A very special September 12th

Once upon a time, I bought a shirt for my father as a gift that says, “Dad not all heroes wear capes”.  I held on to that shirt all these years, for sentimental reasons, and I still look at it from time to time.  I’m bringing it up now because today is my dad’s birthday; he would have been 70 years of age.  Of all the things I could say about my dad right now, I stand by the caption on that shirt: my dad was a hero who didn’t wear a cape.  This is not inappropriate hero worship here; my dad was not perfect because no father is.  But Dad lived his life with gentleness, integrity, valor, and character.

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “The purpose of life is not to be happy.  It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”  That captures my dad so well.  He was honorable, compassionate, a difference maker, who lived well to the very end of his life.  I want those terms to define my life as well, as I run “with perseverance the race marked out for [me]” (Hebrews 12:1).  The very next verse speaks of fixing our eyes on Jesus.  I’m learning – even to this very hour – I can’t fix my eyes on my pastor, parents, or my past, but on my Savior.  However, that said, I’m encouraged and fortified by contemplating my dad’s example too. 

Today was special, but it was also bittersweet.  I miss my dad.  I still think of his faithfulness, his strength, his self-discipline, and of course, his amazing sense of humor that no one could ever duplicate.  Dad’s unexpected passing changed my life, because part of my life now is to take care of my mother.  James 1:27 speaks of looking after widows in their distress; I want to follow this Bible verse as this is an important concept, but also because – as I was recently telling some people at an event at church – my father absolutely adored my mother, and I know he would be pleased to know that I am looking after her.

In closing, I’m so grateful for the assurance that the grave is not the end for the believer in Christ.  There is an existence after death.  The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5 “absent from the body…present with the Lord.”  I miss my dad, but to think of him in the wondrous bliss of Heaven comforts my heart.  I mean, consider this: my dad, on those streets made of gold, finds himself alongside men like Billy Graham, Luis Palau, Jim Elliot, Truett Cathy, Charles Stanley, Adrian Rogers, beloved Christian singer Carman (and on and on I could go).  There is hope in this; not a wishful thinking kind of hope like we use it in English (“I hope it doesn’t rain”), but rather a determined certainty of coming good.  

God bless,

Kevin

"Scars are tattoos with better stories"

I was originally going to call today’s blog Hello September, until I went in another direction.  I intended to call it that because it is now officially a year ago that I returned home from the emergency room.  As I began mentally putting this blog together, I saw someone with a shirt that had these words: “Scars are tattoos with better stories.”  Amen to that!  What is a scar after all?  It’s a wound that has been healed.  To be transparent with you, even though I like the sentiment of that shirt, I wonder if what I endured a year ago, psychologically speaking, is a scar yet.  I wonder about this for a few reasons. 

First off, because sometimes I have what I call memory flashes of my time in that hospital and the aftermath.  Inwardly, I still wince whenever I see a character from a movie or TV show in a hospital; I know firsthand how traumatic it is for the patient and their loved ones to be in that stressful environment.  Or for another example, every time I drive on a certain road, my mind goes to my brother driving me home on that very same road last year, feeling so grateful to be alive, and to be out of that ER.  The emotional healing continues.

Another element of this whole idea of a wound healing to become a scar arose just last week.  On Friday (8/30), it was a normal work day, when out of the blue, I began to feel symptoms like I’ve never felt before in my life.  I began feeling dizzy and off-balance with every step (I’ve never been drunk, but I imagine that’s what it must feel like).  I promptly left work.  What ensued was vomiting 6 or 7 times, and being so fatigued that I basically slept from 3 in the afternoon to 12 Midnight.  The next day I was feeling better, as if nothing had been wrong.  I still have no explanation as to what happened; my best guess is a severe allergic reaction, or perhaps a 24-hour bug.  Ultimately, however, it doesn’t even really matter to me what it was.

I share all of that vulnerably with you to say this: I have my struggles.  I’m not perfect by any stretch of the imagination.  This year, for instance, anxiety can easily take over and convince me that I will soon be back in the ER again.  Whether it is the aftermath of trying to process what happened on Friday, or any other sickness I’ve had since last September; or even just to have some random pain in my stomach that amounts to nothing, it’s easy to spiral down a path of uncertainty, lack of trust in God, and fear.  I’m just being real with you.  But the Bible instructs me to “take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5). 

Therefore, I have cited various Bible verses to combat the anxiety and fear.  I have quoted Psalm 31:15 where the Psalmist affirms to the Lord, “My times are in your hands.”  Or Psalm 27:1: “The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear?  The Lord is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid?”  Or even the beginning words from the ever-popular Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd.”  I can testify to the absolute truth of Psalm 91:1-2: “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.  I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.””

In conclusion, in 2018, the group “I Am They” released a song titled “Scars”.  I love this song; and I hear its truth, as it were, with new ears: “Waking up to a new sunrise, looking back from the other side; I can see now with open eyes.  Darkest waters and deepest pain, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.  ‘Cause my brokenness brought me to You, and these wounds are a story You’ll use.  So I’m thankful for the scars ‘cause without them I wouldn’t know Your heart; and I know they’ll always tell of who You are.  So forever I am thankful for the scars.  Now I’m standing in Your confidence, with the strength of Your faithfulness, and I’m not who I was before.  No, I don’t have to fear anymore.”

God bless,

Kevin  

"To live is Christ and to die is gain"

My original plan for this blog today was to walk through some verses from Philippians 1, but God took me in a different direction; it became apparent that instead I was to focus on a singular verse – Philippians 1:21 (“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain”).  I’ve been forthright about my health struggles in 2023.  I’m certainly quite grateful to the Lord for the gift of life, but just to have it documented, what if I didn’t survive?  My answer is Philippians 1:21; “to live is Christ” – a sentiment I want to delve deeper into in a moment – and to die is actually gain.  

