Jr.-like salvation (not the department store kind)

If you asked me my favorite ages in children, I would likely say the “tween” years (10-13) followed by two to three year olds and then teenagers overall. I am not certain what this says about my mind’s stability, but I can tell you that there are, in my opinion, no other more crucial times in a child’s life than during those years and in my opinion, in that order. We all know that I received my training in the school of “A Wing and a Prayer” so I must be 100% correct. That and spending the majority of my life raising children and continuing on, as Maureen says, to do so.

There is a certain je ne c'est quoi (I used that term just to try to impress Muscles) about pre-teen children that both attracts and eludes. They have developed their own little selves, are still playful, and are trying to figure out who they want to become, or even whom to pattern after. It’s such a formative time. Those of us that are blessed and responsible to contribute to their edification have a high calling and task ahead.

For many years, I taught the 10 to 13 year old age group at church. I cannot begin to tell you how AWESOME this experience was for me. In fact, I miss it, and miss it a lot. The kids were so inquisitive and attentive. I remember distinctly that I learned as much from them as I tried to share. If I had to pick the one thing I liked most about them was that they are exceptional readers of genuine communication versus canned attempts; they are great doo doo detectors.

If they asked a question about God, they didn’t want “textbook” answers. They wanted experiential answers. They wanted to know what it meant to “me” and why it should mean something to them. Oh, don’t get me wrong, my little group wanted to prove it with their Bibles but wanted to know how to apply and why they should even try to apply it to their lives.

Another reason they are my favorite age group is of all the groups, they are the most real in their skin and in their actions. Life is awkward. Life is always changing and is unscripted. They answer abruptly (the way I sometimes want to), they feel deeply (the way we all should), and they acknowledge they don’t really know what’s going on! I heartily believe that at the core and center of who we are, we are perennial seventh graders waiting for the braces to come off and hit the growth spurt!

I know it’s not always appropriate to be like a seventh grader (just like it’s not appropriate to continue shopping in the Jr.’s department past the age of 22 per Stacey and Clinton from What Not to Wear). But when it comes to salvation, I feel pretty certain that Jesus wants us to bring our awkwardness and grievances of unfairness to Him, just like Juniors tend to verbalize it. I think the kids get the excellent doo doo detection skills from Him! I am also certain He calls some of us to help these “kids” develop the script of their life. That’s even more fun than hitting the mall…

The Shedding Sweater

As I was removing lint from my awesome shrug/bolero style jacket, my mind’s eye went back to a bittersweet time in my life when the Original Hooligans and The Hooligans all lived with me and I worked with my sweet friend “Ageless”.

I’ve decided to name her Ageless for the following reasons:

• In an un-annoying way, she never seems to physically age. She looks beautiful even though years keep passing. They seem to pass her by.
• She is a classic and wonderful dresser! She is always trendy without being inappropriate. 
• Her core values transcend societal norms. She is a great mom and has been together with the same man for more than half her life. Some even dub her “Wonder Woman”. I agree
• No matter how much time passes between our “visits”, she remains a true friend; really more like a sister that lives across the country.

Ageless and I worked together almost ten years ago. We worked in a small office and became good friends. I think she won me over with her exceptional sweet tea and cheese ball. Those were great days…when she brought sweet tea and cheese balls. I was also chunkier. I’m not saying it was her fault or anything but…

We had little traditions like getting sweet tea (for her) and a Diet Coke with lemon and no ice (for me). I also would make smoothies for us from time to time. You should ask her sometime about the infamous “wheat germ” smoothie. That was something. I digress though.

Ageless listened to me throughout some of the worst years of my life. She listened more than she offered opinions although I know sometimes she wished she could shake some sense into me to take control of those things that I could control. Still, she always showed love and understanding, even when she wanted to intervene violently on my behalf.

