Author Archives: expressyourself4him

McFarland USA

Posted on March 9, 2015 by expressyourself4him

As a former cross country runner, the story of McFarland intrigued me.  While not every sport is perfect, nor will every athlete possess special memories, yet cross country is like a good book you can’t put down.  Eager to find out the conclusion, the message of the movie McFarland USA is a story book ending vanishing from America, a species on the verge of extinction.

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it, 1 Corinthians 9:24.

For those foreign to the term Cross Country, family is at the very essence of this sport.  Perhaps, long bus rides to attend Saturday invitationals is forced upon participants initially.  However, after the training is over, the stop watch reset and pain fades away, strangers share a common bond of sweat and tears.  Regardless of the final outcome, the journey to improve far surpasses wins and losses.  In the end, treasured memories exist, as vulnerable hearts pour out their souls to teammates, welcoming people into their lives they never dreamed of or imagined.

But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint, Isaiah 40:31

The most important message of McFarland USA is choosing community over a career.  When success at a small school leads to a dream job, most follow the money, looking for an easy excuse to leave.  Yet, Coach Jim White’s legacy, played by Kevin Cosner, was built as the lives of his runners began to be transformed.  While his resume did include victories, he brought hope to hopeless Latinos.  Therefore, the next time you think you’re on the verge of striking it rich, make sure you don’t run anyone over on your way out of town.  Although wealth may feed your family, becoming a part of a community enriches your soul.

by Jay Mankus

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A Quest for Truth

Posted on March 8, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Verifying facts is a daily responsibility for educators.  However, when the truth conflicts with one’s beliefs, theories or worldview, accuracy may be altered to coincide with your ideology.  Therefore, as individuals search for absolutes on the internet, don’t be surprise if truth is being suppressed.

When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. – John 16:13

Recently, Google has changed their algorithm for their search engine.  Initially, Google listed web sites based upon how many hits each received.  Thus, the most popular and trending topics would appear from highest to lowest.  In an opening monologue, Rush Limbaugh illustrated how Google caved after Chinese authorities complained about receiving negative press.  Subsequently, Google’s new algorithm runs based upon which sites their company believes to be most truthful.  Unfortunately, this once great company has been corrupted by declining ethics, now a pawn for the liberal media.

Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. – 2 Timothy 2:7

Whether you are in the process of beginning a research paper, sorting through controversial issues or trying to broaden your understanding about life, make sure you do your due diligence.  According to 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, test everything that you see, hear or read.  As your quest for truth continues, cling to that which is true, yet avoid any kind of evil.  Although skeptics may question or scoff at your findings, ask the Lord to direct your steps as this journey proceeds. Thus, you can go to sleep with a clear conscience, knowing the conclusion you reached derived from a quest for truth.

by Jay Mankus

 

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An Ideal Atmosphere called Harmony

Posted on March 7, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Although harmony is often associated with music, its one of the missing ingredients within society.  Defined as an orderly and pleasing combination of elements, harmony is established when various components exist together without destroying one another.  Unfortunately, rarely do strong personalities mesh without some type of power struggle.

How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! – Psalm 133:1

The sustainability of any church, group or family is dependent upon the degree of harmony displayed.  From my vantage point, hidden agendas, control and wills create conflict.  Beneath the surface, demons, Satan and selfish desires are tugged in different directions, resulting in discord, dissension and factions.  These obstacles stand in the way of an ideal setting where harmony is achieved.

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. – Colossians 3:13

No one is exempt from an outburst when you lose your composure or say something that you regret.  This is where forgiveness enters the equation.  Once harmony is shattered, common sense must lead individuals toward reconciliation.  Although no one is perfect, the apostle Paul provides tips for those communities seeking unity, Colossians 3:12-15.  May bad blood, hurt feelings and severed relationships be washed away, replaced by the transforming love of Jesus Christ.

by Jay Mankus

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Whatever?

