Today’s Thought “Extra-Curricular” G. Ward

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” Psalm 23:1

The beauty in growing older is that reasonable mindsets gravitate unto self interrogation that denies great error from surfacing ever again. Absolute recall of varied events of error caused tremendous pain (self-inflicted and harm towards others), that should seek to warn others by exemplifying a life of peace with better continuity unto most (cf. Titus 2:1-8).

A life that’s youthful may subtract from this kind of slow-down, overwhelmed in selfish (even wanton) desire. Moreover, there exists in a predominant way, thoughts very abhorrent to dependence on anything; perpetuating competition of sorts that relies on strength not found in seniors.

Every contrast life may offer will ultimately be forced to reconcile this current generation’s existence in view of all those of past generations (cf. Ps.90:10-12); both perspectives and tangibles tarnish. Furthermore, we’ll all discover that every mindset was wrong, because it was never ours to decipher (*cf. 1 Cor.6:19-20).

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Appeal to Accompaniment” G. Ward

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1

What will a best friend say about your life upon departure? Who may be best in doing so? Have you had a best friend; One who was/is so very superior to your character? John, the gospel writer, sought to pervade his best Friend unto any, including an inarguable appeal unto a predominant message of great philosophy that impressed an entire Empire. John knew that his best Friend’s embrace was enough to hold the entirety of mankind.

Those days found the Message too simplistic. John’s testimonial (i.e. the Word became flesh 1:14) contradicted their anticipation of kingliness vs. HIS actuality as a regular Person (cf. Isa.53:1-3). These days proclaim HIM as Lord without insisting on the intimacy John preferred. Vain philosophies in our modernity seem to be winning, but I prefer to tell you about my Friend who will stick closer to you than a brother (cf. Ac.4:12).

Happy Wednesday!

Today’s Thought “The Recesses of My Mind” G. Ward

 “And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” Mark 11:25

There’s a new term utilized to “pretty up” what has been deemed a lie; it’s “mis-spoke”. The actuality of the initial violation regretted allowing a statement to come forth and desires a “cover-up.” Altogether it’s comparable to a drunken uncle’s word denying next day’s confrontation where sobriety exists, except this stupor is without inebriates.

Having personal acquaintance with stupid has often been my necklace of choice. So why should I permanently, or temporarily discount another’s desire to re-capitulate as afforded me? We cannot forget that we’re products of mercy. The pardoning Heaven renders emanates from you and me as yet violating (Ro.3:23); so when another mis-appropriates what should be peace, please remember personal embodiment therein.

Happy Tuesday!

Today’s Thought “Contentment” G. Ward

“Abraham breathed his last and died in a ripe old age, an old man and satisfied with life; and he was gathered to his people.” Genesis 25:8

I was overwhelmed on last evening in traveling to the home of friends who recently moved to a senior community. This posh community was astounding, including every amenity imaginable. I drove through the gate refusing a map from the attendant whereby my 27 minute drive in lost-ness compelled me to make the call for help (Can you say typical man?).

Kudos to the planner/developer of such a community. I believe this environment of serenity will aid in a holistic approach that promotes even greater longevity for the residents therein. Moreover, the senior’s presence in peaceable perspective has always been the visual necessary unto furthered, exemplar servant-hood that impacts future generations (questioning eternality). Rarely will youth imagine a time when earth’s departure is near; it’s therefore necessary to view, then hear from recipients of grace soon to inherit their reward for implicit trust in Holy God (cf. Titus.2:1-8). Deborah doesn’t know it yet, but I’m soon to go there again to render a check for earnest money’s sake (send your donations to…).

Happy Monday!

Today’s Thought “Lone Wolf” G. Ward

“Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like a trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth.” Luke 21:34-35

The day of great choice is with a component in contrasting entertainment value and has become the tag for most life applications. Faith matters are no different. We join faith organizations for professional advancement and social attractiveness, while TRUTH remains at the bottom of the totem pole. These concessions in compromise are opposite of humanity’s holy demand (*cf. Jn.4:24). God’s word is timelessly made applicable for every generation. Our demand in spiritual matters insists on categorizing oration from preachers vs. content and it appears there’s no turning back (*cf. 1 Cor.2:1-5). Moreover, worship unto the Lord is with an unbalanced ratio, embracing more individual preference than implicit praise for HIS greatness.

If the patriarchs of faith matters endured tragic consequences for blatant mistrust of God’s oracle, is there exemption for us?

Happy Friday!

Today’s Thought “Without Consideration” G. Ward

“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Understanding what to do never rests solely on the knowledge therein, but is regarded on High when one determines wise follow-ship as spiritual conformity unto those authoritative impartations (cf. Jas.1:18-22). Moreover, great study of God’s word lacks prudence and credibility when lives echo sentiments of “I Got This” vs. surrender at all times and places unto Infinite Wisdom. We don’t have long in proving sole allegiance that establishes the practice necessary in seeing HIM face to face (1 Thess.5:2-6).

Happy Thursday!

Today’s Thought “Solemn Confrontation” G. Ward

“In those days Hezekiah became mortally ill. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came to him and said to him, “Thus says the Lord, ‘Set your house in order, for you shall die and not live.” 2 Kings 20:1

As a boy I would often encounter being troubled then desiring empathy from other family members that rarely happened because I was so entirely selfish. My limited knowledge couldn’t juxtapose concern for others; I was right and everyone else was wrong.

As a grandfather of three, I often encounter trouble, but these times don’t compel me to hold my breath until I die, or journeying to the backyard digging a tunnel so deep that descends to China. My limited knowledge yet fails to acknowledge the patience with mercy shown me as a universal dispensation (Mt.5:45). Perhaps selfishness has diminished some, but certainly not enough. Concern for others first, should be a daily desired goal (Phil.2:4). Unlike King Hezekiah’s request for additional life, I don’t proclaim a need for additional time, but I thank my Lord for all He’s granted. In conclusion, you’d be proud to know that I’m working on maturity. Besides that, if I attempt holding my breath at this autumn in my life, I really will die (Can you say old?)!

Happy Wednesday!