tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36754362382252889272024-03-13T08:22:59.130-05:00Jew Born AnewMarty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-66194929156336703402014-03-04T11:30:00.001-06:002014-03-04T11:41:33.049-06:00<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yMigCz7r9AY/UxYNBklMXJI/AAAAAAAAAOg/el9qSzx_zMo/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yMigCz7r9AY/UxYNBklMXJI/AAAAAAAAAOg/el9qSzx_zMo/s1600/images.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">"<b>Transition</b>!"</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>His Joy---My Joy---Our Joy!</b></span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>“If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said, ‘I am
going to the Father,’ for My <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Father is
greater than I.”</i><i> </i> (Jn.14:28)<o:p></o:p></div>
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In reading this passage from John’s gospel, I was
unexpectedly made aware of a new reason to rejoice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is that reason? Simply this: the Lord
Yeshua (Jesus), Savior of my soul and Redeemer of all mankind, is with His
Father in Heaven, alive forever, His joy fulfilled!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m not sure why this thought---one I had never had before---was
so meaningful to me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Perhaps it’s
because I’m in a season of transition in my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Of course, that is true of us all, to some
extent.)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>The passing of my mom, Florence Goetz, has had a deep impact
on me.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve heard it said: ‘No one loves
you like your mother!’<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have some sense
of that in these days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though my mom and
I agreed on almost nothing, (except the importance of Israel,) we had a loving
relationship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like to say she thought
‘I hung the moon’----but was constantly telling me how I could have hung it a
little better!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though there is no lack
of love in my life---thanks be to God---I can feel, at an almost molecular level,
the loss of one for whom I, (along with my siblings,) was the center of the
universe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the risk of sounding
narcissistic---I miss it---and had no idea I would! (Perhaps that’s why I’ve
yet to remove her name and number from my phone!) <o:p></o:p></div>
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For 23 years, Jenny and I have had our world revolving
around a little girl, now a young lady, named Misha.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Though the center of our universe is God
Himself, we are constantly conscious of her gravitational pull!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>And now, into her orbit has come Joshua, a
wonderful young man to whom she is now engaged!</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>A little over a year after burying my mother, I will be
marrying off my daughter!</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I can almost
hear Tevye singing a new lyric to his song from ‘Fiddler on the Roof’:
‘Transition…Transition…<b>TRANSITION!’</b>)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m
not embarrassed to admit I find it all a bit emotionally overwhelming.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Perhaps that’s why the idea of Jesus, risen, alive, and at
the right hand of His Father--- a place He occupies throughout eternity---is so
comforting, and a fresh and surprising source of joy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Things in this life change rapidly, unexpectedly,
inexorably.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nothing stays the same and,
with each turn of our world, we face an unknown future; unknown to us, but not
to God!<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the passage I quoted, Yeshua is telling His followers, in
essence, that He knew where He came from and where He was going.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To accomplish His transition from earth to
heaven, He had to endure unimaginable suffering; rejection, hatred, betrayal,
crucifixion and, worst of all, separation from His Father on the cross!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b>(Ps.22)</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Another passage puts it in perspective: <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Jesus…for the joy that was set before Him
endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of
the throne of God.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> <b> </b></span><b>(Heb. 12:2)</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Considering what He did for me---for all of us---I am, quite
simply, happy for HIM!</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More than any one
who ever lived, he DESERVES that joy!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Yet, He also prayed for that joy to be shared with those who do NOT
deserve it; people such as you and I!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i> </i><i>“But now I
come to You, and these things I speak in the world, <o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that they
may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.”</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(Jn.17:13) <o:p></o:p></div>
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Perhaps I was receiving some of that joy in thinking about
My Lord being forever with His Father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In the midst of a life in which I think so much about myself, it was
refreshing, if only for a brief moment, to share in HIS happiness, His
gladness!<o:p></o:p></div>
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It has been often said: <b>‘I know not what the future holds,
but I know who holds the future.’</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Our future---those of us who believe in Him---is to be ever
with our heavenly Father and His Son, Yeshua, our Messiah.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now THAT’s some transition!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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And---in the midst of the uncertainties of this life---that
certainty brings me joy!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>May the JOY of the Lord be YOUR strength in these days!!</b></div>
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Shalom,<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Peace,<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Marty<o:p></o:p></div>
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Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-88322757430252909802013-08-11T16:49:00.003-05:002013-08-11T17:06:06.883-05:00<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<b><i>HAPPY NEW MONTH! </i></b><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: center;">Has anyone wished you a 'Happy Rosh Chodesh' lately?</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;">Have any friends expressed hope that you would have a ‘Blessed Elul?’</span><br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Are you wondering what I’m talking about?</div>
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Well, it’s been a while since I last wrote; so I decided to take advantage of this new month to say, ‘hi’ to ‘all y’all,’ (as we say here south of the Mason-Dixon line!)<o:p></o:p><br />
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Of what ‘new month’ am I speaking, you may ask! (We’re already well into August.) The month of Elul, of course!!<b><i> </i></b></div>
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You probably already know
that the Hebrew calendar is based on the lunar cycle. It is different from our solar-based
calendar, and Elul is the name of the month we are entering. ‘Chodesh’ is the Hebrew word for ‘month’; (thus,
my aforementioned greeting!)<o:p></o:p></div>
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‘Rosh Chodesh’ means ‘head of
the month.’ It’s kind of a mini-holiday every time a new month begins! (You are free to hold your own personal
celebration, if you like; providing the food is good. That’s VERY important, especially to ‘my’
people!) <o:p></o:p></div>
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Elul is unique, in that is a
time of preparation before the month ‘Tishrei.’ The latter is the month in
which we celebrate Rosh HaShanah, Yom Kippur and Sukkot.
These are the Hebrew names meaning ‘The Head of the Year,’ ‘The Day of
Atonement’ and ‘Booths,’ respectively.<o:p></o:p></div>
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During Tishrei, the Jewish
people welcome a new (civic) year, followed by ‘Yamim Noraim,’ or, ‘Days of
Awe.’ These ten days lead to the holiest
day of the year, Yom Kippur, commemorated by a day of fasting and prayer. The climax of the ‘holy month’ comes five
days later during the eight days of ‘Tabernacles.’ Jewish families build a ‘sukkah,’ a makeshift
structure with a roof ‘thatched’ with fruits, vegetables and other
representations of ‘harvest.’ Meals are shared in that ‘booth,’ (and some
sleep in there as well.) All this is
done as a reminder of God’s provision and protection during Israel’s wilderness
wanderings. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Sukkot is one of the biblical
pilgrimage festivals, during which the Jewish people went up to worship God in
the temple at Jerusalem. (Lev. 23:33-36) (It is STILL celebrated there, with great
exuberance, to this day!) One day, by
the way, ALL the nations will ‘go up’ and do the same! (Zech. 14:16-17) <o:p></o:p></div>
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Rosh HaShanah is actually
‘The Feast of Trumpets’ in the scriptures.
(Lev. 23:24-25) It points to the
coming ‘final trumpet,’ signalling the return of the Lord, Yeshua! (1Thess.
4:16) <o:p></o:p></div>
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Yom Kippur (Lev.23: 27-28)
hints at a day when ‘a fountain shall be opened for the house of David and for
the inhabitants of Jerusalem, for sin and for uncleanness.’ (Zech. 13:1) (In other words: ATONEMENT!)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now THAT’S some MONTH!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Annually, Tishrei sets the
stage for a type of ‘dress rehearsal’ for the ‘grand finale’ of history; the
‘end of the age,’ if you will!<o:p></o:p></div>
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One day, the trumpet will
sound, the Lord will return, Israel will look upon Him and mourn for Him ‘as
one mourns for his only son,’ and, in time, all nations will go up to worship
the Lord in Jerusalem! WOW!! (1Thess. 4; Zech. 12+14)<o:p></o:p></div>
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I don’t know about you, but I
would LOVE to be still alive when the curtain goes up on this final act---AND
to be one of the actors on stage! (The
curtain won’t be the only thing ‘going up’ a that time, as you know!) (Thess. 16-18) <o:p></o:p></div>
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Until that time, whatever
happens, I want to (maybe) be the first to wish YOU---a ‘Happy Rosh Chodesh’
and a ‘Blessed Elul!’<o:p></o:p></div>
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The month of Elul provides us
all an opportunity to prepare for the month of Tishrei; which provides us an
opportunity to prepare for---well---the world prepared ‘BEFORE the foundation
of the world!’ (Eph. 1:4) <o:p></o:p></div>
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Until that time, allow me
also to say THANKS to those of you who have followed us, supported us and
encouraged us ALL these years! Jenny
and I SO appreciate it and are grateful to God for you!!<o:p></o:p></div>
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We do---SINCERELY---hope YOUR
days of preparation are truly blessed!