I specifically remember the time that my home was robbed. It was a very curious event. The “robber(s)” entered with a key and only took all of my belongings including all my clothes, makeup, and those feminine products that are advertised with women only wearing white clothes. The “robber(s)” also took my journals that I had since I was a teenager which were hidden behind several other books. It was an interesting robbery. The police were pretty sure they knew who burglarized my home since none of the children’s belongings were taken, but could never prove it. Somehow, some things are never this person’s fault!

The next day, I went to work with the same exact clothes I had on the day before. Now, I am not a spiffy dresser like Ageless but she knew something was wrong. I shared my tale of nakedness and such and I could tell she once again wanted to intervene violently on my behalf. She is the kind of friend that suffers with you. She’s precious. Somewhere along the way, another coworker ran out and bought me a black sweater. It was lovely except for one thing – it shed a lot. For the next few days, I wore this sweater and left a trail of little black lint balls everywhere I went in the office. Thankfully for the vacuum cleaner, the insurance check came in and I could replace my clothes. Guess who agreed to go with me to the mall? Of course Ageless did! I think she did a better job than Stacey and Clinton on “What Not to Wear”.

It meant so much to me that she would take the time to do this for and with me. During this rough patch, her support and compassion helped me shed more than just that sweater. She helped me shed some negative thoughts and she helped me shed light on the person I really am. She even helped me shed my circumstances and take charge of the things I can control.

I can honestly attribute some of the successes I’ve enjoyed to her support and friendship. She helped me shed my shell of insecurity and embrace new ways to view and display myself without leaving a trail of little black anything behind.

Because He first loved me...The trilogy ends.

(This is the final installment on my "review" of the fundemental beliefs of the SDA church. Tune in next Friday for my take on "Junior-like salvation"-not the department store kind)

19. Law of God: No if salvation issue means I believe I can be saved by obeying them. The law is a written version, shall we say a temperament or character assessment of God. Why would I want to hurt God’s feelings after all He has done for me by purposely defying Him and ruining my life in the process? So yes, I believe that the Ten Commandments are still valid. Do I believe that I can be saved by keeping them? No. Do I believe I can be lost by breaking them? Possibly. I just don’t think Jesus likes to get slapped in the face. I don’t plan to murder anyone or lie or steal, so those are easy. I would say for me, taking the name Christian in vain probably has had the most effect. Some actions alienate me from Jesus, so those are salvation related.

 20. Sabbath: Maybe I’m dumb, but I’ve never understood why this is separate from the one above. Yes, I believe that the 7th day of the week known as Saturday is the actual day God ordained for us to rest from our labors; actually it was before that at Creation so we could have quality time. It’s so great. But I don’t believe keeping it will save me and I don’t believe it’s more special than the other commandments. Boy, I wish we would focus on “thou shalt not commit adultery” a little more. In this day and age, we also need emphasis on that one. I know it’s a point of contention especially as we get to the end of time and in particular with Rome’s influence on other Protestant churches observance as Sunday. I would go to church both days without feeling any guilt. But I like going to church and I like to be with people that praise and love the Lord every day of the week. Sabbath for some is such drudgery. Have some fun people. God wants to spend time with you and not that I want to speak for Him, but showing a little more enthusiasm about seeing Him would probably make Him happy. By the way, I totally believe in Sabbath preparation and doing only what’s necessary. Don’t label me yet.

21. Stewardship: God doesn’t need our money but wants our heart. This is a personal issue. It may be a salvation issue for those that choose to rob God of what is rightfully His but I can’t say that’s the intent. I think there is a lot of confusion on this topic. For example, some feel that their time is the same as their money. I don’t know quite how to argue against that. I tithe, I do and I’ve seen miracles. Have I always been 100% faithful? I’m ashamed to say I’ve not been but God has treated me more like a daughter than like an IRS agent and I am thankful for that.

