GLORY AND MARVELING
“…the day he comes to be glorified in his holy people and to be marveled at among all those who have believed.” (1 Thessalonians 1:10)
There will be no disappointment among the saints at the appearing of Jesus. No one will say, “The advertisements and trailers made it look great but the movie was a bust.”
Spielberg and Lucas have produced incredible stuff but nothing will compare with this wide-screen production! Only a few shepherds saw it the first time but everyone will see the panoramic sequel. You won’t miss it, wherever you stand on the planet. In fact every eye will see His glorious coming with heaven’s epic entourage! The cast will be so immense that Christ’s escorts will seem like water droplets making up an all-encompassing cloud.
There are times when we are with family and friends and there is an immediate weather report. “Hey guys! Come quick, you need to see this. We are amazed as we come to the patio and see the glorious sunrise, torrential monsoon rains, a double rainbow or baseball sized hail. We will need a new word to replace “awesome” when Christ returns.
We look forward to vacations, birthdays, graduations, weddings and births of babies. This event is the Christian’s blessed hope and eager expectation. We are, “awaiting the blessed hope, even the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ.” (Titus 2:13). Whatever our age or circumstances, lovers of Jesus have something to look forward to!
Those who have stiff-armed Jesus are in for dreadful, calamitous ruin. They will hide in caves and call on the mountains and rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?” (Rev 6:16-17)
We must not be pretenders but true believers. Too many think of the Second Coming of Jesus as a doctrine rather than a young woman’s hope for the perfect wedding to the perfect man.
The crown is not for those who “believe” that Jesus is returning. It is for those who “long for” His returning. “Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day-and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Tim 4:8)
Watchmen, Stand tall! Heads up! Our redemption is drawing near!
“My soul waits for the Lord
More than watchmen wait for the morning,
More than watchmen wait for the morning.” (Ps 130:6)
Steven C Johnson
landingstripenterprises.com
GETTING THE LID OFF
JACOB GETS THE LID OFF
Jacob fled for his life. His brother literally wanted to kill him! He came to the distant land of Padan Aram where shepherd girls were waiting to water their congregation. These shepherdesses were delayed because those strong enough to remove the stone protecting the well had not arrived. When Jacob saw Rachel daughter of Laban, his mother’s brother, he manhandled the stone from the mouth of the well and watered the sheep.
Several people were needed to move the stone but Jacob single-handedly removed it. Jacob was tough, the kind of guy who wrestles angels. By the way, he later married Rachel who was probably swooning, “My, he is so strong and handsome!”
GETTING THE CAP OFF
Many believers have perfectly fine wells with lots of water but their wells are capped. They cannot access the water because heavy weights block the opening. Those caps may seem so immense; it appears a herculean task to remove them. We can help one another get the caps off!
If you or your friend feels a restriction in experiencing the Father’s love and power see if one of these caps need to be removed.
Unbelief – God is not interested in me.
Fear – I dread the future
Pride – I must look important
Presumption – I can do it my way
Grief – Nothing can remove this pain
Unforgiveness – I would rather have them punished than personally know God’s peace
Ask God for discernment. He may reveal blockages like apathy, self-sufficiency, false loves or distractions. Those stone caps can be heavy so if you are having a little trouble don’t hesitate to ask a brother or sister to give you a hand. We can get the lids off together!
Steven C Johnson
Landingstripenterprises.com
DIGGING WELLS
OUR NOBLE WELL-DIGGING PATRIARCHS
The Patriarchs Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were regarded as honorable for many reasons. One is, they dug wells to provided water for their clans. Noble minded people dig wells, water works which satisfy needs.
There are intense conflicts and grumbling over water rights. The Patriarchs came up with honorable solutions for the clashes and complaints. Most involved time consuming, back-breaking labor. Answers to problems came with shovels attached!
What do we do when we discover our river bottom has dried into cracked puzzle pieces? Grab a spade!
RESPONDING TO THIRST
Thirsty people grumble, naturally. Churches are not happy with water shortages. We moan and complain. “Where is God’s presence?” “This church is bone dry!” “Where did the love and power go?” “Someone drained the pool!”
Some of us church hop looking for a place with dancing fountains. We hope for an easy drink. Others join a community, and when they realize water is needed, they do all they can to see their tribe gets it. Some complain, or leave. Others dig.
Responsible believers take ownership of problems and work on solutions.
Sometimes responding to the Spirit is a cinch. We cannon-ball in, swim and frolic! When rivers go dry people dig wells. They think this is preferable to dying. If the river goes arid don’t despair, get to work! You remember Jesus saying, “He who believes in me, out of his inner being will flow….” The work of faith produces flow. Digging wells is done by faith.
