Lex Rex Deo

The Sequoia Tree

2010-02-05T08:54:00.006-06:00

THE SEED OF THE GIANT SEQUOIA
Sequoia gigantean, or Big Tree, grows only on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California at elevations varying from 5,000 to 8.500 feet above sea level. Individuals of this species are the largest living things on the face of the globe. Ranging from 250 to 330 feet high their diameters at the base vary approximately from 20 to 35 feet.
The Sequoia gigantean seems to go on living indefinitely and may stand as long as one hundred generations. The cells of the cambium layer and of the growing tips appear never to lose the ability to grow and reproduce. The tannin content of bark and wood discourages insects and fungi and retards fire. Even when fallen, the heartwood may stay sound for hundreds of years.
Giant Sequoias seldom produce cones until they are at least one hundred years of age. Each cone, from one to three inches long, contains 100 to 300 seeds, but these are so small that it takes 3,000 to weigh once ounce. Without the industrious pine squirrel very few sequoia cones would be dropped by the sequoias. Scampering in the treetops the squirrels cut off cones which sometimes fall as fast as seven or eight per minute. Later the squirrels hide the cones in holes and logs, and other likely niches—provision for the winter ahead. Cones stored in damp places usually remain closed, but those that can dry soon open and shed their seeds.
The age of the living sequoias is difficult to determine but the annual ring count of cut trees has indicated that many are from 3,000 to 4,000 years old. Some of these trees in California were already majestic giants when the star of Bethlehem rose in the heavens. Here they remained while the Cain of Christianity moved westward with “signs following”—the liberty of the individual, and of nations. Just yesterday, in a sequoia’s life, came the flowering of these Bethlehem’s principles in government—“We hold these Trust to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they re endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness—That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men…”

(From the introduction to the restored Noah Webster's 1828 Dictionary--American Christian History Education Series. This dictionary should be in every home.)

JOY TO YOUR HEART

2009-12-25T08:46:00.004-06:00

Joy to your hearts from ours. -Robert and Kay

Joy to the world the Lord has come and is here!

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy,m which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord" -Luke 2:8-11
Therefore, it is true:
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him shall have life, a life which is in Christ Jesus, eternal and abundant. [read John, chapters 1-3]

Closer than a brother

2009-11-06T08:53:00.003-06:00

Dr. Edwin P. Elliott, Publisher, long-time Managing Editor, and reviver of the Christian Observer – first published in 1813, Creator and Publisher of Presbyterians Week, and a pioneer in Internet ministry communications, died 11 October 2009, from the effects of a heart attack suffered two days before. Dr. Elliott was pastor at Reformed Presbyterian Church in Manassas, Virginia, from 1978 until his death. [www.christianobserver.com]

Dr. Edwin P. Elliott, Jr.
“There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother” –Prov. 18:24
What more is there to say about Edwin? From the very beginning our friendship was as brothers. It started in the year 1973 and will continue, even as he is now embraced by the Savior and Lord in paradise.
At the beginning of the PCA I traveled from Zion Presbyterian Church, Tennessee, to a meeting of Presbytery in Mississippi. Edwin was the Clerk and he nominated me as recording clerk. It was a joy to serve Christ with Edwin. His knowledge of History and Reformed doctrine was an added blessing. Edwin was an encourager and a pusher. Some twenty years ago he started me writing the weekly Bible Studies for the Observer. The last ten years resulted in our fellowship over the phone at least two times weekly. We were continually developing our great love for Christ and his Church. There was no pessimism allowed, Christ was King and he would lead us always in victory. We also had a special love for our family. We rejoiced together over wives, Ann and Kay. We prayed together with thanksgiving as we thought of my daughter Dorcas, and his daughters, Laura, Rebecca, and Elizabeth (Izzi). Through the Hanover Presbytery we saw men growing in their faith and ministry; rejoicing that the Triune God was being honored, and God alone receives the glory. We believed that the power of building of the Church and the advancement of Christ’s Kingdom was of the Spirit and the Word, and therefore were not ashamed to be called Calvinists or Reformation Protestants. Therefore, Edwin held firm to the faith once delivered to the saints. There was in Edwin’s faith the understanding that there are only three books needed to make the Church strong: The Authorized Version of the Bible, The Westminster Confession of Faith and its Catechism, and the Psalter. Edwin would not have his name glorified in any way. I hope that I or any of us would have it any other way that God be glorified, alone. This was revealed in the service which I was privileged to lead. That service was filled with the Word of God read, and the Word of God Sung. Words of the Resurrection and Life from the New Testament; Words of life and hope from the Old Testament; interspersed with the singing of Psalm 90, 36, 12, 84. God’s Name be glorified in the same manner when I graduate as did Edwin. Surely, there is great joy in knowing a friend that is closer than a brother, one whom we will be rejoicing with in God’s eternity.
Dr. Robert L. LaMay

Pray for God to raise up true Christian statesmen

2009-09-19T09:02:00.002-05:00

Considering that many things are not taught today about the Declaration of Independence (1776); let us look at one of its 56 signers: Charles Carroll of Carrollton
“Charles Carroll was the last of the signers to pass away, dying in 1832 at the age of 95. A strong and unequivocal declaration of his Christian faith appears in numerous writings, including a letter he wrote on his 89th birthday in which he declared: ‘On the mercy of my Redeemer I rely for salvation and His merits; not on the works I have done in obedience to His precepts.’ In other of his writings, Charles Carroll explained that his Christian faith was one of the chief reasons that he had entered into the American Revolution—he was fighting to preserve religious liberty. In fact, he was so committed to Christianity that he built and personally funded a Christian house of worship.
“Charles Carroll’s life and words confirm that he was a strong Christian, and he is one of that handful of Americans who have been honored at the Capital with a statue, located in East Central Hall.” --Spiritual Heritage, David Barton

500th Anniversary - II God's Glory in Creation

2009-06-13T11:24:00.003-05:00

July 10, 2009 - 500th Anniversary of

of John Calvin - July 10, 1509 - May 27, 1564

Psalm 104:1-4—“Bless the Lord, O my soul. O Lord my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honour and majesty. Who coverest thyself with light as with a garment: who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain: who layeth the beams of his chambers in the waters: who maketh the clouds his chariot: who walketh upon the wings of the wind: who maketh the angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire: who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed for ever.”

John Calvin wrote that “stupid folk cannot plead the excuse of ignorance. Therefore the prophet very aptly exclaims that he is ‘clad with light as with a garment’ [Ps. 104:2]. It is as if he said: Thereafter the Lord began to show himself in the visible splendor of his apparel, every since in the creation of the universe he brought forth those insignia whereby he shows his glory to us, whenever and wherever we cast our gaze. Likewise, the same prophet skillfully compares the heavens, as they are stretched out, to his royal tent and says that he has laid the beams of his chambers on the waters, has made the clouds his chariot, rides on the wings of the wind, and that the winds and lightning bolts are his swift messengers. [Ps. 1-4:2-4.] And since the glory of his power and wisdom shine more brightly above, heaven is often called his palace [Ps. 11:4]. Yet, in the first place, wherever you cast your eyes, there is no spot in the universe wherein you cannot discern at least some sparks of his glory. You cannot in one glance survey this most vast and beautiful systems of the universe, in its wide expanse, without being completely overwhelmed by the boundless force of his brightness. The reason why the author of The Letter to the Hebrews elegantly calls the universe the appearance of things invisible [Heb. 11:3] is that his skillful ordering of the universe is for us a sort of mirror in which we can contemplate God, who is otherwise invisible. The reason why the prophet attributes to the heavenly creatures a language known to every nation [Ps. 19:2 ff.] is that therein lies an attestation of divinity so apparent that it ought not to escape the gaze of even the most stupid tribe. The apostle declares this more clearly: ‘What men need to know concerning God has been disclosed to them, … for one and all gaze upon his invisible nature, known from the creation of the world, even unto his eternal power and divinity’ [Rom. 1:19-20].” –Institutes of the Christian Religion

500th Anniversary of John Calvin - I. WORD & SPIRIT

2009-06-08T15:42:00.002-05:00

July 10, 2009 - 500th Anniverary of John Calvin - July 10, 1509-May 27, 1564

This is the beginning of valuable quotes from John Calvin as we approach the 500th Anniversary of his birth; a birth which brought about by the providence of God a servant of the Reformation.

I. John Calvin was a man of the Word and of the Holy Spirit. Calvin wrote: “that the Holy Spirit so adheres in His truth, which He expresses in Scripture, that only when its proper reverence and dignity are given to the Word does the Holy Spirit show forth His power. And what has lately been said—that the Word itself is not quite certain for us unless it be confirmed by the testimony of the Spirit—is not out of accord with these things. For by a kind of mutual bond the Lord has joined together the certainty of his Word and of his Spirit so that the perfect religion of the Word may abide in our minds when the Spirit, who causes us to contemplate God’s face, shine; and that we in turn may embrace the Spirit with no fear of being deceived when we recognize him in his own image, namely, in the Word. So indeed it is. God did not bring forth his Word among men for the sake of a momentary display, intending at the coming of his Spirit to abolish it. Rather he sent down the same Spirit by whose power he had dispensed the Word, to complete his work by the efficacious confirmation of the Word.” [The Institutes of the Christian Religion, Word and Spirit belong inseparably together, Bk 1, Ch 9]

On National Day of Prayer

2009-05-09T14:25:00.002-05:00

Gary DeMar of American Vision wrote the following concerning the prayers of politicians and Christians, reminding us what prayer really is.

Organizers of the National Day of Prayer are upset that President Obama is not officially participating in the observation. He will pray privately, as he does every day, the president’s spokesman said. His only public acknowledgement will be to issue a White House proclamation. Well, I’m kind of glad. I’m tired of politicians who take the name of the Lord in vain. Please tell me how someone who supports abortion on demand, homosexuality, and generational theft by government edict should serve as the national spokesman for a day of prayer.Of course, President Obama is not the first president not to acknowledge an official observance. There were no official observances during the Clinton administration. While President George W. Bush did hold a formal White House event during his tenure as president, the Bush White House also recognized the Islamic observance of Ramadan with a White House dinner.Maybe God is telling His people something this year. Joshua expected a victory against Ai. Israel won its first encounter with Jericho without a casualty. Why should the battle with Ai be any different? The spies thought Ai was weak enough that only “two or three thousand men need go up” (Joshua 7:3). Thirty-six Israelites were killed, and the rest were pursued and assaulted by the men of Ai with the result that “the hearts of the people melted and became as water” (v. 5). Bible believing Christians have become disheartened. You know what the Israelites were thinking. “Maybe we should not have ventured to participate in this social thing. We were at least safe when we were ghettoized beyond the Jordan.” There was even fear that things would get a lot worse once the “Canaanites and all the inhabitants of the land” heard about the defeat (v. 9). Joshua, voicing these concerns to God, did what today's political remorseful are recommending. “Then Joshua tore his clothes and fell on the earth on his face before the ark of the LORD until evening, both he and the elders of Israel” (v. 7). In a word, he prayed . . . hard. What did God tell him to do? “So the LORD said to Joshua, ‘Rise up! Why is it that you have fallen on your face? Israel has sinned, and they have also transgressed My covenant which I commanded them’” (v. 11). In effect, God told Joshua to stop praying and act on the evil that brought them the defeat!Prayer is not a magical formula, an incantation that brings forth God like a Genie from a bottle. Prayer is an admission of weakness. It is in weakness that God can best use us (2 Cor. 12:10). But true faith and trust are not exercised if we do not act on the belief that God will work for us even in our weakness. Prayer is not the end but the beginning of the work God has called us to do. J. I. Packer says it this way:The Spirit does what he does. His supernaturalizing of our lives enables Christians, as a matter of fact, to do much for the Lord that they wouldn't be able to do otherwise. That's the whole doctrine of gifts and ministry. It's my part to see what God calls me to do, to ask the Lord to enable me to do it, then to get up off my knees and go confidently into action, watching to see what help I shall be given, and finally to give thanks for what the Spirit did in and through me.There is sin in the Christian camp. Entire denominations support abortion and homosexuality. Those who claim to be Bible-believing Christians maintain that abortion should be a protected right and homosexuals should have special rights protecting behavior that the Bible calls an “abomination.” The sins of Achan—“the mantle of Shinar” (humanism) and “silver and gold” (mammon)—are the sins of the church. After we fall on our face, let's be careful not to cover our ears. We might just hear God's voice saying to us, “Rise up!"

On Richard Baxter

2009-03-03T21:43:00.003-06:00

Grandpa received this email message from Pastor Nathan Eshelman: "This past Saturday, Los Angeles RP Church met for a ministry planning day. We began with an hour of prayer and Psalm singing which was quite edifying. I then gave a lecture on Richard Baxter's work in Kidderminster, England (1640s) as a way to begin discussion about our ministries. From there Deacon Bill Aiken (who has been a member since 1919) spoke candidly about some of the history of the congregation. Then we spent the afternoon brain-stroming as we sought God's blessing for our ministry."

Reading about Richard Baxter is one of the ways we can celebrate the 500th anniversary of John Calvin. I took a tour of the Internet and found the following article by Leonard Ravenhill, 'Richard Baxter of Kidderminster' --

"Scriptural pedigree is fascinating: “Isaac begat Jacob; Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs. . .” No less intriguing is evangelical pedigree: 'Walter Craddock begat Richard Baxter; Richard Baxter, through his fiery preaching and writings, begat a multitude that no man could number.'
"Richard Baxter was born in London in 1615. I know no date for his conversion. He 'felt a great pull on his soul' about the year 1634 from the anointed preaching of Walter Craddock and Joseph Symonds. Step back a little and get a picture of the lean, lanky Richard Baxter strolling as a teenager through the woods and meditating amidst the fragrance of wild nature. He is mentally masticating the thoughts derived from three writers of his time - Bunny, Sibbes, and Perkins. From confusion he merges to conviction, from there to conversion, and then to confession of Christ.
"After Baxter's marvellous regeneration, the things of earth grew strangely dim, and he lived, moved, and had his being in God. He had in his soul the blaze of a seraph and tried to cram eternity into a lifetime. Within four years after his personal surrender to Christ, he was ordained (1641) and appointed to the church at Kidderminster, England.
"Baxter was opposed to the idea that in order to minister in the things of God a man must have the ordination of the bishops and pass through the schools of learning. He declared that he feared no man's displeasure nor hoped for any man's preferment. The latter phrase he proved by refusing a bishop's miter.
"Let us now glimpse Baxter as a preacher, revivalist, and soul-winner. No gladiator ever watched the eye of a Caesar or yearned for the plaudits of men for his skill as much as this tireless Puritan looked into the face of his God in prayer and listened for the sweet voice of the Spirit. No miser ever loved his gold as Baxter loved souls. No man, trapped by human love, ever wooed a maid as this man pled with impenitent sinners. His couplet was true: 'I preached as never sure to preach again, And as a dying man to dying men.'
"It might be a bitter herb for us present-day ministers to chew when we say that converts often take upon themselves the likeness of their spiritual father. Sparks from the soul of Baxter seem to have fallen on the souls that he so visibly affected for his Lord. Here is his record: 'Day and night they thirsted after the salvation of their neighbors.'
"The outcome of this contagious passion is best measured by Baxter's own words: 'To the praise of my gracious Master.. . the church at Kidderminster became so full on the Lord's Day that we had to build galleries to contain all the people. Our weekday meetings also were always full. On the Lord's Day all disorder became quite banished out of the town. As you passed along the streets on the Sabbath morning, you might hear a hundred households singing psalms at their family worship. In a word, when I came to Kidderminster, there was only about one family in a whole street that worshipped God and called upon His name. When I left, there were some streets where not a family did not do so. And though we had 600 communicants, there were not twelve in whose salvation I had not perfect confidence.'
"Hear his answer to the taunt that he was idle: 'The worst I wish you is that you had my ease instead of your labor. I have reason to take myself for the least of all saints, and yet I fear not to tell the accuser that in comparison to mine, I take the labor of most of the town's tradesmen to be a pleasure to the body, though I would not exchange it with the greatest prince. Their labor preserveth health; mine consumeth it. They work in ease; I in continual pain. They have hours and days of recreation; I have scarce time to eat and drink. Nobody molesteth them for their labor; the more I do, the more hatred and trouble I draw upon me.'
"The leading theologians of our day 'work out religious theories,' but - and note this well - they are not known as soul-winners. My gripe against the leading theologians of our day is that they are Bible critics lounging on flowery beds of ease and offer us from their sinecures mental suits of tailor-made theology.
"The opposite to this was the case with Baxter. His soul ached for the souls of men. Off he went beaming the blessed message of the blood of the everlasting covenant. He was no spiritual dreamer locked away in an ivory theological tower. Nor was he operating a theological laboratory, dissecting dead dogma. Like Wesley, Baxter was a practical saint. Baxter stood firm as a rock in season and out of season!
"In all, Baxter labored some nineteen years in Kidderminster and, as one writer expresses with beauty, 'Through his preaching and the power of his holy life, the whole community was changed from a habitation of cruelty and immorality to a garden of true piety.' This writer then adds: 'It stands as a moral distortion that Richard Baxter, the purest of 17th century theologians, the man who longed for, fought for, prayed for, and would cheerfully have sacrificed his life for the unification of the church, should have been imprisoned by a Protestant judge and a Protestant jury.'
"The Act of Uniformity, which came into being about 1662, meant that a revised prayer book had to be used and that all ministers not ordained by the Episcopalian Church should be unfrocked. Baxter withstood this act, and so with 2,000 other ministers, found himself without a charge. He was maligned, misquoted, and misrepresented. “In perils oft” was as true of him as the blest Covenanters, who at the same time were dyeing the heaths of Scotland with their blood.
"The final humiliation of this great soul, Richard Baxter, was in May 1685 at the hands of the notorious Judge Jeffries of the 'Bloody Assize.' Especially in his Paraphrase of the New Testament, Baxter was foolishly charged with libeling the church. For these false charges this saint was fined a sum of 400 pounds ($2,000) - a fortune in those days. Until this was paid, he was to lie in prison, bound over to keep the peace for seven years. It was last-minute clemency that saved this seventy-year-old Baxter from being tied to a cart's tail and whipped through the streets of London.
"After God, books were Baxter's chief interest. He wrote them, bought them, read them, quoted them, and gave them away. His own pen never dried. His literary efforts are staggering. In all, he wrote some 200 books. Another 200 pamphlets are accredited to him. He gave us a metrical version of the Psalms and two volumes of poetry.
"Boswell asked the famed Dr. Johnson, 'Which of Baxter's books should I read?' Johnson's reply was this: 'Read any of them; they are all good.' Treat yourself to Baxter's The Saints' Everlasting Rest or his Call to the Unconverted. And don't miss his Reformed Pastor. Some fortunate soul might find Baxter's Autobiography. Pastor, if you see it, buy it at any cost. Also read Dean Boyle's writings on Baxter (if you can find them).
“'Baxter never tampered with his oracle and never sold the truth to serve the hour.' As he aged, enfeebled in limb and racked with cruel pain, he preferred prisons to pensions and the smile of the King invisible to that of the king present. No word that he wrote did he ever withdraw.
"In that great day for which creation and all its tribes were made, I for one will sit in fascination as the King of kings rewards this faithful servant, Richard Baxter. His secret is not hard to find. 'He was animated with the Holy Spirit and breathed celestial fire to inspire heat and life into dead sinners and to melt the obdurate in their frozen tombs.'
"In this spiritual ice age we, like, Baxter, also need an anointing.
"Let me string for you a few pearls of other men's opinions about Baxter. 'If Baxter had lived in primitive times, he would have been one of the fathers of the church,' observed Bishop Wilkins. Archbishop Usher esteemed him highly. Lord Morley called Richard Baxter 'the profoundest theologian of them all.' Coleridge speaks of Baxter's Autobiography on this wise: 'I could almost as soon doubt the gospel veracity as Baxter's veracity.... Baxter feels and reasons more like an angel than a man.' 'In labors more abundant' might well have been his life's motto. Had this great soul lived as long as Methuselah, he would have given 'every flying minute something to keep in store!'" (DAYSPRING copyright (c) 1963)

Teach the Truth about Darwin

2009-02-13T08:08:00.003-06:00

In 2009, the eyes of the world will turn to commemorate the anniversaries of the births of the two most influential men of the last one thousand years — the 500th anniversary of the birth of John Calvin, and the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin. No two men of the past millennium have done more to shape the thoughts of mankind or to affect the political and social destiny of nations than Calvin and Darwin — the former for the glory of God, and the latter for unimaginable evil. The following is a synopsis and excerpt of a larger article by Doug Phillips presented on the bicentennial of the birth of Charles Darwin. - From an article in Vision Forum

By Doug Phillips
February 12, 2009
Today is the bicentennial of Charles Darwin’s birth. What shall we tell our children about this great man?
I have pondered this question for some time. Certainly there is much to say about the specifics of his Theory, its pernicious influence on the world, and the shoddy scholarship that produced it. Perhaps there is even more to say about the god-like status attributed to him by his worshippers in the unbelieving world, or the deep faith in man, materialism, and process to which they cling.
But on a more fundamental level, there are just a few things I want my children to know about Darwin the man. These are the summaries of my lessons to my children:

1. Darwin was bitter.
Charles Darwin was once a student of theology preparing for the priesthood in the Anglican Church. His experiences in university, traveling, and through his studies contributed to his gradual rejection of the Bible over time. However, it was when he lost his beloved daughter, Annie, that Darwin began to grow bitter. Darwin allowed his bitterness over the death of his daughter to destroy his faith in God. This bitterness impacted Darwin’s entire worldview, and he turned to vain speculation and “the oppositions of science falsely so called” (I Tim 6:21). Darwin became foolish because he said in his heart that there is no God (Proverbs 14:1). He lacked knowledge because he refused to fear God (Proverbs 1:7). Because he was bitter at God, his reason was adversely affected, as explained in I Corinthians 2:14: “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”

2. Darwin worshipped a false God.
All men are religious because all men have an object of worship. They either worship the Creator, or they worship the creature — but they worship something (Romans 1). Darwin’s bitterness directed him to a new form of religious zealotry. He exchanged faith in Christianity for a form of religious pantheism known as materialism. By faith he tenaciously clung to this belief system, exalting the vain speculations and reasoning of man over the infallible Revelation of God. In the end, Darwin’s God was his mind, and his mind told him that truth could be found in the material world without reference to any higher authority like the God of the Bible.

