tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50756092344481850412024-03-19T06:04:11.582-07:00Clay Callaway's GardenClay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.comBlogger71125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-67315710904222407092017-03-17T07:32:00.000-07:002017-03-17T07:32:30.881-07:00When Leaders Become Prideful- The " Lesson" of King Uzziah<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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.. King Uzziah.... the golden boy of the kingdom of Judah.... the men respected and feared him.. the ladies loved him... children looked up to him as a faithful Leader who always sought God's will and direction.. he was a " WONDER".... after all.. he was just a boy of 16 when he was crowned king.. that's when the boy wonder immediately began showing Judah and ALL the World what " SUCCESS " REALLY IS!</div>
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check out these Headlines and " blurbs" from the famous Newspaper of the Day.. the JUDAH HERALD"</div>
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* King Uzziah's Army Wins Another Battle-defeats the Philistines AGAIN????</div>
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*" Uzziah's Javelin and Sling Factory" celebrates opening of new Facility in southern Judah- </div>
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* Downtown Judah to get historic make-over thanks to King Uzziah- </div>
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* School children hold appreciation rally for King Uzziah to thank him for the NEW history scrolls and scholarships to " King Uzzziah's Hebrew Academy " </div>
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yep.. you get the idea... when Judah and all the surrounding areas thought of " GODLY WISE KIND and GENEROUS leadership".. they thought of King Uzziah... he was CRUISING with No way of LOSING...then... something happened.. a TERRIBLE thing happened.. in Hebrew.... the Word for this tragedy is " YUCKY-NESS"</div>
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the Bible says.... " and his fame spread far.. for he was marvelously helped.. till he was strong"...but when he was strong.. he grew proud.. to his destruction'....</div>
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Uzziah could NOT be satisfied with being a rich.. successful King and military strategist.. a builder of buildings.. palaces.. and Kingdoms... so... One day... He went to the temple....</div>
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and he began doing the JOB of the PRIESTS.... He knew that God had CALLED the Priests to offer incense... it wasn't HIS JOB... Oh... the Priests were doing God's work faithfully...</div>
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it wasn't that... the problem was PRIDE... Uzziah thought he could do WHATEVER he wanted to do.. to WHOMEVER he wanted to... yep.. he could call the shots... but he was SO MISTAKEN..</div>
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you see... a MAN OF CHARACTER stood up to Uzziah... AZARIAH the Priest and 80 of his fellow priests STOOD UP to Him... and rebuked him... reminding Him that it was " NOT FOR YOU KING UZZIAH to burn incense to the Lord...but for the Priests.. the Sons of Aaron .. the ones who were consecrated for this job... in other words... " Uzziah... This aint your job Bro- Let the Priests DO THE WORK God has called them to do... "..</div>
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Uzziah wouldn't stop.. he wouldn't back down.. he " DUG IN DEEPER" ... Here's the call that was broadcast that day on the Judah Bulldogs Radio Network by Larry Munson BenAbraham</div>
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* ok... live at the temple... and there's Uzziah... slinging that incense thurible around like it's a slingshot... now he's headed straight to the front of the temple.... can he go all the way??? . wait a minute... the priest Azariah runs a BLOCK on him.. before he can get to the altar.. wow.. what a PLAY... but.. it looks like Uzziah is HUNKERING DOWN.. he is still slinging that incense around... but... there's Priest Azariah,,, stepping on Uzziah's Face with the hobnail Boot of TRUTH"....</div>
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yes... The Men of Character were blessed that day... Integrity and Truth won out... Uzziah lost his power... his fame... and his palace... and he became a frequent patient of the Leprosy Clinic of Judah...</div>
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here's a few crumbs from a Poor man's Table for you to munch on</div>
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.. pray for Leaders that God will protect them from Pride...</div>
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PRAY FOR MEN AND WOMEN of CHARACTER who are willing to speak up to the " UZZIAH'S of our time..remind them that YOU are praying for them... JOIN YOUR VOICE with theirs... FIGHT for truth.. integrity.. and honor.. remember... SILENCE IS CONSENT</div>
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I am sure that among those 80 priests.. there were some men who were afraid... they thought of "letting " Uzziah continue to do whatever he wanted to do... they were afraid they would lose their jobs as Priests,,, but no... they spoke up... they trusted God... and God honored them.... He blessed Character and Integrity....</div>
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He always does......</div>
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<br />Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-8976484765960621232015-12-03T04:28:00.000-08:002015-12-03T04:28:11.221-08:00The Beauty of Open Hearts - John, the Taiwanese Princess, and Stella Bella<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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" Hi Clayton.. sorry we missed you when you guys were in FT Lauderdale in October..we have a few days off after thanksgiving..so we are considering going to Atlanta...Will you guys be in town? Where do you go dancing ? Would be lovely to meet you..."<br />
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That's all it took... the Taiwanese Dancing Princess captured my heart..and the heart of my beautiful Samba Queen...<br />
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John and Sandra are part of the "Gina crew" who opened the door of dancing JOY for Maria and me four years ago.. but we had not been blessed to meet them in person...so..of course..we plotted and planned and worked out the details.. " IT WAS GONNA HAPPEN.. and the bonus blessing?? Another beautiful Florida dance Amiga would join us as well.. the BEAUTIFUL Columbian Dancing Queen Stella..<br />
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Our beautiful dance friends came bearing gifts... Sweet Stella... thank you for showing up at Nemoes Hustle night with your beautiful Ingrid... thank you for blessing me with your sweetness and those awesome fun hustles...<br />
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Thank you for....</div>
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Putting up with my southern flavored red neck Spanish</div>
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Thank you for your encouragement in my dancing</div>
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Thank you for opening up your kind humble heart to us..and offering a room for Maria and me next time we make it to Florida.. thank you for the beautiful flower you gave Maria.... such a fitting gift.. usted es un Hermosa flor</div>
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John and Sandra.. Thank you for...</div>
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Driving the down to the Callaway Farm so Y'ALL ( plural.. you two..and Bella Stella) could hang out with us..</div>
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Thank you for the chocolates..the fruit.. the sangria..</div>
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Thank you for the AWESOME fun Bachata lesson in our living room.. too fun.. </div>
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And...Princess Sandra... you gave me such beautiful pearls of great price.. your warm heart exudes sweetness and love and light.. here's a few TREASURES YOU GAVE ME that Sunday night in our home:</div>
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The way you asked for a SECOND plate of clays famous enchilada casserole.</div>
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The beautiful hustle that you and I shared to that killer NUCLEAR ELECTRIC Bruno Mars Song.. and may I remind you?? What's the NAME OF THAT SONG?? Yes.." TREASURE".. yes..yes. yes.. you ARE..</div>
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And I will always remember this ..</div>
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Sandra said " CLAY -will you play the guitar for us before we leave tonight..? "</div>
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Clay replied " AWW. You are so sweet to want me to do that?"</div>
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Sandra said " well... I know what kind of things are important ...."</div>
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Yes Sandra.. I also am blessed to know what things are important..and I know what is beautiful....I know WHO is beautiful..</div>
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Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-25376841301651742892015-10-11T05:12:00.001-07:002015-10-11T05:26:02.745-07:00The JOY of a simple BOX-STEP ( Lessons from Ballroom 1)My bride and I have been "learning" how to ballroom dance for almost 4 years now.. It has been a serendipitous adventure to say the least... "Magic", " Joy" , " Fun" and " Merriment" are just a few of the words that I use to describe the evenings we spend at the Ballroom with all our friends.Like many people, Maria and I had no idea what " Ballroom Dancing" was all about.. we thought all dancing was like " BAR-ROOM " dancing.. you know.. people who overindulged in adult beverages, leaning close against each other, swaying to ( and most of the TIME NOT TO) the music... boy were we wrong......<br />
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" There are shortcuts to happiness- and dancing is one of them"<br />
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after taking lessons, and practicing a lot at home... and watching a gazillion DVDs and YOUTUBE videos on " DANCING" , we have pretty much learned the basic steps of lots of dances... its a HUGE part of our lives.. we have learned that Ballroom is REAL ladies and REAL gentlemen , fellowshipping together, learning proper dance frame and form - YES.. YES ...YES.. yes.. but.. THE MOST IMPORTANT thing about Ballroom is not the "complicated " intricate steps" that you feel "pressured" to "nail" every time... it's about "connecting" with your partner ... in time with the music.. and you can do that with a simple box step...<br />
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after no formal lessons for almost 3 and a half years, I recently began taking Ballroom 1 with a GREAT instructor named Warren- He and His team have an awesome program, They teach people how to dance... yes... but they also teach people that Ballroom is about " FELLOWSHIP" and "community" - connecting with REAL friends, getting to know people- and that can Happen with a SIMPLE BOX STEP- Now My Samba Queen and I learned the basics of the Rumba Box step about four years ago- but.. as with any passion, you can ALWAYS learn when you review. I am learning SO MUCH in Ballroom 1- being reminded of proper form, being reminded of how to be a good leader in the dance, how to focus on being a gentleman at the Ballroom- thank you warren. this is all such a huge blessing for me.<br />
