The Plumbline

"In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy."    (William Blake)   Make our sons in their prime like sturdy oak trees, Our daughters as shapely and bright as fields of wildflowers. Fill our barns with great harvest, fill our fields with huge flocks; Protect us from invasion and exile—eliminate the crime in our streets.  How blessed the people who have all this! How blessed the people who have God for God! (Psalm 144:12-15 MSG) As I considered a prayer for our land this beginning of a new year, I came across this passage and could not overlook the significance of it as we consider the state of our land's governing officials, those making a living in our work places, and the many who struggle to find some meaning to life in our homes everywhere. A more meaningful prayer could not be prayed! Make our sons in their prime like sturdy oak trees... The oak tree is considered one of the very sturdiest of trees, g...

Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an  indispensable  weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out. (Ephesians 6:13-18 MSG) Isn't "be prepared" the motto of scouts everywhere? The concept of "be prepared" as described by the scouting founder, Robert Baden-Powell, indicates a "readiness" of both mind and body to do anything you are called upon to do. I'd like to add that Paul's advice to us in this passage goes beyond mind and body to spirit, as well. God ma...