Newsletter 71.
Newsletter 71 from Maurice Sweetsur
This will be my last Newsletter for 2008, so I would like to take this opportunity of wishing all my readers a very happy Christmas and a fruitful New Year. Thank you to everyone who has responded to something in my Newsletters this year. It is always good to get feedback and know that my materials are still being useful to children's ministers throughout the world.
In Newsletters 50 and 61, I shared a number of ideas for teaching children about Christmas. So check them out if you wish to be reminded.
2008 has been another busy and fruitful year for myself. By the end of the year I will have taken around 250 separate Bible lessons in the nine primary schools that I visit - ministering in total to about 500 children on a regular basis. In addition I will have taken about 60 programmes at churches (Family services, Sunday schools, Kids clubs, Holiday programmes, Camps etc.). My long-desired, but recently acquired remote control drawing board is proving to be a big hit, although my assistant 'George', the flaming Bible, and Pinocchio's nose are always popular with the children.
This year, I have also had the joy of leading over 100 children to the Lord this year, mainly at Ngaruawahia Christian Youth Camp, where I am a regular visitor.
I have recently received an update on the children's work that I started in Prestwick, Ayrshire (Scotland) about 20 years ago, having felt led of the Lord to do so. I still remember walking the streets of Prestwick and knocking on doors to see if there were any children who lived there that would like to come along to my new children's after school Christian group. (I also remember the looks of suspicion that I received from some of the parents!). Not many children did come - but still enough to start the group up! Five years later when I left to come to New Zealand, it was a real wrench to leave behind that now prospering group.
I had assumed, and hoped, that my co-leaders would carry on the work. But they expressed their intention of leaving the work at the same time as myself. To be honest, I felt devastated. It looked as though the group would have to close. But God had His plans. He laid it on the heart of my friend and "fellow street evangelist" Allan Marshall to take over the Prestwick group. Now over 15 years later, Allan is still in charge, and under his guidance it has grown to a total of five groups throughout Ayrshire. They now go under the name "Hiz Kidz". Praise the Lord!
Recently my son Paul (now 27) went on his first mission trip - to Tanzania. It made a real impact on him, and he came back rejoicing in in the goodness of God.
"I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29.11.
Confirmed Itinerary for "Uncle Maurice" for the Christmas season.
Nov. 25. Clevedon primary school. Assembly 9 a.m.
Nov. 26 Ramarama primary school. Assembly 11.45 a.m.
Conifer Grove primary school. Assembly 1.30 p.m.
Takanini primary school. Assembly 2.20 p.m.
Nov. 28 Brookby primary school. Assembly 9 a.m.
Northcross Community church. Kids club 6 p.m.
Nov. 30 'Flying solo' camp. Chosen valley 11.30 a.m.
Dec. 4 Leabank primary school. Assembly 9 a.m.
Dec. 5 Paparimu primary school. Assembly 10.30 a.m.
Hunua primary school. Assembly 11.30 a.m.
Dec. 7 Clevedon presbyterian church. Children's party 10 a.m.
Dec 11 Windsor Park Baptist church 'Cafe' 10 a.m.
Dec 12 Windsor Park Baptist church 'Cafe' 10 a.m.
Dec 14 Papakura Methodist church. Children's party.10 a.m.
Dec. 21 Albany City church. Family service 10 a.m.
Maurice Sweetsur
CONTENTS.
What proof would satisfy?
Puppet play - I don't believe in God.
T.T. 48 - The twelve days of Christmas.
A Scientist funny.
An Evolution funny.
A message by George Carlin.
What proof would satisfy?
Although I was born in England, spent 27 years living in Scotland, I have now lived in New Zealand for over 15 years and have a close affinity with this country and its diverse people. I did, however, feel rather ashamed to be associated with New Zealand recently. The occasion was during the last few days of our election campaign (somewhat overshadowed by the American election!). The final live televised debate between the (then) Prime Minister and leader of the Labour party, Helen Clark and the leader of the opposition (National party) and (now) new Prime Minister, John Key.
