December 7 vs December 8

December 7th 1941. December 8th 1980. Two dates, linked only by their proximity on the calendar. Yet one day, is given higher treatment and better coverage than the other is in today’s media. What significant event happened on each day?
December 7th: The Japanese attack Pearl Harbor.
December 8th: John Lennon is murdered.
December 7th: Announced to the United States by President Roosevelt.
December 8th: Announced to the United States by Howard Cosell.
December 7th: A date which will live in infamy.
December 8th: A date the music died.
December 7th: The reference to God - “With confidence in our armed forces - with the unbounding determination of our people - we will gain the inevitable triumph - so help us God.” President Roosevelt
December 8th: The reference to Christianity - “Christianity will go. It will vanish and shrink. I needn't argue with that; I'm right and I will be proved right. We're more popular than Jesus now; I don't know which will go first - rock 'n' roll or Christianity” John Lennon 1966.
December 7th: gave birth to the “greatest generation.”
December 8th: brought death to an influential person.
Which historical event received more recent news coverage? The event that changed the world or the event that changed an industry. The event that effected the whole population or the event that affected a few people.
On December 7, 2010, I suffered through 3 hours of CNN. The only statement about Pearl Harbor was a “This day in history” blurb. That’s it. No replays of Roosevelt’s speech. No interviews, past or current, of any survivor or military person. Nothing.
On December 8 2010, when I first changed to CNN they were giving a stirring tribute to John Lennon. Thirty minutes later, the coverage was still about Lennon. They interviewed musicians, actors, and politicians about the “impact that John Lennon had on their life.” Some of these people were not even born when Lennon was killed.
What is wrong with this scenario? Have we as a society gotten away from what is important to the development of the nation, and only focused on what makes us feel good. Lennon’s mantra of “Give peace a chance”, so prevalent that we lost the importance of the wars that were fought to preserve the American society. Do the media not think we should have gone to war and given “peace a chance?”
War is not a popular thing, nor is it something that should ever be entered into lightly. Yet, there comes a time when, unfortunately, war is the only thing that can accomplish peace. Had the United States not fought back, Hawaii, and possibly the whole west coast would be speaking Japanese. Europe and the east coast would be speaking German.
In order to get back to what is important, society has to make what is important to be important. John Lennon stated that Christianity would die out. So did Voltaire, Nietzsche, and an assortment of other philosophers and entertainers. What is common with them. They are dead, Christianity is not.
December 7 1941, brought out the ugliness of humanity. It also brought out the greatness of humanity. December 8 1980, brought out the ugliness of humanity. What greatness came from it?

Grace and Mercy

There are many events in a person’s life that while at the time may seem insignificant, had a strong impact. One such incident happened to me.
A few years ago, I was in the fourth grade. Fourth grade was the first year that we switched teachers for some of the various core classes. Mrs. Book was one of the teachers that I had the pleasure of studying under. One of the classes that she taught me was science. Aside from the cool destruction of the aluminum gas can, Mrs. Book taught me one of the fundamental aspects of Christianity: grace and mercy.
One particular day, Chris Orr (yes that Chris Orr) and I had to take a make up science test. Mrs. Book handed us the tests and gave us some very explicit instructions. She stated, “You two go to the library and take this test. Do not sit near each other, do not talk to each other and do not cheat.”
Somehow in our one hundred foot journey to the library, our brains forgot what we were told to do. We immediately sat at the same table, right next to each other. We then began talking to each other, which led to the breaking of the other instruction. We cheated.
When finished with the test, we joyfully went back to class. We were very confident that we did well on the test. After all, we discussed every question in length to come up with the answer. We were also very sure that we got away with it.
The next day, we were sitting in Mrs. Brown’s class. There was a knock on the door and Mrs. Book stuck her head in the door and politely asked, “Pat, may I speak with Chris and Daniel, just for a couple of minutes?” Unsure what it was about, we happily got out of our seats and ventured into the hallway.
When we got out into the hall, I immediately knew we were in trouble. She was holding our tests in her hand. She asked us a simple question, her voice was not one with anger as much as it had disappointment in it, “Can you explain this to me?”
Neither one of us had a good explanation to her question, because neither one of us said anything. What she said then took me by absolute surprise. She said, “I know you two cheated and I should give you both zeroes for this test. However, I am not going to do that. I will let you keep this grade, if you promise to never do it again.”
There was the lesson: grace and mercy.
Grace is receiving something that you do not deserve. Mercy is not receiving what you do deserve. We did not deserve to keep that grade. She had every right to fail us. Instead, she showed us grace. We did deserve to fail. She had every right to fail us. Instead, she showed us mercy.
Our Father in heaven is the same way. The Bible states that the wages of sin is death and that all are sinners. However, the Bible also states that it is through the redemption of Jesus Christ that we receive forgiveness of our sins, but that it comes by God’s grace, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace.” (Ephesians 1:7 NIV) Through Jesus Christ we will not receive death (mercy), but we will receive eternal life (grace).
I do not think at that time, Mrs. Book meant to give me a life lesson that I will never forget. She was just doing what she knew best, to bestow grace and mercy on one of her own.

