tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25689034819778825592024-03-14T05:48:41.320-07:00Coffee With Blogger RodCoffee with Blogger Rod is about things in life that interest me including some of my life's experiences. You may see my upside as well as my sarcastic side. A lot of writers call that irony. Don't forget to read my other Blog entitled, Rod's Blogs at rodsbloggs.blogspot.comRod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.comBlogger215125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-15338081732230030292012-05-08T17:10:00.000-07:002012-05-08T17:10:03.040-07:00We're ScrewedPresident Obama is going to lose this election and he knows it. We have not seen the worst of him yet. Over the next several months of his administration he is going to screw our country royally and it could be beyond repair. He has already tried to saddle us with Obama Care, driven us trillions of dollars deeper in debt, created a class warfare, and has ignited the fires of racial warfare. He has also appointed left winged cabinet members who believe in tax and spend, and who are sympathetic to the Muslim Brotherhood, who by no means have the best interests of the United States in mind. He has socialist and Marxist people in his administration. If you really do have any wealth, he really is interested in giving your wealth to the poor and to other nations..... no matter how hard you worked for it. But the worst is yet to come.<br />
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It is my opinion based on the things that he has already done, hasn't done, and the people he has appointed that he plans to stick it to the United States. He knows that he is going to lose this next election and so his time is short to do his evil deeds. He not only has hindered U.S. oil and gas exploration in the name of global warming and green energy, but he has promoted oil and gas drilling overseas, which has cost thousands of domestic jobs and has caused our economy to languish. But now, in the next few months, he will sign treaties that will make us share the wealth of our oil reserves with other nations. He not only wants the U.S. to be socialistic but he wants us to be a part of a world socialist system. He would rather have four more years to do this but he now knows that won't happen.<br />
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Furthermore, he will bind the United States into arms treaties that will make it against international law if the United States does not first get approval from the U.N. before it goes to war against any nation. Included in this treaty will be the element that the United States must share it's military technology with the rest of the world. Of course, China, the Soviet Union, and terrorist states will fly under the radar. The whole point of this will be to neutralize U.S. military superiority and to make us economically weak. Weaker than we are.<br />
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These treaties, once entered into will not be revokable. To back out of them will be an infringement on international law and will subject the president of the United States and other governmental officials to being accused and prosecuted of war crimes. It will make it impossible for the next president to change the status lest he become a war criminal.<br />
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Believe me, our world is moving toward a socialistic, if not communistic society. The French elections are an example of this. So is the rebellion in Greece. You will always have the "have nots" want a piece of the "haves" and there will always be someone to champion their cause. The U.S. citizen is like a "sheep being led to the slaughter." Believe me, a sheep is slaughtered before he ever knows what's going on.<br />
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You might not like this blog, and you might think that I am going off the deep end (frankly, I hope I am), but keep your eyes and ears open between now and this coming January. If I am wrong, write me some nasty letters. If I am right, pray for the second coming of Christ because it ain't going to be pretty.Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-3129285383822910712011-09-10T18:50:00.000-07:002011-09-10T19:19:29.891-07:00He Was GaryHis name was Gary. We lived in a mall town in northeastern North Dakota. His daughter had attended our vacation Bible school and I went to his house to visit. We had a lengthy conversation and I sensed that Gary was very sad. At one point I asked Gary if he had ever accepted Christ as his personal Savior and received the forgiveness of sins. Tears came to his eyes. Hw said he would like to but he was not yet ready. I pressed him and yet he declined. When I left his house I assured him that I would pray for him and that I would visit him again. This was Saturday night.<div><br /></div><div>Monday morning I went to the hardware store. The clerk asked if I had heard about Gary? My first thought was that he had made a decision for Christ. So I asked the clerk, "what about Gary?" He replied that Gary had rolled his car early that morning on his way to work and that he died at the scene.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was shocked and in disbelief. But it was true. Gary wasn't ready, but Scriptures say, "today is the day of salvation." Whether we are ready or not. </div><div><br /></div><div>How about you?<br /><div><br /></div></div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-26616539090749652382011-05-31T05:48:00.000-07:002011-05-31T06:12:47.740-07:00The Lord's PrayerToday, I read once again, the Lord's prayer in Matthew 6:9-13. It is my firm conviction that most Christians like to quote this prayer and even pray it..... but most do not adhere to it. Or maybe that depends on how you define the word "Christian." It seems to me that the true Christian and the Lord's prayer are in many ways synonymous. In this I find myself coming up short for I do not believe that I have mastered what Jesus meant when he said that we should forgive our debtors. In verse 14 He clarifies it, "those who have sinned against us."<div><br /></div><div>For some reason it is always easier to see the other guy's sin and feel the pain of it when he has wronged us or dissed us. But our own sins and wrong doing we are able to rationalize and for some reason doesn't quite fall into the catagory of "sin." Perhaps the biggest sin is not forgiving those who have sinned against us. We expect God to forgive us, yet, we feel no inclination to forgive others. At least I struggle with this from time to time.