 22. Christian Behavior: not a salvation issue to the extent that my behavior doesn’t smack Jesus in the face. I don’t believe that I would be lost if I wore earrings or makeup or painted my toe nails. I do wear makeup and I do paint my toe nails. Please don’t begin looking at my toes! If you do and think I’m going to Hades, please at least say so to me directly! I’ve never been fond of jewelry. I think it’s ridiculous how it’s okay to get a watch when you get engaged, oh, and wear it on your right wrist. The watch can cost $2k but as long as it’s not an engagement ring, it’s okay. It seems to me the modest $250 engagement ring is less offensive, but whatever! I don’t even have my ears pierced so…Tastes are so subjective. So if I’m blessed enough to find someone that will love me enough to want to marry me, and he gives me a ring, I will wear it. I guess after all the above, I may be dis-fellowshipped already, so maybe I don’t have to worry? j/k. I hope you still love me after this.

23. Marriage and the Family: Salvation depends on the Lord! Having a great family is gravy.

 24. Christ's Ministry in the Heavenly Sanctuary: Absolutely a salvation issue. He makes intercession for me. And I bet several of you think I really need it. Seriously though, He is our Advocate and I am happy to accept Him as such. I need Him. I am confident in Him and that His sacrifice is enough.

25. Second Coming of Christ: Christ will physically return with the entire world watching. He will resurrect the righteous of the dead and they and the righteous living will be taken to heaven. All others will die. The fulfillment of prophecy and the present condition of the world indicate that Christ's coming is imminent. I preface this by saying I whole heartedly believe that Christ’s second coming will not be in secret, and will be audible, visible, and known by all as the Bible says. However, I really don’t see someone understanding this differently as a salvation issue.

26. Death and Resurrection: Because we sin, we must die. After death, we will sleep until Christ wakes and resurrects the righteous. Although I believe this, I don’t see someone’s different interpretation as a salvation issue. I’ve belonged to churches that won’t sing “I’ll Fly Away” because it could be misinterpreted but we sing “The Old Rugged Cross”. I don’t get that. In the latter, you can argue we are singing about the instrument and not the Savior. When I fall asleep in Jesus, I will have no sense of time; therefore my next thought is being with the Lord. I do however think it’s a little creepy to assign omnipresent prowess to relatives that have passed on. I will leave it at that.

27. Millennium and the End of Sin: The earth will be occupied not by Jesus, but by Satan for a thousand years. The dead will be judged and no humans shall survive. At the end of the millennium, Jesus and the angels will return to banish Satan and with fire cleanse the earth to remove all trace of sin. I guess by this time I’m safely saved so…

28. New Earth: The redeemed will have an eternal and perfect dwelling with God, and will live without sin. This was part of the point. But we should remember the main point is eternal life with our Lord and Savior.

 If you stayed with me through the end, I look forward to your feedback. I am not looking to argue nor defend any position I presented here and it was not my intent to offend anyone. I don’t think our difference in denominations makes one more “Christian” than the other. We’re supposed to be Christians first, then…whatever. Should there even be a whatever?

If you know me well, you know I equate most experiences with a song. I invite you to sing along with me the words to that simple yet AFLAC (you have to check out www.stuffchristianslike.net to understand that one) hymn, “O, How I love Jesus”

 There is a name I love to hear, I love to sing its worth
It sounds like music in my ear, the sweetest name on earth

CHORUS
O, how I love Jesus, O, how I love Jesus, O, how I love Jesus
Because He first loved me

 It tells me of a Savior’s love, who died to set me free
It tells me of His precious blood, the sinner’s perfect plea

CHORUS


It tells of One whose loving heart can feel my deepest woe
Who in each sorrow bears a part that none can bear below


CHORUS

Make-up Emergency!

I have a pretty down pat morning make-up routine. I put my hair up in a half ponytail, I spackle tinted moisturizer on my face followed by eyelid concealer, then stare…I stare in amazement or disgust depending on my mood.

