Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Evangelicals for Darfur
Imagine....
It's the middle of the night. Your family is sleeping. All of a sudden you are awakenened by the sound of gunshots and screaming. Your spouse and children are killed and you are left homeless. Why have these horrible things happened to you? Because the government of the country where you live has decided that people with your skin color should be exterminated.
As unimaginable as this sounds, it has happened and continues to happen to millions of people in the Sudan region of Africa. We, as Christians and as fellow human beings cannot ignore what is happening to these people. To find out more, here are a couple of websites with good info.
http://go.sojo.net/campaign/evangelicalsfordarfur
http://www.savedarfur.org/
And, don't forget...this Sunday (12/10) is the official "Weekend of Prayer for Darfur." Here's a link to a toolkit to help get your church involved.
http://www.sojo.net/action/alerts/e4d_toolkit.pdf
It's the middle of the night. Your family is sleeping. All of a sudden you are awakenened by the sound of gunshots and screaming. Your spouse and children are killed and you are left homeless. Why have these horrible things happened to you? Because the government of the country where you live has decided that people with your skin color should be exterminated.
As unimaginable as this sounds, it has happened and continues to happen to millions of people in the Sudan region of Africa. We, as Christians and as fellow human beings cannot ignore what is happening to these people. To find out more, here are a couple of websites with good info.
http://go.sojo.net/campaign/evangelicalsfordarfur
http://www.savedarfur.org/
And, don't forget...this Sunday (12/10) is the official "Weekend of Prayer for Darfur." Here's a link to a toolkit to help get your church involved.
http://www.sojo.net/action/alerts/e4d_toolkit.pdf
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Check Out My New Blog!!!!
I have created a new blog and I hope you'll come check it out. It's called Tourin' with Tami. It's sort of a travel journal. There will be lots of pictures!! Here's the address...
http://tourinwithtami.blogspot.com/
http://tourinwithtami.blogspot.com/
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Barbara Whaley Contact Info
Today Barbara joined us on the show to talk about natural remedies for tummy troubles. You can reach her at Back to Basics Natural Health Care Center in Clemmons (next to KMart). The phone # is 766-6565.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Progress!
Well, I am so happy to be back from my cruise... not really, but that sounds like the right thing to say :) . I have to get my pix developed (yes I'm still a 35mm girl) and then I will be able to write a blog about the trip.
Things here at the station are nuts!! First of all, my desk was desecrated by Wally et. al. You can see the pictures on Papa John's blog http://john893.blogspot.com/. Plus, they are doing all of this construction around here and everything is out of order. We are broadcasting from the Production Room while the main studio is made over. So, John is working like crazy with his crew to get things done ASAP. Now, I realize that he is really busy and caught up in what is going on around here, BUT he needs to pay a little more attention to his...ahem...wardrobe. Here's a picture so you can understand what I am talking about...
BUT, there is a product available to help. It's the Reemco plumber's shield. I may have to pick one up for John.
Oh yes, it is good to be back!
Things here at the station are nuts!! First of all, my desk was desecrated by Wally et. al. You can see the pictures on Papa John's blog http://john893.blogspot.com/. Plus, they are doing all of this construction around here and everything is out of order. We are broadcasting from the Production Room while the main studio is made over. So, John is working like crazy with his crew to get things done ASAP. Now, I realize that he is really busy and caught up in what is going on around here, BUT he needs to pay a little more attention to his...ahem...wardrobe. Here's a picture so you can understand what I am talking about...
BUT, there is a product available to help. It's the Reemco plumber's shield. I may have to pick one up for John.
Oh yes, it is good to be back!
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
What goes around
I am not sure that Papa John has the whole laptop computer thing quite figured out yet. You see, yesterday, as he and Bonnie broadcasted live from the Chick-Fil-A in High Point to promote the start of the Salvation Army Great Stocking Stuff, there were some "technical difficulties".
Apparently, John was still under the impression that there were "little people" in the computer that made everything work. Here he is looking for them....
Apparently, John was still under the impression that there were "little people" in the computer that made everything work. Here he is looking for them....