Both leaders were asked "Do you believe in God?" They both said "no", and went on to cite "lack of proof of the existence of God" as the reasons for their response. Although I am ashamed (though not really surprised) that the leaders of New Zealand deny the existence of God, I cannot help but wonder "What has gone wrong with this country?" Like many countries in the 'Western world', it was built on strong Christian beliefs and principles. Unfortunately these have been seriously eroded over time - as evidenced by the many ungodly laws that our leaders have passed over the last few years.
I have tried to put myself "in the shoes" of Helen Clark, John Key, and many others like them and asked myself that if I genuinely was seeking proof of God's existence, what proof could God give me that would convince me that He is real? I came up with the following four proofs that God could give to convince me of His existence.
1. Creation. If God is real, I would ask Him to create something, out of nothing, that I could see with my own eyes and touch with my own hands.
2. Communication. I would ask God to communicate with me, perhaps by sending someone, or even writing to me, to tell me things like what He is like, why He made me, what His plans are for me, and if there is there is life after death.
3, Revelation. I would ask God to reveal Himself to us by visiting planet Earth in person. When He was here, I would ask Him to prove His power by doing things we humans cannot do, and that defy the natural laws of the universe. Things like multiplying matter, defying gravity, commanding nature (such as storms) to obey Him, commanding the sick to be healed and the dead to come back to life.
4. Finally, if God were real, I would ask Him if He really loved us humans, and to do something to demonstrate how much He loves us.
I cannot really think of any other proofs that God could give to convince us that He is real. But surely those I have listed above are more than enough. If God did all that, surely nobody could still doubt His existence. The proof would be irrefutable! But then I remembered - GOD HAS ALREADY GIVEN US THOSE FOUR PROOFS!
1. We only have to look around us to see the vast number of wonderful things that have been created (If there is no Creator, they must have created themselves, beginning with nothing. And to believe this requires an unreasonable faith!). - "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands." Psalm 19.1.
2. God has sent us many messengers to tell us about Himself - they were usually called Prophets. And He has written us a letter that tells us all we need to know to live our lives the right way. It is called the Bible. - "In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways." Hebrews 1.1. "All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." 2 Timothy 3. 16,17.
3. Two thousand years ago, God did visit this planet in person. We called Him "Jesus". And while He was with us, He did stop or suspend the natural physical laws that govern the universe. We called these mighty acts "miracles". "Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples." John 20.30.
4. God did demonstrate how much He loves us by allowing Himself to be crucified on a wooden cross. "God demonstrates his love for us in this. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5.8.
I must conclude that God has given us many proofs of His existence. Enough, I would suggest, to convince any person genuinely seeking the truth. Yet many still deny His existence. No, the problem is not with God, it is not a lack of proof. Rather, the problem is with people. Many refuse to believe. To do so would mean that they would have to admit that they were responsible to a Higher Authority, and our selfish nature naturally rebels against that. Jesus put it like this "You refuse to come to me that you may have life (John 5. 40). Or, as the old proverb says. "There are none so blind as those who do not want to see."
So let us continue to proclaim the Gospel, and pray to God to open the eyes of the (spiritually) blind.
Puppet play - I don't believe in God.
You will need two 'people' puppets, a boy and a girl. I have called them James and Jessica.
Jessica. How are you today James?
James. Great. I got good marks in my school test, so my Dad took me to see my favourite Soccer team play. They won 5 - 0, and then we stopped off at McDonald's for tea.
Jessica. That's wonderful, James. I hope that you gave God thanks for all the good things that have been happening to you.
James. I don't believe in God.
Jessica. Why do you say that James?
James. I think that I would like to believe in God. But there is no proof that He actually exists.
Jessica. But James, the proof of God is all around you.
James. I don't understand what you mean, Jessica.
Jessica. Just use your eyes. Look at the millions of stars, all the living things like flowers, birds, animals and people. Think about how wonderful they all are. They must have been made by a very clever Creator. Otherwise you have to believe that everything made itself, beginning with nothing!
James. I hadn't thought about it like that before. But if there is a God, why hasn't He sent someone to earth to tell us about Himself?
Jessica. He has. He has sent many messengers to us in fact. They were usually called Prophets, and we can read about everything they said in the Bible. The Bible is really God's love letter to you James. If you read it, you will get to know what God is really like, and how special you are to Him.
James. But if God really loves us, as you say, why hasn't He come to reveal Himself to us in person?
