YouTube - Arise my love ASL
Not a word was heard
at the tomb that day,
Just shuffling of soldiers' feet
As they guarded the grave.
One day, two days,
three days, had past.
Could it be that Jesus
breathed his last?
Could it be that his Father
had forsaken him?
Turned his back on his son
despising our sin.
All hell seemed to whisper
'Just forget Him, He's dead.'
Then the Father looked down
to his son and he said . . .
Arise, My love
Arise, My love
The grave no longer
has a hold on you
No more death's sting
No more suffering
Arise . . . Arise . . . my love.
The earth trembled
And the tomb began to shake,
And like lightning
from Heaven the stone was rolled away.
And as dead man
the guards, they all stod there in fright
as the power of love
displayed its might
Then suddenly a melody
filled the air
Riding the wings of wind,
it was everywhere
The words all creation
had been longing to hear
The sweet sounds of victory,
so loud and clear,
Arise, My love
Arise, My love
The grave no longer
has a hold on you
No more death's sting
No more suffering
Arise . . . Arise . . .
Sin, where are your shackles?
Death, where's your sting?
Hell; has been defeated.
The grave could not hold the king.
Arise, My love
Arise, My love
The grave no longer
has a hold on you
No more death's sting
No more suffering
Arise . . . Arise . . .
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Friday, April 2, 2010
The Tomb is Empty--He is Risen
(Luke 24:1-12) "Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee. Saying, The son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. And they remembered his words. And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest. It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles. And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not. Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass."
I also want to look real quickly at I Corinthians 15:13-19. "But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: and if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is in vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable." I've sung the famous congregational hymn in church several times, "He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today. He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives . . . He lives . . . within my heart." Thank God we serve a risen Christ. As I Corinthians bares out, if Christ had not risen from the dead, we would be of all men most miserable. Mankind could never be saved if Christ just died on the cross and remained in the grave. If Christ's body was in the grave, then no mankind could ever become saved or enter into Heaven.
In Genesis we read about the Fall of mankind. Adam fell and as a result he immediately died. He didn't die physically right away, but his communion with God was severed. The fellowship Adam enjoyed with God was severed because of his sin. As a result, the human race has been plunged into sin. Mankind is separated from God and doesn't know life. Mankind has been in the state of sin since that time. Romans says that the wages of sin is death. Spiritual death was the first death that took place. As a result of sin, physical death one day takes it's toll. Death is a result of the curse of sin. As a result of Adam's sin, God placed a curse on the ground and there was toil in labor. It took the second Adam, which was Jesus, to reconcile us to God. Jesus became sin on Calvary in order to wash away man's sins and reconcile us to God. However, death is a result of sin. Therefore, it wasn't sufficient alone for Christ to be crucified on the cross and shed his blood. He had to rise from the grave in order to defeat death and Hell. If he hadn't risen from the dead, then man couldn't be freed from the curse of sin. Man couldn't be saved if Jesus didn't rise from the grave. His resurrection defeated Satan and all his demons. No "god" has ever risen from the dead when he died. Buddha, Mohammad, Confuscious, and Taze Russell never arose from the grave. Their corpses are still in the grave. Jesus arose from the grave with a glorified body and now he's seated on the right hand of the Father.
One of these days when Jesus comes back for his bride, the dead in Christ shall arise first from the grave with new glorified bodies. And those of us that are alive and remain shall be caught up together with Him in the clouds. (I Thessalonians 4:16-17) What a day that will be! We can celebrate the resurrection on Easter because Jesus arose. He's alive forevermore. He's alive everyday. The resurrection of Christ is something that should be celebrate 365 days a year. Because of the resurrection, we know that all the trials on this earth is just temporary. We have reason to celebrate. That's why missionaries flock to the ends of the world. It's because Jesus arose. If he hadn't risen, then all the churches that are built, all the preaching that takes place today, and all the missionaries being sent around the world would be in vain. It would be useless. It would be just as useless to send missionaries around the world if Christ hadn't risen as it would be for Christ to have died on the cross if man could be saved any other way.
Without the resurrection, hell and the grave wouldn't be defeated. Man would still be in their sins. Christ's resurrection put the final nail on sin and death. The resurrection of Christ says that the Devil is a liar and he can't defeat God. God is greater than all the Devil's devices. Satan throughout the ages tried to thwart God's plan in redeeming mankind. He tried to in the Old Testament, but to no avail. In the New Testament, he used King Herod to try to find the infant Jesus and have him killed. Satan also tempted Jesus in the wilderness to get him to sin. He would not. The Devil would use the scribes and Pharisees to trick Jesus into sinning. It never worked. Even in the Garden of Gethesamane when Jesus' soul was sorrowful unto death, the Devil couldn't cause Jesus to back away from the will of the Father. Nothing the Devil could do could deter Jesus from fulfilling his mission to die for the sins of mankind and arise from the grave. Praise God! He arose from the grave! He's alive forevermore!
I also want to look real quickly at I Corinthians 15:13-19. "But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: and if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is in vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable." I've sung the famous congregational hymn in church several times, "He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today. He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart. You ask me how I know He lives . . . He lives . . . within my heart." Thank God we serve a risen Christ. As I Corinthians bares out, if Christ had not risen from the dead, we would be of all men most miserable. Mankind could never be saved if Christ just died on the cross and remained in the grave. If Christ's body was in the grave, then no mankind could ever become saved or enter into Heaven.
In Genesis we read about the Fall of mankind. Adam fell and as a result he immediately died. He didn't die physically right away, but his communion with God was severed. The fellowship Adam enjoyed with God was severed because of his sin. As a result, the human race has been plunged into sin. Mankind is separated from God and doesn't know life. Mankind has been in the state of sin since that time. Romans says that the wages of sin is death. Spiritual death was the first death that took place. As a result of sin, physical death one day takes it's toll. Death is a result of the curse of sin. As a result of Adam's sin, God placed a curse on the ground and there was toil in labor. It took the second Adam, which was Jesus, to reconcile us to God. Jesus became sin on Calvary in order to wash away man's sins and reconcile us to God. However, death is a result of sin. Therefore, it wasn't sufficient alone for Christ to be crucified on the cross and shed his blood. He had to rise from the grave in order to defeat death and Hell. If he hadn't risen from the dead, then man couldn't be freed from the curse of sin. Man couldn't be saved if Jesus didn't rise from the grave. His resurrection defeated Satan and all his demons. No "god" has ever risen from the dead when he died. Buddha, Mohammad, Confuscious, and Taze Russell never arose from the grave. Their corpses are still in the grave. Jesus arose from the grave with a glorified body and now he's seated on the right hand of the Father.
One of these days when Jesus comes back for his bride, the dead in Christ shall arise first from the grave with new glorified bodies. And those of us that are alive and remain shall be caught up together with Him in the clouds. (I Thessalonians 4:16-17) What a day that will be! We can celebrate the resurrection on Easter because Jesus arose. He's alive forevermore. He's alive everyday. The resurrection of Christ is something that should be celebrate 365 days a year. Because of the resurrection, we know that all the trials on this earth is just temporary. We have reason to celebrate. That's why missionaries flock to the ends of the world. It's because Jesus arose. If he hadn't risen, then all the churches that are built, all the preaching that takes place today, and all the missionaries being sent around the world would be in vain. It would be useless. It would be just as useless to send missionaries around the world if Christ hadn't risen as it would be for Christ to have died on the cross if man could be saved any other way.
