It Comes Down to What You Want...

The words of Jesus are specific. Today's gospel takes us to a place where the waters are stirred for a healing. The paralytic is asked in (John 5:6) "Do you want to be made well?" This is a strange question because it implies that we are responsible for what we get, if we but say the word. Is it really so simple? All we need to do is say so. The problem for most of us is indecision. We expect Jesus to make the choice for us, or for that matter, other's as well.

A short time ago we read about Jesus and his dealings with the centurion, who testifies in the gospel of Matthew, "but only speak a word, and my servant will be healed." Jesus said, (Matt 8:10) "Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel." The faith of this man was thought comparable to worshiping pagan gods, as was the belief of many of the Romans. He didn't say my servant "might" or "may" be healed. He said "WILL" be healed.

Just say it! Like the Centurion, who at the foot of the cross, announced Jesus, to truly be the Son of God.

Jesus told us if we had but the faith of a mustard seed,(Matt 17:20)"you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you."

We are victims of indecision. We are afraid. Often we are seekers of change, but we don't know what we really want and are afraid to find out. We really can't be sure that change will be better for us. What will we have to leave behind? We do not have a firm conviction...

Time to step out of the boat and face the reality that was yours all along. The truth will set you free. Or could it be that you haven't received because Jesus knows your heart is not ready. Remember, he will give you your hearts desire, especially what we keep secretly, but never from Him.

The paralytic stepped out in faith, he really desired to be made well, irregardless of how that decision changed his life.

(Scripture references are taken from "The Orthodox Study Bible")

Debunking the May 21st Rapture theory

Many have talked about the "Rapture of the church, as being on Saturday, May 21st. Today, I will share my thoughts as to why this information, which is not an Orthodox belief, is totally wrong and misconstrued. Rapture is a word that indicates to be "transported," It is the idea of which some Christians erroneously get from their understanding of being "caught up" and set aside, before the great tribulation. You have all seen the commercials, one taken, one left behind. The bumper sticker's on cars are funny as well, to those who know it to be a "falsehood".

It isn't that we don't believe in the words transformed to, or caught up, but it is a theory developed from a selected gospel passage and not taken from the whole. The following, disproves the rapture, showing it to be an incorrect belief.

Today's gospel reading reminded me that Philip, (one of seven deacons--Acts 6:3) was found at "Azotus," after the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away, so that the Eunuch saw him no more;" (Acts 8:39). (40)"But Philip was found at Azotus." (A Eunuch was an unmarried man who was devoted to the services of his master, and had come to Jerusalem to worship.) An angel directed Philip to explain the gospel of Isaiah, the prophet. This led to the Ethiopian's conversion, by hearing, acceptance and baptism. "Caught away" can mean many things, and to arrive at the correct understanding sometimes, can be difficult.

After the completion of the work of Christ, He was "caught up" to God and His throne. Christians call this the "Ascension". (See Rev.11:5).

Different times of the year we celebrate "feast days" that use words like "translated to life" such as the feast day of the Dormition of Mary the Mother of God, the Theotokos. One such hymn also states that she was translated by the "One who dwelt in her virginal womb!" Her body was buried in Gethsemane, by the apostles "who from the ends of the earth" being gathered together, another mystery, "appeared" and laid her body in burial. The Virgin Mother's body was mysteriously removed from the earth, being (translated) to be with her Son, Jesus.

The difference is not that we do not believe that we will be raised, it is more the understanding of when. Acts 1:9 tells us that Jesus was "taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight." (11) "This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven."

No one knows the time when Jesus will come for us. As far as being isolated and protected in order to prevent participation in the great tribulation by way of the "rapture" can be disputed by the gospel readings. (Matthew 24:44) "Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect."(Matthew 24:3-14). "But he who endures to the end shall be saved." (31)."And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other." The time of the Resurrection is found in (1Cor:52)"in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed."

Finally, we learn that the dead in Christ will be raised first. (1Thessalonians 4:16) (15)"For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep."For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. "then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord."

Some say we are experiencing the "birth pangs" and looking at the news each day, one may find agreement with that statement. Clearly, beyond that, who knows the day and the time? No-one...so we must constantly be on our guard in preparedness. Of course, there is always the possibility....."in just a twinkling of an eye"



(All Scriptural references have been taken from the Orthodox Study Bible)

Judgement Day has come to Area Churches

Just a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down, the medicine go down, the medicine go down....in the most delightful way. Whether or not the news was well received or not, the parishioners must face the music and dance to the "piper". The only alternative to taking the prescribed medicine, is to go somewhere else. Such important news to be mulled over on "mother's day" was I think, poor timing, but none the less, Judgement Day has come, and three out of four churches will consolidate, merging as in a marriage arrangement, like it or not.

