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All Northeastern Illinois University alumni are members of the NEIU Alumni Association. You can upgrade your membership with a gift to the NEIU Alumni Association (NEIUAA), which will help enhance programs, services and resources that foster meaningful connections and relationships within the University community. All Blue & Gold and Golden Eagle level memberships are available to friends and supporters (non-graduates) of NEIU at the 'Associate' designation. Your upgraded membership designation is applicable for a full year from the date your contribution is received.
The NEIUAA Student Membership is free, however it requires student engagement in a minimum of three activities per semester. Student members receive the same basic Blue & Gold benefits and will serve as NEIUAA student alumni representatives at events. Engagement opportunities include:
($5 card processing fee). This level is for all eligible alumni who have graduated from Northeastern Illinois University :
($30 annual donation to the NEIUAA). This level is for an individual paid alumnus/a only
*database access is not available to 'Associate' members (i.e. non-graduates of Northeastern Illinois University)
($125 annual donation to the NEIUAA**). Benefits extended to up to five household members (includes spouse/partner and family listed on membership application):
** Charter Membership Extension (alumni who joined before December 31, 2010, who have renewed each consecutive year and are in good standing will automatically be upgraded and given 'Lifetime Blue & Gold Family' status for an ongoing annual renewal donation of $30).
($350 annual donation to the NEIUAA). This level is for an individual paid alumnus/a only.
A one-time gift of $1,500 or five consecutive annual gifts of $350 will establish a Golden Eagle Family Lifetime Membership. Benefits extended to up to five household members (includes spouse/partner and family listed on membership application). Golden Eagle Family Lifetime benefits include all of the Blue & Gold level benefits/services plus the following new benefits:


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Welcome to instagram Thursday... I promise it's not a new thing, it will return to Fridays, but this week I have a guest post on Friday and thought instead of double posting I would just move this to today. Which is good since I was planning on sharing a free pattern today... but it's not ready yet :) So Monday will be free pattern day! Think Christmas Pajamas!
Abbey has a new "thing" she does things "by accident" Like brushing her teeth to get ready for bed... it was an accident she actually wanted to stay up longer. Throwing her sandwich to the dog, was an accident, she wanted to finish it so she could get her treat... I kind of love the new phase cause it makes me laugh.
(the dirty mirror does not make me laugh but whatever it is what it is)
Do you have picky eaters? I have and I am not kidding when I say the worlds pickiest eaters. Abbey? She eats peanut butter toast... and that's about it. She used to eat a few other things but it's come down to toast or nothing lately. Jude? He will eat chicken nuggets, and toast. So we are forcing them to branch out or starve... ok not really starve but the kids need to eat real food and I am little sick of the complaining at every meal so they got to make their own veggie pizzas, (more on those later) Both kids made them, and ate them. It was a small victory.
Other small victories... I am in the end friends. The "any day now" which likely means any week now, but certainly not more than 3, so I feel like a ticking time bomb. I keep waiting for an energy boost, or the nesting phase to set in... it doesn't seem to be coming. However the big room swap, crib set up and nursery "put-together" is going down this weekend, so that's something.
Ending the week on a high note, Jude was looking through pictures, this one was from the morning we were setting up for Christmas. He brought me my phone and asks, "why am I acting like superman but dressed like spiderman?"
I love that cross superhero boy. (and the girl who is equally amused by his high on sugar doughnuts and Christmas spirt antics)
So that's our week, we will see you back here with a special guest post and Monday with a free pattern!

subset: commoncrawl


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Health 1st Wellness Center may not look much like a doctor's office—there's a noticeable lack of needles, medicine vials, and nurses chasing down patients—but Dr. Mike Lewis completely devotes himself to making his patients feel better. Instead of relying on conventional medical methods that cure symptoms, Dr. Lewis looks for the source of the pain and, in doing such, aims to preempt any future relapses.
Once he's uncovered the causes of patients' pain through his thorough exams, Dr. Lewis goes to work with an array of non-invasive treatments. Here, old meets new, as traditional spinal adjustments and acupuncture pair up with modern technology. For instance, he uses lasers to relieve internal soreness without breaking the skin, and he uses the computerized Z-Grav machine to gently elongate the spine by removing pressure, weight, and its fear of being allowed on a roller coaster.
Southwest Orlando Eye Care's optometrist, John Nowell, has been keeping people clear-eyed in his hometown for more than 20 years. This ocular expertise hasn't gone unnoticed, with the Southwest Orlando Bulletin and other local publications lauding his commitment to patient education and no-hassle customer service. But, Dr. Nowell's compassion goes beyond the exam room; when he's not at the office, he can be found serving his community as a member of the Orlando Rotary Club and volunteering his time with The Coalition for the Homeless.
In addition to contact lenses, eye exams, and the treatment of ocular diseases, Dr. Nowell and his staff help faces keep pace with newly twinkling eyes through a menus of aesthetic services. They can combat acne with microdermabrasion session, or boost collagen growth and the ability to converse with Lite-Brites via an LED facial.
International Food Club recruits fresh and packaged cuisine from more than 20 countries across the globe. The store aisles are arranged by country of origin: customers can traipse down the British aisle for tea and biscuits, or nab guava jam and hot sauce from the Caribbean section. Middle Eastern staples make up the store's most robust aisles, granting U.S. palates brief reprieves from licking American-flag stamps in favor of sweet halva, fragrant spices, and couscous. That focus extends to the café, where chefs roll falafel and gyro meat in pita bread with sides of hummus and tabbouleh along with other menu items.


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Tag Archives: the
People fishing #BeThe3 #PeopleFishing
This week's point is: I'm on a mission to go people fishin'. Each day talk about how the scriptures you read and the videos you watch connect to this point! Jesus Chooses Four Fishermen
(Matthew 4.18-20, Mark 1.16-20, Luke 5.1-11)
18 While Jesus was walking along the shore of Lake Galilee, he saw two brothers. One was Simon, also known as Peter, and the other was Andrew. They were fishermen, and they were casting their net into the lake. 19 Jesus said to them, "Follow me! I will teach you how to bring in people instead of fish." 20 Right then the two brothers dropped their nets and went with him.
Forgive others #BeThe3 #Forgive
What conclusions have you drawn after this week's study? Talk about what you've learned about this week's point: Care, share, and just be there. How will you live differently because of what you've learned?
Rules for the New Life – Ephesians 4:32
Instead, be kind and merciful, and forgive others, just as God forgave you because of Christ.
Love your neighbors as much as you love yourself #BeThe3 #LoveYourNeighbor
This week's verse to remember is Luke 10:27. Take some extra time to read it, say it, and memorize it. Talk about how it connects to this week's point: Care, share, and just be there.
Luke 10:27
The man replied, "The Scriptures say, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind.' They also say, 'Love your neighbors as much as you love yourself.' "
Care, share, and just be there #BeThe3 #Neighbors
This week's Bible story is a story Jesus told to answer the question, "Who is my neighbor?" This is often called the parable of the Good Samaritan because a man from Samaria is the person in the story that shows us how to be a good neighbor. Talk about how this story connects to this week's point: Care, share, and just be there.
The Good Samaritan – Luke 10
25 An expert in the Law of Moses stood up and asked Jesus a question to see what he would say. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to have eternal life?"
26 Jesus answered, "What is written in the Scriptures? How do you understand them?"
27 The man replied, "The Scriptures say, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind.' They also say, 'Love your neighbors as much as you love yourself.' "
28 Jesus said, "You have given the right answer. If you do this, you will have eternal life."
29 But the man wanted to show that he knew what he was talking about. So he asked Jesus, "Who are my neighbors?"
30 Jesus replied:
As a man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, robbers attacked him and grabbed everything he had. They beat him up and ran off, leaving him half dead.
31 A priest happened to be going down the same road. But when he saw the man, he walked by on the other side. 32 Later a temple helper came to the same place. But when he saw the man who had been beaten up, he also went by on the other side.
33 A man from Samaria then came traveling along that road. When he saw the man, he felt sorry for him34and went over to him. He treated his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put him on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him. 35 The next morning he gave the innkeeper two silver coins and said, "Please take care of the man. If you spend more than this on him, I will pay you when I return."
36 Then Jesus asked, "Which one of these three people was a real neighbor to the man who was beaten up by robbers?"
37 The expert in the Law of Moses answered, "The one who showed pity."
Jesus said, "Go and do the same!"
