ChaplainChas

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2009-01-24T16:57:00.003-05:00

But recall the former days, when, after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, (33) sometimes being publicly exposed to reproach and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. (34) For you had compassion on those in prison, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. (35) Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. (emphasis, mine)

In "Faith's Hall of Fame," the author of Hebrews goes on to say that Abraham:

...was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God.

In speaking of Jesus Crucifixion, outside the gate of Jerusalem, we are encouraged to go to Him, to be like Him, and to bear His reproach...

...for here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come. (15) Through Him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge His name. (16) Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. (20) Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, (21) equip you with everything good that you may do His will...

Pastor's of the past would refer to Christian's (in my mind, there is only the 'born-again' kind (see John 3, Jesus' discussion with Nichodemas)) as Alien's and Stranger's on this earth.

Pastor Carlos, at this morning's men's breakfast up in Q-Town, reminded me that this world, actually, is not my home. In effect, much like the Christian's in Bible times, we are looking for Heaven, a city whose designer and builder is the Lord of the Ages (Jesus Christ)!

I own a house. I have a passport for the U.S. of A. But this may change one day. Maybe, like the early Christian's, I'll be put into prison for talking about Jesus and His love for all mankind (I hear this is hate speech). Perhaps I'll have to forfeit my right to travel, or reside in the place of my own choosing due to the 'sky falling.'

OK, so that seems a bit silly; but it wasn't for the Hebrews of whom we just read! If they had their property plundered, it's possible that mine will one day be, as well. This world is not my home.

I love my computer, and my books. My house is cool for what it is (OK, so it's not that cool, yet), but I don't really need these things ...as far as need goes. Someday I'll loose my house, my computer, my stuffs. Someday I'll loose the whole world, I'll die, but please, just give me Jesus.

John 14 says He's working on that home for me, where I won't be alien or stranger, because I'm already a resident up there. I may not have a laptop, or lots of books in Heaven, but Paul tells Timothy that there's treasure there:

[We] are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, (19) thus storing up treasure for [our]selves as a good foundation for the future, so that [we] my take hold of that which is truly life.

Lord Jesus, I pray that when the time comes, we will have such a relationship that I can truly say with my whole heart, 'you can take the whole world, but give me Jesus.' Mold me into your image. Prepare me for every good work You have in mind for me. Live in me, love through me, and glorify God in all I say, think and do.

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Hebrews 10:32-35, esv.

Hebrews 11:10

Hebrews 13:14-16, 20-21a

I Timothy 6:18-19 ... emphasis mine in all, [brackets] mine, as well.

Catch-Up

2009-01-22T16:45:00.003-05:00

I suppose it's about time I catch up here, eh?

Honest and sappy, first, OK?

I've been mostly F.I.N.E., but sometimes S.A.D. has kicked in over the past month.

Frustrated

Insecure

Neurotic

Emotional

Seasonal

Affective

Disorder

Both seem somewhat selfish, upon introspection, but I don't seem able to fully control either. No, I'm not professionally diagnosed w/SAD, but rain/clouds/snow/freezing combined w/'perceiving' I'm alone in this world tend to get me there quicker than bright, sunshiny days!

I hesitate to put much personal up here about Christmas, so let's just say I was in Maine for a White Christmas. Travel days were clear (weather-wise), although the ride back to the city of brotherly-shove was bumper to bumper the last three + hours! Boring and lonely, for the most part.

My immediate family (down to nephews :-]>) were all there the whole time :-[> I was. It's quite amazing to admit I missed having alone time with my parents!

We got together one day with friends from my REAL growing up days, and I LOVED it. The Spielvogels are such wonderful people, and we got to meet all the spouses. They have a great house/ camp less than two hours from my parents. I hope to get back there sometime soon!

I've been working on having a better 'work ethic' at work (say that three times, fast). Administratively I've been a lot busier this year, because of it!

Ministry at HUSA is changing hours soon... Not sure what God's doing to me, there. I just know I lose a church night, which for this single guy is 'family time.' I love my guys, though. They bless me in ways they'll never know this side of Heaven!

I'm working on pricing for re-doing my main floor at home (all wood flooring, knocking out a wall, moving cabinets and the electrical stuffs...), and then pursuing a better mortgage!

Yup. Errands, and sleep, and trying to be a friend to all takes up the rest of my time.

Jesus is mostly on the throne of my life. We're taking time together at the end of the month to fellowship and so I can learn His voice a bit better. I can hardly wait.

Well, sorry for the mellow-drama.

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Unconditional Friendship

2008-12-14T16:40:00.001-05:00

Is there such a thing as Unconditional Friendship. That is the question I was posed.

I see my friend has posted his answer, and I have not yet responded, so here I go (before reading your answer, Randy)...

My friend Craig would say my answer is a 'Chasism.' My answer is "Yes & No."

The only YES I can come up with would be Jesus is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.

On a fully man to man (as different than man to God-man) plane I fear the answer is NO. I have always wanted the answer to be yes.

A big portion of my life has been spent in a passionate pursuit of the man or men who would fulfill my quest for unconditional love, acceptance, and yes, friendship. Apart from Christ (and I've discovered He is who I was actually pursuing), these things are most definitely beyond reach, and there is the biggest condition. Christ must be a part of the friendship.

There is another condition.

To the best of my ability I have followed what I know to be God's command to love and role-model that love of God to more than one individual, in essence, be a best friend whether that is returned or not. I have been hurt, abused, misled and occasionally rejected (albeit briefly) as I have attempted to be a friend-that-sticks-closer-than-a-brother.

The condition is that a friendship is a two-way street, walked together, hand in hand. What I have freely offered, w/o condition, still must needs be received.

The human heart according to Jeremiah 17:9 (?) is deceitful and wicked. This side of heaven, I don't see it happening anymore.

I've mentioned friends on this blog in the past. I love them more than I love my self and they know I will not hesitate to do anything for them (if I deem it in their best interest, or feel God's leading that way -- more conditions?), and have on more than one occasion.

Money? Time? A hand? Advice? My life? Love? Patience? Hope? A desire to share the meat of the Scripture? Love for Jesus Christ? A Passionate Pursuit of the Holy One? All these and more I gladly dedicate and consecrate to our friendship and relationship with Abba -- Father God.

Since my love for my friends is from the overflow of my love for God, and by His grace this will not change, than I would say that from this side of the street I pose the offer of unconditional (faithful?) friendship.

I see it as the love of a wife for her husband, but now-a-days that seems altogether too conditional. Many are even skipping the vows.

The love of a Father for his children? I don't know that that would stand the test, either.

In closing I would have to bow to God, the Master of the Universe, and say that Unconditional Friendship is a two way street, based primarily on a love relationship with HIM; the overflow of which can be a conditional 'unconditional friendship.'

Hope you're not too confused.

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Emergency Department

2008-12-05T14:55:00.000-05:00

Well, a day or two ago I spent a few hours in the emergency department of my local hospital.

The diagnosis: near-syncope.

I could have told them that.

For those who don't know, I work full time as an EMT-Paramedic (as opposed to an EMT-Basic).

My partner and I had actually just saved a life... that doesn't happen all the time; many who activate EMS (the Emergency Medical System) really aren't having a life or limb threatening event... At any rate, we were headed to the fuel yard when my cell phone began to feel heavy in my hand.

...When my 'heavy feeling' didn't go away, and light-headedness began, I checked out my pulse and decided I wanted to put myself on a heart monitor so I had my partner pull over (and we called the other crew, as nothing like this had ever happened to me before). I was in my 'normal sinus arrhythmia' as usual, but there were some variations the other medic got excited about, and I decided were worth checking out (considering my symptoms).

So, I got my second ride -- for myself -- in the back of an ambulance.

Out of the 5 ED physicians on duty, I was assigned the one who has been my medical command physician at a volunteer squad for some 14 years... Funny.

Vital Signs:

BP up initially

HR Normal for me (under 60bpm)

SpO2: 97% (over 95 is a passing grade)

R Normal LS CTA

Still felt lightheaded/ heaviness for several minutes in ED, especially w/quick movement.

The most stressful part was that my books were back at the station, and they wouldn't let me on facebook to catch up even though there was a computer in the room! I had to watch Law and Order after an hour of nothing...

At any rate, I had a 12-Lead ECG, heart monitoring throughout, blood tests and a CT scan (yes, I now have proof I have a brain). The long and short of it is the discharge diagnosis was: NEAR SYNCOPE (almost fainting). Really ppl, srsly.

I have a follow up appointment next week w/my PCP to review the bloodwork, etc., and schedule specialist's appointments (yuck).

