Experts say 'Jesus tomb' is a fantasy - 28/02/2007

News in Science - Experts say 'Jesus tomb' is a fantasy - 28/02/2007

[This is the print version of story http://www.abc.net.au/science/news/stories/2007/1859195.htm]

NEWS ANALYSIS
Experts say 'Jesus tomb' is a fantasy
Alfons Luna
Agençe France-Presse


Wednesday, 28 February 2007

Archaeological evidence?
Media blitz surround claims of the 'Jesus tomb'. These two limestone boxes, found in a 2000 year old tomb in Israel, may contain remains of Jesus and his family, say film-makers. But archaeologists say the evidence is shaky (Image: Reuters/Mike Segar)
Claims that the burial site of Jesus, his wife and son have been found in an ancient family cemetery in Jerusalem have been criticised by researchers as fanciful.

Archaeological and DNA evidence to be aired in a documentary later this week and in a book suggests Jesus married Mary Magdalene and had a son, Judah, who were buried with him.

The claim contradicts the Bible's account that Jesus was single, died when crucified, was resurrected three days later and ascended to heaven, central tenets of Christian belief.

But archaeologists, historians and theologians have criticised evidence in the documentary The Lost Tomb of Christ and book The Jesus Family Tomb as far from conclusive.

The film-makers cite evidence of names etched on ossuaries, or limestone bone boxes, dug up at the site, as well as DNA evidence they hold, and other technical analysis.

Five of the 10 boxes in the tomb are inscribed with names that they say refer to key biblical figures: Jesus, Mary, Matthew, Joseph and Mary Magdalene.

A sixth inscription, written in Aramaic, translates to 'Judah son of Jesus'.

Another limestone burial box is labelled in Aramaic with 'Jesus son of Joseph'; another bears the Hebrew inscription 'Maria', a Latin version of 'Miriam', or in English 'Mary'.

Yet another ossuary inscription, written in Hebrew, reads 'Matia', the original Hebrew word for 'Matthew'.

Only one of the inscriptions is written in Greek. It reads, 'Mariamene e Mara', which can be translated as 'Mary known as the master', the documentary says.

The film-maker, Simcha Jacobovici, says a statistical analysis of the names being found together makes it extremely unlikely that it would be anyone else but the biblical family of Jesus.

Andrey Feuerverger, a Canadian statistics professor at the University of Toronto, says the odds are 600 to one.

Bone box
This ossuary, or bone box, may have held the bones of Mary Magdalene, the film-makers say. But critics say Mary (Maria or Miriam) was a common name at the time (Image: Reuters/Mike Segar)
But not everyone is convinced.

Archaeologist Amos Kloner, a professor at Israel's Bar-Ilan University, documented the tomb as the Jewish burial cave of a well-off family more than 10 years ago.

He says there is no evidence that it was the burial site of Jesus, and that that the names are a coincidence.

"I'm a scholar. I do scholarly work which has nothing to do with documentary film-making. There's no way to take a religious story and to turn it into something scientific," he says.

"Who says that 'Maria' is Magdalena and 'Judah' is the son of Jesus? It cannot be proved. These are very popular and common names from the first century BC."

Kloner says that of 900 burial caves found within 4 kilometres of Jerusalem's Old City and from the same era, the name Jesus or Yeshu was found 71 times, and that 'Jesus son of Joseph' has also been found.

Professor L Michael White, director of the Institute for the Study of Antiquity and Christian Origins at the the University of Texas, says he also doubts the claims are true.

"This is trying to sell documentaries," he says, adding a series of strict tests needed to be conducted before a bone box or inscription could be confirmed as ancient.

"This is not archaeologically sound, this is fanfare."

The DNA evidence

The film-makers also obtained two sets of samples from the ossuaries for DNA and chemical analysis.

The first set consisted of bits of matter taken from the 'Jesus Son of Joseph' and 'Mariamene e Mara' ossuaries. The second set consisted of patina, a chemical film encrustation on one of the limestone boxes.

The human remains were analysed by Dr Carney Matheson, a Canadian scientist at the Paleo-DNA Laboratory at Lakehead University in Ontario.

Mitochondrial DNA examination determined the individual in the Jesus ossuary and the person in the ossuary linked to Mary Magdalene are not related.

Since tombs normally contain either blood relations or spouses, the film-makers say the DNA results suggest Jesus and Mary Magdalene could have been a couple.

But Dr R Albert Mohler, president of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, is far from convinced.

"The DNA testing is to me the most laughable aspect of this," he told CNN.

