Wednesday, December 30, 2009

SIGN THE MANHATTAN DECLARATION NOW!


THE MANHATTAN DECLARATION
Why is something like the Manhattan Declaration even necessary? Well, I suggest you read the book of the Minor Prophet Hosea in the Old Testament. The people of Israel had not just turned their backs on the Lord but actively sought after false gods. They had done evil in the sight of the Holy One by sacrificing to idols, killing their children in the fire of Molech, and committed evil sexual perversion in the temple (using male prostitutes etc).
Is there any difference between that and say - abortion, gay marriage and the falling way of many from their first love - Jesus Christ? No! American is going the way of ancient Israel. The LORD sent Hosea to prophesy not just against them but to call them back to love and repentance. You see, our God is not just the Only GOD and the ONLY true religion of Peace, but does not delight in the destruction of the wicked.
After all they had done, He call them back to His Great Big Heart "O Israel, return to the Lord your God, for you have stumbled because of your iniquity" (Hosea 14:1) He can call America back to Him once more, even if many in the church have not just gone cold, but are following their own made up theology and have chosen style over substance and emotion over solid knowledge.
CLICK HERE to listen to a message by Dr. Ravi Zacharias on the topic of the Manhattan Declaration. It is sad, but a sign of the times, that a document like this is needed for the Likeminded Remnant to take stand in the marketplace of free ideas for the Faith of our fathers. Read the entire declaration here. However here are three main pillars as you pray and determine if you wish to join over 313,000 Americans in signing this document.
  1. The Sanctity of human life
  2. The Dignity of marriage as the conjugal union of husband and wife
  3. The Rights of conscience and religious liberty.
Inasmuch as these truths are foundational to human dignity and the well-being of society, they are inviolable and non-negotiable. Because they are increasingly under assault from powerful forces in our culture, we are compelled today to speak out forcefully in their defense, and to commit ourselves to honoring them fully no matter what pressures are brought upon us and our institutions to abandon or compromise them. We make this commitment not as partisans of any political group but as followers of Jesus Christ, the crucified and risen Lord, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
As we roll right into a new year, consider not just renewing the purpose of our Faith in your own hearts, but consider putting the key verse of this ministry into action - 2 Timothy 1:7 (AMP)" For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control".

Monday, December 21, 2009

HOME FOR CHRISTMAS TRIBUTE TO THE US MILITARY: SONG BY VICKI, VIDEO BY BERNIE LUTCHMAN


SOME FEEDBACK/COMMENTS FROM FACEBOOK:

Ed Merkel December 20 at 8:43am Reply

This is amazing and beautiful. Thank you for sharing it. I'll pass it along!

Paul Younghaus December 20 at 11:41am Reply

I love it Bernie, truly a work of love! I posted it as soon as I saw it and didn't have time to say thanks before church this morning. I must say thanks now brother!

Ed Evans December 20 at 2:13pm Reply

It's not fair to bring tears to an old man's eyes. Such a beautiful voice, and such precious words and pictures. Thank you for sharing, I'm doing the same. God bless Vicki Lutchman, Jr., and her husband, whats-his-name.

Mel Whirley December 20 at 11:32pm Reply

I agree with Paul that this is a labor of love. Bernie, this is an heirloom and thanks to you, and Vicki, for including me!

Doc Blakely December 21 at 1:08pm Reply

Thanks Bernie. Blessings on you and yours.

Susan E Harmony December 20 at 11:06am Reply

Thank you so much for this video, Vicki and Bernie. I have reposted it and hope that it can reach the world! I am still crying. God Bless You!

Jeri Doming December 20 at 11:49am Reply

Brother Bernie I saw your Video on the home page this morning, about 4 hours ago-
I shared it on my Wall. and here is what my thoughts were while and after hearing such a beautiful loving song. I wrote on my wall right after listening...

Oh my what a story of the biggest trial to ever be put thru.
I have tears of Joy and Sorrow. Our Soldiers are the Most caring and bravest. we are all blessed in that. And then it is the most painful to lose any one of Our Precious Soldiers. So extremely heartbreaking for a lifetime for his and her family members. This song is so beautifully written by Ms. Vicki, and her voice is as an Angels would be. Singing with love and caring.
God Bless You Ms. Vicki for caring for Our Soldiers so very much.
and for sharing in a way, to remind us all to never forget.

~~ thank you so much BB for sharing this blessing with all of your friends. friends to you and Vicki. GOD BLESS, Forever :) your Patriotic Sister, Jeri D.! :)

Alexandra Foster December 20 at 11:55am Reply

The only thing I could hope for at this time, is to bring our troops safely... Dear lord please watch over and protect our armed forces while they are over seas fighting to protect us and our rights. Dear lord please make their family strong and give them the strength to get through this.... I ask this humbly in the name Jesus Christ your son, Amen...