The best IS yet to come---as we all say, ‘Maranatha’ ---‘Come, Lord
Yeshua…Jesus!’ (Rev. 22:20)<o:p></o:p></div>
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As for me, I hope to be more
faithful in communicating with you who check in to see what we’re doing! Hopefully, I’ll be able to eventually say, as
did Barbara Walters in days gone by: ‘We’ll be in touch, so you be in touch!’<o:p></o:p></div>
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(Barbara’s Jewish too! A ‘Happy New Month’ to her, as well!)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blessings and Shalom, Peace,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Marty (for Jenny and Misha)<span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-25542490572587384092012-10-26T14:07:00.001-05:002012-10-28T09:50:25.525-05:00Just As I (Wish I Could Say) I Am<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s_VOVFJsMFY/UIrdGDvIWpI/AAAAAAAAAFk/A2HfZfP2bUo/s1600/IMG_2981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s_VOVFJsMFY/UIrdGDvIWpI/AAAAAAAAAFk/A2HfZfP2bUo/s320/IMG_2981.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
For the last several years, I have been privileged to be the song leader for various seminars held at 'The Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove.' In addition, I have been blessed to play at special 'Christmas at the Cove' programs hosted by Cliff Barrows, with George Beverly Shea providing cameo performances. I have been blessed by the opportunity to partner with these amazing men, along with their impressive wives. My wife, Jennifer, and I even had the joy of meeting and ministering with Dr. Billy and his estimable bride, Ruth, who has since gone on to her eternal reward.<br />
<br />
'The Cove' is the gift of the Graham's to the body of believers, dedicated to train people in the scriptures in order to share their faith with a needy and sin-sick world. It also serves as a place of rest and refuge for the family of God, where everyone is treated royally, like children of a king, (which indeed they are)! The hallways are filled with pictures depicting the life of Billy Graham, from past to present; display cases show mementos from their years of ministry; the decor reflects Ruth Graham's desire to make everyone who visits feel as if they are in their family home.<br />
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Should you ever decide to go there, you'll be fed with the finest of food; not only the culinary delights, but also the sumptuous servings of the Word of God, in which is our true delight! All this will be experienced in the most beautiful of settings, the rolling hills of Asheville, North Carolina!<br />
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I have so enjoyed my continuing sojourn with the good folks at The Cove. It is, indeed, as close to heaven as one can find on earth!<br />
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There is only one problem I have when I am there. I find myself surrounded by the evidences of Dr. Billy's 'life well lived!' It is awe-inspiring to trace the history of what God has done with and through him these many years. One can only marvel to observe what can be done with and through a person wholly given to the Lord and His Gospel! (And that is only the 'witness' of The Cove; there is a whole library in Charlotte testifying to the life of this ambassador for our Messiah, his family, and his ministry partners!)<br />
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My problem? I can't help looking at my life in the light of what I see there...and it's sometimes painful to consider! (As we say where I come from: Oy vey! That's Yiddish for, 'woe is me!')<br />
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The good news is that Dr. Graham never takes credit for his historic life; he always gives glory to God, exhorting people to think on what God--not he--has done. Even his autobiography bears the title, 'Just As I Am,' taken from the hymn by Charlotte Elliott that says:<br />
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<i><b>'Just as I am, without one plea, but that thy blood was shed for me.'</b></i><br />
<br />
With this title, Billy Graham is communicating to all of us that it is only the sacrifice of the savior, Yeshua (Jesus), that has made us acceptable to the Lord. None of us can glory in ourselves; only in Him who has saved us and sanctified us and 'delivered us from the power of darkness and translated us into the kingdom of the Son of His love!' (Colossians 1:13) <br />
<br />
Still...I can't help wondering if my life could have been...and could be... more fruitful, more effective for God, if only...(fill in the blank)!<br />
<br />
<b>Will my biography be titled: 'Just As I (Wish I Could Say) I Am?</b><br />
<br />
That remains to be seen! These day I lean hard on the promise that states: 'He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Yeshua HaMashiach (Jesus Christ)!' (Phillipians 1:6) <br />
<br />
However, I thought I would simply share some of my thoughts with you, my friends, with whom I have not communicated for a long while! (Sorry!) With these musings, I hope to 'nudge' myself into sharing some more in the days ahead!<br />
<br />
Pray for Dr, Graham and his family; the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and the Cove; and would you please pray for me!<br />
<br />
Jenny and I, along with our daughter, Misha, would covet your prayers, and we thank you for your faithful interest in what we are doing.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I will meditate on a 'hymn' from our CD, 'Hope of Glory':<br />
<br />
<i><b>'Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.' Psalm 90:12</b></i><br />
<br />
<b><i>'Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Yeshua from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Messiah Jesus, to whom be glory forever and ever, Amen.'</i> (Hey, that scripture is sung on 'Hope of Glory' as well!)</b><br />
<br />
Please forgive the shameless plug!!<br />
<br />
Thanks for listening!!<br />
<br />
Just As We Are,<br />
Shalom,<br />
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Marty (and Jenny) Goetz<br />
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<br />Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-69044559801356594312012-02-27T12:52:00.038-06:002012-02-28T07:24:35.945-06:00'The Envelope, Please!'<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YF2cslcYvJc/T0v-ZcxLN1I/AAAAAAAAAFc/tQHNODDnTsM/s1600/220px-Oscar_statuette.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 209px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YF2cslcYvJc/T0v-ZcxLN1I/AAAAAAAAAFc/tQHNODDnTsM/s320/220px-Oscar_statuette.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713940265422239570" /></a><br />I have a confession to make: I watched the 84th annual Academy Awards. I have been watching the Oscar ceremonies since I was a litttle kid. I have always loved watching them; and it's been an annual ritual for Jenny and me since we've been married!<div><br /></div><div>I have another confession: I always watch with a slight tinge of 'Gee, I wish I were one of those people!' They seem so together, so talented, so beautiful...so everything I wish I were!!</div><div><br /></div><div>I know, I know! It's silly...it's vain...it's so, well...Hollywood!</div><div><br /></div><div>I lived in Hollywood in days gone by. I know some of the folks that are in that business. Jenny and I are good friends with one fellow who is now a movie star...and soon to be a HUGE movie star!! One of the most celebrated movie composers in the world used to play piano for 'Bert and Marty', a singing act I had way back in my youth in New York City!</div><div><br /></div><div>I can't help thinking sometimes, while watching the Oscars, that, as Marlon Brando so famously said in a scene from 'On the Waterfront': "I coulda been somebody; I coulda been a contender!" If only I'd done things a little differently, if I'd met the right people, if I'd worked a little harder...!! Perhaps I coulda had what those lucky folks have!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Yet, strangely enough, after watching this year's presentation, I found myself grateful to have something many of them don't seem to have: SHAME!</div><div><br /></div><div>Let me explain! I know that Yeshua---Jesus---took away my shame when He died on that cursed tree! I realize I am 'saved by grace' and don't have to bear the shame of my transgressions against my God! I know...and rejoice...in all that! That's not what I'm talking about!</div><div><br /></div><div>True: Many folks who win the coveted Academy Award thank their peers, their wives and families, their mom's and dad's and...very occasionally...their God! There are numerous hard working, down to earth, truly professional people who just happen to work in the movie business.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then there are the others; the ones whom the world adores and strives to be like; the ones who are the reason we watch the Oscars in the first place! The movie STARS!</div><div><br /></div><div>Even amongst the stars there are strong families, normal children, healthy relationships with friends, family and co-workers. That is truly admirable in that environment, and they are to be commended for it.</div><div><br /></div><div>But then there are the others. The ones over whom the media fawns and the public clamors to see and be around. It's amazing to observe people who follow Hollywood celebrity; you know---the ones craving to know every detail about stars' lives, existing vicariously through them, hoping to maybe...someday...hopefully have a life even remotely as glorious and glamorous as theirs! You know...people like me!! (Kidding...I HOPE!)</div><div><br /></div><div>So, I reflected on this year's festivities, as one does the morning after the night before. For some reason, this time, I couldn't help thinking that the hype about the Academy Awards exceeded the actual event. There was a camera shot of a well known---but not particularly celebrated actor---sitting in the hall, not surrounded by adoring fans, empty seats flanking his, and surrounded by what seemed to be a noticable lack of excitement. It was just a guy---in a theatre---watching the proceedings, registering nothing notable on his face, either of pleasure or displeasure. </div><div><br /></div><div>Up in the front rows, however, were other celebrities, movie moguls and screen stars. Amongst that group were folks living together outside of marriage, having children outside of wedlock and engaging in 'alternative' lifestyles. Yet...they sat there...smiling and taking it all in, being feted by the press, honored by their industry, celebrated by an adoring public worldwide. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm not begrudging them that. As a matter of fact, they should enjoy their reward here..in this age...in this world. For there is a time coming when they...as well as all of us...will stand before our Creator and give an accounting for the lives they---and we--- have lived here on earth. (Gulp!)</div><div><br /></div><div>In that day, 'Oscar' will be of no help to them. Only Yeshua--- Jesus---is up to that role!</div><div><br /></div><div>In that day, we will all cast our 'crowns'...and our gold statuettes, if we have them...down at His feet and bow and declare Him, LORD!</div><div><br /></div><div>Don't get me wrong! I am not sitting in judgment of them. I STILL fancy what it would be like to be part of that world. But, as once was said by the biggest star of them all...the Bright and Morning Star, in fact...: "For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world and loses his own soul? Or what will a man---(or a woman)---give in exchange for his (or her) own soul?</div><div><br /></div><div>That's where the aforementioned 'shame' comes in! Believe me: I KNOW I will have much to answer for when the envelope is opened and MY name is called! Let's put it this way: I don't see myself giving any long speeches thanking the 'academy' for my award!</div><div><br /></div><div>Perhaps, in that final day, there will be some 'reward' coming my way. I certainly hope so! Should there be, I will accept it on behalf of my Lord and Savior who--through His mercy and grace---made my performance---such as it is---possible!</div><div><br /></div><div>But I know this above all: I will be truly grateful I was a person who had the capacity to be ashamed of my sin!! Yes---I mean sin!! We don't talk much of it these days, but that's what it is! Just plain old sin! And I am prone to it and guilty of it! Apart from the shed blood of the Man from Galilee, the perfect Son of G-d, I would be lost forever! But I'm not.</div><div><br /></div><div>Furthermore, I have no ability to judge who, in that august Academy gathering, is lost---or found! This I know, however: the best thing that could happen to their career---and their lives--- would be, not the recognition of their accomplishments by their peers, but a recognition of their accountability to the God who created them!</div><div><br /></div><div> I can't believe I'm saying this; I who am no celebrity, not famous, not one of the 'beautiful people': How sad that they can receive the applause of men, telling them that they're great, and not feel the slightest bit of 'shame' over the lives they are living, in front of God and everybody!</div><div><br /></div><div>It's not that they're bad people. It's not that they don't have a heart and are not trying to do their best.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's not that I am any better than they!</div><div><br /></div><div>It's simply this: I give thanks to God that I am sorry for my sin and can feel shame for all the ways I have not lived up to His holy standards, bringing dishonor to myself and to His precious Name! I am glad I never 'succeeded' in 'show biz' in such a way that I might never come face to face with my sin---and find forgiveness in my Messiah, Jesus!</div><div><br /></div><div>I can't say I won't watch the Academy Awards again. I can't say I won't be feel tempted to feel a bit envious of celebrities and privately wonder what it would be like to be a movie star. I can't say I wouldn't like to have the experience of saying: 'I want to thank the Academy for this award!'