You have all the knowledge you need to teach each other #BeThe3 #Teach
14 My friends, I am sure that you are very good and that you have all the knowledge you need to teach each other.
Accept each other #BeThe3 #Accepted
7 Honor God by accepting each other, as Christ has accepted you.
Keep on encouraging each other #BeThe3 #Encourage
24 We should keep on encouraging each other to be thoughtful and to do helpful things. 25 Some people have given up the habit of meeting for worship, but we must not do that. We should keep on encouraging each other, especially since you know that the day of the Lord's coming is getting closer.
You should do the same for each other #BeThe3 #DoTheSame
This week's point is: Care, share, and just be there. Each day talk about how the scriptures you read and the videos you watch connect to this point!
And if your Lord and teacher has washed your feet, you should do the same for each other.
Anyone who doesn't love others #BeThe3 #LoveOthers
What conclusions have you drawn after this week's study? Talk about what you've learned about this week's point: Sisters and brothers, let's all love one another. How will you live differently because of what you've learned?
8 God is love, and anyone who doesn't love others has never known him. 9God showed his love for us when he sent his only Son into the world to give us life.10Real love isn't our love for God, but his love for us. God sent his Son to be the sacrifice by which our sins are forgiven. 11Dear friends, since God loved us this much, we must love each other.
12 No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and his love is truly in our hearts.
Friends, we must Love #BeThe3 #EachAnother
This week's verse to remember is 1 John 4:7. Take some extra time to read it, say it, and memorize it. Talk about how it connects to this week's point: Sisters and brothers, let's all love one another.
7 My dear friends, we must love each other. Love comes from God, and when we love each other, it shows we have been given new life. We are now God's children, and we know him.
LET'S ALL LOVE ONE ANOTHER #BeThe3 #Love #OneAnother
This week's Bible story isn't really a story at all! It's a song all about the "one anothers" found all through the New Testament. We are reading those verses throughout this reading plan. But today, spend some time talking about how those verses connect to this week's point:
Sisters and brothers, let's all love one another.
34 But I am giving you a new command. You must love each other, just as I have loved you. 35 If you love each other, everyone will know that you are my disciples.
22 You obeyed the truth, and your souls were made pure. Now you sincerely love each other. But you must keep on loving with all your heart.
8 Finally, all of you should agree and have concern and love for each other. You should also be kind and humble.
Forbear one another in love #BeThe3 #Forbear #OneAnother
Ephesians 4
2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love
Don't Cause Problems for Others #BeThe3 #GuidedByLove
This week's point is: Sisters and brothers, let's all love one another. Each day talk about how the scriptures you read and the videos you watch connect to this point!
Romans 14
13 We must stop judging others. We must also make up our minds not to upset anyone's faith.
Your love for each keeps growing #BeThe3 #GrowLove
This week's point is: Sisters and brothers, let's all love one another. Each day talk about how the scriptures you read and the videos you watch connect to this point!
2 Thessalonians – When Christ Returns
3 My dear friends, we always have good reason to thank God for you, because your faith in God and your love for each other keep growing all the time.
Get along and live peacefully with each other #BeThe3 #LivePeacefully
This week's point is: Sisters and brothers, let's all love one another. Each day talk about how the scriptures you read and the videos you watch connect to this point!
2 Corinthians 13
11 Goodbye, my friends. Do better and pay attention to what I have said. Try to get along and live peacefully with each other.
Now I pray that God, who gives love and peace, will be with you.
Let love be your only debt #BeThe3 #LetLove #OnlyDebt
What conclusions have you drawn after this week's study? Talk about what you've learned about this week's point: I am better than nobody, but nobody is better than I am. How will you live differently because of what you've learned?
Romans 13 - Love
8 Let love be your only debt! If you love others, you have done all that the Law demands.
Don't think you' better than you really are #BeThe3 #UndeservedGrace
This week's verse to remember is Romans 12:3. Take some extra time to read it, say it, and memorize it. Talk about how it connects to this week's point: I am better than nobody, but nobody is better than I am.
Romans 12
3 I realize God has treated me with undeserved grace, and so I tell each of you not to think you are better than you really are. Use good sense and measure yourself by the amount of faith that God has given you.
When your friends are in need #BeThe3 #LoyaltyToRoyalty
This week's Bible story is about King David and his friend Mephibosheth. King David had a lot more stuff than Mephibosheth so it's easy to think about how he could help Mephibosheth. But this story also shows how Mephibosheth was able to help King David too. He was loyal to David at a time when other close friends turned their back on their king. Talk about how this story connects to this week's point: I am better than nobody, but nobody is better than I am.
2 Samuel 9
3 David asked, "Are any of Saul's family still alive? If there are, I want to be kind to them."
Ziba answered, "One of Jonathan's sons is still alive, but he can't walk."
4"Where is he?" David asked.
Ziba replied, "He lives in Lo-Debar with Machir the son of Ammiel."
5-6David sent some servants to bring Jonathan's son from Lo-Debar. His name was Mephibosheth, and he was the grandson of Saul. He came to David and knelt down.
David asked, "Are you Mephibosheth?"
"Yes, I am, Your Majesty."
7David said, "Don't be afraid. I'll be kind to you because Jonathan was your father. I'm going to give you back the land that belonged to your grandfather Saul. Besides that, you will always eat with me at my table."
8Mephibosheth knelt down again and said, "Why should you care about me? I'm worth no more than a dead dog."
9David called in Ziba, Saul's chief servant, and told him, "Since Mephibosheth is Saul's grandson, I've given him back everything that belonged to your master Saul and his family. 10You and your 15 sons and 20 servants will work for Mephibosheth. You will farm his land and bring in his crops, so that Saul's family and servants will have food. But Mephibosheth will always eat with me at my table."
11-13Ziba replied, "Your Majesty, I will do exactly what you tell me to do." So Ziba's family and servants worked for Mephibosheth.
Mephibosheth was lame, but he lived in Jerusalem and ate at David's table, just like one of David's own sons. And he had a young son of his own, named Mica.
2 Samuel 19
24-25 Mephibosheth, the grandson of Saul, also came to meet David. He had missed David so much that he had not taken a bath or trimmed his beard or washed his clothes the whole time David was gone. David asked him, "Why didn't you go with me?"
26He answered, "Your Majesty, you know I can't walk. I told my servant to saddle a donkey for me so I could go with you. But my servant left without me, and 27then he lied about me. You're as wise as an angel of God, so do what you think is right. 28After all, you could have killed my whole family and me. But instead, you let me eat at your own table. Your Majesty, what more could I ask?"
29David answered, "You've said enough! I've decided to divide the property between you and Ziba."
30Mephibosheth replied, "He can have it all! I'm just glad you've come home safely."
Love each other as siblings #BeThe3 #LovePeople
Romans 12
10 Love each other as brothers and sisters and honor others more than you do yourself.
Make friends with everyone #BeThe3 #BeFriendly
Romans 12
16 Be friendly with everyone. Don't be proud and feel that you know more than others. Make friends with ordinary people.
The most important commandment #BeThe3 #LoveGod
This week's point is: The most important commandment. Love the LORD your GOD! Each day talk about how the scriptures you read and the videos you watch connect to this point!
The Most Important Commandment
(Mark 12:28-34; Matthew 22.34-40; Luke 10.25-28)
28 One of the teachers of the Law of Moses came up while Jesus and the Sadducees were arguing. When he heard Jesus give a good answer, he asked him, "What is the most important commandment?"
29 Jesus answered, "The most important one says: 'People of Israel, you have only one Lord and God. 30You must love him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.'31 The second most important commandment says: 'Love others as much as you love yourself.' No other commandment is more important than these."
32 The man replied, "Teacher, you are certainly right to say there is only one God. 33 It is also true that we must love God with all our heart, mind, and strength, and that we must love others as much as we love ourselves. These commandments are more important than all the sacrifices and offerings that we could possibly make."
34When Jesus saw that the man had given a sensible answer, he told him, "You are not far from God's kingdom." After this, no one dared ask Jesus any more questions.
I am better than nobody #BeThe3 #Nobody
This week's point is: I am better than nobody, but nobody is better than I am. Each day talk about how the scriptures you read and the videos you watch connect to this point!
Matthew 22
36"Teacher, what is the most important commandment in the Law?"
37 Jesus answered:
Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. 38This is the first and most important commandment. 39 The second most important commandment is like this one. And it is, "Love others as much as you love yourself." 40All the Law of Moses and the Books of the Prophets are based on these two commandments.
