Caribbean Way

A Watermelon Seed

2010-03-23T06:57:00.002-06:00

William Jennings Bryan was a lawyer/politician of the 1800's, even ran for president a couple of times. The article that follows is from him and shows his understanding of the "mysteries of the Bible".

Once when I was going to Columbus, OH I stopped to eat in a restaurant and ordered a slice of watermelon. I took the seeds home with me to plant in my own garden. That night a thought came to my mind. How many watermelon seeds would it take to make a pound? The next day I weighed them and found that it would take about 5,000 dried seeds.

A few weeks later I planted just one of the little seeds. Under the influence of sunshine and shower, that little seed had taken off its coat and gone to work. It had gathered from somewhere two hundred times its own weight and forced that enormous weight through a tiny stem and built a watermelon. On the outside it has a covering of green and within that a rind of white and within that one of red, and then it had scattered through the red many little seeds, each one capable of doing the same work over again.

What architect drew the plan? Where did the little watermelon seed get its strength? Where did it find its flavoring extract, and its coloring matter? How did it build a watermelon?

Until you can explain a watermelon, do not be too sure that you can set limits to the power of the Almighty. The most learned men in the world cannot explain the watermelon, but the most ignorant man can eat a watermelon and enjoy it. God has given us the knowledge necessary to use these things, and the truth that He has revealed to us is infinitely more important for our welfare than it would be to understand the mysteries that He has seen fit to conceal from our faltering view.

Think about it. Tol

Doing the Impossible

2009-06-09T03:48:00.002-06:00

As I begin let me admit that, yes, some things are impossible. As a true blooded Texan that is hard for me to say, but it is true. The Lone Star state was built by people who believed they could make something out of sand dunes and prairie grass and the funny thing is they suceeded. True, they had to raise sheep and goats rather than cattle and today many ranchers in West Texas make more from leasing their land for deer hunting than anything else, but a little flexibility goes a long way to overcoming obstacles.

I have noticed through the years though that many people don't have this attitude. I'm thinking particularly among brethren. You know him (or her)--no matter what is suggested they quickly trot out all the reasons it can't be done or why it will fail, even if you can do it. I am confronted frequently with such brethren and it's amazing how much some spend telling you why it can't be done, and more especially why they can't do it. Such pessimism simply feeds upon itself--since nothing can be done, why even try? We hear, "Nobody wants to hear the Gospel today" or "Nobody cares about 'truth' nowadays". Believing this what few efforts they make to talk to others are half-hearted or their lack of confidence is so obvious that they make no progress, which only reinforces them in their belief that "nobody cares about God"--you fill in the blank with "today" or "in this area", etc. Such attitudes can stifle a church really fast, leading to a slow death in many churches.

On the other hand there are brethren who live in a fantasy world, where anything can be done. If you're over the age of 25 you've probably figured out this world is not real--there are way too many people who seem to think their purpose in life is to stand in your way. Customer service is variable once you leave the South. When we first moved to the Caribbean I used to argue with cashiers at KFC--"why can't I have fries instead of mashed potatoes?" but soon learned it was futile. If the picture shows mashed potatoes and corn on the cob, that's all you can get, period. Yes, some things are impossible--in my humble opinion food choices shouldn't be one of them, but what do I know?

Brethren, if we would spend as much time thinking about how something could be done as some do in finding/making up reasons it can't be done I think we would be amazed at what the Lord can do through us. Yes, anything worth doing is likely to be hard, or at least have hurdles to overcome, but with the Lord's help we can do it. The apostle Paul had a thorn in the flesh that was a hindrance to his work. He begged the Lord 3 times to heal him, but the Lord's reply was "my grace is sufficient for you". Rather than spend his time lamenting what he couldn't do because of his "thorn", or always looking back at what he used to do "before he had the thorn" Paul relied on God and found ways to overcome it.

There is a world of people who need salvation--what are you doing to reach them? Yes, it is impossible to save everyone--they won't let you, but some of them can be saved. "But I've tried, and it hasn't worked." If one method hasn't worked, then sit down and think about what might work, then give it a try. Gospel meetings in most places in the States don't bring many non-Christians out to hear the Gospel anymore. I believe Gospel meetings serve a very valuable purpose--strengthening and encouraging the local church, if nothing else, but if they don't serve as a point of contact with non-Christians then we need to think about what will.

Instead of lamenting over what doesn't work, don't give up--sit down and think. Certainly the things some churches do are wrong--unscriptural and we can't follow in their footsteps, even if they "seem" to work. The wrong road will not take you to where you want to go, no matter how easy it seems to be. But there are things that we can do--talk to others, brainstorm, in short look for ways around the obstacles, don't just give up because there are obstacles.

Tol

A Beautiful Facade

2009-06-08T19:02:00.004-06:00

A couple of weeks ago the brethren in San Pedro de Macoris put us up in the Hotel Macorix. It's an imposing structure and the entrance is what you would expect of a grand hotel--a wide lobby with a marble floor, massive dark wood reception counter, 3-4 bellboys standing around. It opens up on to the olympic size swimming pool and on the other side a view of the ocean.

As you continue inside you see the grand staircase with the same dark wood bannister, but there is also an elevator just beyond that. Our room was nicely furnished with rattan furniture; 2 beds, small table and 2 chairs and sliding glass doors that overlook the Malecon and the sea. But don't look too closely now: the sliding glass doors don't meet the wall on either side and the only light is a small lamp that won't work. The bathroom floor had a stash of hair in one corner, the counter top has cigarette burns, the door has lost most of its stain. One the ceiling tiles is missing and the one next to it is not on the grids, etc. This is a hotel that has been, but is no longer in vogue. The factories are closed now and the new, all-inclusive resorts are 30-40 miles down the road.

This hotel reminded me of the church in Sardis--"you have a name that you live, but are dead". Haven't you been in some of those church buildings? The facade is impressive, usually along classical lines, with 5-10 steps up to the grand entrance. As you enter the lobby you can see the plush carpet in the auditorium as well as the many pews. As the brethre begin to arrive it becomes apparent that this church is not what it used to be--less than half of the pews are used, there are few younger people and even less children. There was a time when the building was full and bustling--children running, babies crying, brethren visiting, but now it is quiet. You don't need the gift of prophecy to see where this church is heading. It may have been very active in years gone by and may still be supporting a number of preachers, but it is well down the road to disappearance.

There is another type of church that seems to be alive, but is really dead. This one may not be so imposing and at first glance you don't realize that it's dead or dying. They probably began as a small group, perhaps having to leave another congregation when they left God's plan. Little by little they have built up, always standing for the truth and have grown large enough to have an adequate bulding, support a preacher, etc. There is lots of activity but it produces little spiritual growth. Maybe the real emphasis is on social activities, maybe the Bible classes tend toward "intellectualism"--learning just for learning's sake, or maybe they're just going through the motions. It may take awhile, but eventually you realize they are just as dead as the more obvious ones.

Brethren, it is easy to become content and quit. The purpose of Bible study is to learn, then make application to our lives. Eph. 4 says the purpose of the spiritual gifts was to equip brethren for the work of service. If that purpose is not accomplished a church is somewhere along the road to death--sooner or later it must die.

Tol

A service of Thanksgiving

2009-05-18T08:35:00.003-06:00

I arrived in the Dominican Republic yesterday at 3:45 and was outside with luggage in 5 minutes-a minor miracle. From there we traveled 30 minutes to Guerra, where one of the sisters was having a service of thanksgiving at her home. They were alreay singing when we arrived--between 65 & 70 people and after a couple of songs I preached to the group. Most of the brethren from Guerra (25 or so) were present, which means there were around 40 visitors, so my theme was the importance of knowing God´s Word, encouraging them to ask the local brethren for help. One of the "problems" here is that close to half of the older men can´t read but are ashamed to admit it, so anything that might reveal this "weakness" they shun. Studying the Bible can be very embarrasing because they are asked to read, so I dealt with that a little.

After the service was over all were served juice, snacks in a small styrofoam box and what you would think of as a birthday cake.

The ocasion for thanksgiving was the new block house the family had. The sister is probably in her mid 30's, with 3 small children. She is a widow--her husband was killed in a car wreck about 3 years ago, leaving her with no job, 3 babies, and a small wood house (in the VI wood houses are called temporary houses--the first hurricane will destroy them). The company he worked for had pity on her and began the construction of the concrete block house and neighbors & family helped with the labor, a few pesos, etc. and she now has a 2 bedroom, 1 bath house with kitchen & living room (around 1000 square feet). She wanted to first thank God for her new home, then family & friends who helped, also taking advantage of the ocasion to let the Gospel be preached to them.

Tol

Going up to Glory

2009-05-04T16:05:00.002-06:00

Yes, I was in Glory yesterday. I wasn't snatched up as the Apostol Paul was; we drove up the mountain to this neighborhood about 45 minutes from Ponce. It was glorious--the hills around us were lush & green with rain clouds on top. The yard of the house we were meeting had fruit trees, coffee trees and lots of flowers.

We had about 25 people for the service, including 10 or so from the church in Ponce. There are at least 7 brethren who live in this neighborhood who, although they have not regularly attended any congregation live "good" lives, read the Bible, etc. There are even more who didn't come--like everyone else today they "don't have time". Brethren from Ponce used to come up and "hold services" here, even though some of the brethren have been Christians for close to 30 years and most of them for more than 25. Yes, the brethren from La Gloria lead prayer, the Lord's table, perhaps a song but the preaching and teaching was done by those from Ponce.

I was told yesterday that they had not met together for 13 years--a few of them would go to Ponce from time to time to worship with the church there, but most didn't. How did a church like this get to the point that they just quit meeting? I don't know all the details, but it seems that they were dependent on those from Ponce, so when they stopped helping the work quit.

When Christians are new they need help, but as time passes they should mature to the point that they need less and less help. Too often though, brethren become dependent on others--brethren from another congregation, the preacher, etc. "They/he can preach much better than I can, so why should I try?" "I don't really know what to say to a non-Christian so I'll just let Brother _______ talk to them."

God commands each Christian to grow, to whatever level they can. If they don't grow, not only will the church not grow: it will eventually die.

Tol

Getting accustomed

2009-04-20T12:01:00.002-06:00

The fact that we live in a city of 224,000 people, on the edge of two other cities that together total about the same limits the wildlife we see, even though we are in the Tropics. Because our house backs up to the drainage canal we do see iguanas fairly regularly, plus the smaller lizards that predominate on the islands. We hear a few water birds as well the coquis (tree frogs) but haven't seen many birds other than doves. About a month ago we started seeing a couple of bananaquits (the "yellow bird" of the well known Jamaican song), which was nice. They've since built their nest less than 5 feet from our front door. Dana was sure they wouldn't even complete the nest--after all it's right next to the front door, but they did and seem to preparing to raise a family.

I'm a little surprised they chose our house, but they don't have a lot of choices in this area. They seem to be accustomed to our coming and going--they don't leave the nest most of the time. Of course this could lead to their capture and/or death over time--the more they're in close proximity to people, the more accustomed they become. The more accustomed they are, the less they perceive the danger.

Lot was like the bananaquits--he moved his family into Sodom. 2 Pet. 2 tells us that he was a righteous man who was vexed by the wicked conduct of his neighbors. Rather than becoming accustomed to their immorality it disturbed him. One has to wonder about his family, particularly his wife. Did she become accustomed to these things, so that in spite of the angel's warning not to look back, she looked back anyway? And what about his daughters who decided the only to preserve their Father's seed was to get him drunk and sleep with him? His family became so accustomed to the immorality of their neighbors that they repeated it.

We live and work and study in an increasingly immoral society. Immorality that used to be "in the closet" is now paraded down the street, literally. In the interest of "not hurting anyone" society at large at least pretends that however people live is okay, "who am I to judge?" If we're not careful this attitude rubs off on us and rather than call sin what it is--sin, we choose to ignore it. While this may not affect us, it does affect others--others who are looking to you for moral guidance. There is no justification for crude, rude comments about the sins of others, but speaking out against such may be the only time some around you hear that such action is wrong. By keeping silent we assist in society getting accustomed to sin.

Tol

Caesar and God

2009-04-15T08:01:00.002-06:00

Today is April 15th, the dreaded day. Everybody here in Puerto Rico is in the midst of getting it done, including me. We have to pay some this year, which brings us to the point of this blog--the relationship between God and government.

In the States we have lived without government interference in religion since almost he beginning. But as government seeks to intrude more and more into every aspect of our lives it must meddle in the churches as well. The first area has been in the marriage/divorce arena. In the 1980's we went through a spate of lawsuits against churches for publicly marking members, particularly in regards to divorce & remarriage. Those seemed to end when one "victim" lost and paid not only her lawyer fees but those of the church as well (her lawyer also went before the bar).

It seems that "hate speech" will be the next likely area of conflict. Is homosexuality a sin? According to the Bible yes. Is it "hate speech" to say this? NO! If you go to the doctor and he tells you you have cancer, is that "hate speech"? Do you want to hear that you have cancer? No, that's one of the most frightening words in the English language, but better for him to tell you the truth, even if there's nothing that can be done about it, then lie to you to "spare your feelings".

In the same way, we need to call sin sin, so that those in sin may recognized their need to change before it is too late. Will sinners reject such teaching? Most of them will. Do they like to hear it? Obviously not, but again who wants to be told they have cancer? We might argue there's a way to say it and that some brethren are crude about it, but that doesn't change the truth. A doctor with a poor bedside manner doesn't change the fact that you have cancer--could he have been kinder in the way he said it? Probably, although there is no nice way to give someone a death sentence.

God's truth doesn't change to fit the wants of society, any society of any time period. Neither can we change the truth to please those around us, even the government.

Tol

Becoming all things to all men

2009-04-10T17:57:00.005-06:00

Today is "Good Friday" you know and in the Caribbean it is one of the days of the year you MUST go to church. For the past 6-7 years the church in Dorado, Puerto Rico has had a service on Good Friday, with lots of visitors. You see most of the 40 + that were present today--25 of them were non-Christian visitors. If you subtract the 7 of us who came from other churches you see that the members were way outnumbered by the members. The good thing about the non-Christians is that many of them are family of the local brethren, so there is a point of contact to study in the future.

I know some would pale at the idea of "celebrating" this Roman Catholic tradition, which cannot be found in the Bible. If they were celebrating it like others do I would agree, but they are not. People here are looking for a place to "go to church" today, so why not use it to teach them the truth? In 1 Cor. 9:22 Paul says, "I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some."

Think about what you can take advantage of to preach the Gospel.

Tol

Evangelism in the 21st Century

2009-03-17T18:40:00.002-06:00

Evangelism is the lifeblood of the church. Those who know say a church must grow 10 % a year just to maintain itself. The Great comission, one of the last things Jesus commanded the Apostles sets forth clearly their directive (and ours, as we imitate them) to preach the Word to every person. But how can we do that today?

There was a time when many non-Christians would come to Gospel meetings just for something to do, hear the Word, and be converted. In those days TV was not a factor, nor where the various sports activities for every member of the family, club meetings, etc. In "those days" (not to say the "good old days") it was common to have 10 or more visitors to a Gospel meeting, with at least one baptism, frequently more. Today many churches have a time getting their members to attend a Gospel meeting, much less visitors.

There was a time when radio programs sparked a lot of interest--everyone listened to the radio--no ipods, stereos, boomboxes, etc. so what was said on the radio was heard throughout the whole community. While radio seems to be making something of a comeback, it just doesn't have the influence it once had.

We must acknowledge that the world we live in has changed--people are busier, have much more entertainment/distractions, and even have less time to think or meditate. Does that mean that evangelism no longer works or as it is commonly phrased "nobody wants to hear the truth anymore"? Do we need to make changes in evangelism, and if so what kinds of changes should we make?

The nitty gritty of conversion has always been (and will always be) people sitting down and studying the Bible together, with an open heart to learn what God would have me to do. The needs of mankind have never changed, so God's Word has no need to change either. The only way people grow in faith is by hearing the Word of God. There is no substitute for Bible study, particularly guided Bible study to help a sinner see what His condition is before God and what God expects of him. No, Bible study cannot be changed.

On the other hand, our ways of making contacts probably will change. Talking to people you already know and have some influence with, is always the best way to find those willing to study. Often times we just need to ask them--quit beating around the bush and ask them. But if you are diligent you will eventually run through that group of people, so where do you go next? In times past door knocking worked fairly well, or radio programs, even ads in the newspaper, but these don't seem to work as well as they once did. That doesn't mean there is no interest in spiritual things, nor that nothing can be done. It merely means we must explore other ways of sparking interest in the non-Christian.

The internet is a wonderful tool for teaching. There are a couple of websites among brethren, in several languages, that receive over 100,000 "hits" a month--that many people go to the website and look at at least one page. Obviously most of them don't continue, but some do. A well done website can produce results, not only locally, but throughout the world. Our website is priglesiadecristo.com. We have articles and sermons in both English and Spanish, along with powerpoints, etc. We encourage you to come check it out.

Tol

Standing up for Jesus

2009-03-09T09:28:00.002-06:00

Through the years we've lived in a couple of towns where the church was really strong and in one of those Dana was a Girl Scout leader. About 1/3 (or more) of the leaders were also Christians.

The year of Girl Scouts anniversary (I think it was 50 years) rolled around, so each council was going to have some special event to celebrate. As the subject of what they were going to do was broached, one of the more aggresive leaders began really pushing a "fun" night for the girls at the HS gym, which would conclude with a dance. Well actually culminate is probably the better word--the highlight of the whole evening was the dance.

There were almost 20 women present, of which at least 7 or 8 were Christians. Being one of the newer leaders Dana waited a bit to let someone with more influence protest, but no one did. Finally she protested, giving her reasons why and still no one else said anything. The dance was ultimately accepted.

As Dana was leaving several different leaders who were Christians approached her, telling her they didn't approve of the dance, their girls would be leaving before it started, etc. When asked why they didn't stand up against it they really had nothing to say. The dance was a flop, but the whole thing could have been avoided if only a few more had spoken out against it.

Are you standing up for Jesus, or do you just sit there? When someone at work (or school) tells dirty jokes what is your response? Do you just sit there, not laughing, but not saying anything? Or do you get all self-righteous and make a big scene about it? In my judgment neither of these is the answer--you need to politely, but firmly, tell the person that you believe such jokes are not in keeping with being a Christian. If he/she is offended it's not because of you, or what you said, but because of a guilty conscience. When "the guys from work" invite you to "go out for a beer" how do you respond? Do you say you don't have the time, or do you tell them the truth--I don't drink or go to where drinking is the main entertainment (that's the meaning of "drinking parties" in 1 Pet. 4:3)?

Are you standing up for Jesus?