"You have to have the basis of a DNA sample that would make any sense," he says. "No one has the DNA of Mary."

The Israel Antiquities Authority declined to comment. But in 1996 a spokesman said that the probability of the caskets belonging to the family of Jesus were "next to zero".

Dr Shimon Gibson, one of the archaeologists who discovered the tomb, says he has a "healthy scepticism" the tomb may have belonged to the family of Jesus.


with Reuters and ABC Science Online

Call to Prayer for our Troops

A Call to prayer for our Armed Forces

We, your fellow Americans, resolve and commit to pray for you, our uniformed Patriots standing in harm's way around the world in defense of our liberty, every day. We further resolve and commit to pray for your families awaiting your safe return. We thank God for you, your courage, tenacity and vigilance.

The words of George Washington's First Inaugural Address are fitting: "The preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the republican model of government, are justly considered deeply, perhaps as finally, staked on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people." We, the American people, then turn that trust to God, who in His sovereign wisdom gave us the freedom we enjoy.

You Patriots -- American Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coastguardsmen -- have plowed the ground for liberty. We remain the proud and the free because you have stood bravely in harm's way, and remain on post today. For this, we, the American People, offer our heartfelt thanks. We commit to continually pray for you and your families

Please go to this link to sign and show your support for our people in uniform

Amazing Grace- The Movie link

I want to give you all a heads up on a must see movie that will givethe word sacrifice a new meaning... after you see this movie with your families. It is not only of historical value to all of us, but it is also a demonstration of a man's sacrifice against the odds and how God's hands guided him like He guides us.

Please consider going to see this movie (and let it touch your hearts) and let the Lord do the rest.

Your brother in Christ,

Brad

__________________________________________________

Here is a review of the movie (or you can go to this link):

Amazing Grace
Review by Russ Breimeier | posted 2/23/07

Amazing Grace Rated PG (for thematic material involving slavery and some mild language) Genre:Drama Theater release: February 23, 2007 by Samuel Goldwyn/ Roadside Attractions Directed by: Michael Apted Runtime: 118 minutes Cast: Ioan Gruffudd (William Wilberforce), Romola Garai (Barbara Spooner), Albert Finney (John Newton), Benedict Cumberbatch (William Pitt the Younger), Rufus Sewell (Thomas Clarkson), Youssou N'Dour (Olaudah Equiano) Related: • Talk About It/Family Corner • Amazing Grace special section • Amazing Grace discussion guide

Similar to Chariots of Fire and Shadowlands in tone, Amazing Grace balances faith and filmmaking in a historical drama that depicts an ordinary Christian doing extraordinary things because of his beliefs.

For those unfamiliar with the lead character, William Wilberforce was elected to British Parliament in the late 18th century at the age of 21. Some years after that, he underwent an experience that brought him back to the Christian faith—to the point where he was prepared to leave politics behind to fully devote his life to God as a clergyman or monk. His friend from college (and future Prime Minister) William Pitt tries to convince Wilberforce to stay in Parliament because he's such a gifted orator, as seen in several debates on the floor. Pitt asks, "Will you use your beautiful voice to praise the Lord or change the world?"

To quote another character in the film, "We suggest you can do both."

Ioan Gruffudd as Wilberforce

The principled Wilberforce makes it clear early on that he is privately opposed to Britain's thriving slave trade, and several prominent abolitionists of the era (Thomas Clarkson, Olaudah Equiano) do their best to gain his support. In this film, it is John Newton—a former slave ship captain and the author of the hymn "Amazing Grace"—that ultimately convinces his friend Wilberforce to take up the cause for reasons both moral and spiritual.

And so he does, but at what cost? The British abolitionists become the world's most vocal opponents to slavery, causing Wilberforce to lose popularity with many of his countrymen and colleagues. Some even label him a seditionist—a serious accusation at the time with the newly established United States, an imminent French Revolution, and a mentally ill King George ruling England. Which are precisely the reasons Clarkson suggests to Wilberforce that revolution may be the best way to instigate change.

Wilberforce with Barbara Spooner (Romoa Garai)

It's enough to drive a crusader to sickness, as both Wilberforce's health and cause begin to fail about the same time. We know how this story ends, but it's nonetheless compelling to watch the famed abolitionist's uphill battle to maintain his passion and fervor and see his calling through to the end of slavery—a worldwide blight on humankind that still goes on to this day.

The screenplay by Steven Knight (Dirty Pretty Things) succeeds in capturing the essence of Wilberforce and his accomplishments, never shying away from the man's faith but never making it the central component either—just as Eric Liddell's refusal to run on the Sabbath was vital but not paramount to Chariots of Fire.

