I can not adequately express how the Spirit of Jesus has used the five weeks which I spent in the Philippines this past winter to stir my heart to respond in a deeper way to the tremendous needs there! While I was gone, the Lord was preparing Gary’s heart to join in the mission! In three weeks, we’re going to the Philippines together!
Through the years, the Lord has placed two essential issues on our hearts and He is beginning to reveal how they fit together.
1) Organic Church
2) Human trafficking and sexual exploitation
I’d like to share with you some questions which we believe that the Lord has placed on our hearts and that we’ve set before a number of contacts in the Philippines.
We’d like to get a better idea of what is happening on the streets and in the bars in the Philippines so far as ministry is concerned. What’s the involvement of the churches, if any? Who do we talk to in order to find out what ministry is already being offered, what works and what doesn’t?
Are there ministries reaching out to the men who are buying sex? If so, who are the contact people?
Is there any preventative ministry being done with the little girls on the streets selling roses and the boys selling cigs/Viagra, etc.? If so, how do we contact those people to get an idea of what is being offered?
We'd like to know more about what is happening there with the “house church movement” and where that is happening. We'd like to know more about your role in that, if any, and to obtain contact info for other house church leaders.
Are there any house churches that you are familiar with that are currently reaching out to those in prostitution or to the men who are buying women? What about reaching out to the “at risk” children? If not...is there even interest in doing so?
We'd like to visit some of the provinces and get a good feel for what life is like there and how preventive ministry might be accomplished in those places. Who would be good contacts to visit in those provinces and even stay with over a period of time in order to accomplish this?
Are there any house churches living in community that you are aware of?
Where would some locations be for establishing a house church community – a place where:
• women/men and children could come live with that community and experience community/family life, be mentored etc.?
• there is enough property to build if there are not already buildings?
• a self-sustaining lifestyle through organic gardening, raising livestock, etc could be demonstrated and lived out?
Who would we talk to about such places?
If you don’t have answers to some or any of these questions, do you know who we should contact for answers?
It is our desire to be obedient to the Lord in this and all things. Please pray for us, as the Lord leads.
God's Blessings, Bonnie Jaeckle
We are sensing that the Lord is directing us into His plan regarding these two issues. In future articles, I will be sharing how this is all unfolding and keeping you updated on what we see as the Lord reveals it.
Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Thursday, June 9, 2011
HEALTH - DUST BUNNIES, COBWEBS AND PAW PRINTS, OH MY!
Yes! Spring is here! I love it! However, it seems that all the lingering residue of the closed-in months of winter is more evident with radiant Spring sun shining on it! Dust bunnies, cobwebs and paw prints, oh my! I need to do some deep cleaning!
Even as a young girl I recognized that momma had her hands full trying to raise six children alone, work away from home and maintain our household. Consequently, I liked to do whatever I could to help her. Plus, I simply liked being by her side! We were often partners in ironing, cooking, sweeping, etc. My least favorite job, however, was dusting! I just didn’t quite understand the necessity of the tedious process. Out of my weariness over the whole ordeal, one day I asked momma, “Why do we have to move all this stuff and then just put it back in the very same place again?”
While I’m still not real fond of dusting, I’m even less attracted to the idea of living in a toxic environment resulting from commercial cleaning products! It isn’t necessary to use products that irritate our skin, burn our eyes or damage our lungs in order to enjoy sparkling clean kitchen counters, cabinets, refrigerator shelves, blinds, moldings and fan blades. Replacing conventional cleaning products with something much healthier for my family and the environment is fun and inexpensive! With a few basic ingredients, it’s easy to create an all-purpose aromatic and disinfecting solution:
• 16 oz. spray bottle
• 14 oz. – 1:1 solution of distilled white vinegar and water
• 7 drops of tea tree essential oil
• 7 drops of lavender essential oil
• 7 drops of lemon essential oil
Not only does our body benefit from using essential oils in cleaning products, we’re doing a favor for the natural waterways and the precious wildlife our Creator has given us to enjoy when we eliminate the expensive, hazardous products on the market today.
Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie
DISCLAIMER:
The author of this article does not endorse everything represented on/in suggested links, books, etc. Each of us is accountable to God to weigh everything according to His Word.
All content of this article is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. The author sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. The information herein is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. The information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. This is best left to the Creator of the universe. In all health-related situations, “qualified healthcare professionals” should always be consulted. The author deems THE GREAT PHYSICIAN to be most qualified. The author assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material.
