Finding Laughter In Difficult Times

We just went for new glasses. As my wife checked out ones against the wall, an assistant offered some help. I told her my wife, a retired librarian who can quote authors, their works, and where to find their books on her shelves, example: fiction- numbers…top row, next to…before…, reads 18 hours a day! “Eighteen hours a day?” she asked, “we’ll take care of that!” she added. And they did! Turns out, my wife who has been reading without glasses all her life, was actually seeing words on the blurry side. “Well, now everything will be clearer and she’ll be able to read 24 hours straight” said the assistant! “Glad y’all could help,” I said, plucking out some of my hair!
Sight is so important. Scripture tells us Moses died at the age of 120 and still had great vision (Deuteronomy34:7)! Imagine how many books he could’ve read! My wife’s going for the record!
We might have 20/20, or as in one Bugs Bunny cartoon, while getting an eye exam by Elmer J. Fudd, he was able to see letters below the lines shown! Elmer had to get several magnifying glasses to see them!
But, as long as we don’t have Jesus in our hearts, our spiritual eyes will remain shut. Take this case: Two of Jesus’ disciples (Cleopas & Simon) were walking on a road to a village known as Emmaus. As they walked and talked replaying the events that had recently occurred, Jesus, after His resurrection, joined them. Asking what important things, they were discussing, they told Him about the crucifixion; but their eyes were closed to seeing/understanding who He was. Then He shared with them all the scriptures starting with Moses concerning Himself. As they neared their destination, they invited Him to stay with them which He did. As He shared bread with them and blessed them, their eyes were opened and they recognized Him (Luke 24:13-53). Now, although they had spent years with Him, at this particular time, their eyes were closed from knowing and understanding Him.
As it goes, Israel’s spiritual eyes have been closed for over two thousand years. God ordained it that way. They’ll remain as such until this period, known as the Times of the Gentiles, ends. Then their eyes shall be opened and they shall understand that two-thousand years ago, Jesus walked and lived in their midst, yet they rejected their True Messiah. Then shall they mourn (Zechariah 13:5, 12:19). Spiritual discernment comes from God.
Closed eyes is why there are so many people today arguing against God, against religious rights, and against supposed hatred from Christian; without an understanding of the larger picture; they can’t see it or understand what is really happening. Check it out:
“But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned” (1Corinthians 2:14).
Whether we’re light readers, marathon readers, wear glasses or contact lenses, not until we serve God, will our spiritual eyes be opened. No number of filters, transitions, anti-glare protection, etc. will help. Gotta get those (spiritual) eyes examined on a regular basis! Read the Scriptures daily, and seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance constantly!
“Now we see through a glass darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known” (1Corinthians 13:12). See You later!
God Bless,
Sam

