Isaiah 1:18. Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
Oh Friends, at last a decent amount of rain has fallen in my area this past evening. We haven’t seen any real showers of blessing around here for at least a couple weeks. Let’s hope it doest turn from famine to feast and consequently flood, as been happening all over North America recently. Who knows though what’s in store for any of us as individuals, or any of our residential areas? Only the Good Lord, who has planned it all out in His infinite wisdom. Thus, as His followers, we need to grin and bear whatever comes against us, knowing deep down that eventually it will all work out for the good of those who LOVE Him and are called to do His will. (Rom.8:28) But be it known Friends, that in spite of our God and Creator calling all the shots, He is not an arrogant, unreasonable Deity. Listen to our Bit: ‘Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.’ Yes Friends, that sure sounds to me like an invitation to sit down and talk with the Lord about our sinful situation. The scholars put it this way: ‘The prophet’s appeal to come and reason together reveals God’s gracious invitation to all men. It literally means to be ‘reasonable’ by repenting and turning to God.’ What a wonderful God we serve my people! Everyday I encounter something new in His Word or my life that just amazes me at His goodness and LOVING-kindness towards His selfish, undeserving, disobedient, rebellious children. Hear how He corroborates our Bit later on in Isaiah: ‘I, even I, am he that blotted out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. Put me in remembrance: let us plead (contend, reason) together: declare thou (thy case), that thou mayest be justified.’ (Is.43:25-26) Again, another invitation to come to Him and talk about our problems, our sins, which He will blot out and not remember, once we repent and surrender our souls to Him, then henceforth try to walk the straight and narrow path He favours. And all God’s people raised a mighty shout of joy and gratitude to heaven: ‘Oh thank you Lord, for your goodness and mercy which cannot be matched by any other supposed deity!’ Ah people, what a wonderful promise our Bit contains; that if we turn to the Lord God Jehovah with sincere repentance; ‘though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.’ Bruh David said it thus in Psalm 51, his prayer for cleansing: ‘Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.’ (Ps.51:7) Yes Friends, our LOVING God is faithfully promising to wash away all the sins of those who come to Him with a truly repentant heart. He will cleanse us, make us whole, and restore a right relationship with Him. Here’s an interesting take on the subject by the scholars: ‘Their sin is described as ‘scarlet’ and ‘red like crimson,’ referring to their bloodguiltiness before God. The term ‘crimson’ also means ‘worm,’ referring to the colourfast red dye of the scarlet worm. The eradication of this stain turns it snowy white and is symbolic of the life-changing grace of God, which delivers men from the guilt and condemnation of sin. Thus the prophet reminds his readers that God stands ready to cleanse and forgive all who turn to Him.’ Oh my brethren, our God is indeed a magnanimous, forgiving and merciful God, but He’s also a God of truth and justice and therefore cannot promote sin and evil, thus there are conditions to His offer. ‘If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.’ (Is.1:19-20) Yes my people, our God has placed before us a basic contract, which entails offer and acceptance. If we accept His offer, then we’ll be prosperous. If we don’t, then death and eternal damnation shall come upon us. Please, I beg of us to do the right and smart thing and accept God’s offer of salvation and eternal life made available to us through the blood sacrifice of His only Son, Jesus Christ. As I keep saying, it’s the wisest decision we’ll ever make on this, our earthly journey. Much LOVE!…the offer of life and death are before you…which will you choose…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 20 September 2011 Isaiah 1:18
