The TRUTH Will Set You Free - The blog from - Page 64 of 164

Posted on May 16, 2021 by TonyMay 16, 2021

We haven’t watched TV, in our house, for about 7 years now. So, I’m not usually “up” on the latest propaganda…uh “news headlines.” But people I trust are willing to take one for the team. And they watch the “news” programs and share the foolishness that goes on there every day. And it appears as though major networks still don’t report the news. Probably because…

They’d rather mandate your views than report the actual news.

For example, how much reporting do you see or hear that opposes masks and vaccinations? If your only “news” source is one or more of the major networks, the answer is somewhere around zero.

Or the opposition reports only include attempts to ridicule, mock, and even slander those who would dare question the science of masks and vaccinations. Yet, there is a mountain of scientific and data-rich evidence to question what’s going on.

Someone sent me a link, and I just watched a short, 32 minute documentary, from this year, about the vaccines (I’ve embedded it below). And it certainly seems credible enough to be included on the major news networks. At least if they truly do want to report the news.

But I suspect they’ll never get around to it.

Because they have an agenda.

And your health and well-being are not included in that agenda. Concern for getting the facts and figures to you is not included in that agenda. The number one ingredient for the agenda of major news networks, politicians, and many of the super-rich is control.

When they can make you wear a mask, that clearly is unhealthy (billions of people have lived their entire lives without them), they maintain control. And when they can tell lies, that are clearly falsifiable, and millions of people gobble ’em up like popcorn, they maintain control.

And, yet, they’re mere pawns of the ruler of this world.

Please, don’t be one of them. At least check out information like this…

If you take a stand and you stand for the Truth,
You could lose a good friend.
But if you lose the whole wide world”¨,
And keep your soul, you win in the end.

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Posted on May 15, 2021 by TonyJune 17, 2021

Express your beliefs like the super-rich chiefs

If you were a “climate change” advocate, or some sort of “global warming” proponent, what would be the best way to express your beliefs? Show of hands? OK, Susie. What do you think the answer is? “Um, buy a half a billion dollar yacht?” That’s right, Susie. Of course, that’s only for the super-smart, super-rich people. But you’ve got the right idea.

Express your beliefs by doing the opposite.

For example, if you believe vehicles that use gasoline and petroleum also cause our planet to overheat, you should buy the largest vehicles you can find. And if you can’t find one large enough, have one custom made. After all, why deny yourself the pleasure of spending all that hard-earned dough.

And if you believe we’re using up all our planet’s resources too quickly, then you should definitely buy the largest house…no, I should say, mansion…you can find. And if you can’t find one large enough, have one custom made. After all, why deny yourself the pleasure of spending all that hard-earned dough.

Of course, I’m just being sarcastic. Because, like I said, the super-rich are super-smart. They’d never do such things. Because they super-care. They’d never spend their money in a way that harms mother earth.

Well, that’s true, unless you count just about every super-rich person out there.

For example, Jeff Bezos, chief excruciating officer of Amazon, will apparently soon be taking delivery of one of those half a billion dollar yachts little Susie mentioned. And according to an article I read about it, his yacht will be large enough to have a smaller “rescue yacht” on board.

I believe it’ll take more than a little fuel to operate that beast.

But I could be wrong. Maybe it’s totally electric. And totally emissions free.

And maybe there really are magical fairies, leprechauns, and unicorns.

Yeah, Mr. Bezos is just one example of the many super-rich hypocrites.

And Jesus, who created Heaven and Earth and all living things, had harsh words for hypocrites. When you look up the word “hypocrites” in the New Testament, you’ll see what I mean.

Just so you know where I stand on the topic of wealth…

I’m for it.

But far too many pursue wealth for its own sake. As they pretend to want to help their fellow man. And yet, how much does it help your fellow man to hear you talking about dwindling resources and the impending doom of climate change, when you buy gigantic houses and yachts?

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites. For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.”

Disagree? Feel free to express your beliefs in the comments.

Do you see the pattern form
How the wrong becomes the norm?
Say Yeah! Say Yeah!
Would you like to stop the ride?
Could you dare to take a side?
Say Yeah! Say Yeah!

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Posted on May 14, 2021 by TonyJune 17, 2021

Hindsight is 20 20 for some but not for plenty

I had my eyes examined (no, not my head) a couple of weeks ago. And this week I got my new glasses. Plus, this is my 2020th post here on TonyFunderburk.com. So, those two things, and a couple of other unnamed things, got me thinking about that expression, “hindsight is 20 20.”

From what I’ve been able to figure out, with only a little research…because I don’t wanna spend a lot of time on it…is that the expression probably started somewhere around the mid 1900’s.

Hindsight is 20 20 is a metaphor that doesn’t work as much anymore.

Because it implies that you can look back in time and see, more clearly, what you woulda coulda shoulda done. And it’s another way of saying “those who don’t learn from the past are destined to repeat it.”

The expression is based on something known as the Snellen chart. And if you’ve ever had an eye examination, you’ve seen the chart. Those rows of letters that get smaller and smaller. And the doctor asks you to cover one eye and read the smallest line you can see.