</div><div><br /></div><div>I simply know this: I will be FOREVER grateful that I bowed my knee to the Lord of everybody and everything---even Hollywood---and pray that, when that final 'award' ceremony happens, I will be able to walk that carpet---'red' with the blood of my Redeemer---with those of whom it is said: ''Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, And those who turn many to righteousness like the STARS forever and ever." (Daniel 12:2)</div><div><br /></div><div>May I hear, after it is said, 'The envelope, please!': "Well done, my good and faithful servant!"</div><div><br /></div><div>That is the one and only true award worth having!</div><div><br /></div><div>May it be---for all of us!</div><div> Marty</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-39205145548985908042011-05-24T14:00:00.032-05:002011-05-24T23:19:58.994-05:00HOUSE CALL<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nIMTm7xwVdE/Tdx8__H8cWI/AAAAAAAAAE4/GmCnK6uag6A/s1600/IMG_6410.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nIMTm7xwVdE/Tdx8__H8cWI/AAAAAAAAAE4/GmCnK6uag6A/s320/IMG_6410.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610496674515153250" /></a><br />"Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the L-rd of hosts will perform this." Isaiah 9:7<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I have been inspired today; so inspired that I have FINALLY mustered the wherewithal to write a short blog about an important event that happened this morning of May 24th, 2011. At approximately 11 o'clock CST, Benjamin Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel, addressed a joint session of Congress in the House of Representatives in Washington D.C. He visited 'our House' representing 'his house'---the modern day 'House of Israel'! In the midst of 24 hour cable news, a worldwide web, ubiquitous virtual communication and constant and continuous media distraction, he delivered what I believe--I hope---is a significant and historic address, cutting right to the heart of a matter which has persistently perplexed nation after nation, generation after generation: that is, the issue of 'peace in the Middle East.'</div><div><br /></div><div>I will not---and cannot--- in this brief blog, add anything to what he said. It is so eloquent, so direct, so clear, that anything I say would simply detract from his message. Rather, I would like to respectfully suggest---nay, strongly urge---you who read this, to find his speech and listen to it. It is a 'must hear' presentation, framing the debate about what to do in that region of the world in terms that are full of truth and undeniable realities. His passion is palpable, his reasoning impeccable and his facts indisputable. Not only that, he speaks with the time-tested and 'forged in the fire' authority that is so rare in these days of political posturing and poll-driven equivocation.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Two lines that stand out to me were the following: "Israel has no better friend than America and America has no better friend than Israel." He also said: "Israel is not what's wrong about the Middle East; Israel is what's right about the Middle East!"</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Truth be told, I have grown weary of the description of what's going on between Israel and the Palestinians as a 'peace process'. Israel IS at peace with it's Arab neighbors---and with the Palestinians who live in their midst. It is those who want to deny Israel's right to exist that are at war with her! It has been said---and I paraphrase---that if the Arab world was disarmed, there would be no war in the Middle East; but if Israel were disarmed, there would be no Israel. Another Israeli prime minister, <i><b>Golda Meir once famously said: "We will have peace with the Arabs when they love their children more than they hate us."</b></i></div><div><br /></div><div>We who read and believe the Bible know that, ultimately, peace will only come--- not only for Israel but also for the whole world---when Yeshua, the Messiah, returns to Jerusalem to establish His kingdom! He alone is 'Sar Shalom', the Prince of Peace, spoken of by Isaiah the prophet; and He will reign forever and ever, seated upon the 'throne of David'. What a glorious promise; what a privilege to be invited to be part of that kingdom.</div><div><br /></div><div>As a believer in Yeshua, I know that Israel's deliverance---and safety---comes from G-d alone. There is no salvation for her---nor for anyone else---apart from Messiah. "My heart's desire and prayer to G-d for Israel is that they may be saved." Rom. 10:1</div><div><br /></div><div>This hope of Paul the Apostle is my hope as well; and the hope of all who believe that the gospel is "the power of G-d unto salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek (gentile)." Rom. 1:16</div><div><br /></div><div>Consequently, I am under no illusion that the current State of Israel is the final 'state' of the people of Israel. There is coming a day when "all Israel will be saved"; and a renewed and regenerated Jewish people will be regathered to a restored land "in which righteousness dwells." That day is coming soon...</div><div><br /></div><div>...but on this day, I am encouraged by what I have heard---and I want you to hear it. too!</div><div><br /></div><div><b>I want you to hear the 'clarion call' issued by Benjamin Netanyahu in 'our House'! I want you to see the warm and enthusiastic welcome he received from our leaders and the repeated ovations offered in response to his call. It is essential that America---and all the nations of the world---understand what he so eloquently expressed: that Israel is here to stay, that Jerusalem must remain her 'undivided' capitol, and that she is ready and willing to 'make peace' with anyone willing to forsake violence and 'make peace' with her. </b></div><div><br /></div><div>In the hour in which we live, it is imperative that we know where and how to stand regarding the poorly named 'Arab-Israel peace process'. Believers in the L-rd Yeshua and people of all faiths---indeed all people of good will---need to see this issue clearly and understand it's implications. </div><div><br /></div><div>That is why I recommend you avail yourself of this truly inspiring speech made by the Israeli Prime Minister. I pray our American President---whom Netanyahu repeatedly and appropriately honored with his words---will take those words to heart and make the correct decisions regarding the future of Israel and the Middle East. We are at the 'hinge of history'---to use Netanyahu's expression---and we must swing in the direction which will bring about true and lasting peace; that is, on this side of G-d's eternal and everlasting 'kingdom of peace'!</div><div><br /></div><div>If we can find it within ourselves to do the right thing, '..history will applaud you (America)!' That was the promise Mr. Netanyahu made; and I believe it is G-d's promise as well. After all, He has already said: </div><div><br /></div><div> "I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse (those) who curse you." Gen. 12:3</div><div><br /></div><div>What I---and the rest of the world---observed today, cut across party lines; Democrats and Republicans alike stood side by side, applauding what they heard. Though there have been disagreements between our two countries, Netanyahu reaffirmed and reinforced our historic friendship and mutual interests and values, expressing eternal gratitude for all that America has done to help Israel survive and thrive. He congratulated our President on his recent success in ridding the world of one of her worst terrorists, and thanked the Congress for inviting him to come and share his heart. It was to me a thrilling moment; one I pray will not be overlooked or swept aside by the tide of unrelenting news items and all-pervasive pop culture happenings. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once again, I urge you; find the speech and listen. Share it with friends and family and members of your faith community. Pray about what you hear, as I hope to do. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you for listening to my 'call'---from my house to yours---to 'pray for the peace of Jerusalem'; and for the final peace to come with the return of Yeshua HaMashiach, Messiah Jesus, the Prince of Peace!</div><div><br /></div><div>Shalom---Peace to you and yours,</div><div> Marty (and his!) </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-7695632515580395192011-02-04T10:21:00.028-06:002011-02-04T15:43:54.170-06:00Bench-mark for a Friend<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/TUxjdH1zrOI/AAAAAAAAAEo/maxFr0cv_nA/s1600/IMG_5606.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/TUxjdH1zrOI/AAAAAAAAAEo/maxFr0cv_nA/s320/IMG_5606.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569936191122549986" /></a><br />In Jewish tradition, family and friends wait one year before placing a headstone on the grave of a deceased loved one. This 'stone setting' ritual is a ceremonial conclusion to a season of grieving; a kind of closure for those who are still shaken by a great loss. Though the pain of that person being gone does not go away, permission is given, in a sense, to 'move on' with life, knowing that the one being mourned would want that for you as well. <div><br /></div><div>Tom Howard is a man who would have had that sentiment. In that spirit, I note his one year passing with this brief post to you who are visiting us here.</div><div><br /></div><div>As you may know, Tom was a well respected pianist, songwriter and composer, our producer and arranger for over twenty years and, most of all, our very dear friend. He passed away unexpectedly on January 29th, 2010, approximately one year ago. I shared with you then some thoughts on his life, his death and his memorial service. Oddly, it seems a long time ago that all this happened -- and like yesterday! </div><div><br /></div><div>Tom's loving wife Dori wanted to mark the day of her husband's passing in a special way.</div><div><br /></div><div> It was a Saturday when she and Tom had set out on a walk on an unusually snowy weekend. The Howard's were from Minnesota and snow was their natural environment! And so it seemed fitting they would join some of their friends on a trek through a Nashville park. It was on that walk that Tom had a heart attack and passed away. What would have been a pleasant, leisurely afternoon turned into a traumatic and tragic day for her and their companions.</div><div><br /></div><div>Yet, that terrible memory was turned into a beautiful memorial by Dori and others who loved Tom Howard. </div><div><br /></div><div>Tom has no gravesite, so there was no headstone to be set. Instead, a gorgeous granite bench was built in his memory. A simple brass plaque bears his name, with an inscription written by his family, punctuated with a verse from the Bible -- Ephesians 2:6 -- which reads:</div><div><br /></div><div>"...and raised up together (to) sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus..."</div><div><br /></div><div>Strangely, it was a Saturday -- January 29th -- exactly a year since Tom's last day on earth, that a small band of friends joined his wife and his children to dedicate the bench to his memory. Quite coincidentally, it had been placed in the very spot where Tom had passed from this life into the next. Near it was an older bench, bearing the name's of a couple who had been some of the first new friends Dori and Tom had made after their move to Nashville from Los Angeles. Tom had sat on that bench before breathing his last and leaving us -- for a time.</div><div><br /></div><div>And that was the reality of which we all spoke -- and the truth we acknowledged in our commemoration; that we will see Tom again; that we all will be together again one day in the presence of our Lord Yeshua -- Jesus!</div><div><br /></div><div>Memories were shared; stories were told; poems were read; prayers were said; laughs were had; tears were shed. It was a sweet and fitting tribute to an irreplaceable soul. One of the realizations we all had was that, to each of us, Tom was our best friend! He made each of us feel that we were the most special and treasured person in his life, even though we knew there were others with whom he enjoyed that same closeness! Somehow, he could share himself completely with you -- encouraging you, inspiring you, building you up -- and still have enough left over to do the same with myriad others who had the blessing of knowing him -- and calling him friend!</div><div><br /></div><div>None of us will ever have another like him -- and the loss is still palpable. Therefore, it was fitting -- and comforting -- to have the opportunity to remember him on that day and to consecrate that location to his memory. People walking there -- as he and Dori did so often -- will be able to pause and reflect, hold hands and pray, talk and laugh and embrace the moment, all the while reposing on the bench that bears Tom's name. </div><div><br /></div><div>One colleague of Tom's commented that he thought of it as a piano bench. That was a perfect reflection, creating in all of us the picture of Tom sitting there, surrounded by the beauty of nature, playing hymns of praise to his Creator!</div><div><br /></div><div>He would like that.</div><div><br /></div><div>Should you ever have the chance to take a stroll in Edwin Warner Park, Nashville, Tennessee, perhaps you'll be able to sit for a spell and enjoy a moment with God and His handiwork -- courtesy of our friend, Tom Howard. </div><div><br /></div><div>He would like that as well.</div><div><br /></div><div>We miss you, Tom; and we will see you again -- but not yet, not yet.</div><div><br /></div><div>Shalom -- and thanks for listening. </div><div><br /></div><div>Marty </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-72541372209928791372010-07-27T10:57:00.027-05:002010-07-27T17:48:00.428-05:00The "we" message of the "i" people<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/TE9gHIhjWwI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/X-RwkCtZbeo/s1600/IMG_2947.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/TE9gHIhjWwI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/X-RwkCtZbeo/s320/IMG_2947.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498719345706228482" /></a><br />My Dear Friends,<div><br /></div><div>My most sincere apologies to you for my not having written anything on this site for a long time. You who know us---and keep in touch with what we are doing--- have been so faithful and supportive, expressing interest in our lives and our work through all these years. Before I share some of my thoughts, I wanted to share my feelings; feelings of gratitude to "all y'all," (as we say here in Nashville) and heartfelt wishes for the fullness of all the blessing our God has for you.