who knew? She was sent back to Costa Rica where she has remained for these 5 months. My son has made numerous trips back and forth. We have a lawyer and are awaiting the proper paperwork and visa to be issued.

We feel we are being penalized by trying to do things the right way and yet more and more people are entering illegally and you want to encourage that. My understanding is that with amnesty for them they would be moved to the head of the line and my daughter-in-law would be pushed further back in her pursuit of a Visa. This is unconscionable and not right! The immigration system is terribly broken and penalizes those who are trying to do it right.

You need to check your facts about all this before you blindly endorse amnesty! Please don't accept illegals at the expense of those of us who obey the US laws and try to do it the right way!

Sincerely,
David Kerr

Thanksgivng 2009

"Thanksgiving dinners take eighteen hours to prepare. They are consumed in twelve minutes. Half-times take twelve minutes. This is not coincidence." -Erma Bombeck

"An optimist is a person who starts a new diet on Thanksgiving Day." -Irv Kupcinet

I am thanking God for my family, Vine Fellowship church family, friends (close and distant), and a wonderful life provided by Jesus Christ!

Honking Not As Dangerous as Texting!

Let's see, I do beleive that light was red that I just drove through while talking on my cell phone! David Kerr

Shell + Wave = Awesome!

Result from before sunrise pic taking!

Immigration Debacle!

Jason and Lina are still separated by our Immigration Laws... it has now been 4 months!

Let me see if I understand all this....

IF YOU CROSS THE NORTH KOREAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU GET 12 YEARS HARD LABOR......

IF YOU GO INTO CHINA ILLEGALLY, YOUR CONSIDERED A SPY AND GET HARD PRISON TIME.....

IF YOU GO INTO GERMANY ILLEGALLY, YOU GET A HEFTY FINE, WORK IT OFF OR PAY IT OFF, THEN DEPORTED.........

IF YOU GO INTO ENGLAND ILLEGALLY, YOU ARE IMMEDIATELY JAILED AND DEPORTED........

IF YOU CROSS THE IRANIAN BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU ARE DETAINED INDEFINITELY....

BUT, IF YOU CROSS THE U.S... BORDER ILLEGALLY YOU GET:

1. A DRIVERS LICENSE

2. A SOCIAL SECURITY CARD

3. WELFARE

4. FOOD STAMPS

5. FREE HEALTH CARE?

Go figure?????? Please pray for Lina to be brought home soon!

Why Can't a Great Big God Help Some People?

I have been thinking about people that I know that seem to have great big problems. In fact some of them think that their issues are so big that they are impossible to deal with and are being consumed by them. There are those with parent/child issues, marital issues, addiction issues, financial stress, and the list goes on.
Yes, they are big issues, but I marvel how many think that they are left to handle them themselves; all by themselves; and alone. Some how they leave a Great Big God out of their great big issues!

Therefore they are overwhelmed! They can't handle it! And they have excuses as to why they are overwhelmed. An excuse puts the blame on something other than you, which means the solution is beyond your reach. Excuses are like exit signs on the road of progress; they take us off track.

That's the problem, we get off track with a Great Big God and plot a course of self pity and self destruction! Psychologist David Burns says: "When I'm faced with a challenge and do nothing, it leads to distorted thoughts that I'm helpless, hopeless and beyond change. Those in turn lead to destructive emotions - loss of energy and motivation, damaged self-esteem, feeling overwhelmed. The end-result is self-defeating behaviour - procrastination, avoidance and escapism. These negative emotions reinforce one another and the whole cycle spirals downward."

How can we ever expect to overcome the problem if we don't seek the help of a Great Big God!

Listen, if our Great Big God can't help one in their great big problem, then I had better find another thing to do. Because that is the basis of our ministry- that Jesus came to give eternal life; overcome defeat and the adversary; declare no problem too big and impossible; and set the captives free.

Please allow the Great Big God to handle your issues, He invited you to cast them on His Great Big Broad shoulders!

Veterans Understand This Day!

It is the soldier, not the reporter,

who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the soldier, not the poet,

who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the soldier, not the campus (or community) organizer,

Who has given us the freedom to demonstrate.

It is the soldier, Who salutes the flag

Who serves beneath the flag,

and whose coffin is draped by the flag,

Who allows the protester to burn the flag.

author unknown (I added 'or community')

Veterans understand all to well this day! God bless you and God bless America!

God said, "Coffee Anyone?"

Hope you don't mind this rendition, what makes it even more interesting is that it was painted entirely with coffee.

Check this link for more images done with coffee!

Being God????

Tenth of All Candy!

Where Did You Come From?

Mammas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to be Pastors!

Enjoyed Pastor's Appreciation Sunday this past weekend. Glad they didn't show this video! I was moved to tears- hahahahaha!

If you don't see video, go to www.pastordavidkerr.blogspot.com

Leadership Checkup #2-

Much has been written on leadership. We have countless books telling us how to be great leaders. Seminars abound for training on leadership.

But so often what is missing are the hidden characteristics of the true leader. Here are some reflections that are not generally stated. What do you see in the mirror of your soul?

A godly leader speaks out of the presence of God.

The good leader attempts to make friends, not enemies.

A leader who listens well to his subordinates manages them well.

A devoted leader gives himself totally to the ones he is leading, helping them to develop their undiscovered potential.

A patient leader remembers that people’s responses vary according to their nature, temperament, and level of development.

A mature leader shows highest respect for others, irrespective of race or rank.

