Friday, November 30, 2007

I Couldn't Help But Listen # 2

Yesterday I was enjoying another tea from Starbucks. Although the conversations were not as shocking as before, here's what I observed. I play guitar...I have been playing for about 8 years now. I say that to say this...don't bring your guitar to Starbucks and serenade people trying to enjoy life sans off tune singing of Metallica and Collective Soul classics. The instance of this particular socially ignorant group of guys brought back annoying memories of college. It seemed everywhere you went on campus there was someone, or group of people strumming away...the cafeteria while I was cramming for Dr. Lee tests, the gym, the dorm lobbies during football games, etc. My issue is not that I hate guitars, but please don't subject everyone to it in a public place!

Another interesting observation I had was from a Starbucks employee on her cigarette break. It kills me that Starbucks would allow their employees to go outside, sit next to customers and smoke. The image of sophistication goes down the drain when the first thing a patron sees is the employees wafting smoke in their faces. employees should have a designated place out back to do this. I also don't like hearing about their urine test results from last week! no...I'm not kidding! This employee said something else that related to the "Name Brand Association" of Starbucks. While she was on the phone with her friends, she never mentioned she was "at work" when people asked her location...she said "I'm at Starbucks" Starbucks has become a lifestyle, a household name, etc. that even the employee didn't refer to it as work! I thought that was interesting.

Thursday, November 29, 2007

"Baby Grace" Murder

Wow...I don't normally link too many news articles but this one is just appalling to me. Where is this world going when we would kill a child for not saying "please" or "Yes Sir"? ...Warning, if you have small children this might make you cry. Click here to read the story.

An Addition, A Subtraction

Some changes to mention here at Modern Day Thomas. You will notice that Jessica is no longer combining her thoughts directly here. She has expressed the desire to create her own blog. I will link it as soon as she gets it going. I love you Babe!

We have a new addition to our household! Back in October, our cat Lucy was put to sleep (you can read why in "In Memory of our Precious Princess Kitty") well...another adorable little feline has caught our affection. "Millie" has been with us for a few weeks and is starting to get used to her new surroundings and getting fixed too!

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

A Little Rain or Global Destruction?

Was The Genesis Flood Universal?

Absolutely!!! How? Why?

Here are some points to consider why it wasn't a local flood:
1. The Need for an Ark - If the flood was local, there would be no need for an ark at all. Noah could have just walked away from the area to be destroyed.
2. The Size of the Ark - Why was is so big if it would only need to withstand a localized flood?
3. Why bother with animals? - No need to save animals that would be living in another part of the world already! The Bible says that birds were collected also, showing the global flood proof.
4. Mountains - A local flood could not raise waters 20 feet above the mountains...the water would spread out not up! How is it that they have found marine fossils on Mt. Everest?
5. God promised no more floods to destroy earth- If this is so why do we have Katrina like floods, Mississippi River Floods a few years ago...The promise was that of a universal flood, not local flooding.

Just some points to ponder...coming up, some objections to the Global Flood belief.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

A follow up on my Young Life Rant

Every now and then I am humbled. Looking back on my previous bash on Young Life probably was a little pre-mature and nicer words could have been used. For that I apologize to Young Life as a whole. After speaking with an anonymous YL leader from another part of the country he assured me that their ministry is Christ honoring and evangelistic. No ministry organization is perfect, mine is definitely not either...I guess I just got a little heated about this conversation I heard. From now on I will confront the brother\sister first before lashing out on my blog.

Morgan Freeman Does A Good God


I watched the movie Evan Almighty the other day and really enjoyed it. Bruce Almighty was very funny too. For some reason I think they (holloywood) did a good job in picking Morgan Freeman as God. Evan Almighty had a few non-biblical additions to the story but that was expected. The reason I am writing about this is not to say that God looks like Freeman or that Christians should watch these movies for deep spiritual insight, but I want to get back into some theology\Apologetics postings about the creation and flood accounts in Genesis.

The Flood...How did Noah get all the animals of the world into an ark?

Doubters' Question Mark:

1. Too many animals for one man and family to gather, take care of, and house on the ark.
An Answer:

1. Unlike Evan Almighty, the Bible did not say two of every animal in the world...it says two of each "kind" of animal, bird, creature that crawls on the earth (Genesis 6:19-20). This word "kind" refers to the classification system we use today to identify animals. It is possible that Noah only had to bring two dogs, two cats, two cows, tow hippos, etc. Noah didn't have to bring two golden retrievers, two labs, two bulldogs, etc. because we know that through breeding these different "types" are made available. So, Noah did have a bunch of animals, but not as many as normally thought.

