Busy with the busy-ness of life

I must say I miss talking to everyone. I got home from Iraq in October and quickly got caught up in the busy-ness of life in the US. Finally after returning we got new medics. After spending a year in Iraq at 50% strength we are now at 100%. I love the eagerness of the new medics. Some of the other soldiers in my platoon leave a little something to be desired. I will try to post daily or at least weekly. Continue praying for me. I am still trying to get released from my current unit so I can go teach at a training post.

I am alive

I am alive. I just havent had anything to say lately. My time in Iraq is drawing to a close. We have been cleaning and packing equipment. It also seems the chain of command is trying to squeeze in as many missions as possible before we redeploy home. I look forward to making it home and seeing my family again. I also have planned some trips to visit friends. I am in serious need of destressing.

I was brash (reckless; impetuous), please forgive me

I brashly posted this info without properly checking it out. Thank you Milton Stanley for pointing out the error of my ways. As a Christian we must guard against lashing out. I appologize to Mr Forrey and Target for perpetuating this message.

Seems this is an urban myth. Check out other myths while you are there.

Dick Forrey, a member of the Indiana-based Howard County Vietnam Veterans organization, rashly penned the below message in March 2002 after failing to secure a $100 sponsorship for a travelling Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Wall exhibit from his local Target store. Mr. Forrey was rebuffed, because Target does not give out cash donations through local stores; they donate money only at the corporate level, and only through grants to organizations falling within their defined general areas of giving. Mr. Forrey has since apologized for his mistake and issued a retraction:

I made a mistake on this one, and I've learned a hard lesson — that's for
sure. What started out as a message for the members in our organization has
turned into a hate-type thing. I never wanted to start any national boycott. I
just wish it would all stop. Some people have used my words and perpetuated
lies. It's sad that some of these people would use veterans as a way to push
their own political views. I've sent out a retraction, and no one pays any
attention.

This is an urban myth. See this site to get the truth.

Stop supporting Target until they support Veterans

Something to think about when heading out to shop next time.
Amazing Issue with Target Stores

If they have a good sale in their ads, take the ad to Walmart, wherethey will meet the price...............

Dick Forrey of the Vietnam Veterans Association wrote."Recently we asked the local TARGET store to be a proud sponsor of theVietnam Veterans Memorial Wall during our spring recognition event.We received the following reply from the localTARGET management: "Veterans do not meet our area of giving. We onlydonate to the arts, social action groups, gay & lesbian causes, andeducation."So I'm thinking, if the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall and veterans ingeneral do not meet their donation criteria, then something is reallywrong at this TARGET store. We were not asking for thousands ofdollars, not even hundreds, just a small sponsorship for a memorialremembrance.As a follow-up, I E-mailed the TARGET U.S. corporate headquarters andtheir response was the same.That's their national policy. Then I looked into the company further. They will not allow theMarines to collect for 'Toys for Tots' at any of their stores. Andduring the recent Iraq deployment, they would not allow families ofemployees who were called up for active duty to continue theirinsurance coverage while they were on military service. Then as I digfurther, TARGET is a French-owned corporation. Now, I'm thinking again. If TARGET cannot support American Veterans,then why should my family and I support their stores by spending ourhard earned American dollars and to have their profits sent to France.Without the American Vets, where would France be today?"Feel free to pass this along to whomever you want.

Sincerely,
Dick Forrey
Veterans helping Veterans

Please send this on to everyone you know to let Target know howAMERICAN'S feel about their non support of America and our support ofthem. Isn't it amazing how people can forget when we support them.

How do you define success?

Does Passion equal Success?

How do we define passion? How do we define success? What is the correct aim for success? What should we be passionate about?

Webster’s online says the following:

Passion

Noun
1. Strong feeling or emotion.
2. Intense passion or emotion. (how can you use a word to describe itself?)
3. Something that is desired intensely; "his rage for fame destroyed him".
4. An irrational but irresistible motive for a belief or action.
5. A feeling of strong sexual desire.
6. Any object of warm affection or devotion; "the theater was her first love" or "he has a passion for cock fighting".
7. The suffering of Jesus at the crucifixion.

Success

Noun
1. An event that accomplishes its intended purpose; "let's call heads a success and tails a failure"; "the election was a remarkable success for Republicans".
2. An attainment that is successful; "his success in the marathon was unexpected"; "his new play was a great success".
3. A state of prosperity or fame; "he is enjoying great success"; "he does not consider wealth synonymous with success".
4. A person with a record of successes; "his son would never be the achiever that his father was"; "only winners need apply"; "if you want to be a success you have to dress like a success".

