Nadia's Lovely Birthday Dinner

I took Nadia out for a lovely birthday meal tonight.  It was delicious and we had a nice time together talking, laughing and tasting each other’s food.  After the meal, when we got in the car to leave, it did not start.

Dead.

The car was dead.  You know, the turn-the-key-and-nothing-happens kind of dead.

Nadia is not easily flustered.  She said, “Well, at least we’re not that far from the house.”

We had picked up a few things at a grocery store so we took the grocery bags, looked off toward the distance and began to walk home.  We even cracked a few jokes about the whole situation along the way.

I mention all of this just to point out that we’ve come to see, once again, I’m a guy who really knows how to show his wife a great time!

Let's Not Remain Silent In The Face Of Evil

“According to the International Society for Human Rights in Frankfurt, Germany, 80 percent of all acts of religious discrimination in the world today are directed against Christians.”  John L. Allen, Catholic Reporter.

I’m not surprised that Christians are facing persecution.  After all, two thousand years ago Jesus told His followers, “You will be hated by all because of My name…” Matt. 10:22.  However, it’s still fair for believers to bring attention to these truths.  It’s still fair for those who can speak out to call for the end of evil.

Kirsten Powers of the Daily Beast writes, “Christians in the Middle East and Africa are being slaughtered, tortured, raped, kidnapped, beheaded, and forced to flee the birthplace of Christianity. One would think this horror might be consuming the pulpits and pews of American churches. Not so. The silence has been nearly deafening.”

I don’t have a large platform for reaching and informing people but I don’t want to be one of those who was later known for remaining silent.

 “Silence in the face of evil is itself evil. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act.”  Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Here is a link to the article by Kirsten Powers from which I quoted above:   http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/09/27/a-global-slaughter-of-christians-but-america-s-churches-stay-silent.html

Those Who Need Forgiveness Should Be Willing To Extend Forgiveness To Others

One of the reasons why it is wise for us to extend mercy, grace and forgiveness to others is because, at some point, we will have times when we are the ones who will be in need of mercy, grace and forgiveness.  Life is funny that way.  Those who have offered love to others in this manner are more likely to receive love from others in this manner.

A Minute And A Half of God Stuff Podcast - No. 34

Forgiving others.

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How Does God Expect Us To Live? - Audio Podcast

John 14:23-24

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Do Clocks Literally Run Slower When You Are On A Treadmill?

Is it just my imagination or do clocks literally run a little bit slower when you are on a treadmill?  I’m not a physicist but it occurred to me, while I was on a treadmill yesterday, that was part of the point Einstein was getting at with his Theory of Relativity.

Therefore it follows, logically, that if I would have spent the past 25 years on a treadmill I might still be in my thirties!

I regularly share these types of sophisticated physics theories with my friends—free of charge—right here on my blog.

Thinking Carefully and Accepting Logical Conclusions

Sometimes we don’t want to carefully follow a line of thinking through to its logical conclusion because there can be an uncomfortable amount of intellectual work that’s involved.  However, there are other times that we don’t want to carefully follow a line thinking through to its logical conclusion because we see where the line of thinking is heading and we don’t want to face the reality of the conclusion to which it leads.

A helpful and important aspect of maturity is to be willing to think honestly and to be willing to face and accept the conclusions of careful thinking… even when we don’t necessarily like those conclusions.

Contestants On The Voice Who Don't Get Picked

When I’m watching The Voice and a contestant sings and none of the judges picks the contestant, I feel so bad for the person.  At one point tonight, I actually had to change the channel because I couldn’t watch the person cry.  I already watch enough crying in my regular daily life.  (No, I’m not talking about sitting in my office and looking in a mirror, you wisenheimers!)

When I can barely watch an episode of a singing competition show is that another sign that I need to stop viewing TV and read more books?

Why God Is Necessary For Great Imagination and Creativity

Without God imagination and creativity do not really exist.