Tol

a way with words

2009-03-03T14:07:00.002-06:00

I talked with a friend today about a family member who had been killed and she told me the body was going to be "exposed" tonight at the funeral home. Her English is very good, but there are some words that don't necessarily translate easily. And while many people might call it a "wake" or a "viewing" I remember an older brother who used to say "they'll have him/her out" tomorrow night. From the context it's not too difficult to figure out what they mean, but it is interesting. Not all cultures say things the same way.

In the spiritual realm it is no different. As Christians we talk about "sound" churches or "liberal" churches. We may even use words like propitiation, atonement, etc. when talking with friends who are not "literate" in the Bible. We know and understand very well what these words mean, but they don't. When it comes to the Bible some people know very little, so when they hear such words they just turn you off. So, you think you've enlightened them and they haven't heard a thing you said.

Words are important--don't misunderstand me, but sometimes we don't help our listeners understand by our choice of words. When we moved to KY and I first heard the phrase "I don't care a bit for you to come over" the context seemed to say "come on over" but the words seemed, at least to me, to say "don't come". After several clarifications I finally understood, but I can be persistent when I need to be. Your non-Christian friends may not be nearly so persistent in trying to understand.

So as one well-respected brother said years ago, "Never underestimate the ignorance of your audience"--don't assume they know everything that you do. More than likely they don't, so think about your choice of words and make sure they are understanding you, because if they don't understand it doesn't matter how eloquent your teaching/preaching is, you're just wasting your time and theirs.

Tol

February--a month of firsts

2009-03-02T16:18:00.002-06:00

February has come and gone but it was an exciting month for us in Puerto Rico. The churches continue to grow and as a result, so do brethren. We have had two brethren at Caparra (San Juan) lead their first prayer while waiting on the Lord's table. 3 were baptized at Moca (2 hours west of San Juan) and both men have lead prayers. The young man that was baptized in Jan. at Moca is also serving the Lord's table.

Growth is by spurts and at times seems to be two steps forward, one step back, but it is progress no matter how slow. One of the young men at Caparra, when asked to lead the prayer for the bread, back out because (he told me later) "he didn't know the prayer you had to say"--he had decided there these prayers were according to a formula and had to be said exactly or they were not valid.

Attendance at Caparra yesterday was 11 in English, 15 in Spanish and 12 at Moca.

There is another new church meeting in the center of the island, at Juncos. Presently there are 6 meeting there, Joe Carrasquillo and his family and Oscar and Ana Colon. They are passing out literature and inviting the neighbors, so we trust the Lord will give the increase. There is not a church in this town, nor in several of the towns around it.

Please continue to pray for us as we work here and that the Lord will provide the support for Joel Holt to move here in July, to work with us, as scheduled.

Tol

A big family

2009-02-27T18:13:00.005-06:00

I'm preparing a series of lessons on what it means to be a Christian. Last week was based around the phrase in 1 John "born of God". Used only in this short book it appears 6 times, each time in a context that highlights one aspect of being a Christian. This week will be about what it means to be in the "family of God".

As I was preparing the powerpoint I was thinking about our very large family, spread all over the world. Above are two photos of small parts of our family after they have worshipped--two small churches from two different islands, with two different cultures, that use two different languages, etc. Now multiply that by the thousands of congregations throughout the world and you begin to see what a big family it really is.

There are 4 sound churches here in Puerto Rico, all with about 15-20 in attendance. One worships in English, so you can imagine how isolated they sometimes feel. Yes, they share a building with a Spanish speaking group, but they meet at different times and hardly see one another. But even though they are so few here they, like all of us, are part of the family of God.

Please pray for your family throughout the earth. Some suffer persecution (China, Nigeria, etc.), some are starving (Zimbabwe, The Phillipines), some are almost totally ignored (Western Europe), while others are working in areas where people are more receptive to the Gospel, but they all need your prayers.

Tol

Everybody has the answer

2009-02-24T13:52:00.002-06:00

My wife Dana suffers from asthma. Her attacks are not frequent, but they are severe when she has one and it usually takes several months for her to recuperate. She was diagnosed about 10 years ago, but hers doesn't seem to be "normal" asthma. Ever since she started having problems everyone has an answer for her problem. Here in the Caribbean it is even worse, as everyone has an answer and is dying to share it with here. It is so bad that the preacher in Moca, the first time she was there and was coughing advised the brethren that she had had this problem for 10 years and had already heard more remedies than a person could "test" in a lifetime. Even so she received one more that afternoon.

Depending on the culture the remedies range from vitamins, herbs, bee propolis to pine bark and even lizard soup (don't know if that's the anole lizard, the iguana, or the ground lizard--didn't inquire that far). But in our desire to help, or just be busybodies, we all "want" to share our answer for Dana's problem. She's tried some of them and they haven't worked for her, but we get new ones frequently--everybody has the answer.

It seems that advice in the spiritual realm is much the same--everybody has the answer! If you don't believe it, just listen to the TV & radio talk shows. One "expert" assures us "gay is good" while another decries it. One tells us "divorce is victimless" while another says "divorce only affects the couple" and still another admits "divorce affects everyone, including grandparents". The tragic thing is that while men are busy "thinking" and then spewing their "answers", the real answers can be found in the Bible. Oh, I know, the Bible is seen by many to be "antiquated" and "out of date", but the longer we try "our answers" the more we realize that God's answers were always the best. Why does God hate divorce? Could it be because He wants the best for us and knows that divorce affects everyone involved, no matter how far away they seem to be for the worse.

The book of Judges describes a tumultuous time in the nation of Israel. It can best be characterized by a phrase that appears at least 3 times within it--"In those days there was no king in Israel. Every man did what was right in his own eyes." When every man seeks his own answers there is chaos and problems. When a society seeks, and follows, God's answers there is peace, tranquility, and prosperity.

Tol

Environmental damage

2009-02-20T19:04:00.004-06:00

To the right is one of our "neighbors"--he used to come up in the backyard often, but the dogs seem to have changed his feeding patterns. The iguanas in the trees behind our house are a constant attraction to those who visit us, but not everyone here is so excited by them. Seems they are damaging "bird habitat" along one of the shipping canals. Funny how "the environment" can affect the "environment", isn't it?

This discussion is kind of like weeds--they always seem to be hardier than the "good" plants, so if left alone will choke the good ones out.

Which brings me to the spiritual application. Our environment has a profound effect on our spirituality. If we are surrounded by people who have no interest in God and spiritual things, it WILL rub off on us. To be sure, we may not forget God completely, but He will not be as important to us as He used to be. If we are surrounded by immoral people, their values and even actions could become part of our lives. If all our friends are religious people, but not Christians, that will affect our spirituality as well. Obviously then, it is important who are close friends are, and even who we spend a lot of time with.

On the other hand, if our close friends are other Christians they too will affect us--for the good. If you want to get stronger spiritually you need to spend more time with people who are spiritually strong.

Our environment affects us too; for good or for evil. Which will you choose?

Tol

"Nobody is interested in the Gospel today!"

2009-01-16T09:44:00.002-06:00

Have you heard brethren make this statement? Have you yourself made it? Having preached in more than one culture in two languages I have not found this to be true.

I met Antonio Wed. afternoon in the home of a Sister here in the Dominican Republic. He is an old family friend, although they had not really spent time with him in 15-20 years. He came to the capital seeking a visa to travel to the US and needed somewhere to stay for a week or so. Nino began talking with him about the Bible that morning and that night he was baptized. He has been in many churches, seeking the true church. When he finally found it Wed. he didn't delay his obedience.

Last night in a rural village (less than 300 population) 55 were present for a service at the house of one of the members. Around 25 of those were visitors, some of whom regularly visit. Although there had been a death in one family in the village that day, 25 were present to hear the Word of God. The church in El Mamon is growing, primarily because the brethren are working. Many in the village can't read or write, but they can listen to the Word preached or taught.

You may say, "But that's in a foreign country". True, but there are people where you live who are looking for the true church also--they're waiting for you to contact them. Could the difference be, not in the "audience" but rather in us as workers?

Tol

The conveniences of modern life

2009-01-15T08:18:00.002-06:00

I'm in the Dominican Republic and am reminded again of how good we have it in the States.

Water came today--their days are Tues. and Thur. They have a tank on the roof, so if you're careful you have water every day. But house cleaning and washing must be done on one of these 2 days--so much for doing laundry when you want to.

The power has been on most of my time here, although it was off for a couple of hours yesterday. I thought I would have to finish my sermon last night in the dark, but it was only a couple of voltage drops. Tonight I preach in a rural area, where the power goes out almost every night, so they meet at 6 PM.

Santo Domingo is a city of 4 million +, with not enough roads for the ever growing number of cars. Today Nino will travel from the north of the city to downtown, from there to the airport 15 miles south, to the east side to pick me up, to travel even farther north to the "suburbs" for a Bible study, to go even farther east to El Mamon tonight, to return "home" in the north--easily 4-5 hours in the car. He probably left home at 6 AM and will get back at 8:30 or so, depending on if he stays to visit tonight. For those who rely on public transportation it is even more time consuming.

Yet in spite of these difficulties brethren meet together 3 times a week--Sunday, then either Tues/Thur or Wed/Fri.

What about you?

Tol

progress or digression??

2009-01-13T09:05:00.002-06:00

Here in the Dominican Republic the front page new yesterday was the signing of an agreement with the countries of Central America to work toward a union, much like the European Union, with a common market, a common currency, etc. In these tough economic times such a union may open markets to the Dominican Republic, where there are a number of factories, but in the future I perceive that may reverse itself, as labor costs in most Central American countries are lower than they are here. Is this progress or not? The various political parties will no doubt discuss this ad nauseum, but only time will tell.

There is a movement among churches of Christ to "progress"--to change worship to "what the people want" instead of what God wants. Baptism as a condition of salvation is not taught so much, even by some of those who believe (more and more do not). The question we must ask ourselves though is this: Is this progress or digression? Your answer to that will depend on your view of authority. If you believe God expects us to obey Him in all things, then you view such changes as digression, if you believe God isn't overly concerned if we do exactly what He says, then you probably view these changes as progress.

The Bible consistently teaches that God expects us to obey Him and shows the punishment of those who didn't in the past; even those with good intentions. Nothing in 2 Sam. 6:3-7 indicates that Uzzah had anything but good intentions when he touched the ark of the covenant to keep it from falling, but God struck him dead on the spot.

Why do we still worship the same way we've always worshipped? Could it be that it is what God has authorized, and nothing else? I answer with a resounding yes.

Tol

It's what you're accustomed to

2008-12-17T09:45:00.004-06:00

This morning when we woke up it was cold, why it must have 68 degrees, with a 10 MPH gale out of the NE. Now I know most of you are realing feeling sorry for us--yet right, you think I'm crazy, but when you live year round in the mid-upper 80's day and night a wind chill of 64 degrees is cool. On the one hand I'm looking forward to being in the States next week as it will be nice to see real cold weather, but I'm also dreading it for the same reason--being cold. To most of you 68 would be warm right now, but that's because the high is probably in the 40's or 50's. Your body is accustomed to the cold, so it feels "right".

They say you can put a frog in a pot of room temperature water on the stove, then turn the burner on under it, the frog will stay in the pot until it dies. Supposedly the gradual change doesn't alarm it enough to cause it to save its life.

Is sin any different? If you begin to "dabble" in sin, just a little, it doesn't seem so bad and before long you're accustomed to it. What was uncomfortable in the beginning becomes a little uncomfortable some of the time, then eventually you don't even think about it. But like the boiling water, the wages of sin is death.

Here in Puerto Rico the fashion is for women to have some part of their breast exposed as well as their belly showing. If a young lady sees that all around here she can easily become accustomed to it--her Father can also become accustomed to it, so that both fail to realize that such dress is not modest. If where you work everyone curses and uses foul language frequently, you will become accustomed to it, unless you work on it. In a business climate where so many have no ethics, it is easy to become accustomed to it, even though it is wrong.

Do we have to go out of the world to avoid sin? No, in fact Lot is called a righteous man even though he moved his family into Sodom. But the same context that tells us he was righteous tells us he was vexed by their evil deeds. When you cease to be bothered by the sin so rampant around you, you know you've become accustomed.

Tol

Mr. & Mrs. Faithful

2008-12-11T19:19:00.006-06:00

We all know Abraham was a man of great faith--he is called the Father of the faithful, but I'm seeing that many people don't view his wife Sarah in the same light. Why she lied twice, saying she was his sister, when she was his wife and got the Egyptians and the people of Gerar in trouble because of her lie. Then when God promised she would have a child, first she "helped" Him out by giving Abraham Hagar to have a child with, then laughed in disbelief when told that within the year she would have a child.

So was Sarah a woman of faith, or not? Heb. 11:11 says, "By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised." Why was Sarah able to have a child? Because of Abraham's faith? No, but because of their faith--his and hers. Did she laugh in disbelief? Yes, but so had Abraham already (Gen. 17:17). If all we had was what Heb. 11:11 said of Sarah, it would be enough to prove that she had great faith--a woman 90 years old, who had NEVER been able to have children, who had finally gone through menopause with a child, would now have a child with a man 100 years old. Yet Sarah believed this and it came to pass.

"But what about her lies?" Obviously she did lie, but Abraham asked her to, "Please say you are my sister , that it may be well with me for your sake, and that I may live because of you." As a submissive wife she followed the lead of her husband.

Both Sarah and Abraham sinned--in the lies, in his relationship with Hagar, and their laughing, but both of them are described as persons of great faith, even set forth as examples of faith and faithfulness. And the Bible presents them as they were, "warts" and all. The Bible never shows us sinless people, but rather shows the good and the bad.

When we examine ourselves we must acknowledge our sins and frequently we despair--how can I make it to heaven? The father of the faithful also sinned, yet is recognized for his faith. This gives us hope that we too can be seen by God as faithful.

Tol

Black & White People

2008-11-20T22:00:00.002-06:00

Fairy tales fascinate children--the hero/es do battle against evil, usually a villain and save another person, the nation, the world, perhaps even the universe. Is there a certain amount of hero worship involved? No doubt, but I think children also love fairy tales because it matches their view of people--people are either black or white, good or evil. Children view everyone as either a good person or a bad person--there is very little tolerance for mistakes or sin. In their world good people don't do bad things and bad people don't do good things--you're either one or the other.

As we mature we come to see that good people make mistakes, sometimes mistakes that affect many people very dramatically, and that bad people can do some good things. We realize that good people have their faults or weaknesses and aren't perfect and that even the worst people usually have at least a few redeeming qualities. I know a few very bad people, but Jesus acknowledged that worldly people do some good--"do not even the Gentiles love those who love them?" There are very few people who are all black or all white--we all have at least a little gray.

Understanding this should help us be more compassionate with others. If I recognize that I need God to forgive me of my sins and shortcomings, I must also recognize that I must forgive others who wrong me. Jesus addressed this very point on more than one occasion. Why? Could it be that we have a problem with this?

Interestingly, the Bible does not portray even our heroes in this light. It records 2 occasions when Abraham repeated the same lie that Sarah was his sister: she was his half-sister, but she was also his wife. We are also told that Abraham laughed when promised a son at 99 years of age. David, the man after God's own heart, was not a very good father and was guilty of fornication and murder to cover that up. When I see their sins I have hope--if they could make it, so can I. How about you?

Tol

Work or study?

2008-11-12T19:36:00.002-06:00

I read somewhere that John Adams, the 2nd President of the United States, was not a particularly eager student and when he finished the preparatory school that existed in his time, he didn't want to go on to college. He enjoyed the outdoors--hunting, fishing, etc., not sitting behind a desk. When he told his Father this, he agreed that John did not have to go if he didn't want to, but that if he was not studying he must work on the farm. John agreed to this, no doubt thinking that anything outdoors would be preferable to studying books indoors. As time passed though, he changed his mind and when it was time to register for the next term he was quite ready to enroll in Harvard.

I believe John's Father was a wise man--he didn't argue, cajole, or even force John to go to college, but neither did he throw his hands up and allow his son to become a lazy bum. His actions showed John the two roads ahead of him--he could work with his back or with his brain. He believed his son needed to be busy in something useful, either work or school.

As citizens of the Lord's kingdom, no matter our age, health, or abilities our King expects, even demands that we be busy in His kingdom. To use the analogy of John Adams, you will either study and prepare yourself or you will begin working without such preparation, but you must be busy.

"But I can't preach or teach publicly" you cry. I don't question that, but what CAN you do for the Lord? Your health may not permit you to do as much as you used to in the Lord's service, but is there not something you can do? I tire quickly of those who are continually giving excuses as to why they CANNOT work for the Lord, rather than finding a way around their obstacles to fulfill the Lord's commands. I suspect the Lord does too, especially since He KNOWS whether they're excuses or reasons.

Tol

A way that seems right to a man

2008-11-11T20:14:00.002-06:00

I'm in St. Croix this week--the island where we worked and lived for 8 years. Toward the end of that time (around 1996) legislation was passed to permit up to 4 casinos to be built on St. Croix. The casino or casinos were to be the economic salvation of the island--it would bring more tourism, which would support the restaurants, bars, shops, etc. on the island. At least that was the argument the majority believed in approving this legislation.

It took several years for the casino to be built, but rather than bringing an economic boom to the island the reverse has been true. We were here in 2004 and noticed the number of restaurants, shops, gas stations, etc. that had closed and wondered why. Several people assured us that it was just the "shuffle"--restaurants move from here to there, change their name, a shop closes on one street but another opens a block away. St. Croix is an expensive place to live and an even more expensive place to own a business, so more new businesses than in the States don't make it. And there has always been a lot of shuffling. But one man revealed the real problem--the casino. He had just finished his house and as is customary here, he paid the workers every Friday. When they came back on Mon. morning they needed to borrow money for gas and lunch--after receiving anywhere from $500-800 on Friday. When he asked them about that money, you guessed it, it had all been spent at the casino, which sent it all to Mobile, AL, to headquarters.

Instead of those paychecks being spent on gasoline, food (groceries, restaurants, convenience stores) and K-mart it left the island completely. The number of vacant buildings is double or triple what it was before the casino came to "save" the islands economy. Do we always know what will be best? Often we don't--we think we do, but we turn out to be wrong.

Is it any different when we try to "outguess" or "be smarter" than God? If He is the Creator (and He is) and sustainer of the universe, can we ever be smarter than He is? If not, then why don't we follow His instructions? His commandments are not burdensome--they're for our benefit. Remember, there is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the ways of death (Prov. 14:22)

Tol

What do we do???

2008-10-01T19:58:00.002-06:00

It has certainly been an interesting couple of days on the financial front--with the stock market up and down, banks failing and being bought by other banks, warnings of impending recession or even depression. What are we to do?