</div><div><br /></div><div>In regard to the long duration between "blogs", I must tell you that recent circumstances have affected me more than I could have imagined they would. </div><div><br /></div><div>Sending our one and only daughter off to college, having to put our dog Maggie to sleep, mourning the untimely death of our good friend and long-time producer, Tom Howard---not to mention the problems I've had with my eyesight---have all conspired to put me a bit "on hold" this last little season. Once again. I'm sorry---and I so appreciate your patience, prayers and understanding.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, here we go.</div><div><br /></div><div>After that build-up, I hope you won't mind the brevity---and randomness---of these musings of mine.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, Jennifer and I were chatting after our morning prayer time. We were wondering aloud about "this new generation"---(how's that for old fogey speak?)---and talking about how many young folks have embraced "social justice" thinking and a "one world-progressive" mentality. (And this was all on our first cup of coffee!)</div><div><br /></div><div>As we spoke, I resisted the temptation to cluck my tongue and grouse about how the world was going to hell in a hand basket and how much better things were when we were young and how our generation...blah, blah, blah...</div><div><br /></div><div>It then occurred to me how our generation---(aging baby-boomers to be specific)---spawned so much of what we observe---and often bemoan---in these perplexing days. </div><div><br /></div><div>It seems just a moment ago that we were ushering in "the age of aquarius"---peace, love and all that jazz! That era morphed into a time characterized by the "me" generation, which indulged all the "freedoms" unleashed years before in the tumultuous 60's. Fast forward through disco, punk, grunge-- eight tracks, cassette tapes and cd's---(to keep things in a music vein)---and we find ourself in a--virtually-- new world.</div><div><br /></div><div>Like an agrarian society yielding to the industrial revolution, our civilization has been technologically transformed. It happened gradually--almost imperceptibly--but it's advent has seemed sudden and overwhelming to those of us who were unaware and unprepared. </div><div><br /></div><div>I find myself--- (though I hate to admit it)---feeling often like a stranger in a strange land, scrambling to learn new languages and unfamiliar ways, trying desperately just to keep up! I'm making very SLOW progress!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Back to our morning conversation. As my daughter Misha sat on the couch, recuperating from "wisdom tooth" surgery and my wife began planning her day, I reflected on the fact that we would all, later that day, be using sleek, efficient machines, adorned with an interesting logo; an apple with a bite taken out of it. (Where else have we heard of a piece of fruit having been bitten into?) Hmmm?!</div><div><br /></div><div>Jenny expressed the opinion that this current generation appears to be quite self-centered. I opined that we were, as well; but we didn't think so because we were concerned about "the war" and other social concerns.</div><div><br /></div><div>In addition, we have passed through many different permutations of the faith we embraced in the 70's---a belief in Jesus---Yeshua---as Messiah and Lord. </div><div><br /></div><div>Some of those forms were less---or more---than the gospel of the kingdom. Many of them encouraged a self-oriented, "I can have everything I want 'cause I'm a king's kid" kind of thinking.</div><div><br /></div><div>I do believe Jesus' words; that "it's (the) Father's good pleasure to give (us) the kingdom". (Luke12;32) However, much of our preaching and teaching seemed to emphasize personal aggrandizement while neglecting "weightier matters" such as loving your neighbor, caring for the poor, rejoicing in suffering and expecting trouble in this life "as sparks fly upward". (Job 5:7)</div><div><br /></div><div>The deficiencies in our worldview are not lost on today's young people, it seems. </div><div><br /></div><div>At the risk of generalizing or dealing with issues with which I am not fully conversant, permit me to say that I find myself often shaking my head in amazement as to where our world is heading; and that includes the faith community in which we find ourselves.</div><div><br /></div><div>A current commercial on TV is an iconic representation of where things are these days. Down a busy city street walk two separate individuals, gazing down at their "hand-held devices", completely engrossed in their screen-sized world, ignoring everything around them, never looking up, even for a second. (One only has to walk through any modern airport to see how true to form this image is!)</div><div><br /></div><div>Everyone---or so it seems---is on their i-pod, i-phone or i-pad. The observation is not original with me, I'm sure: we are in the midst of the "i" generation. It's all about "I", isn't it? OY!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Yet, the message of the young is a "we" one; the current mindset being one of equality for all, social justice, concern for the poor---all noble aspirations, to be sure. Because of the "collective" and "community" oriented nature of this ethic, it seems to be envisioning a "better" society: wealth redistributed, boundaries broken down, history redefined, everyone equal, everything environmentally friendly; a truly "smart" and "green" world.</div><div><br /></div><div>Consequently, the aforementioned "I" obsession is obscured---but it's there---big time! and it's not new!! It's as old as the proverbial bite out of the fruit. As a matter of fact, that's where it all started, isn't it?</div><div><br /></div><div>I can relate. Through my most recent trials, I have become aware that I don't simply have an eye problem; I have an "I" problem! Yes, indeed!! I can sit in judgment of no one, no how!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Still---I know there are things happening today that demand our attention and require our response. During our morning time, Misha had us read a prophetic word delivered by a powerful woman of God; a word that exhorted everyone to---WAKE UP! She exhorted us to see current crises as wake-up calls, urging all with "ears to hear" to fast, pray, vote wisely in upcoming elections and---most essentially---to not turn away from Israel!! Amen and amen!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>I write this on the heels of a return from New York City. I love it there; walking the streets and looking up, seeing sights unseen in any other place. I've included a photo from a recent stroll there.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the midst of all these things about which I've mused, it serves as a reminder to me---and to anyone who might be simpatico with anything I've shared---to think about what was said many years ago by someone we love, whose words are supremely relevant to us today:</div><div><br /></div><div> "And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up,</div><div> and lift up your heads; for your redemption draws nigh."</div><div> (Yeshua in Luke 21:28)</div><div><br /></div><div>Another TV commercial---(please forgive all the media references)--says, "Take the scary out of life." A good way to do that? Remember the axiom: "things are looking up!"</div><div><br /></div><div>That's what I'll be doing.</div><div><br /></div><div>Even so, come Lord Yeshua.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks for looking us up!</div><div><br /></div><div>Love and shalom,</div><div> Marty and his family</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-57861958277945449162010-02-12T10:05:00.026-06:002010-02-15T12:14:10.858-06:00"I Love you, Tommy!"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/S3mKJlwQ82I/AAAAAAAAAEI/fbRJPWrREhM/s1600-h/Tom+Howard.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/S3mKJlwQ82I/AAAAAAAAAEI/fbRJPWrREhM/s320/Tom+Howard.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438529922384589666" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/S3mG66aIQXI/AAAAAAAAAEA/wuTWUfBvzgc/s1600-h/IMG_1903.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/S3mG66aIQXI/AAAAAAAAAEA/wuTWUfBvzgc/s320/IMG_1903.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438526371695968626" /></a><br /><div>"A good name is better than precious ointment, And the day of death than the day of one's birth; Better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, For that is the end of all men; And the living will take it to heart." (Ecclesiastes 7:1-2)</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>The phone call came, as all such calls do: suddenly, unexpectedly, unnerving. My wife answered and screamed, "No, no, that can't be!", stomping her feet and shuffling backward; wide-eyed, as if she were attempting to flee from something horrible. And indeed she was.<div><div><br /></div><div>On the line was John Coates, who wanted to know if we had heard about Tom. We had not. </div><div><br /></div><div>John informed us that Tom Howard, our mutual and beloved friend, had suffered a heart attack and passed away. We didn't think he was lying---but we didn't want to believe him.</div><div><br /></div><div>Jennifer rushed to the computer and checked Tom's facebook page. Already, there were postings of condolences and words of sympathy to his family. We were shocked and saddened. We still are.</div><div><br /></div><div>In the midst of an ordinary day---Jenny and I were cheerfully making our bed when we got the news---our world was shaken. It's still shaking.</div><div><br /></div><div>In fact, I haven't even been able to write anything about it. Even now, I feel inadequate to express myself in a way that would, either sufficiently express my heart, or properly honor my buddy, Tom. Allow me to simply share a few thoughts. </div><div><br /></div><div>For two weeks, (he passed away on Friday, January 29th), there has been a hole in the soul of Nashville, Tennessee, at least for the many here who knew and loved Tom. There is a palpable sorrow in the hearts of his friends; they are bewildered by this sudden and tragic loss. In the days following the news of his death, we have shared much with his family and friends; an evening of remembrance, a Sunday service at the church where he served as an associate music minister, a moving memorial service and numerous conversations, recalling life with Tom---and contemplating life without him.</div><div><br /></div><div>Jenny and I already miss him. Tom was a bit of a night owl, Many evenings he would drop by our house, just to talk and eat and laugh. Often, my wife would go to bed and Tom and I would stay up late, discussing anything and everything; arts, family, politics, popular culture, theology. Sometimes he would fall asleep on our couch and I would stay awake until he awoke and I could send him home! </div><div><br /></div><div>Any time spent with Tom was a joy. He was hysterically funny, deeply thoughtful and amazingly insightful. He had the soul of a poet and could paint vivid pictures with his words, leaving you in awe at his eloquence---then crack you up with some goofy remark, accompanied with some strange, indescribable vocal affectation! When he would leave our house, I would always feel grateful for such a friend. However, I must admit, there were times when I would tell him I was too tired to get together. Fortunately, he had numerous others with whom he could hang out. Still, I would give anything for one more impromptu visit.</div><div><br /></div><div>For you who know us and the work we do, you will miss him too, whether you know it or not. You see, Tom has been producing and arranging our music for over twenty years! We were friends in Los Angeles and our first project together was "I Call You Friend." Jenny and I were amazed at what Tom was able to do. We never ceased to be amazed. </div><div><br /></div><div>Jennifer says he was 'the music behind my songs.' He invested himself so completely into everything we did. An inspired pianist and composer in his own right, Tom orchestrated and conducted our recording sessions as if the songs were his own. One of our greatest thrills was going to the studio and waiting for that first downbeat. With a wave of a baton, he would create a masterpiece around the sketch of my compositions, filling them with color--- and us with excitement. </div><div><br /></div><div>He would accomplish all this, seemingly effortlessly, quietly going about his business with skill, excellence and loving care for the music. That is something I will miss so much: the love he had for what we were doing and the passion he expressed in helping bring it to fruition. </div><div><br /></div><div>Tom was an encourager. He would give me insights into my own work that I either didn't see or fully appreciate. He made me feel that I was an important artist with a significant contribution to make to the world. (Often, I didn't share that opinion but his eloquent affirmation had a way of trumping my own insecurities!) That gift he gave me is precious and irreplaceable.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is no other way to say it. This is a huge loss, not only to Jenny and me, but also to everyone who knew and loved Tom. His memorial service was packed with friends, family, artists, musicians, all fellow travelers with this most unique, inspiring and lovable man. The sanctuary at St. Bartholomew's was filled with beautiful music from the choir and various artists with whom Tom worked---including yours truly; I sang Psalm 23. </div><div><br /></div><div>What was particularly stunning---and moving---was the music that Tom had written himself, underscoring the entire service. It would have brought a smile, (or embarrassment, knowing Tom), to hear the people whom he loved--- and who loved him---singing his songs. It was as if he was with us---yet, conspicuously absent. </div><div><br /></div><div>In the fellowship hall afterward, there was a slide show of his life accompanied by yet more of his music, the sharing of stories and tributes, and a nostalgic rock and roll set by some of his brilliantly talented buddies. When it all wound down and came to a reluctant end, we all dispersed into different groups, talking late into the night about Tom, not wanting to say a final goodbye. </div><div><br /></div><div>Tom is still alive in his wife, Dori, his daughter Katie and his son, Joseph. Their words for him that day were a beautiful declaration of his success as a husband and father. He would have been so blessed to hear that. No one was more dedicated to seeing his family prosper in every way; yet he struggled with his own ability to accomplish that. They, of course need your prayers.