Time gets away from me. I cannot believe it has been so long since I posted. I have been super tired lately, and that coupled with our first weeks of school have not boded well for my blog. Bear with me :)
It is 10:20 a.m. on our second day of school; and I finally have everyone sitting down and diligently addressing their Bible assignments. Wow! What a different morning this has been...
Aug. 25, 2008 - Mondays On Mothering -- First Day of School
Mondays on Mothering
First Day of School
We had a fantastic first day back! Well, I should clarify. We had a fantastic morning, and a terrific afternoon. Right about 3 p.m., everyone fell apart and started fighting, but I am not counting that as part of our first day of school. So we did have a fantastic first day!
After opening our new school supplies, which I set out the night before at each place, we started our day with Bible. Then, various children did Math, Grammar, and Handwriting. Finally, we completed our traditional back-to-school project. Each year, on our first day we compile a notebook of our best work from the previous year. Each child gets to pick two or three pages or drawings from each subject, and then we three-hole punch them and put them in a binder. Each person then draws their own cover. We have a great time reminiscing as we put our notebooks together! This year, my little two year old insisted on designing a cover and putting papers into a notebook even though he didn't have any work from last year -- What a cutie! After this, I suggested that my children go take a break and then we would finish up with lunch and Science.
Guess what they decided to do on their break? Listen to an audio book!
I love those moments! My children spent three lovely hours listening to someone else read aloud, while I worked on my new website (under construction) and the launch of my book -- about using audio books in your homeschool! How ironic is that? We never even got back around to Science (we did break for lunch!) unless you count the fact the audio book was science related.. which I do.
To post a Mondays On Mothering blog, follow these steps:
1. Write a blog post about something you love about mothering. Include a link back to my blog so others can find all Mondays On Mothering posts.
2. If you want to use my graphic; click here for the code.
3. Come to my blog, and sign the Mr. Linky on my current Mondays On Mothering post.
4. Visit the other Mondays On Mothering posts, and be encouraged. As Canada Girl always says, the best way to get a comment is to leave a comment!
Aug. 18, 2008 - Mondays On Mothering -- Seeing My Parents With My Children
Mondays On Mothering
Seeing My Parents With My Children
I can still remember the first time I watched my father rock a baby to sleep. I must have been fourteen or fifteen, as my nephew was born in January and I turned 15 in August. Sometime during that first year, we were babysitting the little fellow (hi Justin!) and we could not get him to settle down. I tried, my Mom tried, my Grandma tried (she lived with us then). Nothing worked. Finally my Dad took him to the old rocking chair and just rocked until he fell asleep. Do you remember that Dad? I remember thinking, WOW! My Dad can hold babies!!! Being the next to youngest child in our family of seven, I had never seen my parents really interact with little children before that time. Fast forward ten years or so, to the time my Dad held my baby for the first time. I also still remember watching my father-in-law pace around our tiny townhouse with my tiny, colicky daughter, crooning a song as the rest of us desperately tried to block the sound of her wailing and get some rest. I think he paced for hours! I know she cried for hours. How I wish I had pictures of those moments. What a difference ten years can make in a life!
Recently, my children were privileged to ride the tractor with Papaw, disc the corn, and even ride around the neighborhood.
My children also spent a lot of time in the garden, picking corn and tomatoes, and digging potatoes, and my son even even helped plant beans. For my suburban children, this was sheer delight. In fact, my seven year old son expressed disappointment that we did not come at the right time to help break beans! Oh how I hated breaking beans when I was growing up! At any rate, it is always fun to observe my parents and my husband's parents as grandparents in action. Definitely, these are precious moments in my mothering days.
What do you love about mothering? What can you share that might encourage other Mom's to take joy in the moment?
To post a Mondays On Mothering blog, follow these steps:
1. Write a blog post about something you love about mothering. Include a link back to my blog so others can find all Mondays On Mothering posts.
2. If you want to use my graphic; click here for the code.
3. Come to my blog, and sign the Mr. Linky on my current Mondays On Mothering post.
4. Visit the other Mondays On Mothering posts, and be encouraged. As Canada Girl always says, the best way to get a comment is to leave a comment!
I have several of Lisa's books, and we love them! And, Laura's illustrations are always fantastic. These are great children's picture books. Enjoy!
WaterBrook Press (August 19, 2008)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Lisa Tawn Bergren is the award-winning author of nearly thirty titles, totaling more than one million books in print. She writes in a broad range of genres, from adult fiction to devotional. God Gave Us Heaven is Lisa’s fourth children’s book, following in the tradition of the best-selling God Gave Us You. She makes her home in Colorado, with her husband, Tim, and their children, Olivia, Emma, and Jack.
Laura J. Bryant studied painting, printmaking, and sculpture at the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore. She has illustrated numerous award-winning children’s books, including God Gave Us You, Smudge Bunny, and If You Were My Baby. Laura lives in Asheville, North Carolina.
Aug. 15, 2008 - Book Review -- I'm Not Crazy, But I Might Be A Carrier
If you need a good laugh, check this out!
It's the 15th, time for the Non~FIRST blog tour!(Join our alliance! Click the button!) Every 15th, we will featuring an author and his/her latest non~fiction book's FIRST chapter!
Charles Marshall began his career onstage as a singer/songwriter. When his singing voice gave out, he turned to stand-up comedy and was much more successful. He is now a nationally syndicated Christian humor columnist and has contributed to Focus on the Family magazine. He is the author of Shattering the Glass Slipper: Destroying Fairy Tale Thinking Before It Destroys You and has filmed two stand-up comedy videos, I'm Just Sayin' and Fully Animated.