I don't mean to minimize the problems we face, but God has NOT changed and He has promised to provice for our needs. I think this is something too many Americans, even Christians, tend to forget. If you thought government could "control" or "take care of" you, I trust you've been disabused of that notion by now. The economists can't even agree on what should be done to solve the problem, even when they agree on what the "problem" is. Our government has thus far shown us "politics as usual".

What is the answer? The only one we can depend on is God. Men may lie, or be mistaken, but God cannot do either. He is the only true ONE. Some people will be "forced" to turn to God, to grope after Him, although He is not far from each of us; for in Him we live, and move, and have our very being."

Are you willing to, having done all you can do, let God handle things? He WILL take care of us, no matter what may happen in the world around us.

Tol

Sermon illustrations

2008-09-23T19:16:00.005-06:00

One of the hardest things about preaching in another culture can be sermon illustrations. I'm probably more aware of this than many because I've seen more than one brother from the States use an example from everyday life (in the States) that falls flat in the Caribbean because they're not familiar with it. Wolves attacking a flock is foreign here--there have never been any wolves and flocks of sheep are uncommon. To be sure we have sheep (not wool sheep, but hair sheep) and goats, but they are generally tied out singly, or with a baby. In fact, the goat or sheep is more often the problem when they get loose and get into a garden.

Jesus used lots of illustrations when He preached--the parables are simply longer illustrations. As the master teacher, He knew people don't remember what they don't understand, so He used examples and illustrations to help them understand. Our audience today is no different. Think back to when someone gave you directions to get somewhere. Most people will give you landmarks along the way, especially if street signs are unavailable. If you're familiar with the area, the landmarks are easy to remember and help confirm you're on the right road (or not). But if you're not familiar with the area you will most likely forget many or all of the landmarks--you don't "understand" them, so you forget them. Rom. 6:1-5 uses the figure of death, burial, and resurrection to help us see the relationship of repentance, baptism, and salvation. In repentance we put to death the old man of sin, who must then be buried in baptism, and we are then raised to walk in newness of life.

Illustrations have gotten a bad name because some preachers misuse them. We've all heard preachers who tell so many stories, jokes, etc. that you forget the point of the sermon and that is certainly wrong. The Word of God is to be the source of authority, not man's books, poems, etc. But there is a real need for illustrations, especially when it comes to application of God's Word to my life. Sermons dealing with marital relations, raising children, relations with co-workers, become real when real life illustrations are used. People who don't want to see a principle can hardly help from seeing it when a good illustration is used.

I find telling the Bible stories works for me. I try to either quote or read key phrases from the text, but will also use the language people today would use sometimes. Do some preachers "jazz it up" too much? No doubt; and others play fast and loose with the text, which is also dangerous. Working in St. Croix I realized that in the Old Testament we would read the account, then I would retell it so people understood it, which amounted to a double reading. I finally decided to just tell the story, letting them read it at home before we studied. Like everything else telling the story well takes practice--it can't be too long, but you can't leave out too much of the detail either. I think some of the Bible stories are funny--the man born blind of John 9, for example, but the point of illustrations should not be get people laughing.

Now going back to my opening point--make sure your illustrations are understood by your audience. I once heard a preacher say, "Sister ______ was the only one in the ladies class that understood my barnyard illustrations." I immediately thought that if only one person in the class understood those illustrations he obviously needed other illustrations. You might be amazed at the impact local illustrations have--some years ago I was preaching in Mexico and while at a meal something was said about unexpected company coming for a meal, so "I just added more water to the beans". In the South someone might say "I put another bean in the pot" or "I peeled another potato". Later that week I preached about Jesus feeding the 5,000 and made the point that this was not "just adding more water to the beans". From the comments afterward it was obvious they understood the point--after feeding 10,000-20,000 people Jesus had more left over than what He started with. And isn't that the whole point?

Tol

Using Words

2008-09-22T19:52:00.003-06:00

Having spent time in 3 widely separated Spanish speaking areas this summer, I've been amused at the words that are different. To the left you see an orange tree (I hope), a "naranja" in Mexico or "china" here in Puerto Rico. This is true especially of foods--"mani" here, "cacahuate" in Mexico (peanut in English). Avocado is aguacate here, "palta" in S. America. Car tires are respectively: llantas (Mexico), gomas (PR) and cauchos (Venezuela). So even though everyone is speaking the same language, some words may not be understood in one area, although common in another.

The Bible employs a huge vocabulary, using the most appropriate word in each place, and many of those words are not used in everyday conversation--when was the last time you talked to someone about "propitiation" or "omnipotent"? Then some of these words have little or no meaning to non-Christians. In Caribbean politics, a favorite campaign phrase is "keep the faith". If the candidates actually have positions (or a platform) this might have some application, but usually they are running solely on their personality (as well as free food and liquor) so just what "faith" are their followers to keep?

Sometimes we use Bible words without defining them, leaving others wondering what we mean. Brother Hardeman said, "Never underestimate the ignorance of your audience". Too many times we use words our friends don't understand and are then surprised "they didn't learn anything". I'm not suggesting we use other words, although sometimes there are synonyms that are better understood, but that we define our words as necessary.

Tol

"Conservatives are mean and liberals are stupid"

2008-09-13T14:40:00.002-06:00

Don't know whether you've heard this quote before, but I think there's a lot of truth to it. Liberals (in my view) tend to think they live in a perfect world, where each person will do what's right if you just have enough patience and give them _____________ (fill in the blank with whatever YOU think they need. Because of that, they tend to enable bad people, which is often stupid. On the other hand. conservatives think everyone should pull themselves up by their own bootstraps and so at least come across mean spirited (some are downright mean, not just mean spirited). So which one is right/better?

A social conservative can be/come across as uncaring about those who are in need. While a social liberal is much more attuned (at least so it seems) to human suffering, often their solutions accomplish little real good. While God expects each of us to do the best we can, He made provisions for the needy--through the church, as well as through individuals. His plan doesn't involve governments or setting up institutions to do the job, but rather is on a small scale. God does care for those in need (orphans, widows, disabled, etc.) but He also said "He that will not work, neither let him eat." The trick for us is to stick to God's plan (be conservative) but not become mean spirited. Do some people take advantage of the "system"? Of course! But let us never become cynical because of that--we must continue to think the best of a person until they prove otherwise.

Many have said, "I'd rather go to hell for doing something (unauthorized) than for doing nothing.", the idea being that while liberals may go beyond what God authorizes at least they are doing something, while conservatives are doing nothing. Sadly, there are many conservatives who are doing nothing, but at the same time there are many liberals who are only making token efforts. If you analyze what "liberal" churches give to "good works" then divide the total by the number of members you will frequently find that each member is "doing good" to the tune of 50 cents a month. What a sacrifice.

Brethren, I am going to great lengths to be in heaven throughout eternity, not hell. The fact that I did many "good works" while alive will be no consolation in hell. The rich man of Luke 16 wasn't thinking of his riches in Hades

I believe that God demands our obedience, which makes me conservative--careful to follow His commands. But He commands that I love my neighbor as myself, which means I can't be hard hearted to the needs of others. If you do it right, people (especially your enemies) will not know which "label" fits you--you're obviously conservative in regards to His Word, but you're liberal in your caring for others. Confusing them can be a good thing.

Tol

September 13 & Hurricane Ike

2008-09-13T13:44:00.002-06:00

Sept. 12th or 13th will take on new significance for many along the upper Texas coast--the day Hurricane Ike hit. Things will be dated in life by Ike--"Was that before Ike, or after?" By now you've seen photos of Houston/Galveston/Port Arthur/etc. and the destruction of Hurricane Ike. With the Lord's help your family and friends in that area are well and you've heard from them.

The passage of a major hurricane is life changing, even if you and your house suffer little or no damage. Unlike a tornado, which usually affects only a small part (or path) of a town, a hurricane destroys infrastructure that affects everyone. Even on the mainland, where supplies and work crews can arrive by truck (not by boat as must be done here in the Caribbean) it takes time to replace the thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of power poles. Once this is done the power lines must be run, then reconnected to houses, or neighborhoods, etc. The same is true of telephone and cable lines, unless they're underground. Potable water is usually a problem--not only because of power issues, but frequently the treatment plant is at best contaminated, at worst damaged or destroyed.

Transportation is snarled because of downed trees and power lines, potholes, washouts, rock or mud slides, etc. Even cell phones don't usually work during the first few days--they took the satelite dishes down so they must be put back up.

We are thank God that the loss of life seems to be minimal, but the loss of quality of life will continue for awhile--3-4 months or longer. Please keep these brethren in your prayers.

Tol

Culture versus the Bible

2008-09-09T20:23:00.002-06:00

In Puerto Rico cock fighting is legal and most towns have at least one public arena where it takes place--it's part of the culture and goes way back, probably to the early 15oo's. And not only is there the cruelty to the roosters: gambling and drinking are part of the "fun". When people here eat a meal, alcohol, especially wine is frequently present--they follow the European customs in this (and other) areas.

Virgin Islands culture includes Carnival (think Mardi Gras) and dancing that one brother described as sex with clothes on. Other cultures practice abandonment of unwanted babies, polygamy, etc. Many cultures make sausage with blood, the one food the New Testament reminds us we cannot eat. When the Bible and a culture disagree what should a Christian do?

I've heard Christians say: "It's our culture--there's nothing wrong with that". God's Word is for all cultures, of all times. "God commands all men everywhere to repent" (Acts 17:30). The fact that a culture approves of something is not the final judgment on whether something is pleasing to God or not. God calls us to rise above sin and worldliness, not just remain in the status quo. The fact that a whole nation, even nations, approves of a particular action does not mean God does.

Fornication of every kind was an integral part of Greek and later Roman culture. Polygamy was, and is, part of many different cultures. Idolatry has frequently been tied to this or that culture. If the fact that something is "cultural" makes it right, then could we condemn fornication, polygamy, or even idolatry, if it is "a part" of some culture? Yet our Heavenly Father wants what's best for His children, so He forbids these things. Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life and have it more abundantly".

Culture does not legislate truth--it may obey the Truth or it may disobey it, but man is not the source of authority, no matter how many generations have done. But the only way you'll know that is if you study God's Word.

Tol

Politics as usual

2008-09-08T18:49:00.003-06:00

Labor Day weekend seems to mark the beginning of the political season here in Puerto Rico. Our backyard backs up to a major thoroughfare, all six lanes of it, so we've already had two political trucks this evening. I didn't see them--the trees on the other side of the drainage canal prevent that, but I heard them loud and clear.

Since everybody has their windows open--it's only 84 degrees right now, you hear the music whether you want to or not. They each had their catchy little song extolling their candidate and depending on the traffic and the traffic lights you can get to hear the song through several times with some of them.

The political caravans will probably not start until next month--the candidate gets as many cars together as he/she can, stopping at strategic points to pick up more followers. Of course there is at least one, frequently several trucks with loud speakers blasting music to keep things lively--just imagine having one or two of these parked across the street from your house for half an hour or so. Usually at these stops there is also plenty of liquor, so "lively" is the word to describe this whole nonsense.

It's amazing what people will do for monetary gain, all the while ignoring their spiritual welfare. Just like Esau traded his birthright (the right to be the patriarch after Isaac died and receive a double portion of the inheritance) for a bowl full of lentil stew, in the same way many are trading their eternal soul for something that won't last more than a few short years.

What about you?

Tol

Giving up

2008-09-08T18:35:00.002-06:00

I was in Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico last week preaching. Agua Prieta is a town of 70,000 or so in the middle of the desert. As we approached the brother driving said, "I don't see the usual cloud of sand hovering over A.P--it's been raining lately." And everywhere you go there is sand on everything--in the few paved streets, on cars, even inside the houses. Women will clean in the morning and by afternoon it's sandy again. The preacher told me he had given up on keeping his car clean--it was impossible.

As he said that I realized that was really all you could do, but then I thought about the spiritual application. How many Christians "give up" or "give in" to the pressure of the world around them? When all your friends are drinking, how does a young person not give in? When everybody else at work is pilfering, or just doing the minimum who do you "work as unto the Lord", especially when they begin to put on the pressure? When you are one of only 10 or so Christians in a town, when even your own family is at best indifferent or at worst antagonistic to your efforts to serve God, how do you keep from "giving up"?

In order to overcome the constant pressure you must rely first on God, and then on your brethren, few though they may be. As Rom. 8 points out, "if God is for us, who can be against us?" But in order to keep that always in mind, we must be reading and studying His Word daily. If faith comes by hearing the Word of God (and it does) there is only one way our faith can grow.

Our closest companions will have a great impact on whether we overcome or give up, so they must be Christians too. I know a brother whose wife is not a Christian--she's not antagonistic toward the church, she just doesn't care. What a tragic situation and what a burden it is for him. Our brethren can be a great help to us, if we will make the effort.

There's not much you can do about the sand when you're in the desert, but with the Lord's help we don't have to give in to the world.

Tol

"El estado Grande"--Chihuahua

2008-08-22T16:18:00.002-06:00

For the next few days I'm in Chihuahua, "the big state" of Mexico. It's still kind of amazing that I can leave Puerto Rico one afternoon and 24 hours later be in N. Mexico, having spent the night in Arizona. I'm preaching a Gospel meeting in Nuevo Casas Grandes.

The church here is different from many in Mexico--they have around 100 in attendance on Sunday and have 3-4 generations of the same family as members. Brother Angel Palomares preached here for 50 years or so, before health problems forced him to "retire". I was concerned what would happen once he could no longer preach, but the brethren have stepped up and although they're in something of a transition, so far it seems to be working. Several take turns preaching, a month at a time, which has pushed them to mature. Others have risen to teach classes, etc. So far this year they've had 7 baptisms.

Let us continue to pray for these brethren as they work together.

Privately funded fellowship halls

2008-08-06T12:44:00.003-06:00

Now that I have your attention--"privately funded fellowship halls" is not a household phrase, let me explain. I've encountered several situations through the years where some of the members of a local church, ranging in number from 1 to many, have pooled their money and built a fellowship hall. Someone in the group, whether many or few, was not comfortable with building such a building with money from the church treasury. Is such a building scriptural or unscriptural? After all, the "Lord's money" was not used to build it, or in one case even to maintain it.

I do NOT believe the church is in the entertainment business, whether it's a simple potluck or a full blown gymnasium, with all the paraphanalia that goes into a gym. If that's true, then obviously the church could not spend it's money to build and maintain such a place. I'm not going to address the old argument that "Christians need to fellowship, so anything that helps with that is okay". Certainly Christians need to spend time together, but is that the work of the church?

In the neighborhood where the church meets (Caparra Terrace) the houses were built in the 50's. They were all built with at least one carport, even though almost no one had cars back then. What do you do with a carport when you have no car? In the tropics it becomes outdoor living area--most of them now have a TV, chairs or couches, etc. Once the carport became the family room people seemed to forget it was once supposed to be a place to park your car--now that everyone has a car, all of them parked on the street, it's hard to drive down the street, much less find a parking place. We've finally got most of our neighbors to leave the 2 parking spots in front of the building for us on Sun. and Wed.

I find the same thing happening with "privately built fellowship halls". In the beginning everyone remembers that they are NOT the work of this particular local church, but rather of various members. But as generations pass what they were supposed to be, like the Puerto Rican carport, is forgotten and not only does the church maintain them, but it expands or replaces them with a much larger one. After all, "we've always had a fellowship hall".

Tol

Crossing the Equator

2008-06-23T18:15:00.003-06:00

I've been in Bolivia a few days now and it´s been an adjustment. It has been cloudy ever since I got here, with temperatures in the 50's. Since I forgot to pack a jacket I had to go shopping for one right away and I've had it on most of the time I've been awake since then. I'm not accustomed to being cold in 2nd world countries--quite the opposite. A southern system blew in Sat. AM which here is cold, not hot.

I have spent 3-4 hours at least every day with the 1 or 2 brethren there are, studying as their knowledge is very basic. There were 11 of us for worship Sunday, including the 2 kids. They need lots of prayers, as they begin meeting again after 4 years or so. There are a couple of young ladies who are contemplating baptism. Please remember the church in Santa Cruz, Bolivia in your prayers.

Tol

Who's in charge????

2008-06-19T12:22:00.002-06:00

I'm in the Miami airport. I should have arrived in Bolivia about 8 hours ago, but many flights to/from Miami were cancelled yesterday, so instead of arriving here last night I arrived at 5:30 this morning. Miami had really bad weather yesterday, so at least 3 flights to San Juan were cancelled. From the reaction of my fellow passengers, I got the impression some were thinking, "Who's in charge here, anyway?" As Christians we know who's really in charge, and it's not mankind. God is the one who not only created us, but the one who keeps it all going.

When we really come to understand that God is in charge, it makes it so much easier for us. We have all heard that "our job is to sow the seed. God will give the increase." yet if we're not careful, when someone rejects God's Word we take it as a personal rejection. When we fully accept that God is in charge, we understand that it's not me they're rejecting, but Him.

We can also give our best and let it go at that. It is said that during the darkest days of Martin Luther's break with the Roman Catholic church that he became very depressed. It got so bad that one morning his wife dressed all in black and went about the house obviously mourning. When Luther finally inquired who she was mourning, she said it was God. "What do you mean, you're mourning for God?" She replied that since he was so depressed because his efforts to reform the church didn't seem to be having much success, she assumed that God MUST be dead, since the success or failure of truth depended solely on Luther's efforts (or so he seemed to think).

This dramatic gesture had the desired effect--Luther remembered that God was still in charge and he let God defend His Word. Brethren, we need to remember the same thing. By the way my flight to Bolivia is now delayed 40 minutes, but I won't worry about that--God is in charge of that, not me.

Tol

Telling the "truth"????

2008-06-01T15:54:00.002-06:00

CNN exclusive exit polls of voter in Puerto Rico were broadcast today and since I live in Puerto Rico I was curious to see what they would say. They did get right that Hillary would win the primary, which she did handily. From there on out it was very interesting.

According to those polled, 40 % attend church once a week and another 47 % attend regularly. If you add these numbers up, that means that 87 % of all those surveyed here attend church at least once a month and half of that number attend every week. We live on a typical street in a typical neighborhood in Puerto Rico, in Bayamon, a city of 224,000 that is part of the San Juan metro area. Our street is small--only 35-40 houses, but out of those 35 houses we are the only ones who attend church regularly, much less once a week. From my dealings with others in the urbanization (neighborhood to you) I don't think the numbers would be much different on other streets. So according to my unscientific, but real observations, I would say that only 13 % attend church even regularly, which is the opposite of the polls.

