A couple of caveats:

• I do not share a worldview with the lyricist Roger Waters. We surely have diametrically opposed socio-political and spiritual views. I also admire the artistry and beauty of much of the music that he and the other members of Pink Floyd produced.

• I do not claim to be revealing the meaning of the lyrics to POTW. My words may constitute a sort of eisegesis (interpreting text in such a way as to introduce one’s own presuppositions, agendas or biases) upon hearing some of the lyrics almost 50 years after I first heard them in 1977. This could be just a frivolous thought exercise, yet I offer my interpretation with the hope that some of these pigs will fly.

So…I looked it up and found that a Pink Floyd compilation album “8-Tracks” was released in 2026, which included the 8-track version of “POTW.” That version included the cool guitar riff that I didn’t recognize. Now…on to my ‘interpretation’ of the lyrics.

Pigs on the Wing, Part 1

“If you didn’t care what happened to me, And I didn’t care for you

We would zig zag our way through the boredom and pain

Occasionally glancing up through the rain

Wondering which of the buggers to blame

And watching for pigs on the wing

You know that I care, What happens to you

And I know that you care, For me too”

“If you didn’t care what happened to me”. Why do we care for others? Seems contradictory to survival of the fittest. Roger Waters was apparently affirming an altruistic sentiment. Jesus commanded it!

“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” “These things I command you, so that you will love one another.” John 15: 12-13, 17

“This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.” Matt 22:38-40

“…And I didn’t care for you”. Presumably, this is a 2-way street. God cared enough for us to send Jesus to live with us, promise His return, and leave the Holy Spirit as our advocate. We can show gratitude by loving God (#1) and then (#2) loving our neighbor.

“…boredom and pain” My Aunt Issie was fond of responding to children who told her “I’m bored” with “No, you’re boring!” She said this in a loving way; encouraging the child to find something to do. And they usually did! These days, kids have an abundance of stimuli and access to all manner of information and entertainment. Yet the epidemic of isolation and real boredom has consequences that are manifested in many ways in individuals and our society.

“We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed” 2 Cor 4:8-9

“Glancing up through the rain.” Some people bow their heads and others look toward the heavens when praying.

“And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” Acts 1:10-11

…which of the buggers to blame.” “The Blame Game” has become the default position in current cultural and political “discussions.” Arguers & Point Makers outnumber Askers & Peace Makers. This passage is commonly misused (particularly verse 1), often to stifle honest discussion.

“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?” Matthew 7:1-3

“You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, lest you incur sin because of him. You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord.” Lev 19:17-18

Pigs on the Wing, Part 2

So, I don’t feel alone on the weight of the stone

Now that I’ve found somewhere safe to bury my bone

And any fool knows a dog needs a home

A shelter from pigs on the wing [This ends the rather dark album on an almost optimistic note!]

“The weight of the stone.” Life brings heavy burdens… and great joys.

“Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.” Matthew 18:5-6

“…somewhere safe to bury my bone” Jesus brought peace… and a sword.

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

“A dog needs a home.” I am a dog lover and God created them to be our loyal companions. But the first passage that comes up when you search for “dog” in biblegateway.com is not too flattering.

“Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his folly. Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” Proverbs 26:11-12

“A shelter from pigs on the wing.” God is our mighty fortress and shelter!

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:1-2

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7

Bonus Stuff

Pigs on the Wing (8-track version):

Pigs on the Wing (“Animals”, 1977):

Fun Fact: “POTW” is also an acronym for Publicly Owned Treatment Works, aka Wastewater Treatment Plant.

“Animals” (1977) followed “Dark Side of the Moon” (1973) and “Wish You Were Here” (1975) and was the last Pink Floyd album I purchased (“The Wall” never really appealed to me).

A flying pig…not on the wing

Who would incorporate a blessing by Clifford Naeole at the Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua lounge with a jam with Fred Scherrer to the tune of “Thank You” by Led Zeppelin? None other than a guy named Michael Jordan. The guy who knows more about hang time for grapes on the vine than the guy who took off from the free throw line, exhibited hang time, and created an iconic image.

And now…I offer a few words in honor of “The Sommelier for the People.”

“Share your wine with others, because it always makes it more delicious” (Michael Jordan)

“Reach out your hand, if your cup be empty…” (“Ripple”, Garcia/Hunter)

Michael wrote this in the 2026 festival guide: “Each year, we bring together the best and the brightest, the fresh and the classic, the avant-garde and the awesome, and mostly, the community to celebrate the magic that is the Kapalua W&FF. Where we speak the international language of “Delicious.” These words express the way Michael welcomed and encouraged everyone to enjoy every conversation, every moment, every bite, and every sip. No pomposity or pretentiousness, just joyfulness!

“Goin’ where the water tastes like wine…” (“Goin’ Down the Road Feelin’ Bad”, Grateful Dead)

[Many Grateful Dead original and traditional songs contain Biblical references (intentionally or unintentionally). In John 2:1-11, “The Wedding at Cana”, Jesus turns the water to wine. Verse 10 - “You have kept the good wine until now!” For the people of God, the best is always yet to come.]

On June 27, Michael announced that he was ending his run as the KW&FF host. Many of us shed some tears. Tears of joy as we remembered how we have been blessed to get to know him and his love for people, food, and wine. Tears of sadness as we envisioned a KW&FF without being in the presence of his enthusiastic and genuine Aloha from the heart. Although we have never spent much time with him on a personal level, we have come to call him a friend and know something about his soul.

Pastor Tim Shaw once astutely remarked, “I am irreplaceable, I am not indispensable.” People are irreplaceable because we are created in the image of God, imbued with unique DNA and eternal souls. Some people who cross our paths are “more irreplaceable” (and may seem indispensable) because of how they impact our lives and our souls. Spoiler Alert - Life goes on after we change jobs, relocate, retire, and ultimately are released from these earthly bonds. Michael is irreplaceable and the KW&FF will go on without Michael as the host.

“Goin’ where the climate suits my clothes…” (“Goin’ Down the Road Feelin’ Bad”, Grateful Dead)

Still a local boy, Michael wore his ‘slippahs’, even in the very cold ballrooms. Apparently, many climates suit his clothes! He is irreplaceable but not indispensable (although pretty darn close for the KW&FF). With Michael as the host, the KW&FF has served “plenty Aloha,” delicious food & wine, and a lot of soul through his genuine love for the people of Maui and all of us who have been blessed to call him our friend.

“Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Hebrews 13:1-2

Michael loves people and models humility. He expresses that though helping us to enjoy wine, food, and conviviality. When he said “ALOOOOOHA!” at the beginning of a wine tasting, it was not a gimmick or cliché; it was from his heart Regardless of whether all the seats were filled, he made the winemakers and participants feel welcomed and valued. He focused on the land, the vines, grapes, growers and winemakers.

Michael embodies this description of Aloha:

A – Akahai: Kindness, expressed with tenderness

L – Lōkahi: Unity, expressed with harmony

O – ʻOluʻolu: Agreeableness, expressed with pleasantness

H – Haʻahaʻa: Humility, expressed with modesty

A – Ahonui: Patience, expressed with perseverance

Several years ago, I was pleasantly stunned to hear Michael and Fred Scherrer launch into “Willie Jones” (Charlie Daniels Band “Nightrider”, 1972). This is not one of CDB’s well known tunes and it one of my favorites! A line from the chorus, “Alabama could be heaven, if the Lord was there...“ Kapalua is truly one of the most “heavenly” places in God’s creation. The KW&FF has been like a “little slice of heaven” because Michael was there.

“There is a road, no simple highway…”. (Ripple, Garcia/Hunter)

To Michael – “May the Lord bless and keep you and Teresa as you continue down the road together.” On behalf of everyone who has been blessed to call you friend and brother. Like us. So, for now, we say “A Hui Ho” to our friend and brother.

“Goin’ where the chilly winds don’t blow…” (“Goin’ Down the Road Feelin’ Bad”, Grateful Dead)

“That path is for your steps alone…” (“Ripple”, Garcia/Hunter)

Us with Michael: June 2015 at the old Kapalua Bay Hotel. After the 2026 Champagne & Caviar tasting (the spit cup made a good pencil holder).

Bonus Stuff

Michael Jordan & Fred Scherrer:

· “Blessing at Kapalua Jam” (2019): This great video clip with Clifford Naeole includes Teresa walking up to Michael and giving him a few kisses, which is sweet and poignant.

· “Kapalua Goin’ Down the Road” (2019):

“Willie Jones” (CDB, 1972):

“Goin’ Down the Road (Winterland, 1974) [Classic version with footage from The Grateful Dead Movie]

Remember these things:

• You are irreplaceable because you were created in the image of God.

• You are not indispensable; life will all go on after you leave your earthly body.

• You are irreplaceable because you have unique gifts, talents, experiences.

• You are not indispensable; beware the deadly and popular sin of pride (aka hubris).