Even as a young girl I recognized that momma had her hands full trying to raise six children alone, work away from home and maintain our household. Consequently, I liked to do whatever I could to help her. Plus, I simply liked being by her side! We were often partners in ironing, cooking, sweeping, etc. My least favorite job, however, was dusting! I just didn’t quite understand the necessity of the tedious process. Out of my weariness over the whole ordeal, one day I asked momma, “Why do we have to move all this stuff and then just put it back in the very same place again?”
While I’m still not real fond of dusting, I’m even less attracted to the idea of living in a toxic environment resulting from commercial cleaning products! It isn’t necessary to use products that irritate our skin, burn our eyes or damage our lungs in order to enjoy sparkling clean kitchen counters, cabinets, refrigerator shelves, blinds, moldings and fan blades. Replacing conventional cleaning products with something much healthier for my family and the environment is fun and inexpensive! With a few basic ingredients, it’s easy to create an all-purpose aromatic and disinfecting solution:
• 16 oz. spray bottle
• 14 oz. – 1:1 solution of distilled white vinegar and water
• 7 drops of tea tree essential oil
• 7 drops of lavender essential oil
• 7 drops of lemon essential oil
Not only does our body benefit from using essential oils in cleaning products, we’re doing a favor for the natural waterways and the precious wildlife our Creator has given us to enjoy when we eliminate the expensive, hazardous products on the market today.
Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie
DISCLAIMER:
The author of this article does not endorse everything represented on/in suggested links, books, etc. Each of us is accountable to God to weigh everything according to His Word.
All content of this article is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. The author sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. The information herein is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. The information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. This is best left to the Creator of the universe. In all health-related situations, “qualified healthcare professionals” should always be consulted. The author deems THE GREAT PHYSICIAN to be most qualified. The author assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
WHO TAUGHT YOU HOW TO PRAY?
Have you ever felt like everyone around you knows how to pray except you? I’m not exactly sure where I learned the criteria that I’ve accumulated through the years about prayer. While I didn’t learn it in my childhood home, as a young girl I did watch as others “in church” reverently bowed their heads and closed their eyes upon demand. Through the years I’ve also read a lot about prayer and every author seems to have their own set of guidelines to help the reader along in their “prayer life.”
“Stand up! Sit down! Fold your hands! Bow your head! Close your eyes! Kneel! Make a list! Let God lead! If it isn’t in tongues, it isn’t `in the Spirit’! If it’s in tongues, it’s of the devil! Talk! Listen! Contemplate! You must say, `In Jesus name’! Add `Father God’ before and after every sentence! Satan can’t read your mind! You must vocally stand against him!”
I’ve spent years trying to apply the guidelines of many spiritual leaders on prayer. I’ve been inwardly critical of those who weren’t following the “right” standards; “Oh, he can’t really be praying. Why, he doesn’t even have his eyes closed!” I’ve even gone so far as to lead retreats on prayers, as if I had it all figured out!
I’ve dutifully bowed my head & got on my knees, whispered & shouted, closed my eyes & looked toward heaven and contemplated & listened. The eventual result of all this effort was… I felt like screaming and pulling my hair out! The more I labored to apply what I had learned, the more confused I became. All these rules made my head spin! I don’t know, maybe I have spiritual ADHD, but all the “how tos” just don’t seem to work for me! I’ve gotten so frustrated that I’ve even gone through spells of “why bother?”
I’ve heard it said that, "a person’s intimacy with Jesus is based upon the depth of their prayer life." During a period of feeling pretty shallow intimacy with Jesus, I cried out to Him; “I have no clue how to pray!” I didn’t expect this response,
You are right. You don’t! And... no matter how much they act like they do, neither does anyone else! Intimacy with Me doesn’t come from self-effort! You can do nothing, including prayer, without Me!
In the same way also, the Spirit takes hold together with us in our weakness – we don’t know how we are to pray so that our prayers will correspond to the need, but the Spirit super-intercedes with deeply emotional heartfelt groanings. And he who searches the hearts knows what the Spirit has in mind, that the Spirit intercedes on behalf of the people devoted to God, in line with God’s plan [Romans 8:26-27].
You pray “fix this problem, heal that illness, protect them from injury, provide this and prevent that! How is it that you know what this or that person truly needs?
Talk about being humbled! I felt like Job must have felt when God asked of him, “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundations?” And you know…my response wasn’t much different than Job’s, “Father, forgive me. I’m sure that I have spoken of many things which I do not understand!”
I learned something on that day about prayer:
I’m learning from the examples of Jesus in Scripture, especially His prayer on Gethsemane, My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, as you will (Matt. 26:39).
