The Cross

The Cross: Should We Remove It?

Painting by gWinship  2011

The Cross

Paint For Pain... and Pray

When injured nearly nine years ago, I discovered that if I positioned a certain way on the floor and painted, the pain seemed 'distant'. So, I sporadically started painting again after years gone by. Eventually, a few years later, there was less uncontrolled pain and less need for medication. When this particular painting was started I was determined not to use any narcotic medication in the cold winter months last year. There's a boatload of personal symbolism in this painting... I am extremely reluctant to share any of my works in public.

Many of my paintings have been given away to family and friends who expressed a liking. Shockingly, some are hanging in their homes and others are rightfully buried in a closet.There is no offense in that. This is not a new profession for me but a confession. More important to me is the pain associated with professing Jesus Christ and the cross.
I like to call Him, Yeshua HaMashiach Adonai (The LORD Jesus Christ).

What is the intention of the heart?

There will be much "I" talk in this posting with the hope you might relate to my own experience with the cross.

Boldly did the prophet Isaiah write concerning "that day" of the Lord:

O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the LORD. For you have rejected your people, the house of Jacob, because they are full of things from the east and of fortune-tellers like the Philistines, and they strike hands with the children of foreigners. Their land is filled with silver and gold, and there is no end to their treasures; their land is filled with horses, and there is no end to their chariots. Their land is filled with idols; they bow down to the work of their hands, to what their own fingers have made. So man is humbled, and each one is brought low-- do not forgive them! Enter into the rock and hide in the dust from before the terror of the LORD, and from the splendor of his majesty.
(Isaiah 2:5-10)

Rather than horses and chariots, I often think motorcycles and cars. I worshiped my old 57 Chevy and was nearly wiped off the face of the earth in a motorcycle crash. And on the farm I'm convinced my horse had it out for me. My brothers and I rode in a horse-drawn two wheel buggy. It was terrifying when the horse was spooked. That was then. 

The day I bow down to anything I have made or what another has made, according to the prophet speaking the Word of God, is unforgivable. That seems serious. Sometimes it seems writing can be a trap for vainglory. But there is the cross and a need to ponder. 

Why are some churches taking down the cross? 
Is it foolishness to them? Does the cross offend?

More Than A Carved Idol Of Wood

Nearly anything created by man seems to be promoted, in some fashion, for profit. That includes wooden, silver, golden necklaces, ornaments, grave markers and on and on... all fashioned in the form of the cross.

Back in 1971, after my tour in Vietnam, when awakening to the reality of my own depravity, I read the Word of God with fear and trembling. Lesson learned: It is foolishness to think you can 'work it out' on your own or that mankind can fix it with words or a little pill.

(Sidebar: I love the Vietnamese people; all people actually; more on that below) 

I couldn't fix myself or anyone else, for that matter, when it comes to the spirit and heart. Our medical  team restarted many hearts with medication and compression's, and yes, some where literally raised from the dead. As you know,  I'm talking about the most inner heart of man. Only Christ can raise the spiritually dead. Again, this blog is pointing you to the Great Physician, Jesus Who is the Word of God. Please forgive my wordiness. I tend to get excited to the point where 'editing' means adding for clarity, not deleting for your reading pleasure.You are witnessing my own cross.

Clearly, the day is coming and is even upon us, when speaking about the cross, sin and the need for repentance will be outlawed, as in some nations. Such laws represent Satan's last stand to prevent salvation for that one last one Jesus is seeking in this last hour. In some circles, what God has said is considered "hate speech" or "politically incorrect". As soldiers in times past, one thing we were fighting for was the freedom of speech for the Vietnamese people and the preservation of our own in a free world. Satan has other plans. I do not desire to evoke contention but bashing followers of Jesus Christ, even by so-called "post-modern" churches has become fashionable. That's another post, the Lord willing. After all is said and done, we will learn war no more.

Since when does politics rule over God? That's laughable to the Creator of all things and at HIS appointed time, He is coming as fire to repay His enemies. He planted the nations and their leaders for His purpose. Like the painting depicts, there is one side of Jesus we should prefer to be on. In the meantime, pray for those in authority, especially in the body of Christ. Leaving the message of the cross is leaving the Way to eternal life.

My first witness of Jesus in the 70's was met with laughter and scorn. I recall the pain. Another time I was beaten by two thugs while witnessing to another man. A gun was shoved in my face on another occasion and many other confrontations have not only "I" but many others have endured.  Let's just say, it was worth it. Some know what I mean by that. To God be the glory.  Lesson learned: Fear no man. 