20 Sep 2011 Leave a comment
Today’s Scrip-Bit 19 September 2011 1 Kings 2:2
19 Sep 2011 Leave a comment
1 Kings 2:2. I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and show thyself a man.
Oh Friends, it’s Monday! And the immediate response is a loud snort and an angry ‘Steups!’ Hn, hn! Yes Friends, regardless of how much we dislike Mondays, we should really learn to take it in stride since we can’t get away from it. Let’s be thankful that in our society we only have to work five days a week. In some others seven days a week is the norm, there’s no weekend off. However, to chase those Monday blues, let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn, which should get us revved up and going. With one loud and sincere voice now: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ And now that our bleary eyes are fully opened, it’s time to consider our Bit: ‘I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and show thyself a man.’ Ah Friends, it’s always tough to assume great responsibility when it’s thrust upon us by someone’s death, especially at a young age, like Cousin Sol becoming king of Israel in early manhood. But as we saw yesterday, Bruh David gave him the best advice possible under the circumstances; to continue seeking the God of his forefathers, like he did, and all would be well with him. It’s the same advice Moses gave Joshua when his time came. ‘And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou must go with this people unto the land which the Lord hath sworn unto their fathers to give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it. And the Lord, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.’ (Deut.31:7-8) Yes my people, it is the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob who causes us to prosper on this earth; nothing or no one else! If we walk steadfastly with Him, then our footsteps will be well guided on the rough and rocky path that’s this earthly life, and eventually we’ll be called home to heaven to spend eternity with Him. God’s effective and beneficial guidance was indelibly proven by Israel’s escape from bondage in Israel, and when Joshua’s time came to depart this earth, he strenuously reminded the people of that fact. ‘And, behold, this day I am going the way of all the earth: and ye know in all your hearts and in all your souls, that not one thing hath failed of all the good things which the Lord your God spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, and not one thing hath failed thereof.’ (Josh.23:14) Yes Friends, ALL God’s promises were fulfilled concerning Israel, yet they veered so often away from His path that it boggles the imagination. Unfortunately, it’s the same thing that we have done; in the time of prosperity, turned our backs on our Creator, who only desires to LOVINGLY lead and guide us to green pastures, beside peaceful waters. Ah mih breddren, we certainly won’t get any marks for wisdom in this life if we insist on choosing to bypass the wonders of salvation and eternal life that are associated with Infinitely Everything, and hang instead with the fallen angel Beelzebub who reigns over the kingdom of death, destruction and eternal damnation. Now let’s close with these words of wisdom from Bruh David to Cousin Sol; words that put the whole matter into its proper perspective. ‘Only the Lord give thee wisdom and understanding, and give thee charge concerning Israel, that thou mayest keep the law of the Lord thy God. Then shalt thou prosper, if thou takest heed to fulfill the statutes and judgements which the Lord charged (commanded) Moses with concerning Israel: be strong, and of good courage; dread not, nor be dismayed.’ (1 Chr.22:12-13) That says it all Friends! Please, let’s take that wise advice and run with it, for we desperately need it today. Much LOVE!…hearken to the Word…and it will always lead you aright…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 18 September 2011 1 Kings 2:2
18 Sep 2011 Leave a comment
1 Kings 2:2. I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore and show thyself a man.
Oh Friends, our world is in a very calamitous state, but on this beautiful Sunday morning, millions of people around it, will be going to church to pray, praise and fellowship in the exalted name of Christ Jesus. Glory Hallelujah! The only problem though, is that not sufficient people will be worshipping to cause major positive change, because at this juncture in our evolution, unbelievers unfortunately outnumber believers. To make matters worse, the latter are not fully living up to their mandate in Christ, thus sabotaging Jesus’ righteous cause, while helping that of the evil enemy. However, in the immortal, encouraging and uplifting words of the famed British poet, Alfred Lord Tennyson, we can describe the believer’s motto as: ‘Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will to strive, to seek, to find and not to yield.’ Yes Friends, that’s how Christians ought to be; though made physically weak through aging and cruel fate, yet our spirits grow stronger with each passing day, as we seek our God more often, more faithfully and with greater enthusiasm, thereby developing that fortitude of spirit characterized by Christ, where we simply refuse to give up regardless of what comes against us. That’s because ‘we are more than conquerors through him that LOVED us.’ (Rom.8:37) Now that brings us to our Bit: ‘I go the way of all the earth: be thou strong and show thyself a man.’ That’s the charge Bruh David gave to Cousin Sol when he was preparing to meet his Maker. I guess if I had spoken to my mother just before she died, I might have also gotten some such advice. Bruh David’s charge to Cousin Sol continued: ‘And keep the charge of the Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgements, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and withersoever thou turnest thyself (wherever you turn). That the Lord may continue his word which he spake concerning me, saying, If thy children take heed to their way, to walk before me in truth with all their heart and with all their soul, there shall not fail thee (said he) a man on the throne of Israel.’ (1 Kin.2:3-4) Oh Friends, that’s a most worthwhile death-bed statement for believers to make to their children. But how many of us actually say something like that eh, to those we are leaving behind? I strongly suspect that not enough do. We don’t do it while we’re alive and raising them, else our world would not be in such a sad state of strife and confusion. So how can we suddenly charge them to seek God and stay with Him when we’re dying, if they haven’t heard it prior to that, or seen it by example in our lives? It’s the same way the Lord acted when Moses was about to die and the reins of leadership to be transferred to Joshua: ‘And the Lord said unto Moses, Behold, thy days approach that thou must die: call Joshua, and present yourselves in the tabernacle of the congregation, that I may give him a charge (commission). And Moses and Joshua went, and presented themselves in the tabernacle of the congregation. And the Lord appeared in the tabernacle in a pillar of cloud: and the pillar of cloud stood over the door of the tabernacle.’ (Deut.31:14-15) The Lord then warned Moses and Joshua that the Israelites would go astray in the Promised Land and He would make them pay for their disobedience, so Moses was to write a song dealing with the laws of God and teach it to them. The song would testify against them when they broke the covenant between them and God. Moses, in obedience, wrote the song the same day and taught it to the Israelites. (Deut.31:16-22) ’And he (God) gave Joshua the son of Nun a charge, and said, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou shalt bring the children of Israel into the land which I sware unto them: and I will be with thee.’ (Deut.31:23) And people, nothing has changed from then till now, for the Lord and His Word are unchangeable. Therefore Friends, if we want to see good days and enjoy long life, we need to place our lives under the wise and faithful guidance of Jehovah God, our Creator, Protector and Provider. We also need to raise our children in His ways, so that they will continue to worship Him and prosper after He’s taken us home. If we don’t do that, then Christianity, instead of spreading across the entire world, as Jesus commissioned, will decrease and fade with each passing generation until it dies completely. Now we surely don’t want that, because it would only make a mockery of Jesus’ painful sacrifice, neither will our descendants end up in heaven with us when they die. But my brethren, we can only prevent that from happening, especially in these sorry, god-forsaken times, by making a conscious and sincere effort to live right and teach our children the right way. Please Friends, let’s not allow it to be said by future generations, that ours was the beginning of the end of Christianity. So let’s all therefore stand up tall, be strong and courageous, and both teach and live the Lord’s way, so that we may fulfill the great commission: ‘Go ye therefore, and teach (make disciples of) all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.’ (Matt.28:19-20) Much LOVE!…one cannot live for God…unless one is taught to do so…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 17 September 2011 Psalm 116:5
17 Sep 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 116:5 Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful.