Jessica. Two thousand years ago. He did just that. He came to earth in human form. We called Him, Jesus.
James. But how do we know that Jesus was really God?
Jessica. He did things that only God could do. He defied the natural laws of the universe by doing miracles like multiplying matter, defying gravity, commanding nature (such as storms) to obey Him, commanding the sick to be healed and the dead to come back to life. And then He proved how much He really loves us by allowing Himself to be crucified on a cross so that we could be forgiven our wrongdoings.
James. That was a wonderful thing to do. But what a sad ending.
Jessica. That is not the ending, James. You see, death couldn't hold Jesus because He was faultless. Jesus took His life up again, and is alive for evermore.
James. You have given me something to think about, Jessica.
Jessica. Good. Remember that God has promised to reveal Himself to all those who genuinely seek Him.
Teaching tip 48 - The Twelve Days of Christmas.
The popular song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is usually seen as simply a nonsense song for children. However, some have suggested that it is a song of Christian instruction dating to the 16th century religious wars in England, with hidden references to the basic teachings of the Faith. They contend that it was a mnemonic device to teach the catechism to youngsters. The "true love" mentioned in the song is not an earthly suitor, but refers to God Himself. The "me" who receives the presents refers to every baptized person who is part of the Christian Faith. Each of the "days" represents some aspect of the Christian Faith that was important for children to learn.
Note. The "Twelve days" refer to the days between Christmas day and Epiphany (Three Kings day) on January 6th.
On the 1st day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
A Partridge in a Pear Tree.
The partridge in a pear tree is Jesus the Christ, the Son of God, whose birthday we celebrate on December 25, the first day of Christmas. In the song, Christ is symbolically presented as a mother partridge that feigns injury to decoy predators from her helpless nestlings, recalling the expression of Christ's sadness over the fate of Jerusalem: "Jerusalem! Jerusalem! How often would I have sheltered you under my wings, as a hen does her chicks, but you would not have it so . . . ." (Luke 13:34)
On the 2nd day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Two Turtle Doves.
The Old and New Testaments, which together bear witness to God's self-revelation in history and the creation of a people to tell the Story of God to the world.
On the 3rd day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Three French Hens.
The Three Theological Virtues: 1) Faith, 2) Hope, and 3) Love (1 Corinthians 13:13)
On the 4th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Four Calling Birds.
The Four Gospels: 1) Matthew, 2) Mark, 3) Luke, and 4) John, which proclaim the Good News of God's reconciliation of the world to Himself in Jesus Christ.
On the 5th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Five Gold Rings.
The first Five Books of the Old Testament, known as the Torah or the Pentateuch: 1) Genesis, 2) Exodus, 3) Leviticus, 4) Numbers, and 5) Deuteronomy, which gives the history of humanity's sinful failure and God's response of grace in the creation of a people to be a light to the world.
On the 6th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Six Geese A-laying.
The six days of creation that confesses God as Creator and Sustainer of the world (Genesis 1).
On the 7th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Seven Swans A-swimming.
The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: 1) prophecy, 2) ministry, 3) teaching, 4) exhortation, 5) giving, 6) leading, and 7) compassion (Romans 12:6-8; cf. 1 Corinthians 12:8-11)
On the 8th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Eight Maids A-milking.
The eight Beatitudes: 1) Blessed are the poor in spirit, 2) those who mourn, 3) the meek, 4) those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, 5) the merciful, 6) the pure in heart, 7) the peacemakers, 8) those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake. (Matthew 5:3-10)
On the 9th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Nine Ladies Dancing.
The nine Fruit of the Holy Spirit: 1) love, 2) joy, 3) peace, 4) patience, 5) kindness,6) generosity, 7) faithfulness, 8) gentleness, and 9) self-control. (Galatians 5:22)
On the 10th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Ten Lords A-leaping.
The ten commandments: 1) You shall have no other gods before me; 2) Do not make an idol; 3) Do not take God's name in vain; 4) Remember the Sabbath Day; 5) Honor your father and mother; 6) Do not murder; 7) Do not commit adultery; 8) Do not steal; 9) Do not bear false witness; 10) Do not covet. (Exodus 20:1-17)
On the 11th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Eleven Pipers Piping.