We all have our cross to carry... each according to the purpose of God. As I type, Christians are being beaten, tortured and killed. Others are alone, abandoned by family and former friends because of their testimony. Great is their reward in heaven. Pray for them. The world seemingly does not know nor care.

You see, persecution can give a believer great pause when it comes to being a light in the world. I recall my own fear as I stepped "out of the boat". A true follower of Jesus just doesn't fit in. The Comforter, the Holy Spirit is given to those who ask. That's another post, the Lord willing:  the sower of seed. Be of good courage. The joy of the LORD is our strength.

Becoming a follower of Jesus is not always a "goody two shoes" easy walk in the park. But finding the Lord of lords and King of kings is worth the seeking and serving. Yes, it is a narrow road and sometimes rocky but God strengthens the weak who seek Him. I can hear Him say, "Come home son." "Come home daughter."

In short, the world system hates the followers of Christ and His cross. Jesus said it would be that way. Have you been abandoned? There is a sincere love among brothers and sisters of the faith. It is wholesome and real. That is the true mark of a son or daughter of the Most High God, there love for one another.

LOVE: Read 1st Corinthians chapter 13. Good 'review'.... faith hope and love.

God knows all things, past, present and future. He knows your thoughts. He knows the number of hairs on your head, and in my case, He subtracts daily. Perhaps I should start saying, "He adds daily." 

He is indeed the Almighty God and the world would do well to fear Him now, rather than later.
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.

What did Jesus say about the cross?

Why Satan Hates It

The word cross can be found 28 times in the King James Bible. Some versions use the word 'stake' or 'tree'.

 And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. "Whoever receives you receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. 

(Matthew 10:38-40)

Then Jesus told his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? For the Son of Man is going to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay each person according to what he has done. 

(Matthew 16:24-27)

The cross... what did Paul write?

 I implore you to read the whole context... the entire Word of God, for that matter... it is life; a life saver from what is coming upon this earth...

For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the discernment of the discerning I will thwart." Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe. For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.  (1 Corinthians 1:18-24)


Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? "My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives."  (Hebrews 12:1-6)

Look, I am a simple man and God does not need me to defend Him. However, He is my Father and the world has chased after every evil under the sun since the beginning. There are those that have no fear of God. 

As for me, I fear God and do love people; enough to let them bleed, vomit, spit, punch, and every other event imaginable that frequently occurs in a major trauma center... And for some of you that have read this far, I love you enough to warn with the Truth. I came out of the worldly trappings and the light in me seems brighter each day and I can say, "I hate the darkness" without reservation. 

Am I tempted? Yes. Am I a sinner? Yes... but I am thankful that the Lord corrects me as a loving Father should. He is the good Sheppard, our Father in heaven... the only true God. He hates evil and will repay.

Come to the cross. Consider the substitution; the price God set for our purchase from the evil one in this evil world. Read the Word of God. If you have never read any of the Bible, start in the gospel of John; I'm confident Jesus Himself will clearly speak to your heart through the Spirit of Truth.

Jesus may be saying to you, "You will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free."
Free from what?... sin and death... sorrow and pain... He has done it for so many and is waiting for you.
Jesus also said, "Let him that is thirsty, come and drink freely."... drink in the pure Word of God. 

As for me, I am thirsty for righteousness knowing full well it is Jesus the Righteous One I seek... and Him alone.

Need a Bible?.... several free ones online

Search e-sword.net or blue letter bible... blue letter has an audio reading also...  

I like e-sword dot net  It is free and in many languages. 

Some publishers of the "latest and greatest versions" can be purchased through a link on e-sword

I grew up with Elizabethan English... old KJV. 

In here, the 1919 ESV is palatable to most readers and free. In old posts dating back to 2005 various translations were used. 

Unfortunately, copyright laws are laborious and as a two figure typist without an administrative assistant. :)
Enough said. Again, forgive the "I" first person business: we must become less and Jesus become more...

Thank the LORD Jesus for the cross... He willingly did it for you and me.

Bless those, Father, who love the salvation provided by the sacrifice of the perfect Lamb of God on a cross.

In Jesus Name....

Shalom... Peace

Gary

A New Year And Renewed Faith

Photo by gWinship 2005

"Come quickly Lord Jesus"

Much has changed in recent years. I certainly have. 

Perhaps you are a new follower of Jesus of Nazareth. 