Nobody is better than I am #BeThe3 #BetterThan
I am better than nobody,
but nobody is better than I am.
Join us starting Sunday February 2nd @ 9PM (PST) for our new Good News series called Be The Love; Love God, Love People, Live to Serve.
Midday. By midday, the sun is at its hottest. A Samaritan woman comes to the well to fetch water and finds a stranger sitting there—a Jew. He speaks to her. He asks her for a drink. A single Jewish man talking to an un-chaperoned woman! And a Samaritan at that! Doesn't he know the rules?
That was probably what a lot of people in that area thought when they saw Jesus talking to the woman at the well. But Jesus didn't often follow the rules. Throughout his ministry, he showed a special regard for women. Women were among his followers (Luke 8.1–3). They came to listen to him (Matthew 15.38). They supported him—even when his closest followers, men, had deserted him (Mark 14.50). He rewarded their faith (Matthew 9.20–22). Jesus gave women a value and attention that was radically different in the socially rigid hierarchies of first-century Israel. Why? Because the water of life was for everybody. Of that, Jesus was certain.
In some parts of the world, women are denied education and employment, status and respect; some are little more than slaves. But Jesus came to remind them of their beloved status. Those who trust him are his children, and therefore worthy of respect.
How did Jesus show his concern for the woman at the well? How did the woman respond to Jesus' offer of living water? What does her response tell you about her thirst?
Consider the women among your family and friends. What are their goals and dreams? How can you lead them to the Lord and support them in their goals? Also, think about contributing your time and resources to aid oppressed women in other countries. Pray: Lord, you created every person in your image and you've given each of us special gifts. Help us to value ourselves and one another. Help us to ensure that no one is denied a chance to contribute to the great work of loving and serving you.
Jesus and the Samaritan Woman
Jesus left Judea and started for Galilee again. This time he had to go through Samaria, and on his way he came to the town of Sychar. It was near the field that Jacob had long ago given to his son Joseph. The well that Jacob had dug was still there, and Jesus sat down beside it because he was tired from traveling. It was noon, and after Jesus' disciples had gone into town to buy some food, a Samaritan woman came to draw water from the well.
Jesus asked her, "Would you please give me a drink of water?"
"You are a Jew," she replied, "and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink of water when Jews and Samaritans won't have anything to do with each other?"
Jesus answered, "You don't know what God wants to give you, and you don't know who is asking you for a drink. If you did, you would ask me for the water that gives life."
"Sir," the woman said, "you don't even have a bucket, and the well is deep. Where are you going to get this life-giving water? Our ancestor Jacob dug this well for us, and his family and animals got water from it. Are you greater than Jacob?"
Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will get thirsty again. But no one who drinks the water I give will ever be thirsty again. The water I give will become in that person a flowing fountain that gives eternal life."
The woman replied, "Sir, please give me a drink of that water! Then I won't get thirsty and have to come to this well again."
Jesus told her, "Go and bring your husband."
The woman answered, "I don't have a husband."
"That's right," Jesus replied, "you're telling the truth. You don't have a husband. You have already been married five times, and the man you are now living with isn't your husband."
The woman said, "Sir, I can see that you are a prophet. My ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews say Jerusalem is the only place to worship."
Jesus said to her:
Believe me, the time is coming when you won't worship the Father either on this mountain or in Jerusalem. You Samaritans don't really know the one you worship. But we Jews do know the God we worship, and by using us, God will save the world. But a time is coming, and it is already here! Even now the true worshipers are being led by the Spirit to worship the Father according to the truth. These are the ones the Father is seeking to worship him. God is Spirit, and those who worship God must be led by the Spirit to worship him according to the truth.
The woman said, "I know that the Messiah will come. He is the one we call Christ. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."
"I am that one," Jesus told her, "and I am speaking to you now."
The disciples returned about this time and were surprised to find Jesus talking with a woman. But none of them asked him what he wanted or why he was talking with her.
The woman left her water jar and ran back into town, where she said to the people, "Come and see a man who told me everything I have ever done! Could he be the Messiah?" Everyone in town went out to see Jesus.
While this was happening, Jesus' disciples were saying to him, "Teacher, please eat something."
But Jesus told them, "I have food you don't know anything about."
His disciples started asking each other, "Has someone brought him something to eat?"
Jesus said:
My food is to do what God wants! He is the one who sent me, and I must finish the work that he gave me to do. You may say there are still four months until harvest time. But I tell you to look, and you will see that the fields are ripe and ready to harvest.
Even now the harvest workers are receiving their reward by gathering a harvest that brings eternal life. Then everyone who planted the seed and everyone who harvests the crop will celebrate together. So the saying proves true, "Some plant the seed, and others harvest the crop." I am sending you to harvest crops in fields where others have done all the hard work.
~ John 4:3-38 ~
Tamar is a Canaanite who marries into Judah's family. When her husband dies, she marries the brother, as custom dictates, to "carry on the line." This was known as a levirate marriage. Children born into this union are considered part of the dead brother's family line. But Onan's selfishness netted him a death sentence.
Tamar was trapped: an isolated, childless widow far from her own clan. Technically betrothed to Shelah, she cannot marry anyone else. She has been used and is now useless. So, disguised as a prostitute, she gained children through her father-in-law Judah. His seal and staff, the username and password of the ancient world, were proof as his identity as the father of her children.
This is the tale of a woman trapped into subservience and slavery. Lied to and betrayed by the men around her, the only option opened for Tamar was prostitution. The morality of this tale may be murky, but Tamar's courage and ingenuity were praised in the story. Tamar knows her duty and does it.
Tamar is the forerunner of so many women and girls who are the victims of lies and broken promises. Yet she triumphs. This lonely, desperate woman became part of the family line of the Messiah (Matthew 1.2–6a).
How does Tamar's situation help you understand the plight of many women in other countries? Have you ever been tempted to judge someone in Tamar's situation without understanding her side of the story? Why or why not? Consider how Judah finally owned up to his part.
Be a good role model and advocate for healthy relationships, demonstrating your value of human life and respect for others. Consider donating to a home for abused women or a ministry that works to rescue women caught in the sex trade in other countries. Pray: Lord, people who abuse others behave as if you wear a blindfold. They rely on fear to prevent their victims from crying out for justice. Give your people boldness to expose the wickedness of abusers, and compassion to defend and support the helpless. Use your powerful arm, Lord God, to help those in need.
Judah and Tamar
About that time Judah left his brothers in the hill country and went to live near his friend Hirah in the town of Adullam. While there he met the daughter of Shua, a Canaanite man. Judah married her, and they had three sons. He named the first one Er; she named the next one Onan. The third one was born when Judah was in Chezib, and she named him Shelah.
Later, Judah chose Tamar as a wife for Er, his oldest son. But Er was very evil, and the Lord took his life. So Judah told Onan, "It's your duty to marry Tamar and have a child for your brother."
Onan knew the child would not be his, and when he had sex with Tamar, he made sure that she would not get pregnant. The Lord wasn't pleased with Onan and took his life too.
Judah did not want the same thing to happen to his son Shelah, and he told Tamar, "Go home to your father and live there as a widow until my son Shelah is grown." So Tamar went to live with her father.
Some years later Judah's wife died, and he mourned for her. He then went with his friend Hirah to the town of Timnah, where his sheep were being sheared. Tamar found out that her father-in-law Judah was going to Timnah to shear his sheep. She also realized that Shelah was now a grown man, but she had not been allowed to marry him. So she decided to dress in something other than her widow's clothes and to cover her face with a veil. After this, she sat outside the town of Enaim on the road to Timnah.
When Judah came along, he did not recognize her because of the veil. He thought she was a prostitute and asked her to sleep with him. She asked, "What will you give me if I do?"
"One of my young goats," he answered.
"What will you give me to keep until you send the goat?" she asked.
"What do you want?" he asked in return.
"The ring on that cord around your neck," was her reply. "I also want the special walking stick you have with you." He gave them to her, they slept together, and she became pregnant.
After returning home, Tamar took off the veil and dressed in her widow's clothes again.
Judah asked his friend Hirah take a goat to the woman, so he could get back the ring and walking stick, but she wasn't there. Hirah asked the people of Enaim, "Where is the prostitute who sat along the road outside your town?"
"There's never been one here," they answered.
Hirah went back and told Judah, "I couldn't find the woman, and the people of Enaim said no prostitute had ever been there."
"If you couldn't find her, we'll just let her keep the things I gave her," Judah answered. "And we'd better forget about the goat, or else we'll look like fools."