Amazing Grace seems more honest because of such balance, and acclaimed director Michael Apted (whose previous credits include Coal Miner's Daughter, several documentaries, and a James Bond movie) succeeds in rendering the story with authenticity. There's something to be said for a film that succeeds in making Parliamentary legislation suspenseful, even when you know the ultimate outcome. It also helps that chunks of the movie are told in flashback to add urgency and weight to the storytelling—a straight timeline would have been less interesting.

Albert Finney is brilliant in the role of John Newton

Some parts run a little dry, but the film avoids falling into a dull rut. Scenes of Wilberforce as politician are inspiring like a Capra film, yet tempered with scenes of Wilberforce the college buddy and family man—Christians will especially appreciate a scene where our protagonist spends time outside his home in quiet time with God. Descriptions of the harsh conditions on a slave ship are quite sobering, and Newton's grief for past transgressions (and joyful response to God's grace) are especially touching.

There's also room for levity with charming quips from Pitt, Clarkson, and Fox, not to mention a sweetly handled romance in the form of Wilberforce's budding relationship with Barbara Spooner, who later became his wife. Their shared private joke is chuckle-worthy, as is their attempts to find a reason not to fall in love.

William impresses his colleagues with an anti-slavery petition

Such qualities are expertly carried by an Oscar-worthy cast, which probably shouldn't be surprising with so many familiar British thespians involved. Ioan Gruffudd (Fantastic Four) is an inspired choice as Wilberforce—charismatic, charming, yet bringing just the right amount of gravitas to the part. It's nice to see Rufus Sewell (The Illusionist) play some of the comedic relief as Clarkson, after portraying the nemesis in so many films. Speaking of, Ciaran Hinds (The Nativity Story) plays smug so well as Wilberforce's chief opponent. And Michael Gambon (Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) charms in the small part of Lord Fox. But it's the performance of Albert Finney (Erin Brokovich) as Newton that has most people buzzing—though he's only in two scenes, he's the movie's best (though long shot) chance for awards season next year.

The only thing missing here is the sort of inspired moviemaking that sets apart a landmark motion picture. Chariot of Fire had those scenes on the beach and an unforgettable score. Amazing Grace has an impressive finale with a bagpipe band, but that's not enough. Like Shadowlands, it's played rather straight-laced and predictably, like a glorified Masterpiece Theater special on BBC or PBS. That's primarily what keeps this movie from earning our highest rating, but it's certainly not enough to dampen a whole-hearted recommendation.

What's particularly interesting about Amazing Grace is that the abolition of slavery is the driving force behind it, yet the movie is more about one man's response to injustice—thus hopefully inspiring reactions of our own. It's an example of how we're called to step out of our comfort zones, even when our words and actions are not easily embraced. It's a well-told cinematic example of a man who used his faith and God-given opportunities to change the world for good.

Talk About It

Discussion starters

1. What are your thoughts about Wilberforce's prayer time in his backyard garden (see Matthew 6:5-7)? Does God provide an answer to his prayer? In what form? 2. In the movie, Wilberforce describes his life as changed by God—"He found me." Is Wilberforce's initial response proper or misguided? Are we called to a life of piety, or to serve as the hands and feet of God? What does it mean to be "in the world, not of it," and how do we avoid "cocooning"? 3. Wilberforce makes many "unpopular" decisions in this story. Would you have done the same under similar circumstances? What about pressures to your health or your individual freedom? What temptations does Wilberforce face in his efforts? How do we find the courage to press on for what's right? What guidance do we have? 4. Wilberforce helped spark change that affected world history and social justice for good. Where does such change begin? What qualities need to be secure in order to take such action? 5. Wilberforce is depicted as a skilled orator. What makes him so effective? Wit? Intelligence? Persistence? His faith? What can we learn from the manner in which he engaged his opponents? Do you believe Wilberforce wins his cause honorably? Does he "cheat," as said in the film, or is he simply playing to the faults of his opponents? 6. John Newton tells Wilberforce that faith sometimes comes more like a slow drip than a bolt of lightning. Do you agree? Can you give examples in your own life? Is either more or less powerful than the other? 7. Read 1 Timothy chapters 1 and 4. In what ways does Wilberforce characterize Paul's instructions to Timothy?