</div><div><br /></div><div>Many years ago, in my former life, when I wast pastoring a church in North Dakota, an evangelist whom I invited to minister in my church betrayed me and spread stories about me to the congregation. When I confronted him he tried to kick me out of my own house. A long story short, I was forced to leave the church as irreparable damage had been done. Nothing he said about me was true and I became bitter and angry.</div><div><br /></div><div>I began pastoring another church after a few months, but the anger stayed with me. It wasn't until one night I prayed through that I received peace. God dealt with me about forgiving that man, and it wasn't until I was able to forgive him that true peace came to my soul. </div><div><br /></div><div>Lessons learned don't always stay learned. As life goes on new conflicts can and do arise. Soon we are back where we were before; harboring ill will and unforgivingness in our hearts. The unforgivingness hurts us more than those we don't forgive. Today, the Lord's prayer brought this back into focus and made me realize that I have some work to do. My prayer is to make me a forgiving person. To do that I know I need to walk closer to God. </div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-46303281399144947792011-05-24T06:16:00.000-07:002011-05-24T06:28:56.526-07:00The End of Cheap OilThe Wall Street Journal posted and article today entitles "The End of Easy Oil." If this article is factual, which I believe it is, it means that there will soon be a new energy crisis in our world. <div><br /></div><div>Saudi Arabia has long been the largest oil producing nation in the world. It produces easy to access light crude which is also the easiest oil to refine. They are running out of this easy access and easy refining oil. They now must drill deeper for heavier crude. This will not only slow down the daily barrel production, but will also cost more to produce. This may be good news for drilling companies, but will be bad news at the gas pump. </div><div><br /></div><div>Auto manufacturers would do well to increase the production of hybrids, and alternate fuel cars. Although there has been a temporary cutback in the use of gasoline due to the high price, this will, indeed, be temporary. More and more of the third world are now driving cars, using electricity, and putting higher demands on energy. </div><div><br /></div><div>A higher demand on oil, with higher costs to produce a lower quality of crude, will certainly mean we will pay more at the pump. I desperately need a full sized pickup truck that gets 40 mpg. It already costs me $90 to fill it. What will that be two years from now? :-(</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-91415942363038168402011-05-16T05:11:00.000-07:002011-05-16T05:49:13.953-07:00Are We Tuned In?As Christians, God has given us the responsibility to stay tuned in to the needs of others. I have to admit that I have grossly missed the mark in this area. My primary concern in life has been for me and mine. I have seldom looked beyond that. <div><br /></div><div>Yes, I have done some of the nominal things that Christians should do. I have gone on missions trips to help repair church facilities. I have given to missions. I have prepared a few Disaster Care Kits to help those in Crises. But all of these things have fallen within my comfort zone, and I have not done nearly enough. I would say that I am the typical Christian going to the typical church. I have always assigned the things I don't like to do to someone else. I haven't really been tuned in.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have a niece, who was adopted as a baby by my brother and his wife about twelve years ago. Little did they know when they adopted her that she was autistic. She appeared normal until they realized that she was not doing things that normal children should be doing. Rachel looks like any other normal kid and has the same desires as your kids and mine (my grandchildren). But her disease has greatly hindered her social development. She does not know how to related to others, carry on a conversation, and be a friend. The yearning of her heart, though is to have friends, even if it is just one friend. This is a tall order because the friend would have to realize that Rachel does not have the ability to be a friend in the mutual sense. This means that they may have to give themselves to her in such a way that she cannot give back. </div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to her autism and related to her autism are a host of physical problems that most kids will never experience. She is in constant pain and has issues that the medical community has not been able to resolve.</div><div><br /></div><div>Rachel is a person. I believe that God loves her very much. He is no respecter of persons and there is a purpose for her life. I cannot even venture to say what that purpose is. But she has pretty much fallen through the cracks of society. She is lonesome and has no friends. Society, her family (me), and her church have not tuned into her. And she is not alone in this. There are other kids a lot like her who are very alone.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am being awakened by her need. I believe churches and Christians everywhere need to be awakened. But not only awakened but stirred to action. Not only because God commands us to do so.... but because we genuinely care. One out of every 150 babies born are now autistic. There will be more and more Rachels in this world. As Christians, Churches, other organizations, and as decent human beings, what are we going to do about it?</div><div><br /></div><div>I know that I can't become Rachel's age and become the type of friend she needs. But I will pray for her until such a friend is found. If God can speak to us as adults, He can also speak to our children and give them wisdom and understanding. Being a friend may be the best ministry they will ever perform.</div><div><br /></div><div>My purpose in this blog is not to shame us (although I feel ashamed). It is not to condemn us or the church. My purpose is to make us aware of this acute need, and to stir us to open our hearts to allow the Holy Spirit speak to us. Then, as we listen to God, we take action.</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-82026883344804856972011-05-08T06:50:00.000-07:002011-05-08T07:31:43.842-07:00Birds are SingingThis morning I am sitting on my back deck and all seems right.... at least for the moment. The sun is shining, 60 degrees, the birds are singing, and the setting is beautiful. Even the coffee is good this morning. Peace and tranquillity are the dominating factors. I'm even sitting in a position where I cannot see the tree that is dying..... our expensive tree. We don't have the heart ot cut it down yet.