tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24614302197629909042024-03-13T10:20:06.387-07:00Shackelford ScenarioPersonal and ministry updatesShack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-75866471038624931022010-09-21T09:47:00.000-07:002010-09-21T09:59:49.777-07:00Praying for those in leadership<img src="http://www.youthministry.com/ymd/images/pixel.gif" style="display: block; border: 0pt none;" width="4" height="1" /><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr></tr><tr><td style="font-size: 48px; line-height: 50px; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 36px; line-height: 36px;font-size:78%;color:#272626;" ><strong>a leader in crisis</strong></span></td></tr><tr><td style="font-size: 0pt; line-height: 0pt;"><img src="http://www.youthministry.com/ymd/images/pixel.gif" style="display: block; border: 0pt none;" width="1" height="8" /></td></tr><tr><td style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <p><span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px;font-size:78%;color:#5b5a5a;" > <a href="http://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=71e6b0d8edbf781322013b57d&id=9814b8e77e&e=4454bf62cd" target="_blank"><img src="http://youthministry.com/ymd/img_article/article.2010.09.21.jpeg" alt="" style="display: block; border: 0pt none;" align="right" border="0" vspace="10" width="244" height="161" hspace="10" /></a> <span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">I came across this article in my reading just after I had been praying for those in leadership on my prayer sheet. Thought I would share it. Leaders will only be as effective as our prayers for them. "Are you praying for your leaders?"</span></span><br /></span></p> <p><br /></p> <p>If there’s anything we’ve learned as leaders it's that being a leader isn’t easy. </p> <p>Usually, the most difficult part of leadership is the inner battles. Within a divided heart, internal conflicts can wage a terrible war. When the war is finally won, there still remains unsettling causalities. </p> <p>Yes, we’re better for the battle…but wounding is unpleasant.</p><p>When a leader faces crisis, they usually don’t talk about it to the people they are leading. The followers wouldn’t fully understand all the complexities and it isn’t right to dump it all on them anyway. Even if we did dump it on them, they probably couldn’t offer much help anyhow. So where does this leave leaders, when they are in a crisis?</p> <p> Questions abound. Loneliness magnifies. Fear arrives. One’s calling is even challenged.</p> <p> As a leader, you may feel the pressure to appear as though you have “it all together.” That is, at a minimum, you may feel the need to have it together “enough” to lead teenagers. But the deep confusion that can come from a fierce internal wrestling match will ultimately undermine your leadership confidence.</p> <p> In the depth of your heart, you probably realize that you’re not alone, but it sure feels lonely. And the way you feel is very real. </p><p>Crisis can yield ugly fruit in the life of a leader, like cynicism or criticism, both of which can dismantle and destroy leaders. Unfortunately, that ugly fruit doesn’t help one overcome a crisis. Actually, cynicism and criticism keep others (who might be able to comfort and help) at a safe distance.</p> <p> Fortunately, during these moments (and even seasons) of ugly fruit, GOD doesn’t leave us on our own. He may be difficult to sense through our hardened filters of cynicism and criticism…but he’s there waiting to give us the wisdom we so desperately need. Until we pursue him, the loneliness is magnified. By Doug Field & Matt McGill <span style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px;font-size:78%;color:#5b5a5a;" ><span style="background-color: rgb(39, 38, 38); color: rgb(170, 170, 170); padding: 2px 5px;"><br /></span></span></p></td></tr></tbody></table>Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-7423572285116007342010-06-26T10:17:00.000-07:002010-06-26T10:21:33.680-07:00Melanie In Slovenia--Summer MissionaryHere is the latest from Melanie on her first of two missions trip this summer. Leg one to Slovenia and then leg two to Camp Morrow. She is doing great...her words and I am sure she is! Pray for connections with campers, strength and stamina as well as sleep and that the Lord would use and stretch her in some incredible ways!!!<br /><br /><h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" ft="{"type":"msg"}"><span class="UIIntentionalStory_Names" ft="{"type":"name"}"> </span><span class="UIStory_Message">Hey daddy i love you and i miss you and I'm doing great!! Let mom know if she stills wants to move I will move here!!! I love it!! after 4 hours i decided to move here and live, she would love it!! say hi to everyone update my page please thanks, oh and first day and everyone is laughing when i make jokes! (good start) LOVE YOUR LITTLE MUNCHKIN!!!!! ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ (quote from Facebook she wrote)</span></h3><br />Follow her team at www.SLO2010.blogspot.com for updates and pictures!!! <br /><br />Also, pray as she is somewhere between 800 to a 1000 dollars short for her support for the summer. Thanks from a proud daddy!!!Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-50549076874346551092010-06-25T21:50:00.000-07:002010-06-25T21:56:41.795-07:00Summer is here!For me, I love the summer time. Tonight I was able to go out and umpire a double header OIBA game. Two great games, two good teams and an outstanding partner for both games. <br /><br />The weather couldn't have been better and the field was great. All that to say, SUMMER is Here!!