Listen to these examples of inventions and ideas that some people said "couldn't be done" so they resisted the new.
1. The first successful cast-iron plow, invented in the United States in 1797, was rejected by New Jersey farmers under the theory that cast-iron poisoned the land and stimulated the growth of weeds.
2. An eloquent authority in the United States declared that the introduction of the railroad would require the building of many insane asylums, since people would be driven mad with terror at the sight of locomotives rushing across the country.
3. In Germany it was proved by "experts" that if trains went at the frightful speed of 15 miles an hour, blood would spurt from the travelers' noses and passengers would suffocate when going through tunnels.
4. Commodore Vanderbilt dismissed Westinghouse and his new air brakes for trains, stating, "I have no time to waste on fools."
5. Those who loaned Robert Fulton money for his steamboat project stipulated that their names be withheld for fear of ridicule were it known they supported anything so "foolhardy."
6. In 1881, when the New York YWCA announced typing lessons for women, vigorous protests were made on the grounds that the female constitution would break down under the strain.
7. Men insisted that iron ships would not float, that they would damage more easily than wooden ships when grounding, that it would be difficult to preserve the iron bottom from rust, and that iron would deflect the compass.
8. Joshua Coppersmith was arrested in Boston for trying to sell stock in the telephone. "All well-informed people know that it is impossible to transmit the human voice over a wire."
9. The editor of the Springfield Republican refused an invitation to ride in an early automobile, claiming that it was incompatible with the dignity of his position.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Apr. 5, 1998, p. 2]

George Reindrop, in his book No Common Task, tells how a nurse once taught a man to pray and in doing so changed his outlook from being a dull, disgruntled, and dispirited person into a man of joy. Much of the nurse's work was done with her hands, and she used her hands as a scheme of prayer. Each finger stood for someone. Her thumb was the nearest to her, and it reminded her to pray for those who were closest to her. The second finger was used for pointing and it stood for all her teachers in school and in the hospital. The third finger was the tallest and it stood for the leaders in every sphere of life. The fourth finger was the weakest, as every pianist knows, and it stood for those who were in trouble and pain. The little finger was the smallest and the least important and to the nurse it stood for herself.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Apr. 5, 1998, p. 3]

SUCCESS IN MARRIAGE IS MORE THAN FINDING THE RIGHT PERSON. IT'S BECOMING THE RIGHT PERSON.
In Thornton Wilder's play The Skin of Our Teeth, the character Mrs. Antrobus says to her husband, "I didn't marry you because you were perfect...I married you because you gave me a promise."

She then takes off her ring and looks at it saying, "That promise made up for your faults and the promise I gave you made up for mine. Two imperfect people got married, and it was the promise that made the marriage."

In every marriage, no matter how well the two people know one another, great mysteries remain! Very often, each person comes to the marriage
* not fully knowing himself or herself,
* not fully knowing about life, and
* not fully knowing about his or her spouse.
What is unknown is far greater than what is known.

Becoming a faithful, loving spouse not only takes courage and faith, but patience and a desire to keep learning and growing. Better than the question, "What kind of spouse do I desire to have?" is the question, "What kind of spouse do I want to be?"
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Apr. 5, 1998, p. 4]

There is a shrine in the French Pyrenees where people come to pray for healing. A war veteran who had lost a leg appeared at the shrine sometime after World War II. As he hobbled his way along the street to the shrine someone said, "Look at that silly man! Does he think God is going to give him back his leg?" The young man overheard the remark and turned toward the speakers and said, "Of course I do not expect God to give me back my leg. I am going to pray to God to help me live without it!"
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 29, 1998, p. 1]

TO CHANGE OR NOT TO CHANGE
We are living in a time that is calling for change in the church, which isn't necessarily an evil. It depends upon the object you desire to change. If we are wanting to change indifferent Christians to committed Christians; if we are wanting to change empty ritualism into spiritual worship; if we are wanting to change selfish, hard-hearted people into self-less, compassionate individuals, then I'm all for it. But in my estimation, many of the changes that are being sought in the church today are intended to change the distinctive structure and exclusive nature of the church. Such changes will only weaken and destroy the church.

Dr. Wayne Dehoney, former president of the Southern Baptist Convention, wrote a book entitled, "Set the Church Afire," in which he said the following about the churches of Christ:

"A closer look at the churches of Christ would hardly reveal that their brand of religion is on the downgrade! This fast-growing group is one of the most potent missionary and evangelistic forces in the country. Their congregations are flourishing, and new churches are continually being established. A profile of faith and practice contradicts practically every 'solid conclusion' by the authorities of the main-line denominational establishments about the renewal the church must experience to 'survive'.

The churches of Christ are anti-ecumenical in their relationships; conservative in their theology; autonomous and democratic in their congregational practice without any semblance of a denominational super-structure; they make rigid moral and ethical demands on their members in such matters as social drinking; they are not 'social-action' oriented; they have a 'messianic complex' of being the true people of God and the true church! All of these factors combine to give them a high motivation, an unquenchable zeal, and an inescapable compulsion to win the world to an acceptance of their convictions and beliefs. And they are growing rapidly!"

Interesting commentary, isn't it. In this outsider's opinion, what makes the church of Christ so successful is its distinctiveness, it's strong emphasis on the Bible, and its high moral and ethical standards. I agree with him. Yet the "change agents" among us would like to apologize for our exclusiveness and become more ecumenical. They would like to soften our stand on doctrinal issues such as church organization, worship, the role of women, social drinking, and divorce and remarriage. They would like to change our distinctive plea and become more like the denominations around us.
Does it seem strange to you that a denominationalist can see what some "learned men" in our own brotherhood cannot?
[by Steve Higginbotham from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 29, 1998, p. 2]

MOST PEOPLE WISH TO SERVE GOD - BUT ONLY IN AN ADVISORY CAPACITY.
An old poem tells of a woman who was walking through a meadow one day. As she strolled along, meditating on nature, she came upon a field of golden pumpkins. In the corner of the field stood a majestic, huge oak tree.

The woman sat under the oak tree and began musing about the strange twists in nature. Why tiny acorns on huge branches and huge pumpkins on tiny vines. She thought, God blundered with creation! He should have put the small acorns on the tiny vines and the large pumpkins on the huge branches.

Before long, the woman dozed off in the warmth of the late autumn sunshine. She was awakened when a tiny acorn bounced off her nose. Chuckling to herself, she amended her previous thinking. Maybe God was right after all!

In every situation, God knows far more about the people and circumstances involved than we can ever know. He alone sees the beginning from the ending. He alone knows how to create a master plan that provides for the good of all those who serve Him.

You may treat ideas as bullets...or seeds! You may shoot ideas...or you may sow them! You may hit people in the head with them, or you may plant them in their hearts. Use them as bullets, they kill inspiration and neutralize motivation. Use them as seeds, they take root, grow, and become a reality in the life in which they are planted. The only risk taken when seeds are planted is that they become a part of the one in whom they grow. The originator will probably get no credit for the idea. If one is willing not to get credit for an idea, a rich harvest will be reaped. (Acts 20:35).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 22, 1998, p. 1]

BIBLE STUDY: A FORMIDABLE CHALLENGE

I never have known the words that were adequate to reveal my appreciation for the Bible. It opens my window to God's mind. The words of human language are woefully inadequate to reveal the whole of God. Yet, God's revelation of Himself through human language exceeds our intellectual power to comprehend.

Just as Solomon realized that the universe was inadequate to contain God (I Kings 8:27), I am in awe of the fact that human language is incapable of revealing all of God. This is the marvel: God used human language to reveal His existence, His love for us, and His will and purposes for us. He made our relationship with Him possible.

As a much younger Bible student, I thought that the essence of Bible study was discovering facts. The Bible was a factual document, and sound Bible study discovered and assimilated the facts. I felt confident - facts are simple to master.

I grew and matured. I next thought that the essence of Bible study was answering questions. The Bible answered questions. Properly focused Bible study searched for the right questions and their right answers. I felt confident - every question has a simple, obvious answer (I thought).

I grew and matured. I next thought that the essence of Bible study was solving problems. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible addressed people problems. In good Bible study, you defined the problem, understood the problem, and allowed the Bible to address the problem. I felt confident. Facts and questions are simpler than problems, but (I was certain) any problem can be understood and addressed.

I grew and matured. I began understanding that the essence of Bible study is to learn how to live. God was and is concerned about the way we use life. I began seeing that God wants us to use life in particular ways. If our personal world is tragic, unjust, filled with suffering, defined by hardship, burdened with struggle, or provided advantage and opportunity, God wants us to use life His way. Regardless of the circumstances in our personal worlds, life has the same basic objectives.

Good Bible study constantly leads the person to new levels of understanding and insight about how to live. Bible study is the endless quest of learning how to use life. Learning how to use life is not simple. In fact, it is extremely complex. It involves using your understanding each day in every situation. Constant requirements are faith and an open mind. And the more I understand, the less I know. God's mind continually awakens me to my spiritual immaturity.
[by David Chadwell from West-Ark Church of Christ, Fort Smith, Ark. via The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 22, 1998, p. 2]

I recall one night very late in the evening when I was called to the hospital. As I was walking down the semi-dark hall, with no people around, a man suddenly ran out of one of the patient rooms. He ran up to me - I had never seen him before - and he said to me with joy in his face, "She's going to make it. She's better. She is going to make it," and then he made his way on down the hall. I have not seen the man since. I do not know who he was talking about. I assume it was someone very near and dear to him, and he had just received good news. He could not wait to share it. He did not even have to know the person with whom he shared it; it just flowed from him because he had received good news, and good news is to be shared.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 15, 1998, p. 1]

THE GREATEST
During the Civil War, despite his busy schedule, Abraham Lincoln would occasionally take the time to visit hospitals and cheer up some of the wounded soldiers. One time he came to the bed of a young soldier who was near death, and Lincoln asked, "Is there anything I can do for you?" The soldier, not realizing to whom he was speaking, said, "Yes, there is. Would you please write a letter to my mother?"

So Lincoln sat down and wrote as the young man dictated. The letter read, "Dearest Mom, I was badly hurt while doing my duty, and I will not recover. Don't sorrow too much for me. May God bless you and Father. Please kiss Mary and John for me." At that point the soldier grew so weak that he couldn't continue or even sign his name, so Lincoln finished the letter with this: "Written for your son at his request by Abraham Lincoln." As he was about to put it into an envelope, the young man recovered enough to say, "May I see the letter? I'd like to read it once before you send it." When he got to the bottom and saw Lincoln's name, he was shocked. "Are you really the President? he asked.

Lincoln smiled and said simply, "Yes I am. Is there anything more I can do for you?" The soldier answered feebly, "Yes, Mr. President, would you mind holding my hand and seeing me through to the end?"

So Abraham Lincoln, the President of the United States, and certainly one of the greatest, took the soldier's hand and held it all through the night until finally, as the dawn began to break, the young man's grip began to weaken and he died.

(Matt. 23:10). Simply put, God values most those who are willing to put others before themselves.

I've seen a bumper sticker that reads: Perform Some Random Act of Kindness Today! This week, try to go out of your way to say or do something for someone else out of sheer kindness.