Then, he kept yelling into the screen..."I KNOW YOU'RE IN THERE!!! WHY WON'T YOU ANSWER ME???" Then he would press his ear to the screen trying to hear the "gremlins"...
From the Gremlin's perspective it was quite a scary sight...
It was really quite embarassing for Bonnie who tried to explain his unusual behavior by saying that the Chick-Fil-A Bold Coffee was to blame. Not sure we'll ever be invited back to that Chick-Fil-A.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Friday, October 27, 2006
With Friends Like That...
“He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted. He bestows rain on the earth; he sends water upon the countryside. The lowly he sets on high, and those who mourn are lifted to safety.”
"Surely God does not reject a blameless man or strengthen the hands of evildoers. He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.”
“if you put away the sin that is in your hand and allow no evil to dwell in your tent, then you will lift up your face without shame; you will stand firm and without fear. You will surely forget your trouble, recalling it only as waters gone by.”
The words above are found in the Bible and I think we can all agree that they speak the truth about the depth of God’s love for us, his children. These verses could certainly be used to give encouragement and hope to a friend going through a difficult time. However, the people who spoke these words did not speak them in love or with the intention of lifting up a hurting friend. In fact, it was quite the opposite. When Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar said these words to their friend Job, their intention was to convince Job that it was the sin and error in his life that caused God to punish him.
Remember, Job had just lost his home, his children, his wealth and his health. Instead of empathy, these three friends only offered judgment and condemnation. And, God was not pleased with their advice to Job. In fact, the bible tells us that, “After the LORD had said these things to Job, he said to Eliphaz the Temanite, "I am angry with you and your two friends, because you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has. So now take seven bulls and seven rams and go to my servant Job and sacrifice a burnt offering for yourselves. My servant Job will pray for you, and I will accept his prayer and not deal with you according to your folly.” Job 42:7-8
I believe the lesson here is that there is a big difference between speaking the truth and speaking the truth in love. We can say all kinds of holy and truthful things, even quote scripture to people, but if it’s not done with a spirit of love and grace it is worthless, a “folly”. It is so tempting when someone comes to us with a problem to point out what got them there in the first place, but when is that helpful? It’s also important to remember this when we are the ones listening. Be wary of very “religious” people that use their biblical knowledge like a magnifying glass to expose the sin.
Will you join me in praying that God will lead us to people who are filled with wisdom and love. And, that we will remember to carefully search our own hearts before we offer advice to others.
"Surely God does not reject a blameless man or strengthen the hands of evildoers. He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.”
“if you put away the sin that is in your hand and allow no evil to dwell in your tent, then you will lift up your face without shame; you will stand firm and without fear. You will surely forget your trouble, recalling it only as waters gone by.”
The words above are found in the Bible and I think we can all agree that they speak the truth about the depth of God’s love for us, his children. These verses could certainly be used to give encouragement and hope to a friend going through a difficult time. However, the people who spoke these words did not speak them in love or with the intention of lifting up a hurting friend. In fact, it was quite the opposite. When Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar said these words to their friend Job, their intention was to convince Job that it was the sin and error in his life that caused God to punish him.
Remember, Job had just lost his home, his children, his wealth and his health. Instead of empathy, these three friends only offered judgment and condemnation. And, God was not pleased with their advice to Job. In fact, the bible tells us that, “After the LORD had said these things to Job, he said to Eliphaz the Temanite, "I am angry with you and your two friends, because you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has. So now take seven bulls and seven rams and go to my servant Job and sacrifice a burnt offering for yourselves. My servant Job will pray for you, and I will accept his prayer and not deal with you according to your folly.” Job 42:7-8
I believe the lesson here is that there is a big difference between speaking the truth and speaking the truth in love. We can say all kinds of holy and truthful things, even quote scripture to people, but if it’s not done with a spirit of love and grace it is worthless, a “folly”. It is so tempting when someone comes to us with a problem to point out what got them there in the first place, but when is that helpful? It’s also important to remember this when we are the ones listening. Be wary of very “religious” people that use their biblical knowledge like a magnifying glass to expose the sin.
Will you join me in praying that God will lead us to people who are filled with wisdom and love. And, that we will remember to carefully search our own hearts before we offer advice to others.