“And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Matthew 28:18

“The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting; it has been found difficult and left untried.” G.K. Chesterton

It’s Sunday afternoon, and we are once again being regaled by the decidedly non-symphonic sound of blowers. I enjoy using powered equipment, but I typically do not enjoy hearing it when I am not the source of the cacophony. Could this be a log in my eye?

As a boy, I longed to use powered equipment. When I was around 12, I thought it would be really cool to use Dad’s new Toro snowblower. I reached the bottom of the driveway and encountered a greater power … gravity. (Gravity, like all powers, was created by the creator of all power…God.) I tried to push the machine up the hill and did not fare as well as Sisyphus. After several futile attempts, I probably stormed into the house and blamed the machine or my Dad. I learned that you needed to be able to push down rather than pushing forward to make it go up the hill. But I was too short…and light.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

I had a similar experience attempting a seemingly simple task at my first job as a general maintenance person at the Northwest YMCA. I was 16, and still pretty small and light. The floor buffer machine was an interesting beast. It required a downward pressure to control it. Naturally, I thought that using my pretty limited strength would do the trick. Wrong. After a few bounces off the walls, one of the senior guys took pity on me and showed me how to operate it properly (no YouTube videos then). I never got very good at it, but at least I minimized the carnage that would have ensued if I continued to rely on my own strength.

“Have you not known? Have you not heard?

The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.

He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.

He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.

” Isaiah 40:28-29

God gave us free will. But when my plans are not aligned with God’s plans, I return to pushing the snowblower up the driveway or fighting the floor buffer.

Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit” - yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. James 4:13-14

Years ago, I purchased a Milwaukee drill and impact driver set. Then I bought a Sawzall, Multi-Tool, Jigsaw, Pole saw, and Chainsaw. Some good friends and I used these small power tools to help build a “Jungle Hut” for the Vacation Bible School. An unexpected small source of power in the form of an 11-year-old boy devised the method to properly secure the roof (he was also handy with the drill). Seemingly small sources of power ensured successful completion of the project.

My newest piece of powered equipment is a pressure washer I purchased on 4/1/26. My trusty old Karcher still worked, but I needed more power (pressure) to improve cleaning efficiency and effectiveness. I mounted it in the only remaining piece of real estate on the wall in our garage. Around 6 weeks later, I took it down and got it dirty while cleaning our pool deck area.

Jesus is God, and therefore omnipotent (all powerful). He is the source of all power; plus knowledge, beauty, and truth. He has all authority in heaven and earth! He loves you. But He will not push your snowblower, floor buffer, or run your powered equipment. He may not be “obvious.”

“And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. 12 And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper.”

1 Kings 19:11-12

Perhaps this is related to the fact that faith without works is dead. It may also be related to the fact that we are saved by grace through faith. As my friend and mentor Darryl often reminds us, God is not opposed to effort, only to earning.

“There are only two kinds of people in the end: those who say to God, “Thy will be done,” and those to whom God says, in the end, “Thy will be done.” C.S. Lewis.

Marianne & I participated in the “Emotionally Healthy Spirituality” course, by Pete & Geri Scazzero. One of the most challenging practices involves solitude and silence; seeking God’s presence instead of relying on our own “power.” As with the snowblower and floor buffer, I struggle with trying to use force instead of relying on the real power. This can still be frustrating. I must remember this:

But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our bodies.

2 Corinthians 4:7-10

Human power can be great, and it is fleeting. Real power has one source, and it is endless. Jesus Christ and Him crucified. What is the source of your power? The power of the Christian ideal…try it!

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” … For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Bonus Stuff

“The Christian Ideal”: https://www.socratic-method.com/quote-meanings/gilbert-k-chesterton-the-christian-ideal-has-not-been-tried-and-found-wanting-it-has-been-found-difficult-and-left-untried

“Power” or “Powered” equipment? “Power is the ability to influence or control others, while powered refers to something that is operated or driven by a source of energy.” “Power can be seen as a more abstract concept, relating to authority or strength, while powered is more concrete, referring to the actual energy source that drives a machine or device…” https://thisvsthat.io/power-vs-powered

“a time to weep, and a time to laugh…” Ecclesiastes 3:4

“Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep” Romans 12:15

My brother in Christ (Daniel), who I had the opportunity to counsel at Hope Center Ministries last year, almost died.

On Friday April 17th, Daniel sent this text, “Not a good day to come - struggling for every breath. Not in any good shape.” I immediately prayed. He replied: “And praise Jesus if it is my last breath. Jehovah rapha.” [I had to look this up. It means “God who heals.” That was prophetic.]

He was experiencing severe breathing difficulties and other complications of an infection. I prayed again…and cried. What to do? I drove to The Pantry and parked.

· Robin greeted me cheerfully and asked how I was doing. I struggled to find words and began to weep.

· My brother in Christ Jonny saw me and I asked him to pray for Daniel. After praying, he reminded me that this situation is a “Win-Win.”

· When things slowed down, I was walking through the warehouse praying with my palms up. A fellow volunteer remarked, “It looks like you are waiting for something to drop into your hands.” She was right!

At 1134, after talking with a Pantry client, I looked up for no apparent reason and saw this. It stopped me in my tracks. (I rarely, if ever, experience signs or promptings.)

At 1144, Daniel wrote: “I just got a very positive update about getting rid of this lung infection.” A few tears of hope and joy flowed from my eyes.

I was able to visit him in the afternoon. Among other things, he read these words:

“Blessed is the one who considers the poor! In the day of trouble the LORD delivers him the LORD protects him and keeps him alive; he is called blessed in the land; you do not give him up to the will of his enemies. The LORD sustains him on his sickbed; in his illness you restore him to full health.” Psalm 41:1-3

Daniel experienced extreme pain and near-death experiences in the following days. He also shared the love of Christ with everyone who came into his room (when he could talk). His testimony is powerful and I will not repeat it here.

The next day, we were walking along with Violet in Kailua. I noticed a woman with a big tattoo that said Psalm ___ on her upper back. Before I could ask her which Psalm it was, she moved her hair, revealing it was Psalm 91. I had to tell her that Psalm 91 is quoted in the song “My Sisters and Brothers“ (frequently performed by the Jerry Garcia Band).

“Our Bible reads, Thou shalt not be afraid; Of the terror by night, Nor the arrow that flies by day; Nor for the pestilence, That walketh in the darkness; Nor for the destruction, That waiteth in the noonday hour.” Psalm 91:5-6

Then we decided to have lunch at Goen restaurant in Kailua, where we had an encounter that was almost beyond words. We were finishing a lovely lunch when we heard a man praying for a couple at a nearby table. I noticed that the woman (“Pua”) seemed a little uneasy as she would alternately close and open her eyes and look around. It was a long prayer, including a guy on the speaker phone that was praying. When they finished, I got up and talked to them.

“...a time to keep silence, and a time to speak” Ecclesiastes 3:7

I learned that the man (”Junior Boy”) was praying for Pua, who is battling an aggressive form of cancer and was not yet a believer in Christ. During our conversation, I mentioned Daniel and showed them the picture of the “Sun-bow” from The Pantry. Junior Boy said something like this must be a sign. (I am not used to experiencing signs or promptings.). Junior Boy told the woman that, in Christ, “You’ve already won!” I was blown away and almost speechless (often a good thing). Once again, God was orchestrating events far beyond my understanding.

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“It’s a Win-Win” and “You’ve already won” reminds me of more lyrics from “My Sisters and Brothers”

“This world is not our home, We are only passing through

Our trail is all made up, Way beyond the blue

Let us do the very best that we can; While we’re travelin’ through this land

We can all be together, Shaking a hand; When we make it to the promised land”

Daniel was finally discharged on Sunday April 26th. He wrote these words: “I ask you not to take another breath for granted… Until breathing becomes the most difficult thing that you have to do in your life; second after second... I know what it’s like to think that the next breath might be my last and, in that moment, praising God for either way that it might go; life or death.”

“But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. Matthew 24:36

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7

Praise the God who heals, who came so you may have life and have it abundantly, and sent his Son into the world in order that the world might be saved through him. Pray for your loved ones to be healed and come to know Jesus. The way, the truth, and the life. The light of the world.

Bonus Stuff

My Sisters and Brothers (The Sensational Nightingales) :

My sisters and Brothers (Jerry Garcia Band):

“So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Then I thought of these lyrics. (“Lady with a Fan”, Hunter/Garcia)

“Let my inspiration flow, in token rhyme suggesting rhythm

That will not forsake me, till my tale is told and done

While the fire lights aglow, strange shadows from the flames will grow

Till things we’ve never seen will seem familiar”

I am not equating or conflating Paul’s words with those of Robert Hunter. The juxtaposition intrigued me and led me in an unexpected direction.

Really good unseen things:

· God - Like much of the created universe. Like the thunder. Like the wind. Like the source of His gentle whisper.