In early ’95, my wife and our three kids went to a large department store to scout inline skates for our kids. We eyed them and took notes because the next day, Sunday, they’d go on sale. However, the selection was small. The next morning, my son and I headed there while the rest of the family went to church, where we’d catch up later.
We took the escalator down to the main entrance where a crowd of seniors were anxiously waiting for the gate to open. Our son told me to chill-not to rush in as I usually did, to allow the elderly to go first. He then motioned that we should step back and allow them to stay up front. After all, we didn’t want to hurt them by rushing in to grab our items. As the gate began to rise, and even before it went all the way up, those seniors CHARGED! Some in wheelchairs, others with crutches, walkers, on two feet, whether limping, hopping, or however they could, they bent down underneath the gate and pushed each other elbowing whoever was next to them! My son looked at me, his eyebrows raised, shook his head as if saying, “Dag, look at them go, they would have trampled us down!”
Regardless of age or condition, we’re all in a race. Some, going somewhere, others, going nowhere. But racing, we are. We all have a goal or goals. Billions of Christians are in a race; a race against time. People confuse our goals and objectives. When Noah entered the ark, he didn’t close the ark; God did (Genesis 7:16). So, what’s our race about? God has promised to soon shut the door on all things by a series of events known as the End Times. We’re extremely near it! Look around! Read the news! Since no one knows exactly when it’ll be, we want to warn everybody so as to be ready (saved) when He calls His believers home.
Long ago, Noah announced a flood was coming. Over a hundred years went by, and still not even a drop of rain. Remember, no one knew what rain was; since it had never rained before. But once the rains began to fall as drops, then puddles, like buckets, tubs, etc. people began banging on the ark and probably repenting of their sinful ways, and for mocking Noah and his family. But it was too late. Millions climbed to higher ground, to no avail.
Likewise, now, people believe it’s mockery and nonsense that fire will fall from heaven, or that stars will fall to the earth, or that the sun will get 7 times hotter; but when it comes…
What did Jesus say about that? He said, “Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near” (Luke 21:31). We need not trample one another for the kingdom’s sake; don’t need to elbow anyone; we shall all get there, if we’re saved. But we do need to run the race God has set before us not doubting or behaving foolishly, but always expecting God’s imminent return. But if we’re not ready yet, it’ll be too late! You’ll have missed the boat, as the saying goes.
However, once there, we’ll be able to skate down the streets of gold! No wheelchairs, no walkers, no canes, no pushing, and without any injuries!
I won’t say my son and I had to wrangle some skates off some old men and women, or that they took ours, but we did manage to get what we had set out to buy- peacefully!
Sweet skating!
God Bless,
Sam

Kids in general believe in tomorrow.  “Tomorrow we’ll get ice-cream.” “Tomorrow I’ll be with dad…” “Tomorrow we’re going on vacation.” We all need the hope of tomorrow.  Sadly, many live without tomorrow in sight.  From those whose lives have been turned upside-down due to unforeseen events, to those who steal, splurge, and live recklessly; to those that think tomorrow will never catch up with them, tomorrow comes too soon, and slips away just as well.                                                 

Some people spend all they have as if there’ll be no tomorrow.  When it rolls around and they’re broke and busted, they’ll have an awful today-everyday.  I’ve read of those “Riches-to-rags” characters that lived to the hilt and then fell flat on their faces.  It’s important to know that tomorrows are on the horizon.  And for those who don’t anticipate them, might as well get your lives on track should you drop dead tonight-cause tomorrow won’t come for you-but only perpetual todays. Meaning, if you die in your sins, nightmares, tortures in hell, and eternal separation from God shall be your ‘today’ eternally.  Jesus said,

“I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night comes when no man can work” (John 9:4).

In other words, while it’s still day (today), we need to do God’s will. The night (or tomorrow) is coming when it’ll be too late. Tomorrow’s riches from God’s hand are better than today’s life without Him. Awaiting to be in His presence tomorrow is way-better than living recklessly for the moment.

Happy New Year!
Sam

How are those resolutions coming? More like a revolution?  Somewhat of a confusion? Battling midsection protrusion? Here’s a better solution:

 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:2).  Instead of seeking our own will, or attempting to perfect our ways, let’s trust God to lead us down His paths.  The LORD says,

 “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.  I will advise you and watch over you” (Psalm 32:8 NLT).

For this new year which will feature more uncertainties than in past years, we need to cling to Jesus more than ever.  He will help us with our circumstances, since He knows our struggles and petitions.  Yes, we do need to put in some effort! However, let’s attempt His will first, then tackle sensible things.  Finally,

“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.  For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:13,14).

We shall give an account to God for all our ways-good or bad.  Might as well start on those things that really matter.

God Bless!