<div><br /></div><div>That tree is a lot like me, though. Over the past year or so it seemed that a slow death was gripping my soul. The life was going out of me. The days were becoming a drudgery. Events were happening in my life and work that were shaking my faith to its very foundation. I actually began to question the existence of God. And if God did exist, did He really care about me. </div><div><br /></div><div>Then I read the book of Job and saw the woes that he went through. Trials came to him, not because God did not care, but because God did care, and Job was able to prove himself in the most dire circumstances in life. He lost most of his wealth, He lost his health. He lost his family except his wife who told him he should curse God and die. He did not lose his friends, but they contended with him trying to convince him he did some great wrong and therefore this was God's judgement. Although he could not see Satan, Satan had stripped his life of all that is good. Yet, in all that Job did not sin and curse God.</div><div><br /></div><div>We know the story of how once the trial had passed, God blessed Job once again. Job became not only richer in wealth, but especially richer in his relationship with God.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, although Job did nothing to bring on his calamities I cannot say the same of myself. There were poor choices, acts of rebellion, stupidity, and yes.... sinful thinking. Loneliness, anger, fear, frustration, and futility invaded my soul.</div><div><br /></div><div> It reminded me of the time I was in Hawaii swimming in the ocean. I had noticed that shore was getting further away so I decided to swim directly toward shore. After a few moments I looked toward shore again and discovered that it was even further away. The current was moving faster than I was swimming. It took a great deal of energy. I swam harder than I had ever swam before to get back to shore. Finally I was able to ride a large wave into the beach.</div><div><br /></div><div>I believe that I was caught in a negative current of life that was carrying me out to sea where I would eventually perish. A couple of weeks ago I sought God for help, confessed my sins, and asked God to take control. Life has not been perfect since then, but the shore line seems a lot closer. Then I read the Book of Job, and although not uplifting, it helped me to understand God's love and how He can guide us through trials in life. It also pointed out to me the importance of being faithful to God, even during the bad times of life. I think I am about to reach the crest of the wave that will carry me safely into shore. </div><div><br /></div><div>This morning, instead of a troubled heart, there is peace and tranquillity. Instead of trying to hide from God I am trying to be open with Him. Instead of covering my sins I am finding that His love covers a multitude of sins. Instead of dealing with the guilt of my past, I find that He removes my sins from me as far as the east is from the west, and He remembers them no more. </div><div><br /></div><div>And to my wife, who has endured these trials with me and has been a great example to me with her faithfulness to God, even during the worst trials of her life: I thank you, I admire you, and I love you. You are the greatest gift God has ever given to me and I will cherish that the rest of my days. </div><div><br /></div><div>It just might be time to cut that dying tree down and plant a new one that has life!</div><div><br /></div><div>Now, would someone please pour me a fresh cup of coffee while I sit here and listen to the robins chirp? :)</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-62270761817736834552011-05-06T05:31:00.000-07:002011-05-06T05:54:02.506-07:00Getting Closer!With recent world events I am convinced that our planet is getting closer to Armageddon. In the Middle East, among Arab nations, there is a real shift taking place. As their revolutions are taking place and some of these nations are overthrowing their governments, the United States has had to choose whose side they are on. We have put pressure on existing governments to give in to the will of the people. This has meant turning our backs on existing Arab governments, who happened to be our allies.<div><br /></div><div>Lest you think I am critical of the Obama administration, I am not. I don't think there was a right or wrong decision as far at the US well being is concerned. Supporting the revolutionaries, who want freedom and democracy is a right decision. However, it has resulted in alienation of existing Arab leaders, who have been our allies. We, must remember that not all of these revolutions will be successful and that will leave us on the wrong side of those who are in power. And, too, some of the revolutions that are successful will not be, in the end, allies of the United States. We already see signs of this happening in Egypt. </div><div><br /></div><div>It is my opinion, that in the end, we will have very few Arab allies. In large part because of what is mentioned above, but there are other contributing factors as well. Our friendship with Israel is a stumbling block, although it is the right thing to do. Our war on terror is also a stumbling block. Arab nations say they are against terror while they have camps training terrorists. Killing Bin Ladin, their hero in terrorism will cause Arabs to secretly seethe. Pakistan knowingly harbored him while saying they were looking for him. </div><div><br /></div><div>Last, but most important, in the last times Arab nations will unite against Israel. Those supporting Israel will not be allies of the Arabs. The USA will have a choice to make.</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-24420063573626446862011-04-22T05:37:00.000-07:002011-04-22T06:10:58.162-07:00Mad at AppleMost of you who know me know that I like Apple products. I have bragged about them being possibly the best run company that I know of. I still believe that, but now they have done something that concerns me deeply and makes me mad. It might possibly cause me to never buy another Apple product. What did they do? The installation of a tracking device in their iphone that enables them to know my whereabouts at all times. As I understand it, the phone regularly transmits my location back to them. This is supposed to help them with marketing, but I believe that it has much deeper implications.