On the Road Again
The WBFJ team invites you to join us this weekend at a couple of fun for the family events. The first stop is this Saturday morning (10/28) from 10-1 at Piercing Light Christian Books and Gifts located in the Summit Square Shopping Center on University Parkway in Winston-Salem. You can spin the RAM Fabrication Prize Wheel and win some fun prizes including Mark Lowry CD's, DVD's and Tickets to Mark's upcoming "Crazy About You" tour. Plus, you can register to win a pair of tickets to see the Carolina Panthers. There will also be free hot dogs and drinks, bible stories for the kiddies, a concert from the Bethany Baptist Church Praise Band and the Winston-Salem Police Department will be there offering free child fingerprinting. SCAN (Stop Child Abuse Now) will also be there with information about child abuse prevention. For more info, visit www.shoppiercinglight.com.
The second event is Saturday afternoon from 3-7 at Chick-Fil-A, Whittaker Square on Peace Haven Road. Bring the kids for a carnival to support the Royal Kids Family Camp, a camp for abused children. Some of the fun will include: Kiss the Cow Booth, Carnival Games, Spin Art, Face Painting, Inflatable Rides and a free concert from Cindy Johnson. Verne and I will be there broadcasting from 3-6. For more info about the Royal Family Kids Camp, visit www.rfkc.org .
Thursday, October 26, 2006
eBay on Opposite Day
There's a new website where the lowest UNIQUE bidder wins the goods. Hmmmm, very interesting. Check it out:
www.41414.com
www.41414.com
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Make Money not Excuses
Can't figure out why you never have enough money? Then, you need this book from "Today Show" and "Oprah" money guru Jean Chatzky. For more info, go to www.jeanchatzky.com .
Thursday, October 12, 2006
...But Nobody Wants to Die
OK...no one wants to talk about this kind of stuff, because when you make plans for the end of your life it confirms your mortality. But, for your own and your family's sake it is necessary to plan now for the inevitable. Today we talked to Dee Leahman of Hospice. October is "Healthcare Decision Month" and Dee answered questions about things like living wills and healthcare powers of attorney.
Hospice is hosting several educational sessions this month. They will also help folks prepare their own living wills and powers of attorney at no charge. For more information, call 768-6157, ext. 622 or visit one of the following websites:
www.hospicecarecenter.org
http://fsdcms.org/mednews_dt.asp?article-id=523962746
http://www.blogger.com/www.seniorservicesinc.org
Hospice is hosting several educational sessions this month. They will also help folks prepare their own living wills and powers of attorney at no charge. For more information, call 768-6157, ext. 622 or visit one of the following websites:
www.hospicecarecenter.org
http://fsdcms.org/mednews_dt.asp?article-id=523962746
http://www.blogger.com/www.seniorservicesinc.org
Everybody Wants to go to Heaven...
I've just finished reading a book by David Crowder and John Hogan (David Crowder Band) called "Everybody Wants to go to Heaven, but Nobody Wants to Die". I don't exactly know what to say about it. It was perhaps the unusual book I have ever read. But it was also gripping, funny, tragic and thought-provoking.
David & Hogan wrote the book while in the midst of profound grief following the death of their close friend Kyle Lake. Kyle was the pastor of the church (University Baptist) in Waco, Texas where David is the worship leader. You probably heard about his death, he was the pastor that was electrocuted while doing a baptism.
This book opened many wounds of my own that I thought had closed long ago. Namely those coming from the death of my father 11 years ago. About halfway through reading it I became angry at David and Hogan for forcing me to feel the deep ache of loss and grief again. But, by the end of the book they helped me to realize that I must fully feel and embrace the sorrow brought about by the people I have lost in my life in order to be able to fully feel and embrace the hope and joy that we are promised as Christians.
Intrigued?
www.everybodywantstogotoheaven.com
David & Hogan wrote the book while in the midst of profound grief following the death of their close friend Kyle Lake. Kyle was the pastor of the church (University Baptist) in Waco, Texas where David is the worship leader. You probably heard about his death, he was the pastor that was electrocuted while doing a baptism.