Remember, whether you are a ditch digger or the President of the United States, the greatest will be the one who is willing to humble himself and serve others!
[by Kevin Patterson from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 15, 1998, p. 2]

Luigi Tarisio was found dead one morning with scarce a comfort in his home, but with 246 exquisite violins, which he had been collecting all his life, crammed into an attic, the best in the bottom drawer of an old rickety bureau. In his very devotion to the violin, he had robbed the world of all that music all the time he treasured them; others before him had done the same, so that when the greatest of his collection, a Stradivarius, was first played it had had 147 speechless years. Yet, how many of Christ's people are like old Tarisio? In our very love of the church we fail to give the glad tidings to the world; in our zeal for the truth we forget to publish it. When shall we all learn that the Good News needs not just to be cherished, but needs to be told? All people everywhere need to hear it.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 15, 1998, p. 3]

FAILURE IN PEOPLE IS CAUSED MORE BY LACK OF DETERMINATION THAN LACK OF TALENT
In 1982, internal-medicine resident Barry Marshall was frustrated that there was no cure for his patients with ulcers. Then, while studying a stomach biopsy, he saw organisms resembling Campylobacter bacteria, first identified by his hospital's pathologist, Dr. J. Robin Warren. Warren and Marshall studied 100 ulcer patients for a year, and found the bacteria in 87 percent of the cases. Leading specialists, however, insisted the bacteria developed after the specimens were removed. For decades, clinical researchers had concluded that ulcers were based on weak stomach linings. Marshall's bacterial theory was snubbed.

Warren and Marshall cultured the bacteria for observation and found that a combination of bismuth and antibiotics destroyed it. Again, their report was met with skepticism. Marshall reported study after study. Still, doctors refused to conduct clinical trials. Finally, trails began in 1986, four years after Marshall's initial findings. These studies confirmed both Marshall's bacterial theory and his treatment methods.

Because a young internist "wouldn't accept no" from the medical community, the vast majority of ulcers, and some stomach cancers, can now be treated successfully!
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 15, 1998, p. 4]

A salesman called his wife from a coin-operated phone in a distant city, finished the conversation, said good-bye, and replaced the receiver. As he was walking away, the phone rang. He went back and answered it, expecting to be informed of extra charges. But the operator said, "I thought you'd like to know. Just after you hung up, your wife said, I love you."
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 8, 1998, p. 1]

THE GREAT DECISION
A little boy was told by his doctor that he could save his sister's life by giving her some blood. The six-year-old girl was near death, a victim of disease from which the boy had made a marvelous recovery two years earlier. Her only chance for restoration was a blood transfusion from someone who had previously conquered the illness. Since the two children had the same rare blood type, the boy was the ideal donor.

"Johnny, would you like to give your blood for Mary?" the doctor asked.
The boy hesitated. His lower lip started to tremble. Then he smiled, and said, "Sure, Doc. I'll give my blood for my sister."

Soon the two children were wheeled into the operating room - Mary, pale and thin; Johnny, robust and the picture of health. Neither spoke, but when their eyes met, Johnny grinned.

As his blood siphoned into Mary's veins, one could almost see new life come into her tired body. The ordeal was almost over when Johnny's brave little voice broke the silence, "Say Doc, when do I die?"

It was only then that the doctor realized what the moment of hesitation, the trembling of the lip, had meant earlier. Little Johnny actually thought that in giving his blood to his sister he was giving up his life! And in that brief moment, he had made his great decision!
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 8, 1998, p. 3]

SO IN EVERYTHING, DO TO OTHERS WHAT YOU WOULD HAVE THEM DO TO YOU...
Reporters and city officials gathered at a Chicago railroad station one afternoon in 1953. The person they were meeting was the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize winner. A few minutes after the train came to a stop, a giant of a man - six-feet-four - with bushy hair and a large moustache stepped from the train. Cameras flashed. City officials approached him with hands outstretched. Various ones began telling him how honored they were to meet him.

The man politely thanked them and then, looking over their heads, he asked if he could be excused for a moment. He quickly walked through the crowd until he reached the side of an elderly black woman who was struggling with two large suitcases. He picked up the bags and with a smile, escorted the woman to a bus. After helping her aboard, he wished her a safe journey. Returning to the greeting party he apologized, "Sorry to have kept you waiting."

The man was Dr. Albert Schweitzer, the famous missionary doctor who had spent his life helping the poor in Africa. In response to Schweitzer's action, one member of the reception committee said with great admiration to the reporter standing next to him, "That's the first time I ever saw a sermon walking."
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 8, 1998, p. 4]

The story is told in Spain of a father and his teenage son who had a relationship that had become strained. So the son ran away from home. His father, however, began a journey in search of his rebellious son. Finally, in Madrid, in a last desperate effort to find him, the father put an ad in the newspaper. The ad read: "Dear Paco, meet me in front of the newspaper office at noon. All is forgiven. I love you. Your father."
The next day at noon in front of the newspaper office 800 "Pacos" showed up. They were all seeking forgiveness and love from their fathers.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Feb. 15, 1998, p. 1]

COMMUNION ON THE MOON
Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were the first men to walk on the moon in the Apollo 11 space mission. Michael Collins, third member of the group, was in charge of the command module, essential for their return to earth, which circled the moon while Armstrong and Aldrin landed. The moon lander touched down at 3:17 Eastern Standard Time, Sunday, July 20, 1969.

Aldrin had brought with him a tiny communion kit, given him by his church, that had a silver chalice and wine vial about the size of the top of his finger. During the morning he radioed, "Houston, this is Eagle. This is the LM pilot speaking. I would like to request a few moments of silence. I would like to invite each person listening in, whoever or wherever he may be, to contemplate for a moment the events of the last few hours, and to give thanks in his own individual way."

"In the radio blackout," he wrote later, "I opened the little plastic packages which contained the bread and the wine. I poured the wine into the chalice our church had given me. In the one-sixth gravity of the moon, the wine slowly curled and gracefully came up the side of the cup." Then I read the Scripture, 'I am the vine, you are the branches. Whosoever abides in me will bring forth much fruit.' I had intended to read my communion passage back to earth, but at the last minute Deke Slayton had requested that I not do this. NASA was already embroiled in a legal battle with Madelyn Murray O'Hara, the celebrated opponent of religion, over the Apollo 8 crew reading from Genesis while orbiting the moon at Christmas. I agreed reluctantly..."

"Eagle's metal body creaked. I ate the tiny Host and swallowed the wine. I gave thanks for the intelligence and spirit that had brought two young pilots to the Sea of Tranquility. It was interesting for me to think: the very first liquid ever poured on the moon, and the very first food eaten there, were the communion elements."

(I found this article by Bill Carrell to be very interesting. If you're like me, you were totally unaware of this interesting fact. As I sit and reflect upon all the "reasons" people often offer for not worshipping together and participating in the Lord's Supper, I am made more acutely aware that God must see them as "excuses." Friends, if a man on the moon can find the time to worship God, and remember the sacrifice that Christ made on the cross, then surely we are without excuse.

Just curious, but if you were to go to the moon, would you have packed the elements of the Lord's Supper? Let's get more realistic, when you pack to go on vacation, do you pack your Bible and make plans to worship with the saints?)
[by Steve Higginbotham from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Feb. 15, 1998, p. 2]

THE BEST WAY TO GET EVEN IS TO FORGET.
In his book, Beneath the Cross of Jesus, A. Leonard Griffith tells the story of a young Korean exchange student, a leader in Christian circles at the University of Pennsylvania, who left his apartment on the evening of April 25, 1958, to mail a letter to his parents. As he turned from the mailbox, he was met by eleven leather-jacketed teenage boys. Without a word, they beat him with a blackjack, a lead pipe, and their shoes and fists - and left him lying dead in the gutter.

All Philadelphia cried out for vengeance. The district attorney planned to seek the death penalty for the arrested youths. And then, this letter arrived, signed by the boy's parents and twenty other relatives in Korea: "Our family has met together and we have decided to petition that the most generous treatment possible within the laws of your government be given to those who have committed this criminal action. In order to give evidence of our sincere hope contained in this petition, we have decided to save money to start a fund to be used for the religious, educational, vocational, and social guidance of the boys when they are released. We have dared to express our hope with a spirit received from the gospel of our Savior, Jesus Christ who died for our sins."

When you forgive it takes you from the place of the victim to that of a victor.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Feb. 15, 1998, p. 4]

A boss creates fear; a leader creates confidence. Bossism creates resentment; leadership breeds enthusiasm. A boss says, "I"; a leader says, "We." A boss fixes blame; a leader fixes mistakes. A boss knows how; a leader shows how. Bossism makes work drudgery; leadership makes work interesting. A boss relies on authority; a leader relies on cooperation. A boss drives; a leader leads.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Feb. 22, 1998, p. 1]

"Dear brother Thurman: I have been a member of the Lord's church for over forty years, but the past few years I notice that many places we visit don't offer the invitation by telling people what they need to do. They just say, 'If we can help you in any way, please come forward.' What happened to the steps into Christ? - C.H., AZ"

It is amazing what traditions can do to us. The idea of having an invitation, including an invitation song, after the sermon seems sensible and convenient. So we began doing it. For many of us, we have never heard a sermon without "a proper invitation" following it. But that is still just our tradition! There is nothing in the Bible about offering an invitation, nor how it should be done. There is nothing in scripture about having an invitation song, but woe to the one who leaves one out, for our tradition requires it! On a personal basis, I prefer the "old-fashioned" type invitation with song, in which the preacher briefly shows what to do to become a Christian and exhorts unbelievers to obey the Lord. But this is just my preference. It is not Bible.

Jesus, criticized because His disciples ate with unwashed hands, said...(Mark 7:6-7). There is nothing wrong with washing your hands before eating. But it is wrong to make a spiritual law to that effect, and bind it on others. There is nothing wrong with having the invitation, as mentioned above, followed by an invitation song. But there is a great deal wrong with making that practice a law that is binding on others! And I believe there are occasions when the "traditional invitation" actually detracts from the purpose of the lesson. In any case, the principles of Christian liberty that are clearly taught in Rom. 14 and I Cor. 8 demand that I accept those who differ with me on matters where the scriptures are silent. We must teach the lost, and encourage them to obey the Lord (Mark 16:15-16; Heb. 5:8-9). This CAN be done as we "offer the invitation." But it can also be done in other ways. We just don't have the right to bind our methods on other people.
[by Clem Thurman from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Feb. 22, 1998, p. 2]

FORGIVEN AND PARDONED
A young employee secretly misappropriated several hundred dollars of his business firm's money. When this action was discovered the young man was told to report to the office of the senior partner of the firm. As he walked up the stairs toward the administrative office the young employee was heavy-hearted. He knew without a doubt he would lose his position with the firm. He also feared the possibility of legal action taken against him. Seemingly his whole world had collapsed.

Upon his arrival in the office of the senior executive, the young man was questioned about the whole affair. He was asked if the allegations were true and he answered in the affirmative. Then the executive surprisingly asked this question: "If I keep you in your present capacity, can I trust you in the future?" The young worker brightened up and said, "Yes, sir, you surely can. I've learned my lesson."