A weak leader retreats in the face of rising difficulties and loses the respect of his followers.

A relaxed leader relaxes his followers.

The self-righteous leader lives in a cell made of blocks of deception, hypocrisy, and lies.

A stubborn leader is a menace who cannot be trusted by his colleagues.

So, what did you see?

In The End?

Leadership Checkup-

Much has been written on leadership. We have countless books telling us how to be great leaders. Seminars abound for training on leadership.

But so often what is missing are the hidden characteristics of the true leader. Here are some reflections that are not generally stated. What do you see in the mirror of your soul?

The greatness of a leader is in his humility before God, not in his eloquence before man.

A wise leader guards himself against the pitfalls of success, self-assertiveness and over-confidence.

A wise leader inspires and motivates rather than intimidates and manipulates.

A teachable leader eagerly probes for truth learned by others regardless of their status.

Responsible leaders do not make irresponsible statements.

A wise leader resolves conflicts peacefully, not forcefully.

A wholesome leader is characterized by tolerance, which saves him from hasty decisions in crisis, and retaliations in the face of contrariness.

Dealing harshly with opponents causes more aggravation and hostility. A polite leader uses gentleness and kindness.

An enduring leader withstands insult without anger.

So, what did you see?

Texas Sights--

Texas is one unique place--


For instance, the Toilet Seat Museum has 800 decorated toilet seats!

I love Texas!

TOXIC- Overcoming Bitterness

See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. Heb 12.15

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Eph 4.31

In this life you are going to have hurts, disappointments, offenses, abuse, misuse, and a myriad of other things to deal with. If we are not careful, they will result in bitterness. We often try to overcome it by pushing it down and trying to forget it! But if not taken to the Cross of Christ, it will have detrimental affects in our lives. It will spew over eventually and damage not only you but others as well.

Here are some quotes from a sermon I recently did on bitterness:

‘You know you have bitterness if you have a HIT list!’

‘Bitterness doesn’t even touch the person you are bitter toward, but it sure will harm you!’

‘Bitterness is a spirit and attitude characterized by intense animosity and resentment.’

‘Your bitterness, like a computer program running in the background, is constantly running in the your background and will defile you!’

‘Bitterness separates you from others and God.’

‘Bitterness is the spiritual cancer that is eating you from the inside out!’

‘We can’t control what happens in life, but we can control how we respond/react.’

Friends, I am convinced that the toxic root of bitterness is destroying our friends, church members, Church leaders, families, and our country! Could that be the reason we are such a contentious society and church?

Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. Heb 12.14

Did you think that verse applied only to seeing the Lord in the future? No, it means you will not have fellowship with Him here and now because of the lack of peace with others that bitterness causes you.

Forgiveness is the key to destroying bitterness and it's toxicity. You won't have peace with yourself and others until you do!

Weight Loss or Photoshop???

If Filippa Hamilton actually lost this much weight, it was too much and every woman's dream diet! Or was it Photoshop?

Senior Citizen fun-

Ouch- Gettin' there!

video at http://www.pastordavidkerr.blogspot.com

Hunt For Tennis Shoes!

All I wanted were new tennis shoes to replace the ones I had worn out by kicking my racquet. A pair of Reebok Club C, the same brand and style I had been buying annually for the past 15 or 20 years of racquet-kicking.

So I go to the sporting goods store in the mall and ask the young employee where the tennis shoes are located.

“Did you want, like, cross trainers, power trainers, speed trainers, zone trainers, interval trainers, treadmill cross tra ...”

“Like, tennis,” I interrupt.

“Tennis trainers?”

“Tennis shoes,” I explain. “I’m way past the training stage.”

“You mean, like, shoes you play tennis in?”

“That’s pretty much what I was thinking I’d use them for,” I agree. “Although I might wear them for walking the dog once in a while.”

“I don’t think we have any shoes just for tennis. But I can check to see if we have dog walking shoes.”

None of the other 30 or 40 sporting goods stores in that mall have tennis shoes for tennis, either. So I go outside the mall to a huge sporting goods store that is part of a national chain.

The store has dozens of athletic shoes on display. There’s one entire wall filled with golf shoes and another with basketball shoes priced just right for anyone who recently has won the lottery or received a government bailout. The selection of tennis shoes, on the other foot, consists of two, neither of which is the model I want.

I don’t know why it’s so hard to find tennis shoes these days. Maybe it’s because all those boomers who used to play tennis now have had hip replacements, which has forced them to give up athletics entirely and turn to golf.

And part of the problem may be that tennis doesn’t spend millions of dollars promoting its shoes the way basketball does. If Maria Sharapova endorsed whatever shoes she wears, I’m sure they would become best sellers.

Then again, it’s possible that Maria Sharapova doesn’t even wear shoes when she plays; all I’ve ever never noticed about her is her major attributes, such as her backhand and her topspin lob.

Whatever the reason, I finally give up the search for tennis shoes in sporting goods stores and go home to look for them online.

My first search leads me to a site that sells table tennis shoes. The Killerspin Kinetic shoes, the site declares, were “designed by a team made up of engineers and world-class table tennis athletes” and are on sale for $45.

Another search takes me to a site that offers Bridal Sneakers Wedding Shoes, which apparently are an actual product, although you never can be too sure with the Internet.

According to the site, the shoes come in all heights and the “color works well with both white and ivory dresses.”

The four-inch heel wedding sneakers cost $139.95, but have “a plasticized finish durability.” I’m not sure why wedding shoes have to be durable.

