Happy New Year 2022!

 

Who wants to go for a cold swim?

 

The decision involves tires

Today, the key decision was not: pool or beach?

The key decision was: which tire store should I go to?

Yep, we had to have a tire replaced on the van because apparently a hole allows air to escape. (By the way, one of the ways I attempt to serve is by occasionally providing physics information.) 

So, which tire store did I choose? Easy: the closest one.

Fortunately, they were experts at air, rubber, wheels, compressors, cotton candy and the physics involved in these types of matters. And, therefore, we are once again riding on tires that are remaining inflated with air. (The ride is much smoother when the tires have air in them.)

…Now, pool or beach?

 

Updates from the Road - Live - No. 3

 

Updates from the Road - Live - No. 2

 

Updates from the Road - Live - No. 1

 

He Came to Bring Light to a Dark World - Christmas Eve

 

Time for Christmas Shopping!

I’m very proud to say that this year I did not wait until the last minute to do all my Christmas shopping!

It’s the day BEFORE Christmas Eve and I’m thinking about the possibility of, perhaps, getting ready to, maybe, get out there, pretty soon, and get started!

Did you notice that phrase? “Day before Christmas Eve!” I suspect many of you are impressed, some are inspired, and others have already stopped reading this post.

“LET’S GET THE SHOW ON THE ROAD!!!”

 

#FeelingMotivated  #ChristmasShopping

Christmas Eve service, First Church of God, Oak Lawn, IL, 9pm Central time

 

Experiencing JOY during the Christmas season

 

I'm just going to leave you folks alone

 

A great photo

I took a really cool photo of a deer today. It was the kind of photo that you would see in a magazine…if people still looked at magazines (which they don’t). And I thought, “Wow, when I post this photo people will smile and be happy.”

They will probably think, “Man, that’s a great photo of a deer! I wish I was looking at it in a really fancy magazine.”

But somehow—while deleting a bunch of other photos—I seem to have accidentally deleted my great deer photo. So here is a photo I took while standing in line at the pharmacy, instead.

I know. Sometimes life can be very disappointing.

 

Celebrating the birth of the King of all kings!

 Perhaps I should not have had the pre-service Mtn Dew.

How the Grinch almost stole Christmas -- Full message 12/19/21

 

Is it possible that I may be wrong? -- Streamed live

 

It's time for Rachel and I to make a viral video... maybe(?)

 

The Grinch who almost stole Christmas. You're invited!

 

Lessons from Samson...with a touch of humor

 

Here's a thought: Let God be your defender

 

Reminded of Six Million Dollar Man

In the past couple of days I have been reminded, on two different occasions, of a television show from the 70s called “The Six Million Dollar Man.”

Does anyone else have a recollection of this program?

My memory is a little foggy, but as I recall, The Six Million Dollar Man was a real life documentary that chronicled the adventures of Colonel Steve Austin. Col. Austin was seriously injured in the crash of some type of rocket ship but because of incredibly advanced medical technology, like stethoscopes, he was miraculously kept alive. Both of his legs, one arm, and one of his eyes were replaced with bionic parts. This project cost the United States government…you guessed it: Six million dollars!

So, Col. Austin was forced to secretly work for the government because they invested a lot of money in him, and they can do that if large amounts of money are involved. Or, if they just want to do something like this really badly. (Six million dollars was a lot of money in the 70s.)

Col. Austin had supernatural strength, speed, vision and a very cool jogging suit. (Jogging suits were an important staple of a snazzy wardrobe in the 70s.) And he would utilize his impressive new abilities to go around solving crimes and preventing frightening disasters brought about by evil scheming bad guys.

You know what? As I describe the Six Million Dollar Man TV show, it occurs to me that it may not have been a real-life documentary, after all.

 

What do I think about "The Chosen" television series?