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One of the special blessings of being a part of Warren's program is being able to dance with ladies who are REALLY REALLY BEGINNERS.. and to see the JOY on THEIR FACES when they are able to do a SIMPLE BOX step- their eyes LIGHT UP and the frown that they walked in with DISAPPEARS and a sunshiny joyfilled smile appears- they feel the magic... they appreciate someone who will do that basic box step with them over and over... just "connecting".. just enjoying the music.. and the fellowship.. yes... BEGINNING LADIES APPRECIATE a gentleman who will dance with them in a simple basic box step- you see.. THEY "get it" ... and that's why the JOY they experience is so infectious and inspiring-<br />
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our beautiful friend Sherry- doing an awesome job learning ballroom- her heart of joy and love inspires everyone at the ballroom<br />
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our beautiful daughter Hannah- a BEGINING BALLROOM DANCER who is having fun and enjoying the fellowship and community of this FAMILY FRIENDLY world of BALLROOM</div>
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I love dancing with NEW DANCERS - they understand... its about fun, fellowship, community, being with friends.. there are some people who are skilled , accomplished, polished dancers, - dancing with beginners for them is a "chore" a "burden" " it's boring" . SOME people don't get it... and that is so sad... so very sad..<br />
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looking forward TO MY BALLROOM 1 LESSSON THIS WEEK AT Jonesboro First Baptist..<br />
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looking forward to community.. to fellowship... to fun...<br />
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Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-9475119030260895692015-07-11T08:31:00.000-07:002015-07-11T08:39:44.036-07:00Messy Kitchens and Refrigerator MagnetsToday I finished cleaning the school and the goatbarn a little early... so I figured I better stay in a "productive mode".. and tackle cleaning my kitchen..it was a bit of a challenge.. it was a lot messier than the school OR the goat barn... so yeah.. I needed lots of encouragement.. and not just cuz my kitchen was really messy...<br />
<br />
but because " LIFE " can be "so messy " sometimes... especially these days... <br />
<br />
friends and family suffering with terrible illness... hurting for loved ones who are struggling in their search for employment... lots of struggles, trials and tribulations.. My Bride and I have a LONG prayer list.... and it is getting longer every day.. our God is a Faithful Savior... and we are seeing HIM work miracles... He is strengthening those who are hurting...He is showing Himself to be a Mighty Shield and defender.. <br />
<br />
BUT...... it's EASY to forget.... we ALL get distracted.....<br />
<br />
my heart and my will were bowing to my old companions" discouragement" and "doubt"<br />
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and then......<br />
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I SAW " IT"....<br />
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right there on my fridge... hiding behind a gazillion refrigerator magnets.. next to coupons and Dr. Appointment reminders... <br />
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encouragement comes from the strangest places..<br />
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" It " was a prayer letter from a young Lady named " Anna"... she invited the Samba Queen and me to be part of her prayer team as she begins her ministry to college students... the Lord has given her a passion to share the Good News of The Father's Love with young people.. to remind them that The Lord Jesus came to earth to rescue us from sin and death... yep.. its the Gospel... we are HONORED to be part of her prayer/support team...<br />
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Anna's prayer letter encouraged me for many reasons...<br />
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it reminded me what " LIFE is REALLY about".....<br />
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its about Knowing the One who made us.. trusting in Him as our only Savior.. so that we can know the peace and comfort that only He can give... its going to be awesome to see the Lord use Anna to spread that beautiful news.....<br />
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I don't really know a LOT about Anna... but... I did a little investigating,.... and I found out that her PASSION for College ministry, her love for lost souls, her desire to serve our Lord was "fanned into flame" by her time as a college student involved in Campus Ministry... Anna was discipled by a young lady named Hannah.. who reminded her of God's amazing GRACE... Hannah reminded Anna that our Loving Father is always with us... and He never stops loving us...Two young ladies spent time reminding each other of GRACE... and the Father called Anna to be a MESSENGER of that Grace... <br />
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Yep.. its true... I don't know a lot about ANNA... but I do know a LOT about " Hannah"<br />
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Hannah used to eat cupcakes in that kitchen I was cleaning this morning<br />
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and I used to take her fishing with me......<br />
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I am so Thankful for the Lord's faithfulness... that He has worked his Grace in HANNAH'S life... and called her to be HIS servant...<br />
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I look forward to hearing of Anna's journey of Ministry.... and how she will be used to share God's Love....<br />
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I am thankful for Messy kitchens, refrigerator magnets... and prayer letters.... thank you Lord Jesus.. oh no.. the FLOOR GOT WET... How did THAT happen...???.. .Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-16510295246092652902015-04-05T17:52:00.000-07:002015-04-05T17:52:31.904-07:00Cleopas, Why the Sad Face? ( The Very First Easter Sermon) Easter is a GREAT DAY to be a Church....<br />
<br />
you know.. lots of people show up-people you haven't seen since Christmas... or since cousin Betsy's wedding a few months ago... or Uncle Harry's funeral. Lots of "CYNICS" like to make jokes about people who show up for Church only on Easter and Christmas..Some "church folks" think it's sad that SOME people show up for church only on certain days...ok.... THINK ABOUT THAT ONE FOR A MOMENT.. REALLY???????<br />
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.. the truth is..<br />
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it's not a "joking" matter.. <br />
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it's not "sad"<br />
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its a GLORIOUS wonderful day WHENEVER people gather together to sing Praises and Hear the Word preached...<br />
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it's a BEAUTIFUL BLESSING... cuz.....<br />
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It's one of those Sundays when the "church people" go the extra mile... to make sure there's plenty of parking...to make sure all the greeters and "welcomer's" are at the top of their game... it's the day when Pastors , Sunday School teachers, and Children's Church leaders make sure that the Gospel is presented... that the Good News of God's Love for sinners is proclaimed loudly and boldly . We want to share the encouragement of God's Word with those who are hurting... We want to remind them that the God who created them came to earth as a Man, He kept the whole law for His people- He suffered the punishment for our sins.. yes.. ON EASTER.. THE CHURCH GETS TO BE THE CHURCH... <br />
<br />
we are blessed to PROCLAIM BOLDLY... this Man Jesus.. the Jesus of the Bible.. WAS EITHER a LIAR, a Lunatic, A Legend, or .. HE WAS.... and IS LORD( thank you C.S. Lewis) ...<br />
<br />
and if HE was and IS LORD.. then HIS resurrection gives US HOPE.... He has conquered Sin and Death... through Him... we can KNOW the creator of the Universe,,, and we can take comfort in the fact that whatever is going on in the WORLD,, around us... and in our lives.. HE IS IN CONTROL.. He never leaves us nor forsakes us...<br />
<br />
our Message EVERY Easter( YES.. EVERY DAY) should be like the one that Jesus preached on the very First Easter...<br />
<br />
on the VERY FIRST EASTER .. Jesus burst forth from the grave... and whats the FIRST THING HE DID?? He decided to Take a WALK ( LUKE 24). <br />
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he came alongside two of His disciples who were feeling QUITE HOPELESS... they didn't recognize Jesus.. He asked them , " what are you discussing while you walk along?? One of the disciples named Cleopas said" You must be a stranger to Jerusalem?? haven't you heard about Jesus of Nazareth?? what happened to Him?? we had HOPED that He was the one who would redeem us.. but.. they crucified Him... and His body is gone from the tomb... <br />
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Cleopas was disappointed... feeling Hopeless.. He looked at what was happening ALL around HIM.. Fellow disciples denying Jesus.. many of them Running in fear,,- sadness and confusion EVERYWHERE.. Jerusalem was not a great place to have an " Optimist Convention"... No reason for" HOPE..."<br />
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Then Jesus preached the FIRST EASTER SERMON......He encouraged them from Moses and the Prophets( the Old Testament Scripture).. He reminded them that the Savior had to suffer these things for His people,.... yep.. Friday sure didn't LOOK LIKE A GOOD FRIDAY.. it seemed like a TERRIBLE FRIDAY.. but. Friday made Sunday possible... God is TOTALLY IN CONTROL... No matter what the NEWS IS in town... no matter the disappointments,.. the hopelessness that those disciples felt could not compare to the GLORIOUS HOPE of The Resurrection.. and ALL the events that surrounded it were part of God's plan....THERE IS HOPE.... <br />
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no matter what is going on in the world.... around you.. or in your life... because Jesus rose from the Dead.... THERE IS HOPE....<br />
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Happy Easter from Mr. Callaway's Little Presbyterians<br />
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Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-54962987889738745802015-02-10T13:12:00.002-08:002015-02-10T13:28:32.057-08:00ADRIAN'S HUNGER- Reflections on the Monterrey Vision TripHe looked like "just a boy" ..this humble handsome young man of God-. his hair neatly styled,,, his suit.. his tie.. the shine of his shoes almost mirror-like. Yes, His entire appearance spoke professionalism, order, and determination. His young beautiful smiling wife stood by his side at the Lectern. All of us seated at the conference table were ready to hear about their ministry- and how we might be a part of the work that the Lord is doing in Mexico. The Power Point presentation began.. the binders were filled with information on Church plants, training opportunities, ministry partners, and statistics. There was no question in my mind- the people who welcomed us to Monterrey are seeing TRANSFORMATION.. they are on a mission,,.. a RESCUE MISSION.. they are living their lives in a special way.. <br />