Ah Friends, the days are beginning to get chilly in the northern climes, bringing thoughts of that lovely season, winter, to mind. Wow! You all know I’m joking, right? But the truth is that it will soon get real cold and miserable, though we hardy northerners will bear it staunchly and not allow it to stop us from enjoying our social season, for that’s when we really go out and socialize and party. Summer is for vacations in the country. It’s like the quote of the unknown author who says: ‘There are three good reasons to be a teacher – June, July and August.’ – holiday time for teachers. When I first came to Canada, that situation struck me as being backward. Why would you brave the rigours of winter to go to school and socialize, and waste the summer vacationing? But I eventually discovered that it does make sense. You can’t stay cooped up inside for at least three months of the year, though many attempt it. And going to school and otherwise in the winter, does make you a hardy soul. Being a follower of the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob also helps a lot in conquering the winter woes and blahs. That’s because, as our Bit says: ‘Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful.’ Oh Friends, I can tell you some stories about moments in my winter journeys, especially the early ones, that if I hadn’t had faith in Almighty God, I wouldn’t be writing this now. And back then my faith was nowhere as strong and open as it is now. But on several occasions, I can vividly recall the Lord in His grace, mercy and righteousness, lifting, or rather extricating me from those dire situations. In hindsight, when I look back at my life, not only in winter, but in all seasons, there are numerous occasions when the Lord, in His righteousness, graciously and mercifully helped me to escape serious misfortune. I for one, can never doubt His exceeding goodness to the undeserving children of men. Bruh David certainly got it right when He says in his psalm of praise: ‘The Lord is righteous in all his ways, and holy (gracious) in all his works. The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them.’ (Ps.145:17-19) Yes Friends, when we revere the Lord and seriously try to walk in His ways, He will guide and protect us. Poor Jeremiah knew this when he claimed: ‘Righteous art thou, O Lord, when I plead with thee…’ But then he proceeded to query God’s judgement, having seen the wicked prosper and the deceitful happy. (Jer.12:1) Anyway people, despite the same things happening today, we know that God has a plan to exterminate the workers of iniquity, all in His good time. That great visionary Daniel, in praying for his ungodly people solemnly declared: ‘Therefore hath the Lord watched upon the evil (kept the disaster in store), and brought it upon us: for the Lord our God is righteous in all his works which he doeth: for we obeyed not his voice.’ (Dan.9:14) Oh my brethren, doesn’t that sound just like what’s happening in our world today? We have turned away from God, and consequently, the devastating calamity He promised to those who disobey His Word, it’s now befalling our wicked, sinful world. My Friends, please remember that our God is indeed a wonderful Deity to those who sincerely LOVE and obey His statutes. However, for the rebellious, disobedient children of sinful men, He’s promised certain death and destruction. And though He’s widely known for His grace, mercy and righteousness, He’s also known to be very faithful in keeping ALL His promises. So please, I implore us not to be taken in by the enemy, and follow in the footsteps of the wicked, thinking that nothing will ever happen to us. That’s a fool’s wisdom, for the Good Book Says otherwise, and there are numerous examples throughout History proving it to be true. Please place your trust in the Lord God Jehovah, so that you and your descendants might live. Much LOVE!…you can choose to live with God…or die with Beelzebub…but as for me and mine…we will live with the Lord…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 16 September 2011 Psalm 116:5
16 Sep 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 116: 5. Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful.
