Two world perspective

KC has posted a dynamic perspective on the devastation that occurred as a result of Hurricane Katrina. Please read it. It says more than I could ever say. It is also a sobering reminder of how we must remain diligent and seek information for ourselves, because the media only want to show you what sells. KC, please let us know what we can do to help. As I stated earlier, we are preparing for a number of evacuees in Ohio, but I know that there is so much more to do. Please support my friend in the Lord.

SSDD, or Same S____, Different D____

Well, now that I have your attention, the title really means Same Scripture, Different Doctrine. This is one of the observations I have made during my brief foray into the blogsphere. This is not to imply that this is an unusual phenomonon; on the contrary, these arguments have been around since the early days of Christianity. We see examples of some of these differences in the New Testament. So why am I wasting time writing about this? I guess because while I enjoy participating in discussions that will help us better understand the Word of God, I must also remember that Paul instructed us not to allow our faith to cause someone else to stumble. Some will find Scripture in the Bible to justify tithing; others will use the same Bible to justify not tithing. Recently, I saw comments on not1jot's blog regarding divorce, and the discussion it generated. It has been my intention to try to bring light to an issue, not necessarily God's judgment. What is important is to remember the principles Paul wrote about in Romans 14. Whatever you do, do it in faith, because anything done without faith is sin. I happen to be of the persuasion that when I married, it was for life; however, I also must remember that Moses did allow for divorce.

Some say divorce is a sin; well, so is lying, pride, greed, or any other host of things that are referred to in the Bible. And if I commit one, then I have committed them all. That is a hard and bitter pill to swallow, but it is true. So, as we continue to read and learn more of one another, I just pray that we develop the maturity to hear and respect someone else's view of Scripture, even if it does not agree with my view. Thanks for allowing me to vent a little!

Thanks and Thoughts

First, let me thank KC for helping spread the word about the relief endeavor. KC, no responses yet, but I will keep checking! I have already begun to identify resources that we can use, but again, if anyone knows someone in the Cincinnati area, please have them contact me. Any help will be appreciated. I am honored that our governor would open up our state to become a present help in a time of trouble.

Also, Vicki posted some precious thoughts on her blog. When you read it, it will definitely humble you. I agree with her; so many times, we express a false humility, but in our hearts, we think that the world revolves around us. We are here for only an appointed time, and we must do our best to walk in His will during that time. Please visit her site, and let's get to know one another better!

Help Me Spread the Word

God has given us a tremendous opportunity to serve many of those who were victims of Katrina. But, in order for us to be successful, I need your help.

Governor Taft of Ohio has identified two locations in Ohio as points where victims can be transported - one is Toledo, and the other is Cincinnati. My agency, the Ohio Department of Transportation, will be coordinating efforts to provide shelter and relief to the ones who are coming to Ohio, and Cincinnati is in my district. Please, if you know anyone who lives in the Greater Cincinnati area, and is willing to offer any help, please have them contact me by e-mail as soon as possible. I am preparing a list of resources right now, so any help would be deeply appreciated. Basically, our job will be to assist with location and follow-up for the families being transported up here.

I thank God that we can now show that we are the church - will you please help show the love of God? Remember, I am only asking for referrals of people who are interested in helping that live in the Greater Cincinnati area. Thank you so much, and God bless all of you!

Church and Organized Religion - Are They the Same?

First, a big thank you for all who posted on the issue of repentance. I believe there is so much that we can learn from one another on that subject. Joe really brought out a profound point which I believe that we all should consider. Do we discuss to be right, or try to persuade someone to think the way we think, or are we able to yield ourselves to one another, with the goal of understanding one another?

These blogs have been such an inspiration to me. I wish I could meet so many of those who have shared thoughts and ideas, because I feel as if this really is an extended family. Those who I agree with, and those with whom I differ, all are important to me. So, before I get to teary-eyed, let me pose the following question:

CHURCH AND ORGANIZED RELIGION - ARE THEY THE SAME?

Now, I am not yet going to post any Scriptures (at least for now), but I would like to hear what you think. I ask this question, because there seems to be quite a bit of debate about church on many of the blogs. Some claim to be sick and tired of it, others want nothing to do with it, others say they need it. Now, before I proceed any further, let me make a couple of points clear. I believe that there is only one true church, that being the Body of Christ, of which we are all members. I also believe that the fellowships that we call churches are part of the organized religion that I am asking about. Those are the man-made organizations, and I can see why many are disappointed with those. But, I really want to hear from you. What do you think?