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Adrian told us about hearts filled with fear, frustration, and futility. He told us a little of his story- how that just six years ago, he existed in a world of drugs and "cutting".. his soul hungered for fulfillment, his body screamed for healing- he had run from HOPE and Healing for so many years...then.. in a treatment facility, he remembered the Good News of the Gospel.. that Jesus Christ came to this earth to forgive us of our sins... to heal us... and to set the captives free.. He realized HE NEEDED the FREEDOM that Christ can give... He remembered the promise of Jesus," Come unto me.. and I will give you rest.."Jesus came to Adrian.. rescued him... and recruited him FOR THE RESCUE MISSION- that's how " Proyecto Alfa" began<br />
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later that evening, Pastor Andres hosted us in his home- and shared with us the way his ministry trains and mentors church planters and leaders. His vision is one of TRANSFORMATION- partnering with people like Adrian and Michelle .. the little stream that flows from the threshold of the Temple is becoming a deep and wide river, the leaves of the trees that line it's banks are for the HEALING of the NATIONS... the leaven of the Gospel is traveling throughout the culture of DEATH bringing LIFE to EVERYTHING it touches.. the Mustard seed is growing into a strong and mighty tree.. the largest in the Garden... providing refuge for all those who seek forgiveness and healing in the Savior... CPI is sowing the Seeds of Good News...<br />
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as we sat at the table, a delicious meal was served to us- and Pastor Dale, Spenser Gray and Maria and I were blessed to be at the table with Adrian and Michelle.. we heard MORE of His story.. he said,<br />
" when I was living in the prison of darkness and pain.. I NEVER DREAMED I would be set free... I never dreamed that God would give me a life filled with such LOVELY blessings.. my beautiful wife.. my lovely children.. this joy and peace that Jesus gives... this healing... my ONLY desire is to see others cry out to the Lord for forgiveness of their sin.. and to be healed,....to come to know the one true God...<br />
after we finished dinner.. we continued talking and visiting with ministry leaders and friends- Adrian told me that the REHAB center where he was staying when He came to Christ DISCOURAGED HIM from talking about JESUS healing HIM and saving HIM...at one point.. threatening to take away his food if he didn't stop sharing,,,, he didn't stop sharing Jesus... he went HUNGRY... they dismissed him from the center,,, and God began equipping him for the rescue mission<br />
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Adrian is NEVER HUNGRY THESE DAYS.. he is feasting on the Bread of Life.. the thirst in His heart has been quenched with the Life giving WATER of God's Spirit.." Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after Righteousness.. for they shall be filled"<br />
Pray for the Ministry of CPI.. as they train Church leaders.. plant churches... and partner with those like Adrian and Michelle. sharing the Saving , Healing, transforming power of Jesus Christ<br />
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Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-15965072239816747782015-02-10T12:11:00.000-08:002015-02-10T12:35:21.365-08:00<br />
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Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-31740426943282720152014-11-24T12:19:00.001-08:002014-11-24T12:19:24.284-08:00Seasoned SoulsSeasoned Souls<br />
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staring out windows,glass doors, and rusted screens<br />
they wonder, they remember- they dream<br />
they sit in their easy chairs<br />
on cushions of fear<br />
the summer is too warm<br />
the winter is too cold<br />
the hill is always too steep<br />
<br />
once .. it was not so<br />
but now...<br />
the day begins- counting out pills<br />
One, Two, three, four<br />
Time is always there- needing to be killed<br />
with TV game shows and "stares" out the door<br />
<br />
walkers with wheels are no substitute<br />
for strong legs and daring hearts<br />
crutches and canes<br />
can break and fall apart<br />
<br />
the front step is too high<br />
the rusted rail is too low<br />
the porch is too shaky<br />
if only they had known....<br />
<br />
they sit in their easy chairs<br />
on cushions of fear<br />
staring out windows, glass doors, and rusted screens<br />
<br />
the young walk past<br />
singing songs of laughter<br />
and selfish cold hearts<br />
they can not see<br />
that soon they will be...<br />
<br />
sitting in their easy chairs...<br />
on cushions of fear<br />
Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-6397416294208049632013-07-28T15:18:00.000-07:002013-07-28T15:18:01.026-07:00AN OPEN LETTER TO CHRISTIAN PARENTS( TRUTH NUMBER THREE IS A TOUGH ONE)My LOVELY bride and I have been married for 29 years... the Lord has tremendously blessed US in so many ways.. our two grown children are at the top of the blessing list.. don't worry... this isn't going to be a " brag- a-blog" about how wonderful our kids are.. I do that all the time... ;) this is more of an admonition blog... a warning blog.... or as we in the "church world " say.... a word of " exhortation"( that's a nice way of saying... " listen to me... cuz I am about to tell you something you need to do...:) well... in this case... I want to tell you WHat NOT TO DO....<br />
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LIKE MANY PARENTS... we taught our children All the " basics" of the Christian faith... you know... stuff like :<br />
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1.)God loves you and sent JESUS to keep the Law for you and to suffer for your sin<br />
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2.)His love is a free gift... He loves you with all His love.<br />
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3.) Whatever He calls you to do... He will equip you.. He will guide you... He will provide.. no matter what your life's calling turns out to be...whether you are a doctor lawyer janitor or missionary.. He will work it all out according to His plan<br />
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Maria and I taught our children these truths...our church family taught our children these truths....we were thankful that "truths 1 and 2" took root... and The Father lovingly gave them new hearts so that they could REST in His love...<br />
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But... when it came to "truth number three".???....well......<br />
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My greatest fear... ( although... I would have NEVER ADMITTED IT) WAS that they would BELIEVE " truth number three)... because... deep down in my heart... I didn't believe it... especially the "MISSIONARY " part...I mean.. after all... missionaries lots of times have to raise their own support... it's a tough job...we have all heard the stories...<br />
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" the THING THAT I FEARED THE MOST CAME UPON ME"- CLAY CALLAWAY( the day his daughter told him she was going into full time ministry )<br />
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" the thing I FEARED the most came upon me AGAIN) CLAY CALLAWAY( the day his SON TOLD HIM HE WANTS TO GO INTO FULL TIME MINISTRY)<br />
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I had it all planned out... Hannah would graduate from college.. get a job teaching school...and ministry could COME LATER... I TOLD HER "my" plan. ... she saw between the lines...she saw the subtitles of the language of fear that I spoke... the words scrolling across the bottom of the screen said the following: " get a REAL JOB... WITH A SECURE PAYCHECK.. MAKE SOME MONEY AND DO MINISTRY LATER...OR PART TIME"<br />
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My lines betrayed my heart... a heart of unbelief...<br />
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I had to confess... repent... and believe truth number three...<br />
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When I STARTED BELIEVING IN OUR FATHERS LOVE AND PROVISION..we saw many miracles... Our daughter felt that she received " my blessing" for the Lord's calling upon her life... yep... she had to raise her own support.. the Lord provides each and every month.. miracle after miracle unfolds before our eyes... the students that she works with are being reminded of the greatest gift of all.. the love of our Heavenly Father... those who support Hannah in her ministry with their prayers and financial gifts feel blessed to be able to give and partner in the spreading of the gospel... They believe truth number THREE... THEY UNDERSTAND HOW IT WORKS..<br />
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He really is our Loving Father.. He always provides... HE WANTS US TO TRUST HIM.. <br />
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SO PARENTS... BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU TEACH YOUR CHILDREN... THEY WILL REALLY BELIEVE IT.. EVEN IF YOU DON'T...<br />
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" but seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.. and all these things shall be added unto you"<br />
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Next post: a report on what our son John Calvin is doing... He believed truth number three as well......:)<br />
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<br />Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-26332658000853804722013-04-10T14:24:00.001-07:002013-04-10T14:24:37.820-07:00DO children "BELONG" to their Parents? ( Where do the Goat kids Belong?)" We haven't had a very collective notion of" these are our children".. so part of it is we have to break through our kind of private idea that kids BELONG to their parents, or kids belong to their families, and recognize that kid's BELONG to whole communities, once it's everybody's responsibility and not just the households, then we start maker better investments" - Melissa Harris Perry MSNBC host speaking of the need for increased spending on public education.<br />
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Belong- definition- (THE FREE DICTIONARY by FARLEX- )<br />
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1.) to be the property or possession of<br />
2.) to be bound to( a person, place, or club) by ties of affection, dependence, allegiance, or membership<br />
3.) to have a proper or usual place<br />
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when the MHP video hit the internet... those of us who consider our selves RIGHT wingers started SPEWING.. and as we say down here in the southland.., we started spewing a right smart.. I mean after all... here this woman seems to be saying that children dont REALLY BELONG to their parents... or to their families... well... I started studyin a right smart on this here notion...... I took some time off from cleaning the barn to do a little googlin.. yep.. we git WI-FI down at the barn. and wouldnt ya know it?? I found a dictionary... yeah.. look up there( or thar) ^. no .. a little HIGHER....<br />