Eventually I locate my Reeboks online and now my tennis shoes are in the mail.

While I wait for them to arrive, I’ll pass the time trying to find a pair of tennis shorts.

Sent to me by my friend Steve Bowen- by D.L. Stewart at dlstew_2000@yahoo.com.

Childhood Debt-

Out of the mouth of babies!

Pet Fish--

A Cajun was stopped by a game warden in Southern Louisiana recently with two ice chests of fish, leaving a bayou well known for its fishing.

The game warden asked the man, "Do you have a license to catch those fish?"

"Naw, ma fren, I ain't got none of dem, no. Dese here are my pet fish."

"Pet fish?"

"Ya. Avery night I take dese here fish down to de bayou and let dem swim 'round for a while. Den I whistle and dey jump rat back inta dis here ice chest and I take dem home."

"That's a bunch of hooey! Fish can't do that!"

The Cajun looked at the game warden for a moment and then said, "It's de truth ma' fren. I'll show you. It really works."

"Okay, I've GOT to see this!"

The Cajun poured the fish into the bayou and stood and waited.

After several minutes, the game warden turned to him and said, "Well?"

"Well, what?" Said the Cajun.

"When are you going to call them back?"

"Call who back?"

"The FISH!"

"What fish?"

What Really Does Matter?

A short video that won the VFS and YouTube “What Matters to You” Scholarship Competition. Written, directed and animated by Christopher Harrell.

How about you- what are you doing with your life?

Too Much Whining!

In a nation where it is all about me, my wants, my needs, my happiness... most of what one hears is whining and complaining. Bad attitudes abound at home, in the church, at the workplace, ...well everyplace where there are discontented whiners!

These photos speak volumes about attitude:



Now stop your whining - get a grip - enough already!

Reverse Racism?

I am not a racist, never have been nor am I now!

I don't need Former President Jimmy Carter telling me I am:
"I think an overwhelming portion of the intensely demonstrated animosity toward President Barack Obama is based on the fact that he is a black man, that he's African-American," Carter told NBC News. "I live in the South, and I've seen the South come a long way, and I've seen the rest of the country that shares the South's attitude toward minority groups at that time, particularly African-Americans."

"That racism inclination still exists, and I think it's bubbled up to the surface because of belief among many white people -- not just in the South but around the country -- that African-Americans are not qualified to lead this great country. It's an abominable circumstance, and it grieves me and concerns me very deeply," Carter said.

Excuse me, just because I do not agree with President Obama's legislation and standards does not make me a racist.

And to all my African-American pastor friends - quit stirring the pot - we whites are trying to move on, but you won't let us - quit throwing the 'past' in our faces. How many more apologies do we white pastors have to make in the 'reconciliation process?'

We are now experiencing 'reverse racism' in this country thanks to the liberals and President Obama.

Contentious Society and Church

Ever notice how much contention and fighting is going on around you? It's as if this has become a national pastime. Whether it is politicians pitted against one another, or political parties dissing the other, or talk radio churning out the truth, it is a war of words and tempers. It seems everyone is angry at someone.

Contentious- exhibiting an often perverse and wearisome tendency to quarrels and disputes.

'The contention became so sharp… they parted from one another… Barnabas took Mark and sailed to Cyprus; but Paul chose Silas' (Acts 15:38-40 NKJV)

And it is even in the church! In fact if you challenge some contentious people about their attitudes they will often quote the above verse and say Paul had his contentions. It's as if this verse sanctions contention.

Well, excuse me! I don't think God nor Paul were pleased with this contention. God being God, His plans will not be thwarted by big pieces of stupid on our part. He was able to forward His plans in the midst of Paul's contention, flesh and stupidity!

Pr 13:10 Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. NIV

Pr 13:10 Arrogant know-it-alls stir up discord, but wise men and women listen to each other's counsel. TMB

Paul eventually saw the errors of his contention when he added more grace to his life and was not so hardheaded and determined to be right all the time. 'Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry' (2 Timothy 4:10-11).

How do we avoid contention:
1. Always give the benefit of the doubt and offer a second chance.
2. People ARE NOT you, they don't do it your way, so don't expect them to. In fact they really may have a better way, so don't make it a bitter way!
3. Don't focus on their negatives but look for their strengths and positives.
4. Don't devalue and demean another.
5. Do not speak evil of another. Strive to give a good report.
6. Remember contention comes by pride, either theirs or yours.
7. Admit it, you just may be wrong, it is possible you know!

Next time you are experiencing contention stop looking at the other person and check your own heart and see if it is full of pride- pride breeds contention!

Listen, people scare me who enjoy fighting and being contentious all the time. I stay away from them! The Church needs harmony and unity, not infighting!

Weight Gain-

life = risk

failure never need be final - unless you want it to be and let it be!

Sign of Gay Times-

Ben and Jerry's has changed the name of one of its best-selling ice creams to Hubby Hubby, in celebration of the legalisation of gay marriage in its home state of Vermont. Selling it this way for month of September.

Hmmmmm, how often do I eat Ben and Jerry's? NEVER!

English Please-

Texas Poll...

The latest telephone poll taken by the Texas Governor's office
asked whether people who live in Texas think illegal immigration
is a serious problem:

29 % of respondents answered: "Yes, it is a serious problem."

71% of respondents answered: "No es una problema seriosa."

Everybody's a Photographer-

The first SLR Digital Camera circa 1991 cost around $30,000 and was used by news organizations. It was a Nikon modified by Kodak. Now that digital photography has come of age and costs of cameras has considerably diminished, everybody is a photographer or at least thinks they are! I wonder if the woman in the photo above ever figured it out.