</div><div><br /></div><div>He is alive in his music: his solo piano recordings, the gorgeous string arrangements he provided for countless artists and projects, and, of course, our albums. We will, of course, continue to produce our music; but we don't yet know how we will do it without Tom. (You may pray for us, as well.)</div><div><br /></div><div>It's snowing here in Nashville as I write this; it was snowing the day Tom died. I spoke to him that morning. We were experiencing a rare snowstorm which was turning everything white, an unusual occurrence in this part of the country. I commented to Tom that it looked like Minnesota. Tom and Dori were from Minnesota, and decided that day it would be fun to go for a walk in the park with some friends. Tom never returned from that walk.</div><div><br /></div><div>We like to think that God provided a touch of home for the day of Tom's going home. Wouldn't that be just like our Father? </div><div><br /></div><div>Jenny tells me that, at the end of my phone conversation with my friend, on what would be his last day with us here, I said before I hung up, "I love you, Tommy!" I will be forever grateful that I said those words!! </div><div><br /></div><div>Tom deserved to be loved---and he was.</div><div><br /></div><div>We will not see his like again.</div><div><br /></div><div>And yet---one day---we will! I'm looking forward to that.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you, Lord, for our brother, Tom Howard.</div><div><br /></div><div>And thank you all for allowing me to tell you a little bit about him.</div><div><br /></div><div>Love,</div><div> Marty</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div> </div></div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-19506802494968955962010-01-14T11:31:00.038-06:002010-01-14T17:10:51.824-06:00Goodbye to a Good Friend<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/S09oVwLpEeI/AAAAAAAAAD4/GZqwcsKci_c/s1600-h/IMG_1713.JPG"><span><span></span></span><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/S09oVwLpEeI/AAAAAAAAAD4/GZqwcsKci_c/s320/IMG_1713.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426670798925009378" /></a><br />Dear friends and visitors,<div><br /></div><div>I wanted to share with you a sad event in the life of our family.</div><div><br /></div><div>Today, a short while before writing this, I, along with my wife Jennifer, had to put our little dog Maggie to sleep. She had been suffering for a long time with a collapsing trachea, a condition common in small white dogs. We had taken her twice to the University of Tennessee in Knoxville to help us decide how to treat her. We considered surgery, but opted instead for a less invasive treatment with special medicine, processed by this top-notch veterinary hospital. It worked for a few years and we were thrilled with how she was doing on what, to us, was a miracle drug.</div><div><br /></div><div>However, just this last week, she began to gasp for air almost constantly. She wouldn't eat and, when she did drink water, she would spit it up. She was miserable and listless; her sleep, (which was all she was doing), would be interrupted with frequent coughing spasms. It was awful---and upsetting! </div><div><br /></div><div> We took her almost every day to her wonderful veterinarian, Dr. Woody, at the Animal Health Clinic in Franklin, Tennessee. He-- and we-- tried everything we could to help her. She got shots, pills, steroids, and all kinds of medicine; but it eventually became clear that Maggie was suffering greatly, without any hope of relief.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dr. Woody told us to consider a thought in the heartbreaking process of deciding what to do. He advised us to ask ourselves this question: are you doing all these things "for her--- or to her."</div><div><br /></div><div> After one tortuous night for our dog, (which was also emotionally excruciating for us), we knew what we had to do. </div><div><br /></div><div>We brought her in to what had become her second home, due to our many travels. They love her there; and we were greatly comforted to know that her last moments would been spent with folks who had shared so much of her little life. </div><div><br /></div><div>They were almost as upset as we were to see her go; but go she did.</div><div><br /></div><div>The other day at the clinic, after discussing, at length, Maggie's dwindling options, I asked---whimsically: "Well, Dr. Woody, do dogs go to heaven?"</div><div><br /></div><div>He said, thoughtfully, "I'll answer you with a paraphrase from Will Rogers: 'I don't know if dogs go to heaven but, wherever they go, that's where I want to be!'" </div><div><br /></div><div>My wife, Jennifer, my daughter, Misha, and I, mourn the loss of our good, good friend, Maggie Mae Goetz. She was a Bichon Frise who would have been 14 years old on January 29, 2010.</div><div><br /></div><div>We first said hello to her when she was two; shared with her twelve wonderful years; and said goodbye to her today, January 14, 2010. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks for listening.</div><div><br /></div><div>Love and Shalom,</div><div> Peace,</div><div> Marty </div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-57528269577180546312010-01-08T11:40:00.022-06:002010-01-08T13:15:35.341-06:00Let It Snow!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/S0d6ChODFZI/AAAAAAAAADw/cIZp2VOUrFw/s1600-h/IMG_1653.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/S0d6ChODFZI/AAAAAAAAADw/cIZp2VOUrFw/s320/IMG_1653.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424438459886671250" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/S0d5w3h00XI/AAAAAAAAADo/y7iiZrpz6Ho/s1600-h/IMG_1641.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/S0d5w3h00XI/AAAAAAAAADo/y7iiZrpz6Ho/s320/IMG_1641.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424438156637557106" /></a><br />"Well, the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful...", goes the well-known song. It's the perfect tune to accompany this first week of 2010! Happy New Year to all of you!!<div><br /></div><div>Throughout America, at the dawn of this decade, there have been records set for low temperatures, snowfall, and other climate related occurrences. (Could this be the result of increasing, man-caused, global warming? Hmm?)</div><div><br /></div><div>My wife Jennifer and I live in Nashville, Tennessee. We hardly EVER see snow. We did this year; and it has been EXTREMELY cold. Our daughter Misha is visiting us from sunny, southern California on her college Christmas break. We have spent most of our nights huddled by the delightful fire as we experience together the frightful weather. (Maggie, our very old dog has to go outside periodically...for obvious reasons!) </div><div><br /></div><div>I happen to like the snow. This morning, as I write this, the flurries resemble little sprinkles of sugar falling from heaven. They seem to speak silently about the sweetness of G-d's love for the world He has created. (Thank you, Father!)</div><div><br /></div><div>Of course, we have had what is called a "dusting." I don't know how I'd feel about -20 degree temperatures and huge snow drifts bringing life to a standstill. We had one of those storms a few years ago and it was rough. </div><div><br /></div><div>We hope this wintry season has not been too difficult for "all y'all!" I send this brief greeting to wish you and yours a blessed, prosperous, healthy and happy new year. May the sweetness of our Lord's presence surround you like blankets of freshly fallen snow...except much warmer! </div><div><br /></div><div>And to paraphrase the afore-mentioned Christmas ditty, (written incidentally by two Jewish guys on one of the hottest days of the year): </div><div><br /></div><div>"...as long as (He) loves us so, let it snow, let it snow, LET IT SNOW!"* </div><div><br /></div><div>Shalom, Peace,</div><div> Marty Goetz (and family)</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>*"Let It Snow" composed by Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne: 1945</div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-23549856408240437632009-12-11T09:54:00.006-06:002009-12-11T10:55:18.561-06:00Happy Hanukah<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/SyJ38QAIXRI/AAAAAAAAADg/OVus-vFpUyk/s1600-h/IMG_1174.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/SyJ38QAIXRI/AAAAAAAAADg/OVus-vFpUyk/s320/IMG_1174.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414021579024129298" /></a><br />Hey friends. This blog is going to be brief. Jenny and I are on our way out of town to play at a couple of Messianic congregations; we will be celebrating the beginning of Chanukah with them. (If you'd like to know more, please check out our website: martygoetz.com)<div><br /></div><div>Yes, it's the "Feast of Dedication"; eight days commemorating the victory of the Maccabbees, a Jewish family that rallied Israel to overcome the oppression of their Syrian-Greek enemies and recover their land and their temple. The rededication of that temple is the focal point of the Chanukah celebration.</div><div><br /></div><div>Legend has it that there was only enough sacred oil left in the devastated and defiled house of worship to keep the "menorah", the lampstand, lit for only one night; it had to burn continually in keeping with the law of G-d. However---"a great miracle happened there!"---and the lamp burned for eight days, filling the temple with light and allowing enough time to replenish the supply of consecrated oil.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thus, we remember this glorious event with the lighting of the "hannukiyah"- an eight branched menorah - illuminated night by night by night, all the candles being lit by the ninth candle called the "servant candle".</div><div><br /></div><div>Though we are in the midst of the Christmas season, many don't know that the one whose birthday is celebrated this month celebrated Chanukah! </div><div><br /></div><div>"Now it was the Feast of Dedication in Jerusalem, and it was winter. And Jesus (Yeshua) walked in the temple, in Solomon's porch." (John 10: 22-23) </div><div><br /></div><div>And so, we begin the feast, also called the "Festival of Light". We will light the first candle on the menorah, spin the dreydl - a top - and eat "latkes"- potato pancakes, a traditional Hanukah food. We will sing songs, recalling what the God of Israel did - and continues to do - for his people.</div><div><br /></div><div>Most of all, we will "re-dedicate" our temples - our bodies, our minds, our lives - to the service of our Lord. We will pray to truly be "the light of the world" that our savior, Yeshua, called us to be. </div><div><br /></div><div>After all, He is "the light of the world"; and He shines - not just for eight days - but FOREVER!</div><div><br /></div><div>Happy Hanukah and Merry Christmas! </div><div><br /></div><div>Oh, and, by the way, if you'd like a CD featuring songs for these beloved holidays, we have one! It's called "Festivals of Light"; it was produced beautifully by Tom Howard - and I think you'd enjoy it. It might also make a good gift for a friend or loved one. Once again, you can see it at "martygoetz.com". Okay, enough commercials!</div><div><br /></div><div>My family and I hope you have a wonderful, fruitful, delightful, and enjoyable holiday season!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Shalom, Peace, in the Prince of Peace, Yeshua - Jesus!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>G-d bless us everyone.</div><div><br /></div><div>Marty </div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-67666929511309268212009-11-27T11:33:00.004-06:002009-11-28T09:15:52.123-06:00Give Thanks!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/SxAdcayNHLI/AAAAAAAAADY/QXjRJCGlMhU/s1600/IMG_1105.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/SxAdcayNHLI/AAAAAAAAADY/QXjRJCGlMhU/s320/IMG_1105.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5408855526535404722" /></a><br />"Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!<div> For His mercy endures forever.</div><div> Oh, give thanks to the God of gods!</div><div> For His mercy endures forever.</div><div> Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords!</div><div> For His mercy endures forever!" (Psalm 136: 1-3)</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>These days, I don't hear much on the "alphabet networks" (ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN) with which I agree or viewpoints with which I concur. However, on Thanksgiving morning, I tuned in to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on CBS, (as I am wont to do every year on this holiday.) I don't pay that close attention to what is said by the network hosts of the event. I enjoy having it on for the familiar sights and sounds and the general festive atmosphere it brings to the house. Nostalgic memories of days gone by mingle with preparations for present day celebrations. Along with the tastes and smells of the day, these thoughts and feelings are a recipe for deep reflection and heartfelt emotion.</div><div><br /></div><div>Consequently, the personal thoughts of one of the commentators, Maggie Rodriguez, caught my attention. She expressed her appreciation for the fact that Thanksgiving is mainly about one thing---family! No shopping for gifts is required, no sending of cards, no decorating of the home, putting up of trees or lights or anything else; all that is required is a grateful heart, an awareness of blessings received and some loved ones with which to express these things.</div><div><br /></div><div>I heartily agree with the aforementioned broadcaster! (And so does my wife!)</div><div><br /></div><div>Therefore, Jennifer and I truly have enjoyed this particular week. On Tuesday, November 24th, she and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary. The next day, our daughter, Danyel Misha, came home from college. We gathered that evening with some of her best girl friends from high school and had a pre-Thanksgiving feast, masterfully cooked by Jenny! The next day, (Thanksgiving Day), we ate leftovers---which always taste even better to me---and watched movies and just generally "hung out" with each other. </div><div><br /></div><div>My extended family is not very big; the "tribes" of Goetz and Yaffee (my wife's maiden name) have shrunk considerably in this current era. Our household is small as well; it's just Jenny and Misha and I---and our old dog, Maggie!