Merry Stinking Christmas

(2005) The fight is on and everyone is getting in on it.

The players: Pastors, civil leaders, politicians, actors, and your every day Joes.

The issue: Christmas

Happy Holidays vs. Merry Christmas. Take your pick and put up your dukes cause your turn to swing might be next. Everyone is in the Christmas spirit!

The ACLU vs. the "Christian Right". Each has his own take and each is stirring the pot of Holiday discontent. Cities, schools, companies and retailers are getting blasted by Christians. Fox News anchor Bill O'Reilly is on a rampage against corporations. Even President Bush can't avoid getting involved as he has taken his shots over the wording of his Christmas...excuse me....Holiday card.

People are now attacking the first vocal Christian President we have had in decades for not using "Christmas" in his card. I guess they failed to read this, which was written on the inside. "The Lord is my strength and my sheild; in Him my heart trusts; so I am helped, and my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to Him." Psalm 28:7" I know. I got one from him.

Funny thing is, have we stopped to ask ourselves, "Where would Jesus be in all of this?" As a matter of fact, as we throw our verbal punches back and forth, let me ask you, "Where is Jesus in the punches you throw?". Would He be arguing through the media? Yelling at the "left" or attacking corporate leaders for failing to make Christmas more prominent in their printings or policies? Would He really?

If He wouldn't speak a word in defense of Himself as He was falsely accused, I highly doubt He would say much about this issue of Christmas. Don't get me wrong. He put an end to the argument by what He did. He knew there was nothing He could say.

Keeping Christ in Christmas is simple. It has nothing to do with passing laws that say it remains. It has nothing to do with public displays of faith such as nativity scenes or fighting via lawsuits to force our beliefs upon others.

Don't get me wrong. I am a firm believer of standing up for what we believe. But isn't it about time our "standing up for what we believe" is less about words and more about actions? We can argue about everything, or we can start working on making the world a better and more Godly place. It starts with you and me.

Keeping Christ in Christmas is about what we do, not what we say or demand. I bet we'd find Jesus doing one of these:

* giving to your local church in order to reach out to someone
* tipping your waiter an extra $20 bucks on a cold winter night
* spending some time at your local shelter or Salvation Army depot
* buying that needy family some clothes, giving them shelter
* providing toys to those kids who are left without any
* giving someone at the local mall an encouraging word
* inviting a friend to your church for Christmas Eve services
* using your own yard to display signs and decorations of your beliefs and values

If we'd spend half as much energy doing some or all of these as we did in fighting with others, who will never see it our way, Christ would always be in Christmas no matter what the tree was called and the season was labeled by the world. No one can keep us from saying "Merry Christmas", or giving to the needy, reaching out to a friend, helping a stranger, or walking around with a smile on our face while whistling "It's the most wonderful time of the year".

Instead, what we see are Christians using their words more than their actions and the sad truth, is that this has become a trend. We argue against abortions, homosexuality, sex, profanity, and greed. Yet, what do many Christians do? They fail to vote, they spew hate toward homosexuals, they get hooked on porn, they divorce their wives, they have sex outside of marriages, they mouth off at people and many cheat on their taxes. We scream at companies for using "holiday" than "Christmas", all the while "Joy to the World" is playing in the background over the music system in the same place we're screaming at. "Joy to the world, the Lord is come. Let Earth receive Her King". We just can't be happy can we?

People, "Happy Holidays" has been used for years to encompass both Christmas and New Years. Everyone knows that. It's not a big deal.

We can't legislate Christianity. It has to be who we are, not what we force people to think we are.

We need to stop ruining Christmas. It's making everyone around us sick.

As my wife put it so eloquently, why would anyone want to be a Christian when all they see us do is complain about everything?

Now that is a punch that hurts.

Happy Christmas (there....does that work?)

"A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievious words stir up anger." Proverbs 15:1


© 2005, J. Brady

"I say it how I see it and I make no bones about it."