I visited southern Israel near near Beer Sheva, the well of the oath, and saw a hand dug well. I could tell it was deep because the pebble I dropped took a long time before it plopped. It must have been hard work. If you live in a place with a handful of inches of rain a year you dig or die. Don’t whine if you don’t sense the presence of God. Get digging! Dig deep via hope and humility and intercession and gain water for your clan.
Do you want to see a party? Dig a well in a barren place where people walk miles for water. We were part of a well drilling project in Kenya. What a party they had when the water started pumping!
Many churches do not feel like partying. Who wants a dehydrated fellowship? Some dread going to worship service, fearing the next one will be as dry as the last
Our neighbors and people in faraway places are waiting for us to confirm, Jesus makes good His promise of living water. They try drugs, entertainments and wacked out philosophies to satisfy their thirst. They despair that real drink can be found. You have their answer, but it may require digging.
THE WELL AT BEER
During the wanderings of Israel they dug a well. We get a snatch of the story in Numbers 21:16-18.
“From there they continued on to Beer, the well where the LORD said to Moses, ‘Gather the people together and I will give them water.’
Then Israel sang this song:
‘Spring up, O well!
Sing about it,
about the well that the princes dug,
that the nobles of the people sank–
the nobles with scepters and staffs.’”
THE MARK OF NOBILITY
Those that accessed water for the community were not commoners, they were nobles! Many want a noble title – Duke or Duchess, Apostle, Evangelist or Pastor. Don’t expect people to think you noble because of your genealogy. It will come because of you noble lifestyle, the way you care for others.
Noble leaders realize their responsibility for providing water. They do not idly show up for church, turn on the tap and expect anointed ministry. They probe God. They augur into His heart. They burrow into his word. These leaders are to be honored!
Digging wells is the work of genuine monarchs, knights, barons and counts. They willingly get their hands dirtied and blistered, down in the gloom, for the sake of their people. Laboring in a murky well- shaft may not be your idea of fun but it is a great idea for survival.
Nobility is gained by noble deeds. It is an expression of character. When water is found we celebrate, and the diggers are esteemed!
CELEBRATING
Water in short supply occasions quarrels and contentions. Neighbors fight. When there is abundance fearful apprehension is washed away. We are friends again!
If you delve into the earth boring into the unseen depths you might stumble on diamonds, emeralds and rubies. You might discover natural gas, oil and coal, perhaps ancient fossils. You might also discover water. And if you, your family and flocks were really thirsty you would bring them together, drink deep and throw a party!
Those about you are watching you dig. They hope for your success because they would love a big draught of water. In fact, they would take a water break and throw a party!
NOTE: THIS IS ANOTHER EXCERPT FROM MY UPCOMING BOOK, RIVERFRONT PROPERTY:CONNECTING AT THE RIVER OF LIFE. BLESS THOSE WHO DIG!
Steven C. Johnson
https://landingstripenterprises.com/
CELEBRATING 60
Rejoice with me, I have just ticked over another year! God has graced me to see 60!
I am grateful for His goodness and happy for the gift of Family and Friends.
I am excited about venturing into a new decade. I have great hope for the future knowing every passing day works for me, getting me to my final destination, seeing Jesus face to face!
Thanks for being part of the journey!
If you would keep me in prayer for the completion of my book, Riverfront Property, I would so appreciate it. The finish line is in sight!
Steve Johnson
https://landingstripenterprises.com/
HOLY ROLLERS
HOLY ROLLERS
When I was a lower-classmen at Center Street Elementary school a neighbor frightened me. Our walk to school took us by a little white church. He told me “holy rollers” met inside. He said they shouted and rolled on the floor, jumped on the pews and swung from chandeliers. Naturally, I was horrified. In fact, when I walked past the building I walked faster. You never know what dreadful things might happen if you linger!
I attended a church that told me that Jesus was sweet and kind but I didn’t get much more. I was part of a congregation that sadly had a pastor so deceived that he did not believe Jesus rose from the dead. I didn’t come to know the Savior in a church.
My last year in high school a friend told me that Jesus was coming back. This was both disturbing and stimulating. I began to read the New Testament. Jesus seemed to be such an attractive and powerful person! My last month in High School a man told me, if I confessed Jesus as my Lord and believed in my heart that God raised Him from the dead I would be saved. I would have eternal life! You may find this incredible promise in Roman 10:9-10. I remember no rockets in air or bombs bursting in air. I do remember a distinct peace and sense of bedrock security when I said, “Yes” to Him.