 

Down but not out: Samson -- Full message 12/12/21

 

 

Rachel helps me with some Christmas planning

 

Living God's way is not for later, it's for right now -- Live Stream

 

Video E-Flash From Dan -- 12/10/21

 

Can you be receptive like a new wineskin? - Live Stream

 

 

Where are you placing your trust?

 

Down but not out: Moses -- Full message 12/5/1

 

Rachel and I extend an apology

 

 

Verily I report to thee regarding yonder Medieval fair

 

Is technological progress happening too fast for us to handle it?

 

Converting to Christianity through dreams and visions

 

No more tears, no more sorrow. Really?

 

Checking out Nokomis Beach and an irate turtle

 

Happy Thanksgiving to all of our loved ones, far and wide!

 

Choose to be thankful!

Every single person reading this post has some valid complaints that could be expressed about life.

Every single person reading this post also has some valid reasons to be thankful.

It will be helpful and it will increase our joy if we will focus our attention on those reasons for gratitude. It will be to our advantage, believe it or not, if we will genuinely express thanks.

I encourage all of us, myself included, to choose to be thankful.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

 

A little wind-burned but we made it

 I thought the airport would be very crowded since it is a holiday week. My concern was that it would, perhaps, be so crowded that we would encounter long waits at the various checkpoints. But we actually moved along fairly quickly.

There was a problem with a retractable handle on my suitcase but the airline was gracious and courteous insisting it would be no problem.

I, along with the suitcase, was duct taped to the outside of the plane, on the wing, during the flight. But other than that the travel experience was quite comfortable and we arrived right on time.

I’m a little wind burned, but it’s all good.

We honor God when we speak the truth…including the truth about ourselves

 

Why is pride a problem? -- Full message 11/21/21

 

Rachel informs me about her Celtic roots

 

 

Too good to be true?

 

Mountainside camping -- Ready to go?

 

Is God in His rightful place in your life?

 

Rachel tells me about Dwayne Johnson and John Cena

 

Why is this a problem? Full message 11/14/21

 

The first snowfall...

 

Pastor's Report for 2021 -- First Church of God, Oak Lawn, IL

 

Let’s talk about the truth…and falling pianos

 

Finley is very clever

Finley decided to get on top of Rachel in order to pose for this photo.

Finley likes to think of herself as the alpha member of our household so she engages in all types of antics to assert her dominance.

Yesterday she attempted to acquire sole signature authority over our checking account. Did I mention that she’s very clever?

 

Heading to the mall with Rachel

 

Having fun at the oil change place

While we were waiting for an oil change I was reminded, once again, how electrifying it is to spend time with me.

It's hard to believe she dozed off while I was explaining the theological implications of Philippians chapter 4. You know?

I am currently working with scientists to see if we can effectively bottle my ability to put people to sleep.

It should prove to be quite profitable!

Watch out Elon Musk, Warren Buffett and Jeff Bezos... you bunch of lightweights!

 

From scratch?!?

You’re probably sitting home tonight thinking, “I wonder if Dan ever bakes chocolate chip cookies.”

It’s a question that many people think about. Especially if they have completely run out of TV shows to binge watch on Netflix.

You will be happy to know that I made the cookies you see in this photo…from scratch!

Pretty good, huh?

It’s always much more impressive when someone can say, “I made these baked goods from scratch!”

So there!

…Okay, actually, I didn’t make the cookies from scratch. I made them from the pre-packaged cookie dough that can be found in the refrigerator section of the grocery store. But I felt slightly embarrassed admitting that truth because it seems like it indicates I have made a diminished chocolate chip cookie.

Please be assured that these are not diminished chocolate chip cookies.

To be really honest, I’m not even sure what it means to make something “from scratch.” Whenever I hear the word scratch it reminds me of the time I had poison ivy during summer break when I was in high school.

That was not fun. And the poison ivy rash was on my face so it was swollen and ugly. That’s not a helpful look for someone in high school.

My mom felt so bad for me that she made some chocolate chip cookies to cheer me up.

…She made them from scratch.

…I think.

 

Why is greed a problem?