Media Exposes Great Need for Much Grace

(2005) What a year it has been. Some might say 2005 was a year full of fallen heros, villains and corrupt role models. After all could the sins of man be more exposed than they have this year? Let’s take a quick walk down memory lane of some of the bigger things that have happened this year various popular people:

* A California jury acquits pop singer Michael Jackson of 10 charges, including molesting a child, conspiracy, and providing alcohol to minors

*Martha Stewart wraps up prison term after being convicted of corporate fraud

* Terrell Owens gets kicked of football team after stupid comments made about teammates and loses millions of dollars

* Former Dallas Cowboy star Michael Irvin gets busted again for not paying speeding tickets and being in possession of crack pipe and drug items in his Mercedes

* Long time GOP congressman Randy Cunningham resigns after admitting bribes CIA

* House Leader Tom DeLay (R) is arrested for suspicion of contribution fraud

* Governmental leaders point fingers at each other for FEMA failures in response to to the Hurricane Katrina disaster

* Mayor of New Orleans, Ray Nagin, curses and acts vulgar on radio media outlet

* Republican Party takes major hits for issues of integrity and character

* Deputy White House Chief of Staff Karl Rove investigated regarding concerns of CIA leak about intelligence findings

* Democratic Party continues to spew verbal hatred and unprofessional personal attacks against GOP in speeches across country with the likes of Dean and Kerry leading the way

* For some unknown reason, Saddam Hussein is allowed a trail process in and acts arrogant despite his own years of committing atrocities and murders, claiming his trail is an “act of terrorism”

* Baseball hero Rafael Palmerio loses respect after testing positive for steroids just months after standing before Congress, pointing a finger at them and saying he ahs never taken steroids.

* Former Alabama Gov. Don Siegelman and former HealthSouth CEO, Richard Scrushy were indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of a "widespread racketeering conspiracy"

* Various WorldCom and ENRON execs receive jail time for fraud and corruption

* Brain damaged patient Terri Schiavo is allowed to die of starvation based on medical teams advise that she should could not feel pain

* Tyco CEO Dennis Kozlowski received 8-1/3 to 25 years in prison for his part in stealing hundreds of millions of dollars from the manufacturing conglomerate

* Teenager Jeff Weise, 16, kills nine people, many at his own high school, including his grandfather, before turning the gun on himself

* Nearly 125 years later, the U.S. Senate finally apologizes for failure to enact anti-lynching laws and issues a formal apology for decades-long failure to pass laws making lynching illegal. From 1882 to 1968, 4,742 people (3,446 of them black) were killed by lynch mobs

* In a totally hypocticial move, famous musicians urge the world to unite during Live 8 to end poverty in Africa, though most don’t give hardly any of their own money themselves to their own cause

* A federal grand jury indicts I. Lewis Libby, Vice President Cheney's Chief of Staff, with one count of obstruction of justice, two of perjury, and two of making false statements in connection with an investigation into who disclosed the identity of a covert CIA officer

* Arlington pastor, Terry L. Hornbuckle, 43, indicted amid numerous sex allegations and then later is busted with drugs and denies it all

* The pastor of East Waynesville Baptist Church, Chan Chandler, resigned after terminating the membership of nine church members because they voted for John Kerry.

* Boston Pastor, Rev. Jerome F. Gillespie, resigned of St. John the Evangelist Church, after allegedly propositioning a mother and her daughter

* A 55-year-old former pastor was indicted for allegedly having sexually abused six males over a 14-year period, many inside his Westside Victory Baptist Church.

* The Internal Revenue Service is looking into the operations and finances of televangelist Benny Hinn's organization. The ministry is estimated to raise more than $100 million a year yet begs people for money daily to build supposed “healing centers”

* MinistryWatch.com advises donors to withhold support to Trinity Broadcasting Network and calls also for new leadership

* Pastor Joel Olsteen of 30,000 member Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, steers away from talking about sin and judgment…stating he is not sure about who won’t go to heaven on the talk show Larry King Live…

KING: What if you’re Jewish or Muslim, you don’t accept Christ at all?
OSTEEN: You know, I’m very careful about saying who would and wouldn’t go to heaven. I don’t know . . .

* Teenagers David Ludwig, 18, and Kara Beth Borden involved in cold blooded murder of Borden’s parents after parents refuse to allow Ludwig to date her.