A co-worker states one must be at the top of his/her field to be successful. Meaning instead of an EMT be a doctor. He firmly believes passion equals success. If there is no passion on is not successful.

Is it a sin to be happy with your station in life? Must we all strive to be Billy Graham? Why are we jealous of the next guy doing more or less than us?

I have a severe dislike for studying. Medicine requires studying. I would go crazy studying to stay proficient as a doctor. I would become a terrible person. (I am not saying all doctors are bad. Just that I would be a worse person than I am now. A lesser Christian even) I am the best EMT I know. Should I strive to be a doctor and be a mediocre one? I don’t think so. I feel I am where God wants me to be. Doing what God wants me to do. Don't get me wrong, I have my faults. But accountability with other men is keeping those faults in check.

Why do we get high and mighty thinking the janitor is below us? If it wasn’t for the maintenance crew the preacher couldn’t stand in front of everyone and preach the word. Then again I might be wrong. Your church might have an outhouse. Your church might be situated on a hill just right that the wind always blows the stench away from the church. Hey....it is a better analogy than the first one that came to mind.

On a side note…..what about procrastination?

Harvestnet’s article Walking out of the desert

Why does it seem we take so long to start working for the Lord? Moses went 40 years before he saw the burning bush. Isn’t there much to be learned by the widow with only the mite to give? Why do we feel we have to be Billy Graham? Why can’t we accept what God intended us to be? Just setting a good Christian example while learning to be all that you can be should work.

I am not condoning my waiting 25 years to find my voice. However, I look back and find that the trials I went through have made me a better person and therefore a better Christian. I still find it difficult to post somedays. Notice the recent two week lapse.


Does passion equal success?

Correct aim of passions as defined by Iam Caldwell and Dustin Thomason in The Rule of Four.

All it takes to be happy is to love the right things in the right amounts. Not money. Not books. People. Adults who don’t understand that never feel fulfilled.

Even though that is a secular novel I find the advise worthwhile. Love the right things in the right amounts.

J-Jesus
O-others
Y-you

Register your website Soldier

There seems to be an article in 4 July 2005 Army Times that states one must register his website with his command. I have yet to read the article. Yes, I understand it is 22 days later. However wishing to maintain the appearance of a good soldier I reported to my commander and informed him that I had a Christian blog and wished to register it. He gave me a quizzical look and said, “Okay? Please explain.” I told him about the article and how I was told that since I was a soldier I needed to register my blog with my chain of command. I told him I went to the computer guys (S6) and they had no clue what I was talking about. I told him I would have gone to my platoon leader but I didn’t have one. He knows I am the acting medical platoon leader in my battalion. He thought for a moment then stated “Don’t write anything against regulations. Dismissed.” I snapped to attention and did an about face and sharply marched out of there. As an after thought he yells, “And spell my name correctly” (Okay so it wasn’t really that formal, but the truth wasn’t as exciting. Plus I don’t want my military readers to think I am lacidazical about my career)

Does God have a regulation as to what we can and cannot write? After all I consider my main focus spiritual warfare not physical.

I think I see a new reader peaking in through the curtain. Don’t be shy come on in. Please feel free to voice your opinion and answer any questions you feel led to answer. Or direct us to a website that covers the subject matter. I have never been one to reinvent the wheel when someone smarter than I has done a great job already.

Chapter from the book on Going Away Ceremony

Please be honest. Am I close? Do I explain the military stuff to detailed? Not detailed enough? Should there be more conversation? Adding conversations is my biggest hurdle right now. The red notes are mearly that...notes to me about content I wish to add later.