The greatest compliment a photographer can get is 'You have an eye for it.' That is priceless! Thank you Jeana.

900 Boxes of Viagra-Laced Coffee Confiscated!

In "I can't believe it's true" news, Malaysian authorities have recently confiscated 900 boxes of Viagra-laced coffee from a company in Gombak. The tainted coffee boxes contained 9,000 packets worth over $20,000 USD! But, the raid may have happened too late; according to a Health Ministry official, some of the spiked java has already been distributed nationwide.

Apparently, the company marketed the mixture as an energy booster with health benefits for men... talk about a euphemism! The Viagra-laced java was sold at a price between five and ten times higher than that of regular coffee. It remains unclear how much of the tainted brew has been consumed, but I've got a feeling more than a few packets have made their way into Malaysian kitchens.

In lieu of making inappropriate jokes, I think I'll just bow out and say adieu. Be sure to check that morning brew before consuming too much!

from Whole Latte Love

Majorly Big Dead Snake!

Well, maybe not the biggest!

A Second Chance- New Covenant Blessing!

The New Covenant is based on second chances! (Listen Saints, we live under the New covenant not the Old- the old is obsolete- Heb 8.13!)

Heb 8. 8-10, 12 "The day is coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and Judah. This covenant will not be like the one I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand and led them out of the land of Egypt. They did not remain faithful to my covenant, so I turned my back on them, says the Lord. But this is the new covenant I will make...I will forgive their sins…

In spite of the fact that His people were not faithful to the old covenant, He has promised to make a new covenant, a better covenant, one that His people can keep.

Our God is the God of the second chance. And the third chance and the fourth chance. And the four hundredth chance and five thousandth chance. Is it true? Do we really get that many chances? Yes, because we need them. In the Old Testament we see how God's people turned away from him again and again … and every time they turned back to him, He restored them. He's a God of mercy. He's a God of forgiveness. He's the God of another chance.

When you make the decision to follow Christ, you inevitably discover that you sin more than you want to. You can become so frustrated with your own limitations that it will lead you to despair. At this point you need to remember the basis of God's New Covenant: It's based on second chances.

If your image of God has Him staring you down with stern disapproval, arms folded, shaking His head and saying, "You again?" Then you're not approaching God on the basis of the New Covenant. The New Covenant says, "My people failed in the past, but I will not give up on them. I'll give them another chance."

This New Covenant is about living in the security of His love and acceptance. When you fall down, He wants you to try again. When you wander away, He wants you to come back.

God is not a hater, He is a healer and restorer. I am making a decision not to be a hater either! I am going to be a healer and give people a second chance (and more if they need it!)

How Are You Living Your Life?

The length of our days is seventy years--or eighty, if we have the strength; yet their span is but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away. Ps. 90.10 NIV

In an average 70-78 year lifespan, we spend:
3 years on education,
8 years enjoying amusements (watching TV, movies, sports, etc),
6 years sitting at the dinner table (eating; some of you more),
5 years in transportation,
4 years in housework,
2 years shopping,
2 years cooking
4 years in conversation (some of you a lot more),
3 years either sick or getting well,
7 years at work,
24 years sleeping,
2 weeks kissing (for you lovebirds out there, more please),

...and if you attend a 90 min church service every Sunday and pray for 10 min every day- you spend less than 1 year for God!

------------------------------

This is a very graphic video of the birth to death experience. It can be disturbing to some. Please view with this in mind. If you can't see this on Facebook, then go to my blog to view it. This is not meant to offend!

Loyalty on the Decline- Bad News for All!

This post is an addendum to my post on The ME Society.

Bad news was given recently that will affect Product Producers, Politicians, and Pastors!

It is the decline of loyalty!

We as pastors have always dealt with people coming and going. People leaving the church. You know, 'The hate me now or hate me later' syndrome. Or the ever popular 'Blow in, blow up, and blow out' experience. I am amazed at people being in a church for 10 or 15 years suddenly deciding to leave and move on.

The decline of loyalty has been ever increasing in the church over the years. But now it is entering into the business world, politics, academia, marriages, and so forth.

'Thanks to the Internet, proliferating consumer choices and a dramatic shift in American culture, voters and consumers are more impatient — and more fickle — than ever before. They’re less beholden to old attachments and more willing to make dramatic changes in lifestyle and preferences — whether that’s for a cell phone provider, a spouse or even a religious preference.'

'The decline of loyalty — at least the kind of loyalty that once kept consumers bound to products and voters bound to political parties — is rapidly becoming a thing of the past. '

'Polling shows that Americans over 65 are more willing to get a divorce today than ever before, even after a near lifetime of being married to the same person. College students are more willing to transfer to a new school. And, more than 40 percent of Americans will change their religion at least once in their life — throwing off generations of core beliefs for something new and appealing. '

The major reason is summed up in this quote:

“We’re becoming a little bit of a ‘me first’ society. It’s becoming difficult to really understand what people want because it’s what they want right now. But tomorrow, they might want something else.”

Read the entire article here.

Pastors, there is added stress ahead in trying to keep up with 'The ME Society.'

Will Revival Come?

If all the sleeping folk will wake up,

And all the lukewarm fork will fire up,

And all the dishonest folk will confess up,

And all the disgruntled folk will sweeten up,

And all the discouraged folk will cheer up,

And all the depressed folk will look up,

And all the estranged folk will make up,

And all the gossipers will shut up,

And all the dry bones will shake up,

And all the true soldiers will stand up,

And all the church members will pray up,

Then you can have revival!