Without the resurrection, hell and the grave wouldn't be defeated. Man would still be in their sins. Christ's resurrection put the final nail on sin and death. The resurrection of Christ says that the Devil is a liar and he can't defeat God. God is greater than all the Devil's devices. Satan throughout the ages tried to thwart God's plan in redeeming mankind. He tried to in the Old Testament, but to no avail. In the New Testament, he used King Herod to try to find the infant Jesus and have him killed. Satan also tempted Jesus in the wilderness to get him to sin. He would not. The Devil would use the scribes and Pharisees to trick Jesus into sinning. It never worked. Even in the Garden of Gethesamane when Jesus' soul was sorrowful unto death, the Devil couldn't cause Jesus to back away from the will of the Father. Nothing the Devil could do could deter Jesus from fulfilling his mission to die for the sins of mankind and arise from the grave. Praise God! He arose from the grave! He's alive forevermore!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
The Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
(John 18:28-40) "Then led they Jesus from Caiphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover. Pilate then went out unto them, and said, What accusation bring ye against this man? They answered and said unto him, If he were not a malefactor, we would not have delivered him up unto thee. Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. The Jews therefore said unto him, It is not lawful for us to put any man to death: That the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, signifying what death he should die. Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews? Jesus answered him, Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of me? Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done? Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice. Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all. Be ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the passover: will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews? Then cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.
(John 19:1-42) "Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. And the soldiers plaited a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe, And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands. Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that find no fault in him. Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man! When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him. Then Jews answered him. We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of god. When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid; And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer. Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin. And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar. When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hewbrew, Gabbatha. And it was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour: and he saith unto the Jews, Behold your King! But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesr. Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away.
And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha: Where they crucified him, and two other with him, on either side one, and Jesus in the midst. And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS. This title then read many of the Jews; for the place Jesus was crucified was night to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin. Then said the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate, Write not, The King of the Jews; but that he said, I am King of the Jews. Pilate answered, What I have written I have written. Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took hsi garments and made four parts, to everysoldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did. Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he oved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! and from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home. After this, jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith I thirst. Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar; and they filled a sponge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop and put it to his mouth. When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.
The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day was an high day,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and of the other which was crucified with him. But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs: But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water. And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe. For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken. And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they pierced. And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus. And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloe, about an hundred pound weight. Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury. Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid. There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand."
Jesus bore it all on Calvary. I think of that hymn which says, Jesus Paid it all, all to him I owe, sin had left a crimson stain, he washed it white as snow. Those religious people that teach and believe in good works fail to recognize that if man could merit his salvation, Jesus would've died in vain. The only way man can be saved is by trusting in what Jesus did at Calvary. Man must repent of his sins and trust Jesus as his Lord and Saviour. We should never lose sight of Calvary. We celebrate Easter in remembrance of the sacrifice Jesus paid on Calvary.
(John 19:1-42) "Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. And the soldiers plaited a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe, And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands. Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that find no fault in him. Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man! When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him. Then Jews answered him. We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of god. When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid; And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer. Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin. And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar. When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hewbrew, Gabbatha. And it was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour: and he saith unto the Jews, Behold your King! But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesr. Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away.
And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha: Where they crucified him, and two other with him, on either side one, and Jesus in the midst. And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS. This title then read many of the Jews; for the place Jesus was crucified was night to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin. Then said the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate, Write not, The King of the Jews; but that he said, I am King of the Jews. Pilate answered, What I have written I have written. Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took hsi garments and made four parts, to everysoldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did. Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he oved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! and from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home. After this, jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith I thirst. Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar; and they filled a sponge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop and put it to his mouth. When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.
The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day was an high day,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and of the other which was crucified with him. But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs: But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water. And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe. For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken. And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they pierced. And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus. And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloe, about an hundred pound weight. Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury. Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid. There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand."
Jesus bore it all on Calvary. I think of that hymn which says, Jesus Paid it all, all to him I owe, sin had left a crimson stain, he washed it white as snow. Those religious people that teach and believe in good works fail to recognize that if man could merit his salvation, Jesus would've died in vain. The only way man can be saved is by trusting in what Jesus did at Calvary. Man must repent of his sins and trust Jesus as his Lord and Saviour. We should never lose sight of Calvary. We celebrate Easter in remembrance of the sacrifice Jesus paid on Calvary.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
YouTube - Behold the Lamb
YouTube - Behold the Lamb
This song was penned by Dottie Rambo
Behold the Lamb, behold the Lamb
Slain from the foundation of the world,
For sinners crucified, oh Holy sacrifice,
Behold the Lamb of God, behold the Lamb, Ah!
Crown Him, crown Him
Worthy is the Lamb
Worthy is the Lamb, praise Him.
Worthy is the Lamb, praise Him.
Heaven and earth resound!
Behold the Lamb, behold the Lamb
Slain from the foundation of the world,
For sinners crucified, oh Holy sacrifice
Behold the Lamb of God, behold the Lamb of God
Behold the Lamb of God, behold the Lamb, the Lamb!
This song was penned by Dottie Rambo
Behold the Lamb, behold the Lamb
Slain from the foundation of the world,
For sinners crucified, oh Holy sacrifice,
Behold the Lamb of God, behold the Lamb, Ah!
Crown Him, crown Him
Worthy is the Lamb
Worthy is the Lamb, praise Him.
Worthy is the Lamb, praise Him.
Heaven and earth resound!
Behold the Lamb, behold the Lamb
Slain from the foundation of the world,
For sinners crucified, oh Holy sacrifice
Behold the Lamb of God, behold the Lamb of God
Behold the Lamb of God, behold the Lamb, the Lamb!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Jesus Sweat as it Were Great Drops of Blood
(Luke 22:39-44) And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the mount of Olives; and his disciples also followed him. And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation. And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed, Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Jesus was preparing for the moment when he would have to lay his life down on the cross for mankind's sin. Jesus was about ready to do something he had never done before since the dawn of time. I've personally never known of anyone to sweat as of drops of great blood, but Jesus knew he would have to partake of that bitter cup. He was in anguish. He was willing to be in the perfect will of his Father. He was at a moment of struggle. He wasn't engaged in unbelief. However, what Jesus had to encounter was something that he never had known before. For the very first time in his life, he would have to taste death for mankind.
Hebrews 2:9 mentions about Jesus tasting death for mankind. When we read about Jesus' death on the cross, we think of the cruel, physical torture that Jesus had to experience for mankind. There's no doubt Jesus was in great agony physically. He was beaten beyond recognition. He was beaten to a pulp. There was a crown of thorns placed on his head. There were nails driven in the palms of his hands to hold him to the cross. The soldier took a spear to his side and blood and water came out. Jesus experienced the most horrible death mankind ever experienced. When he was on the cross, he showed his love for mankind. He said in Luke 23:34 "Father, forgiven them; for they know not what they do." In the midst of the most horrendous beating he had to take upon himself, he still asked the Father to forgive them. That's love. That's love unexplainable.