Oh Friends, it’s Friday once again! Yeah! And the shouting of ‘TGIF! Thank God is Friday!’ is pretty loud today because many of us had a rather rough workweek and just can’t wait to get the weekend going. However people, let’s not forget the true purpose of the weekend by chanting our Friday Chant: ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through another week of work! It hasn’t been easy, but with your generous help, I made it through. Now, please help me to get sufficient fun, fellowship, rest and relaxation in these two short days off, so that I can be renewed and refreshed in soul, body and mind, to go back out and do it all over again next week, furthering your glorious kingdom with each step I take. I pray this in Jesus name. Amen.’ And having prayed for general guidance over the weekend, let’s turn now to our Bit, which ensures us that our God will fulfill our requests, because: ‘Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful.’ Ah mih people, how can our God be anything but gracious, righteous and merciful with the kind and LOVING nature He possesses eh? I’m sure if we checked out our individual behaviour, we’d find that on the days when we’re really sweet and LOVING, our penchant for righteous living, for showing grace and mercy are much higher than on the days when we’re miserable and grumpy. On those negative days, grace and mercy usually find no part in our spirits. That’s why we’re always admonished to be kind and LOVING, like our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, so that we can dispense grace and mercy towards others, like He’s done before, and is still doing for us. It’s the one hand washes the other situation; and it takes two hands to clap; it’s a two way street, and all the other wise and true clichés that talk about getting and sharing, receiving and giving, not individual or selfish wanting and hoarding. Remember Friends, our Lord doesn’t simply bless us for us to enjoy the blessings alone, but almost always He intends for us to share them with the less fortunate. He expects us to be righteous, gracious and merciful, just like Him. It’s not an easy task, especially in today’s ungodly, sinful world, but if we sincerely choose to be that way, then with Christ’s help and strength, we will succeed. But please note my brethren that it does take a serious and conscious decision to follow that righteous, gracious, merciful path, because it doesn’t come naturally with our inherently sinful nature. When we live that way though, we feel the hand of God upon us, feel His glorious light shining through ever more in our lives. And with God’s hand upon us our mundane, earthly lives are infused with wonderful feelings of contentment, of peace, joy, calm and excitement. And all God’s people shouted: ‘Glory Hallelujah!’ Now here are a couple of examples of the Lord’s righteousness found in the Good Book. The first comes from Nehemiah, when the repentant Israelites were getting ready to return to their homeland from captivity in Babylon. Amidst the fasting and repentance, the priests and Levites stood tall and prayed loudly: ‘Thou art the Lord the God who didst choose Abram, and broughtest him forth out of Ur of the Chaldees, and gavest him the name of Abraham; And foundest his heart faithful before thee, and madest a covenant with him to give the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Jebusites, and the Girgashites, to give it, I say, to his seed, and hast performed thy words; for thou art righteous.’ (Neh.9:7-8) Yes Friends, when we truly trust in the Lord and wait patiently and faithfully on Him, He will definitely do right by us. And finally, let’s listen to the uplifting words of the psalmist on the topic. ‘Righteous art thou, O Lord, and upright are thy judgements. Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous and very faithful.’ (Ps.119:137-138) Oh my people, let’s ponder those words in our hearts today, realize their awesome truth, then truly and sincerely surrender our all to the ONE TRUE God Jehovah! It’s the wisest decision we’ll ever make on this troubled planet Earth. Much LOVE!…oh how wonderful it is…when the Lord controls our lives…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 15 September 2011 Psalm 116:5
15 Sep 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 116:5. Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful.