The Task Force Thunderbird soldiers stand at attention. Each dressed in what soldiers call full battle rattle. Kevlar helmet with desert camouflage cover and sand colored band. Goggles to protect the eyes from wind and sand attached to the top of the helmet with two straps. Everything is tied down to keep it from being lost. A further benefit is to keep things from rattling and making noise while moving around. Brand new protective vests with the latest in bulletproof plates in front and back. The proper name is Interceptor Multi-Threat Body Armor System but the soldiers mistakenly call it a FLC. The true Fighting Load Carrier (FLC) is actually the outer tactical vest portion of the Modular Lightweight Load Carrying Equipment (MOLLE). In October 2001, the MOLLE replaced the Vietnam era ALICE (All-purpose, Lightweight, Individual Carrying Equipment) pack and the short lived Integrated Individual Fighting System. The FLC is heavy at just over 16 pounds. But knowing that the small-arms protective inserts (SAPI) will stop a 7.62 mm round is comforting. Small and medium sized pouches attach with straps for holding ammunition and various tools of the trade. Everyone in desert camouflage uniform sleeves always rolled down to offer some protection against the sun and bugs. Suede boots to protect the feet. I can’t help but be thankful that they don’t need to be polished. Sweat drips down my collar to pool in the small of my back. All I can think of is lets get this show on the road. The sooner we get over there the sooner we come home. The going away ceremony seems to drag on forever. LTC _______ says some encouraging words. (I need to ask who has his speech on video) CSM _______ tells everyone to watch each other’s backs. (Check the same video to see if he said anything motivating) Demons floating through the crowd whispering, “He isn’t coming back.” “Your husband is gonna get a disfiguring wound.” President Frankin D Roosevelt said it best, “The only thing to fear is fear itself.” The demons capitalize on this fear of the unknown. Demons go through the soldiers in formation whispering, “You aren’t gonna make it” “You’re a coward and they know it.” “You aren’t trained fully. You will let your buddies down.” Too soon the First Sergeant yells, “Get on the buses.” Platoon sergeants spin around. “Right face”, I firmly command. The soldiers of second platoon turn as one man. Soldiers are conditioned in basic training to follow orders without thinking. After all we are told to hesitate in combat could be deadly. “File from the right. Forward, march.” The administration clerks of first squad step off at the squad leaders command. The medics in second squad and the supply clerks from third squad stand fast at the command of their squad leaders. Family members cling to their soldiers. Sometimes pulling them out of formation. No one complains. It might not be militarily correct but it is real. Family first has taken on a whole new deeper meaning. Tears flow from spouses, girlfriends, parents and children. Many soldiers get our last hugs in before boarding the bus. Most of the soldiers were waving goodbye from the buses. The commander’s wife yells to me, “Take care of my husband Doc. Watch his back.” The emotions are so high I can’t speak. I merely shake my head in the affirmative. I quickly say a prayer asking for strength. I wonder if God will hear me since my antennae are so dirty. I think back on all the mistakes I have made. Why didn’t I read my Bible every day? Why didn’t I attend church every Sunday? Why did I take my Christianity for granted? Why? Why? Why? The bus lurches forward breaking me from my revelry.

Shout out to my new favorite pastor!

I would like to send a shout out to my new favorite pastor. He is a fellow blogger. Check out his site and insight. The Sheeps Crib John is an incredible Christian and vessel for God. He pastors a church in Southern California. He runs 4 blogs. I strive to be half the discipler that John A Gillmartin is. Thank you John for being a voice for God.

Questions to consider and answers to find

I find it humorous that since I started this blog I have more questions than I have answers to post.

Maybe I should run with that. Maybe my contribution to the Christian web log system is to raise questions that others can’t seem to put into words. Which if you know me is knee slapping funny because I have trouble putting my own thoughts into words. I often wish I was quicker on my feet. I often wish I was more intelligent. Thank God he gave me an extra dose of common sense or I would be forced to become .

How do you define success? Success as a Christian? Success in the work place? Success in life?

How do you know where you are going if you don’t have a vision statement? Sure businesses have vision statements, why not an individual?

Each of those questions lead to more questions. I will attempt to find answers to those and others. Help through pray and links will be greatly appreciated.

To see the elephant

According to Word Detective

…the whole story begins with the classic American traveling carnival. Back
in the early 19th century, the arrival of such a carnival in a small town was a
major occasion, affording the town's residents the opportunity to sample all
sorts of exotic attractions, from the grotesque denizens of the sideshow to wild
beasts from Africa and Asia that many people at that time had only read of in
books. The big draw at many of these shows was an elephant, a far bigger and
stranger critter than any animal native to North America, and to go to the
carnival without "seeing the elephant" would be like going to the Ohio State
Fair without seeing the Butter Cow. (Yes, it's a life-size cow sculpted from
butter, sort of a giant advertisement for bypass surgery.) So ritualized was
this small-town pachyderm-mania that by about 1835 "to see the elephant" had
become a catch phrase meaning "to experience all that there is to see, to see
all that can be endured," with the sense that after having "seen the elephant"
there was nothing left to see. A related, more general sense arose a few years
later, in which "to have seen the elephant" meant "to be worldly, no longer
innocent, to have learned a hard lesson." Many young people of the day who left
the country for the big city with stars in their eyes only to experience
hardship and disappointment were wryly said to have "seen the elephant" in this
sense. And by about 1840, "see the elephant" had acquired the specialized
military sense you have heard, meaning "to experience combat for the first
time," with the brutal loss of innocence that ordeal conveys

Busy weekend for Semper Gumby and his Automedics

Where has the time gone? It has been a busy week for Semper Gumby. Just got back from a lllloooonnnngggg weekend of back to back missions. The stress is building to the point where I don’t feel like doing anything. I would blame the blog, for me not writing in my journal, but I haven’t written much on the blog either. So the journal has pretty much laid mute for a while.