· Jesus was seen, for a very short time. He is now unseen in the days between His resurrection and return.

· The Holy Spirit - The unseen advocate that Jesus left to guide us, if we hear him.

· Angels - Spiritual beings, unseen messengers. They are rarely seen, except in “It’s a Wonderful Life”, Hallmark movies, etc.

Really bad unseen things:

· Demons - Their effects are too often readily seen. (And they believe in Jesus.)

· “The Enemy”, aka Satan. A fallen angel that can disguise himself. (He believed in and challenged Jesus.)

Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” (Act 2, Scene 2) includes the famous line, “The devil hath power To assume a pleasing shape.” Hamlet reflects on the deceitful nature of evil and the ability of the devil to disguise himself in order to deceive and manipulate others.

“For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.” 2 Corinthians 11:13-15

Enemies may be tangible and intangible. They may be unseen. They may work in the dark, in devious ways. They may call you “friend.” They may be called “the devils”.

“There are two equal and opposite errors into which our race can fall about the devils. One is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them. They themselves are equally pleased by both errors and hail a materialist or a magician with the same delight.” C. S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters

Enemies come in all shapes and sizes. “No-See-Ums” are insidious little buggers that plagued me when I was otherwise outdoor activities as a youth. You don’t see them, they bite, you bleed, you scratch, you bleed…then you search for calamine lotion.

Here are some insidious little buggers that can afflict all of us and mutate into something like Goliath. In his final sermon as the Transitional Pastor, Tim Fearer identified seven “enemies” of our church’s mission (“Joining Jesus to restore and transform one another and the world”):

1. Affluence and its petty concerns. We settle for so little in the chase after all the culture says leads to the good life.

2. Addiction to comfort. “Oh, I want a grand future for this church. Just don’t change anything. Don’t make me sit in a different seat.” Affluence and comfort - they’re cousins, and they’re the enemy.

3. Unacknowledged and unconfessed sin. There’s plenty of that in this church, because you’re just a normal church like every other church.

4. Not believing how much God loves you.

5. Fear - which is just the flip side of not believing how much God loves you.

6. Ignorance. Let’s just start with biblical illiteracy. Some of you just need to get into the Scriptures. Start there. I could go on about that one; I won’t.

7. Prayerlessness.

How shall we battle against enemies; large and small, seen and unseen? Start with this and keep coming back to this: Love God with all your heart, mind, and strength…then…love your neighbor as yourself. Apply these great commandments to all your enemies and God will be with you. And remember these words.

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12

“...God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” James 4: 6-10

This started innocently enough…how did I get here? What did Jesus say?

But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. Mark 5:44-45 (read 43-48 for context).

This requires a different and difficult kind of love. Love is both wonderful and difficult. “Love is love” is just a slogan. And not all enemies are created equal. How can we see clearly?

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105.

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5

Bonus Stuff

Gotquestions.org is a good source of concise biblically-based answers to quite a few questions. Here are a few:

• The Holy Spirit: https://www.gotquestions.org/who-Holy-Spirit.html

• Angels: https://www.gotquestions.org/angels-Bible.html

• Demons: https://www.gotquestions.org/demons-Bible.html

• Satan: https://www.gotquestions.org/was-Satan-an-angel.html

“Mighty Ones, who do His Bidding” (a deep dive from the Official Website of C.S. Lewis): https://www.cslewis.com/mighty-ones-who-do-his-bidding/

Is Hobbes describing the fact that we are all sinners?

“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” Psalm 139:13-14

I have tried to come up with a way to categorize topics of study or discussion. Amazingly, an alliteration appeared: Imperative, Important, Interesting, and Irrelevant.

Imperative (“Musts”) - These are items that are essential to your worldview, theology, and/or ideology. They form the basis for every important decision you will make; yet the most important decisions are often made with a lack of “sufficient” information (see Bonus Stuff). Christian “Imperatives” include Jesus’ Gospel, Faith in Jesus’ Gospel, Christ & Him crucified, and the Great Commandment & Great Commission.

One Imperative from God: “Then Moses said to God, “If I come to the people of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what shall I say to them?” God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And he said, “Say this to the people of Israel: ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” Exodus 3:13-14

One Imperative from Jesus: “Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:5-6

Important (“Shoulds”) – Not quite imperative, but certainly worthy of study. Christian “Importants” may include free will, predestination, and other doctrinal issues.

Jesus used this word in response to a “trap” question: “Which commandment is the most important of all?” Jesus answered, “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” Mark 12:28-29

Interesting (”Coulds”) – Still worthy of study, but possibly unanswerable or unknowable. Christian “Interestings” may include Eschatology (some would say Important). I am hung up by this. Jesus stated clearly that NO ONE KNOWS! Should we debate the unknowable?

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.” Matthew 24:35-36

Irrelevant (Don’ts) – Writing anything about this would seem contradictory (“foolish talk”). I’ll leave this to you, dear reader, to discern. Do this instead!

^“Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.” Ephesians 5:4

I thought, or hoped, that I would be able to provide a few clear examples for each category. “Important” and “Interesting” proved to be vexing. This devotional obviously poses more questions than it provides answers. These are for you to contemplate and possibly discuss. I would love to know what you think ‘fits’ into the categories I identified. [See Bonus Stuff for Bobby Harrington’s excellent article about essential, important, and personal elements of faith.]

Lastly, I thought of a different kind of “eyes.” “Eyes to see” are essential to discernment and knowing what is imperative, important, or just interesting.

“But to this day the Lord has not given you a heart to understand or eyes to see or ears to hear.” Deuteronomy 29:4

“Then turning to the disciples he said privately, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see! For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.” Luke 10:23-24

Bonus Stuff

RENEW Theology: What is Essential (written in “blood”)? What is Important (written in “ink”)? What is Personal (written in “pencil”)?

https://renew.org/renew-theology-what-is-essential-what-is-important-what-is-personal/

“I am” Statements:

“Your identity in Christ” by Dr. Neil T. Anderson of Freedom in Christ Ministries. https://av1.w3e.subsplash.com/media/download/WWKCD6/Your-identity-in-Christ.pdf

Wendell Berry on Knowledge:

“The acquisition of knowledge always involves the revelation of ignorance - almost is the revelation of ignorance. Our knowledge of the world instructs us first of all that the world is greater than our knowledge of it. To those who rejoice in the abundance and intricacy in Creation, this is a source of joy, as it is to those who rejoice in freedom...
To those would-be solvers of “the human problem,” who hope for knowledge equal to (capable of controlling) the world, it is a source of unremitting defeat and bewilderment. The evidence is overwhelming that knowledge does not solve “the human problem.” Indeed, the evidence overwhelmingly suggests - with Genesis - that knowledge is the problem. Or perhaps we should say instead that all our problems tend to gather under two questions about knowledge: Having the ability and desire to know, how and what should we learn? And, having learned, how and for what should we use what we know? [Wendell Berry, The Art of the Commonplace: The Agrarian Essays]

“Presidents’ Day” (Linda Rose, libertylight.substack.com):

Abraham Lincoln (February 12, 1809 - April 15, 1865)

George Washington.

“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” Psalm 20:7

Which naturally prompted a Grateful Dead song reference:

“Some folks trust in reason, others trust in might

I don’t trust to nothing, but I know it come out right”

“Playing in the Band” (Weir/Hunter)

[Reason and might are not mutually exclusive; God used/uses both. God invented reason. Might is needed to defeat evil. Trust God and it will come out right.]

Ross Mooney writes in “The Well”: “I recently realized that the first two lines of the song are very similar to lines from Jeremiah 17:5: “This is what the Lord says: ‘Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who depends on flesh for his strength and whose heart turns away from the Lord.’” In verses 7 and 8 it goes on to say, “’Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that send out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.’“ This seems a lot like the line, “I don’t trust to nothing, but I know it come out right.”

Now I feel led or compelled to offer a bit of an excursus on “Playing in the Band.”

“Say it once again now, whoa I hope you understand

When it’s done and over, Lord, a man is just a man”

[This is almost self-explanatory, although “a man is just a man” has been twisted to become ‘controversial.’ But only if you accept the premise of the argument and realize that it is only meant to generate an argument. I think this really is a statement about humility.]

“I can tell your future, whoa just look what’s in your hand

I can’t stop for nothing, I’m just playing in the band”

[Truth be told, a bong was often in my hand when I listened to this song during my college days. Perhaps the lyricist was referring to things that we hold dearly, as in a closed fist.]

“If a man among you, got no sin upon his hand

Let him cast a stone at me for playing in the band”

[This is obviously biblical.]

“So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” John 8:7

As usual, it is important to read the rest…

And Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.” Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” John 8:11-12

A gentle and firm admonition from Jesus. With an amazing and eternal ‘bonus!”

