My Favorite Part of Handel's Messiah

For many people listening to or going to see Handel's Messiah performed is part of their holiday traditions. Although it is not part of my holiday traditions, it is something I very much enjoy. I have heard it performed live with full accompaniment once, but do not have a version of it on CD at this point. For many people the high point of the Messiah is the Hallelujah Chorus. I have sung it when I was in choir in high school, but it was never my favourite. This is my favourite:

Wonderful Hymns

I am always looking for new, theologically sound worship music. I say that because there are so many contemporary worship songs that while generally good, are often not that deep and sometimes have things with theologically are questionable. Well today while reading over at the Ref21 blog Phil Ryken posted a link for Church Works Media. I went there to see what I could see, and what did I find but selection of wonderful new hymns which seem to be fairly easy to sing. Best of all, they have wonderfully deep content that points one to the glory of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ. If you are interested, I encourage you to check it out.

Take Comfort, God Is Coming -- Isaiah 40:1-11

Life is filled with trouble. Where can a person find comfort? In this sermon we look at what Isaiah 40 has to say in answer to that.

Frustrating

I have been working on tiding up the video/digital audio recording area in the church I serve. To achieve that I needed to put a table up there, and with a little searching I found one in a storage room in the basement of the church building. However, after dragging it upstairs, by myself (I did it alone by choice, I work better at things like this alone). I started to unfold the legs only to discover why it had been in the storage room in the basement rather that out in the fellowship hall being used. The one leg was broken. No problem I though, it is metal and I have a welder I can just weld it. So I took it off the table, brought it home, and got out the small MIG welder. After getting everything set up and cleaning the area that needed to be welded, I geared up to start welding, and . . . the wire wouldn't feed. I checked the tip (sometime it can get welded to it) but it was free. Checked a few other places, and could not figure it out. Tried re-feeding the wire, it jammed, and jammed and jammed until it actually came out near the welder ripping the sleeve. Frustrated I went inside. After a rest I got the welder and tried again inside with my darling wife's help. The wire fed through. I took it back to the garage to weld. It jammed. Then I saw the problem, the tube it should go through had somehow come loose. After a little fiddling I got it jury rigged to work and got the welding done. Thank-you God. Now I still need to get the legs back on the table, and get things organized. I also need to take the welder back to Princess Auto and see if they will stand behind their product. Now to see if I can find the receipt.

Canadian Political Crisis

As I write this the three opposition parties made up of the slightly left of centre Liberals who garnered the lowest popular vote in the history of their party because of their weak leader, the NDP, a highly socialist party whose economic stands were attacked by all parties in the recent election as dangerous to the health of Canada's economy, and the Bloc Quebcois, a party whose only vote base is in Quebec and whose primary goal is the separation of Quebec from Canada; have decided to form a coalition government and over through the minority Canadian Progressive Conservative party.

Here are my thoughts. First, I am tired of the opposition parties and their supporters saying that the Conservatives are partisan. Of course they are, but what the other parties and their supporters seem to be completely blind to is that they are just as partisan in their stand. The issue is not being partisan. In fact if the person I elected to parliament was not partisan I would start to wonder why I voted for them. I want them to stand on their ideology. I voted for them because of that, and I assume those of other political views voted for their candidates because they supported their ideology. If that was not the case, why did you bother to vote. Second, I am tired of the repeated statement that the majority of Canadians who voted did not vote for the Canadian Progressive Conservatives. That is a meaningless number unless the parties in the attempted overthrow had run on the possibility of forming a coalition, especially a coalition with the Bloc Quebecios. Based on many of the poles out there, there are many Canadians, including those who voted for the Liberal and NDP who are unhappy with this coalition because either they see it a compromising the ideas of the party they supported or they see it as making the BQ the power brokers in this country. Not something that anyone who is a federalist would consider a good idea.

Moving on, I am dead set against this coalition. First and most importantly because it will give a party that is merely regional and which has as its primary goal the destruction of Canada by having Quebec separate from Confederation. The Liberals used to be lead by staunchly federalist leaders such a Pierre Elliot Trudeau. While I disagreed with those leaders on many points of policy, I agreed strongly with them in their federalist stand. However, it seems that all that has went out the window. Federalism means nothing if the current leader and members see a way to take power, even if that means getting in bed with the BQ. Listening to Stephan Dion responding to that point today on CPAC made me realize he is either horribly blind to what he is doing to the point of being deluded, or he simply does not care that this move will give power and impetus to the sovereigntist movement in Quebec.