Product Details
List Price: $12.99 Paperback: 144 pages Publisher: Kregel Publications (April 17, 2008) Language: English ISBN-10: 082543419X ISBN-13: 978-0825434198
AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:
Chapter 1 Going to the Dogs
My wife and I have been thinking about getting a dog, lately, and discussing what type we might get. For me, there is really only one possibility—and that, of course, is a real dog.
For the uninitiated, there are three basic types of dogs:
1] Real dogs. These are dogs as God originally made them—monstrous, made-for-the-outdoors hunting machines that are perfect for intimidating neighbors and attracting lawsuits.
The ownership rule for guys and dogs is simple: the bigger the dog, the cooler you look. Walk down the street with a Pekingese and you might as well be wearing a tutu.
When you observe a man walking down the street with a massive real-dog, his message to you is clear. “Yes, I’m overcompensating for my insecurities and lack of masculinity but I’ve got a really big dog.”
Now that’s the kind of attitude I can get behind.
2] Mutant rat-dogs, otherwise known as Chihuahuas. These poor creatures are the unintentional result of secret experiments conducted by the Mexican army in a failed attempt to create the ultimate weapon by cross-breeding bats and Great Danes. The only surviving result of these experiments is a group of nervous, angry little rat-dogs that decided to take their revenge on humanity by being annoying on just about every level known to mankind.
If you are approached by one of these aberrations of nature, know that it despises you with a hatred rarely seen outside the Middle East, and that it won’t hesitate to tear your ankles to shreds. These dogs are the piranhas of the canine world and would nuke
mankind tomorrow if they thought they could get away with it. Under no circumstance should one of these animals be allowed to run for public office.
3] Kitty-dogs, which is every kind of dog that does not fall into one of the first two categories. I’m all in favor of this type of dog because, hey, girls have to have dogs, too.
The curse of the kitty-dog is that there are those who take a warped delight in dressing them up like people. Most dogs would rather be subjected to Mexican weapons experiments than go through this type of torture.
I cannot say this in strong enough terms: You should never, ever dress up your dog for any reason whatsoever. Take it from me—even if it were thirty below outside, your dog would rather die with dignity in his own fur coat than live while being seen in a little poochie parka.
If you dress your dog, you need to know two things:
1] The rest of us are making fun of you behind your back.
2] Every day your dog prays for a heaven where he gets to dress you up in humiliating costumes while he and his doggie friends point at you and laugh for all eternity.
If you feel you absolutely must dress an animal, go dress one that at least has a chance of defending itself like a cougar or a wolverine or a Chihuahua.
One of the most amazing things about the three dog types is that for every one of them, there is someone that likes that kind of dog. At this very moment, there are people risking the loss of fingers and eyes while they stroke their vicious little rat-dogs, all for the sake of love.
That’s a mysterious kind of love, isn’t it—the kind that embraces the unlovely, that sees through the imperfect and loves without regard?
Let’s face it, the human heart isn’t very attractive either. Every thought we have is consumed with self. If you peel away the layers of even our most noble deeds and acts of kindness, you will find thoughts that circle back to ourselves like homing pigeons. In our hearts, we are all mutant rat-dogs.
And yet God loves us.
In the Bible, you find that same theme of an indefatigable, undefeatable love reaching out to a vicious, ungrateful humanity over and over again. I’ve found it’s a love well worth pursuing.
And so the great dog debate rages in my household, and I think my wife is coming around to my point of view. But, if by chance, you happen to see me in the neighborhood walking a Pekingese that is wearing a teeny hat and sundress, you may safely assume things did not go my way.
I was recently invited to complete a review of the new digital edition of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine. I even get to give away a subscription! If you have been wondering whether or not the digital edition was worth it or not; hopefully this review will help you make an informed decision. I will tell you what's included, what I like, and what I don't like.
What's Included:
Digital images of every page of the regular magazine are viewable on your computer. These digital images come with a very nice reading device, and you can even print pages if you like. The price for the digital edition of this magazine is $16.95 for one year. The price for a print magazine is $25 for one year.
What I like:
Price: At $16.95 per year; this is a significant savings over the print magazine.
Content: I have always loved the content of this magazine, the articles are great, and even the advertisements are helpful! This is probably the only magazine where I actually study the advertisements.
Design: The magazine is beautifully designed and printed, making it a joy to read.
What I Don't Like:
Readability: I have a very difficult time actually reading the pages of the magazine in digital form.
Portability: You do actually have to have internet connection to view your digital magazine, so if you are wanting to have the magazine with you wherever you take your computer, be aware.
My bottom line? I really love having the printed magazine. it's beautifully printed, and I just love sitting down to read something that isn't on a computer screen! I subscribed to the digital edition originally when my print subscription ended (to save money), and within one month I had also renewed my print subscription -- costing me more money in the end! I can see the functionality of having a digital edition, but it just wasn't a good fit for me.
If you want to win your own digital subscription, please be sure to leave a comment with your name and e-mail address!
If you are like me, you have been wondering what all the hype is about the new Schoolhouse Planner. What exactly is it? Is it really worth $39? Could this be the answer to my organizational nightmare? I have been very curious about this planner, but I wasn't interested in shelling out $39 to find out exactly what it was. I recently had the chance to look this planner over; and I decided to fill you in on the details; so that you can be an informed consumer! I'll let you know what's included, what I liked, and what I didn't like. If you already have the planner, maybe you can tell us your opinion as well!
