Without Hope We Perish

We are living in a day when Hope seems like a fleeting thought to many.
Economies are failing, diseases are rampant and the traditional home is
struggling to survive. Nations continue to fight against nations, and our
children know less and less about working together, but rather learn more
about our differences that drive us a part. What can I say, we are in need
of serious change.

Given the previous paragraph's assessment of our times, throw in our Saviour
Jesus Christ and His appraisal of his generation. Read with me
Luke 11:29-36, " 29 When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, "This generation
is an evil generation; it asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of
Jonah. 30 For just as Jonah became a sign to the people of Nineveh, so the Son of Man
will be to this generation. 31 The queen of the South will rise at the judgment with the
people of this generation and condemn them, because she came from the ends of the
earth to listen to the wisdom of Solomon, and see, something greater than Solomon is
here! 32 The people of Nineveh will rise up at the judgment with this generation and
condemn it, because they repented at the proclamation of Jonah, and see, something
greater than Jonah is here! "

The generation He lived in doesn't seem much different than ours except for the
props and background setting. Yet, in the midst of it Jesus gives a powerful
declaration of Hope. " Something greater than Jonah is here! " Now of course
he was talking about himself. The Son of God, the God-Man in flesh was on
earth and as long as He was on the scene ANYTHING was possible, for nothing
was impossible for Him.

Now take a look at this little story I came across about a certain laboratory
experiment, and see how it can parallel the situation we live in today.

A number of years ago researchers performed an experiment to see the effect hope
has on those undergoing hardship. Two sets of laboratory rats were placed in separate
tubs of water. The researchers left one set in the water and found that within an hour
they had all drowned. The other rats were periodically lifted out of the water and then
returned. When that happened, the second set of rats swam for over 24 hours.
Why? Not because they were given a rest, but because they suddenly had hope!
Those animals somehow hoped that if they could stay afloat just a little longer, someone
would reach down and rescue them. If hope holds such power for unthinking rodents,
how much greater should is effect be on our lives. Today in the Word, May, 1990, MBI,
p. 34

What made the one set of animals prevail so much longer and stronger. HOPE!!!!
The same is true today in our situation in life. The Lord is in our midst, and even
if things seem very difficult and out of control, just the very present hope of His
ministry in our midst gives us a totally different appraisal of the situation, and
hope when we can't even see the future at all.

Never give up, and understand that He is as close as the mention of His Name.
There is Hope.

What A Day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I was able to watch and listen to much of the festivities in Washington
D.C. today. Now I didn't have the privilege that my sister and her
family had to BE there. Nevertheless, it was inspiring and I had
a wonderful sense of optimism and hope for our nation's future.

I am believing God, that with this fine couple and the folks they
have invited to serve with them. That our nation will engage in a
much different and constitutional direction. Not looking to start
wars or pursue vain illusions. Instead, pushing forward and agenda
that reinvigorates the economy, gives healthcare to all and
greater opportunities for all.

Yes, I am trusting that America is now back in the People's hands.
With representation for the people and not for gross personal
gain.

Challenging Day.

I had a variety of calls to make today, and a computer to repair for
a church and return. Quite busy, and then I had to try to get some
governmental incorporation bi-annual reports done and exams to
put online for the School of Faith for this semester. Wow! I didn't get
it all done, but I tried.

Sure hope to finally reach my sister by phone tomorrow. Plus, I'd like
to take a few days off to travel, but have to put some monies together.
My secular job is cutting me down to only 20 hours a week, so I definitely
should be free for some time off. I only wish to have a full time
commitment with the church or another opportunity galvanized
in a few short weeks.

Thinking Of Dad Again Today

Things seem so out of place. I mean, I just can't believe I can't call Dad
and say hi. Or, just go and spend some time with him over the weekend.
I truly wish like anyone would, that I had spent more time with him
the past year. I know he always wanted me to come down to Falls City
to see him. Yet, he understood it was over 300 miles away. He never
wanted me to jeopardize work to go see him. Heck, work doesn't seem
to important to me today.

Love you, and miss you Dad. You were there for me. You prayed for
me, and I enjoyed our time together Dad. Love, Pat
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I truly am getting tired of running around taking care of every situation or
just keeping things going. I find the greatest satisfaction in hearing my kids
voices, or helping a hurting soul, or ministering God's Word to help a
person grow in their faith.

Wow! It truly has been a day of thought and wonderment. Oh well, life goes
on and God is still on the throne. I'm just glad someone smarter than I is
in charge, amen.