The executive responded, "I'm not going to press charges, and you can continue in your present responsibility." The employer concluded the conversation with his younger employee by saying, "I think you ought to know, however, that you are the second man in this firm who succumbed to temptation and was shown leniency. I was the first. What you have done, I did. The mercy you are receiving, I received. It is only the grace of God that can keep us both."
[by Don Mallough from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Feb. 22, 1998, p. 1]

ARE WE SO BUSY ADDING UP OUR TROUBLES THAT WE FORGET TO COUNT OUR BLESSINGS?
For decades, Grandpa had been stubborn and crabby. His wife, children, and grandchildren seemed to be able to do nothing that pleased him. As far as he was concerned, life was filled with nothing but bad times and big troubles. Eventually, his family expected only a gruff growl from Grandpa.

Then overnight, Grandpa changed. Gentleness and optimism marked his new personality. Positive words and compliments poured from his lips. He could even be heard giving joyful praise to the Lord. One of the family members noted, "I think maybe Grandpa found religion." Another replied, "Maybe so, but maybe it's something else. I'm going to ask him what has happened." The young man went to his grandfather and said, "Gramps, what has caused you to change so suddenly?"

"Well, son," the old man replied, I've been striving in the face of incredible problems all my life - and for what? The hope of a contented mind. It's done no good, nope, not one bit, so...I've decided to be contented without it."

Never start counting your troubles until you've counted at least a hundred of your blessings. By that time you probably won't think you have troubles!
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Feb. 22, 1998, p. 4]

Once, while riding in the country, I saw on a farmer's barn a weather vane on the arrow of which was inscribed these words: "God is Love." I turned in at the gate and asked the farmer, "What do you mean by that? Do you think God's love is changeable; that it veers about as that arrow turns in the winds?" The farmer said, "Oh no! I mean that whichever way the wind blows, God is still Love."
[by Charles H. Spurgeon from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 1, 1998, p. 1]

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF BAPTISM?
We wish to list some passages which tell us what was the purpose of baptism.

(Mark 16:15-16). If the passage had said, "He that believeth and is baptized shall be enriched with $1000", it is doubtful if anyone would have a problem understanding the importance of baptism - if they wanted their $1000! But to affirm that belief and baptism are necessary for salvation is to be consigned to religious heresy in some quarters today. Why can't we just accept and affirm exactly what Jesus said and let the theological chips fall where they will?

(Acts 2:37-38). Both repentance and baptism are "for the remission of sins." That same phrase is found in Matt. 26:28 where Jesus said.... No one has much trouble figuring out the importance of the blood of our Lord from this text. Why, then do so many look at Acts 2:38 and fail to see the importance of baptism? Do you suppose some preconceived ideas might be hindering them?

(Gal. 3:26-27). This plain passage answers the question, "How do we become the children of God by faith?" It also answers another one, "How many have put on Christ?" Go ahead - ask the questions and see if the passage doesn't give you an answer.

(I Pet. 3:20-21). Were the eight souls really saved by the water which destroyed the rest of the world? Of course! The answer's easy, isn't it, because that's what the text says? Are we really saved by baptism? Well, what does the text say? Wouldn't understanding the purpose of baptism be simple if we didn't feel obligated to pay homage to some man-made theology which restricts us from the obvious meaning of the text?
[by Bob West from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 1, 1998, p. 2]

AND WHATSOEVER YE DO, DO IT HEARTILY, AS TO THE LORD, AND NOT UNTO MEN. (Col. 3:23)
Thomas Edison, who held 1,093 patents for his inventions - which included the electric light bulb, phonograph, and motion-picture camera, sold the rights to many of his inventions to Western Union and other large companies to keep his workshop going. Over time, others made far more money from Edison's inventions than he did, but this didn't seem to bother him a great deal. He once said, "I don't care so much about making my fortune as I do for getting ahead of the other fellow." Edison's greatest desire was to be both the first and the best in his field, to out-invent everybody he could. He worked tirelessly with joy.

Edison eventually established Menlo Park, the world's first factory for the making of nothing but inventions. It was a forerunner of the private research laboratories now maintained by many large companies. At Menlo Park, Edison promised to turn out "a minor invention every ten days and a big thing every six months or so." At one point, he was working on forty-seven new things at once.

Other investors may have been richer than Edison, but virtually no investor has ever been more enthusiastic or more successful. For him, enthusiasm and employment were inextricably bound together.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Mar. 1, 1998, p. 4]

Once there was a congregation in which every member was just like you. Each one cooperated and supported every program just the way you have been doing. Everyone worked as hard and attended the same services and gospel meetings that you did. It seems as if everyone is interested in the church as you are at this time. They put the same emphasis on their recreation, business, and other material affairs that you do. Each member gave as much as you do. Within a year or so, this congregation...(You finish this).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Jan. 25, 1998, p. 1]

Some tell us that Jesus' earthly life was not very important. They say he wrote no books, composed no songs, drew no pictures, carved no statues, amassed no fortune, commanded no army, ruled no nation. And yet...He who never wrote a line has been made the hero of unnumbered volumes. He who never wrote a song has put music into the hearts of nameless multitudes. He who never established as institution is the foundation of the Church that bears his name. He who refused the kingdoms of this world has become the Lord of millions. Yes, He whose shameful death scarcely produced a ripple on the pool of history in his day has become a mighty current in the vast ocean of the centuries since He died.
[by Mack Stokes from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Jan. 25, 1998, p. 3]

THE HEART OF A MAN CANNOT BE DETERMINED BY THE SIZE OF HIS POCKETBOOK.
Not a lot of press coverage was given to the tough Argentine golfer Robert De Vincenzo, but one story from his life shows his greatness as a person.

After winning a tournament, De Vincenzo received his check on the eighteenth green, flashed a smile for the cameras, and then walked along to the clubhouse. As we went to his car, he was approached by a sad-eyed young woman who said to him, "It's a good day for you, but I have a baby with an incurable disease. It's of the blood, and the doctors say she will die." De Vincenzo paused and then asked, "May I help your little girl?" He then took out a pen, endorsed his winning check, and then pressed it into her hand. "Make some good days for the baby," he said.

A week later as he was having lunch at a country club, a PGA official approached him, saying, "Some of the boys in the parking lot told me you met a young woman after you won the tournament." De Vincenzo nodded. The official said, "Well, she's a phony. She has no sick baby. She fleeced you, my friend."

The golfer looked up and asked, "You mean that there is no baby who is dying without hope?" This time the PGA official nodded. De Vincenzo grinned and said, "That's the best news I've heard all week."
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Jan. 25, 1998, p. 4]

A cultured woman found herself among people of a strange language and race. Many varied customs. While she was there she became a close friend of a devoted missionary. One day she said, "I was troubled by an experience with those quarreling, difficult people, and I related my grievances to my missionary friend. 'They are so self-interested,' I complained. 'So self-absorbed, so soft on themselves, so violent with others, so unreasoning, so totally difficult,' and when I had finished rehearsing their faults as I saw them my friend smiled a little and said something I have never forgotten. "That's why they need us." (Mark 2:17).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Aug. 23, 1998, p. 1]

ABBA, FATHER, GOD
Once in a while, we should spend a moment thinking about fathers and what fatherhood entails.

It's one thing to go buy the old man a present, anything from a new razor to a set of golf clubs - and quite another to really honor him.

Honor. That's a word we don't hear much any more. It's honored (there it is again) more by its absence from our vocabulary than by its presence in it.

And yet, when we do use the word, it conjures up pictures of people honor bound to perform out of a sense of duty. Honor seems inextricably connected to patriotism, loyalty, duty, tradition, or integrity.

Honor is a concept that has been around as long as man has existed. God put Adam and Eve on their honor not to partake of the Tree of Knowledge; when they disobeyed they found themselves saddled with the duties of parenthood and family chores.

Abraham, who almost missed out on being a father at all, lived to become the father of two nations. The descendants of Ishmael and Isaac still spill each other's blood over which is the real heir of the Promised Land.

When Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, God carved his basic law in stone for them. The fifth commandment, as recorded in Exo. 20:12, reads....

Old Testament law was often harsh and unforgiving. (Exo. 21:15, 17.)

God also made it clear in the second of the Ten Commandments that he would punish children for the sin of their fathers "...to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me..." Why? An irresponsible father usually raises an irresponsible son. But by the same token, a loving father raises a loving and caring son. Fathers are obviously very important in the nurturing and care of children.

There is ample evidence in the world today to demonstrate what happens when fathers abandon their family responsibilities, isn't there? Without a strong father image children never learn self control.

Children need a father figure. Real fear is evoked by that ancient admonition from Mother: "Just you wait until your father gets home!" Girls choose husbands based on how fathers treat mothers. And boys grow into men modeled after their own fathers.

Then there was King David and his sons, especially Absolom and Solomon. No better example exists in all of scripture about how fathers influence their sons for good or evil. Absalom wanted so desperately to be king that he plotted to kill his father. David's generals, disobeying the king's direct order, killed Absalom instead. David never quite got over the loss.

It was Solomon who inherited the throne, of course. His reputation for wisdom is so well established we won't reexamine it here. But even a cursory reading of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Songs reveal a complex personality, a man who verged on madness with his plunges from soaring flights of ecstasy into deep dark despair.

The same godly Solomon who sought justice for his subjects was driven to say, as recorded in Eccl. 1:2, "Meaningless! Meaningless!... Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless."

What did Jesus have to say about fathers?

According to Matt. 6:9, it was during the Sermon on the Mount that Jesus gave us an example of how to pray. His prayer begins by addressing God: "Our Father..."

Why? Why did Jesus stress the fatherhood of God? Why did he use that particular metaphor - fatherhood - as an illustration of God's relationship to us? Why didn't he use motherhood? Why father?

Why indeed? Even today we refer to the Trinity of God as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit. God is the Father and Jesus is the Son. And the Holy Spirit fills all of us who allow Him entry.

Father and Son are obviously masculine. But the Spirit is referred to as asexual. Why does God have a gender? Does God need a specific gender?

The farthest out fringe of the women's lib movement would take away God's masculine gender and make him either neutral or feminine. But try as they may, they can't do it - the Father and the Son are two thirds of the Trinity.

Oh, the imagery that is conjured up when God is seen as the Father! The relationship between fathers and children is so filled with understanding that seeing God as father and us as his children brings all those same understood meanings to our relationship with God.

If you want to really understand the message of Christ with the knowledge that the word he used to address God, "Abba", had the same connotation in Hebrew that "Dad" does in English. That was enough to drive any self-respecting Pharisee or Sadducee right up the wall.

But then realize that, if God is your Father, you don't need any human go-between to negotiate with him. You don't need a lawyer or a priest to deliver a formal apology to your father. Fathers love us even when we go astray, and they are almost always willing to forgive us if we only admit that we are wrong.

If God is our Father, no priestly intercession is required. No wonder the priests conspired to kill Jesus! He made their profession irrelevant and unnecessary.

As we think of and honor our earthly fathers, let's not forget to also honor the One Father of us all.
[by Carl Phillips from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Aug. 23, 1998, p. 2-3]

WHEN GOD MEASURES A MAN, HE PUTS THE TAPE AROUND THE HEART INSTEAD OF THE HEAD.
President Lincoln had a disarming and engaging ability to laugh at himself, especially his own physical appearance. When Senator Stephen A. Douglas once called him a "two-faced man," Lincoln responded, "I leave it to my audience. If I had another face, do you think I would wear this one?"