Did I miss anyone?

Coffee Art-

A team of young art nuts has taken a less commercial approach to beverage-based art, faithfully reconstructing the Mona Lisa out of 3,604 coffee cups. The 20-foot-long, 13-foot-wide work was created by the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, for the Rocks Aroma festival, a gathering for java lovers in Sydney, Australia. First came the idea to make an art piece from coffee cups, and the Mona Lisa was the logical choice for its iconic status. With the help of 564 pints of milk, the team was able to create the proper shades for each piece of the mosaic. Most impressive of all? It only took three hours with a team of eight people.

The ME Society!

This Bizarro comic speaks all to well to the major illness of our society- that of self-absorption; the preoccupation with ourselves, our needs, our wants, and our rights!

The church is even now excelling at this! It's all about me! Used to be about reaching and serving the perishing world.

Instead of 'fishers of men' we have become keepers of the aquarium. Keep the temperature right, the environment safe, the food handy, and clean the messes!

Because it is all about them!

Facebook Friends--

If you have been on Facebook for any length of time, you can identify with this grouping of friends and how they might breakdown by category!

Can you think of any other designations?

Latest from Jason and Lina-

It has been a little over two weeks since Lina was sent back to Costa Rica. We have spent these two weeks researching and figuring out the best possible way to return Lina to the U.S. With much advice from family, we chose to ask a well-trusted immigration lawyer to help us file the right paperwork. Today the lawyer submitted the paperwork to the government, and this means it is now a waiting game. How soon Lina returns to the U.S. depends on someone looking at the paperwork. We are believing for a miracle because “man” (Gov., Lawyer, Congressman, etc…) says it will be at least 5 months for this to happen. But what is impossible with “man” is possible with God.

These circumstances were a big shock to us, but we know it did not surprise God. We trust Him to see His goodness come forth through this process. It has not been easy to say the least. We did not even realize how much pain there would be in the event that we were separated. Through His grace and strength, we are taking it one day at a time. We appreciate all of your prayers. We know they have helped us and they have been heard before the throne room of heaven. God is near the brokenhearted, and we stand on that promise.

We covet your prayers because we believe God is going to do a miracle in bringing our paperwork to the forefront of the immigration system and having it approved. Another miracle we need is in the area of our finances. Government fees, lawyer bills, plane tickets and the fact that we lost almost half of our income as a couple is quite a big deal, and we are grateful for your prayers in this situation. What we want most is your prayers, but if you would choose to be a part of this miracle, it would be a blessing too! And PLEASE only give after praying and believing God has placed it on your heart to do so. We have chosen to live a life of faith, and know God will take care of all our needs. Please send us an email if you are willing to help!

Thank you all for your love, support, and prayers! “We will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!” Psalm 27:13

Jason and Lina-

Cool Wedding Entrance!

If I had been officiating this - I would have had to get involved! That's scary!!!!

The Ultimate Funeral!

Pics from funeral home in Alabama!


Did you see the remote in his hand?

Need of a Miracle!

This is an update on my last post- we now have more info, and it is not what we expected. It may take longer than we originally expected!

On a personal note I need your prayers and encouragement. On Saturday Jason and Lina were coming back in to the country from Costa Rica after visiting her parents for her birthday, Lina was detained, treated as a criminal, and sent back to Costa Rica. Here is Jason's response:

Last weekend as we were entering the country from vacation in Costa Rica with Lina’s family, Lina was detained by U.S. Customs, and returned to Costa Rica because of Visa issues. There is much paperwork and petitioning to be done for her to be able to return. This separation is not without pain. Both of our hearts are broken because of the fact of being a part. But we both know that the attitude of our hearts are what God is looking at this very moment. He is looking at our heart response in this very moment, and I can confidently say our hearts can stand before him at this very moment and say "I am not offended, God. I love you even in this moment. Even in the pain, I am not offended at You, nor am I offended at the government system. Your ways are perfect and I trust You." We thank Him for the grace to walk through this little trial, and know His banner over us is love. This might take sometime to resolve the issues and bring her home, but we believe through prayer, she will be here sooner than we can imagine. This light affliction is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Thank you for continuing to pray for us in this time.

We too are devastated as this could be a long process in trying to get her back to the USA and us. Estimates that we are being told is 6 mos to a year. That is totally unacceptable. We are asking God for a miracle. Please join with us and pray for us all, especially Jason and Lina.

What God has joined together let no man (or government) put asunder!

When the System Breaks Down!

For 9 hours on Saturday countless murders took place, illegal aliens crossed our borders, drug smugglers applied their vicious death, terrorists killed and maimed, Guantanamo detainees enjoyed the graciousness of the United States, and one terrified 23 year old girl was treated rudely as if she was the catch of the day by US Immigration officials!

Saturday and Sunday were very eventful days for Jason and Lina. They had gone to Costa Rica to spend her birthday with her family. Upon returning to DFW Airport, she was suddenly taken away without even one chance to say anything to Jason because of a visa issue. She was held for 9 hours and treated as if she were a criminal by immigration officials. She was scared and they were extremely rude to her. After a shift change a female agent pulled some strings and she was let go to be with Jason overnight. She collapsed in tears into Jason, Harry's and Arleen's arms. She was sent back to Costa Rica on Sunday.

