Ministry of Hope

By Dan Langerock

There are so many people in need of encouragement nowadays with the economy being what it is. Stress in people’s lives is at a breaking point and they need to know someone cares about them. I am putting forth a challenge for the Christian community and others who want to use their gifts to help others. Here is the idea:
I believe there are many of you out there with gifts the Lord has given you for singing, playing instruments, encouragement and a host of others. Why not use them to benefit our nation by going in your own city, area and wherever God leads you to spread this hope from God? One person cannot hope to meet all the needs our country has, but all of us working together can make a difference for God, and even an impact. That is the true point of being a Christian, to make an impact for God wherever you go.
We cannot accomplish this momentous task in our own strength because we are not strong enough in ourselves. The issues are too complex. The problems are too big for our wisdom. That is why we need the marvelous wisdom of God that transcends description. We need His power and His love and His wisdom to accomplish the seemingly impossible. Jesus said, “What is impossible for man is possible with God.”
You don’t have to be perfect to be able to use that gift God has given to you. If you will step out in faith, I believe God will work in a wondrous way in our beautiful country of America. Everyone, at some point in their lives needs hope and encouragement. There are many without jobs, places to live, and most of all hope for the future to believe once again. It has all been drained out by what they have been through, just as things may have happened in your life as well.
So, what can you do? Pray about how God wants you to help our nation, first of all. Then use the gifts God has given you to show people the love of God in your neighborhood and city. If we put God in a small box we will get small results. However, if we let Him out of the proverbial box and believe with all our being, God will do wonders for America---one person at a time.
I am challenging every Christian in America to at least pray for God to move in a mighty way in the hearts of Christians everywhere. Then, step out in faith and do what you have prayed about. Get out there and encourage people. If you play an instrument or sing, use those gifts wherever you can. It doesn’t matter what your gift is, the point is to use it for the glory of God.
One church I know of is making quilts for people at a mission to keep. So look for needs in your own sphere of influence: where you work, shop, and everywhere you go. The Bible tells us that wherever Jesus went, He did good for others. If we claim to be Christians and His disciples, can we do any less than He did?
Thank you for praying and joining us in our Mission of Hope to America. You will be truly blessed if you pray about this and then act upon it by using what God has given you. Remember, we are not to be a reservoir but a funnel of His blessings to those around us. God bless you as you obey.

The Two Blind Men

by Dan Langerock

I once was blind and could not see
A beautiful rose or cypress tree.
A man’s color I could not begrudge
For sightless men cannot prejudge.

A man I knew was also blind,
But his was centered in his mind.
His hate was plain for all to see.
I think my blindness was the best to be.

Someone Special

by Dan Langerock

Dedicated to Ginger
My One and Only Sweetheart

Is there someone special
Who prays for you each day?
It helps to lift your burdens
When problems come your way.

Is there someone special
To stand with you in prayer?
It gives your heart a comfort
To know someone is there.

The Last Time

by Dan Langerock

It’s the last time I can hold you
On this side of the grave.
They tell me to be strong.
I don’t feel like being brave.

Someday when I get there,
I will knock on heaven’s door.
Then we’ll be together,
And I will hold you once more..

Setting the Tone for Your Relationships

You've just had a fight with your girlfriend or wife. The problem is, you can't figure out why? When I was first married, I couldn't hear the tone of my voice as I spoke to my wife. So, many times, she thought I was mad at her when I wasn't. It was all because I hadn't taught myself to listen to the tone of my own voice.
It is commonplace to listen to others and react when the tone of their voice is contrary to what it should be. We may wonder, "What did I do wrong?" Probably nothing! That person, like me with my wife, hadn't listened to their own tone of voice.
One way you can gauge how you are coming across to others is to watch their facial reactions and body language as you talk to them. This will help to cue you in when your tone of voice is not right. However, by that time, it may be too late because you could have already said something amiss if you notice it in the language of their body.
Practice by yourself, perhaps with a tape recorder, as you speak as you normally would. Then play it back and see if your intent was evident in what you said and how you said it. Another way to do this is to have a friend or loved one listen to you as you practice and give you feedback.
We can avoid a lot of unnecessary squabbles with those around us if we will just take the time to listen to ourselves. This listening will also help you de-stress your life and make it more peaceful. You can set the tone of your life for the better by practicing this simple technique.