The Family Corner

For parents to consider

Amazing Grace is rated PG and suitable for most audiences. There are some graphic descriptions of how the slaves were treated on the ships, but no violence is depicted other than a man beating a horse off screen. Words like "hell," "damn," "ass," and "nigger" are used, but sparingly. Viewers under 12 or so will likely be bored by the film's historic content and talky tone, but can otherwise handle it if they're familiar with the subject of slavery from school.

Jonathan Tondo's Latest Doctor's Check-Up

Hi Friends:

Thanks for your continued prayers. As you might recall, Jonathan had a brain tumor that was removed last fall. The Lord gathered all of us around Jonathan to protect him and his family during this challenging time. Through this journey, not only have the Tondo's faith been tested & deepened; but Jonathan's journey has touched others hearts to bring them closer to their personal faith journey's.

Here is a note from Jonathan's mom on his doctor's appointment this week:
"Jonathan's MRI went well yesterday. It was clear! Praise God! The neurosurgeon is happy with his progress.

Thank you for your prayers!"

Your brother in Christ,

Brad

Tuesday Update on Dale

Here is today's update on Dale. Please go to this link if you would like to read more on Dale's daily progress or to send words of encouragment to Dale and the Inouye family.

Thanks for your continued prayers everyone.

Brad

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

Day +4 and Day +5

Day +4 was not all that new and exciting. Dale spent the day talking to Derek on the web cam for 2 hrs and throughout the day. He did some school and homework. He asked for the ativan but this time only received 0.25mg instead of 1mg. It was just enough to relieve the nausea without getting too "happy". He ate better and actually went to bed before 10:00 pm. Day +5 - we actually woke up before the doctor's came to visit us. The morning was a little rough. He complained of chest pain and burning. He was put on protonix 40mg daily for the acid reflux. The doctor's also decided to start a prophylactic dose of acyclovir (anti-viral) because of Derek's chicken pox exposure. The cyclosporine level was just about 400. the goal is between 300 to 350 so the dose will be lowered. Dale asked for another 0.25mg of ativan and it did the trick because he actually ate the hospital food today!!! Most of the day was spent catching up on school work and his book report. We played basketball for a while and accidentally broke the wall clock. Dale was shooting free throws and aimed a little too high. Our nurse was very nice about it. Physical therpy is here now and they are doing stretches and strength exercises. The platelets have dropped to 44,000 and Hgb is still 10.0. Maybe by tomorrow he will need more . Thank you for your conintued prayers.

Posted by Juliann at 2:06 PM

Our Hero Brian

Our Hero Brian
By Norma Yamamoto

What is it like for an 18-year-old high school senior to find out that he has two inoperable pineal brain tumors? Am I going to die? Why me? Why now? These were just some of the questions that ran through our son Brian's mind.
For two months we didn't know what was happening to our son - he lost weight, wasn't eating and was not himself. He withered away right before our eyes from 140 pounds to 120 pounds in a month, for no apparent reason.
After complaining of double vision, an MRI of the brain was taken and the tumors discovered. We were all shocked, but it answered our question as to why he had the anorectic symptoms.
After the initial shock, Brian had a few days of ups and downs accepting and understanding what really happened as well as the treatment that lay ahead.
Radiation treatments began right after Christmas and with a positive attitude, he surprised us all and sailed through them. Despite being a little tired, he continued going to school every day. His classmates and teachers were amazed.
After the treatments ended he started practicing with the varsity basketball team. He was able to play a few minutes in a few games just before the season ended, and they were momentous occasions. Just seeing him on the court brought tears and cheers from everyone in the stands who knew what he had been through. Thanks to a very understanding coach (whose wife had breast cancer), he was able to stay on the team throughout the season. At the end-of-season banquet, he was presented the Coaches Award because of the inspiration he showed his teammates, whether at practice or supporting them at their games. Though times were tough, he never gave up. He gave 110 percent of his time and energy.
Then chemotherapy started for five consecutive days, then on days nine and 16 again, for four months. Hair loss, fatigue, poor appetite and constipation were some of the "minor" complications he suffered. These he took in stride and tried to work around them.
During this time an older family friend was diagnosed with lung cancer. Because of Brian's great outlook he was able to talk to our friend, sharing encouragement through rough times.
He attended school for three out of four weeks a month during this time. Amazingly, he kept up with his studies with the help of understanding teachers, friends and the school psychologist. Though he missed some important senior events because of chemotherapy, he graduated with his class with distinguished honors! He was surprised when he was selected the Most Inspirational Male Athlete of the year.
Summer vacation was a welcomed change for Brian as well as the whole family. It was a time for kicking back, having fun and feeling good. We spent a month in Hawaii relaxing and visiting friends and relatives. Now Brian is looking forward to a fresh start this fall at UCLA!
Our family has been through a lot together, but Brian showed us that with perseverance, no matter how devastating the situation is, it can be conquered. His positive attitude and constant smile, day after day despite enduring painful, frightening situations, made us all very proud of him. I know he has grown a lot through this experience and is ready to face the world.
Brian, we wish you happiness and success in everything you do. Remember: Mom, Dad and sister Amy will always be here for you. We love you!