Here’s what I mean…

Many thinkers and philosophers agree that if naturalism/materialism is true then determinism is true.  Another way of thinking of this is that if God does not exist then everything—this would be everything in the literal sense—is following the course of a completely mindless, materialistic process that is already determined and, therefore, free will does not exist.

In order for imagination and creativity to flourish genuine free thinking (an aspect of free will) must be possible.

I think this is why something like truly beautiful music connects me to God, because the imagination required to create the great music has God as its ultimate source.

Being Vulnerable And Living God's Way

If we live the way that Jesus calls us to live—if we love others the way Jesus calls us to love—we will be vulnerable.  This raises some questions:  Can we trust that Jesus knows what’s best?  Can we trust that living His way is right?  Can we trust that if we live His way, He will look out for us?  Consider this: Trusting Him and living His way—in spite of this vulnerability—is part of how we come to really know Him and experience the truth of His presence in our lives.

Getting Ready For The Medical Procedure

My friend, Greg was being prepped for a medical procedure a while ago and as the attending nurse hooked up a fresh IV bag she wisecracked, “This is 100% vodka!”

We all laughed and shook our heads saying, “She is a real card!” I think I might have even slapped my knee.

Several minutes later, when Greg began singing “Bohemian Rhapsody” at the top of his lungs we realized that she wasn’t kidding. Another clue was that he had rolled up his hospital gown and was using it as a hat.

By the way, I just got word that the procedure went well and, thankfully, he’s okay.

(…But his wife reports that he seems to have developed an unusual fondness for IVs.)

Even When It Involves A Good Cause Leaders Should Not Be Manipulative

People who are in leadership positions are frequently tempted to manipulate the folks they lead in order to gain commitment and conformity to whatever cause they represent.  Sometimes the leaders sincerely believe, “This cause is so good and so right that these slight manipulations are justified.”  (I know the feeling.)  I believe it is important, however, for leaders to resist the temptation to use manipulation.  Even if the cause is noble and right, manipulating the people we lead is not healthy for the leader or for those we lead.

Getting Tired of the "Experts"

I was watching a panel of distinguished experts who all wore very nice neckties on an all-news channel and they were talking with confidence and authority about what “could happen” and what “could not happen” regarding some of the current political stories.

As I listened carefully, their discussion became even more earnest and then I noticed that suddenly, their voices began to sound, to me, like the strange honking-type noise that was used when any adults spoke on the old Charlie Brown animated specials.  The “experts” were still speaking normally, but they sounded, to my hearing, like empty, vacuous noise.

“Wah, wah wah, waaah, wah wah waaaaah!”

For a moment I was puzzled about what to do next.  But then it hit me and I flipped through the channels and found a “Road Runner” cartoon. 

I smiled and said, “Ahhh, yes. Indeed!” 

The intellectual brilliance that I encountered there was much more profound.  

(And, frankly, there’s great practical value in knowing how to make a giant slingshot that can launch yourself out over a cliff.)

A Minute And A Half of God Stuff Podcast - No. 33

You can't outsmart God.

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What Is My Purpose In Life? - Audio Podcast

Psalm 139:13-16

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The Rude Clean-Up Guy

I was at a store whose name I won’t mention but it begins with a “T” and it has a big red bull’s eye in its logo.   

(Notice how subtle that was?)

We walked to the women’s restroom and found the door blocked because it was being cleaned.  I could see the man who was cleaning the restroom just inside the door.  So, I said, “Are there other restrooms in the store?”

He said, “I’m cleaning this one.”

I said, “I know.  I can see that.  But I’m wondering if there are other restrooms in the store.”

In a very agitated voice he said, “Use the men’s room.  You’re a guy, right?”

(You might be thinking: “There goes Dan joking around again.”  But I’m not kidding.  He really said that to me.  Are workers at retail stores given special training on methods for insulting their customers?)

I said, “Yes, I know I can use the men’s room.  I’m asking about this women’s restroom for my daughter.”

He said, “Give me a couple of minutes and I’ll be done.”