Product Details -- What's Included.
The total number of pages is 247. After the cover page, the copyright page, four pages of Table Of Contents, a 2008 calendar page, and a 2009 calendar, the monthly pages begin. Each month includes a calendar on two facing pages, an advertising page with a list of appropriate resources from The Old Schoolhouse Store, an article from a well known homeschool author, two recipes, and a reference page such as a timeline of inventors, a list of classical music composers with dates, a chart of kitchen conversions, a measurement conversion chart, countries and their capitals, U.S. states and their capitals, a transcript of the U.S. Constitution, and etc. After the monthly section comes a section of homeschool forms. About forty forms in this section include such things as weekly planning logs, progress charts, test logs, grade logs, reading logs, audio/video logs, teacher continuing education log, field trip records, extracurricular activity records, curriculum planning logs, curriculum key charts, vendor/website logs, Scripture memory log, nature journal forms, unit study record sheets, unschooling record sheets, annual planning sheets, goal sheets, and etc. Next is a section of household forms. This section includes about 30 forms, including one for important phone numbers, babysitter form, family health information, homekeeping monthly records, homekeeping weekly records, daily schedule, grocery list, weekly menu planners, weekly shopping list, food inventory, daily chore sheets, family chore chart, budget form, personal finance inventory, gift wish list, gift budget, prayer journal, Bible reading schedule, dates to remember, garden planning checklist, garden notes, vacation plans, address book, a section for extra notes and etc. I think this will give you a good idea of what comes in your planner, even though I didn't list every single item.
What I Liked:
Color: I really enjoy the color and design of this planner. The simple schoolhouse themes runs throughout the planner, with pretty burgundy colors, and "chalk" fonts, for the calendar pages; yet simple plain fonts for the forms pages. The background watermark of each page is a brick one room schoolhouse, which might also be a home.
Type It In Feature: I thought it was very cool that you could type information on any of the calendar pages or the forms and print your pages already filled out. Very nice touch.
Encouraging Articles: I think it would be very fun to open your planner to a certain month and find a new encouraging article to read.
Variety of Planning Forms: I thought the forms section in the back was really deep. Lots of unique forms, yet plenty of the standard necessities too.
What I Didn't Like:
Price: Even after viewing this calendar and playing with it for quite a while; I am still not convinced of the price. $39 is pretty high. I understand it has 247 pages; but some of these pages, like the United States Constitution for example, are completely unnecessary. A decently designed pre-printed planner will only cost about $20.
Lack of Weekly Dated Pages: For my $20, I always buy a planner with dated weekly pages. It's what I want. I cannot fit all of our events onto a monthly calendar, and I hate writing in the dates for a whole year so I end up not using that option.
Advertising Pages: I really do not want to see twelve pages of blatant marketing in my planner. One page of marketing would have been sufficient and even appropriate. Twelve pages is a little bit much.
There you have it! I hope these details will help you make an informed decision the next time you seen an advertisement for the new Schoolhouse Planner.
Please note that no affiliate links are included with this review!
I recently had the privilege of listening to this new audio seminar by Cindy Carrier. My own experience with depression during and after pregnancy has made me especially sensitive to the timeliness of this message for Christian women. If you have ever struggled with depression or know someone else who has struggled with depression you will benefit from Cindy's gentle, affirming and Biblical approach.
Here is one quote from the recording which jumped out at me.
"What I have found so self-defeating about depression is the fact that it is near-impossible to separate my thoughts and feelings from my spirit. While I have wanted to think and behave in certain ways, I have been powerfully bound by my flesh in this area. But as Hebrews 4:12 tells us, "the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow, it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Staying in the Word, and speaking the Word is certainly one of the keys to victory, because it shifts our attention from ourselves to God."
Wow! I can very much identify with the statement Cindy makes a bit later; that often in the midst of depression we are meditating on thoughts that are clearly wrong instead of meditating on Scripture. I can remember the negative thoughts that circled my head during my third pregnancy, and they were not God-honoring. What a simple idea, to fill our minds and hearts with Scripture. Not chanting Scripture as I believe that crosses a line towards the philosophies of evil religions -- but focusing our hearts and minds on God's Word through Scripture memory, and spoken Scripture in defense against sinful thinking.
Did you know that Satan cannot hear our thoughts? He can influence our thoughts, and even suggest thoughts, but he cannot hear our thoughts. That is why I believe it is important at times to speak out loud our defense against the temptation to think negative thoughts, as Christ did during His temptation -- causing Satan to flee.
Even though I am not currently dealing with depression, listening to this audio has reminded me once again of the importance of filling myself, my heart, my mind with Scripture through daily reading and memorization and also helping my children create the habits of reading and memorization at the same time so that we are prepared when times of trial come.
Thank you Cindy, for your timely message, and your willingness to be transparent in this area and reach out to women with help and comfort.
Aug. 12, 2008 - Book Review -- The Jewel of Gresham Green By Lawana Blackwell
The Jewel of Gresham Green by Lawana Blackwell is a fun light read, I will enjoy the sequels very much. I find myself very interested in the characters, and especially look forward to the romance sure to develop in the life of the quiet writer Aleda.
Aug. 11, 2008 - Mondays On Mothering -- Sweet Chaos
Have you ever just looked around you and wondered how in the world so few children can make so much noise and mess? Today was such a day in our household. On days like today, I have to just take a deep breath and remind myself that in 20 years, my husband and I will be missing this chaos -- sweet chaos made by precious gifts from God. Hopefully, we will be close enough to invite the grandkids over frequently!