With Jesus as my teacher, I’m learning that
Although Scripture does tell us that we are to pray in Jesus’ Name [(John 14:13-14, 16:24, 26; Colossians 3:17], it doesn’t mean that the words are a magical addendum to be tagged onto every prayer. What matters is whether or not we acknowledge that there is nothing in us which deserves the right to stand before God! Instead, it is Jesus’ righteousness which has provided the way to our Father!
According to God’s Word there is no “correct” posture for prayer [Ex. 4:31, 1 Kings 8:22, 45, 2 Chron 20:18 and Matt. 26:39]. In fact, while communing with Jesus among other members of His Body, I find that I’m more aware of His presence while beholding His face in my brothers and sisters as we converse with Him and one another! Yes, that means I have my eyes open!
According to Scripture [James 1:1-4], God uses trials to test and strengthen our faith. When praying for ourselves or others, we need to consider: “Do I sincerely want them/myself to be sheltered from that which may be the necessary means to their/my maturity in faith? While God hates disease, divorce, poverty, etc., His greater concern is the depth of our reliance upon Him.
I become very uneasy in a setting where a group of people redundantly repeat a list of wants and wishes in prayer. While attempting to endure the babbling, which seems to go on ad infinitum, I used to feel guilty assuming segregation in my restlessness. I’ve come to understand however that God is not only unimpressed with our rambling; He likens it to pagan activity!
When you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him [Matthew 6:7-8].
No wonder I get restless! Why is prayer often reduced to such hocus pocus, mumbo jumbo when God simply desires that we include Him in our thoughts and conversations? If He is ever-present, why aren’t we continually [1 Thess. 5:17] addressing Him:
“Father, we need your wisdom.”
“You are wonderful in counsel and magnificent in wisdom!”
“Jesus, what do you desire?”
“May our words and meditations be pleasing in your sight!”
“Abba, is there any other way?
“Lord, I surrender to your will!”
I have much more to learn about the beauty and simplicity of prayer. Yet, I am grateful for the freedom which God has granted me from the bondage of all the rules and find peace and joy in the simplicity.!
Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie Jaeckle
“Stand up! Sit down! Fold your hands! Bow your head! Close your eyes! Kneel! Make a list! Let God lead! If it isn’t in tongues, it isn’t `in the Spirit’! If it’s in tongues, it’s of the devil! Talk! Listen! Contemplate! You must say, `In Jesus name’! Add `Father God’ before and after every sentence! Satan can’t read your mind! You must vocally stand against him!”
I’ve spent years trying to apply the guidelines of many spiritual leaders on prayer. I’ve been inwardly critical of those who weren’t following the “right” standards; “Oh, he can’t really be praying. Why, he doesn’t even have his eyes closed!” I’ve even gone so far as to lead retreats on prayers, as if I had it all figured out!
I’ve dutifully bowed my head & got on my knees, whispered & shouted, closed my eyes & looked toward heaven and contemplated & listened. The eventual result of all this effort was… I felt like screaming and pulling my hair out! The more I labored to apply what I had learned, the more confused I became. All these rules made my head spin! I don’t know, maybe I have spiritual ADHD, but all the “how tos” just don’t seem to work for me! I’ve gotten so frustrated that I’ve even gone through spells of “why bother?”
I’ve heard it said that, "a person’s intimacy with Jesus is based upon the depth of their prayer life." During a period of feeling pretty shallow intimacy with Jesus, I cried out to Him; “I have no clue how to pray!” I didn’t expect this response,
You are right. You don’t! And... no matter how much they act like they do, neither does anyone else! Intimacy with Me doesn’t come from self-effort! You can do nothing, including prayer, without Me!
In the same way also, the Spirit takes hold together with us in our weakness – we don’t know how we are to pray so that our prayers will correspond to the need, but the Spirit super-intercedes with deeply emotional heartfelt groanings. And he who searches the hearts knows what the Spirit has in mind, that the Spirit intercedes on behalf of the people devoted to God, in line with God’s plan [Romans 8:26-27].
You pray “fix this problem, heal that illness, protect them from injury, provide this and prevent that! How is it that you know what this or that person truly needs?
Talk about being humbled! I felt like Job must have felt when God asked of him, “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundations?” And you know…my response wasn’t much different than Job’s, “Father, forgive me. I’m sure that I have spoken of many things which I do not understand!”
I learned something on that day about prayer:
Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God God is in heaven and you are on earth,
so let your words be few
[Ecclesiastes 5:2].
I’m learning from the examples of Jesus in Scripture, especially His prayer on Gethsemane, My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, as you will (Matt. 26:39).
With Jesus as my teacher, I’m learning that
Prayer is a place in my relationship with God: • where pride is adandoned, humility adopted and dependecy upon Him is claimed. • of knowing that He has a panoramic view which I do not.