Thank you brother Bernie and Vicki for such a beautiful song.... My soldiers are all that matter to me... please bring them home alive to their families and loved ones.

Ginny Meerman December 21 at 12:16pm Reply

Thank you for sharing this....thank you so much.

Deb Kenny December 21 at 12:26pm Reply

Hello Bernie. Somehow...this wonderful email got in a heap of others and i missed it yesterday. What a wonderful blessing! I love songs dedicated to our precious Troops. What a great talent Vicki has. You two are quite "the dynamic duo"
for the Lord Jesus! I will be happy to share this. Merry Christmas & God Bless!

LUTCHMAN FAMILY MINISTERS AT THE VILLA














Each Christmas, the gracious folks at the Villa Retirement Home in Sherman, Illinois invite our family to minister to the wonderful residents of the center. This year's program was the best of all these years as we had approximately 30 in attendance during the midafternoon.
My daughter Sarah (11) made her public debut on the piano, while accompanying us through many of the traditional Hymns and Carols of Christmas! Vicki got to sing her new song "Home For Christmas (see video above); Sam played his violin for three songs and Bernie III read the Christmas story!
The Lord put on my heart to speak on Hannah's prayer from 1 Samuel 1:11, and it was the first time I ever had applause for the LORD over any kind of sermon! Glory to God. Thanks to all who welcomed us as well as activity director Vicki Sarnes of Dawson.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

OH LITTLE TOWN OF "BEIT LEHEM" - HOUSE OF BREAD!


Micah 5:2(NKJV): " But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me - The One to be Ruler in Israel,
Whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting."


A cold dark, starry, starry night in the little sleepy village of Bethlehem was a night just like any other.....or was it? Bethlehem literally means "House of Bread" (from the Hebrew "Beit Lehem"). The great King of the Bible and History - David, was born here, as was his father Jesse, from the Line of Abraham. By the way, isn't it amazing that the Bread of Life (Christ) was born in the "House of Bread"!
Once in Royal David City, stood a lowly cattle shed, a manger if you will. Rachel, the wife of Jacob (Israel) is buried at the entrance to the gate of the little town. The fields of Boaz, from the book of Ruth are in this area. It is so like God, to send His Only One - Yeshua the Maschiah (Jesus the Messiah) to be born in a land with such a rich, yet humble history. 

He had planned it long, long ago.

The world of the Jews at the time were looking for a political deliverer, just like most today who can only see and exist in the temporal and the flesh. They missed the importance of the Creator "Whose goings-forth are from old"...and Who has always existed. This is Who was born in this little town, on Christmas day.

It matters not what day of the Hebrew or Julian calendar He was born. This day which was chosen to celebrate His Birth can be used to shout His Name from the mountaintop. From the day after Thanksgiving to December 25, we have four weeks when the world has its eyes and, without being totally conscious of it, hearts tuned in to what Christians celebrate.


So as we go about our Christmas programs, carols, outreach and even shopping etc...let us NOT waste this privilege to share the Hope, Love, Peace, Joy and Encouragement of the Ancient of Days, born cold and humble in a shed of straw not too far from where poor, unloved and rugged shepherds - as insignificant as you and I - were tending sheep that night almost 2000 years ago!
Merry Christmas to one and all, in Jesus Name, Amen.

Monday, December 14, 2009

CHRISTMAS TIME'S A- COMIN!


God gave His best to us, almost 2000 years ago when we deserved nothing more than eternal punishment!
However, there is one small catch - in order to benefit from a Gift, we have to receive it! Christ, Who's "goings-forth" (Micah 5:2b) was "from old and from everlasting", descended to mere mortal status, to live, teach, preach and die that we may be saved from the fires of hell!
If anyone knows of a better gift than that, please let me know! When He gave His life on the Cross, He died for all mankind for all time - past, present and future! If you believe, trust, obey and live this Absolute Truth, you are a child of God and will be in Heaven for eternity. If you reject this - eternity is a long time in darkness and torment!
Which is it? Christmas Time's A-comin.....are you going to Heaven?!
Love, the Lutchman Family.

Thursday, December 10, 2009

AVA ASTON...the Soul of a Patriot and Singer by friend and Author - DARIA DIGIOVANNI


I originally “met” beautiful, talented singer/songwriter Ava Aston when a mutual friend connected us on Facebook. The budding entertainer was seeking footage from the 9/12 March on Washington and photos from various, local tea party protests to enhance the video production of her newest single, We The People. Knowing of my involvement with all things Constitutional, our common friend sought me out for help, and I happily obliged.

The ensuing result was an inspiring anthem to American patriotism, designed to energize, inspire and — whenever necessary — life the spirits of dedicated citizens across the country who are fighting back against massive government, and standing tall for freedom.