The eleven Faithful Apostles: 1) Simon Peter, 2) Andrew, 3) James, 4) John, 5) Philip, 6) Bartholomew, 7) Matthew, 8) Thomas, 9) James bar Alphaeus, 10) Simon the Zealot, 11) Judas bar James. (Luke 6:14-16). The list does not include the twelfth disciple, Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus to the religious leaders and the Romans.
On the 12th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Twelve Drummers Drumming.
The twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles' Creed: 1) I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. 2) I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. 3) He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. 4) He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell [the grave]. 5) On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. 6) He will come again to judge the living and the dead. 7) I believe in the Holy Spirit, 8) the holy catholic Church, 9) the communion of saints, 10) the forgiveness of sins, 11) the resurrection of the body, 12) and life everlasting.
A Scientist funny.
One day a group of scientists got together and decided that man had come a long way and no longer needed God. So they picked one scientist to go and tell Him that they were done with Him.
The scientist walked up to God and said, "God, we've decided that we no longer need you. We're to the point that we can clone people and do many miraculous things, so why don't you just go on and get lost."
God listened very patiently and kindly to the man. After the scientist was done talking, God said, "Very well, how about this? Let's say we have a man-making contest."
To which the scientist replied, "Okay, great!"But God added, "Now, we're going to do this just like I did back in the old days with Adam."
The scientist said, "Sure, no problem" and bent down and grabbed himself a handful of dirt.
God looked at him and said, "No, no, no. You go get your own dirt!"
An Evolution funny.
If evolution is true, why do mothers still only have one pair of hands?
A Message by George Carlin - comedian of the 70's and 80's. (Written after his wife had recently died...)
The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider Freeways but narrower viewpoints.
We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time.
We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.
We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom.
We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.We've learned how to make a living, but not a life.
We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor.
We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things. We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice.
We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.
These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill.
It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete...
Remember; spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side. Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent.
Remember, to say, 'I love you' to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you. Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again.
Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER: Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
This will be my last Newsletter for 2008, so I would like to take this opportunity of wishing all my readers a very happy Christmas and a fruitful New Year. Thank you to everyone who has responded to something in my Newsletters this year. It is always good to get feedback and know that my materials are still being useful to children's ministers throughout the world.
In Newsletters 50 and 61, I shared a number of ideas for teaching children about Christmas. So check them out if you wish to be reminded.
2008 has been another busy and fruitful year for myself. By the end of the year I will have taken around 250 separate Bible lessons in the nine primary schools that I visit - ministering in total to about 500 children on a regular basis. In addition I will have taken about 60 programmes at churches (Family services, Sunday schools, Kids clubs, Holiday programmes, Camps etc.). My long-desired, but recently acquired remote control drawing board is proving to be a big hit, although my assistant 'George', the flaming Bible, and Pinocchio's nose are always popular with the children.
This year, I have also had the joy of leading over 100 children to the Lord this year, mainly at Ngaruawahia Christian Youth Camp, where I am a regular visitor.
I have recently received an update on the children's work that I started in Prestwick, Ayrshire (Scotland) about 20 years ago, having felt led of the Lord to do so. I still remember walking the streets of Prestwick and knocking on doors to see if there were any children who lived there that would like to come along to my new children's after school Christian group. (I also remember the looks of suspicion that I received from some of the parents!). Not many children did come - but still enough to start the group up! Five years later when I left to come to New Zealand, it was a real wrench to leave behind that now prospering group.
I had assumed, and hoped, that my co-leaders would carry on the work. But they expressed their intention of leaving the work at the same time as myself. To be honest, I felt devastated. It looked as though the group would have to close. But God had His plans. He laid it on the heart of my friend and "fellow street evangelist" Allan Marshall to take over the Prestwick group. Now over 15 years later, Allan is still in charge, and under his guidance it has grown to a total of five groups throughout Ayrshire. They now go under the name "Hiz Kidz". Praise the Lord!
Recently my son Paul (now 27) went on his first mission trip - to Tanzania. It made a real impact on him, and he came back rejoicing in in the goodness of God.
"I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29.11.
Confirmed Itinerary for "Uncle Maurice" for the Christmas season.