The Great Reunion of the Saints

Recently (October 8 and 9th) it happened to be my high school class reunion. We will be celebrating 20 years of our graduation from AHS. It will be a time when old friends gather to reminisce about our times growing up together. We will discuss the past and the present, with a hopeful eye to the future. Many classmates have moved out of town and this is the only time to connect on a personal level.
A few weeks prior to the reunion. I was asked if there was anyone I was looking forward to seeing. Without hesitation, I answered my friend Jeff. Throughout high school we were inseparable. If we shared a class we were always seated around each other. If we were involved in the same activities, we were together. If there were a trip to be taken, we would sit beside each other on the bus. Pick up a yearbook and you would be hard pressed to find a picture that included both of us, in which we were not beside each other. After high school we went our separate ways. I went to Emporia State and Kansas Wesleyan. He went to K-State. After college, we got jobs, families, and pretty much lost touch. The last time I really sat and talked to him, 10 years ago, at our last reunion.
At the reunion, we reconnected again. Even though it has been twenty years (and forty pounds and less hair later) we still got along great. After a few minutes of reminiscing we spent the rest of the evening catching up and reconnecting. It was a good time.
A reunion is a nice thing. You reconnect with lost friends and loved ones. People you have not talked to in many years. It will be a time of joy. Yet, there is one reunion that will be even more joyful. The Great Reunion of the Saints.
It can be said that we all have lost loved ones at some point in our lives. Whether it is a grandparent, parent, sibling, or child, we all have experienced loss. My class has even lost a member through a series of tragic events. As King David remarked in Psalm 23 that we all have walked through the valley of the shadow of death.
There will be a time when we all will be called together. “And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.” (Revelation 20:12 NIV) Imagine what a time that would be, everyone from our lives, past, present, and future, gathered together. What a glorious time that could be.
There is a warning among this. The Bible states that all will be raised, some for eternal life, some for condemnation. “Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out―those who have done good will rise to live, and those who have done evil will rise to be condemned.” (John 5:28, 29 NIV)The reunion will be a great time for those who believe, but for those that do not, the reunion will not be a happy time.
That weekend, while my class was having their reunion, I was also look forward to another reunion. A reunion for all eternity, the Great Reunion of the Saints.

Happy Birthday USA

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America. So begins the Preamble to the United States Constitution.
The Constitution is probably the most powerful document in the United States. It is what established the United States as a nation. It is what governs the nation. In essence, it is what establishes the day the United States became a nation. That day was September 17, 1787.
I do admit that September 17 is an important day to me, as well as those who have a birthday or anniversary today. It was on this day that my parents gave birth to a son. For that simple act, I am grateful for my parents.
Prior to entering the ministry, I wanted to be a history teacher. I love history. When I would pastor a church, the first thing I would do is take the history book of the church and sit and read it. This brings me to the Constitution.
Within the last 40 years, the Constitution has come under fire, specifically, the separation of church and state issue. Many contend that the United States was never a Christian nation. Some would say that the United States was founded only on Christian principles but not on Christ. Others would say the nation was founded by deists with no particular religious beliefs. Still others say that the nation was completely secular and free from any Christian thought.
One thing that the study of history has taught me is that to understand the meaning of something, we must look at the original intent of the author. Who would know more about the Constitution that the one that helped inspire it? John Jay served as the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. His court set the bulk of precedents in the nation. His court helped frame the meaning of the Constitution. John Jay states, “Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers, and it is the duty, as well as the privilege and interest, of our Christian nation to select and prefer Christians for their rulers.”
Who would know more about the Constitution than the one who helped frame it? Patrick Henry stated, “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ. For this reason peoples of other faiths have been afforded asylum, prosperity, and freedom of worship here.”
Who would know more about the Constitution than the one who wrote it? James Madison is considered the Father of the Constitution because he wrote the majority of it. “We have staked the whole future of American civilization, not upon the power of government, far from it. We have staked the future of all our political institutions upon the capacity of each and all of us to govern ourselves, to control ourselves, to sustain ourselves according to the Ten Commandments of God.”
There is a lot more. When the Capitol moved from Philadelphia to Washington DC, Thomas Jefferson established and attended church services in the Legislative building. The Supreme Court and the Executive building also had church services that were established by Jefferson.
Martha Washington’s granddaughter, Nelly Custis stated about her step grandfather George, “Is it necessary that any one should certify, "General Washington avowed himself to me a believer in Christianity?" As well may we question his patriotism, his heroic, disinterested devotion to his country. His mottos were, "Deeds, not Words"; and, "For God and my Country."
We have reached a point in our history of this nation that we need to figure out the direction we want to go. As for me, I look to the words of the Bible with great hope, “and my people, my God-defined people, respond by humbling themselves, praying, seeking my presence, and turning their backs on their wicked lives, I'll be there ready for you: I'll listen from heaven, forgive their sins, and restore their land to health.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 The Message)

I'm Going Fishing from Daniel Vandenburg on Vimeo.