 

Makes my heart feel warm and fuzzy

 

Do you want to be forgiven? Then be someone who forgives.

 

A marriage proposal happened. Congratulations Taylor and Raquel!

 

 

An announcement and Rachel straightens me out on wedding protocol

 

Why is withholding forgiveness a problem?

 

Sometimes a little smooth jazz is just what the doctor ordered

 

 

Teaching a group of pastors in India

Had the privilege this morning of teaching a group of pastors in India, via Zoom. My beloved brother in Christ, Chris Donnelly, taught one of the sessions, as well.

(Chris and I are actually quite famous in India, although no one over there knows it yet.)

It is our prayer that the Holy Spirit did use and will continue to use this time to help, encourage, teach, and inspire these wonderfully faithful ministers. May God’s kingdom powerfully advance in our world!

Love is not optional, it is essential

 

Yes, I will be wearing black

 Humor, just kidding around. 😊

We don’t need to pull others down in order to elevate ourselves

 

Puppy dog eyes

Lucy and Finley have mastered the fine art of looking at me with a complete and total overload of cuteness. It has taken years of practice and precision tuning to acquire just the right gaze with their puppy dog eyes. When it is done properly they can manipulate any desired result from me. (Nadia and Rachel are taking careful notes.) 

As you can see, their efforts have paid off and I am, once again, powerless.

We need to know that second chances are possible

 

 

Why is gossip a problem? -- Full message

 

Here's what it looks like...

 

Rachel and I are still kicking

 

Lucy's effective communication

Earlier today Lucy utilized a non-verbal communication technique to make a very effective request of Nadia. Lucy understands intuitively what has been learned through extensive academic research: 90 percent of communication is non-verbal. It happens through facial expression; hand gestures; eye contact; cocking the head to one side; barking tone; etc.

It worked. Lucy enjoyed some tasty bacon as a result of her efforts.

I attempted a similar tactic but to no avail. Water and fairly old bread crust for me.

 

Be one of those people who knows how to think

 

Humility allows for an honest view of ourselves

 

The installation is going well!

Wow!!! These carpet installers are fast!

Just 45 minutes ago the sanctuary floor was bare! I am impressed!!!

 

The church is not a burden, it's a benefit

 

When leaders are knowingly, intentionally deceptive…it’s a big deal.

 

Why is rejecting the church a problem?

 

 

Finley and her not very impressive thunder shirt

 

For the authentic follower of Christ, Jesus is first

 

Rachel says she is not fancy

 

 

It's NOT all about politics! -- Full message

 

How do you receive true but difficult words?

 

Don’t touch my cake!

 

We can deny reality but we can’t avoid the consequences

 

Lucy, the hunter, is ever vigilant

 

Hey, I'm watching you buddy boy!

 

Can we experience peace even when the conditions aren’t just right?

 

 

Kind and encouraging

 

Here's what is best for you

 

Culture gets this wrong: Your happiness is what matters most

 

Rachel and I talk about Dog the Bounty Hunter

 

 

Be wary of leaders who want to control other people’s lives

 

What if God was actually for you, not against you?

 

Hoping that my beautiful Nadia has a delightful and enchanting birthday!

 

Is God relevant in every area of life?

 

We can deny Him if that’s what we choose to do

 ...But denying Him is not a good idea.

Ice cream or health food? Rachel straightens me out.

 

If she stole her bike back is it really even stealing?

 

Does God even care about us? Really?

 

A full day of fun and hijinks with Rachel

 

Christianity is not anti-science

 

It would probably be best if you did not watch this video

 

After Rachel finished her schooling (in her 20s) she insisted that she was retired

 

I’m so glad my friend Ken honked and got my attention as he was driving by with his beautifully restored 1956 Chevy Bel Air. I wish I could explain to you how clean and dazzling this car looks up close. I’m not—in any way—an expert on cars but even I could see that this vehicle is amazing.

Wow!

In fact, I’m so impressed I’m going to write it again: Wow!