• of sharing my heart’s desire with Him.
• of surrendering my will for His.
• where I meet the Prince of Peace.
• where I am changed.
Although Scripture does tell us that we are to pray in Jesus’ Name [(John 14:13-14, 16:24, 26; Colossians 3:17], it doesn’t mean that the words are a magical addendum to be tagged onto every prayer. What matters is whether or not we acknowledge that there is nothing in us which deserves the right to stand before God! Instead, it is Jesus’ righteousness which has provided the way to our Father!
According to God’s Word there is no “correct” posture for prayer [Ex. 4:31, 1 Kings 8:22, 45, 2 Chron 20:18 and Matt. 26:39]. In fact, while communing with Jesus among other members of His Body, I find that I’m more aware of His presence while beholding His face in my brothers and sisters as we converse with Him and one another! Yes, that means I have my eyes open!
According to Scripture [James 1:1-4], God uses trials to test and strengthen our faith. When praying for ourselves or others, we need to consider: “Do I sincerely want them/myself to be sheltered from that which may be the necessary means to their/my maturity in faith? While God hates disease, divorce, poverty, etc., His greater concern is the depth of our reliance upon Him.
I become very uneasy in a setting where a group of people redundantly repeat a list of wants and wishes in prayer. While attempting to endure the babbling, which seems to go on ad infinitum, I used to feel guilty assuming segregation in my restlessness. I’ve come to understand however that God is not only unimpressed with our rambling; He likens it to pagan activity!
When you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him [Matthew 6:7-8].
No wonder I get restless! Why is prayer often reduced to such hocus pocus, mumbo jumbo when God simply desires that we include Him in our thoughts and conversations? If He is ever-present, why aren’t we continually [1 Thess. 5:17] addressing Him:
“Father, we need your wisdom.”
“You are wonderful in counsel and magnificent in wisdom!”
“Jesus, what do you desire?”
“May our words and meditations be pleasing in your sight!”
“Abba, is there any other way?
“Lord, I surrender to your will!”
I have much more to learn about the beauty and simplicity of prayer. Yet, I am grateful for the freedom which God has granted me from the bondage of all the rules and find peace and joy in the simplicity.!
Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie Jaeckle
Thursday, May 26, 2011
A Response to - NO WILL OF MY OWN
A few weeks ago, I submitted an article regarding Jon Zens’ recent book, "NO WILL OF MY OWN: How Patriarchy Smothers Female Dignity & Personhood". Although I wish that every Christian would read it, there are countless women who would be especially blessed by this book. I wish that I could put a copy in each of their hands!
It is my prayer that the Lord will use this heartfelt response from a sister regarding "NO WILL OF MY OWN" to encourage you to read it and to pass a copy on to every sister in Christ whom you know.
Dear Brother Jon,
The title of your book is far more than mere words! There are those of us who have lived within the nothingness of "NO WILL OF MY OWN".
You see, no will means no heart—nothing left. If a person is beaten down to the place where nothing lives, then all that a person has that is that person becomes null and void in the nothing place of "NO WILL OF MY OWN". Those five little words speak a lifetime of being less, of being not worthy of being.
So many women will read their whole life in those five words. I have lived within those words. Your book title is perfect, because it says it all! I am greatly touched by your heart in Christ for your sisters. You are like a brave and protecting knight yielding the powerful sword of Truth and you are who Father has sent out to protect His precious daughters, and that is not an exaggerated expression of the heart, but a reality in what Christ has done and is doing through you. All praises and all glory be to our Lord Jesus!
First, I thank our heavenly Father for the book "NO WILL OF MY OWN" that He put in your heart and in my hand, freeing His daughters so that we may have our own will, so we may give our will to only Him. May His will alone be done!
On behalf of all our sisters, I also truly thank you our brother Jon.
Your Sister In Christ,
May Jesus be glorified as more and more sisters are set free through the Truths written in "NO WILL OF MY OWN"!
You may obtain "NO WILL OF MY OWN" through www.amazon.com / www.jonzens.com or contact Jon at jzens@searchingtogether.org, 715-338-2796 or Searching Together, P O Box 548, St Croix Falls WI 54024-0548.
Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie
Thursday, May 19, 2011
HEALTH - Fire & Ice Muscle Rub
Muscular aches and pains of “over doing it” often accompany the invigorating warmth of Spring! Unfortunately, whether they are “effective” or not, most commercial muscle rubs contain a toxic combination of parabens, artificial fragrances and synthetic chemicals! It’s unwise to expose ourselves to such harsh toxins when it is so simple and fun to harness the healing powers which our Creator has given us though nature!
