The rose that on the gallant leaning
did swiftly learn of her mistake;
when from his sleeves, black knives producing,
his gift to her, a short lived fate.
Shadows, Monsters of the Night.
Running from the monster;
that 'till now she fully trusted.
In her being, she does know
that if it once again shape-shifted
wholly she would falsely trust it.
Sharp claws grasp at her,
teeth glistening with greed
from her mouth deep breaths are gasping
from her heart, her soul doth bleed.
Have you noticed, stars so bright
sometimes barely shine a light?
Only shadows emphasizing
they but deeper darken the long night.
Shadows grasp, shadows claw
to a shadow, there is no law
free to terrorize, free to roam
and prey upon those safe at home.
Men at home think " here, no treachery shall reach"
but they know not their own wide breach
within deep recesses of their minds the shadows lurk
waiting with malicious joy, evil plans to work.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Sunday, December 21, 2008
God is Holy, glory to His name.
For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-40
These are the words the the ghost of Christmas Present hollered in an increasingly thunderous voice to Scrooge, in a acted rendition of that famous classic "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens.
Pause, rewind.
For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ EXCEPT FOR YOU EBENEZER
Shouted Ghost of Christmas present (here after known as GCP) with the crescendo falling on those last four words.
hit stop, run to the bathroom, grab Q-tips, and windex.
No, you don't need to clean your ears out, or your computer screen off, that is really what the GCP said, if not exactly word for word then pretty darn close.
If your reaction was "Um, excuse me...?" that was mine too. If your reaction was "huh? I don't see a problem here" Indulge me in reading to you the vast and various problems with taking that scripture verse and twisting it to fit with such hideous words. As if they belonged.
First of all, the "Nor any other created thing" ought to clue you in. "NOR *ANY*", no exceptions, caveats, or small print included, especially not the "YOU" part.
Second of all, do we think that we are so powerful, that although angels cannot separate us from the love of God, nor demons, we are capable of doing so ourselves? Do we raise ourselves in power above those whom God created to be his heavenly servants?
Continuing on in another vein, the idea that we deny God's grace once He has selected us for Himself.
All that the Father *gives* Me *WILL* come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out
John 6:37
No one comes to Jesus unless that man is first chosen by God to be saved (You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you...John 15:16a). Every man suppresses the truth in unrighteousness, and God's wrath is against him. (Romans 1:18) Because of our sin nature we are incapable of accepting God's grace, unless He has opened our hearts to receive it. Once He has opened our hearts, we are incapable of refusing. "In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will" Ephesians 1:11 God has predestined His own people to Himself, He cannot be mistaken, therefore, if He chooses you, you cannot reject Him.
My fellow Christians, I plead with you! Be ye not deceived. Search the scriptures for yourself, and have not itchy ears (2 Timothy 4:3-4). The idea that we can chose or reject Christ on our own whim is not only insulting and degrading to the nature of the one true God, as if that were not enough, it is a works theology!
If we are the ones making the choice, if it is us who decides whether or not we will accept the blood and sanctification poured out from Christ's body, then are we not to get credit for this choice? After all, although it was His work on the cross that gave us the ability to be saved, it is we ourselves that chose our salvation. If we had denied God, He could of done nothing about it. That means that our salvation is dependent upon *our* works. Further more, if we deny what God has specifically offered to us, we are more powerful then God, are we not? Does that not make us demi-god's ourselves?
Romans 10:5-6
Even so then, at this present time there is a remnant according to the *Election* of grace. And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work.
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I exhort You. Do not create a God for yourself whom you can handle, but look to the God of the bible who is the powerful creator of the universe, and the planner of all life and events."Therefore do NOT be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord... share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began." 2 Timothy 1:8a,9
For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-40
That is all, He is in complete control. If He wants you He shall have you, for who of those that He has called has rebelled?
Romans 8:38-40
These are the words the the ghost of Christmas Present hollered in an increasingly thunderous voice to Scrooge, in a acted rendition of that famous classic "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens.
Pause, rewind.
For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ EXCEPT FOR YOU EBENEZER
Shouted Ghost of Christmas present (here after known as GCP) with the crescendo falling on those last four words.
hit stop, run to the bathroom, grab Q-tips, and windex.
No, you don't need to clean your ears out, or your computer screen off, that is really what the GCP said, if not exactly word for word then pretty darn close.
If your reaction was "Um, excuse me...?" that was mine too. If your reaction was "huh? I don't see a problem here" Indulge me in reading to you the vast and various problems with taking that scripture verse and twisting it to fit with such hideous words. As if they belonged.
First of all, the "Nor any other created thing" ought to clue you in. "NOR *ANY*", no exceptions, caveats, or small print included, especially not the "YOU" part.
Second of all, do we think that we are so powerful, that although angels cannot separate us from the love of God, nor demons, we are capable of doing so ourselves? Do we raise ourselves in power above those whom God created to be his heavenly servants?
Continuing on in another vein, the idea that we deny God's grace once He has selected us for Himself.
All that the Father *gives* Me *WILL* come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out
John 6:37
No one comes to Jesus unless that man is first chosen by God to be saved (You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you...John 15:16a). Every man suppresses the truth in unrighteousness, and God's wrath is against him. (Romans 1:18) Because of our sin nature we are incapable of accepting God's grace, unless He has opened our hearts to receive it. Once He has opened our hearts, we are incapable of refusing. "In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will" Ephesians 1:11 God has predestined His own people to Himself, He cannot be mistaken, therefore, if He chooses you, you cannot reject Him.
My fellow Christians, I plead with you! Be ye not deceived. Search the scriptures for yourself, and have not itchy ears (2 Timothy 4:3-4). The idea that we can chose or reject Christ on our own whim is not only insulting and degrading to the nature of the one true God, as if that were not enough, it is a works theology!
If we are the ones making the choice, if it is us who decides whether or not we will accept the blood and sanctification poured out from Christ's body, then are we not to get credit for this choice? After all, although it was His work on the cross that gave us the ability to be saved, it is we ourselves that chose our salvation. If we had denied God, He could of done nothing about it. That means that our salvation is dependent upon *our* works. Further more, if we deny what God has specifically offered to us, we are more powerful then God, are we not? Does that not make us demi-god's ourselves?