I was impacted by an article that I came across from got questions.org titled “What does it mean “to live is Christ” (Philippians 1:21)?”  This page begins with these words: “Philippians 1:21 says, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”  Most people focus on the second part of the verse, “to die is gain,” and contemplate the joys of heaven.  But we should not overlook what comes before.  The importance of the phrase “to live is Christ” cannot be overstated.  In all honesty, this phrase should be central to every Christian’s life.” 

While I’m not able to share the whole article today – the link can be found right here if you are interested in reading it in its entirely; however, I did want to include that the author goes on write: ““To live is Christ” means that we are willing to give up anything that prevents us from having Christ.  Paul’s testimony in this regard: “What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things.  I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him” (Philippians 3:7-9).  We cling to the promise of our Lord in Mark 10:29-30 that our sacrifices for Jesus’ sake will be repaid a hundredfold.

“To live is Christ” means that Christ is our focus, our goal, and our chief desire.  Christ is the center point of our mind, heart, body and soul.  Everything we do, we do for Christ’s glory.  As we run the “race marked out for us,” we lay aside the entangling sin and worldly distractions, “fixing our eyes of Jesus” (Hebrews 12:1-2).  He is our life.”

Someone recently asked me about my view on if there is afterlife or not.  I answered that I believed that there is an afterlife.  When he asked me to elaborate more on this, in essence, I answered, ‘my dad passed away several years ago now; he went to Heaven because he had a real, right relationship with God.  And because I also have a real, right relationship with God, whenever I die, I will see my dad again in Heaven.’  This person seemed satisfied with my answer. 

The Bible says, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:13).  Call on His name, if you haven’t, and be saved from God’s wrath against sin.  To have a relationship with God is glorious; to live for Him is so much better than to live for self (“to live is Christ”), and one day, when this life ends, the infinite bliss of the paradise of Heaven awaits (“to die is gain”).  Perhaps I will say more about Rebecca St. James’ 2003 song “Yes, I believe in God” another day, as a lot more should be said.  But for now, let me share that I was particularly struck – hearing this song again 20 years later – with this line from her work, “So through the fire I’ll be refined.  And if that fire were to take life, I’ll be with Him forever.  I will be with Him forever.”    

God bless,

Kevin       

Analyzing a maligned film - and the Editors Cut

Longtime readers of this blog will know that I have been an avid supporter of the 2007 film “Spider-Man 3”.  Right off the bat, I have to acknowledge that the movie has glaring flaws; no one is going to deny that.  To this day, I have difficulty seeing certain scenes of this film.  I once described some of these moments as cringe-worthy, and I stand by that again today.  Furthermore, if someone wanted to argue that this one is the weakest installment of the whole trilogy, I would say they probably aren’t wrong.  Yet, having all of this said, I submit that this film still does not deserve all of the negative press that it has received. 

I recently had the chance to see “Spider-Man 3” again.  It is so layered, I could go on and on citing various aspects of the film that I thoroughly enjoyed seeing this time around.  You can relax; I’m not going to be writing such a blog today.  But let me give one example: I was very impressed with Thomas Haden Church’s portrayal of Flint Marko/Sandman.  I saw Church’s comedic talent as Lowell in the sitcom “Wings”; his portrayal of Flint Marko makes you forget all about Lowell.  Marko is nuanced with greed, menace, sympathy, and inner turmoil.

Furthermore, seeing this film again also made me change my mind on perceived negative elements.  For instance, in the past I criticized the decision to include Harry Osborn’s amnesia in this already overstuffed movie.  However, upon further review, I see now that I was wrong.  In fact, there’s an amazing moment in “Spider-Man 3” that doesn’t get nearly enough praise.  When Harry was in the hospital, with no memory of his bitterness and hatred, he looks happy and carefree.  After a nurse comments on how pleasant Peter and Mary Jane are, Harry says they are his best friends, and then he emphatically states, “I’d give my life for them.”  That’s what you call foreshadowing.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention one of the infamous scenes in “Spider-Man 3”.  After Peter chooses to bond with a black alien suit; he gets decked out in all black clothes and dances lamely in the street.  This scene takes on a new context in “Spider-Man 3: Editors Cut” (which was released in 2017, and a film I was finally able to see); Peter brutally attacks Harry, verbally and physically.  He ends this horrible sequence by throwing a pumpkin bomb at Harry, leaving his face disfigured.  After all this occurs, Peter changes into his black duds, and dances in the street.  This shows that he has no remorse or guilt over what he has just done.  It’s dark and twisted, but I admit it’s better than the original theatrical version. 

Speaking of “Spider-Man 3: Editors Cut”, I would suggest to you that this movie is the superior version of the two.  The biggest evidence of this is how Harry’s change of heart is depicted.  In the theatrical version, it was Bernard, the butler, who told Harry it was obvious Norman Osborn had died at his own hand, not at Spider-Man’s.  In the Editor’s Cut, Harry sees a framed picture of himself, Peter, and Mary Jane, under cracked glass.  Seeing this shattered image grips Harry.  In that moment, he chooses to forgive Peter, and fight by his side.  The fact that Harry’s change comes from his own mind and heart makes this development in the story much stronger.

Unforgiveness and bitterness are too heavy a load to carry, it is so much better to choose to forgive.  Colossians 3 says, “You must rid yourselves of all things such as these: anger, rage, malice, slander…Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another” (verses 8 and 13).  That’s the biggest pull of “Spider-Man 3”.  It’s why I’m recommending “Spider-Man 3: Editors Cut” today.  Not because either film is a flawless masterpiece; they aren’t.  Rather, because we are shown that forgiveness is liberating.  Harry forgives Peter – and ultimately gives us a striking example of Jesus’ words in John 15:13 (“Greater love has no one than this than to lay down one’s life for a friend”); Peter forgives Flint Marko for his misdeeds.  And in a beautiful scene at the very end, Mary Jane forgives Peter.  It’s a satisfying conclusion to an epic trilogy.