<br />It seemed to take a while but what a day!<br /><br />Also, you know it is a great day when you get to do something else you love to do...share about how JESUS can change a life!!! After the game tonight, a fan came up to me and we visited about the game. We began to talk about life, family and asked about a sticker on my rear window of the van. It says, "Patriots Pray!" He asked about it...I shared with him about my son, his tour in the sandbox and then while I pray! He was intrigued and we talked for about 30 mins. I shared with him what it means to follow Jesus as well as what it means to allow Jesus to direct your life. <br /><br />At the end of our conversation, he made know outward decision but was really thankful for the time and the information I shared.<br /><br />Now that to me is a great summer day!!!Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-29579476638451645532009-09-09T21:03:00.000-07:002009-09-09T21:26:11.601-07:00The Big Question!!!In the last few days, I have been asked what I call, "The Big Question!" Many thoughts of what that question might be, may be running around in your mind. Okay, I will let you in on what that question is. <br /><br />"ARE YOU OKAY?"<br /><br />Now you maybe saying, that is not a Big Question. That is a simple question. It is asked everyday by many people of many different people. Just because it has been and is asked, doesn't mean it is an easy question to answer.<br /><br />I have in the past found myself not asking people that question because there are times, I don't want to stop and take the time to hear the answer or even pretend that I care when then the answer is given. I have felt that if I ask someone that, I need to stop, focus and listen. If I don't then I feel that I must not care about that person and what they are going through,<br /><br />Conversely, I have been struck with the fact that in the last two days, I have stopped counting at 45 times that I have been asked The Big Question only to find that the person asking wasn't interested in hearing how I really was doing. They were either being courteous but not able to, willing to or just didn't wait to hear the answer. In at least 5 of those times I was asked the question and the person asking, answered how I was doing and assumed that all was great despite my honest answer. A couple of times that I was asked and shared how I was doing and feeling, the individuals said that it couldn't be and that there was no way, that I was really feeling those feelings.<br /><br />Now I am not trying to whine, I am only thinking and processing, when we ask The Big Question, do we really and truly want to know the answer? Do we ask to just be polite? Do we want to help shoulder the burden they may share with us? <br /><br />So, I am challenging myself to rethink when I ask the question I need to be sure I want to hear the answer and do what I can to help with the response and the responder. Also, I may need to find a different question to ask if I am just being polite, pleasant and creating small talk. <br /><br />I am thankful that my wife when she asks me, really wants to know. She has asked me a few times this week and has stopped, listens, prayed and then offered advise. Thanks for that Babe!! I am honored that you care, share and are there for me.<br /><br />Just a thought I have been pondering...any thoughts or responses? Would love to hear them.Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-45410234397353521292009-09-01T10:22:00.000-07:002009-09-01T10:39:37.006-07:00What a difference that makes!!Often times I find myself telling someone, "You bet, I will pray for you.", then realize that just hours later or even days have gone by and I haven't stopped to pray once for them. Now you may say, that is no big deal, God knows but in my mind, that is a big deal. <br /><br />I believe that I have made an agreement with that person to pray for them and talk with God directly on their behalf. That is a big deal. In a recent conversation with my son who is in Iraq, he mentioned that he knew people were praying for him. He could sense that. He is halfway around the world and in the middle of the world's big sandbox...what a difference that makes!!! <br /><br />Knowing that there are people praying for someone, something going on in another persons life or family is a big deal. Also, to realize that I get to have a small part in that life situation, that makes a big difference.<br /><br />Since recognizing my shortcoming in praying for people, I now have started to stop immediately what I am doing and if possible, pray with them right there and if not with them, stop my activity and pray right then. What a difference that makes!!!<br /><br />The difference is immediate because, I have just taken the need, problem, concern, worry or situation into the <span style="font-weight: bold;">throne room of the Creator of ALL THINGS!!! </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">He, God, really cares and really listens...what a thought!</span> Then, the person knows, that I did what I said I would do. In addition, because I have gone to the Lord with that request, I am reminded of the prayer later and will again go before the Lord with the prayer again...this, is praying at all times. Not a set time, when the Holy Spirit prompts me to pray.