Advocate: Delivering Hope - By Laura Pitts
Trucker Tom Pousche, 60 (M. Div. ‘83’; D. Min. ‘98’), uses his cab for more than just delivering goods. He’s a minister and 25-year trucker whose goal in both roles is to help as many people as he can.
“This is the story of my life,” he says. “I’m interested in where people are going in life and want to help them through all the zigzags life throws.”
After growing up in Idaho Falls, Idaho, Pousche joined the U.S. Navy out of high school, serving in Agana, Guam. Upon leaving the service, he went looking for a job to make his own.“I wanted to make something of my life,” he says, “and trucking gave me that opportunity.”
Pousche says he’d always wanted to work as a Christian minister, but when he started trucking he realized he loved that just as much. He meshed the two by working his way through college – eventually earning a Bachelor’s degree from Big Sky Bible College in Lewiston, Mont., and a Master’s of Divinity from Western Conservative Baptist Seminary in Portland, Ore. – while driving for various trucking companies, working enough during the summers to save up to pay his college tuition at the start of each term.
During college, Pousche hauled everything from furniture to dynamite until balancing trucking and school became too much. He says quitting trucking to finish school was a hard decision, but he knew “the road would always be there.”
Pousche, now a test driver/deliverer for Daimler Trucks North America, has had chances to use his schooling on the road, too. He recalls traveling from Portland, Ore., in a dangerous snowstorm when he and another driver were forced to spend the night in a hotel near a truckstop. Pousche visited the truckstop’s chapel “just in case someone needed help. I met a group of truckers, all talking about themselves and their individual journeys,” he says. “One in particular kept saying he felt God tugging at his heart and openly admitted he’d been running from the call of God for many years.”
Pousche says the trucker was asking for answers, though no one in the chapel was supplying any. Pousche took time to talk with his fellow hauler, answer his questions to the best of his ability and share his Christian beliefs.
“Those are the kind of stories I encounter on the road,” he says.
Pousche says he loves his job, but his greatest joy comes from encouraging others going through difficult times. “I meet many truckers along the highway who are dealing with broken marriages and other issues of loneliness,” he says. “This is a hard time for the nation, and truckers need someone they can turn to.”
Pousche says he never brings up God in a conversation. Instead, when others broach the topic, he uses it as an opportunity to encourage. “God gave me this wonderful ability to help others, and I’m grateful for that,” he says. “Trucking has been a great avenue to use this gift.”
Pousche has been married for 28 years to his wife Kathy and has two children -- Scott, 24, and Pamela, 22. He is nearing completion of a book he hopes to have published, “The Whirlwind Principle - Getting People Through the Zigzags of Life.”
Friday, November 20, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
RANDY ALCORN EXPLORERS AGE -- OLD PROBLEM
Presented by ” THE NORTHWEST BOOK REVIEWER “ Gail Welborn (From Christian News Northwest)
Best selling author, Randy Alcorn's new release, If God is Good, explores the age-old problem of evil and suffering. When he asked, "If God is good... why all this evil and suffering?" Then adds, "What if suffering is God's invitation to trust him?"
For some, trust becomes an issue when pain and suffering are perceived as punishment. We believe we've done everything right, made time for church, cared for family, and helped others. Then we’re confronted with something catastrophic such as divorce, fatal medical diagnosis, home foreclosure or something equally devastating. And we ask: What did I do to deserve this?
The question assumes a cause-and-effect relationship to evil, sort of like the children's daisy petal game -- "He loves me, He loves me not." Childish logic assumes that "if God doesn't love me He will punish me." When, in fact, circumstances never dictate God's love.
In the author's style, he personalizes the question of suffering with a name and a face and begins his book with Jim Harrell's story. Harrell, diagnosed in 2003 with A L S, (Lou Gehrig's disease), asked to read Alcorn’s first draft when he learned of his book contract. Harrell said that last six years of his life were the most significant, even though he continued to lose life-sustaining functions. He wanted to read Alcorn's book while he still could. Alcorn connected with Harrell on a "heart level" and sent him the manuscript. Alcorn then wrote that he used "Jim's wisdom, as well as that of many other sufferers, throughout the book.
The author invites readers to join him on his "journey of discovery"-- to learn about God's goodness in relation to suffering and evil.
He writes from a biblical perspective and explains that a different viewpoint doesn't minimize suffering, but equips sufferers to find encouragement and comfort in the arms of God. Joni Erickson Tada, and Steve Estes, co-authors of A Step Further and When God Weeps, write "God... doesn't give advice, he gives himself." They gained their biblical perspective when they learned how to "snuggle into (their) Fathers arms," like little children, seeking renewed faith, hope, refreshment, and comfort.