I could end there, but I feel compelled to add this. The ‘Artist Formerly Known as’ the “Social Compact” (see below) is broken or extinct. (Sorry for the obscure Prince reference.). “Come now, let us reason together…” (Isaiah 1:18) is a lost art. Trust in people we disagree with has vaporized. Plenty of pundits, preachers, and politicians can probably pontificate on the proximate causes for this phenomenon. I might proffer a few platitudes, but I will not paddle into those roiling rapids in this present prose.

Trust is an issue throughout the Bible. Here are a few examples.

“…Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He also has rejected you from being king” 1 Samuel 15:23

“…But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord.” Jonah 1:3

“And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, “Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you.” Matthew 16:22

Here is the best advice from the Bible:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

And from Alice Yoder, our long-time beloved Clerk of Session who is with Jesus: “Trust God.” “God’s work done in God’s way will have God’s provision.”

Faith and trust are inextricably intertwined. Know this!

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1

Bonus Stuff

“Social Compact” (Black’s Law Dictionary): https://blacks_law.en-academic.com/41006/social_compact

“Playing in the Band” – Many extended versions exist (the longest was around 46 minutes). I love this one from “Skull and Roses”:

“Playing in the Band” - Notes:

https://web.archive.org/web/20190211233456/http://artsites.ucsc.edu/GDead/agdl/playin.html

https://www.dead.net/features/greatest-stories-ever-told/greatest-stories-ever-told-playing-band

Sadly, a chunk of my career in local government service involved dealing with ‘Dilbertian’ style mismanagement. Living with cognitive dissonance was de rigueur. This is probably my favorite Dilbert strip. “Buggy” might be the ‘Dilbertian’ way of describing our fallen state, or sin nature. None of us is perfect; we all fall short of the glory of God. Yet this is true:

“Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” Colossians 1:28

“You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Matthew 5:48

Do you have a pen? Do I have a pen? Do I need a pen? A pen cannot write on our hearts or souls. A pen was a most useful instrument for Scribes. Jesus had a few choice words for the scribes and Pharisees.

“Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice.” Matthew 23:1-3

Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces. For you neither enter yourselves nor allow those who would enter to go in. Matthew 23:12-13

An oft-repeated story says that The Times once sent out an inquiry to famous authors, asking the question, “What’s wrong with the world today?” and Chesterton responded simply, “Dear Sir, I am. Yours, G.K. Chesterton.” (This story has been repeated so often about Chesterton that we suspect it is true.) He acknowledged that he was buggy! Do Christians really understand the gravity of this true statement?

Pastor Dan Chun used to say, “We are a hospital for sinners, not a museum of saints.” We all have a “bug.” That bug is sin. Like a ‘flu bug’, it requires diagnosis and treatment. The first principle of Celebrate Recovery involves a diagnosis; admitting powerlessness over addiction. The same holds true for anything we can identify as sin, including idolatry.

Today, idolatry does not mean worshipping a golden calf. But it is still dangerous!

“Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.” 1 Corinthians 10:14

The verses preceding the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) are instructive.

“Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” Galatians 5:19-21

Sin (like idolatry) is a bug, not a feature. That is difficult for me to grasp. Of course, this may cause us to wonder if God created sin. He certainly had to know that it would exist and be manifested because He created beings with free will (among other things). There’s another one for the theologians to settle.

John Adams famously said, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” I wonder what Scott Adams thought about that truth. Like Scott Adams, I sometimes struggle to avoid descending into snarkiness, even when it is funny. Here are some of Scott Adams’ last public words:

“I accept Jesus Christ as my lord and savior, and I look forward to spending an eternity with him,” Adams said. “The part about me not being a believer should be quickly resolved if I wake up in heaven. I won’t need any more convincing than that. And I hope I am still qualified for entry.”

“I had an amazing life. I gave it everything I had,” Adams continued. “If you got any benefits from my work, I’m asking you to pay it forward as best you can. That is the legacy I want. Be useful. And please know I loved you all to the end.”

Scott Adams may have been hedging his bets (bad idea). He may have been using his trademark satire or hyperbole to illustrate a point or to deal with the reality of his impending and inevitable death. may have accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior. Only he and God know where his heart was in his final days. It was certainly “buggy.”

Know this: You can have a really amazing life…with Jesus!

“I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” John 10:10

Do this: Here is a much better idea and practice!

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:11-13

Umpteen strips could illustrate the ‘bugginess’ concept…

“…for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true)” Ephesians 5:8-9

Bob Weir, founding member and rhythm guitarist for the Grateful Dead, died on Saturday 1/10/26. I thought of the little-known song, “Walk in the Sunshine”, which appears on his “Ace” album. [This is not the hit song “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves.] Neither the lyricist (John Barlow) nor Bob Weir were particularly fond of this song. (See “Bonus Stuff” below.) I find it to be upbeat and refreshing, and it contains some words that may point to or even reflect biblical truths.

“Walk in the sunshine, Watch for the bright sign”

[Look for an epiphany! Or a Blinding Flash of the Obvious?]

“Be all those things you’re able to be”

[“All those things…” are not all good things. On our own, we easily tend toward things that are the opposite of good. The things that matter are those things that God intends us to be, aka Spiritual gifts. We live in that tension. Jesus came and ultimately paid with his blood to resolve that tension; to allow us to be saved by grace through faith.]

“As I was on my way and drew near to Damascus, about noon a great light from heaven suddenly shone around me.” Acts 22:6

“You got to listen to the heavens, You got to try and understand

The greatness of their movement, Is just as small as it is grand”

[Listening to the Heavens implies listening to God; the creator of the heavens, the earth, and me & you. God’s creation is manifested in grandeur and minutiae.]

“He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Matthew 11:15]

“Try not to hurry, It’s just not your worry

Leave it to those all caught up in time”

[Dallas Willard famously wrote, “Ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life.”]

“Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” Matthew 6:34

“You got to deep six your wristwatch, You got to try and understand

The time it seems to capture, Is just the movement of its hands”

[I own several wristwatches that are both timepieces and pieces of art. Yet I usually look at my phone to see what time it is.]

“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” Galatians 4:4-5

“I ain’t preaching, ‘cause I don’t know, How to make fast things move along slow”

[Walking is slow. And a snail on the earth moves at 1,000 mph.]

“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

One of my favorite Grateful Dead songs is “Box of Rain”, from their seminal American Beauty album. Some of the lyrics speak of walking.

“Walk out of any doorway, Feel your way like the day before

Maybe you’ll find direction, Around some corner where it’s been waiting to meet you”

[”Feeling your way” is not the same as following your feelings. I see it as plugging along even when I lack clarity or understanding of why I am doing something (assuming it is not contrary to the character of God). God is always “around some corner”.]

“Walk into splintered sunlight, Inch your way through dead dreams to another land

Maybe you’re tired and broken, Your tongue is twisted with words half spoken and thoughts unclear”[I often feel that way when writing devotionals.]

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29

Back from the detour. Chris Pan stated that the word “walk” shows up all throughout the Bible and three times in Ephesians 5:1-20. Chris offered 5 thoughts on walking faithfully: “You have to walk. Walking is slow. Walking is hard. Walking requires the right gear. Walk together.”

“And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:2, 15-16

Christians may use the phrase “Christian Walk”. It involves striving to follow Jesus, or as stated in our Church’s Mission: “Joining Jesus to restore and transform one another and the world.” This requires action and should be confirmed by the fruit (of the Spirit) that you produce.

Walking in darkness is not advisable. How do we “walk in the light?” What does that look like?

Walk with Jesus…walk with joy…and rest in the Lord!

“Let the words be yours, I’m done with mine” (“Cassidy, Weir/Barlow)

Dogs understand the joy of walking; thankfully we do not understand their motives.

Bonus Stuff

Chris Pan’s 1/11/26 Sermon: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qMprONlav41OlozLiX3yUzkSNz1W8D16/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=107033530662746008141&rtpof=true&sd=true

“Walk in the Sunshine”.

A few notes on “Walk in the Sunshine”:

Recorded on Bob Weir’s album “Ace” in 1972 but never played live by the Grateful Dead. Played live once by Ratdog on January 24 2010 in Negril, Jamaica, and then in 2022 with Bobby Weir and Wolf Bros in the two shows marking the 50th anniversary of Ace, with Bob sharing the singing with Brittney Spencer.

“I stayed up all night with Frankie Weir, who fed me Wild Turkey and cocaine and made me write the fairly dreadful “Walk In The Sunshine.” I also wrote a song based on Pär Lagerkwist’s The Dwarf called “The Dwarf” that included the lyrics “I’m not a tall man / I’m a small man.” It was about a horrible little Renaissance court dwarf who had no one’s interests at heart. I gave it to Bobby, and so he was greatly relieved when I showed him the only slightly less terrible “Walk In The Sunshine,” and I was free to go.”

And then he wrote another set of lyrics and he said we’ll go for these. And they’re sort of hippy-dippy and I think I sang them one time in the studio - just straight through. And as I recall, you can actually hear on the studio recording that my voice is starting to go at the end of the song. And that was it. I’d done singing it for the day, for the project.”