3. Darwin was sloppy and he was not a scientist.
Darwin was a theology student. He was not a scientist. He was, however, able to talk his way into opportunities through which he hoped to present himself to others as a naturalist. Darwin allowed his new-formed faith in man, materialism, and process to justify irrationality, shoddy scholarship, and wild speculation. Once in the field, his lack of training and his inability to draw reasonable conclusions from his observations became apparent. This is why many followers of his Theory of Evolution must ignore the actual research of Darwin during the Voyage of the Beagle and elsewhere, since so much of his work in places like the Galapagos Islands has been discredited.

4. Darwin trained his children to hate the God of the Bible.
Every father leaves a legacy to his children. That legacy is defined by the battles he fought, the character he modeled, the lessons he left behind through word and deed. Darwin’s life legacy was the rejection of the faith of his fathers for a faith in the autonomous mind of man as the final and absolute court of appeal for all matters religious and scientific. Free from the bondage of Divine Revelation, Darwin believed man could finally come to truth. Darwin’s progeny took the philosophy of their famous ancestor and used it to justify a bold and arrogant atheism. Darwin’s rejection of the faith of his own fathers and his embrace of the new theology of naturalistic materialism resulted in generations of God-haters in the Darwin family. Commenting on his own materialistic faith which negates the belief in God, Sir Charles Galton Darwin, grandson of the author of the Origin of the Species, wrote: “I am entirely lacking in the thing which so many people seem to regard as their mainstay in life, a mystical sense of religion. This I lack, and I am perfectly content to be without it.”

5. Darwin trained others to be hateful toward their fellow man.
Darwin introduced the world to a form of radical atheistic fundamentalism that is responsible for bigotry, hatred, and the death of untold numbers of humans. This religious fundamentalist worldview is also exclusive. By this I mean that the leaders of this faith cannot tolerate opposing views. In fact, the high priests of this new religion — men who populate universities around the world — demand that all individuals submit to the tenets of their faith or be excluded from both the discussion and the political franchise.

Darwin’s presuppositions included a form of racial bigotry, a belief that the world matures as the strong kill the weak, and the assumption that man can know truth apart from Jesus Christ—of whom the Bible says He is “the way, the truth and the light.” Future followers of these principles that Darwin taught in moderation would take them to an extreme, applying them to social theory. It was the neo-Darwinian social theorists who gave us abortion, eugenics, Nazism, and a host of evils that plague the earth to this day.

6. Darwin Darwin’s legacy could be the legacy of anyone who worships the creature more than the Creator.
When men look to the creation, rather than the Creator, for ultimate answers they begin the process of reprobation that leads to complete destruction. Romans 1 says this: For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four-footed beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.

Apart from Jesus Christ, any of us — even you my children — could end up with the same miserable legacy as Charles Darwin. Here is the antidote: Ecclesiastes 12:13: “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.”

Inaugural Address 1789

2009-01-16T15:06:00.003-06:00

The First Inaugural Address of President George Washington
In the City of New York, on the day of April 30, 1789 President George Washington addressed the Congress. We see in these words a desire of the heart of our first president to encourage the Congress, and therefore the people, in the service and building of our new Nation. The following words are but a part of Washington’s inaugural address, words that you most likely will not hear on Tuesday of next week, but words that should express the blessings of the God of Holy Scripture.

George Washington began his address with these words: “Fellow citizens of the Senate and the house of Representatives.” This honorable statesman continued:

“Among the vicissitudes incident to life no event could have filled me with greater anxieties than that of which the notification was transmitted by your order, and received on the 14th day of the present month. On the one hand, I was summoned by my Country, whose voice I can never hear but with veneration and love.
…
“Such being the impressions under which I have, in obedience to the public summons, repaired to the present station, it would be peculiarly improper to omit in this first official act my fervent supplications to that Almighty Being who rules over the universe, who presides in the councils of nations, and whose providential aids can supply every human defect, that His benediction may consecrate to the liberties and happiness of the people of the United States a Government instituted by themselves for these essential purposes, and may enable every instrument employed in its administration to execute with success the functions allotted to his charge. In tendering this homage to the Great Author of every public and private good, I assure myself that it expresses your sentiments not less than my own, nor those of my fellow- citizens at large less than either. No people can be bound to acknowledge and adore the Invisible Hand which conducts the affairs of men more than those of the United States. Every step by which they have advanced to the character of an independent nation seems to have been distinguished by some token of providential agency; and in the important revolution just accomplished in the system of their united government the tranquil deliberations and voluntary consent of so many distinct communities from which the event has resulted can not be compared with the means by which most governments have been established without some return of pious gratitude, along with an humble anticipation of the future blessings which the past seem to presage. These reflections, arising out of the present crisis, have forced themselves too strongly on my mind to be suppressed. You will join with me, I trust, in thinking that there are none under the influence of which the proceedings of a new and free government can more auspiciously commence.
…
"Such being the impressions under which I have, in obedience to the public summons, repaired to the present station, it would be peculiarly improper to omit in this first official act my fervent supplications to that Almighty Being who rules over the universe, who presides in the councils of nations, and whose providential aids can supply every human defect, that His benediction may consecrate to the liberties and happiness of the people of the United States a Government instituted by themselves for these essential purposes, and may enable every instrument employed in its administration to execute with success the functions allotted to his charge. In tendering this your sentiments not less than my own, nor those of my fellow- citizens at large less than either. No people can be bound to acknowledge and adore the Invisible Hand which conducts the affairs of men more than those of the United States. Every step by which they have advanced to the character of an independent nation seems to have been distinguished by some token of providential agency; and in the important revolution just accomplished in the system of their united government the tranquil deliberations and voluntary consent of so many distinct communities from which the event has resulted can not be compared with the means by which most governments have been established without some return of pious gratitude, along with an humble anticipation of the future blessings which the past seem to presage. These reflections, arising out of the present crisis, have forced themselves too strongly on my mind to be suppressed. You will join with me, I trust, in thinking that there are none under the influence of which the proceedings of a new and free government can more auspiciously commence.”

“RELIGION AND MORALITY ARE THE ESSENTIAL PILLARS OF CIVIL SOCIETY.”
--George Washington, 1797

Stephen McDowell, in his book Apostle of Liberty, wrote, “Good civil leaders should have not only excellent character but also knowledge of the truth, especially in regard to public affairs and government philosophy. The Founders believed that they should view all of life from a biblical perspective; that is, they should have a biblical worldview. How one thinks determines how one acts. A leader will govern based upon his presuppositions of law, government, economics, liberty, and life. If these presuppositions are rooted in relativism, humanism, secularism, statism, or positivism, the fruit will not be life, liberty, prosperity, or virtue. If they are rooted in true religion and morality, according to Washington, the fruit will be personal and political freedom and prosperity.”

Pray for America and its elected leaders with the above thoughts in mind.
Robert L. La May,

2009 Resolution or Confirmation

2009-01-01T09:26:00.002-06:00

They say resolutions are made to be broken. This is true for man, for man makes resolutions that stands or falls upon the strength of man. However, “Confirmations” which stand upon the Rock of our salvation, are not only lasting, but will make 2009 a year of victory. For it is not the horrors of the year that will dictate our failure, but the absence of a new birth in Christ: “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and that is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth hat Jesus is the So of God” (1 John 5:4-5)?
One statement of CONFIRMATION is FOR ME TO LIVE IS CHRIST! The following comments on these words are from GRACE IN WINTER, Rutherford in Verse, by Faith Cook. May they encourage us to look to 2009 with hope and victory:
There is no great reckoning to be made of the withering of my flower, in comparison of the foul and manifest wrongs done to Christ. Nay, let never the dew of God lie up on my branches again, let the bloom fall from my joy … so being the Lord might be great … and His oppressed Church delivered … our joys, beside God, in the inner half are but woes and sorrows. Christ, Christ is that which our love and desires can … rest safely upon.

In bonds am I for Christ my Lord,
Yet all I suffer here
Can never match the grief He knew,
Or with His shame and wrongs compare.
While Christ fares well, what matters it
That I on ashes feed?
And of His weeping Church rejoice,
My burdened heart shall laugh indeed.

What if the dews of God no more
On my poor branches lie,
Or if my fairest bloom should fall,
Or life’s brief candle flame and die?
Yet this I know: that Christ is good,
His cross speaks gain untold;
My prison walls are marble built,
My captive-chain is all of gold.

For heav’n is cast of nobler mould
Than earth’s poor clay and mire;
While Christ is mine, I mount with joy
And to the heights of God aspire.
All joys beside are touched with pain,
Worm-eaten is earth’s best;
On Christ alone – pure source of love,
Each earthly love can safely rest.

THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATION

2008-11-26T10:53:00.004-06:00

The following is a part of the Thanksgiving Proclamation by the Massachusetts Governor in 1861. Read it with thanksgiving for the blessings we have received as a nation, and asking ourselves what is not found in our elected statesman and government today.

Governor Andrew of Massachusetts set aside a day of Public Thanksgiving in 1861, "an important Christian state paper, and is a model of its kind for Christian rulers---

"Proclamation for a day of Public Thanksgiving and Praise, November 21, 1861.

"The example of the fathers, and the dictates of piety and gratitude, summon the people of Massachusetts at this, the harvest season, crowning the year with the rich proofs of the wisdom and love of God, to join in a solemn and joyful act of united praise and thanksgiving to the bountiful Giver of every good and perfect gift.

"I do, therefore, with the advice and consent of the Council, appoint Thursday, the twenty-first day of November next---the same being the anniversary of the day, in the year of our Lord sixteen hundred and twenty, on which the Pilgrims of Massachusetts, on board the Mayflower united themselves in a solemn and written compact of government---to be observed by the people of Massachusetts as a day of public thanksgiving and praise. And I invoke the observance by all the people with devout and religious joy.

"'Sing aloud unto God our strength: make a joyful noise unto the God of Jacob. Take a psalm, and bring hither the timbrel, the pleasant harp with the psaltery. Blow up the trumpet in the new moon, in the time appointed, on our solemn feast day. For this was a statute for Israel, and a law of the God of Israel.' -Ps. lxxxi. 1-4. 'O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of his praise to be heard: Which holdeth our soul in life, and suffereth not our feet to be moved. For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried.' -Ps. lxvi. 8-10.

"Let us rejoice in God and be thankful---for the fulness with which he has blessed us in our basket and in our store, giving large reward to the toil of the husbandman, so that 'our paths deop fatness;'

"For the many and gentle alleviations of the hardships which, in the present time of public disorder, have afflicted the various pursuits of agriculture;

For the early evidences of the reviving energies of the business of the people;

For the measure of success which has attended the enterprise of those who go down to the sea in ships, of those who search the depths of the ocean to add to the food of man, and of those whose busy skill and handicraft combine to prepare for various uses the crops of the earth and the sea;

For the advantages of sound learning, placed within the reach of all the children of the people, and the freedom and alacrity with which those advantages ae embraced and improved;

For the apportunities of religious instruction and worship universally enjoyed by consciences untrammelled by any human authority;

For the 'redemption of the world by Jesus Christ, for the means of grace, and the hope of glory.

"And with one accord, let us bless and praise God for the oneness of heart, mind, and purpose in which he has united the people of this ancient commonwealth for the defence of the rights, liberties, and honor of our beloved country.

"May we stand forever in the same mind, remembering the devoted lives of our fathers, the precious inheritance of freedom received at their hands, the weight of glory which awaits the faithful, and the infinity of blessing which is our privilege, if we will, to transmit to the countless generations of the future.

". . . Given at the Council-Chamber, this thirty-first day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-one, and the eighty-sixth day of the Independence of the United States of America.

"John A. Andrew. By his excellency the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Counci. Oliver Warner, Secretary.

(copied from The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States, Benjamin F. Morris, reprinted by American Vision)

Robert L. LaMay

NEEDED - A REFORMATION

2008-10-31T14:33:00.002-05:00

Today is October 31, 2008. On this day in the year 1517 Martin Luther [Picture of Luther 1529 y L. Cranach] wrote to the Archbishop of Mainz protesting the teaching of indulgences, especially as defined by Johan Tetzel that “As soon as the coin in the coffer rings, the soul from purgatory springs.” It was not indulgences that was efficacious in absolving sin, but God alone who grants forgiveness of sin. Luther enclosed in his letter to the Archbishop a copy of his ‘Disputation of Martin Luther on the Power and Efficacy of indulgences,’ which came to be known as his ‘Ninety Five Thesis.’
In 1521 Martin Luther was summoned to appear before the Diet of Worms. Luther stopped a Frankfort before reaching Worms, where he visited a school of William Nesse (celebrated geographer), giving this admonition to the children: “Apply to the study of the Bible, and to the investigation of the truth.” (An encouragement we are unable to give to the children of today’s ‘state’ schools.
D’Aubigne (Life and times of Martin Luther) recorded this encounter of Luther’s: “If Luther blessed the young, he was also the hope of the aged. Catherine of Holzhausen, a widow advanced in years, and who served God, approached him and said, ‘My parents told me that God would raise up a man who should oppose the papal vanities and preserve His Word. I hope that thou art that man, and I pray for the grace and Holy Spirit of God upon thy work.’”
Martin Luther face an enemy whose desire was to silence his teaching either by recanting or death. When facing the Diet of Worms as in the first day they condemned his written works and asked that he recant of all he wrote, he asked for some time to think of how to answer. That evening he spent much time in prayer. Some of his words to his heavenly Father were: “stand at my side, for the sake of Thy well beloved Jesus Christ, who is my defense, my shield, and my strong tower … And though the world should be filled with devils—though my body, which is still the work of Thy hands, should be slain, be stretched upon the pavement … my soul is Thine! … Yes! I have the assurance of Thy Word. My soul belongs to Thee! It shall abide forever with Thee … Amen … O God help me! Amen!
The next day the Lord gave strength to His servant to stand firm on His Word: “I cannot submit my faith either to the pope or to the councils, because it is clear as the day that they have frequently erred and contradicted each other. Unless therefore I am convinced by the testimony of Scripture, or by the clearest reasoning—unless I am persuaded by means of the passages I have quoted—and unless they thus render my conscience bound by the Word of God, I cannot and I will not retract, for it is unsafe for a Christian to speak against his conscience.” And then looking around on this assembly before which he stood, and which held his life in its hands, he said, “Here I stand, I can do no other; May God help me! Amen!”
What shall the message be for us today? I believe it is the same message of the Reformation: SEARCH THE SCRIPTURE! Commentators, editorialists, news programs, and politicians, ask us to retract our faith. We are to leave our faith at the door of the schools and allow the lies of the atheists to teach our children about how this world came into being, or the ethics of abortion, etc. We are to keep the Gospel in the pew of our buildings and not apply the moral truths to the choosing of presidents and magistrates. Search the Scripture for in are truths that come from our Creator, and cry out, Here we Stand! The victory is ours because the victory belongs to the Son of God the only Saviour of men! As the elections are near, please search Scripture and vote for the one who is most close to what Scripture defines as what is righteous and who stands firmly on the Bible as the Word of God!
Robert L. La May

THE CITY OF STEEL

2008-07-24T08:49:00.000-05:00

We recently received update pictures of our grandsons who live just north of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The picture below is a view of Pittsburgh taken last Thanksgiving season. Grandpa remembers when he traveled from Brooklyn, New York to Tarkio College, Missouri. Traveling the New Jersey Turnpike to the Pennsylvania Turnpike, which ended at Pittsburgh, we traveled to and through Indianapolis, which was best traveled at midnight (hardly any traffic at that time).
Pittsburgh, the City of Steel, went through many changes. Like the ‘Steelers’ the city had its ups and downs, but was forever favored by its inhabitants. New York City, with its five Boroughs, was easy to travel with its streets running east and west, north and south. Pittsburgh, on the other hand, had its own of helping you get to where you were supposed to go. All you needed to do was follow the Orange or Blue, etc. markers, which was a great help. We still like to visit Pittsburgh.
But we have a greater reason to visit, as you can see in the picture of Pittsburgh: our grandsons, (clockwise) Andrew, Titus, Matthew and Joshua (of Philip and Michelle LaMay). Along with our grandchildren in Iowa (pictured on previous Blog), we have our own city, made up of children and children’s children, of extended family ties, etc. The Lord has blessed us with His grace and love as we not only praise him for this generation, but the generations to come.
Our “City” or “Household of Faith” is better measured by the Great and Everlasting City of our Triune God. For it is in that context that our homes are most blessed and unified as one. The beauty of the strength greater than steel is this Great City: “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness. Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion … the city of the great King” (Psalm 48:1-2). This is the City which is present in the world in every generation, the City or Kingdom of King Jesus, to whom we owe our allegiance. We come, therefore, “unto mount Zion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, to the great assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, and to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant” (Hebrews 12:22-24). This is the City that is made of the steel of heaven, whose God is our salvation, comfort, and strength.