Romans 10:5-6
Even so then, at this present time there is a remnant according to the *Election* of grace. And if by grace, then it is no longer of works; otherwise grace is no longer grace. But if it is of works, it is no longer grace; otherwise work is no longer work.
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I exhort You. Do not create a God for yourself whom you can handle, but look to the God of the bible who is the powerful creator of the universe, and the planner of all life and events."Therefore do NOT be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord... share with me in the sufferings for the gospel according to the power of God, who has saved and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began." 2 Timothy 1:8a,9
For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:38-40
That is all, He is in complete control. If He wants you He shall have you, for who of those that He has called has rebelled?
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Pslam 148
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
Praise Him in the heights!
Praise Him, all His angels;
Praise Him, all His hosts!
Praise Him, all you stars of light!
Praise Him, you heavens of heavens,
And you waters above the heavens!
Let them praise the name of the Lord,
For He commanded and the were created.
He also established them forever and ever;
He made a decree which shall not pass away.
Praise the Lord from the earth,
You great sea creatures and all the depths;
Fire and hail, snow and clouds;
Stormy wind, fulfilling His word;
Mountains and all hills;
Fruitful trees and all cedars;
Beasts and all cattle;
Creeping things and flying fowl;
Kings of the earth and all peoples;
Princes and all judges of the earth;
Both young men and maidens;
Old men and children.
Let them praise the name of the Lord,
For His name alone is exalted;
His glory is above the earth and heaven.
And He has exalted the horn of His people,
The praise of all His saints-
Of the children of Israel,
A people near to Him.
Praise the Lord!
Praise Him in the heights!
Praise Him, all His angels;
Praise Him, all His hosts!
Praise Him, all you stars of light!
Praise Him, you heavens of heavens,
And you waters above the heavens!
Let them praise the name of the Lord,
For He commanded and the were created.
He also established them forever and ever;
He made a decree which shall not pass away.
Praise the Lord from the earth,
You great sea creatures and all the depths;
Fire and hail, snow and clouds;
Stormy wind, fulfilling His word;
Mountains and all hills;
Fruitful trees and all cedars;
Beasts and all cattle;
Creeping things and flying fowl;
Kings of the earth and all peoples;
Princes and all judges of the earth;
Both young men and maidens;
Old men and children.
Let them praise the name of the Lord,
For His name alone is exalted;
His glory is above the earth and heaven.
And He has exalted the horn of His people,
The praise of all His saints-
Of the children of Israel,
A people near to Him.
Praise the Lord!
Monday, November 24, 2008
In conclusion
This is just a copy of my last missions trip letter I will be sending out through snail mail. I am glad to have finally completed it.
My dear friends, family, and everyone!
I know it has been a while since my trip, but this one final letter needs to be sent. First off I would like to thank everyone so, so, so much for your prayer and financial support. Many times throughout my trip I was encouraged simply by remembering all the people who had promised to pray for me, and of course I wouldn't have been able to go on the trip at all had I not been supported financially!
On this trip I encountered many bumps and spiritual lessons that seemed particularity hard and unnecessary. Looking back I realize how God used this summer to make me grow, in ways I hadn't even known that I needed to.
My first week on this trip was spent attending orientation in Grand Rapids Michigan There I got acquainted with my teammates and learned various things deemed necessary for going on this trip. However, orientation could in no way prepare us for what we would encounter on this trip! Our first roadblock came the very day we went to leave the states, by way of bad weather and missed flights, all the way down the line. For those of you that did not receive my email updates, we ended up spending the night in Chicago (after waiting until 11:00 at the airport,) where fortunately one of our teammates lived, not an hour away from the O'Hare airport. Then leaving *again* the next day for Hungary, Budapest. Our second roadblock came when we were stuck on the border of Hungary and the Ukraine, with our driver who spoke no English, for seven hours (overnight). It was a bad beginning, but things did get better.
We started our on-field orientation with our host missionaries George and Sarah Devuyst, Here we learned a little bit of Ukrainian, learned how to make bible studies, compiled a whole bunch of songs and games, took stock of our craft supplies, and many other things. We discovered that the youth project we were going to originally work with had been cancelled, quite recently, so we were going to spend a few days planning activities for kids in an "orphanage". I put orphanage in quotations marks because many of the kids there had parents, but even though the situation was bad in the orphanage, it was worse at home. The first day we worked there was bedlam, hectic, and crazy. The kids had no desire to listen or stay in the age groups we had divided them into. We did not have enough translators to go around, and it rained! But, we came back from that day, revised our set-up, and came back the next day for another go. The second day turned out just as good as the the first one was bad. It was still crazy, but it was organized chaos, the kids got to go to whichever activity they liked best, and God blessed us with a day without rain. Needless to say the kids enjoyed running around, and we were TIRED by the end of the day, but it was good. The last day we were at the orphanage went just as well, and we were happy for the opportunity God had given us to minister to His little children. We had youth from Pastor DeVuyst's church helping us the whole time we were there.
Up until now we had not been staying with host families, but in other lodgings provided for us. Now we moved to our hosts home, were we would be until we left the Ukraine. We were split into three different host homes. I was with two other girls from my team, staying with a couple with a 16 yr. old daughter and a grandmother. This upcoming week would be spent running the Bible camp. Each day before camp began (1:00-5:00 was the camp day) we would meet at George and Sarah's house to set up the lesson for the day. We already had our Bible studies made, and a whole list of songs and games, now we just needed to pick them out, decide who of our teammates would do what, and what the pairs would be for teaching the Bible study. Each day of the Bible camp we had games, songs, a Bible study, one of the teammates would share their testimony, and then we would go on an outing with the participants in order to get to know the campers outside of a teacher-student setting. For example one day we had them show us the Mukachevo monastery, and one day we went out for ice cream, or to look at the churches of the town. After we were done with the camp for the day, we would return to our host families' house, sometimes we would do things with the daughter, or sometimes we would just sit around and talk with them. During our stay in Mukachevo we also went on several outings with the youth group of Pastor George's church, we got to know some of them quite well, and some of them participated in our English clubs. Each Sunday we were there, two of us would give our testimonies.
