Disability and Disbelief:The Truth of it.

I was born with a disability, so while I  can’t say that I completely understand every issue undertaken by people that “acquire” their challenge(s). In the same breath I can honestly say that I do know what its like to have a disability–that includes people with lifetime challenges as well.

 

I have rolled several people either in person or on the web that have gotten–I’ll say “bitter” either at God, others, or themselves because of their challenge(s). Believe it or not I was in the same backwards way.  One of the toughest–and most, thought provoking, things for me was hearing a paraplegic friend say “you weren’t put your chair because of a drunk,  I was.”  That stopped me all I could say was “no Danielle, I don’t.” That was the end of our conversation–but was that really the truth? I am after all in a wheelchair, the same as her?! I was already a Christian then, and I guess I assumed like a dummy that “you are at a Christian college, therefore you must be a Christian”–boy! Is that ever the wrong thing to assume–amongst those  3 billion other things.

Looking back at my idiotic freshman self..Perhaps what I should have said was “your right I don’t but I know someone that does.” Christians—and even “spiritual people” believe that God (yahweh) is perfect, yet many people blame Him for their challenge(s)–and perceived imperfections. Nothing that God make(s) is declared good or unclean (Acts 10:28)—implying God made you with a challenge; would be calling God imperfect. Would it not? Even worse is the thought that people that have challenges are alone—they’d be wrong! As a matter of fact I know someone that knows everything your goin’ through and is with you every step of they way.-

 

He made you, me and the world this promise “ be strong and courageous do not be terrified or discouraged for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go!(joshua 1:9)

If it wasn’t for that promise I wouldn’t get up every morning—chances are I ain’t alone. The truth is I don’t have any regrets about my disability, and I don’t hope for a change—or think about what “should have been.”–Complaining like that never helped anybody. While I was the biggest culprit; I don’t honestly understand the self-pity game .

 

 

You want the truth? I thought you might!

 

• Your self-pity is a barrier—I even call it a sin—from God!and the relationship He wants with you.
• God sent His son to die to take down the barrier of self pity and other pitfalls and sins —and I assure you, nothing can fill the hole that self-pity and other sins leave .(Romans 14:17)
• God doesn’t say that this life–or disability, will be easy but He does give you the power via The Holy Spirit to endure and do anything (Pslam 118:13)
• Christ Died to heal you from your sins(2 Peter 2:24)
• He God/Christ is the Truth( John 14:6)

 

Disability

Disbelief

Man

Heaven

Disability: Alot of questions; about it.

I am in the middle of research, for my advanced social problems final paper. The paper deals with the stereotypes, and stigmas in the media as the “challenged”  are concerned.

I rolled across a chapter in a book about disability and bios/memoirs–I have few comments/questions?!

While many of the biographies I’ve looked at  are written by people who truly want to better themselves in spite  –still others puzzle me.

• Alot of the language seems to be dripping with self pity and the wanting of pity.
• Alot of them seem to be  only telling their “story” to make money for themselves/publishers
•  Alot of them are full of nothing but complaints against the “able-bodied”
  

In my mind this does nothing but suffer the reinforcement(s) of stigmatization and stereotypes that the disabled communities say they want to change!!

 

See Also

Disbelief

Image

Disability and Disbelief

I came across a blog today, that was….. to say the least, a bit disturbing–both as a Christian, as and someone with a challenge.  This blog was written by an atheist, writing about physical challenges and “Christian insolence.”

In the blog, this man writes about how Christian’ in this day and age–despite all of the scientific advances, still hold the disabled as responsible for their own suffering, and that they are our punishment(s)   — He goes on to mention several things that Christians say in response to his disability– like this author, some of the statements “frustrate” me–but still others are off base altogether.

things like:

• My disability is so God can get my attention
• if I had enough faith I would be healed
• My disability is because God is angry at me.
• My disability is punishment from God 

Over the years years— I’ve heard the same things, sometimes worded different sometimes the same; so in many ways I can relate to this author, and like the author I find that more then a few that have said these things, call themselves Christians. The author and I differ on whether Christians  that say things like this are insolent   on purpose..or not?

I tend to think..Not– at least I don’t now!-- it may be cliche’ but “people fear what that don’t understand” I think that people just don’t really know how to genuinely  react but that— blogs, laws, classes and other things on disabilities help these attitudes that people have.