Another time he told a group of editors about meeting a woman riding on horseback in the wood. She "looked at me intently, and said, 'I do believe you are the ugliest man I ever saw.' Said I, 'Madam, you are probably right, but I can't help it.' 'No,' she said, 'you can't help it, but you might stay at home.'"

Although his likeness is widely recognized, Lincoln is not known primarily for his appearance, but for his courageous stance for restoration of the Union and the abolition of slavery. He is often held up as an example of remarkable patience, determination, dedication, strong will, compassion, thoughtfulness, and selflessness. These inner qualities are what mark Lincoln as one of America's greatest presidents.

So much is made in our culture today of outward appearance and material possessions. We do well to remember that it is our virtuous inner qualities that create a lasting reputation.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Aug. 23, 1998, p. 4]

Openness is essentially the willingness to grow, a distaste for ruts, eagerly standing on tiptoe for a better view of what tomorrow brings. A man once bought a new radio, brought it home, placed it on the refrigerator, plugged it in, turned it to WSM in Nashville (home of the Grand Ol' Opry), and then pulled all the knobs off! He had already tuned in all he ever wanted or expected to hear. Some marriages are "rutted" and rather dreary because either or both partners have yielded to the tyranny of the inevitable: "What has been will still be." Stay open to newness. Stay open to change. (Eccl. 9:9).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Aug. 16, 1998, p. 1]

DEDUCT MY CONTRIBUTION?
"Dear Brothers: A friend of mine refuses to deduct his contributions to the church since he says he would be giving for the wrong reason. He contends we should give because we want to, not because we get a deduction in our taxes. Should we deduct contribution? - M.H., Texas"

(II Cor. 9:7). Your friend is partially right. We are commanded to give because we want to, because our hearts compel us to. Our contribution to God's kingdom should be based on our love for God and our love for the kingdom.

But is it wrong to deduct those charitable contributions? Well, the money I give every year would buy a new car, would pay off much of my debts, would take me around the world (my wife would have to wait until next year). If I didn't give that money to God's service, I would have to pay taxes on it, but only about a third of it. So, if I didn't give at all I would have two thirds for my use. Sounds to me like a pretty poor tax dodge. Giving doesn't save me any tax money at all, it costs me.

So, I don't give in order to avoid the IRS. I give because God commanded it, because I love God and because I want to give. The IRS is nice enough to say that my gift for charitable purposes is exempt from taxes. I appreciate that and will take advantage of it. But if the IRS removed the charitable deduction (which many have suggested under a flat tax plan) I will still give. I give because God commands it, not because man says it will save me a few dollars each year.
[by David Thurman from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Aug. 16, 1998, p. 2]

WHAT WERE THE "DARK AGES"?
"Dear brethren: A friend of mind spoke of the 'Dark Ages.' What does that mean? When did they exist and what caused them. Can they return? - S.T., Arkansas"

Most historians, outside of the Catholic tradition, would agree that the "Dark Ages" began in 476 A.D. when the Roman Empire died, and they lasted until 1455, when Gutenberg's printing press came into being. It is significant that the Roman church called those thousand years, "The Golden Age of Catholicism." But during that time, there was no Bible for the common people to read, and the Catholic church very deliberately kept the common people from learning what the Bible says. The spiritual darkness of that millennium came because of Bible ignorance, resulting in superstition, immorality and unconcern for the authority of Christ.

When the printing press was invented, the very first book printed on it was the Bible. 50,000 copies were immediately spread across Europe, and that was the beginning of the end of the power of the Catholic pope and the Catholic dominance of Europe. With the printing of the Bible, people could now read and understand for themselves God's message to them. And they quickly saw that much of Catholicism was in opposition to the word of God.

Yes, the very same conditions that produced the "Dark Ages" could produce them again. The reasons for the "Dark Ages" could be reproduced, and that would bring in another. In many ways we are already heading in that direction. The message of the Bible is being stifled by law, by unconcern, by pseudo-science and by a love for worldly things. To bring "the light of the world" (John 8:12) to all mankind is the real mission of Christians (Mark 16:15-16). To do that, we must have more courageous Bible preaching, more dedicated living for Jesus and a distinct respect for divine authority for all we do.
[by Johnny Ramsey from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Aug. 16, 1998, p. 2]

PATIENCE IS AN ADMIRABLE TRAIT

A man's car once stalled in heavy Friday evening traffic just as the light turned green. All his efforts to start the engine failed. A chorus of honking arose from the cars behind him.

Feeling just as frustrated as those other drivers eager to get home or to their weekend distinations, he finally got out of his car and walked back to the first driver and said, "I'm sorry, but I can't seem to get my car started. If you'll go up there and give it a try, I'll stay here and blow your horn for you."

The person who is chronically impatient rarely makes another person go faster or arrive earlier. Rather, the effects are nearly always negative - to others as well as to the impatient person. Accidents occur more frequently in haste. Ulcers, headaches, and other health problems develop more quickly. And relationships can become more readily strained.

As an antidote for impatience, try giving yourself "ten more minutes." Get up ten minutes earlier every morning, leave ten minutes earlier, arrive ten minutes ahead of schedule, and so forth. You'll likely arrive at the end of the day feeling much more relaxed.
(Eccl. 7:8-9).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Aug. 16, 1998, p. 4]

(Lev. 19:18).
Hanging on to bitterness and keeping alive grudges is consuming work. It doesn't leave much energy for blessing others, praising God, or enjoying life. Eight times in the New Testament, it says "Love your neighbor as yourself." The only way to get over these things is to actively love others in ways that bless their lives. (Phili. 2:15).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Aug. 9, 1998, p. 1]

RELY ON YOUR BACKBONE, NOT YOUR WISHBONE
At one point during his youth, baseball great Jackie Robinson began to run with a neighborhood gang. In later years, he recalled that while he had wished for a better life as a boy and teen, he had no understanding that a gang was not the way to achieve it. An older friend finally came to Jackie and made him realize how much he was hurting his hard-working mother, as well as how much he was limiting himself. Robinson said, "He told me that it didn't take guts to follow the crowd, that courage and intelligence lay in being willing to be different."

Jackie listened, left the gang, and traded his wishbone for a backbone. He began to work on developing his own physical potential and within a few short years, became a sensational athlete. Starring in football, basketball, baseball, and track at UCLA, he was the first person to win athletic awards in all four sports at the university. He went on to play pro football with the Los Angeles Bulldogs before being drafted for World War II duty. After the war, he signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Not only did Jackie Robinson become the first black baseball player in the major league, but he was voted rookie of the year.

Backbone accomplishes more than wishbone.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Aug. 9, 1998, p. 4]

A man came to the preacher one time and said, "I don't know what's wrong with my life, but that first Christian joy I knew has passed by. I still live a moral life. I go to church. But how can I recover the lost radiance of my faith?" His minister said, "this is what you should do: go to the store and buy a big basketful of groceries and go to an address of a poor family I will give you. Then when you have given your gift, you sit down with them to find out what they need. Let them know that you are interested in them and that you are their friend. Then lead them in a prayer before you leave, and the radiance will come back."
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Aug. 2, 1998, p. 1]

Some years ago a man driving down the streets on one of the great cities lost control of his horses and was in danger of being dashed to death. Suddenly, there sprang out into the streets a man who, seizing the horses by the bit, stopped them in their mad career and saved the driver's life.

By a singular coincidence, years afterwards the man whose life was saved was on trial before the one who had stopped the horses, who sat in the judge's chair. The trial was ended; the lawyers had made the plea and the jury had returned with its verdict, when the judge said, "Have you anything to say why sentence should not be pronounced upon you?" Then, rising, trembling with great emotion, he said: "Judge, don't you remember me?" And the judge said once again, "Have you anything to say why sentence should not be pronounced?" And then he said, "Why, Judge, I am the man you saved; have mercy, have mercy. And with a look full of pity, his honor replied, "I do remember you and I am very sorry for you, but then I was your saviour, and today I am your judge;" and the sentence of death was passed.

Today our Saviour stands waiting to be merciful. With tears in his eyes he stands knocking again and again at the door of our hearts. But one day the picture will change, and he will be our judge to say, "Depart, for I never knew you." God save us from that day.
[by J. Wilbur Chapan from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Aug. 2, 1998, p. 2]

A soap advertisement depicted a little fellow looking intently at his shadow that fell across his pathway. The slogan underneath the picture read: "That's the only thing I can't wash out!" As I studied this clever bit of sales promotion, I was reminded of the indelible shadow of influence we cast on others by our example. Wrong attitudes and actions can engrave an impression on their minds that is impossible to erase. But just as we can leave a permanent mark for evil, so we can also leave a lasting effect for good. We should therefore strive to live so that our loving spirit, vibrant faith, and purity of life are never diluted by inconsistency. (Col. 1:10).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 19, 1998, p. 1]

An interesting story is shared in I Sam. 30, concerning faithfulness. King David and his men were away at battle and while away their foes came in and laid the city of Ziklag in ashes, carrying away the wives and sons and daughters of the absent soldiers. When the men returned they were overwhelmed with grief. The scripture says they "lifted up their voices and wept until they had no more power to weep." They began to blame David. Then David selected 600 men and set out to rescue the captives. When they came to the brook Besor, 200 were so faint they could not cross over the brook. "Very well," said David. "You two hundred stay here and mind the baggage and others of us who are stronger will go on." They went on, make a great recovery, and returned with the spoil. When they returned to the brook Besor a protest arose on the part of those who went to battle. They did not want to share the spoil. Then it was that David made a great statement about faithfulness: "As his part is that goeth down to the battle so shall his part be that tarried by the stuff. They shall part alike." What David said was that not are all equally strong yet all can be equally faithful. The 200 that did the best they could were just as worthy of the reward.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 19, 1998, p. 3]

Sidney Harris once wrote, "The most miserable people I have known have not been those who suffered for catastrophe - which they could blame on fate or accident - but those who had everything they wanted, except the power to enjoy it." (Prov. 15:16-17).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 19, 1998, p. 3]

IF AT FIRST YOU DON'T SUCCEED, TRY READING THE INSTRUCTIONS

A young ensign had nearly completed his first overseas tour of sea duty when he was given an opportunity to display his ability at getting the ship under way. With a stream of crisp commands, he had the decks buzzing with men and soon, the ship had left port and was steaming out of the channel.

The ensign's efficiency had been remarkable. In fact, the deck was abuzz with talk that he had set a new record for getting a destroyer under way. The ensign glowed at his accomplishment and was not all that surprised when another seaman approached him with a message from the captain. He was, however, a bit surprised to find that it was a radio message, and he was even more surprised when he read, "My personal congratulations upon completing your underway preparation exercise according to the book and with amazing speed. In your haste, however, you have overlooked one of the unwritten rules - make sure the captain is aboard before getting underway."