Friday morning I went on a short mission. I don’t really think it qualified as a MEDCAP (medical civil affairs program). But we called it that. It was more a recon in preparation of the march scheduled for Saturday morning. But the march location and time is a surprise. We dropped off some medicines at the Qayarrah medical clinic. When I think of MEDCAPs, I think of us seeing locals and providing medical care. The caretaker was the only guy there since it was Friday the typical day off for Iraqis.

Late Friday evening we, the Automedics, rolled out with the engineers to start the cordon and search. The commander of the 2nd battalion 2nd Iraqi Army had organized a March against Terror along with all the locals shieks, muktars and the governor. He asked our unit to assist him in making it a safe demonstration. I KNOW the citizens in Baghdad did their march on 12 May and the American Muslims did their marches back on 14 May. It is great that less than 2 months later the citizens of Ninevah feel safe enough to do their own march. It is a further testament to the Automatic battalion and the 3 battalions of the 2nd Iraqi Army that we had no casualties or incidents during the march. No patients and no patience. It is a great day when the medics are bored. We were all ready to come home an hour after getting up this morning. It was great to sleep under the stars though. Very peaceful and cool. I dreamed I was sailing and being on night watch. It got unbearably hot as the day drug on. 125 F. I would say add 20 or more degrees to that for inside the MEV. I have been considering putting this journal/blog into a book form. I know I haven’t done enough exciting things for a book but I take a few of the stories others have done and will make them my character's. I want to throw the demons vs angels fight in the background or would that be considered a story within the story instead of background? Anyway back to the March Against Terror. The engineers did a cordon and search, which means we start in the middle of town and work our way out. Then not let anyone back in that we dont want in. The engineers and mechanics moved vehicles off the march trail all night. We gave the locals an hour to get their cars moved on their own. We didn’t want any parked cars to become IEDs. Around 1 am shots rang out. Seems a local dog attacked one of the bomb dogs. So the handler had to shoot it. About 4 hours before we thought the event would be over the engineer commander, Big Country, came and said, "Endex." That is army speak for pack up and go home. It means end of exerise. I guess it could be argues that this isnt military training but we army guys are simple folk. CPT B is a mountain of a man at 6’4” 250 lbs. Always grinning with a twinkle in his eyes and a kind word for everyone. Seems like just a big kid playing army. Which is how I view my time in the military. I am just playing army. I get real excited when I get go to the range and fire a weapon or get to watch the artillery fire. Call me immature if you must but it makes life fun. Who says we have to be boring and dull? I am just a 43 year old kid.

Strykernews dot com has the only article I could find about the march. It makes me wonder who the 18 media guys were and what agencies they represented.

We got back from the march Saturday afternoon. Fueled up the MEV (Stryker- Medical Evacuation Vehicle), repacked our water supply and ate dinner. I learned a long time ago while reading Louis L'Amor books that you have to take care of your equipment first. If I ever have a son I hope he reads Louis L'Amor for the things I am not able to teach him. It isnt that my mom and dad didnt teach me. I just didnt listen. After all, parents are dumb when you are young. It is only after you get older that you realize how intelligent they really are. (No mom I didnt write that because you read my blog. LOL You are a great mom. Thank you for everything) I get sidetracked alot dont I? The only medical work we did Saturday at the march was preventative. We gave 3 cases of water to the Iraqi Police. It has become unofficial policy to give all water and food at the end of a mission to those in need.

Sunday morning dawned with us preparing another MEDCAP. It seems the PA had located some reporters and photographers from the Army Times newspaper and Combat camera. So to continue making the Automedics famous we went out once again. We got an infantry platoon to take us out to a small village up north. It was 30 minutes of off road driving. Even though the MEV is like riding in a Cadillac it was a rough drive. Most of the passengers were suffering motion sickness by the time we made it to our destination. The muktar’s son met us as we entered the town of 63 people. He was very well mannered. Polite to a fault. It took about an hour to get the 25 patients taken care of. It is sad that so many who came had birth defects. What is saddest is…we can’t do anything to help them. Sure we gave what limited vitamins and medicines that we had. (Costco sent us a case of children's vitamins free to give out) But they really need surgery or higher level of care than we can carry to them. When asked the muktar said there had never been a doctor, Iraqi or American, at their village before. He was a gracious host. He brought out a large platter of flat bread. Huge bowls of butter and dipping sauces. Then passed tea around to everyone. For the first time on a MEDCAP I declined the tea. I did to the horror of all accept the water bowl though. It was a small price to pay to show respect for the hospitality of the muktar. Actually I feel great. For lack of a better word, I guess my karma is good. The Lord is keeping me from getting sick because my heart was in the right place. We gave school supplies, beanie babies and candy to all the kids. SSG Brady Love taught a few of the boys how to play American football. We are out of soccer balls. Before we left we promised to bring their welder a set of goggles (we treated him for arc burn) and to bring a Dentist with lots of toothbrushes.

