Recently an image was posted by an influencial DFW pastor.  Not only do I respect the local pastor, but this image also involved Dr. John Piper was is an incredible man of God.  The circumstances, as they appeared in the photo, however concerned me and I decided to begin my own investigation. 

My concerns really began when I received word that the local (well respected) DFW pastor took an under-age family member on a long journey to worship a relic.  Photographic evidence of family member and relic can be found at his blog (http://gunny93.blogspot.com/).   Then this most recent photo invloving such an incredible theologian who appeared to be under some form diress. 

Instantly I began thinking of similar situations I had experienced over the years. 

I remember the Vulcan nerve pinch:

And the “Iron Claw” of the Fritz Von Erich” (yes I used to go to the Sportatorium and eat Jack’s Fries)  

And now this:

Was Dr. Piper involved in this voluntarily?  Still researching the answer. 

So there I am reading my Bible at Starbucks.  I spend alot of time at Starbucks.  Yes, I like the coffee.  However, sometimes it is “getting away” that helps me focus.  Even when it is real busy the noise becomes “white noise” and I can still focus. 

Well today I was reading Exodus when someone came over and asked where I attended church.  I began a short conversation my Eric Willis, Worship Developer, at Fellowship Bible Church in Plano / Richardson, Texas. 

God laid a hand of peace on me through Eric in that brief encounter.  I had just returned from a pre-op appointment for a minor surgery my son is having and I was concerned about that.  There are major changes happening at my work that has everyone real worried.  I fell God calling me to make a bigger step towards vocational ministry – but I haven’t seen an open door in that direction.  And then he is this brother that gives me encouragement through a brief word.

Eric left and I felt real blessed to have meet him.  Then a couple of minutes later he is back at my table with two of his CDs.  Incredible worship music. 

Check out Eric’s website and music at http://www.xprotege.com/. 

http://www.tyronejohnson.com/

I don’t know how I found this article today.  It was dated 21 February 2006.  I got such a laugh out of it though I had to pass it along. 

“Plans for what would have been India’s first international ski resort in the Himalayan foothills have come unstuck after a group of Hindu gods ruled that it was environmentally unsound.”

“A formal Jagati Puch (grand convention) of 175 local deities was called to decide whether the project was in the interests of local people. The conclave is made up of 175 oracles, or gurs – local elders and villagers, who represent the deities that rule the valley according to traditional belief.”

Okay, here is the part I love:

“Nine out of 10 gods who expressed a preference said the village would be inimical to the valley’s interests.”

After I looked up what the word “inimical” meant (unfavorable; adverse) – I got such a kick out of the 9 out of 10 thing.  It is like those toothpaste commercials.  Nine of ten dentists agree that Crest is the best. 

Even better was the part about “who expressed a preference.”  So some of the gods decided to abstain from voting on this matter? 

The full article is located here: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2006/02/21/wgods21.xml 

Proverbs 15:28-30 
The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, 
but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.
The LORD is far from the wicked 
but he hears the prayer of the righteous.
A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, 
and good news gives health to the bones

I wonder why our world has war?
I wonder why so many people are poor?

I wonder why whirlpools spin?
I wonder why there’s so much sin?

I wonder why lights are bright?
I wonder why people fight?

I wonder why lightening hits the ground?
I wonder why some loved ones are never found?

I wonder why some churches have burned?
I wonder why Jesus hasn’t returned? 

All of these answers I do know, but when I’m in heaven,
His answers will flow.

Written by my son: Shelby Pease
Award Winner: Texas PTA Reflections 2005-06