Oh Friends, are you enjoying the manna, the mercies, the blessings, the protection that’s flowing down to you this new day from our great and wonderful God? I sincerely hope so. If not, then you’re missing out on the best part of this earthly life. Everyday we have new opportunities to step up higher, to grow our faith and to further God’s kingdom, but we have to reach out for those opportunities and the goodness our God provides. Those things won’t just fall in our laps while we sit and wait. No Friends, we have a big part to play in the relationship with God, which entails getting up and doing, asking for and accepting. Remember Christianity means action; active not sedentary living. Unfortunately though, too many of us believers are living the sedentary life, enjoying all the creature comforts the world provides, thus getting obese in body, sloppy and uncaring in mind and spirit. That lifestyle certainly detracts from our witness in honour of a most kind, LOVING and caring God, as so truthfully proclaimed by our Bit. ‘Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful.’ And all God’s people jumped for joy and shouted: ‘Praise Him, Praise Him, Glory Hallelujah! He is LOVE! He is LOVE!’ Yes Friends, the God we serve and worship is a most excellent Deity! Just in that one verse, He’s described as being ‘gracious, righteous and merciful.’ Wow! No other supposed god possesses all those exemplary qualities! He’s been the same since day one, so it’s obviously been widely noted over the years by the many who have faithfully revered and worshipped Him, while finding favour in His sight. Hear Bruh David on the subject, in thanksgiving for God’s mercy. ‘The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous (abounding) in mercy (LOVING-kindness). He will not always chide (strive): neither will he keep his anger for ever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy (LOVING-kindness) toward them that fear him.’ (Ps.103:8-11) Oh Friends, Bruh David wrote those encouraging and inspiring words many moons ago, but they’re still very true today because our God doesn’t change. However, we have to get up and claim these benefits by faithfully communicating with the Lord. As I said earlier, it just won’t fall in our sedentary laps, as too many believers expect it to. My brethren, let’s get one thing straight about our God: He’s not in the handout business; He’s not just there to satisfy our selfish desires! He is indeed a good God, but as the saying goes, we have to earn most of our keep. If we work on His behalf, then he will reward us. But if we simply dawdle on our fannies and do nothing constructive to further His kingdom, then He won’t do much to uplift us either. Always remember that God’s covenant with us is a two way street; if we do our part, then God will do His. Now listen to Ezra’s testimony. Another man of great faith who went through much tribulation on the Lord’s behalf, but stood resolute and strong, and eventually succeeded in his mission, obviously with God’s help. ‘O Lord God of Israel, thou art righteous: for we remain yet escaped, as it is this day: behold, we are before thee in our trespasses: for we cannot stand before thee because of this.’ (Ezra 9:15) Yes my people, the Lord looked down with kindness on the Jewish people in captivity in Babylon when they repented of their sinful, ungodly ways and helped them return to their land and eventually rebuild Jerusalem. Oh Friends, it’s the same way He’s waiting on us today to repent of our abominable sinful lifestyle and return to the comfort and shelter of His wide opened, protective and LOVING arms. Until we sincerely do that my people, our world will be awash with calamity and disaster. More on this tomorrow, if we don’t read our names in the obits. Till then, please, let’s WALK GOOD, LIVE GOOD, TALK GOOD, AND DO GOOD! Much LOVE!…he who hath ears to hear…let him hear…or he will eventually pay and exorbitant price for his disobedience…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 14 September 2011 Psalm 116:15
14 Sep 2011 Leave a comment
Psalm 116:15. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.
ON THE DEATH OF MY MOTHER: MOLLY CLAIRE O’BRIEN.
Oh Friends, today’s Bit is in honour of my mother. I wrote it the day I heard that she’d gone to be with the Lord, but never used it because I wanted to include a poem I had written for her sometime ago. The Lord has finally brought me around to this tribute, though I doubt I’ll put in the poem because of space restrictions. But who knows eh? (smile) Only the Lord God Jehovah! And re the Bit, I searched the Good Book from the beginning to find an appropriate one on Death, until this one just jumped out at me. Now my mother wasn’t perfect, wasn’t a saint, but I think she came as close to being one as we can get, while still being sinners. Here’s what I wrote that fateful day: Aye Molls baby, why yuh do me that eh? Why yuh go away without giving me a chance to say goodbye? I thought you told the doctor a couple days ago that you weren’t ready to go yet? When I heard that, it boosted my spirits immensely. All the time I’ve been away, with you in the hospital, I’ve been asking the Lord not to take you home before I got back. But unfortunately He had other plans, and since we’re supposed to surrender our all to Him, and follow wherever He leads, there’s not much either of us can do about it. I’ve been trying to hold back the tears, since I heard the news – bad, because we won’t be together in the flesh again – but good, because you’ve gone to a better place, home to be with Christ, where you won’t be feeling any more pain, or have any more problems, but as I’m writing this the tears keep flowing. And Oh Molls baby, as I’m transcribing this to the computer, the tears are flowing. I have to stop for a moment and wipe my eyes, so I can see what I’m doing. Awright, I can see now. (smile) Molls sugar, your life wasn’t easy, but you enjoyed it. From the time I knew you, you worked two jobs, long before it ever became the norm. But you never let that stop you from having a good perspective on whatever was happening in your life. I realized later on why you did some of the things you did, and why you hid some of them from me. Oh Molls sugar, I really can’t put into words the feelings, the LOVE, I have for you, the wonderful way you raised me – plenty of that in hindsight though. (smile) You were a disciplined but never stern parent. Like the Lord God and us, once I operated within certain parameters you laid down, everything was fine. I’ve tried to raise my