Alcorn writes, "The faith that can't be shaken is the faith that has been shaken”. He quotes1 Peter 1:7, where God says trials and sufferings come to test your faith -- which is "of greater worth than gold." He explores how God uses personal pain and suffering, often initiated by a crisis, to enhance faith and refine it like gold. He suggests suffering is not divine judgment or proof there is no God. Instead, God uses seasons of suffering to test and stretch personal faith in God.
He confronts atheistic arguments in chapter two. Atheists believe if God isn't willing to prevent evil, He must be impotent, or if God is able to prevent evil, but not willing, that makes him malicious. Alcorn's search for perspective taught him, "... wisdom begins with the humility to say there is a great deal. I don't understand," and won't this side of heaven.
Forty-five chapters, organized into 11 topics, ask hard questions few ministers attempt to answer. The book can either be read straight through, or topically for those with specific questions, which makes it particularly useful for Bible study. Alcorn's innovative writing style is reader friendly, filled with insightful anecdotes and personal short stories that put a human face on suffering. His focus is on Scripture and "our faith relationship to God in Christ.”
The author includes how to find God, and seek his help when “dark times” of suffering arise. The book reviewer says”I believe. It's written with inspired wisdom and humility and offers readers the choice to become “bitter or better.” She goes on to say” I consider this a must read for anyone and if I could, I would nominate it 2009 book of the year.”
Best selling author, Randy Alcorn's new release, If God is Good, explores the age-old problem of evil and suffering. When he asked, "If God is good... why all this evil and suffering?" Then adds, "What if suffering is God's invitation to trust him?"
For some, trust becomes an issue when pain and suffering are perceived as punishment. We believe we've done everything right, made time for church, cared for family, and helped others. Then we’re confronted with something catastrophic such as divorce, fatal medical diagnosis, home foreclosure or something equally devastating. And we ask: What did I do to deserve this?
The question assumes a cause-and-effect relationship to evil, sort of like the children's daisy petal game -- "He loves me, He loves me not." Childish logic assumes that "if God doesn't love me He will punish me." When, in fact, circumstances never dictate God's love.
In the author's style, he personalizes the question of suffering with a name and a face and begins his book with Jim Harrell's story. Harrell, diagnosed in 2003 with A L S, (Lou Gehrig's disease), asked to read Alcorn’s first draft when he learned of his book contract. Harrell said that last six years of his life were the most significant, even though he continued to lose life-sustaining functions. He wanted to read Alcorn's book while he still could. Alcorn connected with Harrell on a "heart level" and sent him the manuscript. Alcorn then wrote that he used "Jim's wisdom, as well as that of many other sufferers, throughout the book.
The author invites readers to join him on his "journey of discovery"-- to learn about God's goodness in relation to suffering and evil.
He writes from a biblical perspective and explains that a different viewpoint doesn't minimize suffering, but equips sufferers to find encouragement and comfort in the arms of God. Joni Erickson Tada, and Steve Estes, co-authors of A Step Further and When God Weeps, write "God... doesn't give advice, he gives himself." They gained their biblical perspective when they learned how to "snuggle into (their) Fathers arms," like little children, seeking renewed faith, hope, refreshment, and comfort.
Alcorn writes, "The faith that can't be shaken is the faith that has been shaken”. He quotes1 Peter 1:7, where God says trials and sufferings come to test your faith -- which is "of greater worth than gold." He explores how God uses personal pain and suffering, often initiated by a crisis, to enhance faith and refine it like gold. He suggests suffering is not divine judgment or proof there is no God. Instead, God uses seasons of suffering to test and stretch personal faith in God.
He confronts atheistic arguments in chapter two. Atheists believe if God isn't willing to prevent evil, He must be impotent, or if God is able to prevent evil, but not willing, that makes him malicious. Alcorn's search for perspective taught him, "... wisdom begins with the humility to say there is a great deal. I don't understand," and won't this side of heaven.
Forty-five chapters, organized into 11 topics, ask hard questions few ministers attempt to answer. The book can either be read straight through, or topically for those with specific questions, which makes it particularly useful for Bible study. Alcorn's innovative writing style is reader friendly, filled with insightful anecdotes and personal short stories that put a human face on suffering. His focus is on Scripture and "our faith relationship to God in Christ.”