(side note: For some reason they have fewer lines than when I was younger, but anyway…)

So, when you can see the chart clearly, with both eyes, from a distance of 20 feet, your vision is 20/20.

But here’s a little plot twist.

Just because your vision might be categorized as 20/20 doesn’t mean it’s perfect vision. It just means you have clear, sharp vision when you look straight ahead. And your ophthalmologist (there’s a word you need glasses for) will still wanna test your peripheral and depth perception.

But it’s the looking ahead, compared to looking back, that I think is interesting.

Because you can get a prescription to see what’s in front of you more clearly. And that can help you avoid running into a door. Or help you drive safely. But there’s no prescription for looking back in time.

And even if there were a prescription, it wouldn’t help. Because you still couldn’t do anything about what happened five minutes ago. Let alone 20 years ago.

But you CAN learn from your past mistakes. And you CAN do better as you move forward. But it’s gonna require a prescription most people don’t want.

Get wisdom.

Yeah, wisdom. Not book smarts. Not street smarts. Pure, unadulterated wisdom.

And most people don’t wanna do that because they don’t wanna go where it is. They’d rather hide their heads in books. Or turn their ears to the streets. But the world doesn’t contain wisdom.

The world is full of “unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness.”

And that list manipulates people into being “whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful.”

Have you noticed anybody that fits any of those descriptions?

If not, then I think it’s time for your eye exam.

And I’d like to recommend the best way to look back so you can see clearly as you move forward. And, of course, my recommendation is to read the bestselling book of all time. The Bible.

Or you can keep running into walls,
Sliding down slopes,
Falling off cliffs,
And reaching for ropes,
Never looking up
For your dreams and hopes.
Running into walls,
And sliding down slopes.

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Posted on May 13, 2021 by TonyMay 13, 2021

Wrestling matches of yore and what I mention them for

Wahoo McDaniel. Fritz von Erich. The Funk Brothers. These might not be household names to you. But back in the late 60’s, into the first couple years of the 70’s, they were known at my Dad’s house. Because they were wrestlers, and he enjoyed the comedy and drama of televised wrestling matches. But before I go any further, I want you to know…

Dad never thought those wrestling matches were real.

Far from it. And I think that’s why he enjoyed ’em. Because they put on a show. And the audiences, at the arena, seemed to think it was real. Or at least they acted like that’s what they thought. People would pick their favorites and cheer for them. And they booed for the “bad guys.”

It was cheap, Saturday night entertainment. And I can still remember Dad laughing at all those antics.

Fast forward to recent years, and I bet wrestling matches haven’t changed all that much. From what I’ve read, they’re still full of scripted antics. But nowadays, some of the famous wrestlers can become big-screen movie stars. Like Dwayne Johnson (aka The Rock) for example.

And it seems like at least some of the modern day wrestlers take better care of themselves. It’s uncanny how many of the wrestlers from “back in the day” died in their 40’s.

Which brings me to my real reason for sharing this wrestling news with you. Yeah, you didn’t really think I was gonna tell you about my new WWF swag, did you?

No. But I AM thinking about another wrestling match.

That one going on inside you.

And me. And, as it turns out, the Apostle Paul. He talked about it in his letter to the Romans. And it’s yet another way the Bible is full of believable realism. Because the men who stood out and were chosen and were named…were also flawed.

So flawed, sometimes, that innocent people were hurt, or suffered great loss, or even murdered.

But Paul pointed out, in Romans, how each and every human being has to deal with his or her own flesh. From the time you’re aware of your own identity to the very end of your life. And, on your own, you will fail.

Because even if you use some magnificent meditational magic and control yourself, you might still spend eternity in a place where it will have all been for nothing.

No amount of good living, good thoughts, or good deeds can save you from your wrestling match.

Only Grace can do it. But here’s the thing. That Grace is free.

And that’s amazing.
Ask me how I know.
And I will tell you
That it’s WHO I know.

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Posted on May 12, 2021 by TonyMay 12, 2021

Absolute truth makes some people so uncouth

About 10 years ago I shared a short “test” to help people wrap their minds around the concept of absolute truth. And it’s so much more than a concept. But take the test. Send me your answers. And I don’t grade “on the curve.” Here are the questions from 10 years ago. And they still apply…

Test your knowledge of absolute truth with these 10 quick questions:

1. Which is a better book to read?

A. The Bible
B. The Purpose Driven Life

2. Which is better to use when discussing matters of life with someone?

A. The truth
B. Awareness of and sensitivity to their feelings

3. Which has more evidence and is easier to prove?

A. That Jesus existed
B. That you exist

4. When a woman becomes pregnant, inside her is…

A. Another human life
B. No one can truly say

5. Who is more likely to be shot and killed?

A. An American citizen in America
B. A soldier in the mid-East

6. Who is more likely to become an unwed mother?

A. A public school girl
B. A homeschool girl

7. Which will always be absolutely wrong…no matter what?

A. Rape
B. Lying

8. “Rights” are something you can…

A. Defend
B. Vote on

9. Even the tiniest single cell is…

A. Irreducibly complex
B. An amazingly unexplainable phenomenon

10. Truth exists because…

A. God exists
B. I say so

Does your worldview make you say something like, “Truth doesn’t exist.”Or “Absolute truth doesn’t exist”? If so, then you need another worldview because your current one refutes itself in about 1 second.