As a new believer I voraciously read the bible and began to connect with others that were riding on the Jesus movement of the early 70’s. I found fellowship with other young believers at a Christian coffee house and also in a college ministry.
I told friends that I would love to go back in time and walk with the Lord Jesus. They told me, “No, it’s better this way because Jesus has gone to heaven and has given us His Holy Spirit.” I had no personal knowledge of the Holy Spirit. True, we did have some “warm fuzzy” experiences sharing together but I would have traded them in an instant to be face to face with Jesus. Jesus might be known in the past, or in the future. I wasn’t sure about the Spirit. Then I was ambushed!
CHOIR PRACTICE
I was part of the choir and came to church, not knowing practice was canceled. I saw a light on in the fellowship area but found it vacant. I walked through the dark hall to the sanctuary’s double doors and cracked one open. There was no light except for what came from the street outside. I thought, “Maybe I should go in and pray“, at the same time I thought, “I have a lot of homework to do.” In that moment of indecision I was gripped at my chest as if an invisible hand grabbed a fistful of my shirt. I was literally pulled into the sanctuary about a dozen feet! I stood in the dark room totally astonished. I laid my left hand on a pew and then received another surprise. How do I put it into words? I felt a power like electricity or surging water going through my body. Had I not been holding the pew I might have fallen. I felt holy awe!
My greatest “spiritual experience” up to that time was a sense of joy as I sang praise songs at the local Christian coffee house. This was off the grid, out of any paradigm or speculation about spiritual things! I stood still and silent. After a few minutes I felt drawn to one of the wooden lecterns up front. I walked to it and placed my hands on either side. Again, suddenly, unexpectedly this electric-water feeling came over me, and again if I had not been holding on I might have fallen. There were no words but I felt I was beginning to perceive His voice.
Had I become… a holy roller?
Steve Johnson
Landingstripenterprises.com
HOMELESS IN ABILENE
On a Friday morning I became homeless. It happened suddenly without warning. I lost my home and my friends and found myself with a sleeping bag and small sack to carry my only belongings.
It was hot. I walked down the road feeling invisible. No one driving by noticed me as I stopped to rest in the shade of a tree. People crossed the street to walk around me. People looked at me and triple locked their cars in the parking lot. I have never broken into a car, or even tried. I am a honest person. It felt terrible.
What changed that day was that I was suddenly someone to fear. I felt ashamed. I was scared too. Where would I sleep, where would get something to eat, where would I find water? How would I let my family know where I was?
I had to look carefully for a place to sit, the ants were busy. I actually felt having a salient thought was harder to come by, my mind racing to understand my dilemma!
This was our Iris Abilene School of Ministry 24 hour emersion in homelessness!
Larry, our guide, had a story. He was a truck-driving partner with another man. Sitting shotgun he had a serious heart episode. He was left at an ER. His truck driving buddy never returned.
His heart was seriously blocked and he didn’t have the money the hospital required to place the needed stint! He found himself alone and sick in a strange city. The only thing he owned in the world was a bed roll. He lived under a bridge where railroad tracks ran.
Larry graciously showed us the ropes of living homeless. What a humble man. I may never look at my house, bed and frig the same way. He said, “I slept out under the stars with a train busting by my tent. The sounds of wild things from the dark sent my heart into double time.” I thought about what it would be like to have no living person wondering where I was. And perhaps worse, feeling like no one in the world cared.
Larry shared that the cement under-girders of the local bridges were the safest places to sleep, but mighty hard on the bones. He feared someone beating him up for the few things he owned . He was hungry and lonely and sick. His meals came out of a dumpster. His relentless thought was of ending his life by throwing himself under a train.
But he also prayed. Larry told a story of hearing weird, demonic noises in the middle of the night as he slept under a tarp which hung from a little tree. He heard a voice telling him to get up and move. After four months of homelessness he found Love and Care Ministries in Abilene who helped him find a place and a new way. Larry showed us bridges and fields where we might find shelter. How quickly you can feel dirty!
Under one bridge where the homeless sleep we spoke with a police officer who shared a conversion story which started by helping an elderly man across a street. He asked the man a question about his circumstances. The man opened his wallet and he showed him a warn picture from a church directory. His wife and three kids had all been killed instantly in an accident. His world ended and he was unable to keep working. He lost his home and ended up living on the streets. He’d been there for years! That police officer’s life was changed that day.
We were treated well by our host at Love and Care. We got to ride in their food van taking meals to the homeless and less advantaged. People welcomed us into their small and dilapidated homes as we brought the one hot meal they received that day. We also folded clothes and blankets at the ministry center. They give away hundreds of shirts, shoes, socks and showers every month.