I think when I write this part in my book I will have an angel swatting the bacteria out of the water. Or is that too dramatic? LOL I think I should stop worrying about the book and just write what the Lord leads me to write.

Bottom line…..I missed writing here on the blog and am glad I am back safe.

When does earning money become a sin?

An awesome article by JA Gillmartin on his blog The Sheep’s Crib-Issues got me to thinking. (I know you can smell the smoke from there. haha)

This has long been an embarrassing area for me ... far too many Christian ministries are simply thieves in religious drag

1 Timothy 6:6-10 talks about contentment and ends with the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. I think we have some Christians out there who love their money. When does earning money become a sin? I know I wish I made more money. But, daily, I get gentle reminders from the Lord to be content with what I have. I currently put 20 percent into savings and my future. Ten percent goes to tithe (darn, I should have thought of that first instead of second) Pray that I get over myself and put God first in everything. I will pray the same for you. The other 70% goes to bills, magazine subscriptions (Discipleship Journal, New Man, Men of Integrity, Sail, Blue Water Sailing, Latitudes and Attitudes and Live Aboard), and other junk that I cant take with me to Heaven.
I once read about a millionaire who gave 90% of his salary to Christian charity. He lived on 10 percent. I pray for that kind of witness with my finances.

The following article shows what the masses think of some Christians especially the TV evangelists.

The Price of Healing
For Critics of Extravagant Faith Healer Benny Hinn, the Good Book Isn't Enough. They Want His Ministry to Be an Open Book.
By WILLIAM LOBDELLWilliam Lobdell is a Times staff writer who covers religion.

"Hinn does reveal that the $89 million taken in by his church in 2002 is a record for his Grapevine, Texas-based ministry, which has experienced double-digit growth during the past three years through direct-mail requests, viewer donations and offerings taken at the Miracle Crusades. By comparison, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Assn. had revenues of $96.6 million in 2001, the last year available.
Many of Hinn's financial practices go against those set forth by the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability, an organization that gained popularity after the televangelist scandals of the 1980s as Christian groups sought legitimacy in the eyes of donors. The council's standards include maintaining an independent board of directors with at least five members and allowing the public to view its finances.
"He promised me 10 years ago that his personal and ministry finances would be an open book," says Ole Anthony, president of the Trinity Foundation, dismissing Hinn's latest vow for more candor. "Hinn's incredible wealth and lifestyle does more harm to Christianity than all of his preaching.""



[Tongue firmly planted in cheek] Maybe Hinn uses this passage from 2 Kings 12:16 to justify his keeping all of that money.

16 The money from the guilt offerings and sin offerings was not brought into the temple of the LORD; it belonged to the priests.

Forgive me, who am I to judge Benny Hinn? The Lord will judge him one day on his actions. If I was in his shoes though…..I would clean house. Christian evangelists should be above reproach for fear their witness will lead someone to Hell instead of Heaven. That is an awesome burden for anyone to bear.

Thank you Lord for not trusting me with more than you have and help me to be a better steward. AMEN

How do you write a book?

Spirits and Soldiers (possible book title?)

I went off to see the elephant but it looks more like a camel

I have no idea how to start this book. With the Lords help and your prayers I will try to do it justice. I think I will take my journal and add the angels fighting into it. Here are some early thoughts. Jumbled I know but it is a start.

I remember reading Louis L’Amor westerns as a kid. I think that is where I first heard the phrase “off to see the elephant” when talking about going to war.

How’s this for a grab ya by the throat start?

Boom!! Black acrid smoke billowing. Zing!! The sound of bullets whizzing from one side of the room to the other. Picture a few guys watching a movie. Getting syched up for the upcoming deployment. “Man this surround sound makes you feel like you are right there.” (you thought I was telling about a battle didn’t ya? Admit it. It is okay. LOL)

Going away ceremony. Demons going through the crowd whispering “He isn’t coming back.” “Your husband is gonna get a disfiguring wound.” Demons going through the soldiers in formation whispering, “You aren’t gonna make it” “You’re a coward and they know it.” Too soon the First Sergeant yelled, “Get on the buses.” Tears flowing we got our last hugs in. Most of the soldiers were waving goodbye from the buses. The commander’s wife yelled to me, “Take care of my husband Doc. Watch his back.”