“Box of Rain”.

E is the first letter in effort, yet the traditional letter grading system does not include an E.

My brother Darryl Keane is gifted to be able to quote many people of great wisdom.

“Grace is not opposed to effort, it is opposed to earning. Earning is an attitude. Effort is an action.” Dallas Willard

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 describes “times” that require effort (both initiative and restraint). The obvious exceptions are being born and dying. Then verse 3:9 asks one of “those questions.”

1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:

2 a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;

3 a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;

4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;

5 a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;

6 a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;

7 a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

8 a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace.

9 What gain has the worker from his toil?

“Rigging up the lights” requires effort. January 6th is the last night before I unplug many of them. I hope that they bring some joy to people who drive by our home at night. We always feel some joy when we arrive home when the lights are on. They reflect the light of the Christmas season, and maybe even convey some of the hope that can only be found in Jesus. I love seeing the lights that other people have rigged up as part of the celebration of this most wonderful time of the year.

Writing devotionals requires effort. Sometimes I think that the effort is not “worth” the time. Then I remember that there is no way to measure the “worth” of the time and effort I expend. And there is no relationship between the quality of the final product and the amount of effort I expended (if either of these are even measurable). Substack statistics such as the number of views and number of “likes” per view, could be demotivating. The fact that even a few people have told me that they enjoyed or benefitted from something I wrote is more than enough. This is akin to the concept that earning is an attitude. Or that being saved by grace through faith…so that no one may boast.

Hosting a Christmas Party requires effort. Being able to share our home and the lights and decorations that only dimly reflect the glory of our Lord and Savior is “reward” enough. We take photos of everyone who joins us in front of our Christmas tree. I/ then crop them judiciously and send them to party participants. Several people respond with notes of thanks and encouragement. This helps to make it “worth the effort.”

Being a dog owner requires effort, especially the emotional effort of euthanasia. We had to decide to release Ipo from dementia and its manifestations. After Ipo was gone, Violet suffered physically and psychologically. We were able to nurture her, through changes in diet & activities, and love, to live her best possible life during 2025.

Counseling men at the Hope Center requires effort. “Success” is not easy to measure and can be ephemeral. Anytime one of the guys greets me with a smile (or a “boo” in the case of George), and handshake/hug, or even a question, it is “worth the effort.” I had a kind of epiphany when I received a text with these words:

“You helped change my life around and were there when I needed someone the most and it was a relief when you showed. You’re probably more important than you realize. You’re continuing to change others’ lives. Very impactful.”

Here is a worthy effort:

“For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. 2 Peter 1:5-7

Bonus Stuff

“The Twelve Days of Christmas, Epiphany, and the Christian Ordering of Time”: https://theologyinfive.com/the-twelve-days-of-christmas-epiphany-and-the-christian-ordering-of-time/

“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel”. Matthew 1:23

The words “Christmas” and “Cards” appear exactly 0 times in the Bible. Stay with me...

For no rational reason, I started producing personalized Christmas cards in 1999. Further proof that common sense is not common? The first few vintages contained a fair amount of text, since I thought I should provide an annual update of our lives as we live at least a half an ocean away from “kith and kin.”. I developed a “standard format” beginning in 2010. So that should make for smooth sailing every year. Or not. It’s almost comical how a different “glitch” or more rears its ugly head every year. I even have a new printer this year. As if on cue, I just encountered at least two unique glitches. Why did you include borders when I specified borderless? “The Printer is Offline.” Which it WAS NOT! AAARRRGGGHHH...

In “The 12 Pains of Christmas”, I might identify with the guy who sings the “4th Day” verse, “Sending Christmas cards,” with decreasing jocularity.

Verse 4: The fourth thing at Christmas that’s such a pain to me: Sending Christmas cards.

Verse 10: Yo-ho, sending Christmas cards!

Verse 11: Oh, I don’t even know half these people!

Verse 12: I’m not sendin’ them this year, that’s it!!

Contrary to verse 11, I know more than half of the people who receive our Christmas card.

Charlie Brown did not have good memories of Christmas cards. In “A Charlie Brown Christmas”, Charlie checks his mailbox for Christmas cards…to find none. Then he sarcastically thanks Violet (not our dog) for the Christmas card, to which she coldly replies, “I didn’t send you a Christmas card, Charlie Brown.”

We receive Christmas cards from folks near and far… even one from Bath, ME (the home of my Best Man Chris and his wife Gina). We have kept some of the cards; looking at them each year brings warm memories. I also hang some of them from lights on our mantle. Although we can stay in touch with kith and kin via “Social Media”, there is something about sending and receiving Christmas cards that still holds a place in our hearts. This is particularly emphasized when dear ones leave this earthly coil and go to be with Jesus (as we pray). I placed an address label on the envelope of a woman we met on an inter-island cruise ship in 1995. Her husband, “Baptist Billy” had gone to Heaven in 2024. Then I checked the local obituaries and found that she had joined him in January 2025. I’m glad I kept some of their cards!

I always include several images and words in our card:

• The glory of God’s creation (background photos, usually from our ‘backyard”)

• Representations of the wonders of His love (easy to find in each other and our dogs)

• A section reserved for ancestors (and dogs) who are “no longer with us” (physically).

• Lyrics from “Go to the Light” (Brothers Cazimero)

• Wood carving JESUS The reason for the season.

• Fruit of the Spirit

Our annual Christmas party is kind of like a living Christmas card, with food! Violet helped to host our post-Christmas party on 12/27/25. It always ends up being worth the effort. Christmas parties are not featured in the Bible; welcoming people is encouraged.

Advent is the season of anticipation & hope a time to reflect, send cards, host parties…rejoice!

“God is in the Manger” (Dietrich Bonhoeffer) is one of our favorite Advent devotional books. Before offering an opening prayer at our annual Christmas party, I have recited these words from the Christmas Day entry:

“Joy to the world!’ Anyone for whom this sound is foreign, or who hears in it nothing but weak enthusiasm, has not yet really heard the gospel. For the sake of humankind, Jesus Christ became a human being in a stable in Bethlehem: Rejoice, O Christendom! For sinners, Jesus Christ became a companion of tax collectors and prostitutes: Rejoice, O Christendom! For the condemned, Jesus Christ was condemned to the cross on Golgotha: Rejoice, O Christendom! For all of us, Jesus Christ was resurrected to life: Rejoice, O Christendom! . . . All over the world today people are asking: Where is the path to joy? The church of Christ answers loudly: Jesus is our joy! Joy to the world!“

The Christmas Day entry cites the following passage (not a common Christmas choice):

“In this you rejoice, even if now for a little while you have had to suffer various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith -- being more precious than gold that, though perishable, is tested by fire -- may be found to result in praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, for you are receiving the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:6-9

‘Tis the season... to rejoice. Rejoice appears over 200 times in the Bible…look it up. Christmas is the season of hope, or joy, and of light. Remember that Christmas leads to Easter. Rejoice!

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” Isaiah 7:14

“Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:15

Bonus Stuff

O Come Emmanuel (Leon Williams) - Excerpt from a spine-tingling rendition:

https://watchfiremusic.com/shop/recordings/o-come-emmanuel

“Rejoice O Christendom”:

https://jmdavenport.blogspot.com/2012/12/joy-to-world. html

[This strip reminds me a little of posting on Substack in reverse…just a little.]

I recently realized (Blinding Flash of the Obvious) that sleeping is integral to the Advent season and the Christmas story.

“What child is this, who, laid to rest, On Mary’s lap is sleeping,

Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, While shepherds watch are keeping?

This, this is Christ the King, Whom shepherds guard and angels sing;

Haste, haste to bring Him laud, The babe, the son of Mary!”

Sometime earlier this year, I set my alarm to play “While you Were Sleeping” by Casting Crowns. It includes these beautifully challenging and possibly confrontational lyrics:

“United States of America, Looks like another silent night

As we’re sung to sleep by philosophies, That save the trees and kill the children

And while we’re lying in the dark, There’s a shout heard ‘cross the eastern sky

For the Bridegroom has returned, And has carried His bride away in the night”

Are we sleeping? Am I sleeping? Was Lazarus sleeping?”

After saying these things, he said to them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awaken him.” The disciples said to him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will recover.” Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that he meant taking rest in sleep. Then Jesus told them plainly, “Lazarus has died, and for your sake I am glad that I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” So Thomas, called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.” John 11:11-16

Was the little girl sleeping?

“And when Jesus came to the ruler’s house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, he said, “Go away, for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose.” Matthew 9:23-25:

In the broader sense, we all ‘sleep’…we all sin. And we thank God for his grace, and that mercy triumphs over judgment. This is not a free pass; it reflects the character of a God of forgiveness and second chances. Always remember to beware the allure of cheap grace.