</div><div><br /></div><div>In light of this fact, we are exceedingly thankful to God for the bounty of having one another to love and cherish and celebrate! We are reminded every day of the preciousness of life and the eternal value of the time we share together. I'm certain the same could be said for you and the ones you hold dear, no matter what that looks like. </div><div><br /></div><div>Irrespective of our lot in life, this is a time to thank God for each and every blessing.</div><div><br /></div><div>I wanted to take a moment to thank God for you and to send you holiday greetings from my family and me.</div><div><br /></div><div>May this season bring with it joy, peace, health, prosperity and every good thing.</div><div><br /></div><div>And if it is attended by "various trials," may God give the grace to "count it all joy, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience...that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." (James 1:2-4)</div><div><br /></div><div>In consideration of all these matters, may I add to Ms. Rodriguez' much appreciated thoughts these closing words?</div><div><br /></div><div>All who are believers in the one true God, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob---and followers of His Son, Yeshua Ha Mashiach, Messiah Jesus---ARE the family of God! That is to say, if you belong to Him, you BELONG! No one is truly alone who is a member of this divine household.</div><div><br /></div><div>As it has been said, (and sung): "And we, being many, are one body in Messiah...and everyone members of one another...loving each other, with God as our father, who loves us as a mother loves her newborn child." (Romans 12:5)</div><div><br /></div><div>Years ago, my family sang the above words on a video recording called "Psalm Enchanted Evening."</div><div><br /></div><div>Misha was little then; she is no longer. I send this message to you with a current picture of her, along with her canine companion, Maggie.</div><div><br /></div><div>We all wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season...in which we all GIVE THANKS!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Gratefuly yours,</div><div> Shalom, Peace,</div><div> Marty and his mishpochah (family)</div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-11522944448421979702009-11-19T17:39:00.014-06:002009-11-23T08:45:53.456-06:00Come Back!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/SwXoYPyMoOI/AAAAAAAAADQ/HSRhf7hZLKM/s1600/IMG_1067.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/SwXoYPyMoOI/AAAAAAAAADQ/HSRhf7hZLKM/s400/IMG_1067.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405982430979727586" /></a><br />Pictured here is LP Field, the home of the Tennessee Titans; and the view has me thinking about comebacks.<div><br /></div><div>We live in Nashville and the Titans are our team. Last year they started the season with 10 straight wins. It was very exciting and we thought we were Super Bowl bound. It didn't work out; we lost in the first round of the playoffs. So we all thought, 'maybe next year!'</div><div><br /></div><div>This year we began the season with 6 straight losses! Obviously this year would not be the "next year" we were dreaming of. However, following a "bye" week, when the team didn't play, they have returned with a vengeance; they have won 3 in a row and quite handily. As I said, I'm thinkin' comeback!</div><div><br /></div><div>Life is filled with comeback stories. Remember when Bill Clinton hailed himself "the comeback kid?" How about Richard Nixon in 1968 when he rose from the political grave to capture the presidency? It appears the conservative movement is making a comeback; and maybe also the Republican party... which looked as if it would be in the electoral wilderness for a long time!</div><div><br /></div><div>Sarah Palin is making a comeback; although her father says she didn't retreat...she just reloaded! </div><div><br /></div><div>The words 'come back' evoke another image. Did you perhaps see the film, "Titanic?" Do you recall the character, Rose, clinging to a door from the sunken ship, weakly calling for a lifeboat to 'come back?' It took a whistle to alert the sailor searching for survivors; but the faint sound of her voice crying to survive..."come back, come back, come back"...is one of the most vivid movie memories ever!</div><div><br /></div><div>Our nation needs a comeback, doesn't it? The economy, the national mood, the 'salt of the earth' American people, desperately need to come back from some serious doldrums. I've been around many years; things are as bad as I've seen them in a long time.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm thinkin' comeback! When and how...I'm not sure.</div><div><br /></div><div>There is a 'come back' of which we all can be certain; the coming back to earth of Yeshua, the Messiah of Israel and Lord of all! </div><div><br /></div><div>He won't return to the sound of a whistle. No, He will "descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God." (1 Thessalonians 4:16)</div><div><br /></div><div>The low murmur of a lone survivor won't bring him back. Rather it will be the cry of His kinsmen, Israel: "Baruch Haba B'Shem Adonai---Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord!" He promised...and it will be. Look it up...and look up! (Matthew 23:39)</div><div><br /></div><div>So many of us feel like that character Rose; holding on for dear life to a scrap of what, moments ago, seemed so secure and indestructible. We find ourselves in strange and turbulent waters, surrounded by others victimized by unimaginable and unforeseen disaster. We wonder how long we will have to wait for our lifeboat; we wonder if we will be a victim or a survivor.</div><div><br /></div><div>"Hope deferred makes the heart sick," writes the author of Proverbs, "But when the desire comes, it is a tree of life." (Proverbs 13:12)</div><div><br /></div><div>The "Desire of All Nations" will come! It is written...and it shall be. (Haggai 2:7) </div><div><br /></div><div>"This hope"--no longer deferred-- "we have as an anchor of the soul..." and the anchor WILL hold in these stormy seas. (Hebrews 6:19) He, the Lord Jesus, is the door to which we cling; and the lifeboat of His presence is coming back to save us...to the uttermost! (Hebrews 7:25)</div><div><br /></div><div>Hang on! Cry out!! Sound the whistle of praise, prayer and intercession!!! </div><div><br /></div><div>Go Titans! God bless America!! Come Lord Yeshua---Maranatha---Come, Lord Jesus, Come...Back!!! (Revelation 22:20)</div><div><br /></div><div>He is... THE KING OF THE WORLD!</div><div> Shalom,</div><div> Marty</div><div><br /></div><div>P.S. It's Thursday...Hi, Misha!</div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-10469995116109731172009-11-13T00:25:00.010-06:002009-11-14T12:46:44.360-06:00Double Blessing in the Twin Cities<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/Sv0LQUYbJAI/AAAAAAAAADI/iXQGV2anj88/s1600-h/IMG_1028.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/Sv0LQUYbJAI/AAAAAAAAADI/iXQGV2anj88/s400/IMG_1028.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5403487502891426818" /></a><br /><br />Our friend, Thom Berkowitz, turns 60 on the 24th of November. On that same day, Jennifer and I celebrate our 25th anniversary. And then...Thanksgiving!<div><br /></div><div>And we have much for which to be thankful. In that spirit, Thom's wife, Marcia, along with their three lovely daughters, arranged for me to give a concert in Minneapolis. (I write this at their house, having just concluded the evening.)</div><div><br /></div><div>We first met the Berkowitz' over two decades ago when I played and sang for a ministry called "Good News for Israel." Thom was one of their board members and he and Marcia drove us to the airport the next day.</div><div><br /></div><div>I remember commenting to Jenny that I could see being friends with them. The next time we came to Minnesota, we stayed in their home...and stayed....and stayed!</div><div><br /></div><div>We became close friends; watching their girls grow up, visiting numerous times, sharing life's joys and sorrows.</div><div><br /></div><div>Seven years ago today, my father, Albert Goetz passed away. The sad loss of my dear Dad caused me to consider the preciousness and brevity of life and the treasure of friendship. An event like the one we just had here in Minneapolis is a reaffirmation of these enduring values.</div><div><br /></div><div>"Good News for Israel" also participated in the concert. They continue to spread the good news of salvation through Yeshua HaMashiach, Jesus the Messiah, to the Jew first and also to the Gentile. (Romans 1: 16, 17)</div><div><br /></div><div>A good time was had by all...and it wasn't even cold! Perfect picture weather!! Shalom!!!</div><div> Marty </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-56586514819797027302009-11-05T22:23:00.012-06:002009-11-06T08:17:53.308-06:00A Very Present Help in Trouble: (Blog from a Balcony)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/SvQu7u1FLzI/AAAAAAAAAC4/HJn_rSzVv58/s1600-h/IMG_0897.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/SvQu7u1FLzI/AAAAAAAAAC4/HJn_rSzVv58/s320/IMG_0897.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400993456841895730" /></a><br />Thousands of people travel to Washington D.C. to protest against government health care. Thirteen service personnel are killed and many are others are wounded in a senseless shooting at a military facility in Texas; all this on the day after the New York Yankees win the World Series. <div><br /></div><div>In an age of instant, twenty-four hour news, we are cheering one minute, crying another, and shaking our head in disbelief much of the rest of the time. </div><div><br /></div><div>I've been on this earth a long while; I don't recall days quite like these. Yes, the sixties were turbulent and frightening. We aging baby boomers have lived through a lot: the Kennedy assassination, the Vietnam war, the murders of Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy, just to name a few.</div><div><br /></div><div>We recall the gas lines in the 70's, the Iranian hostage crisis of the 80's, the Gulf War in the 90's and, of course, September 11th, 2001. Our brief sojourn on earth has been marked by</div><div> these and many other startling incidents which have shaken us to our core and left us wondering where our world is headed.</div><div><br /></div><div>Still, I have a strange and uneasy sense that we are entering times and seasons, the likes of which we have not seen before. It seems the very foundations of all that we have known and held dear are being challenged---even attacked. Morally, socially, economically, spiritually; we are experiencing radical change, happening at mind-numbing speed. </div><div><br /></div><div>In the midst of all this chaos and confusion, if one has ears to hear, the scripture whispers:</div><div><br /></div><div> "God is our refuge and strength. A very present help in trouble.</div><div> Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed,</div><div> And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;</div><div> Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains</div><div> shake with its swelling.</div><div><br /></div><div> The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge.</div><div><br /></div><div> Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the </div><div> nations, I will be exalted in the earth!" (Psalm 46: 1, 2, 3, 7-10)</div><div><br /></div><div>I remember vividly another extraordinary event; the miraculous victory of Israel in the Six-Day War and the recapturing of the city of Jerusalem in 1967. Since that day, my faith tells me that we are on a prophetic, historic timeline, moving rapidly toward the "end of the age." What lies ahead, none of us knows for sure.</div><div><br /></div><div>But we do know this: "The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge!"</div><div><br /></div><div>Yes, my friends; Be still---Know God!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Yours in the battle and on the pilgrimage,</div><div>Shalom and thanks for your love, encouragement and support,</div><div>Marty Goetz</div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-86699031446166867392009-10-17T08:39:00.024-05:002009-10-17T13:59:19.892-05:00HEAVEN KNOWS<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/StoTsFafhwI/AAAAAAAAACw/Amn92JUzXnE/s1600-h/IMG_0896.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/StoTsFafhwI/AAAAAAAAACw/Amn92JUzXnE/s400/IMG_0896.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5393645151818057474" /></a><br /><br />I love calendars. Except for the fact that they continually remind me of my approaching expiration date, -(gulp!)-, I like to mark the time. I particularly enjoy "quote" calendars; the type that decorate the day with sayings of famous people or timeless words of wisdom. My favorite ones have a daily scripture verse.<div><br /></div><div>Jenny and I just recently returned from some extensive traveling. Usually, following such trips, I crash immediately after getting home. (My wife, on the other hand, goes straight to the office to catch up on work!) The first morning back, I'm always curiously excited to see what my desk calendar has to say about the day about to commence.</div><div><br /></div><div>This last trip was quite unique. We worked in Los Angeles and stayed in a hotel hosting an Atheist's convention! The hall in which they met was adorned with huge portraits of Charles Darwin and photographs of Dr. Richard Dawkins, the most noted of modern day proponents of evolution.</div><div><br /></div><div>One day, while Jennifer visited a friend, I wandered through the convention hall and sat in on the tail end of a lecture. It amazed me to think how similar their meeting was to any Christian or Messianic conference! The speaker addressed a rapt crowd, skillfully using power-point to drive home his message. In the hallways were numerous tables carrying books, recordings, personal testimonies and atheistic "chotchkies," that is, "stuff," like jewelry, bookmarks and bumper stickers. </div><div><br /></div><div>I struck up some conversations with various vendors and, in the course of our discourses, told them of my beliefs as they shared theirs with me. The talks were pleasant enough but, after a while, my brain got tired and my body began to react almost physically to the strange heaviness that accompanied that gathering.