Do You Want To Be Well

There once was a man who was crippled from birth. In his hometown, there was a pool that had mystical healing powers. At certain times of the year, an angel would descend from heaven and stir the waters. Whoever was the first one to enter the waters was healed of their infirmities. Whenever the angel would descend and stir the waters, someone else would get into the pool before this man had a chance. After many times of missing his healing, the man became discouraged.
One day, this man was sitting near the pool. The time was approaching that the angel would stir the waters. Yet, there was no one around that would help the man into the pool. As he was lying there, a figure approached him and asked, “Do you want to be well?”
That question should give anyone a moment to pause and think. The man was crippled from birth and wanted to be healed. Yet, the figure asked him if he wanted to be healed. There was a reason behind the question.
The figure was Jesus. This account can be found in John 5. Because the man could not get into the pool to be healed, Jesus was willing to heal the man, if he truly wanted to be healed. Jesus knew that healing this man would cause a significant life change. The way he lived would be severely altered. Everything this man knew would be changed.
The same goes with everyone. Everyone has an infirmity in his or her life. This infirmity is sin. This infirmity has been with us so long that it has become a major part of our lives. The way we live our life is centered on our infirmity.
Jesus wants to come to you to help make you well. He wants to take away the sin that is running rampant in your life. He knows that it will cause a major life change. No longer will you do the things that you once did. No longer will you want to live the life that you have become comfortable. You will have to leave what is comfortable and known, and go into something that is unknown. Everything that you have become used to and familiar with will be no more. You will become a new creation in Christ, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV).
As a new creation, you will see changes almost immediately. Your attitude will change. Your desires will change. You will be a new person; a person that is no longer confined to the sin that held you back. Life will have a new brighter purpose. Your perspective will change away from self and into others. The sin in your life will be gone and you will be free.
Jesus is coming to you with a simple question, “Do you want to be well?” What will your answer be.

Let Freedom Ring

“When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.” So begins the Declaration of Independence.
This Saturday is the day that we celebrate the signing of this document. As a nation, we rose up and declared that we will no longer be governed by a ruthless tyrannical ruler. A ruler that didn’t care about the people, but was interested in serving himself. The king of the land was only looking out for himself and didn’t care if those people he ruled over lived or died. As long as they did the bidding of the government, they weren’t bothered. The people soon rebelled and our nation was born.
Christians also have an Independence Day. The day we rebel against the prince of the world and turn to the One who created this world. The day that Christ reigns supreme and we are no longer a slave to sin, “But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.” (Romans 6:17,18 NIV)
As a Christian there was a day when you stood up against the tyranny of sin and began to say, “I shall declare the causes which impels me to separate my life of sin and begin to live a life of righteousness. I will declare my independence from sin and live for the One who created me.”
As we celebrate our nations birth and freedom from a tyrannical ruler, Christians should also celebrate their Independence Day. The day you committed to Christ and turned from the tyranny of sin. The day that you allowed Christ to reign and freedom ring.

No Pain, No Gain

In athletics, there is a saying, “No pain, no gain.” When someone is lifting weights, running, swimming, or countless other exercises that I am unfamiliar with, in order for the various muscles to grow, there needs to be force exerted into them. The stress allows the muscles to grow so they will be able to withstand the new force exerted unto them.
One of the most common questions asked about life is, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” Then there is the extension of that question, “Who do bad things happen to Christians?” The primary answer would be to help everyone grow.
How good would life be if once we commit to Christ that we no longer have to have trials, suffering, or even tribulation? Alas, no one is promised an easy life. We are not promised a life without suffering, trials or tribulation. Yet, we are promised, that God will work out all things for our good, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28 NASB)
The first thing that is mentioned in this passage is a two-word phrase: We know. The only way a person can know something is through experience. It is not based upon conjecture or speculation, but experience. We know because we have experienced it. Malcolm Muggeridge, in Homemade, July 1990 wrote, “Contrary to what might be expected, I look back on experiences that at the time seemed especially desolating and painful, with particular satisfaction. Indeed, I can say with complete truthfulness that everything I have learned in my 75 years in this world, everything that has truly enhanced and enlightened my experience, has been through affliction and not through happiness.”
The second aspect is that God takes all things (good and the bad) and works it together for the good of those who love Him. This is not necessarily talking about the temporal good in our lives. Temporal good is what the men of the world are seeking after, and generally have the greatest share of, and what many expect when they see this verse. Temporal good is only that though, temporary. While a believer will receive some temporal good, it is not the goal of a believer. However, they have with a blessing; and even sometimes afflictions work for the temporal good of God's children.
The good that is mentioned is the good that deals with the spiritual and the eternal. Spiritual good lies in a lively exercise of grace and conformity of the soul to God; and is what the men of the world least regard and the believers regard as the most. Eternal good is the penultimate good. This good is the good that will last for all eternity. The crown of eternal life is the eternal good. The book of James re-emphasizes this point in 1:12, “Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. (NASB)
Results may lie hidden long, but they will come out, showing that God's hand has guided events to their results with unerring wisdom. In the light of eternity, if not in the light of time, they shall see it all, and seeing it shall wonder and adore. Do not allow yourselves now to be deprived of this great prize. Remember the athletic creed: No pain, no gain.