This book opened many wounds of my own that I thought had closed long ago. Namely those coming from the death of my father 11 years ago. About halfway through reading it I became angry at David and Hogan for forcing me to feel the deep ache of loss and grief again. But, by the end of the book they helped me to realize that I must fully feel and embrace the sorrow brought about by the people I have lost in my life in order to be able to fully feel and embrace the hope and joy that we are promised as Christians.
Intrigued?
www.everybodywantstogotoheaven.com
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Skin Stuff
Don't forget about the open house tonight from 5-7 at Piedmont Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery. There will be free food, prizes, gifts, facials and information about the latest and greatest in skin care treatments and products. Visit www.clrskin.com for more info.
Piedmont Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery
765 Highland Oaks Dr., Suite 100
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Phone 336-760-4004
Fax 336-760-6632
Toll Free: 888-473-0218
Map
Piedmont Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery
765 Highland Oaks Dr., Suite 100
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Phone 336-760-4004
Fax 336-760-6632
Toll Free: 888-473-0218
Map
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Save Money on Groceries
I don't know about you, but I am always looking for ways to save money. Since food is one of my family of 5's biggest monthly expenses, I especially like to save $$ on groceries. Here are a few ideas...
After hearing many rave reviews from subscribers of thegrocerygame.com, I decided to give it a try. Every week I get a list of the best deals on groceries along with information about coupons that I can use to maximize my savings. You save money by stocking up on groceries when they're at their lowest price. The list I subscribe to is for Harris Teeter, but there are lots of other options to chose from. So far, I'm very pleased with this service. There's a 4 week trial period that costs$1.00. After that a subscription costs $10.00 for 8 weeks. Give it a try: www.thegrocerygame.com
September is National Coupon Month. I looooove me some coupons :) Here's that website:
www.couponmonth.com
Finally, people keep telling me about Angel Food Ministries which "provides discounted food not only for those that need it, but for any others who appreciate deep discounts on quality groceries." For $25 you can buy a food package worth $50 or more. This is open to everyone, regardless of income. Here is the website for more information and where you can find a local host site: www.angelfoodministries.com
And, of course, there's also your friendly neighborhood Aldi store. When you don't have coupons and don't want to spend the time researching the best deals, Aldi always offers low prices. The stores are definitely bare bones, you have to bring or buy your own grocery bags, a cart requires a 25-cent deposit and you can count on a lengthy wait in line. But, the groceries are always cheap and you can get pretty much everything you need there. For weekly specials visit www.Aldi.com.
If you have any tips...I'd love to hear from you! You can post your comment here. Thanks!
After hearing many rave reviews from subscribers of thegrocerygame.com, I decided to give it a try. Every week I get a list of the best deals on groceries along with information about coupons that I can use to maximize my savings. You save money by stocking up on groceries when they're at their lowest price. The list I subscribe to is for Harris Teeter, but there are lots of other options to chose from. So far, I'm very pleased with this service. There's a 4 week trial period that costs$1.00. After that a subscription costs $10.00 for 8 weeks. Give it a try: www.thegrocerygame.com
September is National Coupon Month. I looooove me some coupons :) Here's that website:
www.couponmonth.com
Finally, people keep telling me about Angel Food Ministries which "provides discounted food not only for those that need it, but for any others who appreciate deep discounts on quality groceries." For $25 you can buy a food package worth $50 or more. This is open to everyone, regardless of income. Here is the website for more information and where you can find a local host site: www.angelfoodministries.com
And, of course, there's also your friendly neighborhood Aldi store. When you don't have coupons and don't want to spend the time researching the best deals, Aldi always offers low prices. The stores are definitely bare bones, you have to bring or buy your own grocery bags, a cart requires a 25-cent deposit and you can count on a lengthy wait in line. But, the groceries are always cheap and you can get pretty much everything you need there. For weekly specials visit www.Aldi.com.
If you have any tips...I'd love to hear from you! You can post your comment here. Thanks!
Friday, September 22, 2006
Erin's Victory Dance
You may remember our conversation on the Morning Show a few weeks ago with Laurie Edwards from Thomasville, NC. It was her daughter Erin Browning whose battle with cancer inspired the Casting Crowns song "Praise You in This Storm". Erin went to be with the Lord on November 11, 2004.