To deny truth is to deny your own existence. Or at the very least, question your own existence. And when you can’t even be sure if YOU exist, then absolutely nothing else you say or do has any meaning or relevance. After all, why would I (or anyone) want to waste time debating issues with someone who might not even exist?

I encourage you to seek truth. Seek wisdom. When you get it, I promise, you absolutely won’t be sorry.

For the Truth is absolute.
And it’s foolish to dispute.
It confounds the wise, but it opens eyes,
And it saves the destitute.

(from my song “The Way”)

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Posted on May 11, 2021 by TonyJune 9, 2021

Relationship is key to a blessed eternity.

I watched a well-made movie, starring Robert Duvall, the other night. And he’s a very good actor who can keep you engaged. I wish he’d learn how stupid he sounds as he takes God’s name in vain in just about every character he plays. But I’m not sure Mr. Duvall understands how that relationship is key.

In the movie Mr. Duvall’s character, Felix Bush, is a hermit who’s lived alone for 40 years. And he let his hair and beard grow out extra long and wild. All the townspeople know OF him. But they don’t know ABOUT him. And his deep, dark secret.

Felix committed a sin and a crime 40 years ago. And it was so egregious he determined, on his own, that it was unpardonable. So, that’s part of the underlying plot. And I won’t give any more of it away in case you decide to watch the movie. I can’t recommend it because it takes God’s name in vain. But if you can find a filtered version, the rest of it is very good production.

And the filmmakers showed the value of wiser relationships.

In fact, a good relationship with your Creator is the Way to a blessed eternity.

There’s no other way. Your family, your friends, your husband or wife or significant other…they’ll let you down. And they’re just as flawed as you. So, your hope for a blessed eternity, absolutely can’t be found in them.

When you read how Jesus described Himself in John 14:6, it’s impossible to miss His definitive description. He’s not “a” way, or truth, or life. He’s “The” way, truth, and life. And He states it boldly. So, it better be true. Because, if it’s not, He’s not to be trusted or followed.

But it IS true. And the evidence for His truth is overwhelming…to anyone willing to go where it leads.

And it leads to an eternal relationship.

So, like I said, relationship is key.

For the Truth is absolute.
And it’s foolish to dispute.
It confounds the wise but it opens eyes,
And it saves the destitute.

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Posted on May 10, 2021 by TonyJune 9, 2021

Cling to what is good. Yes, we certainly should.

You and I should cling to what is good. Not because it’s some kind of law. But because there’s much benefit to it. Sometimes eternal benefits. But you can’t do it. And I can’t either. We just can’t do it.

Because it doesn’t jive with our human nature to cling to what is good.

And that sounds bad. Right? (tongue only slightly in cheek) And it sounds bad because it IS bad. But human nature looks for ways to be king (or queen) of the world. You and I don’t go out of our way to be “kindly affectionate to one another.” And we sure don’t wanna “give preference to one another.”

Especially nowadays. Because all that gushy love your neighbor kind of stuff is seen as a sign of weakness by many, if not most, people these days. And weak definitely ain’t cool. So, skip that goody two shoes stuff.

But that brings up a good question.

Since we can’t do all that patient love and affection stuff, why does God ask or tell us to do it?

Yeah. And in fact, he gets downright insistent about it through His apostle, Paul, in his letter to the Romans.

“Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.”

Sure, sounds straightforward enough. But I can’t do it.

And neither can you.

Not on our own anyway.

You’re gonna need help to show brotherly love to people in this world. And you’re gonna need help being fervent in spirit and patient in tribulation. Because your flesh…your self…wants to BE served. And without the “continuing steadfastly in prayer” part, that’s the way it will BE.

So, cling to what is good. And here’s the best way to do that. Cling to God. Because only He is good. All the time. And in every way. Only God will never let you down. And only His love will get you through your life.

That’s how you do the impossible. Let God do it through you. Remember…you get to choose.

You can’t begin the day, it’s impossible.
You don’t know what to say, it’s impossible.
And so you seem to pray to impossible gods.
But let God take a turn, it’s possible
To make the image burn, it’s possible
You still could overturn Impossible Odds.

(from the song, Impossible Odds)

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Posted on May 9, 2021 by TonyMay 8, 2022

As recent as the second half of last year (2020) I talked with my Mom about Heaven. And I recall, in one of our Sunday phone conversations, saying how she wouldn’t be my Mom in Heaven. I told her, “Just think…in Heaven, you’ll be my sister forever.” And she said something like, “Now, wait a minute. I’m always gonna be your mom.” That’s a particularly poignant memory on this first motherless Mother’s Day.”