Today, she and her dad begin the lengthy process of applying for the correct US visa so that she can be reunited to Jason and her US family.

How do I feel? Anybody have a brick? But, I got this email about the situation that brought comfort and perspective in the situation. It's from Laura Long Rankhorn, one of our great youth pastor's wife in Liberty Fellowship. Please read:

This morning Pastor Ernie was preaching from a passage in Exodus. I underlined a sentence because it spoke to me and when I read your status I felt like I should pass it to you.

Exodus 14:4 says, "I will make Pharaoh so stubborn that he will pursue them. Then, because of what I do to Pharaoh and his entire army, I will receive honor, and the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord." It hit me that sometimes God can lead us to a point or we can find ourselves in a position where we feel trapped, helpless, and hopeless. Sometimes as in the case of Pharaoh- God was the reason he pursued the Israelites. I'm going to pray that now that you all are in the position of trapped, helpless, and hopeless that God will use this situation to show people that He is the Lord and that Lina can add this to her testimony of how God has done miraculous things in her life. I know nothing about the situation, but I do feel like God wants to give you a peace that everything is going to be ok.

Please know that JC and I will be praying for this situation. We will be praying for Lina and Jason and the two of you- that God will minister to your hearts and give you His peace, and that you all can sit back and be spectators at an awesome fireworks show of miracles.
Love you all so very much,
Laura

We are positioned for a miracle! Thank you Laura and others that are praying!

Christians Serving Time...

The church is made up of men and women who are called upon to volunteer to serve in various capacities. Have you ever heard of the 20/80 rule? Twenty percent of the people doing all the work with 8o percent of the people sitting idly by.

I recently talked to one of those 20% who felt burned out and under appreciated. He was taking some time off from his service activities- and enjoying it!

One of the things that a pastor hears often from church members when they are asked to serve somewhere: 'I have served my time!"

I want to ask them when did serving God and His Kingdom become a jail sentence! Was serving God really like being incarcerated? You did your 'Kingdom time' and now have been released and set free?

I don't think so as I try to overcome a spirit of slap that is fast rising up in me!

We never retire from working for the Kingdom of God.

John 9:4-5
We need to be energetically at work for the One who sent me here, working while the sun shines. When night falls, the workday is over. TMB

Eccl 9:10
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom. NIV

Seems to me that Jesus expects us to work for His Kingdom until we die! Death is the only excuse for not serving God and His church and Kingdom any longer. And then and only then would we (God included) not expect you to!

Serve on!!!!!

You Drink Too Much Coffee When....

1. Juan Valdez names his mule after you.
2. You chew on your roommate's fingernails.
3. You can jump-start your car without cables.
4. You do twenty miles on your treadmill before you realize it's not plugged in.
5. You can't remember your second cup.
6. You have a picture of your coffee mug on your coffee mug.
7. Starbucks has a mortgage on your house.
8. Your birthday is a national holiday in Columbia.
9. You don't sweat - you percolate.
10. You grind coffee beans in your mouth.

For My Wife...My Dream Come True!

I could wish
for more ways
to say "I love you"...
but I could never wish
for someone more special
to say it to.

I could wish
for better words
to describe to you
how you make me feel...
but I could never wish
for anyone better
to whisper those words to.

I could wish
on all the stars in the sky
that I could make
every dream in your heart
come true...
but I don't have to wish
for my dreams...
all my dreams came true
when your love
came into my life.

Happy 38th Anniversary, Debi, I love you!

Church: Love It, Don't Leave It

I thought this was a great article sent to me by my son Jason. Good enough to pass along and give a shout out to it's authors Kevin DeYoung and Ted Kluck.

Here's what Bono, Oprah, and the guru speakers on PBS won't tell you: Jesus believed in organized religion and he founded an institution. Of course, Jesus had no patience for religious hacks and self-righteous wannabes, but he was still Jewish. And as Jew, he read the Holy Book, worshiped in the synagogue, and kept Torah. He did not start a movement of latte-drinking disciples who excelled in spiritual conversations. He founded the church (Matt. 16:18) and commissioned the apostles to proclaim the good news that Israel's Messiah had come and the sins of the world could be forgiven through his death on the cross (Matt. 28:18-20; Acts 2:14-36).

For almost two millennia, it was axiomatic that Christians, like, actually went to church (or at least told other Christians they did). From Cyprian to Calvin it was believed that for those to whom God "is Father the church may also be Mother." But increasingly Christians are trying to get more spiritual by getting less church.

Take a spin through the religion section at your local bookstore. What you'll find there is revealing - there are "revolutionary" books for stay at home moms, teenagers, and Christian businessmen. There are lots of manifestos. And most of the books about church are about people leaving the church to "find God." There are lots of Kerouacian "journey" stories, and at least one book about the gospel according to Starbucks. It used to be you had to overthrow a country to be considered a revolutionary, and now, it seems, you just have to quit church and go pray in the woods.

We've been in the church our whole lives and are not blind to its failings. Churches can be boring, hypocritical, hurtful, and inept. The church is full of sinners. Which is kind of the point. Christians are worse than you think. Our Savior is better than you imagine.

But the church is not all about oppression and drudgery. Almost every church we know of visits old people, brings meals to new moms, supports disaster relief, and does something for the poor. We love the local church, in spite of its problems, because it's where we go to meet God. It's not a glorified social/country club you attend to be around people who talk and look just you do. It's a place to hear God's word spoken, taught and affirmed. It's a place to sing praises to God, and a place to serve others. It's a place to be challenged.