The Faith of a Child

The Faith of a Child
'My Daddy says only a miracle can save my brother now . . . so how much does a miracle cost?'

Sally was only eight years old when she heard Mommy and Daddy talking about her little brother, Georgi. He was very sick and they had done everything they could afford to save his life. Only a very expensive surgery could help him now . . . and that was out of the financial question. She heard Daddy say it with a whispered desperation, "Only a miracle can save him now."

Sally went to her bedroom and pulled her piggy bank from its hiding place in the closet. She shook all the change out on the floor and counted it carefully. Three times. The total had to be exactly perfect. No chance here for mistakes. Tying the coins up in a cold-weather-kerchief, she slipped out of the apartment and made her way to the corner drug store.

She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her attention. . . but he was too busy talking to another man to be bothered by an eight-year-old. Sally twisted her feet to make a scuffing noise. She cleared her throat. No good. Finally she took a quarter from its hiding place and banged it on the glass counter. That did it!

"And what do you want?" the pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone of voice.

"Well, I want to talk to you about my brother," Sally answered back in the same annoyed tone. "He's sick . . . and I want to buy a miracle."

"I beg your pardon," said the pharmacist.

"My Daddy says only a miracle can save him now . . . so how much does a miracle cost?"

"We don't sell miracles here, little girl. I can't help you."

"Listen, I have the money to pay for it. Just tell me how much it costs."

The well-dressed man stooped down and asked, "What kind of a miracle does you brother need?"

"I don't know," Sally answered. A tear started down her cheek. "I just know he's really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation. But my folks can't pay for it . . . so I have my money.

"How much do you have?" asked the well-dressed man.

"A dollar and eleven cents," Sally answered proudly. "And it's all the money I have in the world."

"Well, what a coincidence," smiled the well-dressed man. A dollar and eleven cents . . . the exact price of a miracle to save a little brother. He took her money in one hand and with the other hand he grasped her mitten and said "Take me to where you live. I want to see your brother and meet your parents."

That well-dressed man was Dr. Carlton Armstrong, renowned surgeon, specializing in solving Georgi's malady. The operation was completed without charge and it wasn't long until Georgi was home again and doing well. Mommy and Daddy were happily talking about the chain of events that had led them to this place.

"That surgery," Mommy whispered. "It's like a miracle. I wonder how much it would have cost?

Sally smiled to herself. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost... one dollar and eleven cents... plus the faith of a little child.

A Wonderful Role Model For All of Us

Here is a wonderful article on role model of our generation that many have forgotten…

John Wooden

On the 21st of the month, the best man I know will do what he always does on the 21st of the month. He'll sit down and pen a love letter to his best girl. He'll say how much he misses her and loves her and can't wait to see her again.

Then he'll fold it once, slide it in a little envelope and walk into his bedroom. He'll go to the stack of love letters sitting there on her pillow, untie the yellow ribbon, place the new one on top and tie the ribbon again. The stack will be 180 letters high then, because the 21st will be 15 years to the day since Nellie, his beloved wife of 53 years, died.

In her memory, he sleeps only on his half of the bed, only on his pillow, only on top of the sheets, never between; with just the old bedspread they shared to keep him warm.

There's never been a finer man in American sports than John Wooden, or a finer coach. He won 10 NCAA basketball championships at UCLA, the last in 1975. Nobody has ever come within six of him.

He won 88 straight games between January 30, 1971, and January 17, 1974. Nobody has come within 42 since.

So, sometimes, when the Basketball Madness gets to be too much -- too many players trying to make Sports Center, too few players trying to make assists, too few coaches willing to be mentors, too many freshmen with out-of-wedlock kids, too few freshmen who will stay in school long enough to become men -- I like to go see Coach Wooden.

I visit him in his little condo in Encino, 20 minutes northwest of Los Angeles , and hear him say things like "Gracious sakes alive!" and tell stories about teaching "Lewis" the hook shot. Lewis Alcindor, that is...who became Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

There has never been another coach like Wooden, quiet as an April snow and square as a game of checkers; loyal to one woman, one school, one way; walking around campus in his sensible shoes and Jimmy Stewart morals.