God's Manual for Life, the Bible, is our "set of instructions" for getting our lives under way. But we must never become so bound to the book that we forget the Author of it and the relationship He desires to have with us on the voyage. (Prov. 4:13).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 19, 1998, p. 4]

Recently, I saw a cartoon that demonstrated how people don't like to take responsibility. It was a Peanuts cartoon, and it showed Peppermint Patty talking to Charlie Brown. She said, "Guess what, Chuck. The first day of school, and I got sent to the principal's office. It was your fault, Chuck."
He said, "My fault? How could it be my fault? Why do you say everything is my fault?"
She said, "You're my friend, aren't you, Chuck? You should have been a better influence on me."
Somehow, we think that someone else is responsible.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 26, 1998, p. 1]

GLORY ON THE CROSS
Paul made it very clear that Calvary changed his life completely, dramatically and lastingly. (Gal. 2:20; Gal. 6:14). He was never again the same Saul of Tarsus that persecuted Christians and even consented to the death of the faithful martyr, Stephen. The power of the vicarious death of Jesus would become Paul's constant message, and the fervor of his passion would center in the events of Golgotha.

In that old rugged cross, Stained with blood so divine. There's a wondrous attraction for me.

Paul gloried in the events of Calvary because he could see that marvelous love of God depicted there. (John 3:17). Matchless grace and generous mercy mesh in that tremendous moment. The epitome of love is the story of the gift of the Messiah on our behalf. We were "dead in trespasses" that separated us from our Maker (Eph. 2:1, 12). Paul admitted that he had been the chief of sinners (I Tim. 1:15), but that because of the cross, "in Christ" he was "a new creature" (II Cor. 5:17).

Paul gloried in the cross due to the radiant hope that it gave him of making his own life worthwhile, as he preached the glad tidings that had set him free. From a zealous persecutor to one who suffered for the Christ he had before rejected, he lived to proclaim the message he had before destroyed (Gal. 1:23). The dynamic message of the cross became the joy and burden of his sojourn upon the earth. He declared...(I Cor. 1:23; I Cor. 2:2).

Paul gloried in the cross because it had power to triumph over the past emphasis upon prejudice, arrogance, customs and traditions. The noted teacher, Gamaliel, had tutored Paul in the vagaries of the law, the aura of Sanhedrin philosophy had surrounded his early years, and the Pharisees' external devotion to the traditions of Judaism had been the cultural environment of his life. Only the "word of the cross" (I Cor. 1:18) had the power to convert Saul of Tarsus into the courageous apostle Paul. He boldly declared...(Rom. 1:16).

Paul gloried in the cross because the blood of Jesus that flowed that day had efficacy that the thousands of slain bulls and goats never possessed (Heb. 10:4). The Levitical priesthood of Old Testament days had leaders that sinned, sacrificed that could not redeem and shadows of better things to come. The Bible clearly reveals the hopelessness of that system (Heb. 10:1-11). But Jesus came as the "once for all" sacrifice for sin (Heb. 9:28) and a High Priest after the power of an endless life (Heb. 7:16). Jesus thereby became the personal surety or guarantee of brighter moments under a better covenant (Heb. 7:22, 26). We, like Paul, should always glory in the cross and let the death of Jesus Christ motivate us to a deeper, richer and fuller life of devotion and consecration.

Near the cross a trembling soul, Love and mercy found me, There the bright and morning star, Sheds its beams around me.
Because of Calvary, we should always live a Christ-centered, Bible-based and heaven-bound life. To God be the glory!
[by Johnny Ramsey from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 26, 1998, p. 2]

Alfred Whitney Griswold, who was president of Yale University, said: "Self-respect cannot be hunted. It cannot be purchased. It is never for sale. It cannot be fabricated out of public relations. It comes to us when we are alone, in quiet moments, in quiet places, when we suddenly realize that, knowing the good, we have done it; knowing the beautiful, we have served it; knowing the truth, we have spoken it." (Eph. 4:14-15).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 26, 1998, p. 3]

YOUR TEMPER IS LIKE A FIRE. IT GETS DESTRUCTIVE WHEN OUT OF CONTROL
When a person loses his temper, one of the most common expressions used to describe the situation is "fly off the handle." This phrase refers to the head of a hammer coming loose from its handle as the carpenter attempts to use it. Several things happen as a result:
* First, the hammer becomes useless - no longer good for work. In like manner, when a person loses his temper, he often loses his effectiveness. Anything he says may not be taken seriously and is likely to be unproductive.
* Second, the hammerhead - twirling out of control - is likely to cause some type of damage to anything in its path. The person who loses his temper causes damage even if he doesn't realize it - perhaps physically to people or objects in his way, and nearly always emotionally to those who feel they are victims of uncontrolled wrath.
* Third, the repair of both the hammer and the resulting damage takes time. The person who loses his temper may recover quickly, but the one who is the victim of a hot temper rarely recovers as quickly.
Keep your temper today. Nobody else wants it.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 26, 1998, p. 4]

If you could build a small package, something small enough to carry in your coat pocket, a machine which would instantly start and stop, in which you could instantly reverse yourself or go forward, which would require no batteries or other energy sources, and which would provide you with full information and an entire civilization, what would you have? A book!
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Jan. 18, 1998, p. 1]

THE FOLLOWING IS TAKEN FROM "GOSPEL MINUTES"
Dear brother Thurman: Paul says elders are to manage their families well. Suppose a man fulfilled this while his kids were at home and after. But when the children began their own lives they became unfaithful. Does that mean this man can no longer be an overseer? - R.R., Louisiana"

(Titus 1:6; I Tim. 3:4-5). Paul seems to be referring to those children who are within the household. The elder should have children who are not in rebellion, suggesting that they are still under the father's authority. This would - imply they are not adults as yet. The elder is to manage his own household well, again implying that these are people within his sphere of personal responsibility, not those who have moved out or grown into independent adulthood.

Further, God is the perfect Father (James 1:17). Yet, His children sinned in the garden of Eden (Gen. 3) and they continue to sin today (I John 1:8-10). Does this mean God is a bad Father and is unqualified to lead us? Not at all. It means that, in spite of a perfect father, kids make up their own minds and in doing so, sometimes sin. Sometimes they even leave the faith. The fact that a grown child abandons the church does not mean he was raised badly, just that he chose poorly when he had the opportunity to do so as a grown person.

However, there are some other considerations. How a man deals with his children is an indication of how he treats people that matter to him. If a man turns out hateful, mean spirited, unspiritual children, then it implies an atmosphere at home that nurtured that kind of behavior. Do we want shepherds over us who, over the long haul, turn out mean spirited people? That is a more difficult question, and it inevitably becomes a matter of personal judgment.

Do grown children who leave the faith disqualify a man from being an overseer? Not necessarily. Is it wise to always keep a man as an elder whose children are out of the faith? Probably not. But that depends on the particular circumstances. As you can see, some human judgment is required and therefore a hard and fast rule cannot be made.
[by David Thurman from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Jan. 18, 1998, p. 2]

GOD'S PLAN FOR FINANCING HIS WORK
God has a plan for financing His work. He has involved His people in carrying out that plan. And they are greatly blessed as a result of their participation in God's plan. That plan involves six things.

First: The collection of the funds is to be taken on the first day of the week when the church is assembled (I Cor. 16:1-2). Obviously there is no moral principle behind the day of the collection, but rather a convenient opportunity.

Second: Each Christian is to participate in the plan (I Cor. 16:2). The young and old, the poor and rich, all are to participate in the Lord's plan.

Third: The amount of that contribution is to be according to one's prosperity (I Cor. 16:2). If the Lord had named some definite amount or some definite percentage, then that could be too hard for some and too easy for others. The giver must decide how much. And that decision is a positive exercise.

Fourth: Each Christian's contribution is to reflect a generous heart (II Cor. 9:6). Generosity is giving more than one legally or morally must. It is going the extra mile. And that is the only kind of giving that actually benefits the giver.

Fifth: Each Christian is to do so willingly and cheerfully (II Cor. 9:6). I do not want any gifts that are not freely given. Do you? Neither does the Lord. Gifts that are not freely given do not benefit the giver.

Sixth: Each Christian is to do so with premeditation (II Cor. 9:7). Our gift must be planned for and prayed over. And such planning and prayer is good for the giver.
[by Jack Harriman from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Jan. 18, 1998, p. 3]

IGNORANCE IS ALWAYS SWIFT TO SPEAK
One of the favorite stories of Arturo Toscanini, the great symphony conductor, was this:

An orchestra was playing Beethoven's Leonore overture, which has two great musical climaxes. Each of these musical high points is followed by a trumpet passage, which the composer intended to be played offstage.

The first climax arrived, but no sound came from a trumpet offstage. The conductor, annoyed, went on to the second musical high point. But again - no trumpet could be heard.

This time, the conductor rushed into the wings, fuming and with every intent of demanding a full explanation. There he found the trumpet player struggling with the house security man who was insisting as he held for dear life onto the man's trumpet, "I tell you, you can't play that trumpet back here! You'll disturb the rehearsal!"

Until you know why someone is acting the way they do, it's better not to criticize him. Until you know who has told him to act, it's better not to attempt to stop him!
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Jan. 18, 1998, p. 4]

A young boy complained to his father that most of the church hymns were boring and old-fashioned, with tiresome words that meant little to his generation. His father challenged him with these words: "If you think you can write better hymns, why don't you?"

The boy accepted the challenge, went to his room, and wrote his first hymn. The year was 1690, and the young man was Isaac Watt. Among his 350 hymns are "Joy to the World," "When I survey the Wondrous Cross," "I Sing the Almighty Power of God," and many other classics.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Jan. 11, 1998, p. 1]

When William Cary began thinking of going to India as a pioneer missionary, his father pointed out to him that he possessed no academic qualifications that would fit him for such a task. But Carey answered, "I can plod." How true it is that God accomplishes mighty things for his kingdom through those who are willing to persevere, who are willing to plod faithfully through one difficulty after another in the power of the Spirit.

An ancient story recalls how Satan once summoned his top three aids to plan how to stop a group of dedicated Christians from effective missionary work.

One of the lieutenants, Rancor, said to Satan, "We should convince them that there is no God." Satan sneered at Rancor and replied, "That would never work. They know that there is a God."

Another of Satan's aides, Bitterness, spoke up. "We'll convince them that God does not really care about right or wrong." Satan toyed with the notion for a few moments, but rejected it because he knew that too many Christians know that God does care.

Malice, the third satanic helper, came up with his idea. "We'll let them go on thinking that there is a God and that He cares about right and wrong. But we will keep whispering that there is no hurry, there is no hurry."

Satan howled with glee. He advanced Malice higher in his malevolent organization. Satan knew that he would find this stratagem successful with many, many Christians.
[by Frank S. Mead from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Jan. 11, 1998, p. 3]

THE GREATEST POSSESSION YOU HAVE IS THE 24 HOURS AHEAD OF YOU
Dr. C.C. Albertson once wrote this about the use of time: "It might be wise for us to take a little inventory of our resources as to time and review our habits of using it. There are 168 hours in each week. Fifty-six of these we spend in sleep. Of the remaining 112 hours, we devote 48 to labor. This leaves 64 hours, of which let us assign 12 hours for our daily meals...

"We have left 52 hours, net, of conscious active life to devote to any purpose to which we are inclined.

"Is it too much to say that God requires a tithe of free time? One tenth of 52 hours is 5.2 hours. How much of this tithe of time do we devote to strictly religious uses?" If one allowed an hour for church and an hour for a Bible study or prayer meeting each week, he would still have 192 minutes a week - enough for nearly a half hour each day in prayer and Bible reading. Such a person would still have more than 45 hours a week for life's chores and personal fun!