Yeah, for the first time in my life I’m motherless on Mother’s Day.

And it’s sad for me. But it’s glorious for my Mom…my sister.

I can only imagine the wonders she’s experienced in the last 90 days. And she, no doubt, has a much clearer and vivid understanding of what Paul said to the Corinthians about Heaven. Mom has been “caught up into Heaven.” And she’s heard “inexpressible words.” But she’s able to fully understand them now.

So, on this first motherless Mother’s Day in my life, I know my Mom would like all you moms to know there are plenty of us who appreciate how you…

Withstood the months of pregnancy
Withstood the pains of childbirth
Fed your babies when they cried at 3 a.m.
Fixed “boo boos”
Kissed away pain
Hugged away frowns
Cooked breakfasts, made lunches, and prepared dinners
Washed clothes even after laundry was all done
Taught truth, hope, and love…and readin’, writin’, and ‘rithmetic
Fought tangled hair, torn pants, and missing shoestrings
Remembered birthdays with just the right proportion of chocolate icing to vanilla ice cream
Listened to stories of triumph, tragedy, and utter despair (mostly from teenage girls)
Made or bought costumes for every goofy event imaginable
Went to plays, sporting events, and music presentations…cheering for that one child who was obviously the natural born talent
Brought the “something borrowed” or “something blue” to the bride-to-be just at the right time
Danced the mother/son dance with the groom who had been her dragonslayer only “weeks ago”
Made special homemade desserts for the kids and grandkids when they came over for Thanksgiving
Brought an elegant grace to the process of aging
Made us believe there’s a forever, a God who loves us, and a knowledge that we’ll have eternity in paradise

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Posted on May 8, 2021 by TonyMay 10, 2021

I hadn’t heard it in a while. But just a couple of days ago I heard it in a car next to me as I sat in a grocery store parking lot. A couple of kids, who weren’t adjusting the volume in their voices to compensate for the rolled-down windows, disagreed about something. And one said something I didn’t quite catch. But the other replied in a very audible tone, “Stop bugging me.” Or as I like to say, “stop buggin’ me.”

Stop bugging me has been said and heard for decades.

And kids will always use some form of it. Because all it takes for one kid to be bothered by another kid is…well…another kid. Yeah, put two kids together, without adult supervision, and it’s almost inevitable that one is gonna bug the other. Some way. Somehow.

And that’s why I wrote a funny song about it several years ago. It’s part of a collection of songs about kids and the darndest things they say and do. That collection is called Kiddin’ Around. And here’s…

Stop Buggin’ Me

You’re a fly around my face,
You’re a spider in my space.
Stop buggin’ me…stop buggin’ me.
You’re a squiggly wiggly worm.
You just wanna see me squirm.
Stop buggin me…stop buggin me.
Like a beetle in the bush;
You might need a little push.
You’re a locust in the tree
Makin’ all your noise at me;
Stop buggin me…stop buggin me.

You’re a fumble bumblebee.
You’re a flicky flaky flea.
Stop buggin me…stop buggin me
When I wear my favorite hat,
You keep naggin’ like a gnat.
Stop buggin me…stop buggin me.
Like a lanky little leech
You just want to hear me screech.
You’re a creepy centipede,
When you do this daily deed.
Stop buggin me…stop buggin me.

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Posted on May 7, 2021 by TonyMay 8, 2021

Selling online some of theirs and some of mine

I’ve been part of a great group on Facebook for the past 10 months or so. And it’s a private group focused on selling online from a particular platform. And the awesome teaching there is led by The Greg Perry. He knows a thing or two (or way more) about the subject. But I’m not gonna reveal what the platform is right now.

Because this isn’t just about selling online.

I’m talking about having an online presence. And how politically charged it can be to have it. And the tables have turned when it comes to what’s acceptable and what’s not. Or what’s considered free speech as opposed to hate speech.

In case you’re just not into what your fellow Americans are doing and saying about Christians, just know it ain’t good. Matter of fact, if you stand, boldly, for your Christian faith, don’t be surprised if the power hungry, control freaks, who hate God, work to take your freedoms completely away.

Sounds conspiratorial. But it’s not.

In fact, it’s already happening.

People, who’ve used Facebook (and certain other social media platforms), have seen years of work go down the drain with the flip of a digital switch. And others are blocked from banks. And I could go on.

But the point I wanna make is this…

The message of the promise of eternal life is true. And it’s good. AND it’s right. So, I’ll continue to do all I can to sell it to anyone who’ll invest in it. And here’s the good news about this eternal Truth. It’s already been purchased. And you can buy in for as little as a humble, repentant sentence.

But you should invest yourself sooner rather than later. Because this world’s getting mighty mean.

And it might not be long before you won’t have options.