The author includes how to find God, and seek his help when “dark times” of suffering arise. The book reviewer says”I believe. It's written with inspired wisdom and humility and offers readers the choice to become “bitter or better.” She goes on to say” I consider this a must read for anyone and if I could, I would nominate it 2009 book of the year.”
Monday, November 09, 2009
Big Rig Ministry ‘Jitters’
By: Dr. Tom R. Pousche (M. Div.’93; D. Min. ‘98’)
The year 2008 was a tough year for many: Presidential election proceedings, Wall Street plummets to new lows, scams and crime rates steadily increases, while suicides become more prevalent – these are the headlines of today.
Despite these disheartening stories, it seems the only thing that gave me the “jitters” on the morning of December 17th 2008, was waking up to an outside world blanketed in a fresh covering of snow.
I had just returned from Detroit, Michigan where I had test driven a new Sterling Freightliner truck, then brought that same truck across 2300 miles on snow ice packed roads. Upon waking up the next morning, I was not particularly excited in waking up to more snow. In fact, I was scheduled to test drive 500 miles in another Freightliner truck, and was not looking forward to it.
As I stood at my bedroom window debating whether or not I should drive that day, I suddenly realized that I was already late walking out the front door. So I nervously grabbed some warm clothing, my driving bag, and left to face the world.
In the rush of it all, I soon realized that I had left my prescription driving glasses at home, forcing me to use my prescription sunglasses to not only drive, but to fill out my logbook and other pertinent paper work. It was obvious, this was going to be an interesting day—and it was!
After our driver’s safety meeting, I was assigned the only truck that used 20% bio-diesel, which meant that I would have to fuel
fuel up five miles away at the only Pride Station which distributed that particular kind of fuel.
After arriving safely, I popped both lids on my fuel tanks to begin fueling, only to discover that the fuel pump was not pumping correctly. After several unsuccessful attempts, I finally called my driver manager, who graciously walked me through a simple
procedure (looking down into the tank and getting a fuel level), and I reported the level ‘full,’ he then kindly advised me to go
ahead and run with what fuel I had.
It wasn’t until I reached Southern Oregon that it dawned upon me, that if only I had gazed down to check my fuel instrument on
the dashboard, it would have indicated ‘Full,’ saving me a major embarrassment. Ouch!
At the end of the line, I stopped for a coffee break. After returning, there was another problem: There was an irritating piercing
sound from my instrument panel that would not shut off. No matter what I tried, it’s obnoxious sound was exasperating. Again,
I called my driver manager, who again walked me through another simple procedure. He had me slam my driver’s door hard, which fixed the problem. I already knew that procedure! This was not my day for trucking.
On my return trip back to Portland, the weather turned ominous, and the rain began to heavily pour down impairing my vision, forcing me to wear my prescription sunglasses through all the rush hour traffic buzzing around me. As my eyes acclimated, I was successful in making my way back to the trucking yard without incident or an accident.
By the time I pulled into the yard, I was totally exhausted and overwhelmed. I was too tired to even begin to fill out all the paperwork requested by the company. As I sat there exasperated, my PM driver showed up.
He was like a breath of fresh air! He took one look at my sunglasses and immediately came to my rescue by completing all my paperwork. He even went the extra mile and completed my logbook. I was so grateful for this angel in disguise.
up five miles away at the only Pride Station which distributed that particular kind of fuel.
After arriving safely, I popped both lids on my fuel tanks to begin fueling, only to discover that the fuel pump was not pumping correctly. After several unsuccessful attempts, I finally called my driver manager, who graciously walked me through a simple procedure (looking down into the tank and getting a fuel level), and I reported the level ‘full,’ he then kindly advised me to go ahead and run with what fuel I had.
It wasn’t until I reached Southern Oregon that it dawned upon me, that if only I had gazed down to check my fuel instrument on the dashboard, it would have indicated ‘Full,’ saving me a major embarrassment. Ouch!
At the end of the line, I stopped for a coffee break. After returning, there was another problem: There was an irritating piercing sound from my instrument panel that would not shut off. No matter what I tried, it’s obnoxious sound was exasperating. Again, I called my driver manager, who again walked me through another simple procedure. He had me slam my driver’s door hard, which fixed the problem. I already knew that procedure! This was not my day for trucking.
On my return trip back to Portland, the weather turned ominous, and the rain began to heavily pour down impairing my vision, forcing me to wear my prescription sunglasses through all the rush hour traffic buzzing around me. As my eyes acclimated, I was successful in making my way back to the trucking yard without incident or an accident.
By the time I pulled into the yard, I was totally exhausted and overwhelmed. I was too tired to even begin to fill out all the paperwork requested by the company. As I sat there exasperated, my PM driver showed up.