God bless,

Kevin

"You've walked me through fires"

As important as the discipline of journaling is, I confess I don’t do it as often as I should.  However, I do have a special journal, that I do write in from time to time.  It was a gift from my mother, for my birthday last year.  Recently, I looked back at a special entry in that journal, from about this same time in August of 2023.  I began that entry by quoting a pastor that I had just recently heard on the radio; to this day, I still don’t know this pastor’s name, but I vividly recall his words.  He said, “We [Christians] do forget how God provides, helps, and is faithful.”  I went on to describe what I called “an extremely difficult day.”  How it hurt any time I tried to breathe deeply.  While the severe symptoms of that day subsided for a time, that was only the beginning.

What followed was a gradual decline.  I was off work for a time; I went to the doctor, but the root cause of my illness went undiscovered.  Various ailments continued to manifest, but no one could seem to determine what was going on.  Finally, weeks after that day I wrote about in my journal, through a blood test, a doctor discovered that I had developed internal bleeding.  Incidentally, I’m now intimately aware of the truth of the Bible verse that says, “For the life of the flesh is in the blood” (Leviticus 17:11).  Because you see, by this time it was late August, and I had lost so much blood that I wasn’t too far from death’s door. 

After a stay in an emergency room, an ulcer discovery, and the aid of talented men and women from the medical profession, ultimately the seriousness of my situation was averted.  I recall just what I was watching when I was told that I would be able to go back home – which at this point, was a few days into September.  I was viewing “Batman Begins” (and, by the way, I was stunned to realize that this movie is almost 20 years old; time sure flies when you’re having fun!).  As I was watching this excellent film, in that ER bed, I felt such relief and gratitude to just be alive.  I’ve decided to make it an annual event to watch “Batman Begins” every August now, in celebration.

You wouldn't be surprised to learn that there was a previous draft of this blog today where I went on and on; let me just start to wrap this up.  Why am I sharing this?  Because that pastor I quoted was right: God provides, helps, and is faithful, yet if we aren’t careful, we can completely forget it.  The God of the universe spared my life – He did it last year, and He has done so in other episodes in my life too – therefore, out of gratitude, I want to turn around and broadcast God.  You don’t want me to broadcast myself, believe me, it’s not always the prettiest of pictures.  But God, He is faithful, kind, merciful, gracious, and healing.

To conclude, in that journal entry last year, I cited Jordan St. Cyr’s song “Fires”; this was a song that helped me last August, when I didn’t even know what I was contending with.  It feels even more appropriate to quote it here.  Jordan sings to God, “You’ve walked me through fires, pulled me from flames; if You’re in this with me, I won’t be afraid.  When the smoke billows higher, oh and higher, and if feels like I can barely breathe, I’ll walk through these fires, ‘cause You’re walking with me.”

God bless,

Kevin

Initial August reflections

My plan was to submit multiple posts as we entered August, yet here it is the 10th; things didn’t pan out like I anticipated.  God had other plans, apparently. It’s a good reminder of how whenever plans are replaced with God’s, defer to His.  I’m just glad to have the opportunity to submit content, even if it’s not as frequently as I would.  That’s not even what I wanted to talk about today.  With those personal remarks out of the way, let’s move on.   

Whenever I listen to Rebecca St. James song “In the middle of the fire” (from her album “Kingdom Come”) it is an interesting experience, because my mind floods with visceral memories.  “In the middle of the fire, I will trust You, Father.  In the middle of the fire, You are standing with us.”  This refrain has particular relevance: “In the midst of my darkest hour, Holy Spirit come show your power.  In the middle of the fire, You are faithful Jesus.” 

To hear these words makes my mind go to two of the most difficult episodes of my entire life, each absolutely shattering, and each occurred in the past 18 months or so.  I bring it up today for two reasons.  Number one: the older I get, the more I see that life is a precious gift, but it is also filled with difficulties and pain.  The Bible says, “Yet man is born for trouble as surely as sparks fly upward” (Job 5:7).  Number two: I echo the sentiment from the song: in the midst of my darkest hours, God has been faithful.  I could go on and on detailing various episodes in my life, and no matter what has come upon me, I can enthusiastically testify to you that God has been faithful.

Incidentally, the Lord has been faithful to me and, far too often, I have been anything but faithful to Him.  But in those moments, God doesn’t angrily chide me, and tell me to stand in the corner until I think about what I’ve done for a while.  He welcomes me back with open arms.  In Psalm 3, the Psalmist calls God “the lifter of my head.”  I love Acts 3:19: “Repent, then, and turn to God…that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.  Years ago, in a college paper, I likened God to a patient coach, who views the tape of episodes in my life, like a coach watches game footage. With His arm around me, He patiently says, “That’s not so good here, Kevin.  But don’t dwell on it; let’s move forward.  It’s on to the next series.  I’ll work with you, we’ll clean that up, and you’ll get there.”

In conclusion, I was recently listening to a talk by Billy Graham, a hero of mine; I look forward to thanking him for introducing me to the Lord in Heaven.  He shares in that talk that someone had asked him what was a big surprise in his life, his answer: the brevity of life.  I can relate with that.  Somehow here I am in my forties.  Time is fleeting; life moves so fast.  Therefore, I would say please don’t delay in making important spiritual decisions.  “Turn to me and be saved…for I am God, and there is no other” (Isaiah 45:22).  Or perhaps Joel 2:13 is a word for someone: “Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate.”  If there’s one thing I know it is this: the most thrilling adventure imaginable is to live a life connected to the God of the universe, named Jesus.

