You are currently browsing the category archive for the ‘Love’ category.
Knowing that it is time for us to depart and leave those that we love behind, we contemplate what words will suffice in our separation. No doubt the Lord carefully composed his choice of words to speak to his disciples. The theme was clear. He would assure them of his undying love.
One feature of true love is that it is not secretive. Rather, it is just the opposite. Love wants the one who is loved to know that they are loved. At the same time true love is not about words alone. Expression through words is essential. But, it does not end there.
Real love demonstrates itself with clear alignment to the words that were spoken. Love then puts itself on display. Jesus, who is love, spoke the words representing his love for His father and those in the world. Yet, he did much more. He demonstrated his love by his humble service, his ministry through teaching, and ultimately through his voluntary death as the Father had directed. Just floored! Jn13
In my years of enjoying the movies, horror flicks never appealed to me. I’ll even admit to looking away when horror trailers are a prelude to the movie that I pay hard earned money to view. Certainly, I am not going to pay money to voluntarily be scared.
Today is the day after a hard-fought election. The vitriol has been unparalleled in modern history. Certainly, in my long life on earth I have never personally lived through such a contrast of political views.
Spin is the norm. Now, spin is difficult to distinguish from out-right lies. When lies are repeated often and loudly, it is very annoying.
Logic is lost to bias as well. I have read too many arguments that attempt to explain positions, identify groups, dissect biases, and categorize truth. Will our strong preferences erupt into angry violence? I hope not.
My words will not do much to sway opinion, wills, or preferences. But, that is not my objective either. I have a single mandate from the one that I follow. In obedience to that highest calling, I have a singular message of love. Ah!
The weather could not have been more perfect. In the Northwest, when it is not raining, you hold your breath and wonder what the weather is about to do. That day, however, it was an ideal balance of sun, warmth, and breeze; yes, perfect.
Business took me back to my alma mater. I showed up early. It was the perfect scenario for a stroll down memory lane. New buildings stood in places where I only knew woods in the past. But, the old structures that housed my early days as a collegiate were still standing, sporting fresh paint, and reorganized walls.
PV101 is the corner classroom where I was trained in my theology. My systematics were formed right here. This is where it had its genesis. 
Then, there was life in the dormitory. Great friendships that lasted a lifetime found adventure, conversation, laughter, wonderment, and fellowship in those halls. Now, the building houses the offices of a growing faculty and modern classrooms.
Naturally, I headed to the overlook that takes in the Vistas of the Willamette Valley. Many nights on a bench afforded me an audience of One. I prayed and asked God to use me, give me the discernment to see that path 
he wanted me to walk, be stirred with courage to face the troubles with faith, and help as many along the way to find their peace with God, embrace the joy of sharing his love, and satisfaction of serving the body of Christ in the church.
Decades later, the iron rail is rusty, the overlook is crumbling, CLOSED signs surround this overlook, keeping visitors from enjoying the stunning landscape. It evokes memories of many prayers, hopes, and dreams. God has been very good to me through these years and I have been honored to still be in his service.
One last memory was on my checklist. It is a hallway. In the main administration building, my classmates would find ourselves gathering for the favorite meal of the week. It was Sunday afternoon.
After church we would line the hall waiting for the cafeteria to open. Many of my friends were amazing singers. Someone would start a song and our voices and hearts would fill that hall with sounds of praise. I loved those spontaneous concerts. Memories like that are special when they imprint themselves in my mind. Come to think of it, I can still hear the singing.
photos by brucefong photography
The world of academics, especially in higher education, climaxes every year with commencement. Every student, faculty member, staff, administrator, family and friend has this same date circled on their calendar. It is the target date to unleash the greatest celebration and ultimate relief all at the same time.
That special occasion is now over. The pomp or circumstance has been completed. Photos now are in high-capacity review.
Graduates are scattering all around the world. Students have geared up for their summer schedules. Faculty has climbed aboard planes for parts un-known to practice what they teach.