As horrible and cruel as the physical torture was on Jesus, that was not the death Jesus was agonizing over. It was tasting spiritual death that Jesus was struggling over. Before the foundation of the world was laid, Jesus was chosen to be that spotless lamb to die on the cross for the sins of mankind. In order to be that lamb, he had to be without sin. In the Old Testament, when the priest performed sacrifices to atone for the sins of Israel, the lamb that was offered was an offering for sin. The lamb was to die in the place of those that were sinners. Jesus was made a sin offering. He became sin for us that we might be redeemed from sin for time and eternity. Jesus had to know what sin tasted like. That's what he experienced on the cross. He bore all of mankind's sins when he died that day on Golgatha's Hill. He took on the sin of lying, cheating, fornication, crookedness, or any other sin imaginable. All of mankind's filthy sins were heaped upon Jesus. Jesus bore all that on the cross. Jesus had to experienced separation from God the Father for the first time. When you read scripture, it's evident God hates sin. God can't look on sin. Even though it was his own son on the cross, God the Father couldn't stand to look at Jesus. That's why Jesus said in Matthew 27:46 "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, la-ma sa-bach-tha-ni? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" Jesus had to experience separation from the Father in order for the process of salvation to be complete. He had to experience the sting of death and separation from the Father. That's what he did when he was upon Calvary. What a Saviour! Just imagine what it would be like if your earthly father decided to not look upon you and turn his back on you. It would be a sad sight. That's what Jesus had to experience on the cross for the sins of mankind.
I was reading some of the reasons why Jesus was sweating as it were great drops as of blood on the ground on a website. It was saying that Jesus was sweating great drops of blood because the whole nation of Israel whom he came to save had rejected him. Other reasons given were that Judas was about to betray him. The other reasons were that Peter was about to deny him three times and his disciples were asleep in the garden. Jesus knew what was to come before him. The most important reason for his coming to this earth was about to be fulfilled. He knew he had to partake that bitter cup. He needed strength from the Father. That showed that he was man. He was perfect and sinned not. However, he also had a human body. He needed to pray for the affirmation of God's perfect will. Some people would consider that weakness. However, Jesus knew what the bitter cup would contain. He didn't relish the thought of having to be separated from God the Father. Thank God that Jesus was obedient unto death. We'll never realize until we get to heaven the magnitude of the price that Jesus paid on Calvary. We'll understand what Jesus did on the cross more fully when we get to heaven. If we could ever catch a glimpse of the price Jesus paid on Calvary and recognize what he had to endure for our sakes, it would humble us and help us to recognize what a great Saviour we serve. We should serve him willingly when we recognize the price Jesus paid on Calvary. As the song goes, he traded "His Life for Mine."
Hebrews 2:9 mentions about Jesus tasting death for mankind. When we read about Jesus' death on the cross, we think of the cruel, physical torture that Jesus had to experience for mankind. There's no doubt Jesus was in great agony physically. He was beaten beyond recognition. He was beaten to a pulp. There was a crown of thorns placed on his head. There were nails driven in the palms of his hands to hold him to the cross. The soldier took a spear to his side and blood and water came out. Jesus experienced the most horrible death mankind ever experienced. When he was on the cross, he showed his love for mankind. He said in Luke 23:34 "Father, forgiven them; for they know not what they do." In the midst of the most horrendous beating he had to take upon himself, he still asked the Father to forgive them. That's love. That's love unexplainable.
As horrible and cruel as the physical torture was on Jesus, that was not the death Jesus was agonizing over. It was tasting spiritual death that Jesus was struggling over. Before the foundation of the world was laid, Jesus was chosen to be that spotless lamb to die on the cross for the sins of mankind. In order to be that lamb, he had to be without sin. In the Old Testament, when the priest performed sacrifices to atone for the sins of Israel, the lamb that was offered was an offering for sin. The lamb was to die in the place of those that were sinners. Jesus was made a sin offering. He became sin for us that we might be redeemed from sin for time and eternity. Jesus had to know what sin tasted like. That's what he experienced on the cross. He bore all of mankind's sins when he died that day on Golgatha's Hill. He took on the sin of lying, cheating, fornication, crookedness, or any other sin imaginable. All of mankind's filthy sins were heaped upon Jesus. Jesus bore all that on the cross. Jesus had to experienced separation from God the Father for the first time. When you read scripture, it's evident God hates sin. God can't look on sin. Even though it was his own son on the cross, God the Father couldn't stand to look at Jesus. That's why Jesus said in Matthew 27:46 "And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, la-ma sa-bach-tha-ni? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" Jesus had to experience separation from the Father in order for the process of salvation to be complete. He had to experience the sting of death and separation from the Father. That's what he did when he was upon Calvary. What a Saviour! Just imagine what it would be like if your earthly father decided to not look upon you and turn his back on you. It would be a sad sight. That's what Jesus had to experience on the cross for the sins of mankind.
I was reading some of the reasons why Jesus was sweating as it were great drops as of blood on the ground on a website. It was saying that Jesus was sweating great drops of blood because the whole nation of Israel whom he came to save had rejected him. Other reasons given were that Judas was about to betray him. The other reasons were that Peter was about to deny him three times and his disciples were asleep in the garden. Jesus knew what was to come before him. The most important reason for his coming to this earth was about to be fulfilled. He knew he had to partake that bitter cup. He needed strength from the Father. That showed that he was man. He was perfect and sinned not. However, he also had a human body. He needed to pray for the affirmation of God's perfect will. Some people would consider that weakness. However, Jesus knew what the bitter cup would contain. He didn't relish the thought of having to be separated from God the Father. Thank God that Jesus was obedient unto death. We'll never realize until we get to heaven the magnitude of the price that Jesus paid on Calvary. We'll understand what Jesus did on the cross more fully when we get to heaven. If we could ever catch a glimpse of the price Jesus paid on Calvary and recognize what he had to endure for our sakes, it would humble us and help us to recognize what a great Saviour we serve. We should serve him willingly when we recognize the price Jesus paid on Calvary. As the song goes, he traded "His Life for Mine."
Monday, March 29, 2010
Edith Bennett
Ms. Edith Lillian Bennett is quite a legend in Owensboro--at least in my way of thinking. The Livermore born native has been employed at Owensboro's 1490 AM WOMI Radio station since November 1950. She's involved herself in all kinds of community events over the years she's lived in and has been associated with Owensboro. She's performed for Owensboro's Annual Chorus Society since 1954 and has been a past member of the Daviess County Historical Society. She likes local history, state history, genealogical history, U.S. history, scrapbooking, taking photographs and all kinds of music. On Sunday mornings from 5:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. she hosts two radio programs. The first one, Radio Church Chapel, begins at 5: 00 a.m. and lasts until 8:00 a.m. At 8:00 a.m. she hosts the program entitled, "Down Memory Lane" where she plays a lot of the oldies music such as jazz, orchestra, Guy Lombardo hits, and seasonal music (depending upon the upcoming holiday at the time).
Edith Bennett was born at Livermore, Kentucky on June 21, 1931 to Dorsey Bennett and a "Ms. Lucy?" Bennett. Her half brother was Wendell Rone, who used to pastor several churches across the McLean-Daviess County area. He's written some books on local church history. He was also president of the Daviess-McLean County Baptist Association. He was also the first pastor at Bellevue Baptist Church in Owensboro in 1959. Ms. Bennett attended school in Livermore and once she graduated she attended the Owensboro Junior Business College. In November 1950, Hugh O. Potter, then station manager at WOMI, hired her to work the Sunday morning shift. She started out on Sunday mornings working the 5:00 - 9:00 a.m. shift, according to the WOMI timeline on the station's website. She used to make studio recordings for the Faith Family Quartet who used to live in the Beech Grove Area. She later became the secretary, the receptionist, and continuity writer at WOMI. In April 1972 she was given her own Sunday morning program. In 1973, she was promoted to Traffic and Office Manager. I don't know the year but I believe it was around 1995 when she became semi-retired from the station. Today she hosts both of the Sunday morning programs for WOMI out of her own home, which has been but a couple of years ago. She also continues hosting WOMI's Christmas program on Christmas Eve beginning at 3:00 p.m. and for the large part of Christmas Day. She's hosted WOMI's Christmas program for a number of years. She features all kinds of Christmas music such as Christmas carols, orchestra music, music from the collection of various albums she has, etc. Carl Davis, her friend and one-time news director on WOMI, is with her on Christmas Day and he features music from Owensboro's Music Symphony. This past Christmas he shared a Christmas album that the once retail store, W.T. Grants, used to record.