<div><br /></div><div>First of all, it is an invasion of my privacy. I do not believe that they have the right to know where I am at all times, regardless of how badly they want to market to me. I consider my life private so long as I am breaking no laws.</div><div><br /></div><div>Secondly, this same technology can be used to read your/my computer from a remote place, which means that the police or anybody else with the right technology can sit outside your home and scan your computer and steal your information.... all of this without reasonable cause</div><div>or having a warrant. Your financial statements can be read by the guy sitting in the car outside your home. This makes me wonder how secure my financial world really is.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have heard it said by several people that it doesn't bother them that all this information is readily available to the police because they know they are breaking no laws. So, just don't break any laws and you are okay. Not so fast. If the police can obtain this information, so can others. Beside, I resent the idea that the police can look over my shoulder in the cyber world without a probable cause that I may have committed a crime.</div><div><br /></div><div>Have you ever read Tim LaHay's series of books, LEFT BEHIND? This is fiction based on scripture about those who were left behind at the rapture of the church. With today's technology in focus, I believe that these books would be much different. These books present the idea that those left behind, who now want to be Christians, can hide from authorities, fly around the country, drive around, organize and have secret churches, etc. Not if they have an Iphone, have a MacBook, or and Android. These devices are just like GPS units and will lead the authorities right to you.... fast. You won't be able to buy or sell without scanning your own personal bar code. Cameras along the highways, in super markets, super market parking lots, and many other locations will betray your location. Sorry folks, at that time it will be a police state. </div><div><br /></div><div>We are being led along like a bunch of lambs without our knowledge. The Bible says, "like sheep to the slaughter." In fact, we, society as a whole, is embracing this concept because we like all the electronic gadgets that will eventually betray us. You can think I am a nut if you want to, but watch how things will unfold over the next several years.... if there is a next several years.</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-74839478224306739582011-03-30T05:36:00.000-07:002011-03-30T05:42:45.160-07:00Life is GoodHere I am sitting in a nice soft chair looking at the sunrise through a large plate glass window. The clouds are covering the sun but the view is still great. So is the music and the atmosphere. I'm enjoying a great cup of coffee while I'm waiting for the stock market to open. The internet is fast and the morning is very relaxing. Yes folks, I'm at Starbucks. It's not alway all about the coffee. <div><br /></div><div>I have two appointments today, so far. I'm prepping myself for the day. I've had a good night's sleep, which was badly needed, and my mind is clear today. Life is good!</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-14351177030201187912011-03-29T19:34:00.000-07:002011-03-29T20:01:41.834-07:00The Greatest PreacherThe greatest preacher I have know is.... I don't know his name. Well, yes, I do know Jesus but he is God. I am thinking of someone contemporary and I just met them. Yes, them! Well, I didn't actually meet them, I saw them on TV. I don't know their names..... they are Mennonites. Here is why I think they are the greatest preachers. <div><br /></div><div>I'm sure you all remember Hurricane Katrina that slammed into New Orleans five years ago. Well, the Mennonites have sent hundreds of workers there to help rebuild homes that had been destroyed. Today they are still sending hundreds of workers. They are still rebuilding houses. On the news I saw several women in their skirts installing metal roofs on homes. Drills in hands, bent over they were bent over installing the screws that held the roofs securely. </div><div><br /></div><div>These servants of Christ might be old fashioned in their dress and in their speech. But their tools were modern and their love of Christ is current. The news reporter asked them their names and they refused to give them. They did not like the attention and the publicity. Their attitude is that they are servants of Christ serving their fellow man in humility. There was none of...."look at me folks! see what I'm doing for Jesus!" They were just simply loving their neighbor in a meaningful and tangible way. And their sermon was strong.</div><div><br /></div><div>Recipients of their labors of love were impressed. They did not know the names of the people who worked on their homes but they were amazed at their commitment. </div><div><br /></div><div>I often think of how we build up individuals who do something for God. Even when we do something for God we tend to want to be recognized. This has always bothered me. I believe our true reward will be when we stand before God, Himself and give account of our lives. Of course, He will already know. </div><div><br /></div><div>I really don't care to hear who did what, who sacrificed this or that, or who gave X amount of money. I do care about what I do, but I don't need it advertised. Recognition makes me uncomfortable. I really want my reward to come from God.</div><div><br /></div><div>So the greatest preacher I have heard about in recent times is these unnamed Mennonites who are humbly serving the God they love without recognition or fanfare. </div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-49275278859107333682011-03-29T05:48:00.000-07:002011-03-29T05:58:20.643-07:00Friends to the HomelessThere are certain places that are friends to the homeless. They are friends whether they choose to be or not. I know. I see what is happening.<div><br /></div><div>In early morning I am often at a McDonald's or a Starbucks. I am one of the first customers in the morning. But almost always when I arrive there is some homeless person already there who has staked out his place where he can be warm and rest. They usually buy a coffee, but not always. </div><div>They usually try to find a place out of the sight of the workers so that they are not so noticeable. And they usually stay as long as they dare.