He'd spend a half hour the first day of practice teaching his men how to put on a sock. "Wrinkles can lead to blisters," he'd warn. These huge players would sneak looks at one another and roll their eyes. Eventually, they'd do it right. "Good," he'd say. "And now for the other foot."

Of the 180 players who played for him, Wooden knows the whereabouts of 172. Of course, it's not hard when most of them call, checking on his health, secretly hoping to hear some of his simple life lessons so that they can write them on the lunch bags of their kids, who will roll their eyes.

"Discipline yourself, and others won't need to," Coach would say. "Never lie, never cheat, never steal," and "Earn the right to be proud and confident."

If you played for him, you played by his rules: Never score without acknowledging a teammate. One word of profanity and you're done for the day. Treat your opponent with respect.

He believed in hopelessly out-of-date stuff that never did anything but win championships. No dribbling behind the back or through the legs. "There's no need," he'd say.

No UCLA basketball number was retired under his watch. "What about the fellows who wore that number before? Didn't they contribute to the team?" he'd say.

No long hair, no facial hair. "They take too long to dry, and you could catch cold leaving the gym," he'd say. That one drove his players bonkers.

One day, All-America center Bill Walton showed up with a full beard. "It's my right," he insisted. Wooden asked if he believed that strongly. Walton said he did. "That's good, Bill," Coach said. "I admire people who have strong beliefs and stick by them, I really do. We're going to miss you." Walton shaved it right then and there. Now Walton calls once a week to tell Coach he loves him.

It's always too soon when you have to leave the condo and go back out into the real world, where the rules are so much grayer and the teams so much worse.

As Wooden shows you to the door, you take one last look around. The framed report cards of his great-grandkids, the boxes of jellybeans peeking out from under the favorite wooden chair, the dozens of pictures of Nellie.

He's almost 95 now. You think a little more hunched over than last time. Steps a little smaller. You hope it's not the last time you see him. He smiles. "I'm not afraid to die," he says. "Death is my only chance to be with her again."

How Do You Know You're Being a Good Father?

How Do You Know You’re Being a Good Father?

• When you help your kids with their schoolwork

• When you take an interest in their hobbies

• When you show affection to your wife in front of them

• When you advocate that they speak to you and each other respectfully

• When you just enjoy being with your children and them with you

• When your son or daughter comes running to you when they get hurt

• When your calendar is full of things to do with your children

• When you calmly and gently discipline your children without yelling or screaming

• When you tuck your children into bed at night and tell them "I love you"

• When you drive your kids to school in the morning

• When you make Saturday morning breakfast for them

Carl's Garden

Hi Friends:

Once again, I do not care if you forward this email or not. I thought that this was a very heart warming story that got my day off to a great start. I hope that you enjoy it as much as I did.

Thanks to my friend Sherri for sending it to me and thank you all for your friendship.

Have a blessed day.

Take care,

Brad

________________________________

"Carl's Garden"

Carl was a quiet man. He didn't talk much. He would always greet you with a big smile and a firm handshake. Even after living in our neighborhood for over 50 years, no one could really say they knew him very well.

Before his retirement, he took the bus to work each morning. The lone sight of him walking down the street often worried us. He had a slight limp from a bullet wound received in W.W.II. Watching him, we worried that although he had survived W.W.II, he may not make it through our changing uptown neighborhood with its ever-increasing random violence, Gangs, and drug activity.

When he saw the flyer at our local church asking for volunteers for caring for the gardens behind the minister's residence, he responded in his characteristically unassuming manner. Without fanfare, he just signed up.

He was well into his 87th year when the very thing we had always feared finally happened. He was just finishing his watering for the Day when three gang members approached him. Ignoring their attempt to intimidate him, he simply asked, "Would you like a drink from the Hose?" The tallest and toughest looking of the three said, "Yeah, Sure," with a malevolent little smile. As Carl offered the hose to him, the other two grabbed Carl's arm, throwing him down.

As the hose snaked crazily over the ground, dousing everything in its way, Carl's assailants stole his retirement watch and his wallet, and then fled. Carl tried to get himself up, but he had been thrown down on his bad Leg He lay there trying to gather himself as the minister came running to help him. Although the minister had witnessed the attack from his window, he couldn't get there fast enough to stop it. "Carl, are you okay? Are you hurt?" the minister kept asking as he helped Carl to his feet. Carl just passed a hand over his brow and sighed, shaking his head. "Just some punk kids. I hope they'll wise-up someday." His wet clothes clung to his slight frame as he bent to pick up the hose. He adjusted the nozzle again and started to water. Confused and a little concerned, the minister asked, "Carl, what are you doing?" "I've got to finish my watering. It's been very dry lately", came the calm reply. Satisfied that Carl really was all right, the minister could only marvel. Carl was a man from a different time and place.