Nov. 25. Clevedon primary school. Assembly 9 a.m.
Nov. 26 Ramarama primary school. Assembly 11.45 a.m.
Conifer Grove primary school. Assembly 1.30 p.m.
Takanini primary school. Assembly 2.20 p.m.
Nov. 28 Brookby primary school. Assembly 9 a.m.
Northcross Community church. Kids club 6 p.m.
Nov. 30 'Flying solo' camp. Chosen valley 11.30 a.m.
Dec. 4 Leabank primary school. Assembly 9 a.m.
Dec. 5 Paparimu primary school. Assembly 10.30 a.m.
Hunua primary school. Assembly 11.30 a.m.
Dec. 7 Clevedon presbyterian church. Children's party 10 a.m.
Dec 11 Windsor Park Baptist church 'Cafe' 10 a.m.
Dec 12 Windsor Park Baptist church 'Cafe' 10 a.m.
Dec 14 Papakura Methodist church. Children's party.10 a.m.
Dec. 21 Albany City church. Family service 10 a.m.
Maurice Sweetsur
CONTENTS.
What proof would satisfy?
Puppet play - I don't believe in God.
T.T. 48 - The twelve days of Christmas.
A Scientist funny.
An Evolution funny.
A message by George Carlin.
What proof would satisfy?
Although I was born in England, spent 27 years living in Scotland, I have now lived in New Zealand for over 15 years and have a close affinity with this country and its diverse people. I did, however, feel rather ashamed to be associated with New Zealand recently. The occasion was during the last few days of our election campaign (somewhat overshadowed by the American election!). The final live televised debate between the (then) Prime Minister and leader of the Labour party, Helen Clark and the leader of the opposition (National party) and (now) new Prime Minister, John Key.
Both leaders were asked "Do you believe in God?" They both said "no", and went on to cite "lack of proof of the existence of God" as the reasons for their response. Although I am ashamed (though not really surprised) that the leaders of New Zealand deny the existence of God, I cannot help but wonder "What has gone wrong with this country?" Like many countries in the 'Western world', it was built on strong Christian beliefs and principles. Unfortunately these have been seriously eroded over time - as evidenced by the many ungodly laws that our leaders have passed over the last few years.
I have tried to put myself "in the shoes" of Helen Clark, John Key, and many others like them and asked myself that if I genuinely was seeking proof of God's existence, what proof could God give me that would convince me that He is real? I came up with the following four proofs that God could give to convince me of His existence.
1. Creation. If God is real, I would ask Him to create something, out of nothing, that I could see with my own eyes and touch with my own hands.
2. Communication. I would ask God to communicate with me, perhaps by sending someone, or even writing to me, to tell me things like what He is like, why He made me, what His plans are for me, and if there is there is life after death.
3, Revelation. I would ask God to reveal Himself to us by visiting planet Earth in person. When He was here, I would ask Him to prove His power by doing things we humans cannot do, and that defy the natural laws of the universe. Things like multiplying matter, defying gravity, commanding nature (such as storms) to obey Him, commanding the sick to be healed and the dead to come back to life.
4. Finally, if God were real, I would ask Him if He really loved us humans, and to do something to demonstrate how much He loves us.
I cannot really think of any other proofs that God could give to convince us that He is real. But surely those I have listed above are more than enough. If God did all that, surely nobody could still doubt His existence. The proof would be irrefutable! But then I remembered - GOD HAS ALREADY GIVEN US THOSE FOUR PROOFS!
1. We only have to look around us to see the vast number of wonderful things that have been created (If there is no Creator, they must have created themselves, beginning with nothing. And to believe this requires an unreasonable faith!). - "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands." Psalm 19.1.
2. God has sent us many messengers to tell us about Himself - they were usually called Prophets. And He has written us a letter that tells us all we need to know to live our lives the right way. It is called the Bible. - "In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways." Hebrews 1.1. "All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." 2 Timothy 3. 16,17.
3. Two thousand years ago, God did visit this planet in person. We called Him "Jesus". And while He was with us, He did stop or suspend the natural physical laws that govern the universe. We called these mighty acts "miracles". "Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples." John 20.30.