What do you love about mothering? Please share a post with us.
To post a Mondays On Mothering blog, follow these steps:
1. Write a blog post about something you love about mothering. Include a link back to my blog so others can find all Mondays On Mothering posts.
2. If you want to use my graphic; click here for the code.
3. Come to my blog, and sign the Mr. Linky on my current Mondays On Mothering post.
4. Visit the other Mondays On Mothering posts, and be encouraged. As Canada Girl always says, the best way to get a comment is to leave a comment!
Aug. 6, 2008 - Book Review -- New Birth or Rebirth by Ravi Zaccarias
We recommend all of Ravi Zaccarias' books, as he is an amazing Christian apologeticist. His books offer a clear, logical defense of the Christian faith. We also enjoy listening to his podcast!
Richard: Subra—look out! That car is coming straight at us!
Subramaniam: Relax, my friend. This is how people here drive all the time.
Richard: Ooooh! Here comes another one—watch out! Is that guy drunk or something?
Subra: Just hang on. We will be there shortly.
Richard: I thought this was a divided highway… Where did all these cars come from all of a sudden? There are more coming!
Subra: It is a divided highway. I’m sure that guy is just dropping off workers who live on this side of the village. To drive another several kilometers to turn around is a waste of money and time. You see, in England they drive on the left, in America on the right. But here in India we drive in the shade…or wherever else is convenient.
Richard: I don’t believe it! I simply don’t believe it! This could kill a fellow…
Subra: [Laughing] Now you know why we don’t need a Disneyland in India. Driving provides all the scary rides we could ever want. What were we talking about a few minutes ago anyway?
Richard: Uh…let me unclench my fists first. You were telling me about your background. It’s hard to pray and listen at the same time, but I’ll try. Please carry on with what you were saying…
Subra: Ah yes, now I remember. It was the hardest thing I ever did, Richard—to question what was so deeply ingrained in my family’s faith. Everything in my family was built around our faith. On the most important day of my childhood, it was hard to see my mother absent from the ceremony.
Richard: The most important day of your childhood? I think in such Western terms that I hesitate to even ask what you mean. What day are you talking about? You certainly don’t mean the day you were
born.
Subra: Well almost, but not quite. Let me explain…
As you know, society in India is built on the caste system. There are four main castes: Brahmans (priests); Kshatriyas (warriors); Vaisyas (merchants); and Sudras (servants). Beyond these four castes is actually a fifth, the Panchamas, the outcasts.
Aug. 4, 2008 - Mondays On Mothering -- Take Me Out To The Ballgame
We are having a great time while we are on vacation! Tonight, we went to see the Columbus Clippers play baseball. My nine year old is the only one that remembers going to a game before; and she was pretty excited. She was singing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when we got up this morning and several times throughout the day. We did not stay for the whole game, as we left around 9 p.m. for home and bed... Still we had tons of fun! It was Dime A Dog night, so we had hotdogs, nachos, and sodas; and then shared peanuts and cotton candy with my sisters and their kids. I love taking my kids for special treats that we don't normally enjoy, its so fun to see how they make simple things special in their minds. Tomorrow night, we are going to enjoy Kids Eat Free night at a local restaurant, and then Wednesday we will head home to Daddy and our own beds.
What do you love about mothering? Please share a post with us.
To post a Mondays On Mothering blog, follow these steps:
1. Write a blog post about something you love about mothering. Include a link back to my blog so others can find all Mondays On Mothering posts.
2. If you want to use my graphic; click here for the code.
3. Come to my blog, and sign the Mr. Linky on my current Mondays On Mothering post.
4. Visit the other Mondays On Mothering posts, and be encouraged. As Canada Girl always says, the best way to get a comment is to leave a comment!
Please help me name my new book with a great, catchy interesting title that says everything it needs to say.
I had originally titled my book Turning It Up A Notch! Using Audio Files in Your Homeschool. However, my editor stated to me that her first thought was "Oh, no! That is exactly what I do NOT need!" Because the title conveys volume :).
So, I would like to come up with a title without negative connotations; which still conveys the idea of benefitting from audio books. Some suggestions have been:
Turn Learning Up A Notch (Using Audio Files in Your Homeschool)
Listening to Learn (Using Audio Files in Your Homeschool)
What else can you think of? Please leave me a comment and brainstorm with me!!!! Tell me what you think.
Romancing Hollywood Nobody is a fun book written for teens. While difficult topics such as drug use are mentioned, they are addressed in a serious and non-supportive way. I would find this book and it's series entirely appropriate for my Jr. High or High School daughter. I have been thoroughly enjoying this series.
By the way, the main character is homeschooled. Not sure I have mentioned this before.
Jul. 30, 2008 - Great Special from Money Saving Mom
I just found out about a one day special Crystal Paine is holding on all of her e-books. You can buy all of her ebooks and audio recordings for just $5.97! That's over $100 in products, and you get all fifteen items for that one price. I am pretty impressed with Crystal and what she has been able to accomplish in the last year on her Biblical Womanhood and Money Saving Mom websites. I hope you will head over and check out her sale: Click Here!
Jul. 30, 2008 - Book Review -- The Falcon and The Sparrow
The Falcon and The Sparrow is a fairly typical Christian romance. Destitute governess overcomes widowed father's anger and ill-treatment of his child, and they fall in love. While it was a fun and easy read, it was also predictable.
I cannot believe it is Friday already! I had blog posts for each day this week, but time just got away from me. I am sure you can't possibly relate . Anyway, we are headed out today for a two week vacation visiting relatives in Indiana and Ohio. The trip promises to be fun, although I am sure I will be missing my husband.