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME

2008-07-02T10:56:00.001-05:00

Grandpa has on his office wall three pictures. The top picture is of the Brooklyn Dodgers when they won the 1952 National Championship. The picture below is a picture of the J.C. Penney Soft Ball Team of the 50’s on which Grandpa played. Uniting the two pictures is of the Brooklyn Bridge which was part of his playground. Interestingly the J.C. Penney team of eleven men was dressed accordingly with white shirts and ties.
This brings Grandpa to his generation, and to the generation to follow. The game this past month was T-Ball. The two pictures show our grandchildren. They take seriously their participation, and with bat in hand, the approach the plate with the determination to hit it and move to first base and beyond. Grandpa wishes he could make it to first base as fast. Micah and Emma Ruth (parents: Rob and Dorcas Jarrard) take their turn at bat; their turn to catch the ball; their turn to obey the rules; their turn to be guided by the coach. It is also their turn to be prayed for, to hear the Word of God, to be guided by the Christ who said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life,” that they may also know the joy of so great a salvation. Remember, the Word of God, the Gospel of our Lord and Savior, not only opens our hearts to our Savior, nourishing our souls in Christ, but also prepares us to pass it on to the next generation, and to the next, and next…; to the praise of our Father, our Savior, and our Teacher.
Past memories are great when they are united with the generation of today. Today’s generation should be seen in the blessings (or curses) it gives to the generations to come. King David praises the Lord, saying, “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts” (Psa. 145:3-4). That which is unsearchable has been revealed by our Father in heaven. That which has been revealed to one generation is to be passed on to another generation. Our testimony is this, that “We will not hide them from their children, showing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done” (Psa. 78:4). Joel speaks of the word of the Lord that is to be spoken to his generation, “Tell ye your children of it, and let your children tell their children, and their children another generation” (Joel 1:2). Whether we are in the home, or in the workplace, or in the halls of Congress, or in the fellowship of believers in worship and study, if we are content without thought to the generations that follow, the generations to follow will pay the price of our self-righteousness. That which is preached from the pulpit ought to feed the sheep of God’s pasture. Therefore, for a congregation to put up with false or poor preaching with the hope that things will turn around, become responsible for the pitiable feed that is passed on to the next generation. May each generation hear the word of their Almighty Lord: “This people have I formed for myself; they shall show forth my praise” (Isa. 43:21).

nothing like a GOOD BOOK

2008-04-22T15:32:00.003-05:00

Grandpa LaMay has spent a week away from Iowa to visit friends in Virginia. One of the main reasons for the visit was to meet with the men of the Christian Observer. There will be a new look as we unite with others to spread the good news of the Gospel of the King of kings. Part of the mission will be the continuing weekly Bible Studies [check the blog for weekly studies listed at the right]. Your prayers are appreciated [Grandpa: Robert L. LaMay].

During that week in Virginia I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. A Van Broekhoven who had recently wrote the Introduction to a novel, Embryo Factory, The Stem Cell Wars by Rev. Richard A. Humphrey and Dr. Loren J. Humphrey. This book presents the problem by way of a 'mystery novel' which, in its twists and turns between people, gives us a good view of the problem. Dr. Van Broekhoven writes in the Introduction, that bioethical issues have not been taken seriously by many of us, as well as the biotechnological research; that the authors of this book address the problems, "portraying lifelike settings that present drama brought about by competing ideas of scientific advancement, and competing and contrasting concepts of reality and morality. Much of the development of this subject in dramatic form undoubtedly came from papers and discussions held at a symposium on science, bioethics, and law or public policy held at a forum of the Oxford Society of Scholars. ...This a book that invades the imagination and aesthetic with complicated relationships and complex moral issues."

I enjoyed the book at one sitting, resting under Virginia's sun one afternoon of rest, wondering what turn of events would lead to a conclusion of "who done it" and of "what moral implication."

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

2008-02-29T11:03:00.002-06:00

For the Christian family Christian education is not an option. Nor does Christian education take place in a certain place or at a specific time. The Christian, child or adult, must see that in every area of life we are practicing disciples, building upon the Word of God our moral character. Home Schooling, Christian Schools, and even state schools, are in process of teaching one of two world views; either the Biblical Worldview or the Atheistic Worldview. We are either obedient to God or obedient to man. We cannot have two masters; we will love the one or love the other.
Education bears either Christian character or humanistic characteristics. Though the humanist may develop some moral characteristics in their teaching corresponding to the moral teaching of the Bible, they do so as they have no moral foundation of their own to build upon. Like in the movie, the “Borrowers” must borrow from the “Big” people in order to have some substance to their teachings and, therefore, to their lives. Except in the movie the Borrowers had a measure of moral character in their recognition of who they were. The humanists write books and then use the books as their foundation of what truth is. The Christian, hopefully, endeavor to put self behind and rely upon the objective truth of the Word of God.
The Christian, whether they are teaching good manners at the table, or respect for elders, or loving obedience in the home, or prayer, or math, or reading of stories, learning grammar, etc., do so upon the teaching of Scripture. It is the Word of God which nourishes the soul and develops a true Christian character and spirit in each of us.
Take for example the giving and teaching of the Ten Commandments. Moses, moved by the Spirit, speaks of the moral fiber of the Commandments in the life of God’s people: “Hear, O Israel; the Lord thy God is one Lord; and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates” (Deut. 6:4-9).
Among others, there are two strong admonitions from this Word. First there is the truth that the Lord God Almighty is our Lord, and by implication, that our hearts are being made ready for instruction because of our love for God. The second truth is that the foundation of the teaching of the Word is to be found in the home. These passages, I believe, also teach that Christian teaching effect all areas of our lives, especially strengthening the home, and therefore the greater family, the Church, of which Christ is King and Head. Every teaching of Scripture is practical, affecting the whole person, in every relationship. Dr. Chuck Baynard, in his book, When the Mountain Thundered, introducing his teaching of the Ten Commandments, reminding us of its practical applications: “I believe we can then see that it is the utmost importance for us to understand and apply as a very minimum this summary of the Moral Law as a most consistent basis in our daily lives. Once more, what man is ignorant of, he also is indifferent towards. There have been many commentaries written and sermons preached on the Ten Commandments. I will attempt here not to plow another’s field so to speak, but Lord willing bring to us how this works out in the practical application to life of these ten rules of life. It was and is my desire that wherever possible show how these ten core rules as disclosed by the Westminster Divines apply to the classic points of Calvinism. If the Calvinist is right, then his precepts must latterly roll from the pages of God’s Word, even in this summary we find in the Moral Law.”
Christian Education does not begin in the home; it is part and parcel of the home. Whether we teach objectively, subjectively, or place our children under another teacher, we must know and understand that we are responsible for what is being taught. The teaching of lies is not a part of our agenda as Christian families under the tutelage of the Spirit and his wonderful Word, written. For the “scriptures principally teach what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man” (S.C. 3), in ALL areas of life.
Grandpa
Robert L. La May
http://www.disciple107.com/
http://www.lulu.com/observer/ for books of helpful teaching in Christ

TAKE BACK OUR CHILDREN

2008-02-19T08:18:00.003-06:00

There is a voice that shouts, “Mr. Christian, tear down that wall!” What wall is that? It is the pseudo wall that the humanist has built, which bears the words, “separation of church and state.” It is not the wall that our Constitution has built, which states clearly that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof” (Am. I). It is the world view of the humanist which has built the wall that claims their venue of operation, their instrument of authority whereby the Christian is placed on one side and the State on the other. They have claimed the State as their world, and thus under their jurisdiction. It works like this: Education is the responsibility of the State, which is secular in nature, and thus belongs to them and not to us on the other side of the wall.
This is the wall we must tear down. We have a constitutional right to tear it down. The Declaration of Independence speaks clearly: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness—That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deserving their just Powers from the consent of the Governed, that whenever any form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to altar or abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its Foundation on such Principles, and organizing its Powers in such Form as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.”
A wall has been built where no wall had existed in our constituted Republic. Amendment One cautions the Congress to limit their authority, not to make Christians into second-class citizen; they are not to exercise laws to prohibit its exercise. The atheist has developed a pseudo law of separation of church and state, placing, among other things, the education systems, from kindergarten to graduate, on their side of the wall (the State); ipso facto, the education of our children belong to the State, their side, and the Christian parents have little or nothing to say about curriculum, etc. Thus they can define evolution as true science, and Creation as a religious practice to remain in the pew. Celebrating Darwinism the evolutionist is becoming more and more active in claiming their territory. For example, even today, the Florida State Board of Education considers evolution to be the “fundamental concept underlying all biology.” Therefore the curriculum should teach that evolution is scientific truth. Those who call for the teaching of Creationism to be taught next to Evolution theory must realize that will never come about. For the atheistic evolutionist states clearly that is not an option, for their ‘truth’ will not be placed against our ‘lies.’ We cannot win this war by joining their army.
We need, therefore, to “Take Back our Children.” The Humanist has claimed the schools. We must first claim our children, which it is our responsibility as parents to see that they are taught the truth and grow in moral and spiritual strength. We must also think in terms of generations and not what is expedient at the moment; “That thou mightest fear the Lord thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son’s son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged” (Deut. 6:2). As to those who claim they are our children’s teachers, Wisdom speaks, “walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path” (Pro. 1:15); for the covenant promise is ours, “And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children” (Isa. 54:13).
We were created in the image of our Creator, who gave us the mandate to be a blessing to all people in all areas of life. There is no sphere of life that is out of the jurisdiction of the Creator, and so we must be willing to give what is best in all fields of life. We are enabled to do well by virtue of our relationship with our Creator. Quoting Philippians 4:19—“my God shall supply al your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus”—Loraine Boettner wrote “Being truly untied with Christ and depending on the power of His Spirit, we shall not doubt but that we shall be finally victorious over the Devil and every kind of evil that he can bring against us. We look upon science, education, invention, art, music, commerce, statesmanship, sociology, etc., each in its own field so far as it is based on truth, as a revelation of the wisdom and glory of Christ, who is the Light of the world and the Ruler of nations. Each of these represents an accomplishment in man’s conquest of the forces of nature, which was the task assigned to him when immediately after his creation he was commanded to ‘subdue’ the earth; and each of these is a prophecy of the complete establishment of Christ’s kingdom” (Studies in Theology).
Let us take back our children. We can do so by establishing Christian Schools or by Home Schooling. Both are needed. Both are to remember that they are the salt of the earth within their communities. And we need one another in such an endeavor. We cannot wait until the next generation. We must find strength in our Lord and his Word to take back our children. As we move in this direction there will be those who remain in the secular school system. We must encourage them, not to look down on them, but to support them as fellow believers. And we must not forget other families that are being led down the path of false teaching, to be kind and caring, loving them with the love we have received from our Lord. The nations belong to the King of kings. We must act with the knowledge that the atheist is on foreign ground, not us.
Grandpa La May

Paising God for the generations we see now and for the generations to come

Grace & Works

2008-02-11T11:04:00.000-06:00

After listening to the human race and their desire to solve the problems of America through their promises (accomplished through Government intervention; i.e., raise taxes); it is good to be reminded that it is by grace that we live, firmly standing on the Sovereign Lord and His kept promises. Grandpa therefore shares with you the following words of a brother servant on Grace:

"Against this compromising solution of the problem, the Apostle insists upon a sharp alternative: a man may be saved by works (if he keeps the law perfectly), or he may be saved by faith; but he cannot possibly be saved by faith and works together. Christ, according to Paul, will do everything or nothing; if righteousness is in slightest measure obtained by our obedience to the law, then Christ died in vain; if we trust in slightest measure in our own good works, then we have turned away from grace and Christ profiteth us nothing... Everywhere the basis of the New Testament is the same—the mysterious, incalculable, wondrous grace of God. 'The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.'
The salvation of the Christian is certain because it depends altogether upon God; if it depended in the slightest measure upon us, the certainty of it would be gone. Hence it appears the vital importance of the great Reformation doctrine of justification by faith alone; that doctrine is at the very center of Christianity... All that is clear from what has already been said. But it is quite inconceivable that a man should be given this faith in Christ, that he should accept this gift which Christ offers, and still go on contentedly in sin. For the very thing which Christ offers us is salvation from sin—not only salvation from the guilt of sin, but also salvation from the power of sin.
The very first thing that the Christian does, therefore, is to keep the law of God: he keeps it no longer as a way of earning his salvation—for salvation has been given him freely of God--but he keeps it joyously as a central part of salvation itself. The faith of which Paul speaks is, as Paul himself says, a faith that works through love; and love is the fulfilling of the whole law. The faith that Paul means when he speaks of justification by faith alone is a faith that works.
'A Christian, according to Paul (as also really according to James), is saved not by himself but by God; but he is saved by God not in order that he may continue in sin, but in order that he may conquer sin and attain unto holines.' -- J. Gresham Machen
The biblical question regarding faith and works is not whether we should have this one or that, because we should have both. The question is whether we think we can keep the law of God apart from the life-giving regeneration of the Holy Ghost. Paul's answer to that question is found clearly in Titus: "not by works of righteousness we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us: by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost." Justification is the free gift of God. But all those who are justified are also glorified; the Holy Spirit does not begin a work in us and then ignore us until the last day. He who began a good work in us will continue it until the day of Jesus Christ. We are indeed saved by grace through faith, and that not of ourselves (Eph. 2:8). We are truly God's own workmanship. But because we are his workmanship, we have been created unto good works which God previously ordained."
Dr. Richard Bacon, Pastor
Faith Presbyterian Church Reformed, Mesquite, TX
http://fbpminister.wordpress.com

Children's Children

2008-01-16T09:03:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago we visited the Providence Church in Peoria, Illinois. It was good to visit and worship with old friends and meet new friends. We stayed with the Candler’s and it was a joy, especially with the children of Tom and Espi. The picture is precious that I had the privilege of enjoying their company: Josiah, Siera, Lena and Aleta. And then there is the little one Hannah who is a pleasure.
Therefore, I share with you Fathers these verses of Psalm 128 with the prayer that our homes, our children and children’s children will find continued blessings of joy and love: “For thou shalt eat the labor of thine hands; happy shall thou be, and it shall be well with thee. Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house; thy children like olive plants round about thy table. Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the Lord.” Feed those “olive plants” well from the wonderful Word of God, as you would feed them from the larder of thy house.
Grandpa LaMay

THE FAITH AND FAITHFUL

2008-01-07T08:25:00.000-06:00

Family and friends met together on January 5th at the Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church, Morning Sun, Iowa, for A Service of Remembrance of Julie Janette Pilling whom the Lord took to his eternal heaven on December 29th of 2007, at the age of 42, after a battle with cancer for four years. Julie was an example of a strong Faith nourished by the Faithful God who loved her and whom she loved. The service expressed the faith of Julie, the faith which praised the Savior who walked along with her and embraced her with His strength and grace. This same grace and comfort walks with her loved ones.
I wanted to share some of her thoughts which were written in the bulletin which reveals a faith only a child of God could have. I write this in light of my Blog on Christian Statesman. For the Christian needs to be reminded of such faith as the enemy continue to attack with many lies. Please read these words of Julie, a part of her emails through the years as she wrestled with the Father who was her Comforter. And then read my Blog which, because of their lies, seek to make her faith and ours nothing more than foolishness.
Selections from Julie’s emails to friends and family:
**21-06 – It is so true that I wouldn’t know my heavenly Father the way I do and desire to know Him more, if I hadn’t had this cancer and needed Him so much. He hears and protects and teaches me. He shows His love and mercy, even in the face of disappointments and fears! I have a great confidence in His perfect plan. I know that everything that comes in life is there with His full knowledge and full control. From our limited understanding and vision, life may seem random and unfair, but it is not! Life is for the sole purpose of glorifying God and enjoying Him forever! Really, if you think about it, those who know God are treated unfairly by Him because we are given blessings and grace and love and freedom that we don’t deserve. That is one thing that is so wonderful about Him; “Yet, while we were still sinners, He died for us!” Undeserved, but so lovingly and patiently given by our perfect, good Father; He truly is Awesome! …Please friends, don’t live your life with half devotion or promises made for tomorrow. God is real and the Bible explains who He is. Live your life sold out to Him and always be praying for His Will in your life, rather than our own best thoughts and efforts. You will have great freedom and great satisfaction in life if you believe that Jesus is God and that HE died for you. There is no grater joy than to life for Jesus!
7-14-07 – Although in a battle, I know the outcome. I will be healed; whether in this life or ultimately healed as I enter the presence of the Lord, whom I love and whom I serve. We are not our own, whether we know it or not. We are His! I can tell you from His Word and from good, rich experience that He is worthy of every ounce of praise and obedience! One thing God has made me more acutely aware of is the struggle many of you are having because of my illness. This is very humbling and encouraging. When we struggle we are learning! Please know that it is not by my faith or my strength that I fight the battle! It is and has always been the God I trust who gives me faith and strength. This is not a faith or strength that is unique to me and I know many of you know this, but I am addressing those of you who struggle with this idea. When the God who is mighty and made the universe shows Himself to you and He allows you to know and believe in His personal care and concern for every hair on your head, then you know He is good and trustworthy and you realize it is not about yourself anymore. It is Him and Him alone! He gives us the grace and faith we need for the situation and in His perfect timing!!! Please, don’t be amazed at me. I am weak and human. Praise Him and ask Him for his saving and daily grace in your lives!! “For I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”-Philippians 4:13!
2-3-06—Now, what about you? Do you love Jesus? Do you love Him more than anything or anyone in your life? Don’t wait to decide! It is the most important question you will every ask yourself. When you have nothing left but Jesus, it is easy to be bold. It is during the everyday life that it is easy to sit back and coast and waste time and energy on non valuable things. It is easy to not love and let those you love and let those you love and care about continue along a path that leads to destruction and death. I love you all and desire for you to be able to live and die with confidence; not in yourselves but in the LORD.
Love to you all, Julie**
I share these thoughts of Julie with you that you may know the struggle and battle that she endured because of her faith in Him who is Faithful. Note also that as she shared her thoughts through those four years it was peppered with appeals that we strengthen our faith and look towards Christ alone as our Savior, etc. I have been reminded that there are those who would like to see such a faith, and Him who is called Faithful, be extinguished. Last week I had written about the National Academy of Science, who reports to the Congress, that evolution is the “bedrock principle of modern biology;” and that Creation is not “real science;” and that it “should not be taught in public school science classrooms.” My dear friends and fellow servants of Christ our Creator, do you not see what the enemy is doing? If we allow such teaching to go unchallenged then we are not seeing that the evolutionist has taken away everything which Julie had hoped for and rested upon. The evolutionist also seeks to destroy any view that there is a God at all and that His Scriptures teach nothing but foolish religious practices. We must also acknowledge that, not only are our children subject to the lies of evolution, but other children as well. The “state” schools belong to the heathen with no hope of salvation. Our children and others of the community need to hear the truth as they learn their ABC’s, math, and true science which God has established with Adam and Eve as they were to have dominion over the earth which He had created by the breath of His mouth and counsel of His will. Please examine the faith of the child of God with the lie recorded on my Blog, www.christianpands.blogspot.com/
With love and a great desire to serve our Creator and King,
“Grandpa” Robert L. La May
To Glory God and enjoy Him forever!!