Well, hopefully this will limit some questions about my ER visit, but feel free to ask anything, and PRAY. It could be dehydration (most likely in my mind), a blood sugar problem (least likely in my mind) or a cardiac problem (possible, as my heart beats pretty slow for a big guy).

In case I haven't told you in a while, I love you, and Jesus does too!

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

PS: If this is disjointed, I apologize. It was not written in one sitting. :-]>

Thanksgiving Spectacular, circa. 2008

2008-11-29T14:15:00.001-05:00

Jesus is always there for us and He orchestrates schedules, events and even dinners so that believers can minister to other believers in times of trouble and in times of celebration.

The above is from "No More Stupid" - a blog I follow by Teri, a friend from the other coast.

As I read her insightful entry on her family and their resemblance to the body of Christ, I was reminded that the body of Christ is my family.

Holidays have not always been happy times for me.

I recall the occasional holiday growing up when I would be 'banished' to my room for some seemingly insignificant event, causing me to miss whatever I had deemed the 'best part' of that particular holiday. Sometimes it would have been the parades, other times, the arrival of some relation or another. The perception of this young me was that celebrations would be better off without me there.

This philosophy of living carried well into my adult years; likely affecting more than 3/4's of my holidays.

Thanksgiving 2008 was likely the best holiday I've celebrated; although it didn't look like it was going to be from my earlier vantage point.

Working in E.M.S. (9-1-1) I generally go home (the parents) every other Christmas or Thanksgiving. Being scheduled naturally for Wednesday and Friday in November, I will be home for Christmas. Having Thursday off could have meant another sad holiday alone.

Enter Ryan and Nate, two of my favorite people on the planet. These brothers celebrated Turkey Day 2007 at Ryan's house, and thoroughly enjoyed it. They invited me to join them this year, and I readily agreed.

Through a series of events, as the holiday approached Nate decided to travel over the holiday, placing a small quandary in my festivity planning. As a note, I am sooo thankful that he got to head to warmer climates to spend time with a best friend of his from ages past.

The problem, was that this may mean that Ryan and Hilliary may change their plans, which of course, would change mine (you recall, don't you, that it really is all about me). But 'Jesus is always there for us. He orchestrates schedules, events and dinners so that believers can minister to other believers in times of trouble, and in times of celebration.' Isaiah said 'but the Lord is mindful of His own... He remembers His children.' Either way, I'm blessed.

I had resolved to celebrate the day with Jesus, even if other opportunities had NOT arisen.

The confirmation came and the Holiday arrived. Communion Thanksgiving Eve was great. Pastor's Brian and Carlos led a great evening, w/Pastor Joe speaking. Slept in Thursday morning.

Arrived at R&H's and hung w/them and the babies. Watched 'Star Wars: Clone Wars' then more of Hill's fam arrived. They were very pleasant and relaxed. Appetizers, drinks and fun ensued and led through a lunch that would easily compete w/Mom's (sorry, Mom, but Hilliary did a wonderful job...). More of Ry's family arrived for 'desert' and hanging out.

Well after dark the place began to thin out again and the hilarious comedy "Kung Fu Panda" aired on the DVD/TV. I don't know when I've enjoyed a movie so much. The lowest note was the last movie of the night, "Tropic Thunder" which I can't even say was laced with swearing. That was the main focal point, methinks. At any rate, I love Ryan and Hilliary so much the more and am thankful to be a part of their family. Brother Nate was missed, but made an appearance via photo/text messaging that brought a good laugh.

I can hardly wait for the Wedding Feast coming up soon. I'm sure to sit near Nate and R&H and so many of you. The food will be beyond comparison, the atmosphere clean and blessed, the building (which I might add, has been in the works for a couple thousand years) beyond compare! And the Groom: I can only imagine. The spouse of our dreams to spend eternity with.

Thank you Jesus, for a incredible day.

Even so, come quickly, Lord Jesus,

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Blogging Envy

2008-11-19T15:08:00.002-05:00

Well, I'm still trying to figure out what exactly I'm to do with this blog-space.

Do I want to do a journal or devotional or ...? :::sigh::: Both?

Oh, well.

What happens, will happen.

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Derek Kostovick

2008-11-15T15:45:00.000-05:00

Today I had the unique privilege of attending the "senior composition recital of Derek Kostovick"...

WOW!

It's been 18 years since I last was a music major in college and let me tell you, until you've seen Derek you've not been to a collegiate recital. The compositions were great!

A Sax Moot was quite possibly my favorite! With Derek on the grande piano, joined by Kevin Padworski, I was thrilled and moved by this piece! The skill obviously draws a lot of exclamation marks from this reviewer! ! ! In all seriousness, though, the perfect 'trills' or 'downward runs' perfectly synchronized on keys and saxophone were musically provoking.

The Dark Waltz was wonderful. During this piano solo, I was able to envision moments of dance laced with gossip sessions and snide looks cast out from all sides at the Phantom-esque middle-aged or older couple simply enjoying each other, and the pleasure of the dance irregardless of those others in attendance. Breathtaking.

Harmonia Reflections. In this piece I thoroughly enjoyed the piano, and this was a stellar piece which truly had a galaxy in view!

For Bell of the Ball Derek was joined by his self-described 'partner in crime' to sing a "Renaissance" duet. Lauren McDowell fit the part well, and played her part as the Belle of the Ball.

Derek dedicated Stay the Same to the 'life and family of Kelsey Gallagher.' I can only say that I loved it! We all can relate, and this fitting piece brought a tear to each eye! Joined by Emily Clark (obviously an excellent singer in her own right), Derek reminded us that true friendships will last into eternity, picking up where they left off after a few months or a few decades. Thank you, Derek.

I wish I had stood to applaud A Sax Moot, but was pleased that the audience eventually gave young Mr. Kostovick the ovation he deserved, although the encore was not a Kostovick original.

I would like to end this review praising God for the excellent talent extended to Derek Kostovick, and thanking Him for the joy placed in our hearts because of this talented and accomplished musician. May Derek continue to bless the One who blessed him.

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

God's Short Arms?

2008-11-13T12:55:00.002-05:00

"Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor his ears to dull to hear. But you iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear."

These verses from Isaiah 59:1-2 (NIV) have been playing in my head for some time, now.

The past month has been one of the most trying months in my Christian life. From the death of a co-worker to temptation to 'bag-it-all' and run, Jesus Christ has brought me through. There's a song that includes these words:

Can You hear me?
Can You touch me?
Can You break through these chains that define me?
Draw me closer in, don't let me go alone, don't let me go.

I need you to KNOW that the answer to those questions is YES! I've found during my 37 years that Jesus can hear, can reach, and will draw me (and you) closer in! He has broken through some major chains that defined me for years! His arm was not too short, and He has shown me some sinful patterns that prevented this new level of freedom I've found!

For so long I've defined myself through the (perceived) eyes of others (what will so-and-so think). My perceived level of importance in another's mind could wreak havoc on my heart. While believing my identity was in Christ, my observable theology was working itself out that my identity was in others. Now I can more fully say, it is "Christ in me, the hope of glory!"

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Why the Wait?

2008-11-08T06:45:00.000-05:00

So, it's unfortunately relatively normal for me to 'skim' when reading God's Word, especially when it's a 'familiar' passage of Scripture. I can't claim to have read the book of Joshua all that many times, but certainly have a few times.

That being said, it's amazing that the Lord can interrupt the reading flow, or have a Pastor comment, or somehow take the hum-drumm and breathe new life into it (I think that's why it's the Bread of LIFE, or the LIVING WORD of GOD)!

At any rate, here's Joshua 1:(10+)11

And Joshua commanded the officers of the people, "Pass through the midst of the camp and command the people, 'Prepare your provisions, for within three days you are to pass over this Jordan to go in to take possession of the land that the LORD your God is giving you to possess."

Seems pretty straightforward, right?

We have followed the children of Israel as they followed a pillar of cloud/fire for the past 40ish years, and now they are actually going to enter in!
Or perhaps this time there's a warning because, after all, there are well over a million people to prepare for the 'battle' phase of their wandering and settling?
Maybe it's because Josh want's to do things differently than Moses, and has worked out this 'behind-the-scenes' deal w/God?

Why do I care? I suppose because the Holy Spirit felt it was important enough to put in there, so it's important enough for me to put a little time into it!

What we discover is very interesting... From vs 11 until chapter 3, vs 1 is another familiar story (I kinda like it when God does that, He's a good author, you know?).

Let me just spill it now: The reason there was a three day warning was because that's how long it would take to prepare one more soul for the Kingdom! Rahab, the Prostitute!

Humor me for a moment, and look at Matthew 1:5-6a

...and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David the king...