Hope you are all having a great Friday!
If I find time later today, I will add a show and tell Friday and share pictures of our Gluten Free pizza...
Jul. 21, 2008 - Mondays On Mothering -- The Endless Why
I have had little ones who asked why before. I am on my fourth toddler; so you might think I have experienced the endless why before. I vaguely remember my oldest going through a "why" phase. I honestly don't think my two middle children ever did. Maybe they pestered my oldest! My current two year old has perfected The Endless Why. Every answer receives another why! It just goes on and on; and he is only two. Can I tell you a secret though? I love those whys! I really do. I have purposed in my heart that I am going to enjoy this little one. He may very well be my last baby, my last toddler; and I am trying more then ever to savor every moment. I'm not saying I never get frustrated after fifteenth why in a row; but I am trying to be characterized as the Mom who willingly gives answers with a smile. Maybe two months from now I will be singing a different tune :). For now, I am enjoying these whys while they last.
What do you love about mothering your children? Whatever it is, I hope you will share something this week. Monday is a great time to focus on the joys of mothering don't you think?
To post a Mondays On Mothering blog, follow these steps:
1. Write a blog post about something you love about mothering. Include a link back to my blog so others can find all Mondays On Mothering posts.
2. If you want to use my graphic; click here for the code.
3. Come to my blog, and sign the Mr. Linky on my current Mondays On Mothering post.
4. Visit the other Mondays On Mothering posts, and be encouraged. As Canada Girl always says, the best way to get a comment is to leave a comment!
If you are in the Northeast area of the country, you might want to check out Harris Teeter this week.
Kraft Dressing (8 oz) is Buy 1 Get TWO Free! If you have three of the $1 off of 2 coupons from a recent paper; you can buy six dressings for only 10 cents per jar!!! That's a price worth stocking up on. Kraft Barbecue sauce is also Buy 1 Get TWO free; but I didn't have coupons for that. Toaster Strudels, also Buy 1 Get TWO free, are about 59 cents per box if you the $1 off 2 coupon and buy six using three coupons. (even though four are free, you can use the coupons...)
Jul. 15, 2008 - Tightwad Tuesday! -- Free Kids Meals at California Tortilla
For those in the North East part of the United States, today only (July 15, 2008) you can get two free kids meals with the purchase of one adult meal at California Tortilla restaurants.
Also, Pepsi brand soda is on sale 4 12 packs for $10 in my area at Giant. Be sure to stock up, if you missed the 4th of July sales. The next time we can expect 5 for $10 will be around Labor Day.
Harvest House Publishers (March 1, 2008)
List Price: $12.99
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (March 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736921222
ISBN-13: 978-0736921220
AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:
Christianity:
Whatís the Big Deal About Jesus?
ìChristianity is good for you, but itís not right for me. I think you ought to believe whatever makes you happy and gives you peace.î
ìChristianity is the ërightí religionóisnít that being naive?î
The label Christianity covers a broad range of people today. While over 2.1 billion people are statistically considered followers of Jesus Christ, polls by religious researcher George Barna have observed that only four percent of American Christians hold to a biblical worldview (that is, beliefs consistent with the Bibleís teachings), and just 51 percent of Christian clergy hold to such a view. As a result, even many who call themselves Christians have agreed with the quotes that appear above, asking if it is perhaps naÔve to claim Christianity is the only way to God.
However, the above quotes are inconsistent with Christianityís origins and founder. In this chapter weíll briefly review how Christianity began, consider its early beliefs, introduce its founder, and investigate the reliability of the New Testament, which is part of the Bible.
A Firm Foundation
All of Christianity is built around one basic belief: the resurrection of its founder, Jesus of Nazareth. On Passover Friday around A.D. 30, Jesus was executed on a Roman cross on the accusation of conspiracy against the government. The Sanhedrin (Jewish leaders) had insisted that the Roman leader Pilate condemn Jesus, though Pilate had not found him guilty of any crimes worthy of death. After the crucifixion, death, and burial of Jesus in a tomb, the body disappeared three days later. Immediately this was followed by many ìJesus sightingsî reported over the next 40 days. A social revolution began ten days later in Jerusalem, Israel, as over 3000 people joined the movement after a street message given by the apostle Peter (Acts 2). Christianity was off and running, and has been growing ever since.
Oxford University theologian Dr. Alister McGrath has noted,
The identity of Christianity is inextricably linked with the uniqueness of Christ, which is in turn grounded in the Resurrection and Incarnation.
How do we know Jesus came back to life? First, the 27 books of the New Testament are based upon this one eventóthe resurrection of Jesus. Despite the attacks of many, the writings of Christianity have been shown to have emerged during the first century with the courageous message that Jesus, a man executed by the government, was alive. This carried many implications about his life and death and beyond. What other motive did these writers have except that they truly believed all this had occurred?