2. About the gathering of animals...Noah didn't have to go and find them...God said He'd bring them to Noah! (Genesis 6:20). This was one thing the movie got right! It was rather comical to see all the animals follow Evan (Noah) to work!

Coming Up...Was the Flood Universal or Local?

Monday, November 26, 2007

I Couldn't Help But Listen # 1

Every now and then I sit outside Starbucks (for tea only...there coffee sucks) or I'm at the finest coffee establishment in the world, JavaMoon Coffee just enjoying myself when it happens....There is always some person who is oblivious to their surroundings and blares out a conversation for the whole place to listen in on. Most of these conversations aren't worth listening to but a few can be quite interesting. I do not make a habit of eavesdropping, but we all have been in situations where we couldn't help but listen. Thus this post series I will start today and continue till eternity upon hearing something enlightening by someone who thinks their conversation was private and meaningless. I now take you back to Saturday night Nov. 24th, 2007. I was sipping on hot tea at Starbucks outside and a couple of friends who hadn't seen each other in a while sat in the next table. My ear tuned in when they started talking about going to Bible School and becoming a Young Life Director. If you don't know what Young Life is consider yourself blessed because it has always reeked havoc on youth ministries here in my county. Young Life is a "Youth Group" that travels from church to church in a region. Having attended them and talked with leaders, I can say that my opinion of them is nothing more of a glorified popular, rich-kid social hangout that focuses on events and having fun instead of getting in the word of God and worshipping him. Listening to this wannabee leader I heard him say that while he was in training, he went on "mission" to this one high scool, he then said that he played basketball with some of the kids later and then bought them beer and drank that night at his house!!!!! Wow!!! I wanted ever so badly to throw my boiling hot English brew in his face for doing that. My views on drinking are not that it is necessarily wrong or unbiblical, but to give it to minors while trying to be their spiritual mentor is absolutely appalling to me.

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Is Your Church On The List?


grabbed this link from Think Christian. Pretty interesting to see what is around us. The post was really dealing with mega-churches in general so check it out. To see the list of Mega Churches click here (it may take a while to load)

My Cup Has Overflowed

Last night was our annual Thanksgiving Service at church and there was a very touching moment when a lady in our church who is battling cancer got up and read this poem. It really makes you think how someone who is very sick can still feel blessed.
DRINKING FROM MY SAUCER by Jimmy Stewart

I've never made a fortune and it's probably too late now;
But I don't worry about that much, I'm happy anyhow.
And as I go along life's way I'm reaping better than I sow;
I'm drinking from my saucer 'Cause my cup has overflowed.
Haven't got a lot of riches and sometimes the going's tough,
But I've got loving ones around me and that makes me rich enough.
I thank God for his blessings and the mercies he's bestowed;
I'm drinking from my saucer 'cause my cup has overflowed.
O, remember times when things went wrong my faith wore somewhat thin;
But all at once the dark clouds broke and sun peeped through again.
So Lord, help me not to gripe about the tough rows that I've hoed;
I'm drinking from my saucer 'Cause my cup has overflowed.
If God gives me strength and courage when the way grows steep and rough,
I'll not ask for other blessings I'm already blessed enough.
And may I never be too busy to help others bear their loads;
Then I'll keep drinking from my saucer 'Cause my cup has overflowed

I hope this is encouraging to you this Thanksgiving Holiday...mmmmmm turkey dinner tomorrow!!!

Monday, November 19, 2007

On to Psalms

For my normal readers, I have been going through the Bible from cover to cover and a few weeks ago I posted how I was struggling to get through the book of Job. Well I did finally finish it. I don't know why I get so weird when I read that book. The problem is not the length or anything but the content. Everytime I read about Job I am reminded of the foolishness I have when I worry about things like money, friends, work, the future, etc. Job never cursed God in his sorrow and pain. I have done it way too much. This past week I was in Daytona, Fl. and thought it very ironic that the same day I finished Job, I heard a sermon from Job by one of the speakers! It brought a fresh insight into how to read it the next time I venture into it. Well now it's on to Psalms and Proverbs! (wow...I'm half-way there!!!)

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Moving Forward


This is what the ladies in my Bible study went over this Monday:


Remember the song that said "Oh be careful little mouth what you say"? Well, Proverbs 18:21 reminded me of this section of the song because it says: "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit." Are the fruits of your tongue bringing death or life?

That was the big question. We are going to look at three areas of doubt and see what we can do to yield fruits of life.


1. Sickness. There are so many people with ailments and I cannot explain why one has cancer and the next guy is seemingly healthy. What have come to know, though, is that my God is greater than any sickness. Matthew 8:17b says "He took our illnesses and bore our diseases". Also, the Lord's prayer was recently brought to my attention in a new light. It says: : "Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on Earth as it is in heaven." Jesus said on Earth as it is in heaven. Well, in heaven we are physically and spiritually restored, right? We cannot let the enemy taint our minds anymore. God is bigger and stronger than our infirmities!!