God bless,

Kevin 

July reflections

After taking almost the entire month off (which I didn’t intend to do, but life happens), here I am again.  I’m ready to present more content.  You know that I have probably 3 or 4 pent up blogs in me, right?  But I’m going to reel it in as much as I can.  With that said, let me just dive in.

July seems to feel heavier than it used to.  It was in July that several notable losses occurred.  For example, it was in July, back in 2002, that one of the first shocking losses of my life occurred; our beloved pastor named Rick Ferguson passed away at age 46.  To this day, I still quote truths that Rick proclaimed.  For instance, he often said, “If we knew what God knows, we would want what God wants.”  I recite that statement, and they inspire me to choose God’s plan for me, no matter what. 

The biggest loss of my life was also in July.  9 years ago, my father ended up having his 'home-going' (if you will) to Heaven sooner than anyone anticipated; he was only 60.  I still miss my dad.  The Christmas in July programming doesn’t help.  Recently, I saw a Christmas film where an adult daughter was mourning the loss of her father who loved Christmas very much.  That storyline hit me hard, because my father loved Christmas a lot as well.

I would be remiss if I didn’t stop here and talk about how grateful I am for the truth of the Bible. One day I will see men like Pastor Rick again; I will see my Grandpa again – who passed back in 2008 – and I will have a wonderful reunion with my dad.  Because these men have a right relationship with God, through faith in Christ, as do I, one day I will see them again in Heaven.  I could write a whole blog about this, but to put it succinctly, I love 1 Thessalonians 4 where we are told that we are not to “grieve like the rest of men who have no hope” (verse 13).  There will be a glorious reunion in Heaven.  Verse 17 sums it up: “And so we will be with the Lord forever.”  Thanks be to God for this hope!

So, not only has July been an ordeal because of loved ones in Heaven now, but I confess to you that this July has been difficult because there are intense storms of life that I’m currently enduring.  Once again, I could go on and on, but in short, life can be very hard, and I have felt the stress of this reality.  In fact, not long ago, I was feeling overwrought.  The best way I can describe it is it felt like my knees were buckling under the weight of life’s challenges.  It was a powerful moment of worship when I was listening to Matt Redman’s classic song “Blessed be Your name”.  Frankly, for a time all I could do was just listen, that is, until a certain section of the song played; I sang aloud during this stanza: “You give and take away.  You give and take away.  My heart will choose to say, ‘Lord, blessed be Your name.’”  

Psalm 121:1-2 says, “I look up to the hills, but where does my help come from?  My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth” (NCV).  As I was putting this blog together, I read all of Psalm 121 to my mother, and I emphasized verses 1 and 2.  I did this to encourage and fortify us both, because these verses had been on my heart of late.  After the reading, my mom commented on how one might be feeling sad and discouraged, but even in the midst of this, how powerful it is when one chooses to recite and practice these verses.  How right she was!

God bless,

Kevin

"This is to be a day of independence"

Whenever I see a fireworks show, I think of “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie” (1995).  I know that sounds strange.  Stay with me and let me unpack that.  You see, the main villain of this film, Ivan Ooze (the proverbial scene stealer of the film, played brilliantly by seasoned actor Paul Freeman) posed an imminent threat to Earth.  At the beginning of the film, the Power Ranger’s leader and mentor, Zordon, tells the Rangers that centuries ago, Ivan had “ruled the world with a reign of unparalleled terror.”

Ooze had been imprisoned, but when he was released, he picked up right where he left off, boasting to the Rangers when he first meets them, “From this moment forth the world as you know it shall cease to exist.  Welcome to my nightmare!”  These were not just empty words, either.  Ivan Ooze proved to be the most formidable foe the Rangers had ever faced.  To sum it up, the Power Rangers eventually defeat Ivan Ooze.  At the film’s end, a fireworks show occurred, in celebration that the Earth inhabitants were safe and free!

If that film didn’t move you, another movie illustrates what I’m trying to convey today.  In “The Wizard of Oz” when Dorothy arrived in Oz, via a tornado that carried the house she was in, the house landed on the Wicked Witch of the East, killing her, and thus ending the tyrannical reign she had over the town of Oz.  Upon discovering the news, the mayor made this proclamation: “This is to be a day of independence.”  

By now you are tracking with me, I use these stories to illustrate that the 4th of July isn’t just a chance to have some time off from work.  There’s a deeper, celebratory note we must not forget.  As a boy, I used to sing Lee Greenwood’s 1984 song “God bless the U.S.A” to audiences, with my dad playing the piano, for musical accompaniment.  The chorus of that song says, “I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free.  And I won’t forget the men who died and gave that life to me.  And I’d gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today.”  

Enjoy the day.  Enjoy the fireworks.  Enjoy a day of different routine.  Enjoy spending time with family and/or friends.  But in whatever way you choose to fill July 4th, savor what the day is about: celebrating the freedom America enjoys.  It is a freedom that brave men and women gave their life for.  It is freedom we must not take for granted. 

God bless,

Kevin

Praising God today and every day

For my birthday blog, I decided to present content that is essentially nothing but a song of praise to God, in celebration for what He has done in my life.  This song I’m about to share is one that I’ve heard a hundred times perhaps, since its release in 2011.  Practically every time I would hear it, I would think, “I really need to work these powerful lyrics into a blog.”  I would think this because the sentiments are an echo of my heart.  But somehow it never made it to a blog post; until today!  I’m pleased to present the song “You still amaze me” by Rebecca St. James from her album “I will praise You”.