After I stared into my fair (read pasty white) freckled face yesterday and finished considering what color eye shadow I was going to use to enhance my fabulous dark chocolate brown eyes, I got ready to put on my favorite (and only) powder foundation. Then – an event of epic and astronomical proportions such as never has occurred to anyone ever on earth: I realized I was out of my famous pink brand Ivory 2 powder foundation.

What do you imagine my reaction was? Do you imagine I shrugged my arms and thought, “No one will notice” and continued on, as Maureen says? INCORRECT. Do you imagine that I searched high and low for another type of foundation? NOPE, wrong again! Do you imagine that I opted for clown face instead therefore not necessitating famous pink brand Ivory 2 powder foundation? No…I did the most logical and sensible thing one does in such cases. I went directly to Facebook and posted the following on the wall of my famous pink brand make-up consultant. I guess we shall call her MKC-“I have a makeup emergency! No more powder foundation =(“

Then I waited…well I couldn’t actually wait forever since I had to be at work so I guess then I went to work. While at work, I pondered on my “emergency”.

Regretfully I confess that this has not been my first “make-up emergency”. I have a feeling that you may be like me. Perhaps we’ve used words such as “astronomical, epic, life changing” for events that truly are of little consequence. We don’t appreciate the word “emergency” as we should. How many times in the last 18 months have we heard the ridiculous reports about someone calling 9-1-1 due to a minor slight such as not receiving the correct number of upside down W chicken nuggets? Is this what we’ve come to? Was calling 9-1-1 an option I neglected? I mean, I am rather scary without appropriate make-up and with all the talk of vampires and zombies, I certainly don’t want to be mistaken for one!

The unsuitable and exaggerated use of those words has desensitized us to their true meaning. Tsunamis, earthquakes, famines, droughts, our economy, death…those ARE events of astronomical and epic proportions. Being slightly pale for a couple of days, not so much.

I hope to remember that myself the next time I chip a nail, I get behind a car going the speed limit when I’m in a hurry, or I buy a teal pen by mistake instead of a turquoise one. I tell you, making up emergencies is truly exausting!

Because He first loved me... part two

This is a continuation from last Friday's blog. In this installment, I continue to look at the fundemental beliefs of my church and how I agree! The conclusion will be in part three next Friday, August 19th.

10. Experience of Salvation. Salvation issue. However, in my opinion, we Adventists are such joy kills to others on this point. Do we really have to fight over once saved always saved? The Christians, whatever denomination they are, that truly live in a constant state of knowing they are saved, loving God, serving others, are the happiest people I know. I’m more of a believer like the song “Savior please, keep saving me.” It was once and for all, wasn’t it? I hate playing semantics with this one. It makes people mad. Honestly, I can totally see why. It’s like we convince people Jesus is Mighty to save no matter what our transgressions and people are like “YES!” then we pull the carpet out from under them and say, “No, no, no, not so fast. Don’t be too sure. Did you do everything right yesterday. There you go. You can’t act too sure. Yes, He’s Mighty but you never know…”

11. Growing in Christ: Salvation issue but this is individual. Who can judge it? Baby steps to some may look like leaps and bounds to others. Yes, I said earlier there is evidence. And there is. But we have to continually allow the Holy Spirit to show us that evidence. Because we label so much or we expect so much, we don’t see. We end up impeding progress by our demands instead of letting Jesus work individually with others. Let’s pay more attention to ourselves on this point, shall we? We know. We know what the Lord is saying to our hearts. Let’s focus on that.

12. Church: Here I go. I’m actually not sure if I categorize this as a salvation issue or not. There are those that through persecution cannot meet together, there are those that have experienced toxic church situations but are still followers, there are those that are shut in. So can I say belonging to a church is a salvation issue, I can’t. Do I believe personally in the advantages of going to church? Absolutely. And I go, so that should speak more than my indecision. Ask me during the time of trouble.