On October 14, Erin's sister Mary Beth is hosting a formal dance in Erin's honor. All of the proceeds will benefit the Victory Junction Gang Camp in Randleman, where Erin spent a week shortly before she passed away. You can find out more about the dance and Erin's legacy by going to the website below.
http://www.erinsvictorydance.com/
On October 14, Erin's sister Mary Beth is hosting a formal dance in Erin's honor. All of the proceeds will benefit the Victory Junction Gang Camp in Randleman, where Erin spent a week shortly before she passed away. You can find out more about the dance and Erin's legacy by going to the website below.
http://www.erinsvictorydance.com/
Zip-Loc Omelet
OK...so this morning I told you about a recipe to make an omelet in a zip-loc bag. But, after checking it out on the internet, I have since learned that the makers of Zip-Loc bags do not recommend boiling their bags because it could break down the plastic. Sooooo, so much for the foolproof omelet. My quest continues.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
The Frizzamyer Principle
Adelaide Zindler is a Preschool Life Coach and the author of "The Frizzamyer Principle", a book about the dangers of labeling children. She believes that labels like ADD, ADHD, autistic, etc. can prevent us from seeing the potential a child has. For more information, visit her website: www.pedsplay.com
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
J.W. & Jacob White Fund
I can't imagine and don't ever want to know what it would feel like to lose two of my children. But that's exactly what happened to the parents of J.W. and Jacob white, the 3 and 4 year old brothers who drowned in the Dan River last week. While there's little anyone can do to ease this family's pain, we can help to ease the financial strain caused by this tregedy. Donations to help cover the cost of the funeral are currently being accepted. You can send your contribution to the J.W. and Jacob White Trust Fund, care of LSB Bank, 1101 Main St., Danbury, N.C. 27016.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Barbara Whaley--Back to Basics Natural Health Care
Barbara Whaley is a regular guest on Your Family Friendly Morning Show who specializes in natural health care. She can be reached at Back to Basics Natural Health Center, (336) 766-6565.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Angie's List
Looking for a plumber, house cleaner, hair stylist, contractor or other business/service provider but don't know where to turn? It's always hard to choose when you don't know anything about a company. Well, look no further than Angie's List. On this website you can read reviews of area professionals and businesses to see what their other customers think about them. You can also leave reviews of companies. There is a small fee to join Angie's List, but since it is new to this area you can sign up for a limited time and get a free one year membership. I did and it's quick and painless. Here's where you go to sign up or for more info:
http://www.angieslist.com/AngiesList/about.asp
http://www.angieslist.com/AngiesList/about.asp
Back to School Jitters
Today we spoke with the folks at Associates in Christian Counseling (ACC) about easing kid's (and parent's) back-to-school anxieties. For more information on this topic, you can contact ACC at 896-0065 or visit www.christiancounseling.org
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Angels Race
This morning we spoke to Mick Gunter, founder of the Angels Race Sprint Triathalon. During this race, participants write the name of the angel they are honoring on their body. This is a beautiful way to remember and honor a loved one who has inspired you. For more infomation, visit www.angelsrace.com.
Monday, August 14, 2006
Superman and Jesus?
Last week we talked to Steven Skelton, the author of "The Gospel According to the World's Greatest Superhero". The book draws some very compelling comparisons between Jesus and Superman and is an interesting read for anyone, but particularly for you comic-book junkies and "Man of Steel" aficionados. Here is Steven's website for more info:
http://www.entmin.com/index.htm
http://www.entmin.com/index.htm
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Another Dental Clinic Day at Phillips and Cuthrell, DDS.
Phillips and Cuthrell, D.D.S. have announced the date for their next dental clinic day. On Saturday, October 28 they will offer low-cost dental services by appointment all day long. All of the proceeds go to a charitable cause...this time the money will be donated to the family of a little boy in need of a Liver Transplant. For more info visit www.winstonsalemdentistry.com
Monday, August 07, 2006
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Chick-fil-a Kyle Petty Charity Ride
The event at the Mall on Sunday, 7/30 was fantastic. Although it was quite hot, everyone had a great time. I got to meet lots of people including Brian Littrell, Kyle Petty, Richard Petty and Dan Cathy-the President of Chick-Fil-A. But, I think I was most excited to meet Patty Petty. I so admire her determination to create beauty from the pain in her life. That drive has led to the creation of the Victory Junction Gang Camp... a truly amazing place.