Without this three day pause, recorded in Scripture, we would not have Rahab to marry Salmon, to father Boaz, who as an older man would marry Ruth (yes, the one with the Book about her in the Bible). Ruth ad Boaz would never have had Jesse, the father of David the sweet Psalmist of Israel!

God takes three days to secure a spot for David's Great Grandmother!

Besides that, here's her verbal contribution to the story (2:9b and following, italics mine):

"I know that the LORD has given you the land, and that the fear of you has fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land melt away before you. For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea before you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to the two kings of the Amorites who were beyond the Jordon, to Sihon and Og, whom you devoted to destruction. And as soon as we heard it, our hearts melted and there was no spirit left in any man because of you, for the LORD your God, he is God in the heavens above and on the earth beneath...".

God interrupted the lives of over a million people, to impact this one woman, to impact the lives of over a million people with encouragement, and ultimately, for their salvation and ours!

Why the wait? Because God is just as interested in the one, as the million!

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Prophets

2008-11-05T09:45:00.000-05:00

I'm doing a quick run through the Bible, looking for Prophets. I don't recall many popular ones... Most brought an uncomfortable conviction to most... Many were shunned by their people in addition to those to whom they prophesied...

It appears God establishes the 'office' of Prophet in Deuteronomy (13 & 18). Before this time it appears Moses and Aaron were the only prophets (God Himself excluded for this exercise). The people seemed to love Aaron, but he gave them a cow to worship. Moses the people hated one minute ('why have you brought us out here to die' 'where are the onions?') and loved at other times ('speak to God on our behalf and we will do all that you say').

Let's see:

Nathan the Prophet: condemned David for Uzziah's murder and David's adultery--uncomfortable.

Ahijah the Prophet: told King Jeroboam the nation would be split 10:2 -- uncomfortable.

I Kings UnNamed Prophet: Prophet One delivered uncomfortable message and headed home as directed by the Lord; Prophet Two stops him, says a message from the Lord, which gets Prophet One killed after doing the comfortable thing (not sure if second Prophet was of the Lord, or not).

Ahijah the Prophet: You gonna die. -- uncomfortable.

Jehu the Prophet: Prophesied against all the evil in the sight of the Lord! -- uncomfortable.

Ba'al's Prophets: People loved them -- comfortable.

Elijah the Prophet: Repent and return to the Lord! People tried to kill him -- uncomfortable.

Isaiah the Prophet: Set your house in order... you gonna die. -- uncomfortable.

and of course, Jesus said that Prophets are rejected... as He was.

OK, so then there are the prophets that prophesied good things, which were not true, but made people feel good about themselves... oh king the Lord is with thee, go to battle... at which point the other King asked if there were any other Prophets to consult and the unpopular one with the unpopular message was thrown into prison and put on bread and water until his prophecy 'did not come true?!!!' Remarkable.

Change is coming to America. I'm not a prophet in the Biblical sense of the word, but America as we have known it will change. I think people will like it and for a season they will feel good about themselves and the nation and socialized health care and poor getting money and those mean old rich people getting their due and... on and on.

People are comfortable, hearing things that tickle the ear.

Jesus, the Son of God, the Messiah will be coming back soon. When He arrives, will He find faith on earth? Let's spread the uncomfortable message that God loves people and Christ died for people and the Holy Spirit is still in the life-saving, life-changing business.

Revival is the change we need. Repentance is the change we need.

Repentance that leads to heart change. We can't legislate morality, and obviously that won't happen any time soon, anyway.

God, who cannot lie, promised that if His people, who are called by His Name, would:

--humble OURselves

--pray

--seek His face

--turn from our wicked ways (that's still to us, believers!)

THAN

--He will hear from heaven

--He will forgive our sin

--He will heal our land

Even so, come quickly, Lord Jesus!

Blessings!

a humbled ChaplainChas.

Rental

2008-10-25T08:30:00.002-04:00

This morning I drove to work in a rental. My car was not available. I think the AAA tow service garage is going to plunder and pillage my bank account just to fix the brakes (and whatever-else they deem necessary). They say it'll be done Monday morning.

You see, yesterday I was headed to the last regular season soccer game for TCAGirlsSoccer (as mentioned in other posts) down in Egg Harbor Twshp. I almost always leave plenty of time for interruptions so I was making good time down Street Road when something fell off my car and the brakes decided not to work. I eased into the 'emergency' lane and slowed to a stop. Thinking that wasn't the best place to be I drove around the corner (slowly) into a parking lot, and called TRIPLE A.

Within 15" my car was being towed to their place (about 2:15 PM on a Friday), which apparently doesn't do any work Friday afternoons (they wouldn't look at it, believing they knew the problem and would not schedule an 'appointment only' slot on Saturday. Sooooooooo, Monday morning. I pray it's not too expensive and that they do better work (as personality is not their forte).

Enter rental company. I'm driving a Toyota SUV which I can't even tell if it has a brand name, but runs nicely (although takes a LOT of fuel)... and got me to the soccer game about 15 minutes late (about 1 3/4 hours from my place).

Got in some fellowship time with Coach (which is why I went in the first place) and returned home.

Getting ready for work this AM I realized my work boots, work keys and pager are all in my car, not near my home and the opposite direction of work and church. Sigh.

Chatted with a co-worker about yesterday's funeral (former co-worker), and voila, here I am.

I'm so glad God knows what He's doing! Perhaps someday I'll find out. For now I'll just rest in His arms of grace, swimming in the ocean of His love, abiding in Him. Praise God, I actually can pay the bill when it comes. I guess God had different plans for that money.

That's a post for another time.

Thanks for reading!

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Of Life and Death

2008-10-20T16:05:00.003-04:00

Sunday evening I helped out in Manhattan at the NYC Harvest '08 w/Greg Laurie (Madison Square Gardens). All the tickets were sold and some 13,000 men, women and children attended. Over a thousand registered decisions for Christ Jesus.

It was so awesome. Pastor Greg spoke of the death of his son, Christopher Laurie, in a MVC this past July, commenting that Christopher is now in Heaven. He knows this because Christopher believed the Bible's promise that if on confesses their sins to God, and accepts God's gift of forgiveness and eternal life (through Jesus Christ, His Son) they SHALL be saved.

Christopher didn't, and those 1,300+ won't be going to heaven because of who they are. Christopher doesn't get in because his Dad's a Pastor (I don't read anywhere in Scripture, or other writings where God has Grandchildren). Those making decisions to live for Jesus the remainder of their time on earth, and into eternity will get to spend it with the Master of the Universe because of what Jesus did on the cross, not because of anything they have done.

Shortly after Pastor Greg began his message I received a text message advising that a co-worker (age 39) died of a massive heart attack just a couple hours prior. I finished what I was doing with the Crusade and was amazed at the contrast. Even as a friend passed on from physical life to physical death, a thousand people passed from eternal death to eternal life!

The contrast was stark, and amazing. The reminders of Christopher Laurie (Traumatic Death) and Boz (Medical Death) and then the redemption of all those people who are now spiritually ready to pass from physical life to spiritual eternal life with Jesus.

We are not guaranteed our next breath. I am not quite Boz' age, and I'm a little older than Christopher. Whenever God decides I've accomplished His will for me here on earth He will call me home to Heaven. I am ready. I've accepted Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior. He's my friend, my King and my God.

Do you know Him? Do you want to? (Follow this link for "How to Know God")

Jesus is ready for relationship with you, just call Him!

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Soul Force

2008-10-18T20:20:00.004-04:00

Today I was confronted with 'two' different SoulForce Equality Ride stories.

Confrontation one was from last year, I was told that a college in the mid-south had had the team arrested for trespassing. Being in rural poduncky it took a couple days for them to be released. I heard that members of the school visited them in prison, and such.

Selah (stop and consider) ...I keep a link on my bookmark bar for AtoZ South... whom I had/have never met or heard of prior to hearing he was 'coming out' as a gay christian. My heart is so burdened for this young man. I pray we are able to spend a lot of time together in the future. I pray for him and Jesus; that they would spend a lot of time together.

I read on his blog about a stop this year further south (he's now with SoulForce), and six of his team members were arrested a few days ago. His comment was wondering if his co-riders would be visited in prison by anyone from the school, especially since they had been denied access to a chapel service and shelter from the rain by the campus.

I did not find out the answer to this question.

I just know that my heart is more deeply burdened by these deceived brothers, for I truly believe that is what they are (AtoZ, RB and others).

AtoZ, if you ever read this. I am a born-again, blood-bought believer in Jesus Christ whom you'd likely label evangelical and possibly even a believer in the fundamentals of the faith. I love you with the love of the Lord. I pray His hand of protection upon you and that as you seek His Face and His Will you'll be open to hear the Truth (it sets us free).