In addition, many individuals of that day claimed to have encountered Jesus after his death. According to the Gospel writers and the missionary Paul, Jesus appeared a total of at least 12 times after his return from death:
The Post-Resurrection Appearances of Jesus Christ
# Sighting Source
1. Mary Magdalene--Mark 16:9; John 20:11-18
2. Women returning from the tomb--Matthew 28:9-10
3. Two men walking to Emmaus--Mark 16:12-13; Luke 24:13-32
4. Peter--Luke 24:34; 1 Corinthians 15:5
5. 10 disciples; two men from Emmaus--Luke 24:36-43; John 20:19-23
6. 11 disciples (including Thomas)--John 20:24-29
7. 7 disciples--John 21:1-24
8. 500 people at one time--1 Corinthians 15:6
9. James, the half-brother of Jesus--1 Corinthians 15:7
10. 11 disciples Matthew 28:16-20
11. 11 disciples before Jesus returned to heaven--Luke 24:50-53
12. Paul-- Acts 9:3-6; 1 Corinthians 15:8
In just one of these sightings, over 500 people claimed to see Jesus alive after his death. Did you know that if each of those 500 people were to testify in court for only six minutes, including time for cross-examination, we would have an amazing 50 hours of firsthand testimony? Few other events from over 2000 years ago find this level of support. None offer the number of witnesses the resurrection does for a supernatural event.
Further, the changed lives of the early followers of Jesus supported their report that Jesus was alive. All but one of Jesusí 11 followers died for his belief in the resurrection of Jesus. Hundredsóif not thousandsóof other Christians suffered or died within the first century of Christianity for their beliefs as well. The killing of the first Christian martyr, Stephen, led to the persecution of the Jerusalem church, which eventually forced many Christians to flee the area for safety.
ìCould you convince thousands of people in our own day that President Kennedy had resurrected from the dead? Thereís no wayÖunless it really happened.î
The amazing phenomenon of Christianityís growth also stands as a powerful testimony that this faith is based on a supernatural resurrection. How could a crucified Jew (Jesus), former tax collector (Matthew), Jesus-hater (Paul), and small town fishermen (including Peter) establish a movement that has resulted in the largest religion on Earth? How could this happen?
When Christianity began, the Roman Empire was the greatest government of the time. Yet 300 years later, the Roman Empire had crumbled, and Christianity was continuing to grow. This, in spite of its humble beginning as a grassroots network of individuals who witnessed that Jesus had come back to life. Even though the proclamation of Jesusí teachings produced persecution of the greatest kind, Christianity continued to spread across the Roman Empireóall the way to the palace of Caesar in Rome, the worldís political and social capital.
Christianity 101
So Christianity originated from a group of Jesus-followers who spread the message that they had personally witnessed his three years of teaching and miracles, watched him die on a cross, and then personally met, saw, talked to, ate with, and received instructions from him after his resurrection from the dead. But what are the core beliefs of Christianity? There are six central elements of
traditional Christianity.
First, there is the common understanding of Jews and Christians that there is only one true Godówho is infi nite, holy, loving, just, and true. In addition, Christians believe that in the nature (presence) of the one true God there exists three personsóFather, Son, and Holy Spirit. Christianity does not believe in three gods, but one. As Dr. Norman Geisler, bestselling author and cofounder of Southern Evangelical Seminary, has written,
The Trinity is not the belief that God is three personas and only one person at the same time and in the same sense. That would be a contradiction. Rather, it is the belief that there are three persons in one nature. This may be a mystery, but it is not a contradiction. That is, it may go beyond reasonís ability to comprehend completely, but it does not go against reasonís ability to apprehend consistently.
Further, the Trinity is not the belief that there are three natures in one nature or three essences in one essence. That would be a contradiction. Rather, Christians affirm that there are three persons in one essenceÖHe is one in the sense of his essence but many in the sense of his persons. So there is no violation of the law of noncontradiction in the doctrine of the Trinity.
Traditional Christianity also accepts the 66 books of the Holy Bible as revelation from God, perfect and authoritative for all spiritual matters. While Roman Catholicism accepts the additional authority of the pope and church tradition, and Eastern Orthodoxy accepts church tradition as equal in authority to the Bible, the earliest traditional Christianity and later Protestant Christianity have been based solely on Godís written revelation through his apostles and prophets.
Third, Christians believe every person who has ever lived (with the exception of Jesus Christ) has been born a sinner separated from God. It is our sin nature that keeps us from knowing and experiencing God and creates a need for reconciliation through a means only God can provide.
Fourth, in his infinite love, God has provided the solution to the barrier between himself and humanity through Jesus Christ. The Bible teaches that the death of Jesus provides payment for our sins, and on the basis of our believing, he is our sinbearer and he will forgive us the moment we believe. All this is confirmed by Jesusí resurrection from the deadóhe has paid the penalty for sin and conquered death. In this way God offers a basis for a person to place his or her faith in Christ and to enter into a personal relationship with Jesus, in which he enters your life and you walk through life with his power and guidance.
Fifth, this rescue or salvation God offers through Jesus is based solely on what God has done rather than on what people do. In other words, salvation is a free gift based on Godís grace to us (unearned favor) rather than good works or deeds we can accomplish, though these will accompany a person once he or she becomes a Christian. One of the major points of contention during the Protestant Reformation resulted from the Roman Catholic Churchís unbiblical teaching
that Godís grace consists of humans cooperating with Godís grace to merit salvation, rather than receiving salvation in full as a gift on the basis of faith alone the moment a person believes.
Sixth, Christians believe in an eternal afterlife. God allows individuals the ability to choose or reject him, and after death, that decision is final. Those who have chosen to believe in Jesus will enjoy eternity with him in heaven, while those who decline will spend eternity in hell, separated from God. God will accept every personís decision and not force him or her to change their mind. While all this may sound politically incorrect in our culture, it has stood as an essential component of Christian teaching from the earliest times. The choice we make here on earth will have eternal consequences.