About three months later someone told Judah, "Your daughter-in-law Tamar has behaved like a prostitute, and now she's pregnant!"
"Drag her out of town and burn her to death!" Judah shouted.
As Tamar was being dragged off, she sent someone to tell her father-in-law, "The man who gave me this ring, this cord, and this walking stick is the one who got me pregnant."
"Those are mine!" Judah admitted. "She's a better person than I am, because I broke my promise to let her marry my son Shelah." After this, Judah never slept with her again.
Tamar later gave birth to twins. But before either of them was born, one of them stuck a hand out of her womb. The woman who was helping tied a red thread around the baby's hand and explained, "This one came out first."
At once his hand went back in, and the other child was born first. The woman then said, "What an opening you've made for yourself!" So they named the baby Perez. When the brother with the red thread was born, they named him Zerah.
~ Genesis 38:1-30 ~
Shortly before the collapse of Judah, there was hardly a man who could be trusted. For a prophet like Jeremiah, there were enemies everywhere. Every conversation was a trap, every meeting—even among families—a potential threat. From top to bottom, society was corrupt. People had taught themselves to tell lies, heaping sin upon sin and deceit upon deceit, refusing to acknowledge God.
Fast-forward 2,500 years or so and, for many people, nothing much has changed. For millions of Christians in the world today, this is business as usual. Because of governmental or peer suppression, they cannot openly talk about their faith or invite people to meet Jesus. Endangered by their friends and families, the subjects of suspicion and lies, they trust in God because no one else is trustworthy.
How did Jeremiah express his frustration? Have you ever felt as cornered as Jeremiah? What happened as a result?
Many people in the world are denied free speech. Their media is not free; they have no independent press. Which places in the world are threatened by free speech? Why? Consider how you can help their voice to be heard. Pray: Lord, help me to build trust in my family, church, and community by first putting my trust in you, the One who knows all my needs and seeks my welfare. Guide my actions and my words. Help me to be honest and fair in all my words and deeds.
I wish that my eyes
were fountains of tears,
so I could cry day and night
for my people
who were killed.
I wish I could go into the desert
and find a hiding place
from all who are treacherous
and unfaithful to God.
The Lord Answers Jeremiah
The Lord replied:
Lies come from the mouths
of my people,
like arrows from a bow.
With each dishonest deed
their power increases,
and not one of them will admit
that I am God.
Jeremiah, all your friends
and relatives
tell lies about you,
so don't trust them.
They wear themselves out,
always looking for a new way
to cheat their friends.
Everyone takes advantage
of everyone else,
and no one will admit
that I am God.
- Jeremiah 9:1-6 -
Job lost everything except faith. Alienated from his friends and family, he scratched out a bare-bones existence on a rubbish heap outside the city. And he cried to God for some kind of explanation.
What he wanted was not revenge, but justice. He wanted to leave behind a true, permanent record. He cried out for someone not to forget him, to set the record straight. He was a victim and he wanted to have things put right.
The Hebrew word translated here as "Savior" is "goel" ("redeemer"). A goel had the duty to seek justice for a murdered kinsman (Numbers 35.12–28). He had the responsibility to buy back the inheritance of a dead relative, which could mean redeeming someone from slavery or even marrying the widow to provide her with an heir. God is depicted as a goel of oppressed individuals (Proverbs 23.10,11) or even an oppressed nation (Exodus 6.6; Isaiah 43.1).
There are millions of people who have experienced suffering like Job's. In the slums of the world, in the garbage dumps outside the cities, in the prisons and the torture chambers, in the refugee camps, they need a redeemer. They need hope. They need someone to speak for them.
Why was the news of his redeemer encouraging to Job? When are you most aware of your need for a redeemer?
Who can you tell about the redeemer of all—Jesus? Of whom will you be an advocate this week? This is an excellent message to share with a prisoner, residents in a halfway house, or someone suffering in a hospital or a retirement center. Pray: Lord, defend and protect oppressed men, women, and nations! Keep your promise and save their lives.
I Am Forgotten
* God has turned relatives
and friends against me,
and I am forgotten.
My guests and my servants
consider me a stranger,
and when I call my servants,
they pay no attention.
My breath disgusts my wife;
everyone in my family
turns away.
Young children can't stand me,
and when I come near,
they make fun.
My best friends and loved ones
have turned from me.
I am skin and bones—
just barely alive.
My friends, I beg you for pity!
God has made me his target.
Hasn't he already done enough?
Why do you join the attack?
I wish that my words
could be written down
or chiseled into rock.
I know that my Protector lives,
and at the end
he will stand on this earth.
My flesh may be destroyed,
yet from this body
I will see God.
Yes, I will see him for myself,
and I long for that moment.
- Job 19:13-27 -
It's interesting to notice how often the Christians of the early Church were imprisoned. Although Christians were told that they should "obey the rulers and authorities and not . . . be rebellious" (Titus 3.1), the apostle Paul was often falsely accused and jailed many times by those who opposed his teachings. Faced with unjust, ungodly laws, Christians sometimes need to follow the path of civil disobedience. Here, Peter and the apostles lay down the ground rules: we must obey God rather than people. When the two come into conflict, God wins.
In years past, the Church had played a prominent role in civil disobedience. Christians helped with the Underground Railroad that saved the lives of thousands of escaping slaves in America. In World War II, Christians organized shelter for Jews escaping the Nazis. Christians have been prominent campaigners against apartheid, discrimination, and war, and have worked to achieve prison reform, good health care and public education for all.
There are higher laws. The demands of God are to be given priority over the demands of people and human institutions. The apostles were tried, abused, beaten. Why? Because they obeyed a higher calling from God.
Peter said, "We don't obey people. We obey God" and was willing to face the consequences of such a statement. Are you in agreement with this statement? How do you show that you place God's law above that of people? On the other hand, how can someone who is obedient to God work within the system?
How will you show your choice (obeying God) this week? What would cause you to protest against an unjust human law? What steps would you need to take first? Go on, stick your neck out. Support a group with whose action or campaign you can wholeheartedly agree. Pray: Lord, sometimes people need to have courage to be obedient to you above all else. This is true for those with power, and those without. I, too, need courage. You are an awesome God. Protect the rights of all, especially those who are oppressed.
Peter and the apostles replied:
- Acts 5:29-42 -
PEACE #Compassion #Justice
Often it seems as if violence is the only solution the world trusts. We are quick to resort to violence, always looking for the opportunity to lash out, launch missiles, or blow up innocent bystanders. Of course, sometimes there is no other option; sometimes evil must be resisted and the vulnerable protected by force. But that has to be a last resort, not an immediate response.
Instead, we should look for peaceful solutions. This is not weakness; arguing for peace is hard work. Take the writer of this psalm; he's tired, he's disillusioned, and he has lived too long among these people. He just can't take it anymore. "Love your enemies," says Jesus (Matthew 5.44). "Do your best to live at peace with everyone," says Paul (Romans 12.18).
So we keep on going. Where there is conflict—in our world, in our communities, in our homes—the Christian way is to talk, to bring people together, to understand and, if possible, address grievances. We must speak out for peace among people who often speak only of war.
It's not going to be easy. It's a tough struggle, as this psalm shows. Peace, ironically enough, is worth fighting for, but not only with guns.
Where in your community is peace needed most? Where in the larger world? What qualities are needed to be a successful peacemaker?
How will you be an advocate of peace in your community? Pray for God's peace to reign where there is chaos. Pray: Lord, I want to be your child and live at peace with people, encouraging others to do the same. Help me to be full of kindness and truth.
My life has too long had its dwelling with him who hates peace.
I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war.
- Psalm 120:6-7 -
CASH #Compassion #Justice
There are many passages in the Bible on money. Let's face it: many people have a strong interest in the subject. In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus cautioned his listeners against being slaves of money. This caution has great relevance today. Many of us live divided lives. We are wage slaves, worshipers at the shrine of wealth, dreaming of lottery-sized windfalls, buying stuff we don't need with money we don't actually have.
The Bible is realistic. We need money to live. People need to earn a living. There's a difference between working for a living and living to work. There's a difference between earning money and worshiping it. Billions of people survive on less than two dollars per day. It's vital, therefore, that we work out how much is "enough." Our heart should be with God, not in the shop window, the savings account, or the investment portfolio. After all, Jesus reminds us that we can take nothing with us when we die, but we can store up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6.19–21). We need to master money before it masters us.
Why do you think money is such a popular subject in the Bible? What are your views on money? How do your spending habits show your view of money?