Blessings! through my tears,

ChaplainChas.

No More Stupid: Don’t Fill Your Backyard with Frogs

2008-10-15T09:42:00.000-04:00

No More Stupid: Don’t Fill Your Backyard with Frogs

Check it out!

I love You more

2008-10-10T16:00:00.000-04:00

Today I felt my life change in a movie theatre.

God was there, and He met me in a radical, powerful way.

The words that changed my life, my worldview, were written on a card, leaning against a vase of roses. A computer had previously occupied that space.

I had heard the words before. I have spoken, and likely written the words before. They are not scripture, although the thought is scriptural.

The card? It read simply: "I love you more"

The implication? More than boats or thrills or pornography or relationships; more than the esteem of men, or money or security (real or perceived) or religion or lustful pleasures; more than fortune or fame or life itself.

I love you more.

Jesus, I love You more.

This means I admit to loving the things of the world, but I love You more, and trust my love of these will fade as I love You more.

This means I acknowledge that You have demonstrated Your own love for me in that though I was a sinner, You loved me! You gave Your life for me! (Romans 5:8)

This means I acknowledge I've been trying to do it on my own.

No more.

NO MORE. I love You more!

An hour later, writing this at the Chic-Fil-A, I love You more.

Three hours later, typing this onto my blog, I love You more!

Fantasy creeps into the periphery of my mind. My lust for simple pleasures or complex experiences pale in comparison to You.

No more buying people's friendships.

No more gawking after Your creations, Your creatures, Your image-bearers.

I will bear Your image better.

I love You more.

Back?

2008-10-08T13:40:00.004-04:00

Dunno who may have noticed I've been in absentia, but I'm back (I think).

The Greater Philadelphia Harvest '08 w/Greg Laurie was great! I've missed those brothers and sisters! Some 45,500 people attended over the course of 3 nights with 3,365 registering decisions of commitment to Jesus Christ!

Woot!

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Relaxed

2008-09-27T16:53:00.001-04:00

Today was a workday to be relaxed at!

BAAM.

How do you like THAT grammar?

movies

2008-09-26T15:03:00.002-04:00

I find myself nauseous, still.

A movie with a married couple and an unmarried couple in a four-way-ish adulterous relationship complete w/homosexuality, crude language and mild sex scenes reminded me last night why I don't have a television.

It was so 1980's in my mind and I am saddened that others found it so enjoyable.

I just needed to run into the arms of Jesus and worship as I processed on the hour drive home. I am so glad that He forgives foolish mistakes, and cleanses me with His blood, and loves me.

Sigh.

I have, frankly, still been reeling a bit in the immaturity of it all.

Lord Jesus, I desperately need You! I want You. I need relationship with You to be fuller and fuller and more complete! I want to see the world through Your eyes, and offer Your love and grace and mercy and anger and... Would You please teach me? I ask for You to fill me with your Spirit. I ask You to conform/ transform/ renew/ revive and awake Your Truth and Your Spirit within me.

Help me to love like You love and WITH Your love.

Thanks, and Amen.

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

1,570,000

2008-09-24T14:29:00.003-04:00

In the interest of Truth and Justice, I'm going to go ahead and leave my original posting, here; BUT in the interest of TRUTH and Humility, I've found I need to correct this one! See the notes below for the correction...

ORIGINAL POST:

David has long been hailed as Israel's King. The King from which Messiah descended. The King who sought after God's own heart. The sweet Psalmist of Israel.

David was anointed by God, through the Prophet Samuel, to be king. The Spirit Of God came upon him (granted he was not filled with the Spirit, never to be abandoned...).

First Chronicles 21:1 reads: "Then Satan stood against Israel and incited David to...".

:::healthy pause:::

If this Man of God, David, author of Scripture (jointly w/Jesus) could be incited by Satan to do anything, how much more should we be on our guard (it feels better to say 'we' than 'I' and 'my')?

David sinned and ONE MILLION FIVE HUNDRED AND SEVENTY THOUSAND men died in a three day period because of it! Granted I'm not a King, but it kinda sheds a little light on the whole 'my sin affects you' theory!

It only takes 12 verses for David to come to his senses...

First Chronicles 21:13 reads: "Then David said to Gad, 'I am in great distress. Let me fall into the hand of the LORD, for his mercy is very great, but do not let me fall into the hand of man."

And there it is. The man after God's own heart knows God is a merciful God. Even for decisions about punishment David runs into the hands of God, and not away from Him.

Oh that we would do the same.

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Now here's the correction. David's sin did indeed impact the nation; however according to verse 14 only 70,000 men died due to the pestilence. This is grave, indeed, but not as I had previously listed. My apologies for the over-zealousness in getting the original post posted, and THANKS!

Romans and Latte

2008-09-18T14:15:00.000-04:00

Today I received a call from a friend affiliated with SRC advising it was closed for a Memorial Service today. I'd been feeling a bit distant from God (rejoicing that feelings do not necessarily reflect reality) and decided to visit TrueBrew, where I get my morning latte and bagel while working.

This turned out to be a great move, as I got great latte and a fruit salad. I also got to sit and not have everyone who walked into the place chat w/me since everybody seems to know my name at SRC (which is usually great). Today, I needed to know God knew my name.

Here are some notes from the apostle Paul. I won't try to list all the verses, but know they come from ROMANS 5, 6, 7 or 8, from the English Standard Version of the Bible.

Since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ... We have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand... At the right time Christ died for the ungodly... while we were still sinners...
We know that Christ being raised from the dead will never die again; death no longer has dominion over Him. For the... life He lives He lives to God... Consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus... Present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness... Present your members as slaves to righteousness leading to sanctification... Now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the fruit you get leads to sanctification and its end, eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Nothing good dwells... in my flesh. Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! ...I myself serve the law of God with my mind...
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not according to the flesh (but according to the Spirit)... He condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk... according to the Spirit... Those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. ...to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. You... are... in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you... If the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He... will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.

So... Thank You. I got to read this and be blessed. I then got to read this again as I typed it out for you! I got blessed again!

And now, methinks I'll move on to the Old Testament, for my trek through the entire Bible, as my spirit has been lifted.

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

R/H/s/m/N/Bw/Bp/F

2008-09-13T16:21:00.003-04:00

So the other day, a rabbi/ priest/ lawyer/ peace officer/ carpenter and a duck walked into a bar, and the bartender says, "What is this? A joke?"

But seriously, yesterday was my day off. I was stoked to see Nate's (tcagirlssoccer) team play late in the afternoon. It was a good game. Rained the entire time!

Got to the school early, so got to briefly visit Braden and Brandon, and Ryan. Due to a, ahem, miscommunication, I got to spend the drive over to Ry's house with him, where I got to see his wife and girls (youngest is getting big). Nate and his female friend were over, too. Didn't really get to chat w/him at all.

Pizza and wings, then off to my place to sleep before work this morning.

It was good to hang with this gang, again. Perhaps it'll happen again.

I am at peace.

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

September 11th, 7 years later

2008-09-11T12:02:00.003-04:00

Thirty times. I had to fill out a form for the department of health for NYC and the answer I came up with was close to thirty times.

Every six months or less, I get reminders in the mail from NYC of the best worst year of my life. They update us on health for the registry, of all those who served or lived on or near GROUND ZERO, or the MORGUE, or the DUMP... I forget the name of the island... fish something.

In early November of 2001 I spent a week on Manhattan Island with my church. It was my first official soiree as a Chaplain. I wore my dress blues to Memorial Services/ Funerals of Fire Fighters and Police Officers. Over the year I would attend more of these than the rest of my life, combined.

We took day trips and took over night trips. Our teams fed food to the workers at Ground Zero, walked the perimeter giving coffee or hot chocolate and snacks to the PD guarding the site, ministered to families and workers at the Morgue...

I remember a business man in a suit sitting on a statue's base, telling his story of the day Hell came to Manhattan. We cried together and I prayed for him. I spent some time with a particular police man, making sure to visit from time to time, and getting Bibles to him ('God's Word for Peace Officers').

A restaurant nearby was closed to the public, and opened for the workers at Ground Zero, as well as firemen and police. It was a safe haven where we served by cutting up vegetables, lugging boxes, serving the men and women, and praying with them as needed.

Mission NYC, Harvest Christian Fellowship, Calvary Chapel, Samaritan's Purse, Billy Graham Prayer Center, American Red Cross, American Heart Association, Salvation Army, Southern Baptist's... We worked alongside them all.