Recently, my Conservative Republican Forum co-host Steve and I had the pleasure of interviewing Ava about her new song, her motivation for writing and recording it, and her experience as a right-leaning performer in an industry dominated by lefties.

Question: What was your motivation for writing and recording We The People?

I am an unsigned artist, which means I have a day job. I live and work in the New York area as a bartender, so I do a lot of events. One day in particular, I was really mad after listening to a.m. talk radio, something I do regularly to stay informed. As I recall, it was Fashion Week in New York and I was doing an event at Banana Republic. The more I thought about what was bugging me, the angrier I got. So just as I’ve done from the time I was five years-old, I conceived a melody in my head, which I wrote down on a cocktail napkin. Then I began to list all of the things that were annoying me about this current administration.

By the time I left work, I had the first verse and chorus, which I immediately shared with my husband. He assured me it wasn’t silly, and encouraged me to keep going. By 4 a.m. the song was done. When I sang it to my mom over the phone, she was adamant about me recording it and producing a companion video. Because in my family, we’re like many others out there — we’re watching the news everyday and we’re horrified by what’s going on. In some small way, I am hoping We The People will help keep the tea party movement mobilized and energized. It’s also a tribute to all Americans who are fighting so hard to preserve our freedom — first and foremost the US Military.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE REST OF OUR DEAR FRIEND, DARIA'S, COLUMN

Sunday, December 6, 2009

SO THIS IS CHRISTMAS by NIKKI HAHN


Can you believe in a few weeks we will celebrate another Christmas? Can you believe 2010 is peeking around the corner? Time seems to travel at warp speed. A person can hardly take a breath without another day passing at lightning pace. Do you think Christmas, compared to a Christmas generations ago, has changed? More and more people are angry, entitled, and out to commercialize a sacred month.

When Tony and I are home and the television is off, we play traditional Christmas music—those good old tunes by Bing Crosby, and others, with the scratchy background reminding you of the antiquated technology. I recall many Christmases with sweets decking out the dining room table, cousins romping around, making eyes at the presents under the tree, and the movie, “Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer,” playing downstairs (sung by a claymation snowman, played by Burl Ives). The most pleasant memories were made around my cousins.

Next Saturday is my Coffee and Dessert Open House. Tomorrow I will begin preparations so I can enjoy

Acker Music Night and all fun of putting together my yearly Christmas party. What is Christmas without food? What is Christmas without the hope and love the birth of Jesus Christ brings to us? Most gifts do not come wrapped or with price tags. Most gifts come in the form of the people we call friends and family. I know I am blessed to have so many of them surrounding me today. What makes Christmas special for you? What are your traditions?

NIKKI HAHN IS OUR FAVORITE GUEST BLOGGER!

www.thehahnhuntinglodge.com

Lemon or Chocolate Parfait

1) In a small plastic cup (usually bought at party stores), add some pieces of white cake. Top the parfait with either lemon curd or chocolate cream.

2) Top with whipped cream, chocolate bits, a chocolate wafer, or a lemon wedge. Whatever makes it look delicate and pretty. Serve immediately.

PART 3 OF MY SERIES: "'THE SECRET PLACE"


2 Cor. 7: 9b-10a (NLT): "..but because the pain caused you to repent and change your ways. It was the kind of sorrow God wants His people to have, so you were not harmed by us in any way. For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin..."
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THE SECRET/SACRED PLACE, part 3
REPENTANCE
The great Moody Church Pastor Dr. H.A. Ironside once said " Repentance is the recognition of my sinnership - the owning before God, that I am as vile as He declared me to be, in His Holy Word" (from his book "EXCEPT YE REPENT").

If anyone reading this thinks this does not apply to them, preacher, priest or programmer, then we have another problem. Repentance is the ongoing process of Sanctification which never stops once the believer is alive on this earth.

Both Repentance and Faith are gifts from God. We are first saved by Grace through Faith in Christ (alone).Grace is the first gift. We grow by gradually or dramatically turning away from our evil, vile and disgusting sins...making them dead to the flesh, as we grow weary of battling the flesh and surrender more and more control to Christ, through the Holy Spirit (this is the Spirit-filled living).

In the Secret Place, we bare it all. We hide nothing from Christ. He knows it anyway!! If you struggle with smoking a pack a day, plainly state this and plead for help to stop. If you struggle with looking at miniskirts in the office, more than confess and ask the Lord to direct your eyes elsewhere. If you struggle with drinking beers almost daily and thinking you're not an alcoholic, come to Christ for the strength to quit drinking, even socially.

In the Secret Place, where the rubber meets the road, where His Eyes see all and He is just waiting to help - just come! You can't lie to the Holy Spirit who just convicted you! Will you wake up 15 minutes earlier to spend time with your face up to Heaven calling on His Name? You can't con Christ, why not Repent? He loves when His sheep come calling. Won't you?
Part 4...More on Repentance! (Bernie)