Remember that your life was bought at a great cost…through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. Choose wisely and act accordingly. From “While You Were Sleeping”

“America, what will we miss while we are sleeping,

Will Jesus come again, And leave us slumbering where we lay

America, will we go down in history

As a nation with no room for its King”

Many Bible verses reference sleep and sleeping, but it’s time to put this devotional to sleep!

“In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:8

Bonus Stuff (Casting Crowns)

“While You Were Sleeping” (studio version):

“Peace on Earth” (One of the best Contemporary Christian Christmas albums):

“I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” (great live version):

Violet Rose

Ipo-Lani

Mmm

Verses 1-6 (increasing impatience): “Rigging up the lights.”

Verse 7 (entering exasperation): “Oh geez (I’m tryin’ to rig up these lights)”

Verse 8: “What, we have no extension cords?”

Verse 9: “Now why the ____ are they blinking?”

Verse 10: “One light goes out; they all go out!”

Verse 11: “Get a flashlight, I blew a fuse!!”

Verse 12 (he blows a fuse): “FINE! YOU’RE SO SMART, YOU RIG UP THE LIGHTS!!!”

Here’s the original song:

I “rig up the lights” at our house every year. These lights are supposed to reflect the fact that Jesus is the light of the world! After all these years, you might think that I have it “down to a science.” Yet every year, it takes me at least as long if not longer to complete this joyous task. And I do not always reflect the beauty of the lights or the joy of creating a lovely, finished product. Don’t do that! Do this!

“Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world…” Philippians 2:14-15

Know and do this:

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16

Remember this:

“Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” John 8:12

“As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” John 9:5

“Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. But if one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” John 11:9-10

During a recent discussion, my brother Nate reminded me to look up at the heavens. God rigged up the most majestic lights!

“And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. Luke 2:9-10

Bonus Stuff

“The Twelve Pains of Christmas” (“Disney-tized” version):

“Reprise” Stuff

Christmas songs bring light to our souls. Two of our favorite non-traditional songs speak of a light that can remain with us all year.

“Jesus is the Light of the World” (Charlie Daniels) - “He’ll be coming back someday…”

[This is a clip from the Charlie Daniels Christmas Special, “Christmas Time Down South” that aired on TNN in 1990.]

“Go to the Light” (Brothers Cazimero) - “...He’ll take us to a place where love never ends.”

I sensed strong imagery of a riptide and a wave. Fighting the riptide leads to exhaustion and possibly death. Moving perpendicular to the riptide’s current to bring us to a safe place where we can ride the wave to shore. (The Cross is formed by two perpendicular members; probably not a coincidence.) This does not mean that we should “go with the flow”, but that we should use discernment so that we do not react without thinking. Pause, ponder, and pray.

“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” Matthew 10:16

“I didn’t know this was a fight… That’s why you’re losing!” (From the movie “Nefarious”)

As we were discussing Charlie Kirk’s assassination and the aftermath, a brother wondered if our church could set “parameters” to recognize or honor a public figure who died. I don’t think this would be a good idea, if even possible. [Justice Potter Stewart could provide no definition for obscenity in Jacobellis v. Ohio (1964), but he did exclaim: “I know it when I see it.”] This was a watershed moment involving the martyrdom of a Christian who was also a political figure. This heinous act was unique in my adult lifetime and was clearly worthy of more than just acknowledgement. The memorial service included many political figures and provided further evidence of the unique historical nature of his public murder.

“I think we’ve avoided some other topics deemed divisive, too sensitive, off-limits. I want to say today, we can do better. We can show more courage. Let the events of this past week be a call not to be afraid to talk about anything and everything, and the first step is learning how to listen to each other, to check your triggers, and to be open.” Pastor Tim Fearer 9/14/25

There is an obvious difference between prayer vigils, the large-scale memorial service, and calls for violence and actual rioting in the streets. Do we have eyes to see?

“Hear this, O foolish and senseless people, who have eyes, but see not, who have ears, but hear not.” Jeremiah 5:21

“This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand.” Matthew 13:13

Some questions to consider:

• Will we summon courage or succumb to discouragement?

• Do we understand that we are in a spiritual battle? Are we prepared to fight it?

• Do we want a revival? Would we really be ready?

• When is the right time, how will we know? Do we know what time it is?

“Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile; But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: For there is no respect of persons with God.“ Romans 2:6-11

Two more questions. What do we fear? Who do we fear?

“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. We love because he first loved us.”

1 John 4:18-19

Two more questions: What is peace? Where do we find peace?

Jesus said this: “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. Matthew 10:34 (read the rest)

Jesus also said this: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27

I have many more questions. The answers are all (and only) found in the Bible. Finding them will take the rest of my life and will require spiritual development with the assistance of wise brothers and sisters in Christ. How I understand and live out the answers comes from Jesus via the Holy Spirit. Humility and courage are essential. Only this will allow me to point people to Jesus and find the truth that will set them free. That is both a mission and a command, a calling and an obligation, and a privilege!

Bonus Stuff

A Detour to Chicago (The group, not the city we used to love to visit) for some questions:

· “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?” The song by Chicago poses the question that remains unclear today. JOYFUL 1973 version:

o Awesome 1970 version:

· “Dialogue” (1972):

· “Questions 67 & 68” (Obviously not live…but the dancing and crazy camera angles add to the experience):

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.” Genesis 1:1-2

What happens when you change a couple of the words?

“It is what it was.“ That is akin to driving while only looking in the rearview mirror. Not recommended. Don’t do that.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. Proverbs 3:5-7

“It was what it is.” This is reminiscent of the (possibly) Soviet phrase or joke, “The Future Is Certain; It’s the Past Which Is Unpredictable.” Not recommended. Don’t think that way.

For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15:4

“It was what it was.” Looking in the rearview mirror as needed and knowing that what you see is behind you. Highly recommended. Do that! Jesus come to Earth to provide that choice to each one of us.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation” 2 Cor. 5:17-18

Here are some phrases or words that may be related to “It is what it is…”

· “That’s the way we’ve always done it” - How would anyone know what was “always” done? (Are “Forever” stamps real?)

· “Conventional Wisdom” - This is an oxymoron. Wisdom is the antithesis of conventional.

· “Common Sense” - Common sense is an endangered species. (Another “Blinding Flash of the Obvious”?) Even the concepts of “Common” and “Sense” are mutated beyond recognition in what passes for “culture” today. That may be more of a feature than a bug.

· Nostalgia (“Those were the days.”) - This views the past through filters that eliminate anything uncomfortable. It can lead to denial, whitewashing, purposeful amnesia, and a failure to learn from errors (both minor and previous). [I will assert that the music of the 60s and 70s is objectively superior to that of subsequent eras. However, idolizing the artists of this or any other era is a bad idea.]

· Tradition - This is preferable, because it seeks to preserve the best of the past and help to inform and direct our future.

I’m not sure if I can draw any conclusions without getting too tangential.

However, this seems to be relevant. Chris Pan preached on Ephesians 2:11-21 last Sunday, and said this:

“When he gave his testimony before a rioting crowd in Acts, Paul shared his story in three parts:

1) This is who I was / This is who we were [I am who I was.]

2) I met Jesus / This is what Christ has done for us [I am who I will be.]

3) Jesus changed me / This is who we are now” [I am who He is.]

This seems at least loosely tied to the theme of this devotional. You be the judge.

Today at church, the Worship Team led us in singing “It is Well with My Soul.” That provides the finishing line I was hoping to find. (See Bonus Stuff below.)

“And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen.” John 21:25

Bonus Stuff

A Christmas Tradition, albeit early:

This great Billy Preston song might convey what I am trying to say in a different (and much cooler) way. If not, it’s still worth a listen!

“Nothing from Nothing”

Then I came across this song:

“It is what it is but it ain’t what it used to be…”

I always enjoy reading comments:

“Even the darkness is not dark to You; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with You.” Psalm 139:12

Is the darkness akin to noise and the light akin to the sound of music?

I love Don Mclean’s seminal song, “American Pie.” The lyric, "I saw Satan laughing with delight, the day the music died.” Satan laughs when our churches are unable or unwilling to speak truth in love. Satan laughs when our churches (me) do not speak the grace and truth of Jesus, with humility and courage.

· Do we remember Iryna Zarutska? Do we remember the fear on her face as she faced an unknown and unexpected brutal and faceless killer?

· Do we remember the Catholic students who were praying when their lives were taken without warning? Do we remember their parents, families, and classmates who will always live with the horror of that evil day?

· Do the echoes of the ghoulish laughter and cheering of demons haunt us; like an echo of the cries, “Crucify him!”

I was working to finish this devotional on 9/10/25, had added a few lines, and thought I could wrap it up. Then a shot rang out. The shot rang out far away but I somehow felt the sound in my soul. A young father’s life was ended by a cowardly and demonic act. He was murdered in our church and in all Christian churches. Then we observed the 24th anniversary of 9/11/01. We all had a chance to speak truth, with grace, courage, and humility…and fell short.