I said, “Alright.”

Rachel has a habit of waiting until things have reached emergency level status before she tells me that she needs a restroom.  This means that when she notifies me regarding her need and then we actually find a restroom, there is often very little time to spare before unstoppable forces of nature take over.

The rude clean-up guy seemed irritated to even be speaking with me so I didn’t mention this detail to him regarding our situation.   Sometimes the “reap-what-you-sow” factors in life must simply unfold and lessons must be learned.

You say, “Dan, don’t tell me you let an accident happen…”

It would probably not be fair to describe this as a situation in which I “let” an accident happen since I was not given a choice.  But, relax, the truth is that we made it without an incident.  However, the rude clean-up guy seems to be on a crash course with “reap-what-you-sow” destiny.  In other words, he better keep his mop handy.

We Deserve Honest Responsible Reporting of the News

I realize that every single person has a point of view—it would be impossible to be a thinking human being and not possess personal biases.  That is normal and acceptable.

However, the people who make decisions for the major news media—television, print, radio and web-based—ought to make an effort, as much as possible, to present all the important and legitimate news events of the day in a straight-forward, fair and objective manner. 

I understand this cannot be done in a way that will be perfect and it certainly cannot be done in a way that will please everyone.  But an honest and sincere attempt should be made for truthful, fair objectivity.

Our society was set-up in such a way that the press has a purposeful and important role.  The press is not superfluous, they are necessary to the type of republic in which we live.  The press—among other functions—serves what could be thought of as a “watch-dog” role.  They are supposed to help us keep an eye on those in leadership.  They are supposed to be keeping us informed of those, on the left and the right, who wield great influence and power.  They should be reporting relevant facts regarding significant stories whether people would consider the stories to be favorable to the left or the right.

When the press—and in particular I’m thinking of the “news” media—evades and abdicates this important role they are negligent in a way that is deplorable, scandalous and, frankly, even dangerous.

I’m somewhat hesitant to write these types of posts because I have friends who get upset if they perceive that I am getting political.  In my view, however, the issue I’m raising here has more to do with “right and wrong” and with admonishing those in the news media to serve honestly and responsibly than it has to do with politics.

E-Flash From Dan, September 13, 2013

Dear E-Flash Friends;

The Fall Kick-Off is almost here!  I’m thinking and praying about the services.  I know that many of you are, too.  Thank you! 

I’m trusting and believing that God is going to pour out a wonderful blessing.

This Sunday, September 15^th, we will start off the new series with a message titled, “What Is My Purpose In Life?”  As I’ve studied and prepared this week I’ve been reminded that everyone who has ever been born, was born for a reason.  We were all intentionally created by God.  He never does things by accident.  Check out Psalm 139, vv. 13-16, if you need verification of that truth.  I am really excited to talk about this topic on Sunday.  You will be blessed if you come.  I truly believe that!

Lisa Roule, Stephanie Chiocca and I recorded a podcast in which we talk about the services this Sunday and some other interesting topics.  We had a great time recording the podcast—although I had to pay each of them a dollar for saying nice things—and I think you will have a great time listening to it.  Take a moment to click on the link and check it out!  It’s fun.

Link….    http://visitusonline.org/scmedia.php?type=mediaplayer&loc=visitusonline.org/media/media/mediaplayer.php&id=20130913080938D1FD41

I am looking forward to seeing you this Sunday.  It will be a terrific day!

There’s still time to invite a friend.  Why not take a risk, extend an invitation and see what happens?

Love and blessings,

Dan

P.S.  Here is Fall Kick-Off “bonus material.”  Yep, you read that properly, it is “bonus material.”  Click on the link and watch a brief video that deals with the question of how I prepare for the Fall Kick-Off.  There’s a good possibility that it might stir up a little chuckle if you take a moment to watch!

Link…   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2wJic7hFBA

What's Coming 9/15/13 with Dan, Lisa and Steph? -- Audio Podcast

We talk about the fast flow of information these days and the Fall Kick-Off services this Sunday.

                                Click here for podcast!

How Do I Get Ready For The Fall Kick-Off? - Video

People often wonder how I prepare for important days at church.  Here are a few details.

                                       Click here for video!

Thinking Back to 9/11 - 12 Year Anniversary

When I think back to that day, 12 years ago, it still stirs emotion.  The tragic loss of so many of our fellow citizens almost seemed to knock the wind out of me.  It was genuinely shocking.  Time has diminished the feeling somewhat, of course, but if I take the time to pause and remember—or view images of that day—the sorrow is still there.

I recall thinking part of the reason for our nation’s vulnerability is that we enjoy freedoms that can be taken advantage of.  And I wondered, that day, how many of our freedoms would have to be forfeited for the sake of greater security.  The recognition that we would lose freedoms really broke my heart.  It still does.  It seemed to me there was a certain innocence lost and that life would never quite be exactly the same again.  In some ways, unfortunately, we are seeing that come to pass.

There was a reigniting of love for our country and a turning toward God that occurred in the initial wake of the event.  That was a natural response in light of the type of tragedy we experienced.  The attack reminded many of us how much we love our country.  We discovered that when your country is attacked, your feelings of love for it grow stronger.  Is it a flawed country?  Yes, all countries are.  But it is still an extraordinary place to live.  It is still the most exceptional nation of hope and possibility that has ever existed. 

It really is.

I pray that is never lost.

The turning toward God occurs during these types of events because we return to that which is fundamental in such a tragedy.  When life feels confusing and unstable, many of us realize, once again, that God is the solid rock and “all other ground is sinking sand” as the old hymn goes.

It’s 12 years later.  We cannot possibly have the same potent feelings of September 11, 2001. But for those who are old enough, can we think back to the fundamental truths that stirred in us in the initial days and weeks following those life-altering events?

There were important realizations that happened and they are realizations that are worth remembering.

A Minute And A Half of God Stuff Podcast - No. 32

Bringing the influence of God to the world.

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Healthy Freedom Involves Self-Restraint

Healthy freedom understands that just because we’re allowed to do something does not mean that it is good and beneficial for us.  That’s why the not-so-natural exercise of self-restraint is a somewhat under-discussed but critically important aspect of freedom when it is functioning properly.

Rachel's Health Care Situation

My 24-year old daughter, Rachel, has been covered for several years on Medicaid and was recently switched over to medical coverage provided by the Affordable Healthcare Act.  Rachel has a genetic condition known as Smith-Magenis syndrome.  She is mentally challenged.  And she suffers from seizures and other health issues related to her disability.

Several weeks ago Nadia, my wife, took Rachel for an appointment with the neurologist whom she has seen for many years.  This doctor accepts Medicaid.  Upon arriving at the office Nadia and Rachel were informed, however, that the doctor will not accept patients who are covered under the Affordable Healthcare Act.

This was upsetting because this doctor provides important care for Rachel.  He has seen her for most of her life and is familiar with her condition and her medical history.

Nadia offered to simply pay for his services out of our pocket.  She was told the doctor could not do that.  In fact, she was informed that would be illegal.

(I’m still puzzled how paying a doctor out of our own pocket would be illegal, but I’ll just continue on with the story.)

Referring to the health care ID card provided by the system under which Rachel is now covered, Nadia called the primary doctor listed on the card.  She was informed by this doctor’s office that they are not taking patients who are covered under the Affordable Healthcare Act.

This is the doctor who is listed on the card!

Nadia has contacted Aetna, the insurance company, that our plan utilizes and, at this point, they have been unable to refer a doctor in our area for Rachel.  We are still attempting to communicate further with Aetna.

Nadia has also contacted the office of our state representative, Bill Cunningham, hoping for help, direction and solutions to our situation.  She has had conversations that basically could be summed up in this way:  Sorry, but this is what we have in Illinois, right now.

So, Rachel is no longer able to see any of the doctors who have treated her for her entire life and, at this point in time, she really does not have a doctor.