My husband, Gary has a tendency to “push beyond his limits” and this Spring is no different. Consequently, yesterday I set out to find soothing relief for his aches and pains! With the help of one of my favorite resources, Earthly Bodies & Heavenly Hair by Dina Falconi, I spent only a few minutes developing a soothing muscle rub which alleviates muscular pain, relieves stiffness and stimulates muscles and joints before strenuous activity!
INGREDIENTS:
4 oz. olive oil
Essential oils:
1 Tbsp.each - wintergreen, lavender, ginger, thuja, camphor
2 tsp. each - cassia cinnamon, black pepper
1 -2 Tbsp menthol crystals
2 ½ oz. beeswax
Place menthol crystals in 2 oz of olive oil in a glass jar with a tight lid. Allowing this to set overnight will dissolve the crystals into the oil. Put remaining olive oil and beeswax into a heat-proof cup. Place this cup in a pan of hot water over medium heat. Combine essential oils in a glass jar with tight lid. When beeswax has melted, slowly pour essential oils and menthol crystal-oil mixture into the oil-beeswax mixture. Stirring until completely dissolved. Pour into jar and cap to prevent evaporation of essential oils. Makes 11 oz.
Don’t be cheated by creams that contain a plethora of hazardous ingredients. Treat your aches and pains with the powerful and natural healing of God’s creation which is also a blessing to your health!
Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie
DISCLAIMER:
The author of this article does not endorse everything represented on/in suggested links, books, etc. Each of us is accountable to God to weigh everything according to His Word.
All content of this article is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. The author sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. The information herein is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. The information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. This is best left to the Creator of the universe. In all health-related situations, “qualified healthcare professionals” should always be consulted. The author deems THE GREAT PHYSICIAN to be most qualified. The author assumes no responsibility
My husband, Gary has a tendency to “push beyond his limits” and this Spring is no different. Consequently, yesterday I set out to find soothing relief for his aches and pains! With the help of one of my favorite resources, Earthly Bodies & Heavenly Hair by Dina Falconi, I spent only a few minutes developing a soothing muscle rub which alleviates muscular pain, relieves stiffness and stimulates muscles and joints before strenuous activity!
INGREDIENTS:
4 oz. olive oil
Essential oils:
1 Tbsp.each - wintergreen, lavender, ginger, thuja, camphor
2 tsp. each - cassia cinnamon, black pepper
1 -2 Tbsp menthol crystals
2 ½ oz. beeswax
Place menthol crystals in 2 oz of olive oil in a glass jar with a tight lid. Allowing this to set overnight will dissolve the crystals into the oil. Put remaining olive oil and beeswax into a heat-proof cup. Place this cup in a pan of hot water over medium heat. Combine essential oils in a glass jar with tight lid. When beeswax has melted, slowly pour essential oils and menthol crystal-oil mixture into the oil-beeswax mixture. Stirring until completely dissolved. Pour into jar and cap to prevent evaporation of essential oils. Makes 11 oz.
Don’t be cheated by creams that contain a plethora of hazardous ingredients. Treat your aches and pains with the powerful and natural healing of God’s creation which is also a blessing to your health!
Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie
DISCLAIMER:
The author of this article does not endorse everything represented on/in suggested links, books, etc. Each of us is accountable to God to weigh everything according to His Word.
All content of this article is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. The author sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. The information herein is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. The information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. This is best left to the Creator of the universe. In all health-related situations, “qualified healthcare professionals” should always be consulted. The author deems THE GREAT PHYSICIAN to be most qualified. The author assumes no responsibility
Thursday, May 12, 2011
TIME FOR AN ATTITUDE CHECK-UP
My husband, Gary, shared a conversation which had taken place between him and a few Christian brothers about the assassination of Osama bin Laden. With passion, he shared his concerns with me about the common attitude of most who were participating in the conversation. One only has to spend a few minutes in conversation and on Facebook to become aware how prevalent this same attitude is among other brothers and sisters. Consequently, I feel strongly that others need to hear Gary’s heart on this issue.
As a Christian living in America, with a son presently serving a second military tour in Afghanistan, I have listened with interest to the conversations about the recent assassination in Pakistan. Osama bin Laden was a zealot, radically committed to his culture and his religion. I am sure that his prayers to Allah included requests that he be used to bring an end to all who would not “see the truth nor come to the light.” Many of the views that are being expressed by patriotic Americans and even in the name of Jesus sound very similar to what we heard from bin Laden. This attitude deserves attention.