Gifts and Giving

2007-12-28T08:44:00.000-06:00

Fools were not wanting as their Christmas madness surrounded us with ads and attitudes. You could sense their frustrations as they battled over whether they should say happy holiday or merry Christmas. Some try to make Christmas, at best, an economic issue, others, at worse, a political issue (i.e. separation of church and state). What it does say, is that there is still the fear that the Christian faith is a terror to those who wish that it is true that there is no God, and that his Word is of no benefit to their lifestyle. For it is the Christian Faith which proclaims that the Creator-Savior is a personal God who has revealed himself in his Word, the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments.
Whether some celebrate Christmas or not does not matter. For we do celebrate, rejoice over the great love of God the Father who sent his Son into the world, born of the virgin Mary, who was to be the Messiah-Savior of his people.
We did exchange presents, not as a religious practice, but as a tradition that brings us together at another time of the year. This was another precious year as we all got together; with Dorcas and family we had a wonderful time with Philip and family at Thanksgiving time (exchanging gifts) in Wexford, Pennsylvania (the previous post has those pictures). This past Saturday we exchanged gifts by the “Christmas Tree.” This brought memories of my Christmas’ in Brooklyn, New York. In the 1940’s my family lived in a six-family brownstone house on a street named after one of the famous Admirals, Decatur. Dad would get a tree in that week before Christmas. Mom and I and my brother Louis would begin making decorations. There was the stringing of popcorn and the making of rings of paper to wrap around the tree. It was the time when Elmer glue was transparent and placed in a small glass tube with a rubber end. We would cut different colored papers into strips about six inches long and a half inch wide. We would put some glue on one end and hold it tight to the other end with the hope that it would stay glued. It was fun, and in that apartment, which was long, we would start in the kitchen and put together the long string of paper rings. From kitchen through the dining room down the hall passed our bedroom, bathroom, closet, and through Dad and Mom’s bedroom, Dad’s desk and then the living room, ran the paper trail. Christmas morning brought the exchange of gifts (toy soldiers and forts made out of cardboard; and with a little imagination and rubber bands could have a battle). New York City was a great place to enjoy the seasons. I have ice-skated in Manhattan and enjoyed the special decorated windows of the department stores, along with their animated toys.
There was Christmas Carols sung by members of the youth group and church that sung in the neighborhood. There was also a Christmas Eve service; which brings us to the Gift of gifts, Christ Jesus the Son of God. There is something very special about this Gift. We exchange gifts, we hope to receive gifts. However, the Gift of the Son of God transcends whatever gifts we are able to give. Christ is a Gift who brings us to himself. We embrace him because he first embraces us. We only receive the Gift of the Son because the Father first receives us. We certainly don’t earn it, but we rejoice in it. It is the Gift which is eternal and which we enjoy each and every day. We enjoy our traditions, but they fade away and need to be renewed each year. They will never take the place of the great celebration of the Son of God never fades away in the heart and life of the Christian believer.

Grandpa

Robert L. LaMay

The glorious promise of the Savior shines brighter than the Creator’s stars of heaven: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

Christmas Preparation

2007-12-19T08:11:00.000-06:00

Many of you will be sharing gifts and in so doing, I pray, you will remember Christ in a very special way. Remember, through the reading of His Scripture that Christ, who was born of the Virgin Mary in than manger in Bethlehem, now reigns as King of kings both in His Kingdom on earth and in our hearts. Truly, a King has been born and reigns today! This Christ is able to save, to deliver us from sin and protect us from evil. He has come by promise of the Father. He has commended His "love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved through him" (Rom. 5:8-9). His singular love is demonstrated and assured. Come, therefore, now to Christ, confessing your sins and receiving Him as He has revealed Himself both to you and to me.

We rejoice in the living Christ, our Saviour, the King of kings.
Grandpa

Glory to God

2007-12-12T09:45:00.000-06:00

There are four seasons of the year: Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer. Some more pronounced in different areas than others. Then there are the 'religious seasons' celebrated through the year. Christmas either brings joy to many or wrecks havoc with their own world view. The season means an abundance of sales as Malls decorate to entice the buying of gifts for both the naughty and nice. The atheist and liberal humanist seek to do battle with the so-called Christian symbols. What fools these mortals be as they seek to pass laws that only white lights can be displayed rather than red or green. Constitutional rights are put forth as being applicable only to all [except Christians]. Shall we join the battle of the feeble minded?

No. We shall go about the duty we owe to our God and Savior each day of the year. We will celebrate the truth that the Savior has come and is now reigning as the King of kings. We share with you a "year long" card that the Christ who is called "Wonderful" will fill your hearts with His marvelous grace and love. The world will do battle while we will proclaim victory! We will, with one another, Glorify God and enjoy Him forever! Grandpa will be preaching on December 23rd at the Washington Iowa Reformed Presbyterian Church. The Scripture reading will be from Isaiah nine. The emphasis is on the Second Person of the Godhead, the Son, in verses six through seven. May the words of God's Scriptures be written upon our hearts as we enjoy family and friends during this season, granting us grace and love in Christ through the years.

For (from the Sermon), "The Son of God who took upon Himself our flesh, is the one who is our King, our Sovereign. The God-Man rules by covenant promise, sitting upon the eternal throne of David. By divine edict the Son has been ordained to this majestic throne, 'Yet have I set my King upon my holy hill of Zion. I will declare the decree; the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee" (Ps. 2:6-7). Government and peace shall be His rod and scepter. He bears the burden of the office of Supreme Magistrate in His Kingdom. It will be pure in justice and and righteousness. It will be without avarice. It will be of peace because He, as Messiah-King, will be the Advocate between His Father and His people. His governing His Church speaks of 'His singular love and care for His elect' (G.B. notes)."

May our Savior and King bring blessings to each of you, as we think of you,

with Love,

Grandpa and Grandma La May

THANKSGIVING 2007

2007-12-05T08:14:00.000-06:00

We took off for Wexford, Pennsylvania to spend three whole days with Philip and his family. Rob and Dorcas, along with Micah and Emma Ruth, making sure that Grandpa and Grandma LaMay got there in one piece, traveled from seven in the morning on that Tuesday to seven in the evening. Arriving safe we saw Philip and Michelle's boys [Andrew, Joshua, Titus and Matthew] looking out the window with joyful expectation. It proved to be a great week. We had a great Thanksgiving dinner, enjoyed our children and grandchildren. We worshipped together at the North Hills RP Church Thanksgiving morning meeting old friends. We visited the Reformed Presbyterian Home in Pittsburgh and was given the tour of the new addition. It was a joy to visit Michelle's grandparents at the Home, Rev. Mel and Marian Martin. We took a ride up the rail where we took a picture of the family [note Matthew the youngest looking carefully at who was taking the picture / there is always someone around who is gracious to that]. The time went too fast and we are looking forward to our next get together. We are thankful for one another. The grandchildren on the couch gives us thankful hearts; and Grandma and Grandpa enjoyed them immensely.
Grandpa LaMay

SINGING WITH SIGNS

2007-11-28T07:44:00.000-06:00

This last quarter at Sabbath School we have had the joy of studying together the main characters of the Book of Genesis. This Book from God’s Word not only speaks of the “beginnings” but is foundational to the whole of Scriptures. We learned that God created all things in six days, creating Adam and Eve after His image. The last lesson was on God’s providential care and redeeming love in the life of Joseph. This led us to Christ our Savior. We have combined the younger people into two classes. Before we began our lessons we would have a time of singing from God’s Song Book, the Psalms. The pictures show Dorcas Jarrard leading the singing using sign language, and the teachers (Mrs. Dorothy Jarrard and Mrs. Kay LaMay) and the children carefully following and singing. They are great singers. When you sing God’s Word you are lifted up by the Spirit of God. Our theme Song was from Psalm 119 verses 97-104, glorifying our Lord and Savior in these words: “O how I love Thy law; it is my study all the day. It makes me wiser than my foes; its precepts with me stay. More than my teachers or the old thy servant understands; thy testimonies I consult and follow Thy commands. I stayed my feet from evil ways that I thy word observe; I have been taught by Thee and from Thy judgments will not swerve. How sweet in taste Thy promises, than honey far more sweet! Thy precepts understanding give; I therefore hate deceit.”
Sing with a joyful song in your heart redeemed to the praise of our Creator and Savior.
Grandpa

THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATION FOR 2007

2007-11-19T08:33:00.000-06:00

A THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATION THAT SPEAKS TO THE NATION TODAY AS WELL AS IT DID IN 1782.
State of New Hampshire. In Committee of Safety, Exeter, November 1, 1782; Ordered, that the following proclamation for a general thanksgiving on the twenty-eighth day of November instant, received from the honorable Continental Congress, be forthwith printed—State of New Hampshire.
By the United States in Congress assembled.
[Wouldn’t it be a blessing to both our homes and nation that we had elected statesmen not ashamed of the Almighty Lord and King? Let us give thanks this Thanksgiving for the many blessings of the Lord who is King of nations and the only Redeemer of men. Do you know the historical context of this proclamation?]
PROCLAMATION.
It being the indispensable duty of all nations, not only to offer up their supplications to ALMIGHTY GOD, the giver of all good, for his gracious assistance in a time of distress, but also in a solemn and public manner to give the praise to his goodness in general, and especially for great and signal interpositions of his providence in their behalf. Therefore the United States in Congress assembled, taking into their consideration the many instances of divine goodness to these States, in the course of the important conflict in which they have been so long engaged, the present happy and promising state of public affairs, and the events of the war, in the course of the year now drawing to a close, particularly the harmony of the public Councils, which is so necessary to the success of the public cause, the perfect and union and good understanding which has hitherto subsisted between them and their Allies, not withstanding the artful and unwearied attempts of of the common enemy to divide them, the success of the arms of the United States, and those of their Allies, and the acknowledgement of their independence by another European power, whose friendship and commerce must be of great and lasting advantage to these states -- Do hereby recommend to the inhabitants of these States in general, to observe, and request the several states to interpose their authority in appointing and commending the observation of THURSDAY the twenty-eight day of NOVEMBER next, as a day of solemn THANKSGIVING to GOD for all his goodness, by a cheerful obedience of his laws, and by promoting, each in his station, and by his influence, the practice of true and undefiled religion, which is the great foundation of public prosperity and national happiness.
[Done in Congress , at Philadelphia, the eleventh day of October, in the year of our LORD one thousand seven hundred and eighty-two, and of our Sovereignty and independence, the seventh. John Hanson, President. Charles Thompson, Secretary.]
Robert L. La May,
Contributing Editor, the Christian Observer

Sing Unto the Lord

2007-11-14T08:21:00.000-06:00

It was a joy to preach the Word of God a few Sabbaths ago in Washington, Iowa and then to have an afternoon service at the McCreedy home in the city. A number of members and a group of children came along and sang for and with the people. Led by my daughter Dorcas the children sang with the use of sign language. It is always a joy to sing from God’s Song Book, the Psalms. We sang from Psalm 19 which reminds us of the wonder of God’s Creation: “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth his handiwork.”
Pictures and more about the singing of God’s Word after Thanksgiving.
Grandpa LaMay

Wittenberg's Door

2007-11-05T16:29:00.000-06:00

This last week I received an e-mail from a brother of the Reformation faith concerning the nailing of the 95 Theses on that Wittenberg 490 years ago. I had been thinking this weekend that I have not heard a trickle of thought of the Reformation. For over 45 years in the ministry I have not forgotten to share some aspect of the Reformation around October 31st. If we forget our heritage we forget what God has done in ages past and watering down our faith today. This week’s Blog is my remembering how the Lord raised up men like John Hus, Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Knox, William Tyndale, and others. Maybe we begin to launch a Reformation by building up the faith that follows the King of kings, and prepare a celebration for the 500th anniversary of that Wittenberg Door in the year 2017.

– Grandpa LaMay

Now read that e-mail:
"When my employer announced an October 31 Halloween lunch a few weeks ago, I first considered my usual response to these celebrations which parallels the late Daniel Patrick Moynahan's sage advice on another matter to [trick or?] "treat it with benign neglect."
I came up with another tactic though, remembering I had on October 31, 2003 posted a copy of the 95 Theses on my office door and have updated the "10-31-1517 to 10-31-20xx" date each year since then. Donning my dusty graduation gown sans hood, a leather tool belt, and a hammer, I came to the party as shown in the picture below. When asked what my costume was about, I only gave the hints:
1) It wasn't to celebrate Halloween.
2) It was for October 31.
3) It happened 490 years ago on October 31.
No one guessed without the hints, and two guessed right with the hints. I was able in a low-key way to divert attention from the usual insipid dark spiritual aspect of these things to remind my coworkers that it was Reformation Day and that Martin Luther had begun the Protestant Reformation 490 years ago on October 31, and remind them that I had a copy of the 95 theses on my office door hoping they might stop by to read them some time.
Soli Deo Gloria! " - Bob Williams

Q&A Creation or Evolution

2007-10-31T13:17:00.000-05:00

Q&A # 1: What is the chief end of man? Man’s chief end is to glorify self and to enjoy his own labors.
We know what the world thinks about God, but what do we do about those who claim the name of Christ and continue to embrace the world. This is illustrated in what has come out of UCC called the Clergy Letter Project: “We the undersigned, Christian clergy from many different traditions, believe that the theory of evolution is a foundational scientific truth, one that has stood up to rigorous scrutiny and upon which human knowledge and achievement rest.” Scripture is thus denied as the infallible Word and is placed at best equal to the Scripture, at worse under the tutelage of science.
This is not a Christian statement. It is simply a humanistic statement clouded by the word Christian. Illogically speaking they claim a theory to be a “foundational scientific truth;” when there is no truth to speak of. There has been no rigorous scrutiny but a continued repetition of the theory in many books. It is humanistic because it is said that the foundation “upon which human knowledge and achievement” rests. The Clergy Letter Project was begun by Dr. Michael Zimmerman, Dean, College of Letters and Science, University of Wisconsin; who wrote, “Scripture needs to be accurate They say that 10,500 clergy has signed this project. The Rev. Dr. C. W. Allen, Chaplain, Indianapolis wrote, “we thank God for Charles Darwin and all others who show us new ways to search for truth.” He also gives this testimony that “Scripture needs to be accurate enough about things in general for us to continue to trust in and live by the Gospel, but that’s all.” As you read the messages of those who agree with evolution as scientific truth, you find the great big “I.” “The “I AM” God has been replaced by the great “I” of man. There is no “the Scripture says.”
How do we combat such verbal atrocities against the truth of the Word of God? It is by strengthening our faith by the Word of God. The Scripture teaches us that “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God” (Ps. 14:1). The Creator knows his creation: “The Lord looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand and seek God. they are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy; there is none that doeth good, no, not one” (14:2-3). We must affirm our trust in the Word of God, that in the beginning God created the heavens and earth, and did so in six days. Scripture speaks of God’s Creation and those who would deny the truth, “Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshiped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen” (Rom. 1:25). To encourage your faith in Christ our Savior and Creator take a look at http://www.creationontheweb.org/.
Grandpa La May

Happy Birthday 77

2007-10-17T09:27:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Grandpa

The pictures tell the story. Micah and Emma Ruth helped open the presents. And they certainly look happy about it. The whole family, of those in Wexford PA as well as Washington IA gave a great gift of books. Let me share these books (ordered from American Vision) with you.
1. A good family book to read aloud gives us an overview of the Reformation with lots of pictures of the lives and events of that time: The Greatest Century of Reformation by Peter Hammond. In his preface he writes, “Expect opposition and criticism as an inevitable price of taking God’s Word seriously. Let’s get back to the Bible and apply the Lordship of Christ to all areas of life.” (Read Deuteronomy 7:9).
2. Another family book to read aloud: Against the Tide (The Valor of Margaret Wilson) by Hope Irvin Marston. This historical novel is about the Margaret who stood firm for her Christ, unto death. This is the time of the Martyrs of Scotland. We praise our Lord for those who have gone on before, in covenant with their Lord, faithful to His Word, even unto death. (For short stories of the Martyrs see They Received the Crown of Martyrdom by Robert (Grandpa) La May).
3. The Divine Challenge (On Matter Mind Math & Meaning) by John Byl.” John Byl argues that the Christian worldview provides the only foundation for logic, mathematics, science and morality.” He is Professor of Mathematics and Head of the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Trinity Western University, Canada.
4. God and Cosmos (A Christian View of Time, Space, and the Universe), by John Byl. I am looking forward to this book which is told to be a “refreshing counter to the dreary and ultimate meaningless outlook of modern cosmology.”
5. Judicial Tyranny (the new kings of America) by Mark I. Sutherland with a number of others, such as Ambassador Alan Keys, U.S. Attorney Ed Meese, Chief Justice Roy Moore, Howard Phillips, Phyllis Schlafly, Esq. etc. This is a must reading along with prayer for our Nation which stands on God’s Moral Law, a Republic that the enemy would like to destroy.
Thank you family for wonderful gifts, Kay, Dorcas, Rob, Micah, Emma, Philip, Michelle, Andrew, Joshua, Titus, Matthew.

in the name of God’s greatest gift, the King of kings and Lord of lords. May nations honor the Son!
Grandpa La May

Perspicuity of Scripture

2007-10-10T17:23:00.000-05:00

Simply put, "Perspicuity of Scripture" means that our Creator has given us His Word Written to be understandable by His people. Of course this does not mean that there is no study involved, and it does mean that we are helped in our understanding by the work of the Holy Spirit. We, therefore, especially as fathers, to teach the truths of Scripture to our children and children's children. We and our children are being guided by the few whose mouths cry loud, teaching the lie of evolution, the lies of diversity, banning the Bible and the use of the word 'God' from the public place, denying the foundation of an objective and righteous Law which has made our nation great, etc. We must be, therefore, diligent in our teaching and in our example of moral growth and strength. Which begins in the home.

Let us pray for one another as the Lord writes His covenant Word upon our lives: "And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart. And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt b ind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates" [Deut. 6:6-9].

Our moral strength in our nation begins in the home. May our Lord be glorified as He writes His Word upon our hearts, to be expressed in our worship and service.

Grandpa

Family

2007-10-02T16:38:00.000-05:00

Last week our daughter Dorcas had a birthday and after a pizza dinner at the 'Ranch' in town with Rob and his parents, we spent a moment at home so that she could open a gift. As you see in the picture you always have help opening up gifts with Micah and Emma Ruth. It is always a happy occasion when family gets together. Kay and I are looking forward to seeing our son Philip and family this thanksgiving in Wexford, Pennsylvania. We should have more pictures to show.

There is also that larger family which is eternal. Grandpa is thankful for the many prayers and emails that have come from that family in these past two weeks; from the RPCNA family and from the Hanover RP family. Two surgeries in three weeks have put me in a healing mode. It has also reminded me of others that need our prayers. There is 'Doc' and Lana here in the Washington (Iowa) Church; Julie at Morning Sun whose faith has sustained her and her family over these years; for Heather Morton in Illinois; and Robert Copeland of California who is in a coma, and his family. There are many others who need our prayers. I thank our Lord for so many brothers and sisters in Christ. And the reason behind these prayers is the truth that we belong to one another. There is no greater family than that which has been established by a loving Father through the sacrifice of the Son by the continued comfort of the Holy Spirit. This is reality. We may know one more than another, but that does not diminish the fact that we belong to one another. The Church of our Savior and King is made up of those who pray in fellowship and in faithful obedience to Him and His Word. Therefore, "take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints" [Ephesians 6:17-18].