(…This car deserves two “wows!”)

Very cool!

 

Can a person be evil?

 

Very sad to hear about Norm's passing

 

Is it ever okay for a Christian to fight back?

 

Sometimes we forget…you cannot fool God -- Full message

 

Is Rachel's butterfly coming back home?

 

Why is it important to remember the events of September 11, 2001?

 

Rachel releases her butterfly back to the wild. Wild, primitive, ferocious Oak Lawn.

 

 

And then the butterfly emerged!

 

Here's what happened this summer!

 

Be careful you don't fall to the same temptation

 

He is alive in you!

Would you like to take a break from stressful thoughts along with the news and information that brings on worry and anxiety?

Good! I thought you would say “yes.”

I encourage you to carve out a bit of time; go to a place where you can be alone; be quiet; and take a few moments to think about this: If you have put your faith and trust in Jesus and are genuinely living with Him, then the same Holy Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead is actually alive in you.

Focus on this wonderfully encouraging truth: He is alive in you.

If you’re thinking, “Where did you ever come up with such a thing?!?” This truth is revealed to us in Romans chapter 8.

“And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.”   Romans 8:10-11

Dan and Rachel talk about a Finley anniv. and important nutritional info

 

The photo on the right was my very first encounter with Finley, three years ago.

Shortly after I snapped the photo she escaped from her crate; snatched all the food off the table; stole my wallet; and chewed up my entire collection of very snazzy high-fashion shoes.

She has been our source of incredible mischief and incredible joy ever since!

 

Why does the media lie to us?

 

If we are willing, He will give us rest

 

When freedoms are taken away they are almost never restored

 

 

I introduce 2 songs on Yacht Rock radio station Top 100 Countdown

 

 

We went to see the Doobie Brothers

 

Are these the last days? -- Bonus message

 

Good gifts come from God -- Full message

 

 

Rachel is now a caterpillar momma!

 

Mourning the loss of our troops in Afghanistan

 

Wait a minute…! It’s National Dog Day?

 

Nadia makes a weather prediction

 

You know it’s time to hire a new campaign manager when even your own family…

 

 

Cremation or Burial?

I have been asked if—as a Christian—it is okay to be cremated as opposed to a traditional burial.

This is another one of those questions that is not addressed—at least not in a direct manner—in the Bible. In my opinion (this is one person’s opinion) the issue is a personal matter and is not mandated one way or the other by scripture.

The main concern that typically arises when it comes to debated issues such as this one has to do with eternity. If a person is cremated can the person still go to heaven?

In a way, the answer to that question is actually pretty simple and straightforward. Whether or not a person goes to heaven depends on this: salvation in Jesus Christ.

“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.” Romans 10:9-10

These verses from Romans chapter 10 indicate that salvation has to do with faith and belief in Christ, not cremation or traditional burial.

The following passage from Titus 3:4-7, also addresses the issue of salvation in Jesus Christ:

“But—when God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. Because of his grace he made us right in his sight and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.”

The salvation we have in Christ, described in the Titus chapter 3 passage above, has to do with God’s love, grace and mercy. Forgiveness of sins is mentioned along with new birth and life in the Holy Spirit. Jesus is specifically identified as “our Savior.” We are made righteous (which is necessary in order for us to be with the Lord in heaven) because of the work of Jesus. Clearly, the manner in which a person’s body is dealt with (cremation or traditional burial) is not a factor. Our salvation is provided by Jesus. It is rooted in Jesus.

I believe, in some cases, the people who argue that a Christian should not be cremated but rather should be buried in the ground probably feel like this is a more reverent and respectful way of dealing with the body. I can understand how a person may feel that way and I appreciate such a view. However, it appears to me, based on the Bible, that cremation is not prohibited and we can be confident that cremation will not prevent a person from going to heaven.

Salvation is dependent on Jesus alone.

 

Sometimes we forget... that life is fleeting - Full message

 

Dan and Rachel get some gourmet(?) food

 

 

Hey Dan, what about suicide?