The church is more than plural for Christian. It is both organism and organization, a living thing comprised of a certain order, regular worship services, with doctrinal standards, institutional norms, and defined rituals. Without the institution of the church nurturing the flock and protecting the faith for two thousand years, there would be no Christianity. If Gen Xers (like us) and their friends want to be against something, start a revolution. If you want to conserve truth and grace for twenty centuries, plant a church.

We love the church because Christ loved the church. She is his bride--a harlot at times, but his bride nonetheless, being washed clean by the word of God (Eph. 5:25-26). If you are into Jesus, don't rail on his bride. Jesus died for the church, so don't be bothered by a little dying to self for the church's sake. If you keep in mind that everyone there is a sinner (including yourself) and that Jesus Christ is the point and not you, your dreams, or your kids, your church experience might not be as lame as you fear.

Perhaps Christians are leaving the church because it isn't tolerant and open-minded. But perhaps the church-leavers have their own intolerance too--intolerant of tradition, intolerant of authority, intolerant of imperfection except their own. Are you open-minded enough to give the church a chance--a chance for the church to be the church, not a coffee shop, not a mall, not a variety show, not Chuck E. Cheese, not a U2 concert, not a nature walk, but a wonderfully ordinary, blood-bought, Spirit-driven church with pastors, sermons, budgets, hymns, bad carpet and worse coffee?

The Church, because it is Christ's church, will outlive American Idol, the NFL, and all of our grandkids. We won't last, but the Church will. So when it comes to church, be like Jesus: love it, don't leave it. As Saint Calloway once prophesied to the Brothers of Blues, "Jake, you get wise, you get to church."

Bizarro-

Love the witty comic art of Bizarro-

Classy Statement by a Betrayed Wife--

South Carolina first lady Jenny Sanford issued the following statement Wednesday after her husband's (SC Gov. Mark Sanford) admission to an extramarital affair:
___

I would like to start by saying I love my husband and I believe I have put forth every effort possible to be the best wife I can be during our almost twenty years of marriage. As well, for the last fifteen years my husband has been fully engaged in public service to the citizens and taxpayers of this state and I have faithfully supported him in those efforts to the best of my ability. I have been and remain proud of his accomplishments and his service to this state.

I personally believe that the greatest legacy I will leave behind in this world is not the job I held on Wall Street, or the campaigns I managed for Mark, or the work I have done as First Lady or even the philanthropic activities in which I have been routinely engaged. Instead, the greatest legacy I will leave in this world is the character of the children I, or we, leave behind. It is for that reason that I deeply regret the recent actions of my husband Mark, and their potential damage to our children.

I believe wholeheartedly in the sanctity, dignity and importance of the institution of marriage. I believe that has been consistently reflected in my actions. When I found out about my husband's infidelity I worked immediately to first seek reconciliation through forgiveness, and then to work diligently to repair our marriage. We reached a point where I felt it was important to look my sons in the eyes and maintain my dignity, self-respect, and my basic sense of right and wrong. I therefore asked my husband to leave two weeks ago.

This trial separation was agreed to with the goal of ultimately strengthening our marriage. During this short separation it was agreed that Mark would not contact us. I kept this separation quiet out of respect of his public office and reputation, and in hopes of keeping our children from just this type of public exposure. Because of this separation, I did not know where he was in the past week.

I believe enduring love is primarily a commitment and an act of will, and for a marriage to be successful, that commitment must be reciprocal. I believe Mark has earned a chance to resurrect our marriage.

Psalm 127 states that sons are a gift from the Lord and children a reward from Him. I will continue to pour my energy into raising our sons to be honorable young men. I remain willing to forgive Mark completely for his indiscretions and to welcome him back, in time, if he continues to work toward reconciliation with a true spirit of humility and repentance.

This is a very painful time for us and I would humbly request now that members of the media respect the privacy of my boys and me as we struggle together to continue on with our lives and as I seek the wisdom of Solomon, the strength and patience of Job and the grace of God in helping to heal my family.
_____

This is why God hates divorce-Tragic!- flee youthful lusts, adultery...

From Gimmick to Gimmick-

J. I. Packer said, "Certainty about the great issues of the Christian faith and conduct is lacking all along the line.

The outside observer sees us staggering on from gimmick to gimmick and stunt to stunt like so many drunks in a fog, not knowing at all where we are or which way we should be going. Preaching is hazy; heads are muddled; hearts fret; doubts drain strength; uncertainty paralyzes action....

Unlike the first Christians who in three centuries won the Roman world, and those later Christians who pioneered the Reformation, and the Puritan awakening and the Evangelical revival, and the great missionary movement of the last century, we lack certainty.

Why is this? We blame the external pressures of modern secularism, but this is like Eve blaming the serpent.

The real truth is that we have grieved the Spirit... we stand under divine judgment. For two generations our churches have suffered from a famine of hearing the words of the Lord."

GOD TEXTS THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

1. no1 b4 me. srsly.
2. dnt wrshp pix/idols
3. no omg's
4. no wrk on w/end (sat 4 now; sun l8r)
5. pos ok - ur m&d r cool
6. dnt kill ppl
7. :-X only w/ m8
8. dnt steal
9. dnt lie re: bf
10. dnt ogle ur bf's m8. or ox. or dnkey. myob.

M, pls rite on tabs & giv 2 ppl.

ttyl, dbz

ps. wwjd?

Vine Fellowship- it's all about the children!