Why, you ask would people lie about something like this? At the risk of being annoying, let me say that "It's a Caribbean thing; you wouldn't understand". Very few people in the Eastern Caribbean will refuse a Bible study--they may not "have time" or "I'm a bit busy right now" but you just don't reject God or "church". The poll question was quite impolite in the first place, so do you really expect most people to acknowledge something that is culturally inexcusable. I don't remember the exact setting last week, but I was in a group of people discussing "church" and "christianity" when a lady remarked to me, "We're all Christians, aren't we?" Only in the sense that "we all" acknowledge there is a God. Years ago I asked a woman in Mexico if she was a Christian. Her reply is still with me, "What do you think? That we're animals? Of course we're Christians." She wasn't, but her definition of Christian was all those who acknowledge there is a God, no matter how they live.

We laugh about people "lieing" like that, but haven't you lied to yourself about your actions? I say to yourself because God knows what the real reason for our actions are. We can justify our actions, dress them up pretty, or even flat out lie about them, but the God of heaven is not deceived. He will judge us fairly, knowing the truth.

Tol

Politics as usual

2008-05-12T13:00:00.008-06:00

I know you´re all ready for the Nov. election to come, but you just think you have it bad. Here in the Dominican Republic not only is the TV saturated with political ads, so are the radio and the streets--everywhere you look there are billboards, signs on posts, signs on walls and fences, even signs on drain pipes (they´ve been there so long they´ve been painted over several times now--at least 2 years that I know). Each political party has their own color, or set of colors, harking back to the days when many were illiterate, just mark the color of your party and that brings up a whole array of other political propaganda--banners, T-shirts, hats, even buildings painted the purple of the governing party.

Of course no political campaign in the Caribbean would be complete without the political caravan. The candidate gathers together as many cars, trucks, and other vehicles as they can (here they even pay them so much a head to be in their parade) at various points and over the course of 3-4 hours drives around collecting them all, so they end up with a caravan stretching several miles long, which can tie up traffic for hours. In the Virgin Islands they drive from one end of island to another, here they drive from one side of the capital to the other. Of course there must be music in the caravan--this truck is one of many and some suggest that liquor is also involved at every stop.

Dominicanos were glad when the president was elected with 53 % of the vote--that meant there would be no runoff, which would have meant another 45 days of this nonsense. Yes, the morados won.

I am fascinated where people will turn looking for a purpose in life, or just some excitement. The president of a country has an effect on the lives of the citizens, but the most far reaching consequences can only affect us while we live on this earth. People will turn out in droves to watch their candidate pass by but don't "have time" to study God's Word.

Do we have our priorities out of whack, or what?

Tol

Depending on the circumstances

2008-05-10T09:16:00.001-06:00

I was just in St. Lucia with one of the largest churches in the lesser Antilles—counting the children of members, they number 200, with 165-170 most Sunday mornings. When Brother Solomon began this work some years ago he made the decision to work primarily in areas in and around Castries, the capital. His goal was to have one strong church, rather than 4 or 5 small churches that were barely hanging on and it has turned out well. Besides the brethren with their personal vehicles who pick others up for services, they hire a taxi bus ($375 a month) to bring the rest.

This week I’m in the Dominican Republic, a country of almost 9 million people. The capital, Santo Domingo, is home to over 4 million, so you can imagine what the traffic is like. As brethren move farther away from downtown, to be able to afford housing, it can take them an hour or more to get to services downtown. The obvious result is that big downtown churches are losing members to what were once smaller churches on the outskirts and new churches are being started often. In the area where I’m staying there are at least 20 brethren, who presently attend 3 or 4 different churches. They now have a Bible study on Mon. night and are discussing whether to begin a church in this area. This is the norm here, where transportation is always an issue—not only the money, but even more the time.

Some people would be very upset, because if there’s only one way to do things right, one of these two methods is wrong. But these two different methods both work in their respective cultures, because the circumstances are different. As Christians we need the flexibility to do whatever is scriptural first, and then whatever works best in a particular situation. What works in St. Lucia may not work nearly as well in Santo Domingo, and vice versa.

Is it any different with people? Jesus condemned the Pharisees harshly yet was gentle with the woman taken in adultery. Why? He knew one was a hypocrite and the other was weak. Did the woman not know that adultery was a sin? Didn’t she realize that she could be killed if caught?

Today it’s tempting to let brethren who are weak “have it”. “They should know better than that. I KNOW they’ve heard that before.” Maybe they should know it, maybe their body was present when it was preached, but their mind was out golfing, or fishing, or working. If they didn’t get it in a group setting, why not try to teach them one on one? I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been told, “they know that” only to talk to “them” and realize, no “they” don’t know that.

When dealing with those who are weak we need to look beyond the symptoms and get at the heart of the matter—their faith is weak. Since faith comes by hearing what they need is study, not necessarily lectures. On the other hand those who are strong, but rebellious need another kind of treatment—they need to be reproved so they will change.

We all have methods and ways we’re comfortable working with others. But those methods may not work with everyone. We have to adapt ourselves to them, not force them to adapt to us—“I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.”

Tol Burk

Santo Domingo--The way we were

2008-05-09T13:27:00.001-06:00

Every time I return to Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic I’m reminded of the “good old days” as some are wont to say. Every morning the water truck comes through the neighborhood—it has about a 2,000 gal. tank of purified water and will sell it by the gallon. A little later come a couple of different vegetable trucks—local potatoes, carrots, cabbages, tomatoes, some kind of peppers and of course plantains—the saying goes, “In Santo Domingo they’re never short on plantains.” On the main roads you’ll see horse drawn wagons with produce, mangos, cherries, bananas, etc. Many go to the supermarket for their major grocery shopping but every block or two there’s a little grocery shop that stocks the basics— rice, beans, coffee, salt, milk, etc. Some of them still sell on credit, although most of them now require a deposit. And yes, there are still vegetable markets as well as some meat markets like that in the picture.

I don’t remember those “good old days” but I remember well some of the other joys of island living—the power is off at least a few minutes every day and last night we ate supper by candle light—no romance intended. We ran out of water today before the water truck came, but it was only for a few hours. The “joys” of bathing out a bucket, flushing the toilet with a bucket take me back to St. Croix. Here you know your neighbors—they come to visit, or you go there.

Yet it’s not all “old” most people have cell phones, at least one TV, there are internet shops everywhere, and many have their own car. In a strange mix of old and the new yesterday I saw a horse pulling a wagon and noticed the “blinders” it had were Styrofoam food boxes. And of course they were on the highway with the rest of us—there are not too many bridges across the River Ozama.

While many things are different the brethren are the same. I was received as a family member, even by those I’ve never met. To those I know I’m more like a long last family member. Everyone wants to feed you, or at least give you juice or coffee. They want to know about “the family” and the church where I preach. Some brethren are very serious about the Gospel, while others are just there. Some sing well and some not so well. There are good brethren and there are some not so good.

The Gospel works just as well in Santo Domingo as it does anywhere else—it fits in every culture and every time.

Tol Burk

A matter of perspective

2008-05-04T20:32:00.002-06:00

On your right are some of the most famous landmarks in St. Lucia--The Pitons. These two mountain peaks run straight down to the ocean and are quite impressive--I've seen them from the north side of St. Vincent 20 or more miles away (I thought I would see them on my trip to St. Lucia, but it didn't happen. I was promised that next time we would make sure.) From this photo can you guess the distance between the two pitons?

In reality they're something like 10 miles apart, with a large bay in between them--if you were to take a land route from one to the other it would be well over 20 miles. But from this perspective they don't look that far apart.

The fairly obvious application is that often times our perspective causes us to misjudge things--other people's motives, actions, etc. Even more damaging spiritually is our tendency to overvalue the things of this world and under value heaven. We must be in the Word so we keep our perspective clear.

Tol Burk

Sweet but short

2008-05-04T20:15:00.002-06:00

I was in St. Lucia a couple of weeks ago and the mangos were just ripening--there's nothing like a good, tree ripened, native mango. It's a taste like no other--sweet, kind of creamy, the only thing near its taste is kenep, which doesn't help most of you, since you don't know it either.

I noticed on one of the trees the remains of a mango--it has a huge seed and that was about all that was left, but it was still hanging there. The birds had gotten to this one before the people and it had been picked clean. I've seen hornets do the same thing, although it takes them a couple of days.

Now what's the point, you ask. There is nothing sweeter than a mango, but it doesn't last long--someone will eat, whether man or beast. It's "life" is only a few days once it matures. In the same way James compares our life to a vapor--here today, gone tomorrow.

Are you ready to meet God today?

Tol

The greatest temple of all

2008-04-30T09:04:00.003-06:00

Above are renderings of the inside of Solomon's temple, as well as the outside of the temple of Diana (at Ephesus). Both of them are acknowledged to have been magnificent structures, but which was the greatest? Although there were other temples, these are certainly among, if not the most beautiful. Diana's is better known--it wasn't destroyed until travel was easier and more people had seen it, but Solomon's must have been awesome--everything overlaid with gold, of the finest woods, decorated to the n'th degree.

But in spite of the great beauty of these and other houses of worship even today (think of the "crystal cathedral" there is a temple that eclipses them all--the church of the Living God. No, I'm not talking about the building, of course, but rather the people. The people that Eph. 2 describes as "growing into a temple". The people called from every nation, tribe, and tongue under heaven. The people from every culture you can imagine and probably some you can't. The old, the young, the middle-aged (like me); the rich, the poor, those who travel extensively, those who've never been more than 50 miles from where they were born.

Together we all make up the mosaic that is the temple of God. Would you want to damge the beauty of Solomon's temple? Of course not, so why should we not then preserve the purity and beauty of the temple of God?

Tol

What makes a good prospect?

2008-04-05T08:43:00.004-06:00

In Grenada, the Isle of Spice (that's cinnamon bark drawing in the photo), particularly in Mt. Granby, it is not hard to get Bible studies. We spent 2 morning and another aftertoon and had all the studies we had time for. That has happened consistently, so after I got home I tried to analyze why people there will so readily listen--after all, if honest people will study the Bible the majority will become Christians. So if we can identify "what" we're looking for in prospects, it would make our job simpler.

What I noticed in Mt. Granby were several points:

1) They had time to at listen for 30 minutes to an hour. Some of them were older, but others had small children, work to do, etc. But they didn't have 2 appointments for themselves, soccer practice for one kid, piano lessons for the other, and . . . This is not true in all the islands--you couldn't find that much in Puerto Rico or Barbados, but in the more rural islands it is still common.

2) They believed God was important, whether or not they went to church. Some of them attended a church regularly and most had at some point been "faithful" to their church. If God is important, then one can always spare a little while to study His Word. Now this means they accept all comers, so may study with the Jehovah's witnesses one week, the Adventists the next, etc. Are you surprised when I tell you they're a bit confused?

3) They were not lazy people. Yes, they took the time to listen, but it wasn't because they had nothing else to do. One of the ladies we studied with worked spices the whole time we talked--one day the nutmegs and the next tamarind. Others had to shush the kids, give them a snack, etc. Lazy people see quickly that the Gospel is too hard, so most never begin, but if they do, they don't usually last.

4) They were not wrapped up in materialism. If you want things, you don't stay too long in the islands--you go on to England, Canada, or the US so you can work and buy "things". If you're still in Grenada you are satisfied with less--you'll have clothing, food, and housing, but you won't have your own car, many clothes, etc. God cannot be second to things and to so many Americans He is second. We're looking for people who realize God is more important than things.

Tol

"The simple life"

2008-03-18T13:41:00.000-06:00

I preached Sunday in Mt. Granby, Grenada—33 present in the morning, 18 that night. As I drove back to the hotel after 8 PM people were sitting on the side of the road the entire way. They were groups of young boys, men, women, women and children, all just liming (relaxing).

They were on the road because outside is cooler than inside, but also because the road is “where it’s happening”. You see your friends there, the taxi buses pass, a friend may pass in his car, etc. The highlight of their day is the evening, relaxing with friends.

During the day life is also simple—working in the garden or cooking and caring for the children. Most people will take the time for a Bible study. You know when the bus comes up and who got on it, who got off, etc. We passed the granddaughter of a man we were going to see and our “guide” knew he had gone to town, but that the bus had come up and he should be home—he was. The granddaughter wasn’t sure whether he was home, but our guide was.

Now on the flip side, you must realize that this kind of life also means you have a few clothes to wear, enough food to eat—mostly what you yourself can grow in your garden, and not much cash money. You don’t have your own car, so you must wait for the taxi bus and squeeze in with the other 15 people already inside it. Travel is to the city in your parish, or maybe to the capital. It may be an easy life, but it has its drawbacks.

If this life is too boring for you, sooner or later you will immigrate to England, the US, or Canada. You know what that rat race can be, but the physical rewards are quite attractive to many. How many people work long, hard hours to have the cars, the house, and all the other trimmings?

There is a third life—a life in which, yes you must make a living, whether in Grenada or the US, or anywhere else in the world. In this life, the most important thing to you is whether or not you make it to heaven—everything else revolves around that. What you have of this worlds goods is not so important, but rather what treasure you have in heaven, “where moth does not corrupt, nor thieves break through and steal”.

Which lifestyle are you pursuing???

Tol

"There is a way . . . "

2008-03-18T13:35:00.002-06:00

Grenada is an island 21 miles long and 12 miles wide—not very big as countries go, but a typical island in the Eastern Caribbean. There are only a few main roads, with reasonable signs—there are those junctions or roundabouts where there is nothing, but generally speaking you can figure it.

David and I set out this morning to a certain place. We got on a road we’ve traveled one other time, so that part was easy. From our previous experience on this same road we’d learned that the map was only a guide—what it showed as a “main road” might look like a street, be closer (or farther) than it appeared, and might have no sign at all. So when we got to Grenville we headed north and quickly came to a roundabout. Two of the roads were obviously not the one we wanted, but that left two other choices. One of them led in the direction we wanted to go, so we took it. Within a couple of miles it brought us back to the road we had been on earlier. Now we could have asked directions—there were plenty of people liming (relaxing) on the side of the road, but we had time. So we went back to the first roundabout and took the 4th road. In a mile or so we reached another intersection and before all was said and done we traveled on all 3 of them, only to circle around (one a 5 or 6 mile circle) to some point on our original road. On several of these false paths we felt fairly confident because they seemed to be going in the direction we were seeking. After about an hour or this, we retraced our steps on one of the first roads we’d taken, made a left (away from our destination) instead of a right and very quickly reached our destination.

As I was reflecting on our journey, I remembered the passage in Proverbs (14:12 & 16:25), “There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.” There were a number of roads that seemed right, but weren’t in our search today. Interestingly enough, those that felt “wrong” usually turned out to be right. Although they didn’t lead where we wanted to go, they didn’t lead to death, or even damage.

But such is not true of false doctrine or moral decisions. To borrow a phrase from an old song, “It feels so right, it can’t be wrong” is used to justify things from fornication to alcoholism, but this way “that seems right” leads to death. Emotional pleas against plain Bible statements fall into the same category: “I don’t believe God would send someone to hell for such a little thing.” “I don’t see anything wrong with it”.

The only sure path is the one God has commanded—I may not understand why, but the fact that God has said it should be enough. We may later understand why or in this life we may never understand why, but the fact remains “there is a way that seems right unto a man, but its end is the way of death.”

Tol

Those "Christians"

2008-03-06T06:42:00.003-06:00

To the right you will see a costume for Carnival in Trinidad, and I can tell you this is NOT one of the more revealing ones. Usually in Feb. Trinidad has their equivalent of Mardi Gras and everything you associate with Mardi Gras is there double.

When slavery was outlawed in the British Empire many from India were brought to Trinidad as indentured servants--they worked for X number of years, then were freed. Today the population of Trinidad is about half Indians and half West Indians--Trinidad is the largest concentration of Indians outside of India itself. Most of the Indians are nominally Hindu and the West Indians are nominally "Christian"--you know what sense I'm using Christian here.

On many levels the 2 cultures have mixed and coexist more or less peacefully--curry and roti are now endemic in West Indian food. But there is always a contrast drawn between the two cultures and one of these areas is in religion. In reality most of the people on both sides are not anything religiously--they don't attend worship, pray only occassionally, but if asked would acknowledge being ________ .

In talking with Hindus and former Hindus, frequently they bring up the disconnect between "Christian" morality and Carnival, which usually lasts a couple of weeks and is a time of hedonism--drinking, partying, dancing, prancing nearly naked through the streets to the accompaniment of music, liquor, and open sex. These "Christians" claim to be the moral ones, who worship the one true God, but look how they act.

In contrast, the Hindu festival of lights, Divali, which takes place in Dec. is quite different. It is touted as the largest alcohol free party in the Caribbean and is well organized with fashion shows, flea markets, etc. None of the debauchery associated with Carnival is part and parcel of Divali.

What a sad commentary on "Christianity"--it is known for it's immorality while Hinduism is known for the lack of alcohol. Is it any wonder most Hindus in Trinidad won't even consider Christianity? With what they see of it, why would they? Like many others all over the world they reject Christianity, without having ever seen the real thing.

It's no different in the United States, or anywhere else for that matter. As people see the hypocrisy or just the simple foolishness practiced in the name of Christianity, it's no wonder they reject it--I do to. I was talking to a lady yesterday whom I see about once a week. Something came up that I was studying with our neighbors, whom she also knows and something was said about "church". Dana and I have been trying to find an opening to talk to her, but nothing, until yesterday. "I'm liking what I'm hearing about your church more and more" she told me, then related why she stopped going to the Roman Catholic church--the priest was falling asleep during his sermon, drunk from the "wine" of the Lord's supper. And she is not alone--people just like her are everywhere. They're looking for fulfillment, know they need God, but haven't found Him in "organized religion".

There is nothing we can do about other churches, but let us never be the one someone points to as the reason they've rejected Christianity. The devil provides them with enough excuses, let's don't give them any more.

But we also need to understand where people are coming from and approach them from this point of view. When people tell me about abuses in other churches, I will agree with them that that is not right and talk about that we try to do ONLY what the Bible says. At least in the Caribbean most people feel you should do what the Bible says, so we get away from "churchanity" and get back to real Christianity.

Tol

Signs of Spring

2008-03-03T21:42:00.002-06:00

Ah yes, the signs of Spring are everywhere in Puerto Rico--the sea almond tree is losing all its leaves, the mosquito fogging truck was out tonight, and the bugs are crawling. Living in the tropics you're much closer to nature--too close Dana would say. We don't have window screens and we're getting sweeps on the bottoms of the doors, well one of these days, so bugs don't have too much trouble getting in. We spray for them, so the roaches never make it more than about 10 feet inside before they turn on their backs, but the dead bodies are still there. I was at the neighbors tonight around twilight and they had to turn the lights off--the flying termites swarmed in. We don't have lizards in the house, as is sooo common in St. Croix, which is not always a good things--at least they ate some of the bugs.