Check out Psalm 119.36; Matthew 6.24–33; Luke 16.10–12. Take time to pray about your finances and your view of money. Does it have mastery over you or do you have mastery over it? Pray: Lord, you give yourself to me freely so that I can experience the richness of your love forever. Help me to serve you with humbleness and gratitude.
No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stand by and be devoted to the one and despise and be against the other. You cannot serve God and mammon (deceitful riches, money, possessions, or whatever is trusted in).
- Matthew 6:24 -
COMPLACENCY #Compassion #Justice
For many years, the statement "let them eat cake" has been attributed to Marie Antoinette, even though there is no proof that she ever uttered the statement. But the words are synonymous with a complacent attitude toward the poor. This passage in Amos shows a similar attitude in regard to the plight of the poor. Besides uttering an indictment against the people of Israel for their sins, the prophet Amos had harsh words for the pampered, wealthy women of Samaria (the northern kingdom of Israel). By calling them "cows," Amos compared them to the well-known breed of cattle in the land.
The old saying, "If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem" is a fitting one for this passage. The women turned a blind eye to the needs of the poor, and instead focused on their own needs. They didn't know what it was like to be in need, so God had bad news for them. They would experience firsthand what being in need was like.
What was God's "case" against Israel in Amos 3? How did the women's attitude (Amos 4) add to the case? When have you seen this type of attitude in our day?
When are you most tempted toward complacency? How aware are you of the needs of those around you? What will you do to find out what those needs are or help meet them? Pray: Lord God, you have given us so much. You are not pleased with complacency. Give me the courage to speak with boldness your word of truth. Give me eyes to see the needs around me.
Hear and bear witness in the house of Jacob, says the Lord God, the God of hosts,
That in the day when I visit Israel's transgressions upon him I will also visit [with punishment] the altars of Bethel [with its golden calf], and the horns of the altar shall be cut off and fall to the ground.
And I will smite the winter house with the summer house, and the houses of ivory shall perish and the many and great houses shall come to an end, says the Lord.
- Amos 3:13-15 -
HEAR THIS word, you cows [women] of Bashan who are in the mountain of Samaria, who oppress the poor, who crush the needy, who say to their husbands, Bring and let us drink! [Ps. 22:12; Ezek. 39:18.]
The Lord God has sworn by His holiness that behold, the days shall come upon you when they shall take you away with hooks and the last of you with fishhooks. [Ps. 89:35.]
And you shall go out through the breaches [made in the city's wall], every [woman] straight before her, and you shall be cast forth into Harmon [an unknown place of exile], says the Lord.
- Amos 4:1-3 -
PENNIES #Compassion #Justice
Jesus is sitting in the temple courtyard, watching wealthy Jerusalem landowners and rich pilgrims visiting Jerusalem for the Passover as they cast their money into the large, trumpet-shaped offering bowls. Then along comes a widow, her poverty obvious from her dress. She throws in two tiny copper coins—the smallest coins in circulation.
Not impressive. But she has given all she had. She has less money than the others, but is far richer in spirit and understanding. The story follows a stinging attack on religious leaders who were oppressing the poor (Mark 12.38-40). Yet the people they are cheating are godlier than the rest of them put together.
It's not the money, but the motive; not the amount, but the attitude; not, perhaps, a question of how much we give away, but rather how much we keep for ourselves. This woman could have kept one of the coins for herself. She didn't have to make a gift at all. But she chose to give all she had to God.
How does Jesus' rebuke of the rich challenge us to examine those policies which bring us comfort at the expense of others? If you were present, how would you have responded to the widow's offering? What comment do you think Jesus would make about a recent offering you made? Why?
Be generous in your giving. Think of how much God has given you and be willing to give it back to him in thankfulness. God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9.7). Pray: I will praise you, Lord God, with a song and a thankful heart and will seek to do what is pleasing to you.
He sat down opposite the treasury and saw how the crowd was casting money into the treasury. Many rich [people] were throwing in large sums.
And a widow who was poverty-stricken came and put in two copper mites [the smallest of coins], which together make half of a cent.
And He called His disciples [to Him] and said to them, Truly and surely I tell you, this widow, [she who is] poverty-stricken, has put in more than all those contributing to the treasury.
For they all threw in out of their abundance; but she, out of her deep poverty, has put in everything that she had–[even] all she had on which to live.
- Mark 12:41-44 -
RESTORATION #Compassion #Justice
While the prophet Isaiah had harsh warnings for the people of Judah, he also had good news: after enduring punishment, God's people would later be restored. Restoration means more than putting a bandage on a wound. The society Isaiah described was not "patched up." Instead, in this passage, there is an emphasis on wholeness, permanent change, and on bringing people back into complete health—mind, body, and spirit.
Changing the lives of those devastated by poverty, illness, and other issues mean more than offering temporary solutions, as helpful as they may be. It means looking at employment, security, health—deeper issues, that when addressed, bring lasting changes.
So, don't only provide a patch of land, but provide a well-watered garden. Help to build a home, not just a roof over someone's head. Strive not only for the absence of war, but also for restorative, healing peace.
According to Isaiah 58.6, what does it "really [mean] to worship the Lord"? What do you think worship that helps restore lives looks like?How has the message of restoration helped you? How will you spread the message of restoration this week? Consider the lives in need of restoration in your community. How will you join in the ministry of restoration? Pray: Lord, bring encouragement to those in need. Show all who claim to be your disciples what is pleasing in your eyes. Make us truly grateful and show us how we can help the poor and give them reason to shout your praises.
I'll tell you
what it really means
to worship the Lord.
Remove the chains of prisoners
who are bound unjustly.
Free those who are abused!
Share your food with everyone
who is hungry;
share your home
with the poor and homeless.
Give clothes to those in need;
don't turn away your relatives.
Then your light will shine
like the dawning sun, and you
will quickly be healed.
Your honesty will protect you
as you advance,
and the glory of the Lord
will defend you from behind.
When you beg the Lord for help,
he will answer, "Here I am!"
Don't mistreat others
or falsely accuse them
or say something cruel.
Give your food to the hungry
and care for the homeless.
Then your light will shine
in the dark;
your darkest hour will be
like the noonday sun.
The Lord will always guide you
and provide good things to eat
when you are in the desert.
He will make you healthy.
You will be like a garden
that has plenty of water
or like a stream
that never runs dry.
You will rebuild those houses
left in ruins for years;
you will be known
as a builder and repairer
of city walls and streets.
- Isaiah 58:6-12 -
DIFFERENCES #Compassion #Justice
Paul lived in a rigidly structured society. A person's birth defined everything: status, family life and even his job. While there was some room for movement (for instance, a slave could become free), most people's lives were set from the time they were born. Jesus' death and resurrection provided the means for a new way of life. Believers could "put on" this new life and become part of a new, extended family.
The early Church did not abolish a person's identity—Jews were still Jews, slaves still beholden to their masters, women still obliged to fill their limited roles within the community—but new roles and opportunities opened up for everyone who was part of God's family. In a special way, all were now equal.
So we see the radical nature of Christianity: no room for racism, classism or sexism. There is only the family—each member being a part of the body of Christ, having a different function and having his or her own identity, yet all clothed by God's love.
How does the status of a believer compare with the status into which one was born How does one "put on" Christ?
Find ways of reaching out to others in your church community. Where is the bridge-building going to start? How can you help it along? Pray for those in your church who are fearful of change and distrustful of people different from themselves. Pray for those who've been excluded or made to feel unwelcome. Pray: Lord, you don't want anyone left out of your family. Keep us united so that the world will turn and worship you.
All of you are God's children because of your faith in Christ Jesus. And when you were baptized, it was as though you had put on Christ in the same way you put on new clothes. Faith in Christ Jesus is what makes each of you equal with each other, whether you are a Jew or a Greek, a slave or a free person, a man or a woman. So if you belong to Christ, you are now part of Abraham's family, and you will be given what God has promised.
- Galatians 3:26-29 -
WATER #Compassion #Justice
Planet Earth could be renamed Planet Water. Although 75% of the Earth's surface is water, only 1% is drinkable. Nations battle to keep this resource to themselves, building huge reservoirs and constructing dams to divert it for their own needs. Even at home, drought restrictions remind us to think carefully about our use of this precious substance.
In this passage from Isaiah, God promises water: the barren desert will burst forth with growth. The prophet's words show the importance of water and the difference it can make in people's lives.