13. Remnant and Its Mission: I don’t think this qualifies as either precisely. The remnant is composed of individuals that as moved and prompted, share the Good News with those that don’t know Jesus. I do have a problem with any denomination that claims to be the only one that has been called or does God’s work. I don’t get that, especially if remnant is what’s left and we are not at that point yet. Very, very, near, yes, but I have way too many brethren in other denominations to assign myself that label yet.

14. Unity in the Body of Christ: If we define salvation issue as something that helps us stay alive, then yes. Have you ever belonged to a church or home that’s divided? It’s rough. Our relationships with each other help mold us. Look up Ephesians 4:29 for my position on how we should treat each other.

15. Baptism: Yes and no. It’s kind of like this. If you have the opportunity and you are preparing for it but keep postponing it because it’s not convenient, then that’s a reason for some soul searching. It’s kind of like the couple that’s engaged for like 10 years and never gets married. What’s the point? Some people don’t get the opportunity therefore I can’t just say yes.

16. Lord's Supper: I have to say no. Anything that we measure or test people’s growth in before we allow them or they feel like they can participate, I have to say no to. I love communion, it’s a fantabulous time. I will NEVER say no to a party with Jesus. But it can become simply tradition so I have to say no.

17. Spiritual Gifts and Ministries: not using them or using them inappropriately is in my opinion an affront to God. However, sometimes this part becomes too works oriented so I have to say no. I say this because if I got hit by a train tomorrow and survived and could do nothing, I rest assured in my relationship with the Lord. Even if I could do nothing for Him, I would still be saved.

18. The Gift of Prophecy: Here we go again. And sometimes as Adventists we forget the church’s actual position on her writings.

AFFIRMATIONS

1. We believe that Scripture is the divinely revealed word of God and is inspired by the Holy Spirit.
2. We believe that the canon of Scripture is composed only of the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments.
3. We believe that Scripture is the foundation of faith and the final authority in all matters of doctrine and practice.
4. We believe that Scripture is the Word of God in human language.
5. We believe that Scripture teaches that the gift of prophecy will be manifest in the Christian church after New Testament times.
6. We believe that the ministry and writings of Ellen White were a manifestation of the gift of prophecy.
7. We believe that Ellen White was inspired by the Holy Spirit and that her writings, the product of that inspiration, are applicable and authoritative, especially to Seventh-day Adventists.
8. We believe that the purposes of the Ellen White writings include guidance in understanding the teaching of Scripture and application of these teachings, with prophetic urgency, to the spiritual and moral life.
9. We believe that the acceptance of the prophetic gift of Ellen White is important to the nurture and unity of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
10. We believe that Ellen White's use of literary sources and assistants finds parallels in some of the writings of the Bible.

DENIALS

1. We do not believe that the quality or degree of inspiration in the writings of Ellen White is different from that of Scripture.
2. We do not believe that the writings of Ellen White are an addition to the canon of Sacred Scripture.
3. We do not believe that the writings of Ellen White function as the foundation and final authority of Christian faith as does Scripture.
4. We do not believe that the writings of Ellen White may be used as the basis of doctrine.
5. We do not believe that the study of the writings of Ellen White may be used to replace the study of Scripture.
6. We do not believe that Scripture can be understood only through the writings of Ellen White.
7. We do not believe that the writings of Ellen White exhaust the meaning of Scripture.
8. We do not believe that the writings of Ellen White are essential for the proclamation of the truths of Scripture to society at large.
9. We do not believe that the writings of Ellen White are the product of mere Christian piety.
10. We do not believe that Ellen White's use of literary sources and assistants negates the inspiration of her writings.

We conclude, therefore, that a correct understanding of the inspiration and authority of the writings of Ellen White will avoid two extremes: (1) regarding these writings as functioning on a canonical level identical with Scripture, or (2) considering them as ordinary Christian literature.