The author claims that his challenge is not why he is an atheist?!--I have to take his word on this, but i guarantee that on some level the fact that he is challenged doesn’t help!

  Not that I would expect him or you, to believe or agree with me..but,here are some things to remember

• God does not decide to punish one child with a disability while leaving others alone–if God wanted us to be disabled, He would have made us all this way.
• God is and does not get angry at the disabled because of there challenge(s)
• Your “level” of faith does not determine if/or you get healed
• God did not make you disabled “to get your attention”
• You are not disabled to help others become better Christians
• Your disability does not make you a bad Christian
• Your disability can be used by God.

Image of God

Paultard Politics

Not that I didn’t think that Ron Rupaultard was a few nuts short of a wheelchair axle but this pretty much clinches that theory—

 I thought Ron Rupaultard was retarded for his theories about

• 9/11 being planned and perpetrated by the CIA
• Or his Rants about a one world governmental banking system
• His views on Israel’s existence
•  His stance that we shouldn’t have attacked Hitler

Come to find out–one of his former aides thinks he’s crazy too- calling his foreign policies “lunacy”—

The Biggest Objection to Ron RuPaultard’s campaign that former aide Eric Dondero has is that, Mr. Paul has is that his stance on foreign policy and national security, is at best subpar.–Being that he is “anti war” in all circumstances

You can read and decide for yourself. I can’t stop your vote–but I can tell you I won’t vote for a crackpot!

http://news.yahoo.com/ex-aide-ron-paul-foreign-policy-sheer-lunacy-144730256.html

But you don’t have to take my word for it Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich ain’t gonna vote for him either because to paraphrase “his views are separate from reality”–-http://news.yahoo.com/gingrich-couldnt-vote-ron-paul-president-225246716.html

Liberal politics and Liberal Christianity…Are they the same thing?

I’m not entirely sure, how it happen–but it does. Liberalism(political) is confused for the doctrine of liberal/progressive theology. In this blog we will explore the differences and distinctions between the two.

Biblical and traditional adherents have for centuries, believed   the same things–since I fit this “model” of Christianity I don’t even have to look these up..

• God Created Man and Women in His own Image.(Gen 1:27)
• Man sinned against God.(Gen Chap 3)
• Christ was born of a Virgin. (Luke 1; 26-38)
• Christ was and is God’s only Son. (John 3:16)
• Christ Came to save us from our sin(s). (John 3:17)
• Christ died on the Cross. (John19)
• Christ rose from the dead 3 days later (John 20)
• God is 3 persons( a trinity) (Eph 1:4, 1:7, 1:13)
• Jesus is the only way to God( John 14:6)
• God is the only God. ( Isa 44;8)
• Jesus is God. (John 10:30)

These doctrines are not only scriptural but they are also traditionally sound.— There are a few major creeds, that are kept, and recited by Christians all over the world that affirm these truths  

Liberal politics--

• I highly doubt that as far as politics is concerned; the virgin birth of Jesus carries much weight–except when choosing a candidate. The fact of the matter is that politics is not the invention of a perfect God, it’s the invention of fallen/imperfect man.( Rom. 2; 23)–I know the reality of my past blogs, have me playing the hypocrite, but my opinions aren’t on trial. Which leads me to give an opinion.

– I don’t think that a man’s religious affiliation, should determine  if he becomes president–might a Muslim in the white house upset me–yes.— not because his religion affects his ability to make rational and ethical decisions--it does; to an extent.  I know a few Muslims that are as rational and sane as you or me. NO!– I worry for the Muslim(s) salvation.(John 14:6)

• While I believe that Muslims, and other false religions,  are wrong and that the devil is tempting and using them; and that given over to the devils schemes a Muslim, Hindu or any other politician–that includes Christians. Do the evil tempted of them by the devil. I don’t believe that they are beyond Gods reach.

Liberal Theology–Before posting this blog, I hadn’t really study what liberal theologians believe. I know now that they are dangerous to Christianity

• The Bible is symbolic and has been falsified
• Jesus is not God
• Jesus is not Divine
• His(Jesus) death on the Cross was not necessary for our Salvation
• Miracles–like the virgin birth–do not or did not happen
• The disciples Lied about the; Life, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus
•   There is no Hell
• Satan does not cause suffering

See alsp;

cults

Thanksgiving

Most thanksgivings are the same right down to the turkey and dressing..