Is this not what you think of when you think of Spring? People in the deep south probably have much the same feeling we do--"Is winter already over? Here comes the hot weather!" The next 3 months are probably the hottest of the year--it's hot, humid, and sticky, but it does get slightly better in June or so.

I still look forward to Spring, but I just wish it would wait a few weeks more.

Tol

20 babies

2008-02-06T16:04:00.000-06:00

About a month ago a member of the English speaking church at Caparra invited some friends, co/workers, in-laws, etc. for the next Sunday morning's service in Spanish. Well about 20 of them showed up and most have been there for the last 3 Sundays. This is a photo of the 2nd Sunday they were there. In one Sunday our attendance jumped from 6 to 30.

Of course we are very excited, but also a little concerned. Most of these visitors didn't even own a Bible, much less know anything about how to get around in it. Imagine 20 babies and 3-4 Christians (one of which is preaching) to help them find the Bible passages. We gave them all Bibles, so they all have the same Bible, which simplifies finding the Bible books--the preacher gives out the page number, then the chapter and verse.

Singing is another thing--since most of them's exposure to religion has been the Roman Catholic, they don't know many hymns, so you have a room full of people, but only 4-5 who are really singing.

For me the thing I'm most concerned about is handling the problems that babes in Christ so often bring. Yet I'm confidant the Lord will provide all that we need in this area as well. He gave us the contacts, He will also give us the means to teach and ground them.

We thank God for these contacts and ask for your prayers on their behalf as well.

Tol

Global warming, 2--or will man destroy the world?

2008-02-01T13:46:00.000-06:00

Human beings seem to love disasters, are more properly the hanging specter of impending disaster. How else do we account for the recurring dates of the "end of the world", our fascination with the "effects of overpopulation", The Weather Channels what if disasters--I forget the name, but what if a major tornado struck downtown Dallas, another major earthquake struck San Francisco, etc.? I think our sudden fascination with global warming falls into the same category.

Is the world warming? The evidence is clear. Why is it warming? Is it a natural cycle of the globe, similar to the Little Ice Age, or is it the product of man's burning of fossil fuels, etc.? Since climatological records only go back 200-300 years, they aren't much help as to if there have been similar "warmings" before. Whatever you believe the cause is, your conclusion is based on faith to some extent. We cannot prove that greenhouse gases caused the hole in the ozone layer--we can theorize from certain experiments, but it cannot be proved.

What I really want us to think about though, is whether man can destroy this world? I believe that mankind, as stewards of God's Creation, should use wisely what God has entrusted to us. I recycle and even have a hybrid car, but that said, does mankind have the power to cause the end of the world?

The Scriptures state clearly that such knowledge and therefore the power needed to accomplish resides only in God. Man can no more destroy the world than he can create it. This is a humbling thought for many people, who think mankind can do anything. Such is not the case, and we would do well to remember that. God is not only the Creator, but also the Sustainer. He did NOT create the world, then walk off and leave it. He set in place the cycles of nature, whether the yearly seasons or the multi-year periods of "good" weather as well as those of "bad" weather.

Tol

Global warming???

2008-02-01T13:30:00.000-06:00

There is no doubt the world is getting warmer--the evidence is in and is clear. What is not so clear is the why? Is it just a normal cycle that we're going through, or is it caused by man and his activities? Is it like the "Little Ice Age" that occurred from the 1500's to early 1800's?

While the jury is out as to its cause, at least in the scientific community, there is one thing I AM sure of. The Bible predicted long ago that the world would suddenly get warmer, in fact so warm it would actually be burned up.

One of the many places this prediction is made, and probably the most easily understood is 2 Pet. 3:10, "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat: both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up." At some future point the world will be burned up, along with everything in it and all mankind's efforts will not change that.

Since this is true, what should our response be? Should we stand around wringing our hands? Or perhaps set up something to "put out" the fire? Again Peter advises us, "Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God . . . " (2 Pet. 3:11-12)

Tol

Becoming all things to all men

2008-01-30T19:53:00.000-06:00

Any language, in any area, has its idioms (modismos en espanol)--things that don't mean what they seem to say, or ways of saying things that are unique. I've never heard "you'un's" anywhere but in E. Ky, and the only ones who know what "I'm fixin' to do _____" means are usually Texans and some Tennesseans. In Puerto Rico, there are some things you can't commonly find here--like brisket, hominy, etc. When you ask for it, they will tell you, "no trabajamos esto aqui", which would be translated literally "we don't work that here". Obviously, the idea is better stated "we don't sell that". Where ever you are, the language is a little different from other places.

Of course the differences extend beyond just language--the way some things are done, what is polite or impolite, the food they eat, how people can be reached with the Gospel, etc. When a person moves to a new culture it can be very uncomfortable at first. You have 2 choices--to adapt to your "new culture" or to refuse to adapt.

The apostle Paul traveled into many different cultures in just a few years, spending a couple of years in Galatia, then returning to Antioch, only to leave again to travel through Galatia into Macedonia, then Achaia, not to mention later Asia, and even Rome. Paul was raised a proper Jew, which involved not only religion but his way of life, his dress, what he ate, etc. In 1 Cor. 9:19-22 he talks about how he became "as a Jew" when around Jews, but "as a Gentile" when in their company. He sums it all up by saying, "I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some." Was Paul a hypocrite? No, I understand this to mean that he tailored his speech and perhaps clothing, his mannerisms, and actions to reach those he was with.

We must learn to do the same thing. Illustrations about racoons, wolves, bears, and buffalo mean little to people in the Caribbean--many have never seen them, not even on TV, so by the time you explain the illustration, the point you wanted to make gets lost. When you learn that a certain phrase means a certain thing here, use it that way. Dana tells me that when I preach in Spanish I'm much more animated, speak louder, and use my hands even more than usual. My only defense is that's the way you're supposed to preach in Spanish. "I have become all things to all men".

This extends to many areas--the way we dress, the food we offer others, etc. But the point of all of it is "that I might save some". Are you willing to step out of your comfort zone to save others? The apostles were.

Tol

"Todos somos satos"

2008-01-08T15:39:00.000-06:00

This is the slogan of the Humane Society of PR and can be translated roughly, "we're all orphans". Sato is the word for a mixed breed dog as well as an abandoned dog, obviously more the idea in this phrase. The idea seems to be, since we're all misfits, or really all imperfect, they we should take pity on a dog who is not "purebred" too.

This phrase seems to me to be very applicable to us as Christians and our relationships with others. Too often we look down on people in the world as "inferior" because "can't they understand the Bible?" or "they don't try to resist sin", etc. When we pause to remember that we also sin, then we can have more compassion on them. They are still in sin and the wages of sin is still death, but instead of condemning them as ungodly, we should rather see them as our Savior did, as sheep without a shepherd, needing someone to guide them. Remember "todos somos satos"--we all sin and all need God's forgiveness.

The same is true of brethren whom we view as "sinners", whether it's because they're weak and fall short often or whether it's brethren who we view as strong, who commit a "big" sin (big in our eyes--we know God views all sin as damning). While we cannot tolerate or encourage sin, we can recognize that we also are human and can fall. We can "restore such a one in the spirit of meekness". "Todos somos satos".

Our Lord's attitude when dealing with sinners should be instructive. When confronted with a woman who had had 5 husbands Jesus was gentle, patiently teaching her, even though she "didn't get it". When presented with a woman taken in the very act of adultery, rather than condemn her, Jesus forgave her and cautioned her to sin no more. He knew her heart and knew her repentance: we can't read minds, so we should take people at their word until they show us otherwise. On the other hand Jesus condemned the Pharisees harshly and on more than one occasion--since in their own eyes they were guiltless they had no patience with "the people".

So the next time you are ready to recoil from a "sinner", whether a Christian or not, remember "todos somos satos".

Tol

What is "boxing day"?

2007-12-29T08:36:00.000-06:00

Many of you have probably noticed on a calendar that Dec. 26th is called "Boxing day" and wondered what that is--I had decided it had to do with boxing matches. In the English speaking Caribbean it is frequently called "Christmas second day" and is also a holiday and day off. But why "boxing"?

Boxing day is of English origin and was the occasion of the rich sharing with those less fortunate than they. Christmas was (and still is) a family day, but the next day the children would "box" up old toys they were tired of and give them to the poor, frequently household servants, etc. Normally, they would take them to the home and visit as well as leave the toys. Today Christmas second day is the day you have friends over, or go to visit friends and family--a day for visiting others. I don't personally know anyone who "boxes up" toys, but many West Indians do visit friends then.

It's a nice custom, and is one of the few times throughout the year that people practice hospitality here. But the Christmas holidays were one of the few days in the year that slaves didn't have to work. In the former British islands the custom is go to midnight mass, then go home or to someone else's home to party until daybreak. Christmas second day is when you recieve visitors more "formally", if you will.

Tol

Move over Santa Claus

2007-12-27T09:06:00.001-06:00

Like every good American, we were at the mall on Dec. 26th spending money. Of course since Christmas is past, there would be no Santa Claus, right? Santa Claus was gone alright, but in his place were the 3 kings (magi) and children were taking their pictures with them, telling them what they wanted them to bring, etc.

In the Hispanic world Santa Claus is a newcomer--through the centuries the 3 kings were the ones who brought presents, just like they brought them to baby Jesus. Yes, there have been Christmas parades here in Puerto Rico, but the big parade is yet to come! It will be on 3 kings day, Jan. 6th. At least here, children are supposed to cut grass and put it under their bed (in a box) for the camels of the magi. No grass = no presents.

In the Hispanic cultures, whether Mexico, Puerto Rico or the Dominican Republic, South America, or Central America Christmas is so tied to Catholicism--that's one of the 2 times a year you HAVE to go to church, that many Christians have trouble celebrating Christmas in any way--in their mind it's too closely associated with the error they left. Where Christmas is a very secular holiday for us in the States, it isn't in many parts of the world. Here Christmas is a a paradox--people go to Mass then go out to drink and party, often until dawn.

Tol Burk

The Spice Island

2007-12-17T19:22:00.000-06:00

My plans for 2008 include a trip to Grenada in March. Since Grenada is the second largest producer of nutmeg, as well as the source of much of the world's supply of cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and mace, it is known as the Spice Island. It's exciting the first time you go to see the nutmegs growing on trees everywhere--beside the road, in people's yards, everywhere.

My plan is to work with two churches--one in the capital, St. Georges, which you will find at the "bend" on the left side of the island, near the bottom and another in Mt. Granby, which is inland from Gouyave, on the same side of the island, but much higher up. Currently three of us are planning to go, but I would like to take at least a couple more. If we could have 4-6 men, we could preach in both St. Georges as well as Mt. Granby and also have Bible studies during the day. If you're interested, please let me know quickly, as we need to firm up airline resv., guest house, etc.

Ernest Roberts has recently moved back to Grenada and is working with both of these churches. He and his family lived here in the 80's, but have been in Dominica for more than 20 years. Now he and his wife Eden have moved back. I know the brethren are glad for him to be back and pray his labors this time will be as effective as they previously were.

Tol

"Life ain't easy, it's hard"

2007-12-14T20:57:00.001-06:00

Probably 20 years ago I read an article in Nat. Geographic about Jamaica and it closed with the quote that is our title. They were talking to a lady who made a living by buying fruits and vegetables from the farmers and reselling them at the market--what they call a huckster in the British islands. That was her reply to a question about her life.

Here in Puerto Rico life can be a burden. One of the brethren here, when asked how he is will always reply "luchando la buena batalla de la fe"--fighting the good fight of the faith. That always struck me, but I thought it was only his answer. As I've lived here longer, I've come to realize that most people, especially on the phone, when asked what they're doing will reply, "luchando" fighting--fighting for life. And even though life here is good, very good compared to most Caribbean countries, it is still a struggle every day, in everything you do.

Traffic here has gotten much worse since Thanksgiving--there is not a time we leave our urbanization that the traffic is not backed up through the intersection. In order to get across you must force your way through whatever little hole you can find, trusting that the oncoming traffic will not hit you. It took me 20 minutes to go the 1.5 miles to Burger King across the street today, and that was at 2 PM. We have a check we need to deposit (the bank is just down from Burger King) but I just don't want to fight the traffic to the bank and back. (Did I mention we were rear-ended for the second time yesterday since we got here in May?) We still don't have Puerto Rican driver's licenses because we haven't felt like taking the half a day to go get it--you have to fill out a 4 page form, get a medical exam, 3 passport photos (don't worry you can get these two in an office across the hall), but the kicker is that if your social security card is laminated you have to go to the Soc. Security office (who knows how long that will take) and get a letter certifiying your social security number (is really yours).

We've been doing some painting and putting up trim, which of course has required 3 or 4 trips to Home Depot. Yesterday we stopped at Quizno's (on the way) for lunch, went to Home Depot to get the last few things we needed, and stopped to pick up some signs (also on the way)--we were gone 2 1/2 hours.

The terrible thing is that on other islands it's even worse--there are only 2 cities in Dominica where you will find banks, so even if the brethren deposit your check in the States and you can get access with your debit card, it still requires a 3/4 - 1 hour trip each way to get to the bank. Fresh vegetables require you to either grow themyourself or go to the market on Saturday morning--depending on what you want, you may be able to get them in your village or you may have to go all the way to Roseau, the capital.

Yet despite all this, brethren still find time to worship God--in many places 4 or more times a week. What about you? Are you "too busy" to attend all the services of the church? What about when there is a Gospel meeting? What else do you do because you are a Christian?

Tol

Shivering in the ColdI

2007-12-11T05:37:00.000-06:00

I read with interest stories about the ice storm in Oklahoma and the Midwest, thinking about people shivering in the cold--no power, no heat, etc. I'm sure a lot of that is because it is never cold here--it's 72 degrees right now and that's only because a tropical depression has settled in and it has rained all night and is still cloudy.

But strangely enough I am cold--my feet are like ice this morning. The windows are all closed (so rain won't blow in) and the fan is off, but I'm cold. It's strange how the body gets accustomed to whatever the climate is. I like to think about snow and cold weather now, but am not really sure I want to feel too much of it.

In the same way our minds get accustomed to sin. If we are surrounded by cursing and bad language, before we know it we are picking it up--if not saying it out loud, we are at least thinking it. If we are watching TV shows where people jump in and out of bed (lets call it what it is--fornication) all the time, we slowly accept this as "normal". If we re constantly told that the "gay" lifestyle is just an alternative way of living, before long we begin to accept that, usually before we're even aware of it consciously.

Brother, what are you getting accustomed to? Morally speaking, that is?

Tol

Like building, like church

2007-12-05T15:25:00.000-06:00

Someone has pointed out that church buildings often typify the church that meets there. If the building is ostentatious, frequently so are the brethren. If the church building is adequate, but plain, this is often true of those who meet there. If the building is well cared for, it generally belongs to an active group and on the other hand, one that is badly neglected is used by an inactive church.

That is at least true of us here. Our building used to be a duplex, so on either side of the auditorium are 2 classrooms and a bathroom--one side being used by the Spanish speaking church and the other being used by the English speaking church. Last week Ed and I hauled off 3 loads of junk from one side, most of which had been there for more than 25 years. The tracts were so old they were yellowed and brittle and much of it was just trash that no one had bothered to throw away.

Would it surprise you to know that this group has done very little more than meet on Sunday morning for many years? It shouldn't! The importance they gave to the church building was much the same as they gave to worshipping God in general. But I think part of the problem is one we all face in areas of our lives--we get accustomed to things the way they are. At first, a former preacher was going to send back for many of these things, but time passed and he didn't. By that time we were used to the clutter, mess, etc. And doesn't that happen to all of us? We KNOW the sink in the men's bathroom is rusty and ugly, but it's been that way for so long we don't even see it. But we forget that it positively jumps out at visitors.

Have you looked at the building you worship in lately? Have you honestly asked yourself what visitors see when they come in? Certainly, the emphasis should be on the Word, not the building, but non-Christians don't know that. Often times they're unable to look beyond the obvious neglect to hear the Word of God. "If these people don't even keep up their 'church', how important is God to them?" might be their thought.

Do some people spend too much on a church building? No doubt, but let's not go to the opposite extreme. What do you think?

Tol

What are people looking for?

2007-11-15T09:41:00.000-06:00

As we are working here in Puerto Rico, particularly with the English speaking group there is a special challenge--finding contacts. In the past, most of my contacts have come from the brethren so I haven't had to go out looking for many of them. But with only 9 other members, most of whose friends speak Spanish that hasn't worked, at least not yet. Door knocking won't work very well either because those who want to worship in English are scattered all over the island--one in this neighborhood, 2 in that one, etc. So we are advertising in the English language newspaper and radio station.

Which brings up another problem? What can you say in 30 seconds that might interest people enough to come visit or call for more information? There is a need for doctrinal teaching, but how much can you do in 30 seconds and will that pique their interest? What we've finally decided on is to begin with a question, give one brief answer (or part of the answer) and encourage them to call or visit for more information. We are planning to tie as many of these questions as we can to our current classes or sermons--"for more information on this topic visit us Sunday for the sermon".

This will be trial and error for awhile, as our listening audience is very diverse--Puerto Ricans, people from New England and NYC, some from Florida, etc. They are process engineers, retirees, business owners, and housewives. They range from the young professionals who went to school in the States to older people who sold their home in NY.

Any thoughts you have in this area would be appreciated.

Tol

Our first "Gospel meeting" at Caparra Terrace

2007-11-13T20:03:00.001-06:00

The sign in the window is what's called a "Cruza Calle" advertising our first Gospel meeting. It literally means "crossing the street" and in the past they were banners strung from one utility pole to another across the street. Nowadays it's any vinyl sign.

We had Jose Coronado preach for us Friday & Saturday night, as well as the usual time on Sunday morning. The number attending was high--15 on Fri. and 10 on Sat. All the visitors were Christians--some from the English speaking church at Caparra and the rest from other nearby churches.

We also passed out tracts in the area around the church building, to let people know we're still meeting there and that we're back actively working and trying to reach others.

Ed and I will be preaching another Gospel meeting this weekend, but this time in English. This will be quite a change, as the church has met only on Sun. AM for many years now. We began Bible study on Wed. night last week (with everyone present) and now 2 extra nights.

Please pray that we may all grow together and find others who are seeking the truth.

Tol

Some things can't be bought at Wal-Mart

2007-10-19T13:45:00.000-06:00

A friend's 3 or 4 year old nephew told him that they needed to go to Wal-Mart. He had been recently blessed with a new baby sister, who was about 3 months old. When Uncle asked what they needed to buy he was told, "Daddy has teeth, Mommy has teeth, I have teeth, but baby sister doesn't."