You may check out the complete statement at http://www.whiteestate.org/issues/scripsda.html Replacing the Bible with Ellen White’s writings is definitely a salvation issue. She was a prophet. She is dead now. She left wonderful works. She is not God and not part of the Godhead. If we studied our Bibles more, we would not “need” her. It can be a crutch. It’s a salvation issue not in a good way.

TUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR PART THREE AND FINAL THOUGHTS!
 

Because He first loved me...

(This is Part One of Three so get ready. Part Two will appear on Friday, August 12th)

I wrote this last summer. I won’t provide all the boring and now not relevant background on what started it. Let’s just say someone thought I was not “Christianee” enough. You see, while I hold steadfastly to what I believe, and feel extremely comfortable not having to defend this, I measure, if measure is the right word, others’ relationship with the Lord based on the evidence in their life, and not on what they necessarily profess. If it’s real, it’s lived out loud. You can’t fake loving the Lord, and if you love the Lord, you don’t have to fake it. In my opinion, it’s impossible to hide it (check out Peter trying to deny Jesus successfully for an example).

I’ve often said that I became a Seventh Day Adventist first and later a Christian. What I mean by that is that it’s possible to profess by tradition, doctrinal regurgitation, and behavior, a faith that does not live up to what being a Christian encompasses. Being a follower of Jesus is more than observance, it’s more than tradition, it’s more than a denomination – it’s more than a label.

We like to label things. It begins when we are born. We get a name. If we’re lucky, our parents have enough sense not to name us something “unique” aka ridiculous. Then as we develop, other labels appear. Some are descriptors like happy, quirky, outgoing, reserved, quiet, extroverted, etc. Some are not nice like loser, ugly, pain, know-it-all, etc. Later as adults we get the fun ones, like liberal, conservative, anarchist, etc. Labels by design are descriptors that forewarn the audience of the content. The problem with labels as it relates to people is that people can’t be defined by one label, at least not usually. It’s the inclusivity of it all. We want to belong. The only label that I have accepted as my own is “Christian” since being labeled a Christian would be the biggest affirmation that Christ has changed my life. Asides from that one, I can do without labels.

My biggest issue with labels is that placing all-inclusive labels on people limits our healthy perception. For example, it’s not a secret that my face typically expresses my excitement. However, that doesn’t mean you know me if you don’t know how to interpret those faces. Partly because of my work, and partly because of my temperament (ENTP with ENTJ tendencies--I’m always one point away from either P or J; it’s weird, I know-- aka Choleric/Sanguine) I have trained myself to NOT make faces. So, although you may think you can typically guess how I’m feeling or what I’m thinking, you can’t. I have learned to be very guarded. An extrovert that is guarded is very strange, but I digress by labeling myself. We limit healthy perceptions of others by disregarding conditions and the Lord’s leading when we automatically assign a position or frame of mind to someone without asking them what they really believe or think. I believe this happens within denominations.

There are differences between denominations, this is true. Some differences are self imposed, many based on tradition, a few based on preferences, and others based on different interpretation of particular Bible teachings. With the exception of what may be included in the latter, most differences are not what I believe are salvation issues. A salvation issue (my words) is one that separates us from God, alienates us from a continuing relationship with Jesus, and interferes with the Holy Spirit’s sanctifying work in our lives. If it doesn’t do that, I don’t think it’s an issue worth fighting over. But that’s just me; feel free to disagree.

With that in mind, I wanted to go through our denominational beliefs or creed and give my take on them. I hope that, whatever denomination you are, you take the time to reflect on the same. You may surprise yourself with what you really think and remind yourself of what you should believe. Adventists hold 28 beliefs. When we are baptized, we attest to them all. I’ve yet to meet one that follows them all or believes 100% in each. Something about being human and God allowing us to make our minds up for ourselves…

My commentary on each is simply going to reflect whether I believe it’s a salvation issue or a non salvation issue and why. I am hoping I don’t get dis-fellowshipped after this, but I am simply being honest.