Some days or nights we'd just walk around as tourists. We'd approach the sad and share hope. I have no idea how many we prayed with. Most, for sure.

There's more, but I'm distracted. There's more, but there's life. There's more, but Jesus will need to bring it out. There's more, but not now.

Because of Who HE is,

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Hurricane Fever

2008-09-05T16:25:00.004-04:00

Well, I could be wrong. It's happened before. But I don't think we're going to actually get a hurricane all the way up here in Eastern Pennsylvania. Tornado? Been done. Flooding, a stronger chance, but a hurricane? Doubt it.

So, why then is the Chief authorizing extra crews and 'Severe Weather Strike Teams?'

Media hype.

Hard to be biased in the media, I know, but perhaps there's not much else to report. If they're not able to be double-tongued on the issue of teen pregnancy or gay republicans or even that Shamu died (well, the first few), than how can we expect fair and accurate reporting on hurricane Hannah?

Such is life. Habits are habits, but facts are facts.

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Identity Changes

2008-08-23T15:55:00.001-04:00

Looking back at today’s HazMat Operations class at work, I realize I am not the man I was some 20 years ago. I have new confidence and new zest for life. I am accepted as one of the gang, and accept myself with a strong identity both as a man, and as a man in Christ.

My public posture has generally improved as I am able to hold my head high. Eye contact is much more frequent and conversation flows more smoothly. I am still an actor, but the performance is for an audience of One, and it’s His attention I crave more than any others. I am accepted by a man, and therefore able to receive acceptance from other men. My name is Chas. I am a born-again, blood-bought believer in Jesus Christ.

My identity is in Christ.

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Final Test

2008-08-23T15:51:00.001-04:00

...and on and on it goes.

Second Test

2008-08-23T15:49:00.002-04:00

Still think i goofed... just checking

Test

2008-08-21T17:47:00.000-04:00

So I probably goofed. So I'm just checking.

Friends & Seminar Requests

2008-08-21T17:04:00.004-04:00

Friends: First of all, I got to see some good, good friends today, and speak w/some old good friends.

This morning I left home at the early hour of 0630 to arrive at TCA (The Christian Academy -- I didn't name it, it just is what it is) where my friend Nate coaches the girls Soccer. I spent a couple hours 'video-graphing' their morning practice session. I had truly forgotten how much I loved soccer! My Jr/Sr High teams NEVER did some of the drills Nate has come up with. They're going to win the championship if they keep going like this week.

I also got to have lunch w/Ryan (and a few other teachers from the school: Brandon and Braden, whom I knew (actually the lunch was supposed to be with Brandon, but Ryan's back from RI, woot!) and John and Abe. Ryan rode over with me to the diner and back. We chatted a little. I hope we can actually fellowship and pray and exhort and... sometime soon... with Nate, too.

Seminar Requests: Next I'd like to ask for prayer. I'm working on a seminar for Youth Pastors/ Leaders/ Directors/ Workers/ 'Dudes' for HUSA, and am really excited about the new direction we're heading. We truly get to "proclaim Christ as Lord, to a sexually broken world!"

Please pray as a couple of us collaborate. Also: Does anyone know of a GOOD 12-week course already written for Youth Groups to go through each week for a 'quarter?' Why re-invent the wheel if someone's already labored in prayer and writing and has BIBLICALLY SOUND, GOOD STUFF already published...?

Thanks to you all,

Blessings!

ChaplainChas.

Ministry Blogging?

2008-08-20T06:18:00.000-04:00

Yesterday's staff meeting at HUSA got me thinking.

They want to add a blog to the main webpage, and want staff (one per month) to blog 3 times per week!

Seems like a lot.

Breathe Underwater

2008-08-07T16:00:00.000-04:00

At a conference recently I decided I was a 'charismatic w/a seatbelt.'* I was raised Baptist, and went to the C&MA home school (I now participate in worship at Calvary Chapel). One of the Pastor's wives asked me why not take off the seatbelt?

You see, I have believed the gifts of the Spirit are alive and well. I believe God is real and ever present. I believe God can, and does act supernaturally today. So when I had a burning bush experience it was incredible. During some singing I was compelled to remove my shoes. I had no choice. God was there, and the ground was holy because of it. Inside I was sprawled out prostrate before Him in complete abandon and worship; AND He was receiving it.

I had told Heidi I would have moved into the aisle and actually laid down if I didn't think it would have drawn attention to myself and off of Christ. This was my response when she asked me about removing the seatbelt. I think God was good with my decision. He would have accepted worship from the floor, too. I think my heart was right for both options.

I read a book recently that was not the most enthralling, and parts of it were poorly written. I don't know but what I even disagree with some points theologically (none of which have to do w/Jesus or Salvation or the 'big' issues). Oh, it's called A Man Called Blessed by Bill Bright and Ted Dekker.

Anyhow. I'm learning to breathe underwater. I'm learning to walk of the cliff. I'm learning to fall. I'm learning about the ocean that is God's love. I'm learning to breathe there, underwater.

Having my foot securely planted on the earth (reality?, security?, ...) with the other over the edge, overlooking the unknown is still relatively safe. It's allowing the gravity of God's calling Spirit to pull me off the safe place resting in Him that He won't let me go and plummeting for moments, minutes, hours or days of supposed free-fall that get me. I'm learning to believe. I'm learning to breathe.

Plummeting off a cliff into the ocean seems safer than onto land, but God's big enough for both. Stepping off a cliff, free-falling, and landing in the Ocean of His Love is definitely a different experience. Sometimes it's taking off your shoes because the ground upon which you stand is Holy. Sometimes it falling prostrate, or kneeling publicly in worship. Sometimes it's something else.

The funny part is that even though I feel like I'm free-falling off a cliff, as led by the Holy Spirit, I'm already in the Ocean of God's love. I just need to learn to breathe it in. I need to learn to breathe it out. I need to believe. I need the faith of a little child. I'm learning to breathe underwater. I believe God loves me. I believe He's at the top of the cliff and at the bottom and there in the fall. I belieeeeeeeeeeeve!

...Wow, ChaplainChas., that sounds interesting enough, but how does that fit into 'real life?'

Well, in the past 24 hours I've taken a leap of faith and was let down by a great friend. He didn't follow through on a couple of commitments and I got hurt. Instead of following my old patterns and becoming devastated and viewing myself as the problem, as unlovable, as a wuss, I have allowed the Holy Spirit to remind me that this is just another cliff. I love my friend and I know He loves me. I'm going to make it. I believe that Jesus will use this in my life. I don't need to be depressed or despondent or... I may feel like I'm alone, or underwater, but it's the Ocean of God's love! I am breathing deeply. I am NOT alone!

Sigh. That's enough for now. I've got some dancing to do!

See if God doesn't teach you to jump off the cliff into the ocean, and show you how to breathe underwater...

Blessings!
ChaplainChas.

*I actually got that term from Marc Driscoll, who I don't know a whole lot about.

A Tale of two Firebirds

2008-08-01T13:11:00.006-04:00

Lord have mercy! Jesus must be coming back soon because I'm about to talk for a whole blog post about CARS!

I think my standards may be a little high.

I value friendships, a lot. I hate betrayal, I detest divorce, and I have a sensitive side that is more than half of my personality. I realized a while back that emotional dependency is not just a female issue. I work hard at not growing dependent on anyone but Jesus. He is, after all, my reason for living. He loved me enough to get a whole book written for me to find Him in, and got a whole bunch of people into my life to show me He can really effect change in human lives.

I guess I say all that to say this. I know two brothers that God has raised up and placed into my life who are meeting my standard. Ryan and Nate. Over time I'm sure you'll hear more, but for now I'm sitting on a deck w/Nate, as we wait for today's appointment to purchase a 1990 Firebird (similar to the above picture, but all black w/T-Tops). This is one of God's blessings upon my friend.

A while back his 1992 Firebird was totaled. God miraculously provided this one to meet several needs of this up-and-coming musician. Oh, well the rest is Nate's story, not mine. Not that I can't tell his story, but I don't feel I should at the moment.

At any rate, I get to hang out with my friend and watch God bless his life. Aren't cars grand?

Blessings!
ChaplainChas.

Thoughts from A New Day

2008-07-31T13:26:00.003-04:00

Well I've been threatening, and it's time to start making due. I'm trying to settle on which compilation of CD's/mp3's to get of the Exodus International Freedom Conf, and my plan is to listen again, and comment on each (Main Session at least). But for now let's take a running leap into general thoughts:

Registration: actually went quite smoothly. It was disappointing to not be able to get a shuttle service as part of the package, but we got a Great service from Ashville to Ridgecrest. We were met by a 500 year old (OK, 91?) volunteer with just the most humble, helpful spirit, to show us where to go!