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well... if we use definition NUMBER ONE... we have to say that KIDS DONT BELONG to PARENTS, FAMILIES, OR COMMUNITIES. children are NOT PROPERTY.. they are NOT OWNED by anyone except the CREATOR GOD. <br />
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If we use DEFINITION NUMBER TWO-.. we have to say YES,,, "kids" belong WITH their Parents, IN THEIR FAMILIES, and TO WHOLE COMMUNITIES...<br />
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The QUESTION is: " who has the PRIMARY RESPONSIBILTY to raise, nurture, educate, and care for any child??? Which "entity" has been given that charge by the Triune God??? OF COURSE.. It's the FAMILY... the Family was instituted BEFORE THE CHURCH... and before GOVERNMENT FUNDED educational systems....<br />
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OK.. thats all.... I gotta get back to the Goat barn... one of KIDS broke through the fence. he thinks he belongs in the other barn with the SHEEP he is such a young little kid... easily influenced..... I hope he does'nt get confused by hanging out with them.. before ya know it... he will forget that he's really a goat... he'll start acting like a sheep...and would'nt that be a collective shame???<br />
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Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-23833553728424544662013-02-11T09:31:00.000-08:002013-02-11T09:31:39.700-08:00A LITTLE CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM.( Valentine Lessons)My wife and I work in Children's Ministry. I lead the Children's Church Team and MOST Sunday's I am not in the congregation with the " old people"..I am with the little Presbyterians.. leading THEIR Worship Service.. singing the hymns and Praise songs and reminding them that God's Love is a FREE GIFT- and that HE loves them with all HIS Love.. what a blessing to have such a joy-filled calling.. yes.. SOMETIMES.. I am in the service with the "old people".. and ok.. a little CONFESSION HERE : while the congregation is singing the songs.. I am looking down upon them from my place in the Balcony.. "checking on" some of my FORMER Little Presbyterians.. the children who have grown up under my ministry.. and watching the ones who will be with me in the Children's Worship in the years to come.. <br />
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Yesterday.. there I was watching from my lofty perch.. my old eyes wandering to and fro .. looking for those who USED to be LITTLE Presbyterians.... yep.. there on the platform I see young people playing their instruments and lifting up their voices in song.. ALL for HIS Glory.. , helping the congregation to Worship.. My heart is warmed and my eyes are watery..<br />
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Then I see those who will be joining me soon.. Little boys and girls still small enough to be held in mom and dad's arms as the congregation stands and sings Praises.. Little Voices... proclaiming His Goodness... Little Hands raised toward heaven... ready to receive the Blessing that Jesus PROMISED them: " Let the little children come unto me and forbid them not.. for of such is the Kingdom of God"... I saw a sermon being "played out" before my eyes....<br />
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a darling little brown haired angel was being held by her mommy.. raising her hands.. singing His Praises...<br />
she stopped singing.... then she leaned close into mommy's ear.. and whispered something... Mom leaned down to the pew with the little one.. and the tiny precious hands grabbed something from the seat of the pew... and held it up high as she began singing and praising again... It was a Valentine Heart that she had surely made in Sunday School that morning... she held it up toward Heaven each time a Praise song was sung..<br />
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I know what the little Girl whispered to mommy... yep.. I could'nt hear from my place in the Balcony.. but my Heart told me... the little one whispered..' Mommy.. I wanna give my Heart to Jesus"...<br />
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Watery Eyes... and a Warm Heart.. Happy Valentine's DayClay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-52548802747576352922012-12-20T06:20:00.000-08:002012-12-20T06:21:34.626-08:00Wrapped in Tears, Heartache and Pain( tied with a Ribbon of Selfishness)The mom looked tired and stressed. The little girl was probably three years old.. smiling and laughing and talking and singing. Innocence and joy danced in her voice as she belted out the words," Away in a Manger". .. my wife and I were in the booth behind them...enjoying our meal and our serenade .. It was almost Christmas and our little friend in the neighboring booth was our early gift.. a gift that was wrapped in tears, and heartache, and pain... the bow was a ribbon of selfishness.. but for a moment, our little friend boldly and bravely cast off that ugly wrapping.. and shined the Light of a Christmas Star..<br />
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I saw the wrapping of selfishness and sadness from the start.. it was the aura that hovered over their booth like a fog... it was all around them.. .the mom was doing her best to encourage her little singing star..her affirmations were uttered between sobs and tears as she talked with the man that was with them. The conversation told me that he was NOT the little girl's Father. He was NOT the Step-Father.. He was the Boyfriend...the one who tied the bow..while the mom held her finger on the ribbon.<br />
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" I just want you to know. Mama said she is cooking and we can get there anytime we want.. I told her that you like to sleep late on Christmas Day.." as the mom spoke these words the little girl continued to sing...." No crib for a Bed".......<br />
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" mama just said we can't spend the night there together.. you know how mama feels about that..."<br />
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" the little Lord Jesus lay Down His sweet Head".....<br />
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I glanced at the boyfriend who sat there eating his food in silence....as if he were a million miles away... but he was there.. he was busy.. sharpening a sword...<br />
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" the Stars in the sky...." before the little girl could finish the line.. a cruel fist pounded the table.... the connected booths vibrated as the boyfriend's anger was felt by all of us... he looked at the little girl and barked," let me tell you what YOU are going to DO. you are gonna sit there and shut up... ".. the words that spewed forth were vulgar and angry.. Evil was speaking.. berating innocence .. inflicting eternal wounds upon an already scarred and aching heart..<br />
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the little girl quietly cried... a "whimper" was faintly heard from time to time as they finished their meal in silence... My wife and I finished our meal in silence .. we left the restaurant before they did... on the way home we prayed for a miracle for this "family"... NO.... really we did'nt... ACTUALLY we prayed that a MIRACLE would occur... and that they would BECOME a FAMILY..<br />
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Christmas is about family.. it's about children... it's about giving and love and all the good things... ALL the "GOOD" that is found in the Story of God's Love for Mankind...When that LOVE finds a home in the heart of any man, woman, or child .the wrappings of tears , heartaches and pain are cast off... the tight ribbon of selfishness is broken... the shroud of death and darkness is discarded... and the LIGHT SHINES...<br />
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Shine His Light this Christmas. Pray for the Children.EVERYWHERE..!.Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-87931355248963025142012-09-06T17:36:00.000-07:002012-09-06T17:38:03.597-07:00THE DEMOCRATS, C.S. LEWIS, and EPISTEMOLOGICAL SELF- CONCIOUSNESS." If you dip into any college,or school, or parish, or family- ANYTHING you like- at a given point in it's History, you will always find that there was a time before that point when there was more elbow room and contrasts weren't so sharp; and that there's going to be a time after that point when there was even less room for indecision and choices are even MORE MOMENTOUS, good is always getting better and bad is always getting worse, the possibilities of even apparent neutrality are always diminishing."<br />
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C.S. Lewis-<br />
That Hideous Strength<br />
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Down here in the country we heard that the Democrats decided to take the word " GOD" out of their platform... and I also heard there is a CLEARER, STRONGER support for abortion.... The quote from C.S. Lewis explains WHY this happened... there WAS a time in the Democrat Party when there WAS "more elbow room"; " contrasts were'nt so sharp"..... there was a time when PRO-LIFE , orthodox Jews and theologically conservative Christians could pull up a chair at the Democrat Party .... and let their voices be heard... that TIME HAS PASSED.... there is " Less room for indecision", "choices are even more momentous" ,"the possibilities of even apparent neutrality " have disappeared... The VOICES of the extreme left are dominating.. they have shouted down the blue dogs, the yellow dogs, or what ever you want to call them... It is a cry thats loud and shrill..." Choose YE this DAY who Ye will SERVE"....<br />
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The Christian Apologist Cornelius Van Til insisted that as time marches on... People will begin to be epistemologically self concious.. They will begin to act on what they KNOW( or what they THINK THEY KNOW)... they will begin to live consistently with their presuppositions.Now I am just an old goat barn cleaner.. so I have to break these jaw breaking words down a little.. I did a little thinking... consulted Mr Webster... and the best I can tell... all that means is this: PEOPLE WILL START LIVING AND ACTING ACCORDING TO WHAT THEY SAY BELIEVE.<br />
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The Democrats believe that " God" has NO PLACE in political life or in Government.... they acted according to what they believe... they "voted Him out"<br />
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The Democrats believe that the baby in the Mother's Womb is NOT a person... They acted according to what they believe... they voted to proclaim their total support for abortion...<br />
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The time for sitting on the fence is over for the Democrats, the" Half hearted ", the "moderates", the "blue dogs", "yellow dogs" ;all those who believe in absolute standards of morality and ethics must now march in lock step with those of the extreme left.. those who adhere to a philosophy of situational ethics and relativism. This is the "PLATFORM" they stand on.... this platform is built of such weak and frail material-. the dregs and remains of societies and cultures long since passed.; Societies and Cultures that were built on the shifting sand of relativism and a rebellion against a culture of Life...<br />