The old excuse, "I have too little time," doesn't fly. What is more likely the case is this: too little planning of the time we have!
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], Jan. 11, 1998, p. 4]

A missionary in India was once teaching the Bible to a group of Hindu ladies. Halfway through the lesson, one of the women got up and walked out. A short time later, she came back and listened more intently than ever. At the close of the hour the missionary inquired, "Why did you leave the meeting? Weren't you interested?" "O yes," the Hindu lady replied. "I was so impressed with what you had to say about Christ that I went out to ask your driver whether you really lived the way you talked. When he said you did, I hurried back so I wouldn't miss out on anything." (Rom. 2:21-23; James 3:1).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 12, 1998, p. 1]

LOVED LIKE SALT

A famous king, depressed by circumstance in his realm and feeling rejected by many of his subjects, called for his three daughters to comfort and reassure him. After they had talked a while, he asked how much they loved him. Two of them answered that they cared for him more than all the gold and silver in the world; but Mary, the youngest, said she loved him like salt. The king wasn't pleased with her answer, for he considered salt to be of very little value. The cook, who overheard the conversation, knew that the child's reply had more significance than the father imagined. She dared not speak to the monarch about the matter, but devised a subtle way to emphasize the true meaning of the young girl's words. The next morning at breakfast she withheld the salt from everything she served, and the meal was so insipid that the king didn't enjoy it at all. Then he realized the full force of his daughter's remark. She loved him so much that nothing was good without him! With a smile he said, "I understand now, Mary. Your love is the greatest of all!" (Mark 9:50; Col. 4:6).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 12, 1998, p. 3]

A Christian man lost his home and mill when a flood washed them away. He was broken-hearted and discouraged as he stood surveying his loss. Just then he saw a glittering object that had been uncovered by the waters. It was gold! The disaster he thought had made him a beggar had actually made him wealthy. So, too, The Lord often works through our troubles to strip away certain cherished possessions to show us the better treasures of His love and power. How thankful we should be that in every storm of affliction we have the assurance that the Lord has a good purpose in view! (Phili. 3:7-9).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 12, 1998, p. 3]

IT IS BETTER TO BE SILENT AND BE CONSIDERED A FOOL THAN TO SPEAK AND REMOVE ALL DOUBT
William Penn, leader of the early American colonists who eventually named their state of Pennsylvania in his honor, gave these rules regarding conversation:
"Avoid company where it is not profitable or necessary, and in those occasions, speak little and last."
"Silence is wisdom where speaking is folly, and always safe."
"Some are so foolish as to interrupt and anticipate those that speak instead of hearing and thinking before they answer, which is uncivil, as well as silly."
"If thou thinkest twice before thou speakest once, thou wilt speak twice the better for it."
"Better to say nothing than not to the purpose. And to speak pertinently, consider both what is fit, and when it is fit, to speak."
"In all debates, let truth be thy aim, not victory or an unjust interest; and endeavor to gain, rather than to expose, thy antagonist."
(Eccl. 10:3).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 12, 1998, p. 4]

Over one million acres that once held oxygen producing trees are paved over every year. Oxygen is the source of life for man. Without oxygen one dies quickly. In paving our tree-producing soil, we are cutting one source of life-sustaining oxygen. How like the person that hardens his feelings against God's leadership in one area of his life at a time. He is ultimately hardened against God's will and is lifeless. The scripture says...(Rom. 2:5).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 5, 1998, p. 1]

NEW TESTAMENT CHRISTIANITY

Nineteen centuries ago, Christ and His apostles began a system of spiritual power that encompassed the earth and blessed the world. The pure religion of the Savior, once established, never vanished from the human scene, even though the darkness of the ages often has dimmed its pristine beauty. The prophet foretold its perpetual status, "shall never be destroyed" (Dan. 2:44), and Jesus promised its glorious establishment, "I will build my church" (Matt. 16:18). In spite of persecution by Rome, jealousy of the Jews, economic poverty and a startling message, the gospel of Jesus Christ swept the ancient world by storm.

The ardent zeal of devoted servants of the Lord emblazoned a noble page in the volume of ancient history. The spiritual army of the Lord made many valiant conquests for the Captain of their salvation (Heb. 2:10). Shining as lights in the midst of a perverse generation (Phili. 2:15), early Christians took seriously the task of living "soberly, righteously and godly" (Titus 2:12). The simple organization of the Lord's church made clear its autonomous government. Adhering strictly to divine principles of self-governing procedure set forth in Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5-6; Acts 20:28-30 and I Pet. 5:1-4, there was no need for earthly headquarters, bureaucracy or hierarchy.

In Phili. 1:1 we read simply of elders, deacons and all the saints. Worship in the first century church of our Lord was to be conducted "in spirit and in truth" as John 4:24 clearly stated. Reverently, as the scriptures direct, the body of Christ...(Acts 2:42). The first day of the week was especially set aside for the Lord's Supper and the contribution (Acts 20:7; I Cor. 16:1-2). Nineteen centuries ago, the church Christ established by His shed blood, was strong in its exposure of error (II Tim. 4:2-4), as well as its proclamation of truth (I Tim. 3:15) and especially in ardent evangelism.

The scriptures reveal that the church of the Lord in the first century was busy teaching (Acts 5:42; Acts 8:4; Acts 12:24). Christians of that era prayed boldly and fervently (Heb. 4:16; James 5:16) even as they joyously sang praises unto God (Acts 16:25; Col. 3:16-17). Christianity was truly a LIFE, as Paul wrote...(Phili. 1:21).

Today, sadly, we often live beneath the standard of New Testament ideals. We coast along with a convenient facsimile of Christianity that really does not demand much of us. A building, a pulpit, a classroom, a teacher and a preacher pretty well sum up our concept of what Jesus died for. But conversation, conviction, commitment, dedication, loyalty and sincerity demand much more of us.

A genuine life of enrichment awaits those who absolutely want to be New Testament Christians. We will never win many souls for our Redeemer until we fully surrender our wills to the Master. Then when we submerge our identity into the greater cause of salvation, our songs will be richer; our prayers more spiritual, our influence more meaningful and our lives more heavenly. Men will then know we have been with Jesus (Acts 4:13). More than anything else, New Testament Christianity is just what Paul wrote...(Gal. 2:20).
[by Johnny Ramsey from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 5, 1998, p. 2-3]

A PERSON'S TRUE CHARACTER IS REVEALED BY WHAT HE DOES WHEN NO ONE IS WATCHING
Ted Engstrom tells the following story in his book titled Integrity:

"For Coach Cleveland Stroud and the Bulldogs of Rockdale County High School (Conyers, Georgia), it was their championship season: 21 wins and 5 losses on the way to the Georgia boy's basketball tournament last March, than a dramatic come-from-behind victory in the state finals."

"But now the new glass trophy case outside the high school gymnasium is bare. Earlier this month the Georgia High School Association deprived Rockdale County of the championship after school officials said that a player who was scholastically ineligible had played 45 seconds in the first of the school's five postseason games."

"'We didn't know he was ineligible at the time; we didn't know it until a few weeks ago,' Mr. Stroud said. 'Some people have said we should have just kept quiet about it, that it was just 45 seconds and the player wasn't an impact player. But you've got to do what's honest and right and what the rules say. I told my team that people forget the scores of basketball games; they don't forget what you're made of.'"
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], July 5, 1998, p. 4]

Mr. Standfast, one of the great characters of John Bunyan in Pilgrim's Progress, said these words as he was dying: "I am now going to see that head that was crowned with thorns, and see the face that was spit upon for me. I have formerly lived by hearsay and faith, but now I go where I shall live by sight, and shall be with Him in whose company I delight myself." That should be the anticipation of every Christian. But did you know that that's the anticipation of God? (Psa. 116:15). Do you know why? Because God wants to bring men to Himself.
[[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 28, 1998, p. 1]

GREAT IS GOD'S GLORY
Truly, the Bible often puts the spotlight on the praise and adoration that we ought to manifest toward our maker. In Psa. 138 we have a noble example of this marvelous expression of loyalty toward Jehovah: "Yea, they shall sing in the ways of the Lord: for great is the glory of the Lord." Ten sections later, we have the basis for the famous hymn we have knows since childhood: "Let them praise the name of the Lord, for His name alone is excellent; His glory is above the earth and heaven. Praise ye the Lord" (Psa. 148).

We should exalt Deity with our whole heart, not with timidity or hesitation. (Jer. 29:13). With right exuberance, and not halting apology our sincere gratitude must flow from grateful spirits. Today we ardently sing: "To God be the glory, Great things He hath done, So loved he the world that He gave us His Son."

What a debt we owe to such noble and generous giving toward mankind! What a loving God we have, who gave us His Son. Where would we be were it not for such beneficent grace? The psalmist enriches our concept of what genuine concern by the Creator is all about...(Psa. 138:6). An old hymn reminds us: "Again the Lord of light and life Awakes the kindling ray, Unseals the eyelids of the morn, And pours increasing day. Let gladness dwell in every heart, And praise, on every tongue."

God is not impressed with arrogance and earthly fame. Truth, humility and sincerity are richly blessed by our Father above. Our sorrow and trouble reaches heaven and touches the heart of God (Psa. 138). He does indeed see our tears and hear our prayers (Isa. 38:5).

W.H. Clark wrote these memorable words in song: "All praise to Him who reigns above In majesty supreme; Who gave His Son for man to die, That He might man redeem." (Psa. 138:8). We dare not live in such a manner that we miss such comfort! May we be sustained by the presence of God in our daily walk and loyally pursue the sunlight of divine love.

How can we give glory to God?
1. Live in such a way as to draw men to Him.
2. Learn the Bible so thoroughly we can teach it.
3. Sing praises to Him fervently and joyously.
4. Strengthen new Christians by noble examples.
5. Pray in deeper and richer words of meaning.
6. Bring wayward members back to God.
7. Convert our neighbors to Jesus!

Such spiritual endeavors will cause rejoicing in heaven (Luke 15:1). L.O. Sanderson challenged us: "Bring Christ your broken life, So marred by sin, He will create anew, Make whole again."
To God be the glory!
[by Johnny Ramsey from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 28, 1998, p. 2]

THE MEASURE OF A MAN'S CHARACTER IS NOT WHAT HE GETS FROM HIS ANCESTORS, BUT WHAT HE LEAVES HIS DESCENDANTS
If I can throw a single ray of light across the darkened pathway of another;
if I can aid some soul to clearer sight of life and duty, and thus bless my brother;
if I can wipe from any human cheek a tear,
I shall not have lived my life in vain while here.
If I can guide some erring one to truth, inspire within his heart a sense of duty;
if I can plant within my soul of rosy youth a sense of right, a love of truth and beauty;
if I can teach one man that God and heaven are near,
I shall not then have lived in vain while here.
If from my mind I banish doubt and fear, and keep my life attuned to love and kindness;
if I can scatter light and hope and cheer, and help remove the curse of mental blindness;
if I can make more joy, more hope, less pain,
I shall not have lived and loved in vain.
If by life's roadside I can plant a tree, beneath whose shade some wearied head may rest,
though I may never share its beauty, I shall yet be truly blest -
though no one knows my name, nor drops a flower upon my grave,
I shall not have lived in vain while here.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 28, 1998, p. 4]

Though the following story comes from the distant past, it speaks forcefully to the present: King Henry IV of France once asked the Duke of Alva if he had observed the great eclipse of the sun that had recently occurred. "No," said the duke, "I have so much to do on the earth that I have no leisure to look up into heaven." Commenting on this, Thomas Brooks said, "It is sad to think how heart and time are so taken up with earthly things that we have no leisure to look to Christ and the things that belong to everlasting peace." Yes, how foolish is the person who caters entirely to this temporal world! It gives only momentary pleasure, and cannot bring the eternal rewards of Heaven. Jesus told us...(Matt. 6:33).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 21, 1998, p. 1]

We had a terrible fire in the hills south of Los Gatos. Several thousand acres burned, including 42 houses or cabins. I saw the plume of smoke begin to rise on July 7, directly opposite my house in the Almaden Valley. I could tell that it was a big one. By the next night the smoke was much worse and you could see the red of the flames. News reports said it was out of control. Fire Department people were assessing the Montevideo tract of homes across from our church buildings to plan evacuation strategy. Jim Valenta had plans to remove records and books from the church offices if the fire came down the canyon.