<br /><br />So, next time you tell someone you will pray for them, stop right there, do it and then watch and see how the Lord works in and through the situation. And, when He wakes you at 2 am to pray, do so with joy as you know that the One who hears our prayers, answers them...what a difference that makes!!!Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-49961958492998254832009-06-21T17:50:00.000-07:002009-06-21T17:54:02.683-07:00CONTRARY TO POPULAR BELIEF…In 1980, I was in my Homiletics class (Preaching) and recalled the prof telling all of the students that we were going to work on developing an order of service and this is how a worship service is to be conducted.<br /><br />You start with the organ prelude, welcome and opening prayer, a couple of hymns of the faith from the 1800’s, (slow and mundane), then an offering followed by a sermon not to exceed more than 20 minutes and then the final hymn and a closing prayer. <br /><br />Well, contrary to popular belief, that is not a worship service! In fact, today I had the pleasure of attending a small church in the mountains in northern California. Rackerby Community Church is a small body of believers that today, were hit with some shaking news. One of member’s daughter died totally unexpected. Right in the middle of the service, Pastor Lee Beldon, AMF Area Missionary stopped the service when the grandson of the member burst into the service and demanded that the member come now and leave. <br /><br />As she left, Pastor Lee immediately took the body to prayer and then call Joe to the front as well as myself. Joe took the offering and Pastor Lee asked me to bring the message from the Word. At that point, Pastor Lee left to be with the family. That meant that the entire order of service was changed and that the flow was interrupted. The body came together for the family in need and the service went on.<br /><br />In most churches that would completely be disturbing and the question would be, “What now?” “I was never trained for this in seminary?”, might be the response. Contrary to popular belief, Pastor Lee followed the Holy Spirit and the WORSHIP SERVICE went on. It looked different, had a different impact but, God was glorified and HIS WORD was preached!!!<br /><br />What a great lesson and eternal impact was made when the Spirit leads and we follow! Contrary to popular belief, when you let the Holy Spirit direct, it comes together for HIS GLORY!!Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-2218458526386442392009-06-02T13:51:00.000-07:002009-06-02T13:55:51.021-07:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_39woZCV2_Mc/SiWRi1OAjFI/AAAAAAAAACU/2kL73GS3_is/s1600-h/Times+with+Tyler+065.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_39woZCV2_Mc/SiWRi1OAjFI/AAAAAAAAACU/2kL73GS3_is/s320/Times+with+Tyler+065.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342836560532376658" /></a><br />Several weeks ago, our family had the honor and privilege to attend the Oregon National Guard Mobilization Ceremony for the 41st Infantry Battalion Combat Team a part of the 2/162. This ceremony was to publicly recognize the men and women of the 41st and to send them off officially.<br /><br />There were two observations that I had from that day. The first was the looming presence that we were saying goodbye to our son and his fellow soldiers. This loomed in the room like the heavy damp London fog. It is the reality of war time military operations and yet it was unmistakable the feelings that were heavy on all of our hearts and mind.<br /><br />The second observation that I had that day was that there was an incredible sense of camaraderie and a definite presence of patriotism. This was such a good feeling. The support of our soldiers and the fact that they were willing and ready to defend our nation was caught up in that feeling of patriotism. <br /><br />Near the end of the ceremony, my heavy heart was lifted and a ray of hope began to shine. Sitting right in front of me the entire time was a little five year old girl. She was wearing a dress and had her brown hair pulled up in a pony tail with red, white and blue ribbons tied in it. <br /><br />During the course of a song, this precious little girl stood on her seat, raised her right arm and began to wave the small American flag she was given upon arrival that day with pride, excitement and true American patriotism. As I sat and watched this happen right before me, I know that reason my son was heading for the sandbox of the Middle East was to defend our freedoms and to ensure that this young lady would be able to do that anywhere and at anytime. <br /><br />Tears began to fall down my face as I watched this. Not tears for sadness, not tears of pain and not even tears of letting my son go for 10 months. Tears of joy, tears of pride and tears of TRUE PATRIOTISM! I have a deep respect for all of our men and women of the armed forces that have served and are serving. Their commitment, determination and professionalism is what allows us to enjoy what we have and all to often, we take our freedoms for granted.<br /><br />Not only did we send off our son in whom we are so proud of, but this little lady said goodbye for the 2nd time to her daddy. The looming feeling of sadness falls on me again as I write this, and yet I know the PATRIOTISM shown that day by all of us and this little girl, reminds me of what is important. Our freedoms!