Obviously, Wal-Mart doesn't sell teeth, but after I go through laughing I thought about how many other things you can't buy at Wal-Mart. If you thought this was a Wal-Mart bashing, sorry to disappoint you--I generally shop Wal-Mart or Sam's first, then go elsewhere if I can't find it there.

Many are looking for happiness and way too many think it comes from things you can buy at Wal-Mart (or some other store). It doesn't! Solomon had money to buy everything he could think of, and he did, and his conclusion was that all those things were vanity.

Inner peace, which leads to happiness, comes from knowing you are at peace with God. Such knowledge can only come from HIS Word, what He has revealed to us in the Bible. You can buy the Bible, but you can't buy an understanding of it--that only comes through study.

Tol

"All the comforts of home"

2007-10-10T20:19:00.000-06:00

My time in Santo Domingo went well--it was hot, but I had a fan over my bed, so I slept well. The power went off several times, but never for more than 30 minutes at a time. At one point I thought about our title and it was pretty close to true--I had most of the comforts of home, but especially when it comes to worshipping that ain't necessarily so.

Many of the churches that meet on Sunday morning (almost all only meet once on Sunday--morning or afternoon) begin worship at 8 AM. Why? Because of the neighborhood noise--everyone has the windows open and about 10 or 11 AM everybody gets going, which means they turn up their music as loud as it will go. Since they are done by 10 now, it doesn't matter. Another church stopped meeting on Friday night for the same reason. How we take for granted not only the A/C, but the blessing of being able to worship without outside distractions.

Although most brethren who work, work until 5 PM or so, many of the churches meet at 5 PM during the week--the power has a tendency to go off for a couple of hours from around dark (6:30-8 or so). By meeting at 5, they're done by 6:30 at the latest, so avoid that problem altogether. Again, how blessed we are to have uninterrupted power.

Then again many of those who meet at that hour don't meet in the church building--it's simply too hot there. Many meet under a shade tree in ome of the brethren's yard, which means they must transport chairs, etc. back and forth.

Do we take advantage of the blessings we have to worship God, or do we look for excuses not to? No matter how "bad" we have it here, it's better than most brethren have it.

Tol

Culture in the church

2007-10-07T14:24:00.000-06:00

Working with churches in another country, or even another culture is always interesting, but it requires some flexability.

Here is a picture of some of the members in the church in San Isidro, Dominican Republic. I preached here twice recently and I noticed how much the background of the brethren has influenced their worship. You probably already noticed that all the women have some kind of covering--most of these brethren came from a Pentecostal background and the Pentecostals there teach a woman should wear a veil, not wear pants or jewelry, much less make up. This background also affects their worship--each man who reaches the podium must first shout, "Who lives? Christ!" and there are many "Gloria a Dios" and "amen". They are very involved in the worship service, which is certainly not a bad thing.

But there was something else I noticed--the singing. Most churches in the Caribbean sing loud--they don't even know when I sing "wrong", but the men here sing particularly loud, almost shouting. I puzzled on that for a song or two then remembered that they are almost all military men--active or retired. Immediately I pictured a drill sgt. shouting "I can't hear you!", which explained why they sing soooo loud.

The beauty of the Gospel is that it can be taught and obeyed in any culture--you don't have to know Greek (or Arabic like some religions teach). You don't have to be an American or adopt American ways. All you have to do is do what God says, in your culture.

Tol

Possibilities

2007-10-05T21:47:00.001-06:00

The Dominican Republic is a country of almost 9 million people and relatively few churches. During my week there I worked with churches in and around Santo Domingo, the capital. 4 days I worked on the East side of the city, with churches ranging in attendance from 20 to 75. The other 3 days I worked on the North side, where between 65-75 were present. They came from as far away as Bonao (an hour's bus trip) and several points in between.

People here are beginning to have more time for spiritual things--most have the necessities of life, so now they can think about other things. Yet there are few full time preachers to take advantage of these opportunities. Please pray that God will send laborers.

Tol

Counting the cost

2007-10-04T07:25:00.000-06:00

One of the big growth industries in the Dominican Republic is tourism, but you already knew that, didn't you? Puerto Plata, Punta Cana, La Romana--we all recognize the names, right.

I met Eduardo, a young man who's been a Christian about 6 months now, in Santo Domingo. He is in the university and is studying tourism. He was already in his 3rd year when he became a Christian and now wishes he had chosen another career. Oh he's bright enough and has a good personality, so he can certainly make it, but his concern is how such a job will affect him as a Christian.

I was very impressed that a young man who's only been a Christian a short time would already be thinking along these lines. Having worked in hotels for several years when I was much younger, I know there are things that will make it harder for him. Yet he can overcome them, with the help of Christ and his brethren.

Do you encourage young people to count the cost as they choose a career? Another of the young men in the church there is studying to be a lawyer--another difficult career for a Christian. Now being a lawyer in the Hispanic Caribbean is not the same as being a lawyer in the States--much more of it is drawing up legal papers, etc. Even to be a notary you have to be a lawyer. A sister asked me one time if I thought a lawyer could be an elder. I quipped that I wasn't sure a lawyer could be a Christian, much less an elder. I know it can be done, but it seems to me there is more potential for problems than in many other fields.

Parents, do you guide (not command) your children in their choice of a career? There are careers where lots of money can be made, but most of them pose a great risk to a Christian. Is the money worth the loss of their soul? Other careers are only available in the big cities, like New York, where the church is weak. Are they able to withstand the pressure from the worldliness on every side, with few fellow Christians to support them?

We as parents cannot choose our children's career, but we can help them count the cost.

Tol

Another first for me

2007-10-03T21:42:00.000-06:00

I preached the first night I was in Santo Domingo in an area called "El Mamon" (a mamon is a type of fruit). It's a small village out in the country--most of the people worked (or work) on one of many farms or ranches in the area. Attendance at Sunday morning services ranges from 15-25 and they meet again on Mon. night (ladies class) and Tues. and Thurs. for Bible study. They have a very adequate block building--it's not completely done, but it's a very good start.

I assumed we would be meeting in the building, but when we arrived everything was set up behind one of the members houses, under a very large mango tree. As the power frequently goes out shortly after dark, they now meet from 5 PM to 6:30, just before it gets dark. This couple has a lot of chickens and it didn't take me long to see which was their favorite spot to roost--you guessed it, the mango tree. Now I've swallowed more than my share of bugs while preaching and one time preached to less than 10 people and at least 10,000 ladybugs, but preaching under the roost of chickens is new.

When it came time for me to preach I chose my spot to stand (there was no pulpit, so I could stand whereever I wanted to) very carefully and kept an eye on chicken movements above. I guess one hen didn't appreciate my presence--she squawked for almost 5 minutes before finally jumping up into the tree.

So when the kids get too noisy where you worship, just remember it could be worse.

Tol

A couple of good men

2007-09-26T13:32:00.000-06:00

In translating a report from Nino Estevez, who preaches in Venezuela, recently I was struck by something that occurred. As some of you may know Nino is my age and recently had surgery to remove a very large stone from one of his kidneys. The stone was large and had been there some time so the kidney was very inflamed and his recovery has taken longer than "normal". During this time period a man from a denomination came to see him and Nino began talking to him about the Gospel. Well, they spent some time talking about the differences between the true church and the denominations as well as God´s plan of salvation. The man came back later to visit, but also to demand baptism--he was not leaving Nino´s house until he was baptized. While Nino couldn´t baptize him, there were other brethren who could and did.

Here is where 2 good men met--Nino in spite of his physical weakness taught this man. He in turn was serious enough about the truth to not only listen but then obey it. May we all manifest the attitude of these two good men.

Tol

Want to be wise???

2007-09-12T21:33:00.000-06:00

Everyone wants to be wise. Not only are fools shunned and humilated, but their actions bring trouble and pain. My band director used to say, "Dumb people must suffer". His context was people who mouthed off and therefore got punished, but the statement is true in many aspects of life.

Yes, everyone wants to be wise, but how does one become wise? The wisest man, Solomon, gives us the answer in Prov. 13:20, "He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will be destroyed." Should this advice surprise us? We all understand Paul's point when he writes, "evil companions corrupt good morals"--our friends will rub off on us, whether for good or for evil. Isn't that what Solomon is saying? So, if you really want to be wise, you must associate with those who are wise and learn from them. There are several applications of this that I want us to think about.

First of all, this principle makes our choice of friends incredibly important. I'm not talking necessarily your neighbors, or the people you work with, or the other parents of the kids on your son's ball team. While you have a relationship with them, they may or may not be your close friends--we're talking about your best buddy, or your best girlfriend, those you're really close to--your compadre or comadre. If they are wise people, that wisdom will rub off on you too. If they are wise enough to realize that the things of this world are only temporary they will encourage you in that same wisdom. If they are greedy for things, they will point you in the same direction. Your choice of close friends is so very important!

This is also something a young man should consider when he looks for a wife. Does he want a young lady whose only "advantage" is her outward beauty? Not if he wants to be wise! What other person should you be closer to than your spouse? If your spouse is wise it will benefit you in many ways, not the least of which is that it will help you grow in wisdom. The virtuous wife of Prov. 31 is commended for her wisdom more than anything else and where is her husband? At the city gates, with the rest of the wise men. Some young men are intimidated by a wise young lady, so they choose a wife that is not as wise as they are. It is hard for most young men to admit there wife is right (I know that first hand) and is wiser than they are. But her wisdom will not only save them from many problems but will help him to become wiser himself. Most of us need to be pushed to reach our full potential--seek a wife who will help you excel, not one who will drag you (and likely your children as well) down.

The last application is one I heard years ago that is so obvious once you see it, but difficult to see on your own. Another proverb says that foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child, but the rod of correction will drive it far from him. Children can be so foolish at times. Someone was telling of two 10 year old boys who were playing with the pixie sticks. For those of you not old enough to remember these, they were like sweet tarts powder in a straw. Anyway, one of the boys suggested they could "snort" the pixie sticks, like people snort cocaine. He then pretended to do it, at which the other boy took a good snort of it--his nose and sinuses were burned so bad he had to go to the doctor. Children can be foolish.

Now, what do you have when you get a bunch of children together? In any group of kids you have smart kids, dumb kids, kids who have no moral training, etc. In such a group, which behavior do kids typically adopt? They don't usually rise to the level of the wiser ones, but rather fall to the level of the more foolish. If a child, even a wise child who has been trained in God's Word and truth, spends most of his time in the company of other children will he be influenced for good or for evil? To ask the question is to answer it. Yet how many parents, even strong Christians, allow their children to spend so much time with other children that their foolishness MUST rub off on them? When YOU, the parent, are your children's peers, your influence over them is incredibly strong. When what the other kids think of them is more important than what you think, you are fighting an uphill battle that more than likely you will lose. Is it important for kids to play and be with other children? No question! But if parents spend little or no time with their kids it should not be surprising that their children don't adopt their parents morals. If you want your kids to be wise, you need to help/make them associate with the wise--grandparents, other older people and adults.

Do you want to be wise? You can be--make friends of those who are wise themselves and you are well on your way.

Tol

Expecting the best

2007-09-10T07:57:00.001-06:00

As I talk to preachers, elders, and other leaders among churches we sometimes lament over "the brethren", especially how little they will do. I have worked with at least my share (I feel sometimes like maybe more than my share) of complacent brethren who don't want to do anything beyond attend at least one service. To be sure there are those who would look down on "Sunday morning worship brethren", but the only difference in their lives is that they attend every service of the church. These later brethren don't do anything else except attend all the services--their daily lives don't reflect Christ at all.

But how often have I heard "nobody wants the truth here" or, closer to home, you can't get the brethren here to do anything. While that may be true of some, there are those who just need to be asked, or just need to know something needs to be done. Too often I believe we expect the worst from people, not the best. And just like the child who is constantly told how troublesome they are, brethren from whom little or nothing is expected usually produce as is expected.

At one place we were told "you can't get anybody to help with Bible classes" but 30 or more ladies helped cut out, laminate, put together, etc. the activities for vacation Bible school. At another church I encouraged the brethren to invite their friends to a Gospel meeting and over 50 personal invitations were made. We have taught more than one person who was in an adulterous marriage and a number of them left those unions and are faithful still today.

Yesterday I suggested beginning a Wed. night Bible class again and to my surprise everyone was excited about that. I did not expect everyone to be excited--it's been more than 5 years since they had it and nothing had been said about it in the 3 months we've been here, so I thought some saw it as "too much". Only 2 live close to the church building, the rest of us will have to drive 20-45 minutes to get there because of traffic on Wed. evening, we're all busy, etc.

Brethren, the whole point of my rambling today is to expect the best of people. If they are taught what they should be doing many of them will respond. Some, perhaps even many, won't, but some will. Let us not judge who will or will not respond to the Gospel.

Tol

Christianity without the extras

2007-09-08T13:51:00.000-06:00

3 months ago we left a church of 260 to move to Puerto Rico, where I preach in English to 12 people (including me) and then in Spanish to 4-6. That's quite a change, especially when you include how many other churches there are in Middle TN, where we moved from. There are two other churches in Columbia, plus 5-7 in Murfreesboro, more than 3 in Franklin, plus many others within one hour of where we lived, many of them large.

There are some Sundays we only have 4 people in Spanish--my wife and I and 2 older saints. As the number of those Sundays continues it gets a little discouraging. Needless to say there are no children's classes because there are no children. We still don't have Bible class in Spanish at all. But we do have an adequate meeting place, a house that was converted many years ago but will seat 60-70 easily.

I was translating a report the other day from a brother who is now preaching in the park each Sunday--they were meeting in the home of one of their members who liked to drink alcohol. When he was taught what the Bible says about that he made a change--he left the faith. So now they are meeting in the park, under a tree, and yes, even when it rains.

This made me think about being a Christian without some of the "basics" that most Christians in the South take for granted. Ask yourself the following questions:

1) How long would I continue meeting with a church that didn't have its own meeting place?
2) If you have small children would I worship with a church that didn't have the best classes for my children? There is not another faithful church within driving distance.
3) What if my children had only 2-3 other children to play with?
4) What if the meeting place wasn't cooled/heated that well?
5) How long would I be faithful if the church of Christ was one of the smallest churches in town?

Unfortunately, I already know the answers from too many brethren because I have seen their actions.

1) Not having a meeting place makes coming together too inconvenient, so they stop doing it.
2) Some have gone to liberal churches, or even denominations, for "good" Bible classes for their kids.
3) This excuse has also been given for leaving the truth for error.
4) It's just too uncomfortable, so they stop attending.
5) If being a Christian is an impediment in business they join the "right" church, whatever it may be.

Brethren, being a Christian is not a bed of roses, no matter what culture you live in. But when I see Christians raised in the Bible belt who move away and then drift away from the truth, it tells me there was a problem when they lived in the Bible belt.

Why are you a Christian? Because that's what's expected of you? Can you tell someone else why we worship the way we do? If not, there's a problem. There is also a solution, but it takes time and effort. "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God." (Rom. 10:17)

Tol

Saving it for others

2007-08-27T15:39:00.000-06:00

I watched the end of The Lord of the Rings again last night. Those of you who know the story will understand all the details, but that isn't necessary to understand the point. If you haven't read the books or seen the movies, I would recommend them. They were dedicated to C.S. Lewis and the point of it all is that good will triumph, even when it seems impossible. As Frodo is boarding the ship to leave Middle Earth he tells a friend, "I did all that to save the Shire, but not for me." Frodo did indeed suffer and toil greatly to save the world of man, but then left it.

The thought occurred to me that often times that's what Gospel teachers and preachers do. They suffer with people, teaching them, counseling them, loving them, seeminly for nothing. But some years later they hear that this brother or sister has become a real power for good, or at least is now faithful and strong. During our 8 years in St. Croix we baptized over 70 people, but only a few of them are still in St. Croix. The rest have gone to Dominica, or Miami, or St. Thomas, etc. Many of them are still faithful and are real assets to the work where they now are, but the church in St. Croix doesn't receive the benefit.

Truly our job is to sow the seed, whereever we can. If we receive any benefit from it, that is wonderful. But even if we don't, God does and that is all that really matters.

Tol

Hurricane Dean in Dominica

2007-08-18T08:26:00.001-06:00

I spoke with one of the brethren in Vielle Case, Dominica last night and although they had a lot of wind and rain, they are all right. The crops--bananas and plaintains were all blown down, which means they are lost, and some roofs were blown off, but there doesn't seem to be any severe damage in Vielle Case, which is on the north side of the island (straight across from the "beak" on the north end).

I haven't been able to talk with the brethren in La Plaine (just south of this line of type). Regular phones are down, but cell phones seem to be working so I hope to raise them today.

By early next week we should have a better assesment of damage and needs in Dominica. Other than one couple who are "retired", the brethren in Vielle Case are all farmers, so the loss of their crops will hurt them for close to a year. It takes 9 months for a banana tree to bear after it has been planted. Most of the root crops take at least 6 months to produce, so they will need some help. If you're interested in helping, e-mail or call me and I'll let you know when I know more.

Tol (787) 998-2098, tolburk@gmail.com

Hurricane Dean

2007-08-18T08:05:00.000-06:00

As the satellite photo shows the eye of Hurricane Dean has now passed Puerto Rico. It is cloudy here, but it has not rained since 6 AM. I don't know how much it rained here on the north side of Puerto Rico--the only time I heard it was at 6. It is still a little windy, but we didn't get very much of that even. We didn't even lose power. We thank God for His care for us.

As the first hurricane begins to approach, we begin getting supplies so that if it does hit we have what we need. So Tues. we bought bottled water, flashlight batteries, candles and more canned goods than usual. We also filled up both cars with gas, as well as the generator. I then trimmed palm fronds that were touching the house, cleared the debris off the roof (we still have a dead a/c compressor up there, but I left it too), gathered up light things in the yard, etc. Because it became obvious pretty early that it wasn't likely to hit PR we didn't have to bring the lawn furniture, bbq grill, plants, etc. inside--one time in St. Croix our bbq grill kept blowing back and forth down the porch. It's a big job preparing for a hurricane and requires several days.

After the first "scare" we are now more or less ready--we will keep the supplies until the end of Oct., then use them up. We can say we are prepared to meet a hurricane. It feels good to be prepared, but the worst that would likely happen in a hurricane is that we would lose our house and stuff, maybe even our life (to put this into perspective Hurricane Hugo severely damaged 70 % of the houses in St. Croix but only 21 people died).