Congratulations to Kyle and Patty for the completion of another successful ride across America. Welcome Home!
90 Minutes in Heaven
Today we talked to Don Piper about his book, "90 Minutes in Heaven." It's a fascinating look at his experience after he was in a horrible car accident, pronounced dead on the scene and then 90 minutes later came back to life. He talks about the experience of being in heaven, the long and painful road to recovery following the accident and how all of it has changed his life. For more information, you can visit his website at http://www.donpiperministries.com/ .
Erin's Song
This week we heard the touching story of Erin Browning, the little girl whose battle with cancer inspired Mark Hall of Casting Crowns to write the song, "Praise You in This Storm". Her mother, Laurie Edwards is an amazing woman and an example of true faith that persists even through the darkest of valleys. For more information about Erin, you can visit www.prayforerin.com .
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Dental Clinic Day at Phillips & Cuthrell, DDS
Saturday, 7/29 the AMAZING folks at Phillips & Cuthrell, D.D.S. are doing another one of their Dental Clinic Days to benefit charity. This event will benefit Campus Crusade for Christ. All of the staff volunteer their time and they offer dental services at GREATLY reduced prices. This is a great time for folks without dental insurance (like me!) to get dental work done or to just have a cleaning and check-up. The clinic is open to everyone, but you must have an appointment. If this clinic is full, they'll put you on the list for the next one which should be about 3 months from now. For more info call 765-3712 of visit www.winstonsalemdentistry.com
Makovers for Mary
Get a hair cut for $2.99 and a free facial and pedicure this weekend at the Grand Opening of Colorfast Salon in Clemmons. All of the proceeds will benefit Mary Moser, a 16 year old girl with a very serious form of brain cancer. The event is this Saturday and Sunday (7/29 & 7/30). For more info call 778-2282 or visit www.colorfastsalons.net.
Victory Junction Gang Camp
I hope to see you at the big event at Hanes Mall this Sunday, 7/30, celebrating the last stop on the Chick-fil-a Kyle Petty Charity Ride. Victory Junction Gang Camp is an amazing place. If you'd like to know more, visit their website: www.victoryjunction.org
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Good Hair Day!!
I just have to give a shout out to Mike Todd Serenity Salon and Day Spa in Winston-Salem. I went yesterday pretty much ready to cut my hair much shorter because it was making me crazy and HOT this summer. But, Mike used a tecnique where he was able to cut out the bulk but leave the length. The picture shows how much of my hair he cut out...but look how long it still is!!! It's so much more managable and comfortable this way.
Looking for a hairstylist? Mike Todd and all the folks at his salon are all experts. And, Mike is a devout Christian, so you're likely to get a bible study and a haircut when you're in his chair!!
www.miketoddserenitysalon.com
Friday, July 21, 2006
Super Nanny Casting Call
Are your kids out of control? Are there no more "Kodak Moments" for your family? Have your kids been "very, VERY naughty"? Then you may want to try out for the ABC TV show "Supernanny". A Supernanny Casting Call is being held Saturday, 7/22 at Oak Hollow Mall in High Point from Noon - 4:00 pm. Call 1-877-NANNYTIME for more info.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Ask The Expert-7/20/06-Gangs in the Triad
Detectives Livingston and Leone
Winston-Salem Police Department,
Gang Intelligence Unit
773-7700
www.knowgangs.com
www.gangsorus.com
Winston-Salem Police Department,
Gang Intelligence Unit
773-7700
www.knowgangs.com
www.gangsorus.com
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Ask the Expert-7/13/06-Car Talk with Ray
Today on "Ask the Expert"
Ray Keeton
Keeton Automotive Service
7880 N NC 150 Hwy
Clemmons, NC
(336) 775-0777
Ray Keeton
Keeton Automotive Service
7880 N NC 150 Hwy
Clemmons, NC
(336) 775-0777
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
The Thing About TV Dinners
I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth – Revelation 3:15-16
So, I’m in the kitchen at work warming up today’s frozen entrée for lunch. Todays offering is Lasagna Florentine…a “rich, five layer lasagna, with ricotta cheese, zucchini and spinach”, the box boasts. A highlighted section of the package tells me with great excitement, “Now with Garden-Style Marinara Sauce!” The photo on the cover looks like a dish I might be served at our neighborhood Italian restaurant. And, momentarily, I believe that the lunch I’ll be eating at my desk today is gonna be good….real good.