It is my intention with this post to: 1) provide a simple account of our experience.  And 2) speak up for my daughter who is unable to speak up for herself.

I’m just a dad with a handicapped daughter whom I love.  And I am writing on her behalf because she cannot write her own story.

It is my understanding that the social programs in our country—like the one Rachel is currently depending on—are supposed to provide quality help and care, without a change of doctors.  I would think this would be particularly true for the most vulnerable.  Rachel is one of those who is vulnerable.  She has health issues that render her physically vulnerable.  She is also vulnerable in the sense that she is not able to care for herself and she is unable to advocate on her own behalf for complicated issues like this.

The fact that our system has now resulted in a situation where someone like our daughter, Rachel, is currently without all of the doctors who know her is sad, puzzling and, quite frankly, shameful!

Dan Marler

Oak Lawn, IL

E-Flash From Dan, 9/6/13

Dear E-Flash Friends;

Jesus said these astonishing words that are recorded in Luke 9:24, “If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it.”  In other words, He is telling us that the way to find true life is to surrender our lives to Him.

If you take Jesus seriously, and I do, this is an extraordinary and reality-altering comment.  Does He really mean this?  Well, I’ve got a great idea: Let’s talk about it this Sunday!

That’s exactly what we will be doing, this Sunday, September 8^th.  I’m really looking forward to the services.  You will want to be here! 

Just to whet your appetite even further, Lisa Roule and Stephanie Chiocca joined me for a podcast titled:  What’s Coming 9/8/13 with Dan, Lisa and Stephanie.  We talk about the services this Sunday and a few other fun topics.  I invite you to click on the link below and take a listen.

Link….    http://visitusonline.org/scmedia.php?type=mediaplayer&loc=visitusonline.org/media/media/mediaplayer.php&id=20130905110919E3F4B8

We’re going to have great worship music and interesting, challenging, encouraging thoughts from God’s word.  I hope to see you!

Love and blessings,

Dan

Why Theology Actually Matters

Our understanding of “who God is,” represents our theology of God.  It has to do with the nature and character of God.  And this might seem like it involves intellectual issues that don’t really matter.  But these things do matter.  Our understanding of “who God is” affects our inclination toward honestly loving and serving Him.  The good news is that God is holy, righteous, all-knowing, all-powerful, loving, gracious, truthful and just.  He is a good God and He really is worthy and deserving of our love and our devotion.

What's Coming 9/8/13 with Dan, Lisa and Stephanie -- Audio Podcast

Dan, Lisa and Stephanie talk about terrific young people, songs for this Sunday, surrendering to Jesus and a few other interesting topics!  Check it out!

                                Click here for podcast!

Suffering - Audio Podcast

God can use the pain, trouble and even the suffering in our lives in positive ways to bring growth and maturity.


                                     Click here for podcast!

Nadia Interrupts My Complaining

When my kids were little I would sit down for a few moments and watch “Barney” with them. But it didn’t take long for me to get up, shaking my head and saying, “This is the worst, most inane, most horribly produced show I’ve ever seen! The production values are terrible. It is so stupid that it’s actually painful to watch!”

Standing nearby, Nadia would calmly look at me and say, “Dan, it’s not designed for you. It’s made for kids. The kids like it.”

That is exactly the kind of logic that ruins all of my most effective complaining.

People Need The Lord

There’s a Christian song from a while back that has this line: “People need the Lord.”  I know it can sound arrogant in a pluralistic culture to presume to know what everyone needs but when the song is performed properly the tone and attitude that comes across is not prideful, self-righteous or smug.   It is humble.  It expresses genuine concern and love for the well-being of others.

Humbly and lovingly—as a person who does not know-it-all—based on the truth of the Bible, I look around and say, “People need the Lord.”  Seek Him honestly and you will find Him.

A Minute And A Half of God Stuff Podcast - No. 30

With God there is always hope!

                                 Click here for podcast!