Second, the coalitions is proposing a supposed economic stimulus package focused mainly on the auto sector and the forestry sector. What this does is beg the question, how precisely this will stimulate the economy? I would assume it would be meant to keep the big 3 auto companies producing cars so they don't temporarily or permanently close factories and that the forestry industry can continue to harvest trees and produce lumber. My question is who is going to purchase these vehicles and this lumber? The vast majority of what we produce in both of these areas is produced for consumption South of the border. Until the USA gets their economy to the point where the people can get loans to purchase cars and build houses no matter what we produce it will not have any market and will do nothing but drive prices down further.

Third, at this point Canada is the envy of the other developed countries because our economy is weathering this world wide economic "crisis" so well. We are one of the few who is still seeing growth, small though it be, in our economy in spite of the fact that our economy is highly dependant on export to countries who are in recession or who are seeing negative economic growth. We have much stimuli in the economy already thanks to the foresight of the current government, and while additional stimuli may be needed that would be the business of a budget which is well thought out, not an economic update.

Finally, the thing that has these three parties and their supporters so angry was the proposal to remove the $1.95/vote support from tax monies for political parties in Canada. In other words, they want their entitlement. I realize some will say this is how we can avoid large corporations from influence pedalling, however, is that really the case. We already has limits on donations that can be made by corporations or individuals, and that is a valid way to limit that sort of manipulation. Additional rules in that area might be needed, but the $1.95/vote will do nothing to stop that. Even more than that, it seems that the Liberal party has shown a great many ways to get money to themselves in the past in less that legal ways. In fact that whole scandal was part of the reason they were voted out of government. Their concern is that they will lose what they see as their entitlement. However, they are not entitled to this money. It belongs to the Canadian tax payer and should never have been given to any political parties. Besides, why should tax payer money go to support a party that wants to destroy the country. Parties should raise their own monies from their own supporters. If they are not willing to give, then perhaps they are not a committed to that party as they claim to be.

I am hoping to get out and protest this travesty of a coalition that makes the BQ the power brokers. I have no issue if they bring down the government, but if they do I want an election to see if they still have the support of their base now that they have cozied up to the BQ. Right now the only thing uniting these three parties is their loathing of Stephen Harper, if they get him out of power there is no unity in their ideologies so ultimately they will fall to a confidence vote.

Go to Rally for Canada to see where protests will be held this coming Saturday (December 6th.) I'm planning on being in London, ON in front of City hall to show my opposition to this coalition.

Also, consider writing a respectful letter to the Governor General of Canada. A good template can be found here.

Living Out The Truth -- 3 John 1-8

Living Out The Truth -- 3 John 1-8

Sinners Who Want to See God -- Isaiah 64:1-9

Many people, whether they believe in God or not, desire to see God come down and do something. However, if God were to come down, that coming would result in something they don't want, because all their wrong doings would be shown for what they are. So how can a sinner who want to see God ever do so?

Sinners Who Want to See God -- Isaiah 64:1-9

Last Week's Sermons

I didn't get these done last week, and when I did get them converted into MP3 files, I did not take the time to upload them. However, as I was doing today's AM sermon, I posted last weeks as well

The Surprise Dividing Line -- Matthew 23:31-46

Warning Against False Teachers -- 2 John 7-13

We Had More Snow

The forecast for the last two days, and to a lesser extent for today was snowsqualls off the lake. For some places near us they were calling for 50 centimeters (that is almost 2 feet) by today. Not only did they get that already yesterday, but they have gotten more today.

We got our share as well. I don't know the exact amount, but there was about a foot and a half in the driveway this morning to clear out. Thankfully we have a snowblower.

Here are some pics.

First one of our backyard:


Now look at this wonderfully happy dog:


Now a pic of the front through the window:


And finally a pic of the vehicles in the driveway:

I Wish This Was In The ESV

Since the English Standard Version came out, it has grown to be one of my favorite translations. I am looking forward to someday getting an ESV Study Bible, and then I stumbled upon this. For those of you familiar with Jonathan Edward's Blank Bible, this is very similar. What Edwards would apparently do is take a Bible and remove the binding, then insert blank pages between all the pages and get it rebound. That would allow for lots of space for taking notes. Well, now we have something like that in the NIV. I just wish something similar was available in the ESV because, frankly, wide margins are not enough room for me.

http://www.sermoncloud.com/bethel-reformed-church/walking-in-the-truth-means-walking-in-love----2-john-4-6/

This is the second in a series of sermons on 2 John. Sadly the first sermon was not recorded due to technical difficulties.