</div><div><br /></div><div>Only once have I seen one of these establishments ask them to leave, and that was with a homeless person that was a little disruptive. They are not allowed to sleep, though some of them do fall asleep. One man that visits my local Starbucks often falls asleep while standing. </div><div><br /></div><div>The life of the homeless has to be harsh at times. These establishments have made it a little easier for them. These people have learned how to survive. </div><div><br /></div><div>Pardon me while I drink coffee next to my homeless friend.</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-45673149441841796162011-03-20T06:36:00.000-07:002011-03-22T07:03:05.266-07:00Hello AgainYes, It's been a while since I've written anything. Aw shucks, huh? Well it's mostly because I didn't have anything worthy of writing. Well, I did, but just didn't get around to writing it basically because I was of the wrong frame of mind. I missed blogging, but, hey, I'm back. <div><br /></div><div>I really don't know what direction my blog will take from here but I am afraid that my irony may show through. Hey, folks, that's just me. I'm not asking you to like me..... or my blogs. It's not my intention to make enemies.... or friends on this site. If you don't go to my funeral, well that's okay, too. I will never know. I'll let you off the hook now. </div><div><br /></div><div>When I started this blog two days ago I thought I had something worthy to write about, but I got distracted and now I have forgotten. It couldn't have been too important. I'm sure none of you are like me, though. </div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, I'm happy that summer is on its way! When I first moved to Colorado I thought they forgot to have winter here. But now I'm spoiled and glad that this winter is finally coming to an end. If I was a skier I might think otherwise. I didn't buy my snow blower to actually blow snow, I got it to scare the snow away. I knew if I made that expensive investment I would probable never have to use it.... which is okay with me. Basically, the only reason it snows in Denver is so the car washes can have some business and to make you late for work. </div><div><br /></div><div>Oh, did I mention the wildfires we're having? A couple of them are roaring now and it is only March. These are at Left Hand Canyon and at Golden. High winds are fanning the flames today. I hope no homes are destroyed. </div><div><br /></div><div>Well, I've had my Starbucks and its time to go. </div><div><br /></div><div>Have a great day!</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-32544836080212356962010-11-30T06:08:00.000-08:002010-11-30T06:22:16.949-08:00Sixty Minutes per HourI remember something that the evangelist, Lowell Lundstrom, said a number of years ago. He said that we are all speeding toward death at the rate of 60 minutes per hour. When you are young you don't think much about a statement like that. After all, most young people think they are indestructible and will live forever. But the Scriptures say, "It is appointed unto man once to die, after that the judgement."<div><br /></div><div>Yesterday I had another birthday. Thanks to the many who sent me birthday wishes. I like the ones that say, "and may you have many more." I just turned 61 and many more means more now than when I was 31. I realize now more than ever that the clock is ticking. It never stops. When it does stop for me, it is over. But it will keep ticking for everyone else who is still alive. </div><div><br /></div><div>My goal now is to appreciate and enjoy the life I still have left. I need to make the most of it. Even now more than later. Now when I still have excellent health, I may not have that later. I need to enjoy the enjoyable years for the years of suffering with old age are sure to come. I look back at my past now and say "Alas!" because I see so much error and squandered time. I do not want to say "Alas!" again in another 10 years. But I want to look back with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. I have an appointment and a great review of my life will take place. I want to be ready for that appointment.</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-32209796864241080332010-11-04T19:05:00.000-07:002010-11-04T19:21:18.144-07:00"The Laborer is Worthy His Hire"I have always been a proponent of fair pay. Of course, fair pay is determined by the demand for labor, the skills and work ethic of the laborer, and the quality of work performed. It is not based on how badly the laborer needs a paycheck nor on how wealthy the business owner may be. The marketplace drives the worth of labor.<div><br /></div><div>Having said that, in my business I have always paid above market value for labor and skilled craftsmen. It is important to me to have people who want to work for me. I also desire to reward people for their labor rather than take advantage of them.</div><div><br /></div><div>Recently I had a gentleman who is one of my sub-contractors tell me about several jobs where he had worked where the pay was either slow in coming, or he was not paid at all. He worked for five months for one contractor who kept promising to pay him, but never did. The contractor went bankrupt and this man was never paid for his labor. This man now sub-contracts with me and we have a happy relationship because he is promptly paid after each job, and in return I receive a good day's labor.</div><div><br /></div><div>It is heartbreaking to me to hear about those who work and don't get paid. And I believe that it is heartbreaking to God as well. It is totally wrong and immoral to not pay someone for their labor. In fact it is theft. It is trampling on the one who works. And I do not believe that God views this lightly. </div><div><br /></div><div>The Bible says, "Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treads out the corn, and the laborer is worthy his hire."</div><div><br /></div><div>A fair paycheck and a few bottles of Gatorade go a long way. </div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-38214872924647570832010-10-29T06:30:00.000-07:002010-10-29T06:41:06.264-07:00What is the Measure of Your Love?I always thought a mite was some tiny bug that would bite me. In Scripture it is a tiny amount of money. Jesus said of the widow who gave the two mites, "she gave more than all the others."<div><br /></div><div>What we give is relative to what we have. Giving out of our abundance is no sacrifice at all. giving out of our need is some sacrifice. But giving all that we have is total sacrifice.