From the Ukraine we moved on to Pacin, Hungary, where we ran a ten day camp, in which we actually stayed at the camp 24/7, but we did have translators and Janos and Momo Victor (the missionary couple) to help us. They had the days planned for us, we filled it in. We had upwards of forty kids in that camp, ages between 11-21. For the English lessons we divided them into four groups, according to ability. We also did games, devotions, singing, crafts, and testimonies with this group as well.
Working in Hungary, for me, was the best part of my trip. Janos and Momo were the most amazing couple I have ever met. Their marriage, and their missions work reflected Christ with more clarity than I have ever seen before. Also, many of the campers were our age, and spoke English extremely well, so I was able to develop close friendships with a few of them. I still keep in contact with some of them. Several of the campers said they had a lot of questions about their Christian walk through life answered by the camp we ran that week. That was encouraging to hear. Sometimes it’s hard to know if you are making an impact. Unfortunately, this was the last year that a reformed camp is going to be run in Hungary. Many of the campers were sad that this was the last year a camp like this would be done, for this is where they received much of their Bible training. I know God will provide for them but my heart was heavy for their sake upon leaving.
After Hungary, we spent two weeks in Romania. That was the most labor intensive of all the camps, the first half of the week we had help from a seminary student, but he broke his ankle, and so we were mostly on our own. The missionary couple there, Joseph and Orshi, would check in on us, but we ran the show. We roomed with the campers (around 14 each week, give or take a few) and planned the schedule, planned everything! And we also did crafts, games, singing, and English lessons with the village kids. We were stretched very thin, but it worked out. Also, the first week in Romania, we had a surprise, three girls from England came to help. That was a blessing. We ended up in a Romanian newspaper! I have a copy floating around somewhere…:-)
Romania was our last camp. Then we traveled back to Hungary, Budapest this time, for three days of debriefing and sight-seeing. All of the places we had been in Europe so far were not tourist places, or what you would think of when you hear the word "Europe" so this was the first time we got to see the more traditional side of Europe. It was enjoyable and relaxing. We met back up with George and Sarah Devuysts, and they did our debriefing. George drove us back to the airport. We parted the night before, because the Canadians had a different first flight than us, and all of us going back to the states would eventually split up as well.
I enjoyed my mission's trip to no end. Switching languages from Ukrainian to Hungarian was hard at first, but thankfully the part of Romania we were in also spoke Hungarian. Not everything was easy, but God works through hardships "In my weakness, He is strong". Thank you again for your prayers on my behalf. Because of this trip I do have a strong desire to work in missions either here or abroad if that is what God has planned for me. I covet your continued prayers as God helps me map out my life according to His will. I would also like to ask you to pray for the missionaries that I was with in all three spots, as they continue God’s work in the countries they serve.
Segment #2
Looked down from a broken sky
Traced out by the city lights
My world from a mile high
Best seat in the house tonight
Touched down on the cold black tile
Hold on for the sudden stop
Breath in the familiar shock
Of confusion and chaos
Are those people going somewhere?
Why have I never cared?
Chorus
Give me Your eyes for just one second
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach
Give me Your heart for the once forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see
yeah .. yeah .. yeah .. yeah
Step out on a busy street
See a girl and our eyes meet
Does her best to smile at me
To hide whats underneath
There’s a man just to her right
Black suit and a bright red tie
To ashamed to tell his wife
He’s out of work
He’s buying time
Are those people going somewhere?
Why have I never cared?
Chorus
Give me Your eyes for just one second
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach
Give me Your heart for the once forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see
yeah .. yeah .. yeah .. yeah
I’ve been there a million times
A couple of million eyes
Just moving past me by
I swear I never thought that I was wrong
Well I want a second glance
So give me a second chance
To see the way You see the people all alone
Chorus
Give me Your eyes for just one second
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach
Give me Your heart for the once forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see
yeah .. yeah .. yeah .. yeah
Give me Your eyes for just one second
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach
Give me Your heart for the once forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see
yeah .. yeah .. yeah .. yeah
Give Me Your Eyes Lyrics - Brandon Heath Song Words
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OihvG607W-c
I know without a doubt, He has reassured me. That's what He wants me doing, I don't know how, I don't know where, but I'm going to. I only pray He will give me the strength and determination to do what it takes to get there.
My dear friends, family, and everyone!
I know it has been a while since my trip, but this one final letter needs to be sent. First off I would like to thank everyone so, so, so much for your prayer and financial support. Many times throughout my trip I was encouraged simply by remembering all the people who had promised to pray for me, and of course I wouldn't have been able to go on the trip at all had I not been supported financially!
On this trip I encountered many bumps and spiritual lessons that seemed particularity hard and unnecessary. Looking back I realize how God used this summer to make me grow, in ways I hadn't even known that I needed to.
My first week on this trip was spent attending orientation in Grand Rapids Michigan There I got acquainted with my teammates and learned various things deemed necessary for going on this trip. However, orientation could in no way prepare us for what we would encounter on this trip! Our first roadblock came the very day we went to leave the states, by way of bad weather and missed flights, all the way down the line. For those of you that did not receive my email updates, we ended up spending the night in Chicago (after waiting until 11:00 at the airport,) where fortunately one of our teammates lived, not an hour away from the O'Hare airport. Then leaving *again* the next day for Hungary, Budapest. Our second roadblock came when we were stuck on the border of Hungary and the Ukraine, with our driver who spoke no English, for seven hours (overnight). It was a bad beginning, but things did get better.
We started our on-field orientation with our host missionaries George and Sarah Devuyst, Here we learned a little bit of Ukrainian, learned how to make bible studies, compiled a whole bunch of songs and games, took stock of our craft supplies, and many other things. We discovered that the youth project we were going to originally work with had been cancelled, quite recently, so we were going to spend a few days planning activities for kids in an "orphanage". I put orphanage in quotations marks because many of the kids there had parents, but even though the situation was bad in the orphanage, it was worse at home. The first day we worked there was bedlam, hectic, and crazy. The kids had no desire to listen or stay in the age groups we had divided them into. We did not have enough translators to go around, and it rained! But, we came back from that day, revised our set-up, and came back the next day for another go. The second day turned out just as good as the the first one was bad. It was still crazy, but it was organized chaos, the kids got to go to whichever activity they liked best, and God blessed us with a day without rain. Needless to say the kids enjoyed running around, and we were TIRED by the end of the day, but it was good. The last day we were at the orphanage went just as well, and we were happy for the opportunity God had given us to minister to His little children. We had youth from Pastor DeVuyst's church helping us the whole time we were there.