• Salvation
• Family
• Friends
• Relationships

These are the top four things that I am thankful for.

I am quite positive that many lists that were, and are not all that different!!. This year I think I have something else to be thankful for… BROKENNESS; that’s right brokenness.

I am thankful that God used my  past circumstances  to mold me into the man that HE wants me to be. Looking back into the time when/where I thought God was the most distant, He was in reality the closest. The times that I was afraid, was the times that God told me that I didn’t have to be..

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”(Josh 1:9)

I thank God that He Gave me strength to get through the tough crap, and I thank Him that He continues to give me that promised strength everyday.

He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.(Isa 40:29)

May the LORD give strength to his people! May the LORD bless his people with peace!(Ps 11:29)

So why not go out on a limb?! and think God for brokenness. What have you got to lose?  You don’t have to listen to me but, I do know that God always keeps His promises and He always works things out for the good of those who love HIM. (Romans 8:28)

Next blog: the difference between liberal theology and Liberal  politics

Couple Sues over wrongful birth

Searching the blog-sphere I came across a blog relating the tale of a Florida couple  suing over a wrongful birth  

I won’t lie, at first glance I almost through the article was a joke–How can someone have a “wrongful” birth–you plan to get pregnant–or so I thought?!

It turns out that the boy is challenged–Bryan is missing a few limbs- Therein lies the problem. Byran’s parents, sued the OBGYN’s because they failed to spot the absence–no pun intended– of Bryan’s  limbs..

The parents–Ana Meija, and Rodolfa Santana were “awarded“–4.5 million dollars–in what I guess would be malpractice? But, the nuances of the case don’t mean much..

(if your interested you can read the full article here–http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/jury-awards-west-palm-beach-parents-of-child-1831553.html)

Bryan is what concerns me–this coming from a prospective much like, he will now face.

I can’t say who’s wrong, and why they did whatever may be wrong–that’s not what don’t get paid for.  Being one with a challenge myself, I have to question the message(s) that this will send to the kid.

The article in itself is almost disgusting, in the way it plays on emotions.  It goes on to point out that Bryan would have basically been aborted, if the parents had known about the challenges.  –that’s murder..isn’t it?

  I may be letting my emotions cloud my judgement here but–I fail to comprehend, why?.. someone would do something amounting to murder, just because, they are too “embarrassed”  to be seen with someone with a physical or mental challenge—forget that, they were created in God’s image–with His OWN breath.

Now Bryan not only has to deal with his challenge–and if he’s a christian, how God Works in the math–but the fact that his parents are or were embarrassed by his birth. –I hope Bryan comes to understand that to God he’s not disabled.

Thanks Jason for first publishing something on this.

Back at School–My first week

Monday– Was registration day at Southern Wesleyan University; I rolled into what I hope is my Senior year, I still got to figure out how I’m gonna get the rest of my books, on top of how, I am going to pay back the 1205 dollars; I owe the school.

Tuesday– Was the first day of Classes, I have 15 credit hrs so far, but I am trying to add the last class I need to get my accreditation as a lay minister, in the Wesleyan Church. Tuesday was, when I also had the awesome privilege of meeting Abney; who I call speedy, in reference to how fast she moves in her wheelchair, and Jordan the girl that has taken to helping her when the need arises. ( speedy is pretty independent)

This is my easiest day; unless you count Wednesday ( I have no classes). I spent Tuesday nite watching, Sweeny Todd with Jordan and Sarah, Speedy spent most of her time on the 2nd floor.–the movie was good, Johnny Depp played his part very well.

 Wednesday–I spent Wed.  hiking with the “Rat Pack”; and other friends,  down to turtleback falls , in Whitewater NC. It was for lack of a better word “eventful” the gang had to construct a litter to carry my down to the falls. Later that night, we all went to the church property, built a fire, and talked, we gave Ryan a bachelors day present.

Thursday–I went to classes. I spent the afternoon reading for class; then after supper I went and hung out with Jordan and Speedy. I learned alot more about speedy and Jordan– I got the opportunity, to pray with Jordan; which was cool.–

Friday–After classes, I meet with the Bridal party, at first Wesleyan, to rehearse the wedding–of all the groomsman I had the easiest job–all I had to do was escort a bridesmaid and an Honorary bridesmaid down the aisle–the rehearsal dinner was at mainstreet.