</div><div><br /></div><div>Perhaps sacrifice is the true measure of our love. The widow loved God so much that she gave all she had. Abraham loved and honored God so much that he was willing to sacrifice his son. Then, of course, God did sacrifice his Son. </div><div><br /></div><div>Guaranteed, His love for us is greater than our love for Him. About the time I feel pretty pious because of a good offering I have given or some way I have served God, I am reminded of this widow, who, perhaps sacrificed the food on her table to give an offering to God. </div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-40543355528796525432010-10-13T06:22:00.000-07:002010-10-13T06:41:57.931-07:00The Whole WorldTypically I think that hard work is a virtue. We get paid for our labor and therefore can buy the things to survive and the things that make life a little nicer. And it really helps when we enjoy our work. Even Jesus said, "The laborer is worthy his hire."<div><br /></div><div>But what is a healthy balance between working to have our needs and some of our wants met and working for excessive gain? What portion of our lives are we sacrificing to work for gain? We pass this way only once. What have we left undone so that we can work longer hours? Whose life should we have touched? What pond should we have fished in? Where should we have volunteered? What book should we have read? What path should we have walked down?</div><div><br /></div><div>No, we were too busy working, acquiring gain that one day we will leave behind. We were building a mansion that one day the kids will auction off. We were acquiring things that one day will have no meaning to anyone. But work, work work! We must work ourselves to the bone. We must work until we are mentally and physically tired. All to acquire!</div><div><br /></div><div>In the end will we hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant?" Will our lives really have reflected what God really intended us to be? Or have we really left the more important matters undone?</div><div><br /></div><div>Luke 9:25 "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self?"</div><div><br /></div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-64931958689604161482010-10-12T20:00:00.000-07:002010-10-12T20:10:11.480-07:00Who is He?Luke 9:20 "But what about you? Who do you say that I am?"<div><br /></div><div>This could be the most important question we ever answer. Jesus asked the disciples who people said He was. They answered that some said he is John the Baptist risen from the dead, and others said the he is Elijah. Then Jesus cut to the chase. But who do you say that I am? This is where Peter came forth with his great confession.... "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God." What a great answer!</div><div><br /></div><div>But the question still needs to be asked of each one of us, who do we think Christ is? Who do you think Christ is? You answer and my answer will give direction to us for the rest of our lives. It will determine what we do with our lives, and how we conduct ourselves. </div><div><br /></div><div>Just as important as our answer is whether or not we really believe our answer. Believing is faith and requires action on our part. It is one thing to say that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, but quite another to put our faith in Him as such.</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-78563139366655327182010-10-04T15:54:00.000-07:002010-10-04T16:13:57.645-07:00HymnsWhat a friend we have in Jesus,<div>All our sins and griefs to bear,</div><div>What a privilege to carry</div><div>Everything to God in Payer.</div><div><br /></div><div>I serve a living Savior whose in the world today</div><div>I know that He is with me , whatever men may say</div><div>I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer.</div><div>Just the time I need Him, He's always near.</div><div><br /></div><div>He lives! He lives! </div><div>Christ Jesus lives today!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I could go on with other hymns and gospel songs. To me it is truly sad that these songs with such great messages are seldom sung in our churches today. I have talked with many who dearly miss the gospels songs and hymns. They have encouraged us and ministered to our hearts. </div><div><br /></div><div>No, I am not opposed to contemporary music, though it is not my favorite. There are some great choruses and other stuff that sound like African chants (nothing against the Africans). But I am definitely disappointed that we have totally abandoned some great songs, with great messages, with great melodies. Not all of these songs have a loud crescendo. Some are quiet and in the hush the Holy Spirit moves and ministers. </div><div><br /></div><div>I know, I know! Now that I have said something from my heart I will be labeled as a trouble maker. But that's not it at all. There is just something I get from the old hymns that ministers to my soul in such a way that nothing modern has done for a long time. </div><div><br /></div><div>I want to sing: Drinking From the Springs of Living Water, Such Love, What a Day that Will Be, and It is Well with my Soul. And, oh ya, This is the Day, Therefore the Redeemed, I Saw God, and Surely the Spirit. You know what I mean. </div><div><br /></div><div>Redeemed, how I love to proclaim it.</div><div>Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb</div><div>Redeemed by His infinite mercy,</div><div>His Child and forever I am!</div><div>Redeemed, Redeemed, Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.</div><div>Redeemed, Redeemed, His child and forever I am.</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-39313365076275265492010-09-26T20:19:00.000-07:002010-09-26T20:35:05.374-07:00BaptizedMy grand daughter, Amber, was baptized this evening. It was pretty special. She accepted Christ when she was four, and now she followed the Lord in water baptism. <div><br /></div><div>It reminds me when I was baptized in water. It was back in about 1970. I had moved to Minneapolis to look for work and found cheap housing at North Central Bible College dorms. I had told them that I intended to enroll in school in the fall, but really had no intention of doing that. But one Sunday morning I slept in and skipped church. Feeling a little guilty I picked up my Bible and began reading at the first chapter of Matthew. I didn't put the book down until I had finished the gospel of John. Wow! four books I had read in one sitting. And i wept all the way through. That is when I accepted Christ as my Savior. And I did enroll in college that fall.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was then baptized in one of the lakes in Minneapolis. We found a secluded spot and a dozen of us waded out into the lake and there Alan Scott baptized me. These were the days of the charismatic movement.