On the "Radio Church Chapel", Ms. Bennett plays a wide range of gospel music on her program. It features music and the spoken word. "Down Memory Lane" hosts all kinds of different music from yesteryear. Depending upon the season or holiday, Ms. Bennett will air programs to fit the time of the year. During WOMI's anniversary month in February for example, she'll play old clips from some of the early years on WOMI from such people as Hugh and Cliffordean Potter. She also will air segments describing both George Washington and Abraham Lincoln given February is their birth month. She'll also air segments on some famous black people in American history as well. During Veteran's Day, Memorial Day, and the Fourth of July, she'll devote both her pgorams commemorating America's heritage during these particular holidays. She'll play patriotic music and remember the sacrifices many war veterans have made over the course of history. In 1987 in commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution, Ms. Bennett celebrated the Constitution on her radio programs featuring segments of U.S. history and the delegates to the Philadelphia Convention. She loves Christmas. Beginning with Sunday following Thanksgiving until the New Year's she'll air all kinds of Christmas music on her programs and she'll discuss what the meaning of Christmas is. She's also aired some old segments that Cliffordean Potter made on Christmas during the Stork Program. (Ms. Potter used to host a stork program interviewing the parents of newborns several decades ago). I've thoroughly enjoyed some of her holiday and seasonal programs. Sometimes on "Down Memory Lane" when there's five Sundays in a month she'll host "Fifth Sunday Singing" featuring gospel quartets.
Ms. Bennett also has written some books about local history such as Lest We Forget mentioning about the history of Livermore, Kentucky. She's also authored other books such as Owensboro's Soundest Citizen (WOMI), Hunt-Hebron Highlights 25 Years Later: All in the Family, Spider Webs, A Steamer Trunk, And Slavery (Co-authored by Lenora Lindley).
Ms. Edith Bennett is also a member of the Kentucky Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was the past president of it in 1989. She is a descendant to a former Revolutionary War soldier, whom I believe the last name was Hunt. In order to be a member of DARS, you must trace your lineage to a Revolutionary War soldier. She's been singing in the Owensbor's Annual Choral Society's presentation of "The Messiah" since 1954 and still performs to this day at Third Baptist Church. She has a long collection of albums ranging from gospel, to patriotic music, all the way to musical hits of the '30's and '40's. There was a picture in the Owensboro's Messenger-Inquirer which displayed a shelf full of albums in her home. She's had to convert some of her albums into CD's whenever she produces a program on the radio. She's the Financial Secretary at Third Baptist Church, a position she's held since August 1981. She's also a member there and heavily involved in the activities of the church.
Around 1960, she went with her father on a trip to Ontario, Canada. While she was in Canada, she had some car trouble and she asked them was there any historic places to visit in Canada. They told her about the Josiah Henson museum in Canada. They saw she had a Kentucky license plate. They told her Josiah Henson was once a slave in the Daviess County area. When she arrived back in Owensboro, she told Dr. Potter and the staff of WOMI about what she learned while in Canada. They dismissed that notion at that time. However, several years later Mr. Potter and Dr. David Orrahood went out on a history junket and found out what Ms. Bennett was told was correct. They had interviewed Ms. Sue Hawes of Yelvington, who was the great-granddaughter of Amos Riley, a former slave owner, who owned Josiah Henson for a time. She told Potter and the museum curator in Ontario of what she knew. Eventually everything she was told was eventually substantiated. When Hugh O. Potter wrote a book about the history of Owensboro, he included the story which stated that Josiah Henson lived in Daviess County.
I've never met Ms. Bennett, but I've listened to her Sunday morning radio programs extensively for the last few years. I also have listened to her annual Christmas programs as well. When you listen to someone on radio for a long time, you learn several things about them. You basically give a piece of your life away to the public when you broadcast on radio. You become an open book. I've spoken to some people in Owensboro that know her personally. They say she's a great Christian lady that's very kind and compassionate. I've never heard a derogatory word about her. From listening to her, she seems to be a very happy and content lady. That's something considering she's never been married. But she's learned where true joy and peace come from. It comes from God. My hat's off to Ms. Bennett and all the work she's involved herself with. She's a very remarkable lady!
Edith Bennett was born at Livermore, Kentucky on June 21, 1931 to Dorsey Bennett and a "Ms. Lucy?" Bennett. Her half brother was Wendell Rone, who used to pastor several churches across the McLean-Daviess County area. He's written some books on local church history. He was also president of the Daviess-McLean County Baptist Association. He was also the first pastor at Bellevue Baptist Church in Owensboro in 1959. Ms. Bennett attended school in Livermore and once she graduated she attended the Owensboro Junior Business College. In November 1950, Hugh O. Potter, then station manager at WOMI, hired her to work the Sunday morning shift. She started out on Sunday mornings working the 5:00 - 9:00 a.m. shift, according to the WOMI timeline on the station's website. She used to make studio recordings for the Faith Family Quartet who used to live in the Beech Grove Area. She later became the secretary, the receptionist, and continuity writer at WOMI. In April 1972 she was given her own Sunday morning program. In 1973, she was promoted to Traffic and Office Manager. I don't know the year but I believe it was around 1995 when she became semi-retired from the station. Today she hosts both of the Sunday morning programs for WOMI out of her own home, which has been but a couple of years ago. She also continues hosting WOMI's Christmas program on Christmas Eve beginning at 3:00 p.m. and for the large part of Christmas Day. She's hosted WOMI's Christmas program for a number of years. She features all kinds of Christmas music such as Christmas carols, orchestra music, music from the collection of various albums she has, etc. Carl Davis, her friend and one-time news director on WOMI, is with her on Christmas Day and he features music from Owensboro's Music Symphony. This past Christmas he shared a Christmas album that the once retail store, W.T. Grants, used to record.
On the "Radio Church Chapel", Ms. Bennett plays a wide range of gospel music on her program. It features music and the spoken word. "Down Memory Lane" hosts all kinds of different music from yesteryear. Depending upon the season or holiday, Ms. Bennett will air programs to fit the time of the year. During WOMI's anniversary month in February for example, she'll play old clips from some of the early years on WOMI from such people as Hugh and Cliffordean Potter. She also will air segments describing both George Washington and Abraham Lincoln given February is their birth month. She'll also air segments on some famous black people in American history as well. During Veteran's Day, Memorial Day, and the Fourth of July, she'll devote both her pgorams commemorating America's heritage during these particular holidays. She'll play patriotic music and remember the sacrifices many war veterans have made over the course of history. In 1987 in commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution, Ms. Bennett celebrated the Constitution on her radio programs featuring segments of U.S. history and the delegates to the Philadelphia Convention. She loves Christmas. Beginning with Sunday following Thanksgiving until the New Year's she'll air all kinds of Christmas music on her programs and she'll discuss what the meaning of Christmas is. She's also aired some old segments that Cliffordean Potter made on Christmas during the Stork Program. (Ms. Potter used to host a stork program interviewing the parents of newborns several decades ago). I've thoroughly enjoyed some of her holiday and seasonal programs. Sometimes on "Down Memory Lane" when there's five Sundays in a month she'll host "Fifth Sunday Singing" featuring gospel quartets.