Are you prepared to meet God? If you're not and die, you will lose alot more than physical life. The ASV translates 1 Tim. 6:19, "lay hold on that which is life indeed"--a reference to eternal life in heaven. Obviously then, the opposite of that, eternal destruction in hell, would be the loss of well being indeed. You CAN rebuild after a hurricane but once you die you CANNOT prepare yourself to meet God.

Are YOU ready?

Tol

Bible study in Puerto Rico

2007-08-14T18:52:00.000-06:00

We just finished a Bible study with our neighbors tonight. It was our third study and they are right with us thus far. They bake cakes, and I don't mean Wal-mart type cakes, for weddings, birthdays, graduations, etc. They are unbelievable and this is the way they support themselves. The cakes are usually delivered on the weekend, so they bake and decorate them on Wed. & Thur. so Monday or Tuesday is the best night for us to study. They had two different groups coming today to discuss their cake and they were scheduled at 3 PM and 5 PM, so they would be gone before 7, so we could study.

When we got to their house they warned us that the couple from 3 PM had still not come and was coming any minute. They insisted we start the study, which we did. Sure enough, about 10 minutes into the study, here they come. They invited them in and they sat down in the living room (10 feet from where we were in the dining room). We then find out that the couple wants to wait on his sister, so they are invited and come into the dining room and enter the study. We continue to study and just as we are at the next to the last scripture his sister arrives. So instead of studying with 3 people, we studied with 5.

In the States, this study would have probably not happened this week, but here not only did we study, but we studied with a young couple (soon to be married) who we did not expect at all. She at least was attentive and we pray the seed was sown and may one day bear fruit. I left a copy of the lesson with her as well as the sister. So when things don't seem to be working out like you expect, don't worry it may be even better than you think.

Tol

"Life is hard . . ."

2007-08-09T07:17:00.000-06:00

The photo on the left is from one of the universities here in Puerto Rico. It says, "Life is hard, prepare yourself well." Of course, their point is that you need a college education in order to prepare yourself for life.

While I wouldn't disagree with the importance of education, particularly a college education, these days there is something even more important--education about God and His Word.

Life is hard, not only are there real dangers/troubles/calamities, but there are also so many possible dangers. How does one face the hurricanes, devastating illnesses, personal tragedies, etc. alone? At those moments when we can't go on by ourselves, God is there to help us, whether by means of our brethren, or however.

Life is hard. Are you preparing yourself?

Tol

The church in La Plaine

2007-08-03T10:23:00.000-06:00

This is one of the Bible classes from vacation Bible school in La Plaine, Dominica last week. So far as I know, none of these children attend services with the church there. Elkin studies with the parents of some and they visit occasionally, but as of yet they are not Christians.

The church here is composed of less than 10 members but has an attendance of close to 20 most Sunday mornings. They also meet on Sun. night, then Tues. and Thur. nights as well. Tuesday night is Bible class but Thur. night is "What's your question?"--Elkin entertains any and all questions and tries to provide the Biblical answer. Attendance at most of these services is 10-12. Among those who attend are several Haitian immigrants, so the service is in English and Patois, the broken French that was spoken in Dominica earlier and which the Haitians understand. Last Thur. I was answering questions and one of the Haitians asked me a question in Spanish, so I answered it in English and Spanish, so that service was trilingual.

There is good potential here. Many of the younger people have rejected Catholicism and to some extent the charismatic movement, but they are still confused--they know that some things are wrong, but they are not sure what is right. A woman named Ucille is typical--she has studied with the 7th Day Adventists and Jehovah's Witnesses besides us. She finally told the 7 days not to come back, but she is still confused, as you can imagine. Elkin continues to have 30 or more studies a month.

Please pray for the brethren here. Although few in number they are growing, although not as fast as they would like.

Tol

VBS Dominica 2007

2007-07-30T19:44:00.000-06:00

Dana and I have been in Dominica the last two weeks for vacation Bible school--one week in Vielle Case and the next week in La Plaine. We are tired and both seem to have caught what they are calling "the Chavez"--head cold, sore throat, fever, etc. It is called "Chavez" because the president of that name visited Dominica and when he and his entourage left this respiratory infection started appearing.

We had 72 kids in Vielle Case, which is what we had last year. It is exciting to see the progress some of them have made--they've been there all 4 years. We had more teenagers than we've had since the first year--we ended with 15.

This was our first year in La Plaine so we didn't know what to expect. We had 29 the first day, which was a little more than I expected, but the next day it really jumped--to 62. We finished out the week with 70, which was way more than we expected. We'll see next year if that is the peak there, or if it will go even higher.

Tol

The nature of man

2007-07-09T20:43:00.001-06:00

This fine looking animal visits our backyard frequently to feed. The little plants on his left have small purple flowers. I had seen these plants before, they were different--they were covered with flowers. Ours are not--the iguana comes up to eat them. Animals have no sense of beauty--flowers are one of iguanas favorite foods, although they will eat grass. Rather than admire the beauty of the flowers he eats them. When was the last time you saw a dog (or any other animal for that matter) stop to admire a sunset, or a sunrise, or any beautiful thing?

Men are different from animals in a number of ways, but this is one of the more obvious.
Certainly societies may have different ideas of what is beautiful, but mankind appreciates beauty. Why do we travel? To see the beauty! Why do we buy National Geographic and such magazines? To see the beauty!

If man is just a refined ape, how do we account for this innate desire for beauty? No other animal, not even the monkeys, has such a desire. Evolution cannot explain it--our esthetic nature does not help us survive in any way. If only those things that make us stronger, live longer, etc. are passed on (survival of the fittest) how can we explain this?

Just as every man can appreciate beauty, every man has an innate desire to worship something (or somebody). God created man with both of these desires, things which the animals don't have. There is no other explanation.

Tol

Working with brethren

2007-07-09T10:56:00.000-06:00

If you preach on a regular basis, you have no doubt "quit preaching" at least once or twice. In the past I have quit preaching, or at least seriously considered it--one time it lasted all of 3 months. I haven't done that in more than 20 years now, but I still get frustrated with brethren.

If the Lord wills, we will be in Dominica next week for vacation Bible school. In the second village we are going to, the school building is already reserved, as is housing for 15 people--all arranged for some time by the local preacher. In the first village, where we start in one week, they will go tomorrow to apply for the school building and hope we get the permission letter by Friday. I have arranged housing, etc. And the most frustrating thing is this is better than they've done in the past. And you think you work with brethren who won't do anything!

Seriously, the most frustrating thing to me (and I think most preachers) is not what outsiders do, but what brethren do (or don't do). What do you do with brethren who won't do anything, or worse yet, will only do something to oppose you?

I don't claim to have all the answers but what I have seen in 27 years of preaching is that frequently brethren won't do anything because they are not committed. They are not committed because their faith is weak--oh, they've made a commitment to attend services, maybe even lead prayer or wait on the Lord's table, but that's about it. Brother N. B Hardeman once said, "Never underestimate the ignorance of your audience." While some would be insulted by such a statement I don't believe that was his intention at all--he was just reminding preachers that not everyone in the audience is as knowledgable as you are. There are young people who are just beginning to listen, there should be babes in Christ, not to mention brethren who just weren't listening when you preached this before. I'm not saying to water sermons down, but make sure you lay the foundation for your applications--people don't remember what they don't understand. Now if you preach for a church that will only tolerate 30 minutes of preaching you're limited by that, but people must grow spiritually before they will act. Rom. 10:17 says, "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God." Faith can only be strengthened by hearing the Word. This kind of growth takes time and we as preachers sometimes don't have the patience needed.

Sometimes we also fail to take people where they are. Jesus took the Samaritan woman as she was, having had 5 husbands and living with another. The woman taken in adultery was forgiven and cautioned to "sin no more". Even if I am "perfect" (in my own eyes anyway) most people are not. They need to grow and improve, but we must take them where they are and help them to grow from that point. Again this requires patience and teaching on the part of the preacher.

So before we decide that "the brethren" are the problem, let us examine ourselves to see whether we are part of the problem or part of the solution.

Tol

"Every man did what was right in his own eyes"

2007-06-30T09:42:00.000-06:00

Driving in Puerto Rico is a real experience. The traffic is heavy and there aren't enough roads for all of us which leads some people to do some crazy things. Most traffic lights, for example, have left turn lanes with an arrow. But if the line is too long in that lane, someone will pull into the adjoining lane and turn left from that one--in front of those in the real turn lane if they can. They will even occasionally U-turn from this lane in front of you. If you are foolish enough to stop at a red light when there is no traffic you will either get honked at or more likely, they will just go around you and run the light.

On Fridays and Saturdays the traffic will frequently back up so that people will block the entrance/exit of our subdivision. Of course when we get our short light we cannot move, but don't worry that just means we move as soon as we can, thus cutting into the light of the people across from us, so they run their red light, thus cutting short those turning left into the neighborhood, which blocks those going on the highway--I think you get the picture. I'm learning how to position myself in a left turn lane, etc. so that I effectively block as many as possible so they HAVE to let me go. Otherwise, I could sit there a good while.

What is really amusing (and dangerous) is to see semi trucks switching lanes, riding peoples bumpers, etc. as if they were a small car. I think it must be so ingrained in people they don't even realize that they are doing it. Our backyard is bordered by a creek, which is bordered by a 6 lane road. Hardly a week goes by that we don't hear a wreck from our yard and we see at least one a week.

You probably are wondering what all my ranting has to do with the title--a quote from the book of Judges. Everything!! Judges recounts what happened in Israel when there was no king--no leadership, "every man did what was right in his own eyes". Some examples of the results are recorded in the last 3-4 chapters, one of which almost lead to the extermination of the tribe of Benjamin.

In Puerto Rican traffic there is no law (it exists, but a law that is not enforced ceases to be a law) so every man does what he wants to do. The result is total chaos. It is no different in society at large--when a society rejects authority eventually it will deteriorate into chaos. Western society is a good example of this today. When no one tries to enforce right and wrong chaos will always result.

It is no different in the church either. When brethren reject authority not only chaos but division will follow. 1 Cor. 11 says as much: "there must be division among you that those who are approved may be made manifest." Some will stand for the truth when others leave it, so there will be division and every evil work.

What is your attitude toward authority? If God and His Word are not paramount in your live, you are at least sowing the seeds of chaos for your children, if not yourself.

Tol

One of the devil's most potent weapons

2007-06-20T15:59:00.000-06:00

In Middle Tenn. and N. Alabama the church is strong and over 30 % of people are Christians. In this kind of area the devil is still at work, telling us that: 1) Nobody cares about the Gospel anymore, or 2) He causes to become self-righteous. In contrast in an area where the churches and Christians are few and scattered out, the devil works on us from a different direction--discouragement.

Being one of only two English speaking churches (and the other is liberal) we have several member who travel an hour each way to meet on Sunday. All of us come at least 20 minutes, even though traffic on Sunday morning is nothing. Then when we get there if we're all there, there are 14. Add to this, that several of them are single, so have no wife/husband to encourage them and you see why they get weak.

Even Elijah the prophet got weak when he felt he was all alone--he asked God to take his life because "I'm the only one left". Imagine the great man that faced up to Ahab (and Jezebel) but later is ready to throw in the towel. Is it any wonder that we get discouraged at times?

Such situations can be discouraging but we cannot let them overcome us. We must remember what God told Elijah, "I have 7,000 who have not bowed their knee to Baal, nor kissed him." Even if we don't see them, or know about them, we have brothers and sisters throughout the world. Dan. 2 prophesied that the kingdom of God would endure forever and it's sovereignty would not be passed to another. If God be for us, who can be against us?

Rom. 10:17 tells us that, "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God." When we see that we are getting weak or discouraged we must turn back to the Word. Seeing other Christians is good, but it is only temporary. Faith built on His Word will continue no matter what.

To those of us who live among many Christians it would be very good for you to visit a place where that is not so. You can: 1) Encourage the brethren there, 2) learn to appreciate what you have more, 3) realize the power of God's Word and prayer.

Tol

Driving in Puerto Rico--multitasking at its "best"

2007-06-16T20:47:00.000-06:00

Driving in Puerto Rico requires your undivided attention. The roads themselves present all kinds of challenges--unmarked exits, exits with no warning, turn only lanes with no warning, lanes ending with no warning--you get the picture. When you mix in the drivers it really makes it interesting. So interesting that only yesterday Dana and I were wishing we had a camera in the car with us to record some of the things they do here.

There is the usual number of people talking on their cell phone, who are joined by those deeply engaged in conversation with one (or all) of the passengers, not to mention those acting as tour guides and pointing out all of the sights. While doing this they will drop 10-15 miles below the speed limit and are as likely to be in the far left lane as they are to be in the far right. We have seen women putting make up and countless numbers eating but we had another first today--a car in front of us was driving 10 or more miles under the speed limit as well as having trouble holding her lane. When we passed her it looked like she was breastfeeding--I couldn't see under the towel mind you, but it was the typical arrangement. I don't have a problem with breastfeeding, even in public if she's covered, but while driving?

None of the things these drivers are doing while driving is "bad", but they do distract them from the main thing--driving. The spiritual application of my ranting centers on just this point--Christians cannot allow themselves to be distracted from the main thing. As disciples of Christ our goal is to become like Him--in word, in thought, in deed. Everything we do, think, or say should be what He would do.

But often we allow ourselves to be distracted by other "good" things--children's activities, work, hobbies, sports, etc. While there is nothing wrong with any of these things, like driving distractions, they slow us down in our progress toward becoming more Christ-like or sometimes even derail us completely. Jesus rebuke of Martha was not so much, "Martha you sinful woman" but rather "Martha you are troubled about many things, but Mary has chosen the good part." Let us strive to choose the "good" part that cannot be taken away from us.

Tol

Opinions in Bible class

2007-06-12T07:11:00.000-06:00

I commend to your attention this excellent article by Rick Liggin--I couldn't agree more!

Are our Bible classes supposed to be times for open discussion when anyone and everyone may state his own "opinion" on what some Bible text or verse of Scripture means? Asked a little differently: are Bible class teachers simply discussion facilitators or are they supposed to actually teach the class something?

Obviously, teachers are supposed to teach! They are to "give instruction", since this is what a "teacher" does. And though that may involve engaging his students in some kind of discussion, in the end the teacher is supposed to be leading the class in a definite direction so that real learning takes place. Anyone can stand at the head of a classroom and ask his students for comments--but a teacher must do more than that. He must teach!! He must instruct! He must make sure that real learning--learning that is true to the Word--takes place in the minds and hearts of his students.

But not only must he teach; he must do so with authority. Paul told Timothy: "These things command and teach" (1 Tim. 4:11). He told Titus: "These things speak, exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one disregard you" (Tit. 2:15). A faithful Bible teacher does not hand down his own "opinion" of what the Bible says--an "opinion" that others may take or leave, accept or reject. He teaches the Word of God--an authoritative message that must be accepted and obeyed.

Now, I say these things because I fear that some of us have gotten the wrong idea about our Bible class periods. Some of us seem to think that Bible class is a time for us to all get together and share our "opinions" or "what this passage says to me" with one another about some Bible topic or Bible text. But folks, that's not Bible STUDY! It might be one thing if we were sharing with one another the fruit of our own diligent, honest and careful private Bible study. In fact, if that were the case, I'm sure that some real and significant Bible learning would take place in such a class period. But that most often is not the case!

More often than not, these "opinions" we express are not based on any real, personal Bible study; in fact, they're often not even based on having previously read the text before coming to class. More often than not, they are the result of whatever might pop into our heads as we read the text for the first time while already in class. I'll be honest and tell you that, as a Bible class teacher who works hard at preparing to teach Bible classes, I find that insulting. How dare you come to class and challenge a teacher's conclusions by expressing your "opinion" when you haven't even taken the time to read the text (much less study it) before coming to class! We're not saying that error should not be corrected--if a Bible class teacher teaches something wrong, he should be challenged and corrected kindly. But how can we do that if we have not studied the text before coming to class?

Bible class is not about sharing "opinions" (especially unstudied opinions) with one another. It's about helping one another learn correctly what God's Word says, so that we can use it to change our lives. And it is the teacher's place to do that--and do it with authority, so that all feel the need to do what God says. Vision for the future demands that we make our Bible classes periods of real learning, and that requires teachers who are prepared to teach and students who come to class prepared to learn.

The work in Puerto Rico

2007-06-02T07:31:00.000-06:00

After two Sundays here I thought I would give an update on the work. We have had 11 people at the English speaking congregation both Sundays, counting Dana and I. That is everybody with the exception of one brother who works 2 jobs, one of which is sometimes on Sunday. The Spanish speaking church did not meet the first Sunday, but last Sunday there were 6 of us, which is everybody.

With us here I'm confident the Spanish speaking group will be much more consistent--the brother who has done most of the preaching has to work a couple of Sundays a month, but I should always be there, so we will meet.

We also have 4 contacts to follow up with already--Christians who have fallen away. 3 of them were members at Dorado but live in our area so Caparra Terrace would not only be closer in distance but it time as well. Besides, it's in San Juan (the big city) not some little town on the outskirts--I know it shouldn't matter, but there is a psychological factor there. The other is from the Dom. Republic and just fell away because of the pressures of the everyday world. We also have the wives of two of the members who are good prospects--Arnaldo has already suggested that we need to come eat with them, so we can meet his wife, etc.

Please pray for us as we work here.

Tol

The Babyhood of Babies

2007-05-30T20:26:00.000-06:00

Have you ever tried to tell a 3 year old that they are a baby? Almost without exception they will quickly correct you—“I’m a big boy/girl.” Why, our oldest son was “a big man” from the age of 3. Although they are certainly not infants anymore they are still babies, whether they recognize it or not. This is one of the characteristics of babies—they never see their own deficiencies or babyhood (if there is such a word).

Spiritual babies (immature Christians) are no different. In the beginning they recognize that they are babies in Christ, but it isn’t long until they learn just enough to think of themselves as spiritually mature. We all recognize that the brand new Christian is vulnerable and needs friends who are Christians to counteract the pull of the world and their old friends. This is a dangerous time in their spiritual life, but the next stage is only slightly less dangerous. If they are not careful they enter the stage where they know just enough to become arrogant and often self-righteous. They don’t need to study the Bible or listen to older, more mature Christians as much (at least in their own mind) anymore and if they continue in this stage they never mature. The words of Hosea become true of them also; they are “a cake not turned”—burned on one side and raw on the other.

Working with these babies (whether they’ve gotten stuck in this stage or whether they’re only passing through on their way to maturity) requires a great deal of patience. Instead of just telling them what to do we need to both tell them and do it ourselves. As our children model what they see their parents do, so babes in Christ will model what they see older Christians do. In fact, that is often a big part of the problem—Christians with more time in the faith aren’t doing what they expect newer ones to do, so when they tell them what Christians should do they don’t listen. The older Christians aren’t doing it, so why should they?