<br /><br />How often do we take our freedoms for granted? Not just our freedoms in this nation, but also the freedoms that we have when we have made the voluntary decision to join in the army of the Creator of all things. God has given absolutely everything to us and yet it was not free. It cost Him the life of His One and Only Son, Jesus Christ. God was willing to provide away that would make it possible for you and me to experience true freedom in life by not being held down by the selfish desires of our own. It requires that we surrender our will, wants and life to Him and to give Him the controls of our life.Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-28151650262700920062009-04-11T11:34:00.000-07:002009-04-11T12:14:39.507-07:00Sweet ReflectionsDuring a morning walk with my beautiful wife today, I saw a father playing catch with his son. In the near distance was a Tee Ball game being played by some very young ball players. All this said, I began some have some SWEET REFLECTIONS!<br /><br />I reflected on the long walks in the town of Rhododendron when all three of the kids were young. I reflected on the bright moonlight walks on the snow covered roads pulling the kids on the sleds. <br /><br />I remember the Tee Ball games with TShack as he would play center field and for the first time when a ball made it out there, he watched the ball roll by him not more than three feet away. Asking him later, "Why didn't you get the ball?" TShack answer, "Daddy, it didn't come to me!" Sweet Reflections and Memories!<br /><br />I also, as we walked reflected on the the long walk that my Savior took to the most cruelest death known to man. He willing did that walk for you and me because of His eternal and perfect love. When I reflect on that massive sacrifice that Jesus Christ the Son of God made, I am humbled to realize that Jesus would have had Sweet Reflections about the relationship between Himself as the Son of God with His Heavenly Father and the Holy Spirit before coming to earth! What a fellowship! With that reflection in His mind, Jesus went to His death so that we might have the same relationship with the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit for eternity. <br /><br />Finally, the Sweet Reflection that we celebrate every year at this time known as Easter. We see in scripture what was recorded three days after the death of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit breathed life into the Sacrificed Lamb of God and with full authority and power, Jesus Christ rose from the grave! This is the victory over sin and death. This is significant because this was the only way that the Father could extend to us the means to have fellowship with Him. What a blessing!! <br /><br />Rejoice in this eternal plan and the accept the Free Gift of the Savior as we have Sweet Reflections of His love for you and I.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">As for the father and son playing catch, I reminded the father to enjoy these moments as his son will grow up to fast. </span> <span style="font-weight:bold;">With that said, I am extremely proud of my son and for who he is in Jesus, our family and our military. Thank you son for the Sweet Reflections of life.</span>Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-46314247513546298152009-04-06T10:38:00.000-07:002009-04-06T11:01:35.829-07:00Small Request Big Answer!Often times as I pray, I forget that God cares about the small details in my life and not just the big details. Several months ago, we found out that Tyler, our son, would be leaving for Iraq for his first deployment. We then learned the dates of the deployment, April 3, 2009. <br /><br />Now that date may not seem real significant, but, that is the day before he and his wife celebrate their birthdays. Yes, they have the same birthday. Well, not only that, their anniversary is on the 6th. <span style="font-style:italic;">No way to forget those days!</span> As Julie and I prayed, we asked that the date of his deployment be changed. We wanted Tyler and Bri Joy to celebrate their birthday and anniversary together since last year, they missed out on being together on their birthday and first year wedding anniversary due to Tyler being at Basic Training. It wasn't looking good that the date would change.<br /><br />Well, little did we know that on Saturday the 4th, the Charlie Company 2/162 would have a family BBQ and they released the soldiers to attend it and then go home for the rest of the day...for their birthday he was home. Then, he reported Sunday the 5th at 7am til 7pm...looking like he will be home even tonight, their anniversary. <br /><br />So, the deployment has started but, the Lord who really cares about the SMALL things, worked it out that he would be here...just as if he was at his old job. <br /><br />Thank you Lord for the SMALL blessing and the BIG answers that you provide. The Lord is in control of everything. I am thankful for that!!<br /><br />Happy Birthday and Happy Anniversary Kids...we love you and proud of you both!<br /><br />What SMALL REQUEST are you asking for? The Lord hears and answers!!!Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-70080578510754313722009-02-19T11:25:00.000-08:002009-02-19T11:43:43.880-08:00Is it what God wants of us?I was recently enjoying a cup of coffee with a young man thinking that he wanted to go into ministry vocationally. During the course of our conversation, he said, "I just want to minister by way of status quo!" <br /><br />After that statement, we began to talk about what that means. He defined it as just staying calm, not making waves and by all means, "don't rock the boat." That alarmed me. When I heard this, I had to ask if that is what God wants us to do? Is that how He intends us do do ministry? I don't see that as the example that He gave while Jesus walked on the earth. Jesus encountered the culture head on and as the term today is..."up in their grille". Jesus was direct, concern and definitely had compassion but was not satisfied with "status quo". Jesus took on issues, matters of concern and needs head on and made sure that the TRUTH was known and that His Words were of substance and impactful.<br /><br />By the time we finished our coffee, I had shared my concern with that kind of approach to ministry. I don't believe God desires for us to me living a life that is "status quo." He deliberately and intentionally saved me from an eternity separated from Him in hell. That's not status quo. He clothes me with His Son's Righteousness. That's not status quo. He has promised me a life in eternity spent with Him. That's not status quo. That is more than I deserve and also more than I can imagine. <br /><br />Status quo, that's not what I want. That's not how I want to live.Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-73648888422039855702009-02-17T12:57:00.000-08:002009-02-17T13:10:52.053-08:00He is so AWESOME!I was sitting here at my desk working on a message for tomorrow night when the simple truth that GOD is so AWESOME came over me. This caused me to stop and reflect on HIS absolute power, knowledge, control and purpose in my life.<br /><br />Although I know this about HIM, I tend to sink into my own self and slop around in the messes in my life and forget about HIM. <strong>YAHWEH</strong>, He cares about Shack! He cares about my pains, my hurts, my disappointments and my pity parties. He cares so much though, that He wants to changes them from about me to what He can do in and through my circumstances, problems and let downs. He wants me to just completely surrender it all to HIM and allow HIM to control and direct my life, my plans and my situations. <br /><br />Hard to say and apply, "It's not all about me!" "It's all about HIM!"<br /><br /><br />Remember that HE made me in HIS IMAGE...not an accident, not a mistake, not a insignificant person, MADE IN HIS IMAGE and then NOW, clothed in HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS! What a POWERFUL and AWESOME GOD! I am thrilled that HE is concerned with me and love me despite myself.<br /><br />My prayer for you, that you would see HIM for who He is and make a choice to deliberately abandon yourself to HIM and HIS purpose and plan for your life as well!Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-85717375329808868722009-02-05T11:04:00.000-08:002009-02-05T11:23:58.766-08:00I've Learned....Some thoughts to think about that were written by Andy Rooney. Enjoy.......<br /><br />I've learned....That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.<br />I've learned....That when you're in love, it shows.<br />I've learned....That just one person saying to me, 'You've made my day!' makes my day.<br />I've learned....That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.<br />I've learned....That being kind is more important than being right.<br />I've learned....That you should never say no to a gift from a child.<br />I've learned....That I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in some other way.<br />I've learned....That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.<br />I've learned....That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.<br />I've learned....That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.<br />I've learned....That life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.<br />I've learned....That we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for.<br />I've learned....That money doesn't buy class.<br />I've learned....That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular<br />I've learned....That under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.<br />I've learned....That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.<br />I've learned....That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.<br />I've learned....That love, not time, heals all wounds.<br />I've learned....That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.<br />I've learned....That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.<br />I've learned....That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.<br />I've learned....That life is tough, but I'm tougher.<br />I've learned....That opportunities are never lost, someone will take the ones you miss.<br />I've learned .....That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere. I've learned....That I wish I could have told my Mom and Dad that I loved them one more time before they passed away.<br />I've learned....That one should keep his words both soft and tender, because tomorrow he may have to eat them.<br />I've learned....That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.<br />I've learned....That when your newly born grandchild holds your little finger in his little fist, that you're hooked for life.<br />I've learned....That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.<br />I've learned....That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.<br /><br />Mine to add...<br />I've learned....THAT GOD HAS ALL THINGS IN HIS CONTROL FOR HIS GLORY!!!!Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-52655311449774258482008-06-17T09:42:00.000-07:002008-06-17T09:52:00.293-07:00Something to PonderSomething definitely worth reading, pondering and acting upon. I trust as you read this, you maybe draw in by the love of Someone that can change each of us.<br /><br /><strong>Recall of Souls<br /></strong><br />The Maker of all human beings is recalling all units manufactured, regardless of make or year, due to a serious defect in the primary and central component of the heart. This is due to a malfunction in the original prototype units code named 'Adam and Eve', resulting in the reproduction of the same defect in all subsequent units.<br /><br />This defect has been technically termed '"Subsequential Internal Non-Morality,"' or more commonly known as S. I. N., as it is primarily expressed. Some other symptoms include:<br /><br />1. Loss of direction<br />2. Foul vocal emissions<br />3. Amnesia of origin<br />4. Lack of peace and joy<br />5. Selfish or violent behavior<br />6. Depression or confusion in the mental component<br />7. Fearfulness<br />8. Idolatry<br />9. Rebellion<br /><br />The Manufacturer, who is neither liable nor at fault for this defect, is providing factory-authorized repair and service free of charge to correct this SIN defect. The Repair Technician, Jesus, has most generously offered to bear the entire burden of the staggering cost of these repairs. There is no additional fee required.<br /><br />The number to call for repair in all areas is: P-R-A-Y-E-R-S. Once connected, please upload your burden of SIN through the REPENTANCE procedure. Next, download ATONEMENT from the Repair Technician, Jesus, into the heart component. No matter how big or small the SIN defect is, Jesus will replace it with:<br />1. Love<br />2. Joy<br />3. Peace<br />4. Patience<br />5. Kindness<br />6. Goodness<br />7. Faithfulness<br />8. Gentleness<br />9. Self control<br /><br />Please see the operating manual, the B.I.B.L.E. (Believers' Instructions Before Leaving Earth) for further details on the use of these fixes.<br /><br />WARNING: Continuing to operate the human being unit without correctionvoids any manufacturer warranties, exposing the unit to dangers and problems too numerous to list and will result in the human unit being permanently impounded. DANGER: The human being units not responding to this recall action will have to be scrapped in the furnace. The SIN defect will not be permitted to enter Heaven so as to prevent contamination of that facility. Thank you for your attention.<br /> GOD<br /><br />PS: Please assist where possible by notifying others of this important recall notice, and you may contact the Father any time by 'kneemail'Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-80047528666403187312008-02-05T11:03:00.000-08:002008-02-05T11:10:12.757-08:00Taking it Serious...In the past few weeks, I have spent time personally reflecting on what is important in life. I have found that in the absence of my son, I remember the days of playing catch, going to his baseball and basketball games. Taking our girls to their volleyball practices and games as well. Those times have now past and yet, I took them serious. I know that they were important to each one of them. <br /><br />I was at a local high school boy’s basketball game officiating and observed at halftime, several moms and dads reading, texting on their cell phone and their PDA's. There seemed to be a real disconnect from the game and their child. I asked myself if they were taking it serious. The time they were spending and investing in their child. Was their attendance at the game, play or recital only a step or exercise that indicated they were a good parent? Or by chance, were they taking it serious?<br /><br />Now, I look back and am thankful for the days that I took serious with our children. The times we spent together at activities, meals around the table, wrapping presents and a myriad of other activities. It wasn’t until late in their lives that I started taking it serious. When I did though, I took it serious.<br /><br />What is it that I took serious? Well, the fact that I made them a priority of my life. In doing this, I was able to show them a picture of the One that takes them very serious. The One that cares for them regardless of how good or bad they are. The One that gave everything He had up for them. This One was all about taking it serious!<br /><br />The One who took it serious is the Son of God. Jesus Christ my Lord! He took it serious. Jesus was willing to leave heaven with God and come to earth as a baby. Born not only to die, but in His death, pay the debt you and I couldn’t. The debt He paid was for all of yours and my sins/wrong doings. He not only died, Jesus would come back to life in order that you and I could have a relationship with Him. Not a religion! Not a bunch of rules! A true relationship that He desires to have with each of us. <br /><br />The world is all about itself and getting all that it can get for itself. Jesus, He was and is all about you and me. He is all about taking it serious. He did take it serious. We only have just a short time here on earth. The eternity beyond life here is what matters. <br /><br />My question for you, are you taking it serious? Are you making every moment of your life count so that you can make a difference in others? We get so busy doing things that don’t amount to a lot. We are so distracted by the things of life that we forget what is important. Invest your life in others. Make a difference in them. But, make Jesus the main thing in your life. Apart for Jesus, we are only taking up space, consuming groceries and not investing our lives wisely. Begin today by taking it serious! Take it serious about what you do with Jesus.Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-15742150368640108392008-01-17T10:36:00.000-08:002008-01-17T10:55:58.481-08:00UPDATE FROM TYLER...<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_39woZCV2_Mc/R4-iYw2MTbI/AAAAAAAAABY/fga-D8AiiV4/s1600-h/Family+Pic.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5156518644675268018" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_39woZCV2_Mc/R4-iYw2MTbI/AAAAAAAAABY/fga-D8AiiV4/s320/Family+Pic.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>He called last night from Dallas, Texas and they were laying over for the night. The airport in Atlanta was snowed in and their squad was held up there. They had the opportunity to stay at a Days Inn for the night where he was introduced to cockroaches and not the cleanest rooms in the world. Prep for times to come for him? They should have arrived Thursday afternoon via St Louis and then off to Ft Benning. He is in good spirits. We had a great conversation on the phone with him and that was very enjoyable. Thanks for praying for him and remember the family he has left here in Oregon. </div><div> </div><div>Ministry is going great as I have been working with an individual that has been wrestling with the value of their own life as well as whether God really loves and is real. I am seeing progress as we meet and I share the love of God with this person. The other night at a low point in this individuals life, I received a phone call where we were able to talk and see how God works and also through prayer, saw an immediate change over the phone. I challenged this individual to be also praying for me as I was missing Tyler. This was a huge thing to me and was taken seriously by this person as a personal challenge and I believe an opportunity to serve. Please pray for both of us as we work through this and other areas in this very valuable life. </div><div> </div><div>Thanks for praying for the lost and needy in America. A great need for the Holy Spirit to sweep in our nation for revival and renewal. As we minister here, we need you and your prayers. Thanks for joining with us.</div>Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-87724470667136014032008-01-14T16:06:00.000-08:002008-01-14T16:21:12.398-08:00A NEW CHAPTER IN LIFE...As we start 2008, ministry has taken on some new looks as well as our family life. We are truly blessed to serve a Lord that loves unconditionally and cares for the hurts and needs of others. I have been ministering to an individual who has not been feeling and experiencing the love real personally. As I minister, my prayer has been that the Love of the Jesus and the presence of the Holy Spirit would be real and revealed to this person. God has answered that prayer and I am excited and thankful for that.<br /><br />A new chapter in life begins in less than one hour of this posting. Our son, Tyler, will be setting out for a six year commitment with the Oregon Army National Guard. Although we are anxious about this, we are extremely proud of him and are backing him completely. We are also praying for he and his wife and are enlisting others that would pray for them regularly. We know that the next 14 weeks will be difficult for him physically but we also know that he will need his spiritual armour intact and on during his time away.<br /><br />Ft Benning, Georgia will be his new home till the end of April 08. Once he graduates Boot Camp and Advanced Infantry Training from there, he will be stationed here in Gresham at the local armory. Then it will consist of weekend drills monthly and two weeks active duty once a year.<br />The long range plans would look like Irag in 09 but we will wait to see on that as time moves on.<br /><br />Would you pray for Tyler and Bri during this time away? Would you pray for our entire family as we go through this transition in the new year? We have been praying for many of our friends who are serving and stationed all around the globe. We value and appreciate their service providing for our protection and ensuring our freedoms. Let us not forget those who give of their time, life and freedoms so that we can enjoy ours.<br /><br />Thanks for reading this and I will keep you informed of his progress and other things happening in our lives in the very near future. God bless you and keep each of you.Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2461430219762990904.post-44351645948313444462007-12-26T17:17:00.000-08:002007-12-26T17:21:10.569-08:00Holiday GreetingsWe want to wish each and everyone of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! <br /><br />It is this time of year that gives us time to look back at what the Lord has done for each of us. It also, gives us time to plan ahead and see what is new on the horizon for our new year but to also plan, prepare and participate in the new year's events. yWe trust you know that the Lord directs our lives and also sets our course. <br />In His doing this, we know that we each must choose to follow His leading.<br /><br />As you prepare for the New Year, take time to seek the Lord personally to be ready to follow Him as He will be directing you in your life. God bless you and keep you in the New Year.Shack and Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05585102481871679907noreply@blogger.com3