He was like a breath of fresh air! He took one look at my sunglasses and immediately came to my rescue by completing all my paperwork. He even went the extra mile and completed my logbook. I was so grateful for this angel in disguise.
The year 2008 was a tough year for many: Presidential election proceedings, Wall Street plummets to new lows, scams and crime rates steadily increases, while suicides become more prevalent – these are the headlines of today.
Despite these disheartening stories, it seems the only thing that gave me the “jitters” on the morning of December 17th 2008, was waking up to an outside world blanketed in a fresh covering of snow.
I had just returned from Detroit, Michigan where I had test driven a new Sterling Freightliner truck, then brought that same truck across 2300 miles on snow ice packed roads. Upon waking up the next morning, I was not particularly excited in waking up to more snow. In fact, I was scheduled to test drive 500 miles in another Freightliner truck, and was not looking forward to it.
As I stood at my bedroom window debating whether or not I should drive that day, I suddenly realized that I was already late walking out the front door. So I nervously grabbed some warm clothing, my driving bag, and left to face the world.
In the rush of it all, I soon realized that I had left my prescription driving glasses at home, forcing me to use my prescription sunglasses to not only drive, but to fill out my logbook and other pertinent paper work. It was obvious, this was going to be an interesting day—and it was!
After our driver’s safety meeting, I was assigned the only truck that used 20% bio-diesel, which meant that I would have to fuel
fuel up five miles away at the only Pride Station which distributed that particular kind of fuel.
After arriving safely, I popped both lids on my fuel tanks to begin fueling, only to discover that the fuel pump was not pumping correctly. After several unsuccessful attempts, I finally called my driver manager, who graciously walked me through a simple
procedure (looking down into the tank and getting a fuel level), and I reported the level ‘full,’ he then kindly advised me to go
ahead and run with what fuel I had.
It wasn’t until I reached Southern Oregon that it dawned upon me, that if only I had gazed down to check my fuel instrument on
the dashboard, it would have indicated ‘Full,’ saving me a major embarrassment. Ouch!
At the end of the line, I stopped for a coffee break. After returning, there was another problem: There was an irritating piercing
sound from my instrument panel that would not shut off. No matter what I tried, it’s obnoxious sound was exasperating. Again,
I called my driver manager, who again walked me through another simple procedure. He had me slam my driver’s door hard, which fixed the problem. I already knew that procedure! This was not my day for trucking.
On my return trip back to Portland, the weather turned ominous, and the rain began to heavily pour down impairing my vision, forcing me to wear my prescription sunglasses through all the rush hour traffic buzzing around me. As my eyes acclimated, I was successful in making my way back to the trucking yard without incident or an accident.
By the time I pulled into the yard, I was totally exhausted and overwhelmed. I was too tired to even begin to fill out all the paperwork requested by the company. As I sat there exasperated, my PM driver showed up.
He was like a breath of fresh air! He took one look at my sunglasses and immediately came to my rescue by completing all my paperwork. He even went the extra mile and completed my logbook. I was so grateful for this angel in disguise.
up five miles away at the only Pride Station which distributed that particular kind of fuel.
After arriving safely, I popped both lids on my fuel tanks to begin fueling, only to discover that the fuel pump was not pumping correctly. After several unsuccessful attempts, I finally called my driver manager, who graciously walked me through a simple procedure (looking down into the tank and getting a fuel level), and I reported the level ‘full,’ he then kindly advised me to go ahead and run with what fuel I had.
It wasn’t until I reached Southern Oregon that it dawned upon me, that if only I had gazed down to check my fuel instrument on the dashboard, it would have indicated ‘Full,’ saving me a major embarrassment. Ouch!
At the end of the line, I stopped for a coffee break. After returning, there was another problem: There was an irritating piercing sound from my instrument panel that would not shut off. No matter what I tried, it’s obnoxious sound was exasperating. Again, I called my driver manager, who again walked me through another simple procedure. He had me slam my driver’s door hard, which fixed the problem. I already knew that procedure! This was not my day for trucking.
On my return trip back to Portland, the weather turned ominous, and the rain began to heavily pour down impairing my vision, forcing me to wear my prescription sunglasses through all the rush hour traffic buzzing around me. As my eyes acclimated, I was successful in making my way back to the trucking yard without incident or an accident.
By the time I pulled into the yard, I was totally exhausted and overwhelmed. I was too tired to even begin to fill out all the paperwork requested by the company. As I sat there exasperated, my PM driver showed up.