Up until now we had not been staying with host families, but in other lodgings provided for us. Now we moved to our hosts home, were we would be until we left the Ukraine. We were split into three different host homes. I was with two other girls from my team, staying with a couple with a 16 yr. old daughter and a grandmother. This upcoming week would be spent running the Bible camp. Each day before camp began (1:00-5:00 was the camp day) we would meet at George and Sarah's house to set up the lesson for the day. We already had our Bible studies made, and a whole list of songs and games, now we just needed to pick them out, decide who of our teammates would do what, and what the pairs would be for teaching the Bible study. Each day of the Bible camp we had games, songs, a Bible study, one of the teammates would share their testimony, and then we would go on an outing with the participants in order to get to know the campers outside of a teacher-student setting. For example one day we had them show us the Mukachevo monastery, and one day we went out for ice cream, or to look at the churches of the town. After we were done with the camp for the day, we would return to our host families' house, sometimes we would do things with the daughter, or sometimes we would just sit around and talk with them. During our stay in Mukachevo we also went on several outings with the youth group of Pastor George's church, we got to know some of them quite well, and some of them participated in our English clubs. Each Sunday we were there, two of us would give our testimonies.
From the Ukraine we moved on to Pacin, Hungary, where we ran a ten day camp, in which we actually stayed at the camp 24/7, but we did have translators and Janos and Momo Victor (the missionary couple) to help us. They had the days planned for us, we filled it in. We had upwards of forty kids in that camp, ages between 11-21. For the English lessons we divided them into four groups, according to ability. We also did games, devotions, singing, crafts, and testimonies with this group as well.
Working in Hungary, for me, was the best part of my trip. Janos and Momo were the most amazing couple I have ever met. Their marriage, and their missions work reflected Christ with more clarity than I have ever seen before. Also, many of the campers were our age, and spoke English extremely well, so I was able to develop close friendships with a few of them. I still keep in contact with some of them. Several of the campers said they had a lot of questions about their Christian walk through life answered by the camp we ran that week. That was encouraging to hear. Sometimes it’s hard to know if you are making an impact. Unfortunately, this was the last year that a reformed camp is going to be run in Hungary. Many of the campers were sad that this was the last year a camp like this would be done, for this is where they received much of their Bible training. I know God will provide for them but my heart was heavy for their sake upon leaving.
After Hungary, we spent two weeks in Romania. That was the most labor intensive of all the camps, the first half of the week we had help from a seminary student, but he broke his ankle, and so we were mostly on our own. The missionary couple there, Joseph and Orshi, would check in on us, but we ran the show. We roomed with the campers (around 14 each week, give or take a few) and planned the schedule, planned everything! And we also did crafts, games, singing, and English lessons with the village kids. We were stretched very thin, but it worked out. Also, the first week in Romania, we had a surprise, three girls from England came to help. That was a blessing. We ended up in a Romanian newspaper! I have a copy floating around somewhere…:-)
Romania was our last camp. Then we traveled back to Hungary, Budapest this time, for three days of debriefing and sight-seeing. All of the places we had been in Europe so far were not tourist places, or what you would think of when you hear the word "Europe" so this was the first time we got to see the more traditional side of Europe. It was enjoyable and relaxing. We met back up with George and Sarah Devuysts, and they did our debriefing. George drove us back to the airport. We parted the night before, because the Canadians had a different first flight than us, and all of us going back to the states would eventually split up as well.
I enjoyed my mission's trip to no end. Switching languages from Ukrainian to Hungarian was hard at first, but thankfully the part of Romania we were in also spoke Hungarian. Not everything was easy, but God works through hardships "In my weakness, He is strong". Thank you again for your prayers on my behalf. Because of this trip I do have a strong desire to work in missions either here or abroad if that is what God has planned for me. I covet your continued prayers as God helps me map out my life according to His will. I would also like to ask you to pray for the missionaries that I was with in all three spots, as they continue God’s work in the countries they serve.
Segment #2
Looked down from a broken sky
Traced out by the city lights
My world from a mile high
Best seat in the house tonight
Touched down on the cold black tile
Hold on for the sudden stop
Breath in the familiar shock
Of confusion and chaos
Are those people going somewhere?
Why have I never cared?
Chorus
Give me Your eyes for just one second
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach
Give me Your heart for the once forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see
yeah .. yeah .. yeah .. yeah
Step out on a busy street
See a girl and our eyes meet
Does her best to smile at me
To hide whats underneath
There’s a man just to her right
Black suit and a bright red tie
To ashamed to tell his wife
He’s out of work
He’s buying time
Are those people going somewhere?
Why have I never cared?
Chorus
Give me Your eyes for just one second
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach
Give me Your heart for the once forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see
yeah .. yeah .. yeah .. yeah
I’ve been there a million times
A couple of million eyes
Just moving past me by
I swear I never thought that I was wrong
Well I want a second glance
So give me a second chance
To see the way You see the people all alone
Chorus
Give me Your eyes for just one second
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach
Give me Your heart for the once forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see
yeah .. yeah .. yeah .. yeah
Give me Your eyes for just one second
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach
Give me Your heart for the once forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see
yeah .. yeah .. yeah .. yeah
Give Me Your Eyes Lyrics - Brandon Heath Song Words
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OihvG607W-c
I know without a doubt, He has reassured me. That's what He wants me doing, I don't know how, I don't know where, but I'm going to. I only pray He will give me the strength and determination to do what it takes to get there.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
The deepest desire of the heart
Section #1
Sometimes, many times, it seems like life is hard, and I'm not getting anywhere, and why do I have to deal with all this?
However, while on my missions trip, something that should of been fundamental to me, was made more clairvoyant.
The desire of my heart.
The desire of my heart, as I cry out to God many times, is to know Him better, and serve Him more. Yet it seems so hard, why? I constantly make mistakes, and seem to fall away from him.