Happy New Year!
Sam

Go to Haven.online Click Watch Live

Back in the early 70s I would occasionally visit some Oriental stores on Fulton Street or at malls and buy some incense. I usually picked out some cherry or sandalwood-20 sticks/$1. At home, I had a black light in my room and one wall I had painted black. Using fluorescent paint, I then painted designs and pictures on it. The black light caused the glow-type paint to pop. Of course, there had to be music, so anywhere from Barry White, The Sal-soul Orchestra, to the fusion sounds of Santana, Osibisa, or Tribe, songs were present. The rising smoke from incense, added to the ambience bringing about a sweet smell, pleasant to take in.
I have learned over the years as the hair shortened, the black walls gave way to brighter colors, and black lights got replaced by daylight bulbs, that incense has played a different role in my life. No longer out of a packet, the incense I’ve been using for the past forty-three years, is of a very different nature.
In scripture, prayers are referred to as incense. They rise to the LORD as sweet-smelling incense to Him. That’s now my type of incense. Everyone needs prayers and everyone wants them-even those opposed to God. Some, don’t know it yet! Bring your prayers to God! He delights in hearing them-more importantly, He delights in hearing from you! Whether long, short, or no hair at all; music, or silence, lift your prayers as incense to Him today! This week is prayer night at (Winter) Haven Church in Florida. Pray for others and have others pray for you. Just in tuning in, God is pleased! Prayer not only changes things, it changes people. It changes how we see things around us. It changes how we view others. Prayer is the only weapon in any arsenal that transcends every barrier; it goes through walls, through racial divides, it disrupts and disarms Satan, our enemy. Prayer, combined with praise confuses the enemy. Tonight, show up through your TV set, laptop, your phone or other means. God will be waiting!
“And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel’s hand” (Revelation 8:3,4).
Go to: Week of Prayer/Haven Worship Center Live on YouTube at 7-8 pm, EST. Sing, rejoice, and see the prayers upon the screen and pray for them-quickly!
God Bless!
Sam

Back in the early 80s, we would see new housing developments going up pretty fast. In no time, they were occupied. We once saw entire blocks boarded up while work underwent within. Through hole cutouts, one could look down and see foundational work progressing. We went on our two-month vacation trip, and upon arriving, noticed the panels were gone, the houses were not only completed, but windows had curtains as well! Each apartment was occupied! We wondered how people could be selected and move in so quickly. Then we learned the secret!
People applied months and years in advance. They were contacted months in advance. They were selected and notified about where they would live, etc. Once the apartments were ready, they were given the keys to occupy.
In the near future, something very similar will happen. Millions upon millions will perhaps catch a glimpse of the New Jerusalem-God’s place for redeemed believers. Those millions and billions will desire and even wish to get in. They’ll want to live there. They’ll see gates made of single pearls. They’ll see a quintillion angelic hosts, they’ll maybe hear ever-so-pleasant heavenly music, and they’ll wonder what the criteria to get in is. Unfortunately, they’ll learn the requirements were fulfilled ages before. At that point, it might be much too late to get in. Depending on when all this takes place, millions will have to pay a costly price to reserve a seat. Any time beyond that, and it’ll be impossible to even peek inside. Would you like to reserve a seat now? Would you like to hang curtains on your very own windows? Wouldn’t you like to sit near Jesus? Plan on checking out the neighbors? Get your ticket NOW! Already paid for by the Son of God, Jesus. Reserved two thousand years ago! Don’t wait another day!
This announcement was paid for by the blood of Christ!
Get There!
Sam

The crowd was yelling, shouting, standing, most were sitting, many were banging on the front covered panels of their seats. We were situated on bleachers all around the track of this indoor track. It was winter, probably 1973. We were at the 168th Street New York Armory for a track meet. Hundreds of runners were present as well as coaches, and some parents. The race taking place was the two-mile event.
A well-known runner from a competing school had the lead in this 16-plus lap event. He was kicking, he was giving every ounce left to finish the race. As the pounding continued, he pumped his arms and crossed the finish line on a straightaway to the right of the course. As he raised his head, probably in wonder why no one came right behind him, he saw runners, number 2,3,4, etc. nearing the next curve. He couldn’t believe it! He finished the race with one lap to go!
It wasn’t cheering he had heard; we were yelling for him to keep going. So-called ‘compliments’ from other teenagers were being hurled at him such as: “Keep going, bonehead!” and “You moron, look to the side!” and, “One more, you nut!” Needless to say, we were ego-boosters! Not the type he needed, but the type teenagers were accustomed to shelling out.
How about you? Have you thought the race was over because you’re seeing last-day events taking place? Have you crossed the finish line because of the ‘cheering’ crowds? You still have one last lap to go! It might seem like the longest lap yet, but it isn’t over. Keep your eyes on the track! Sometimes, we can’t be at the front where we can’t tell there’s more on the horizon.
We need to look around, need to stay close to others to spot errors, danger, and to not get side-tracked, or worse, go off course. The finish line is up ahead; just, not yet in full sight.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day-and not only to me, but also to all who have longed his appearing” (2Timothy 4:7,8).
Keep Running!
Sam