The devil is no respecter of persons. He’ll get anyone he can and it amazes me just what people will do. Day after day we read headlines like these that include people from all walks of life; athletes, politicians, business leaders, actors, and even ministers. Time after time they fail leaving us shaking our heads in amazement and wonder.

But we need to be honest here. We love seeing the failures of others, don’t we? It makes us feel better about ourselves. Yet, we need to be careful because we are treading on shaky ground. We must ask ourselves this question: Are we really any different? If we were famous, had superstar status or the popularity of many of these people, what would the media “discover” about us? What would they find in our lives?

Truth is, most of us are glad we don’t have the spotlight on our own lives. We tend to hide in the comforts of being unknown. It makes things easier to hide and easier to get away with. All of us are sinners and all of us have done terrible things. As a matter of fact, some of us will do so today.

Christ addressed nearly the same issues once in His day. A woman was popular and had a reputation that followed her. She was known for her actions and the way she lived her life. In His day, Fox News and CNN weren’t around, but Pharisees were everywhere, ready to point their finger. They kept stones readily available, so they could keep the attention on the “sinner” while acting the part of a “saint”. That was their “m.o.”. Keep the focus off of them and let others take the heat.

Do you do the same? Do you shake your head when you hear these stories like I do? I know for me, sometimes hearing another person fall makes me feel a little better. My flesh has a way of soaking in it and telling my mind, “See, you’re not so bad. At least you didn’t do what Michael Irvin did and you don’t scam people like Benny Hinn!”

There is no excuse for what these people have done or continue to do and surely there is a need to expose the fallacies of man. The media isn’t going away. I just hope they continue to not see me. I’ll be sure to avoid making eye contact.

In the meantime, I’m going to get on my knees and thank God He covers me and let’s me start each day a new. I suggest you do the same.

CNN or Fox News might be heading your way….but even if they don’t God knows it all just the same.


“They kept at him, badgering him. He straightened up and said, "The sinless one among you, go first: Throw the stone." John 8:8

© 2005, J. Brady"

I say it how I see it and I make no bones about it."

Don't Let Frosty Melt

(2004) Is there a better time of year than Christmas time? Is there any other time of year that's more focused on joy, giving, peace and love? What about the greatness of our holiday friends like Rudolph, Santa, the Elves or Frosty?

I just love Christmas.

Of course as a Christian, this time of year is truly about celebrating our freedom from sin as Christ was born. No gift will ever be more meaningful or bigger than the one He gave us 2000 years ago.

But there are good reasons many of us could scoff at Christmas these days. There is no doubt it has become too commercialized and removed from the story of Jesus. People have become too busy, chasing the best deals for gifts, waiting in line overnight and fighting over something for the kids, or running here in there busier than ever. Stores make millions in 4 short weeks each year starting the day after Thanksgiving with what they call "Black Friday". That one day in sales usually moves them from a loss to a profit for the year. It's incredible.

Yet the world isn't alone. Christians get busy too. We fall in line with the mall shopping, the craziness of travel, volunteering, rehearsing and performing in plays or musicals at church, or even being busy entertaining the family with various movies, special events and Christmas light touring. It really does get crazy.

But even so, it is still the greatest time and we need to do our part to keep the real meaning and fun in Christmas. Jesus is the reason for the season and we can honor Him by making it fun and enjoying every minute of it. Nothing honors anyone more than celebrating their birth for 30 days or more! Santa, Rudolph, the Elves and Frosty (yes, even if you live in Texas) are all apart of His birthday gang. They too can make us laugh, smile and ponder the joy of all that God has given us.

If we aren't careful though, Christmas time is going to be turned into "Holiday time". The world is already working on removing the name Christmas from Christmas Tree. Jesus is being pushed into the back and it won't be long before Frosty and the rest of the gang will be standing there all alone. After all, if not for Jesus, there would not be Christmas. And if there was no Christmas, there would be no Frosty, Santa or the rest. What would be the point?

Frosty didn’t' come alive because of just a corn cob pipe. He came alive with the birth of Christ. Without Christmas, he too will melt away into the past. He isn't a Holiday character, he is a Christmas character.

