Agnaphos Inklings

Aroou and the Witch

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Fri, 02 Aug 2019 02:09:00 +0000

“Beck Moi Tchew!” You crack me up! I always knew that would come back to haunt me. After all it was just one time that it happened. I can count. It is not a problem at all. The issue is not in my counting, and I am not an idiot. All this started one night when I happened upon a witch’s hut. Of course I did not know she was a witch at the time. As I said, I happened upon the hut and came up to the front door. There on the doorstep was a scattered pile of coins that had to have fallen from the witch’s purse. I must have some kind of obsessive compulsive thing going as if there is something that it out of place I need to straighten them. So, that’s what I was trying to do. Pick them up and put them in a pile. I struggled to count more than twelve because I can not hold more than that many coins with my claws. They are just too long. You see they slip right through. I get to twelve and then I run out of room in my hands. The claws can not pick up or carry any more.

As I tried to pick them up, I had gotten to twelve and they slipped out of my hands. It made a great noise and must have alerted the person inside. While I was trying to work faster I heard the rustle of the occupant. I was made. I tried to run but somehow tripped over my own feet and crashed into the ground kissing the cobblestone path. The door flew open and out she came with broom in hand. This is when I came to the conclusion that I had happened across the wrong hut. This was not going to be good. She was a witch all right, as she was chanting and incanting some sort of witchy spell. Sparks were coming out of her broom and some sort of vile smell was being emitted from a vial in her other hand. She threw the vial at me and missed by only inches. It went flying past me and broke on the ground just a few feet from me. The contents turned into a great neon green cloud. The smell was terrible and the reek permeated into everything, including me. I was starting to get woozy...tired...feeling sick. That is when the lightning came out of nowhere and hit me on the melon. Ooo weee, it was smarts! See this. (He lifted his hat and revealed a white stripe from the middle of his forehead to the back of his head.) That’s why I wear a hat so that I do not look like a damned skunk. I ran as fast as I could, into the woods deeper and deeper. I ran until the potion took over and I fell to the ground and was out. When I awoke, I was exactly where I had fallen asleep. The witch never bothered to follow. It was years later that I found out why. When she came out onto the cobblestone path and stepped on the coins I had piled there. She must have slipped on the coins, fell, and then hit her head on the stairs. She died right there. That is why to this day witches do not like me at all. Simply it is best to just stay out of their way. After all, witches be crazy!

Back?

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Thu, 01 Aug 2019 14:50:00 +0000

It has been some time since any thing has been updated on the blog. I wonder where time goes? Anyway? I thought I might try posting some excerpts from some of my fiction. I know that I do not have many follower but at least I am sharing this with the "interwebs". Be Blessed and Be a Blessing!

O Sleeper, Let the Dreamer Dream

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Fri, 02 Dec 2016 19:46:00 +0000

O Sleeper, Let the Dreamer Dream
By A.R. Bradseth

O Sleeper
Let the Dreamer dream
To dream of days
And dream of nights
O Sleeper
Let the Dreamer dream
To dream of dreams of long ago.
And dream of things yet to happen
They will dream of things yet to be done
O Sleeper
The power is your in hands
O Sleeper do you know?
The power is in your heart
O Sleeper do you know?
The power is yours to fulfill
O Sleeper do you know?
The power is there to kill the dreams
O Sleeper did you know?
Do not murder the Dreamer
O Sleeper do you realize your power?
Do not kill the dream
Embrace all that is good
Engage the one who is dreaming that they may dream
O Sleeper do you know what you have been given?
The power is there to help the dreams happen
O Sleeper
Let the Dreamer dream

© 2016 Emmanuel Transmission

Posting for the sake of posting

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Sat, 19 Nov 2016 21:25:00 +0000

I have not forgotten the blog but simply have not chosen it to be part of my normal writing activity. I find myself wanting to be less polarizing. Less confrontational. Less of an agitator and more of someone that lets things go. Now that does not happen with everything. I am still a grump with my kids and wife unfortunately. I have tried to spend less time watching the news and even sports because of the aggression that is caused by it. In fact, because of the political climate it feels like a person does not dare say anything unless they want to be ostracized and ridiculed. There is such a need for peace in this world that I feel just like everything I have done has been for naught. Just all of this is me venting. I not even sure I will publish this, but it is so troubling that the world has slipped into such a disarray of hatred and haters. Has the golden rule been lost? Has the Greatest Commandment been dismantled? I am not so sure anymore.