A few of us are left on the grounds of our campus. I walked our empty halls. Quiet classrooms lined my walk like hollow cauldrons hungry for purpose again.
This was a wonderful time of personal reflection. God had given a great year. It was the best year in the history of DTS-Houston.
Our largest graduating class in the history of this extension campus walked across the stage this year. We celebrated 58 graduates from our Houston campus. Three of our graduates were lifted up by the entire DTS faculty with Commencement awards. They were the best among all 400 plus graduates from all of our campuses.
In addition this was our 25th year of operation here in Houston. Since 1993 DTS has had classes offered in the 4th largest city of the nation, the most diverse city in the USA, the home of the largest port of America, site of a world-class medical center, and a theater district with seating second only to New York. We who live here love our city and pray that our small part will be a part of making this city a hub for the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Names and faces and testimonies swirl in my mind. The graduates whose laughter, tears, conversations, sermons, and prayers serve as a cacophony of memories while I wander our empty halls. This will always be a special class from a special year with a force in numbers that may never be rivaled any time soon.
It has been a privilege, an unparalleled honor to have served these delightful souls. Being a part of their journey to answer God’s call on their lives was a treat. I love them all. This is what God has called me to do and I treasure serving in this ministry.
photo by bruce w. fong photography
It’s another “Christian movie.” Uh, oh…is that the “kiss of death”? Descent story with horrible acting, confusing complicated back-stories, odd-ball mini-sermons, low-budget directing, even budget-driven minimal talent on the camera-work unfortunately have been common features of the Christian movie scene for generations. This movie, “I Can Only Imagine,” was very different from those previous religious offerings.
The song has captivated a massive audience since its debut. That fan base was primed for a successful run on the silver screen. Many Christians are cheering on the effort to produce quality movies for this entertainment industry and with this submission were hopeful for something much better.
The true story of Bart Millard’s composition is the backbone of this dramatic presentation. His life story with an abusive father is the riveting narrative that makes this movie so appealing. This movie delivers.
In a memorable dialogue, Bart reveals that it took on ten minutes to write the lyrics and another ten to write the music. Yet, those around him correct him saying that it didn’t take a matter of minutes, it took a lifetime.
Excellent theatrical performance was turned in by Dennis Quaid. He played Bart’s father. Those moments of anger, domination, and abuse were realistic, believable, and heart-wrenching at the same time.
How Bart managed to live through those dark days and discover a passion in life was marked by special people in his life. Some friends, some teachers, and some pastors all had a part in weaving a tapestry that paved the way for the composition of music that would touch millions around the world.
The world of music and the dream to make a living at it is not kind to those who attempt to make that climb into rarefied air. This film makes you feel the details of that “Mercy Me” discouraging journey. Yet, God’s amazing grace through special people is an astounding story to behold.
Forgiveness and the love that paves the way for it to germinate and grow is the message of this film. Through this powerful story you open your memories of your own father, your past struggles through forgiveness, seeing the faces of those who hurt you, and the wonder of God’s grace through it all.
If you go, remember and bring some tissue with you. There must be a lot of dust in the theater that makes your eyes water. That’s so annoying when you are experiencing a solid movie.
It’s a Friday recognized around the nation. In fact this particular Friday is recognized around the world. Nations with very different cultures, certainly with language variations, and economic mixes all acknowledge this special Friday.
Commonly people note that this unique Friday is named, “Good Friday.”
To the uninitiated it is the day that commemorates the day when Jesus Christ died on the cross. He did that so that he could be the sacrifice for the sins of all people at any time. Jesus was not guilty of anything; He had no sin himself.
Yet, the people who lived and ever lived all had sin. Without exception every one is a sinner. That spiritual malady has a consequence. The Bible is clear that “the wages of sin is death”.
Sin disqualifies us from ever entering into the presence of the Father in heaven. To do so means that the price of sin has to be satisfied. Jesus willingly did that for all.
Jesus is the Son of God. He is perfect, sinless. As the perfect lamb, he gave up his life so that our sins would then be paid in full.