"They have ears, but do not hear; noses, but do not smell. They have hands, but do not feel; feet, but do not walk; and they do not make a sound in their throat.” Psalm 115:6-7

I added this passage before the young Ukrainian woman’s life was brutally ended by the act of pure demonic action. I almost removed it because it gives me the chills in a different way after the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

“Hold it down to a dull roar!” I remember hearing this from various teachers and always found it amusing. I added this before the shot rang out. The dull roar of loss will surely be with those who loved Mr. Kirk for quite some time.

"Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises!" Psalm 98:4

In the closing scene of "Almost Famous”, the journalist (aka “The Enemy”… not THAT one) asks the lead guitarist, “What do you love about music?” He answers, “To begin with, everything.” When people ask me what kind of music I enjoy, I say, “everything... except for headache-inducing (soul-sapping) music.” I prefer sound to noise. What is sound? What is noise?

What differentiates sound and noise? Is noise only in the ear of the beholder? I am neither an audio engineer (too technical for a CE major and Wastewater Plant Engineer) nor an audiophile (too expensive), but the "Signal to Noise Ratio” is used to determine the quality of the sound reproduced by audio equipment. A higher S/N ratio indicates a higher quality or purer sound.

"Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player That struts and frets his hour upon the stage, And then is heard no more. It is a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, Signifying nothing.” William Shakespeare, “Macbeth"

One great thing about some musicians is their ability to use silence and quiet moments to enhance their music. Examples that come to mind include Miles Davis in a silent way, and the Grateful Dead in songs like Morning Dew and Stella blue. This is also found in many symphonies and other works of classical music.

Rock and Roll was often described as noise. Now many Classic Rock songs are almost ubiquitous in hardware stores and even elevators! I often find truth and beauty in the melodies, harmonies, and lyrics.

"The Sound of Silence" was a classic folk song with lyrics that apply even today.

“...People talking without speaking; People hearing without listening…"

"Fools," said I, "You do not know; Silence, like a cancer, grows…”

We will always recall a time we were driving back to the West side of Molokai and pulled over on a side road (just to look and listen…really). We observed a Pueo on a fence post, countless stars, and then we were enveloped by the sound of silence. I still think I could hear fluids moving through my brain!

The internal noise is the loudest. The internet noise is the most insidious. Noise-canceling headphones allow us to hear the sound we want to hear. The noise that they cancel does not have to be particularly loud.

This excerpt from “The Screwtape Letters” sums it up.

Screwtape: "Music and silence - how I detest them both! How thankful we should be that ever since our Father entered Hell - though longer ago than humans, reckoning in light years, could express—no square inch of infernal space and no moment of infernal time has been surrendered to either of those abominable forces, but all has been occupied by Noise - Noise, the grand dynamism, the audible expression of all that is exultant, ruthless, and virile - Noise which alone defends us from silly qualms, despairing scruples, and impossible desires. We will make the whole universe a noise in the end. We have already made great strides in this direction as regards to the Earth. The melodies and silences of Heaven will be shouted down in the end. But I admit we are not yet loud enough, or anything like it. Research is in progress." [This reminds us of the profound human struggle between silence and noise, and the power of music as a pathway to heaven. Lewis paints noise as a force that drowns out reflection, serenity, and the echoes of heaven.] https://substack.com/home/post/p-170734073

The Sound of Music says it well.

"The hills are alive with the sound of music; With songs they have sung for a thousand years

The hills fill my heart with the sound of music; My heart wants to sing every song it hears

Spoiler Alert (or Blinding Flash of the Obvious) - The Bible says it best.

"And he said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper (or a sound, a thin silence)" 1 Kings 19:11-12

I pray that the sound of the shot that rang out on 9/10/25 will remain as the "low whisper.” Prayer, often in the form of “thoughts and prayers” has been bandied about recently (mostly for political and virtue-signaling purposes). Prayer is at once “the most we can do” (thanks to Marianna Meachen) and not enough.

· Prayer PLUS The Grace and Truth of Jesus PLUS Humility PLUS Courage.

· “Be still” PLUS “I am the Truth” PLUS Humble reflection PLUS Hate (and fight) evil.

That will give us a chance to join Jesus to restore and transform one another and the world.

We desperately need restoration and transformation. Only good can overcome evil, and only light can overcome darkness. I will strive to speak with the grace & truth of Jesus, with humility and courage.

Bonus Stuff

“Listening for the secret, searching for the sound…” (“Unbroken Chain”, Lesh/Petersen). This video is just plain awesome

’

Preface: Dan Fogelberg’s “Souvenirs” album was released just over 50 years ago. It was one of my favorites in college and I think it is his masterpiece, with timeless lyrics, peerless arrangements, and masterful musicianship. Dan Fogelberg died too young, but he was not killed by a demonic assassin. His political and even possibly spiritual viewpoints certainly diverged from Charlie Kirk. At the same time, I believe that they would have had respectful discussions and found common ground. This of course is all hypothetical, speculative, and probably nostalgic. Yet strangely hopeful.

I felt compelled to pull a couple of lyrics from this album and found Bible verses that reflected the same message. It is my imperfect way of paying tribute to a man that I have never met, whose life was taken much too early.

I thought of the chorus from the title track after listening to some strong men cry as they mourned the demonic assassination of Charlie Kirk

Souvenirs

"And down in the canyon the smoke starts to rise

It rides on the wind 'til it reaches your eyes

When faced with the past the strongest man cries"

"Jesus Wept” John 11:35

Part of the Plan

"Love when you can, cry when you have to, Be who you must, that's a part of the plan"

“a time to love, and a time to hate” ...a time to weep, and a time to laugh” Ecclesiastes 3:4, 8

Illinois

"South California, your sun is too cold; It looks like your hills have been raped of their gold

I should have come out when I was first told; This lamb has got to return to the fold"

“...Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.” Luke 15:6-7

Changing Horses

"Looking farther than you'll ever hope to see, Takes you places you don't know”

"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright.” Psalm 20:7-8

Better Change

"Well, there's an angel on your shoulders, And a devil at your feet;

And that door you see before you, Could be poison tasting sweet"

Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written, “‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and him only shall you serve. ’Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him." Matthew 4:10-11

The Long Way

"She was lost and I thought I was found, Even so I tried to bring her in

She was young and I had just begun, To learn that even losing men can win"

"For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate." Luke 13:24

As the Raven Flies

"I see the raven's made her nest in your eyes, She's got you thinking that her love is a prize,

And you'll go under from the weight of her lies"

"Who provides for the raven its prey, when its young ones cry to God for help, and wander about for lack of food?" Job 38:41

Song from Half Mountain

"Now the dream is rising, In a moment it will be past

This breath is my first, It will all too soon be my last"

"The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life." Job 33:4

Morning Sky

"If there's something on your mind, You better say it while there's time

'Cause I'm leavin' when I see that mornin’ sky"

"If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal." 1 Corinthians 13:1

Someone’s Been Telling You Stories

"Someone's been tellin' you stories (Someone's been tellin' you lies)

And they just ain't true, They just ain't true"

"You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe me." John 8:44-45

There's a Place in the World for a Gambler

"There's a place in the world for a gambler, There's a burden that only he can bear

There's a place in the world for a gambler, And he sees, Oh, yes he sees…"

For whoever would save his life[a] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? Matthew 16:25-26

I did not know Charlie Kirk. I was not a regular listener to his podcast. I know that he was a gambler for Jesus. He gained some precious things in the world, put Christ first, and did not forfeit his soul. Unbeknownst to them, the demons have testified to that. Let us testify to that with grace, truth, humility, and courage.

May the Lord continue to bless and keep you and the family of Charlie Kirk.

Bonus Stuff

Dan Fogelberg, "Souvenirs" 50th Anniversary:

Charlie Kirk Prayer Service (Students for Life America) https://studentsforlife.org/prayerservice/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Charlie Kirk Prayer Service Tonight&utm_campaign=C3%3A Letter to Students re%3A Charlie Kirk (Sept 25) (Copy)#form

The Murder of Charlie Kirk (Andrew Kaven):

The Cross Still Offends (Pastor Rich Bitterman).

This powerful phrase can be said in a cursory manner, like after someone sneezes. This may be the time you can use this phrase without “offending” the recipient or even raising eyebrows. Think about it. God, the creator of everything (including you and I) will really bless you. And He has blessed you through the death and resurrection of Jesus. What could beat that?

One of our brothers in Christ has expressed concern with the use of the phrase, “Blessed and highly favored.” This is probably because people may use it to elevate themselves over others, showing a lack of humility. I don’t think that you can be blessed without being highly favored, or vice-versa.