Ms. Bennett also has written some books about local history such as Lest We Forget mentioning about the history of Livermore, Kentucky. She's also authored other books such as Owensboro's Soundest Citizen (WOMI), Hunt-Hebron Highlights 25 Years Later: All in the Family, Spider Webs, A Steamer Trunk, And Slavery (Co-authored by Lenora Lindley).
Ms. Edith Bennett is also a member of the Kentucky Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was the past president of it in 1989. She is a descendant to a former Revolutionary War soldier, whom I believe the last name was Hunt. In order to be a member of DARS, you must trace your lineage to a Revolutionary War soldier. She's been singing in the Owensbor's Annual Choral Society's presentation of "The Messiah" since 1954 and still performs to this day at Third Baptist Church. She has a long collection of albums ranging from gospel, to patriotic music, all the way to musical hits of the '30's and '40's. There was a picture in the Owensboro's Messenger-Inquirer which displayed a shelf full of albums in her home. She's had to convert some of her albums into CD's whenever she produces a program on the radio. She's the Financial Secretary at Third Baptist Church, a position she's held since August 1981. She's also a member there and heavily involved in the activities of the church.
Around 1960, she went with her father on a trip to Ontario, Canada. While she was in Canada, she had some car trouble and she asked them was there any historic places to visit in Canada. They told her about the Josiah Henson museum in Canada. They saw she had a Kentucky license plate. They told her Josiah Henson was once a slave in the Daviess County area. When she arrived back in Owensboro, she told Dr. Potter and the staff of WOMI about what she learned while in Canada. They dismissed that notion at that time. However, several years later Mr. Potter and Dr. David Orrahood went out on a history junket and found out what Ms. Bennett was told was correct. They had interviewed Ms. Sue Hawes of Yelvington, who was the great-granddaughter of Amos Riley, a former slave owner, who owned Josiah Henson for a time. She told Potter and the museum curator in Ontario of what she knew. Eventually everything she was told was eventually substantiated. When Hugh O. Potter wrote a book about the history of Owensboro, he included the story which stated that Josiah Henson lived in Daviess County.
I've never met Ms. Bennett, but I've listened to her Sunday morning radio programs extensively for the last few years. I also have listened to her annual Christmas programs as well. When you listen to someone on radio for a long time, you learn several things about them. You basically give a piece of your life away to the public when you broadcast on radio. You become an open book. I've spoken to some people in Owensboro that know her personally. They say she's a great Christian lady that's very kind and compassionate. I've never heard a derogatory word about her. From listening to her, she seems to be a very happy and content lady. That's something considering she's never been married. But she's learned where true joy and peace come from. It comes from God. My hat's off to Ms. Bennett and all the work she's involved herself with. She's a very remarkable lady!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Kentucky's Bid to the Final Four Ends Against West Virginia
The University of Kentucky has had a remarkable season. With three freshmen starters along with Patrick Patterson, Darius Miller, Perry Stevenson, Ramone Harris, and sophomore newcomer Darnell Dodson, Kentucky posted a 35-3 record this season. Who would've ever thought it? Last year Kentucky missed the NCAA tournament for the first time in 18 years. Kentucky's former head coach Billy Gillespie failed to live up to the expectations that were set out for him. Last March, Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart fired Billy Gillespie and replaced with former Memphis coach John Calipari. When Calipari was first hired, he warned fans that things wouldn't turn around in one season. However, they had a very surprising season and far exceeded expectations with top-rated freshmen along with some upper classmen. They posted a 35-3 season overall. UK won 2000 games overall on December 21, 2009. They won both the SEC regular season championship outright and the SEC Tournament. They were chosen as the No. 1 seed in the East. Kentucky rolled over the first three opponents. Kentucky beat it's first two opponents by thirty points. When Kansas bowed out of the NCAA tournament, it appeared Kentucky would be the favorite to win this year's national championship. However, it didn't prove to be the case as West Virginia defeated Kentucky 73-66.
Da'Sean Butler and Joe Mazzulla both propelled West Virginia to its first regional victory since 1959 when West Virginia went to the Final Four under Jerry West. Kentucky had a 11-0 run at the beginning of the game, but Kentucky lagged all the second half and the latter part of the first half. Kentucky was down 28-26 at halftime. Mazzulla scored 17 points for West Virginia. West Virginia hit 8-three pointers in the first half and they were 0-22 making two-pointers. Sounds strange! Kentucky missed their first 20 3-point shots until DeAndre Liggins hit a 3-pointer with 3:29 left in the second half. West Virginia used a sagging defense against Kentucky. Kentucky shot horribly in the game. Kentucky made 4-32 from the 3-point line and didn't make their four 3-pointers until 3:29 left in the game. Kentucky hit very poorly from the foul line 16-29. Kentucky outrebounded West Virginia 29-13. John Wall led all scorers for Kentucky with 19 points and Cousins with 15 points.
Kentucky had a superb season overall. Even though they played a poor game, they don't have anything to be ashamed of. Kentucky has a great recruiting class following this year's class. There's speculation that John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins, and Patrick Patterson are headed for the NBA after this season. However, if Calipari and future Kentucky teams build upon this year's team, they will one day be in the Final Four and will one day take home a championship trophy.
Da'Sean Butler and Joe Mazzulla both propelled West Virginia to its first regional victory since 1959 when West Virginia went to the Final Four under Jerry West. Kentucky had a 11-0 run at the beginning of the game, but Kentucky lagged all the second half and the latter part of the first half. Kentucky was down 28-26 at halftime. Mazzulla scored 17 points for West Virginia. West Virginia hit 8-three pointers in the first half and they were 0-22 making two-pointers. Sounds strange! Kentucky missed their first 20 3-point shots until DeAndre Liggins hit a 3-pointer with 3:29 left in the second half. West Virginia used a sagging defense against Kentucky. Kentucky shot horribly in the game. Kentucky made 4-32 from the 3-point line and didn't make their four 3-pointers until 3:29 left in the game. Kentucky hit very poorly from the foul line 16-29. Kentucky outrebounded West Virginia 29-13. John Wall led all scorers for Kentucky with 19 points and Cousins with 15 points.
Kentucky had a superb season overall. Even though they played a poor game, they don't have anything to be ashamed of. Kentucky has a great recruiting class following this year's class. There's speculation that John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins, and Patrick Patterson are headed for the NBA after this season. However, if Calipari and future Kentucky teams build upon this year's team, they will one day be in the Final Four and will one day take home a championship trophy.