Or a follower faced with desire and an urging to use the gifts God has given.

Maybe you're one who's been bullied... 

...a soldier who can't recognize home...
...a stranger in need.

Regardless of who you are it is my prayer that you will be blessed greatly in 2012 and forever.

Hold On Dear Child Of God

I have three great sons married to wonderful women. I have four grandchildren and one on the way. I have a great granddaughter. That's wonderful you say. Yes, indeed it is but words don't tell the whole story. I have three living brothers and a sister. How wonderful, you might add. Again, words do not tell the whole story. I'm inviting each of them to view this feeble effort of mine and critic it. I love them all so much... more than they might know. I must add this: Many people are burdened and torn from past failures in relationships. I will address that in another post. 

If I told you the whole story, you might want to stone me. 

You see, I am a sinner saved by grace through trusting my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. So what's the problem and where are you going with this?, you might ask. My family is loving, kind but they know my past.

And some certainly do not agree with my faith. This is not about me... it's about our souls and the destination of our very beings. I do hope you each are reading the Word of God and have a good Holy Spirit filled pastor. I am not a pastor. I am not the Messiah. I am not a prophet, though I asked for the gift of prophesy.

I am a simple man who has the undeserved blessing of having my sins washed away by the blood and crucifixion of my Lord Jesus Christ. He paid the price for all my sin. Jesus is the only righteousness in me. 

Please read on...

If you are not familiar with the real Jesus, I encourage you... no, beg you to look and see what is written concerning God's love and care for you. 

Perhaps you are lonely this new years eve and even thought you should end it all. As a retired ER professional I beg you to reconsider such an act. There is a God that loves you and understands everything about you and what you've been struggling with.
Please read on... there is a Helper waiting for you. 

I'm also a Vietnam veteran and can tell you, drugs alcohol and all... I understand some things that others may not. Send me a line... no need to be ashamed... I believe I have the Spirit and that someone has been led here to read these words. Continue with me, soldier. There is a war going on in the heavens.
May God encourage you. 

I want to share some scripture you may not have thought of in sometime or never read at all.

The Good News

Jesus said, "I Am The Way, The Truth, and The Life.

No One Comes To The Father But Through Me."

Well, agree or not, that's very clear. I will not argue with God.

Most of us have heard of or actually read the "address" John 3:16. Some have just seen it on signs at sporting events. And some have never heard of it at all. Here it is along with a few other Words I believe we all should hear from God, Whom I love to call Father...  Jesus said the following...

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God." 

(John 3:16-21)

All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." 

(Matthew 11:27-30)

Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life. 

(John 5:24)

It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. 

(John 6:63)

How Can One Be Saved?

Believe

The follower of Jesus named Paul wrote the following:

But what does it say? "The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart" (that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, "Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame." For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." 

(Romans 10:8-13)

Well... it is midnight here... I told the Lord I'd post at midnight...
Happy New Year to all who read.
Peace
Gary

Two Makes Ten

photo by gWinship 2007

Scripture from "Complete Jewish Bible"

The Law for sons of God

Jesus (Yeshua [Yah-shoo-ah] in Hebrew) said:

'YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.' This is the first and great commandment.

And the second is like it: 'YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.' On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets."
(Matthew 22:37-40 NKJV)

Let's do it... however, "...of myself I can do nothing but I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me."

Drink freely and eat... the Bread of Life is in the Word of God... the Bible... Yes... READ IT!

On The Fence? Repent!

Even so, come quickly Lord Yeshua!

Judgment of Tyre and Sidon

The prophet Joel spoke and wrote these words: Thus says the Lord...

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"For behold, in those days and at that time, when I restore the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem, I will gather all the nations and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat. And I will enter into judgment with them there, on behalf of my people and my heritage Israel, because they have scattered them among the nations and have divided up my land, and have cast lots for my people, and have traded a boy for a prostitute, and have sold a girl for wine and have drunk it.

"What are you to me, O Tyre and Sidon (Lebanon) , and all the regions of Philistia (Modern Gaza)?

Are you paying me back for something?

If you are paying me back, I will return your payment on your own head swiftly and speedily. For you have taken my silver and my gold, and have carried my rich treasures into your temples.

You have sold the people of Judah and Jerusalem to the Greeks in order to remove them far from their own border. Behold, I will stir them up from the place to which you have sold them, and I will return your payment on your own head. I will sell your sons and your daughters into the hand of the people of Judah, and they will sell them to the Sabeans, to a nation far away, for the LORD has spoken."