“Oh how beautiful the sound that has saved a wretch like me.  I was lost, but I am found; I was captive ‘til You made me free.  It was grace that taught my heart how to marvel at Your Name.  Breaking all my fears apart, taking all my doubt and shame.  And it all comes down to this: yeah, it all comes down to; [Chorus] Your grace is amazing to me; Your love is still such a wonder.  Your cross is still bringing me to my knees, oh God, You still amaze me.

When I stand before Your throne I will bring eternal praise.  For my heart has found a home, and a reason still to say, that it all comes down to this: yeah, it all comes down to; Your grace is amazing to me; Your love is still such a wonder.  Your cross is still bringing me to my knees, oh God [Bridge] and I am amazed.  How You paid in death every sinner’s wage; how You loved me first, so You took my place.  And redemption came through the work of grace.  It’s amazing, so amazing.

And it all comes down to this: yeah, it all comes down to; Your grace is amazing to me; Your love is still such a wonder.  Your cross is still bringing me to my knees, oh God, You still amaze me.”

Lord, after all these years, You do still amaze me, as this song says.  Thank You for Your faithfulness!  I worship You.  Amen.

God bless,

Kevin

An outstanding film is about to turn 20

June 30, 2004.  This is a famous day in superhero film history as it is the day that the film “Spider-Man 2” was released.  It’s no secret that I love this film; I have often contended – and I will continue to do so – that this is the best superhero film ever made.  I give my kudos to the film’s director Sam Raimi; he struck superhero storytelling gold.  Even though I’m a little bit early, I wanted to take some time to share some thoughts, in celebration of this great movie’s anniversary.  To be honest, I could go on and on and on praising various aspects, scenes, and character arcs from this movie, but let me just hit and run on a few elements.

First off, I came across an article from toms guide.com written by Dan Girolamo; he titled it, “‘Spider-Man 2’ is turning 20 – here’s why I think it’s the greatest superhero movie ever”.  I want to commend his article to you; the link is right here for you.  For my purposes today, I want to quote when Girolamo says these words:

“With great power comes great responsibility.” The famous line from Uncle Ben in “Spider-Man” became one of the defining moments of Raimi’s trilogy.  However, the phrase that better represents the core theme of “Spider-Man 2” is “You’ll always have a choice.”  This choice is what Raimi understood better than any director who’s ever worked on a “Spider-Man film.

The choice in “Spider-Man 2” revolves around who Peter wants to be, which determines the outlook on his life.  To live normally, can Peter still be Spider-Man?  Will he sacrifice appearances at plays or physics classes to capture some bank robbers?  Can he be a loyal friend to Harry while still being Spider-Man?  Can Peter love Mary Jane, or must he shut her out to protect her from Spider-Man’s enemies?  This existential crisis causes Peter to lose his powers.  This vulnerability from Peter is something is something rarely seen in a movie with comic book heroes.”

On a personal note, watching “Spider-Man 2” for the first time was a gripping experience that I will never forget.  I could relate to Peter’s desire to want to do the right thing; I resonate with it even stronger today.  At one point in the film, Peter throws his Spider-Man suit in a dumpster and announces, “I’m Spider-Man no more.”  Who among us wouldn’t have made the same choice?  I would have.  Yet, he realized that he could not simply turn his back on his heroic duties.  When he returns to the battle, it inspires us – it certainly inspires me – to stay faithful to our calling, no matter how difficult.  The fact that Peter gets to enjoy a happy ending, for a change, never fails to cause me to cry tears of joy.

To conclude, Dan Girolamo wrapped up his thoughts on this movie with these words: “Take away the webs, the suits, and the villains.  At its core, “Spider-Man 2” is a movie about sacrifice and responsibility.  Peter finally realizes this sentiment in his last conversation with [the film’s antagonist] Doc Ock.  Peter says, “Sometimes, to do what’s right, we must be steady and give up the things we desire the most, even our dreams.  Being a hero is hard, just like making a successful sequel.  But when a filmmaker like Raimi understands the emotional dilemma of being a hero, you get a masterpiece like “Spider-Man 2.”

God bless,

Kevin

Reflections on life as my birthday draws near

As my birthday draws closer and closer, this year I find myself extra grateful for the gift of life.  I won’t repeat what I said last time all over again here, but since my last birthday, I went through a very trying physical battle that left me close to death’s doorstep; had it not been for God’s providence – and talented doctors, nurses, and health professionals – I would not be here today.  The old hymn sums it up well for me: “To God be the glory; great things He has done.”

Those who know me best know that I’m not a person who broadcasts and promotes myself.  To do so would be arrogant, short-sighted, and unhelpful to anyone.  Instead of foolishly showcasing myself, I submit that one of the sentiments that I want to capture my life story is this statement: it’s not about Kevin; it’s about the great God Kevin worships and serves.  You see, my life was changed forever when I met Jesus.  He is my life, my hope, my everything.  Without Him, I am nothing.  Without Him, ultimately I have nothing to write that is of any lasting value.    

2 Corinthians 5:17 is a powerful verse from the Bible (“if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, old things have passed away, behold, all things have become new”), but a few verses prior to this one, we also read some powerful words.  Verse 15 says, “And he [Jesus] died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again” (italics added for emphasis).

When a person becomes a Christ-follower, it means so much more than going to Heaven when you die (although this is a fantastic perk, to be sure).  Rather, Jesus comes in and revolutionizes your life; He gives supernatural power to help us to walk an exciting, adventurous path with Him right by our side.  Walking with Him is to live a life of hope, tranquility, and fulfillment.  One of my favorite Bible verses is from John 10, where Jesus states that He came to give us life “more abundantly” (verse 10).  Don’t get me wrong: this doesn’t imply that life won’t hurt sometimes.  However, even in the midst of unspeakable pain, He is always there; He gives peace, help, and comfort, in the midst of the worst storms.