So, my energy has been placed in my fiction. Thankfully that after 21 years of preaching I have a little bit of material to rework. My fiction has been giving me some renewed energy to write. If something comes of it, that is to be seen. however it is still something that provides some creative energy to flow.
Be Blessed and be a Blessing!
Anthony

A Blessed Nation

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Sun, 05 Jul 2015 13:52:00 +0000

I am a Patriot!

I love the United States of America.

I love my country in which I live.

I love to watch the Stars and Stripes of Old Glory fly.

I love the people of my country

I love life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness

I love freedom of religion, I love freedom of speech

I love freedom of the press, freedom to assemble, the freedom to bear arms.

I love The United States of America.

But I love God more. I Love God More!

There was a time when we had the Ten Commandments on the wall of the cafeteria.

There was a time that we took time in the morning to pray.

There was a time that the Bible was considered to be school literature.

There was a time when we said the pledge without anyone objecting.

There was a time when saying something is a sin was not considered a hate crime.

There was a time when being tolerant still meant you could have a Christian opinion.

But I love God More! I love God more.

Most of us can recently recall when our nation was a nation that held Judeo-Christian values.

We recall Presidents and political leaders praying in public.

We remember them asking for God to bless America.

We remember when the Rev. Billy Graham was one of the frequent advisors to the president.

We remember when Israel was considered to be an ally and not a preventer of peace.

We remember when America stood for freedom and justice.

And then I recall that I Love God more! I Love God More!

Our Nation has seen tragedy and victory.

Our Nation has fallen apart and stood together.

Our Nation grown in numbers and been high in spirit.

Our Nation has been struck down and yet bounced back up.

Our Nation has fought hard and yet abounds in compassion.

Our Nation has been compromised and yet been idolized.

And Still, I know I love God more! I love God more.

Long ago the Psalmist wrote:

¹²Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage! ¹³The LORD looks down from heaven; he sees all the children of man; ¹⁴from where he sits enthroned he looks out on all the inhabitants of the earth, ¹⁵ he who fashions the hearts of them all and observes all their deeds. Psalm 33:12-15 (ESV)

Is God watching us now? Is God seeing our deeds? Are we still part of God’s heritage? Are we a blessed Nation? Are we one Nation under God?

All I can do is answer for myself! I am a Patriot. I Love the United States of America.

But I love God More! I love God more!

Reflecting on Renewal

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Thu, 15 Jan 2015 18:13:00 +0000

Luke 5:16 (ESV) ¹⁶ But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.

Ahh, thanks I needed this. Have you said that before? I hope you have. My question is how often does the average pastor truly get away from the office and the church to be alone and pray? I would imagine that it is not nearly enough. I know so many folks that the only time they get out of the office is to make it to the hospital. I am not sure that is what Jesus intended ministry to be like. To be alone gives us a new perspective. We find that it is one of the very things that Jesus did over and over to keep his head in the ministry game. Ministry is tough. We have to be tough. And yet, like sandpaper on the skin, it will do more than irritate. I think it is necessary to step away so that we do not become too calloused. I share with you all to just take some time for reflection and renewal. It does not need to be much or even very long. Just go to a desolate place and pray. I believe that you will be renewed and will be blessed.

Relevance in Worship

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 19:58:00 +0000

I am one of those people who love to try new things. I like to go new places, try new restaurants and foods. Also I like to have new and inventive ideas for worship. This last Sunday was one such day.

First I want to say how awesome the people of Brushton UMC are in putting up with me. They have given me allowance to experiment, grow and heal. It is true that I owe them so very much. So let me tell you what happened last Sunday that truly opened my eyes.

It was one of those miserable January days in the NY North Country to say the least. The night before had brought us some snow and lots of freezing rain. My driveway was like a skating rink and the roads were icy. There was very little little travel going on and we knew that several cars were in the ditch. It was one of those days where I called several people and contemplated canceling the worship service. In the end, we called off Sunday School that morning and told people to use good judgement as to if they should try to make it in or not. When it came for worship we had only a small group, maybe a fifth of our normal attendance. But none of that was going to let any of us was going to let the weather or the attendance size get us down. In fact, I believe the intimate size of the group let to a very special movement of God.

I opened the service with a special Christmas number that I had done the week before. We continued with two congregational hymns and then had our offering. Normally we have communion on the first Sunday of the month but we decided to wait until next week for that. To continue, I did something that I had always wanted to do for many years. Of those present I asked for three different people to pick out three different sections or verses from the Bible. Then I asked for two minutes to read the verses and prepare. It was from those verses I would prepare a Gospel message for all of us there.