Whenever I run up against a brick wall, it hurts, I have to turn around. Of course, sometimes I run into that wall a couple times to make sure it's solid and not moving, just in case. What I see when I eventually turn around is God, providing me with brick walls so that my greatest wish, desire, longing may be gratified.
It's so easy to see the brick wall, and get frustrated with God for putting it there, or to be dealing with difficult people, or situations, and wonder "why me? I'm just trying to serve Him" But each obstacle I encounter only makes me lean more heavily on Him, to provide me with strength and endurance.
If it is *really* *truly* the desire and longing of your heart to get to know Him better, then He will grant that. He desires that we long after Him as well. Sometimes He chooses methods we wouldn't, in order to bring us closer to Him, but we should consider ourselves blessed, although the times are troubling, He is fulfilling the desire of our hearts, and we should rejoice in it.
Section #2
We Come To You :
As You came to us so we come to You
fragile as a baby hopeful and new
but learning fast that to walk is to fall
soon we’ve done it all
Chorus:
we come broken and we come undone
we come trying hard to love everyone
but we come up short in all that we do
because we do
so we come to You
As You came to us so we come to You
dirty and hurting then dead in the tomb
but raised redeemed to show off the scars
‘cause You’ve brought us this far
Chorus:
we come broken and we come undone
we come trying hard to love everyone
but we come up short in all that we do
because we do
so we come to You
Tag:
You came to show the way not around but *through*
so through it all we come to You
-Derek Webb
Sometimes, many times, it seems like life is hard, and I'm not getting anywhere, and why do I have to deal with all this?
However, while on my missions trip, something that should of been fundamental to me, was made more clairvoyant.
The desire of my heart.
The desire of my heart, as I cry out to God many times, is to know Him better, and serve Him more. Yet it seems so hard, why? I constantly make mistakes, and seem to fall away from him.
Whenever I run up against a brick wall, it hurts, I have to turn around. Of course, sometimes I run into that wall a couple times to make sure it's solid and not moving, just in case. What I see when I eventually turn around is God, providing me with brick walls so that my greatest wish, desire, longing may be gratified.
It's so easy to see the brick wall, and get frustrated with God for putting it there, or to be dealing with difficult people, or situations, and wonder "why me? I'm just trying to serve Him" But each obstacle I encounter only makes me lean more heavily on Him, to provide me with strength and endurance.
If it is *really* *truly* the desire and longing of your heart to get to know Him better, then He will grant that. He desires that we long after Him as well. Sometimes He chooses methods we wouldn't, in order to bring us closer to Him, but we should consider ourselves blessed, although the times are troubling, He is fulfilling the desire of our hearts, and we should rejoice in it.
Section #2
We Come To You :
As You came to us so we come to You
fragile as a baby hopeful and new
but learning fast that to walk is to fall
soon we’ve done it all
Chorus:
we come broken and we come undone
we come trying hard to love everyone
but we come up short in all that we do
because we do
so we come to You
As You came to us so we come to You
dirty and hurting then dead in the tomb
but raised redeemed to show off the scars
‘cause You’ve brought us this far
Chorus:
we come broken and we come undone
we come trying hard to love everyone
but we come up short in all that we do
because we do
so we come to You
Tag:
You came to show the way not around but *through*
so through it all we come to You
-Derek Webb
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Republican/Democrat.... Ever thought about neither?
As a conscientious christian, who has studied the presidential hopeful's for both parties, I can only come to the conclusion that it would be a sin for me to vote for either, and I refuse to give into many Christians pleading to vote for McCain so Obama won't win.
Now, here in this blog post I present my returns that I have sent in private emails to some of my friends urging me to give my support to McCain, and also stuff I have published about Obama.
To the phrase "You should vote for McCain/Palin, I respond:
As a christian I believe it's wrong for me to vote McCain/Pail as much as it is to vote for Obama/Biden. I know how McCain votes, and I know it's not constitutional. And while he may be "Pro-life" all that means is he's not actively for it, but neither is he actively against it. http://www.covenantnews.com/baldwin080822.htm
I want a president who is actually going to FIGHT and try to change the laws about it, not some one who is simply going to let millions of babies still be killed each year, the only difference being from a democrat is he won't try to make laws to kill more.
McCain would be guilty of the sin of omission in not keeping the sixth commandment (thou shalt not murder) in not doing everything in his power to stop abortion, he is guilty. If I vote for him, I am guilty, because I have it in my power to vote for someone who would be actively against abortion. Besides, McCain is in support of *government funded* embryonic stem cell research. That's not very pro-life. (If you don't believe me, just type "McCain supporting embryonic stem cell research" into google")
To the accusation "A vote for third party is a vote for Obama" I comeback with:
I would agree w/what Obama is, I think it is impossible for us to disagree about his disgusting morals. However, I'm afraid I must digress with you about voting third party as a vote for Obama. Will it perhaps make Obama more likely to win? Maybe. But that's forseeing the end results of the elections, which we can't do. And even if Obama wins, in my view he is the only the greater of two evils. A vote for McCain is better then Obama, but it's not the best I can do. I refuse to quit fighting for the right side, simply because it's the losing side. And if it means the Black wins over the Gray, then at least the white will no longer be so hard to distinguish (and no, I'm not being racial here, I'm simply using the colors in terms of wrong and right). My vote is earned, never given. McCain has no more right to my vote then Obama. I do not cast my vote in fear of the consequences if the worst possible party wins, I cast it in fear of God.
Besides, if I couldn't vote third party, I would abstain from voting entirely. So the statement "voting third party is a vote for Obama" is incorrect, because it is assuming if I couldn't vote third party I would vote for McCain. You cannot say "Not voting is a vote for Obama" you would have to say "Not voting is a vote for either McCain *or* Obama" depending on who won.
And what is my view if Obama wins?
Sometimes (just when I'm being cynical) I almost think it would be better if Obama won, because then things would become radical and people would be more likely to rebel. Obviously with McCain that's not going to happen (i.e. when he voted on the bailout plan, nobody rebelled...) and American is going to continue to go down the drain in such a slow spiral no one seems to notice.
When self-purported Christians say they are voting for Obama...