Grandpa

Generation to Generation

2007-09-25T14:34:00.000-05:00

There are generations of little ones who are hungering after the food of the Word of the Gospel. As they are fed, they will grow into those who in turn will feed another generation.
Scripture teaches us that “When the Lord shall build up Zion; he shall appear in his glory. He will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer. This shall be written for the generation to come; and the people which shall be created shall praise the Lord. For he hath looked down from the height of his sanctuary; from heaven did the Lord behold the earth; to hear the groaning of the prisoner; to loose those that are appointed to death; to declare the name of the Lord in Zion, and his praise in Jerusalem” (Ps. 102:16-21).
Christ the Savior and King, has appeared and he is building up Zion. The people for whom he has given himself on their behalf; for he “was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all” (Isa. 53:5-5; 1 Pe.2:23-24).
Have we looked at our children and children’s children as we proclaimed the Gospel, as we studied and practiced the Word, knowing that our thoughts and deeds are not for us only but will affect the generations that follow? “The Lord shall bless thee out of Zion; and thou shalt see the good of Jerusalem all the days of thy life. Yea, thou shalt see thy children’s children, and peace upon Israel” (Ps. 128:5-6).
Whether in the home or in fellowship of the Church (which Christ is building), we separate not our children from the adults. We gather together to hear what the Spirit has to say through his inspired Word. Children learn best when they hear the Word of God as they nestle in the arms of their parents. Do we explain the message from the pulpit to your children or are you satisfied with the picture they colored? Do we look at our children and children’s children and see the Word of God nurturing them and the generations to follow? There should be a special joy as the fellowship of Father and Son discuss the Word of God that our children may be blessed. Churches that do not preach the Gospel with the generations of those for whom Christ died, having looked only on the present generation, have not fully understand the great commission of their Lord. Discipling nations are not an obedience that one rests from, but is a continual struggle and battle against the gates of hell which shall not prevail because Christ is at the head of the host of his subjects.
Men, take a good look at your children, and see the generations. As head of the household love your wife and fruit of her womb, as Christ so loved his church. Also, Patriarchs nurture both the home and the church body in their faithfulness to teach and practice the Word of God in sight of their children and children’s children. Thus are the mothers encouraged to be disciples who teach their children, especially the girls who will be a blessing in the homes to come.

Remembering our children and children's children,

Grandpa

Gifts From God

2007-09-18T09:17:00.000-05:00

While talking with my son Philip his son Andrew could be heard playing on the piano. It reminded me of a picture we received last week of the boys. One picture showed Andrew helping the youngest, Matthew, practice for his first concert. Could it be that Matthew has learned to read music before learning to play? By the way, Andrew is playing real well.
Not too long along Grandpa received a wonderful gift of a book titled, The Gift of Music, written by Jane Stuart Smith and Betty Carlson. It is a book of short stories of “Great Composers and Their Influence.” Music Appreciation was one of the courses you had to take in the sixth grade in Brooklyn, New York, where Grandpa grew up. The last day of the year we had to come together in the Assembly room and take a test where you listened to parts of one hundred classical pieces and write from where it was taken. I believe it was a yearly thing when the sixth graders laughed when the lower grade students heard the tune of the William Tell Overture and they blurted out, “the Lone Ranger.” Grandpa may not have learned to play an instrument, but his ears have always enjoyed great music.
Back to the book; two examples of composers who remind us of the great gifts that God has given to men are seen in George Frideric Handel and Franz Joseph Haydn. The authors write of Handel, “He said little of himself in his lifetime. The central fact of his life was his music. He would be happy to know of the joy and pleasure his music, particularly Messiah, gives to so many people” Acknowledging that his gift was from God, this example is given, “When Handel was writing Messiah, which he put down on paper in twenty-four days without once leaving his house, his servant brought him food, which Handel often left untouched. While Handel worked on the ‘Hallelujah Chorus,’ his servant found him with tears in his eyes. Handel exclaimed, ‘I did think I did see all haven before me and the great God Himself!’”
Franz Joseph Haydn wrote, “God gave me a cheerful heart, so He will surely forgive me if I serve Him cheerfully.” Haydn “respected God and the order of His creation. He saw beyond the momentary excitement of violently changing the present political, religious, and educational systems without putting into the void a real base—found only in true Christianity. Those who deny the truth of Scripture never find freedom.” One of his best known works is called the Surprise Symphony. “The title comes from the andante movement where there is a surprise chord to wake up the audience. Haydn said that it would make all the women scream. Such jokes came naturally to Haydn because of his inherent good nature.” Two of my favorites are mentioned, The Clock Symphony and La Poule (Chicken), which “received its name from a peculiar cluck in the second theme. The first theme sounds like a rooster chasing a hen, and in the last movement of the fugue, a prize egg is laid. Cheerful and childlike, Haydn wanted to make people smile, to relieve their hardships and troubles.” Haydn also wrote The Creation, “inspired as a result of Haydn hearing a mighty performance of Handel’s Messiah. He was stunned and thrilled with the music and the words and awed at the way it was received by the audience with absolute storms of applause. Haydn told his biographer that while composing The Creation, ‘daily I fell on my knees and asked God for strength.’ The words are taken from John Milton’s writings and from the Bible. One of the sublime moments is the climax of the chorus, ‘And There Was Light,’ with its unforgettable, overwhelming fortissimo.”
Our Creator has given much to his Creation, granting wonderful and beautiful gifts to man, both male and female. Even his glory shines through those who deny him. Accept each gift as special and unique, given that we may glorify him and enjoy him in every area of our lives, forever and ever.

B I R D S

2007-09-11T08:56:00.000-05:00

It has been a long and hot August in Iowa. Seven years ago Grandpa and Grandma moved to Washington, Iowa as our place of retirement. And it was hot. But the Augusts in-between have been not as hot. (So much for Global Warming, the Lord’ providential care of his creation is still active.) Nevertheless, it has been a pleasure to be near our daughter and her family; with a feeling of sadness that we are far from our son and his family, with a joy as we see the boys (now four, Andrew, Joshua, Titus, and Matthew).
What about the heading of this Blog, “Birds”? The picture before you is Grandpa with their grandchildren Micah and Emma Ruth. September has come and home-schooling has started, and Fall is upon us. The children came over for a visit and we are seen here looking at one of the books on birds. Great Pictures! The Lord has certainly given us some beautiful creatures, which he personally takes care: “He sends the springs into the valleys, which run among the hills. …By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches” (Ps. 104:10, 12). Spring brought forth the fruit of the works of the hand of God, “For lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; the flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle (dove) is heard in our land” (Song of Songs 2:11-12).
The city of Washington is known for its trees and flowers. We do not have the Turtle Dove, but we do have the Morning Dove, along with the Robin, Cardinal, Blue Jay and Woodpecker, etc. We also enjoy seeing the Humming Birds coming to the feeder. Though Fall and Winter are near, we will enjoy other scenes of God’s creation, looking forward to another Spring. Man seeks death while the Lord redeems life. My favorite bird is the Eagle, another bird that is prevailing in this part of Iowa. We looked at the book of birds in our living room, which contains pictures and sculptures of the Eagle. The Eagle should remind us of the life we have in Christ, that we are held preciously in the hands of our Savior. David reminds us of our Lord’s providential care which is in him “Who redeems thy life from destruction; who crowns thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; who satisfies thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s” (Ps. 103:4-5).

Look to Jesus

2007-09-04T09:10:00.000-05:00

Burn your candles at both ends...

Well may he scratch his head who burns his candle at both ends; but, do what he may, his light will soon be gone, and he will be all in the dark.

If the candle has burned all away, the Sun in the heavens is still alight. Look to Jesus, and live. His salvation is without money and without price. Though you may not have a penny to bless yourself with, the Lord Jesus will bless you freely. The depths of your misery are not so deep as the depth of God's mercy. If you are faithful and just in confessing the sins you would have forgiven, God will be faithful and just in forgiving the sins which you confess. -Charles H. Spurgeon, John Ploughman's Pictures.

How many verses can you list (and read carefully) in the above witness of Spurgeon?

Grandpa

Letters to our sons and daughters

2007-08-28T09:05:00.000-05:00

Christian fathers have a responsibility to their sons and daughters. Sons especially need the counsel of their fathers as they will face responsibilities as fathers. Our prayers for our daughters are that they will have the joy of having husbands who have received such counsel from their fathers. At which point we must humbly ask forgiveness for not being the fathers we should have been, bowing our hearts in humble thanksgiving to our Father in heaven that our sons and daughters have received blessings beyond our endeavors and expectation.
Following is a letter from President Theodore Roosevelt to his son Ted, who was attending Harvard. [There are those who would like to move us according to their scheme of things. Here is where we must counsel our children that they must stand firm in their faith with much patience, not allowing others to determine or hinder our goals in life.]
How to Handle College Critics
White House, October 2, 1905
Consider the challenge of being the President’s son and attending Harvard. Teddy Jr., was dogged by reporters and subjected to some very unfortunate and untruthful published accounts of his doing. In true Rooseveltian fashion, his father sent him letters of encouragement, in which he shared his indignation for what was being done, and he offered solace to his first born son.-D.W.P
Blessed Old Ted:
The thing to do is to go on a you have evidently been doing, attract as little attention as possible, do not make a fuss about the newspaper men, camera creatures, and idiots generally, letting it be seen that you do not like them and avoid them, but not letting them betray you into any excessive irritation. I believe they will soon drop you, and it is just an unpleasant thing that you will have to live down. Ted, I have had an enormous number of unpleasant things that I have had to live down in my life at different times and you have begun to have them now. I saw that you were not out on the football field on Saturday and was rather glad of it, as evidently those infernal idiots were eagerly waiting for you, but whenever you do go you will have to make up your mind that they will make it exceedingly unpleasant for you for once or twice, and you will just have to bear it; for you can never in the world afford to let them drive you away from anything you intend to do, whether it is football or anything else, and by going about your own business quietly and pleasantly, doing just what you would do if they were not there, generally they will get tired of it, and the boys themselves will see that it is not your fault, and will feel, if anything, rather a sympathy for you. Meanwhile I want you to know that we are all thinking of you and sympathizing with you the whole time; and it is a great comfort to me to have such confidence in you and to know that though these creatures can cause you a little trouble and make you feel a little downcast, they can drive you one way or the other, or make you alter the course you have set out for yourself. … This is just an occasion to show the stuff thee is in you. Do not let these newspaper creatures and kindred idiots drive you one hair’s breadth from the line you had marked out in football or anything else. Avoid any fuss, if possible.
[The Letters & Lessons of Theodore Roosevelt for his Sons, Compiled and edited by Doug Phillips, The Vision Forum]
Note: today the ‘idiots’ of printed, radio, TV, and Internet, not only do they not give up easily, but even when truth hits them in their face they are unable (unwilling) to place them between their undiscerning ears. Why do I place this on my ‘family BLOG’? Because our children are being bombarded with much false hood and we must be wary in what we say as well as what they hear. –Grandpa La May

The Sawdust Trail

2007-08-16T07:26:00.000-05:00

The "Sawdust Trail" of Billy Sunday has been replaced today with politicians whose trampling of feet (lately in Iowa), with smiles of promises like the sawdust itself of a bygone evangelistic meeting, tickling the ears of hopeful voters. The differences are blatantly seen but blindly received. On the one hand the Prince of Peace is offered as the Governor of our lives; on the other hand the politicians present themselves as the governors of our hopes, offering promises on the promise that our wallets will be their wallets (while millions pour through their coffers). Their rhetoric fill the air with false false facts while they tear each other down. True history is an unknown equation while ply their wares and seek support by devious ways.

Grandpa sees a light shining forth in Billy Sunday, who was converted to Christ in 1886 at the Pacific Garden Mission in Chicago. At that time he was playing baseball with the Chicago White Stockings, leaving baseball in 1891 to do full time evangelistic work. Billy Sunday's first evangelistic crusade was held in Garner, Iowa in 1896. Time and money were gladly given by many supporters, while great planning and prayer preceded the meetings. Billy Sunday preached to millions and it was estimated that three hundred thousand people were led to faith in Christ Jesus. His lesser achievements were the support of the Prohibition Amendment and his promotion of the sale of WWI bonds. Sunday's hand reached into the heart of his hearers.

The light which shines from the "presidential wonders (runners)" reaches the ears of our children and children's children. We must be prayer warriors in our homes, teaching the truth of those who have faithfully seen our nation as being governed by the Prince of Peace (note "statesman" blog). We need to pray that our Lord will raise Christian Statesmen who are faithful to the King of kings and His Word. Our nation's best foundation is the Word of God, His Law developing our nation to the end that He will be glorified and all people will be blessed. Noah Webster wrote that "The moral principles and precepts contained in the scriptures ought to form the basis of all our civil constitutions and laws. All the miseries and evils which men suffer from vice, crime, ambition, injustice, oppression, slavery, and war, proceed from their despising or neglecting the precepts contained in the Bible." (It is good to have a copy of The American Dictionary of The English Language, 1828, by Noah Webster, and compare it to the Webster's Dictionary of today.)

May our homes and churches be fortresses of Christ, praising Him as King of nations. May His kingdom advance to his honor.

Grandpa

Crooked Creek Camp

2007-08-07T10:06:00.000-05:00

The annual Family Camp of the Midwest Presbytery of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America met this year at Crooked Creek Camp, July 29-Aug. 2, outside of Washington Iowa. This year’s theme was “Sowing Peace,” speaker being Jonathan Parnell, Deacon at Topeka RP Church, Kansas. The campers had fun at the different activities, such as 50’s Day, Scottish Games, Scottish Irish Night, swimming, canoeing. The New Song of Geneva College provided singing and skits, both proclaiming the Gospel of Christ Jesus. Fun was had by all and fellowship with friends and family.

Geneva New Song

2007-08-01T09:15:00.000-05:00

We enjoyed a Tuesday evening out at the Iowa Reformed Presbyterian Family Camp '07 just a few miles outside of Washington, Iowa, at the Crooked Creek Christian Camp. It was special because the 'NEW SONG' -a ministry of Geneva College, Beaver Falls Pa - shared the joy of singing and testimony for Christ Jesus. The director is Louise (Edgar) Copeland and we have appreciated her leadership each time we have been blessed by the ministry. the young adults of New Song 2007, students at Geneva are seen in the picture, left to right: Kassie Lorey of Pittsburgh Pa, Abaigeal Smith of Beaver Falls Pa, Stephanie Ishler of DuBois Pa, Avery Mann of Kansas City Ks, Scott Metzger of Pittsburgh Pa, Tyler Marwood of Linesville, Pa, Thomas Meyer of Girard Pa, Josh Falk of Clarinda Ia, Jordan Feagley of Huntington Pa.

Their voices rejoiced as they sang a cappella the Psalms of God's Word. It was a joy to hear their witness through song and skits. You could hear their joy as they shared the word of God. It was good to meet the young people. One of the boys, Joshua Falk, was just so tall when he was one of the children during my pastorate at Clarinda. He is now just about my height (and seemingly still growing), growing in maturity and love for Christ. Get acquainted with Geneva and may they be available at your fellowship next year.

With a thankful heart for the many friends, young and older, who were there at the camp,

Grandpa

Zion in Tennessee

2007-07-06T08:34:00.000-05:00

Kay is standing at the manse where we lived in 73-75

We had a joyous time in Columbia, Tennessee this past weekend of June 29 to July 1. 2007 is the 200th Anniversary of the Zion Presbyterian Church, PCA. This was the weekend that they honored the previous pastors. The fellowship was great. Grandpa served the Zion Church 1973-75 as their Pastor. There were just a few families left since my wife Kay and I were there. It was great to have been invited to stay with George and Imogene Nelson. George is a brother in the faith and was one my officers. They opened their hearts and home to us and was shown around the city of Columbia, as they were celebrating the year as their 200th Anniversary. They have grown too and have made some beautiful changes.
Grandpa was the first pastor when the Zion Church entered the Presbyterian Church in America. The Church now has a "Campus" type ministry, with a school through 12th grade. The sanctuary shines beautiful with its organ pipes glowing and its stain glass windows. The pulpit still belongs to the faithful preaching of the Word of God. Their theme for the celebration was, "Celebrating 200 Years of Continuous Worship to the Glory of God." Some families came for a visit who where there in '73. Their pastor is J. Arch Warren. There were some 400 in attendance. Bagpipes were played by Todd Boswell to remind us of their Scottish heritage. The past pastors attending were Taylor McGown, Don Johnson, myself, Robert La May.
If you get a chance to stop by and visit Zion be sure you stop at the Museum on their campus. Grandpa enjoyed showing visitors the museum, one time a one-room school house where President Polk once attended. A brief historical sketch reads, "Zion Presbyterian Church is a unique landmark located near Columbia, Tenn.Scottish and Scott-Irish Presbyterians immigrated to South Carolina around 1731. In 1805 and 1806, eleven families of their descendants came to Maury County, Tenn. They organized Zion Presbyterian Church in 1807 and erected their house of worship in the center of their 5,120 acres of land purchased from the heirs of General Nathaniel Greene, a part of the 25,000 acres, now in Maury County, granted to General Greene in 1784 for his in the Revolutionary War. These pioneer settlers erected the building of logs even before building their own homes. The second building served until 1849, when the present brick building was completed. The foundation is dry masonry, the timbers hand-hewn, the bricks molded and kilned nearby. Zion Church has served as the religious and social center of the community continuously to the present time. The concrete and brick annex was built and dedicated in 1973, the Brown-Fulton Building in 1991."

Father's Day

2007-06-16T14:52:00.000-05:00

A Message for Father's Day;

Though Grandpa did not write a note for Mother's Day, she is not forgotten; and is included in these thoughts.

The following thoughts follow that of the previous Blog which spoke of Generations. There is a Scripture which reads, "Hear, ye children the instruction of a father, and agttend to know understanding. For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law. For I was my father's son, tender and only bloved in the sight of my mother. He taught me also, and siad unto me, Let thine heart retain my words; keep my commandments, and live." These are the words of "Wisdom" as recorded in Proverbs 4:1-4). They remind us of the glorious and awful responsibility that is ever before us, to teach the truth faithfully as the Lord has revealed it, and with the generations to come in mind. It is with repentant heart that the faithful father remembers his unfaithfulness; acknowledging the need to continue to rest in the faithfulness of the Lord. It is also a joy to see our children and children's children grow in the admonition of the Lord; and that it is the Spirit who has kept us in the arms of our Savior, revealing the precious love of God the Father. Therefore, with much prayer and thanksgiving we again place our children and children's children, and those who will come in future generations, before the throne of grace. May our Lord enable us as fathers and grandfathers to speak faithfully, "Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many. I have taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths." -Prov. 4;10-11.

With love in my heart to our children and children's children, we rejoice in these great gifts from out Father in heaven.

Grandpa LaMay

From Generation to Generation

2007-06-02T13:44:00.000-05:00

"Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious honor of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works" [Psalm 145:3-5]. From the unsearchable richness of the greatness of our Creator, of the Trinue God who is our Salvation, flows a river of of grace, wherein the Lord has revealed his majestic works. What an awesome task has been given us as we teach our children of the wonder of His creation and the joy of his saving grace. If it were not for the Comforter who is our Teacher, and the Word which He has given us, we would be unable to know the beauty of one generation passing on the Works of our God to another. This Psalm of praise which the Lord has given us to remember His works from generation to generation is again and again written upon our hearts and impressed upon minds when we look at our children and children's children. We just received a picture of our latest grandchild, Matthew Curtis LaMay [born, Feb. 10, 11 mos]. He looks at peace, a peace which will be ever his as he comes to knowledge of Christ Jesus, Lord and Savior. We are thankful for our children who are teaching their children. So we lift Matthew up in prayer, as well as his brothers, Andrew, Joshua, Titus, and his cousines Micah and Emma Ruth.

Grandpa and Grandma are one happy generation.

Grandpa LaMay

Meditation: His Resurrection

2007-04-08T08:03:00.000-05:00

Jesus stood before his disciples, saying, “Behold my hands and my feet that it is I myself; handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have” [Luke 24:39]. May your eyes of faith see the truth that the Christ, our Savior, is truly alive, interceding on our behalf, from the right hand of God the Father. The Catechism teaches us that “Christ was exalted in his resurrection, in that, not having seen corruption in death, (of which it was not possible for him to be held,) and having the very same body in which he suffered, with the essential properties thereof, (but without mortality, and other common infirmities belonging to this life,) really united to his soul, he rose again from the dead the third day by his own power; whereby he declared himself to be the Son of God, to have satisfied divine justice, to have vanquished death, and him that had the power of it, and to be Lord of quick and dead: all of which he did as a public person, the head of the church, for their justification, quickening in grace, support against enemies, and to assure them of their resurrection from the dead at the last day.” [L. C. # 52].