The first verse that was suggested was 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22 (ESV) ¹⁶ Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray without ceasing, ¹⁸ give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. ¹⁹ Do not quench the Spirit. ²⁰ Do not despise prophecies, ²¹ but test everything; hold fast what is good. ²² Abstain from every form of evil. The second verse that was shared was from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, and lastly a short verse from James 1:17. I took only couple minutes as everyone was still looking up the verses for themselves and then I let the Holy Spirit lead me where He will.

There was no perfection to be found, neither was there an eloquence of words and structure. Instead there was something raw and beautiful. I do not recollect any exact words only that the theme that seemed to come out was from 1 Thes 5:16. This is the time for joy, this is the time for rejoicing. We have been through times of good and bad. There have been lots of seasons in our lives but what he gives us now is what is to be treasured and shared with the world around us. It is amazing that I can not remember most of what I said. So I leave it to the Holy Spirit to give meaning to the words spoken and the whole time of worship.

We concluded the service with the joys and prayers of the people. Not being able to speak for everyone, I got the overall feeling of being blessed. We sang our song of peace ("Shalom to You") and all went our way.

For some people this may not have been a big deal or something that was significant to them. For myself, I wanted to share how amazing God is. From the voices of a few came praise enough to fill the heavens. Praise God for His goodness! Even in midst of a few we find the relevance of worship.

The Adornment Apostacy

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Sat, 06 Dec 2014 17:52:00 +0000

The needles on the great white pine's needles glisten in the hint of sun from the recent coating that was left by the freezing rain. There is still a haze in the air from the left over mist of precipitation. This adornment is a beauty to me. Pure and natural just as it is supposed to be. Today is the day that Heidi and the girls spend decorating the house and the tree. Of course they think that I am like Scrooge or the Grinch as I tend to think the house looks fine just as it is. It takes some time as I let the colors of Christmas make their subtle change in my spirit. By the time Christmas day comes I do not want the decorations to come down.

My thoughts and questions come from my recent post about Black Friday. I realize that much of our desire to decorate stems from the need for nostalgia. However, should my faith in Christ be triggered by such decor? Should the birth of Christ be more important to me than the salvation that is found in Him? How many of us are caught up in the adornment process and then forget the preparation and dressing of our hearts. By no means do I want to kill tradition, but rather I want for us to have a deeper desire for the things of God instead of man.

It would seem that what was pagan has returned to it's original roots. So then how does the believer stand against the ways of the world in a time that is filled with Santa, elves, reindeer and presents? My first inclination would be to completely dismiss all of the excess and keep my celebration small. But then maybe then it is not in what we look like but in what we do. If we as Christians really want to be His followers then maybe we are to get past the personal adornment and instead give attention to personal reflection and servitude. After all wouldn't the greatest gift would be to adorn others with the Joy of Jesus Christ this Christmas? I pray you join me and you too can see the glisten of the beauty all around us.

Contemplating Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Mon, 01 Dec 2014 20:49:00 +0000

Recently I joked on a facebook post that I had made it through Black Friday Shopping successfully. I made it into town and bought a 24oz coffee for the 23oz price. Thus my Black Friday shopping is now complete. Today is the 1st of December and I sit here in contemplation on Christmas. Each and every year we hear new stories of excited crowds full of zeal anticipating the deal that they are seeking. Each year, the pictures get worse, the stores open earlier and earlier, and the deals become more ridiculous. . . . My thought however is what if we had the zeal and excitement of Black Friday in the Church for Christmas? What if people were waiting at the doors on Sunday morning expecting God's truth to be shared? What if people knew that every time that they came to church, God was going to give to them a special blessing that would change their lives forever? What if the people that came were so excited about the opportunities and changes God gave them that they could not help but want to share the exciting news with their friends and neighbors? Those are a lot of "what ifs", but with Christ it still is possible, Be Blessed and be a Blessing!

Coffee with Mums

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Sat, 20 Sep 2014 22:29:00 +0000

Great fall day to have coffee with the Mums.

Protect the Internet!

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Wed, 10 Sep 2014 18:51:00 +0000

Voyageurs

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Tue, 12 Aug 2014 20:01:00 +0000

A new adventure is looming. At this point I have ventured farther into the wilderness than I have ever done before. In some ways if I went much farther north I would fall off of the map. I think of the early voyageurs that came through this wilderness with only their canoes and their wits. Then, they sought wealth and opportunity. Today this new voyageur casts off to make connection, community and commitment. My prayer is be genuine and honest, giving of myself as my master gave Himself. I look forward to the journey. May it be blessed and may I be a blessing.