A decision has been made, reflecting a sign of the times, and it's difficult for many to accept. This is not a new story, it's been happening everywhere else, but somehow, you never think it will happen in your town. Time will show that the Bishop, I think, wisely chose. Certainly, it was a no-brainer. The business decision, for the good of the entire church, probably had little to do with the petitions of people who carried signs asking drivers to "honk" if they agreed that their church should remain open. The church of choice was not different, but larger, and can accommodate all parishioners, including the other three churches, involved in this transaction. It was, in the end, a matter of common sense. The once majestic town with many churches has become tarnished. People of all denominations have fallen away from the responsibility of supporting their parish by their presence, and in short, even with all effort could not alter the course of the sinking ship, "the Mother Ship," which in it's magnificence, could not support itself, and must weather the adjustment in it's consolidation effort.

It's almost like building a huge house in anticipation of having a large family which grows up and leaves. Aging parents find it difficult and costly to maintain and inevitably must close shop or size down. Sometimes, you must put the property on the chopping block.

Selling out leaves a feeling of great loss. Much will need to be given up. The church family will need to sacrifice for the good of the whole. After all, how do you give up what has come to be a landmark in your town?

It's like taking one for the team. Not a good feeling, but in the end the right choice.

Mother's Day Bake Sale

Tomorrow stands will be selling flowers and stores will be crowded to the max for those wishing to purchase the perfect gift for their mother.

I recall my son Bill picking violets from along side the house and proudly bringing them to me, without stems. I was so happy to get the thoughtful gift, I placed them in an ashtray added water and we watched them float around. Last week, I had Nate and Ryan for the day. We went out back to swing, it was Ryan's first time on the swing with grandma and Nate. I had often taken Nathan on the swing even on rainy days, then it was with cushions and a radio of course. He'd often take a nap, especially after swim and playtime in the pool. Ryan also enjoys carriage rides and walks (or scooter rides) with Nate, then we swing. While we were on the swing, I pointed out the violets, growing in bunches bordering the house, to Nathan and told him the story about his daddy.

Bill has always given me so much, and now I observe how much he has to give to his family. He likes surprises and I'm sure he won't forget his lovely wife, who deserves so much for being the wonderful mom that she is. Steve always made me wonderful cards, complete with Hallmark on the back. Bill and Steve always had a great sense of humor and they always made me feel special on my "special" day.

Years ago, it was customary to visit your mom on mother's day bringing mostly flowers, chocolates or something that we know she will love. Then, mom would take out the coffee pot, in those days it was brewed on the stove, or an electric model that plugged into the wall. Now, we have coffee bars where people make their own and have many choices to mull over. Always, mom always had some of her special pastries to serve to us.

Mother's day was always pleasant, and it usually began with going to church together. Mom's wore corsages, white or red, determined by whether your mom was living or not. We had a large family, so rarely did we go out to dinner. I recall mom cooked on Mother's Day, mostly spaghetti and meatballs.

I am baking today for the Mother's Bake Sale which will be held tomorrow at St. Michael Church hall. It is fun to be able to purchase a plate full of our family's "favorites" in anticipation of their visit, or, to bring out treats when we meet for dinner, on a different occasion. Tonight, I will bake my mom's special recipe of cinnamon roll-ups with maple syrup and walnuts. It is great with coffee, anytime. Several people have asked me over and over to make them. After all, the woman at our church work so hard for the ladies organization, which exists to help the parish and the priest. They are such an asset to our parish, especially in July, when we have our Parish Festival.

Besides, I know that you'll be there. So it's sweets for the sweet and honey for honey. And, just imagine how happy your friends and family will be to be the happy recipients of the goodies. Lunch will be served, and I know you'll not want to miss that! Happy Mother's day to all you moms out there. Enjoy your special day and your weekend. Thanks for all you do, you are loved and appreciated.

Doubting Thomas Reveals All

Doubting Thomas in the end reveals "all" to us when he said, "My Lord and my God." Jesus was called Lord in many of the scriptures, known by His followers and Thomas, as "Lord," until that special day when the "doubter" encountered Jesus, the Risen Lord, with an unusual invitation and, to answer his famous "unless I see statement."

On that day, Thomas was privileged, (singled out), to place his hands on the wounds of the Resurrected Jesus, to acknowledge and reveal to us, that the person in front of him, was in fact, Jesus, "Lord and God."
This is the long awaited "confirmation" of who Jesus is....He is not just Lord but, Lord and God. Thomas, the doubter, doubts no more..... Jesus did not have to prove who He was, but did so for all of us, especially for the non-believers.

Taken from the Orthodox Study Bible, guideline reference, (Jude 9:4) "Only Lord God is better translated "only Sovereign." That is: Christ, Jesus the Risen Lord is as He said, in (John 10:30) "I and My Father are one." (31) At hearing this, the Jews took up stones again to stone Him. (They wrongly called it blasphemy) The evidence came through the lips of Thomas, the doubter, like him doubt no more!

The Jews in the Old Testament had a name for God, and they also used the title Lord. The Proper name of God in the Hebrew Language was Adonai, meaning Lord. (We say, Lord Jesus, Son of God.)

Doubting Thomas, eye-witness to God in the New Testament called Him "Sovereign"when he said, "Lord and God". ("Jesus reveals Himself as fully God: One means one in nature. He was God before the Incarnation, and He remains fully God after that union of God and man in His one Person."). The Father and the Son are two Persons, distinct, united in essence, will and action.