I have no desire to dampen or discourage the freedom of speech which America's Bill of Rights guarantees. Neither is it my goal in this article to debate the “rightness” or “wrongness” of the assassination. However, I do urge thoughtful caution in how we speak. Words usually lead to action. The history of Western civilization is replete with examples of well-intentioned Christians who eventually devolved into the very thing they stood against. Attempting to defeat the enemy at his own game has often led from hateful speech to violent action, eventually culminating in an arrogant, “better than thou” bullying. I fear that an increasing number of Christians may be headed in this very direction.
Those of us who are Christian follow a Savior who is humble and gentle, the Prince of peace. He is able to make us firm without becoming vindictive or mean-spirited.
When we rejoice in and celebrate the destruction of an “enemy,” have we not become the very thing which that enemy was? The Scriptures remind us that we do indeed have a very real enemy whom we need to stand against on a daily basis, but he is not Osama bin Lade nor any other flesh and blood opponent. Our adversary, the devil, tempts us into prideful gloating and vindictiveness, desiring to perpetuate division and fighting, rather than the peaceful meekness, kindness and gentleness which Jesus came to bring.
Jesus' life is testimony that the enemy is defeated by love, not by hate. His words were followed by action that did not compromise love with hate. He promises that this truth, that love overcomes evil, is eternal (See Phil 2:1-18). History demonstrates that the words and actions of one loving person have more impact than thousands filled with hate. How will historians evaluate the attitude and resulting consequences of Christian action in this moment and this place? Will our words and the actions which follow prove the truth of Jesus' promises, or will we have slid into one more era of violence and destruction?
Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie
As a Christian living in America, with a son presently serving a second military tour in Afghanistan, I have listened with interest to the conversations about the recent assassination in Pakistan. Osama bin Laden was a zealot, radically committed to his culture and his religion. I am sure that his prayers to Allah included requests that he be used to bring an end to all who would not “see the truth nor come to the light.” Many of the views that are being expressed by patriotic Americans and even in the name of Jesus sound very similar to what we heard from bin Laden. This attitude deserves attention.
I have no desire to dampen or discourage the freedom of speech which America's Bill of Rights guarantees. Neither is it my goal in this article to debate the “rightness” or “wrongness” of the assassination. However, I do urge thoughtful caution in how we speak. Words usually lead to action. The history of Western civilization is replete with examples of well-intentioned Christians who eventually devolved into the very thing they stood against. Attempting to defeat the enemy at his own game has often led from hateful speech to violent action, eventually culminating in an arrogant, “better than thou” bullying. I fear that an increasing number of Christians may be headed in this very direction.
Those of us who are Christian follow a Savior who is humble and gentle, the Prince of peace. He is able to make us firm without becoming vindictive or mean-spirited.
The God to Whom we belong often reminds us that
He takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked.
I suspect that He says this with a desire for us to
grow into such a godly attitude, as well.
When we rejoice in and celebrate the destruction of an “enemy,” have we not become the very thing which that enemy was? The Scriptures remind us that we do indeed have a very real enemy whom we need to stand against on a daily basis, but he is not Osama bin Lade nor any other flesh and blood opponent. Our adversary, the devil, tempts us into prideful gloating and vindictiveness, desiring to perpetuate division and fighting, rather than the peaceful meekness, kindness and gentleness which Jesus came to bring.
Jesus' life is testimony that the enemy is defeated by love, not by hate. His words were followed by action that did not compromise love with hate. He promises that this truth, that love overcomes evil, is eternal (See Phil 2:1-18). History demonstrates that the words and actions of one loving person have more impact than thousands filled with hate. How will historians evaluate the attitude and resulting consequences of Christian action in this moment and this place? Will our words and the actions which follow prove the truth of Jesus' promises, or will we have slid into one more era of violence and destruction?
Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie
Thursday, May 5, 2011
CHICKEN - THE INSIDE STORY
Chicken is the world's leading source of animal protein. Its consumption has more than doubled since 1970! In fact, the average American consumes 59.2 pounds of these delectable critters each year! Since chicken prices have gone down from $2.22 per pound in 1980 to $1.74 in 2004, who wouldn’t take advantage of these blessings:
• Versatile in preparation
• Lean Protein
• Immunity boosting and cancer fighting – (related to selenium and niacin content).
• Energy producing – (related to Vitamin B6 content).
This all sounds deliciously tempting and health consciously wise until you hear…
THE INSIDE STORY:
Antibiotics
According to the UCS, an estimated 70 percent of all antibiotics used in the United States are regularly added to the feed of livestock and poultry that are not sick! The FDA concluded ten years ago that antibiotics in poultry are causing antibiotic-resistant infections in consumers, yet little has been done to end the practice! In fact, the CDC estimates that there will be about 845,024 cases in 2011, with 76 deaths and about 8,463 requiring medical attention.