Kina and her Cat Pocket

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Sat, 14 Jun 2014 17:30:00 +0000

At a table near you

HMMMM!

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Mon, 09 Jun 2014 02:56:00 +0000

Been kinda busy so there have no been much for posting as of late. BUT I have a few Ideas coming.

Blessings.

Ant

An Excellent Wife Who Can Find?

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Mon, 12 May 2014 15:17:00 +0000

Proverbs 31:10-31 (ESV) 10 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. 11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. 12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life……………………………………………….… 28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” 30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. 31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.

I post this the day after Mother's Day. Sharing with everyone the importance of Women and Motherhood.

Did you get your Mother’s day presents? I hope you did. Did you hear about the three sons that all got their elderly mother a present?
A Woman had three sons that we very competitive. They all left home, went out on their own and prospered. Getting back together, they discussed the gifts they were able to give their elderly mother.
The first said, "I built a big house for our mother."
The second said," I sent her a Mercedes with a driver."
The third smiled and said, "I've got you, both beat. You know how Mom enjoys the Bible, and you know she can't see very well. I sent her a brown parrot that can recite the entire Bible. It took 20 monks in a monastery 12 years to teach him. I had to pledge to contribute $100,000.00 a year for 10 years, but it was worth it. Mom just has to name the chapter and verse, and the parrot will recite it."
Soon thereafter, Mom sent out her letters of thanks: "Milton," she wrote the first son, "The house you built is so huge. I live in only one room, but I have to clean the whole house."
"Marvin," she wrote to another, "I am too old to travel. I stay home all the time, so I never use the Mercedes. And the driver is so rude!"
"Dearest Melvin," she wrote to her third son, "You were the only son to have the good sense to know what your mother likes. That chicken was delicious."
We believe that our Moms are Wonder Woman. Like she has super powers or something, and we want to do right by our mothers do we not? We want our mothers to be proud of us. And they deserve our attention because they are so precious, they are to be praised, but we know as well the most important thing that should be recognized and praised it that if they are a woman who fears God.
Women are Precious, Women should be praised, and Women should FEAR God!
I am sure that you have heard many, many sermons on Mothers and Mother’s Day. This is a special day and according to Hallmark, we are celebrating the 100th Mother’s Day. Their website went on to say……….
In the United States, Anna M. Jarvis, born in 1864 in Webster, Va., is credited as the force behind Mother’s Day. When Jarvis was 41 years old, her mother died. On the second anniversary of her mother’s death (the second Sunday in May 1908), Jarvis made public her plans to establish a day to honor mothers.
………… The observance became official in 1914 when Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation naming the second Sunday of May as a day for “public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country.” – Hallmark Website.

The irony is that when consumerism snuck into the holiday, Jarvis devoted the rest of her life to return it to a day of reverence.

The idea of celebrating mothers and motherhood is not limited to the last 100 years or the USA.

In much of the Arab world, Mother's Day is on March 21, which happens to loosely coincide with the start of spring. In Panama the day is celebrated on December 8, when the Catholic Church honors perhaps the most famous of mothers, the Virgin Mary. In Thailand mothers are honored on August 12, the birthday of Queen Sirikit, who has reigned since 1956 and is considered by many to be a mother to all Thais.
There also was a Great Britain's centuries-old Mothering Sunday, the fourth Sunday of the Christian period of Lent, began as a spring Sunday designated for people to visit their area's main cathedral, or mother church, rather than their local parish. Mothering Sunday church travel led to family reunions, which in turn led to Britain's version of Mother's Day. – Wikipedia

First two points of what God has commanded of men and children. That last point is that of what God requires of women.

Women Are Precious!
10 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. 11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. 12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.
The fact that we celebrate, spend what we do, and make a big deal out of Mother’s Day certainly implies that our Mother’s and Women are precious. Do you agree? Mothers are precious to us, are they not? Why else are there all of the “Hi Mom!” Photo bombs on the morning television news shows all the time. Why else would Jesus remind the rich young ruler of the commandments……Luke 18:20 (ESV) 20 You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.’”

Of course our mothers are important why else would entrust His earthly mother Mary to John…John 19:26-27 (ESV) 26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” 27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.