Jesus: Founder and CEO of Christianity
Christian philosopher Dr. C. Stephen Evans points out that ìit is an essential part of Christian faith that Jesus is God in a unique and exclusive way. It follows from this that all religions [that disagree] cannot be equally true.î7 Again, if different religions teach contradictory things about who God is, salvation, the afterlife, and
even Jesus, then one or another could be true, but they canít all be true at the same time. What are the big super-signs that help us decide which religion is true? According to biblical Christianity, if Jesus claimed to be God and proved his claim by his resurrection, then he is God and Christianity is true. No other religious leader in history has claimed to be God and risen from the dead.
Further, there are at least seven concepts Jesus taught about himself that stand unique to Christianity. First, Jesus communicated that he fulfi lled biblical prophecy, given hundreds of years in advance, that he was the promised Messiah. He repeatedly claimed to be the person that Godís Messiah was predicted to be, and many scholars have created extensive lists of these prophetic connections. Here are some examples of prophecies Jesus fulfilled:
Preceded by a messenger-- Isaiah 40:3-- Matthew 3:1-2
Rejected by his own people-- Isaiah 53:3-- John 7:5; 7:48
Betrayed by a close friend-- Isaiah 41:9-- John 13:26-30
His side pierced-- Zechariah 12:10-- John 19:34
His death by crucifixion-- Psalm 22:1,11-18-- Luke 23:33; John 19:23-24
His resurrection-- Psalm 16:10-- Acts 13:34-37
Second, Jesus stands as a unique, unparalleled individual among the leaders of various world religions. He made predictions about the future that could only be made by someone who claimed to be God. Further, he noted in advance several of the things that would occur at the time of his death and resurrection. Unlike anyone else, he also promised to one day return to earth to set up his future kingdom.
The Seven ìI Amsî of Jesus in Johnís Gospel
? ìI am the bread of lifeî (John 6:35,48; see also verse 51).
? ìI am the light of the worldî (John 8:12).
? ìI am the gate for the sheepî (John 10:7; see also verse 9).
? ìI am the good shepherdî (John 10:11,14).
? ìI am the resurrection and the lifeî (John 11:25).
? ìI am the way and the truth and the lifeî (John 14:6).
? ìI am the true vineî (John 15:1; see also verse 5).
Further, Jesus is unique in his nature, being fully divine and fully human nature in one person. Jesus was born as a man without sin through a miraculous virgin birth. He challenged his own family, disciples, and even his enemies to prove him guilty of sin, but none could do so. Think of the reaction you would receive if you asked your parents, brothers, sisters, and friends, ìCan any of you point to one sin I have committed?î Those closest to us know our faults. We all have them. Yet Jesus lived a perfect life free of sin.
As Godís divine son, Jesus performed miracles, healings, and exorcisms; fulfi lled Jewish prophecies; and accomplished his own resurrection. In these ways he affi rmed his divine nature, displaying power far beyond that of any person who has ever lived. Today people downplay the miracles, but they are documented in careful detail in the Bible, and even Jesusí enemies did not deny his miracles. They werenít able to. So they just claimed that he performed them with
the help of evil powers (Matthew 12:24).
The Exorcisms of Jesus
Exorcism-- Source
1. Healed a demon-possessed man at Capernaum ---Mark 1:21-28; Luke 4:31-37
2. Drove out demons and evil spirits Matthew 8:16-17; Mark 1:32-39; Luke 4:33-41
3. Healed the man possessed by demons at the Gadarenes-- Matthew 8:28-34; Mark 5:1-20; Luke 8:26-39
4. Drove a demon out of a mute man, who then spoke-- Matthew 9:32-34;
Mark 3:20-22
Christianity is also the only major religion whose founder sacrificed his life for the sins of those who would choose to believe in him. Jesusí horrifi c death on the cross stood as proof of his statement that ìthe Son of Man [Jesus] did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.î
The Nature Miracles of Jesus
The MiracleóSource
1. Calming the wind and waves-- Matthew 8:26; Mark 4:39; Luke 8:24
2. Walking on water-- Matthew 14:25; Mark 6:48; John 6:19
3. Money in the fishís mouth-- Matthew 17:27
4. Withering of the fig tree-- Matthew 21:19; Mark 11:14
5. Miraculous catch of fish-- Luke 5:4-7
6. Turning water into wine-- John 2:7-8
7. Second miraculous catch of fish-- John 21:6
8. Feeding the 4000-- Matthew 15:32-38; Mark 8:1-9
9. Feeding the 5000-- Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:34-44; Luke 9:12-17; John 6:5-12
Sixth, as mentioned earlier, Jesus also rose from the dead. Those in his time could never account for his empty tomb and the disappearance of his body. Jesusí followers spanned the known world testifying of his resurrection (his actual bodily appearing to them), teaching his words, and dying for their belief in him.
Finally, Jesus promises, at the end of time, to personally judge every person who ever lived. It would be eternally disappointing to have Jesus look at us, fairly judge us, and conclude, ìI never knew youî (Matthew 7:23).
Christianity by the Book
Those who want to investigate the truthfulness of the original Christian message can look to a wealth of manuscript evidence regarding the transmission of the 27 books of the New Testament through the years. The New Testament manuscripts offer more supporting evidence than any other ancient book. Christians also accept the Jewish scriptures (the Old Testament) as part of their holy book, the Bible. Traditional Christianity believes in the inerrancy of Scripture, meaning the original words of the Bibleís books are without error and perfect in every way.
As a result, Bible translation, distribution, and teaching stand as important responsibilities within Christianity. The Bible is the most translated book in history, has been used as the script for the most-watched fi lm in history (the Jesus fi lm), and has enjoyed greater distribution than any book in the world. Over 100 million copies of the New Testament or Bible are sold every year worldwide.
