Is there somewhere I can gain wisdom?

      Some people seem to have it, while others cannot seem to obtain it.  I am talking about common sense.  It seems some people are born with common sense while others seem to lack any of it at all. Common sense is defined by Merriam-Webster as, "sound and prudent judgment based on a simple perception of the situation or facts."   So some people seem born with "sound and prudent judgment"... but what about the rest of us... is there any hope?
   
      Yes!  There is wisdom... and according to Albert Einstein wisdom can be acquired over time.  But Einstein does not say how!  So what must you study to acquire wisdom... medical textbooks, engineering textbooks.... (and the list goes on).

       In the first chapter of Proverbs, Wisdom calls out to us to listen to her voice... to learn from her and to gain knowledge, wisdom and discipline.  Wisdom says, "...I would have poured out my heart to you and made my thoughts known to you."  But wisdom was rejected. (Pro 1:23,24)

       The book of Proverbs is the book of wisdom in the Bible.  It's been said that if you would simply follow the guidelines (wisdom) in this book, one could obtain wealth and material satisfaction in this life (although these do not make for a great life).  However, the trick is to not only read and learn, but to discipline your life and follow the teaching of this book.  It is a smart thing to know, it is wisdom that causes you to act rightly.

       So even if people say you have no common sense there is hope.  By reading Proverbs and applying its lessons to your life you will gain wisdom and I believe live a more satisfying and Godly life.  Others will note your wisdom, which in my mind helps you act with common sense.  Read Proverbs and apply it to your life, and you will never be disappointed that you did!

The Light of the World.... All Year Long

The Light of the world.

           Tonight was somewhat anti-climatic as we took down all of the Christmas decoration at the Church and put them into storage for one more year.  I came a few minutes early to take some pictures of the decorations before they were taken down.  (Thank you Walker's and Raynard's for your hard work tonight!)

          As I thought about putting away the decorations, it struck me that these decorations have been up for about a month.  One month out of the year we celebrate the birth of the King of Kings.  One month each year we sing Christmas carols/hymns and on Christmas Eve many people gather to celebrate Jesus, coming into the world.

         I wonder, if we celebrated Jesus all year long instead of just for a season, how might life be different?  Would people be more kind to each other?  Might we be a little more friendly with those we meet in store lines or while pumping gas or waiting in a line somewhere?

Panoramic of Christmas decorations.

          Hey, why not try it for a while!  Instead of putting away all that Christmas means until we bring out the decorations again next year... lets live with Christmas in our hearts all year round...  Kindness, love, friendliness, sacrificial life...  Hm-m-m-m....