Today’s familiar scripture from the Wisdom of Solomon share with us the importance of the role of a good woman and mother. All so often women look at these scriptures and are overwhelmed by the requirements.
· For instance…have any of you looked for wool or flax lately?
· Have you spun any wool or flax?
· Did you bring food from a far?
· Get up really early to get food on for the day?
· Have you bought a field lately? Why not?
· And the list goes on……
You know that you are to listen to you mother….after all she is a wealth of wisdom and master of multitasking.

I think the key here is that look how the Proverbs 31 woman puts the needs of other above herself, and yet she does not forget to look good for her husband. I do not think that is wisdom just for women but for all of us. Those whom are precious to God think about more about others than about themselves.
Women are precious and Women are to be praised…………

Women Are to Be Praised!
28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”

Turn your attention now to verse 28 of Proverbs 31. Let see how the woman’s children AND husband feel about her. They actually get EXCITED. They RISE UP! They call her BLESSED! This is a great compliment. She is blessed, she is a blessing, and all praise is due to her. Wow! Listen to the compliment that her husband gives her. 29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”
Men, when was the last time that you gave your wife that kind of compliment? Kids, when was the last time that you ROSE up and blessed your mother. You would not be here today if it were not for your mother. Mother’s are meant to be praised. After all look at the wisdom they have shared to get you to where you are….

Women are precious, they are to be praised and they are to make God their first and foremost priority.

Women Are to Have a Godly Priority!
30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. 31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.

I think that here the writer is saving the best for last. He gives us a wealth of characteristics and follows with this wisdom. Her faith and her works will speak for themselves. But of all the things it boils down to her faith. It matters most that she has a healthy fear of the Lord.
You see, she could be the prettiest, the best business person, the best crafts person, the best cook and housekeeper, but none of those things are important IF she does not have faith in God. The writer expresses adamantly 30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
We have seen in the scriptures today that: Women are Precious, Women should be praised, and Women should FEAR God! Certainly the first two points of what God has commanded of men and children. That last point is that of what God requires of women.
Men, Children, what are you doing to celebrate you wife and mother? Women, where is your relationship with Jesus Christ? Do you know Him as Lord and Savior? Have you given your life to Him? Have you put your complete trust in Him?

Sometimes it Rains

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Fri, 02 May 2014 19:22:00 +0000

Sometimes it rains. Sometimes it is so dry that our mouths are parched and dry. Even though there may be water all around us, there may times of drought in our hearts and our soul. It could be that you have felt like that a time or two. I know that it happens to all of us. We may see the goodness of God in others lives, but long for Him to speak a direct word to us.

Last week I had the pleasure of attending a men’s conference with a few Christian brothers. To be honest at first I was a bit apprehensive. After all, it was going to take up my whole Saturday. Did I really want to give that up? But I went anyway, probably because my friend asked me to go. I could not say no to him. So on a Saturday, I gave up my opportunity to sleep in and went to the conference.

We were there early at the church. Way too early! It was so early that the coffee was not even made yet. However, one of the men that rode with us was going to be a presenter in one of the sessions so it was good for him at least. I continued in my apprehension, wanting to go hide in a corner. Little did I know that God had brought me there for a specific reason, and soon I was to find out why.

For the last two months I have been in the place just like described in Psalm 63 where my soul has been crying out in a dry and weary land where there is no water. That however has been changed and the once parched heart has been renewed with fresh living water. There has been no change in personal circumstance, just a lifting of the drought. After a wonderful time and worship and a message we were asked to gather and pray for our brothers. A dear man, who I had not known before, lays hands on me, prays for me and my family’s situation, and finally let the rain soak in.

We must know that we have not been deserted, even if it feels as such. We must remember the promises of God and know that God’s provision continues to provide in desperation and in abundance. We can give thanks like the Psalmist did; “⁹Rain in abundance, O God, you shed abroad; you restored your inheritance as it languished; ¹⁰your flock found a dwelling in it; in your goodness, O God, you provided for the needy. Psalm 68:9-10 (ESV)”

Praise God that sometimes it rains.

Blast from the Past

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Thu, 24 Apr 2014 20:21:00 +0000

Throwback Thursday

Grandpa and Grace 98

Anticipating May Flowers

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Wed, 23 Apr 2014 20:13:00 +0000

Out back, behind the house on what used to be my parents property there was a special little spot. It was a small patch that I would venture to at least once a week during the end of March and well into April. The reason that I would go there was for one reason. That reason was to pick May flowers. It was the only place on the property that I knew with certainty that they grew year after year. The flowers were small with petal of purple and sometimes white. They looked like a small violet only I have never found out exactly what they were.