Lack of water—or being forced to drink unhealthy water—is the biggest single cause of disease and death in the world today. Giving people clean water allows them to flourish. Crops can be grown, communities can be developed, families can bathe and children who otherwise would spend all day searching for water have a chance to get an education. Water can bring life to barren lives just as it can cause the desert to bloom.
What does God promise to provide in this passage? If you lived in a drought-impacted area, how would these promises make you feel?
What areas of the world are you aware of right now that are experiencing a drought? Consider donating money toward the construction of a well in a country that desperately needs clean water. Pray: You, Lord, can turn deserts into lakes and scorched land into flowing streams. Help us to work with you to channel water toward people who desperately need it.
The Lord Helps the Poor
When the poor and needy
are dying of thirst
and cannot find water,
I, the Lord God of Israel,
will come to their rescue.
I won't forget them.
I will make rivers flow
on mountain peaks.
I will send streams
to fill the valleys.
Dry and barren land
will flow with springs
and become a lake.
I will fill the desert
with all kinds of trees—
cedars, acacias, and myrtles;
olive and cypress trees;
fir trees and pines.
Everyone will see this
and know that I,
the holy Lord God of Israel,
created it all.
- Isaiah 41:17-20 -
BIBLE #Compassion #Justice
While fasting for 40 days in the desert, Jesus was tempted by the devil to turn stones into bread. He countered the temptation with a quotation from Scripture (Deuteronomy 8.3). His fasting proved that humans can indeed live without food for a time. But we cannot live without the word of God. Only God's Word can sustain us when we are in need.
Throughout the world, there are people who are hungry for the Word of God— a hunger resulting from not having Scriptures in their language, not having affordable Bibles, or because the Bible is banned in their country. People in such places treasure each scrap of the Bible they can get their hands on. They know what Jesus knew: "What God has said isn't only alive and active! It is sharper than any double-edged sword" (Hebrews 4.12).
Many of us in the U.S. have more than one Bible. They're easy to obtain. Bibles weren't meant to gather dust on a bookshelf. They're meant to be used to bring life to the hopeless and the weary.
How has the Word of God helped you when you're tempted or facing some other pressing need? How do you show that you treasure the Word of God?
One of the services we can offer people is to feed them with the Word of God, providing them with the spiritual nourishment they need. People need both bread and Bibles. How will you "feed" someone with God's Word this week? Pray: Lord, thank you for revealing yourself through your Word. Your law is in my heart. I am happy and willing to listen and obey.
After Jesus had gone without eating for 40 days and nights, he was very hungry. Then the devil came to him and said, "If you are God's Son, tell these stones to turn into bread."
Jesus answered, "The Scriptures say:
'No one can live only on food.
People need every word
that God has spoken.' "
- Matthew 4:2-4 -
TECHNOLOGY #Compassion #Justice
Withholding technology as a means of controlling other nations goes back a long time. Ancient Israel's neighbors, the Philistines, were cultured people, especially good at metalwork, an advantage that allowed them to oppress the Israelites for so long. Iron was valued for its strength and hardness and was used to make objects such as axes, chisels, hoes, ploughs, and weapons. The Philistines kept the ironworking technology to themselves and, therefore, Israel was dependent upon the Philistines for repairing their agricultural tools. The Israelites had no choice but to pay exorbitant prices.
People can be starved of technology, just as they can be starved of food. They can be denied the opportunity to develop the tools they need in order to advance. Technologically advanced nations with state-of-the-art computers, Internet access, and the like may well say, "It's all ours and we'll allow you some of it, but only if you can pay." In this way, they seem to be saying to the poor, "This way we can keep you poor, and charge you high prices at the same time."How do you think the Israelites felt, knowing that they had to keep going to the Philistines for tools? How would you have felt?
How often do you upgrade your computer or other technology? How do you respond to those in your city who don't have the technology you have? What will you do to help provide technology for the "have-nots"? Pray: God, you desire the best for all people and you protect the poor. Use me to advance their well-being, further their plans, and to help them achieve self-sufficiency. Guide me in your ways. Make me like you, Lord.
The Philistines would not allow any Israelites to learn how to make iron tools. "If we allowed that," they said, "those worthless Israelites would make swords and spears."
Whenever the Israelites wanted to get an iron point put on a cattle prod, they had to go to the Philistines. Even if they wanted to sharpen plow-blades, picks, axes, sickles, and pitchforks they still had to go to them. And the Philistines charged high prices.
- 1 Samuel 13:19-21 -
LAND #Compassion #Justice
Throughout the world, land is highly valued. Good locations, fertile land, mining rights—whatever the attraction, people will do what they can to get hold of it. Some governments and powerful business interests think nothing of driving people from their land, bulldozing houses and redrawing boundaries. Even traditional lands are taken from those who have looked after it for generations.
Victims of land loss are usually the poor who cannot afford fees to fight their case. Who will defend their rights? We see that such helpless people have a defender in God. Proverbs warns against moving the stones that mark the boundaries of ancient Israel. As in biblical accounts, a person's next of kin may play a redeemer's role by buying back family land that had been lost. Similarly, God often acts as a person's redeemer—fighting on behalf of his family to regain what was lost.
Why do you think the moving of an ancient boundary stone became an important piece of advice? When have you seen someone victimized by land loss?
How can you find out more about dispossessed people in other lands and their needs? What do you do to show your respect for the environment and the property rights of others? Brainstorm with your family about ways you can help the homeless this week. Pray: Our Lord, I know that you defend the homeless and desire that the poor are given justice. May I be someone you can rely on to help make your desires a reality.
Remove not the ancient landmark and enter not into the fields of the fatherless, [Deut. 19:14; 27:17; Prov. 22:28.]
For their Redeemer is mighty; He will plead their cause against you.
- Proverbs 23:10-11 -
CHILDREN #Compassion #Justice
In Jesus' day, the practice of bringing children to be blessed by well-respected teachers was common. Jesus' reputation as an excellent teacher had spread, so parents flocked to him with their children. Yet the disciples viewed this practice as an unwelcome disruption. Jesus was too important to be bothered, they felt. Jesus, however, rebuked their attitude. He was never too busy to welcome those others might overlook. Note what he told his disciples, "People who are like these children belong to God's kingdom" (Matthew 19.14b).
Many adults have the "children should be seen and not heard" mentality when it comes to children. Like the disciples, they consider children a nuisance rather than a blessing. But Jesus modeled grace and love.
How do your recent actions reflect your attitude toward children? If you had been present during the incident recorded in the Gospel according to Matthew, how would you have responded to Jesus' disciples?
You don't have to have children of your own in order to pray for a child. Pray for the children of relatives, friends, and those in your community. Also, consider how you can help children in need in various parts of the world. Pray: Thank you, Lord, for the blessing of children: their singing, laughter, enthusiasm, energy, loyalty, and love.
Then little children were brought to Jesus, that He might put His hands on them and pray; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them.
But He said, Leave the children alone! Allow the little ones to come to Me, and do not forbid or restrain or hinder them, for of such [as these] is the kingdom of heaven composed.
And He put His hands upon them, and then went on His way.
- Matthew 19:13-15 -
NEIGHBOR #Compassion #Justice
An expert in the Law of Moses stood up and asked Jesus a question to see what he would say. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to have eternal life?" Jesus responded with the command to love God and one's neighbor just before uttering one of the most well-known parables: the parable of the Good Samaritan. Thus was coined the phrase: "good Samaritan"—someone who goes out of his or her way to aid someone in need.
Jesus' listeners would have been shocked at this story, however. The person in need—a Jewish man—was aided by a Samaritan, someone he probably would have avoided had he not been in need. At this time, Jews and Samaritans were hostile toward one another. This story reminds us that sometimes the person most in need of help is someone with whom you might be at odds. Will you offer help anyway?
Why do you think Jesus responded with this parable, instead of merely giving the command to love? When have you seen a "good Samaritan" in action? What impact did that person's actions have?
Who is your "neighbor"? How will you be a "good Samaritan" to someone this week? Is there someone with whom you've had a misunderstanding who is in need of assistance? What can you do to offer assistance or make amends? What will you do to learn more about people who are different from you, people you might have misunderstood? Pray: Lord, just as Jesus humbled himself when he came to earth, grant me the humility to be a "good Samaritan" this week.
And then a certain lawyer arose to try (test, tempt) Him, saying, Teacher, what am I to do to inherit everlasting life [that is, to partake of eternal salvation in the Messiah's kingdom]?
Jesus said to him, What is written in the Law? How do you read it?