Alan Chambers: Led the first Main Session. I can easily declare w/o hesitation that this was by far the best session I have ever heard him give. What a blessing! Here are a few notes from his talk.

GOD LOVES YOU! -- This was awesome b/c I've been saved for years and years and just in the past 6 months I've began to accept that Jesus Loves me, Jesus likes me, God the Father likes and loves me, God the Holy Spirit loves me and likes me! Me! Inconceivable! But true.

I Cor 6:11, reminds me that God is not 'wringing his hands, wondering what to do with you" now that you've accepted His offer of Salvation! He's not surprised by sexual sin!

...How can I judge someone who's just trying to survive? Someone that's so hungry (emotionally/ relationally starved) they'll eat out of the garbage can.

God wants to meet those needs, too! He's the real thing.

How awesome to be able to live the BULK of our lives with believers in church, not 20 years in support groups.

And finally, the prayer that God will 'help me deny what comes naturally to me (Sin comes naturally!)!

Wow. I can hardly wait to listen to this again. I'm sure there'll be more.

Hmmmm. I think I'll stop with that for this particular post! Perhaps I'll be able to refine the way I enter these as time goes on, but I really wanted to get this ball rolling!

Look out!

Blessings!
ChaplainChas.

Mindy?

2008-07-26T13:08:00.002-04:00

As I begin this post, Mindy Boyd, a facebook friend from Exodus and WiseDoves is setting up for her segment in an outdoor concert here at Main Street Java, in Souderton, PA. The benefit is for Alex's Lemonade Stand. I believe there's a bigger group here for Mindy than for the last two performers. As a side note, why on earth do 'sound engineers' feel the need to push the upper limits of volume?

She sounds great!

We got to hang out/ fellowship for quite awhile before she went on.

As she sings about 95, I'm more and more distracted, so I'll sign off for now!

Greg Laurie

2008-07-24T17:28:00.002-04:00

I rarely post twice in the same day, well, same week even, OK, same month!

BUT, I am feeling numb at the moment.

I've traveled/ volunteered with Greg Laurie and the Harvest Crusade since 1997.

I just received a brief note informing me that his son (age 32) was killed in a car accident.

I am literally numb as I type this.

Please pray for his family, his church, his crusades and his relationship with Abba!

Tearfully,
ChaplainChas.

A New Day

2008-07-24T16:44:00.002-04:00

We will overcome
by the blood of the Lamb
and the word of our testimony!

This perhaps unintentional themesong from the Exodus Freedom Conference last week seems to also be becoming my mantra in my journey into freedom from death into life, from darkness into light and from bondage into holiness!

There's so much to say, a lot of which has already been said, but for me I just think about my encounter with God. In my recollection this was the first time I've SO strongly felt the presence of God that I truly had to remove my shoes, for the ground upon which I was standing was Holy! If I thought it would not have attracted attention to me from God's work I would have fallen into the aisle to kneel or perhaps even prostrate myself (I know, I'd have been a fire hazard! BUT the Holy Spirit's fire was there...).

This was my third conference with Exodus, and I loved it.

Sigh.

I truly hope to post more, but the tyranny of the urgent is upon me.

More soon,
Blessings!
ChaplainChas.

Your Name

2008-07-13T16:21:00.006-04:00

"Jesus in Your Name we pray,
Come and fill our hearts today...

As morning dawns and evening fades,
You inspire songs of praise...

Your Name is a strong and mighty tower
Your Name..."

Sitting here at Charbucks for my regular Sunday afternoon catchup online and reading. They actually have some bizarre stuff on the radio so I'm listening to the practice CD (well, iTunes) for CCQ and 'Your Name' is very inspirational (by Paul Baloche(sp).

There's healing and salvation and comfort and joy in the Name that is above all Names, the name of Jesus, the Christ, the Son of the Most High God! I KNOW! It makes no sense to one who does not have the Spirit of the Living God inside; but that doesn't negate the FACT that it's true!

I misplaced my sWord for a bit of time this week. Ended up buying a pocket dagger for the Conference, since I won't be back to HARVEST USA until after the conference (that's where I left it). It's taking getting used to, and I prolly won't be writing any notes in it! Red letters, onion skin type paper, leather (smelling) bound! Almost like a real Bible!

I LOVE reading biographies. Maybe that's why I like the Old Testament so much. Anyway, I'm reading Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret and am reminded again of the Exchanged Life. I'll have to put a bit in here about that sometime. Better yet, get the book.

Ending for now,
Blessings!
ChaplainChas.

PS: Last day of work spent about 45 minutes discussing Jesus and religion with three other crewmen... Pray for new life!

Learning to Breathe

2008-07-10T16:05:00.000-04:00

God has taken me through some pretty interesting places in life. Perhaps some day I'll share some of them here, but I'll just let that hang out there.

I've found myself stating more and more frequently that I 'hate my job. My full time job, that is, working as a Paramedic. The most frequent response I get to that statement is to the effect of:

Why on earth would you hate that? You get to help people who need you!

Blah, blah, blah, get a grip, blah, blah, blah.

My part time job is better. I get frustrated on occasion, but that's only natural, isn't it? Overall I love it, am useful, am appreciated, am growing, am learning... I help broken people learn to breathe again, especially in certain areas of their lives. I am not a counselor. I am a discipler.

:::Dramatic Pause:::

I want my own Coffe Shop and Bookstore.

Don't know where that came from.

:::Extended Dramatic Pause:::

Well, I guess I need to go spend some time with Jesus!

Blessings!
ChaplainChas.

Nothing to Say

2008-06-30T10:15:00.000-04:00

Is it wrong to post when you've nothing to say?

Is it possible to have nothing to say?

I'm listening to "Overwhelmed" by Jimmy Robeson as I sit at work trying to remember why I'm in the profession I'm in.

This morning was so so frustrating. The rig was OK, but no linens, and paperwork was missing. Even though we were second up, the Supervisor made no effort to respond to her call when dispatched so we had a delayed response, and were sent to the wrong entrance of the extended care facility (I hesitate to refer to it as a Skilled Nursing Facility). The staff were no where near the 'unresponsive' patient, then it seems they made up information in their report (nope, she doesn't appear dead to me (should the eyes look around or arms move on a dead person?)). Maybe it's just me.

It's probably a good thing there weren't many vehicles on the road to fail to yield to our emergency vehicle.

The internet connection here at work is sporadic, as is the air conditioning (that's ok, it won't hit 90 until tomorrow, again).

I'm sorry, what, Lord? Is that You? What do you mean what did I used to tell people my favorite verse in Scripture was?

That's not fair, Lord. Hmm. "Lord."

Thank You, You're right, of course.

Allow me to leave you with that much repeated verse: "And it came to pass...".

Blessings!
ChaplainChas.

Spurgeon and Responsibility

2008-06-26T14:46:00.006-04:00

Here I sit at the Solid Rock Cafe and Bookstore in Chalfont, PA (SRC). It's a ministry/ outreach of Calvary Chapel of Central Bucks (County, PA). I'm vacillating btwn reading Spurgeon: A New Biography by Arnold Dallimore, and lesson prep for my next group at HARVEST USA.

I want to quote from the above book, then see how that compares with OUR responsibility as Christians in general!

During the 1880s a group of American ministers visited England, prompted especially by a desire to hear some of the celebrated preachers of that land.

On a Sunday morning they attended the City Temple where Dr. Joseph Parker was the pastor. Some two thousand people filled the building, and Parker's forceful personality dominated the service. His voice was commanding, his language descriptive, his imagination lively, and his manner animated. The sermon was scriptural, the congregation hung upon his words, and the Americans came away saying, "What a wonderful preacher is Joseph Parker!"

In the evening they went to hear Spurgeon at the Metropolitan Tabernacle. The building was much larger than the City Temple, and the congregation was more than twice the size. Spurgeon's voice was much more expressive and moving and his oratory noticeably superior. But they soon forgot all about the great building, the immense congregation, and the magnificent voice. They even overlooked their intention to compare the various features of the two preachers, and when the service was over they found themselves saying, "What a wonderful Savior is Jesus Christ!"

p. 216

As Dr. Ken "Hutch" Hutcherson prayed at the Exodus International Freedom Conference, it is my prayer that God would get me out of the way in lesson prep, in teaching, in preaching, and in living! That God would teach me so that others may be taught. That He would convict those who need conviction, and that He would comfort those who need comfort. That He would have permission to say whatever to whomever He will. ...It seems C.H.Spurgeon lived this prayer, himself.