For God and My Country

Summer is unofficially here. Memorial weekend symbolically represents the opening of summer. It is a time when families begin their camping trips, barbecues, reunions, and a host of other things. It is a three-day weekend set aside for rest, relaxation, and play. It is a weekend of no cares and no worries. Whom can we thank for this weekend? We can offer our thanks to those who gave us the real reason for this weekend. Those who gave their lives for the freedoms we hold today: The American soldier.
Memorial Day was established as a day of mourning for those who fought and died in the Civil War. Soldiers that did not want to see America torn asunder. These soldiers gave their lives trying to keep America as one nation.
As the Civil War soldiers fought to preserve the nation, another set of soldiers fought to establish a nation. These are the soldiers of the Revolutionary War. They were led in force by General George Washington.
George Washington is known as “the Father of our Nation.” He led a vastly outnumbered and outmatched upstart army to victory over the mighty British forces. He was a good tactician who knew where and when to strike. It was through his military accomplishments and his leadership that led him to be the near unanimous choice to be the first leader of this young nation.
What is not so well known, or taught, were his strong Christian convictions. George Washington was a man of deep and strong convictions. He prayed daily for hours at a time in his library. His private journals referred to God, Christ, and his own prayer life. While he was leading armies to victory and establishing a nation, he also helps establish a church.
It is not a new concept to question George Washington’s beliefs. In the 1830’s a gentleman, Jared Sparks, was compiling a biography on George Washington. Trying to find out if Washington was a Christian or not, he sent a letter to Martha Washington’s granddaughter, Nelly Custis-Lewis, asking about his faith.
Nelly, because of the death of her father, Martha’s son, she was raised in the White House while Washington was President. She lived with the Washington’s all of her childhood. She was a little surprised that someone would question her step-grandfathers beliefs. In her letter she wrote, “I should have thought it the greatest heresy to doubt his firm belief in Christianity. His life, his writings, prove that he was a Christian. He was not one of those who act or pray, ‘that they may be seen of men’ [Matthew 6:5]. He communed with his God in secret [Matthew 6:6].”
She continued in her letter, “Is it necessary that any one should certify, ‘General Washington avowed himself to me a believer in Christianity?’ As well may we question his patriotism, his heroic, disinterested devotion to his country. His mottos were, ‘Deeds, not Words‘; and, ‘For God and my Country.’”
As we approach this Memorial Day, let us remember all of those that have given their lives so that we may enjoy the freedoms that we have. Let us remember the purpose for which they served, “For God and my Country.”

What This Life Is All About

In this area, the local schools are ending their year. The final recognition for the students comes in the form of graduation. For any graduate it becomes a time of transition. For the ones graduating from high school, the transition is greater. It is a symbol of maturation. Many graduating students will move to other cities to continue their education. Some will enter into the armed forces to serve their country. Still others will enter into the workforce. One thing is certain; they are no longer children, but adults.
One question will generally arise while they are in pursuit of their calling. What is this life all about? Is it about making the most money and acquiring the most items? Is it having a family and meeting their wants and needs? Is it about serving other people? What is this life all about?
While there is no set answer that will apply to all people, there are guidelines that can help everyone find out what this life is all about.
The Pharisees asked Jesus a trick question. This question was used to trap him into denying some aspect of the law. The question was, “Which is the greatest commandment.” Jesus’ answer not only gives us insight as to what the greatest commandment is, but it also begins to answer the question, “What is this life all about?”
The Bible records Jesus answer, “'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:30, 31 NIV)
The first step is to “Love the Lord your God.” Primarily, God is to be the center of all that you do. Everything you do should be contingent upon seeking after God first before all things. Then the Father in Heaven will give unto you everything that you need. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33 NIV) God wants you to be blessed, seeking after Him first before all things. God has a plan for you and your life. Seeking after Him will put you on a path to find what it is He has planned for you.
The second step is to “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Remember the golden rule: Treat others, as you would want to be treated. You should treat all other people with respect. You should strive to treat people with humility and grace. Look to the interests of others as well as your own as the Bible states, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3, 4 NIV)
Following these two steps will help you to understand what this life is all about. It will help guide you in the direction that you need to go for your own life. God will give you what you need, to do what you need, to succeed in understanding what this life is all about, “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NIV)