To conclude, I’ve often said that Rebecca St. James is a hero of mine.  She has consistently been a strong voice for God, and a good example.  I think there is a renewed interest in her life and ministry because of the new film “Unsung hero” – a film that I recommend to you.  I used to have a VHS tape highlighting Rebecca and her family called “No secrets” from back in 1998.  The tape may be gone, but thanks to You tube I found the content again.

At one point in the program, she stated, “We don’t have to get caught up in the whole thing of anger and resentment and bitterness.  We can find hope.  There is hope…I say from the stage, ‘Jesus is the hope’.”  Then in another segment, she said it a little differently: “There’s something better.  There’s something better than image…There’s something better than delving into drugs, into alcohol, into sex.  And it’s Jesus.”  An “amen” belongs here!

God bless,

Kevin

Praising God, come what may

As the days to my birthday draw nearer, I feel this is an important time to submit this reminder: getting older is not a burden to be dreaded; it is a blessing to be celebrated!  Every day is a gift.  I have been on the brink of death several times in my life; most recently, it was in August into September of 2023, when I was sicker than I even knew.  Ultimately, I ended up in the hospital emergency room.  After a few days there, I was well enough to finally return to my home and gradually to my everyday routine.  To go through this kind of health crisis reminds you to treasure every day as it comes.

That’s not to say that I don’t endure bad days.  Of course I do.  For example, this past weekend was Father’s Day.  And it was a bittersweet day for me.  When talk of the value of fathers is in the air, it can be difficult for me to hear.  You see, God molded my dad into a wonderful man; a man of virtue and integrity, and a man who was devoted to his family.  But he is in Heaven, enjoying the glories of Heaven.  Even 9 years after his unexpected passing, I miss him.  

There are other examples of bad days occurring, even in the midst of gratitude for life.  For instance, just today, as I was putting the final touches of this content together, I faced a bad day that left my stomach in knots.  The details of the ordeal aren’t relevant, but when I was finally able to catch my breath and process everything, I knew I needed to rework today’s blog a bit.  I also knew that I needed to bring up Brandon Lake’s song – that was released last year – titled “Praise You anywhere”.  It captures how God is worthy to be praised, both in the good days, and the bad.  Here’s a sampling:

“Sometimes you gotta praise in the prison; cry out to Heaven, shout it ‘til the doors swing wide.  Sometimes you’ve gotta stand on your shackles, brave in the battle, worship with your hands held high.  [Chorus] I’ll praise You anywhere.  Praise, give Him praise, give Him praise, in the highest.  Praise, give Him praise, give Him praise in the highest.  He is worthy, yes, He is worthy of all of the praise.”  This line also caught my attention: “On mountain or valley, I know that You’re with me there.  I’ll praise You anywhere.”  Amen and amen!

In conclusion, I just wanted you to understand that when I speak of gratitude for life, it’s not that I am blind to the pain, agony, and heartache that can befall a person in life.  In fact, maybe that’s where you are right now as you read this.  The bottom has dropped out of your life, and you don’t even know what end is up.  I’ve been there too.  I feel your pain.  With empathy and love, I submit to you that even in the most intense storm, God is faithful.  Look to Him.  Cling to Him.    

God bless,

Kevin      

Thoughts on "Unsung Hero" movie

Last week, I finally had the great privilege of seeing the film “Unsung Hero”.  Anyone who knows me knows that I have been a big fan of Rebecca St. James for a long time now; this film is based on the true story of how God took care of her, her siblings, and her parents - David and Helen – when their family first moved to the United States. 

I could go on and on detailing why I enjoyed this movie, or the various scenes where I found myself in tears (keep your Kleenex handy, for sure).  However, rather than belabor this, let me just state that someone asked me what my favorite scene in the movie was: I answered that it was when young Rebecca (played exceptionally well by Kirrilee Berger) showcased her singing talent to a record label, and was subsequently signed to a deal, launching her ministry and career.

The song that was performed in that poignant scene was one that Rebecca had written called “You make everything beautiful” (technically, in real life, this song wouldn’t be written until 2011, several years later, but for the moment and the overall context of the film, it was picture perfect to include it here).  For one thing, this song shows Rebecca’s humility, faith, and dependence on God.  Take, for instance, this stanza:

“Grant me serenity, Lord, and patience, for things will take time.  Grant me freedom to walk a new path, and let me feel Your love.  In my weakness You can shine; in Your strength, I can fly.  [Chorus] And You make everything, everything beautiful; You make everything, everything new.  In its time, in Your time, it’s beautiful.”  I nearly lifted my hands in worship to God, right there in the movie theater, with this portion of the song: “Lifting open hands to You, my Savior; beautify my soul.  Knowing You redeem my pain and failure; purify my soul.  Beautify my soul.”

In conclusion, I am recommending the film “Unsung Hero” to you.  It showcases a family coming together in the midst of an immensely trying crisis; it also demonstrates other vital elements in life such as prayer, gratitude, generosity, and forgiveness.  Ultimately, however – in my opinion anyway – this is a film that shows the power of God to provide for His own; to do “exceedingly abundantly above all we can ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20).

God bless,

Kevin   

The inevitable passing of time

Life seems to move quickly.  As Barry Allen alias the Flash (the CW version, played brilliantly by Grant Gustin) once put it: “This world can race by far too fast; hard to see when it’s all flying past.”  Blink a few times, and all of the sudden, my niece is turning 15 years old here in a few weeks, my younger brother is turning 40 later on this year, and my dad’s passing was almost 9 years ago now.  Time inevitably marches on.