2. Do you think that you lack faith? Romans 12:3 says that God has given each of us a measure of faith. Stop doubting your abilities to be who God wants you to be. You are already there. We all need growth, but God wants your willing heart. I believe that our mind can be our biggest obstacle in life. I know that it is one of mine. I am always trying to understand/figure out what God is doing. I really must stop and spend more time on who He is. He is sooo much bigger, stronger, and loving than we could ever imagine. He has already given you faith, just rest in knowing who He is.

3.Do you have bondage/defeat in areas of your life? 2 Cor. 3:17 says"Now the Lord is the spirit, and where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." and 1Cor. 6:19 says that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, therefore we have freedom. Don't you doubt it either because John 8:36 says "So if the son sets you free, you will be free indeed." Are you going to argue with God?

All of this is for a point. We spend so much of our time focusing on our problems instead of focusing on God!!

I heard the analogy recently that speaks of a man who was driving his car while only looking through the rear view mirror. If someone was doing this, what would happen? It would probably lead to death or serious injury, right? Well, now that we know that there is freedom from sickness, lack of faith, and bondage, we cannot go on living like we do not know this. It will lead to our destruction. We must look out onto the road ahead and move forward. Don't live your life looking in the rear view mirror only seeing your past defeats, sins, and anything else that is holding you back. Look to the Lord to guide you.

I leave you with one last statement: "Stop telling God about your problems, and start telling your problems about your God"!!!! (read John 14:8-15 it is full of truths that relate)


I hope this makes sense to all!! LoVe -JeSsIcA =) Ps-Grammy and Mom, that picture is for you. I cannot wait to see my mommy on her birthday!!

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

The Not So Popular Bible Characters #6


Onesimus - The book of Philemon
I hope you read the whole book of Philemon (it's only 25 verses) because if you did, you will notice a real life prodigal son story! Onesimus was a slave\servant of Philemon who was a close friend to Paul. Onesimus ran away from his bondage and took refuge under Paul while he was in prison. Paul counsels Onisemus to return to his master and face his discipline.

Relevance: Some thoughts I gather on this man are that he had great courage to first flee his slavery, and then return to his master. Also, Onesimus ministered to his "fellow brother" Paul (v.16). Do we help build each other up or spend our life tearing each one down? Do we care about the past life of a believer, or help them deal with the future? Do we have the boldness as Onesimus had in facing his past in order to make things right? Something to think about!

I'm Back From Convention

Hello everyone,
I'm back now from the Florida Baptist Convention in Daytona Beach, Fl. and ready to tackle the pile of papers, messages, and bills on my desk. Fusion should be great tonight and I am looking forward to Grind, Grub, and Golf Day this saturday.
The convention went well and overall it was an enjoyable time with great music, preaching, and meeting old college buddies from BCF. The business meeting part was quite boring to be completely honest with you, but it was necessary.

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Gone Fishin...I wish!

Well I am off to Daytona for the week due to the annual Florida Baptist State Convention. I should be back to post about all my adventures on thursday! Anyways, have a great week everybody!

Friday, November 9, 2007

Dull Men's Club Monthly Celebration #1



Ok all you Dull Men out there...I have the dull men's club link below on my blog. Each month has their own unique emphasis. This is a funny site to peruse when you are bored. NOVEMBER is

Celebrate the FIG Month!

The Not So Popular Bible Characters #5


Moving on to the New Testament, An interesting story comes from the account of :

Simeon - Luke 2:21-35 read it here!

Simeon was a very righteous and devout man (v.25) and what must of been awesome in his life was knowing that he would get to see the Messiah before he died. I can imagine everyday was filled with wonder and expectation for the coming King of Kings. One day while he was in the Temple, it says the Holy Spirit moved him (v.27) and he knew the Christ was there! Simeon then blessed the child and gave a message to his parents about Jesus' future (v.34-35).

The relevance: Why did God give Simeon the honor of prolonging life until the Christ came? Perhaps it was because he was righteous, holy, a true worshipper of God. Simeon had to have daily anticipated the Lord's coming! Do we? Does the Holy Spirit move us in ways He moved Simeon in the Temple? The Holy Spirit is always trying to move us...we don't always yield to Him! I'm not prophesying on the return of our Lord in our lifetime or anything like that, but are you anticipating it? Think about it.