Another section of the book that not only caught my attention, but slammed me up against the wall and beat me in the head with truth was the section on church membership. New converts and applicants for membership had to meet with the Pastor, but so many were applying that certain messengers were appointed to meet with them...

In dealing with a person who testified he had come to know the Lord, the messenger looked for three marks of true conversion. One, had the person, knowing himself to be a sinner and unable to do anything toward saving himself, gone to God, begging for mercy, and had he entirely trusted his soul to Christ, believing in the saving merit of His death upon the cross? This individual experience of the soul with God was the unalterable and basic necessity, and without it there was no recognition of the person as truly converted. Two, had the person entered into newness of life, experiencing a change of affections, victory over sin, a love for the Word of God, and a desire to win others to Christ? Three, did he or she possess a basic understanding of the doctrines of grace, recognizing that salvation did not begin with himself or his own will, but with God's choice and God's action, and that God, who saved him, would keep him through time and through eternity?

p. 81

Wowsers!

Meditate on that last paragraph for a few minutes. Ask the Holy Spirit to do that work in your life! As the Holy Spirit to prove that He has already done it in your life, if more appropriate! Meditate and receive this blessing.

...Cutting it off for now,
with Blessings!
ChaplainChas.

The Happenings

2008-06-19T12:16:00.003-04:00

Last night I 'cut' church. It was the mid-week Bible Study. It was a pleasant sprinkley-rainy sort of evening when I got home from work. The sun was shining and I felt like singing in the rain.

The day at work had been pleasant, only two calls. Saved the first guys life (drastically low blood sugar) and took a thankful old man and his wife to the emergency room after their car was hit by a tractor-trailer. They'll live to see another bingo game.

Although the weather has been a scosh (read: bit, or tad bit) bizarre, I'm so thankful the humidity is down. High pressure systems hitting low pressure systems which are cooler or warmer than the other reminds me a bit of spiritual warfare, a more likely cause for the happenings in my mind.

Yesterday I spent a couple hours with a long time friend who claims to be a Christian who does not believe that Jesus is God.

...silent pause... ...pregnant pause...

Yes, he's not a lukewarm Christian with high pressure systems crashing across his world and he's not in a low pressure system, either. He's never claimed a personal relationship with Jesus but now feels he must be a Christian even though Jesus was clearly not a lunatic or a liar, but is definitely NOT Lord. He was a prophet like Buddha or Mohammed my friend says, any of which lead you to heaven.

I thought it was bad that friends were away on extended trips, others away on missions trips, friends had loved ones committing suicide, busy busy busy days at work, hot humid weather, gas prices on the rise... but now Jesus doesn't have to be anything to be enough?

My friend realized he was being the hypocrite he accused others of being. He did not claim Jesus as his Lord, yet, but has agreed to read the Bible all the while stating that he's open to God revealing truth to him.

Let's see what THAT does to this every-type-of-pressure system!

Blessings!
ChaplainChas.

Title Free

2008-06-14T16:47:00.005-04:00

OK, so obviously this is not a title free post. Blogspot doesn't like that, apparently, and I'm not sure what I'll type about, so we'll just leave it at that, for now.

The M.A.S.H. theme-song laments that suicide is painless for awhile, but that's not really the case, is it? My friend had someone close to him die recently and he's in a lot of pain. The friends family is in pain, and this person's other friends are in pain. Perhaps the song should be re-written?

Of course, this song is totally skewed in it's worldview anyway. No consideration of heaven and hell (which would make suicide painful for eternity for those w/o Jesus' atoning blood cover) is brought into this.

Selfish. Suicide is quite possibly one of the most selfish options one can choose from the menu of life. It certainly seems to leave those of us left behind out of the equation.

Let me interject here and confess this is a bit of a rant. As I process the death of this young one (under 20 years of age) and try to make sense of it I find myself at a crossroads. Luckily, that reminds me of the afore-mentioned cross of Christ and THAT reminds me that I can rest fully in HIM. Lamentations 3 reminds me that it is good that a man should both hope and wait patiently for the Lord. It reminds me that even the prophet Jeremiah remembered bitterness and the 'gall' of things. It reminds me that I need not be consumed b/c the Creator of the universe is still on the job.

...Well, that's about it for now. Thanks for reading.

Blessings!
ChaplainChas.

Unlikely Me, Unlikely God

2008-05-22T12:30:00.000-04:00

Hello!

I've just returned from a series of Conferences, and am eating lunch as I type at the SRC. From here I go to the Jackson's to pray for guidance and for the Holy Spirit's direction for myself, and the Jackson brothers (one as an artist for Christ, the other as a Musician... and myself in speaking/ outreach).

Let's back up. I had the privilege of transporting some missionaries around before the Mission's Conference last Saturday. Had a great heart to heart with Dave from the Old Country. Saturday was a long, but blessed day. It was good. I enjoyed just kinda stepping in and directing people around the building to various workshops and being the silent servant. Try it sometime...

Monday began the East Coast Pastor's Conference down at Sandy Cove, in MD. This was my first full Pastor's Conf that I can recall, and as time went on it became clear that God had placed me there. I was able to interact with a few about sexual brokenness, the love of God, and more importantly, the Chronicles! I was impacted by Psalm 62 (92?), Mark 6, and I Chronicles where I am told that 'if Chas., who is called a follower of Christ, will call on Jesus' Name, humble himself and pray, and seek Jesus' face, and turn from his wicked ways, then Jesus will hear from Heaven, and forgive my sins, and heal my land!

None of these Scriptures were discussed from the platform that I can recall, but the Lord spoke on the Platform of my Soul, and I believe I heard. I so need to be more repentant. I so need to be humble.

On a more humorous note, I learned that God seems to like using unattractive people to accomplish His will, as there were some 800+ of the most unlikely people at the Pastors Conference.

As I desperately want to get into the Word for a few minutes, I'll leave you with the following links for the Jacksons:

www.ryanljackson.com
www.natejackson.org

Blessings!
ChaplainChas.

Solid Rock Cafe

2008-04-19T19:39:00.003-04:00

Here I sit at the SRC in Chalfont, PA. I like the people. Where was I the other day? I liked the music better. It was a jazzy, bluesy something-or-other. Oh, it was at Ryan's. I like SRC better than Java's Brewin'. They frequently have the TV on and up (although it's a very nice large screen HD...) a/w/a music playing (and eclectic sort of music.

It's peaceful here. I can read my Bible and chat and... I do the same there, but there's 'warfare' there. I'm wondering if I should even go back. It's convenient. Witnessing has happened. Am I doing it right?

Hmm. Surprisingly, I've gotten interrupted a few times, so I'll sign off for now...

Blessings!
ChaplainChas

Month by month

2008-04-17T14:32:00.005-04:00

WOW! It's been over a month since I've blogged, here. It's sunny and springy this week here in the great outside of where I am! Ha. I make me laugh.

This particular post is being prepared on my brand new MacBook Pro. It was a gift to myself due to an escrow refund on my mortgage, and good ol' Uncle Sam determining I lent him too much money last year.

Tonight I'll be with the HUSA gang at Westminster Theological Seminary discussing lesbianism in particular, and homosexuality in general, during a class with some 40-50 students expected. Lord, let us not rob You of any glory, and let us heighten the sense of glory in the group.

Last night I met Madeline Lucille for the first time. She is about three weeks old and very quaint/ precious! My artistic friend had a PCP appt., then cooked for us. We a had a good chat, but as usual, I wish it could have been longer. Gross Pointe Blank ended off the night.

Well, needing to get into Scripture for a bit, I leave you as always,

ChaplainChas.

Sigh

2008-03-15T18:00:00.000-04:00

This evening as I type, I rest in the arms of the One who knows best, and cares far more about both me and my friends than I ever can.

I had to do something painful last night. I do not glory in it, but I must needs set up a memorial stone to remember that it was done, and so this is it. A few weeks ago, my friend hurt me. I was angry enough that if we'd spoken shortly thereafter I'd have told him where to go. The anger turned to frustration which turned to bitterness. It began to affect me deeply.

I was reminded that in Ephesians we are told to not even let the sun set while we are angry, and I had disobeyed. I had a festering sore which was beginning to ooze onto others. I was in sin, and my friend was none the wiser.

I loved my friend. I love my friend. He is my friend and I want whatever God wants for him. I want God's best for him; therefore, I decided I needed to be honest with him, and pray that the possibility of a little pain would not turn him against me, but turn him toward God, to do His divine surgery on/in my friends heart.

Last night I told my friend he hurt me. I needed him and he was not there. Lonliness is not a fun ocean to dwell near.

His response was better than expected, but mostly expected none-the-less.