children the same way, and sincerely hope I was successful. Ah Molls sugar, a lot of people all over the world will miss you, because you were a kind, generous, LOVING person. I remember the many times we argued because you had turned the other cheek to someone who’d hurt you, and I just couldn’t understand it. I remember also the many times when you told me that you weren’t doing stuff for yourself, but for me. And sugar, I’ve lived to see that wherever I’ve been in this mishmash world, people have been good to me. Sometimes it would bother me when I’d go somewhere figuring that nobody knew me, but then they’d hear the name O’Brien and ask if I knew you. Hn! The blessings would certainly flow when they realized that I was your son. Aye Molls, remember how I used to call you ‘M’, and anytime I called you ‘Mother or Mummy’, or some such maternal name, you’d chuckle and ask me what I wanted, or what wrong I’d done? Oh ‘M’, we certainly had some good times together, even when life was rough. And even then I never heard you complain, you just did what you could and told me the Lord would do the rest. And praise Him, He always did! I’m trying to live that way now. I know you expected more from me, in terms of worldly achievements and accomplishments, and I’m sorry to have disappointed you in that realm. But take heart Sugar, I’m doing better these days in the more important spiritual realm. And I know you were proud of me in that respect. Oh Molls baby, the tears are flowing as I realize that I won’t be reading any more prayers for you over the phone. You know I tell people that there are only two things I must do everyday; that’s write the Bit and read prayers for you. Now I’ve lost that interaction. And to interject a current problem Molls, since you died my prayer time has not been the same. I’m not as up to date, and when I do read the stuff we read together, I feel lost and not in tune. But that will come back eventually – I hope. But Molls, the person most crushed by your moving on with the Lord is Denise (her caregiver). This morning she called me here, bawling her eyes out. You know you were an integral part of her life, just as she was of yours. Everyday I prayed for the Lord to bless her for the way she looked after you with such tender, LOVING care. Now there’ll be no more disagreements between you two stubborn people, for her to laugh and tell me about. But doh worry Sugar, I’ll look after her the best I can, and I’m sure the Lord will bless her for the wonderful way she took care of you. Molls baby, I’m going to stop here for now. You were the first and last of my six mothers. Oh I was so blessed Sugar! The other five passed on before you, and though I’ve told you about them, I really wanted to write about them and read it to you. But I guess that’s not going to happen now. Better yet, you’ll meet them in heaven, because I’m sure that’s where they all are, and you six can be my guiding angels in heaven like you were on earth. And whenever the Lord thinks it’s time, He’ll cause me to write the story of my six mothers. Molls baby, you have a lot to thank those other five, strong, LOVING, faithful West Indian women for, because if it wasn’t for them, being present in certain times and situations in my life, I might not have eventually ended up with you here in Canada. So please thank them from both of us. Anyway Sugar, that’s it for now. I wanted to end this with my Favourite poem, ‘For You M’ but I don’t have a copy here, so I’ll just have to leave this till I get home. Much LOVE! 31 August 2011 in West Hills California. …death…to be absent from the body…but to be present with the Lord…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 13 September 2011 Proverbs 9:1
13 Sep 2011 Leave a comment
Proverbs 9:1. Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars.
Oh Friends, it’s another beautiful day in my neck of the woods! And though the old bones are creaking and refusing to move as fast as I want, I know that everything will work out fine, because our God guarantees it with His new mercies and blessings everyday. And all God’s people boldly declared: ‘Hallelujah! All praise and honour to the ONE TRUE God of the universe!’ Now here’s an interesting quote attributed to Percy Walker, which says: ‘You can get all A’s and still flunk life.’ And that’s gospel Friends! You can do very well academically but still make a mess of your normal, everyday life. That’s because you can only learn the lessons of life in the school of life. You have to face the hard knocks, the ups and downs of life before you can truly know what life’s all about. And sadly, many of this new generation, and some backsliders of the old generation too, aren’t learning the lessons properly, that’s why they are flunking out on life. That’s why their lives are so unfocused, undisciplined and without much depth, merely surface deep. They have so many options, yet are so easily bored, and incredibly short attention spans only worsens the situation. Unfortunately that’s a by-product of today’s fast paced, rush-rush society. We parents are partly to blame for that. With our busy lives, trying make ends meet, we allow the t.v and a host of video and computer games to raise our children. We don’t give them the proper foundation for living that’s only found in the Good Book. So what else can we expect to reap but exactly what we sow; unfocused, undisciplined, easily swayed, materially based children! Ah Friends, sadly, much of the blame for our ungodly society can be laid at our feet. By trying to make life easy for our children, we’ve bred out the guts, the belly and backbone, the ‘stick -to- itiveness’ and the righteous living our parents taught us, and we’re now paying the high price of that misplaced, misguided affection. Consequently, this new generation has missed the wonderful invitation sent out by our Bit: ‘Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars.’ Yes my people, the gathering place is ready, and so too are all the fixings: ‘She hath killed her beasts (slaughtered her meat); she hath mingled (mixed) her wine; she hath also furnished her table (set her table in order). She hath sent forth her maidens: she crieth (cries out) upon the highest places of the city. Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: as for him that wanteth (lacks) understanding, she saith to him, Come eat of my bread, and drink of the wine which I have mingled (mixed). Forsake the foolish (foolishness), and live; and go in the way of understanding.’ (Prov. 9:2-6) Yes my people, the wisdom of God is the most important lesson to be learned in this earthly life. And according to the scholars, it’s used in three senses in the Good Book. First, to acknowledge God’s greater understanding than ours, as so simply but brilliantly explained by Bruh Paul in his first missive to the Corinthians: ‘Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men: and the weakness of God is stronger than men.’ (1 Cor.1:25) Secondly, it can also mean the understanding a believer should have in this life, as Cousin Sol stipulates in Proverbs 4 that deals with a father’s wisdom: ‘Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline (turn away) from the words of my mouth. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: LOVE her, and she shall keep thee. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.’ (Prov.4:5-7) And the third sense in which wisdom is used in the Scriptures is ‘as a type of Christ, who is our wisdom.’ That’s illustrated by Bruh Paul’s bold declaration to the Church at Corinth: ‘But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us (became for us) wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.’ (I Cor.1:30) So my people, if we want to excel in life, we need to have the wisdom of God flowing through our hearts, souls and minds, accept and acknowledge it in all three senses. Otherwise, we’ll continually run in to aspects of life that we can’t handle properly. And the wisdom of God can only be gleaned from the teachings of God, contained in His Holy Word, the Bible. Unfortunately though, Bible reading and study is not amongst the more prominent or recommended activities in our society today. No wonder our world is such a mess, since we’re lacking God’s wisdom, His directions for right living. Oh Friends, let’s try and turn that unfortunate situation around nuh. It might be difficult, but certainly not impossible with God in our corner. If our world is to be saved, God’s wisdom must prevail, and that task depends solely on the desire and inspiration of believers to do it. So please, let’s get a move on nuh, by seriously encouraging others to read and study their Bible, so that they will better understand the true way to live this life. Much LOVE!…there are two ways to live life…in wisdom…and in folly…which will you choose…
Today’s Scrip-Bit 12 September 2011 Proverbs 1:33
12 Sep 2011 Leave a comment
Proverbs 1:33. But whoso hearkenth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.
Oh Friends, it’s Monday! The trumpet is sounding the wake up call! Time to rise and shine and prepare for another strenuous week of battle in the workday world! And seeing that this was a weekend that brought back poignant and fearful memories of September 11 2011, when those brutal, cowardly acts of terrorism, read brutal, pre-meditated murder, were committed in the U.S. let’s sing our Monday Morning Battle Hymn right away, to dispel any remaining fear in our spirits, for those who truly trust in the Lord have nothing to fear. Altogether now, in loud voice: ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your incredible aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Oh Friends, I surely hope that will liberate us from any anxiety that was present in our spirits, and instead boost them so we can go out and fearlessly tackle the enemy. Now let’s get into our Bit. But before we do that, I want to apologize for writing yesterday’s Bit as Proverbs 2:33 instead of Proverbs 1:33. I guess I was more tired that I thought. However, with the Lord’s help, I’ve corrected the problem today. So let’s delve into it. ‘But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet (secure, free) from fear of evil.’ Oh my brethren, here Cousin Sol is talking about wisdom; the immense value of acquiring it in our earthly lives. He refers to it as a prophetess: ‘Wisdom crieth without (calls aloud in the streets); she uttereth (raises) her voice in the streets (plazas)… saying…How long, ye simple (naïve) ones, will ye love simplicity (naïveté)? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge?’ (Prov.1:20, 22) Now those are very good questions. How long indeed shall we spurn the wisdom that comes from God that enables us to live truly righteous lives eh? That’s not wise my people, because as our Bit so rightly points out, it’s only when we embrace wisdom that we’ll dwell safely and be secure from the fear and anxiety that evil brings. Hear how Cousin Sol puts it in Chapter 3, when exhorting us to obedience. ‘Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding…Then shall thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble. When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet. Be not afraid of sudden fear (terror), neither of the desolation of (trouble from) the wicked, when it cometh. For the Lord shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken (caught).’ (Prov.3:13,23-26) Oh Friends, nobody knew that better than Cousin Sol, because when he asked for wisdom and understanding to rule the great nation of Israel, the Lord gave them to him, but also wealth untold, for He was proud that Sol hadn’t asked for material possessions. (1 Kin.3:3-15) My brethren, the Lord will also bless us with wisdom and understanding if we sincerely seek them. Most likely He won’t be as generous in material wealth as He was with Sol, but with the true wealth that comes from having wisdom and understanding in the Word, we can always parlay that into increased material possessions, though that should not be our main focus. LOVING and serving the Lord God Jehovah should be our avowed earthly purpose, everything else must be secondary. And we’ll end with some sure and true words from Psalm 112, titled, ‘Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord.’ ‘A good man showeth favour (is gracious), and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion (justice)…He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed (steadfast), trusting in the Lord.’ (Ps.112:5,7)That Friends, is the way our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ desires us to live. He came to earth and sacrificed His life so we would not have cause to live in fear, but in a state of peace and LOVE. Please, let’s not make a mockery of His sacrifice by continuing to live in fear. Much LOVE!…For God hath not given us the spirit of fear…but of power…and of LOVE…and of a sound mind… (2 Tim.1:7)
Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 September 2011 Proverbs 2:33
11 Sep 2011 Leave a comment
Proverbs 2:33. But whoso hearkenth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.