Dare To Be Daniel

To paraphrase Hamlets most famous soliloquy, “To pray or not to pray, that is the question.” Prayer is possibly the single most important duty a Christian can do. Everything done by a Christian must begin with prayer. Prayer is a powerful tool. The best way to halt a believer is to halt their prayer.
Many years ago, Daniel was a prophet. He was a wise and powerful man. No evil thought or deed was found in him. He was so full of godly wisdom that the king sought his counsel almost daily. This infuriated all the other administrators. They were so upset that they sought to have him removed. Yet, because they could not find any corruption in him, they had to fine a different way to have him deposed. They sought to halt his praying.
The administrators created a law that for thirty days the only prayers that could be offered up, must be offered to the king. The punishment was not going to be a small or even a large fine. It was not going to be community service or jail time. The punishment was to be death by den of lions.
When Daniel heard this law, did he say, “That’s the law, I guess I will stop praying to God for thirty days. I must obey the law or else I will die.” No. Daniel understood that you must obey God and not man. The Bible states, “But when Daniel learned that the law had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God. ” (Daniel 6:10 NLT) Daniel did not stop praying, he continued to pray as he had always done.
Long story shortened. The administrators caught him and threw him to the lions. Because of his dedication, God delivered Daniel.
Thursday May 6th is the National Day of Prayer and there are people that want to end this day of prayer. They claim that the Constitution explicitly forbids the government from recognizing any form of religious service, which includes prayer.
Setting aside a day of prayer goes as far back in history as our own nations founding. The Constitution was ratified on September 17, 1787. Two years later, in September 1789, Congress asked President George Washington to “recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging, with grateful hearts, the many signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a Constitution of government for their safety and happiness.” This Congress would understand and know what the Constitution would allow and forbid. They were the ones who established it. While this act did not establish the National Day of Prayer, it did establish another holiday. “A day of public thanksgiving and prayer . . . of Almighty God.” This act set the foundation for the establishment of Thanksgiving as a national holiday. A day to give thanks and to offer prayer to Almighty God. The first Congress established a day for prayer, thus a National Day of Prayer can not be unconstitutional.
John Adams was always calling for a National Day of Prayer. Thomas Jefferson also followed suit. James Madison (who was one of the primary writers of the Constitution and was the principle author of the Bill of Rights (the first 10 amendments)) many times called the nation to pray to the Almighty God. He helped sponsor the aforementioned Congressional summons to Washington. Do you think he would know what the Constitution would allow and disallow? What about other Presidents?
On March 30, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued a proclamation that designated the day of April 30, 1863 as a day of "national humiliation, fasting and prayer.”
On April 17, 1952, President Harry S Truman signed a bill proclaiming a National Day of Prayer must be declared by each following president at an appropriate date of his choice. In 1982 a National Prayer Committee formed to coordinate and implement a fixed commemorated day of prayer. In 1988, the law was amended so that the National Day of Prayer would be held on the first Thursday of May.
Will Christians sit idly by while people try to strip government from establishing a day for prayer? Or will Christians be like Daniel and defy those who would want to strip away prayer. Dare to be Daniel.

The Significance of the Resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the most significant event in the history of all mankind. The significance of the resurrection can be determined through the uniqueness, the necessity, and the urgency of the resurrection.

The Significance of the Resurrection from Daniel Vandenburg on Vimeo.

Tragedy to Triumph

During the war of 1812, one of the essential points of interest for the British army was the port of Baltimore. If the British can control the port, they could seriously hamper the trade routes of the United States. In September of 1814, the British began a bombardment of the fort in Baltimore.
Francis was a lawyer from Washington, who was sent to negotiate the release of a civilian prisoner. He was on a truce ship when the attack began. Though Francis was not a prisoner, he was not allowed to leave the ship due to the bombardment.
All through the day, canon shots rang out. Bombs were bursting in the air. As night fell, he could see the red glare from the rockets. Francis just knew the fort was not going to be able to withstand the attack. If the fort fell, Baltimore would be crippled. The war would sway heavily in the British favor. Tragedy was coming.
In the early light of dawn, the British called off the attack. Through the smoke, Francis caught a glimpse of something that gave him hope. He was able to see the one thing that made him realize that this was not a tragedy but a triumph for the United States. There, waving high above the wall, the American flag was still there. The lawyer, Francis Scott Key, feeling so much relief and emotion, penned the “Star Spangled Banner.” What was going to be a tragedy, turned into one of the greatest triumphs for the United States?
There was another time when tragedy seemed imminent.
Jesus entered into Jerusalem in triumph. Within a week, he was put to death. All that his followers sought after, all that they believed in, all that they knew was for naught. Their king was dead. There was no hope. There would be no future kingdom. Jesus’ triumph had turned to tragedy, for he was dead.
A few days later, some women went to the tomb where he was buried. They were going to prepare the body with spices. When they arrived, they were shocked to find that the stone guarding the entrance was rolled away. When they entered the tomb, the body of Jesus was gone. Confused and perplexed as to what was happening, two men in robes like lightning, appeared to them. “In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, ‘Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!’” (Luke 24:5,6a NIV). Hope had returned.
All that Jesus spoke about and promised came true. He established an eternal kingdom for all those that believe in him. He destroyed the power of sin and death. It is through the resurrection of Jesus that we all have hope. It is through his death and resurrection that we have been freed from the bondage of death and sin, “For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 6:9-11)
What started out as a tragedy ended with the ultimate triumph.