</div><div><br /></div><div>Another thing that was memorable about that day was the spot we had chosen. We waded out to about waist deep. But the silt at the bottom of the lake was so soft that we began to sink in the mire. After I was baptized and stood back up the water was up to my armpits. It was with great effort that I was able to free my feet from the bottom of the lake. The others had the same problem. Even after our feet were free, the black slime clung to our legs. Leeches also thrived there. </div><div><br /></div><div>After the baptism we decided to swim and rinse off. A few minutes later I heard someone yelling for help. It was Alan Scott, whose chine was just above the water. I saw panic on his face. He had stepped off a drop off in the water. I swam over and towed him in.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was a day to remember.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-90087076322972745612010-09-13T05:12:00.000-07:002010-09-13T05:34:01.593-07:00The Man In WhiteThe man in white had been chased away many times.... but he always returned. I came upon him by chance.... or was it Providence? I was now sitting near a Starbucks while enjoying a Starbucks and some of the most beautiful music I have ever heard. I was not alone. My wife, Audrey, was sitting next to me and others also sat along the concrete steps looking, listening, and meditating with their own souls. The young lady sitting next to me had tears in her eyes. She said it was the most beautiful music she has ever heard.<div><br /></div><div>The man in white had been in prison. No, not as a prisoner or an inmate..... but as a chaplain. His white suit contrasted with his black skin. His instruments, which were many, were lined up along where he had erected his stand and set up his amplifier and speakers. His sax music was the quality of Kenny G's. His versatility was that of Elvis Presley, and his voice was golden. His heart was pure and his mission was to tell us of Jesus Christ. His boldness put him at the corner and the crowd kept him there. And Providence brought us all the way from Denver to Seattle so this man could leave a lasting impression on my life.</div><div><br /></div><div>There was no admission to see this guy. The crowd didn't just come an go, but rather it kept building. He played and sang for hours. People sat for hours. Some smiled, some applauded, some sipped their coffee, others wept. This plaza had become a sanctuary, a place where the Spirit of God invaded your soul. </div><div><br /></div><div>At the end, the man in white gave his testimony.... told of his work.... told of rejection.... told of perseverance. I don't know his name and probably never will. But I will never forget him. He is one of my heros.<br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-76438348261784094072010-09-09T04:47:00.000-07:002010-09-09T05:06:01.782-07:00Are You On Time?"in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump of God, the dead in Christ shall rise, and we shall be changed..... we shall be caught up to meet the Lord in the clouds of the air."<div><br /></div><div>Some things in life happen quickly and without warning. The Four Mile Canyon Fire near Boulder is an example. So far about 7,000 acres are burned and over 100 homes have become ashes. Many have only their car, laptop, and clothes on their backs. If they want to put fire protection around their homes, they are way too late. They were not prepared for this fire.</div><div><br /></div><div>A lade one day came running into the train station. She wanted to take the 8:00 AM Amtrack. As she looked at the big clock across the street it said 7:58. She glanced at her watch and it said 8:00. But the clock in the train station said 8:01. She asked the clerk at the desk which clock she should go by. He replied, "You can go by any clock you wish, but you won't go by the 8:00 o'clock train because it just pulled away. </div><div><br /></div><div>As an employer I wish I could be a little bit more like God, or Amtrack, at least. My subcontractors are almost always late to the job. They always have an excuse. It is a way of life for them. Perhaps it costs them nothing, but it costs me time, money, and other missed appointments. This is a big frustration for me. This really irks me because I am a person that is always on time and am usually early. It is a problem I will have to solve.</div><div><br /></div><div>Amtrack has solved the problem. If you are not there waiting..... you don't go. God has also solved the problem, if you aren't ready, you don't go. I have a feeling there will be a whole lot of people not going. Being ready means you must accept Jesus Christ as your Savior. He died on the cross for the forgiveness of your sins. Have you accepted Him? Will you do so on time?</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-63157759916364487392010-09-08T05:25:00.000-07:002010-09-08T05:58:30.255-07:00Coffee Without CafeinIn my view there are certain things in life that are absolute requirements. No, I'm not talking about getting a job or owning a house. Nor am I talking about food, clothing, or other such necessities. I'm talking about things like toothpaste, popcorn, toast, coffee, and love.<div><br /></div><div>Take toothpaste for instance. To me, toothpaste is not real toothpaste unless it has that very strong peppermint and anticeptic flavor. It must also contain whiteners. It needs to feel strong in my mouth when I am finished brushing and rinsing. I shouldn't feel the need to swish with a strong mouthwash. </div><div><br /></div><div>Popcorn is another thing. This 94% fat free popcorn just doesn't do it for me. First of all, popcorn basically tastes like nothing without butter and salt. I know, both those things are bad for you. But driving your car can be hazardous to your health also. What could be better than buttered popcorn and an ice cold Coke. Don't tell me 'warm bread pudding with caramel sauce', which could be a close second. That is also not good for you. Why do you think they provide all that butter and salt at the movie theater? If the movie is bad, at least you can enjoy your expensive popcorn and Coke.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then think about coffee. No, I'm not talking about one of those girlie drinks they serve up at Starbucks. I mean, coffee, the way it was intended to be. This is one item that is best without all those harmful additives. You put additives in gasoline.... not coffee. Also, please don't remove the caffein. No wonder half the population falls asleep at work. I think God intended for us to drink 6 cups of coffee a day. Besides, they say coffee prevents colon cancer. I don't know if I believe that but it justifies my drinking a good hot cup of very black coffee. My heartbeat hasn't been very erratic lately, either.