God is faithful. He will bind us together to better serve each other in the future. BUT, should he choose to allow seperation, I am willing, so long as it's in my friends best interest. God is love, and in Him there is no darkness at all... faithful are the wounds of a friend.

Today, I miss my friend, but I am at peace with God. May He continue to reign in both our hearts to will and to do according to His good pleasure.

With good sorrow,
ChaplainChas

Pride & Self-Pity

2008-02-05T16:22:00.000-05:00

Today I spent several minutes (at the recommendation of a friend) giving God the things in my life that bother me.

My intention when sitting down to write was to list them here, but I think now that that would just be taking them back and being able to dwell on them at a later time. This certainly would NOT be glorifying to God.

My intention is to glorify God in all thinge, everywhere, and in all seasons. By seasons I mean times of life; good times, bad times, at home, at work, during ministry, blah, blah, blah.

Today I am thankful for the cross. I am thankful for the sufferings of Jesus Christ Who even on the cross was able to 'worship?' by crying out "My God" as He addressed His Father in Heaven, even perhaps as His separation from Him was Hell. It certainly was a first. Who was it, Martin Luther that said, "God, forsaken of God; who can know it?"

Lord, energize and enlighten me to desire time in Your Word more than even sleep. You are my strength. I believe it.

Wanting to love Him more,
ChaplainChas.

Of Giants and Patriots

2008-02-04T09:36:00.000-05:00

Sunday night placed a new marker in my life. I watched the SuperBowl game from start to finish. I skipped church; the official function slash location that is called 'church' that is. I fellowshipped with believers. I ate good food. I celebrated life.

Being from New England helped in my desire to watch. The Patriots started the game with a perfect season. 18 wins, 0 losses. Well, that's almost a perfect season. They lost the last game.

'The Giants wanted it more.' 'The Giants played harder.' 'The Pats were cocky.' 'The coaches...'.

I enjoyed the game. That surprised me too. I've never been one for sports, and football has confused me more than any other. I don't like pain. The commercials weren't that good. Well, Dorito's second attempt at a commercial made me laugh. I'm not sure what the point of a giant mouse pummeling a man in a suit is, but I haven't forgotten the commercial. I may just buy a bag of Doritos because of the commercial. Huh?

I watched the game with a pregnant Rhode Islander, her artist husband, his girl's basketball coach brother, their high school sister, and a couple toddling girls. It was a very fulfilling, 'masculine' night for me. Huh? Take another dorito, and think about it.

The Pats had a 'near-perfect' season, which didn't end well. It's not a perfect season. They were out-played. Their hearts did not appear to be in it; well, their leaders heart (that is to say, Tom Brady's heart) did not appear to be in it. I don't know him. I'll likely never know him this side of eternity. I don't know his eternal status (let's pray for him). His look always reminded me of how I felt I looked when I looked for hours at porn. Did you know there was a look for times like that?

I want to finish well.

I don't have a perfect season behind me. I haven't always been joyful or given thanks in all things. I've scorned my parents, lied, lived a selfish, self-serving, self-gratifying life. I've been angry, and sinned in my anger. I've envied, coveted and taken what I wanted w/o permission.

I want to finish well.

For the joy set before Him He endured the cross. Huh?

Jesus finished well. 'Though your sins dye you a deep scarlet red, My blood will wash you whiter than the freshly fallen snow.'

I may not have a perfect 'rest of my season' but with Jesus, I won't have the look of spending hours with porn anymore. The stealing has ceased. I love my parents more every day. Lying is not pathological and I have joy in serving both Jesus and others more than when I serve my own interests.

The Pats season ended well if they did their best. I'm not able to judge that. I don't even know all the rules of the sport of football. I don't know all the rules of life, but for this I have a manual which I care deeply about. The Patriots and the Giants will both likely go on for years to come.

So will I.

My friend Scott reminds me regularly, that there's 'only one life, it'll soon be past; only what's done for Christ will last.'

Be well,
Be at peace,
Be Blessed!
ChaplainChas.

Learning to blog

2008-01-29T22:16:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm not so good at this. Feels like journaling, or a diary. Should there be a purpose? A goal? A point, even?

Why should anybody care what I have to say?

God, what do You want me to do? Thanks for Your help and participation in tonight's teaching. Daniel was an example of a man of God. It was fun discussing You and him with the men at HUSA's mixed group tonight. I think they were blessed too.

I'm the last one here tonight, and need to head home. Work comes early in the morning, but I figured I should pop into the old blog-o-sphere and say something.

All, sorry to waste your time. Thanks for reading.

Blessings!
Your random friend in Christ,
ChaplainChas.

Heath Ledger

2008-01-23T12:03:00.000-05:00

Today the death of 28 year old Heath Ledger, of "Brokeback Mountain" fame, is all over the news. I believe he leaves behind a widow and child (papers say never married). How sad.

The media is playing it up as an overdose, possibly a suicide according to the radio. I trust this is not the case (intentional suicide, at any rate). Although I've been there.

No, I've never been attractive, rich, married, popular, or attained super hero status; but I've been suicidal. Thinking about it brings me back to my college days as an emotionally dependent pathological liar. I had no grasp of the sufficiency of Jesus Christ in those days.

How sad it would be if his sleeping pills interacted with other medications and the influenza (pneumonia?) sped up some meds and slowed down the efficiency of others. This happens.

I further mourn for his wife, parents, kid(s) and friends. Heath was not just an actor in Hollywood, you know. He must have been a family man with household chores and financial concerns and temptations and struggles like the rest of humanity. The pictures on MSNBC show him happy with the family, but he is after all an actor. I hope they have good memories, and that their last days together were not overly stressful.

I'd love to hear them reminice.

I didn't know the man. I don't know the family. I saw him in "The Patriot" with Mel Gibson, and "A Knight's Tale" where he did a fine job, and on ads for Brokeback, although I've never seen the movie. I'd like to speak with him. I know, too late for that.

Intentional or accidental, Heath is now in his final resting place; I'm speaking spiritually, as his body hasn't even been released to the family to the best of my knowledge.

I don't know the spiritual beliefs of the Ledger family, but I pray for Michelle and Matilda Rose, and his other relations. This I call to mind, and in this I find my hope: Because of the Lord's great love for me, I am not consumed. His mercies are new every morning. The Lord is my strength and my portion. Therefore, I can say unto my Lord, "Great is Your faithfullness, my Jesus, my Rock, and my Salvation."

I know that regardless of whether or not Heath Ledger is in Heaven or Hell for eternity (yes, I said the "H" word), He would want it shared that John 14 is true. Jesus is the Son of God, who has gone to prepare a place (Heaven) for those who accept and believe He is the way, the truth, and the life; and that no one can get to the Father (for eternity, in Heaven) but through Him (Jesus).

Jesus also promised He would not leave His people comfortless when He ascended to Heaven, but instead would provide a Comfortor for us who believe.

John 3:16 states that God loved the world so much, that He sent His one and only Son, that if anyone (Heath, Chas., Matilda, Michelle...) would believe in Him, they would not die an eternally painful separation from God, but would have everlasting life rejoicing in the presence of the God above all gods.

...I know this is random, and probably not publish-worthy, but it is where my mind is for now.

Your Random Friend,
ChaplainChas.

Praying Randomly

2008-01-21T13:50:00.000-05:00

I REALLY like random. Sometimes I think that my thinking is random, and am bothered by it. Other times I take it as a gift from God. Thank You, God for the gift of randomness. The crisp sunny air outside is nice (in the sun). The 12 does nibbling on the grass at the end of the building. A job. Another job. Friends.

It's NICE to have friends. Lord, thank You for my friends. Thank you for Carlos Kalczuk and Scott Pickering and Randy Thomas ... and parents who love me. Ha. I almost put, 'and for brown paper packages, tied up with string' but decided against it.

JESUS is a pretty random sort of God. He healed blind people by touching, by putting mud on their eyes, by... He hung with Apostles and B-Postles, Pharisees, tax-collectors, prostitutes, adulterers, fishermen... He died for fat people, small people, short and tall people...

Thank You, God; for the gift of Random.

Start-Up

2008-01-11T14:50:00.000-05:00

'This is the day that the Lord has made, Let us rejoice and be glad in it!'

It's time that I start blogging with some semblance of regularity. I don't know who I'll tell. I don't know who I'll invite. I don't know to whom this may be disavowed.

This one thing I know, and this I call to mind: Because of the Lord's great love for me, I need not be consumed w/doubt or fear or worry or... His mercies are new every morning. Therefore, I can say unto my Lord (Jesus Christ), "Great is Thy faithfullness, Oh Lord, my rock and my salvation."

Blessings!