A few weeks ago, I had the chance to watch the film “American Underdog” starring Zachary Levi as Kurt Warner.  This is a story that tells the life and times of Kurt Warner, and his amazing rise to star NFL quarterback.  I thought it was really well done.  And I have to admit that it’s an odd feeling to watch movies that capture an event that I lived though.  I was watching Kurt Warner and his magical 1999 season with the St. Louis Rams in real time.  Time marches on. 

I got to thinking: what I would say to a younger version of myself?  This is a question that could take many angles.  But for today, I want to present a few answers.  I would tell him what a Chick-fil-A operator once said – a line that I have subsequently used many times since I first heard it; he said, “Life is chapters.”  It’s true.  The other day, I realized a beloved video game “Donkey Kong Country” on the Super Nintendo was released in 1994.  My brother and I played this iconic game like crazy when we were younger.  This video game is a rare gem, a masterpiece – and its celebrating its 30-year anniversary!  

“Donkey Kong Country” has beautiful graphics, including one of my favorite levels called “Snow Barrel Blast” that has varying degrees of falling snow.  I know the game so well, my mind instinctively knows that a particularly memorable level is coming.  Because of this, I have unintentionally missed the beauty of the level in my walkthrough of the game, just by focusing on the next one.  I would tell my younger self that I’ve been guilty of the same thing in my real life. Just as I could easily miss the beauty of a stage by focusing on an upcoming stage, sadly, I have missed the beauty of a season of life by focusing on the next season. 

Finally, I started today with a quote from Grant Gustin’s Barry Allen/the Flash.  I want to end by speaking about another version of the superhero.  I recently saw “The Flash” (2023) film starring Ezra Miller.  I could write a whole blog on this topic, but for today, I would submit that this film is an example of how not to end a superhero film.  The first two-thirds of the film is decent enough (Michael Keaton in the Batman suit again is certainly a big highlight!), but it falls flat on its face in the 3rd and final act.  The ending is disjointed and perplexing.  I now use this film to encourage myself: “Kevin, don’t be like “The Flash” film; finish well!”

Don’t misunderstand me when I speak of finishing well.  No one knows the exact years of a lifetime; my Grandma just celebrated her 95th birthday!  I’m about to celebrate my 43rd birthday myself, and I’m excited about where I am at this current season of my life.  I have absolutely no intentions of going anywhere.  But, as James states, “You don’t even know what will happen tomorrow” (4:13).  I trust God with my life, and my tomorrows.  I just echo the words of the Psalmist, when he says to the Lord, “my times are in Your hands” (Psalm 31:15).  But all that said, I still want to endeavor to finish well.  Knowing that one day, whenever that may be, my race will be over.  And I want to cross that finish line well – all to the glory of God alone.

God bless,

Kevin 

Reflections on the Christian life

Last time, I spoke about beginning a relationship with the Lord Jesus.  It’s my fervent desire that what I wrote had an impact on you.  I’m hopeful that my words inspired you to give your life to Christ (or perhaps you’ve already started your relationship with the Lord, but maybe you realized that you’ve drifted away, and you need to return to Him).  I can imagine, instead of a blog, sitting down with you over coffee, swapping stories of what God has done in our lives.  If that were the case, at some point, I would share some thoughts on the Christian life that I’ve picked up on over the years. 

I would begin with how, many years ago now, I heard a pastor named Rick Ferguson (who passed away back in 2002) make a statement that is so important to know.  He said, “When you became a Christian you inherited a new set of enemies.”  He was right.  The older I get, the more I see firsthand how the Christian life is a vigorous fight waged against the world, the flesh, and the devil.  Got questions.org has a helpful article on this topic.  I would encourage you to check out the whole article, the link can be found here.  But to give you a sample:

“Being is a Christian is difficult because, once we are saved, we are suddenly swimming upstream, against the current of the world around us. Though our appetites change, our sanctification can be a difficult process. Friends no longer understand us; our families question our new involvements and associations. Those we love often feel rejected, angry, and defensive. They don’t see why we no longer continue in our old ways.”

The Christian life is not a life that is free of pain, heartache, and suffering.  For one thing, as my mother pointed out not long ago, suffering is universal for both the Christian and the non-Christian alike.  After all, the Bible says, “It rains on the just and the unjust.”  But also, in John 15, as Jesus is trying to get in His final words to His disciples, hours before His crucifixion, He told them to expect opposition, hatred, and persecution, just as a result of their affiliation with Him (verses 18-25).  In John 16:33, He promised them, “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart!  I have overcome the world.” 

Now, there’s an ironic twist.  In God’s economy, even though what has been stated to this point is absolutely true, what is also equally true is this: living life with the Lord is the greatest, most joyous life imaginable – troubles notwithstanding.  Just today, as I was preparing this blog, I heard a sermon where the pastor quoted Psalm 16:11 (“You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence are pleasures forevermore”), and he commented that the believer has pleasure in God’s presence, and we don’t even have to wake up the next day with a hangover!

That previously cited got questions.org article went on to state these fortifying words: “Yes, being a Christian is difficult in many ways. But that’s only half the story. The difficulties believers face are not tackled alone.  Every challenge is met through the through power of Christ who lives within us (Philippians 4:13). The faithful follower of Christ is never completely overwhelmed (2 Corinthians 4:8-9). 

There are definite, eternal rewards for following Christ (Luke 18:29-30). We learn by experience that God’s ways are better, safer, and more reliable than the world’s ways. Our trusting obedience to God becomes the pathway to a transformed and abundant life (John 10:10).” An “amen” belongs here!