There was always anticipation from the time the snow started to melt and the time when the little flowers came into bloom. Because when they did bloom it was sure that spring was upon us and that meant warmer weather. When I finally found them I would gather up a small bouquet to bring in to my mother. She was always glad to get them, so it felt good for me to share them with her.

Today I am reminded as I look out my window of what it takes to have spring flowers. The day is cold, wet and dark, unlike the warm sunny days that a wonderful little flower needs to come forth from the earth. As well, I am reminded that not long ago, there was snow on the ground with freezing temperatures. How amazing it is that we need to go through winters to enjoy the little things that come after.

As I am currently between ministry assignments, it somewhat feels like a long “winter.” I eagerly await for a glimpse of spring. I long to take my walk and see the May flowers. For where there are the signs of spring, there is certainly more hope to come. Maybe you have been there before as well. Even in the midst of your circumstance, you are not alone and there is hope to come. In the greatest love story ever, the writer of the Song of Solomon reminds us ¹¹for behold, the winter is past; the rain is over and gone. ¹²The flowers appear on the earth, the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land. Song of Songs 2:11-12 (ESV) Everything has its season, even in the darkness of winter and the rains of spring we can know that there are bright and precious things to come.

God does not leave us is the same season all the time. We can anticipate that God has a purpose and a place for us. We may have to endure winter for a season, but God is still with us. Jesus reminded his disciples, ²⁷Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Luke 12:27 (ESV) Let’s continue to anticipate the May flowers together and know that God continues to help us through. If God takes care of the flowers of the field, how much more He will take care of those who he calls His own.

Celebrating the Marvel and Mystery

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Sat, 19 Apr 2014 16:26:00 +0000

Luke 24:1-3 (ESV) ¹But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. ²And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, ³but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.

Most people like a good mystery, I know that I do. You get into the story, get to know the characters and then watch the twist and turns as it all plays out. We know that in the end, the bad guy will get his punishment and the good guy will get the girl. The mystery and suspense keeps us going to the end of the story and then we are surprised with a witty and surprising ending.

As I reflect upon the life and death of Jesus in many ways it can be compared with the greatest of mysteries ever. At what we think is the end comes one of the greatest twists ever. Just as we think the hero Jesus has been overcome by the very power of death and evil, Jesus prevails victorious as he emerges from the grave. What an amazing event, and a mystery to behold. Jesus is the victor. Jesus is the fulfill-er of prophesy to overcome death.

Once a year as followers of Christ Jesus we celebrate Easter. This is a celebration of the greatest event ever to happen in history. We gather together for worship and fellowship. We get together with family and friends to eat and visit. But when the ham is gone and the good dishes are put away what do we do? Life goes back to normal and we begin to think about Mother’s Day or the Fourth of July.

I have begun to think that one day is not enough. That one hour of worship and a ham for dinner is not enough. I want to challenge myself and anyone else who will take it one to remember the resurrection each and every day. There should be no limit to the marvel and mystery. There should be no limit to the power and the victory of Christ. If we truly believe in who Jesus is as the very Son of God who rose from the grave then shouldn't we live as such? Shouldn't we embrace the mystery, the marvel, the victory and the power? I know that I want to continue to embrace it all and live it out in my life every day.

I still like a good mystery. The mystery of Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection will continue to make a different in the world. It will continue to play out in peoples lives for them to know the wonder of the One True God.

Connectedness and an Electric Charge.

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 20:31:00 +0000

When I was in my teens I was electrocuted. My parents were doing some remodeling to the house one summer and we were staying in a camper. One morning I was outside, ran to the camper door with my wet feet and .............ZZZZAAAARRRRRPPPPPP! 220 volts running through my body. It was a shocking (LOL) experience and probably explains my strangeness to this day. I remember that electric charge going into my arm, through my body and then down to the ground. If I had not fell backward I probably would have been crispy.
As I reflect about that still today, and then relate it all to my Christian life, I long for that "groundedness." I think we all do. It is so easy to have the Word, prayer, worship, and even stewardship in and around us all the time. However, until we are grounded to God, nothing in us is ever going to happen in His will. It just sits there waiting, waiting, waiting, and then gradually dissipates into empty space. However, living with God, living unto God, and being grounded in God makes the whole difference.
One of the warnings I have always shared with friends, family and the church is that facts and knowledge about God are not enough. We can easily attain lots of information about God. But it takes more than just information. It takes a rooted relationship. Without the rooted relationship, without the "connectedness" to God we have no power. Maybe that is the reason the Trinity is such an amazing realization about God. When we are connected to God we are connected to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. This is the power. This is the electric charge for the Christian. This is how the power flows.