If someone disagrees that this is not murder, they are burying there heads in the sand, refusing to see Obama as he really is, a man who encourages murder.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4B3O9uUc-4&NR=1
If you will not say when a baby has human rights, and believe in infanticide, how far can this go? Can we be killing one and two yrs. olds one day, because deciding when they have rights "is above [our] paygrade"? The sky is the limit with this type of reasoning.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIdbYjmbFzo&eurl=http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1252230872&src=fftb
Idk, to me McCain is indirectly for murder as well, and Christians might be able to fool themselves into thinking otherwise if they don't do their research. However, as a Christian I would think we would want to research the man we are putting into a position of great authority over us... is it a sin that we don't?
This all being said, I must also say "To God be the glory" for everything that happens works to the good of His people. I will pray for whoever is put into authority, even if it means I have to pray that they repent and turn to God.
Oh yes, I'm voting third party, Chuck Baldwin in case anyone is interested.
Now, here in this blog post I present my returns that I have sent in private emails to some of my friends urging me to give my support to McCain, and also stuff I have published about Obama.
To the phrase "You should vote for McCain/Palin, I respond:
As a christian I believe it's wrong for me to vote McCain/Pail as much as it is to vote for Obama/Biden. I know how McCain votes, and I know it's not constitutional. And while he may be "Pro-life" all that means is he's not actively for it, but neither is he actively against it. http://www.covenantnews.com/baldwin080822.htm
I want a president who is actually going to FIGHT and try to change the laws about it, not some one who is simply going to let millions of babies still be killed each year, the only difference being from a democrat is he won't try to make laws to kill more.
McCain would be guilty of the sin of omission in not keeping the sixth commandment (thou shalt not murder) in not doing everything in his power to stop abortion, he is guilty. If I vote for him, I am guilty, because I have it in my power to vote for someone who would be actively against abortion. Besides, McCain is in support of *government funded* embryonic stem cell research. That's not very pro-life. (If you don't believe me, just type "McCain supporting embryonic stem cell research" into google")
To the accusation "A vote for third party is a vote for Obama" I comeback with:
I would agree w/what Obama is, I think it is impossible for us to disagree about his disgusting morals. However, I'm afraid I must digress with you about voting third party as a vote for Obama. Will it perhaps make Obama more likely to win? Maybe. But that's forseeing the end results of the elections, which we can't do. And even if Obama wins, in my view he is the only the greater of two evils. A vote for McCain is better then Obama, but it's not the best I can do. I refuse to quit fighting for the right side, simply because it's the losing side. And if it means the Black wins over the Gray, then at least the white will no longer be so hard to distinguish (and no, I'm not being racial here, I'm simply using the colors in terms of wrong and right). My vote is earned, never given. McCain has no more right to my vote then Obama. I do not cast my vote in fear of the consequences if the worst possible party wins, I cast it in fear of God.
Besides, if I couldn't vote third party, I would abstain from voting entirely. So the statement "voting third party is a vote for Obama" is incorrect, because it is assuming if I couldn't vote third party I would vote for McCain. You cannot say "Not voting is a vote for Obama" you would have to say "Not voting is a vote for either McCain *or* Obama" depending on who won.
And what is my view if Obama wins?
Sometimes (just when I'm being cynical) I almost think it would be better if Obama won, because then things would become radical and people would be more likely to rebel. Obviously with McCain that's not going to happen (i.e. when he voted on the bailout plan, nobody rebelled...) and American is going to continue to go down the drain in such a slow spiral no one seems to notice.
When self-purported Christians say they are voting for Obama...
If someone disagrees that this is not murder, they are burying there heads in the sand, refusing to see Obama as he really is, a man who encourages murder.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4B3O9uUc-4&NR=1
If you will not say when a baby has human rights, and believe in infanticide, how far can this go? Can we be killing one and two yrs. olds one day, because deciding when they have rights "is above [our] paygrade"? The sky is the limit with this type of reasoning.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIdbYjmbFzo&eurl=http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1252230872&src=fftb
Idk, to me McCain is indirectly for murder as well, and Christians might be able to fool themselves into thinking otherwise if they don't do their research. However, as a Christian I would think we would want to research the man we are putting into a position of great authority over us... is it a sin that we don't?
This all being said, I must also say "To God be the glory" for everything that happens works to the good of His people. I will pray for whoever is put into authority, even if it means I have to pray that they repent and turn to God.
Oh yes, I'm voting third party, Chuck Baldwin in case anyone is interested.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Of many things
In this blog I have decided to steal two of my friends blogging format idea and incorporate them into my own. So if the way I set my post up looks familiar, it might just be.
Thought #1
"It doesn't matter if the grass is greener on the other side, what matters is where the Shepperd leads us"
-Janos (pronounced yanosh) Victor, Hungarian pastor and missionary.
Every day while we were in Hungary, before breakfast, or before we lead devotions with the rest of the camp Janos would do a very short devotion with the team and other camp leaders there. He had many good, good, things to say, I'd wish I'd recorded more of them. However this one struck me in particular.
How many times do we hear people say, or say ourselves "Why, if we are christians, do we deal with hard times non-christians seem to have it made?"
Or maybe, not even with Christians vs. non-christians. Maybe it’s not even bitterness pursae, but you wonder why your friend seems to have better things going for him. Or why your siblings seem to have more opportunities to do thing s then you do. It seems like life is treating everyone else better, they are getting everything you wanted, and they don’t even want it. Why is the grass always greener on the other side? Why can’t the grass be greener on my side instead? But the fact that the Shepherd exists and we follow Him negates the need to worry about the color of the grass. Who cares what the grass looks like, if you can see His face?
Thought #2
Hush little baby, don't you cry,
Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby,
Everythings gonna be alright,
The Lord's gonna answer your prayers tonight.
Hush little baby, don't you cry,
Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby,
Everythings gonna be alright,
The Lords gonna answer your prayers..