He was like a breath of fresh air! He took one look at my sunglasses and immediately came to my rescue by completing all my paperwork. He even went the extra mile and completed my logbook. I was so grateful for this angel in disguise.
Big Rig Ministry ‘Off-Day Jitters’ by Dr. Tom R. Pousche (M. Div.’93; D. Min. '98')
Dr. Tom R. Pousche (M. Div.’93; D. Min. ‘98’)
The year 2008 was a tough year for many: Presidential election proceedings, Wall Street plummets to new lows, scams and crime rates steadily increases, while suicides become more prevalent – these are the headlines of today.
Despite these disheartening stories, it seems the only thing that gave me the “jitters” on the morning of December 17th 2008, was waking up to an outside world blanketed in a fresh covering of snow.
I had just returned from Detroit, Michigan where I had test driven a new Sterling Freightliner truck, then brought that same truck across 2300 miles on snow ice packed roads. Upon waking up the next morning, I was not particularly excited in waking up to more snow. In fact, I was scheduled to test drive 500 miles in another Freightliner truck, and was not looking forward to it.
As I stood at my bedroom window debating whether or not I should drive that day, I suddenly realized that I was already late walking out the front door. So I nervously grabbed some warm clothing, my driving bag, and left to face the world.
In the rush of it all, I soon realized that I had left my prescription driving glasses at home, forcing me to use my prescription sunglasses to not only drive, but to fill out my logbook and other pertinent paper work. It was obvious, this was going to be an interesting day—and it was!
After our driver’s safety meeting, I was assigned the only truck that used 20% bio-diesel, which meant that I would have to fuel up five miles away at the only Pride Station which distributed that particular kind of fuel.
After arriving safely, I popped both lids on my fuel tanks to begin fueling, only to discover that the fuel pump was not pumping correctly. After several unsuccessful attempts, I finally called my driver manager, who graciously walked me through a simple procedure (looking down into the tank and getting a fuel level), and I reported the level ‘full,’ he then kindly advised me to go ahead and run with what fuel I had.
It wasn’t until I reached Southern Oregon that it dawned upon me, that if only I had gazed down to check my fuel instrument on the dashboard, it would have indicated ‘Full,’ saving me a major embarrassment. Ouch!
The year 2008 was a tough year for many: Presidential election proceedings, Wall Street plummets to new lows, scams and crime rates steadily increases, while suicides become more prevalent – these are the headlines of today.
Despite these disheartening stories, it seems the only thing that gave me the “jitters” on the morning of December 17th 2008, was waking up to an outside world blanketed in a fresh covering of snow.
I had just returned from Detroit, Michigan where I had test driven a new Sterling Freightliner truck, then brought that same truck across 2300 miles on snow ice packed roads. Upon waking up the next morning, I was not particularly excited in waking up to more snow. In fact, I was scheduled to test drive 500 miles in another Freightliner truck, and was not looking forward to it.
As I stood at my bedroom window debating whether or not I should drive that day, I suddenly realized that I was already late walking out the front door. So I nervously grabbed some warm clothing, my driving bag, and left to face the world.
In the rush of it all, I soon realized that I had left my prescription driving glasses at home, forcing me to use my prescription sunglasses to not only drive, but to fill out my logbook and other pertinent paper work. It was obvious, this was going to be an interesting day—and it was!
After our driver’s safety meeting, I was assigned the only truck that used 20% bio-diesel, which meant that I would have to fuel up five miles away at the only Pride Station which distributed that particular kind of fuel.
After arriving safely, I popped both lids on my fuel tanks to begin fueling, only to discover that the fuel pump was not pumping correctly. After several unsuccessful attempts, I finally called my driver manager, who graciously walked me through a simple procedure (looking down into the tank and getting a fuel level), and I reported the level ‘full,’ he then kindly advised me to go ahead and run with what fuel I had.
It wasn’t until I reached Southern Oregon that it dawned upon me, that if only I had gazed down to check my fuel instrument on the dashboard, it would have indicated ‘Full,’ saving me a major embarrassment. Ouch!
Friday, November 06, 2009
Sherie and Dave Henderson Need our Prayers
The paragraph below is from Sherie Henderson. Her husband, Dave (M. Arts '81'), is our grad, former World Venture missionary living in Moscow. He and Sherie are highly effective ministers of the gospel. Nearly a year ago, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and then they discovered he had terminal late stage gastroesophagael cancer. He had all the normal treatment stuff including surgery to clean up much of the gastroesophagael cancer. Now the adhesions have hit hard and he can’t do food or liquid at all.