Crocodile Dock was a big hit this year at VBS. Our Children's Director, Brooke Hurt, led an enthusiastic team of workers during the week long VBS. Needless to say this was a high energy event as the video shows. Children had fun, ate, played, and gave their lives to Jesus!

Thank you Brooke and all, you are the best!


photography by David and Debi Kerr; videography and video by Jason Kerr

Not by Force, but by Birth

Big Enough to Read!

I can relate to this!

removed previous post as video was no longer available.

33 Minutes from Destruction!

Click here to be forewarned!

OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT OBAMA By Lou Pritchett

Dear President Obama:

You are the thirteenth President under whom I have lived and unlike any of the others, you truly scare me.

You scare me because after months of exposure, I know nothing about you.

You scare me because I do not know how you paid for your expensive Ivy League education and your upscale lifestyle and housing with no visible signs of support.

You scare me because you did not spend the formative years of youth growing up in America and culturally you are not an American.

You scare me because you have never run a company or met a payroll.

You scare me because you have never had military experience, thus don't understand it at its core.

You scare me because you lack humility and 'class', always blaming others.

You scare me because for over half your life you have aligned yourself with radical extremists who hate America and you refuse to publicly denounce these radicals who wish to see America fail.

You scare me because you are a cheerleader for the 'blame America' crowd and deliver this message abroad.

You scare me because you want to change America to a European style country where the government sector dominates instead of the private sector.

You scare me because you want to replace our health care system with a government controlled one.

You scare me because you prefer 'wind mills' to responsibly capitalizing on our own vast oil, coal and shale reserves.

You scare me because you want to kill the American capitalist goose that lays the golden egg which provides the highest standard of living in the world.

You scare me because you have begun to use 'extortion' tactics against certain banks and corporations.

You scare me because your own political party shrinks from challenging you on your wild and irresponsible spending proposals.

You scare me because you will not openly listen to or even consider opposing points of view from intelligent people.

You scare me because you falsely believe that you are both omnipotent and omniscient.

You scare me because the media gives you a free pass on everything you do.

You scare me because you demonize and want to silence the Limbaughs, Hannitys, O'Relllys and Becks who offer opposing, conservative points of view.

You scare me because you prefer controlling over governing.

Finally, you scare me because if you serve a second term I will probably not feel safe in writing a similar letter in 8 years.

Lou Pritchett

Note: Lou Pritchett is a former vice president of Procter & Gamble whose career at that company spanned 36 years before his retirement in 1989, and he is the author of the 1995 business book, Stop Paddling & Start Rocking the Boat. Mr. Pritchett confirmed that he was indeed the author of the much-circulated "open letter." “I did write the 'you scare me' letter. I sent it to the NY Times but they never acknowledged or published it.

Copied as a public service announcement to my readers. DK

Another Tennis Ball use!

The Nike Hypermax NFW features a Tennis Ball felt upper with a White Swoosh, White midsole, and White ankle strap.

I may be getting me a pair of these new Nike- they have tennis ball felt on the uppers! Which color should I get - I don't want to be too obvious!

The ‘American Idol’ Pastor- Being Voted off the Show! Pt. 1

Pastor Mike Cavanaugh had some interesting quotes in a recent class I attended:

Pastoral Significance:

“It’s hard to feel significant as a pastor. We are constantly compared to amazing speakers, incredible entrepreneurs and holy, monkish people who pray more than we can. Our churches are compared to huge churches with massive budgets and incredible bands, and staffs as large as our whole congregations.”

Pastoral Criticism:

“Criticism is one of the things that really hurts. Amazingly, people will criticize their pastor in ways they would not speak of their worst enemy, and feel they have a right to hold an opinion on everything the pastor does. His professional life, his emotional life, the way he dresses, his choice of words, his kids, his personality, the car he drives, the friends he chooses- and the list goes on. It’s easy to feel like you’re a constant disappointment to people, that you are letting people down all the time.”

Pastoral Rejection and Betrayal:

“It’s painful to realize that people leave the church because they don’t like you. That you can invest deeply in a person but that they can still come to the conclusion that they should leave the church because of something they don’t like about you and often they don’t feel the need to even explain. They just stop coming.”

Pastoral Statistics:

-Fifteen to seventeen hundred pastors leave the ministry each month due to moral failure, spiritual burnout or contention in their churches.
-Ninety percent said the hardest thing about ministry is dealing with uncooperative people.
-The majority of pastor’s wives surveyed said that the most destructive event that has occurred in their marriage and family was the day they entered the ministry.
-Only one in ten ministers will actually retire in the ministry.

Is it any wonder some pastors walk off the ‘show’ rather than wait to be ‘voted off the show?’

I'd Rather Have Jesus!

Jesus deserves our sole attention. Nothing else should even come close to demanding our allegiance.

A young man was seated next to his girl in church one Sunday and his intentions were more upon her than upon the message. Leafing through his hymnal till he found what he wanted, he placed it in her lap and pointed to the hymn: "I need thee every hour."She took the hymnal and searched until she found the appropriate hymn to respond: "I’d rather have Jesus."

The song writer wrote:
I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold
I’d rather be His than have riches untold
I’d rather have Jesus than houses or lands
I’d rather be led by His nail scared hand

Nothing else should even come close to demanding our attention. We need to continue to fix our eyes and hearts on Jesus; He alone is truly the lover of our souls.

A song writer said it this way:
"Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
look full in His wonderful face
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
in the light of His glory and grace."

He has invited us into His life. How can we refuse?