When the truth is on the line our desire should be to defend the truth. However, as we defend the truth we can often do so in the wrong way. Not in holding to and defending the truth, but in doing so in a unloving manner. Instead, we must live in the truth and live in love.

Living In The Truth Means Living In Love -- 2 John 4-6

How Should Christians Respond To Persecution -- Psalm 83

Today the congregation I served participated in the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. As we did so we considered how we as Christians should first and foremost respond to persecution.

How Should Christians Respond To Persecution -- Psalm 83

A Resident Who Probabably Won't Be Resident Long

I noticed this rather interesting resident in our house a while back. I snapped some pictures, and showed Annette. That was probably not wise as she hates spiders in the house, and will probably end this one's life eventually. However, I kind of like the look of him/her. As far as I can determine this is an Orb weaver spider, but if someone knows differently, I would love to know. BTW, they are harmless to humans.

This Morning

Last night we went to bed with snowsqualls actively happening where we live. This is what we woke up to this morning. I know some people will hate this, but I think it is beautiful. My mine will probably change by February or March though.

And They Call This Global Warming!

Today is the 28th of October. Throughout the day we have had snow mixed with rain. Now I look at the Environment Canada weather website and this is what I see:

Weather warnings in several counties including ours.

And it isn't just any warning, when you click on the counties with warnings, this is what you get:

Goderich - Bluewater - Southern Huron County
3:22 PM EDT Tuesday 28 October 2008
Snowsquall warning for
Goderich - Bluewater - Southern Huron County issued

Significant snow squall event setting up for tonight and Wednesday.

This is a warning that snowsqualls are imminent or occurring in these regions. Monitor weather conditions..Listen for updated statements.



Although Halloween is still three days away..Some frightening weather is beginning to appear already.

An east coast storm is intensifying as its centre heads from western Massachusetts to just east of Montréal this evening. Periods of rain will change to snow heavy at times this evening over eastern Ontario. Snowfall amounts of 10 to 15 centimetres are expected in this district before it eases off somewhat later tonight then tapers to a few flurries on Wednesday.

Strong northwest winds of 50 gusting up to 70 km/h tonight in combination with the snow will create hazardous driving conditions due to snow and blowing snow with low visibilities especially when the mercury edges just below the freezing mark. Also any residual leaves left on trees may create additional concerns of snow-laden limbs affecting power lines.

Farther west..Strong cold northwest winds blowing over the relatively warm waters of the Great Lakes will set up significant snow squalls. Scattered wet flurries or showers are currently falling to the Lee of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron this afternoon but will intensify this evening and gradually change to snow away from the shorelines. Showers will linger near the shorelines.

Two main bands will set up. One will stretch from near Grand Bend to London and St Thomas. The other will come ashore from Georgian Bay near Wasaga Beach and affect communities southeast to Newmarket.

Snowfall amounts in the squalls will locally reach 15 centimetres tonight with additional similar accumulations possible on Wednesday. Amounts may be somewhat less in the Newmarket area..Closer to 10 cm tonight and 5 on Wednesday.

Strong northwest winds of 30 gusting 50 km/h will cause local whiteout conditions in squalls. As a result driving conditions will become quite hazardous due to very low visibilities and icy roads.

Then a glance at the local radar:


Yup! This is global warming alright. Man made too. Good thing I like snow.

Keep Away From Idols -- 1 John 5:21

Wrapping up our study of the 1st letter of John, we looked at his closing statement.

Keep Away From Idols -- 1 John 5:21

Christ Alone -- Acts 4:11-12

This Reformation Sunday we looked at how salvation is in Christ alone.


Christ Alone -- Acts 4:11-12

I Can Identify

I read this today and have to say I can identify. There are times when it very much seems that I am one of a very small number in our denomination, our Regional Synod, and even our Classis. I know I am not alone, as there are a others in the Classis and I know in the Regional Synod and the Denomination who share these same thoughts and feelings. However, they are scattered about, and that leaves one feeling alone in the wilderness. I echo the thoughts of the author, who points out it is for this reason the Banner of Truth Minister's Conference is so refreshing to me as well. It is a place where I meet other ministers who, although they come from many denominational backgrounds, all share the commitment to the doctrines of grace and the authority and sufficiency of scripture.