And he replied, You must love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself. [Lev. 19:18; Deut. 6:5.]
And Jesus said to him, You have answered correctly; do this, and you will live [enjoy active, blessed, endless life in the kingdom of God].
And he, determined to acquit himself of reproach, said to Jesus, And who is my neighbor?
Jesus, taking him up, replied, A certain man was going from Jerusalem down to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him of his clothes and belongings and beat him and went their way, [unconcernedly] leaving him half dead, as it happened.
Now by coincidence a certain priest was going down along that road, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.
A Levite likewise came down to the place and saw him, and passed by on the other side [of the road].
But a certain Samaritan, as he traveled along, came down to where he was; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity and sympathy [for him],
And went to him and dressed his wounds, pouring on [them] oil and wine. Then he set him on his own beast and brought him to an inn and took care of him.
And the next day he took out two denarii [two day's wages] and gave [them] to the innkeeper, saying, Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, I [myself] will repay you when I return.
Which of these three do you think proved himself a neighbor to him who fell among the robbers?
He answered, The one who showed pity and mercy to him. And Jesus said to him, Go and do likewise.
- Luke 10:25-37 -
FOOD #Compassion #Justice
Built into the Law of Moses were practical ways to help those in need. Whenever crops were harvested, the people of Israel were commanded to leave some of the grain behind, particularly the grain that fell to the ground. This allowed the poor to glean—to gather the leftover grain.
In the United States we throw away over 30 million tons of food every year. Approximately a third of all the food in our shopping cart or what we order in restaurants will never see the inside of our stomachs. It will be scraped into trash cans or will just sit in a dark corner of the fridge until, years beyond its sell-by date, it starts to evolve into an entirely new life form.
Leviticus shows us a different way to deal with unwanted food. It was not to be wasted, but put to good use. When he fed the 5,000, Jesus collected the leftovers, too, so they could be given away (Mark 6.34–44).
Why do you think God gave his people the responsibility of providing for those in need, rather than miraculously providing for them? What is God asking you to "leave behind" for the poor? A portion of your paycheck? Your food? Your time?
Invite someone to dinner who may have trouble making ends meet. Find out what it costs to feed a family for a week in another part of the world. Send that amount to a charity that provides for the poor in that country. Pray: Lord, thank you for rain on the hills, grass for cattle, plants for our food, grain for our health, oil for our skin and sweet fruit to cheer us up. All this comes from you, Lord God, for all of us to share.
And when you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap your field to its very corners, neither shall you gather the fallen ears or gleanings of your harvest.
And you shall not glean your vineyard bare, neither shall you gather its fallen grapes; you shall leave them for the poor and the stranger. I am the Lord your God.
BODY #Compassion #Justice
It takes many parts to make a whole body. God created our bodies in such a way that even the parts that seem the least important or hidden are valuable. Consider the spleen or colon and what each part does for the body.
The Corinthian church was divided by envy, factionalism and sinful behavior. But one of its main problems was the belief that certain members of the church were not very important, that these members could be ignored or replaced.
Paul pictures the Church as a body made of many parts, yet functioning as a unit. It is based on varieties of skills and gifts and on mutual interdependence. Even the "weaker" parts of the body are important and deserve respect.
Paul was not an impressive speaker (2 Corinthians 10.10,11). He seems to have had a disability or a recurring illness, but that didn't stop him (2 Corinthians 12.7–10; Galatians 4.13,14). Sometimes people with disabilities are barred from participation, set aside, or hidden away, but God says everyone can play a part in the body of Christ.
How can you use the gifts God gave you? What gifts do you see in other people? What opportunities do they need to experience to make the most of their gifts?
Do you know people with disabilities in your church or in your community? Talk to them. Find out about their lives. How can you help them? And, also important, how can they help you? Pray: Lord, help me to notice the gifts you've given to the people around me—my friends, my family, co-workers and people at church. Help me find ways to encourage them to use their gifts to serve you and others.
But if [the whole] were all a single organ, where would the body be?
And now there are [certainly] many limbs and organs, but a single body.
And the eye is not able to say to the hand, I have no need of you, nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
But instead, there is [absolute] necessity for the parts of the body that are considered the more weak.
And those [parts] of the body which we consider rather ignoble are [the very parts] which we invest with additional honor, and our unseemly parts and those unsuitable for exposure are treated with seemliness (modesty and decorum),
Which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so adjusted (mingled, harmonized, and subtly proportioned the parts of) the whole body, giving the greater honor and richer endowment to the inferior parts which lack [apparent importance],
So that there should be no division or discord or lack of adaptation [of the parts of the body to each other], but the members all alike should have a mutual interest in and care for one another.
And if one member suffers, all the parts [share] the suffering; if one member is honored, all the members [share in] the enjoyment of it.
ORPHANS #Compassion #Justice
No person is more powerless, more needy than orphans, especially babies and young children separated from or abandoned by their parents. When we see images of crying children standing in the rubble in a war zone or scavenging for food in a city dump, our hearts break. That's how God feels, and throughout Scripture we find his expressions of concern for these precious creations of his.
He cares for them, and he wants his people to share his love and concern. He also wants us to realize that regardless of our earthly family history, we also were orphans—spiritually—totally alone and lost, save for his mercy and grace. Then, through faith in Christ, we were adopted into his family—brought home to our loving Father (see Romans 8.14–17 and Ephesians 1.3–8).
As we gratefully remember our former situation as orphans and present status as adopted sons and daughters in God's family, we should translate that gratitude into action. At the least, this means praying for the orphans we see and learn about. It may also mean supporting a Christian adoption agency financially or with our time. And in some cases, it may mean welcoming foster children into our homes or expanding our family circles through adoption.
These children need us.
What difference does knowing you were chosen by God make in your relationship with him? What do you enjoy as God's adopted son or daughter?
You can begin to reflect God's love and care for orphans through your prayers and gifts. You may consider volunteering for a mentoring program. Check with your church about the Christian adoption agencies in your community and denomination. Think about how you can support one or more of them. Pray: Father, thank you for choosing me, for adopting me into your family. Help me to always remember your loving choice and that I can call you "Daddy." And, Lord, show me what I can do to love the spiritual and physical orphans in my world.
O Lord, You have heard the desire and the longing of the humble and oppressed; You will prepare and strengthen and direct their hearts, You will cause Your ear to hear,
To do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed, so that man, who is of the earth, may not terrify them any more.
External religious worship [religion as it is expressed in outward acts] that is pure and unblemished in the sight of God the Father is this: to visit and help and care for the orphans and widows in their affliction and need, and to keep oneself unspotted and uncontaminated from the world.
#GoodNews: GOD IS NEAR! #GodIs #Near
GOD IS NEAR: God wants us to know He is always with us. We never have to feel alone because God is everywhere we go.
The Lord Is Always Near
You have looked deep
into my heart, Lord,
and you know all about me.
You know when I am resting
or when I am working,
and from heaven
you discover my thoughts.
You notice everything I do
and everywhere I go.
Before I even speak a word,
you know what I will say,
and with your powerful arm
you protect me
from every side.
I can't understand all of this!
Such wonderful knowledge
is far above me.
#GoodNews: GOD IS EVERYWHERE! #GodIs #Everywhere
GOD IS EVERYWHERE: God wants us to know He is always with us. We never have to feel alone because God is everywhere we go.
"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." This saying is true, and it can be trusted. I was the worst sinner of all! But since I was worse than anyone else, God had mercy on me and let me be an example of the endless patience of Christ Jesus. He did this so that others would put their faith in Christ and have eternal life. I pray that honor and glory will always be given to the only God, who lives forever and is the invisible and eternal King! Amen.
#GoodNews: GOD IS LIKE… #GodIs #Like
GOD IS LIKE: God wants us to know his character. The best way to display this is to show us what He is like. We find the reality of who He is in the Word, and in the Human form.
The Word became
a human being
and lived here with us.
We saw his true glory,
the glory of the only Son
of the Father.
From him the complete gifts
of undeserved grace and truth
have come down to us.
John spoke about him and shouted, "This is the one I told you would come! He is greater than I am, because he was alive before I was born."
Because of all that the Son is, we have been given one blessing after another. The Law was given by Moses, but Jesus Christ brought us undeserved kindness and truth. No one has ever seen God. The only Son, who is truly God and is closest to the Father, has shown us what God is like.
God Is
Discussion Questions: 1) How can we know that God is real? 2) What is something in nature that reminds you that God is real? 3) What did you learn about who God is this week?