Friday, March 26, 2010
President obama Seals an Arms-Control Deal With Russia
(Reuters) President Barack Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev sealed a landmark arms-control treaty today to slash their countries' nuclear arsenals by a third and will sign it on April 8 in Prague, which is in the Czech Republic. After months of deadlock and delay, a breakthrough deal on a replacement for the Cold War-era START pact marked Obama's most-significant foreign policy "achievement" since taking office and also bolsters his effort to "reset" ties with Moscow, according to Reuters. Obama and Medvedev placed the finishing touches on the historic accord during a phone call, committing the world's biggest nuclear powers to deep weapon cuts. "I'm pleased to announce that after a year of intense negotiations, the United States and Russia have agreed to the most comprehensive arms-control agreement in nearly two decades," Obama told reporters. President Obama could face an uphill battle for ratification this year by the U.S. Senate where support from opposition Republicans will be hard to come by after a bitter healthcare fight.
In Moscow, President Medvedev hailed the agreement as reflecting "a balance of the interests of both countries. Russia made clear of their right to suspend any strategic arms cuts if they felt threatened by future United States deployment of a proposed Europe-based missile defense system that Moscow bitterly opposes. President Obama stated last fall he was going to scrap the missile defense system that former President Bush backed several years ago. The agreement replaces a 1991 pact that expired this past December. Each side would have seven years after the treaty takes effect to reduce stockpiles of their most dangerous weapons--those already deployed--to 1550 from the 2200 now allowed and also cut their numbers of launchers in half. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said the new pact sends a message to Iran and North Korea both locked in nuclear standoffs with the West, a commitment to thwart nuclear proliferation. President Obama said this agreement between the two countries signals that both countries intend to lead. How? What Obama is doing by agreeing to sign this landmark reduction treaty is giving the green light for Iran and North Korea to launch nuclear weapons toward the U.S. or the West. Making an agreement with a former Cold War enemy isn't going to stop a nuclear showdown. That's part of the idealistic thinking the hippies had back in the 60's about peace. The hippies are now in the Obama administration dressed in suits and ties.
The way to curb the probability of a nuclear showdown is for the U.S. to beef up their arsenal and become the strongest nation on the earth. I remember a famous statement former President Theodore Roosevelt made one hundred years ago. He said, "Speak softly and carry a big stick." We should utilize diplomacy and peaceful methods when applicable. However, when it's necessary to fire weapons, we should do so. We should fire our weapons so swiftly at the enemy they won't know what hit them. If Iran and North Korea were to threaten to harm the U.S. or the West, they should fear retaliation from us. However, they don't because we have "peacenik" politicians in our government and state department. President Obama has this mistaken notion that reducing our nuclear arsenal will ensure peace and avoid a nuclear showdown. Our enemies will treat that as a sign of weakness. That just tells them to go ahead because the U.S. won't retaliate. We're becoming a laughingstock to the world.
I vehemently disagree with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's remarks that this treaty will thwart nuclear proliferation. Is Hillary so naieve in her thinking to believe that the U.S. and "Russia" taking the lead in reducing our nuclear stockpile is going to persuade other countries to do so? It's highly unlikely. The problem is Hillary Clinton and those in our government are all part of the new world order crowd. They refuse to recognize that the U.S. has real enemies that are out to threaten our security. The U.S. has enemies that would love to destroy us any chance they have. This arms-reduction treaty is very dangerous to our survival. We are telling the world to come in and attack us. The Obama administration won't stop our enemies. The Obama administration doesn't want to admit the radical Islamic world is at war with the U.S. We must defeat those Muslim extremists that want to destroy our way of living. This war is real. Announcing our intentions before the world to reduce our nuclear arsenal is very asinine considering a possible nuclear showdown with Iran and North Korea in the future.
In Moscow, President Medvedev hailed the agreement as reflecting "a balance of the interests of both countries. Russia made clear of their right to suspend any strategic arms cuts if they felt threatened by future United States deployment of a proposed Europe-based missile defense system that Moscow bitterly opposes. President Obama stated last fall he was going to scrap the missile defense system that former President Bush backed several years ago. The agreement replaces a 1991 pact that expired this past December. Each side would have seven years after the treaty takes effect to reduce stockpiles of their most dangerous weapons--those already deployed--to 1550 from the 2200 now allowed and also cut their numbers of launchers in half. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said the new pact sends a message to Iran and North Korea both locked in nuclear standoffs with the West, a commitment to thwart nuclear proliferation. President Obama said this agreement between the two countries signals that both countries intend to lead. How? What Obama is doing by agreeing to sign this landmark reduction treaty is giving the green light for Iran and North Korea to launch nuclear weapons toward the U.S. or the West. Making an agreement with a former Cold War enemy isn't going to stop a nuclear showdown. That's part of the idealistic thinking the hippies had back in the 60's about peace. The hippies are now in the Obama administration dressed in suits and ties.
The way to curb the probability of a nuclear showdown is for the U.S. to beef up their arsenal and become the strongest nation on the earth. I remember a famous statement former President Theodore Roosevelt made one hundred years ago. He said, "Speak softly and carry a big stick." We should utilize diplomacy and peaceful methods when applicable. However, when it's necessary to fire weapons, we should do so. We should fire our weapons so swiftly at the enemy they won't know what hit them. If Iran and North Korea were to threaten to harm the U.S. or the West, they should fear retaliation from us. However, they don't because we have "peacenik" politicians in our government and state department. President Obama has this mistaken notion that reducing our nuclear arsenal will ensure peace and avoid a nuclear showdown. Our enemies will treat that as a sign of weakness. That just tells them to go ahead because the U.S. won't retaliate. We're becoming a laughingstock to the world.
I vehemently disagree with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's remarks that this treaty will thwart nuclear proliferation. Is Hillary so naieve in her thinking to believe that the U.S. and "Russia" taking the lead in reducing our nuclear stockpile is going to persuade other countries to do so? It's highly unlikely. The problem is Hillary Clinton and those in our government are all part of the new world order crowd. They refuse to recognize that the U.S. has real enemies that are out to threaten our security. The U.S. has enemies that would love to destroy us any chance they have. This arms-reduction treaty is very dangerous to our survival. We are telling the world to come in and attack us. The Obama administration won't stop our enemies. The Obama administration doesn't want to admit the radical Islamic world is at war with the U.S. We must defeat those Muslim extremists that want to destroy our way of living. This war is real. Announcing our intentions before the world to reduce our nuclear arsenal is very asinine considering a possible nuclear showdown with Iran and North Korea in the future.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
The GOP Lacks the Moral Authority to Impeach the Democrats over the Passage of the Healthcare Bill
Whenever I have a chance, I listen to the Jim Sumpter Show. He has his program weekdays online from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. CST or 12 p.m. - 3:00 EST. He is also on a number of radio stations across America as well. All you have to do is google in the Jim Sumpter Show and then you click on the Jim Sumpter Show and it will show you his website. Then when the program is ready to be broadcasted, it will say, "Now in Progress". You click on Windows Media Player and it will hook you to the media. Then you can sit back and listen to his program online. I was listening to his comments in regards to the healthcare debate in Congress for a number of months. This past year he's been challenging Republicans and he's asked them, why aren't they bringing impeachment proceedings towards those that voted for this healthcare bill? The point he was making was since the bill was unconstitutional, then impeachment proceedings should be brought on those that voted for this monstrosity. He's stated on a number of occasions that articles of impeachment should be filed on those that voted for this bill. He stated the problem is that the Republicans are co-conspirators in this grand scheme. He said both parties are in this together. I was commenting on what Sumpter said about the impeachment of those that voted for this unconstitutional bill. It was one of the last few blogposts within the last few days. My comment was that he was right that the Republicans should be bringing impeachment proceedings on those that voted for this bill.