Last night you had dream you was the homecoming queen
Today your 18, Happy Birthday Irene
Quit school you had to drop out to raise your little child
(doesn't seem to be anyone around)
You got to reach up to touch rock bottom
The powers that be keep you downtrodden
Daughter of Zion, I heard your prayers
Just cast your cares and
Please beware of snakes
They come in all shapes and sizes
Tempt you, put scales on your eyelids
Don't waste your sorrows
They'll give you strength for tomorrow
Your Calvary's about to come so
Keep your head up, Don't you ever let up
This storm will pass you be ready for the next one
Hey little girl with the pressures of the world on your shoulders
Don't say that its over
I heard your prayers
Just cast your cares
And I'll be there, so don't you fear
I said Hey little girl with pressures of the world on your shoulders
Don't say that its over
I heard your prayers
Just cast your cares
And I'll be there, so don't you fear
Hush little baby, don't you cry,
Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby,
Everythings gonna be alright,
The Lords gonna answer your prayers tonight
Hush little baby, don't you cry,
Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby,
Everything's gonna be alright,
The Lords gonna answer your prayers tonight
Irene I carried you when you was too weak to walk
I took to you when you gave your heart to God
Faithful and True, that's what I'll always be to you
Believe in you, Believe in Me, and these mountains have to move
You have dreams and aspirations
I knew you before creation
Your foundations solid,I will build you a palace,
restore your soul
You'll be up for any challenge,
Many storms are on the way better sharpen you faith,
Count the cost, take up your cross and wear it everyday
Rest in Me and I will give you strength
Blessed is she, Irene who seeks my face
Hey little girl with the pressures of the world on your shoulders
Don't say that its over
I heard your prayers
Just cast your cares
And I'll be there, so don't you fear
Hey little girl with the pressures of the world on your shoulders
Don't say that its over
I said Hey little girl with pressures of the world on your shoulders
Don't say that its over
I heard your prayers
Just cast your cares
And I'll be there, so don't you fear
Hush little baby, don't you cry,
Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby,
Everythings gonna be alright,
The Lords gonna answer your prayers tonight
Hush little baby, don't you cry,
Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby,
Everythings gonna be alright,
The Lords gonna answer your prayers tonight
The Lords gonna answer your prayers tonight
Thought #3
Gasping for breath, Yanomi ran down the dusty streets in between the small Israelite houses. As she ran she reminisced, today was about three months after she, and all the other Hebrew midwives, had been called into the presence of one of Pharoh’s official, and told to kill the male babies of all her friends and family. In fact, she was told to kill the male babies of any Hebrew woman, stranger or otherwise. Which was exactly the reason she was running down the streets, she was in a hurry to be late.It was not her intention to follow those terrible orders, but she, nor her fellow women, wished to see her lose her head, so they devised a plan, a plan of being late, but early. Confusing though it might seem, so far the plan had worked, and Yanomi was greatful to God for that. Because after this appointment that she was going to be “late” to, she and her fellow midwives had a different kind of appointment. An appointment that she would in no way wish to be late to, an appointment with Pharoh himself. When she was called in and had prostrated herself before him, his spokesman started questioning her. Pharoh was to great to talk to the lowly slaves himself. In fact, usually he was not present at these types of meetings at all. Yanomi did not feel resentful about this, that was just how life was. Most the slaves didn’t mind, except the young men with fire in their blood, but they grew complacent soon enough. Not that all of the slaves didn’t long for a day…but no, Yanomi refused to think of that, she needed to keep her mind on the moment. Quick wits hidden behind a slow façade is what kept a slave alive. Besides, that type of thinking wouldn’t get her anything but trouble.
Moral: God takes care of His people
I didn't even realize my thoughts had a theme to them, but I guess they do. I didn't plan it that way. But, I'm sure God did. :-)
Thought #1
"It doesn't matter if the grass is greener on the other side, what matters is where the Shepperd leads us"
-Janos (pronounced yanosh) Victor, Hungarian pastor and missionary.
Every day while we were in Hungary, before breakfast, or before we lead devotions with the rest of the camp Janos would do a very short devotion with the team and other camp leaders there. He had many good, good, things to say, I'd wish I'd recorded more of them. However this one struck me in particular.
How many times do we hear people say, or say ourselves "Why, if we are christians, do we deal with hard times non-christians seem to have it made?"
Or maybe, not even with Christians vs. non-christians. Maybe it’s not even bitterness pursae, but you wonder why your friend seems to have better things going for him. Or why your siblings seem to have more opportunities to do thing s then you do. It seems like life is treating everyone else better, they are getting everything you wanted, and they don’t even want it. Why is the grass always greener on the other side? Why can’t the grass be greener on my side instead? But the fact that the Shepherd exists and we follow Him negates the need to worry about the color of the grass. Who cares what the grass looks like, if you can see His face?
Thought #2
Hush little baby, don't you cry,
Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby,
Everythings gonna be alright,
The Lord's gonna answer your prayers tonight.
Hush little baby, don't you cry,
Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby,
Everythings gonna be alright,
The Lords gonna answer your prayers..
