Weekly Note From the Pastor
April 23, 2008
I guess I am as bad as the next person, but I am trying to work at it. I don’t think it is intentional, nor did I realize how it sounded… until recently. We get used to it, learn it from those who influenced our lives, and it becomes second nature. But it has really started to stick out to me lately. Let me explain what I am referring to… our negative slant when we engage in small talk.
I often tease Sherri because when we are with someone visiting, she can’t stand for there to be any dead space. I am a bit of a slow talker anyway, so I make her really nervous when we are sharing with others, especially if we are just getting to know them. Therefore, she ends up doing most of the talking. I sometimes wait as long as possible to respond if asked a question just to tease with her… we know each other well and I often get a discreet pinch as we try to conceal our inside joke.
All of us, however, are guilty of ‘small talking’ now and again. To me, the best definition that accurately describes it is: ‘conversation for its own sake.’ Other good synonyms include chin wagging, tittle-tattle, and gabfest. There is nothing wrong with this chit chat, in fact, I am thankful at times for light-hearted conversation that gives my mind a rest and allows my guard to come down. However, I have noticed that we often tend to chatter in a ‘gripey’ way more often than in a positive way. And some of the news we would put in the constructive category borders on gossip. Some of the more popular topics are the uncomfortable temperature, a weariness of some form, or the busyness of life. Take a listen for yourself and see if you concur.
“Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word nor unwholesome or worthless talk [ever] come out of your mouth, but only such [speech] as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God’s favor) to those who hear it..” Ephesians 4:29 AMP
Jeff’s Favs
April 22, 2008
As most of my friends know, I like good restaurants and particular, good dishes. When I find one I like, I eat it over and over until I get tired of it. My philosophy is, “If you find what you like at an establishment, why waste time and money searching for what you have already found.” Once I get tired of it, I will then try something else. And it is not that I am not adventurous, Sherri and I love trying new diners and tasting a variety of foods. But once found, I enjoy the ride until the wave subsides!
Sunday night, I was sitting at my favorite restaurant for my birthday and eating what is probably my top dish in the metroplex, when a thought came to me. People are asking me about my favorites, so why not just share on my Blog occasionally so that others can try them if they like. I always give a listening ear when someone tells about their choice of food. So, here go… the restaurant I am referring to is Tom Tom Noodle House (3699 McKinney Ave,
Thanks…
April 22, 2008
I just wanted to express my appreciation for all of the expressions of love and happy wishes for my birthday. It was a good one, if that is possble at my age, because you made it so…
Weekly Note From the Pastor
April 16, 2008
I am so proud of my kids! I dreamed and prayed when they were young, that when they became of age, good choices and decisions would be a natural part of their life. And the things that I have tried to teach would be beneficial to them. And when I feel like they ‘get it’ a sense of relief and satisfaction comes over me. During those times of training, they would look at me like I was crazy, not completely understanding why or what I was saying. It didn’t make sense to them. But then that moment comes, through maturity or experience, when they ‘get it.’ You know it and they know it. What a proud moment indeed, because sometimes they get it in spite of me!
“Fathers, do not irritate and provoke your children to anger [do not exasperate them to resentment], but rear them [tenderly] in the training and discipline and the counsel and admonition of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:4 AMP
Weekly Note From the Pastor
April 10, 2008
I have been concerned about the marriages and families of our church. It seems the enemy is bringing a heavy attack upon the home. However, I sometimes feel that I have been completely exhaustive in teaching in this area and wonder why we just don’t get it. But I also realize that even in my own marriage, if I don’t reiterate and study and work on the various areas of weakness and struggles… any relationship can labor. We are so bombarded with the selfish and unrighteous ways of the world, which if we aren’t careful and fully armored at all times, we can become desensitized and forget the full Truth and its application. Let me encourage you today, allow God’s Word to be your main counselor. Let His Truth initiate the needed change. Enlist the help of the Holy Spirit to cover and anoint your loved ones and these vital relations that are so important in your life. Don’t let the cares of life and the battles of the flesh cause the insight you have received to fade into oblivion. God doesn’t change, only our perceptions fluctuate.
“Examine and test and evaluate your own selves to see whether you are holding to your faith and showing the proper fruits of it. Test and prove yourselves [not Christ]. Do you not yourselves realize and know [thoroughly by an ever-increasing experience] that Jesus Christ is in you–unless you are [counterfeits] disapproved on trial and rejected?” 2 Corinthians 13:5 AMP
Jobs for Barron’s
April 8, 2008
Venezia, Windy and Abraham are wanting me to find some part time jobs for them. They want to help pay for some of their own costs so that Rosa won’t won’t have as much to be responsible for and to honor what everyone else has done for them. They still have school activities and church responsibilities, but if you know of a job possibiliy, please let me know.
AOL Reveal
April 3, 2008
The Sunday night Act of Love Reveal was incredible. The energy and genuine love that was conveyed when they entered the building was incredible. It was an expression that will not quickly be forgotten. The family did not know how to act… they talked about it for days. We are speaking about life-altering events in the hearts of individuals that will put them on a more sure-footed path to success and God’s best. I could not be more proud and pleased as a pastor!
Weekly Note From the Pastor
April 2, 2008
I sometimes think about things of the past, even my childhood and wonder how I ended up where I am today. I don’t remember exactly what I fanaticized about, but it certainly wasn’t what I am doing now. My dreams were more likely about playing for the Dallas Cowboys or Texas Rangers. The places I have been, the people I have met, the things I have done… all of which contributed to where and what I am today. We sometimes don’t realize how impactful one simple decision can be. I can proudly say that I must have been blessed in my decisions to be fortunate enough to be in this place today. Thank you Jesus!
“Wise choices will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.” Proverbs 2:11 NLT