Proclaim this among the nations: Consecrate for war; stir up the mighty men. Let all the men of war draw near; let them come up. Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruning hooks into spears; let the weak say, "I am a warrior." Hasten and come, all you surrounding nations, and gather yourselves there. Bring down your warriors, O LORD. Let the nations stir themselves up and come up to the Valley of Jehoshaphat; for there I will sit to judge all the surrounding nations.

Put in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe. Go in, tread, for the winepress is full. The vats overflow, for their evil is great. Multitudes, multitudes, in the valley of decision! For the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision.

The sun and the moon are darkened, and the stars withdraw their shining. The LORD roars from Zion, and utters his voice from Jerusalem, and the heavens and the earth quake. But the LORD is a refuge to his people, a stronghold to the people of Israel.

"So you shall know that I am the LORD your God, who dwells in Zion, my holy mountain. And Jerusalem shall be holy, and strangers shall never again pass through it.

"And in that day the mountains shall drip sweet wine, and the hills shall flow with milk, and all the streambeds of Judah shall flow with water; and a fountain shall come forth from the house of the LORD and water the Valley of Shittim.

"Egypt shall become a desolation and Edom a desolate wilderness, for the violence done to the people of Judah, because they have shed innocent blood in their land.

But Judah shall be inhabited forever, and Jerusalem to all generations. I will avenge their blood, blood I have not avenged, for the LORD dwells in Zion."
(Joel 3:1-21 ESV)

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Fill your lamps and vessels with the oil of joy. As in Cana, a wedding festival is being prepared for believers. The evil are for the wine vats that are full already. Dear believer, thrust in your sickle and reap the harvest. Be strong and of good courage. Let your boldness be from the Lord God.

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Go!

We are being sent as sheep among wolves. As the lion slept in Daniels prison cell, so will God rescue you from the evil roaring lion named Satan. Read

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Jesus Spoke

Therefore you also be ready, for in that hour you think not, the Son of Man comes. Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his Lord has made ruler over His household, to give them food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his Lord shall find him doing so when He comes.
(Mat 24:44-46 MKJV)

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Wake Up

So be it my fellow servants. Let your light shine, that is, let Jesus lead you in His way. Let us not grow weary in doing good. Bless those that hate you. Bless them and do not curse. Then will you see great salvation and healing in your nation and beginning in your children.

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He that has the Son has life. He that has not the Son of God, has no life in him. Also, he that can say, "Jesus is Lord and Jesus is the Son of God..." he has life. He that believes God raised Jesus from the dead by the power of His Holy Spirit of Love (AGAPE), it is he that God will give the Spirit of Love, Truth, Comfort, Wisdom, Peace, Mercy and Grace.

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Receive His calling. Look into His Word. Bible study and the Holy Spirit will give you oil that heals the soul better than much medicine. I pray you will be blessed and find Him.

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Jesus will wash you clean of all sin. You will be brand new. Your pleasure will be in the joy of the Lord and not in worldly idols that are and will remain worthless. Seek complete obediance to your Father. Please Him with thanksgiving and praise with a clean heart.

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Even now, praise His Holy Name. He is One God and Father.

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Perfect Love casts out all fear. Fear brings anger, hatred and murder. Love brings peace. Soon, God Himself will bring down the New Jerusalem where the King of kings and Lord of lords will reign forever.

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Yes, even so, come quickly Lord Jesus... Messiah.

Agape Touch: the Love of God touching your heart... the Word.

A Young Believer Sings

Young And Brand New

In surfing Christian blogs I discovered a young lady posting great wisdom from a tender heart. It is worth mentioning and passing on...

Thank you, Tina. From the Phillipines, a young heart desiring understanding through Bible study, has reached around the world to touch a grandpa's heart in California.

God is so kind and knows our needs. Visit Tina's site and encourage her desire to start a Bible study group.