4. God did demonstrate how much He loves us by allowing Himself to be crucified on a wooden cross. "God demonstrates his love for us in this. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5.8.
I must conclude that God has given us many proofs of His existence. Enough, I would suggest, to convince any person genuinely seeking the truth. Yet many still deny His existence. No, the problem is not with God, it is not a lack of proof. Rather, the problem is with people. Many refuse to believe. To do so would mean that they would have to admit that they were responsible to a Higher Authority, and our selfish nature naturally rebels against that. Jesus put it like this "You refuse to come to me that you may have life (John 5. 40). Or, as the old proverb says. "There are none so blind as those who do not want to see."
So let us continue to proclaim the Gospel, and pray to God to open the eyes of the (spiritually) blind.
Puppet play - I don't believe in God.
You will need two 'people' puppets, a boy and a girl. I have called them James and Jessica.
Jessica. How are you today James?
James. Great. I got good marks in my school test, so my Dad took me to see my favourite Soccer team play. They won 5 - 0, and then we stopped off at McDonald's for tea.
Jessica. That's wonderful, James. I hope that you gave God thanks for all the good things that have been happening to you.
James. I don't believe in God.
Jessica. Why do you say that James?
James. I think that I would like to believe in God. But there is no proof that He actually exists.
Jessica. But James, the proof of God is all around you.
James. I don't understand what you mean, Jessica.
Jessica. Just use your eyes. Look at the millions of stars, all the living things like flowers, birds, animals and people. Think about how wonderful they all are. They must have been made by a very clever Creator. Otherwise you have to believe that everything made itself, beginning with nothing!
James. I hadn't thought about it like that before. But if there is a God, why hasn't He sent someone to earth to tell us about Himself?
Jessica. He has. He has sent many messengers to us in fact. They were usually called Prophets, and we can read about everything they said in the Bible. The Bible is really God's love letter to you James. If you read it, you will get to know what God is really like, and how special you are to Him.
James. But if God really loves us, as you say, why hasn't He come to reveal Himself to us in person?
Jessica. Two thousand years ago. He did just that. He came to earth in human form. We called Him, Jesus.
James. But how do we know that Jesus was really God?
Jessica. He did things that only God could do. He defied the natural laws of the universe by doing miracles like multiplying matter, defying gravity, commanding nature (such as storms) to obey Him, commanding the sick to be healed and the dead to come back to life. And then He proved how much He really loves us by allowing Himself to be crucified on a cross so that we could be forgiven our wrongdoings.
James. That was a wonderful thing to do. But what a sad ending.
Jessica. That is not the ending, James. You see, death couldn't hold Jesus because He was faultless. Jesus took His life up again, and is alive for evermore.
James. You have given me something to think about, Jessica.
Jessica. Good. Remember that God has promised to reveal Himself to all those who genuinely seek Him.
Teaching tip 48 - The Twelve Days of Christmas.
The popular song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is usually seen as simply a nonsense song for children. However, some have suggested that it is a song of Christian instruction dating to the 16th century religious wars in England, with hidden references to the basic teachings of the Faith. They contend that it was a mnemonic device to teach the catechism to youngsters. The "true love" mentioned in the song is not an earthly suitor, but refers to God Himself. The "me" who receives the presents refers to every baptized person who is part of the Christian Faith. Each of the "days" represents some aspect of the Christian Faith that was important for children to learn.
Note. The "Twelve days" refer to the days between Christmas day and Epiphany (Three Kings day) on January 6th.
On the 1st day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
A Partridge in a Pear Tree.
The partridge in a pear tree is Jesus the Christ, the Son of God, whose birthday we celebrate on December 25, the first day of Christmas. In the song, Christ is symbolically presented as a mother partridge that feigns injury to decoy predators from her helpless nestlings, recalling the expression of Christ's sadness over the fate of Jerusalem: "Jerusalem! Jerusalem! How often would I have sheltered you under my wings, as a hen does her chicks, but you would not have it so . . . ." (Luke 13:34)
On the 2nd day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Two Turtle Doves.
The Old and New Testaments, which together bear witness to God's self-revelation in history and the creation of a people to tell the Story of God to the world.
On the 3rd day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Three French Hens.