C’mon and beat the world, and try to leave a dent
But don’t regret the time that you’ve spent
C’mon and beat the world, and try to leave a bruise
You need to know the life that you choose Is gonna beat the world…

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Posted on May 6, 2021 by TonyJuly 15, 2024

Unborn children have rights to all their days and nights

In 2008, I was part of a pro life group in Colorado that actively advocated for the abolition of abortion. And, believe it or not, that’s not the general consensus in the “pro life movement.” Typical pro life organizations have become compromising cash cows. And their policies have created complicated schematics for how to kill unborn children.

Because they forget that unborn children are persons with rights.

And when you dedicate all your so-called “pro life” efforts to a bill, or a policy, or a law that ultimately ends with ends with “and then you can kill the baby,” you win nothing. And the baby loses everything.

I know this is a topic 99.9% of the Christian population would rather not talk about. In fact, the people I know, who stand up for the rights of preborn and unborn children would rather not talk about it. Because it’s an uncomfortable issue that affects anyone who has even an ounce of compassion. And it would be awesome if it wasn’t even an issue.

But it’s going on. Right under your nose. And possibly right in your neighborhood. Every day thousands of Americans are murdered by their own parents. And the numbers reach into the millions, worldwide, every year.

Regulation of the abortion industry has never been, and never will be, the answer. Just like back in the days of slavery, the only solution is abolition. Because everyone has a…

Right To Life

When tiny seeds take root in tiny eggs,
Then you get tiny eyes, ears, arms and legs.
Then tiny babies form inside their mother’s womb,
And then the human life begins to bloom.

I was an unborn child until the day I was born.
I lived inside my mom until the cord was torn.
Then I began to grow and grew up “big and strong”
And learned to cherish life…and so I sing this song.

Everyone has a right to life.
A gift from God before it even starts.
Everyone has a right to life.
Your right is wrong when it stops innocent hearts…
Innocent hearts deserve a right to life.
(Repeat)

When you’re born, and someone lets you live,
You only take cause you’re too small to give.
But the joy a tiny baby brings
Is way beyond all those other things.
Give yourself some room to think about
What your “right”might do…who you’re leaving out.
Put yourself right there in that baby’s place.
Either way you “choose”you’ll see a baby’s face.

Everyone has a right to life.
A gift from God before it even starts.
Everyone has a right to life.
Your right is wrong when it stops innocent hearts.

Let’s defend the innocent and life.

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Posted on May 5, 2021 by TonyJune 5, 2021

Empty the ocean with a spoon? Yeah, that was a thought that rushed into my head one day back in the 1970’s. Because I was thinking about all the people in the world who give up too easily. And, at the same time, I thought about all the people in the world who would never give up.

And I wanted to make sure I’d always be in that second group.

At the time, I wasn’t as aware of what Paul wrote to the Corinthians and Ephesians. He exhorted them to keep on keepin’ on. Run the race to win the prize. And never give up.

Even when it feels like you’re trying to empty the ocean with a spoon.

Imagine how impossible that would be. But it would be nothing more than a drop in the bucket to the Creator of the ocean. He could drain it with a whisper. And that’s the God I’ll put my faith in, thank you very much.

Empty the Ocean

The wall stands before us.
The fire burns behind us.
And the sky frowns upon us.
And the ground below us trembles.

Did you ever feel like saying I can’t make it?
Did you ever have a chance and passed it by?
Well, the world’s full of people who would empty the ocean
With a spoon in their hand and a light in their eye.

Our eyes seem to blacken.
Our minds tend to waver.
And our backs start to weaken.
And our legs begin to crumble.

Did you ever feel like saying what’s the use now?
Did you ever hear yourself say, “Let me die.”
Well, the world’s full of people who would empty the ocean
With a spoon in their hand and a light in their eye.

So, there’s just no need to worry,
If you think about the people
Who would empty the ocean with a spoon in their hand.

Did you ever hear a word and no one spoke it?
Did you ever see a star fall from the sky?
Well, the world’s full of people who are living on wishes.
But it’s also full of people with that light in their eye.

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Posted on May 4, 2021 by TonyJune 3, 2021

Time shall be no more. What do they say that for?

I just saw three weak references to time by Christians. And all three of them talked about when time shall be no more. Sadly, those Christians are perpetuating an impossibility. Because there will never be a time when there is no time. See, how it even sounds silly when you put it that way?

To say time shall be no more is the same as saying God shall be no more.

But this notion of timelessness doesn’t come from the Bible. In fact, all through the Bible, when you find references to time, they show the vastness of it. And that’s what makes the Christian God of the Bible even more amazing.

From everlasting to everlasting.

That’s a key description of your Creator. And it clearly describes an eternal past through now and on into the eternal future. But don’t take my word for it. If you truly believe time shall be no more (at any time in your future), then I wonder why God inspired John to talk about the passing of time in Heaven. Here’s the passage I mean…

“And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him. They shall see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads. There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever.”

So, according to God, we’ll even still have months in Heaven. And it seems as though there’ll still be twelve of them. Now, I think that’s awesome.

And it sure doesn’t sound like no more time.

Time will go on forever
Because God is eternal and true.
Time will go on forever
For God, and for me, and for you.

(At least if you’ve chosen to recognize Jesus for who He is.)