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then there is toast. On this account to each his own. But, really, I don't get this white bread thing. I figure that if they have to add fiber and vitamins to it, is it really bread? When Jesus said, "I am the bread of life," I don't think he was referring to wimpy white bread. I like bread with some substance, a little grain and fiber. It's much more satisfying and makes great toast.</div><div><br /></div><div>I think love is a lot like all these items list above. Like toothpaste it has to have a little pizazz. Like popcorn.... well, there has to be some flavor and savor. Like toast, there needs to be some substance. And like coffee, it needs to be pure and is just plain good for you. </div><div><br /></div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-72817726949359070532010-08-26T05:31:00.000-07:002010-08-26T05:47:02.219-07:00Tax ManThe tax collector has been hated throughout history. In times of old they would collect for kings and heads of state. They would take from the payor not only the money the king required, but in many cases as much as three to four times the requirement. And if you could not, or would not pay, it often meant imprisonment and even death. <div><br /></div><div>Even today, the tax collector is not much liked. He is even despised by many. Many have lost their homes because they couldn't pay their mortgage or the taxes on their homes, or just couldn't pay their taxes. The IRS just steps in and freezes your assets, has meetings with you, and even charges you with tax evasion. Taxes and tax collectors are the enemy of the economy, but the friend of politicians who constantly want more of your money.<br /><div><br /></div><div>Therefore, I am somewhat disturbed that Jesus called a tax collector to be one of his twelve disciples. Would he be the one to later betray Jesus. Could this guy really be trusted. you might notice that Jesus did not give the money bag to Levi, but rather to Judas, who would later betray him. And yes, the issue was money. </div><div><br /></div><div>But when you look at it objectively, Levi (Matthew) could have been one of the most important appointees to the discipleship. It was a statement by Jesus that even the those who are considered sinners, and off scouring, are able to be saved and be followers of Christ, and even leaders in the Church. This message gives hope to a lot of us. And it demonstrates God's power to save. </div><div><br /></div><div>Many of us were worse than tax collectors (hard to do) and God reached down with his love and grace and saved us. </div></div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-46993378226988041002010-08-25T06:17:00.001-07:002010-08-25T06:27:19.358-07:00CleanThere is just something about being clean that feels great! After a hard days work, it feels great to get into the shower and wash off the sweat and grime. The hot water is also therapeutic. Even clean babies are nice. After a day of pooing, peeing, and spitting up, they get their bath and come out smelling clean and fresh. Of course the baby oil also helps. <div><br /></div><div>The same is true with our souls. There is a certain joy and freshness about being clean. In Luke chapter five a man full of leprosy came to Jesus and begged him, "if you are willing, you can make me clean." Jesus said, "I am willing, be clean." Jesus is the only one who can clean our souls. He died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins so we would not have to. Now He is the One who can cleanse us. We can clean ourselves up on the outside, but only He can clean us on the inside.</div><div><br /></div><div>It feels great to be clean!</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2568903481977882559.post-18755381930625046542010-08-24T04:38:00.000-07:002010-08-24T05:01:56.363-07:00SolitaryLuke 4:42 says: "at daybreak Jesus went out to a solitary place."<div><br /></div><div>There is a lot of commotion and noise in this world. One of my least favorite places to be is at a noisy restaurant where they have the music cranked up and everyone has to talk over the music. I usually just sit there being oppressed by the music and pretending to hear the people I am conversing with. Crowded pot luck dinners at church are about the same. When I turn on my car radio and the music is blaring... I shut it off. I don't like loud TV commercials. Sorry, Harley Davidson fans, but I don't like your loud motorcycle either. I feel really sorry for the mom who has three or four kids at home. Her husband is probably sitting in some quiet office. I don't mind a jet or two that flies over my house, but I do mind an onslaught of jets. I don't like riding in a noisy car while riding in a quiet car is a pleasure. I don't like fishing at a stream where a constant flow of cars and semis are going by. I think you get the picture. </div><div><br /></div><div>Just like all the noise in our lives, the busyness of our lives can also be distracting. The constant bombardment of new challenges, answering questions, being here, and being there can sometimes be overbearing. A hectic daily schedule and just wear you down. </div><div><br /></div><div>Jesus was just doing his job.... teaching and healing people and casting out demons. Sounds like a fun job to me. He made a lot of friends..... and.... a lot of enemies. He held several types of classes: Classes for His disciples, classes for the common people, classes for the religious leaders. He also spent a certain amount of time hiding out and fleeing for his life. Yes, His schedule was pretty hectic and with the crowds around Him there was a lot of noise. </div><div><br /></div><div>So what did He do? He found a place where He could be alone, away from all the hub-bub. There He prayed and meditated and got himself recharged for life. Idiots like me would probable have a lot fewer problems in life if we would follow Jesus example. We would get our batteries recharged in prayer, learn from God's Word, and bask in the quietness before we go out and meet all the challenges and live in the duties and noises of this world. </div><div><br /></div><div>This is why I value my early mornings. This is where I find my strength for the day. Even at Starbucks where they have quiet music, and a private table, I can read and meditate alone. A good Book, good music, good coffee, in a good atmosphere. I am usually ready for the day. </div><div><br /></div><div>May God bless you with His presence and His Word.</div>Rod Speedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06214434032354051889noreply@blogger.com0