God bless,

Kevin

Reflecting on Jesus - the Good Shepherd

A few weeks ago, I almost got in a car accident on the Interstate.  I swerved at the last second to avoid a collision, but my emotions were frayed.  And then later on that same day, I learned that Mandisa had passed away at age 47.  After all of this, a kernel of today’s blog began to form in my mind; I began pondering this question: what would I say if I knew I only had one last chance to convey something to you?  Now, just to be clear: I don’t have any intention of going anywhere anytime soon.  Every day is a gift, and I plan to continue to relish this gift for a long, long time.  Regardless, I still want to go down this road with you.  

If I had one last chance to speak to you, I would ask you to read some verses in John 10 with me. This chapter begins with Jesus speaking of sheep, strangers, and shepherds; the text says in verse 6, “but they did not understand what He was saying to them.”  So He clarifies in verse 7, “I am the door of the sheep.”  Verse 9: “I am the door, if anyone enters by me, he will be saved, and he will go in and out and find pasture.” 

These are very important, life-changing words from the Lord.  Not only is Jesus is saying that He is the way of salvation (“if anyone enters by me, he will be saved”), but He is also saying that in Him, and through Him, is rest and safety (“he will go in and out and find pasture”).  Psalm 23:2 has similar terminology: it states that the Lord, the Shepherd, “makes me to lie down in green pastures.”  One of the life lessons I’ve learned is that rest and satisfaction ultimately comes from the gracious hand of the Lord.

Verse 10 is a familiar, but powerful verse: “The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it more abundantly.”  I’m going to have to reel it in a bit, because I’m passionate about this, but the fact is, John 10:10 has been taught that Jesus is only speaking of material prosperity here.  This is simply not the case.  I like the way the NIV translates it, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”  Psalm 23:5, in the old King James version, reads, “my cup runneth over”.  I like that word picture, and I can resonate with it; not only do I have life with Jesus, but He makes my life full, to overflowing, certainly fuller than it ever would have been without Him.

Jesus goes on in John 10 to say, “I am the good shepherd.  The good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep” (verse 11).  This speaks of Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross.  And it is of such vital importance that Jesus reiterates this phrase again in verses 15 and 17.  In verse 17, He states, “I lay down my life that I may take it up again.”  Verse 18 is incredible: “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.  I have the authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again.”  Jesus basically is predicting a self-sacrificial death, but also that He would rise from the dead after this.  Who else could make such a claim?  No wonder verse 19 states that there was a division among the Jews regarding these words.  But it all happened just as He said it would!

So, what would I say to you, if I knew I had one last chance to convey something?  I would say that Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd.  Out of selfless love for you and me, He gave His life on the cross; He subsequently arose from the dead.  His work bridged the gap between sinful man and holy God, but it demands a response.  I would urge you to do as Jesus said in John 10:9: to enter the door of salvation, through Jesus Himself, and be saved.  Experience the rest, hope, and fulfillment in Him.  Now, I’m not insinuating that there will never be any pain, heartache or anguish after becoming a Christ-follower (I’ll speak about that more next time, God willing).  But that said, not only can I attest to a new heart and life in Christ, but millions could tell their own stories of transformation in Him as well.

God bless,

Kevin

The woman behind the man - Mother's Day, 2024

Amazingly, it was 20 years ago that the film “Spider-Man 2” was released.  To this day, it is one of my favorite movies.  When my pastor was speaking of the self-sacrifice of mothers today at church, my mind went to a wonderful scene from this film.  The context of this scene is Peter Parker, Spider-Man, was fed up with being the costumed hero.  If you’ve seen the film recently, you remember why; essentially everything goes wrong for Peter.  It eventually gets so frustrating for him that he chucks his Spidey costume in the trash. 

It was a boy named Henry who was helping his Aunt May move, who brought up Spider-Man in the memorable scene.  May comments that Henry wants to be Spider-Man.  When Peter asks why, she says, “Because he knows a hero when he sees one.  Too few characters out there, flying around like that saving old girls like me.  And Lord knows, kids like Henry need a hero – courageous, self-sacrificing people setting examples for all of us...I believe there’s a hero in all of us…even though sometimes we have to be steady and give up the thing we want the most, even our dreams.”

Peter Parker’s birth parents are barely mentioned in the Tobey Maguire-led Spider-Man movie series.  Instead, it was the loving example of his aunt (and uncle) that helped shape him into the noble man presented to us in the trilogy.  She was the woman behind the man.  As for this storyline in “Spider-Man 2”, I love the thought that it was his aunt, his mother figure, who spoke into his life when he was at a crossroads in his life; she inspired him to live out his heroic identity, as Spider-Man.

As I mentioned, today my pastor was speaking of how mothers are self-sacrificing.  In fact, he went on to declare that their self-sacrificial nature is a picture of the selfness nature of Jesus Christ Himself.  He was right.  Very often, mothers are, to quote Aunt May again, “self-sacrificing people setting examples for all of us.”  Of course, no mother – and no father for that matter – is perfect.  But the way a mother selflessly gives, nurtures, and loves their children shapes them, it inspires them, to be a productive, noble man or woman.  The older I get, the clearer I see the self-sacrificial lifestyle that my own mother, Rose Mary, lived in my formative years, and that she still models to this very day.

In conclusion, I get that Mother’s Day can be a difficult day.  Perhaps your mother has died, or you have a strained relationship with her, or she was anything but self-sacrificing toward you.  Or whatever various scenarios may have occurred.  I’m not ignorant to the pain that may be present for you, right now, on Mother’s Day of 2024.  And, in no way whatsoever am I minimizing this reality.  Nevertheless, I still hope you take some time to express appreciation to your mother, or the woman who was a motherly figure in your life.  The years go by so fast; don’t miss out on the opportunity to bless your mother, while you can.

God bless,

Kevin