A few weeks later the three returned. Just as before their threat was unchallenged. Carl again offered them a drink from his hose. This time they didn't rob him. They wrenched the hose from his hand and drenched him head to foot in the icy water. When they had finished their humiliation of him, they sauntered off down the street, throwing catcalls and curses, falling over one another laughing at the hilarity of what they had just done. Carl just watched them. Then he turned toward the warmth giving sun, picked up his hose, and went on with his watering.

The summer was quickly fading into fall. Carl was doing some tilling when he was startled by the sudden approach of someone behind him. He stumbled and fell into some evergreen branches. As he struggled to regain his footing, he turned to see the tall leader of his summer tormentors reaching down for him. He braced himself for the expected attack. "Don't worry old man, I'm not going to hurt you this time." The young man spoke softly, still offering the tattooed and scarred hand to Carl. As he helped Carl get up, the man pulled a crumpled bag from his pocket and handed it to Carl.” What’s this?" Carl asked. "It's your stuff," the man explained. "It's your stuff back. Even the money in your wallet." "I don't understand," Carl said. "Why would you help me now?” The man shifted his feet, seeming embarrassed and ill at ease. "I learned something from you," he said. "I ran with that gang and hurt people like you. We picked you because you were old and we knew we could do it. But every time we came and did something to you, instead of yelling and fighting back, you tried to give us a drink. You didn't hate us for hating you. You kept showing love against our hate."

He stopped for a moment. "I couldn't sleep after we stole your stuff, so here it is back." He paused for another awkward moment, not knowing what more there was to say. "That bag's my way of saying thanks for straightening me out, I guess." And with that, he walked off down the street. Carl looked down at the sack in his hands and gingerly opened it. He took out his retirement watch and put it back on his wrist. Opening his wallet, he checked for his wedding photo. He gazed for a moment at the young bride that still smiled back at him from all those years ago. He died one cold day after Christmas that winter. Many people attended his funeral in spite of the weather. In particular the minister noticed a tall young man that he didn't know sitting quietly in a distant corner of the church. The minister spoke of Carl's garden as a lesson in life. In a voice made thick with unshed tears, he said, "Do your best and make your garden as beautiful as you can. We will never forget Carl and his garden." The following spring another flyer went up. It read: "Person needed to care for Carl's garden." The flyer went unnoticed by the busy parishioners until one day when a knock was heard at the minister's office door. Opening the door, the minister saw a pair of scarred and tattooed hands holding the flyer. "I believe this is my job, if you'll have me," the young man said. The minister recognized him as the same young man who had returned the stolen watch and wallet to Carl. He knew that Carl's kindness had turned this man's life around. As the minister handed him the keys to the garden shed, he said, "Yes, go take care of Carl's garden and honor him." The man went to work and, over the next several years, he tended the flowers and vegetables just as Carl had done. In that time, he went to college, got married, and became a prominent member of the community. But he never forgot his promise to Carl's memory and kept the garden as beautiful as he thought Carl would have kept it. One day he approached the new minister and told him that he couldn't care for the garden any longer. He explained with a shy and happy smile, "My wife just had a baby boy last night, and she's bringing him home on Saturday." "Well, congratulations!" said the minister, as he was handed the garden shed keys. "That's wonderful! What's the baby's name?" "Carl," he replied.

That's the whole gospel message simply stated.

Take 60 seconds give this a shot! Let's just see if Satan stops this one. All you do is:

1. Simply say a small prayer for the person who sent you this,

(Father, God bless this person in whatever it is that You know he or she may be needing this day!)

2. Then send it on to five other people. Within hours five people have prayed for you, and you caused a multitude of people to pray to God for other people. Then sit back and watch the power of God work in your life for doing the thing that you know He loves.

GOOD FRIENDS ARE LIKE ANGELS, YOU DON'T HAVE TO SEE THEM TO KNOW THEY ARE THERE...

Basketball-Autism and Hope

This is an incredible story that will soon be made into a movie... you can truly see the Lord's work here.