He frees us from ever thinking or trying to do good deeds on our own, hoping that those works will earn our way into heaven. Now, if this is true, then what a relief it is! That sacrifice is astounding!
Before you get too excited, however, this is not automatically applied to your eternal account. There is a single simple requisite for us. Each of us, personally, must exercise our faith and accept the gift of Jesus Christ.
The horrible death he died on the cross for the sins of the world was an expression of selfless love. That part of his experience was not “good”. In fact it was horrible, an ignominious death.
However, the fact that it was a gift of love for all, leading to eternal life for any and all who believe, that is what is GOOD. Have you accepted that amazing gift? You can.
Sincerely believe that Jesus died for your sins. Also, accept the fact that he rose again from the dead when the Father directed him to do. Thank him for your salvation.
That is why this day is good. It satisfies God’s wrath against sin. New life through the Resurrection climaxes the Easter season. He is Risen! He is risen INDEED!
photo by bruce w. fong photography
The detour from our normal carpool route home was not much trouble at all. It gave us a respite from the stressful torrential traffic escaping downtown Houston and flowing like an endless flood to our home in Katy. My momentary duty was simply to serve my wonderful bride of 40+ years.
A second grade teacher is always on the look out for “stuff” to enhance the learning experience of these little tykes. Colleagues are constantly sharing discoveries that bring vivaciousness into the classroom. Then it’s off to discover where to acquire the props, visuals, and inter-actives for my lifelong educator soul-mate.
We found the store. It was still open. The Texas cool breeze was kicking up. I zipped up. Then, I opened the car door for my wife. He arm slipped around mine. We huddled against the cooler temperatures and trotted into the store.
She as on casual exploration. Like many teachers, she was into browsing not only for her objective but also ready to pounce on any other curiosity along the way. I was content. That night I was just the chauffeur.
Wandering the aisles was just a time-filler. When I fancied a longer look at something, I did. Often I would just stroll the aisles. The SALE sign, however, drew me close. I didn’t make it that far.
A smile arrested my attention. Automatically, I stopped and turned my head. It wasn’t a mistake. I smiled back.
With gentle hands, I lifted that creature up close to my face. It was the most adorable puppy in the world. Carefully, I turned him around and around. Soft, cuddly, and pleasurable.
Of course, the price tag was missing. I carried my new friend to a salesperson. How much? Let’s check. He was no help. I went back to the display counter and found his twin. The price is the price. Sold!
At the register, the fast-moving clerk paused to hold the puppy and express her feelings, “Awww…” Snapping back into reality, she smiled, complemented our choice, and went back to ringing up our total.
The walk back to the car was my chance. “Here, this little guy is for you.” I passed the cutest puppy in the world to my bride. Her look was delight with wonder. “Just-because” I grinned, “Just because.”
That’s what love its.
Our flight to see our loved ones took the whole day with a stop along the way. But, the anticipation was just too exciting to worry about the weariness of travel. We talked about some of our great memories from past visits. Now, we looked forward to making more.
When our plane touched down, we caught each other beaming with delight. Soon we would cuddle little lives in big grandparent hugs, shower these little ones with love and drink in endless moments of laughter. The rendezvous with our kids vehicle went smoothly but our warm hugs were limited to our son-in-law. Grandchild #1 was sound asleep in his car seat.
Grandparents are not easily disappointed. Instead of raucous hugs, laughs and presents we just gazed at the face of a sleeping angel all the way home. When peepers finally popped open, smiles erupted and the long anticipated hugs flooded the afternoon.
Gifts of toys, new clothes, treats and fun little knickknacks filled our day. Unbounded gratitude from these little lives warmed our hearts. Isn’t it amazing how so much love is generated and shared when so little grown up conversations have been exchanged?
Hugs from these little ones are fabulous. The warmth and unconditional affection melt the well protected hearts of adults who have shielded so much after so much of life has been hard and tough. God has a way of rewarding the perseverance of lives lived in complete devotion to Him.