So, stop today and take some time to enjoy it all. Make it fun. Laugh, smile and cry and enjoy the birthday party for Jesus! Then steal a moment away to thank God for Him and commit to Him that you'll never let Frosty melt. If we don't, the world is going to steal Christmas right out from under our feet. An if they succeed, then there will no longer be a birthday party called Christmas.

And trust me, if that happens, it will do much more than just melt Frosty.

"You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy…" Psalm 30:11


© 2004, J. Brady

"I say it how I see it and I make no bones about it."

Everyone Wants to Have It

(1999) In this day age, and in a world where almost everything seems possible, or at least imaginable, one thing is still extremely hard to obtain -- success.

What is success? Is it a nice home, a fast car, loads of money, tons of friends, popularity in the community, having "connections", or status quo? For some, that is their definition of success. For the over-achievers I know, those things are only by products of true success, true achievement and true servanthood. Real success comes not in material possessions, but in intangible characteristics like honesty, respect, endurance, optimism, faith in God, giving and compassion for others.

True success is taking the punches, getting knocked down, only to get back up, over and over and over again, until the punches can be waved away and victory is attained.

Someone once said, "A man standing on top of a mountain didn't just fall there. He climbed, and climbed, slipped, and sometimes nearly fell. But one day the top was suddenly his to claim!"
Another said, "A boxer doesn't lose a fight because he gets knocked down, he loses the fight because he doesn't get back up."

Yes, success is hard. Whether it be success in school, work, a career, business, a ministry, with your kids, athletics or in some personal goal, it is not easily attained, and never will be. It requires a major price tag. For some it may cost everything you have, for others it may mean loss of sleep, muscle pain, financial cutbacks or late hours at the coffee shop cramming for that final. Whatever the cost, there will be one. I know one man who understood this basic principle. He called his home business "W.I.T." for "Whatever it takes". He saw the price tag and was willing to pay it.

Striving for success is a long road. A road full of pot-holes, curves, and seemingly deadends. Yet the weary find their rest by continuing through the struggles till the end is reached. It's something only a few are willing to try, and only a handful finish.

In the times of fear and doubt, remember who you are what you were created to be. Tim Storey once said, "I have always believed God gets more glory out of you being a success story than out of you being a failure!" God didn't call you to fail, but He will call you to prevail. In Him only, will you find the strength to make it. In Him only, will you find the resources you need to finish what He has started. In Him only, will your pathways be made straight and narrow and in Him only, will you find the will to carry on.

So hold on to your dreams, never give up and tell yourself and the world who mocks you, "With God on my side, it is possible and I will win!"

“Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this” Pslam 37:3-6

© 1999, J. Brady

"I say it how I see it and I make no bones about it."

Gruntin', Tootin', and Sleepin'

(2005) Gruntin', Tootin', and Sleepin'….what a life. And for me this happens everyday. To most men, this may sound like a description of some place just outside of heaven; a place where you can lay back, let your hair down and let it all out.

But, I'm not talking about some men's getaway fantasy island. No, the place where these events are as common as a democratic fraction speaking out against a conservative movement is my own home. Home sweet home has become a place of sounds and activity only a true man could respect and admire.

All thanks to Sidney and Chloe, my ten week old, twin daughters.

I've never heard such commotion from such little girls. I never knew they had it in them…and boy do they! Whew. Let me tell you. Just when you can't nearly handle anymore grunting, wiggling or crying, they let a toot sneak out and it'll run they strongest of noses out of the room. Even our Boxer, Sam, who has his own terrible variation of such things, leaves the room. It's bad. Real bad.

What a life. To be able so sleep 20 hours of the day, eat every 2 to 3 hours, stretch and grunt for 20 minutes after waking and toot all at the same time. How is it that we go from such simplicity, to such overbearing complexity as adults?

I long for the day when life is simply about living. Sure, life for us as adults is about raising a family, seeking God, paying our taxes, being a friend, some entertainment, education, and career. But won't it be great when all that we have set out to accomplish in life becomes meaningless and life itself returns to form? Finally, we will be able to relax, take a deep breath and thank God for making such a place. I'm not sure that gruntin', tootin' and sleepin' is what we will really do when we step into eternity, but if it's the next best thing to Heaven, I can't imagine just all that God has in store for us when we get there.