This is where consistently doing what is right can have a great effect. Most of our first year in St. Croix we would drive the 45 minutes to where the church was meeting for Wed. night Bible class and one other member would show up, eventually. But over time more and more started coming and 7 years later every member would come for every service. Of course there was teaching about the importance of attendance, which is necessary, but a consistent example is at least as important.

Those of us who are in fact spiritually mature must patiently teach and set the example for those who aren’t yet there. It’s much easier, as well as natural, to “let them have it” about attendance, Bible study, or whatever and this may even produce results for a short time. But until the heart (or understanding) is changed, there will be no permanent improvement. Often we must swallow our own pride and anger and continue to be consistent in our actions. You will probably have to do it alone for at least awhile, but keep quietly and loving pushing them to grow—some will and some won’t.

There are those who won’t grow, perhaps because of their character or perhaps because of mistakes of others. Notice in 1 Tim. 3, in the qualifications of an elder, why a novice should be selected—so he doesn’t become puffed up and fall into the condemnation of the devil. Obviously, if someone who doesn’t know the Bible well is an elder, it will be easy for him (and the church) to go astray, but that’s not the reason the Holy Spirit moved Paul to write here. I have known a number of spiritual babies who have been put into leadership positions in the church and have ruined not only that church but every other church they become members of. Since they have been “leaders” they don’t see their need to study or grow in any way and “once a leader, always a leader” so they feel free to give their advice (usually as laws) to anyone who will listen. It is so tempting to humiliate them publicly by showing how ignorant they are, but such is usually counterproductive—they are not humble, only embarrassed and you have made an enemy for life. Frequently they will stir up trouble and may even divide the church. Better still, in my opinion, to try and work with them, not only teaching them, but showing them, what should be done. Don’t be surprised though if they fall away or start their own church.

It’s not easy working with babies—they aren’t always reasonable and worst of all, don’t even realize their immaturity. Just remember that we have all been immature at one time and good brethren loved us and taught us and showed us in spite of our babyhood.

Tol

Life in Puerto Rico---slooooowwwww!

2007-05-26T15:34:00.001-06:00

Dana and I arrived in Puerto Rico last Friday and have been waiting for everything under the sun since. We got here in time to go to the shipper to get a car and the trailer with our furniture, etc. Well, I didn't have the paperwork for either one and it would take us at least 1/2 hour to go back home to get them and customs closed at 3:30 PM, so nothing doing that day. Our neighbors supplied what we needed for the weekend.

Saturday and Sunday was doing some shopping--Wal-mart is about 1 mile away, but that's 20 minutes in our neighborhood. Services actually started about 5 minutes late, which is not even late here. All were present except one in English. The Spanish speaking group did not meet. (We'll work on that).

We spent all day Monday back at the shipper and customs--duty on the car was ridiculous, payable in cash only. Fortunately, there was no duty on our household goods. We cleared that trailer, then had to call a trucker, to go leave the papers at his office--a gas station. He brought the trailer to the house around 5:30 PM. After going to the bank, getting cash advances, etc. we finally paid out the car and left with it around 4 PM, arriving home 30 minutes later. It's only 7 miles, but the traffic.

We are still waiting on phone and internet--it was supposed to be installed Thur. but they couldn't find the cable so it is postponed until Tues. afternoon. Our phone number is suppossed to be: (787) 998-2098. I'll let you know when it is activated.

We're at Starbucks catching up on internet everything this afternoon. I only circled for 5 minutes to find a spot to park (it would probably be illegal to park there anywhere else but in PR it is SOP). We're adapting to driving here--we can turn left out of any lane and zip in and out of traffic like everybody else.

We are both fine and should be fairly well settled in by the end of next week.

Tol

Prayers for Nino

2007-05-17T21:14:00.000-06:00

Nino Estevez has been an integral part of the work in Venezuela for some years. He started the church in Barinas, which has since grown to around 100 while sending 15 or so to start another congregation downtown. He also has worked with churches in Maracaibo, Caracas, Guanare, and other places. He helped start the church in Valencia and San Cristobal.

He is suffering from kidney stones in both kidneys and is now facing surgery to remove at least one of them. Please remember him in your prayers--the date has not been set, but is projected to be within the next 6 weeks. He will need some financial help with this, but is asking the gov't. first to see what they will do. Please pray for him and his wife Chela.

Tol

"A very large family"

2007-05-16T06:48:00.000-06:00

Dana and I have been traveling for about 10 days now, on our way to Puerto Rico. We're finally in FL, at Port St. Lucie, with our youngest son and his family. Sunday I preached at 2 of the churches that support me, where I've never been before. As usual, I was reminded what a large family the church is.

At one of them we didn't think we knew anyone, but there was a former member from Sweetwater where I preached from 1985-1990. At the other one I publicly said I didn't know anybody, but afterwards a brother we knew from Abilene met me almost at the door. Another young man told me of a young lady I've been corresponding with about living in the Dom. Republic this summer. And this doesn't include all the connections that were made with other brethren in other places we both knew.

I was also visiting with a preacher I know from KY a few weeks ago who had visited a church I know well. He told me it was a little strange--out of 200 or so people only 5 spoke to him at all. Sometimes, our family doesn't act like the family they are. If someone were to visit the church where you worship, how would they be treated?

Tol

Could this be part of the problem?

2007-05-10T10:07:00.000-06:00

Recently I was in another city and needed a ride to the airport. After locating a church on one of the internet directories, I went to their website and called one of the elders. I didn’t really know anyone in this town, so I had to pick someone at random. As it happened, we made a connection (someone we both knew) within about 5 minutes and he was going to work on finding someone to give me a ride.

A couple of weeks later I actually needed the ride and the night before, I called to find out who would give me a ride—name, phone #, etc. Another of the elders had agreed to take me, but like so many of us, he had forgotten a prior engagement, so couldn’t. The two conferred and could not think of anyone in the congregation who might be available to taxi me. To their credit, they did offer to reimburse me for my taxi fare. Again, I don’t know how large the church there is, but 4 elders would generally indicate a larger church.

Brethren, are we tooooo busy? If no one has time to help a preacher, will we make the time to become friends with the lost? Will we take the time to serve a brother or sister in need? Do we have the time to evangelize, or are we too busy?

Could this have anything to do with the fact that most churches of Christ in the States are not growing? True, brethren are always shifting from one congregation to another—whether they have moved to a new location, they got upset with another congregation, etc. But how many churches are really growing by baptisms, whether their own children or “outsiders”? Conversion takes a lot of work, which takes time—are you willing to make the time it takes?

Tol

It's official!

2007-05-10T10:05:00.000-06:00

As of about 11:45 PM, April 30th we now own a home in Puerto Rico. The closing was set up for 7:30 PM and by the time everybody explained everything in great detail to Dana and she signed all the papers it was 11:45.

Our new address is below in the proper format:

Urb. Valle Verde 1
Rio Turabo AW15
Bayamon, PR 00961

We will retain the same cell phone number for awhile: (931) 797-2300 I will post our new landline phone # when we get it. My e-mail address has also changed to: tolburk@gmail.com. Dana’s remains the same: danagburk@hotmail.com

We have 3 bedrooms so we have room for company—just check with us for dates.

Tol

The one talent man

2007-04-23T10:50:00.000-06:00

You remember the one talent man of the parable in Matt. 25:14ff? He hid his talent the master had entrusted to him because "I was afraid"--I presume he was afraid he might lose it if he invested it.

It seems to me that many American brethren are much like this man--they're afraid to use money (or take the time) to do everything they could for the Lord. After all, they might need it for retirement, or they might have some catastrophic illness, or some emergency might arise (after all, a disaster might strike), or . . .

Brethren, do we really believe the Lord will take care of our needs? If so, then we can stretch ourselves more than many of us do. The promise of 2 Cor. 9:8 is very promising to me: "And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work."

I wonder if this is one of the reasons more preachers don't want to go into "foreign work"?

Tol

"Mule Day" in Columbia, TN

2007-04-14T11:08:00.001-06:00

It's Mule Days in Columbia. It started out with the Mule Trail Ride that pulled into town Wed. PM. Then there have been Mule Pull's, prancing mule shows (they call them gaited mules), Mule Show and the mule part ends today with a 2-3 hour parade of every kind of mule pulling every kind of cart you can think of. There are black ones, red ones, grey ones, white ones a mixes of some of the above. They range from just bigger than a malamute to almost perceron horse size. It's pretty amazing the first time to watch the various kinds and sizes.

Of course you have a huge flea market and vendors of all kinds. This is the first year I remember seeing the food trucks, so we must have finally arrived. Many on the main roads into town now have garage sales as well, so if traffic wasn't bad enough with the 150,000 extra people coming in, just add in those stopping, parking, and leaving the edge of the highway. It's a mess!

It's interesting that 150,000 will come from who knows where to watch a bunch of mules walk and buy somebodyelse's junk but you would be hard pressed to have 15 come to a Gospel meeting. Even in a county where there are 8 sound churches, around 500 Christians, that Gospel meetings are poorly attened. Does that tell you where people's priorities are, even Christians?

Tol

"People don't want a friendly church . . . "

2007-04-09T16:12:00.000-06:00

As you read the title you were probably questioning it. Is it true people don’t want a friendly church? If they don’t want a friendly church, why are we always talking about being friendly? If they don’t want a friendly church, what DO they want?

I don’t remember where I heard this quote but I believe it is true: “People don’t want a friendly church. They want a friend.” What does this mean? Do people not really want a friendly church? Yes, they do, but that is only the beginning—what they are really looking for is a friend. If you are looking for a friend you usually begin with someone who is friendly, not someone who ignores you or is rude to you. But the fact that someone is friendly doesn’t necessarily mean they will be your friend. Being friendly doesn’t require the sustained effort that being a friend does. It is one thing to be friendly for the 4-5 hours a week that we spend together “at church”. It is quite another to be a friend at not only those times, but at other times during the week. “A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” (Prov. 18:24) Friends spend time together—that’s what builds their friendship. They may work together, they will certainly worship together, and they will also do fun things together. They may go out to eat, have a picnic, put on a fish fry, play games, or just sit and talk.

Being a friend requires much more than the investment of time—it will require you to listen, to share, and even to open yourself up to another. There is an emotional commitment—to share the good times, the bad times, even to correct them when you must. “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” (Prov. 27:17) You will probably have to laugh at some of the same jokes over and over (just like they do at yours), you will have to not only vent to them, but really listen when they vent to you. “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” (Prov. 17:17)

The quote is right—what people really want is a friend, or friends. Are you willing to make the commitment to be a friend to a new Christian, or a new member or family in the congregation? They will benefit, but so will you.

Tol

How the Gospel spreads

2007-04-09T15:41:00.000-06:00

This photo of Gerardo and his family, including the first (and only) grandchild. He preaches in downtown Caracas, within steps of the Presidential Residence. Several days a week he, along with other brethren, preach in different squares and parks, passing out tracts and invitations to study the Bible. They will be placing ads in the newspaper offering Bible studies this month.

In December a man was baptized after about a month of studies. In February he and Gerardo began studying with 2 people in the neighboring town of Guatire, where his Mother lives. Unfortunately, his Mother was not willing to study, at least now, but two others were and have been studying weekly for about 5 weeks now.

The book of Acts records that while Paul was preaching in Ephesus that the Gospel was spread throughout "all Asia". From this most important city of the province, the commercial center, the Gospel spread to other towns and villages. When "Joe" was converted, he immediately thought of his brother Moe in another town. When Moe heard the truth he obeyed it, as did his wife and her Mother. The Mother-in-law had children in yet another village and so it went. When people are really converted they must share the message.

As we teach people we must keep our eyes open for their contacts as well--those they have some influence with.

Tol

Our new house

2007-04-07T10:21:00.000-06:00

We were in Puerto Rico last week and found a house, which you will see the front of in the photo. The address is: Calle Rio Turabo, AW-15, Urb. Valle Verde I, Bayamon, PR 00961. Our P.O. Box is: Box 50182, Levittown, PR 00950.

If the Lord wills, we will be closing at the end of April. We have 3 bedrooms, so we will be ready to receive visitors in mid-June. There is some work we'll have to do in the kitchen, but much less than we thought we were going to have to do in the first house we found. This whole process went very smoothly and much more quickly than we had expected.

Please continue to pray for us as we make the actual move.

Tol

Yes, we really are moving!

2007-04-02T20:13:00.000-06:00

Dana and I have been in Puerto Rico since Wed. looking for a house. Tonight our offer to buy a house was accepted so the next to the last step has been taken for our move. We have both marveled at how the whole process has gone so smoothly--the Lord has made it very obvious that we need to be in Puerto Rico. We continue to thank Him for His care!

We also met with both churches in Caparra Terrace on Sunday and everyone was very happy not only with our presence that day, but especially because of our upcoming move. They have already made some improvements on the building itself—some paint, new blinds on the windows, etc. Members of both churches (English speaking & Spanish speaking) talked to us about contacts they have been thinking about, so we are encouraged with that.

Brethren, please pray for us and the work here. With 4 million people here and only these three sound churches there is a lot of potential. Once the brethren are grounded I believe these churches can be a good base to spread out from.

Tol

"comiendo sapos"

2007-03-20T11:27:00.000-06:00

Some years ago I was discussing with another preacher some of the things we do to serve others, particularly the brethren. He summed it all up in a very colorful expression--at times we have to "comer sapos"--eat toads. Obviously he didn't mean literally eating a toad, but rather do something that would be as odious as eating a toad. There are a lot of things I will eat and have eaten, from nutria to crawdads and frog legs, but the very thought of eating a toad almost gags me.

In our work as preachers we are often called upon to perform just such tasks, for the good of the church and frequently a particular brother or brethren. Whether we have wronged someone (intentionally or unintentionally) the preacher is the one who must humble himself and begin the "confession" process. How often have I thought to myself, "why do I always have to be the bad guy?" because it doesn't seem to matter whether I am really or not, that's the way it comes off. What is particularly galling is when it happens over and over with the same person.

At other times we are asked to perform menial, even unpleasant physical tasks--running people to the Dr., caring for them, etc. As that is part of the work of every Christian and since preachers frequently are more flexible in their time use, some of this is expected and just part of the job, but it can also get out of hand.

Then are those times that we are called upon for "counseling". Usually by the time it gets to you, it is a fullblown crisis, so not only is it painful for all involved (including the preacher and/or his wife) but takes a lot of effort and time to resolve it, if it can in fact be resolved. How disheartening it is to spend hours over several months time with a couple, only to have them divorce anyway. Or there are those people who aren't really seeking counsel, but rather approval, or just someone to listen to them. Again, we all need a shoulder to cry on sometimes, but this can be overused too.

But before we begin bemoaning our lot, and how the brethren "abuse" us, let us remember that the word minister means servant--in choosing to be a preacher or minister we are choosing to be a servant. Service to the brethren is what binds them to you and gives you the influence with them to "kick em in the pants" at times when needed. It also gives you the credibility to teach them things they may not want to accept. Service is part and parcel of the preacher's job.

This is true not only of preachers though, but of all Christians. We are called to be servants of God, not masters for Him. Should we not be willing to suffer a wrong if it will strengthen another? Paul said he would never eat meat again if it caused his brother to stumble--do you have that attitude? As servants of God it is our duty to obey His will, not my desires.

Tol

Our new "digs"

2007-03-15T13:57:00.000-06:00

Everything is coming together for our move to Puerto Rico--our monthly support is committed, our house is under contract (it should close the 27th of March), and we are well on our way to having enough to move.

So, I thought it might be appropriate to show the church building where we will be working and worshipping from mid May onward, for at least 5 years. The churches (Spanish speaking and English speaking) in Caparra Terrace meet in a house that has been converted. The auditorium is in the middle and will seat 60-70 easily and there is one room there are using as a classroom on the right. There are 2 bathrooms and a couple of other rooms that could be used as kids class rooms, so we have a good start.

The brethren are very excited--they have been sprucing up the building, trying to do what they can to clean it up. Funds are limited, but they are making the effort.

I will post our new address, phone number, etc. when we get it. We plan to be in Puerto Rico from the 29th of March for 6 days to look for a house, set up a bank acct., get a P.O Box, etc. The blog will continue at the same address but my e-mail address will change. More on that later.

We first of all thank God for all of this, as well as those of you who have been praying for us. This has all come to pass in record time. Please continue to pray for us as we begin our labors in Puerto Rico. Also remember Edward Rangel, that things may go as smooth for him as he moves to work with us there.

Tol Burk

"Tengo un proposito"

2007-03-13T21:33:00.000-06:00

In the Dominican Republic and Venezuela particularly before services begin there is likely to be a time for anyone to ask for the prayers of the church. Often times it is for someone who is sick--the member themselves or some relative or friend, but another common request is our title, which I think translates more or less "I am planning something and ask for your prayers". The plan or intention is seldom specified, it is just "I have a plan and need your prayers." The first time I heard this I was struck by it, as it is very different than our custom in requesting prayers in this country. Normally we are more specific (in the islands they can be embarrasingly specific--you wish you didn't know what they were asking for prayers for).

Which one of these three customs is "right"? I suggest it is the one that fits their culture. I started musing about this today when a brother called me and asked Dana and I to pray for him concerning an unspecified high point in his life. He said, "I believe that prayer has an effect, as I know you do, so I'm asking you to pray for us about this."

Brethren, do we really believe prayer can change things? If so, why don't we ask each for prayers more often? James tells us, "confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed." He goes on to cite the example of Elijah--he prayed that it might not rain and it did not rain for 3 1/2 years--until he prayed again that it would. He goes on to point out that Elijah was just a man, a man like you and me.

As we are gearing up for our move to Puerto Rico I ask you to pray for us, that the move may go smoothly and that we may find a house we can both afford and enjoy.

Tol

"This old house . . . "

2007-02-26T09:47:00.000-06:00

You may remember this old song, I think the best known rendition was by Rosemary Clooney--"This old house". It talks about how the house needs lots of repairs but nothing is being done cause they're getting "ready to meet the saints".

The same could be said of the human body--as we get older it begins to need a "little" repair here and there. In my wallet I have cards giving the details of my two stents and the lens in both eyes and those are only the most obvious signs--that kneww, the inability to read fine print, etc. all make me think more about that place where we won't have any of those.

Dana is recovering well from her hernia surgery, but it is going to be a slow process. In a year or so she will be fully recovered but in the meantime she feels very keenly the weakness of an aging body.

As Paul says in both of the Corinthian letters this body is decaying but for the Christian that is not the end of the story--we have a glorious body awaiting us, a body without the possibility of pain or death.

Tol