To say it is hot over here is an understatement. It is oppressive. The heat weighs on you like an anchor. It saps all the strength from you. We stepped off the plane in Kuwait to a blast of hot wind. It was almost suffocating. There are few things in life worse than a C130 ride with combat gear on. It was hot and crowded. It will take some time to get used to the heat.

From this day forward I will no longer be a blind sheep unthinkingly following the will of others. I will think for myself. I will voice that opinion. My prayer is that my thoughts and statements don’t lead anyone astray. I regrettably must say that I am an elementary school level Christian. Where have the last 25 years gone? It is miraculous the Lord hasn’t struck me down for being mediocre. I know it says in the Bible be either hot or cold not lukewarm. My new motto will be:

THE GLORY OF GOD IS EVERYTHING!

Ahmed’s pulmonary embolism

The demon reaches into Ahmed’s chest. His sharp claw opening the aorta a fraction more. The demon whispers in his ear, “you are gonna die. These Americans don’t want to save you.” The demon moved over to Doc. “You killed him.” “You did the wrong thing.” “You didn’t do enough.” “Because of YOU this guy is dead.” “You are a worthless medic.”
The three medics frantically work on Ahmed. Ahmed seizes.

Mark, name or number of the beast

I am probably opening up a can of worms here. Especially since I am still searching for the answer. I have long wondered what the sign of the beast would look like. Which leads to more questions. Does it matter what it looks like or even is? Is my questioning it just adding to the confusion? Do a google search for “mark of the beast” and you will get almost 3 million hits. “Sign of the Beast” is over 2 ½ million hits. It seems everyone and their brother has an interpretation and opinion. None of my searching so far has led me closer to what I feel in my heart is the truth. I believe the Bible. I just am having trouble translating it to my own understanding.

How do we know the true interpretation of the Bible? Will we know beyond the shadow of a doubt that IT is the sign of the beast? Will it be a literal 666? Or is that just a metaphor for divine evil? Knowing that the devil is the great deceiver I would say it will be subtle. His spin-doctors will say it is harmless when in reality it will be a death blow. (REV 13:16-17) To not have it means you can’t legally buy or sell anything. Not having the sign of the beast will make every Christian a criminal of the state. On the other hand, I believe the Lord will make sure we understand what the mark is. Otherwise we wouldn’t be able to choose not to take it, right?

Wikipedia has in my opinion the best website on the subject.

My study bible mentions three trains of thought on this:

Numerology
Each letter of the alphabet is assigned a numerical value. There are wackos who use this concept to find a name or title which totals 666. Names in Hebrew, Greek and Latin have been used in this quest. With the right twisting or changing of names you can make this work to get any result you want. What do I mean? I mean if a full name doesn’t get the result you want, use only the first and last or use a nickname. William Henry Gates III becomes BillGatesIII I doubt that Bill Gates is the beast. I seem to remember folks using the following names too: Adolph Hitler, Joseph Stalin, Ronald Wilson Reagon, George Bush Further research shows the Arabic numbers weren’t used until 400 CE yet John wrote Revelation in the first century AD. Granted God doesn’t work on our timeline so he could have known we would invent Arabic numbers but isn’t this reaching? Isn’t this trying to fit our answer to the scriptures? Just like trying English instead of the original language, Greek. It just doesnt make sense to me.

Symbolism
Six represents fallen humanity raised to the third power, hence, a person of ultimate wickedness. Ties in with the numerology line of thinking. Man equals 5, God equals 7 with the devil between us at 6.

Unholy trinity
Satan (6), the beast out of the sea (6) and the beast out of the earth (6). (REV 13:1-10, 11-17)

Other trains of thought from the World Wide Web:

Let there be light ministries has these thoughts on this subject:

The Greek word used for "mark" is "Charagma" (#5480 in Strong's Concordance), and it translates "stamp (as a badge of servitude), mark." So the mark of the Beast is a stamp or sign or seal or badge of servitude to some power or being. Thus the Mark of the Beast is NOT a literal mark, NOT a lazar mark, NOT a credit card, NOT an implanted chip, NOT a National ID Number, and NOT a giant computer, but it is a symbolic mark!

I got lost on that website somewhere during the bashing of the Catholic church. I was raised Baptist but I have heard of Christians in the Catholic church.

I include the next thought only out of a sense of fair play. I think his theology is way off. I also haven’t heard these arguments in a long time. Isnt it fun how the Internet can keep something going? Ack, I just realized I am perpetuating his garbage myself.

