Pastor Brad’s Notebook

01 Jun

Posted at 12:23h in Fridays Are For Family
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I'd be the first to admit that I don't adhere to the Dr. Spock method of raising or disciplining children. I know that probably comes as a shock to most of those who regularly read my posts, but it's true. I believe that rules and boundaries and consequences are good for children.  Further, I don't think that a child's psyche is warped or harmed by corporal punishment. In fact, I think that the opposite it true. I believe that there are times when letting children misbehave, be disobedient or in general display rebellious or untoward behavior is more damaging in the long run than a swift swat on the backside or some other form of discipline.

30 May

Posted at 13:46h in Devotionals
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"Then Thomas, who is called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, "Let us also go, that we may die with Him." John 11:16 One of the greatest statements of love in the Bible comes from the one dubbed the "doubter." True to his nature, Thomas has reached the point of utter despair in the power and purpose of Jesus. He looks forward and sees nothing but the cross and a closed tomb. The only thing to crown the head of Jesus in Thomas' mind are thorns. The vital vision of Christ's kingdom has long since faded from his view, and is now replaced by the solemn shroud. To Thomas there is nothing left in the ministry of Jesus but to go forth and die.

25 May

Posted at 12:53h in Fridays Are For Family
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These words were sung by the original "Material Girl" - Madonna. Among other sordid and tawdry things, she taught an entire generation of children that living for and getting "stuff" was the sure way to find purpose, meaning and happiness in life. Forget love and honesty and integrity, to her (and multitudes of her followers) it was the one with the "cold hard cash" that was always "Mister Right."

23 May

Posted at 11:59h in Devotionals
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"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled." Matthew 5:6 What an amazing expression of God's grace. The One who is completely holy and totally pure will accept those who even thirst after His righteousness. He doesn't wait until I am made pure to receive me, but actually blesses my effort of holiness. He will accept my simple desire of Him, my heart's wish to be like Him,  and the longing of my being to be near Him. Though I have yet to reach Him, if I will just look to Him and long to be like Him He says that He will count it as righteousness for me. Even though I do not claim to be like Him, and hesitate to even reach out to touch the hem of His garment, if I will admire His beauty and holiness from afar He will bless my holy hunger and divine thirst.