2010.04.19 Monday Morning!

Top of the morning from Pilgrim Presbyterian Church in Vinita, Oklahoma. Come visit us if you are in the area. Our Sunday service begins at 10 a.m.

From the four pen-sketches in the Bible (Genesis 2 - 11:9) we learn that human beings rebel against the sovereignty of God and want to do things "our own way".  It reminds me of the song, "I'll do it my way!"

False pride, in contrast to legitimate pride, is our downfall!

Am I right or wrong in my diagnosis of our human situation?  That is something for you to make up your own mind.  Clearly, however, the Bible teaches that we'll not have purpose or meaning in life unless we accept the authority of God.

It is not always easy to accept that when we make moral and ethical decisions.  Perhaps you'll find those decisions easier to make if you ask yourself, "Could I tell my parents, or my son or daughter, about my choice?"  If you know that your decision will likely need a cover-up if discovered, you probably need to review your decision.

Cheers,

Richard


PS: Have you been listing your favorite Bible verses as a part of our "to know" the Bible program?  Topping my list are: Micah 6:6-8 and Luke 10:27-28.  For me, they are the high water marks of all religions.   R.

2009.02.23 Monday Morning! #2

Greetings and best wishes from Pilgrim Presbyterian Church, located in the heart of Vinita, Oklahoma!

Ash Wednesday, February 25, begins our Lenten journey. Lent offers us an opportunity for self-examination, which I know is important in my life. Why are there times when I think I have to be right and everyone else is wrong? Pride? Maybe! When those times assail me I try to think of the "cockroach theory".

Have you heard about that theory?

There was a scientist who was convinced he could teach a cockroach to respond to oral commands.

He set out to prove this theory and worked for months. He repeatedly said JUMP while his finger was extended before the roach. Finally the roach did jump. He was elated; his notion was correct.

Then he decided to carry the experiment further. He cut off the front legs of the roach and said JUMP. The roach, in time, did manage to get over his finger.

Next the scientist took off the rear set of legs. When he said JUMP the roach just laid there motionless.

Dismayed the scientist took out his notebook and made this entry: "When a cockroach's legs are removed, deafness occurs."

God save me from having to prove myself right all the time!


Amen and amen,
Richard