Jesus is coming and "every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him." (Rev. 1:7)

The One sitting the throne says, (Rev. 1:8)"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, says the Lord, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."

Through the witness of Thomas, Jesus proves His Divinity. We must rely on the "findings of Doubting Thomas, who said, "Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe." (John 20:25). (29) "Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

Thomas did not touch Jesus for proof, but his words revealed "all" for all eternity, Jesus is Sovereign, Lord and God.

My Cup Runneth Over

Island coconut coffee in hand and relishing each and every sip, I am feeling quite pampered just knowing that God has given me the ability to be surrounded by so many loving people and so much beauty. Yes, I'm a mounds girl, and I've had a passion for coconut all my life. I know that coconut is good for you and it's now available as a milk substitute, which is wonderful in cereal.

It's hard for me to understand how people prefer violence over peace, seemingly wanting to do battle all the time. Everything said lately, brings about opposition and separation, when life was meant to be lived and enjoyed--lived as if we were all brothers. The fact that people are rejoicing over a death brings about sadness, first of all that people can be misled to do violence to other's and live to that purpose. What a waste of goodness. God tells us that vengeance is His and He shall repay. We are told not to judge.

Sometimes, knowing that it will be taken care of is enough. Enough to let go and let God. Years ago the old saying was "what goes around, comes around." I didn't understand what that meant then, but it means what you do to others may come back to haunt you. Is in not better then, to practice goodness....Love, and it will be returned to you?

What do you rejoice over? Hopefully, your answer will not be someone Else's death. If that is the general opinion, then we have in fact, become "a culture of death and destruction,"even if we didn't start it. Our defense may be necessary, but more so, our goodness. Love annihilates evil.

You get what you give in life. Plant seeds of beauty, kindness and gentleness. Love often and be an example of love, not hate.

It may surprise you that through the years and through the grace extending from forgiveness, you can eventually love someone that has hurt you, changing your attitude toward them completely.

Looking at those who live to hurt others are sadly, "needy" and, somewhere within each of them, their is some "goodness." They are loved by others, their families and friends. Keep in mind that God is the creator of all and He does not make junk. Ideologies may not change, but the heart of man can, with God's help.

We will always have enemies, sometimes "we" are our own worse enemy. If we delight in the violence toward others as they do toward us, then we have also become "the enemy." God tells us clearly that peoples can change with examples of goodness, caring and sharing. Turn the other cheek, if you can. Make your enemy the plight of the world instead, -- hunger, poverty, ignorance and want. Give hope to the widows and orphans and lonely. Share your talents and gifts with others, and it will all come back to you.

We are instructed in Hebrews 13:8 "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." (12:14) "Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord."

Before the departure of the Lord, he clearly told us what we should be seeking on earth--peace. (John 14:27) "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; (The Orthodox Study Bible) When we decide to kill we are overstepping the right of God, who is the author of life and death, even from the womb. Clearly, in my opinion, we had other options.

Let us, in these troubled days of war, in which many will seek us with ill-will and vengeance, try to find in our midst, forgiveness and develop a spirit of "peace on earth and good will."

What do you think?

It is often said, "I wasn't there so, I don't know!" Sounds harsh, but unless you see something from your own eyes, there can be doubt. Jesus knew that, as he addressed Thomas, who required to even touch the wounds of the risen Christ, as evidence, before he would believe. Bin Laden is another example for the sceptics, who have had no evidence of the much celebrated death of someone that was "believed" to be alive and now, even the body was quickly discarded. Some people require more "proof" than a statement and a reaction to it. Some would even say we are being misled for political gain. Personally, I always had no doubt that Jesus rose from the dead. Doubting Thomas seals the deal for those who are in question, "seeing is believing." How do we resolve the question for those who require proof in the case of Bid Laden? Some need to look upon the dead for themselves, to leave no question in their minds.

Evidence is important in determining an outcome and, for proving the case. The gospels make it very clear, as both the old testament, and new, foretold of the birth and death, and Resurrection of Jesus. Eyewitness accounts "confirm" for us what we in fact, believe without seeing, that this was not just an ordinary story. Jesus even raised Lazarus from the dead, after four days decomposing, for us to understand, "resurrection" and show us that He is the author of both Life and Death.

Sort of like the tissue box story. We need not wonder anymore as to who was putting the used tissues back in the box. It was our little grandson, caught in the act by grampy. Some things are trivial and of little importance, however some things matter a great deal, as the death of Bin Laden.

Jesus does not leave us to "wonder" but, provides for all time by the "evidence" through the gospels, written by "eyewitnesses." He leaves nothing unresolved, to the imagination.

Some agree that the story of the "alleged" death of Bin Laden, needs to be "verified" to prevent misconstruing the story or, just to substantiate it. The "non belief" factor exists, on the day ironically, that we are reminded of "doubting Thomas." Just suggesting, once again, that some require, proof, and ask, "where is the evidence?"