Trip East to Matthew

2007-03-29T08:42:00.000-05:00

Grandpa and Grandma took a pleasant trip east, finding route 80 around Chicago was good to us, traveling through without a stop. Our first stop was in the beautiful Finger Lakes of New York to see our brothers. We then traveled to Wexford, Pennsylvania to visit our new grandson (of son Philip and Michelle); a new boy, Matthew, added to Andrew, Joshua, and Titus. It was a great time to be with the family. On the Sabbath we worshiped together, Grandpa La May having the privilege to baptize Matthew. The Pastor of North Hills RP Church had a very appropriate message from the second epistle of Paul to the Corinth Church. Pastor Harry Metzger preached the Gospel of Triumph: “Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savor of his knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved” (2:14-15). It is a joy to know that our children are sitting under a Pastor and Elders who are faithful to the Word of God, to a congregation that gives needed fellowship one to another.
Baptism is defined by the Shorter Catechism as that which “signify and seal our ingrafting into Christ, and partaking of the benefits of the covenant of grace, and our engagement to be the Lord’s.” Baptism tells us of the marvelous grace of our Lord, of how one is brought into fellowship with God through Jesus Christ. Therefore we pray with the parents that as our children grow in this covenant relationship, that they will come to knowledge of Christ as their Savior and Lord.The pictures above are: 1. The Falls in Montour Falls, New York; 2. Grandma and Matthew; 3. Grandpa and boys

Covenant Blessing

2007-03-19T08:24:00.000-05:00

This past week a baby boy has been born to Joshua and Cailan. “Elias Stephen Matthews” weighed in at seven pounds, as you can see by the picture at the right. Joshua proudly spoke of his wife, Cailan, “Mom did extraordinarily well. Her doctor said she was the ‘model first pregnancy.’ Though the doctor did not spend a painful 24 hours in the hospital . . . (the next morning) An hour or so later, out he came! It was the bravest act I’ve ever witnessed, a testimony to Cailan’s perseverance and desire. She’s amazing.”
We rejoice with Joshua and Cailan and Elias, whom we have known in the Church fellowship. Our prayers are with them with thanksgiving. God does marvelous things. One is that union we have with one another in Christ, enabling us to rejoice together!
There are two families that a Christian belongs to, that of a particular home, and that of the Church universal. The similarity between these two families is that they are generational. In other words both families can be characterized by both past and future generations. The past generations reveal from whence we come. The future generations are seen as important and active in that what we do today will be a blessing or curse to our children and children’s children. The Bible teaches us of the faith of those who have gone on before us, thus encouraging us in our faith: “Wherefore seeing we are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us” (Heb. 12:1).
Another similarity between the two families is the joy we share as new-born children enter into our households. Jesus teaches us, “I say unto you there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repents” (Luke 15:10). Jesus further teaches that this entrance into his Church is this, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God” (John 3:3). We also rejoice together as our Lord adds precious ‘newborn’ souls to his Church. We also rejoice as the Lord blesses our homes with the newborn baby who has been graciously nourished within the womb. The Church rejoices with this family, and the families rejoice with the Church. The blessings come from the present generation and will be felt by the next generations to come.
Grandpa always has many things to be thankful for.

Meditation For the Weekend

2007-03-08T15:38:00.000-06:00

Meditate on this: Our obedience should reveal our knowledge of Christ [1 John 2:3-6]
The beloved Apostle confirms our faith in Christ, “And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected; hereby know we that we are in him, He that sayeth he abideth in him ought himself to walk, even as he walked.” The word know means to perceive or understand, i.e. to know experientially.
Matthew Henry wrote, “Now light is to kindle love; and love must and will keep the word of God; it enquires wherein the beloved may be pleased and served, and, finding he will be so by observance of his declared will, there it employs and exerts itself; there love is demonstrated; there it has its perfect (or complete) exercise, operation, and delight; and hereby (by this dutiful attendance to the will of God, or Christ) we know that we are in him, we know that we belong to him, and that we are united to him by that Spirit which elevates and assists us to this obedience.”

Day of Joy and Thanksgiving

2007-02-17T16:53:00.000-06:00

The coming to fellowship on that day of the Lord called the Sabbath.
"Stir up your hearts in an especial manner to the greatest alacrity and joy, in speaking and singing the praises of God. The Lord's day is a day of joy and thanksgiving, and the praises of God are the highest and holiest employment upon earth. And if ever you should do any thing with all your might, and with a joyful and triumphing frame of soul, it is this. Be glad that you may join with the sacred assemblies, in heart and voice, in so heavenly a work."
--Richard Baxter, A Christian Directory
Praise ye the Lord. Sing unto the Lord a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints." --Psalm 19:1

Breaking News - Matthew is here!

2007-02-12T08:42:00.000-06:00

Breaking News is Good News -- Grandpa and Grandma LaMay have a new grandson!

Philip and Michelle gave birth to Matthew Curtis LaMay on Saturday, February 10th at 3pm; Matthew weighed 8lbs 4oz, and was a great 21 inches long. He came with a full head of blond hair. Philip and Michelle now have 4 boys and that should brighten Pittsburg and surrounding areas.

It is with joy that we share with you this wonderful blessing. Of course the pictures will speak wonders.

Matthew will let the world know the "Breaking News!"

Grandpa

Embrace the Truth

2007-02-08T08:07:00.000-06:00

Joshua was appointed to continue the task of Moses, who encouraged him to be a great leader: “Be strong and of good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them (the enemy); for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee” (D. 31:6). True leadership or statesmanship is found in the character of the leader whose strength is found in Truth; whose wisdom comes from an inward character which looks to the Lord: “Behold, thou dost desire truth in the inward parts; and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom” (P. 51:6). A righteous statement fears the Lord, knowing his judgment upon wickedness; thus says the Lord: “And they bend their tongues like their bow for lies; but they are not valiant for the truth upon the earth; for they proceed from evil to evil, and they know not me” (J. 9:3).
There is a righteous kingdom which advances on this earth that seeks to embrace truth and not error. Its King is the Son who speaks, “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (J. 8:31-32). [Have you noticed how the leaders who teach lies are the ones whose voices are the loudest, and whose practice is not to allow the truth to hinder their agenda? –Grandpa] The King walks with those who rejoice in the truth: “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (J. 14:6). Therefore, those who would be statesmen showing real leadership, “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2T. 2:15).
Embrace the truth and it will embrace your heart and deeds which will be a blessing to all, and a glory to God. -Grandpa

Weekend Meditation - Ethics and Conscience

2007-01-26T09:15:00.000-06:00

“Walk always with God, as in his presence, and in the awe of his laws and judgment, that conscience may be kept awake and tender. You will be restrained from vain talk, if you perceive that God is hearing you, and if you remember that your tongue is under a law, and that ‘for every idle word man shall give account in the day of judgment,’ Matt. 12. 36, 37, and that by your ‘words you shall be justified or condemned.’ If the law of God were in your hearts, Psal. 11. 8, and hidden there, Psal. 119. 11, your heart would be fixed, Psal. 57. 7. His word then would be the rejoicing of your heart, Psal. 119. 111; and your tongues would be talking of judgment, Psal. 37. 30. A tender conscience will smart more with an idle word, than a seared, senseless conscience with an oath, or lie, or slander. For fear of God is clean, Psal. 19. 9, and by it men depart from evil, Prov. 16. 6. ‘Be thou therefore in the fear of the Lord all the day long,’ Prov. 23. 17.” – Richard Baxter.
The study of the Word of God will strengthen the conscience.
Grandpa

Give Me Liberty

2007-01-24T08:03:00.000-06:00

We need to pray, seek, and vote for statesmen that will be a blessing because of their character and faithfulness to that which is right and good, and not those who keep promising us benefits that they will vote into law, but will be paid for by reaching into the pockets of the citizens of our Nation.
There is a valuable book written by David J. Vaughan, Give Me Liberty, which teaches The Uncompromising Statesmanship of Patrick Henry. The author writes of this great orator of our nation giving us insight into what a real statesman is: “Henry rightly understood that the moral condition of the American people was a direct product of their religious faith, and that politics and morality were inevitably intertwined. Thus, the political structure ultimately rested on a religious foundation. The ‘great pillars of all government and of social life,’ Henry once observed, are ‘virtue, morality, and religion.’ ‘This is the armor…that renders us invincible’ to all our enemies. But ‘if we lose these, we are conquered, fallen indeed.’”
Question: Is the leadership of our Nation quietly and purposefully chopping away at the moral and Christian foundation of government and people?
Let us not retreat in this matter!
Grandpa
(Continued tomorrow)

New Year Resolve

2007-01-01T08:49:00.000-06:00

New Year Resolutions are, at best, Promises made to be broken. Such resolutions have very little hope to be kept, as they are made upon broken promises of the past year. There are those resolutions which are nothing more than old hopes that were not realized, i.e. elimination of free speech for the Christian. Resolutions as man’s desires have no foundation but that which comes from the human mind; in which case we become like the humanist whose moral foundation is built upon the muck of self-edification.
There is a better way to start the New Year: Resolve to live by truth rather than by the lies which only satisfy one’s own vision, i.e. to live by a world view without a firm foundation. Noah Webster’s American Dictionary of 1828 defines resolution as “v. - To inform, to free from doubt or perplexity; as to resolve the conscience;” and “n. - Fixed purpose of mind, settled determination.” Resolve in its verb form means that we become as informed as possible that our minds and consciences are free from doubt or confusion. He who is the Truth spoke of the nature of truth and where it can be found: “If you continue in my word, then are you my disciples (learners) indeed; and you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free” (Jo. 8:31-32); truth being defined as the unveiling of the reality of things.
Thomas Sowell editorial on today’s Townhall.com (Jan.1 ’07, A dangerous obsession part V) writes, “Perhaps it is one of the fruits of ‘self-esteem’ emphasis in our schools that so many people feel confident to voice strong convictions about things they know little or nothing about – or, worse yet, are misinformed about.” Mr. Sowell illustrates this thought referring to those “think that they, or the government, ought to be deciding how much income people make are in effect saying that they know the value of people’s output better than those who use that output and pay for it with their own money.” Towards the end of his article are these appropriate words, “Are individual decisions made by people deciding what is best for themselves to over-ruled by ignorant busybodies, obsessed by things they do not understand?”
This brings us back to our New Year Resolves! We are being ruled over by many ignorant busybodies, rather then moral statesmen who desire is waddle in pork (my apology to those who provide us with that other white meat); or those who would define for us the meaning of religion and where we can mention the name of our Creator, and thus, to the sadness of many Christians, that we do not honor Him as the Ruler of nations.
Therefore, let us begin with ourselves, to resolve to learn the truth of the matter, and then proclaim and practice it. God’s Book presents us with the picture of the good man in the home, church and, yes, in the halls of Congress: “But whoso looks into the perfect law of liberty, and continues therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed” (Ja. 1:25). Are you ready to make that resolve now, to look into that moral law and continue to live in that righteousness and truth, that your work will be so blessed in that place where you serve in home and nation? That your decisions and actions will stand firm on truth? Then the New Year will be made new, profitable that all will be blessed.
Grandpa.

Morocco [2]

2006-12-20T08:13:00.000-06:00

Grandpa had enjoyed the beauty of the gardens of Morocco as its lovely fruit. I could have well enjoyed whole meals with the fresh fruit that they placed upon the tables. The pictures of the city of Dakhar reveal its freshness as well as its history. It was pleasant to visit the shops and the people of the city. Dakhar is in the Sahara part of Morocco.
Grandpa is naïve about the teachings of the Koran and their belief in Allah. The Koran is a dangerous book, but God’s Word is powerful and true. There are not two gods (authorities) but one God and Allah is not God. Scripture has been given to us by the Spirit of God (the second Person of the Godhead) that we might know God as they Triune God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Though the Koran acknowledges Jesus, they only do so as a prophet along with others, as Mohammed being Allah’s prophet. Also, we recognize that as we met with the dignitaries of Morocco they presented themselves in the best of lights (though mixed with lies). As some has noted they were not interested in hearing about our Christian faith (we were there to listen to them). Grandpa is still sifting through the experience and desiring to know more of the truth about certain topics that they brought forth.
Nevertheless, their hospitality was good, accepted as being genuine, and enjoyed. We did not sit with them to unite ourselves to them but to show a friendship with a desire to listen. Scripture teaches us that the Triune God is Sovereign in all things. He brings up nations and He brings nations down before His judgment. Within the Almighty acts of God He opens doors for His people that the Gospel may be revealed. There is a Christian presence in Morocco, a few churches and Bible studies, as well as an underground church. We also have an obligation to encourage them in their situation, to pray for them and be ready to stand with them. When you sit with the Moroccans you realize that they are under the Kingship of Christ, for judgment on the one hand, for redemption on the other. We must be as wise as serpents and ready to serve wherever and whenever He sends us.
Coveting all opportunities for the advancement of the Kingdom of Christ,
His servant,
‘Grandpa”
Robert L. La May

Visit to Morocco

2006-12-18T08:00:00.000-06:00

Grandpa had a great opportunity to travel to a nation where he had once lived for two years at a U.S. Naval Air Base. The picture at the right was taken in Rabat (Country Club) - you will note the tower in the background. I had brought some pictures I took while at the Base in 52-54 and one was of this tower. As a delegate of the Christian Observer I joined a group of Christians under the banner of Christian Friendship Mission, which had accepted an invitation to visit the country of Morocco. My first stop after being picked up at the Casablanca airport was the city of Fez (where I immediately bought a Fez). When I was there in ’53 & ’54 the roads were narrow and the country was called ‘French Morocco.’ Since then they have retained their country being ruled by the Sultan or King. Since the ‘80’s the country has truly grown, cities as busy as can be, four lane highways up the coast, investments from other nations giving Morocco a new face. The almost new University and its campus is a beautiful place to see, educating young people from various nations in various disciplines. Pictured at the left is the V. P. of Academic Affairs AL Akawhen University Driss Ouaouicha (Ifrane). I was most impressed by their library of books and computers. The atmosphere for study was great.
The purpose of the trip was to build a viable bridge of friendship; the kind of friendship which we pray will reveal the will of our Lord in establishing His church out of every nation. The Moroccans went out of their way in hospitality, with four plate dinners and conversations that helped us understand some of their desires and needs. We met with the Wali’s (like governors of territories) [see pic at right of Wali Hassan Ourid in Meknes) who seemed to appreciate the time to express their views about their relationship with America, and their needs as a nation. We met with two Sahrawi Refugees at the Civil Society Building in Dahhla. Concern was expressed for those who were still kept in refugee camps and discussion as to what is needed to help those in oppression.
We stayed at the Sahara Hotel in Dakhla, which was a delightful experience. We met with those who were meeting for Bible Study. The hospitality at the Hotel went beyond that of just having a room to stay. (More pictures at a later date).

Thanksgiving Question

2006-12-12T08:50:00.000-06:00

Grandpa has been traveling. However, there is a holiday that travels the less distance but faster. The two holidays that run on fuel called pecuniary proceeds, are Halloween and Christmas (which is a holiday sometimes called holiday). In between these holidays is that which is called Thanksgiving (if you read the previous Blog you would get an understanding of why there is such a holiday).
Halloween in Brooklyn in the 40’s was the time for tricks. It was the time when Dad took down the gates, and along with the garbage cans, locked them in the basement. Thanksgiving was a time of celebration. Thursday morning we put on our worse clothes and went around the neighborhood, knocking on doors and saying, “Anything for Thanksgiving?” We had to get home in time for Church worship, followed by the family thanksgiving dinner. We came home with paper bags filled with apples and oranges and nuts. The following week Christmas decorations started to find its way into the stores. We especially waited for Macy’s and other Department Stores to decorate their windows. A trip to Manhattan during the season was a must for the family to see the Christmas Tree and watch the skaters take to the ice. Grandpa had the opportunity to don his skates a couple of years.
Enough of memories. What Grandpa really wants to say is that there is a reason for Thanksgiving to passed over, and Christmas a time for the ACLU and others to eliminate the signs of the Christian celebration (even to the extent of one principal hiding the green and red colored papers).
What is the real reason to hide the fact that our forefathers set apart a day of thanksgiving; that many rejoiced in the truth of the birth and life of the Savior? It is this: “To whom are we to give thanks, and to whom are we to worship with thanksgiving?”

Thank you Lord!

2006-11-22T17:27:00.000-06:00

Grandpa prays for Almighty God to raise up statesmen that recognize the blessing of the Triune God which is to all people. Would that we had men in Congress today who are not ashamed of the Christ Jesus the King of kings. Would that our President give thanks to Almighty God. as He has revealed Himself in Holy Scripture. How far have we departed from the faith of our fathers who wrote the following in 1777?

Forasmuch as it is the indispensable Duty of all Men to adore the superintending Providence of Almighty God; to acknowledge with gratitude their obligation to him for benefits received and to implore such farther blessings as they stand in need of; and it having pleased him in his abundant mercy not only to continue to us the innumerable bounties of his common Providence, but also to smile upon us in the prosecution of a just and necessary war, for the defense and establishment of our unalienable rights and liberties; particularly in that he hath been pleased in so great a measure to prosper the means used for the support of our troops and to crown our arms with most signal success: It is therefore recommended to the legislature or executive powers of these United States, to set apart Thursday, the eighteenth day of December next, for Solemn Thanksgiving and Praise; that with one heart and one voice the good people may express the grateful feelings of their hearts, and consecrate themselves to the service of their Divine Benefactor, and that together with their sincere acknowledgements and offerings, they may join the penitent confessions of their manifold sins, whereby they had forfeited every favour, and their humble and earnest supplication that it may please God, through the merits of Jesus Christ, mercifully to forgive and blot them out of remembrance; that it may please him graciously to afford his blessing on the governments of these States respectfully, and prosper the public council of the whole; to inspire our commanders both by land and sea, and all under them, with that wisdom and fortitude which may render them fit instruments, under the Providence of Almighty God, to secure for these United States the greatest of all human blessings, Independence and Peace; that it may please him to prosper the trade and manufacturers of the people and the labour of the husbandman, that our Land may yet yield its increase; to take schools and seminaries of education, so necessary for cultivating the principles of true liberty, virtue and piety, under his nurturing Hand, and to prosper the means of Religion for the promotion and enlargement of that Kingdom which consisteth “in righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost.” And it is further recommended, that servile labour, and such recreation as, though at other times innocent, may be unbecoming the Purpose of the Appointment, be omitted on so solemn an occasion. – Samuel Adams, Rev. John Witherspoon, Richard Henry Lee; passed by the Congress on the first of November, 1777.