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The Democrats are living and acting according to what they SAY they believe...<br />
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what about US??? what about those of us who claim to believe in absolute standards of morality?? those of us who SAY we believe in a culture of life...<br />
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will WE have the courage to really LIVE OUT what we SAY we believe???<br />
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May we be so blessed, so bold, and courageous...<br />
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Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-62346812577299690152012-07-24T15:55:00.000-07:002012-07-24T15:57:23.083-07:00I know that JESUS loves the Little Children- but He wants ME to LOVE THEM TOO???.Hey Ya'll.. its time again for some crumbs from the poor goat barn cleaners table. but let not your heart be troubled.. I love sharing...<br />
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can you believe that Summer is almost over and school will be starting soon??? It's been a great summer for Church Activities.. you know.. Vacation Bible School.. Mission Trips.. Maybe you got some letters from folks asking you to "partner with them in sharing the Gospel and building relationships".. Maybe you supported with your financial gifts and prayer.. what a Blessing.. The Lord will Bless that GIVING...<br />
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I always enjoy the thank you letters from friends that I have "partnered with".. Lots of times they will include photographs of the children they blessed with God's Love.. Sometimes... I want to send a letter back to them.. and say.." I want YOU to join me in sharing the Gospel and building relationships... not just for a few days for the summer.. but for year-round.. -enclosed are pictures of the children we will be working with.. I have enclosed YOUR CHURCH PHOTO DIRECTORY- You recognize the children??? Yep... Thats right.. they are the children who run past you in the Church Lobby while you are talking to your friends... they are the CHILDREN OF YOUR CHURCH...and they NEED YOU and YOU NEED THEM...<br />
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In our Church, we baptize our little children- Other churches have "baby dedications" No matter what YOU do... ALL Faith communities PROFESS to be just that: a COMMUNITY... there is Privilege and Responsibility that is goes along with it...<br />
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when we baptize a child- the Minister asks the congregation if THEY will promise to assist the Parents in raising the child in the" nurture and admonition of the Lord"... Hmmmm..???. Now I am just a feeble minded Goat Barn Cleaner... but I think I can think of some ways to HONOR that VOW...<br />
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NURSERY( rocking chairs are fun... and reading books with BIG LETTERS and Pictures is EASY)<br />
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Sunday School- I really love the CREATIVE excuses that people give for NOT wanting to teach Children's Sunday School: I am too old, I don't have the gift of teaching, I really need to be in the Adult Sunday School.. blah blah.. ok.. I have heard ALL the Excuses for people NOT WANTING TO HELP OUT IN CHILDREN'S MINISTRY and as the YOUNG PEOPLE say, I am gonna break it down for ya brother.. here's what they REALLY MEAN:<br />
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1.) I really enjoy arguing about Supralapsarianism for the 6789th time...it gives me chill bumps when I slap down a sub-lapper...<br />
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2.) I have been reading lots of stuff from the confessions, Calvin, Luther.. the adults NEED me to enlighten them.. I am way above teaching children...<br />
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3.) I don't like being around children<br />
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4.) I do'nt want to be around children(.. Yep... I think I found an itch.. so I will keep scratching)<br />
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The SAD thing is... EVERYONE says AMEN.... everyone raises their Hand... and says they will help nurture the children in the Faith... there is NO ASTERISK in the Book of Church Order...<br />
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The Saddest thing is... and this is a little secret.. psssttt. I ain't supposed to tell ya this.. but I will... IT's EASY to get folks to TEACH ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL... after all... lots of folks been studying greek and hebrew and Calvin and Luther... they can't wait to lay it on ya....<br />
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But the children of your church run past you in the Hallway. you don't notice them.. you are busy talking with your friends., you are arguing about supralapsarianism for the 8765th time, or....<br />
planning your mission trip to some other state... or some other country... to share the Gospel and build relationships.. with OTHER children....<br />
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<br />Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-38374559303369965742012-07-15T16:12:00.000-07:002012-07-15T16:13:21.269-07:00NOT COUNTING STEPS( NOT LOOKING AT THE FLOOR)My wife and I got bit... yep... it's true. It does no good to pretend it didn't happen.. We have been infected... we have a FEVER and the ONLY PRESCRIPTION is MORE...... DANCING...!! Yep.. we are now OFFICIALLY part of this sub-culture that at one time seemed so mysterious and frightening .. not "scary movie" kind of frightening... but the " I could NEVER do THAT" kind of frightening...and THAT kind of FEAR is the WORST.... it held us back from so much JOY.. .. and I am going to tell you how it all started....( ok... now the picture gets blurry and wavy ... cuz I am going back in my mind to the past- stay with me on this....)<br />
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I am part of an Alumni group that started getting together for dancing and fun a few years ago... Maria and I have always LOVED dancing.. but we did'nt know how...and the GOOD thing is... THAT HAS NEVER STOPPED us from getting out on the floor.. My lovely Mexican Bride grew up with lots of music and dancing in her home.. FIESTA was a priority in her family.. so... She has always been ready to have a good time- FIESTA does a foxtrot in her heart every time she hears music.. no dance floor ever frightened her...<br />
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as for me....<br />
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I started performing when I was a teenager in rock bands, and in local shows here in our little town. it did'nt bother to me to be on stage... and yes.. I was the resident Elvis impersonator..and ya know what that means... I was never afraid to move around and look totally RIDICULOUS while in the spotlight.. I really was'nt afraid of a dance floor either...<br />
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So what was the FEAR....???<br />
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We were AFRAID of what it would take..... to LEARN HOW TO REALLY DANCE.... we had lots of EXCUSES.. here's a few of 'em... in no particular order:<br />
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Excuse # 367- we do'nt have time- we work too much<br />
Excuse # 287- we are old<br />
Excuse# 78 - we are old( yeah... that one kept popping up over and over)<br />
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the Excuse Recliner was kinda comfortable... it was safe... and it did'nt require a lot of effort to enjoy it... so there we sat... in our His and Hers Excuse Recliners... every Friday and Saturday night.. TV remote and lap top on the Lamp Table... THEN... we met "THEM"....<br />
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The " THEM" was a group of special Friends who are REAL DANCERS...many years ago they decided to be disciplined... to learn how to REALLY dance.. and because of that... They dance with REAL JOY- they do'nt have to look down at the floor, they do'nt have to count their steps... Joy and FREEDOM are in every Twirl and step.. Maria and I want that... and we are on our way...we are growing every week...<br />
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we have a long way to go in this pursuit.. but we are blessed ... sometimes... every so often.. that magic happens... and we don't have to count our steps... we don't have to look down...<br />
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and it's PURE JOY... and for that we are forever grateful to our Dancing Friends...<br />
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Cha Cha Cha....<br />
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<br />Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-19856263151289154692011-11-24T15:21:00.000-08:002011-11-24T15:21:32.899-08:00SEEDS OF SELFISHNESSTheir voices shouted songs of Praise from the stage- It was Grandparent's Day at the neighborhood Christian school and the little ones were leading us in Worship! They unashamedly lifted their hands in Praise and preached a sermon about their best Friend - and what it means to be part of the Family of God.<br />
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The "theme" of their worship was the "Platinum Rule".. you know, Treating others BETTER than YOU want to be treated... Denying yourself... Giving( knowing that good gifts will be given unto you)... sound familiar?? Yep... it's the message of Jesus... He wants His followers to know this: we need to shine HIS light. !He has LOTS of joy and blessings for us- If we let Him LOVE OTHERS THROUGH US .... of course, our little friends know that Heaven is a free gift, we do'nt earn it by doing ANYTHING.. Jesus did it ALL for us.. but to truly be happy( I ai'nt talking" worldly" Happy- I am talking" filled with JOY of the LORD" Happy) , we have to stop thinking about OUR happiness and contentment.. and focus on OTHERS.... I think I read somewhere that whoever wants to find his life must lose it??? or something like that...:) <br />
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each of those smiling, joy-filled little faces was preaching a Sermon... and telling a wonderful story with their songs about TRUE joy and Gospel Blessings... and many of those little ones can tell sad stories... I have heard some of those stories: " Mommy went away and left me and Daddy" , " Mama and daddy yelled at each other- then I went to live with Granny" , " Daddy was'nt happy living with us- so he moved away".<br />
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Those stories bring us tears- we cry for the little souls who wonder if their "run-away" parents really love them. Our Hearts break because a little boy plays his basketball games without his dad cheering him on- Our souls weep for the little girl who's mommy never shows up to play tea party...Our hearts SHOULD break for the little ones... but our hearts should also break for the "run-away" moms and dads...<br />