So pray please. . .
WALKING THROUGH THE VALLEY
Yesterday the Lord led me to quiet waters, a time of meditation on the Scriptures, and He restored my soul. The beauty of the sunrise reminded me of Proverbs 4:18, “The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.” It was a quiet time to look upon the Lord Jesus and know that He is our shepherd, and that we have nothing to fear because He is with us. Just as the shepherd keeps his sheep within set boundaries, the Lord has also led us to the place we are at now. The script of our lives is not our making. Christ is the author. The psalmist in Ps. 23 did not know the outcome of his walk in the valley of the shadow of death. Nor do we. There is no fear in that valley, but there is pain as we walk. Dave suffers the pain of weakness from his 30+ lb. weight loss and constant cramping and vomiting, while I have the pain of watching my man suffer and there’s nothing I can do to help him physically. But in that valley, we have the confidence that our Shepherd is with us and will guide us in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Packing up our bags to drive through the valley. Surgery is scheduled at 5 at Adventist Hospital in Portland.
From www.caringbridge.org/visit/davehenderson
FINAL PART OF THE JOURNEY
After surgery last night, the surgeon met with Adriel, our oldest son, and me to express that he wished Dave was doing better. He found that Dave has multiple tumors that have grown throughout his abdominal area on various organs. There was nothing he could do surgically to alleviate Dave’s discomfort and so he closed him back up. He offered two options, more chemo or hospice care. We have chosen the latter. Dave has weeks, not months, to live. Today we are discussing with the hospice coordinator here at the hospital what services are available in Corvallis. The goal is to make Dave as comfortable as he can be in this final part of his cancer journey before He goes to be with the Lord. After his release from the hospital (still undetermined, maybe 3 days?) we plan to return to Corvallis to settle in for these final days.
Pray for our children and grandchildren as they grieve the coming loss of their daddy and grandpa. We hope to have a final family gathering while Dave is still with us, maybe Thanksgiving.
So pray please. . .
WALKING THROUGH THE VALLEY
Yesterday the Lord led me to quiet waters, a time of meditation on the Scriptures, and He restored my soul. The beauty of the sunrise reminded me of Proverbs 4:18, “The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.” It was a quiet time to look upon the Lord Jesus and know that He is our shepherd, and that we have nothing to fear because He is with us. Just as the shepherd keeps his sheep within set boundaries, the Lord has also led us to the place we are at now. The script of our lives is not our making. Christ is the author. The psalmist in Ps. 23 did not know the outcome of his walk in the valley of the shadow of death. Nor do we. There is no fear in that valley, but there is pain as we walk. Dave suffers the pain of weakness from his 30+ lb. weight loss and constant cramping and vomiting, while I have the pain of watching my man suffer and there’s nothing I can do to help him physically. But in that valley, we have the confidence that our Shepherd is with us and will guide us in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Packing up our bags to drive through the valley. Surgery is scheduled at 5 at Adventist Hospital in Portland.
From www.caringbridge.org/visit/davehenderson
FINAL PART OF THE JOURNEY
After surgery last night, the surgeon met with Adriel, our oldest son, and me to express that he wished Dave was doing better. He found that Dave has multiple tumors that have grown throughout his abdominal area on various organs. There was nothing he could do surgically to alleviate Dave’s discomfort and so he closed him back up. He offered two options, more chemo or hospice care. We have chosen the latter. Dave has weeks, not months, to live. Today we are discussing with the hospice coordinator here at the hospital what services are available in Corvallis. The goal is to make Dave as comfortable as he can be in this final part of his cancer journey before He goes to be with the Lord. After his release from the hospital (still undetermined, maybe 3 days?) we plan to return to Corvallis to settle in for these final days.
Pray for our children and grandchildren as they grieve the coming loss of their daddy and grandpa. We hope to have a final family gathering while Dave is still with us, maybe Thanksgiving.
Monday, November 02, 2009
20% OFF ON BIBLES AND NEW BOOKS
Windows Booksellers has opened their newest store on the campus of Western Seminary, Portland. You are encouraged to search ALL Windows Booksellers inventory at www.theologybooks.com and www.academicbooks.com for any books you might be interested to purchase.
The Windows Booksellers offer 20% Off on all new Books and Bibles you might want to purchase. They also have over 8000 used books in stock at reduced prices and they are eager to serve your requests.
For upcoming sales and promotions email them or join their mailing list.
The Windows Booksellers offer 20% Off on all new Books and Bibles you might want to purchase. They also have over 8000 used books in stock at reduced prices and they are eager to serve your requests.