Dial the truth ministries (can you say False Prophet?) says the following confusing and in my opinion false statements:

To think for one second, the rapid increase in technology preparing the way for 666 is just coincident (sic) is impossible. There is too much evidence. There is just too many coincidents(sic). There is an unseen "hand" zooming the world toward a global "digital world" of electronic-commerce, electronic-identification!

Then there is his article, What about barcodes and 666: The mark of the beast.

REV 13:16-17 Says the mark will be on the right hand or on the forehead. Is this to be take literally? Why does it specifically say the right hand? Why not either hand? What does history tell us about the right vs left hand? What was the thinking during the writing of this text? Culturally what does it mean? I know in the Muslim world today the left hand is considered contaminated or dirty. Is that why it is the right hand? Was it the same when John wrote the Revelation? Can the forehead imply learning? Or intellect?

My interpretation of Strong’s Concordance is that it is a literal mark or brand.

In conclusion (at least for now), in looking at some of these websites I got bored with all the gibberish and quit reading. I am still reading Wikipedia’s website. It has a discussion board that is fasinating. Anyone out there have any thoughts on this subject?

History of Gumby

History of Gumby….did you know Art Clokey also did Davey and Goliath? Oh Davey! I loved those claymations as a kid. I guess you do realize it if you read the history I just linked. LOL If you didn’t go to the link, did you know that Gumby was originally supposed to be blue and Pokey was gonna be a dog? Just kidding. I made that up. I guess that will teach you to read the links. LOL I watched those shows in the late 70s-early 80s. I didn’t realize the originals were written the in late 50’s though. Mom says seeing the pics brought back memories for her. Isn’t it ironic how his subject matter fits in the 50s as well as the 70s? It even fits now. Decency is always in vogue. Now if only we could get the silent majority to raise up and voice their opinions about what is decent and what is trash.

Spiritual Warfare

Ephesians 6:12

I see principalities and powers massed in the big cities, like Baghdad and Mosul. I see God’s angels surrounding each of our little pieces of real estate we call FOBs. They are like tiny islands surrounded by shark filled waters. We might not see the sharks but they are there. Lurking in the depths. Just waiting on an unprepared soul. Occasionally you might see a fin. Just like you can feel the oppression in a sin filled area. Or see the lack of light. Do you know what I am talking about? Walk past an adult bookstore and tell me it doesn’t “feel” different than going past Barnes and Noble. Or just trust me and don’t put yourself in that dreadful position.

Okay, Mr. Frank Peretti, sir, here is your next book idea. Medic on the battlefield in Iraq with the angels fighting by his side while he saves lives. Hometown heroes in the states are praying fervently to keep the hedge of protection strong and impenetrable. I can hear you thinking out there. Warrior4God, why don’t you write this book? Several reasons…..First as a soldier I am bound my regulations and such that say I can’t talk about what is going on (okay, you didn’t totally buy that, did you? Or you are sharper on the regulations than I am). Second, I am scared. Third, I am not good at elaborating. I can research something to death though. Fourth, Did I say I was scared? Fifth, I couldn’t write a book based on only what I have done this past year. It would bore you to tears. I have found that warfare is 99% preparation and 1% excitement.

Oh that second sentence of the previous paragraph reminds me. I am looking for a picture I once saw of the Grim Reaper leaning down to take a guy. A medic is working on the man. The medic grabs GR’s arm and says, “Not yet” (or something to that effect). We are making a mural for our battalion aid station and would like to use this. Maybe one of my half dozen readers is an artist. Hmmm? LOL

I lost this post on my computer for a few days. I found it this afternoon and will attempt to finish it and post it. I keep coming to the following scriptures and saying when I say I can’t do something:

The task ahead of you is never as great as the POWER behind you. (taken from my favorite T-shirt—design by Delta Pro weight—It has a great picture of a soldier praying)

“…be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” (Ephesians 6:10, NIV)

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9, NIV)

With everyone’s prayerful support I will attempt a few pages. However, if Frank wants to write a book I would gladly step aside and be one of his many researchers. (Hint, hint) Is it wrong to feel like Moses right now? “Lord, please send someone to speak for me, for I am not able.” (Paraphrased for ease of reading)

Loved ones on the homefront are the true heroes

"Heroism involves sacrifice, and the sacrifice of those our soldiers leave behind is enormous. Their heroism is immense. Thank them and pray for them at every opportunity."

John those are my sentiments exactly.