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Posted on May 3, 2021 by TonyMay 4, 2021

Transcendental meditation won't make you a new creation

On May 3, back in 1968, the Beach Boys got “spiritual” and it didn’t go well. They started a US tour with a weird (they didn’t think so, but he was) opening act. And the reaction to Maharishi Mahesh (can I get a pic-a-nic basket) Yogi wasn’t quite what they expected. Apparently the California Girls (and boys) weren’t ready for some transcendental meditation mixed in with their favorite surf songs.

And in spite of their transcendental meditation “awakening” financial reality hit.

Yogi (hey Boo Boo) lectured the Beach Boys’ audience on “spiritual regeneration.” But the audience didn’t think that was any Fun, Fun, Fun. At least some audiences, back then, still had enough sense to not fall for such nonsense. So, more than half of the rest of the tour dates were cancelled. And the release of the Beach Boys’ album, to go with the tour, was a critical and commercial failure.

I’ll take a wild guess and say no spirits were regenerated on that note.

Yeah, the Beach Boys and the Beatles all had their days of dope and moments with Maharishi. But they were looking for something you’ll never find in the words, deeds, and actions of a so-called “guru.” And transcendental meditation will never transcend the reality of your life and death. Or how you got here and where you’ll go when you die.

No amount of dope smoking, drug taking, and meditating will ever get you to “a better place.”

Sure, you might “feel better.”

But it’ll be temporary. Because it’s based on your temporal physical existence. But you can’t experience a spiritual regeneration without tapping into the eternal spiritual source. And here’s a hint: that source isn’t somewhere inside your inner consciousness…and it sure ain’t in Yogi.

But the good news is…you CAN experience spiritual regeneration. And it gets better. Because all the hard work’s already been done for you. Yeah, it’s been done for every single person on Earth. At least for anyone who wants it.

All you gotta do is ask
And you can live forever.
Ask…and life will leave you never.
Ask…for regeneration
And you will become a new creation.

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Posted on May 2, 2021 by TonyJune 3, 2021

Something is either right or wrong. And, it goes without saying (but I’m saying it anyway) some of those right or wrong things are more important than others. And some are of great importance. But the foundation of the statement remains the same.

Because right or wrong can mean the difference between joy and torment.

For example, I’ll share a snippet of conversation I had with someone who disagreed with me on this idea. And I’ll put in their comments first, followed by my reply.

“Being right has nothing to do with it.

The idea that you call ‘right’ is the idea that someone else calls ‘wrong.’ The solution that you call ‘perfect’ is the solution that another calls ‘unworkable.’ The position that you feel is unassailable is the very position that others assail.

What will solve all of this? Not attack, that’s for sure. And not defense, either. So what is left? Simple human love. The kind of love that says, “It doesn’t matter who is right or wrong. It only matters that you are not hurt.

And that we both can benefit. All true benefits are mutual.”

Ok, before I add my reply to those comments, yes, love is the answer.

But not simple human love.

Now, here is my reply to the previous statements…

“Being right has nothing to do with it” Is that right? “The idea that you call ‘right’ is the idea that someone else calls ‘wrong’ ” Is that right or wrong? “The solution that you call perfect is the solution that another calls unworkable” Is that absolutely true?

Can you actually know anything? Or can you only attempt to correct others for not knowing what you think you know? Does absolute truth exist? Because a statement that says “all true benefits are mutual” is a statement of absolute truth by its inclusion of the word “all”. That leaves no wiggle room, ringing of absoluteness.

True love tells the truth.

True love rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes, hopes, and endures all things…even those things which we might not prefer to believe are true. I don’t attack you. I respond to your challenges in kind. And I say these things with no malice toward you…no expectation of spontaneous illumination. I say them out of a love…a love you will never understand if you choose to live out your life elevating yourself above your Creator. And it is choice, not predetermination.

OK. There are two opposing views of the right or wrong debate. And I’d like to add that Love isn’t merely a feeling. It’s an act of your will. It doesn’t simply fall out of the universe and land in your heart. You choose to either love or not love. And it’s either freely given, or it’s not love.

What do you think? Am I right or wrong?
Do you even care about this idealogical song?

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Posted on May 1, 2021 by TonyMay 29, 2021

Ponder the past even though it doesn't last

It’s fascinating how little snippets of memories can flash into the front of your mind. Sometimes the flash comes out of nowhere. And sometimes it’s because you simply stopped and thought about it. And I recommend an occasional pause to ponder the past. Don’t live in it. And certainly don’t rehash the bad stuff. But remember. Consider. Be thankful.

When you ponder the past, with love in your heart, magic happens.

You remember magic, little moments. Fragments of time you’ll never get back, but you’ll also never lose. Like a parent reading a bedtime story. Maybe you heard lots of them. But one found a cozy corner in your brain and took up permanent residence.