Excerpt from http://refineme.org

To be honest, I never really knew what I was missing, but when I started to re-attend YFC in DLSU, I discovered something else that I never really took seriously before. I realized then that it’s not with the group you’re attending but with your personal relationship with God. It’s not about your position in your group, nor the number of members you bring in, but how much you loved the people around you — whether you’re a member or a leader, it doesn’t matter. It’s about how often you talk to Him, how much you rely on Him to get you through the day. It’s about surrendering — acknowledging and living that He alone is enough for You, that everything begins and ends with Him. That good or bad, by the end of the day, He’s still the one who knows you, what you are going through and is continually shaping your future for you.It’s not just knowing about Jesus’ life, but believing that He was sent here by God and died on the cross to save us. It’s about believing that Jesus rose on the third day after He died. It’s about believing that Jesus did all those for you. It’s believing that He sent the Holy Spirit to be with us while we live on Earth.Most of all, it’s about His love. His amazing, unbelievable love that only He can give, and is willing to give even if we don’t love Him back. It’s about His love being enough to satisfy us, more than material things. And this is just the start, there’s more.And you know what? I’m happy. I can truly say that — I’m really happy. :) I still have problems and struggles, but I know that God will always be with me that He is in control. And when He is in control, everything will be okay, because there is no problem bigger than my God. I try to lay my life for Him everyday, and I know I still lack big time but His grace is more than enough. My life didn’t change overnight, but I can say that He’s changing it — He’s changing me everyday.

refineme.org » Faith

technorati tags:Bible, study, christian, Jesus, God

ER Death: A Bible Study

A Vivid ER Recollection; 23 Years Ago

Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.
(Jud 1:21-23 KJV)

The Real ER

Emergency Room Bible Study

In the fall of 1983, a Regional Trauma Center ER was bustling with all manner of diseased and injured men, women and children. The medical staff was competent and, with hurried determination, swiftly delivered aid to all in need. Knowing the waiting room was full, after six hours of non-stop duty there was relief knowing only six more hours remained for the night shift. As the hour grew late, the inflow would diminish. I was there and this is a true story.

The hospital operator announced through the hospital speaker system, “Trauma team to the emergency room. Trauma team to the emergency room.” This announced the soon arrival of a trauma victim, usually 5 to 10 minutes away.

The ER trauma team consisted of a trauma surgeon, the physician in charge of ER, a physician from ICU, a physician from surgical anesthesiology, a resident physician in ER training, the nursing supervisor, 3 ER registered nurses, a radiology technician, a lab technician, the ER social worker and a respiratory therapist. Each person had a specific location in reference to the trauma gurney and specific duties to perform.

At the head of the gurney was the respiratory therapist, whom I am. The anesthesiologist was standby for emergent airway complications and other assistance as needed. To the right was the trauma surgeon overseeing the patients care and assessing emergent needs with an RN assistant. To the left stood the ICU and ER physicians also assessing and establishing any required vital access to major veins and arteries with an RN assistant. The third RN was at the foot of the gurney charting all reported and observed procedures, medication orders administered and assuring frequent vital signs.

The resident physician observed and participated according to his or her level of training. The lab and x-ray technicians responded speedily to obtain their respective orders by the physicians. The social worker gathered personal information about the patient, contacting family and informing them frequently of the patient’s status.

The nursing supervisor coordinated the hospital preparation and response tailored to the patient’s needs. This included bed assignment, surgical team alert and other crucial services anticipated. In code blue traumas, the supervisor became the fourth RN assisting at bedside until the patient was stabilized or pronounced dead.

There was an adjacent room with a large glass window viewing the trauma room. Certain people observed from this area. In the room were several phones, long counter tops for paperwork charting and an x-ray viewing light box, just to name a few of its functions.

After a patient arrival, the paramedics and law enforcement personnel joined “visiting” medical staff from other hospital areas congregating in this room to observe the trauma team. Every participant avoided loud chatter and other disruptions to the focus, which was the patient. Everything was in order and every eye focused on the victim of the trauma.

In that year, 1983, and on that night a well-groomed and well-nourished African-American male arrived via paramedics at approximately 1 AM. The young man was 20 years old. He was in severe distress. He was combative in that he tried to sit upright while wildly flailing his muscular arms. He was having significant difficulty speaking and was in obvious severe respiratory distress.

Sedation medication was administered. The anesthesiologist secured his airway by intubation. I took over the airway care by delivering 100% oxygen via a resuscitation bag attached to the endotracheal tube. (An endotracheal intubation is placing a tube into the windpipe: trachea). I gave him 16-20 breaths per minute. Normal breathing rate is 8-12.

Two gunshot wounds were noted. One entry was to the right upper abdomen, over the liver, and the more significant wound site was a chest entry just below the right nipple.

During the course of this trauma, several significant and highly unusual events took place. When the x-rays were ready for viewing, everyone at the bedside rushed to see the damage on the viewer in the large room. There I was, alone with this young man. Doctors were analyzing, nurses were gather equipment and the closest person was 20 feet away. This had never happened prior nor ever again during a major trauma in my 25-year career.