Last night you had dream you was the homecoming queen
Today your 18, Happy Birthday Irene
Quit school you had to drop out to raise your little child
(doesn't seem to be anyone around)
You got to reach up to touch rock bottom
The powers that be keep you downtrodden
Daughter of Zion, I heard your prayers
Just cast your cares and
Please beware of snakes
They come in all shapes and sizes
Tempt you, put scales on your eyelids
Don't waste your sorrows
They'll give you strength for tomorrow
Your Calvary's about to come so
Keep your head up, Don't you ever let up
This storm will pass you be ready for the next one
Hey little girl with the pressures of the world on your shoulders
Don't say that its over
I heard your prayers
Just cast your cares
And I'll be there, so don't you fear
I said Hey little girl with pressures of the world on your shoulders
Don't say that its over
I heard your prayers
Just cast your cares
And I'll be there, so don't you fear
Hush little baby, don't you cry,
Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby,
Everythings gonna be alright,
The Lords gonna answer your prayers tonight
Hush little baby, don't you cry,
Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby,
Everything's gonna be alright,
The Lords gonna answer your prayers tonight
Irene I carried you when you was too weak to walk
I took to you when you gave your heart to God
Faithful and True, that's what I'll always be to you
Believe in you, Believe in Me, and these mountains have to move
You have dreams and aspirations
I knew you before creation
Your foundations solid,I will build you a palace,
restore your soul
You'll be up for any challenge,
Many storms are on the way better sharpen you faith,
Count the cost, take up your cross and wear it everyday
Rest in Me and I will give you strength
Blessed is she, Irene who seeks my face
Hey little girl with the pressures of the world on your shoulders
Don't say that its over
I heard your prayers
Just cast your cares
And I'll be there, so don't you fear
Hey little girl with the pressures of the world on your shoulders
Don't say that its over
I said Hey little girl with pressures of the world on your shoulders
Don't say that its over
I heard your prayers
Just cast your cares
And I'll be there, so don't you fear
Hush little baby, don't you cry,
Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby,
Everythings gonna be alright,
The Lords gonna answer your prayers tonight
Hush little baby, don't you cry,
Daddy's gonna sing you a lullaby,
Everythings gonna be alright,
The Lords gonna answer your prayers tonight
The Lords gonna answer your prayers tonight
Thought #3
Gasping for breath, Yanomi ran down the dusty streets in between the small Israelite houses. As she ran she reminisced, today was about three months after she, and all the other Hebrew midwives, had been called into the presence of one of Pharoh’s official, and told to kill the male babies of all her friends and family. In fact, she was told to kill the male babies of any Hebrew woman, stranger or otherwise. Which was exactly the reason she was running down the streets, she was in a hurry to be late.It was not her intention to follow those terrible orders, but she, nor her fellow women, wished to see her lose her head, so they devised a plan, a plan of being late, but early. Confusing though it might seem, so far the plan had worked, and Yanomi was greatful to God for that. Because after this appointment that she was going to be “late” to, she and her fellow midwives had a different kind of appointment. An appointment that she would in no way wish to be late to, an appointment with Pharoh himself. When she was called in and had prostrated herself before him, his spokesman started questioning her. Pharoh was to great to talk to the lowly slaves himself. In fact, usually he was not present at these types of meetings at all. Yanomi did not feel resentful about this, that was just how life was. Most the slaves didn’t mind, except the young men with fire in their blood, but they grew complacent soon enough. Not that all of the slaves didn’t long for a day…but no, Yanomi refused to think of that, she needed to keep her mind on the moment. Quick wits hidden behind a slow façade is what kept a slave alive. Besides, that type of thinking wouldn’t get her anything but trouble.
Moral: God takes care of His people
I didn't even realize my thoughts had a theme to them, but I guess they do. I didn't plan it that way. But, I'm sure God did. :-)
Sunday, September 21, 2008
The moon is made of
Chocolate chip cookies, not cheese.
The man is not "the man on the moon"
but the man IN the moon, or OF the moon
because the moon is, in reality, Santa clause
"He knows when you are sleeping..."
who else could it be?
How's that for a conspiracy theory?
But at least I got a post up.
The man is not "the man on the moon"
but the man IN the moon, or OF the moon
because the moon is, in reality, Santa clause
"He knows when you are sleeping..."
who else could it be?
How's that for a conspiracy theory?
But at least I got a post up.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Disguising the Dumbing Down of America....or "Grading on a Curve"
Today I found out my test results for my science exam that I was so nerved up about. A 96% on my exam, and 100% on all three homework assignments. Was I pleased? Without a doubt. However, I was also still somewhat curious as to what my grade REALLY was. Now you might ask "Why on earth are you curious? You just told us what you got..." But my reason for being curious is what prompted this post.
The average percent for the class on the exam I just took was "71.5%", for a class of 15-20. Since the average for the class was 71.5% I think it is safe to assume that there was at least one 70% score or lower, probably a great deal more then just one.
In the process of questioning our professor the day before the test, asking him when our grade scores would be posted, he revealed to us that if someone scored below 70% he would be grading on a curve. As I pointed out in the paragraph above, someone(s) undoubtedly did score a
seventy or below
While grading on a curve may make the teacher/school/student look better, it belays the supposedly real point of testing, making sure the student knows the material he is learning. Let's set up a hypothetical situation. Suppose we have a class of twenty five students. It is class on advanced mathematics, and half the class has aspirations to one day become a math professor in an Ivy league school. And now suppose the class takes a test, 95% of the students score an objective score of 5%, and the other five percent of the class score 20%. Since the professor believes in grading on a curve, those who scored an objective score of 100% now have an "A" and a test score of 100%.
These students feel really good about their results, they are head of the class, and math whizzes, they think they have a better grasp on the material then they realized, but little do they know...
Okay, okay, perhaps an extreme example, but you get my point. Also the reason why I am still curious about what my real score is. Objectively, I think my score is a whole lot lower then what it's marked. However, if I'm part of the general populous, I don't really care, don't check the percentage for my grade myself when I get the test back, and move on. I may feel pretty good about myself, but I don't know the material, and I may need it further on in life, with a professor who belives in objective grading standards.
Oh, and multiple choice, don't even get me started. Never mind multiple choice combined w/grading on a curve.
The average percent for the class on the exam I just took was "71.5%", for a class of 15-20. Since the average for the class was 71.5% I think it is safe to assume that there was at least one 70% score or lower, probably a great deal more then just one.
In the process of questioning our professor the day before the test, asking him when our grade scores would be posted, he revealed to us that if someone scored below 70% he would be grading on a curve. As I pointed out in the paragraph above, someone(s) undoubtedly did score a
seventy or below
While grading on a curve may make the teacher/school/student look better, it belays the supposedly real point of testing, making sure the student knows the material he is learning. Let's set up a hypothetical situation. Suppose we have a class of twenty five students. It is class on advanced mathematics, and half the class has aspirations to one day become a math professor in an Ivy league school. And now suppose the class takes a test, 95% of the students score an objective score of 5%, and the other five percent of the class score 20%. Since the professor believes in grading on a curve, those who scored an objective score of 100% now have an "A" and a test score of 100%.
These students feel really good about their results, they are head of the class, and math whizzes, they think they have a better grasp on the material then they realized, but little do they know...
Okay, okay, perhaps an extreme example, but you get my point. Also the reason why I am still curious about what my real score is. Objectively, I think my score is a whole lot lower then what it's marked. However, if I'm part of the general populous, I don't really care, don't check the percentage for my grade myself when I get the test back, and move on. I may feel pretty good about myself, but I don't know the material, and I may need it further on in life, with a professor who belives in objective grading standards.
Oh, and multiple choice, don't even get me started. Never mind multiple choice combined w/grading on a curve.
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