Book Review: Just The Way I Am, by Krista Horning

My first impressions of this book were initiated by the cover. Often you can not judge a book by its wrapper, however this one is an exception. The joy that is radiated from the imagery of the cover and the pages within draws you into thanksgiving. I am thankful God has made these people.

Sitting down with my nine year old daughter and eleven year old son we read the pages together. Each photo not only tells you a story but incites wonder and amazement as to what will become of the hero on that page. We looked at the emotions of each face and read the accompanying scriptures. Here is the greater value of the book. It produces not only reflection for the parents heart, it lifts up my children to appreciate the value of every life God has created, even with its differences.

The author Krista Horning has gone through more suffering than most could ever endure. But it has its reward. Krista seems to have an ability to light a passion for God. With over sixty surgeries upon her frame she proclaims with a victor's experience that God is a loving God despite life's circumstances.

Scripture speaks for itself. Here with the photographs scripture is also speaking to the wonder of God through what others often consider the unfortunate. Each scene is given greater depth by the Word of God.

In summary, the kids inside this treasure box are real. The next time you see another "disabled" adult or child, recall what this book communicates. They have great value and worth. Reading this book to my children has created a compassion at a level I never considered. Reading it alone has urged me on to prayer, for these kids, their families, and to know their Lord. Those God has created with what we often call disabilities are more often His means of grace.

This book can be found at http://www.desiringgod.org/Store/Books/890_Just_the_Way_I_Am/

10 Things I am praying in 2011

People ought to make resolutions. Ministers are no exception. We often, not just at years beginning, set about looking at our lives and evaluate them. This is part of the practice of taking the sacraments. As Paul said, "we ought to examine ourselves" as not to partake in an unworthy manner.

Therefore, as the new year is about to begin I have pondered and considered these following ten items to pray about as a daily petition.

1. That every week I would lead and disciple a person in the saving grace of Christ.

2. To not say anything dumb. Yes, that only wisdom come from my mouth.

3. For personal holiness for the church's sake.

4. That He lead me not into temptation, but deliver me from evil. Thus progress in sanctification.

5. For my thoughts and actions to be redemptive with all people and situations.

6. God minded/centered thinking in everything would become my heart nature.

7. To stop and worship daily.

8. That I measure the success of myself, my church, and "heroes and others" by God's standards.

9. That I be faithful in all endeavors.

10. That joy permeate all things giving God the glory.

A few reasons why you should not cuss

A few reasons why you should not cuss

While shopping in the Christmas season I have encountered people with heightened emotions. Distracted and aggressive drivers are causing problems on the road. Aggravated shoppers more fastidiously claim their spot in the aisle, and bristle. Many greet one another more joyously, and tune in with the music being played.

One particular fellow I encountered stood out. While shopping in Lowe’s he began a dialog with a salesman helping me. I truly believe if counted at least ten percent of his words fell into the swearing category. One in ten. Ten for every one hundred. A full six minutes of blatant expression every hour. I walked away wondering why he even cussed at all? His over use of emotive words has me pondering. Thus, I have come up with a list of reasons not to cuss.

Swearing reveals your hard heart. It says that you can be difficult to deal with.

When expressing oneself with such language, others may simply write you off as being an exaggerating pessimist.

Vulgarity offends and reveals that you have little consideration of others

It reduces your ability to express anything that truly deserves exclamation. It is akin to an e-mail in all caps.

It does not garish any sympathy for your situation nor elevate you to a position that we should awe or respect.

Cussing simply shows a lack of being able to convey the emotions you have in an educated manner.

The use of such language does not solve any problem. It may, in-fact, compound the situation. It also wastes time. People who are problem solvers will fail to ascribe a value to your opinions, thus it removes you from the group of solution oriented people.

From a God-centered point of view, it is a blasphemous decree against the sovereignty and plan of God. It fails to recognize His goodness and lacks faith to trust in Him to work good from the situation. It is an affront to His ways, purposes, and joy.

I am sure this list will promote two things.: create thoughts of reform on the subject in our own lives, or incite more cussing. Emails will surely follow, some attempting to push the envelope of toleration. But regardless, our words reveal our hearts. What do we want others seeing within us?