My girls have it made, at least for now. Life here waits for them someday. For now, I plan to help them enjoy every minute of life as they know it now. Let's be honest….I can grunt, toot and sleep with the best of them.

The house is gonna be quiet the next few days. Julie is taking the girls to Tyler this weekend; another short road trip to see Grammy and Papa Jack. I have to work, so I'll maintain the fort here at home. It just won't be the same. It'll be up to me and the dogs to fill in for the gruntin', tootin', sleepin' machines.

We're gonna miss them, but I think we will manage just fine.


"Jesus called a small child over to him and put the child among them. Then he said, 'I assure you, unless you turn from your sins and become as little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. Therefore, anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. And anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf is welcoming me.'" Matthew 18-2-5


© 2005, J. Brady

"I say it how I see it and I make no bones about it."

One Strike Away....

(2005) I am still in shock.

Nearly 12 hours later and sleeping it off hasn't helped.

All we needed was one measly strike and the 44 year drought would be over.

But oh, how our hopes were put out with one big blast.

Baseball is called America's pastime. It truly is the nation's best sport. Everyone that knows me knows I am a Dallas Cowboys freak.....I rarely miss a game and own more Cowboys keepsakes than anyone, yet, there is just something about baseball. It's the most emotional sport of them all.

After moving to Houston in the early 70s, as a child I grew up an Astros fan. Do you remember those wonderful multi-color, horizontally striped jerseys they wore along with the bright orange hats? Wow. Those were some fun times. Thanks to my dad, I learned to love the sport. We went to many a game at the Astrodome and I always dreamed of them making the World Series.

As of last night, my 30+ year wait isn't over.

In 1980 (before the Wildcard Series was introduced) they lost to the Phillies in Houston in the National League Championship Series. In 1986 they beat the Dodgers in a one game playoff to decide the Division and won, only to lose a heartbreaker to the Mets in extra innings in the NLCS, again at home. I remember my entire family being in tears watching it on TV. In 2004, 18 years later, my Astros made it to game 7 of the NLCS against the Cardinals. They were 6 outs away with Roger Clemens pitching and a 2 run lead, only to lose it. My World Series tickets had already been bought and I was ready. But no.

Then, last night, the Astros were again facing the Cardinals in the NLCS with a 3 game to 1 lead. They were at home. They got the lead late at 4-2 and had their unhittable closer on the mound in the 9th to get the last two outs. He struck out batter number one! He struck out batter number two! We were one out away! But then two men got on, bringing baseballs biggest hitter to the plate in Albert Pujols. I told my wife, "This guy is a homerun hitting machine". I was nervous and barely could sit still.

Earlier I had called dad, "You watching the game?"

"Yea," he said, "Let's hope they do it this time."

Lidge threw two strikes past him! I was fidgeting wearing my old time orange "H" hat and waiting to scream and wake the babies.

"We are one strike away!" I yelled to my wife. "One strike away!"

Lidge threw the ball and...."Whack!"

Pujols sucked the living air out of Minute Maid park and the Speers household as he literally crushed the ball well over 400 feet out of the ballpark. The Cardinals took a 5-4 lead and won the game just minutes later. Just like that it was over.

My childhood dreamed had once again been squashed. Though we still had a 3-2 game lead, the series would now go back to St. Louis and Busch Stadium would be nuts. It would be the last games in that ballpark and the Astros have only won 1 out of their last 6 there. The odds are long and the hopes are faint.

The Astros have failed me again. Just days away from being 36 years old, father of 2, husband of one, CEO of a multi-million dollar company, and here I was about to cry. My heart sank.

Fans of baseball wait years and years, each time believing and hoping this will be "their year". Yea, it's just a stupid game, some might say, but you can't help but get emotionally involved in it if it's really a part of you. Think about it. Some people are born, follow a team for nearly 80 years, and never see their team win the championship. That's amazing. Generations can go by without your team actually ever winning it. Especially if you are a Cubs, Astros or Rangers fan.

I love baseball. There is just something about it. We all need to step back in time and remember what it was like to be a kid. Put on the old garb, forget today's worries and just enjoy what once was. God gave us sports like this to enjoy the day. Give us something to remove ourselves from the trials of life and be giddy about. I wonder what jersey He wears?