For upcoming sales and promotions email them or join their mailing list.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
FIVE SUGGESTIONS FROM MARK PLATT
A few years ago, I read the interesting statistic that 94% of all households in the United States have at least one television. Meanwhile, 91% of all households have a bathtub. One comedian quoted these figures and said: "This goes to prove that more brains are being washed than bodies!" I think that comedian is more accurate than we realize. Don't you?
The "one-eyed monster" has invaded America. In most homes, the furniture is centered around the television. Meal times, bed times and many other activities revolve around what is on television. Studies show that television contributes to marital dissatisfaction and unrest, to obesity, to physical violence, to sexual promiscuity, to sex crimes, to depression and even to shyness. Our political, moral and spiritual values are being subtly shaped by television.
Our psychological health is affected by television too. A few months ago, the results of a study were published in the December 2008 issue of Social Indicators Research. The study was based on public opinion data from nearly 40,000 people ages eighteen to sixty-four, as well as time-use diaries that detailed how people spend their days. This study is one of the first to compare daily free-time activities with perceptions of personal contentment and happiness.
Here is what they found: people who described themselves as "not too happy" watched more television. Unhappy people reported an extra 5.6 hours of tube time a week, compared with their happier counterparts. The study concluded that people enjoyed what they watched the previous evening but that those who watched television the longest did not feel as happy about their lives. In the short term, people could be happy doing it, but in the long term, television can lead to not feeling as good about their lives. They found that happy people spend more free hours socializing, reading and participating in religious activities, while unhappy people watch thirty percent more television.
From a Christian perspective, there are a myriad of harmful things that come from television. This invited guest in our homes powerfully manipulates our minds, value and priorities to things antithetical to God. As the television is on, one hour after another, many shows make fun of long-term marriage, people of faith, honesty, integrity, godliness and morality. When our children watch television, they are socialized and persuaded by the world's allures. Quite often, children are led down a moral sewer that reeks with the stench of sin. Reality shows, comedy, drama, movies and even children's programs can be extremely damaging to hearts and minds. 1 John 2:15 warns us, "Do not love the world or anything in the world." Perhaps we should reconsider the use and place of television.
So what does that mean? Well, I know that the solution is not to ban television. There are many wonderful benefits of television. There are educational, recreational and spiritual programs that teach, entertain and even edify. I would not minimize those benefits! I thoroughly enjoy them myself! But if I am going to fulfill my commitments to follow God in my life, I have to learn how to use television for my benefit and not to my disadvantage. I propose that we need to learn how to control our television watching.
Here are five suggestions on how you can manage your watching and be in command of your television:
1. Watch with a careful eye. Be vigilant about the soft pornography, coarse language and sexual overtones that are so much a part of sit-coms and reality programs. Turn off filth! Back in the Bay Area, I personally have only basic cable because I don't want the temptation even available. Folks, we need to be like the writer of Psalm 101:2-3 who declared: "I will walk in my house with blameless heart. I will set before my eyes no vile thing ..."
2. Watch with a cynical eye. Ask yourself: What are these people trying to persuade me to do or to think? Does this program uphold moral and/or spiritual values? Is this program glamorizing sin, crime, immorality, greed or violence? If any of this is true, turn it off!
3. Watch with a parent's eye. Ask yourself: What am I modeling for my kids and grandkids? To what am I exposing my kids? Is this the best use of our family's time? Are the programs we watch honoring to God? Are my kids learning literature, art, music, service, athletics and people skills or are they experts on what's on TV?
4. Watch with a critical eye. Put Comcast, the networks, the cable channels on notice when they violate decency and morality. Write them, call them or email them! Make them accountable to you, their customer. Protect yourself, your kids, your grandkids and your community from junk and filth!! Remember the squeaky wheel gets the grease, so squeak!!
5. Watch with a purposeful eye. If your goal is to be a holy person, to be a better Christian, to be closer to the Lord and to honor God with your life, then you have to be careful about what you put into your mind and the amount of television you watch. Since I don't have a television (and don't want one) while I am here in Colorado, I can attest to the great profit in limiting my viewing. I can focus on my walk with Christ, my Bible and prayer commitments and my ministry. My joy in the Lord is far greater if the television is off. Paul spoke about this principle in Philippians 3:13-14 when he wrote, "But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus." You can't be up early to read the Bible and pray if you are up late watching news, sports, movies, Conan or Letterman. So, you have to look at your life-purpose of living for Christ and leave television behind.