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The runaway Parents miss out on all the Gospel Blessings... the joy of watching their children praise the Lord in a school play, sports, and church activities.... the moment by moment magic that is part of every day life... the Happiness that comes by denying yourself and loving others...loving the little ones.....<br />
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those who run imagine they can find fulfillment outside of God's Plan for the family.. Drugs, drink, Adultery or just "UNHAPPINESS", it's just escapism wearing a different mask- a mask that is custom made for each complaint... each excuse.... My life will be " BETTER" if I run...I am going somewhere else to plant my seeds of selfishness...<br />
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it's all so sad....it's sad that the run-away parents don't hear the songs of their little ones...<br />
It's sad that they don't want to hear..they want to run away .... from the Joy and Blessings that Our Heavenly Father has for them..... They are too busy planting ... the seeds of selfishness grow sadness.... <br />
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Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-51115149920811275062011-08-28T15:40:00.000-07:002011-08-28T15:40:46.657-07:00HOW TO RESPECT YOUR ELDERS( IT"S NOT WHAT YOU THINK)The Church today fights the same battles as the New Testament Church.... I think I read somewhere that " there is NOTHING NEW under the sun"... well..... there's nothing new under the roof of the church building- Church members still argue about how to spend the Lord's money, how to take care of the needy, how to settle disputes... these problems were all confronted by the Apostle Paul in the Scripture.. so do'nt think you are gonna get HOLIER THAN THE REST OF US by leaving the local church... we are encouraged to work out these struggles with LOVE and patience. Thats part of being the Family Of God.. The Lord uses it to make us stronger.... ( wow... but if the Lord knew about those BOSSY WOMEN at church... he WOULD give me a pass.. would'nt HE???)....<br />
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As we collectively fight these battles, our faith is made stronger- and we are equipped for ministry. We gotta shine the Light. We are to go out into the world and show them CHRIST... We indeed are THE MINISTERS... it's NOT the PASTORS OR THE ELDERS- THEY equip US for MINISTRY( it's in the WORD.... Ephesians 4).. Thats a weighty responsiblity- equipping the Saints- we are told in the Word to "obey those that have RULE over you.. they are watching over and caring for your SOUL, THEY must give an account".. yes... they will have to answer for how they sheperded the People of God.. They need our respect.... yes... our RESPECT....<br />
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My prayer is that we will respect our Elders by praying for them DAILY- Pray that they will be protected from Satan's attacks; pray that they will be patient when the choir women try to boss around the music minister; pray that the old deacon will stop complaining about " all the new-fangled worship songs and not enough old hymns( maybe the deacon should have a talk with the bossy women:).....but seriously folks....<br />
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Pray for your Elders, thats how we show them Respect. Let them know that you lift them up to the Throne of Grace.<br />
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Pray that God will give them supernatural strength- sheperding the people of God is hard work. They never get a break. We all expect them to do miracles, to solve every problem.... Do'nt bother them with your every complaint- YOU need to exercise WISDOM before you go to your Elder with your petty grievances- stop the WHINING and start ministering to one another- Love One another....Thats RESPECTING YOUR ELDERS..- LOVING ONE ANOTHER.....<br />
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I know what you are thinking... easier said than done.... yep thats true.... but let me give you a little hint.... Loving each other, being patient, praying for our Elders and praying for one another takes God's GRACE... a strong faith... thats why you need a sacramental view of the Church. Many of you believe in Jesus but you have not confessed Him before Men by submitting yourself for Baptism- it's time to do that.. . Many of you have not presented your covenant children for Baptism- a proper appreciation of the "oikos" principle of Scripture dictates that your children be given the sign and seal of the covenant of Grace.... It's time to do that. The Lord's Supper will strengthen you... it's not a MEMORIAL- Memorials are for the dead.. Jesus is alive and He meets with us in a real way when we feast upon His Body and Blood spiritually in the Meal. It's time to feed upon HIM.... these means of GRACE will strengthen you so that you can LOVE your Brothers and Sisters.... A Sacramental View of the Church helps us to RESPECT our Elders.... Shalom... and Oh yeah, ..... don't worry about the disagreements at your Church... its an age old battle.... I read the following in one of the early Church Fathers," Hermias, a Greek woman new to the Faith was disciplined for her contentious spirit toward the Leader of Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs at the Ephesus Congregation- She repented and was welcomed back to the fold with a spirit of Love and Unity- However, the Grouchy complaining Deacon left First Presbyterian of Ephesus and joined the Baptist Church-:)Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-76119860997311388742011-07-10T16:18:00.000-07:002011-07-10T16:18:03.010-07:00CAN YOU REALLY HEAR THE BRUSH OF ANGEL'S WINGS?-( THE FEMINIZATION OF AMERICAN CHURCH MUSIC)Peace and Love from the country Yall... it's sure been gnarley hot out here... it's been a bad scene with all the heat and the storms... it's really bringing me down.. and when I'm down, I start thinking about blogging again.. so let me lay somethin on ya... let me hip you to the things I been rolling around in my country-fied brain...( or is that Country FRIED brain??)<br />
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Remember back in the late 60s/70s when lots of young people were rebelling against the system... they were called HIPPIES and they did everything in their power to go against the grain.. to be non-conformists.. to be free-thinkers.. to be individualistic in every respect.. so what did they DO???? Well..... they ALL started dressing alike.... they ALL stopped working.... They ALL started speaking alike...... liking the SAME MUSIC.(. you get it don't ya???) it was a really cool scene- going to San Francisco, wearing Flowers in your hair, tie-dyes, long hair, jeans, hallucinogenic drugs... Rebelling against the man is such fun.. Even Free Spirits enjoying Free Love have to pay the piper some day... and they all did... in one way or another- some of them found the answer to their questions in the Messiah... Calvary Chapel and other California churches pointed these seekers to the Savior.... and they became what was known as Jesus People.... <br />
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The Jesus People did what other sub-cultures do- they brought a little of their OLD SCENE into the NEW SCENE... you know... they talked of getting HIGH on Jesus instead of drugs, they emphasized the "outsider/radical" aspects of Jesus ministry and Life, " Hey Man, Jesus was the Ultimate hippie... He shot down the MAN every chance he got... Peace and Love Man...." and Oh Yeah... the Jesus People brought their music to the worship service... Guitars and bongos replaced the Piano and Organ... and Hey.. thats cool - the Word says to Praise him with the stringed Lyre and the cymbals... Worship can be a happenin' Scene.. I dig it... But here's what we should'nt dig-<br />
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The worship music of the Jesus People was naturally centered on the emotional experience of Knowing Christ. Get High on Jesus while you are strumming your guitar... The lyrics could be used in a romantic love song for your favorite girl ... The Hippie worship music held huge appeal for women- the feminine need to relate on a purely emotional basis... It was'nt about the ethical perfections of God's nature... it was all about the FEELING.. and as the Flower children said, " If it feels good....( well.. you know.....) "<br />
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The Men of the church retreated( or welcomed) this change in the worship music of the church.. they fled from their responsiblities as leaders.. and asked the women of the church to "take over" the music programs of the local church... after all... " we are busy doing the "REAL work" of the church... "let" the women do the music and teach children's Sunday School....<br />
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Today we have Worship Music that often focuses on our FEELINGS about knowing God...it does'nt remind us of His LOVE in a Scriptural way... HIS LOVE is NOT an EMOTION that can be lost because of a "bad Day" .. HIS love is rooted in His nature, A.W. Pink called them His ethical Perfections... Not emotions, not passions... He Loves because He is Love... His WORD strengthens our knowledge of His Love... His Sacraments confirm and seal his Grace to us.. It's NOT singing about "hearing the Brush of Angel's wings"<br />
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In today's Church, the Music Ministers and Worship Leaders design their music exclusively with Women in mind... after ALL... the men have neglected their role as Disciplers and teachers of their wives... and turned music over to the Ladies...The emphasis on emotion is clearly seen.. Worship music has turned in to a performance- " Ladies, lets be sure to get color co-ordinated on the Praise Team wardrobe"... <br />
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Thanks to the Jesus People, thanks to the Men who retreated, thanks to the women who now control the music.. we can all hear the Brush of Angel's wings... hey... thats not all bad.. it drowns out the boring reminder that God is" a most pure Spirit,invisible, without body, parts, or passions,immutable, immense, eternal, ..etc....." - and who wants to be reminded of THAT???Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-59226982423614864162011-03-30T19:02:00.000-07:002011-03-30T19:02:52.511-07:00HEAVEN IS REAL( and I didnt learn it from a kid who wrote a book)The other day I was plum tuckered out from janitorin' , packing goat supplies, and philosophisin' - so I took me a little break and watched a little Foxnews.. there was a handsome little boy on who was talking about a book he wrote called "Heaven Is real".. or something like that... ya see.. this little boy was in the hospital and he was having some trouble.... They had to do surgery... and he says he died, went to heaven, and came back to earth... He had some fascinating stories about going to heaven.. of Course He saw Jesus.. and His Grandpa.. and angels... you know.. the usual stuff.. you've seen the movies....I believe this little boy and his family love Jesus.. and they want to tell the story... so that others will believe in Jesus the way that they do... I am not questioning their hearts.... JUST their discernment....<br />
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I just want yall to think about a few things with me.....<br />