The Three Theological Virtues: 1) Faith, 2) Hope, and 3) Love (1 Corinthians 13:13)
On the 4th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Four Calling Birds.
The Four Gospels: 1) Matthew, 2) Mark, 3) Luke, and 4) John, which proclaim the Good News of God's reconciliation of the world to Himself in Jesus Christ.
On the 5th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Five Gold Rings.
The first Five Books of the Old Testament, known as the Torah or the Pentateuch: 1) Genesis, 2) Exodus, 3) Leviticus, 4) Numbers, and 5) Deuteronomy, which gives the history of humanity's sinful failure and God's response of grace in the creation of a people to be a light to the world.
On the 6th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Six Geese A-laying.
The six days of creation that confesses God as Creator and Sustainer of the world (Genesis 1).
On the 7th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Seven Swans A-swimming.
The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: 1) prophecy, 2) ministry, 3) teaching, 4) exhortation, 5) giving, 6) leading, and 7) compassion (Romans 12:6-8; cf. 1 Corinthians 12:8-11)
On the 8th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Eight Maids A-milking.
The eight Beatitudes: 1) Blessed are the poor in spirit, 2) those who mourn, 3) the meek, 4) those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, 5) the merciful, 6) the pure in heart, 7) the peacemakers, 8) those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake. (Matthew 5:3-10)
On the 9th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Nine Ladies Dancing.
The nine Fruit of the Holy Spirit: 1) love, 2) joy, 3) peace, 4) patience, 5) kindness,6) generosity, 7) faithfulness, 8) gentleness, and 9) self-control. (Galatians 5:22)
On the 10th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Ten Lords A-leaping.
The ten commandments: 1) You shall have no other gods before me; 2) Do not make an idol; 3) Do not take God's name in vain; 4) Remember the Sabbath Day; 5) Honor your father and mother; 6) Do not murder; 7) Do not commit adultery; 8) Do not steal; 9) Do not bear false witness; 10) Do not covet. (Exodus 20:1-17)
On the 11th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Eleven Pipers Piping.
The eleven Faithful Apostles: 1) Simon Peter, 2) Andrew, 3) James, 4) John, 5) Philip, 6) Bartholomew, 7) Matthew, 8) Thomas, 9) James bar Alphaeus, 10) Simon the Zealot, 11) Judas bar James. (Luke 6:14-16). The list does not include the twelfth disciple, Judas Iscariot who betrayed Jesus to the religious leaders and the Romans.
On the 12th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...
Twelve Drummers Drumming.
The twelve points of doctrine in the Apostles' Creed: 1) I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. 2) I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. 3) He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. 4) He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell [the grave]. 5) On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. 6) He will come again to judge the living and the dead. 7) I believe in the Holy Spirit, 8) the holy catholic Church, 9) the communion of saints, 10) the forgiveness of sins, 11) the resurrection of the body, 12) and life everlasting.
A Scientist funny.
One day a group of scientists got together and decided that man had come a long way and no longer needed God. So they picked one scientist to go and tell Him that they were done with Him.
The scientist walked up to God and said, "God, we've decided that we no longer need you. We're to the point that we can clone people and do many miraculous things, so why don't you just go on and get lost."
God listened very patiently and kindly to the man. After the scientist was done talking, God said, "Very well, how about this? Let's say we have a man-making contest."
To which the scientist replied, "Okay, great!"But God added, "Now, we're going to do this just like I did back in the old days with Adam."
The scientist said, "Sure, no problem" and bent down and grabbed himself a handful of dirt.
God looked at him and said, "No, no, no. You go get your own dirt!"
An Evolution funny.
If evolution is true, why do mothers still only have one pair of hands?
A Message by George Carlin - comedian of the 70's and 80's. (Written after his wife had recently died...)
The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider Freeways but narrower viewpoints.
We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time.
We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.
We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom.
We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.We've learned how to make a living, but not a life.
We've added years to life not life to years. We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor.
We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things. We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice.
We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.
These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes. These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill.
It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stockroom. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete...
Remember; spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side. Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent.
Remember, to say, 'I love you' to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you. Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again.
Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.
AND ALWAYS REMEMBER: Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.
posted by Maurice Sweetsur @ 10:40 PM
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