But then I snap back into reality and realize that this is a $2.00 TV dinner ($1.50 with coupon) and despite the skillful wording and lovely photography on the box, I’m still going to be eating food that has been in a cryogenic state for an unknown number of months (or years). As I peel back the plastic film and take my first bite, my disappointment is confirmed. No, it’s not the worst thing I’ve ever eaten but it isn’t “A Good Thing” as Martha would say.
As I’m chewing the last bite of an elastic noodle, God reminds me that my TV Dinner disappointment is kind of like the times that I’ve let Him down with my worship. I think about those Sunday mornings when I rush around trying to get myself and everyone ready, putting the girls in their pretty dresses so they’ll look nice for church. Husband Alton trims his beard, son Andrew cleans behind his ears, and I, sometimes, even manage to get some make-up on. We pile into the van, pull into the parking lot and head into church…even managing to smile and wave at the folks we pass by on the way in.
And then I, in all my “Sunday Morning Packaging”, step into the sanctuary to worship God. And, even though all the right words are coming out of my mouth, what’s on the inside doesn’t live up to the picture on the outside. I’m distracted, looking around at others, thinking about how bad someone’s singing is and quietly cracking an occasional joke to my husband. My worship, if you can even call it that, has an “off flavor”, it is mushy, flavorless and still partially frozen. Not exactly what you could call a fragrant offering, now is it?
So, I’ve decided that he next time I find myself in church mindlessly singing along to the music and nodding my head at the preacher, I’m going to ask myself this question, “Am I offering God a TV Dinner or a gourmet meal?”
So, I’m in the kitchen at work warming up today’s frozen entrée for lunch. Todays offering is Lasagna Florentine…a “rich, five layer lasagna, with ricotta cheese, zucchini and spinach”, the box boasts. A highlighted section of the package tells me with great excitement, “Now with Garden-Style Marinara Sauce!” The photo on the cover looks like a dish I might be served at our neighborhood Italian restaurant. And, momentarily, I believe that the lunch I’ll be eating at my desk today is gonna be good….real good.
But then I snap back into reality and realize that this is a $2.00 TV dinner ($1.50 with coupon) and despite the skillful wording and lovely photography on the box, I’m still going to be eating food that has been in a cryogenic state for an unknown number of months (or years). As I peel back the plastic film and take my first bite, my disappointment is confirmed. No, it’s not the worst thing I’ve ever eaten but it isn’t “A Good Thing” as Martha would say.
As I’m chewing the last bite of an elastic noodle, God reminds me that my TV Dinner disappointment is kind of like the times that I’ve let Him down with my worship. I think about those Sunday mornings when I rush around trying to get myself and everyone ready, putting the girls in their pretty dresses so they’ll look nice for church. Husband Alton trims his beard, son Andrew cleans behind his ears, and I, sometimes, even manage to get some make-up on. We pile into the van, pull into the parking lot and head into church…even managing to smile and wave at the folks we pass by on the way in.
And then I, in all my “Sunday Morning Packaging”, step into the sanctuary to worship God. And, even though all the right words are coming out of my mouth, what’s on the inside doesn’t live up to the picture on the outside. I’m distracted, looking around at others, thinking about how bad someone’s singing is and quietly cracking an occasional joke to my husband. My worship, if you can even call it that, has an “off flavor”, it is mushy, flavorless and still partially frozen. Not exactly what you could call a fragrant offering, now is it?
So, I’ve decided that he next time I find myself in church mindlessly singing along to the music and nodding my head at the preacher, I’m going to ask myself this question, “Am I offering God a TV Dinner or a gourmet meal?”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)