I pray that we all find this kind of power from on high.

Breaking Through the Barrier?

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 20:17:00 +0000

Written a couple years ago. Thought it needed to be shared again.

I hate trying to drive in the snow. Especially in a vehicle that is not meant for such climates. My minivan is one such vehicle. I love it, but it is no fun when there is a little snow on the ground. Just the other day I got stuck in the church parking lot. There I was spinning my wheels stuck in a snow bank, with a line of people waiting to get by me on the street. I got moved a little and they finally went around me. It was disappointing and discouraging. I really want another truck but know it is not feasible.
How many people today are like my van? I know that often I am, especially when it comes to prayer. I try and I try and I try to pray, yet get nowhere. I do not feel accomplished, I do not feel the movement that should come with prayer. Instead, I am spinning and spinning.
Recently I have been reading and trying to do some study on prayer. Reading from Andrew Murray in The Prayer Life and reading Jesus' parable in Luke 18, I find myself needing to be more and more like the widow. If I seek justice then I need to go to the Source of Justice. If I seek answers then I need to go to the source of where those answers will be given and not give up until they are. If I really desire the answer then I must believe that it will given.
I have found that when you are stuck, that any movement is good movement. That means that you still have the potential to move. Sometimes it will take a push. Sometimes it will take some backing up and getting a better track. Whatever it is - keep moving. You are certain to have a breakthrough soon.

Keep Praying, Keep Praying, Keep the Faith!
Anthony

The Man Who Wore a Hat – Part 4

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Thu, 10 Apr 2014 16:13:00 +0000

Are you ready? Have you been WAITING for this last installment?

OK I will not put it off any longer.

The walls were pink, and near the ceiling there was a flowery border of yellow, maroon and baby blue. Hanging on the walls were some ornamental decorations that looked like vines and more flowers. To complement the wall hangings were lithograph pictures from a bygone era that invoked a feeling that grandma lived here. Toward the front of the room were colorful banners, live flowers, and draperies over the windows. White frilly doilies were placed under each the flowers and the candle stands. The floors matched the walls only in a darker shade that made it look almost luxurious.

Environment makes a difference. How would the man who wore a hat feel in such an environment that was described above? Is this a place where he would feel comfortable? Is this a place where he would be willing to return? The above description is a compilation of many churches that I have visited. Thankfully not all of the items were in one place. In their own right are innocent and yet most do not see their offense.

My suggestion is not that we do away with all aesthetics, but rather that the church take an honest look at the environment and make appropriate changes to become friendlier to men. I would suggest that most men prefer the simple. Color is OK, but it is best to refrain from the pastels and feminine colors as well as that type of décor. Most men do not mind going to their grandmother’s house, but we do not want our churches to look as such. If there are not some changes made soon, I am afraid that church as we know it today will become extinct. Men need to come back to church. They need to be the men that God wants them to be.

What are some of your ideas to get the interest of men back to the things of Christian faith?

*****************************************************

Postscript

Recently I caught a show on television regarding the best BBQ place in America. One of the places featured was a church in Texas that weekly had a food stand that featured BBQ. My thought was that this is the perfect way to bring men and the church together. This is the kind of church I desire to be a part of. Where the men are together in Christian fellowship, out in God’s wonderful country, sitting around a fire pit, eating some wonderful BBQ and giving God the glory he deserves. I think that is possible. Pray for the men to return to faith.

BEST GRILLED CHEESE EVER!

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Mon, 07 Apr 2014 13:54:00 +0000

I am taking a culinary interlude to share with you about the BEST grilled cheese sandwich I have ever had. Now, I have to admit that I did make it however, it is the ingredients that will blow you away. Simple and delicious! Here is my recipe!

Fresh Italian Bread buttered on the outside.
3 slices or one layer of Fresh Brick Cheese
3 slices or one Aged Monta Kuh Cheese (Basically this is a one year aged brick cheese)

Grill it. That is it!
Of course I had it with some tomato basil soup.

This is the best ever. The brick cheese has a similar texture of a mozzarella yet it is not so stringy. The Monta Kuh is like a mild white cheddar with just a little bite. It's texture is a little softer but very smooth. I know that most of you will never find these cheeses but my thanks to the folks at Shultz Family Cheese in Lowville for making a quality product that is far above anything else. If you are local go get some! https://www.facebook.com/ShultzFamilyCheese

The Man Who Wore a Hat – Part 3

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Wed, 02 Apr 2014 22:48:00 +0000

I like music. I will listen to most kinds of music in fact, even rap if it is somewhat tasteful. But my taste in music is not necessarily like my wife’s. My taste in music is not necessarily like yours. Let me first state that I believe in need for contemporary music in the church. I also believe in the need for traditional hymns and choruses. My struggle however, comes from the thought that too much of our church music sounds like songs we would sing to a lover or romantic interest.