He was sedated but awake. I looked into his eyes and saw the fear and confusion. I said, “You can not speak because of a breathing tube. I am here to help you. Just breathe and I will help you with each breath.”

He closed his eyes for a moment and upon opening, a single tear flowed down his right cheek. My heart was moved and I said, “Don’t be afraid. I am with you.”

He looked into my eyes and I saw a kindred spirit. As I looked at the team in the large room discussing the need for surgical intervention, I saw the concern in their faces as they glanced through the window assuring this young man continued his temporary stability.

I moved my head down and spoke in his ear. “Did your mama teach you about Jesus?” Lifting my head to see his eyes, he nodded yes as he tightly closed his eyes as though full of regret and wanting his mother. I quickly bent down as the team approached and said, “Keep your eyes on Jesus. He loves you and is with you.”

As I stood upright, always delivering each breath according to his need, I saw his spirit calmed by the presence of the Holy Spirit. All fear was gone. He smiled through his eyes and peace filled his soul. My own soul was comforted by seeing this extraordinary peace in him.

Five minutes later as we prepared to take him to surgery, his heart stopped and he was gone. Although we performed CPR for 20 minutes and opened his chest to attempt stopping internal bleeding, his hour had come. That was the beginning of my true ministry to the sick and dieing. I am now retired due to my own traumatic injury. Now I serve prisoners, like me, bound in their own homes... on the internet.

I recorded in a log that I responded to 487 traumas while on duty in 1983. After 25 years, the number of lives that touched my own is overwhelming and I could never count them from my memory. Because of Jesus, I will soon see that young man. Jesus will wipe the tears from my own eyes as I see all those I served, now whole and brand new. I hope and trust you will be there with me, dear reader.

Dear Christian, we all have gifts from the Holy Spirit. Do not be afraid to use them. The Bible tells us Jesus goes before us preparing the Way. Stay close to our Master and Savior. Listen to His instruction. His burden upon us is light.

God bless you all.

Gary Winship
Agape Touch

agapetouch blogspot

The Cloud Of Glory

Photo by Gary Winship

Nature Speaks Of His Glory

Bible Study reveals the very nature of the return of Jesus. Nature gives us a glimpse but we must realize His cloud of glory will be completely unique.

Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen. "I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty."
(Revelation 1:7-8 ESV)

What Will We See

His head and his hair were white like wool, in fact, as white as snow. His eyes were like flames of fire, his feet were like glowing bronze refined in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of raging waters. In his right hand he held seven stars, and out of his mouth came a sharp, two-edged sword. His face was like the sun when it shines with full force. When I saw him, I fell down at his feet like a dead man. But he placed his right hand on me and said, "Stop being afraid! I am the first and the last, the living one. I was dead, but look-I am alive forever and ever! I have the keys of Death and Hades. "
(Revelation 1:14-18 ISV)

I Thirst

Let the evildoer still do evil, and the filthy still be filthy, and the righteous still do right, and the holy still be holy."
"Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay everyone for what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end." Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life and that they may enter the city by the gates. Outside are the dogs and sorcerers and the sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.
"I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star."
The Spirit and the Bride say, "Come." And let the one who hears say, "Come." And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price.
(Revelation 22:11-17 ESV)

Loving the Word of God

In the beginning, the Word existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. Through him all things were made, and apart from him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life brought light to humanity. And the light shines on in the darkness, and the darkness has never put it out.
(John 1:1-5 ISV)

This was the true light that enlightens every person by his coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him. Yet the world did not recognize him. He came to his own creation, yet his own people did not receive him. However, to all who received him, to those believing in his name, he gave authority to become God's children, who were born, not merely in a physical sense, or from a fleshly impulse, or from man's desire, but of God. The Word became flesh and tabernacled among us. We gazed on his glory, the kind of glory that belongs to the Father's unique Son, full of grace and truth.
(John 1:9-14 ISV)

God bless you as you commit to Bible study. An excellent Bible library for your computer and/or your Pocket PC can be found at e-Sword and it is freely given by Rick Meyers.

Gary
Agape Touch

Storms Of Life And The Bible

When Fear Grips The Heart...

In the aftermath of natural and man-made destruction coming upon our family in America, reviewing the story of Job in the Old Testament comes to heart. I encourage all to read and be open to where these attacks may have come from. What was Katrina and Rita all about? Is it God's judgment, warning of the escalating judgment coming or was it Satan's blow against a "Christian nation"?