Oh Friends, sorry that this Bit is so late, but the vicissitudes of life, along with the requirements those sudden changes bring, have caused me to be swinging like a yo-yo these past two weeks. This morning I had to get up early and take family to the airport, then I had to go to church, since I had not gone for the previous two weeks. By then I was burnt to a crisp and wouldn’t have written a good Bit, so I went back to bed. But thankfully, the hoopla and the rigmarole are finally finished. We buried my mother Molly yesterday. It was well attended, although I expected more people to show up. However, modern day life is so fast paced and complicated that many people had made prior arrangements on which they could not renege. But they all sent their condolences and good wishes, for which my family and I are extremely grateful. Molls had a good send off. Everybody was pleased. Amazingly I didn’t have even one complaint. Wonders surely never cease nuh! (smile) And Friends, I have nothing but the utmost praise and thanks for Highland Funeral Home, and Highland Hills Cemetery for the kind, pleasant and professional manner in which they treated me. I certainly could not have gotten through the ordeal of funeral arrangements without their generous and ever-ready support. A friend had guided me to them, and from the first moment I walked in, I felt comfortable, so I never went elsewhere. I would recommend them highly to anyone in this area needing to make funeral arrangements. Now they aren’t dirt cheap, and you get what you pay for, but they are truly helpful in all aspects of the funeral planning. I’m sure that my going there was a blessing from the Lord. Unfortunately, though the funeral arrangements were hectic, that was the easy part. The hard part, settling the affairs of the estate, with all the legal ramifications, plus getting rid of all her stuff, is now about to begin. But at least I don’t have to get that all together in a hurry, so now I’ll have more time to concentrate, and won’t be writing Bits at two-thirty in the afternoon. (smile) And I’m sure that just as the Lord led me through the funeral arrangements without too many problems, He’ll lead me through the legal stuff satisfactorily too. Ah mih people, the things that our God puts us through eh! Many times it’s not easy, but I’ve learned from hard experience, especially this past year, that the Good Book is indeed a fountain of solid, indisputable truth. He puts us through hardship to grow and mature our faith, but in all the hardship, He also provides the wherewithal for us to bear and then overcome it. What a wonderful God we serve and worship my brethren! Through it all, He never leaves us. He’s always there watching over us, just in case we stumble, to be ready to catch us before we fall. And Friends, if you truly surrender your life to Him, and believe what He says in His Word, then despite all the heartache, pain, sorrow and confusion in your life, there will also be an overwhelming sense of peace and calm. I can personally testify to that, because from my knee operation last December, through my prostate cancer surgery earlier this year, and now my mother’s sudden, unexpected passing, I’ve been filled with a peace and calm that certainly surprised me. I’ve never been this peaceful and calm in my entire life. Now don’t think that it will all be clear sailing, for it won’t be. But through all the pain and sorrow, you will be able to bear up admirably. You will still have to cry out to the Lord for help and strength, and He will give them to you, but deep down you will feel a blessed assurance that this too will pass, and things will get better. And they will too, but the problem though is how long- how long before it gets better and how long the better will last? That’s because the Lord is always trying and testing us to build our faith and bring us more into character with His wonderful Son Jesus. My recent life is a good example. I’d never have thought that I would have knee surgery, then cancer problems, then death problems, one right after the other. But it’s also a fact that the more mature we become in the faith, the harder the tests get too. It’s just like growing up and going to school; as we get older the schoolwork becomes harder because our abilities improve. The same goes for the process of Christian maturity. After a while we stop drinking milk, and start eating meat, but likewise, in time, the meat becomes progressively harder and tougher to chew and swallow. But the Lord in His infinite wisdom and LOVING-kindness, always lends a hand. I repeat, He ALWAYS lends a hand, ALWAYS helps those who put their trust and faith in Him. So Friends, why don’t you fully surrender your lives to Him today, so that He can help you on this rough and rugged journey that is our earthly life? It’s the wisest decision you can ever make. For as our Bit so rightly says: ‘But whoso hearkenth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet (secure, at ease) from fear of evil.’ Much LOVE!…when you put you trust in God…your life will never be the same…it will improve a hundredfold…
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