Once again all of this boils down to men and their comfort level. I am not afraid to say that Jesus is my King and Savior. I am not afraid to say that I am thankful for what Jesus did for me upon the cross. I am even bold enough to say that I love Jesus Christ the Son of the Most Holy God. But to sing it like I would to my wife in a romantic setting is completely foreign. I have come to the conclusion that if in a praise song you can substitute the word “baby” for the name of Jesus it may be that the song may not be suitable for men.

Recently I went through a few of the top praise songs. Many would fall into genre that I just mentioned above. I believe for men we would liken our relationship with God as one would to a general in a battle instead of over a love relationship. We need a King and Conqueror. We need a Lord and a Savior. We need a rousing song of encouragement and praise to move us forward to the battle lines. To help take the punishment of every day and to rouse us to stand up for Jesus! A romantic relationship is safe and secure while a battle is action and adventure. As men, for the sake of the Gospel we cannot afford to be safe and secure. There is a battle waging and there are people perishing without a savior if we do not do something about it.

Is there a solution to all of this? I believe so. Just be thoughtful in worship of the music selection. I would try a 2-1 formula. For every three songs make two men friendly and the other can be geared to the softer side.

Let me know what works for you. How do you get the men in church to worship and sing their praises?

Remember to be waiting for the final installment to be coming soon. So remember to follow this blog. Thanks!

The Man Who Wore a Hat – Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Bradseth) — Sat, 29 Mar 2014 16:16:00 +0000

If you ever have been immersed in a culture that is different from your own, you cannot but help to be a bit self-conscious. To communicate you resort to the primitive by pointing and drawing. It is best if you can seek out someone that knows your language so that you can communicate. Some places make that not so easy. In others being multilingual is commonplace. To order at a restaurant you have to resort by pointing or guessing. You may have to have ask directions by pointing to a map of the place you are trying to go. At least these are the things that I had to do. One learns as you go, and the longer you are immersed the easier it becomes.

As I had mentioned in the first part of the blog, there once was a man with a hat that came to church. He looked out of place and he must have felt out of place as well. He was in a foreign land and certainly did not speak the language that everyone else was speaking. We forget about this in the church. We have forgotten about the people, specifically the men who do not know the language of the church. We are the ones that need to interpret Christianity and use a “man friendly” terminology.

Our church language or terminology in the evangelical church sets itself apart from the rest of western society. What we think is common place is actually foreign to most men. For instance the evangelical church puts a heavy priority on having a relationship with God. Many go the extreme that we are to have an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. While all of this is true in most respects, I believe that it is hard for most men to grasp. We are to be growing in Christ closer and closer every day. But the emotions of most men are simply not wired that way.

Recently I was discussing this with a friend of mine. He was sharing of how we learn many of our traits from our fathers. Both of our fathers were similar in that they did not openly show their love to the male children in the family. Love was expressed in the loyalty of provision of home and sustenance. There were no coddling or touchy-feely moments in my family. There were just men teaching boys to be men that were strong and able to deal with the problems of the world.

There are words and concepts that simply do not translate the same as even 50 years ago. Common church terms such as: “being born again”, “What Would Jesus Do?”, “I’m Praying for You”, and “Praise the Lord” mean very little unless they are really acted upon. Speaking in terms of having an intimate relationship with Jesus not only sounds foreign but also may be uncomfortable with many men. As a man I may have several close friends, however there is only one person that I am intimate with, and that is my wife. The later relationship I do not discuss and do not consider it to be anyone’s business. That is the way for most men as we age and mature.

As I seek to find a better way for men to understand what it means to follow Christ, I think the word that describes the relationship best is “loyalty”. We want a leader. We want someone who will lead us to victory. We want a savior that will help us in the everyday battle. In a world that has been plagued by the consumer mentality, loyalty is what has been missing. Loyalty means that we will put our lives on the line. Loyalty means that we will follow to the ends of the earth. Loyalty establishes a bond and commitment that will not be broken. I believe loyalty is the kind of relationship a man can understand.

What do you think? Loyalty or intimacy? Let me know in the comments what you think. These are only my opinions, but I am curious to hear yours.