Triumph to Tragedy

In American history, the Civil War is perhaps the darkest time in the young nation’s life. It was state versus state, brother versus brother. The first shots were fired at Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861. The war lasted almost four full years, ending with Lee’s surrender at the Appomattox courthouse on April 9, 1865.
Abraham Lincoln was the President of the United States during this time. During this time, he never gave up the thought of reconciling the Confederate states back into the Union. April 9th became a great triumph for Lincoln personally and the United States became united once again. Five days later, tragedy came to the nation.
April 14, 1865 President Lincoln went to see the play, “Our American Cousin.” A few hours later, shots rang throughout the theater. President Lincoln had been shot. April 15th, six days after the end of the Civil War, President Lincoln was dead. Triumph had turned into tragedy.
There was another time when triumph turned into tragedy.
The Jewish council was expecting the Messiah to show up any moment. They knew what the prophets wrote about in their writings. They knew they would be set free from tyranny. They longed for the person that would reclaim the throne of Israel and establish a nation forevermore.
When Jesus entered into Jerusalem, it was known as the “Triumphal Entry.” Many expected him to come into Jerusalem and claim his kingship over all of Israel. He was supposed to remove the Roman occupancy and declare Israel a sovereign nation. As Jesus neared Jerusalem, the citizens greeted him by laying palm branches down before him. These palm branches symbolized victory, for they were certain he was going to remove Rome from their midst.
Shortly thereafter, Jesus was praying in the Garden of Gethsemane. He was approached by Judas, one of his chosen twelve, and given a kiss. This was the signal the soldiers that accompanied Judas needed. They arrested Jesus and took him to face the Roman governor. The temple leaders wanted Jesus killed, but Roman law stripped them of the ability to execute anyone. The crime that they brought before Pilate: Jesus was a king, trying to subvert Roman rule. “And they began to accuse him, saying, ‘We have found this man subverting our nation. He opposes payment of taxes to Caesar and claims to be Christ, a king.’" (Luke 23:2 NIV). The one thing they (the Jewish leaders) hoped for, the one thing they truly desired was the one thing they used against him.
Jesus entered into Jerusalem in triumph. Within a week, he was put to death. All that they sought after, all that they believed in, all that they knew was for naught. Their king was dead. There was no hope. There would be no future kingdom. Jesus’ triumph had turned to tragedy.

Caroline Elise is 2

Wow it is now two years since Caroline was born. The time sure does get away. These are just a few photos through the year.

He Is Knocking, Are You Answering

One day a new Pastor decided to visit some of his parishioners. He came to a house that had a beautiful garden that he had to walk through. He approached a large oaken door and knocked. A few seconds passed and no one answered so he knocked again. When no one answered the door, the second time he pulled out his business card and wrote Revelation 3:20 (which reads, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.” NIV)
The following day, the Pastor went to his office. There taped on the door was the business card he left. Underneath his Scripture note was written Genesis 3:10 (which reads, “He answered, "I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” NIV)
Many people are that way with Jesus. He will come to the door and knock, yet there is no answer. Excuses are made to avoid answering the door. He will judge me on my past. I am not worthy. I have sinned too much. I do not live an acceptable life. In addition to any other various excuses that you can give.
I am going to let you know a little secret. It is not much of a secret though. Jesus already knows about your past. He already knows the life you are currently living. He already knows all there is to know about you. While he is concerned about it, he is more concerned with your future. Not just your future on earth, but for all eternity.
The good news is that you do not have to be perfect. You do not even have to be good enough. You just have to be you.
No matter how bad you think you have been. No matter how unworthy you feel. Jesus came for you. Whether you feel ungodly or stuck in your sin, Jesus died for you, “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. . . But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:6, 8 NIV)
If you feel like your life is going the wrong direction. If you feel like everything is spinning out of control. If you feel like your life is empty. Jesus is waiting.
No matter what life you have lived. No matter what sin you have committed. No matter how unworthy you feel. He is knocking, are you answering?

Happy Birthday Abraham Lincoln

February was a busy month for the Committee of Naming Holidays. The month began with Groundhogs Day, so named because the Committee met on the second day of the month and the head of the committee hogged up the ground they were sitting on and would not let anyone near him. The Committee noticed that when Mardi Gras ended they would burn the floats to ashes on a Wednesday, which led to the name Ash Wednesday. The President of Hallmark realized there was a downturn in sales in the month of February and tried wanted a holiday between Christmas and Mothers Day. He approached the Committee and since his name was Bob Valentine and he met with them on the 14th, another holiday was created.
Two of the United States greatest Presidents were also born in February: William Henry Harrison and Ronald Reagan. OK, Abraham Lincoln and George Washington were born in February. Since the Committee did not want the Post Office closed all those times to celebrate the birth of the Presidents, they created Presidents Day.
During one of the most trying times of American History, Abraham Lincoln was President. A nation not yet one hundred years ole was tearing itself apart. Then on July 4, 1863, the eighty-seventh birthday of the nation, he gave the most important speech in American History. Though the speech was less than five minutes in length, something current Presidents may consider, it had a huge impact on the future of the nation.
Many people know the beginning, “Four score and seven years ago.” Many people know the end, “and that government: of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” One phrase that Lincoln uttered, that many people are not familiar with is, “that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom.”
Abraham Lincoln was a man of deep faith. When the Civil War did not appear to wane, Lincoln issued a proclamation, which included part of Psalm 33:12. It stated, “Whereas, the Senate of the United States, devoutly recognizing the Supreme Authority and just Government of Almighty God, in all the affairs of men and of nations, has, by a resolution, requested the President to designate and set apart a day for National prayer and humiliation. And whereas it is the duty of nations as well as of men, to own their dependence upon the overruling power of God, to confess their sins and transgressions, in humble sorrow, yet with assured hope that genuine repentance will lead to mercy and pardon; and to recognize the sublime truth, announced in the Holy Scriptures and proven by all history, that those nations only are blessed whose God is the Lord.”
Lincoln wrote many prayers in his journal. Many times he would tell people how he began his day, “Before I rise to my feet, I begin my day on my knees.”
Abraham Lincoln served during one of the darkest times in American History. He was not afraid to call on the name of the Lord for assistance.
February 12th is Lincoln’s birthday. As our nation again is divided on many issues, let us follow Lincolns lead. Let us begin our day in solemn prayer and turn towards God for guidance. Our nation can once again be blessed if we make God our Lord as it is written, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance.” (Psalm 33:12 NIV)