Interesting Statistics About the Bible
The Bible was written over a period of 1600 years,
? by more than 40 authors of every sortókings, peasants, fi shermen, poets, shepherds, government offi cials, teachers, and prophetsó
? in three languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek),
? on three continentsóAsia, Africa, and Europe.11
What Makes Christianity Unique?
ìChristianity isnít about people in search of God, but rather God in search of
people.îóSTEVE RUSSO
Many have suggested that Christianity is about having a personal relationship with Jesus, and not performing good works and following rituals. Religious movements throughout history ultimately hold to a signifi cantly different common threadóthat certain actions or works are required to obtain a blissful afterlife. In Christianity, however, the key to reaching God here and now and dwelling with him for eternity is to receive and trust in a gift already provided by its founder, Jesus Christ. As the apostle Paul made clear to Christians at Ephesus, ìGod saved you by his grace when you believed. And you canít take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.î
Godís gift of salvation also brings assurance. If Jesusí righteous life and atoning death on the cross is the sole basis for Godís gift, then a Christian doesnít have to worry about earning or losing that gift. Once the gift is received, it belongs to the Christian forever because it rests on what Jesus didónot what the Christian did or does in the past, present, or future.
Christianity in Summary
As we compare and contrast the beliefs of various religions throughout this book, we hope to make the distinctives of each one as clear as possible. Here, we summarize the key teachings of Christianity:
Belief-- Basic Description
God-- One God in three personsóFather, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Holy Book-- The 66 books of the Holy Bible are the authoritative
works of Christianity.
Sin-- All people have sinned (except Jesus).
Jesus Christ-- Godís perfect son, holy, resurrected, divine (second person of the Trinity) yet also fully human.
Salvation-- Obtained only by Godís grace through faith in Jesus Christ, not by human effort.
Afterlife-- All people will enter heaven or hell upon death based on whether they have salvation in Jesus Christ. The Bible does not teach reincarnation, annihilation (ending of the soul), or the existence of purgatory.
Some people assume that biblical Christianity and Roman Catholicism are essentially similar. But is that the case? What differences exist? Are these differences really a big deal, or only minor details? Our next chapter will address these questions head-on.
Jul. 14, 2008 - Mondays On Mothering -- Missing "Cardy"
Mondays On Mothering
I am missing my baby. I mean, she is not my baby anymore, she's my oldest. But she's still my baby. She is on a 15 day trip with her Aunt in the Rockies, and we are only on day 2. Yikes! What's more, my little guy (age 2) is missing her in a big way. He keeps looking up at random times with a confused expression on his face and asking "Where's Cardy?" That's not really her name, but it is what comes out when my two year old tries to say Clara. Bless his heart! I hope he is still asking in two weeks when we go to pick her up...
As a Mom, I love seeing the relationships my kids have with each other. It is such a blessing to see them growing up as friends. I have "stairstep" kids, each 2 years apart; and they do fight. But, they also love. After reading Love in the House, I have been trying to encourage all of us to respond to everything with love! That seems like a long row to how with some of the tempers we struggle with; yet the children really do love each other. We watched The Incredibles last night; and I think my seven year old boy is starting to get it. Seeing Dash punch someone for "messing" with his sister. That was a good thing. I mean really. If you love your sister, act like it!
I am thinking about reading Love in the House aloud to my kids when they get home.
What do you love about mothering your children? Whatever it is, I hope you will share something this week. Monday is a great time to focus on the joys of mothering don't you think?
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1. Write a blog post about something you love about mothering. Include a link back to my blog so others can find all Mondays On Mothering posts.
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4. Visit the other Mondays On Mothering posts, and be encouraged. As Canada Girl always says, the best way to get a comment is to leave a comment!
I just have to tell you, this book is fantastic. I have been wanting to purchase this book for a while; and finally got the chance to buy it used a week or two ago. I am now planning on ordering another copy directly from the Jeub family, and gifting my first copy to someone else. The message of this book is powerful and simple. The book briefly chronicles the Jeub's lessons learned as they have raised 13 children. I read the book in it's entirety in about two hours. It is not long; but it just might change the way you parent! I can't wait to implement some of the ideas, and especially the concept of Love In The House. Read it! And you know I don't say that very often. You can purchase a copy of the book at the Jeub's web-site for $14.95.
Jonathan was taking pictures of the hair cut for me, and decided to take pictures of my flowers while he was at it. This is just one pot, probably the best looking of the bunch. I have discovered though, that I water my flowers much more diligently when half the pots have vegetables in them -- I actually want those veggies to be edible! I also updated my Mother's Day post about planting the flowers -- adding tons of pictures. So, you can see the finished product here, and then go back and see lots of pics of the kids planting the pots.
We were so thrilled to go to Ohio a couple weeks ago and meet my new niece and nephew. Here is the only picture I got of the whole week! Lots of cousins, with my sister.
The bottom line is; We try not to insist on parent-led learning or gravitate toward child-led learning. We try instead to focus on God-led learning and ask for His input and perspective on every aspect of our home school. That way, when others fuss about what Dan and I are doing and make me second guess our decisions -- I can go back to our decision process and find God's fingerprints, reminding me that this is His way.
-- What a cutie! After this, I suggested that my children go take a break and then we would finish up with lunch and Science. 
. Anyway, we are headed out today for a two week vacation visiting relatives in Indiana and Ohio. The trip promises to be fun, although I am sure I will be missing my husband.