I have a memory exactly like that. It’s a recollection I have of Mom reading from a large Mother Goose nursery rhymes book. There were lots of words on those big pages. And they stirred my 4 year old imagination…enough to recall them all these years later. And one of my favorites was by poet/columnist Eugene Field. He lived from 1850 to 1895. And he wrote…

Wynken, Blynken, and Nod

Wynken, Blynken, and Nod one night sailed off in a wooden shoe,
Sailed on a river of crystal light into a sea of dew.
“Where are you going, and what do you wish?” the old moon asked the three.
“We have come to fish for the herring-fish that live in this beautiful sea;
Nets of silver and gold have we,” said Wynken, Blynken, and Nod.

The old moon laughed and sang a song, as they rocked in the wooden shoe;
And the wind that sped them all night long ruffled the waves of dew;
The little stars were the herring-fish that lived in the beautiful sea.
“Now cast your nets wherever you wish, Never afraid are we!”
So cried the stars to the fishermen three, Wynken, Blynken, and Nod.

All night long their nets they threw to the stars in the twinkling foam,
Then down from the skies came the wooden shoe, bringing the fishermen home:
‘Twas all so pretty a sail, it seemed as if it could not be;
And some folk thought ’twas a dream they’d dreamed of sailing that beautiful sea;
But I shall name you the fishermen three: Wynken, Blynken, and Nod.

Wynken and Blynken are two little eyes, and Nod is a little head,
And the wooden shoe that sailed the skies is a wee one’s trundle-bed;
So shut your eyes while Mother sings of wonderful sights that be,
And you shall see the beautiful things as you rock in the misty sea
Where the old shoe rocked the fishermen three: Wynken, Blynken, and Nod.

So, just in case you get a free minute or two

Ponder the past, and see if there’s even a slightly vivid vignette hiding somewhere in your memories. If so, look out your window tonight, and…

If you see a fiery flame against the midnight sky,
Or just a tiny sparkle in the corner of your eye,
It might be me because I’m sailing through the stars.
I’ll turn and wave when I pass Mars.

(from my song “Perfect Point of View”)

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Posted on April 30, 2021 by TonyMay 28, 2021

Spiritual songs were sung when I was young

I remember singing what we called “old spiritual songs” way, way back when I was in choir in high school. One, that always comes to mind, said “soon ah will be done uh wit da troubles of da world. Goin’ home to see my Lord.”

And my high school was composed of 99.99% latte toned people. I can only recall one or two chocolate toned people in the whole four years of high school.

So, there we were. Latte kids singing chocolate spiritual songs.

Sounds delicious when you put it that way, doesn’t it? And it was.

I loved those songs. And I think most of my choir mates did too. And we loved ’em because they weren’t the norm. I think our choir director, Mr. Scarcella, enjoyed musical excursions off the beaten path. That’s what made him my favorite teacher.

By the way, in case you’ve never visited my website or read my blog posts or listened to my podcast episodes, I went to public school. Not private. And not Christian.

Public (aka government) school.

And my first solo vocal medal (a 1, which is best) was for my performance of a spiritual song. The words to the song were based on Psalm 27. And I can still hear myself practicing it over and over.

“The Lord is my Light and my salvation.
Whom then shall I fear? Whom then shall I fear?
The Lord is the strength of my life.
(crescendo) The Lord is the strength of my life.
(crescendo more) Of whom then shall I be afraid?

So, while I do have responsibilities IN this world, I have even more important responsibilities TO this world. Especially to fellow believers. Here’s how I know.

Paul said it like this…

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

And I hope to get better at that. Because I want my remaining days, weeks, months, and years on Earth to become more significant. Not less.

So, if I sing a song that makes you think, or wonder, or even feel guilty, I hope you understand my motive. And I hope wisdom rings through each note and syllable.

I want that grace in my heart, I want that grace.
Oh, let that Light from above shine on my face.
Don’t want this world and its fear
To pin me down and keep me here.
I want that grace in my heart, I want that grace.

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Posted on April 29, 2021 by TonyMay 22, 2021

2000 songs to listen to and not be tired when you're through

A fairly impressive milestone slipped by me this past week. And that’s even though I told myself to not let it slip past me. What was the milestone, you ask? Well, thanks for asking. Right here, on my humble little website…my humble little blog…there are over 2000 posts now. And I was gonna make some sort of a special deal. But it’s too late now. So, I’ll just share 2000 songs.

Oh wait. I should clarify. 2000 songs is the date. Not the amount.

Back in the year, 2000, I recorded, produced, and released a collection of hard-hitting original songs with a Christian theme. The collection was called “Amen.” For those of you who don’t know, Amen is the last word in the Bible. But that’s not why I named my song collection Amen. I could tell you why. But then, I’d have to toss you into the pure river of water of life.

OK. So, what I’m gonna do, in recognition of those songs, is share the lyrics to two of the songs in that collection. And if you’d care to hear them, you’ll have to listen to the The Power of God’s Love Podcast. Because that’s where I share my music. At least some of it. And at least for now.