Friends old and new

2006-09-18T08:37:00.000-05:00

Summer has been here and gone, except for the memories of meeting new and old friends. Grandpa and Grandma had a needed vacation where we could just ‘relax and enjoy.’ First we headed for West Virginia, with a stay-over in Indiana; we drove into Fairmont, WV, late afternoon on Saturday, August 5. We visited with David and Myra Hamilton. It is many years since we had fellowship with these beloved friends. We looked at pictures of the family, specially the grandchildren (each of us soon expecting another grandchild). It was in the year of our Lord 1970 that Grandpa had the joy of marrying David and Myra. After Grandpa left Fairmont to serve in a church in Tennessee, we had gotten together. Now the years have passed and we promised not to wait too long. When we arrived in Fairmont on that Saturday David and Myra took us out to a great restaurant which we had enjoyed back when…Murriel’s (?) still served the best Italian food you can find anywhere. We worshipped together the next day and met old friends when Grandpa was the minister. It was great getting re-acquainted and experiencing good changes.
Monday morning, Aug. 7 we took off for Rockingham County, Virginia, and the Free Church Conference of 2006. Grandpa and Grandma stayed at Lost River Retreat Center sixteen miles away in West Virginia as there was no room in the ‘inn’! Near there was the Appalachian arts and craft shop where a number of us visited during the week (there we bought a birthday gift for our Philip in Pennsylvania—a gift from West Virginia as he was born in Fairmont). Each morning and evening we traveled 16 miles to the conference. We had chosen this conference for the reason of getting re-acquainted with friends we had met when Grandpa served a church in Falls Church, Va. It was so good to fellowship with Sherman Isbell and his wife Lisa. The conference gave us both spiritual and physical refreshment. Our fellowship was enhanced by the appointment of certain tasks in ‘meal preparation’ in the Red Oak Lodge kitchen. Lisa was in charge of the food etc and we could not have had better food or better fellowship at each meal.
The speakers were another reason we chose to go to Virginia. The Rev. John J. Murray of Glasgow, Scotland spoke on the life and ministry of Professor John Murray (1898-1975), and on Robert M. M’Cheyne (1813-1843) and Andrew A. Bonar (1810-1892). The Rev. Kenneth MacDonald of Snizort, Isle of Skye, Scotland delivered tow evangelistic sermons. We enjoy the fellowship of theses men. (Kenneth and his wife Colleen is pictured with us.)
We met friends whom we met at the PEF Conference last year. A new friend who loved to talk sports. A family who belong to a church in Ohio pastured by an old-time friend. There were many children, youth, and young adults whom Grandpa enjoyed as their conversation was a blessing. Grandpa wished he could of play volley-ball but just doesn’t hop as high anymore. The spirit of true worship lifted our souls as we heard the Word of God proclaimed faithfully, the joyous singing of the Psalms, and the fellowship one with another in faith of our Lord and Savior Christ Jesus! The beauty of the area reminded us of our glorious Creator. We don’t know where our summer break will take us next year, but we know that our Lord has something pleasant for us.

Evangellyfish

2006-07-29T10:00:00.000-05:00

Grandpa found this word in The Washington Times (July 24) and it seemed to fit into how many people see the Christian Church today, nay, how many act that many would come to such a conclusion. The following commentary is very appropriate and we need to think seriously about the reality and strength of our faith in Christ our Savior and King:
“The major blind spot of megachurches is that they tend to be very effeminate with aesthetics, music, and preaching perfectly tailored for moms. Many men are repelled by this, and many of the men who find it appealing are the types to sing prom songs to Jesus and learn from their feelings while sitting in a seafoam green chair drinking herbal tea – the spiritual equivalent of Richard Simmons. A friend of mine calls the ‘evangellyfish’ with no spiritual vertebrae.
“Statistically, traditional churches are in steep decline, contemporary churches will dominate in the foreseeable future, and emerging churches are just beginning to sort out what the future holds for them. The two hot theologies today are Reformed and emerging. Reformed theology offers certainty, with a masculine God who names our sin, crushes Jesus on the cross for it, and sends us to hell if we fail to repent.
“Emerging theology offers obscurity, with a neutered God who would not say an unkind word to us, did not crush Jesus for our sins, and would not send anyone to hell. I came to Reformed theology by preaching through books of the Bible such as Exodus, Romans, John, and Revelation, along with continually repenting of my sin.”
-- The Rev. Mark Driscoll of Seattle’s Mars Hill Church, interviewed by Jason Bailey, July 4 in ChristianityToday.com
Rise up O men of God,
In the service of the King of kings and Lord of lords,
Grandpa

40 and still counting

2006-07-06T08:32:00.000-05:00

Grandpa and Grandma had a swell surprise this past Sunday evening. Our daughter Dorcas (Iowa) and Son Philip (Pennsylvania) worked it out without us being any wiser. Our 40th wedding anniversary was on July 2nd and the surprise came to light on that evening. (In celebration of this occasion the country shot off rockets red glaring on the 4th.J) Grandpa preached at the Washington Iowa RP Church in the morning and we had a ‘Psalm Sing’ in the evening. After the ‘Psalm Sing’ refreshments were served and Dorcas and helpers had the basement decorated in honor of the 40th. A table had pictures of the family from our wedding in ’66 to the present. Two churches (Washington & Morning Sun) took part in the ‘Sing’ and then shared in the evening festivity. There was a beautiful cake which was made by one of the mothers, Vickie Wilson. And then there was a large wooden basket on the table which contained letters from friends and family congratulating us on our 40th. Over 100 cards (and they’re still coming in) from New York, West Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Kansas, Iowa, Arizona, Virginia, Illinois, and Indiana. We certainly thank our Lord for both family and friends who expressed love and reminded us of activities we had forgotten. It would be great if we could just take a trip and stop by each one of them. Nevertheless, our thoughts of each one is of love and appreciation, for our Lord has blessed us richly as they years passed by. Thank you, Grandpa. (To see a picture of our children and children’s children, go to http://www.kinder-kreations.com/)

The Learning Curve

2006-06-15T08:46:00.000-05:00

We all know about the learning curve with the hope that we are somewhere above the middle. The learning curve is a false barometer as to who is doing well or better. If a majority of the students are doing great the dumb look dumber. If the majority of the students are doing poorly the smart look smarter. Therefore decisions are made upon false assumptions.
I recently wrote my Senators, receiving a very affable reply from one, which was appreciated. The topic was marriage as it should be, between a male and a female. The reply was two-fold. One, having a religious belief he held to that marriage be between man and woman. Two, the decision as to the marriage of the same sex ought to be left to the state (s). Whether our Senators and Representatives fit in the left, right, or center of the curve, is not the answer. The answer always resides in the truth of the matter, and statesmen who are willing to stand and express that truth. For the testimony of truth will do more to encourage the citizen to do what is right than any man made rule, which can easily be overturned by those live on the lower curve.
What is the truth of this matter? Our Creator set it straight, “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife; and they shall be one flesh” (Gen. 2:24). And, said the Sovereign Lord, “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder” (Matt. 19:6).
The learning curve has no place in the nation or in the home. It is not where we roam on the curve but where we stand on the ladder. We are to examine ourselves, or that of our students or children, as to where we are on the ladder of Truth. Truth shines brightly ahead of us and we pursue it one step at a time. Some of us move more slowly than others, but the examination should teach us if we are going in the right direction. This means that we must have a firm foundation upon which the ladder rests. And this foundation is the Sovereign Lord and His moral Law, which shall be a blessing to all people.
Our daughter Dorcas is seen at the right teaching her children. Micah looks like his mind is searching for that truth to the question asked, that which has been taught. Emma Ruth looks on and soon will take the next step and know the answer. What we teach not only affects this generation but will affect the generations to come. When decisions are made in government or the home, the generations to come must be taken into consideration. It is a glorious thing to realize that what we do, if it is right, will be a blessing to others. Question: What do the Scriptures principally teach? Answer: The Scriptures principally teach what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man. How is your ladder coming along?
The curve has no foundation. It is filled with loop holes. It is manipulated to fulfill the desires of man. Only the truth sets us free; only the truth that our Creator has revealed. Ought not our Creator to know what is best for His creation?
Grandpa

Grandpa's Pride: Together we are one in love!

2006-06-02T08:41:00.000-05:00

Both Grandpa and Grandma enjoyed a weekend with the whole family. With Philip and family in the Pittsburgh area and Dorcas and family in Iowa, we look forward to a yearly fellowship of our children and children’s children. We had three full days this year. The grandchildren enjoyed one another. And not only that, we celebrated Grandma’s birthday. And then, to top it off, Philip and Michelle, Dorcas and Rob, surprised Grandpa and Grandma with a celebration supper at the Olive Garden for our 40th wedding anniversary (i.e. July 2). We share with our summer family picture with much thanksgiving!
Standing: Rob Jarrard and Philip La May
Sitting (starting with back row): Grandpa & Grandma (holding Emma Ruth J.) La May, Michelle (holding son Titus) La May;
Micah J., Dorcas J., Andrew L., Joshua L.

Thought for the week: Springtime

2006-04-24T18:30:00.000-05:00

“The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds has come, and the voice of the turtle-dove is heard in our land.” –Song of Solomon 2:12
Charles Spurgeon (Morning and Evening) expresses the joy of Springtime, “Sweet is the season of spring, the long and dreary winter helps us to appreciate its genial warmth, and its promise of summer enhances its present delights. After periods of depression of spirit, it is delightful to behold again the light of the Sun of Righteousness; then our slumbering graces rise from their lethargy, like the crocus and the daffodil from their beds of earth; then is our heart made merry with delicious notes of gratitude, far more melodious than the warbling of birds.”
We look up and see the bright blue of the sky mixed with the white clouds, which at time thunder and bring the rain that nurtures of soil that it may bring forth its fruit. As we look at God’s Creation, we see the truth of His word, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth his handiwork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge” (Psalm 19:1-2)
Let us therefore, with notes of gratitude, “sing praises unto our King, sing praises. For God is the King of all the earth; sing praises with understanding” (Psalm 47:6-7).

Thought for the week: Righteousness

2006-04-20T08:14:00.000-05:00

It is the practice of righteousness, obedience to the moral Law of God, that sanctifies us daily to grow both in the knowledge of truth and in the doing of what is good. Paul writes to the “beloved saints” at Rome that the Son of God was sent in the likeness of sinful flesh that “the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us” (Romans 8:3-6). For we walk, not to please our fleshly desires, but after the things of the Spirit; for “to be spiritually minded is life and peace.”
Richard Baxter wrote, “Sound learning, or wisdom, in things of so high a nature as are the matters of salvation, will not be attained without hard study, earnest prayer, and humble submission to instructions; and all this a long time patiently endured, or rather willingly and delightfully performed.”

'Duh' Vinci

2006-04-20T07:41:00.000-05:00

Grandpa loves mysteries; especially those that reveal a healthy knowledge of history. There is a great series that takes place in the Australian outback with Inspector Napoleon. A newer series on Sherlock Holmes whose author shows a good knowledge of history and writes intelligently, is most refreshing. Then there is Rumpole of the Bailey that gives us a taste of ‘English’ law. And an Inspector, whose household is behind his crime solving, giving an out of the ordinary view of old London.
The da Vinci Code sounds like a good mystery thriller along with car chases and traveling between Paris, Rome, London and New York. Grandpa even likes to solve codes. However, Grandpa does not appreciate twisting history whose author purposely blasphemes the Lord and reveals the muck in which the author has decided to revel. The true Christian Church has as their Head, the Christ who is the second person in the majestic Godhead. The truth and nothing but!
We are not all that ignorant that our response is just “duh” with a blank look. Writings by corrupted minds have raised dull thoughts in each generation. We look and see nothing new from the Judas book to the Jesus Papers and Holy Blood, Holy Grail to the Da Vinci Code. We will let Baigent and Brown fight it out for “copyright infringement;” which should reveal something about the bottom line of their thinking. “Duh!”
Brown seems to believe that whatever statement he makes, whether it can be proved or not, is true because he has made the statement. Such as claiming that Jesus’ followers did not see him to be divine but saw him as just another human prophet. Of course, Scripture is more faithful to historical facts than Brown. Did not Peter say, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And the reply of Christ Jesus teaches us that truth is revealed by the true God, “Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona; for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven” (Matt. 16:16-17). And, of course, the statement reveals that Christ is of a divine nature.
Brown’s foolishness and purpose is revealed in his dealing with Leonardo who came from the province of da Vinci. He writes on his website that Leonardo was a prankster and a genius, stating that his paintings include secret codes, “whispering the same cryptic message.” What true scholars couldn’t find Brown did; as in his painting of the Last Supper Mary Magdalene was seated at the right of Jesus; or that the painting of the Mona Lisa was an androgynous self-portrait; as the King of Siam would say, etc., etc., etc. The twisted ‘facts’ goes on and on with “startling anomalies” which have no meaning or foundation except in the mind of the author. The bottom line being, there is no god but me, no authority but mine.
What is the best response of the Christian faith, of each of the members of the Body of Christ? Grandpa understands that it is the continued study of the Word of God that prepares the Christian to express clearly what God has revealed as the truth of the matter. First, “Let no man deceive you with vain words; for because these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience” (Eph. 5:6). Second, study hard, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word and deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father by him” (Col. 3:16-17).

Meditation for the week: Charity

2006-04-12T11:20:00.000-05:00

“Charity never fails!” As you read through chapter thirteen of First Corinthians you begin to understand the true nature of ‘Charity.’ If you have a Bible that has changed the word to ‘love,’ replace it, if only in your thoughts, to ‘charity.’ Our friend Scrooge, when cornered by those who asked for a gift for the helpless, said, “Are there not work-houses.” We could put it this way, Are there not government programs, entitlements, welfare agencies? In other words, just what is our responsibility in the practice of Charity. First of all, charity is the responsibility of home and church. Positively speaking, Charity begins at home! In the home and in the church we first practice charity; i.e., if there are those on food-stamps in the congregation, let us show charity and help them to be self-sufficient; if there are those who just lost a job, let us show charity that they may be back to work. Think about it. When we practice charity in the home and church we are not only helping one another, but we are preparing ourselves to help others around us. Charity is the unconditional love-response to one another. Charity belongs to us, not to the establishment of a welfare state. Charity “suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up . . . rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth.”

Grandpa is Back

2006-04-12T08:15:00.000-05:00

Grandpa took a trip to New Jersey last week for a time of business and fellowship with fellow elders of the Church. A proper goal is “How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity” (Ps. 133:1). However, Grandpa enjoyed landing in LaGuardia Airport, and seeing the Unisphere (largest globe in the world), reminding him of his visit to both the 1939 and 1964 New York World’s Fairs.
Landing at LaGuardia reminded me of Mayor LaGuardia, who, during a newspaper strike, read the Sunday Comics each Sunday afternoon. We laid on the floor as the comics came to ‘life’ over the radio (the best TV of its kind). Such was part of my growing up in Brooklyn.
Now that I am back in Iowa it is time to get the Blog back in action. There is always a growing lesson as we think about the past. Grandpa says, ‘to think without a foundation is to sink while believing you’re afloat.’ We are continually building. Therefore make your foundation sure. That reminds me, each Wednesday I have the pleasure of spending some time with grandson Micah. We spend most of time building. Actually, Micah does the real building, as you see in the picture. His imagination is refreshing. Though, there must be some destruction at the end. I believe it’s the process that counts. Remember, whether it is in the home, church, or government, “Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it, except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain” (Ps. 127:1).

Note the tubing added to the house - that's the water supply!

Warming the Globe

2006-03-31T08:01:00.000-06:00

Grandpa has seen some weather changes, having lived in ten of our wonderful Sovereign States in this ‘Republic’ that still stands, wobbling, but hopeful of a change in the right direction. However, we want to think of that which rises more and more in the thoughts of man, “Global Warming!”
The President recently referred to it in one of his talks as earth warming. Then there is the response to the discussion of Global Warming, “The government needs to do something about it.” This comes about because of the thought that man is responsible, and so ‘savior government’ must move quickly. One scientist has put forth the idea of a large machine that would suck out the carbon monoxide from our atmosphere. Oh well.
An interesting web for children put out by the EPA teaches these observations: that the earth has “warmed about 1ºF in the last 100 years. And the four warmest years of the 20th century all happened in the 1990s,” (which is not alarming); then comes these words that the “earth’s climate has been changing constantly over its 5 billion-year history. Sometimes, the climate has warmed so that the oceans have risen and covered much of the earth” (the word ‘constantly’ should warn of us of false reporting); now listen to this, that the “first people arrived in America between 15,000 and 30,000 years ago. During that time, much of North America was covered by great ice sheets. Some 14,000 years ago, the last ice sheet began to melt very quickly” (how glibly these words flow from the lips of those who mouth the words of the false gods of this world).
What’s the point? The point is that we latch on to teachings that have no basis of truth. As with the dark comic character of the Shadow, these teachers cloud the minds of our children bringing fear on the one hand, and false hope on the other.
What’s the answer? “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein, the seas, and established it upon the floods” (Ps. 24:1-2). In other words, the Globe, having been created some six thousand years ago, is being providentially cared for, even through the trouble of the floods of water that may come. Depending on the Lord who governs His earth does not mean we do nothing, but that we do it wisely.
God has given us wonderful earth on which to live. Grandpa remembers living north of Buffalo, and as fall approached he would, as he stepped out of the house, smell the clean fresh air that preceded the coming of the first snow. Climate can be beautiful.

Thoughts for the week: Path

2006-03-27T15:37:00.000-06:00

Our Prayer – “Show me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths” (Psalm 25:4).
If you came to a fork in a road (four pronged) and the guide told you that it mattered not which road you took, they all lead to the same place; you would surely question his wisdom. We define the word ‘path’ as that which leads to life. Psalm twenty-five gives us a clear understanding of what ‘Path’ he is talking about. It is the Path of God’s Truth, “Lead me in thy truth, and teach me” (v. 5). The child of God is assured that He will direct us in the right path that leads to life; “for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.” Our Lord confirms His tender kindness toward us in guiding us in the way we should go; “All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies” (v. 10).Look to Christ Jesus, who says, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no man cometh to the Father but by me” (John 14:6). For this is the Son whom God has sent, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

Grandpa ID's ID

2006-03-24T10:32:00.000-06:00

Yesterday Grandpa watched a program that told of how the theory of ‘Intelligent Design’ came about. DNA is the key to ID in that enzymes need to be directed to come together to form the needed protein, etc. A response has been that it is not ID but UD (Unintelligent Design) by which “invisible astral enzymes tend to mutate DNA to produce new life.” Then you have the Creationist who claims that evolution has the answer to life. Understanding that what God has written is true, since He was there at the beginning, He speaks to our intelligence, “In the beginning God created the Heavens, and the earth” (Gen. 1:1). This he did in a period of six days, by His word.
Grandpa, after going about the proverbial bush, really wants to identify the true nature of ID. We do this by going again to Scripture where we find the truth that it is God who first spoke of ‘Intelligent Design,’ before scientists happened upon the idea. We read that “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him, and without him was not any thing made that was made” (John 1:1-3). Placing the Greek word in place of the English word, we read, “In the beginning was the Logos, and the Logos was with God, and the Logos was God.” The meaning of the ‘Logos” is ‘Intelligence’ over against unintelligent speech of animals or man. We can do the same with the following sentence, “All things were ‘brought into existence’ by him, and without him was not anything ‘brought into existence’ that was ‘brought into existence.’ God could not have revealed it any clearer. With a little intelligence we can understand that the Almighty Lord created life by Intelligent Design, by His Intelligence or Logos or by Him who is the Logos, the Christ, the second person in the Godhead. Think intelligently! Be taught by the Spirit!

No Spin in the Adoption Scene

2006-03-24T07:51:00.000-06:00

The No Spin Zone had a Spin that went something like this, if there were no other couples to choose from, then, maybe a gay couple could adopt a child. Father Jonathan in his BLOG for Fox News answered those who defend such adoptions, writing, “Catholic Charities believes the absence of a mother or a father is another valid basis for adoption discrimination. They look for family atmospheres most likely to provide a well-rounded, integral development for the child.” He continues saying that, “’Mom’ can’t be replaced by a second dad, or vice-versa.” He further testifies, “Christianity teaches homosexuality is objectively sinful, while exhorting its followers to love and respect all of God’s children. When a Catholic agency refuses to place a child in a homosexual environment, it is not a sign of intolerance. It is not an act of disrespect or a lack of love. It is simply refusing to condone a lifestyle in contradiction with its core beliefs.”
Grandpa says that we, especially as Reformed Protestants, must be as clear in our testimonies for the truth that the Almighty Creator has established the family, which includes ‘Mom and Dad’ and any other lifestyle is not only foreign to the Bible, but detrimental to society. God’s Scripture teaches us, “So God created man in his own image; in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it; and have dominion . . .” (Genesis 1:27-28). In other words, the family whom God has created after His image, have great responsibility both in the home and in the governing of the earth under the Authority of God. Any other lifestyle adulterates the intended Creation of the Almighty, thus transgressing His moral Law.
The Westminster Shorter Catechism asks this questions, How did God create man? The answer, “God created man male and female, after his own image, in knowledge, righteousness, and holiness, with dominion over the creatures.”