Click here to see the video

Run InThe Rain

A little girl had been shopping with her Mom in Target. She must have been 6 years old, this beautiful red haired, freckle faced image of innocence. It was pouring outside. The kind of rain that gushes over the top of rain gutters, so much in a hurry to hit the earth it has no time to flow down the spout. We all stood there under the awning and just inside the door of the Target.

We waited, some patiently, others irritated because nature messed up their hurried day. I am always mesmerized by rainfall. I got lost in the sound and sight of the heavens washing away the dirt and dust of the world. Memories of running, splashing so carefree as a child came pouring in as a welcome reprieve from the worries of my day.


The little voice was so sweet as it broke the hypnotic trance we were all caught in, "Mom, let's run through the rain," she said.
"What?" Mom asked.

"Let's run through the rain!" She repeated.

"No, honey. We'll wait until it slows down a bit," Mom replied.

This young child waited about another minute and repeated, "Mom, let's run through the rain."

"We'll get soaked if we do," Mom said.

"No, we won't, Mom. That's not what you said this morning," the young girl said as she tugged at her Mom's arm.

"This morning? When did I say we could run through the rain and not get wet?"

"Don't you remember ? When you were talking to Daddy about his cancer, you said, 'If God can get us through this, he can get us through anything!'"


The entire crowd stopped dead silent. I swear you couldn't hear anything but the rain. We all stood silently. No one came or left in the next few minutes.
Mom paused and thought for a moment about what she would say. Now some would laugh it off and scold her for being silly. Some might even ignore what was said. But this was a moment of affirmation in a young child's life. A time when innocent trust can be nurtured so that it will bloom into faith.

"Honey, you are absolutely right. Let's run through the rain. If God let's us get wet, well maybe we just needed washing," Mom said.

Then off they ran. We all stood watching, smiling and laughing as they darted past the cars and yes, through the puddles. They held their shopping bags over their heads just in case. They got soaked. But they were followed by a few who screamed and laughed like children all the way to their cars.

And yes, I did. I ran. I got wet. I needed washing.


Circumstances or people can take away your material possessions, they can take away your money, and they can take away your health. But no one can ever take away your precious memories... So, don't forge t to make time and take opportunities to make memories everyday. To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven.
I HOPE YOU STILL TAKE THE TIME TO RUN THROUGH THE RAIN.

They say it takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them, but then an entire life to forget them. Send this to the people you'll never forget and remember to also send it to the person who sent it to you. It's a short message to let them know that you'll never forget them.

If you don't send it to anyone, it means you're in a hurry.

Take the time to live!!!


Keep in touch with your friends, you never know when you'll need each other -- and don't forget to run in the rain!

God's Power

Take a look at the video link. I hope that it inspires and touches you as it did me.

I pray that you will all find the talents that God has given to you; to help Him spread the grace, love and forgiveness that he gave to us (by letting His son die on the cross for all of us). May He light your way and use you all as lighthouses for Him.

Click here to see

Prayers For Dale Inouye... They Are Working!

Hi Prayer Warriors:

I wanted to send you this link and thank you all for your continued prayers for Dale and his family. His brother Derek came through like a champion in donating his bone marrow to his brother. His sacrifice for his brother shows us all the kind of heroism and sacrifice that we should all make note of in showing our love for one another.

http://inouyeboynumba3.blogspot.com/search?updated-min=2007-01-01T00%3A00%3A00-08%3A00&updated-max=2008-01-01T00%3A00%3A00-08%3A00&max-results=6

Lord, we praise You God for carrying this wonderful family on Your shoulders during this challenging time. May You lay Your healing hands on Dale and cleanse his body of this disease and light the path to find their ministry that will touch others in similar situations. I know that You have tremendous plans for Dale and his family. Bring them through this uncomfortable time and mold them into the holy warriors that you want them to be.

Thank you for rallying all of the support in donating blood and platelets to sustain Dale and help him to recover. Bless these people who have opened their hearts to give generously and to spread the word to others who are touched and inspired by Dale’s story. We praise You for all of their friends who have raised their level of sacrifice, generosity and surround the Inouye’s like Holy armor that will bring them all closer to You in each of their personal journeys. May we all see the wonderful miracles and blessings that You perform in each of our daily lives to help us to realize that this journey is not about us and our personal struggles, but about serving You through our daily works.

Finally Lord, I ask that You use each and every one of us to spread Your love, mercy and grace to everyone that we encounter in our daily lives. Dale’s struggle, his family’s strength and growing faith remind us all how fragile life can be and how much we all need You. In Your son’s most merciful name Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

May the Lord continue to light your way and bless you all.

Your brother in Christ,

Brad