Thanks dad for giving me something in my childhood to hold on to.

I just hope we both get to see them make it before my 8 week old twins girls are the ones saying, "All we need is one more strike!"



"Young man, it's wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it. Do everything you want to do; take it all in..." Ecclesiastes 11:9


(c) 2005, J. Brady
"I say it how I see it and I make no bones about it."

Are You Kidding Me?

(2005) In the aftermath of the terrible tragedy brought upon the Gulf Coast and New Orleans by Hurricane Katrina, I can't believe what my ears are hearing and what my eyes are seeing.

Let the 2005 US Blame Games begin.

It's hard to believe, but what seemed like just hours after the single, largest natural disaster in American history took place, screams of blame and racism began being shouted over the airwaves of America's news channels. Literally.

First, there was the New Orleans Mayor, Ray Nagin, saying on a radio show the next day, "You got to be kidding me. This is a national disaster. Get every doggone Greyhound bus line in the country and get their as%#s moving to New Orleans!"

Facts are, he sent people to the Superdome with no plans of provisions. No excuse my friend. None. The Astrodome in the Houston area has been prepared for years for a major hurricane by having cots, food and emergency services ready and waiting. Why? Galveston is only 20 minutes away from the Gulf of Mexico. I know, I lived there myself for 12 years. Yet, the Mayor of an on-the-water, below sea-level major city didn't even bother to plan ahead by having one cot, one bottle of water, one MRE, one bus, or one generator ready! He even refused to use all of the hundreds of available school buses to get people out, stating he would rather have greyhounds. Making matters worse, he then allowed tourists to leave from exclusive, pricy hotels before his own people, allowing them to cut to the front of the line at the Superdome. I don't need to point a finger, because all of his are pointing right back at him.

Then there was the Governor of Louisiana, Kathleen Babineaux Blanco, a democrat by the way, who began rallying blame on President Bush and FEMA for not helping quickly enough. Fact is all governors and mayors are in possession of the federal rules on evacuations involving a major disaster. The rules book is issued by FEMA – the Federal Emergency Management Act. FEMA responds after a disaster, not before. Gov. Blanco refused the urging of President Bush to enact an all out evacuation of the area, stating she wanted another 24 hours to think about it. It was in her mind an issue of authority and power. She was wrong. Dead wrong.

Then New Orleans Police Chief Eddie Compass has been ranting and raving about the poor response to the area and how decimated things are. Surely they are, but when hundreds of your own staff disobey your orders, have been seen looting, or have walked off the job altogether it makes one question your leadership ability to begin with.

But nothing is worse than the politicizing of this horrible event by liberal democrats. It really makes me sick at my stomach. Rather than focusing on helping those who are hurting and without anything, these gutless people have decided it's best to use this catastrophe for their own personal gain.

You've got Hilary Clinton rushing to the area to make her face known. Al Sharpton running to defend "his people's" rights to live in filth and disease, and the fake Reverend Jesse Jackson claiming this entire event, maybe even the Hurricane itself, was an act of 1950s civil unrest and racism. Crazy stuff. Just stupid.

I won't even bother mentioning the tons of celebrities who have come out of the woodwork, shown up for a 30 minute volunteer session of handing out water, only then to be called heroes. What a joke. Go back to Hollywood please and let those who really care help these hurting people.

The real heroes are the people of the Red Cross, the Salvation Army and dozens of other ministries and organizations who have given their time and money everyday to these people.

It's a sad, sad time. People have been separated from their own children. Others have already died in their own homes. Many others will. Pets have been left to drown, starve and die.

Blame can be placed everywhere and some day many questions have to be answered. Why did people stay when a category 5 hurricane, with winds of 200mph, was staring them in the face? Why did it take so long to get people out of the area? Why have people turned this into an opportunity to further political aspirations? Why are people blaming the President or FEMA for a response to a disaster to the magnitude that has have never occurred before? Why was New Orleans, of all cities, not fully prepared and ready for this? Why were studies and warnings ignored for over 30 years since Hurricane Camille? Why? Why? Why?

But this is not a time for whying or whining. This is time to give, love and pray.