</div><div><br /></div><div>And therein lies the difference between a conference in which God is honored and one in which God is denied. At first glance, you wouldn't notice it. All the folks are decently dressed, polite enough and dutifully sport name tags so the participants can get to know each other more easily. But look a little closer; read some of the words on the t-shirts, catch tidbits of conversations, feel the general atmosphere of the place, and the similarities between the relative events fades away. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was grateful for the opportunity to see such a gathering close up. I was even more grateful that, many years ago, my eyes were opened to the existence of my Creator and my heart was alerted to the need for me-the created-to worship Him! I am certainly no better than those folks at the Atheist's convention---but I am---quite undeservedly---more blessed!!</div><div><br /></div><div>And so I found it fascinating that the first quote that greeted me as I turned the page on my day-to-day desk calendar was the following:</div><div><br /></div><div> "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." (Genesis 1:1)</div><div><br /></div><div>As I read that, I couldn't help think, with some degree of sadness, of those obviously sincere souls in L.A. who had dedicated themselves so passionately to denying that there is a creator behind creation; a "first cause" behind all that has "been caused." Their lives are haunted by one brooding, eternal question: Does God exist?</div><div><br /></div><div>My simple little desk calendar reminded me that, as to that question---heaven knows---and answers! </div><div><br /></div><div>May GOD Bless You,</div><div> Marty</div><div><br /></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-16019899918979861542009-09-24T11:47:00.008-05:002009-09-25T10:01:52.267-05:00GPS (G-d"s Positioning System)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/SrzZRJPCnfI/AAAAAAAAACQ/pVKZXRA7rl8/s1600-h/VID00162.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 112px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/SrzZRJPCnfI/AAAAAAAAACQ/pVKZXRA7rl8/s200/VID00162.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385418142988279282" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">"You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore." (Psalm 16:11)</span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Jenny and I recently purchased a Garmin. We bought it in Los Angeles during the week of orientation for my daughter's freshman year at college. We thought a "global positioning system" would come in handy on our trips to California for both ministry opportunities and visits with Misha. Now we can navigate our way through any city or state... (while also making it possible for any overarching authority in the country to keep track of us; but I digress!)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">The system is helpful, especially when it is not safe to attempt reading a map while driving. A calm and confident female voice tells you where to go and, if you miss a turn, simply says, 'recalculating.' She never yells at you or calls you an idiot or scolds you for not listening to directions. She is the perfect driving companion.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">She does have one shortcoming, however. She doesn't think; she only tells you what she's been told.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">During our most recent trip to the east coast we told our GPS the address of an old friend in Annapolis, Maryland. We had an engagement in Delaware and thought it would be nice to visit her on our way back to New Jersey where we were staying, as we often do, at Jenny's mother's house. We typed in the right house address but the wrong town and, upon realizing our error, corrected it. No big deal. Our GPS girl (whom an acquaintance dubbed "Garmina") got us there, and we enjoyed our time with our friend, spending the night in her lovely home.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">The next morning, I stumbled out of bed and my own internal GPS said, "GO FOR COFFEE!" I headed into town, certain I would find a Starbucks or something similar somewhere along the way. I drove a while and, before arriving in the heart of Annapolis, I hit heavy traffic. Frustrated, (and still coffeeless) I headed back the way I came. In the early morning pre-caffeine mental muddle, I overshot the street I thought led back to the house. Further frustrated, I stopped to turn the car around and...voila...directly in front of me was the green, white and black of a Starbucks sign! I sighed with excitement and whispered a little thank you heavenward for divine non-Garmin guidance.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">With joy in my heart and a latte in my hand, I decided to let the GPS lead me, since I was unsure as to how to find my way back. I tapped and tapped until I found the proper address and started to drive, so proud of myself that I had figured out how to operate my new device and could count myself a citizen of the 21st century!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Garmina dutifully told me to turn right on a street, the name of which I recognized. So far so good. Then she directed me to a road I didn't recognize, but I figured she knew better and was taking me an alternate route. From there she led me to a freeway and, I have to admit, I started to wonder what she was thinking. One highway led to another...and another...and another...and before I knew it, what should have been a five minute drive had become a half hour journey with no end in sight. Needless to say I was not happy with my girl's decisions and I told her so! (She didn't respond.)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">FINALLY...she told me I was arriving at my destination...and I did. Amazingly, it was the correct house number and street name...but the WRONG TOWN! Then I remembered. She was reading the pre-corrected information we had given her. She was only doing what she was told. I apologized to her for questioning her decisions, admitted my mistake, sheepishly punched in the post-corrected info, and away we went.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">I was embarrassed and flustered and concerned that Jennifer was anxious as to my whereabouts (since I had not taken my cell phone.) To calm myself down I started to flip through radio stations, hoping to find something interesting. I went from one to another and as I did, I heard some music that sounded vaguely familiar. As I listened, a pleasant enough voice began singing: "You have shown me Your paths, Oh Lord. In Your presence is fullness of joy! In Your right hand are pleasures, in Your right hand are pleasures, in Your right hand are pleasures forevermore, pleasures forevermore!"</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">I was shocked! I exclaimed (to no one in particular), "That's my song! Who is singing my song? I never heard this before! Someone owes me money!! (Sorry about that last one...but I thought it.) Then I realized...IT WAS I WHO WAS SINGING! The song was "Pleasures Forevermore" from my first album, "I Call You Friend." I didn't recognize myself because, even though I've been writing, singing and recording for decades, I had NEVER heard myself on the radio! This was the first time...EVER!! </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">I continued to listen to the station, (which turned out to be "Family Radio"), and hurried back, hoping Jenny wasn't upset with me and reflecting on what had just occurred.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Had I not gotten lost, I would not have heard myself sing on the radio. I hope it doesn't sound self-indulgent but...I was kind of excited to hear it! </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> In spite of a frustrating and confusing morning, I wondered if that incident had been the finger of the Lord, tapping me on my shoulder. I don't want to read too much into it but, sometimes I think He does that; just to let us know He's there...just to let us know we're not lost...at least not really! </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Garmina succeeded in returning me to our friend's house. Jenny was, thankfully, still asleep. And, as I enjoyed my early morning latte, I quietly marveled at the thought that G-d could care enough about someone like me, that He would send me a delightful surprise out of nowhere...in the middle of nowhere! When I thought I was hopelessly lost...He let me know I was mercifully found! Amazing grace, how sweet the sound...(even when it comes through the radio.)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Or perhaps it was just a crazy, random coincidence. Who knows? Whatever the case, I know this: He DOES show me the path of life and in His presence is fullness of joy! My ride back to my friend's home was a joyful one and, when I related my tale to her, we had a good laugh. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">As a matter of fact, I think we need to laugh more in general. We are not lost. He knows the way we take, even when we make mistakes and find ourselves in unfamiliar territory. It's good to have a GPS girl to help us when she can...but it is our G-d who will lead us home!!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">Yours on the journey,</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> Marty</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><div><br /></div></div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-63710004595661883712009-09-17T01:32:00.001-05:002009-09-17T01:32:25.342-05:00<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; white-space: pre; "><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZaZkfxKCUig&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ZaZkfxKCUig&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object></span>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-71340872821976037982009-09-02T19:32:00.006-05:002009-09-02T19:37:26.455-05:00LOVE NEVER FAILS<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/Sp8PIMQWkJI/AAAAAAAAACI/ju2Xtzqg_y4/s1600-h/IMG_0535.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/Sp8PIMQWkJI/AAAAAAAAACI/ju2Xtzqg_y4/s200/IMG_0535.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377033113506844818" /></a><br />Many years ago, when I was living in New York City, my friend Ann Ault had me play a song on the piano. It was called "Charity" and was based on something called "The First Letter to the Corinthians." I had no idea as to what "Corinthians" were, (though the actor Ricardo Montalban had done a commercial for a car that featured "fine Corinthian leather." Letter or leather, this young Jewish man from Cleveland was clueless!<div><br /></div><div>Little did I know that the words of "1 Corinthians 13" were written by another Jewish man named Saul, a rabbi from a placed called Tarsus; a man who became known to the world as Saint Paul. His ancient writing had been put to music by a modern fellow named Kenn Gulliksen. I had no idea who he was either, but I recall liking the piece.</div><div><br /></div><div>Fast forward a year or two, and Ann has led me in a prayer of commitment to Yeshua (Jesus), I am part of a congregation called "The Vineyard," Kenn Gulliksen is the pastor, and I am singing songs based on passages from the pen of men like Saint Paul!</div><div><br /></div><div>Fast forward even further and I am in California with Jennifer Yaffee, a girl whom I first saw at the Vineyard and married a little while a later. Twenty-five years have passed since we wed in Los Angeles, had a daughter, Danyel Misha, and moved to Nashville, Tennessee to raise her. There, in what is sometimes called the "buckle of the Bible belt," she grew into a lovely and loving young lady who has, in spite of her earthly father's many faults, a heart that seeks after the heart of her heavenly Father. For eighteen years I have been nothing but pleased with Misha; now I stand amazed as I watch her do her best to please Him!</div><div><br /></div><div>And now, Jenny and I are the proud (and nervous) parents of a college freshman. As part of her application to the university she attends, she auditioned for their women's chorus and was accepted. On her first day there, she joined the other young ladies in performing a song for ALL the proud and nervous parents who would, that evening, leave campus--- without their child. (In our case, we left our one and only!)</div><div><br /></div><div>So, the time has come to let go---and to hold on tighter than ever---in prayer---and in love. That is the one thought, the one emotion, the one truth that seasons everything we are experiencing in this new---and unfamiliar season. In a world of uncertainties and unknowns, this we know and of this we are certain: we love our daughter, she loves us--- and G-d is the author and perfecter of that love.</div><div><br /></div><div>The rabbi/apostle said it well:</div><div><br /></div><div>"Love...bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.</div><div>Love never fails." (1 Corinthians 13: 7+8)</div><div><br /></div><div>As valedictorian of her high school class, Misha chose as her theme the words spoken by Yeshua in response to a question as to what was the greatest commandment:</div><div><br /></div><div>"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul,</div><div>and with all your might, and...you shall love your neighbor as yourself."</div><div>(Matthew 22:37+39)</div><div><br /></div><div>We could not have been more blessed than we were on our daughter's commencement day when she delivered that moving speech. That same blessing attended us as we listened to her sing on the day she commenced her college career.</div><div><br /></div><div>Along with the precious daughters of the other assembled parents, Misha sang words which have now become very familiar to her sad/glad dad; the words from "The First Letter to the Corinthians." The composer and the melody were different than the ones to which I had been been introduced so many years before. I had liked "Charity," the first rendition I had heard of 1 Corinthians 13. This new version was life to my soul!