Here are the lyrics to a couple of those 2000 songs…

The Pure Place

I clamor for the clean life, and I never quite succeed
I’m hunting for the high ground that’s higher than the sky
I’m looking for the love-life…the kind that we all need
And I’m wishing for the wonder that lives in my mind’s eye

I want to find the Pure Place…that glitters like gold
I need to find the Pure Place…never hot or cold
I’d love to find the Pure Place…
Let the Light shine on my face…
No dreams I’d ever have to chase…
No bad that we could not erase…
I’d love to find…the Pure Place!

I’m searching for the sanctity that I never do quite find
I’m longing for the living days that never, ever end
And I’m thinking so theatrically, but at least I use my mind
To quest for the quintessence of my Forever Friend

repeat chorus…inst…repeat chorus and end

Give To Gain

It’s a shame; it’s a crying shame
That so few ever stake their claim
To the life; to the life that’s free
From the world and from iniquity.

What a choice to be loosed or bound.
Plant your feet on the solid ground.
And receive; and receive the Grace.
Put the Light in your dark heart’s place.

Ain’t it funny how we give to gain.
But let’s follow the lead
Of the Creator of this earthly plane.
It’s a wonder how we give to gain.
But it’s really not giving; it’s the one way of living
That we should learn to give to gain

It’s a crime; it’s an awful crime
That the world thinks in finite time
With their hands stretching out to take.
And they reap another big mistake.

Chorus

Live the only way of livin’
Give like you’ve been forgiven…

Chorus…inst…chorus to end

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Posted on April 28, 2021 by TonyApril 29, 2021

Fear is contagious even when it's outrageous

It’s more than a little ironic. Most of the world has been forced into submission with the threat of an invisible, tiny virus. And the irony is, it illustrates how much fear is contagious. Way more than the virus could ever be.

And you can bet evil men are glad fear is contagious.

Because they know power and control are almost effortless with fearful masses. But maybe I’m just a conspiracy nut. Maybe the outspoken billionaires who think we evolved from slime, and who think there are too many humans, are right. Yeah, maybe they care more about you than me. And maybe their compassion for human life far surpasses mine.

Sure. And maybe pigs will fly and hell will freeze over.

If Jesus had no influence over me, I wouldn’t write about faith, hope, and love every day. And I certainly wouldn’t care if you die and go to Heaven or hell. It just wouldn’t be in me. And it wouldn’t matter. Because, well, if matter’s all there is, then nothing matters.

But Jesus DOES have influence over me. And I write every day in an attempt to let His love for you flow through me. So, I share words and music. And I talk about current events. And I do my best to tie it all together with Biblical principles.

So, the fear I wish was more contagious is the fear of the Lord. Because that’s the beginning of wisdom. And wisdom is the principal thing. With wisdom you could receive honor and a crown of glory. But neither of those is the principal reason to get wisdom. Your Creator is.

Because He will help you understand the ways and wiles of evil men.

And I certainly don’t wanna be called sexist. So, yes, there are plenty of evil women, too.

So, be on guard against loud voices who hate God. Because they hate you, too. And they couldn’t care less if you live or die. And so their policies cause way more death and suffering than any tiny virus ever could. Because…fear is contagious.

And your only inoculation or vaccination is a personal relationship with Jesus.

He is the medicine, the cure,
The booster shot that’s sure
To last you all of the days
Of this Earthly life phase.

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Posted on April 27, 2021 by TonyMay 18, 2021

Feet of clay walk you away from life today

Even if you’re not a Christian believer, you should read about Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. Because it’s the kind of story Hollywood movies attempt to tell. But they almost always fail miserably for the same reason King Nebuchadnezzar failed. They stand on feet of clay.

Here’s a sneak preview of the story about ol’ King Nebby’s dream…

“And the king said to them, “I have had a dream, and my spirit is anxious to know the dream.”
Then the Chaldeans spoke to the king in Aramaic, “O king, live forever! Tell your servants the dream, and we will give the interpretation.”

The king answered and said to the Chaldeans, “My decision is firm: if you do not make known the dream to me, and its interpretation, you shall be cut in pieces, and your houses shall be made an ash heap. However, if you tell the dream and its interpretation, you shall receive from me gifts, rewards, and great honor. Therefore tell me the dream and its interpretation.”

Whoa! Talk about pressure.

Imagine being asked to interpret a dream. But then being told that you have to tell the dreamer what his dream was and THEN interpret it. Impossible right?

Well, yeah. Impossible for mere mortal men (or even women). But not for God.

So, there was this one guy, (maybe you’ve heard of him) Daniel. And he was a great example of how to trust God for the answers to most of life’s difficult problems. And he was a doer, not just a hearer or reader. So, Daniel never stood on…

Feet of Clay

He stood there on the sandy ground,
With feet of clay, and looked around
And heard an almost silent sound.
His feet of clay became unbound.
He felt the world begin to spin.
It opened up and called him in.
He heard a voice and saw a grin
Upon a face outlined by sin.
The voice said, “You are mine, today.
And here is where you’ll always stay.
Your selfishness brought you this way.
You ran here on your feet of clay.

(lyrics to a potential song)

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