Thoughts for the week: Truth

2006-03-20T08:35:00.001-06:00

The words of Christ are Truth: “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed. And ye shall know the Truth, and the Truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32). Christ is Truth: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no man commeth unto the Father but by me” (John 14:6). The Truth is being suppressed: “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness, and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness” (Rom. 1:18). To hold the truth defines the way of the humanist, the evolutionist, the atheist, etc., meaning that the wicked hold in captivity the Truth. They purposefully restrain or hinder the knowledge of Truth. Matthew Henry hits the nail on the head: “An unrighteous wicked heart is the dungeon in which many a good truth is detained and buried.”
Since there is Truth, it can be denied but not destroyed, it can only be held at bay through many devious means. The wicked places the eyes of their disciples upon the facts while keeping their thoughts away from the truth. Truth reveals the reality of the matter, while the facts are open to interpretation. Christ is the Truth. However, this fact does not fit the humanists’ view of the world, so the Truth is suppressed and the idea or fact of the existence of Christ is reinterpreted to fit that world-view.
We are, as Christians, rejoicing in the proclamation the Truth of the Gospel of Christ Jesus, according to the revealed Truth given to us by the Word of God, written. There are those who purposely fill their ears with wax and close their eyes, “lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and be converted,” lest the Lord “heal them” (Matt. 13:15). Let us therefore give thanks that Truth has been seen and heard: “Blessed are your eyes, for they see; and your ears for they hear” (16).
Therefore, as you study the Word of Truth, remember in thought and prayer the promise of our Savior, that when He the Spirit of Truth is come, he will guide you into all Truth (John 16:13-14).

Ye Shall Be Informed!

2006-03-17T07:51:00.000-06:00

“Why weren’t we informed?” was recently the cry of the press because our Vice-President didn’t let them know fast enough about his shooting accident. Grandpa’s advice: if you are involved in an accident call the press, and then 911. Mona Charen (Conservative Chronicle) revealed the uncompassionate response of the White House press corps, i.e., “Scott, would this be much more serious if the man had died?” She rightly makes this observation, “The press loves any story that potentially involves misbehavior on the part of those in power . . . To a point, this is a healthy check on abuse of power, But all too often it is merely a lazy press corps’ short cut to airtime or front page placement.”
Grandpa grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and remembers two of the newspapers that had these words in their banner: 1. “All the news that’s fit to print.” 2. “The truth shall set you free.” How closely they followed their own advice may be up to question, but the point is there was at least a resemblance to responsibility and truth. There is no constitutional law that says that we have to inform the press about anything. The role of an investigative reporter is that they seek out the news with responsibility and a desire to find out the truth about the matter. I have seen better behavior in a kindergarten class than some of the antics of the press corps (as if they forgot to take their naps). There is also the responsibility of law keeping and righteous activity upon those who are seeking the news. Respect for others may be a good course for some reporters, as they love to shove their mikes in the faces of others, trample upon the lawns while crying out that their freedom overrides that of others.
Freedom without responsibility demands freedom for some while denying it to others. Freedom of speech without a high moral responsibility is nothing but loud sounding drums beating upon the ears of those they think are inferior.
Amendment I (Roman numeral for one) reads, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” Question, “How has this Amendment been adulterated by government and press?” Freedom of speech does not demand that you should be informed, but good investigative reporting may come up with the information that will lead you to the truth that sets you free from error.

Thoughts for the week: Lovingkindness

2006-03-13T10:50:00.000-06:00

The lovingkindness of the Lord is very valuable and precious to the child of God, as it reveals the faithfulness and goodness of the Lord. Our faith and trust are firmly rooted in our Creator and Savior, as we continually abide under the shadow of His wings. Christ is our Light and our Life. Our faith is expressed in the Psalmists words, “How excellent is thy lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures. For with thee is the fountain of life; in the light shall we see light” (Ps. 36:7-9). In Christ alone is life and light. Calvin wrote, “that there is not a drop of life to be found without him, or which flows not from his grace.” The prophet wrote, “Let him that glorieth, glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which exercise lovingkindness, judgment and righteousness in the earth; for in these things I delight, saith the Lord” (Jeremiah 9:24).Rest in Christ Jesus and experience His lovingkindness as He draws you to Himself: “Yea I have loved thee with an everlasting love; therefore with loving kindness have I drawn thee” (Jer. 31:3). May the goodness of the Lord bless your faith and work, for what you have before you this week is what the Lord has given you.

An Enigma

2006-03-10T08:06:00.000-06:00

Grandpas are enigmas to many. For we belong to a special group who, because of their white hair, claim a wisdom beyond their age. We enjoy our grandchildren because the yell out ‘grandpa’ –or some form of that name, and give us a big hug. The world, however, does not understand wisdom. They have their own view. They rewrite history to fit their prejudices. They pass laws to fit their own moral lusts, etc. However, Christians must understand that they are to be enigmas to this other kingdom. Our natures have been changed to bear the image of the righteousness of God. Being an enigma to the world is our way of witnessing to them that there is a blessing, a happiness which can come from Christ alone.
One of our past Church Fathers, Dr. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, gives a neat understanding of Christ’s words, “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. He writes, “The Christian is different from the world in quality. He is a new man, a new creation; he belongs to an entirely different kingdom. And not only is the world unlike him; it cannot possibly understand him. He is an enigma to the world. And if you and I are not, in this primary sense, problems and enigmas to the non-Christians around us, then this tells us a great deal about our profession of the Christian faith.” Studies in the Sermon on the Mount, Eerdmans Pub. Co., page 63.
Think about that, and don’t be surprised about how the world continually reacts to the faith of those who are in Christ.

HE

2006-03-07T07:45:00.000-06:00

Our granddaughter Emma Ruth reminded grandpa that wisdom comes in all sizes. We were, along with daughter and mother Dorcas, in my home office (which includes computer, books, craft table, and sundry other items on floor and desk, etc), looking at that screen which at any time may show some measure of kindness. Wanting to show something to grandma, I turned to Emma Ruth and asked her to tell grandma to come and see. Later I was informed by grandma, who was in the kitchen, that the conversation went somewhat like this: Emma: “Grandma, your daddy wants you.” Her face went to thought and shaking her head, again spoke, “Grandma, your grandpa wants you.” Again shaking her head, thought for a moment, pointed her finger toward the hallway, said, “He wants you.”
Grandpa thinks we may need more head shaking, understanding the need far more humility and less satisfaction in remaining ignorant. Ignorance encourages stagnancy, bringing satisfaction to tyranny and the false teachers of this world. Humility bends the mind to truth, and reminds us that we don’t know everything, but we are enabled by our Creator to know the truth. We can nod our head up and down when someone picks up a rock and states that it must be at least a few hundred thousand years old; or we can shake our minds back and forth and seek the truth of the matter so clearly revealed by the Creator in His Word. Those who have ears that listen but hear not, shake their heads up and down, rather than expressing the wisdom of the young girl who shook her head from side to side. Is there a reason why the little ones quickly learn to shake their heads, saying ‘no’, before learning the ‘yes’ word?
The womb and the world belong to the Lord. He is the Creator! He sees beauty while many see ugliness without Him. David nods his head with hopeful confirmation, “But thou art HE that took me out of the womb; thou didst make me hope, when I was upon my mothers breasts. I was cast upon thee from the womb; that art my God from my mothers belly” (Ps. 22:9-10). The Psalmist sings of the glory of the Creator: “Who lays the beams of his chambers in the waters. Who makes the clouds his chariot; who walks upon the wings of the wind. Who makes his Angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire. Who laid the foundations of the earth; that it shall not be removed forever” (104:3-5). Nod ‘YEA’ and rejoice!

Thoughts for the week: Obedience

2006-03-06T07:34:00.000-06:00

“Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in by the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14).
Our obedience as faithful subjects of King Jesus springs forth from a heart whose desire is to please Him as Lord and Savior. “This subjection and habit of obedience, is then right and full, 1. When the sense of God’s authority over us is practical, and not notional only. 2. And when it is deep rooted and fixed, and become as a nature to us; as a man’s intention of his end is, that thath a long journey to go, which carrieth him on to the last step; or as a child’s subjection to his parents, or a servant’s to his master, which is the habit or principle of his daily course of life. 3. When it is lively, and ready to put the soul upon obedience. 4. When it is constant, keeping the soul in a continual attendance upon the will of God. 5. When it hath universal respect to all his commandments. 6. When it is resolute, powerful and victorious against temptations to disobedience” (Richard Baxter).
“If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in His love” (John 15:10-14). “If ye know these things, happy are ye, if ye do them” (John 13:17). –Christ Jesus

The Secular Approach

2006-02-23T18:51:00.000-06:00

It seems to Grandpa that a secular approach to anything is an endeavor of those who have some kind of religious concern, flap their wings against the winds of godliness. There are those who claim the name of Christian who feel that a backyard approach will open the front door of the house. The humanist, entrenched in their secular world view, maintain that ‘education’ must remain secular, which means that if any one would teach something other than evolution (there is no God) it would hurt the poor minds of those who hold to secular world view (it doesn’t matter if the majority believe in God, and in the secular system one is not to take exception to what is taught; i.e., one should not be forced to say the pledge, but every student must take the course in evolution, sex orientation, etc.).
Let us take another step in the direction of the ‘Secular Approach.’ There is an editorial in the Conservative Chronicle (Feb. 8) titled, ‘Taking a secular approach to the Bible.’ One of the questions raised, “But how teach the Bible as just another part of secular culture?” Which brought about the comment “It’s a little like thinking of the sun as just another star, even though its light can be overwhelming.” The same thing can be said of secularizing civic government by claiming that the Constitution commands a separation of state and church. The truth is that, as a Republic, we do not advocate a church-run state (organizationally speaking), nor do we want a state-run church. However, we do recognize a Sovereign Creator who is the Authority over both the church and the civic government. In other words, the moral and righteous base of a nation must come from the Creator. God knows best when He recorded that “righteousness exalts a nation.”
The problem that man faces, when he secularizes an approach to the Bible, is that he finds trouble. For the Books of the two Testaments are inspired by the Author who reveals that when the Bible is taught, the true teacher is the Holy Spirit. The Christian realizes that when the Bible is studied there must be much prayer that the Spirit of God will be the guide into the truth of the matter.

Grandpa's Here!

2006-02-21T09:00:00.000-06:00

I sat and thought and a thought finally came. I thought a thought with hope that the thought might deliver me from procrastination, driving me to my BLOG of recent publication. The thought came with an exclamation mark: Grandpa!
In came my grandchildren with, “Grandpa!” That is what I needed as I was transfixed before the blank screen of the computer. They just love to come silently into the room to scare me and see the look of grandfatherly fear upon my face. So with a soliloquy, I thought that “Grandpa” would titivate my BLOG. (Thank you GOOGLE for the word of the day.)
To be a Grandpa places one in an awesome spot on this earth. Let me first subjectively define what a Grandpa is: he is over seventy-five and has white hair. He is just beginning to understand what wisdom is all about in the midst of those who take white hair seriously. Grandpa has opinions about many things, holding the world before his children as head of the family. He takes his position seriously. Wisdom teaches us, “The hoary head (gray hair, old) is a crown of glory (magnificence, honor), if it be found in the way of righteousness” (Prov. 16:31). Old is good when doing the right walk.
Our eyes need to be made to see, not with the blindness of darkness which seeks to transform history and truth according to self-righteousness, nor with the rose-color glasses which face not the realities around them, but with wisdom, that our thoughts and actions may accept truth and be willing to be transformed by that truth.
WISDOM ought to be the prayer and goal of all those who are in places of leadership, especially GRANDPA’S. If you wish to traverse the way of Wisdom, you can begin with Noah Webster’s definitions of Wisdom and Wise; of course you will have to go the his 1828 edition to get a right definition. Webster begins defining Wisdom, “The right use or exercise of knowledge; the choice of laudable ends, and of the best means to accomplish them. This is wisdom in act, effect, or practice.” Further, and this would be my grandfatherly thought for today’s politicians, Webster wrote, quoting Ames, “It is hoped that our rulers will act with dignity and wisdom; that they will yield every thing to reason, and refuse every thing to force.”
White hair and age bring a responsibility that is filled with repentance as well as joy. Be careful what is said, how it is said, and how true is what is said. This responsibility of the tongue (which many wag in the breeze of truth really doesn’t matter), hit me well on one night quite a few years ago. I attended a study group of young adults in the home a Chinese friend. After removing my shoes and noting that my socks had no holes, I sat with them in the living room. They began to ask me questions about certain topics of Scripture. What impressed me, is that they paid close attention to what I saying. They were honest in the deep attention that they paid to this one whose head was turning gray. Since then I have tried to be careful to make sure I knew what I was saying was a true as possible, especially when I knew what was truth and not hedging around it, even if it meant I had to change my own views on the matter.
May what is said in this BLOG be a matter of investigation as to the truth of the matter, even when it is the subjective wanderings of a Grandpa who wishes his children the best that they should grow in wisdom and strength in a world that is many times hostile, but able to find hope one with another. Grandmas spoil the grandchild with much love! Grandpas spoil the grandchild with much wisdom thrown in! (Grandmas, please write nice letters to this Grandpa.)

Grandpa La May (check the 'Christ is King' website for pictures of the family)

Intelligent Design verses Insignificant Draft

2006-01-19T07:56:00.000-06:00

In the year of our Lord 2005, August eight, one hundred and twenty Iowa State faculty members signed a document, “rejecting all attempts to represent ID as scientific endeavor.” In the same year the Alabama Citizens for Service Education, in objective # 5, opposed “the introduction into public school science classroom any material with a sectarian basis, such as Creationism, “Creation Science’, ‘intelligent design’ or astrology.” Throughout America there is a battle between Intelligent Design and Insignificant Draft, i.e., in reality between God as Creator and Inconsequential Breeze. Another breeze was felt in Pennsylvania when a federal judge recently ruled that “Intelligent Design” cannot be mentioned in biology classes in a public school district in Pennsylvania. It was ruled, “the School Board members violated the Constitution when they ordered that its biology curriculum must include the notion that life on Earth was produced by an unidentified intelligent cause.”
These arguments are repeated in one State after another. Intelligent Design does not tell the truth about the creation of our Solar System, no less the galaxies. Though it hints at it. It is true, we should not teach that life was produced by an "unidentified itelligent cause." Evolution does not even hint that there is some intelligence in the matter, bringing into question whether it is even the result of true scientific study. There is more truth that God, as He has revealed in His Scriptures, created the heavens and the earth than there is in the study of evolution. However, the answer is not found in trying to get the study of Creationism or Intelligent Design to be taught along with evolution (small ‘e’ indicating inconsequential breeze). In fact, 'ID', as taught, has no place in the thought of the Christian. Our desire is that the truth of creation as revealed by the Creator must be received and taught. We are not ashamed of the true God who alone created the heavens and the earth in a period of six days. True science recognizes the truth that there is a Creator; that the heaven and the earth were created in the year 4004 BC. Our Creator gave us plenty of information in His revelation to come to this conclusion. However, the real question that must be answered in the affirmative is, “Is there a Creator?" To Him, then, belongs all honor and glory!

Righteous Law and Righteous Servants # 2

2006-01-16T07:00:00.000-06:00

Citizens are to be subject to governing authorities, as all governing authorities are appointed by God. (Romans 13:1, Titus 3:1, 1 Peter 2:13-14.) This demands a certain righteousness on the part of the princes: kings, presidents, governors, senators, representatives, mayors, etc. “Because the prince is the minister of God for the good of the subject; and therefore the law saith, ‘He cannot pardon and free the guilty of the punishment due to him; and the reason is clear: He is but a minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doth evil. And if the judgment be the Lord’s, not man’s, not the king’s, as it is indeed, (Deut. 1:17; 2 Chron. 19:6), he cannot draw the sword against the innocent, nor absolve the guilty, except he would take on himself to carve and dispose of that which is proper to his master. Now certain it is, God only, univocally and essentially as God, is the judge, (Psal. 75:7, and God only and essentially king, (Psal. 97:1; 99:1), and all men in relation to him are mere ministers, servants, legates, deputies; and in relation to him, equivocally and improperly, judges or kings, and mere created and breathing shadows of the power of the King of kings.” (Samuel Rutherford, LEX REX)

Righteous Law and Righteous Servants

2006-01-13T11:34:00.000-06:00

The Hearings!
I wonder if we should first question the senators before they are allowed to question a Judge as to whether he should be confirmed or not. How about questioning them on their view of whether or not a child in a womb should have its blood spilt. Of course, only a living body bleeds. Or they could be asked whether they believe that the Law of the Land, the Constitution of America, stands strong only upon the moral Law of God’s Scripture. However, it seems that the “Hearings” are seen as a time by some to give dissertations on how they define abortion, civil rights, etc., and then ask a shrouded question, and if it is not answered quickly enough or how it should be answered, to claim that the Judge has not been honest.
Nevertheless, the real question is, who is in control, the Law of Righteousness or the Law of man? Here are some thoughts about holding an office in the nation, beginning with, and some senators ought to take this seriously, that “It is not every individual who is qualified to hold office in a nation.” Then we continue, “Good natural talents, a cultivated mind, and a due share of acquaintance with the principles of government and with the constitution and laws of the country, seem indispensable. Scripture, not less than common sense, discountenances the practice of setting person of feeble intellect to bear rule. (‘Thou shalt provide out of all the people able men’ (Ex. 18:21). Not less essential are moral qualifications. High and incorruptible integrity, well regulated mercy, strict veracity, and exemplary temperance, are all specified with approbation in the Word of God. (‘Moreover, thou shalt provide out of all the people men of truth, hating covetousness’ Ex. 18:21; ‘If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked’ Prov. 29:12). Nay, more than this, religious qualifications are required in the Scriptures. (‘He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God’ 2 Sam. 23;3)” from Wm. Symington, Messiah the Prince.To b continued.

Happy Christmas

2005-12-23T07:11:00.000-06:00

Yes Virginia,
there is a God!
He has revealed Himself in His Scriptures of the Old and New Testament.
He is our Creator and Savior.
Yes Virginia, there is a Christmas.
It is not a holiday, nor is it a holy day.
It is for the Christian a time of celebration, of remembrance (which lasts all year long).
It is a time which belongs to the Christian: it draws our attention to grace of God in Christ Jesus.
The giving of gifts reminds us of the greatest gift of all:
Yes Virginia, there is a Savior.
His name was called JESUS (Joshua=Salvation is of the Lord) for He saves His people from their sins (Matt. 1:22) His name is also IMMANUEL: "Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel, which being interpreted, God with us" (Matt. 1:23).
Yes Virginia, there is much joy for those who believe in Christ as Lord and Savior.
It is a joy expressed by the angel of the Lord to the shepherds, "Fear not; for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." (Luke 2:10-11). Christ is your joy, "Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory; receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls." (1 Peter 1:8-9).
Have a very happy Christmas.
Robert

Eternal Fellowship!

2005-12-18T14:58:00.000-06:00

Eternal Fellowship!

“And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes, and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away.” – Revelation 21:3-4