After all, I am a trained soldier. I volunteered to do this job. My mother (I am single---hence no spouse) on the other hand was not trained to do the job of waiting and worrying about me during this long year. Neither did she volunteer for this task. I guess it could be argued that all mothers worry about their sons and daughters but this is different. We are at war. A TOTAL army war. Something we haven’t had since Vietnam. I can hear some of yall saying, “wait a minute, what about Grenada, Panama, Bosnia and others. Those were wars.” Sure, if you were 82nd Airborne, 101st Airborne, 10th Mountain, Ranger or Special Forces. If you were in any other unit you probably weren’t involved in those. After September 11, 2001, our army has changed. It is no longer a garrison army. There is now a very good chance EVERY soldier in the army will go to Iraq or Afghanistan, multiple times. As an NCO, I have had to radically change my way of thought about training and mentoring my soldiers. Senior NCOs have offered me very good support on how to accomplish this. However, as good as the Family Resource Group (FRG) is at helping dependants. I am aware of no training for non-dependants. Dadmanly 's wife could probably explain the FRG much better than I. Folks we are in a changing world. Things are changing very fast. We have come to depend on instant knowledge worldwide as provided by the Internet, phones and television. I am not saying this is bad. On the contrary, this just veryifies that we are in the end times as described in the Bible. Yes, please continue praying for all of the loved ones back home. They are the true heroes here.

Me in full battle rattle (that means with all my gear) 

Who am I?

I am the second born of four kids to Charles and Lola Lanham. I am the only boy. Forty-three years old and my momma still calls me her baby. It doesn’t even bother me anymore. LOL My father died in January 2001 from Pancreatic cancer. Mom lives in Sentinel, Oklahoma, which is in the southwest corner of the state. It was her hometown. Her and dad retired there several years ago. My oldest sister Rhonda lives in Denver, Colorado. Next is Regina, she lives in Liberty, Texas. About 30 minutes from where we grew up. (Tarkington Prairie) She is my biggest fan. Youngest is Lori. She and her family just got back from Singapore. They will resettle in or near Houston, Texas.

I was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on 14 January 1962. When I was 8 my dad got transferred to Houston, Texas. When I was 17 we moved out of Houston to the country. We spent the summer in a pop up travel trailer. My oldest sister was married and gone by then, so it was only the 5 of us. I graduated from Tarkington High School in 1980. Within a week I was out of state working. I couldn’t wait to get to a big city. Now I can’t wait to retire to a sailboat so I can get away from the big cities. Funny how life is circular like that, isn’t it?

My hobbies include sailing, reading, scuba diving, genealogy and movies. Some say I collect ex-wives. LOL I laugh because of shamefulness and pain. I read magazines like they are going out of style, especially ones dealing with Christianity, Health, History and Sailing. I read lots of books too. My current favorite authors are Frank Peretti, John Gresham, Tom Clancy and Mel Odom. Mel writes an end times series of books from a soldier’s perspective. I actually will read pretty much anything I can get my hands on. It all depends on my mood. I read everything that deals with sailing, from pirates to modern day stuff. If given the time, I will research something to death before committing. Except relationships, I guess. I have a knight in shining armor complex. I love to rescue damsels (actually anything, kids, animals, etc.) in distress. I am currently reading The Three Meter Zone: Common Sense Leadership for NCOs by CSM (R) J D Pendry. I even bought all of my junior NCOs a copy.

I listen to Country and Contemporary Christian music. My favorites are Michael W Smith, SheDaisy, Third Day, Chely Wright, Chris Rice (have you heard of his Cartoon song?), Clint Black, Toby Keith, and anyone who sings about soldiers. Except the Dixie Chicks. NO one should talk negatively about his or her country outside of its borders. I believe in freedom of speech (heck, I fight for it as a soldier) but I hate the fact that Natalie gave in to pressure from the fans to make the comment she did in England. If she had said the same words in Texas, it would have been no big deal. It saddened me to hear that Chris Ledoux died. He was so talented and such a great American.

My favorite movies are…guess….that is right, sailing movies. LOL Captain Ron is my all time favorite movie. I love comedy and action/adventure films. My favorite actress, at this time, is Angelina Jolie. Not only is she drop dead gorgeous, but also she loves kids. Like me, she seems to have a thing for refugees and orphanages. She is the Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Her movie, Beyond Borders, really touched me. That is what I envision myself doing. But from a boat, I don’t want to put anyone out by making him or her have to provide me with a place to live. I want to sail up to a town. Get to know them. Build churches, schools and clinics if needed. Then sail in the supplies from time to time. I can hear you sarcastically saying, “Wow that must be rough”. To which I answer, Hey someone has to do it. Besides God didn’t say we had to be miserable while doing his work.

The TV shows I hate to miss are CSI: Crime Scene Investigations, CSI: NY, CSI: Miami, Tru Calling, and Alias.

I should have added this guy to my prayer post 

Gumby and Pokey