Not shockingly, “bless" appears 495 times in the Bible. This may be the ‘best’:

“The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you,

And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

Here is an amazing song including words from this passage, called "The Hawaii Blessing":

It is easy to conflate or confuse blessings, forgiveness, and grace, since they are certainly related. I thought of listing names of people who have blessed me and us, then realized that the list would be too long and I would undoubtedly omit some people. So, here are a few thoughts about blessings:

• The rendition of God Bless America during the MLB All-Star game was beautiful and powerful. (The version of the Star-Spangled Banner was also great; solid harmonies without flourishes.)

• I was watching a Dave Mason concert from the 1970s. I love his songs, guitar mastery, and mellow countenance. I was struck by the fact that he said “God Bless” twice after his final song (“Feeling’ Alright”). As I know nothing about his faith or lack thereof, I was surprised, curious, and pleased.

• In the excellent "Jimmy Buffett Encores” release, Jimmy says “God Bless” after 6 of the 22 songs (yep, I counted them). That’s a lot for a self-avowed hedonist!

• Several of my supervisors routinely used the word “blessing” to indicate approval of an idea or action. This indicated human approval, not divine intervention.

Marianne & I always thank God for the many “routine” blessings we enjoy, including clean air, clean water, delicious & nutritious food, the beauty that surrounds us, and the love that we share (from and through Jesus Christ). Think of ways you have been blessed and are a blessing to others, keep looking for more, and share the grace & truth of Jesus with everyone you meet.

Marianne collected “tinsel paintings” as a kid (found in the neighbors’ garbage). Due to the fragility of the art form, finding good existing ones is rare. They can disintegrate, crack, get mold spots, etc. Restoration is impossible. Two have lasted the test of time. One is “God Bless Our Home,” which she found 50 or more years ago. He surely has!

“But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you." Luke 6:27-28

That sounds like a tall order, and it is. Blessings, like forgiveness and grace, are not earned and must be shared. The line, “as we forgive our debtors…” comes to mind. I have been forgiven and therefore I must forgive. I have been blessed, and so I must bless others. I have been given grace and shown mercy…you get the idea. Getting the idea without acting accordingly is a terrible idea, to put it mildly. It is also called ingratitude. I cannot replicate God’s blessings, forgiveness, grace, or mercy. I can let my words and work reflect these things.

“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8

Bonus Stuff

· Gotquestions.org provides concise and truthful answers to many questions, such as, “What is a Blessing According to the Bible?” https://www.gotquestions.org/blessing-Bible.html

· God Bless America - 2025 All-Star Game: https://www.mlb.com/video/timothy-miller-performs-god-bless-america?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share

· National Anthem - 2025 All-Star Game: https://www.mlb.com/video/zac-brown-band-performs-the-national-anthem?partnerId=web_video-playback-page_video-share

Musical Bonus Stuff

I could include dozens of links...here are a few:

· Jimmy Buffett “Coast of Marseilles” - Beautiful song from Side B of “Son of a Son of a Sailor”

· Charlie Daniels Band “Reflections”:

"And now that you're gone, I thank God I was blessed, Just to know you”.

· Bob Dylan "Forever Young”:

“May God bless and keep you always, May your wishes all come true. May you always do for others, And let others do for you”

· Dave Mason "Feelin’ Alright” - A perfunctory "God Bless” after a smoking version.

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Old Paths & New Roads

You Don’t Want to Hear What Psalm 23 Really Says

Psalm 23 is the psalm of comfort. It’s the passage whispered in hospital rooms, read at gravesides, and clung to in the darkest nights of the soul…

Read more

a year ago · 308 likes · 52 comments · Pastor Rich Bitterman

"We think of God as leading us, but the Hebrew word used in verse three does not mean ‘lead’ at all. It means something far more forceful. It means to drive.

The Shepherd Who Drives His Sheep. “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.” – He drives me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.(Psalm 23:1-3).

Western shepherds drive their sheep. Eastern shepherds lead them. But here, in this Psalm, the image is jarring—our Shepherd, who gently leads, also pushes, prods, and forces us onto certain paths.

These are paths we do not want to walk."

As often occurs, I thought of a song lyric, "Looking for a shove in some direction…”. This is a line from “They Love Each Other”. Like this?

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35

I mistakenly thought that lyric was from the song “Althea”, which includes these lines:

I told Althea I was feeling lost, lacking in some direction… [“I once was lost, but now I’m found…”]. Read the parables in Luke 15 (Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, Prodigal Son)

Honest to the point of recklessness, self-centered in the extreme… ["You are NOT indispensable.” Pastor Tim Shaw]. “Behold, I am against those who prophesy lying dreams, declares the Lord, and who tell them and lead my people astray by their lies and their recklessness…” Jeremiah 23:32

Ain't nobody messing with you, but you, your friends are getting most concerned. [Friends who are concerned will call you out with kindness. They will not be “nice.”]. ^“I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you soon, so that I too may be cheered by news of you. For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare.” Philippians 2:19-20

There are things you can replace, and others you cannot. ["You are irreplaceable!" Pastor Tim Shaw]. Surprisingly, I could not find any pertinent Bible verses containing “replace”.

The time has come to weigh those things… "A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is his delight.” Proverbs 11:1

Okay, this is not exactly "Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon", but could it possibly be part of a path to a glimpse at clarity?

I often try to remember something and only do so when I really stop trying to think of it. This is akin to the elephant in the room, although it would be hard to stop thinking about an actual elephant, particularly because they do not live where most of us live. So, let’s bring in the big brains to push across and insurance run (or in a nod to football season, push the ball across the goal line).

“As long as your own personality is what you're bothering about you're not going to Him at all. The very first step is to try to forget about the self altogether. Your real, new self (which is Christ's and also yours, and yours because it is his) will not come as long as you're looking for it. It will come when you are looking for Him. Does that sound strange? The same principle holds, you know, for more everyday matters. Even in social life, you will never make a good impression on other people until you stop thinking about what sort of impression you're making. Even in literature and art, the man who bothers about originality will never be original: whereas, if you simply try to tell the truth (without carrying twopence how often it has been told before) you will, nine times out of ten, become original without ever having noticed it. The principle runs through all life from top to bottom. Give up yourself, and you will find your real self. Lose your life, and you will save it.” C.S. Lewis, "Mere Christianity”

The concept of pushing or shoving reminded me of servant leadership. This is expressed in the Bible and (shockingly) my favorite Grateful Dead song:

“…even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28

"You who choose to lead must follow; But if you fall, you fall alone.” (“Ripple” – Hunter/Garcia)

May we gently and firmly push and shove our neighbors and families to know the grace & truth of Jesus Christ, with courage & humility, and through prayer.

Bonus Stuff

Reflections: Finding Our True Selves – C.S. Lewis

https://www.cslewisinstitute.org/resources/reflections-september-2011/

"They Love Each Other” - Hunter/Garcia (Studio version from Jerry Garcia “Reflections”)

“Althea” - Hunter/Garcia (Studio version from “Go to Heaven”):

Really good live version:

"When Push Comes to Shove” - Hunter/Garcia (Studio version from “In the Dark”):

What, pray tell, is this devotional about? Here is a starting point.

"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.” Deut. 6:5

The concept of the human soul is essential to everyone’s world view. It is parallel to the essential dichotomy, “God is” or “God isn’t.” Soul appears 271 times in the Bible (ESV) and in human culture. I have heard secular souls, and even atheists, use the term soul in vastly different ways. He or she is an "old soul”, a “good soul”, "has soul” are commonly used.

Here is a common childhood prayer that says a lot:

“Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep

And if I die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take.”

I recall praying this prayer as a child and having no idea what it meant. Perhaps I intuitively knew it meant that I was loved. But the concept of a soul is difficult to grasp, particularly for a child. I probably never asked my Mom or Dad what this meant. I wonder why they taught me this prayer. John Ortberg wrote a book entitled, "Soul Keeping.” This is a difficult and fascinating concept. God created each of us with a soul, and this is true:

He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake” Psalm 23:3

Our former pastor and still brother Steve Peich routinely asks, "How is your Soul?” Consider this when answering that question. We were each created with an eternal soul, which (by definition) lives on after our mortal bodies cease to thrive. Free will allows you to believe that or not. Choose wisely and ask these three questions (thanks to the Steve Deace Show):

1. Who am I? A search for the question of identity.

2. Why am I here? A question of meaning and purpose.

3. Where am I going? A question of destiny.

When you answer these questions, remember this:

"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?" Matthew 16:26

One of the best songs on one of the best Grateful Dead albums is “Brokedown Palace.” Here are the closing lyrics:

"Fare you well, fare you well; I love you more than words can tell

Listen to the river sing sweet songs; To rock my soul."

This song lyric reminds me of this “Psalm lyric”:

As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. Psalm 42:1

I would love to hear from some of you, as this is obviously a topic that could fill volumes. I will end with this blessing:

"The Lord bless you and keep you;

the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you;

the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

And this…I just LOVE this song…More church organ! Let your Soul Shine with and through the light and love of Jesus.

Cool collaborative version: