Jack’s Winning Words 1/31/20
“We’ll make some big trophy featuring a Campbell’s soup can to be given to the winning church on Souper Bowl Sunday.”  (Garry Peterson)   Churches in Sun Valley, Idaho are having a contest this Sunday to see which one can collect the most cans of soup…It’s called, The Souper Bowl Game.  The cans will be donated to the local food bank.  If you’re going to a Super Bowl party, you might mention what the Idaho churches are doing.  Good ideas are worth sharing.   ;-)  Jack

FROM MN YOGA COACH:  ❤ how we can make this day more than football - especially since my team is out.===JACK:  Lots of things are more important than football...but try to tell that to the masses.

FROM TAMPA SHIRL:  Great idea!===JACK:  At our church, as we leave worship, a youth holds a bucket for gifts to the local food bank.

FROM PRESTWIT:  Hey Jack…the “Souper Bowl” has been in action for a number of years! We always have a fellowship time after worship with people bringing soups and chili and we put out baskets with the team names on them. People donate to the basket of the team they think will / or want to win. Then the money goes to local food agencies. Last year 5,000 groups collected $9.6 million…over $150 million since it began in 1990 in a youth group at a Presbyterian church (!!!) in South Carolina. Not sure if you knew that history or not…===JACK:  Thanks for that additional information.  Since the Steelers are out of it, which basket will you choose?

FROM PEEWEE:  What a clever, great idea!===JACK:  I'd choose to have Andy Warhol's soup can painting on the trophy.

FROM GUSTIE:  Great idea.  Too late to get anything going for this year…but next year!!! ===JACK:  If you read my Blog, you'll see how one church makes it fun for everyone.

FROM BLAZING OAKS:  Our Young People have done this In the past. People  were very responsive. It is a good idea! Will have to remember that again next year!===JACK:  Why not suggest that your Sunday School class take it on as a project?

Jack’s Winning Words 1/30/20
“Trying times are not the times to stop trying.”  (Ray Owen)  Do you ever get the feeling that God isn’t hearing your prayers?  When the disciples were having a lack of faith Jesus told them a parable about the persistent widow (Luke who didn’t take “No” for an answer; eventually the “No” turned into a “Yes.”  Most of us have learned, If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again>  Remember that when it comes to your prayers.  God’s calendar might not be the same as yours.   ;-)  Jack
Luke 18:1-8 NIV - The Parable of the Persistent Widow - Bible ...

FROM BB IN CHGO:  Thoughtful; I do feel I am always being “heard”.  The older I get, the more I realize how woeful some of those earnest prayers were back in the day!===JACK:  Don't denigrate the past.  It was the best that you knew how at the time.  The key is to remember that our spiritual life is a growing experience.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY:  His time is not our time.  He does hear every prayer and I truly believe!  He loves us so much and waits for them!!!      It was nice to have the Bible story attached!!  Loved it.      We were driving to our sons house with his kids in the car and drove past a cemetery.  It got the kids talking about death and what they would wear and what their bodies would look like in Heaven.  Melanie (9) said they would be naked.  Andy asked them what she would say that and she said a Jesus was.  He said no, Jesus was wrapped in a white robe.  Mel said no, when he came out of the tomb he was wrapped in cloth and he left it on the stone.  So he must have been nude.        Don’t you love kids?===JACK:  I think God loves us as His kids.  I could picture Him saying to one of the angels, "Don't you just love kids? 

Jack’s Winning Words 1/29/20 “The more you live, the less you die.”  (Janis Joplin)  This  quote is listed among 360 quotes that will bring calm.  Not listed, but  how about the  words of Jesus to Peter, “Let not your heart be troubled…I go to prepare a place for you.”…or to the dying thief on the cross, “Today, you shall be with me in Paradise.”  Can you envision Janis in Paradise?  How about seeing yourself in Paradise?  Sometimes God’s idea of “grace” really amazes me.    ;-)  Jack FROM TAMPA SHIRL:  Enjoy each day!===JACK:  Based on how you describe where you live...you are already in Paradise.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/28/20

“Events happen.  The key is in the recovery.”  (Christine Jerez)  “Stuff Happens” is a play about the  Iraq War…about unexpected things that went wrong and damage control.  It’s a lot like life.  Stuff happens!  How to handle it?  Teri McKeever writes that “in failures, setbacks and struggles good stuff can happen.”  I’ve found that to be true in my own life.  “The  key is in the recovery,” So…as today unfolds, and tomorrow, too, may God help us make right choices.  ;-)  Jack .   

FROM WALMART REV:   I’ve always tried to find and live out those types of examples found  in Christ’s adventures here on earth...He was a masterful teacher in this regard— “always something - always God!”===JACK:  I like that phrase: Always something - Always God!  It reminds me of Gilda Radner's book, It's Always Something, which tells of her recurring battles with cancer.  God is there during our "somethings."

       

Jack’s Winning Words 1/27/20

“I never made a mistake in grammar but one in my life, and as soon as I done it, I seen it.”  (Carl Sandburg)  Carl is perhaps my favorite author.  My Aunt Ruth, who grew up with him in Galesburg, Ill, called him, a bum!  I still like him as a writer.  Here’s a question…What defines us?  Is it our work, our accomplishments…or, is it what people think and say about us?  Maybe we’re two people, like Jekyll and Hyde.  Iris DeMent sings, “I’ll jest let the mystery be.”   ;-)  Jack 

FROM FACEBOOK LIZ:  A bum...Why?===JACK:  Those were the days when you knew a bum when you saw one...loafer, accomplishing nothing, hanging around bars...a chosen life-style with no blame on society...a lazy, no-good bum!  My aunt knew him personally and, in her opinion, Sandburg was a bum!

FROM JT IN SJ:  Another good one.  A lesson with humor.   It does seem grammar is not as important as it used to be.  When I was working (usually the young) employees were often not grammatically correct in both written and spoken language.  And I know I make mistakes. Kind of makes you shiver when you hear it through.===JACK:  I can't remember liking grammar lessons at the time, but I'm sure (surely?) glad that I had those lessons.

FROM WALMART REV:  It may be, Jack . . . I've never been able to figure out which one it is here on earth?! 0;-)===JACK:  There was a radio program that I liked to listen to as I was growing up... I Love a Mystery.  I love the mysteries in the Bible, too..

FROM BLAZING OAKS:  BUM  seems pretty harsh, but then I didn't know him personally! Ha!  He did write some meaningful things, and I've always admired him.  I taught about him in my LIt  classes in 8th grade, and when I had students portray historical figures as a project, he was always a popular choice! Robert Frost was too. And Martin Luther King Jr.  Among others....Good grammer has always been important to me, and was instilled in my kids and pupils as a must to make a good impression in job interviews, and out in society. BUT, "Never look down on any person, unless you're admiring his/her shoes!" Believe that too!===JACK:  We tend to believe people who have firsthand information...and since it was my aunt who told me, I tend to believe that he was a bum at one time.  People can and do change.  My sister once thought that I might become a gangster...and prayed to God that it might not be so.  As I wrote, Sandburg has become one of my favorite authors.

FROM SC IN EP:  That quote made me laugh...partially because I am bad at grammar and I know it. I have come across a few people out here that attended Carl Sandburg college. I had never heard of him until moving out here but he is definitely a household name in central Illinois.===JACK:  Sandburg's home in Galesburg has been restored and is open for visitors   Don't worry about grammar.  You don't need proper use of language to  "fix" things, like you do.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/24/20 “They say that God is everywhere, yet we always think of him as somewhat of a recluse.” A mother explained to her daughter that God is everywhere.  The child asked, “Is he in this sugarbowl?” When the mother replied, “Yes!” the child quickly put on the lid, saying: ”Now I’ve got him!”  …and a little boy was told that God is in us.  Just then his stomach growled.  With that, the boy said, “God’s talking to me, but I can’t understand what he’s saying.”  God is mysterious, isn’t he?  ;-)  Jack FROM TAMPA SHIRL:  God is good.===JACK:  Wherever He is, He is good. FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY:  Ah the faith of a child!  No problem No wonder Jesus said we must have faith like a child.  No ceremonies, no extras, just solid faith!   I love it!! ===JACK: One of the advantages of being a Sunday School teacher....hearing the things children say. ===OJ:  When Andy was very little, about 2, Pastor Schaefer was walking around the chapel in his garb.  Andy was so good to excited!!!  He ran over to me and said “God’s here God’s here.!”===JACK:  I love it! FROM NORM'S BLOG:  We can’t wrap our heads around God; but, if we accept Jesus, we will start to experience, “The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7)  Stop trying to wrap your head around God and just accept Jesus as your savior and your only route to eventually knowing God. ===JACK:  Accepting Jesus, to me, means knowing his teachings and accepting them.  Putting them into practice is sometimes harder than trying to drive a camel through the eye of a needle.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/23/20
“Do what you love, and love what you do; leave the world a better place, and don’t pick your nose.”  (Jeff Mallett)  Well, it’s true for me!  I love what I do…being a pastor and a creative writer.  Whether or not the world is a better place because of me (or you) is for others to decide.  I’m a daily user of Yahoo, but didn’t know that Mallett was “the Wizard behind the curtain” that made Yahoo the success that it is today..  …and he has a sense of humor.   ;-)  Jack

FROM CA GURU:  We love what you do for us as well Pastor Jack.  Thank you!===JACK:  I feel that, in a way, we are partners in what we do.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY:  Sounds like something my parents said.  I got a new sewing machine yesterday.  What a difference it makes in my quilting.  I love to quilt, read, garden, scrapbook and I love this crazy sometimes painful life.  Thank you God.  And I do pick my nose!===JACK:  God will be happy to hear that...I think.===OJ:  It should be I do not pick my nose!!  😀😀===JACK:  I think that God will like that clarification.

FROM RS IN TEXAS:  Well, I know I'm a better person because of you......and am convinced the world is definitely a better place because of you.  Thanks for all you have done....and continue to do.  ===JACK:  That's a heavy burden to bear, especially as I sit here pondering what to write for upcoming Winning Words.  Thank goodness for Spiritual guidance!

FROM NORM'S BLOG:  How does one get committed in their faith? Actually, we got fairly specific instructions on that in the Bible. Many passages instruct the followers of Christ to share the Good News.  Some of the faithful take that commitment to the extreme, preaching from a soap box on a street corner; but, for most, there is another way to be committed.  Two verses from the Bible  that I particularly like are these -  “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”  (Matthew 5:16)   "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect," (1 Peter 3:15)  It seems to me that these passages are saying that living one’s life in quiet confidence of salvation and doing what is right for others (good works) is a great way to let the light of Christ shine through you. Showing gentleness and respect while defending your faith is just being consistent with that confidence.

FROM BLAZING OAKS:  You are fortunate to be able to do what you love, as I was, in teaching. For some it isn't really a choice they get to make, due to economic or other circumstances, but you can still make the best of it, and try to leave the world a better place! A Smiling Person is a beautiful person!! :-)===JACK:  There wasn't a bad day that I can remember.  Oh, some days were better than others, but such is life.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/22/20
“There are only two options regarding commitment.  You’re either IN or you’re OUT.  There is nor such thing as life in between.”  (Pat Riley)  Riley’s talking about basketball.  “If  you don’t promise to do your best, I don’t want you on the team!”  Mastercard says:  “If you won’t commit to paying your bill, we don’t want your business.”  In a marriage…You’re either IN it,  or it won’t work out.  The Bible puts it this way…“Because you are lukewarm, I will spit you out.  (Rev 3:16)  ;-)  Jack

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY:  I’m guilty!  Sometimes I’m like warm.  I realize how struggle with health issues and it  takes over my life.  With the help of God and an understanding and living husband, I get by===JACK:  Perhaps you can sing this old song to Gary..."I'll get by as long as I have you."

FROM JT IN SJ:  I read this out loud to the quilters   As I read the last sentence they said yikes. That’s harsh===JACK:  The Bible does have some eye-openers!

Jack’s Winning Words 1/21/20
The stars awaken in us a certain reverence, because though always visible, they are always inaccessible.”  (Emerson)  Astronomers say that it would take 81,000 years to reach the nearest star…visible, but inaccessible.  The Bible tells a different story about God.  Invisible, but always accessible.  “Even tho I walk thru the valley of the shadow of death, I will not fear, for Thou art with me.”  Maybe God isn’t seen by the human eye, but He’ll never leave you.  Awe-some!  ;-)  Jack

Jack’s Winning Words 1/20/20
“The time is always right to do what is right.”  (MLK Jr)  The move to make MLK Jr’s birthday a Federal holiday began on the day after his assassination in 1968.  Finally, in 1983, Pres Ronald Reagan signed a bill making the 3^rd Monday in January a Federal Holiday honoring Martin’s birthday.  It’s not easy to get your birthday declared as a national holiday.   Did you know that there was a dispute as to when to observe Jesus’s birthday?  Dec 25 was a compromise.  ;-)  Jack

FROM WALMART REV:  I remember there was some years ago now a Sunday on March 27 that was my birthday and Easter Sunday at the same time . . . The pastor mentioned the dilemma from the pulpit that Sunday of celebrating either my birthday or Resurrection Sunday, and the church had deferred to Easter, “but too, Happy Birthday Pastor Paul!” 0;-)===JACK:  Hallelujah, too!  I looked it up...My mother went into labor on Labor Day, and I was born the next day.  A daughter of ours was born on Mother's Day.

FROM RS IN TEXAS:  RE: Jesus’ birthday I would propose it was what as opposed to exactly when. ===JACK:  At some"time" in history God determined that it would be good to show himself in the form of a human being, and so He did.  The exact time..year, day . hour, minute, second wasn't that important.

FROM TAMPA SHIRL:  I had belonged to the NAACP in the late 1949s in Davenport and went to many meetings in black churches and homes! When we moved to Tampa in 1963 I wanted to go to DC to hear his speech but was too busy with the children! I could not believe that the schools were still segregated here!===JACK:  In this morning's news..."black America" is looking for new leadership as the past ones are dying off.  "White supremacists" are coming back to life using gun control as their shoehorn.  Charter schools seem to be a way for new segregation.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY:  Love that quote!  It is always right to do right!!===JACK:  Being right and doing right is not always easy...but it's right!