Saturday– Was Ryan and Mels BIG day, at 12:00, the groomsmen all met ter at Ryan’s Apartment for lunch. At 1:00 we went to the Church for pictures with Ryan. While we waited for the bridesmaids–then Ryan and Mel– to get their pictures, we went and got them with all of us. Jim and Ken presided over the wedding. After the wedding, was the reception–at Trinity Wesleyan Church.

After the Speeches from Matt, John, Carlie, Colieen, Kehl and Brittney. The Groomsmen–I was one–got together to sing, “If I were a rich man”--from Fiddler on the Roof.– Then it was Mels turn to throw the flowers–Keziah caught them.

I caught the garter–I guess that means it’s my turn–people are already talking..

  Today– I was sick this morning I didnt do anything

 

 

               All in all it was a good first week

 

 

 

a taste of heaven on earth

“Heaven, once attained, will work backwards and turn even that  even that agony into a glory”–CS. Lewis

I am about to do something that should never be done biblically  or otherwise; . I am about to take this  quote, from CS Lewie’s book, the great divorce out of context:or at least it may appear that way.

I think heaven..or at least a taste of heaven can be attained here on earth…Let me explain

One of my favorite verses in the bible is:

“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.”–(1 Peter 2:24, ESV)

As someone that was  born with a physical challenge, this verse means that Christ died so I wouldn’t have to beat myself up for being “crippled” anymore.

This verse along with Joshua 1:9

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go (ESV)

Tells me that I don’t have to be be afraid of something I can’t I can’t control. The above quote speaks volumes not only for me but for YOU too. This quote says that heaven; I believe heaven  is not only a physical place but a place that one experiences,  the love of God that we were designed to experience. I don’t think you have to go through life  pissed off all the time; And indeed neither does the God that Created you,This may be cliche’ but it remains true. Your anger, your self-directed hate not only hurts you but the ones you love..

We are told by the apostle  John in his first epistles

Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.

That doesn’t mean don’t get mad..But that doesn’t mean that God wants you to get to the point that you feel so much, self-loathing, that you grow to hate your and the world…I know what that feels like, I assure you..Its sucks.. You may not believe me…. but,  I assure you the Love of Christ covers a multitude of sin; Sin is anything that may  separate you from the *love of God; including  your anger..

*you can separate your self from the love of God, God doesn’t separate you from His Love

Grace of God

Fear

Image of God

yet another false prophecy

knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God  as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. (2 Peter 1:20) (ESV)

 I’ve rolled across  alot of people who question the validity  of the Bible, citing the  numerous “interpretations” of biblical teachings.  Many so-called prophets, Mohammad, Joseph Smith, and now Reverend Camping; to name   a few. Have made numerous false predictions, many of the false predictions  revolving around the end of the world.

I don’t know this Reverend Camping personally but knowing the reputations, of those mentioned above, that he watch out that he leaves the prophecy to God    and it’s interpretation to the Holy Spirit.

Daresay that like those mentioned above reverend Camping may now fall into the Group mentioned in 1 Timothy 4:1

Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons,

Case in  point this article posted by Yahoo New.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/livescience/20110524/sc_livescience/faileddoomsdayhasrealdeadlyconsequences

I hate to see stuff like this.Not only does it give Christianity a bad name, but  it means that people have bought into the craft and crap spit by the Devil, which means that souls are positionally lost for the Kingdom.

I don’t see how people can believe these end-of the world “man-made” predictions. We are told  “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.”(Matt 24:36) The only thing that we know is that many will claim the name of Christ.(Matt 24:5)   “And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet.”(Matt 24:6)

We are told not to be alarmed because “the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night (1 Thess 5:2) –see also Rev3:3. Through-out history I’ve heard of people–Christian–people becoming alarmed; at the prospect of the end. But why! We have Jesus, We`have hope–My previous question remains.

Why Do people believe these false end of the world  predictions? It’s all the same from Jim Jones to Marshal Applewhite,. From William Miller to David Koresh.  And now Harold  Camping–How can people believe this drivel?!

See Also:

Mormons

Questions for Mormons

Cults