After a night sleeping in a field, off the beaten track, we debriefed about our experiences. As we left for our own home and soft bed I was again thoughtful and grateful to the generous hearts at Love and Care, for Mark Hewitt, the director and his team who minister to hurting people every day.
It seems there are a significant number of the very poor in every city. Look for them and ask God to show them to you! Many on the street got their by no fault of their own. As I offered a bottle of cold water and a meal to these folks I was grateful to God to be received by them, and that they received our prayers!
Pam Johnson
Landingstripenterprises.com
FOR SALE: RIVERFRONT PROPERTY
Living by the water in my early years had a “magical” quality. I have had too little contact with open water in recent decades and get home sick. One of my therapies is to swim three days a week. It helps stave off the longing for the deep.
From time to time I find myself flipping through the ads, scanning for riverfront property, a place on a river to call home. It’s beyond my financial reach and unrealistic but the magnetism keeps pulling. What if …how wonderful it would be… to dwell by the water again!
Birds sense an intuitive urge to find their way home. My instinctual ache, my intuitive pining, is to return home and find my place by the river! Do you feel it; the impulse, the longing, to return to Eden and the river that sprang up there?
Search the web for “River of Life” and you will find millions of references. “River of Life” has been published on the billboards of thousands of congregations. It is the theme of songs and sermons. Followers of Jesus refer to it, but it seems the truths of this River are only vaguely known.
I am finishing my book on The River of Life. My provisional title is “Riverfront Property: Life at the Waterside.” I will be sharing the book along with my seminar.
I like to interview people, so I am asking you,
“What can you tell me about the river of life?”
I’m always learning from others! I’d love to have you write me a note and share your insight and experience!
Thanks,
Steven C Johnson
Landingstripenterprises.com
GETTING SOAKED
Were you were born land-locked and never learned to swim? Are you afraid of the deep end, never venturing out over your head? I had a fear of water as a child but as I learned to swim fear began to diminish.
The summer after third grade my parents did a cruel thing. They forced me to join swim team. Why would parents subject their children to miles of exhaustion? I literally tried to hide when swim practice came because it was so doggone hard. I resented the water like a wet house cat. Funny, some things parents force us to do end up becoming loves.
On one childhood vacation our parents rented a little houseboat and we spent a handful of days on a lake in Wisconsin. I was magnetized by living right on top of the water! In my growing-up days enjoyment increased as we lived beside a lovely lake and near splendid rivers. There is no better way to get your eyes open in the morning that to look out over a body of water!
My ambition in High school was to be a professional water skier. The older I get the better I was! It was exciting to ski jump, spin on trick skis and even fly in a kite behind a boat. I was able to barefoot ski and do tricks with the driver’s help, like skiing around the boat. The most invigorating thing was to cross the wake doing sixty and make deep strong turns.
Long hours of canoeing made me comfortable with a paddle. When our son was ten we were in a family camp canoe race. Parents were blindfolded in the back seat of the canoes. Children gave directions from the front seats. Because I know to keep a canoe going pretty straight without looking Brian just had to do a little touch up in the front and tell me how we needed to turn.
I play memories of lazing, sitting pleasantly becalmed in our homebuilt sailboat, the Sea Hag. I also remember three friends hiking out on the catamaran as we cut through chop doing 22 knots. The hull was humming and the stays were singing with vibration. Thrilling! Sailboat races are in my memory treasure chest.
Over time my relationship with the deep moved from fear of drowning, to wet-cat resentment, and on to comfort, adventure, exhilaration and delight.
Do you keep distant from what you cannot fathom, apprehensive of denizens of the deep? Is it fear of floundering or getting you hair wet? I suggest a good squirt-gun fight to break the surface tension. There is still time to make memories – by going out over your head. Get soaked and venture into the deep end!
Steven C Johnson
Landingstripenterprises.com
TOWING AIRPLANES
Here is something for a change of pace. Do you ever swap dreams to discover mysteries? Perhaps there is a Joseph or Daniel who might like to interpret a pair of dreams I’ve had recently.
In the first dream Pam was driving a truck pulling an older twin engine plane. It was in decent condition but needed a little touch-up. I was excited about working on it. In the second dream I was driving our car with Pam and realized we were pulling a small jet plane behind us. I thought it would be wonderful to fly the plane but we would need to find a pilot or learn to fly.
It would be fun to get your thoughts. If you have a dream you’d like help understanding I’d be curious to look into the mystery with you.
“We both had dreams,” they answered, “but there is no one to interpret them.”
Then Joseph said to them, “Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.” (Gen 40:8)
Steven C Johnson
Landingstripenterprises.com