Joyce and I had to leave for Anaheim the next morning to fulfill a speaking engagement at a convention, plus a TV interview and radio interview. I was concerned about the fire. We phoned home twice to check on the situation and watch the TV news. The fire fighters were heroic. To look today at all of those blackened hills and see houses still standing and undamaged amid the embers is amazing. It is hard to believe that they could save them in the inferno. Many who fought the flames were volunteers from all walks of life. To them and the expert professional fire fighters, we own a debt of gratitude.

But there is something else. Many were praying. Not only were those whose houses were endangered praying the prayer of desperation, many who ordinarily pray were praying the prayer of faith. My wife and I prayed each day, also.

The weather report called for extreme heat on July 10. No clouds were in sight. The fire situation was at its worst. Suddenly a little weather system appeared. It came out of nowhere, and it moved in over the fire and began to rain. That doesn't happen during the summer in California. It didn't rain much, just enough to give the advantage to the fire fighters.

Many answers to prayer are like that. They could be coincidental. But when we are and the answer comes in such a form, shouldn't we give credit everywhere it is due?
(Psa. 34:8; Psa. 107:1; Psa. 147:8; Acts 14:17).
[by Marvin Rickard from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 21, 1998, p. 2]

A man or a woman without a goal is like a ship without a rudder. Each will drift and not drive. Each will end up on the beaches of despair, defeat and despondency. John Henry Fabre, the great French naturalist, conducted a most unusual experiment with some Processionary Caterpillars. These caterpillars blindly follow the one in front of them. Hence, the name. Fabre carefully arranged them in a circle around the rim of a flower pot, so that the lead caterpillar actually touched the last one, making a complete circle. In the center of the flower pot he put pine needles, which is food for the Processionary Caterpillar. The caterpillars started around this circular flower pot. Around and around they went, hour after hour, day after day, night after night. For seven full days and seven full nights they went around the flower pot. Finally they dropped dead of starvation and exhaustion. With an abundance of food less than six inches away, they literally starved to death, because they confused activity with accomplishment. Many Christians make that same mistake.
(Prov. 29:18).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 21, 1998, p. 3]

The late Joe Bayly wrote about the death of the young from firsthand experience. He lost three children: one at eighteen days, after surgery; another at five years, with leukemia; the third at eighteen years, after a sledding accident complicated by mild hemophilia. Joe said, "Of all deaths, that of a child is most unnatural and hardest to bear." He did not underestimate the grief of parents. He added, "When a child dies, part of the parents is buried."
(II Sam. 18:33).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 21, 1998, p. 3]

IT'S BETTER TO DIE WITH A GOOD NAME THAN TO LIVE WITH A BAD ONE
A man once went to his attorney and made this request: "I am going into a business deal with a man I do not trust. I want you to frame an airtight contract that he can't break, and which will protect me from any sort of mischief he may have on his mind."

The attorney replied: "Frankly, there's no group of words in the English language that can take the place of plain honesty between men. There's nothing that can be put into a contract that will fully protect either of you if one of you plans to deceive the other."

Your name is tied to your character. If your character is bad so will be your name. You are wise to establish a reputation for having a good name, a reputation for being honest, trustworthy, and steadfast. Your name will not only follow you all the days of your life but all the days of your children's lives as well.

Before entering into a business deal or employment relationship, ask yourself:
1. How has this person treated others? Talk to his former associates, clients, vendors, and former employees.
2. How does this person talk about business? Does he brag about destroying others, or winning by shrewdness? If so, you are likely dealing with a scheming person who attempts to "use" people.
Work with those who have sterling reputations. Your own reputation is less likely to become tarnished.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 21, 1998, p. 4]

Sir Walter Scott had difficulty with the idea of "turning the other cheek." But Jesus' words took on special meaning one day when Scott threw a rock at a stray dog to chase it away. His aim was straighter and his delivery stronger than he had intended, for he hit the animal and broke its leg. Instead of running off, the dog limped over to him and licked his hand. Sir Walter never forgot that touching response. He said, "That dog preached the Sermon on the Mount to me as few ministers have ever presented it." Scott said he had not found human beings so ready to forgive their enemies.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 14, 1998, p. 1]

A TRIBUTE TO OUR BIBLE CLASS TEACHERS
I dreamed the pearly gates were opened wide
And I had entered in for I had died;
And now must give account for all my acts
I saw a Book there opened with these facts.
I thought, "My role upon this earth was small
Just teaching a Bible Class, my call."
For I saw all the saints of God up there,
And mine was, at most, a meager share.
I heard the master call for my report;
I stood afraid for mine was short;
I trembled and felt I would not pass,
Then whispered, "I just taught a Bible Class."
And from the throne I heard His voice, "Well done,
Come and share eternal life, my son;
Although your place was humble and obscure,
You led the thirsty to the waters pure."
And then it seemed that from eternal plains,
There came the sound of voices in refrain
That rolled across the mighty sea of glass,
"These are the great - the teachers of a class."
When I awoke I thought of those I'd taught,
And in their lives, what glory God had wrought,
I prayed to God, and all that I could say,
"Make me a better teacher day by day."
And you who teach this Christian Way to live,
May feel sometimes you're asked too much to give,
But some day you will reap eternal joys
Because you led to Christ, girls and boys.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 14, 1998, p. 2]

Henry Ward Beecher told of an acquaintance who barged into their home one day, his face flushed with anger. "He was in a terrible rage, supposing he had a serious grievance against us," said Beecher. "As the man aired all of his complaints, my father listened in complete silence. Then he said in a low tone, 'You only want to do what is right, don't you?' 'Certainly,' replied the disturbed visitor. Before anything could be explained, however, he again flew into a rage and restated his charge. Father then inquired gently, 'Brother, you are misinformed, wouldn't you be interested in knowing the true facts in the case?' When calmness was restored, our side of the story was quietly presented. The man cooled down as the circumstances were fully revealed. Meekly he said, 'Forgive me, Sir, forgive me! I was wrong!' My father had won a great victory. It was a lesson I never forgot, for it gave me an insight into the calming effect of Christian self-control."
(Gal. 5:22-23).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 14, 1998, p. 2]

THE CURE OF CRIME IS NOT IN THE ELECTRIC CHAIR, BUT IN THE HIGH CHAIR
The importance of the first few years of a child's life cannot be overestimated. It is during those years that the foundation is laid for a child's language ability, ethics, morality, and value systems. In his book, All Men are Brothers, Mahatma Gandhi said this about the instilling of values in very early childhood: "I am convinced that for the proper upbringing of children the parents ought to have a general knowledge of the care and nursing of babies... We labour under a sort of superstition that the child has nothing to learn during the first five years of its life. On the contrary, the fact is that the child never learns in after life what it does in its first five years. The education of the child begins with conception."

A woman, very much concerned about the rearing of her young son, once asked a psychoanalyst "How early should I begin the education of my child?"
The psychoanalyst replied with a question of his own, "When will your child be born?"
"Born?" the woman asked. "Why, he is already five years old!"
"My goodness, woman," the psychoanalyst cried, "don't stand there talking to me - hurry home! You have already wasted the best five years!"
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 14, 1998, p. 4]

Ever since the close of the Second World War Japanese volunteers have been searching the island of Saipan for the bodies of soldiers killed there. Of the 40,000 to 50,000 Japanese soldiers and dependents believed to have died there more than 30 years ago, only about half have been found. Because of that, there will be missions in the future looking for the dead.

The Church, too, has a mission for the dead. Men and women are "dead" in trespasses and sins, and the Church must seek them out and proclaim life in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Then, like the bones of Ezekiel's vision, these dead shall live.
(Eph. 2:1-10).
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 7, 1998, p. 1]

An incident from the American Revolution illustrates what tragedy can result from procrastination. It is reported that Colonel Rahl, commander of the British troops at Trenton, New Jersey, was playing cards when a courier brought an urgent message stating that General George Washington was crossing the Delaware River. Rahl put the letter in his pocket and didn't bother to read it until the game finished. Then, realizing the seriousness of the situation, he hurriedly tried to rally his men to meet the coming attack, but his procrastination was his undoing. He and many of his men were killed, and the rest of the regiment were captured.

Nolbert Quayle said, "Only a few minutes' delay cost him his life, his honor, and the liberty of his soldiers. Earth's history is strewn with the wrecks of half-finished plans and unexecuted resolutions. 'Tomorrow' is the excuse of the lazy and the refuge of the incompetent."
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 7, 1998, p. 3]

THE ART OF BEING A GOOD GUEST IS KNOWING WHEN TO LEAVE
A man and his wife once met a young couple about their age during a get-acquainted meeting after church. The next Sunday when they spotted the newcomers again, they invited them to their home for coffee after the Sunday evening service. The newcomers happily accepted their invitation.

Both the conversation and coffee were warm and cozy, but the evening began to grow long. Still, the young couple - perhaps overly eager to make friends - talked on and on about their move to the city, the learning curve they were experiencing in their new jobs, the difficulty they had settling their children into new schools, their long search for a church home, the trials of finding a dentist, doctor, shoe repairman, and dry cleaning establishment.

No matter how many times the host and hostess yawned or failed to reply, the couple had more to say. Finally, even the visiting couple began to yawn. Still, they made no motion toward leaving.

At long last, the host stood to his feet and with a wide stretch of his arms, he looked at his wife and said, "Well, darlin', let's go up to bed so these nice folks can go home!"

Your chances of being asked back are better when you don't wear out your welcome.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], June 7, 1998, p. 4]

A picture hangs in London that is one of the most tragic pictures ever painted. It portrays the last rough slope of a mountain leading to the edge of a precipice at the foot of which one catches a misty glimpse of a graveyard. A crowd of men and women, some in evening dress, some in the garb of toil, some in rags pack the slope, all struggling for a foothold on the highest point and tearing at and treading upon one another. They are gazing upward where the filmy, beckoning, mocking figure of pleasure floats out of reach. The picture is called The Pursuit of Pleasure. On that grim, ghostly sunless canvass the artist has not painted one happy face; not a smile, not a flicker of gladness; nothing but fear, hatred, selfishness, and pain is seen.
That picture tells the story of the world's pursuit of joy. Jesus tells us joy is not found there.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], May 31, 1998, p. 1]

SENIORS - GO FORTH TO LIFE
With a voice of congratulation, a word of praise, a tear of joy for you, and a shining star of hope, we extend these thoughts.