Kurt and Tim

Every year at this time, there is one special event on TV that is the most watched event for the year. Advertisers spend millions to get a commercial shown during this broadcast. The recent price for a thirty-second commercial is 2.5 million dollars. Even at that high of a price, many advertisers are turned away because the commercial slots are filled. What event is it that does this? That is right, the Quiche Cook Off on the Food Network. Ok, that’s not it; it is the Super Bowl.
There is one Super Bowl that stands out in my memory. Not because of the team that won it (I do remember all of the 49’er victories), but because of what happened after the game had ended. Mike Tirico approached the MVP of the game and said, “Kurt, first things first — tell me about the final touchdown pass to Isaac Bruce.”
Kurt Warner answered, “Well, first things first, I've got to thank my Lord and Savior up above - thank you, Jesus!"
Kurt did not hide being a Christian. Many people do hide being a Christian. Whether those around them that are not Christian intimidate them, thus they just want to fit in. Whether they are running for office and risk alienating some of the voters, as many politicians have stated in recent elections, “My religious views are a private matter between me and my God.” Whether they are unsure of their own beliefs and do not want to discuss it for fear of misleading someone.
Whatever reason they have, they are going against what Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16 NIV) Christians should be proud they are a Christian, not hide it.
This Super Bowl has a chance to be like the previous Super Bowl. Not because of who is playing in it, but because of who is starring in one of the commercials. Tim Tebow and his mother will appear in a commercial. Even before the commercial has aired, there is already a controversy surrounding it. Are they selling beer, stocks, computers, or chips? No, they are not. The controversy surrounding the commercial is around choice.
When Tim’s mother was pregnant, she became sick, so sick that the doctors told her that the child she was carrying would have many physical problems. She was advised to abort the child. She chose not to get an abortion and now her son has a chance to be drafted into the NFL.
The amazing thing about the controversy is that those who support “choice” are upset that she is telling about her “choice.” Some have even gone to various news outlets and when told about the “choice” she made, they correct the people and call her “choice” a “decision.” Tim’s parents made the “choice” to give birth, but the “pro-choice” group does not want other people to know about it. They would rather continue the lie of “choice” instead of calling it what it is - choose only abortion.
Tim’s parents are happy with their “choice.” Why won’t they let her tell the world about her “choice?”

It's About Life

On January 22, 1973, the United States government legalized murder to a group of human beings that cannot protect themselves, that cannot speak out, and that cannot show the pain that they are suffering. Humans that do not choose the life that they are given, a life that, to say loosely, they are born with. They do not make a choice that can bring unfair and unwarranted discrimination upon them. They are considered a lesser type of human being.
What caused this discrimination? Is it their skin color? The United States has had a history of racial intolerance, but this is not based on their melanin. Is it their gender? This murder can happen to either male or female. Is it their religion? Again, this murder can invade all types of religions and faiths. Unfortunately, certain Christian denominations and Islamic sects have even supported this murder. Is it their socio-economic status? Rich or poor, this form of murder is indiscriminate. Is it their lifestyle? These humans have not had the time to make lifestyle choices.
What is this murder that affects all types of people, yet only discriminates against on certain type of person. This murder is simply known as Legalized Infanticide. Or in a more popular politically correct term: Abortion.
There are three primary arguments for abortion: The life of the mother, rape, and the establishment of the beginning of life.
First is the life of the mother. The argument states that if the life of the mother is in danger, then the pregnancy should be terminated. Yet, this argument is more of smoke screen than an actuality. C. Everett Koop, former Surgeon General stated, “"Protection of the life of the mother as an excuse for an abortion is a smoke screen. In my 36 years of pediatric surgery, I have never known of one instance where the child had to be aborted to save the mother's life. If toward the end of the pregnancy complications arise that threaten the mother's health, the doctor will either induce labor or perform a Caesarian section. His intention is to save the life of both the mother and the baby. The baby's life is never willfully destroyed because the mother's life is in danger."
The second argument is rape. Studies have been done regarding this situation. The University of Minnesota did a yearlong study of rapes and pregnancies. They looked at every rape that occurred and studied to see how many resulted in pregnancies. The number was startling. It was zero. No rape resulted in a pregnancy. F D Mecklenburg, M.D. states, “Although frequently cited by pro-abortionists, pregnancies resulting from rape are so rare as to be virtually non-existent. There are several contributing factors to this. In addition to the pure mathematical odds against pregnancy resulting from a single random act, medical research indicates that an extremely high percentage of women exposed to severe emotional trauma will not ovulate. The rape itself, therefore acts as a psychological 'birth control.”
The third argument is the beginning of life. Scientifically speaking, life ends when there is no brain activity. It is not about breathing, the heart, or other organs. When there is no brain activity, there is no life. When there is brain activity, there is life. The brain generally begins to function and brain waves have been recorded within the four to six week period of impregnation.
The Bible has life beginning with God. “you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.” (Psalm 139:19 NIV) These three arguments, try to make it about choice. It's not about choice; it’s about life.