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

The Not So Popular Bible Characters #4

Ashpenaz - (Daniel Chapter 1)

In the book of Daniel, we see the capturing of Jerusalem by King Nebuchadnezzar (cool names huh?) anyways, Ashpenaz was the chief of all the king's officials. He was ordered to bring some of the Israelite men to be royal servants and such. Daniel was one of them. Daniel and his close friends Hananiah (Shadrach) Mishael (Meshach) and Azariah (Abednego) did not want to defile themselves with the unclean food at the palace. Ashpenaz was afraid he would be killed if they didn't follow the orders but Daniel gained trust in Ashpenaz (v.9). Ashpenaz allowed Daniel to test the diet for 10 days and they were more healthy and nourished than all the others!

The relevance here is that Ashpenaz was not a believer but gained compassion, trust, and liking towards these men. What was it that made him change? I think that Daniel and his buddies were very respectful, obedient, etc. and Ashpenaz remembered that. We as Christians are constantly being watched by unbelievers. They want to see if we really live the way we believe. Ashpenaz saw the truth in these men, do others change their way of thinking based on your life? Think about it!

Tuesday, November 6, 2007

The Not So Popular Bible Characters #3

Obed – (Ruth 4:13-22) read it here

Obed was interesting due to who he was born to. The story of Ruth is an awesome story of redemption, faith, and perserverance. It is a picture of our Lord redeeming us and providing our every need. Obed was born to Boaz and Ruth after Boaz became kinsmen redeemer to her. Obed then went on and was the father of Jesse who was the father of King David! The lineage of Jesus can be traced back through Obed and Ruth. Another interesting tidbit about the name “Obed” it means “Worshipper” Are you Obed? Do you worship the One true God? (Obed-Elohim) or the world (Obed-World???) I don’t know the Hebrew for world in case you were wondering.

Monday, November 5, 2007

Good to Great Book Review


I received this book at a pastor's luncheon a month ago and decided to thumb through it. To be honest with you...the book didn't do much for me. It's a basic ten step outline book with too many illustrations and not enough author input. I can't stand it when authors don't write on their own thoughts. Illustrations are vital to makes points come alive from time to time but come on writers...every point and sub point doesn't need one! To save you time, all you need to read is the 10 steps headlines: Great Christians...

1. Think Great Thoughts
2. Read Great Books (ironic isn't it)
3. Pursue Great People
4. Dream Great Dreams
5. Pray Great Prayers
6. Take Great Risks
7. Make Great Sacrafices
8. Enjoy Great Moments
9. Empower Great People
10. Develop Great Habits

The Not So Popular Bible Characters #2

Ham - (Genesis 9:18-29) read it here

This is one of my favorite stories because Christians are too embarrassed to talk about it because of Noah being a drunk naked man!

After the flood, Noah planted a vineyard (v.20) and when the harvest came he made some wine and got drunk on it! (I'm sorry but this wine must not of been grape juice if he got drunk) anyways, about Ham...Ham walked in on his father while he was passed out naked on the floor and he didn't do anything to hide the shame. Ham went and told his brothers. Shem and Japheth covered there father with a blanket. When Noah woke up (probably with a hangover!) he cursed Ham and decreed that his descendants will be slaves to the other brother's descendants!
When we see someone we care about doing something stupid, sinful, etc. what do we do? Are we like Ham and tell others about it? or are we like Shem and Japheth that realized the problem, helped the individual, and did not involve themselves in gossip or mockery. Something to think about!

Friday, November 2, 2007

The Not So Popular Bible Characters #1

O.K. readers, I'm embarking on a journey for the next few weeks on Bible characters many have either never heard of or haven't payed much attention to. The reason I am doing this is first, they are in the Bible for a reason, they teach us great truths, and in some ways are just like me and you today. I hope to add a new one each day (except weekends) while also entering in any other post I feel I want to share. Hope you enjoy it! And the first contestant is.....

Ehud - (Judges 3:12-30) click here to read passage!

This man is one of my favorites so I'll start with him. If you read the passage, you are probably wondering what's so great about him...all he did was murder a morbidly obese king. The thing I love about this man is that the Bible does not say he is talented in many ways, good-looking, rich, or popular among people. Look in verse 15. Ehud is given the adjective "left handed man" that's it! God called Ehud to deliver Israel because his special gift was his left hand! Because of his uniqueness, he was able to hide a dagger\small sword in his right thigh (the normal soldier wore in on the outer left thigh. The guards didn't notice he was "packing heat" (no concealed permits needed back in those days!)

THE RELEVANCE : God can use you for his purpose! Each of us are created uniquely for His glory. Many times we wish that we could sing like someone else, be famous, speak better in public, etc. when all we need to do is use the abilities and talents God gave to us. The only thing special about Ehud was that he was left-handed and look what he did!