#GoodNews: GOD IS THE WORD OF LIFE #GodIs #WordOfLife
GOD IS THE WORD OF LIFE: God wants us to know He is The Word of Life. John is the forerunner of Jesus and lays down the facts about our awesome creator. Even before the foundation of our world, Elohim was. In fact, Christ is the glue of the universe. Everything is held together by Him. Haven't you read?
In the beginning was the one who is called the Word. The Word was with God and was truly God. From the very beginning the Word was with God. And with this Word, God created all things. Nothing was made without the Word. Everything that was created received its life from him, and his life gave light to everyone. The light keeps shining in the dark, and darkness has never put it out.
God Is
Who is God? What is He like? How can we know more about Him when we can't see Him with our eyes? This series explores the truths that God is real, God is everywhere, God is strong, and God is love.
#GoodNews: GOD IS PROMISING! #GodIs #Promising
GOD IS PROMISING: God wants us to know He is promising His people that His goodness awaits them. See how he shared this truth with Moses and His followers. His plan is unfolding as we speak.
Moses said to the Lord, "I know that you have told me to lead these people to the land you promised them. But you have not said who will go along to help me. You have said that you are my friend and that you are pleased with me.
If this is true, let me know what your plans are, then I can obey and continue to please you. And don't forget that you have chosen this nation to be your own."
The Lord said, "I will go with you and give you peace."
Then Moses replied, "If you aren't going with us, please don't make us leave this place.
But if you do go with us, everyone will know that you are pleased with your people and with me. That way, we will be different from the rest of the people on earth."
So the Lord told him, "I will do what you have asked, because I am your friend and I am pleased with you."
God Is
Who is God? What is He like? How can we know more about Him when we can't see Him with our eyes? This series explores the truths that God is real, God is everywhere, God is strong, and God is love.


text:
James R. Phelan writerPhelan dedicated his career to investigating and exposing the wheeling and dealing of Howard Hughes. His books include Howard Hughes: The Hidden Years and the forthcoming Money: The Battle for Howard Hughes's Billions. Born: 1912?Died: 1997 Information Please® Database, © 2007 Pearson Education, Inc. All rights reserved.
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58.Sultans of swing Fantasy
Artist description:
zbif zbif
Created Apr 07, 2012. Unless noted Copyright 2012
furduimihai .
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wehehe looks evil :P kinda like a mix between a psycho path, a harlequin and a puppet master XD awesome pic 5/5
VERY COOL AND love the song! 5/5 fav http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jH74e3Qo9k
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IDCE Students Profiles
Jenkins Macedo (ES&P '2014)
Jenkins Macedo (Liberia) received a M.A. in International Development and Social Change from Clark University. He was awarded the 2011 Compton Environmental Sustainability International Research Fellowship to conduct his research in Ghana. His IDSC master's thesis focuses on the environmental security implications of the indiscriminate disposal of municipal solid waste among Liberian Refugees at the Buduburam Refugee Settlement in Ghana. His academic and research interests include geospatial analysis of refugees' environmental impacts, protection, social change and protracted displacement.


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Nike Air Max NM – Black – Varsity Red
March 30th, 2012 by John Kim | 10 comments
Nike continues to recollects its 90′s gems with the Air Max NM, introduced once again here in a never-say-die Black/Red colorway. Compared to the previous Soar/Cyber colorway, this Black/Red appears more aggressive with the fierce colorblocking – the red mesh underlay acting like the bloodied remains in the Air Max NM's shark-teeth design. The NM is certainly one of the funkier sneakers of the 90′s, but that's certainly understandable because the sneaker was designed with Hideo's Japanese heritage in mind. This classic yet approachable colorway will hit stores soon – what are your thoughts? Photos via socialstatus


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B&Bs in Strasbourg, France
Hotel Le Petit Trianon
8 Petite Rue de la CourseClose to the train station and city centre (3 minutes walk), Hotel Le Petit Trianon offers comfortable and affordable rooms and is an ideal choice for your stay in Strasbourg. It offers 25 renovated rooms (in 2009), fully equipped and well furnished. You will enjoy its relaxed bar-restaurant. The Petit Trianon team is very attentive and stands entirely at your disposal. Private parking is available and each room has a private bathroom and a TV. The Petit Trianon is close to...
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Hotel Victoria
7-9 Rue du Maire KussWelcome to hotel Victoria, in the heart of the city centre, close the banks of the Ill river and only a stone throw from the central railway station. Enjoy the atmosphere of our 47 spacious and fully equipped rooms (with bathroom, or shower, toilet, direct telephone line, colour television, etc.), guarantees a very pleasant and comfortable stay. Our hotel is ideally located to discover the Petite France, the Cathedral as well as the museums Hotel Victoria is well served by public...
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Cap Europe
6, rue de BitcheIdeally located 5 minutes from the Congress Centre, between the European institutions and the historic centre, the establishment welcomes you in one of the nicest districts of the city. Whether you are a solo traveller or travelling with your family or friends, Cap Europe features rooms and apartments for one to 5 people. The establishment also benefits from easy access by tram (lines B and E) and by car. Breakfast is not included in the room rate Please Note: Visitors Taxes...
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Hotel Restaurant Pax
24-26 Rue du Faubourg NationalWelcome to Hotel PAX an establishment of character and family tradition located in Strasbourg city centre, nearby the charming Petite France area, the rail station and the Modern Art Museum. For a long time the Hotel PAX is a well guarded address for those who have already fallen under the charm of the Alsatian capital. They come to enjoy comfortable recently renovated rooms at a reasonable price, a good restaurant serving Alsatian specialties and friendly personnel who are eager to help...
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Hotel Le Grillon
2 Rue ThiergartenIdeally situated, close to the station and the town centre in a semi-pedestrian precinct, we offer a 2-star-hotel. Our 71 rooms are complete with all modern conveniences and we are famed for our hearty welcome and our rooms which are full of character. We propose soundproofed and air-conditioned rooms, satellite TV, buffet breakfast, disabled access, elevator, conference room ideal for banquets, cocktails or the celebration of different events, summer terrace, parking and bicycle...
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The excitement of HD. The control of Start Over, DVR and On Demand. The choices from sports packages to hit movies. It's all on Interactive Television.
Get Digital TVUsing Wideband technology, discover how to accomplish more in less time online.
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Know what's happening in your home by watching live video feeds of your home, from any computer, laptop, or mobile device.
Learn MoreForget the fasten seatbelt sign here. You're always free to roam when you have wireless Home Networking from Bright House Networks. Plus, every person in your home can use a different computer at the same time, from one single connection.
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You get freedom to roam. Plus, features like Parental Controls, Online Security and 24-hour customer care are included as well.
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Srini Tridandapani, MD, PhD
Title: Assistant Professor
Division: Abdominal Imaging
Focus Area: Body Imaging (Chest and Abdomen)
Other Focus: Cardiac Imaging
Medical School: University of Michigan
Residency: University of Michigan
Fellowship: University of Michigan - Cardiothoracic Imaging
Emory University School of Medicine - Cardiac Imaging and Abdominal Imaging
Other: PhD from University of Washington
Career Sketch: Dr. Tridandapani received his M.S.E.E. and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical Engineering from University of Washington and post-doctoral training in computer science from University of California. Dr. Tridandapani then served as an Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering at Iowa State University. Not
satisfied with this training, he then took the risky plunge into medical school and residency training in Radiology at University of Michigan, followed by two fellowships, one in Cardiothoracic Imaging and the other in Abdominal Imaging. While Dr. Tridandapani will not rule out further formal education, he is currently quite happy with (1) serving patients through interpretation of
chest and abdominal imaging studies and performing advanced imaging
guided procedures, (2) teaching medical students and residents, and (3) performing pioneering work in the area of cardiac imaging by exploiting his engineering background to further the cause of medicine. He is currently planning a laboratory to develop advanced cardiac imaging techniques.
If you are a patient, and would like to schedule an appointment with the physician,
please call Emory Health Connection at 1-800-75-EMORY (36679).


text:
A grassroots movement created of, by and for the greatest and most passionate fans in the world — we, the loyal followers of the Detroit Red Wings. Our "fanifesto" is simple: To urge all our fellow Wings fans to get on their feet. To stand shoulder-to-shoulder pad. To eat, to drink and to sleep Red Wings.
This is a cause that transcends all social boundaries, bringing together both left wingers and right wingers — centers and defensemen, too. Power play to the people!