Sprint or Marathon

When I was in high school, I was involved in two athletic teams. I was on the cross country and the track teams. At the time I was in cross-country, it was a two-mile race, not the current 5k. (That was instituted my senior year, the only year I did not run cross-country). When it came time for track, I was not a distance runner; I was a sprinter. The farthest I had to run was 400 meters.
There are major differences between the two, aside from the distance that is run. Sprinters work on quick bursts of speed. Their goal is generally under 400 meters and the quicker they can reach it, the better. Sprinters work on getting finished as quickly as possible.
Distance runners work on stamina and endurance. While speed is important, knowing how to pace your speed is just as important. A marathon runner does not sprint at full speed from the start. If they do, by a half mile, they would be exhausted and unable to complete the race.
Much like athletes, Christians are in a race; a race with a purpose, “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win.” (1 Corinthians 9:24 NASB) The question becomes are Christians in a marathon or a sprint. The answer is both.
Jesse Owens summed up the commitment a sprinter has when he said, “Sprinting is a lifetime of training for just ten seconds.” The same can be said for a Christian. It is a lifetime of training for just ten seconds. Christians must always be prepared to give an answer when asked, “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15 NIV) In order to be prepared for a short burst, a Christian needs to have some careful training.
It is not always about a quick answer to a question. It is also about a lifelong commitment. It’s not just a sprint, it is a marathon. Just as a Christian does not want to burst out in a sprint; they need to pace their life. There will always be times when they need to be called into service, if they are exhausted, they may not be able to perform. As with anything in life, a Christian must pace themselves.
Above all, a Christian must always be training. A Christian must spend time in study in order to be prepared, “Study earnestly to present yourself approved to God, a workman that does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 MKJV)
Train for the sprint and train for the marathon. In the end, a Christian will be able to say, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7 NIV)

New Beginning

With the coming of a new year, most people make a promise to better themselves (resolutions). One study showed after the first week 25% of the people have failed at their resolution. After one month 36% of the people fail. After 6 months more than 50% of the people have failed at their resolution.  Why is that? Is it that they set unreasonable goals (I will lose 2350 lbs), have unrealistic expectations (I will save a gabazillion dollars), or have a certain weakness (I will limit my Pepsi consumption to only 20 cans a day).
Not to brag, but I would throw off all those studies. When I have made a resolution, I have managed to keep it, not just for that year, but also for a long time after. This year’s resolution that I will make: I will not buy a hunk of cheese, sit down, and eat it. As I am trying not to break my arm patting myself on the back, I have not bought a hunk a cheese, or any type of cheese, and sat down unwrapped it and ate it. Now, those who do not know me, I cannot eat cheese, therefore, I will keep this resolution. I set resolutions I know I do not do so I will not fail.
Why do people tend to fail? For me the answer is simple, they do it without Jesus. We try to make ourselves better without the one who can make us better- Jesus Christ. When we accept Jesus as our savior we become a new creation. The old person is dead, the new is alive. "So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:16,17 (NIV)
What makes being a new creation possible?  It starts with forgiveness.  Our Father in heaven has a poor memory.  When your sins are forgiven, they are forgotten.  “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.” (Hebrews 8:12 NIV).   When your sins are forgiven, you are now a new person; your past is no more. He no longer holds you accountable for your sins.
The beauty of a new year is that we are no longer looking back at the past, but we are looking forward to the future.  The same can be said of all people that come to a relationship with the Father through His Son Jesus Christ.  Instead of looking to past and claiming that God will never use you because of it, look to the future at how God will use you because of Him.  The Bible is full of people that have committed grievous sins against God and yet, when they turned to Him, they were used to promote His love for all mankind.
There is a saying, “When Satan tries to remind you of your past, you remind him of his future.” There will be times when people will tell you that you are no good, that your past is not worthy of doing the work that God has called you to do. Yet, God is not as worried about your past as He is your future. When God calls you to do something, don't worry about what other people will think, concern yourself with what God wants done. When God moves, especially in your life, don't let anyone stand in the way. As Gamaliel told the Sanhedrin about Peter and John, “But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.” (Acts 5:39 NIV) Do what God has called you to do.
As we turn the calendar to a new year, let us turn our hearts towards Him.  Forget your past and look to the hope that has been given to you through Jesus. Start a new beginning for Him.