FROM ST PAUL IN MESA:  and i think AZ was the last state in the Union to honor MLK Day as a federal holiday. ===JACK:  ...and I don't think that they observe Daylight Saving Time, either.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/17/20
“Not the power to remember, but the very opposite, the power to forget, is a necessary condition for our existence.”  (Sholem Asch)  I’ve read that the avg computer has from 4 to 32 gigabytes of memory compared to the brain’s 1 million gbs.  Unbelievable! (but I read it on the internet).  In order to function in society we have forget certain things (words/actions) and move on.  Even the best of us, at times, can be the worst of us.  Did God say, “Forgive and forget?”  ;-)  Jack

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY:  It’s amazing how much we can forgive but forgetting is another thing.  I can forgive quite easily but I don’t forget.  I’ll have to work on that.  I forget somethings very easily.... where’s my glasses, what day is it etc.===JACK:  God is all-powerful, almighty, etc, but after He forgives, He forgets what it was that He forgave...at least, I think that He does.

FROM JT IN SJ:  WoW  another great winning word. !!  Thank you===JACK:  I'll try to remember that, but will probably have forgotten it by tomorrow.

FROM WALMART REV:  ". . . to be remembered no more!" 0;-)===JACK:  Let us never forget God's love for us.

FROM HONEST JOHN:  Again.....both/and===JACK:  Some concepts are beyond words...and I'm OK with that.

FROM RJP IN NAPLES:  Very true pastor, I have forgiven you years ago but I will never forget you. LOL===JACK:  Many memories of RJP, some poignant, some funny, some inspiring...just like the events of life.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/16/20
“The duty of love is to listen.”  (Paul Tillich)  A cartoon shows a wife reading a book with her husband sitting across from her saying, “Honey, I’m home.”  Theologian Tillich often uses words like transcendence, absolutes, relativism and imperatives in his writings.  It’s refreshing to see him put theology into human terms.  “Loving God means listening to God.”  A church song says: “Listen, listen, God is calling thru His Word inviting, offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.”   ;-)  Jack

FROM WALMART REV:  A hearty "Amen" is in order to this morning's blog!! 0;-)===JACK:  I see your Walmart ministry as focusing on listening.  "He who has ears to hear, let him hear."

FROM NORM'S BLOG:  Almost immediately, the famous movie line “Love is never having to say you’re sorry” popped into my mind. Then came a flood of thoughts that might be quotes of their own from someone.. The opportunity of love is to share.  The reward of love is reciprocation.  If the duty of love is to listen; then the requirement of love is to act.  The opposite of love is not hate; it is apathy.  Once you start thinking about love, you eventually come around to Jesus final commandment that we “Love one another as I have loved you."===JACK:  I came across this definition of love  "Love is pure, painful, sweet and dreadful--all at once."

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY:  Listening is so hard to do sometimes.  But it a good base for a great marriage.  Communication is the best indication of a good marriage.===JACK:  Not only listening, but also understanding.  I hear the door slam, but why is it slamming?

Jack’s Winning Words 1/15/20
“You can’t regret making what you thought was the best decision at the time.”  (Carol Channing)  I’ve always liked Carol Channing.  She died a year ago on this date.  I read that she made 3000 Broadway appearances, missing only one show because of illness.  I like her words, too, about decision-making.  When a choice is before you, choose well…and don’t fuss around with, woulda, shoulda, coulda.  What’s done is done.  Move on to the next show!   ;-)  Jack

FROM NORM'S BLOG:  We call it second guessing and sometimes we do it to ourselves. You coulda (but, you didn’t). you  woulda (but, you didn’t), you shoulda (but, you didn’t). Spending time regretting things that are already over is a worse waste of time that spending time worrying about things that may happen in the future. One can rationalize time spent worrying about the future as being time spent in planning, and some of it may be just that. There is no way to rationalize the time that you spend in regret for decisions actions of the past. Spending some time to learn from a mistake or poor decision is alright, so long as you accept that it is over and there is no way to change whatever happened.  One side benefit that can come out of trying to learn from your mistakes is the opportunity to examine your decision making process. Are you basing your decisions on sound evidence and facts, or do you allow pre-conceived notions or prejudices to creep into the process? What are the beliefs that you base your decisions upon – what provides you with your moral compass?  Do you have the courage of your convictions; or, do you just find a way to go with the flow of the crowd, even if that direction is bad? ===JACK:  You gotta know when to fold 'em and when to hold 'em.

FROM RJP IN NAPLES:  She was a wonderful woman. We met her about 15 years ago. Rob perform for her and she was very generous and gracious.===JACK:  Who wouldn't want an employee like that?  On second thought, maybe we are like "God's employees."

FROM TRIHARDER:  There's a saying for trial lawyers:  There are three arguments you make:

The one you make on the way to court, The one you make in court, and The one you make on your way home.===JACK:  Does that self-conversation differ as to whether or not the trial outcome was successful or not?===TH:  Often, yes. But sometimes you just want perfection.  I had a perfect argument in the Court of Appeals once. I even made an argument, in response to a question that I wasn't anticipating. I asked permission o answer with an anecdote. I had to tell it right without having rehearsed it. They had to get the punchline. I nailed it and they all laughed. People followed me out of the hearing room congratulating me, patting me on the back.  The ride home from Lansing was jubilant.  The better news is that the assistant attorney general on the other side of the case later became a supervising attorney in a division of the attorney general's office I was working for. My boss, in effect. We became very close. Still friends. ===JACK:  Great story...and to the point.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY:  When we’re young, choices are sometimes too quickly made without looking at the consequences.  As we age, choices are made a lot quicker because of maturity. ===JACK:  Not how fast...but how good.===JUDY:  That comes with age too.

FROM GOOD  DEBT JON:  Exactly you can't should have done something...===JACK:  I coulda, woulda, shoulda...I didn'ta, so let's move on to actually doing something worthwhile.

FROM DAIRYLAND DONNA:  Love this.===JACK:  In some ways you remind me of Carol.  Have you ever performed any of her songs?  BTW, don't BOO at any of the Packer misplays that might occur against San Fran...They're trying to do do the best that they can.===DD:  More a Barbara Streisand "girl." Did so admire Carol though. Wished I had seen her perform. We got to see Bette Midler in Hello Dolly in NYC a few years ago. Now there's another voice I admire. 

Outcome of Sunday's game depends on which Aaron Rogers shows up. Hard to comprehend the pressure on these single individuals in a team sport.  Go Pack Go! 😀👍 ===JACK:  One of the memorable moments…finding out that you were once a showgirl.  Do you have any videos, I mean…cinescopes?

Jack’s Winning Words 1/14/20
“If you are not part of the solution, you’re part of the precipitate.”  (Henry Tillman)  Basic chemistry might help you “get” this one…and also knowing that solution has two definitions.  Tillman is writing about problems in society.  Either we’re part of the cause of those problems, or we can be part of their solution.  There’s no such thing as a “passive observer.”  Jesus once said, “He who’s not with me is against me.”  Get off that bench and into the game!  ;-)  Jack

Jack’s Winning Words 1/13/20
“What do Shakespeare, the Bible and The Rise of Skywalker have in common?”  (3 Minutes a Day)  “Mercy plays a role in all three.  In The Merchant of Venice, “Mercy blesses him that gives and him that takes.”  Psalm 51 says, “Have mercy on me, O God, and blot out my iniquities.”  And, in the Star Wars movie, Rey’s decisions often involve decisions to act out of mercy.  The Sermon on the Mount promises: “If you show mercy, you’ll receive mercy.”  What is the “mercy rule” in your life?  ;-)  Jack

FROM WALMART REV:   Another one of those earlier days choruses  I would be found singing in a church service— They still readily come to mind.  “SURELY GOODNESS AND MERCY shall follow me All the days, all the days of my life . . . And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever, And I shall feast at the table spread for me; Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days, all the days of my life. All the days, all the days of my life.” 0;-)===JACK:  That's one I don't know.  You'll have to sing it for me sometime.  BTW; I imagine that the table might be vegan.

FROM HUNGRY HOWIE:  The kids softball league had a mercy rule that the game ends after five innings if one team was ahead by more than  8. runs or four innings if more than 10 runs.  High school football keeps the clock running when the score reaches a certain amount.===JACK:  Mercy is an interesting word...kindness, tenderness, clemency, humaneness, softheartedness.

FROM MY LAWYER:  Do unto others as you want them to do unto you!  The Golden Rule. ===JACK:  The idea of the Golden Rule dates at least to the early Confucian times (551–479 BC).  It can be found in Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, Taoism, Zoroastrianism, and "the rest of the world's major religions.

FROM JFREEDSTER:  I’ve been on both sides of the mercy rule in softball games. When we were losing badly,  was grateful to have the game end early!  When we were winning by a lot, not quite as fun to stop early but it did feel appropriate.===JACK:  One of my first college essays was on euthanasia...mercy killing.  I'm still conflicted on that subject.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/10/20
“What makes you different or weird, that’s your strength.”  (Meryl Streep)  Today, Jan 10, is Peculiar People Day, a day to celebrate that which makes you, you and me, me.  We each have our quirks, our oddities…and our personal strengths  Douglas Malloch wrote a poem…Be the Best of Whatever You Are.  In other words, if you can’t be a tree, be a bush…but be the best little bush!  Let’s build on our peculiarities.  Let’s determine to be the best of whatever we are.   ;-)  Jack

FROM ER IN MN:  I like this one!!! So true for us all, but especially speaks to me.  Thanks! ===JACK:  Here's the poem that I referred to.  It can have applications in the workplace, in school and in our personal life.   BE THE BEST OF WHATEVER YOU ARE - Douglas Malloch
If you can't be a pine on the top of the hill,
Be a scrub in the valley — but be
The best little scrub by the side of the rill;
Be a bush if you can't be a tree.

If you can't be a bush be a bit of the grass,
And some highway happier make;
If you can't be a muskie then just be a bass —
But the liveliest bass in the lake!

We can't all be captains, we've got to be crew,
There's something for all of us here,
There's big work to do, and there's lesser to do,
And the task you must do is the near.

If you can't be a highway then just be a trail,
If you can't be the sun be a star;
It isn't by size that you win or you fail —
Be the best of whatever you are!

FROM HONEST JOHN:  I have often wondered if there was a normal person out there...if so, wouldn’t it be interesting to meet that person.===JACK:  Was Jesus that "normal" person, what God intended us to be?  I suppose my words are another heresy.===JOHN: It is almost humorous to think of Jesus as the one “normal” person...interesting thought...probably right

FROM JT IN SJ:  How do you do it?  Every day a new and unique and memorable thought ===JACK:  I'm not a muskie, so I try to be a lively bass.

FROM TAMPA SHIRL:   Of course!===JACK:  You seem always to have given it your best in whatever your choices.

FROM KF IN WB:  Good advice.===JACK:  If I were nosy I would ask how the advice might affect your life...but I'm not.===KF:  I have too many quirks to enumerate... ; )

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY:  I’m not sure I agree.  But I’m not her.  Celebrities are worshiped now.  Weirdness definitely makes you stand out...but does that make you stronger as a person?  Not to me. ===JACK:  You're not like anybody else that I know.  Does that make you peculiar?  I think so.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/9/20
“Love multiplies and adds as we divide it with others.”  (Arthur C. Nielsen –adapted)  A leader was trying to illustrate the truth of this quotation to a group of young people.  Each person was given an unlit candle.  The leader then lit a candle and passed the flame to a candle that was unlit and that one passed it to the next…and so on.  Then she commented: “Look at all of these candles…from a single flame which is not diminished.  “Love multiplies” as we share it!.  ;-)  Jack 

FROM TL IN MI:  Beautiful thought and image, Jack.   I hope you are off and well into this new year.  Your cookies are in a deep freeze, awaiting the day that we have our little coffee talk. ===JACK:  In "your business" you see how love multiplies among people who come together for a common reason.

FROM WALMART REV:  Every Christmas Eve for too many years to remember, we end our two services with this exercise of everyone given a candle when entering, the ushers walking to the front rows of the sanctuary at the end of the services and lighting the first person’s candle, asking him to light the one next to him. The second row the same, etc. It has become a tradition at the AG in Willmar, MN. 0;-)===JACK:  We used to do that at Holy Spirit, but now used candle-like flashlights.  It's not the same effect as live candles, but the Fire Marshal likes it better, because there's no danger of someone's clothing or hair catching on fire.

FROM NORM'S BLOG:   It seems to me that the two key words in your whole post are the words “love” and “share”. Jesus came to earth as God's way of expressing his love for his people and recast their perception of Him from a God to be feared into a God to be loved and embraced through His Son. Jesus preached a message of love for one another and in deed left that as his final commandment in John 13:34 - “I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another.”===JACK:  I like the Burt Bacharach song...What the world needs now is love, sweet love  It's the only thing that there's just too little of  What the world needs now is love, sweet love  No not just for some but for everyone…

FROM CL:  Love this analogy Jack! Beautiful and so true!  I am enjoying winning words.===JACK:  Today's quote are the words that a "Winning Words reader" uses to explain to her children that nothing is lost by giving love to others.  I'm glad to hear that Winning Words works for you.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/8/20
“There are two freedoms…the false where one is free to do what he likes; the true where one is free to do what he ought.”  (Charles Kingsley)  A cartoon shows Moses holding the 10 Commandments and saying to God, “I posted these on Facebook and didn’t get any “likes.”  When it comes to the Commandments, do we obey them because we “like” them, or because we ought to do what God wants us to do?  I like to believe that God always wants what’s best for us.  ;-)  Jack

FROM NORM'S BLOG:  I suspect that, upon reading this quote, most immediately thought of the first example of freedom that the quote references. Indeed, it is that self-centered, self-righteous and uncaring definition of freedom to do whatever we like that is at the root of much of today’s political and social turmoil. The “freedom” that some proclaim they are seeking is really a form of anarchy, with little to no concern for the welfare of others. They say, “I’ve got my health care covered and I don’t care about you having none” or maybe, “I’ve got a home and food on the table. Go find your own place to live and food to eat, but don’t bother me.” That is not really freedom; it is a formula for the failure of a society.  

So, how is doing what one ought to do – caring for others, helping others, sacrificing for others – the real freedom?  It begins by first accepting Jesus into your life, as written in John 8:32 – “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” But, free to do what?We can see what we ought to be doing in the Bible in Galatians 5:14 -  For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” And, again in Galatians 6:2 - Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Maybe figuring out what we ought to be doing isn’t that hard after all. The hard part is letting go of the self-interest and self-centeredness that is so prevalent in our society today.  Freedom is not all about you doing whatever you want. It’s about you seeing what needs to be done to help others around you and taking what actions you can to provide that help. Maybe you are barely providing for your own family with what you make at work. You probably still have some spare time that you could use to help others. Volunteer at a homeless shelter, drive for Meals on Wheels, work in the local food bank sorting food or maybe stuffing food in backpacks for the local Blessings-in-a-Backpack program. There are tons of ways to help others available in any community.o what you ought to be doing and what you know is right. Start by embracing Jesus in your life and the rest will come naturally. Set yourself free.

FROM WALMART REV:  Your post brings me back to a Scripture I think often of-- (Romans 5:20 LT) "God’s law was given so that all people could see how sinful they were. But as people sinned more and more, God’s wonderful grace became more abundant." A little "bitter/sweet" piece of truth from Above! 

FROM BB IN CHGO:  Ooooh…how often do we feel “free” doing the right thing.  Ooooh…how often do we feel “free” doing the right thing.  Great food for contemplation as we face this tenuous situation in the middle east.===JACK:  The temptation is to apply this quote (and others) to someone else (POTUS, for example) when in truth, they are meant to be a mirror.

FROM ER:  I appreciated the way this winning word made me think twice.  Thanks!===JACK:  If it caused you to think twice, then it accomplished what I intended.  Your response caused this to pop into my mind..."Think twice; speak once."  That could solve some communication problems.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/7/20
“Tip-toe if you must, but take the step.”  (Unknown)  Laurie sent this quote along with the advice…“Sometime the smallest step in the right direction turns out to be the biggest step of your life.”  Each day’s beginning calls for us to take a first step (small or giant) - but in what direction?  I know of some people who are seeking a new way of life.  It won’t be easy; habits are hard to break.  “One step, then another; the longest journey is over.”  Tip-toe if you must!  ;-)  Jack

FROM ST PAUL IN ST PAUL:  remember that singer whose big song was "Tip toe through the tulips"?  can't think of his name right now but his wife was Miss Vicky, i think===JACK:  His name was Tiny Tim; his real name was Herbert Khaury.  He sang in a falsetto voice and played a ukulele.

FROM NORM'S BLOG:  We all have a life directions Life/GPS available to us, if we only know how to use it – it is called faith. If we call upon God to guide us through life we will never be lost and we will always get to the destination that he has in mind for us. We may not always understand the route that he is taking us on; however, if we trust in Him we will get to where we are supposed to be. The interesting thing is that we start out the journey with an unknown end- point, but we have faith that we will end up at the right place. If we really trust God we can then relax and enjoy the journey. ===JACK:  For me, Sunday church going double checks the Life/GPS.  

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY:  Like it!!! Baby steps!===JACK:  Is Baby Steps part of the game, "Mother, May I?"

Jack’s Winning Words 1/6/20
“Help me, Obi Wan Kenobi, you’re my only hope.”  (Princess Leia)  A scientific calculation shows that over 21,647 characters have appeared in all of the Star Wars movies…and the most popular of all was Carrie Fisher as Leia.  (My favorite was Yoda.)  When life sometimes tumbles in on you, who is your Obi?  Maybe it’s a family member, or a trusted friend.  The Lord’s Prayer has been a special comfort to me, especially, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.   ;-)  Jack

FROM DAZ IN COLORADO:  I agree

FROM WALMART REV:  I've always enjoyed the church hymns and choruses to rain upon a parched soul . . .  "Far away in the depths of my spirit to night, Rolls a melody sweeter than psalm; In celestial like strains it unceasingly falls, Over my soul like an infinite calm . . . Peace! peace! WONDERFUL PEACE, Coming down from the Father above, Sweep over my spirit forever I pray In 
celestial like strains it unceasingly falls, Over my soul like an infinite calm . . . Peace! peace! WONDERFUL PEACE, Coming down from the Father above, Sweep over my spirit forever I pray In fathomless billows of love." 0;-)  ===JACK:  Do you know this one?  If so, belt it out now!

===REV:  I remember well this one and led it many times as a young song leader, while assisting with the youth
ministry in my first church position in Ohio . . . How long can you hold that
"In" at the beginning of the chorus  before continuing on!?!?===JACK:  I never sang it 

that way, but we would shout out..."RINGS!"

FROM NORM'S BLOG:  For many the entire Start Wars saga was always a thinly disguised tale of faith and religion. The battle of good vs. evil and the
mysterious “Force” seeming to take their cues from various religious beliefs. Kenobi in the quote above or using “God” instead of “Force” in the phrase “May
It does not take a giant leap to imagine substituting the word God for Obe Wan he Force be with you.”