</div><div><br /></div><div>A well known phrase from a song by the group "First Call" goes something like this: I don't know what the future holds but I know who holds the future. Amen.</div><div><br /></div><div>What more can we ask, Jenny and I, than that our treasured daughter begin this new phase of her life---and ours---with a declaration of the transcendent and permanent power of love! When all has been said and all has been done, love is what remains---love is what abides.</div><div><br /></div><div>As I write this, we are still in California. Soon we will return to Tennessee and the house which was Misha's home for all but one year of her of her young life. We will miss seeing her off to school in the morning and kissing her good night. We will miss her going out with us, hanging out with her friends and launching out into every new activity we had the privilege of sharing with her these many years---which passed much too quickly!</div><div><br /></div><div>Should it be on your heart to pray for our family, we would so appreciate it.</div><div><br /></div><div>In that spirit, we thought you might appreciate hearing the song that brought comfort to our trembling hearts that day we began our farewell to Misha---at least for a while.</div><div><br /></div><div>"And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love."</div><div>(1 Corinthians 13: 13)</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you, again, for listening.</div><div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-70702210390812194232009-08-28T12:17:00.005-05:002009-08-28T13:30:21.022-05:00Grand Canyon Sweet<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/Spgh7zdXA2I/AAAAAAAAABw/PMwMCmqNtGc/s1600-h/P1020076.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/Spgh7zdXA2I/AAAAAAAAABw/PMwMCmqNtGc/s200/P1020076.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375083466576036706" /></a><br />"For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Yeshua HaMashiach (Messiah Jesus), from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named"..that you "may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the length and depth and height---to know the love of Messiah which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of G-d." (Eph. 3: 14-15, 18-19) <div><br /></div><div>We rode in a small plane over the rim of one of the world's wonders, the Grand Canyon, and listened, as we flew, to what was a musical "suite," inspiring and beautiful, and pondered the days ahead---and behind---and what life has in store for our little family.</div><div><br /></div><div>We marveled together at the grandeur of what was before our eyes and considered both the brevity and significance of our lives. The hand of G-d as a master artist is evident in all He has made. It is amazing to think, dwarfed as we are in the presence of such an awesome and breathtaking sight, that we, frail and faulty human beings, are the crown of our Father's creation.</div><div><br /></div><div>Anyone who knows Jenny and me knows that we consider the crown of our relationship to be our daughter, Danyel Misha...and in a few days she will be living no longer under our roof but on her university campus. We took this road trip in order to create a pre-college memory for her...and to delay the inevitable for us!</div><div><br /></div><div>We are glad for the days we have had her, in the comfort and security of our home, and sad that we have to let her go so soon. The years just fly by and, in the blink of an eye, she's a young adult, ready to make her way in this world.</div><div><br /></div><div>I didn't ask---but I wonder what she's thinking as she surveys the vastness and enormity of what is before her; the colors and contours of the canyon and the twists and turns of her future. </div><div><br /></div><div>We can trust in the One who fashioned such a natural masterpiece; we believe that He will do the same in the life of our "little girl". He promises, after all, that "we are His workmanship, created in Messiah Yeshua for good works, which G-d has prepared beforehand that we might walk in them." (Eph. 2: 1o) </div><div><br /></div><div>I must leave off now and press on to the last leg of our journey. We are all having a wonderful time...but are a bit stressed. The emotions are---new and unfamiliar---for we've never been here before. Our plan is to--- argue as much as possible and to thoroughly annoy each other in these last hours! It will make it so much easier to say goodbye!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Would you consider praying for Misha---and for us! May G-d keep her safe, lead her to future lifelong friends, inspire her and instruct her in the way she should go--and the ways she can grow. May He help us to help her on her way---and to discover the way He has for us.</div><div><br /></div><div>May He bless you all as you kindly remember us.</div><div><br /></div><div>How deep, how high, how wide---how great is the love that our Father has for all of His children. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's time for Misha to discover that truth fully for herself. She belongs to Him, not to us. He is her G-d, and shall be--- forever!</div><div><br /></div><div>Bittersweetly yours,</div><div><br /></div><div>Marty </div><div><br /></div><div>(Thanks for listening.)</div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-56286537838114972192009-08-24T07:47:00.010-05:002009-08-24T13:13:40.799-05:00O, What a Beautful Morning<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/SpKYxoQVLSI/AAAAAAAAABY/PyG-OD991KY/s1600-h/P1010879.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/SpKYxoQVLSI/AAAAAAAAABY/PyG-OD991KY/s200/P1010879.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5373525283793349922" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br />"All the sounds of the earth are like music, all the sounds of the earth are like music. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> The breeze is so busy it don't miss a tree,</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> And an ol' weepin' willow is laughin' at me!"</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The aforementioned quote is, of course, from the musical "Oklahoma" by Rodgers and Hammerstein. I have sometimes listened to the song, "Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin'" as I drive past farm meadows and marvel at the "bright golden haze" that hovers on the horizon, illuminated by the rays of the rising sun. (Sometimes I also sing!)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">In our back yard is "an ol' weepin' willow." My wife, Jenny, planted it when we moved into our home seventeen years ago. It was just little then and we didn't even know if it would survive. It did---and now it is a magnificent tree, standing sentinel behind our house, bearing silent witness to the wonderful years we've spent here.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">As it's branches sway gracefully in the Tennessee breeze, it reminds us that the winds of time continue to blow, almost imperceptibly. You hardly notice the the passing days and months and years, until events startle you into reality. Jennifer and I are experiencing such an event.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">As I write this, she and I are preparing to escort our daughter, Danyel Misha, to college. it seems only moments ago that we moved her, as a one year old, from Tarzana, California, to Brentwood, Tennessee. We have loved our sojourn here and she has grown up to be a marvelous young woman, of whom we are very proud. She has spent much of her summer bidding farewell to family friends, schoolmates, and all the folks who have contributed so much to helping her become the person she is today.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">But now, her tomorrows have beckoned---and she is off, leaving the comfortable shelter of our home for the exciting, yet unknown promise of her own unique life experience. She is ready---and, I suppose we are too. (We'll find out soon enough!)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Prayers for her---and for us---would be appreciated. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Jenny and I are a bit undone---but our "ol' weepin' willow" seems unfazed. It continues it's quiet laughter as we contemplate a potential season of weeping in the midst of our pleasure in seeing Misha embrace her new adventure with her usual steadiness, maturity and tenacity.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">When we return from our trip, Jenny and I will be in this house together---alone---for the first time ever. Perhaps, more often than not, we'll "sit alone and talk and watch a hawk makin' lazy circles in the sky."</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Well, thanks for listening. I guess I'll just close with another chorus:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"Oh, what a beautiful mornin', Oh, what a beautiful day,</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> I got a weepy-eyed feelin',</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> Our daughter's goin' away...Hey!...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> (That's why we ask you to pray!!)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> ---with apologies to Rodgers and Hammerstein---</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Shalom y'all,</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> Marty (We're doin' fine, Oklahoma) Goetz</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div> </div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-91375186249957046242009-08-21T20:53:00.002-05:002009-08-21T20:54:58.028-05:00Sabbath Prayer<span class="Apple-style-span" style=" white-space: pre; font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:10px;"><object width="560" height="340"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/jTxlRV8aCaQ&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/jTxlRV8aCaQ&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object></span>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-46016239078371658662009-08-21T17:28:00.014-05:002009-08-22T12:00:47.985-05:00SEEK...and YE SHALL FIND<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/So8fl3OC6VI/AAAAAAAAABQ/vW8-VYroDkI/s1600-h/P1010921.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 186px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hmolRmgUnLs/So8fl3OC6VI/AAAAAAAAABQ/vW8-VYroDkI/s200/P1010921.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5372547615814773074" /></a><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:TrebuchetMS;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Did you know that we are celebrating a holiday? It's a new moon, don't ya know? On the Jewish calendar, that's a time for celebration! "Rosh Chodesh,"or "Head of the Month," is the Hebrew rendering for such an occasion.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:TrebuchetMS;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This one is special, for it is a month not to feast but to reflect and prepare for the days ahead. What days? The "Days of Awe," or, "Yamim Nora'im." These are the days which begin at "Rosh HaShanah," the traditional Jewish New Year, and continue through "Yom Kippur," the "Day of Atonement."</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:TrebuchetMS;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">These are days marked by self-reflection, repentance and amending of one's ways. Elul, which comes from a word meaning "seek," is the month to commence that process.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:TrebuchetMS;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">So, let's commence! (Now don't let this be an occasion for obsessive introspection which could lead to depression, G-d forbid!) No, let's read Psalm 27, the traditional daily reading for this season, sound the "Shofar," (a ram's horn which is a symbol of G-d's call to awaken to repentance) and look to the L-rd Yeshua who said, "Seek first the kingdom of G-d and His righteousness...". (Mt. 6:33)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:TrebuchetMS;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">"Seek those things which are above, where Messiah is..." said a famous Rabbi named Shaul. I am going to try that this Elul.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:TrebuchetMS;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Perhaps you will, too, always remembering that "the Joy of the L-rd IS OUR STRENGTH!!" That, of course, is from the book of Nehemiah, in which this month is mentioned, by the way. (Nehemiah 6: 15)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:TrebuchetMS;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">So, my friends, Happy New Moon, Joyous Pre-New Year and...HALL---ELUL---JAH!!!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:TrebuchetMS;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Shalom y'all, Marty</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:18.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family:TrebuchetMS;color:#333333;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">P.S. I celebrated by going out to lunch with my precious daughter, Misha! Great fun!!</span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3675436238225288927.post-54457437691729729762009-08-20T17:34:00.004-05:002009-08-20T17:51:54.224-05:00A Tennessee ThursdayHey friends,<div><br /></div><div>It rained not long but hard here in Nashville today. A slow day it was but not a lazy one. My daughter, Misha, has her mom and me on a crash course, teaching us as much as she can about the technological tools we'll need in the season ahead of us. We face an "empty nest" as our one and only child goes off to college. (Waah!)<div><br /></div><div>One of the things she is teaching me is how to blog! So, here I am---blogging!! I don't have much to say right now, because we're goin' out tonight with some good friends in order to allow them to give Misha an official "goodbye and G-d bless!"</div><div><br /></div><div>We'll be "kibbutzing," that is chatting, in days ahead.</div><div><br /></div><div>The crickets are makin' their music now and a warm, balmy Tennessee evening approaches. So, until the next time, I'll just say, </div><div><br /></div><div>Shalom y'all,</div><div> Marty </div><div><br /></div><div> </div></div>Marty Goetzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06163543333370006505noreply@blogger.com10