The CDC and FDA admit that "thoroughly cooked eggs are thoroughly safe eggs" because salmonella is destroyed by heat. So, why spend millions of dollars to vaccinate chickens in an effort to destroy salmonella?
Arsenic
Although I love white meat, I’ve been suspicious about how chickens get to be so voluptuous! The average live weight per broiler nearly doubled to 5.35 pounds from 1934 to 2004, and it reaches that weight in less time! Are they feeding them steroids? Nope! Arsenic!
Arsenic has been used in chicken feed since it was approved by the FDA in 1994. In fact, in order to promote growth, kill parasites, and improve pigmentation so that the bird looks prettier in the cooler, 2.2 million pounds of arsenic-based compounds are mixed in the chicken feed of 70% of the nations 9 billion chickens produced annually!
According to the EPA, long term exposure to inorganic arsenic can cause bladder, lung, skin, kidney, and colon cancer, as well as deleterious immunological, neurological, and endocrine effects. Low-level exposures can lead to partial paralysis and diabetes.
According to EPA estimates, the risk of cancer from 10 ppb of arsenic in tap water is 1 in 2,000, a 50-fold higher risk than that allowed for most other carcinogens. However the standard for arsenic residues in poultry is 2,000 ppb for liver and 500 ppb for muscle! Referring to arsenic-bearing feed, the National Chicken Council concludes that, "There is no reason to believe that there are any human health hazards from this type of use"!
It is no secret that “inorganic arsenic is a Class A carcinogen that has been linked to heart disease, diabetes and declines in brain function. While these large breasted birds may be more attractive in blushing pink, the growth of blood vessels caused by the arsenic in chicken doesn’t stop there. It does the same in human cells, “fueling a growth process known as angiogenesis, a critical first step in many human diseases such as cancer.”
Chlorine
Processing chickens commercially is highly mechanized. Consequently, many intestines are torn during evisceration; as a result, the carcasses become soiled with feces! The American way to deal with this is to “sterilize” the birds with high doses of chlorine!
Although many nations have banned poultry imports from chlorine-using countries, the USDA views chlorine as effective antimicrobial even though it has been demonstrated that 83 percent of U.S. chicken that had been treated in chlorine baths still contained harmful pathogens.
There is a reason why chlorine treated chicken carcasses weigh more than those bathed without it. The known carcinogen is retained by muscle tissue, but especially fats and the liver of chickens! Additionally, chlorine treatment causes respiratory illness, heart disease and thyroid dysfunction.
Sterilized Food
Like most foods in America, poultry has been approved by the FDA to be irradiated. Although we are told that this is to protect us against dangerous bacteria, irradiation damages up to 80% of the food’s vitamins and enzymes. Not only this but, lo and behold, when you combine irradiation with existing chemicals (like pesticides), viola!, other chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde are formed!
So what are our options?
Free-Range/Grass Fed Chicken vs. Conventional Chicken
Probiotics (immuno-stimulant) - Antibiotics (immuno-depressant)
No ammonia vapors (smell) - Hyper ammonia toxicity
No appetite stimulant - Routine appetite stimulants (arsenic)
Small groups (300 or smaller) - Huge groups (10,000 or more)
Clean air, lots of fresh air - Air haze with fecal particulate (damages respiratory tract, stresses liver)
Sunshine & exercise - Limited exercise, practically no sunshine
Fresh daily Salad - No green material
Carefully hand eviscerated intestine - Mechanically eviscerated (prone to breaking, spilling feces over carcass)
Cooking loss 9% carcass weight - Cooking loss 20% carcass weight
Long keepers (freeze more than a year) - Short keepers (freeze only 6 months or less)
Low saturated fat - High saturated fat
No chlorine baths - Up to 40 chlorine baths to kill contaminants
No irradiation - FDA approved irradiation (no label required)(cancer causing
Rich delicious flavor - Low, flat flavor
Omega 3 (good fat) up to three times higher
1.5 percent more protein
Search around for a local farmer near you who raises free-range/grass fed chickens. Don’t be shy about asking questions related to their production principles. We are blessed in Ringgold County to have Sam & Vera Miller @ 2982 US Hwy 169, Redding, Iowa who wisely follow strict standards!
Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie
• Versatile in preparation
• Lean Protein
• Immunity boosting and cancer fighting – (related to selenium and niacin content).
• Energy producing – (related to Vitamin B6 content).