Storms Of God's Glory
(photo by Gary Winship)

Many years ago, a man named Job lived in the land of Uz. He was a truly good person, who respected God and refused to do evil. Job had seven sons and three daughters. He owned seven thousand sheep, three thousand camels, five hundred pair of oxen, five hundred donkeys, and a large number of servants. He was the richest person in the East.

Job's sons took turns having feasts in their homes, and they always invited their three sisters to join in the eating and drinking. After each feast, Job would send for his children and perform a ceremony, as a way of asking God to forgive them of any wrongs they may have done. He would get up early the next morning and offer a sacrifice for each of them, just in case they had sinned or silently cursed God.

One day, when the angels had gathered around the LORD, and Satan was there with them, the LORD asked, "Satan, where have you been?"

Satan replied, "I have been going all over the earth."

Then the LORD asked, "What do you think of my servant Job? No one on earth is like him--he is a truly good person, who respects me and refuses to do evil."

"Why shouldn't he respect you?" Satan remarked. "You are like a wall protecting not only him, but his entire family and all his property. You make him successful in whatever he does, and his flocks and herds are everywhere. Try taking away everything he owns, and he will curse you to your face."

The LORD replied, "All right, Satan, do what you want with anything that belongs to him, but don't harm Job." Then Satan left.

Job's sons and daughters were having a feast in the home of his oldest son, when someone rushed up to Job and said, "While your servants were plowing with your oxen, and your donkeys were nearby eating grass, a gang of Sabeans attacked and stole the oxen and donkeys! Your other servants were killed, and I was the only one who escaped to tell you."

That servant was still speaking, when a second one came running up and saying, "God sent down a fire that killed your sheep and your servants. I am the only one who escaped to tell you." (NOTE: Was it God or a man's interpretation?)

Before that servant finished speaking, a third one raced up and said, "Three gangs of Chaldeans attacked and stole your camels! All of your other servants were killed, and I am the only one who escaped to tell you."

That servant was still speaking, when a fourth one dashed up and said, "Your children were having a feast and drinking wine at the home of your oldest son, when suddenly a windstorm from the desert blew the house down, crushing all of your children. I am the only one who escaped to tell you."

When Job heard this, he tore his clothes and shaved his head because of his great sorrow. He knelt on the ground, then worshiped God and said: "We bring nothing at birth; we take nothing with us at death. The LORD alone gives and takes. Praise the name of the LORD!"
In spite of everything, Job did not sin or accuse God of doing wrong.
(Job 1:1-22 CEV)

God specifically said to Satan, "...do what you will..." This indicates Satan's ability, but only with allowance from God, to reek havoc. He did so and continues to do so even upon righteous Christians. He used evil men and forces of nature to accomplish the attack on Job. His effort is defeated in our stedfast faith in God.

Consider the disciples that were slaughtered for the sake of their testimony of Jesus and not just during biblical accounts but those that perish daily. Even Paul admitted to watching the killings of many brought on by his own accusations against the early Christian church. Unknown numbers of believers continue to pay the ultimate price for their testimony of Jesus on this very day.

Could these recent traumatic disasters in the US and abroad be the first wave of what is spoken of by Jesus?

Are we approaching the end of the age?

And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
(Luke 21:25-27)


In Bible study we often are anointed with the truth that the only answer to our own personal perplexities and tragedies can be simply stated.

Jesus said, "Fear not, I am with you always, even until the end."
"Let your heart not be troubled."
"Trust God."
"Hope in the Lord."
"Look up. Your redemption draws near."

God bless you, dear reader.

Understand that knowing the Lord is a lifetime pursuit. And knowing Him completely is impossible in this life on earth. Whether what is happeneing is judgment or a time of trial for believers and unbelievers alike, we should humble ourselves in the midst of the pride of man.

We should truly reach out to the poor in spirit and those that are in truely in poverty. Though we will see Him and become like Him, whether in an instant or progressively, seeking the mysteries and, especially, the heart of our Father in heaven should be our single ambition. All else will fall in place as we learn to trust God.

Study (the Word) to show yourself approved of God.

John Gill wrote "Not unto men, as pleasing them; for such who study to please men, are not the servants of Christ; and sometimes those that are approved to and by men, are disapproved of by God and Christ: but unto God, showing all fidelity and uprightness; speaking out the Gospel openly, and freely, with all sincerity, as in the sight of God; commending themselves to him, and to every man's conscience, by manifestation of the truth; and such will hear, 'Well done, good and faithful servant' another day."