Tool Definitions

This made me laugh, because for the most part it is all too true:

DRILL PRESS: A tall upright machine useful for suddenly snatching flat metal bar stock out of your hands so that it smacks you in the chest and flings your beer across the room, denting the freshly-painted part which you had carefully set in the corner where nothing could get to it.

WIRE WHEEL: Cleans paint off bolts and then throws them somewhere under the workbench with the speed of light. Also removes fingerprints and hard-earned calluses from fingers in about the time it takes you to say, ''What the...??''

ELECTRIC HAND DRILL: Normally used for spinning pop rivets in their holes until you die of old age.

SKILL SAW: A portable cutting tool used to make studs too short.

PLIERS: Used to round off bolt heads. Sometimes used in the creation of blood-blisters.

BELT SANDER: An electric sanding tool commonly used to convert minor touch-up jobs into major refinishing jobs.

HACKSAW: One of a family of cutting tools built on the Ouija board principle. It transforms human energy into a crooked, unpredictable motion, and the more you attempt to influence its course, the more dismal your future becomes.

VISE-GRIPS: Generally used after pliers to completely round off bolt heads. If nothing else is available, they can also be used to transfer intense welding heat to the palm of your hand.

WELDING GLOVES: Heavy duty leather gloves used to prolong the conduction of intense welding heat to the palm of your hand.

OXYACETYLENE TORCH: Used almost entirely for lighting various flammable objects in your shop on fire. Also handy for igniting the grease inside the wheel hub you want the bearing race out of.

TABLE SAW: A large stationary power tool commonly used to launch wood projectiles for testing wall integrity.

HYDRAULIC FLOOR JACK: Used for lowering an automobile to the ground after you have installed your new brake shoes, trapping the jack handle firmly under the bumper.

EIGHT-FOOT LONG YELLOW PINE 2X4: Used for levering an automobile upward off of a trapped hydraulic jack handle.

E-Z OUT BOLT AND STUD EXTRACTOR: A tool ten times harder than any known drill bit that snaps neatly off in bolt holes thereby ending any possible future use.

BAND SAW: A large stationary power saw primarily used by most shops to cut good aluminum sheet into smaller pieces that more easily fit into the trash can after you cut on the inside of the line instead of the outside edge.

TWO-TON ENGINE HOIST: A tool for testing the maximum tensile strength of everything you forgot to disconnect.

CRAFTSMAN 1/2 x 24-INCH SCREWDRIVER: A very large pry bar that inexplicably has an accurately machined screwdriver tip on the end opposite the handle.

AVIATION METAL SNIPS: See hacksaw.

PHILLIPS SCREWDRIVER: Normally used to stab the vacuum seals under lids and for opening old-style paper-and-tin oil cans and splashing oil on your shirt; but can also be used, as the name implies, to strip out Phillips screw heads.

STRAIGHT SCREWDRIVER: A tool for opening paint cans. Sometimes used to convert common slotted screws into non-removable screws.

PRY BAR: A tool used to crumple the metal surrounding that clip or bracket you needed to remove in order to replace a 50 cent part.

HOSE CUTTER: A tool used to make hoses too short.

HAMMER: Originally employed as a weapon of war, the hammer nowadays is used as a kind of divining rod to locate the most expensive parts adjacent the object we are trying to hit.

MECHANIC''S KNIFE: Used to open and slice through the contents of cardboard cartons delivered to your front door; works particularly well on contents such as seats, vinyl records, liquids in plastic bottles, collector magazines, refund checks, and rubber or plastic parts. Especially useful for slicing work clothes, but only while wearing them.

DAMMIT TOOL: Any handy tool that you grab and throw across the garage while yelling ''DAMMIT'' at the top of your lungs. It is also, most often, the next tool that you will need.

HT: Dafrogtoad at AstroSafariVans.com

Three Things We Know II -- 1 John 5:18-20

Knowing how Christ has changed those who believe, and what the world is really like is the focus on the second of the things we need to know as believers in Jesus Christ.

Three Things We Know II -- 1 John 5:18-20