Over the years I have been asked about suicide a number of times. In particular people are curious about this question: If a person commits suicide does it mean the person is automatically disqualified from heaven and bound for eternity in hell?

To the best of my knowledge the Bible does not offer a direct answer to that question. And I suspect if you posed the question to several Christian theologians it is possible you would get different answers.

It is very fair to say that suicide is not good. It is tremendously painful to the people who loved the person who has committed suicide. It is possible the loved ones may experience extreme guilt and question themselves for years wondering: what could I have done differently? Could I have prevented this from happening if I was more observant, caring, attentive or loving?

Also, the position of the Bible is that we should not take a person’s life. [Exodus 20:13] I believe that command applies not just to others but to our self, as well.

So suicide is not good but that still leaves us with the question: what happens to the person who commits suicide, when it comes to heaven and hell?

Again, I will admit the Bible does not offer a direct answer to the question, however, I am inclined to think: The person who commits suicide does not automatically go to hell.

Here are several thoughts which lead me to this position:

First, any person who commits suicide is clearly experiencing thoughts, pressure, stress, anguish, mental pain, emotional pain, etc., that we probably do not understand. I’m not trying to make excuses I’m just pointing out that the person is in a state in which something extreme is occurring. So what does that mean in terms of their responsibility for their actions? I do not know for sure. We do not know for sure. It involves thoughts, feelings, circumstances which we cannot know with any certainty.

Who does know with certainty? God. Who can bring fair, merciful, honest, gracious, totally informed judgment to the matter? God.

“The LORD loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love.” Psalm 33:5

Second, the person who commits suicide, on some level, is not thinking properly. So what does that mean in terms of their responsibility for their actions? Once again, as I described in the first point, above, we do not know with any type of certainty. It is impossible for us to know all the details which come to play. This is God’s domain.

I believe He will be able to bring a fair, merciful, honest, gracious, and totally informed judgment to the matter. We can trust Him to be completely just.

Third. What happened, perhaps, even just seconds before the person who committed suicide actually expired? Answer: we do not know. In the Bible there is a man who acknowledges Christ and trusts in Jesus just before he dies. In fact, this man is being crucified on a cross right next to Jesus. You might say this was a last minute conversion. Jesus promises the man that he will be with Him [Jesus] in paradise. [Luke 23:43]

The person who commits suicide, in the final seconds before life ends, might have some type of encounter with Jesus. By the way, I’m not even suggesting this is likely, I’m simply suggesting: 1) it is possible; and 2) we do not know for sure what has happened in the person’s heart and mind in the final moments of life. But the experience of the “thief on the cross” with Jesus gives me hope that a person who commits suicide could have some type of brief but significant connection with Jesus which effects the person’s eternity.

Fourth, the condition of the person’s heart may be different than the hurt, broken, unstable condition of the person’s mind when suicide is involved.

“…The LORD doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

And I believe it is possible the person’s heart may still be in relationship to God even though the mind may be damaged. We cannot possibly know the details about a specific person’s heart, but God can. And this gives me hope that even though the person has taken his/her life, the person may still be with God in heaven.

I am aware of the fact that we could ask this question: Is a person who has genuinely experienced salvation in Jesus Christ, capable of an action as drastic as taking their own life?

Answer: I don’t know. But I think it is very likely the answer is yes. Extremely drastic circumstances or experiences can result in extremely drastic actions even for an authentic believer.

Please know, I am not claiming to have theological certainty regarding this question and this is not a matter of being intentionally vague. I believe there are questions for which it is truthful to say: We do not actually know. (Or put it this way, I’ll speak for myself. It is accurate for me to say: I do not actually know.)

And I am aware of the fact that some would disagree with my position. Such a reality is inherent in deep, profound theological questions.

I hope it is true and I, personally, believe it is true—based on my understanding of the Bible—that a person who has committed suicide can still be in heaven with God.