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That anesthesia that hospitals give their patients will make 'em see lots of fascinating things.. when My lovely bride was giving birth to our daughter, the anesthesia kicked in and she swore that I turned into a young , slim, handsome movie star.. I mean COME ON!!!!..... I am sure that a little boy's mind can play tricks on him when he is under the influence of anesthesia.... <br />
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when ever I hear those " died, went to heaven, came back, buy my book" stories... the first thing I do is ask WDJS.... yep.. WHAT DID JESUS SAY?? well... I want ya to do a little work yourselves... Look in the book of LUKE for the story about Lazarus( the poor man- not Jesus's friend) and the Rich man... Here's the Clay Callaway Version:<br />
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Lazarus was a poor man who believed in the Savior who was to come- He went to Heaven. The Rich Man who never shared his food with Lazarus was not a believer so he went to Hell... The rich man looks up and asks Abraham to send Lazarus down to hades with a little water to cool him off.. Abraham tells him "NO can do.". then the rich man says " send Lazarus from heaven back to earth so that he can warn my brothers.. so that they won't wind up here...." Abraham says to him, " They have MOSES and the PROPHETS- Let them hear them... " The Rich Man says.. " No Father Abraham, If someone RISES from the dead, they will repent" Old Abe replies, " If they do NOT hear Moses and the Prophets neither will they be persuaded though one rises from the dead"<br />
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Jesus wanted those who heard this parable to remember some very important truths.... " Moses and the Prophets....( THE BIBLE) TELLS US about HEAVEN... about the WAY to HEAVEN.. and WHAT it is like.... we do NOT need someone to share their "visions" or "experiences" with us so that we will believe.. The WORD of GOD is sufficient to inform us.. but we do'nt believe that.. we want to see "signs, and wonders".. we hunger and thirst NOT AFTER RIGHTEOUSNESS but after SENSATIONALISM and SENTIMENTALISM.. The feminization of the american Church has not only turned our "worship" music into "hearing the brush of angels' wings"... it has turned us away from studying sound doctrine.. we have "baptized " Lassie the Dog stories.. and thats where we get our theology....<br />
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we do'nt need another book about someone saying they died, went to heaven and came back.... we need the Preaching of the Word, and the Work of the Holy Spirit who gives us a new heart.. I know that Heaven is real.. The One who gave His life for me is there... He tells me every day in His Word that He has gone to prepare a place for me.. if it were not so. He would have told me....<br />
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We do'nt need another "story" about someone who died and came back to life..... There is ONE who REALLy did that.. He is seated at the Right hand of God the Father Almighty.. He's not sitting on the couch with Brian and Gretchen and Steve....Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-3375856007987511272011-03-06T18:51:00.000-08:002011-03-07T04:29:56.353-08:00SHARING THE GOSPEL AND BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS- The SUPPORT LETTERS WILL BE ARRIVING SOON!It's about that time! The buttercups are no longer whispering! They ae standing TALL and they are SHOUTING! Reminding us that SPRING is on the WAY! Spring is the time when students start feeling the fever.. they are marking off the days .. anxious for the school year to end! Graduations, parties, cookouts.... the young people have a fever and the only prescription is :...???? NO.... NOT MORE COWBELL... the "restlessness" they feel can only be relieved by a MISSION TRIP.... Yep... it's the truth... Lots and lots of people will be sending YOU a letter.... asking you to PRAY and TO CONTRIBUTE... and YOU should feel privileged that you can participate... The money that you give will be used to touch someone's heart with God's Love... Thats ALWAYS a wonderful thing.... it's NEVER a bad thing.... send the envelope back.. with a check enclosed( give up the Starbucks for a couple of weeks and put that money to good use in the Kingdom of God) and by all means PRAY that the Lord will use the young people of the church in fulfilling the Great Commission!It's also important to lift up the Mission Trip leaders and Pastors.... they have a tough job.... <br />
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As you pray for the Mission Trip leaders, Pastors, and participants, ask God to do the following:<br />
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1.) Pray that the leaders will make sure that ALL MISSION TRIP participants have BEEN BAPTIZED, and that they are communing members of the local Church.. It's not good to be carrying out the Great Comission .. if you have not received ALL the BLESSINGS associated with the GREAT COMMISSION! Leaders... let me ask you something.. IS BAPTISM IMPORTANT??? Jesus said it IS.. IS Church MEMBERSHIP important??? I think we know the answer.. Baptism and Church membership should be THE PRIMARY requirements for Mission Trip participation<br />
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2.) Pray that everyone that participates in a Mission Trip will believe God will do GREAT THINGS ! Lives WILL be changed because they show God's Love to others!" Did I not tell you that if you would believe, you would see the Glory Of God"<br />
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3.) Pray for youth group teams who will be working with children this summer on their mission trips.. many of you have seen the photos of children that mission teams work with every summer.. you know the stories behind the photos... so many children dont have loving parents, they do'nt have anyone to really love them.. If the young people of your church are going to work with children this summer... they need LOTS of prayers and encouragement...<br />
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4.) Pray that the the youth will understand that there are children RIGHT HERE.. in their OWN CHURCH who NEED THEM... the Lord Jesus wants them to use their gifts to minister to the children in their own local congregation... It's important to go to Judea, Samaria,and the ends of the earth to share the Gospel and build relationships... but how bout HERE?? in your " Jerusalem"??? let me ask you this ,young person- when's the last time you worked in the nursery??? when's the last time you helped out with Children's Church?? When's the last time you stopped in the hallway at church to say hello to a little one??? They NEED YOU.. and you NEED to share your gifts with them... When you come back from your mission trip this summer... start looking for ways to bless the children of your OWN church:)<br />
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well..... thats about all the crumbs from this poor man's table that I could find.... remember, I am praying for all of you.. Pray for me.... and pray for the children....everywhere.......Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-74178636397753301132011-02-26T18:03:00.000-08:002011-02-26T18:03:25.510-08:00A DONKEY'S JAWBONE, A THOUSAND PHILISTINES, AND A GLASS OF CHABLIS( WELL, SAMSON COULD DREAM COULD'NT HE?)Recently in my Sunday School class, I told my students the story of Samson. Now "my" boys and girls are true covenant "kids", they have grown up hearing the Bible Stories, so I have to dig a little deeper so that we can learn a little more( thats right, " WE".... they teach me MORE than I could EVER teach them, Why do ya think I started hanging out with the little ones?") SO..... I gathered them around me, we got out the Clay Callaway picks and shovels and we started diggin....<br />
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I explained to them that the Angel of the Lord appeared to Samson's mom and dad and told them that they would have a son- AND that he would be a Nazarite. Samson would be set apart for the work of the Lord. He could not cut his hair AND he was NOT to drink any wine .... or eat raisins.... or grapes... Samson was to have NOTHING to do with anything that came from the Vineyards of the land.... All little Jewish boys and girls have understood for thousands of years that Wine, grapes, raisins.. yes,. the Vineyard itself is a symbol of God's BLESSINGS. It is a reminder that the Lord has given you the land, you are to work and rest and find joy in your life as you culitvate your vines..!.. Remember this: NOMADS do'nt have vineyards... they have NO REST... the prohibition against Samson drinking wine was not because he was a member of the First Fundamentalist Church of Zorah.... it was because as a NAZARITE, he was to DENY himself the USUAL blessings that God's people enjoyed.... He was to never forget that he had a special calling upon his life. God had a job for him to do.... He would enjoy the REAL blessing when his "job" was completed....<br />
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We "visited" with Samson! We saw him as he killed the Lion- We marveled when Samson captured the 300 foxes and tied their tails together, set 'em on fire and turned 'em loose to burn down the Philistines crops... One of my boys shouted, " Samson was cooler than a super-hero Mr. Callaway" .....<br />
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THEN, we saw Samson pick up the Donkey's jawbone and kill a thousand philistines.... I told the boys and girls.." Can you imagine how much work that was???? to kill all those enemies with a Donkey's jawbone.. can you imagine how tired and THIRSTY he was..... then BEFORE I could continue with the story.... One of my boys said, " I bet Samson was thinking... ' okay Lord, I just killed a 1000 guys with a donkeys jawbone, NOW CAN I HAVE SOME WINE????'........<br />
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See what I mean.... I thought about that the REST of that Sabbath day... Now it's true that Samson did'nt get the wine... the Bible tells us that he said he was thirsty and God gave him a spring of water to quench his thirst..... but... my little teacher was on to something.. ya see.. he knows how all of US "get" after "doing something special for God"..... he knows that after a challenging time in our life.. we look to God to "bless" us with that blessing that has eluded us.... " Hey God, I been denying myself, working hard, made it through this trial and tribulation... it's time for a sign of your blessing.... where's my bowl of grapes??? where's my box of Sun-Maid raisins.... where's the glass of Chablis?????<br />
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Samson never planted a vineyard. He never held a corkscrew in His hand. Donkey's jaw bones are for killing Philistines- not for popping corks off champagne bottles.... but Samson did get the ULTIMATE blessing- After falling asleep at Delilah's house, the local Barber made a housecall and that was all she wrote- Samson became a prisoner of the Philistines and was blinded... when they brought him out to make fun of him at a party, Samson prayed to God to bless him with His prescence- and to help him destroy the philistines... you know the story.....<br />