Jack asked the question in his post, “Who is your Obe Wan?” Within the context of characters in the Star Wars movies, he chose Yoda as his Obe Wan. Many men might identify with Obe Wan, or perhaps Luke Skywalker or maybe Hans Solo. Jack did write that Princess Leia was the most popular character of all.  In creating the Star Wars universe and saga, George Lucas took advantage of our need to find a way to equate God to things that we can see and experience. He turned our faith into the Force and gave faces to characters who might otherwise have been angels or spirits. He created the epic struggle of good vs. evil by creating a host of fallen angels that he called “the Dark Side.” Whether the Emperor or Darth Vader represented the Devil is open to question, since both were portrayed as evil personified.  The whole Star Wars phenomena is just one example of man’s need to try to put God and faith into some smaller, more familiar context that he can understand.  The whole of religion is really man’s attempt to explain God and faith by creating structure, rules, and pageantry that the common person can relate to and practice. Most religions have developed elaborate explanations of what life after death will be like. There are many names for where we supposedly go – Heaven, Valhalla,  Swarga Loka, Nirvana, Jannah, and Tiān are just a few of the places where people believe that souls go after death.===JACK:  Man's search for God goes in many directions.  The Christmas story of the birth of Jesus is one.

FROM BB IN CHGO:  Have you seen the new Mandolorian – Disney Star Wars series with “the Child” (baby Yoda)?
George Lucas’/Joseph Campbell stories are so replete with spiritual imagery; is this little one a savior image?===JACK:  God images are all around.  They can be seen, if you look for them.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/3/20
“Honest to God…from my lips to your ears!”  (Jeremy, the car dealer)  Not surprisingly, a recent poll shows nurses to be the most trusted professionals.  Politicians are listed as the least trusted, followed closely by car sales people.  Polls are interesting, but not always trustworthy.  I know politicians personally who are truth-tellers.  As I came to know Jeremy, I came to believe his lips which said, “I’m an Irish-Catholic, too!”  More importantly, can people believe our lips?  ;-)  Jack  

FROM SF IN FL:    My mom said that and now I say it too!!! So funny to hear it!! ===JACK:  For me, it was the first time.  It really got my attention and caused me to believe that what Jeremy was saying was really sincere.===SF:  I grew up hearing these words. I say it often.===JACK:  In another life you might become a car dealer.===SF:  Unlikely… LOL!

FROM BB IN CHGO:  I love Walter’s writing, at least his old essay “searching for God in unlikely places.”  Have you read this new one yet?  Think I will add to my wish list. ===JACK:  We gave David the book when he got his MBA.  It's easy to order online, new or used...Probably a keeper.

FROM WALMART REV:  From my heart to His, to yours for the liking:-- "How lovely on the mountains are the feet of Him who brings good news, good news, Announcing peace, proclaiming news of happiness. Our God reigns, Our God reigns!" (Our God Reigns, Bill Gaither). That's what we have been about, Jack, all this prior years and the same in these years that remain. Happy to have you been apart of my life and ministry. Happy New Year!! 0;-)===JACK:  Did you ever serve as a Santa Claus for children?  Does "from my lips to your ears" apply to a conversation like that?===REV:  I did serve as a "Santa" a few years with the W B Parks and Recreation for the Senior Adults (like the ones meeting at H S Lutheran) . . . I would think that phrase would fit for any setting you or I would find ourselves in. If I remember correctly, I first heard that phrase spoken from an Iranian while in W B and it came with a hand gesture touching one's heart then to their lips and then on up above their heads. Do you recall anything like this? 0;-)===JACK:  I'll have to ask my Chaldean friend, Sharkey, about that gesture you described.  It seems like a good one.

FROM OUTHOUSE JUDY:  I sure hope they can!===JACK:  Honest to God...too!

FROM DB IN WB:  Yesterday I went to the movies to see “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” featuring the story of a cynical journalist who meets Fred Rogers and having his life transformed.  Perhaps you have seen it. But if you haven’t, I highly recommend it. In fact, I have thought of seeing it again before it leaves the movie theaters. As I lay in bed reflecting, there were a few parts that maybe I missed and couldn’t remember the tie-in. I didn’t sleep well last night, the movie got me thinking.  None-the-less,  I could hear a few sniffles around me. I assumed it was from people touched and not seasonal allergies/colds.  I would appreciate the Mr Rogers’ show now as an adult more than I did as a child.===JACK:  The passing years help us to appreciate things/events/people more than we did when they actually appeared in our lives.  Fred Rogers is just one.

Jack’s Winning Words 1/2/20 “Quid pro quo has got to go!”  (Lake Superior State Univ)  Each year this Michigan university lists overused words that should be banned.  Who (besides Latin-philes) can truly translate q-p-q?  Other words on the list are artisanal, mouthfeel and jelly (for jealous).  Maybe I’m out-of-the-loop, but I haven’t used any of the last three.  In his Sermon on the Mount (Mt 5:37) Jesus says: “Keep your words simple; mean what you say.”  (q-p-q: something for something)  ;-)  Jack.