I like the way Good News for Modern Man renders Philippians 4:8, "Fill your mind with those things that are good and that deserve praise: things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable."
That is how we need to watch television! That is how we need to think! That is how we need to live! Would you join me in honoring God with our use of television?
The "one-eyed monster" has invaded America. In most homes, the furniture is centered around the television. Meal times, bed times and many other activities revolve around what is on television. Studies show that television contributes to marital dissatisfaction and unrest, to obesity, to physical violence, to sexual promiscuity, to sex crimes, to depression and even to shyness. Our political, moral and spiritual values are being subtly shaped by television.
Our psychological health is affected by television too. A few months ago, the results of a study were published in the December 2008 issue of Social Indicators Research. The study was based on public opinion data from nearly 40,000 people ages eighteen to sixty-four, as well as time-use diaries that detailed how people spend their days. This study is one of the first to compare daily free-time activities with perceptions of personal contentment and happiness.
Here is what they found: people who described themselves as "not too happy" watched more television. Unhappy people reported an extra 5.6 hours of tube time a week, compared with their happier counterparts. The study concluded that people enjoyed what they watched the previous evening but that those who watched television the longest did not feel as happy about their lives. In the short term, people could be happy doing it, but in the long term, television can lead to not feeling as good about their lives. They found that happy people spend more free hours socializing, reading and participating in religious activities, while unhappy people watch thirty percent more television.
From a Christian perspective, there are a myriad of harmful things that come from television. This invited guest in our homes powerfully manipulates our minds, value and priorities to things antithetical to God. As the television is on, one hour after another, many shows make fun of long-term marriage, people of faith, honesty, integrity, godliness and morality. When our children watch television, they are socialized and persuaded by the world's allures. Quite often, children are led down a moral sewer that reeks with the stench of sin. Reality shows, comedy, drama, movies and even children's programs can be extremely damaging to hearts and minds. 1 John 2:15 warns us, "Do not love the world or anything in the world." Perhaps we should reconsider the use and place of television.
So what does that mean? Well, I know that the solution is not to ban television. There are many wonderful benefits of television. There are educational, recreational and spiritual programs that teach, entertain and even edify. I would not minimize those benefits! I thoroughly enjoy them myself! But if I am going to fulfill my commitments to follow God in my life, I have to learn how to use television for my benefit and not to my disadvantage. I propose that we need to learn how to control our television watching.
Here are five suggestions on how you can manage your watching and be in command of your television:
1. Watch with a careful eye. Be vigilant about the soft pornography, coarse language and sexual overtones that are so much a part of sit-coms and reality programs. Turn off filth! Back in the Bay Area, I personally have only basic cable because I don't want the temptation even available. Folks, we need to be like the writer of Psalm 101:2-3 who declared: "I will walk in my house with blameless heart. I will set before my eyes no vile thing ..."
2. Watch with a cynical eye. Ask yourself: What are these people trying to persuade me to do or to think? Does this program uphold moral and/or spiritual values? Is this program glamorizing sin, crime, immorality, greed or violence? If any of this is true, turn it off!
3. Watch with a parent's eye. Ask yourself: What am I modeling for my kids and grandkids? To what am I exposing my kids? Is this the best use of our family's time? Are the programs we watch honoring to God? Are my kids learning literature, art, music, service, athletics and people skills or are they experts on what's on TV?
4. Watch with a critical eye. Put Comcast, the networks, the cable channels on notice when they violate decency and morality. Write them, call them or email them! Make them accountable to you, their customer. Protect yourself, your kids, your grandkids and your community from junk and filth!! Remember the squeaky wheel gets the grease, so squeak!!
5. Watch with a purposeful eye. If your goal is to be a holy person, to be a better Christian, to be closer to the Lord and to honor God with your life, then you have to be careful about what you put into your mind and the amount of television you watch. Since I don't have a television (and don't want one) while I am here in Colorado, I can attest to the great profit in limiting my viewing. I can focus on my walk with Christ, my Bible and prayer commitments and my ministry. My joy in the Lord is far greater if the television is off. Paul spoke about this principle in Philippians 3:13-14 when he wrote, "But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining towards what is ahead, I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenwards in Christ Jesus." You can't be up early to read the Bible and pray if you are up late watching news, sports, movies, Conan or Letterman. So, you have to look at your life-purpose of living for Christ and leave television behind.
I like the way Good News for Modern Man renders Philippians 4:8, "Fill your mind with those things that are good and that deserve praise: things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable."
That is how we need to watch television! That is how we need to think! That is how we need to live! Would you join me in honoring God with our use of television?
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