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Samson believed in the One true God Of Israel who promised to send a Savior. Samson is in Heaven and we will see him in the new heavens and the new earth.... we will feast with him and the other Saints at the marriage supper of the Lamb.... I want to sit near Samson... and watch him.... and I want to hear Luke tell Samson.." NOW..... you can have some wine......."Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-9775327959421689302011-02-04T09:27:00.000-08:002011-02-04T09:27:53.472-08:00TOP TEN SIGNS YOUR CHURCH HAS SEEKER SENSITIVE CHURCH GROWTH OBSESSIONHERE YA GO-<br />
10.) Your Pastor NEVER wears a suit, and he wears his Shirt-tail hanging out<br />
9.) Your Pastor wears a necklace.... and everyone can see it<br />
8.) You are certain that even the Early Church had a slogan( oops- I mean vision statement)<br />
7.) You believe that "Power-Point" is in the Bible<br />
6.) You refer to the front of the sanctuary as a " STAGE"<br />
5.) Your Pastor uses "props" for His Message<br />
4.) You have a Praise Team whose planning meetings include wardrobe color coordination<br />
3.) You have Hymnals that no-one ever uses- everyone looks at the "screen"<br />
2.) Drama is considered to be consistent with the Regulative Principle of Worship<br />
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................ and the Number One SIGN that your church has seeker sensitive church growth obsession...... : YOU SEE NOTHING WRONG WITH POINTS 2-10Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-76395287580770874632011-01-05T18:44:00.000-08:002011-01-05T18:44:54.427-08:00THE CHILDREN's CHAIN GANG AT CHURCH- LESSONS IN KOINONIADallas is all BOY.He is a little younger than my First graders . He's one of my special friends- a bundle of energy and a bounce in his step.... always ready with smile. It's easy to tell that he loves being with his friends at Opening Assembly every Sabbath morning. I lead them in singing hymns, praise songs, and a short lesson- our lesson ties into our catechism question for the day....after all we ARE good Presbyterians... A Sabbath Day without Catechism is like a day without sunshine... :)<br />
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I always encourage the children as they make their way to their Sunday School classes. Dallas had answered all the questions correctly last Sunday... He wisely reminded all of us that God Loves us because of what Jesus Did for us... He reminded us that we ca'nt do anything to "make" God love us any more.. or any Less... Heaven is a free gift... In other words, Dallas reminded us of the Gospel... After assembly, I told him "Dallas, you are becoming a strong disciple, your faith is growing, and you are doing a GREATjob reminding us about what the Bible teaches... then I asked Him, " How did ALL that HAPPEN???"..... without hesitation he looked me right in the eyes, showed me that gigantic smile and said...," It's all because I sit in a CHAIN OF FRIENDS!!!"... a little puzzled ( it comes from too many years hanging out with adults), I asked," What do you mean by that??" He said," You saw it... you see it every Sunday... we have a chain of friends.. we all sit together.. side by side... we are close... THATS why we are becoming strong disciples"....<br />
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Now If I had asked an adult " " How'd you come to learn that??" or " How is it that you have grown so much in your faith?".... I suspect I would hear something like," WELL, I have been doing an exhaustive study of Calvin, Luther, Knox.... I read all the Puritan commentaries...OR " I have a degree in Theology, did some seminary work..... you know the things adults say.... sometimes they miss the answers because they want you think they are super-theologians.... it's about something THEY DID.... Those adults.... Lets pray for them..<br />
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Let's pray that they understand what Dallas understands- The answer is the "chain of friends( i.e. Brothers and Sisters in Christ) who "sit" together,"side by side", "staying close to one another" ! They support one another, they exhort one another, they encourage one another in their faith.... they live in KOINONIA. sharing with /sharing in the preaching of the Word, prayer, and the sacraments... this is the answer that Scripture gives us- you know ... yep there's LOTS OF "ONE ANOTHER" scriptures- love One another, be patient with one another, encourage one another, Thats how STRONG DISCIPLES are MADE... <br />
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SO..... The next time you get your feelings hurt , and want to go sit in the corner by yourself ... DO'NT DO THAT!!!!..... go BACK to the Chain of Friends.... because thats the place where your faith is made stronger.... Back on the chain gang......Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-14053709111052616872010-12-07T07:55:00.000-08:002010-12-07T07:55:29.713-08:00" TREASURE" IN THE LIBRARY( Mrs. Neal shared with us!)I ca'nt remember the first time I saw her... but as long as I can remember, she wore that beautiful crown of white hair- My parents who grew up here in our little town knew her, they knew her story. They can tell you where she was born, where she went to college, and where she met Mr. Neal. I ca'nt tell you those things... but I can tell you about her treasure- YES.. she had LOTS of treasure stored up... but you could'nt see it- or could you?????<br />
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She was our librarian when I was in elementary school. I ca'nt remember any specific conversations that I had with her in those days- but I do remember a Friend of hers that was always with her, there in the Library. She introduced Him to many hundreds of students through the years.<br />
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I remember the first time she introduced her Friend to us. It was just a couple of days before Christmas Break, and we spent our library time watching a slide show( remember those?). Mrs. Neal made sure that her students heard the true story of Christmas. The story of Jesus's life was flashed upon that little screen in the school library for all and everyone to see- we were told of His death, burial, and resurrection . We were introduced to Him; the Gospel message was clearly presented , We saw Mrs Neal's GREATEST Treasure, it was a pearl of great price....<br />
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Because she was a daughter of the all loving and generous King, she shared His treasure with everyone. She was always willing and ready to help those in need, she always had a listening ear, and she poured her life into the young people of Fayette County. All of us are blessed because she loved us-<br />
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I appreciated Joan Neal because she was not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. " Her" Jesus was ( and IS) the REAL JESUS... She shared a Jesus who came to earth to die for us, to pay for our sins- so that we could be forgiven of our sins. <br />
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- She went to be with her Friend the other day. She is now completely healed, she is at complete and perfect rest, she is MORE ALIVE than she has ever been... and we are blessed because she was with us for a while- She touched so many lives with the Father's Love- Jesus said that when we spend time sharing HIS LOVE with others, we are" storing up treasures in Heaven , where moth and rust can not corrupt- "<br />
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Thank you Mrs Neal for showing us what is really important, Thank you for showing us your Treasure... and thank you for Sharing HimClay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5075609234448185041.post-33982398687461311292010-11-06T00:52:00.000-07:002010-11-06T00:52:51.537-07:00BLESSED ARE THE SHOEBOXES- for they shall be filled( why are YOU whispering?)The safety scissors were safely scissoring, the wrapping paper was wrapping , the smiley-face stickers were sticking - Two shoeboxes were getting extreme makeovers... and the Voice that was heard at the end of the makeover did not require a megaphone ... It was not "shouting "that declared the"job" a success... it was a Whisper- a whisper that was clearly heard above the excited voices of my Sunday School students...They were decorating Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes. We talked while we worked..." I wonder just WHERE our boxes will go??? Maybe Haiti?? OH, I hope a kid in Cherokee gets one of our shoeboxes.. That would be cool".. we filled them with toys,toothbrushes, crayons, coloring books, and letters.... .<br />
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Dear Friend,<br />
I hope you like the toys we sent you. I am praying that you have a Merry Christmas. God Bless You. I Love YOU!<br />
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After we finished the letters, we took prayer requests like we do every Sunday.. one of my boys said" Mr. Callaway, lets not only pray that the kids who get our boxes will like the stuff... but that they will come to know Jesus".... <br />
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"Blessed are the eyes that see the things that you see, Blessed are the ears that hear the things that you hear"<br />
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There's that Whisper......can you hear it???<br />
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..... That VOICE is saying it's not about the stuff.. It's about Jesus The children know it.. they know that when we reach out in Love , God will use us to draw souls into His Kingdom. ??? After 18 years of teaching( or being taught by) children, I am beginning to understand what Jesus meant when He said" Let the little children come unto me, and forbid them not.. for of such is the Kingdom of God"... If children are "OF" the Kingdom, then we should not be surprised when they teach us what His Kingdom is like... let the children speak to you... Come on in to our class......join us on the floor.. surrounded by tape,glue-stick, crayons,wrapping paper.. wait a second... can ya hand me the purple marker??? Thank you!!!... <br />
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hey... do'nt ya love it here??? It sure beats that OTHER Sunday School class that you usually hang out in... the one with all the adults... why I bet they are trying to figure out supralapsarianism again... we "handled" that one in here last year.." The Secret things belong to the Lord our God but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever".... we LOVE verses with Families and children in'em..:)<br />
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Whats That?? what are we doing here?? well.. yes we are filling shoeboxes for needy children.. we are decorating the boxes, we are using up ALL that dollar store wrapping paper... YES.. WE ARE!!! but let me tell ya what we are REALLY DOING... we are building the Kingdom.... thats right...you see, our Sovereign Lord has His hand upon every act of kindness ... He will use these shoeboxes ..- and the people who pass them out- to bring many people into His Kingdom... His kingdom is not made of stones... it IS made up of LIVING stones... as we share HIS love, those living stones are being added to the kingdom... SO... it may look a little messy.. it might be a little LOUD.. HEY we are excited when we are working on HIS building...its not about the Stuff... it's about Jesus....<br />
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Can you hear something...???Clay Callawayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08562496564688183879noreply@blogger.com0