Posted on March 6, 2015 by expressyourself4him

If you live in the Northeast, then you’ve been at the mercy of God this winter.  One of these days Spring will arrive, yet for now snow, sleet or freezing rain is likely in your weekly forecast.  However, these events shouldn’t be shocking since part of God’s nature is doing whatever pleases Him.

The Lord does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth, in the seas and all their depths. – Psalm 135:6

Whether worldviews are formed through Sunday School, reading books or how you were raised, few have a clear understanding of God’s attributes.  Instead of researching the Scriptures to make sense of the bumps and bruises individuals experience, many human beings respond to trials by accusing, blaming or cursing the Lord for their misery.  When unfortunate events continue to pile up without any end in sight, even the strong can lose hope.

“I cry out to you, God, but you do not answer; I stand up, but you merely look at me.  You turn on me ruthlessly; with the might of your hand you attack me.  You snatch me up and drive me before the wind; you toss me about in the storm.” – Job 30:20-22

Although the majority of Christians are uninformed while living on earth, one day the life you endure on this planet will make sense.  I’m assuming some where along the way, God will unveil the jigsaw puzzle known as your life.  This may not happen until being called home to heaven, but one day the “whatever” in life will be revealed.

by Jay Mankus

 

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My Two Cents on Lent

Posted on March 5, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Beginning on Ash Wednesday and continuing until Easter Sunday, Lent is a season of preparation for Christians.  This forty day period commences with a service remembering God’s words to Adam, ” from dust you were created out of, from dust you will return.”  Like anything in life, it takes time to prepare one’s heart to transition from the natural to the supernatural.  Thus, Lent serves as an annual journey to embrace the memory of a resurrected Messiah.

By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.” – Genesis 3:19

Unfortunately, this tradition is often limited to six weeks instead of maintaining faith throughout the year.  Sometime after Easter egg hunts end, when chocolates candies disappear and the emotion of this spiritual holiday ceases, people go back to their former ways of life.  Like hibernating animals, faith goes into hiding, sleeping until the winter is replaced by Spring.

At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship and said: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised.” – Job 1:20-21

Now at the half way point of Lent, its not too late to awake from a spiritual slumber.  Though shocked upon receiving the tragic news that his children perished, the Lord gave Job a heavenly perspective.  Instead of blaming God or becoming bitter, Job remembered the gift of life.  Therefore, as the season of Lent continues may the Holy Spirit transform you to become grateful for the hidden miracles in life.

by Jay Mankus

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Soul Food

Posted on March 4, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The origin of soul food can be traced back to enslaved African Americans.  While their masters received the choice cuts of each prepared meal, servants relied on leftovers or undesirable pieces to eat.  Making the best with any ingredient they could scrounge together, soul food describes this ethnic cuisine cooked with southern hospitality.

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” – Matthew 22:37

Spiritually speaking, the soul is the essence of an individual.  Thus, when you do something with everything inside of you, a portion of the soul is displayed.  However, just like human beings, the soul needs food to enrich the lives of people.  Without nurturing the soul, a void will continue to persist.

What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? – Matthew 16:26

The Bible is the only source that revitalizes souls, Hebrews 4:12.  While maintaining a healthy diet is important, prayer can rejuvenate a weak or dying soul, 3 John 1:2.  Therefore, the next time you enjoy an all you can eat buffet, don’t forget to stop by the dessert table with Bible reading, meditation and prayer so after you’re finish you can say it is well with my soul.

by Jay Mankus

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Dr. Md; Is There a Doctor in the House?

Posted on March 3, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Illness can be a mystery, especially when no obvious symptoms are present.  One day you feel great; the next you struggle to get out of bed.  As more and more doctors retire after a generation of service, the desperate will continue to cry out for help, “is there a doctor in the house?”

And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.- James 5:15

Since 2012, I’ve battled a severe sinus infection that I can’t seem to shake.  Headaches, fevers and periods of fatigue have whittled away my faith of ever improving.  Perhaps, my condition are side affects from lyme disease that I first contracted in 1999.  Whatever the reason for my recent ailments, I pray that a doctor will come to my rescue with the correct diagnosis and cure.

Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul. – 3 John 1:2

Nonetheless, sometimes God allows a person to suffer without any signs of recovery.  According to 2 Corinthians 12:7, the Lord struck the apostle Paul with a thorn in his flesh.  This condition prevented Paul from becoming proud during his successful ministry on earth.  Despite crying out for healing, his request did not get answered.  Although I am currently waiting for insight, all I can do is trust God that one day soon my pain will fade away.

by Jay Mankus

 

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After the Morning Has Broken

Posted on March 2, 2015 by expressyourself4him

Busted, cracked, fractured, ruptured and smashed are all indications that someone or something is broken.  Though goods and items usually reveal obvious signs of damage, human beings are better at hiding their pain.  Unfortunately, the scars of the past prevent some from ever seeing another sunrise.

My heart is not proud, Lord, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. – Psalm 131:1

Humility is a vessel God uses to bring arrogant individuals back to earth.  Whenever anyone becomes too puffed up in their minds, trials will arise to regain the proper perspective.  If this is achieved, souls will begin to discover the meaning behind Cat Stevens 1972 hit Morning has Broken.

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.  They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. – Lamentations 3:22-23

Whether this blog finds you depressed or sky high, each time the morning has broken to commence another day, this symbolizes a second chance at life.  Since the Lord keeps no records of wrongs, 1 Corinthians 13:5, everyone get’s a fresh start, with the slate wiped clean daily.  In view of this, thank God for every time you experience the dawn of a new day!

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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The Trojan Horse Called Net Neutrality

Posted on March 1, 2015 by expressyourself4him

In the Aeneid of Virgil, the concept of a Trojan Horse is first mentioned.  The actual event is referred to in Homer’s Odyssey, where the Greek’s fake surrendering, leaving a Trojan Horse at the gates of Troy, sailing off into the sunset.  Taking their trophy inside of Troy, once asleep, a hidden enemy within the horse attacks in the dark, turning celebration into defeat.

Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did,         1 Corinthians 10:6.

If you like your internet provider, you can keep your internet provider.  Sound familiar?  History has a way of repeating itself ironically, especially when the future fails to listen to their past.  Thus, if Net Neutrality is anything like Obama Care or any other government program, the FCC’s decision on February 26th, 2015 will be like the Trojan Horse for America.

From Issachar, men who understood the times and knew what Israel should do—200 chiefs, with all their relatives under their command; 1 Chronicles 12:32.

This bill essentially makes the government of the United States God, determining what is fair and unfair.  Therefore, if your beliefs don’t align with a secular worldview, don’t be surprised if the shows you watch on television and websites you visit have trouble streaming.  If the experts are right about this potential fate, may God have mercy on us all!

by Jay Mankus

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Leaning on a Broken Stool

Posted on February 28, 2015 by expressyourself4him

In Christian Education, a three legged stool is used as a visual aid to illustrate core essentials to maintain a healthy and  stable life.  Each leg symbolizes a key ingredient: a church home, godly family and development of a biblical world view.  If any of these three elements are missing, individuals will never be able to fully experience an abundant life in Christ.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full, John 10:10.

Whether you’re married or single, its easy to cut corners, making the best with what you have.  Subsequently, one might become a casual attender to church, replace family with friends or dust off your Bible every once in a while to make yourself feel good.  This type of mentality is toxic, poisoning your faith, leaving many to lean on a broken stool.

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.

As I examine the lack of success in my life the past three years, it can be directly attributed to a weakened foundation of faith.  Compromise, neglect and a lukewarm spirit has spawned mediocre results.  If you’re fluttering along like me, perhaps you need to re-evaluate the stool you’re sitting on.  Find a church to call home, seek reconciliation with those family members you’ve strayed from and set aside time every day to enrich your life with the Bible.  When these three legs are secure, you will begin to taste God’s daily bread.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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