I was pondering that statement I made for the last few days. However, I recognized that wouldn't work. In the New Testament gospels Jesus made a statement to the scribes and Pharisees that wanted to cast a stone at the woman who was guilty of adultery. Jesus told them "He who is without sin cast the first stone." That's the problem with the GOP. The Democrats aren't the only ones guilty of being treasonous. The Republicans are as well. That's why they can't draft articles of impeachment against the Democrats. President Obama, in fending off criticism about the healthcare bill being too costly, will ask the Republicans repeatedly, "Where were you the last ten years?" He's right. Take a look at their record when they held the majority. The Republicans had control of Congress for 12 years and for six years in a row all three branches of government were under Republican control. Under the Republican leadership, the national deficit skyrocketed to ever increasing levels, the size and scope of government grew under them, and there was scandal under the Republicans as well. Remember the Jack Abrahamoff scandal? It's true there were members of both parties involved in that scam, but there were numerous Republicans that profited from that. Under a Republican administration, there was the Department of Homeland Security created which was supposed to be for the purpose in protecting our homeland due to the September 11 terrorist attacks. That department is impotent just like any other bureaucracy because it's infused with political correctness. There was also a National Intelligence Director created in 2004 due to the recommendation of the 9/11 committee. The National Intelligence Director is over the CIA director, the CIA, FEMA, and other government agencies. Is our country safer due to these newly created positions? I'll let you be the judge.
Under the Bush administration, there was a new entitlement created in Medicare a prescription drug coverage plan. That sounds like legislation that Democrats would promote. A Republican Congress also pushed for CAFTA and other trade agreements which weren't about free and fair trade. Bush even was involved with signing a treaty that didn't receive advice and consent from the Senate. President Bush and a number of Republicans tried to push for an amnesty program for illegal aliens. The Republicans also engaged in pork barrel spending like the Democrats do. The Republicans also accept campaign contributions just like the Democrats. What's different about these parties? In reality there isn't much substantive difference between both parties. They're all in this together. Even though the Republicans were the loyal opposition in passing this healthcare bill, I guarantee many of them will join in a bipartisan effort with the Democrats to pass amnesty. Even though I'm thankful the GOP stood against this healthcare bill, that doesn't mean that if they regained control of Congress they would promote and defend the constitution. They're in a position where they can score points off of the terrible agenda of the Demcorats. They are playing the not-so-guilty guys. Then when they hold power again, they will take turns playing the evil guy. Both parties take turns playing the evil guy and not-so-evil guys. It's a game.
I saw Democrats playing that very same game as the loyal opposition over the war in Iraq and the escalating gasoline prices at the pump. What have the Democrats done about the high gasoline prices and about the two wars in the Middle East? Gas prices have inched up recently but the Democrats aren't doing anything about it. President Obama has increased the troop levels in Afghanistan but he hasn't pulled our troops out and sent them home. He probably won't before the end of his first term. The truth of the matter is, you can't trust either party. I've been thinking about our two-party system and I've just about come to the conclusion that we need to call for the abolition of political parties. They're worthless. They're not about serving the American people. They serve those that donate to their campaigns and pull their strings. There isn't anything they're doing that's for the best interests of America.
The Republican Party doesn't have the moral authority to impeach the Democrats. They have mud up to their eyelids just like the Democrats. They're just as guilty of treasonous activity like the Democrats are. It's all hush-hush. They just go along because they can't say anything. If they were to attempt impeaching the Democrats, the Democrats would blackball them and reveal many of the skeletons in their closets. They've all been guilty of voting for legislation that's unconstitutional. Who in the House of Representatives would have the moral authority to draft articles of impeachment? If the truth be known, probably over 95% of both the House of Representatives and Senate are worthy of impeachment. I'm including both parties. That's probably a conservative number. It's corrupt! All registered voters need to vote out these incumbents in both houses in the primaries and the November general election. Congress needs a clean sweep. For the sake of our country, we must vote out their traitorous incumbents.
I was pondering that statement I made for the last few days. However, I recognized that wouldn't work. In the New Testament gospels Jesus made a statement to the scribes and Pharisees that wanted to cast a stone at the woman who was guilty of adultery. Jesus told them "He who is without sin cast the first stone." That's the problem with the GOP. The Democrats aren't the only ones guilty of being treasonous. The Republicans are as well. That's why they can't draft articles of impeachment against the Democrats. President Obama, in fending off criticism about the healthcare bill being too costly, will ask the Republicans repeatedly, "Where were you the last ten years?" He's right. Take a look at their record when they held the majority. The Republicans had control of Congress for 12 years and for six years in a row all three branches of government were under Republican control. Under the Republican leadership, the national deficit skyrocketed to ever increasing levels, the size and scope of government grew under them, and there was scandal under the Republicans as well. Remember the Jack Abrahamoff scandal? It's true there were members of both parties involved in that scam, but there were numerous Republicans that profited from that. Under a Republican administration, there was the Department of Homeland Security created which was supposed to be for the purpose in protecting our homeland due to the September 11 terrorist attacks. That department is impotent just like any other bureaucracy because it's infused with political correctness. There was also a National Intelligence Director created in 2004 due to the recommendation of the 9/11 committee. The National Intelligence Director is over the CIA director, the CIA, FEMA, and other government agencies. Is our country safer due to these newly created positions? I'll let you be the judge.
Under the Bush administration, there was a new entitlement created in Medicare a prescription drug coverage plan. That sounds like legislation that Democrats would promote. A Republican Congress also pushed for CAFTA and other trade agreements which weren't about free and fair trade. Bush even was involved with signing a treaty that didn't receive advice and consent from the Senate. President Bush and a number of Republicans tried to push for an amnesty program for illegal aliens. The Republicans also engaged in pork barrel spending like the Democrats do. The Republicans also accept campaign contributions just like the Democrats. What's different about these parties? In reality there isn't much substantive difference between both parties. They're all in this together. Even though the Republicans were the loyal opposition in passing this healthcare bill, I guarantee many of them will join in a bipartisan effort with the Democrats to pass amnesty. Even though I'm thankful the GOP stood against this healthcare bill, that doesn't mean that if they regained control of Congress they would promote and defend the constitution. They're in a position where they can score points off of the terrible agenda of the Demcorats. They are playing the not-so-guilty guys. Then when they hold power again, they will take turns playing the evil guy. Both parties take turns playing the evil guy and not-so-evil guys. It's a game.
I saw Democrats playing that very same game as the loyal opposition over the war in Iraq and the escalating gasoline prices at the pump. What have the Democrats done about the high gasoline prices and about the two wars in the Middle East? Gas prices have inched up recently but the Democrats aren't doing anything about it. President Obama has increased the troop levels in Afghanistan but he hasn't pulled our troops out and sent them home. He probably won't before the end of his first term. The truth of the matter is, you can't trust either party. I've been thinking about our two-party system and I've just about come to the conclusion that we need to call for the abolition of political parties. They're worthless. They're not about serving the American people. They serve those that donate to their campaigns and pull their strings. There isn't anything they're doing that's for the best interests of America.