1. Holy Scriptures: The Holy Scriptures, Old and New Testaments, are the written infallible revelation of the will and Word of God. Absolutely a salvation issue. The Bible truly is God’s letter to us. Not only is Jesus revealed throughout, we can see history unfold via prophecy, and receive common sense everyday guidance on daily living topics like health, work, inter personal relationships, and so much more. If we don’t believe what the Bible has to say, then how can we believe God?

2. Trinity: There is one God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, a unity of three co-eternal Persons. God is immortal, omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient. Absolutely a salvation issue. I cannot fathom having a relationship with Jesus without believing that in conjunction with the Father and Holy Spirit, they made available the plan of salvation.

3. Father: God is the loving and merciful creator and ruler of all. Salvation issue. We were designed by God and He makes provision for us. I cannot imagine His Splendor.

4. Son: Jesus was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He lived to experience temptation and to be an example of the power and righteousness of God. Jesus will return to deliver salvation and order to all. Salvation issue. “No one comes to the Father except through the Son.” Jesus died for us, for me!!! Furthermore, He’s coming back for me soon. Talk about happily ever after and Prince Charming. There is something to that little girl’s longing for a hero to rescue her and carry her off to safety. Jesus is that and so much more.

5. Holy Spirit: Through the Holy Spirit, God inspired the writers of Scripture. The spirit gives us faith and conviction to share the goodness of God with our fellow man. Salvation issue. I don’t know how we could have victory without the Holy Spirit, the Comforter strengthening us.

6. Creation: God has created all things, and set aside the Sabbath as a day of rest in memory of the glory of the creation of the earth and man. Salvation issue. Well, at least the understanding that the Godhead created us in their image and wanted to spend time with us. You can’t have a relationship without spending time together, uninterrupted time. Yes, I am a quality time person so this one is essential for me.

7. Nature of Man: Man and woman were made in the image of God, and are blessed with a free will. We are imperfect, and are thus subject to suffering and death. God calls all to love one another and to care for all of creation. Salvation issue but reflected more in how we treat other people. We need to give people freedom, love, time, and truth for their development. That last part is courtesy of Dr. Tom McFarland. “They’ll know we are Christians by our love.”

8. Great Controversy: There is a great controversy between good and evil, between Christ and Satan. The rebellion provoked by Satan has led to sin and strife between us as well. Although tempted by Satan, man is guided and protected by the Holy Spirit and angels sent by Christ. Salvation issue. A basic understanding of this helps us understand why bad things happen to good people. We are therefore not resentful towards God and hence our relationship is stronger.

9. Life, Death, and Resurrection of Christ. Duh! Absolute salvation issue. His example leads me to be a better person in serving others, His death paid the penalty for my sin, and His resurrection sealed the possibility of my eternal life. That does sound selfish but considering He would have done it for just me (or just you), hey, I’m happy.

TUNE IN NEXT FRIDAY FOR PART TWO!

Journal(ism)

As conversationalists, people like me (ENTPs) may be described as fluent, mentally quick, and often enjoy verbal sparring with others. While doing so, we may even switch sides just for the love of the debate. This is good and all, until you say something you wish was retractable, or like the feature in Outlook that allows you to “recall” the message. I don’t know if you’re like me, but when someone tries to “recall” a message I’m like, “Ooh, I wonder what they said they shouldn’t have…” and therefore open the original message quicker than I run to the break room when someone brings chocolate chip cookies!

This switching of sides for giggles and grins backfires from time to time. It’s difficult to prove yourself credible when people don’t know where you really stand on an issue. Although I enjoy a debate, it’s equally enjoyable to me for those I care about to know confidently what my important “isms” are. I am speaking of the “isms” that represent my philosophical, political, moral, and/or belief system.