Many Spanish-speaking countries celebrate Three Kings Day today. Based on their calculations, the Wise men traveled only 12 days from the ‘birth’ of Jesus on December 25th until January 6. Biblically, this thought is far from accurate:
“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him…And when they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother and fell down and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh” (Matthew 2:1,2; 10, 11).
Big difference between being a babe in a manger and a child in a house at least a year or more later. However, they nonetheless worshipped Him and brought Him gifts in His early years; a practice that would set a precedent of things to come. Psalms 138:4, 5, 6 tells us,
“All the kings of the earth shall praise thee, O LORD, when they hear the words of thy mouth. Yea, they shall sing in the ways of the LORD: for great is the glory of the LORD. Though the LORD be high, yet has he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knows afar off.”
We are to offer praises and worship to God every day. And, in the new city where God will dwell, we are told:

“And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honor into it” (Revelation 21:24).

Why? Because Jesus is King over every other king on earth! There’s none greater or higher in rank than He! Everyone shall bow to Him!
“And he has on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.”
No one can top that!
God Bless!
Sam

By the lamppost one could see the flurries making their way down. Hours later, flurries turn to steady snow which turns to a soft white blanket upon everything in sight. Cars are coated in snow.  Slowly traffic begins to fade. Streets are lonely now. The dusting is now two inches thick; soon going to four.  As the hours pass some twelve inches of snow have graced our neighborhood. Cars are white like powdery jelly doughnuts.                                                

If lampposts could count the fallen snow, I wonder how many flakes have crossed its path.  Snow makes its way down gently, softly, quietly descending on to the ground without a sound; without a squeak.  At the corner, an old-time pharmacy stands.  Either side has display windows.  I peer through the glass at the enticing array of metal and plastic toys available in1962. Gee!                                                 

So many! Wish I had them all!  I step inside with my mom.  By the pay-counter sit small boxes holding some toys. For a nickel, I can get a bouncing ball, set of jacks, or a very small water pistol.  For ten-cents, bigger water guns are available as are Spalding balls.  But it’s the twenty-five cent water guns I love. They come in beautiful clear, see-through colors of red and blue.                                                                                                                  

One toy is costly.  I learn from mom, it’s a Russian Roulette, and the colors of black, red, and gold are appealing; but at a dollar, who would want it? She says it’s a bad toy that begins with fun and ends with fights.  Toys are so appealing.

On the opposite corner stands an old building.  The type with display windows on three sides.  All the stores look like pictures in a movie or in a magazine. They’re made of wood.  The glass allows me to see hundreds of toys! Oh boy! I would love to be there and play.  Inside, on a large table, I see small cars and trucks. There are also dolls.  Mom bought me a beautiful red, rubber car with yellow wheels and a blue and white airplane.  Nels has a white metal tow-truck and a small metal truck with animals painted on the sides.

Outside, streets, stoops, and everything gets covered in snow. Soon everything around us becomes deft in silence. Traffic virtually stops, while people withdraw.  Heavier snowfall comes down. Drifts pile up. Garbage cans look like giant ice cream cones, and my mom and I slowly make our way to our stoop leaving behind tin cars, plastic cowboys, small trucks, and brightly-colored water guns. But a 10-cent bag of plastic coins made its way to our home.  There it’ll be warm and we will nap after some hot Cocoa-Marsh. Later, I will watch the snow coming down and count the flakes while I play with my coins.

“Out of the south comes the whirlwind: and cold out of the north” (Job 37:9).

Happy Winter!
Sam