As you study you will read that a day will come when you will be asked by God to judge the angels. By what judgment will you judge? Search the scriptures. They are the flowing living water that will go forward from you to replenish those that thirst today and assist us in righteous judgment according to the Father's heart. It will flow through the calling and unique talent God has blessed you with.

Gary Winship
Agape Touch

Devotional: Follow Christ Jesus

What It Means To Follow Christ
Psalm 37

Charles Spurgeon wrote: "Does not the Word . . . come like a soft shower, assuaging the fury of the flame? Yes, is it not an asbestos armor, against which the heat has no power. Let the affliction come. God has chosen me. Poverty may stride in at my door; but God is in the house already, and He has chosen me. Sickness may intrude; but I have a balsam ready. God has chosen me. Whatever befalls me in this vale of tears, I know that He has chosen me.

"Fear not, Christian; Jesus is with thee. In all thy fiery trials, His presence is both comfort and safety. He will never leave one whom He has chosen for His own. 'Fear not, for I am with thee,' is His sure word of promise to His chosen ones in the furnace of affliction.'"

Does your situation include seeking God's direction? Or perhaps it is a position of disappointment and heaviness. God has chosen you as His beloved. He will not leave you without hope. Even if it feels as though you are trapped in the furnace of affliction, God remains beside you.

The fires of His furnace are only used to refine and prepare those He intends to use greatly. So rejoice in times of difficulty. God is preparing you for great blessing. Take courage; He is teaching you to trust Him even when the way before you appears blocked.

In Touch Ministries

Be at peace and let your sorrow turn to joy, knowing this great Truth. The Bible is our gift from God. His Word will not return to Him void.

Gary
Agape Touch

God Has No Favorites

This is truth and it is reasonable. Have you ever wondered how God can put up with others?

Some of you accuse others of doing wrong. But there is no excuse for what you do. When you judge others, you condemn yourselves, because you are guilty of doing the very same things. We know that God is right to judge everyone who behaves in this way. Do you really think God won't punish you, when you behave exactly like the people you accuse? You surely don't think much of God's wonderful goodness or of his patience and willingness to put up with you. Don't you know that the reason God is good to you is because he wants you to turn to him? But you are stubborn and refuse to turn to God. So you are making things even worse for yourselves on that day when he will show how angry he is and will judge the world with fairness. God will reward each of us for what we have done. He will give eternal life to everyone who has patiently done what is good in the hope of receiving glory, honor, and life that lasts forever. But he will show how angry and furious he can be with every selfish person who rejects the truth and wants to do evil. All who are wicked will be punished with trouble and suffering. It doesn't matter if they are Jews or Gentiles. But all who do right will be rewarded with glory, honor, and peace, whether they are Jews or Gentiles.
God doesn't have any favorites!
(Romans 2:1-11)

Bible study has profound effects on the human heart.

Sponsor A Child Through World Vision

A lamb of God...

In Bible Study we learn to give... please consider giving Jesus a cup of cool water and bread... or covering His naked body.

"As you did it unto the least of these, so you did it unto Me."

Gary
in His service

Sponsor a Child and Donate to Disaster Relief through World Vision: "Who Is World Vision?
We are a Christian relief and development organization dedicated to helping children and their communities worldwide reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty. We serve the world's poor — regardless of a person's religion, race, ethnicity, or gender."

Study Your Bible... Why?

Let the Word of God be alive in you. Bible study is merely taking in the Living Word of God. Without it... you starve. The beautiful moment arrives as the Holy Spirit speaks in your heart... a reminder of a scripture in the moment of need.

As God says in His Word, "I shall write my Word on the table of your heart". And Jesus being the Word (John 1)... as He says, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. He that hears Me and opens the door... I will come in and 'sup' (dine) with him."

Far be it from me to understand the depth of all this, but the Word of God is clear, even to a little child. Let me paint an analogy, of sorts.

You invite Jesus in. He sits with you at the kitchen table (in your heart). He carves or scribes his Word upon that table (written on the table). He is the bread and wine. You eat and drink. You become one at the table. An intimate moment evolves because you spent time in Bible study... preparing and bringing His food to the table.

His Word... His Body... His heart that you gave to Him. So, study to show yourself approved of God, a workman that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth. (paraphrased)

How? Through Bible study.

Gary
(in His service)