I had such a backfire, or maybe it was a misfire, I am not sure, last night. All I know is that yesterday while watching episode five of “The Pacific” with Triple M, I began a ridiculous conversation about Military Recruiters and their hideous tactics. My main source of information in my very intellectual (read as misinformed) argument was Michael Moore. Yes, Michael Moore. The guy that dropped out of college, hates guns, will not appear on a wellness poster any time soon, and hates most “isms” that I deeply value, especially capitalism. That guy. That was my one and only source.

I tried to recover; I sure did. Triple M was gracious. He looked disturbed though and while attempting to understand what in the world I was trying to say got the Joe Friday, “Just the facts, ma’am” look on his face. My “recovery” included the wonderful phrase, “We can agree to disagree” except I really didn’t know what I was talking about. I think he forgave me. That or I shall find myself in the presence of his dad (who was drafted back in the day), in front of a podium at Triple M’s house to continue the debate while his dad observes and judges for credibility.

Thankfully, my spirits were lifted when I got home. I had a special parcel from Señorita! She sent me the most beautiful journal with a painting of dogs sitting on beach chairs. This reminded me of another time I didn’t know what I was talking about while searching for the beach (the kind surrounded by an ocean). I was misinformed and misguided on that particular trek, but eventually found the place I meant to find. Señorita also included the loveliest note. She made me sound like golden retriever puppies that smell of cotton candy and have bubbles surrounding them.

I am thankful for the agapism as shown by Señorita in her awesome note. I am thankful that Triple M puts up with my conceptualism even when it’s not filled with intellectualism and Michael Moore, boo you! I am all about capitalism. I’m writing THAT in my new journal!

Having your cake…

About 18 months ago, I was impressed with the fact that I’ve had everything I’ve ever wanted; just never all at the same time. This includes: being in love, living in the location of my dreams, being loved, purchasing a home, having a good hair day, getting along with my children, having turquoise walls, being out of debt, having a fulfilling job, being thin, reaping career success, and being of sound mind.

When I realized this, I was both relieved and concerned. I was relieved because I no longer felt like I was “missing” something during those times that I didn’t have it all (or all together). Then I felt concerned because I felt like I lost the oomph to better myself if I accepted this. I mean, what’s the point in having your cake and not eating it? I never understood why it’s a bad thing to have your cake and want to it eat. Why bake it? Why frost it? Why slice it? Why serve it?...if not to eat it! (and probably have seconds too!)

Triple M, The Hooligans, and I had been discussing finding a church home now that The Hooligans and I relocated to a new area. Well, the area itself is not new as I lived here for about a decade some years back. I live in the same general area as before but not close enough to attend my former church. Our list of requirements was not that extensive. We wanted a church home that is biblically sound with conservative values but without being judgmental. You know, the kind of church you can bring visitors (of any level). I don’t think that’s a lot to ask. In this regard, I absolutely “wanted to have my cake and eat it too”.

I was discouraged in our first attempt. This particular church was recommended by my good friend Wistful. Wistful knows me very well and I trust her insights. We got all dressed up as we usually do, and even though Triple M did not feel well this particular day, we still went. I won’t go into a lot of detail but it was conservative in the “let’s judge exterior behaviors and apply random Bible verses to support our disdain” kind of way. It was not a place I would bring a “lost” person. I have this crazy idea that church is for the lost. I get lost. Lately through God’s Grace, mostly in the arms of Jesus.

We decided that our second attempt would be the church closest to Triple M’s home. It is a newer congregation. I had no idea what to expect. We once again discussed our hopes. One thing I will say about Triple M and The Hooligans is that they are great sports about things. They inspire me to be a better person in this way when I get a little discouraged. Off we went with our church best and…

Frosting!!! Lots and lots of frosting on this cake! The people were friendly, the classes were Bible driven, and the music was fantastic. Oh, I didn’t mention music before. I know. Even though music is not a deal breaker for me, I truly enjoy wonderful music during worship. We are going back next week for seconds. Warm fellowship is truly sweet, just like Tres Leches cake!