This all sounds deliciously tempting and health consciously wise until you hear…
THE INSIDE STORY:
Antibiotics
According to the UCS, an estimated 70 percent of all antibiotics used in the United States are regularly added to the feed of livestock and poultry that are not sick! The FDA concluded ten years ago that antibiotics in poultry are causing antibiotic-resistant infections in consumers, yet little has been done to end the practice! In fact, the CDC estimates that there will be about 845,024 cases in 2011, with 76 deaths and about 8,463 requiring medical attention.
The CDC and FDA admit that "thoroughly cooked eggs are thoroughly safe eggs" because salmonella is destroyed by heat. So, why spend millions of dollars to vaccinate chickens in an effort to destroy salmonella?
Arsenic
Although I love white meat, I’ve been suspicious about how chickens get to be so voluptuous! The average live weight per broiler nearly doubled to 5.35 pounds from 1934 to 2004, and it reaches that weight in less time! Are they feeding them steroids? Nope! Arsenic!
Arsenic has been used in chicken feed since it was approved by the FDA in 1994. In fact, in order to promote growth, kill parasites, and improve pigmentation so that the bird looks prettier in the cooler, 2.2 million pounds of arsenic-based compounds are mixed in the chicken feed of 70% of the nations 9 billion chickens produced annually!
According to the EPA, long term exposure to inorganic arsenic can cause bladder, lung, skin, kidney, and colon cancer, as well as deleterious immunological, neurological, and endocrine effects. Low-level exposures can lead to partial paralysis and diabetes.
According to EPA estimates, the risk of cancer from 10 ppb of arsenic in tap water is 1 in 2,000, a 50-fold higher risk than that allowed for most other carcinogens. However the standard for arsenic residues in poultry is 2,000 ppb for liver and 500 ppb for muscle! Referring to arsenic-bearing feed, the National Chicken Council concludes that, "There is no reason to believe that there are any human health hazards from this type of use"!
It is no secret that “inorganic arsenic is a Class A carcinogen that has been linked to heart disease, diabetes and declines in brain function. While these large breasted birds may be more attractive in blushing pink, the growth of blood vessels caused by the arsenic in chicken doesn’t stop there. It does the same in human cells, “fueling a growth process known as angiogenesis, a critical first step in many human diseases such as cancer.”
Chlorine
Processing chickens commercially is highly mechanized. Consequently, many intestines are torn during evisceration; as a result, the carcasses become soiled with feces! The American way to deal with this is to “sterilize” the birds with high doses of chlorine!
Although many nations have banned poultry imports from chlorine-using countries, the USDA views chlorine as effective antimicrobial even though it has been demonstrated that 83 percent of U.S. chicken that had been treated in chlorine baths still contained harmful pathogens.
There is a reason why chlorine treated chicken carcasses weigh more than those bathed without it. The known carcinogen is retained by muscle tissue, but especially fats and the liver of chickens! Additionally, chlorine treatment causes respiratory illness, heart disease and thyroid dysfunction.
Sterilized Food
Like most foods in America, poultry has been approved by the FDA to be irradiated. Although we are told that this is to protect us against dangerous bacteria, irradiation damages up to 80% of the food’s vitamins and enzymes. Not only this but, lo and behold, when you combine irradiation with existing chemicals (like pesticides), viola!, other chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde are formed!
So what are our options?
Free-Range/Grass Fed Chicken vs. Conventional Chicken
Probiotics (immuno-stimulant) - Antibiotics (immuno-depressant)
No ammonia vapors (smell) - Hyper ammonia toxicity
No appetite stimulant - Routine appetite stimulants (arsenic)
Small groups (300 or smaller) - Huge groups (10,000 or more)
Clean air, lots of fresh air - Air haze with fecal particulate (damages respiratory tract, stresses liver)
Sunshine & exercise - Limited exercise, practically no sunshine
Fresh daily Salad - No green material
Carefully hand eviscerated intestine - Mechanically eviscerated (prone to breaking, spilling feces over carcass)
Cooking loss 9% carcass weight - Cooking loss 20% carcass weight
Long keepers (freeze more than a year) - Short keepers (freeze only 6 months or less)
Low saturated fat - High saturated fat
No chlorine baths - Up to 40 chlorine baths to kill contaminants
No irradiation - FDA approved irradiation (no label required)(cancer causing
Rich delicious flavor - Low, flat flavor
Omega 3 (good fat) up to three times higher
1.5 percent more protein
Search around for a local farmer near you who raises free-range/grass fed chickens. Don’t be shy about asking questions related to their production principles. We are blessed in Ringgold County to have Sam & Vera Miller @ 2982 US Hwy 169, Redding, Iowa who wisely follow strict standards!
Whole-Heartedly,
Bonnie
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