The Republican Party doesn't have the moral authority to impeach the Democrats. They have mud up to their eyelids just like the Democrats. They're just as guilty of treasonous activity like the Democrats are. It's all hush-hush. They just go along because they can't say anything. If they were to attempt impeaching the Democrats, the Democrats would blackball them and reveal many of the skeletons in their closets. They've all been guilty of voting for legislation that's unconstitutional. Who in the House of Representatives would have the moral authority to draft articles of impeachment? If the truth be known, probably over 95% of both the House of Representatives and Senate are worthy of impeachment. I'm including both parties. That's probably a conservative number. It's corrupt! All registered voters need to vote out these incumbents in both houses in the primaries and the November general election. Congress needs a clean sweep. For the sake of our country, we must vote out their traitorous incumbents.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Fanny Crosby
Frances Jane Crosby (March 24, 1820 - February 12, 1915), usually known as Fanny Crosby was an American lyricist and best known for her Christian hymns. She was one of the most prolific hymnists in history, writing over 8,000 hymns despite her blindness since infancy. She was also known for her public speaking. During her lifetime, she was the best known woman in the United States. The vast majority of American hymnals contain her work. She is known for one of her most famous hymns "Blessed Assurance". Other hymns she is known for are "Jesus is Tenderly Calling You Home", "Near the Cross", and "My Savior First of All", to name a few. Crosby used nearly ten different pseudonyms during her career because some publishers were hesitant to have so many hymns by one author.
She was born in Southeast, Putnam County, New York to poor parents whose names were John and Mercy Crosby. At six weeks old, she caught a cold and developed inflammation of the eyes. The family physician wasn't available and a quack who came in his place recommended mustard plasters as treatment. The botched procedure blinded her. Her father died when she was one year old. She was raised by her mother and grandmother. She was grounded in the Bible memorizing long passages of scripture. She became an active member of John Street Methodist Episcopal Church in New York City. At age 15 she enrolled at the New York Institute for the Blind (New York Institute for Special Education). She remained there for seven years. At the institute she learned to play the piano and the guitar. She also learned how to sing as well. In 1843, she joined a group of lobbyists in Washington, D.C. arguing for the support of education for the blind. From 1847-58 she joined the faculty at the York School, teaching English and history. She also became acquainted with future president Grover Cleveland and became lifelong friends with him there. He was also an instructor at the institute.
She married Alexander Van Alstyne, a blind musician and fellow teacher. They had one daughter, Francis, who died as an infant. Alexander died on July 19, 1902. Crosby was noted for writing poetry by the time she was eight years old. Her first published work was "A Blind Girl and Other Poems" (1844). Other poems that she wrote were "Monterey and Other Poems" (1853) and "A Wreath of Columbia's Flowers" (1858). She also wrote some popular songs set to music by George F. Root. Some of the famous songs she wrote were, "Hazel Dell", "There's Music in the Air", and "Rosalie, the Prairie Flower". She had success with secular verse writing and earned nearly $3000 in royalties for "Rosalie, the Prairie Flower."
At the ege of eight, Fanny Crosby started writing poetry. Here's one of her poems:
O What happy soul I am,
Although I cannot see;
I am resolved in this world
Contented I will be
How many blessings I enjoy,
That other people don't;
To weep and sigh because I'm blind,
I cannot, and I won't
Crosby was not bitter by her blindness. She viewed it as God having predestined her to be blind and even remarked that she wouldn't have been able to write the hymns praising God if she were distracted by the things of beauty. She even remarked that that the first face she wants to see is the face of her savior.
It seemed intended by the blessed providence of God that I should be blind all my life, and I thank him for the dispensation. If perfect earthly sight were offered me tomorrow I would not accept it. I might not have sung hymns to the praise of God if I had been distracted by the beautiful and interesting things about me.
"When I get to heaven, the first face that shall ever gladden my sight will be that of my Savior."
She composed her hymns and poems entirely in her mind and then dictated them to someone else. She had composed as many as twelve hymns in her mind before dictating them all out. There were many musicians and publishers that dictated her songs. Her first hymn in 1863 was by William Bradbury, a respected musician and publisher. The hymn she wrote was "There's a Cry From Macedonia." Other musicians and publishers were Hubert P. Main, Robert Lowry, W.H. Doane, Ira D. Sankey, and Philip P. Bliss, to name a few. She went under dozens of pen names.
She was also well known in America at the time and she met with presidents, generals, and other dignataries. At President Ulysses S. Grant's funeral in 1885, she sang the hymn "Safe in the Arms of Jesus". She was conducted in the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1975. She died in 1920. She is buried at the Mountain Grove Cemetery, at Bridgeport, Connecticut.
She was born in Southeast, Putnam County, New York to poor parents whose names were John and Mercy Crosby. At six weeks old, she caught a cold and developed inflammation of the eyes. The family physician wasn't available and a quack who came in his place recommended mustard plasters as treatment. The botched procedure blinded her. Her father died when she was one year old. She was raised by her mother and grandmother. She was grounded in the Bible memorizing long passages of scripture. She became an active member of John Street Methodist Episcopal Church in New York City. At age 15 she enrolled at the New York Institute for the Blind (New York Institute for Special Education). She remained there for seven years. At the institute she learned to play the piano and the guitar. She also learned how to sing as well. In 1843, she joined a group of lobbyists in Washington, D.C. arguing for the support of education for the blind. From 1847-58 she joined the faculty at the York School, teaching English and history. She also became acquainted with future president Grover Cleveland and became lifelong friends with him there. He was also an instructor at the institute.
She married Alexander Van Alstyne, a blind musician and fellow teacher. They had one daughter, Francis, who died as an infant. Alexander died on July 19, 1902. Crosby was noted for writing poetry by the time she was eight years old. Her first published work was "A Blind Girl and Other Poems" (1844). Other poems that she wrote were "Monterey and Other Poems" (1853) and "A Wreath of Columbia's Flowers" (1858). She also wrote some popular songs set to music by George F. Root. Some of the famous songs she wrote were, "Hazel Dell", "There's Music in the Air", and "Rosalie, the Prairie Flower". She had success with secular verse writing and earned nearly $3000 in royalties for "Rosalie, the Prairie Flower."
At the ege of eight, Fanny Crosby started writing poetry. Here's one of her poems:
O What happy soul I am,
Although I cannot see;
I am resolved in this world
Contented I will be
How many blessings I enjoy,
That other people don't;
To weep and sigh because I'm blind,
I cannot, and I won't
Crosby was not bitter by her blindness. She viewed it as God having predestined her to be blind and even remarked that she wouldn't have been able to write the hymns praising God if she were distracted by the things of beauty. She even remarked that that the first face she wants to see is the face of her savior.
It seemed intended by the blessed providence of God that I should be blind all my life, and I thank him for the dispensation. If perfect earthly sight were offered me tomorrow I would not accept it. I might not have sung hymns to the praise of God if I had been distracted by the beautiful and interesting things about me.
"When I get to heaven, the first face that shall ever gladden my sight will be that of my Savior."
She composed her hymns and poems entirely in her mind and then dictated them to someone else. She had composed as many as twelve hymns in her mind before dictating them all out. There were many musicians and publishers that dictated her songs. Her first hymn in 1863 was by William Bradbury, a respected musician and publisher. The hymn she wrote was "There's a Cry From Macedonia." Other musicians and publishers were Hubert P. Main, Robert Lowry, W.H. Doane, Ira D. Sankey, and Philip P. Bliss, to name a few. She went under dozens of pen names.
She was also well known in America at the time and she met with presidents, generals, and other dignataries. At President Ulysses S. Grant's funeral in 1885, she sang the hymn "Safe in the Arms of Jesus". She was conducted in the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1975. She died in 1920. She is buried at the Mountain Grove Cemetery, at Bridgeport, Connecticut.
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