Years of work and accomplishment have come and gone, at times with hardly a notice! But here it is! The time parents and young people have looked toward with anticipation. We wanted the goal for you, but with a tinge of sadness it has come, and we are proud of your perseverance. The finality of this part of your preparation has made the difficulties that were encountered along the road all worthwhile!

The church of Christ has been an intrinsic part of your lives. By God's inspired Word, it has taught you to realize you will not be tempted above what you are able to bear (I Cor. 10:13). That the Lord's teaching, believed and received in your hearts, sustains you in times of indecision and helps you in the solution of our problems (I Pet. 5:7). It has taught you honesty and integrity that the world so needs today: telling the truth is better than lies; keeping your word will be approved wherever you may go; paying your debts will make you right in the sight of God and man; not taking that which belongs to others, even their good name, is the way to live; and being fair in our dealings with others will give us many happy days. Purity and maturity are continual goals of those who would live godly in Christ Jesus (II Tim. 3:12).

But the Lord's church should be the center of our lives. That which Christ built and gave His blood to purchase is of more value than any possession of earth or accomplishment in life. To be upright in the sight of man is important...but to be right before God is a million times more important! Jesus said...(Matt. 16:26). While living the Christian life, decisions comes much easier: What job shall I take? Who shall be my associates? Who shall I marry? And, on and on we could go. (Eccl. 12:13).

We are all proud of you! We want the best for you! All that now stands between you and the top of the ladder is the ladder! Place your foot on each step with care and "GO FORTH TO LIFE."
[by Gary Colley from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], May 31, 1998, p. 2]

Many churches wisely have a large clock behind the congregation where it is quite obvious to the preacher. Some don't. The one where Brother Sam has been invited to speak did not. As time when on, Brother Sam finally commented that he had forgotten his watch and asked, "Does anyone have the time?"
"There's a calendar right behind you," piped a voice.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], May 31, 1998, p. 3]

SORROW LOOKS BACK. WORRY LOOKS AROUND. FAITH LOOKS UP.
In Love and Duty, Anne Purcell writes about seeing Major Jim Statler standing with her minister outside his study after a Sunday service. She knew instantly that he was there with news about her husband, Ben, on active duty in Viet Nam. As she had feared, Jim gave her a chilling message: "He was on a helicopter that was shot down...he's missing in action."

Anne recalls, "Somewhere in the back of my mind, a little candle flame flickered. This tiny flame was the vestige of my faith." Days passed without word. To her, being an MIA wife was like being in limbo. She found herself only able to pray one thing: "Help me, dear Father." She says, "I hung onto this important truth - that He would help me - and the flickering flame of my candle of faith began to grow." Then, one day, she noticed a white dove sitting in her yard. It was particularly beautiful, very still and quiet, and a highly uncommon sight in her neighborhood. She took it as a sign from God that He was, indeed, always near.

For five years, Anne Purcell clung to the fact that God was near. Little did she know that during those years before she was reunited with her husband, he was whispering to her from a POW cell, "Anne, find solace and strength in the Lord."
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], May 31, 1998, p. 4]

PERSEVERANCE

A man was born in 1872 in Zanesville, Ohio, played semi-pro baseball in his youth, became a dentist practicing in New York City and hated it. To escape, he fished the upper Delaware River. Married in 1905 to a girl with a small inheritance, he tried to write for a living and failed miserably. Living under poverty conditions, the only articles he could sell were fishing stories about bass and trout to various small outdoor magazines. He published a novel with his wife's money, but it failed. He wrote two more - no sale. At age 35, his life was going nowhere. Then he went West, stayed several weeks at a Westerner's ranch on the rim of the Grand Canyon, and described it in another novel he titled The Last of the Plainsmen. Not only was it rejected; he was told he had no future as a writer and to give it up.

Then, in 1912, he wrote what many concede is the greatest Western novel, which he called Riders of the Purple Sage. After some problems, it was accepted and became an instant best-seller.

An industrious person (he never drank or smoked), he wrote book after book with an ever-mounting success. Immense wealth began to flow to him. Even in the worst years of the Depression, his annual income - at a time when taxes were negligible - was a half-million dollars a year.

He used the money to fish. He became one of the world's foremost fishermen and pioneering in fishing waters all over the earth. He explored Australia, New Zealand and Tahiti in his own famous yacht, Fisherman, a large Grand Banks schooner, and then Fisherman II, an elegant steam yacht nearly 300 feet long. Hearing tales of giant tuna in Nova Scotia, he traveled there and found them out of open dories. He was one of the first to fish with light tackle for tarpon and bonefish in the Florida Keys. He fished for salmon and steelhead and built a fine lodge on Oregon's Rogue River that's a landmark to this day.

Another one of his favorite sports was roping mountain lions, and he hunted for quail up on the beautiful Arizona plateau country.

Yet while all that was going on, the books kept coming. He never stopped writing, seldom for even a day. He wrote 65 books that were published while he lived, and 24 that were published after he died - the last in 1963. Total copies sold: more than 50 million. Forty-nine novels were made into motion pictures. And about 1 million copies of hardcover, soft-cover and paperback books written by this man are still sold every year.

Zane Grey: the man who wouldn't give up, despite publishers' telling him that he should get into some other line. He was 40 before he sold his first book, but he became one of the greatest literary forces of his time. And now, 50 years after his death, he's still a powerful literary force.
[from The Church of Christ at Sycamore Chapel [bulletin], May 24, 1998, p. 2]

DASH
I read of a man who stood to speak
At the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on her tombstone
From the beginning... to the end.
He noted at first came her date of birth He spoke the last date with tears,
But he said what mattered most of all
Was the small dash between those years.
1900-1970
For that dash represents all the time
That she was alive on earth..
Now only those who loved her
Know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not, how much we own;
The cars...the house...the cash,
What matters is how we live and love
And how we spend our dash.
So think about this long and hard...
Are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left,
That can still be rearranged.
If we could just slow down enough
To consider what's true and real,
And always try to understand
The way other people feel.
And be less quick to anger
And show appreciation more
And love the people in our lives
Like we've never loved before.
If we treat each other with respect,
And more often wear a smile...
Remembering that this special dash
Might only last a little while
So when your eulogy's being read
With your life's actions in rehash
Would you be proud of the things they
say about how you spent your dash?

PRAYER AT THE KANSAS SENATE LEGISLATURE  NOV. 30, 1998
This prayer was actually spoken before the Kansas State Legislature.
When minister Joe Wright was asked to open the new session of the Kansas Senate, everyone was expecting the usual generalities, but what they heard instead was a stirring prayer, passionately calling our country to repentance and righteousness.

The response was immediate. A number of legislators walked out during the prayer in protest. In six short weeks, the Central Christian Church had logged more than 5,000 phone calls with only 47 of those calls responding negatively. The church is now receiving international requests for copies of the prayer from India, Africa, and Korea.

Commentator Paul Harvey aired the prayer on The Rest of the Story on the radio and received a larger response to this program than any other he has ever aired!!!

THE PRAYER

Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask Your forgiveness and to seek
Your direction and guidance.
We know Your Word says, "Woe on those who call evil good," but that's exactly what we have done.
We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values. We confess that:
*We have ridiculed the absolute truth of Your Word and called it pluralism.
*We have worshipped other gods and called it multi-culturalism.
*We have endorsed perversion and called it an alternative lifestyle.
*We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery.
*We have neglected the needy and called it self-preservation.
*We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare.
*We have killed our unborn children and called it a choice.
*We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable.
*We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self-esteem.
*We have abused power and called it political savvy.
*We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition.
*We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression.
*We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment.

Search us, O God, and know our hearts today;
Cleanse us from every sin and set us free.
Guide and bless these men and women who have been sent to direct us to the center of Your will.
I ask it in the name of Your Son, the living Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

With the Lord's help, may this prayer sweep our nation and wholeheartedly become our desire so that we again can be called a Christian nation that fears the Lord!

WHAT IS HE TO YOU?
In Genesis, He is the Creator God.
In Exodus, He is the Redeemer.
In Leviticus, He is your sanctification.
In Numbers, He is your guide.
In Deuteronomy, He is your teacher.
In Joshua, He is the mighty conqueror.
In Judges, He gives victory over enemies.
In Ruth, He is your kinsman, your lover, your redeemer.
In I Samuel, he is the root of Jesse;
In II Samuel, He is the Son of David.
In I Kings and II Kings, He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords
In I Chronicles and II Chronicles, He is your intercessor and High Priest.
In Ezra, He is your temple, your house of worship.
In Nehemiah, He is your mighty wall, protecting you from your enemies.
In Esther, He stands in the gap to deliver you from your enemies.
In Job, He is the arbitrator who not only understands your struggles, but has the power to do something about them.
In Psalms, He is your song-and your reason to sing.
In Proverbs, He is your wisdom, helping you make sense out of life and live it successfully.
In Ecclesiastes, He is your purpose, delivering you from vanity.
In the Song of Solomon, He is your lover, your Rose of Sharon.
In Isaiah, He is the mighty counselor, the prince of peace, the everlasting father, and more. In short, He's everything you need.
In Jeremiah, He is your balm of Gilead, the soothing salve for your sin-sick soul.
In Lamentations, He is the ever faithful one upon whom you can depend.
In Ezekiel, He is your wheel in the middle of a wheel-the one who assures that dry, dead bones will come alive again.
In Daniel, He is the ancient of days, the everlasting God who never runs out of time.
In Hosea, He is your faithful lover, always beckoning you to come back-even when you have abandoned Him.
In Joel, He is your refuge, keeping you safe in times of trouble.
In Amos, He is the husbandman, the one you can depend on to stay by your side.
In Obadiah, He is Lord of the Kingdom.
In Jonah, He is your salvation, bringing you back within His will.
In Micah, He is judge of the nation.
In Nahum, He is the jealous God.
In Habakkuk, He is the Holy One.
In Zephaniah, He is the witness.
In Haggai, He overthrows the enemies.
In Zechariah, He is Lord of Hosts.
In Malachi, He is the Restorer of Marriages; He also opens the windows of Heaven and pours out Blessings on those who tithe faithfully.
In Matthew, He is king of the Jews.
In Mark, He is the servant.
In Luke, He is the Son of Man, feeling what you feel.
In John, He is the Son of God.
In Acts, He is Savior of the world.
In Romans, He is the righteousness of God.
In I Corinthians, He is the rock that followed Israel.
In II Corinthians, He is the triumphant one, giving victory.
In Galatians, He is your liberty; He sets you free.
In Ephesians, He is head of the Church.
In Philippians, He is your joy.
In Colossians, He is your completeness.
In I Thessalonians, He is your hope.
In II Thessalonians, He is the LORD of peace.
In I Timothy, He is your faith.
In II Timothy, He is your stability.
In Titus, He is the washer, regenerator and re-newer of our souls.
In Philemon, He is your benefactor.
In Hebrews, He is your perfection.
In James, He is the power behind your faith.
In I Peter, He is your example.
In II Peter, He is your purity.
In I John, He is your life.
In II John, He is your pattern.
In III John, He is your motivation.
In Jude, He is the foundation of your faith.
In the Revelation, He is your coming King.

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