Soon we were taken by our hands and followed running little feet and our granddaughter was engulfed into the reunion. Celebration took another half step higher. Oh, yeah, our daughter was there too!
Happy Thanksgiving to one and ALL!
Each time God moved me from one ministry to the next I made the same petition through prayer. I asked God to give me a love for the city and direct my steps to encourage others and impact the lives of people. Now, He has had me here in Houston for three years.
Our prayer was the same. When my bride and I drove in from the West, we asked God to give us a love for the city. As time has progressed we are falling in love with Houston more and more.
Each day as I began my hectic schedule I pray again that He would direct my steps to encourage others and impact the lives of people in this fastest growing city in the USA. Over 2,000 people move here every week. The prosperity of the state and the flourishing business climate of Houston attract thousands.
Some of the largest churches in the nation are here in Houston. They span denominational lines as well. When attendance exceeds 2,000 we all stand amazed!
Now, each morning my bride and I make our commute into work. On one of the off ramps we are often greeted with a great view of the Houston skyline. It reminds us to pray for and love this city where so many people reside.
In the greater metropolitan area 6 million people call this city their home. Truly this massive population represents a great field that is white and ready for harvest. The Gospel is not just a fad for people who concentrate on talking, this is a place where the Good News is shared and lived out.
As the sunrise lights up the city, I rehearse my duties. People fill up my calendar. Students, colleagues, visitors and guests are spaced apart from each other’s appointments so that I can give them the attention that their interests deserve.
His brush strokes are colorized, better than the real buildings of colorless concrete and dull building materials. It is as if the Creator is blessing the city with a touch of His creative hand that man cannot come close to matching on his own. That contrast is fine by me.
A new beauty is ready to bloom in our city. When the Father decides to bless our city with a special touch of His gracious hand, Houston will forever be changed. Lives will take a new eternal course and the new life in their hearts will spread to family, friends and colleagues all because of love.
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
February 19 is the start of this year’s Chinese New Year. Of course everything really unleashes on New Year’s Eve, Wednesday February 18. The firecrackers and lion dances will signal the beginning of the biggest party of the year.
This is the most important celebration for Chinese families in China and in countries dispersed all around the world. For many in countries where it is recognized, workers enjoy 8 days off of work. In the western calendar the dates are February 19 to March 5.
Officially work stops for the first three days of the Spring Festival. However, practice has evolved into including New Year’s Eve and the following three days as well. Naturally, the following or closest weekends are included.
Central to the festivities is a family time with relatives and the closest of friends. This is the holiday when families convene for a feast and reunion. Multi-generational gatherings are the standard.
It is the year of the goat. Do not laugh. The goat is highly regarded among the Chinese, especially ancient Chinese.
This 8th animal from the Chinese Zodiac embodies many wonderful qualities. Those who are born in the year of the goat are calm, gentle, creative, thoughtful, amicable, persevering, frank and honest. It is suggested that being born in the year of the goat makes someone most suitable to become pediatrician, actor, teacher, interior designer, musicians and editors.
It is also speculated that these persons are tough on the inside, quiet yet powerful in performance. While they enjoy quality in the things that they buy they are by no means snobbish or ego-centric. In fact they are often withdrawn, lost deep in thought.
While there are over 4,000 years behind this tradition, the pathway to real life solutions is not found in country or position. Earthly wealth is not the key and certainly a life warding off evil spirits leaves a lot to be desired for any kind of personally satisfaction. Yet, the attempts over the 4,000 years of this celebration reveal a telltale sign.
Everyone wants hope. But, this appetite is not found in superstition or good luck charms. Instead, real hope can be found in the Lord Jesus Christ.
He is real while so much of the Chinese New Year Celebration is built on human imagination. Jesus Christ died for our sins and rose again so that He could show His victory over death. Put your faith in Him. Accept Him as your Savior and you will be blessed. That will be a real reason to celebrate for eternity.
photo credit: brucefong photography
Bruce Fong's Blog 