People need our money, our clothes, our support, shelter and direction. Their lives were taken from them and nothing, if anything, is coming back for a long, long time.

New Orleans will never be the same. Neither will the rest of us. People of all colors and all races are feeling this one in the gut. It hurts and it's sad.

Let's stop the Blame Games of 2005. No one's a winner here.

"Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need." Acts 2:44-46



© 2005, J. Brady
"I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it."

Only Then Will You Know...

(2005) How wrong abortion is. Not until you have some of your own and witness the entire birthing process. Only then will you know.

A few weeks ago my wife and I were blessed to watch our twin girls, Chloe and Sidney, join the world at Arlington Memorial Hospital. Thanks to the careful oversight of our doctor and the recommendation of a specialist we were able to avoid some possible horrible outcomes. Our twins had just begun "twin to twin transfusion", where one begins taking all of the resources from the other, when they both urgently suggested we get to the hospital and get the girls out a few days later. Thank God they did. Sidney was taking most of the food and blood, leaving Chloe much smaller and wanting. The possibilities could have been death for both of them, if things had gone on much further.

At 8:58am on Sunday morning the 21st of August, I was able to witness first hand the C-section birth of my beautiful little ones. Chloe was first, followed seconds later by her "bigger" yet younger sister, Sidney. Our doctor was gracious enough to allow me to video tape the entire process. I've watched it over and over, and still well up with tears.

The process of life is amazing. It is the strongest and only evidence we need of God's hand on us and our world. How in the world can anyone with a brain think this all began with a "big bang" millions of years ago? Or, how can anyone discount a providential hand in the process of pregnancy, when each week literally thousands of things must happen just right or the baby will not survive? I will never get it and until I had my own, it never really sunk in. Now it has.

Everyday over 3800 abortions are performed each day in the United States, according to the Agape Press. That's over 1.37 million a year in America alone!

Have we become immune to the social argument of abortion over the last 30+ years since Roe vs. Wade in 1973? Are you tired of hearing about it? Tired of being told who's right it is? Tired of being asked to pray about it or support various life sustaining organizations? Tired of the politicizing of it all?

If you're like me, I have to admit, many times it goes in one ear and out the other. Yet, isn't it sad that I can't even watch a news story about an abandoned or abused dog or pet without getting more sad and angry than ever? I bet you can relate. Anyone with a beating heart should. Yet, when it comes to the horribly painful process a baby goes through during an abortion, we shrug our shoulders and say, "Well, it's about politics" or "I don't want to tell someone what to do" or "Who am I to judge?".

Wrong answer.

It is time we get serious about these killings that happen in America. Nothing is more tragic and nothing is more painful in the eyes of God than seeing a little one be ripped apart by suction tubes, or be euthanized as they lay in the womb. Don't be fooled. An abortion is painful. Babies scream and are literally torn to pieces without anything to deminish the pain. We have been fooled by Satan himself into believing a fetus isn't a human or a fetus has no idea what is happening to them.

It hurts the baby, it hurts God and it should hurt us.

I challenge you to find a little one to hold sometime soon. Listen to the baby grunt, whimper and giggle. Look at them as they stare holes in your eyes. Kiss them when the smile. Pat them when the cry. Let God remind you of how precious life really is. Let Him remind yourself that the only reason you're alive is because you're own mother opted to keep you, rather than have you torn out.

If you are a Christian and somehow think you can support abortion, you're wrong. Do we defend pedophiles by claiming he has a right to do what he does? That would be insane. Yet, we justify the actions of abortions by doing just that!

One final point. Let me introduce you to Susan Anne Catherine Torres. She was born just a few weeks before my own. Her story is sad yet powerfully uplifting. I first heard about her on a flight to Jacksonville, when she was just a few weeks old in her mother's belly.

See, her mother was technically dead as a result of a terrible cancer. Her body functions were kept going in order for baby Susan to grow. She needed to get to at least 24 weeks, even to have a shot, and she made it. Born at 26 weeks, little Susan Anne now has a decent chance of living a mircale life. Her mother literally died giving her baby a chance to live. If only more would do the same. (http://www.susantorresfund.org for the story)

God loves every baby, and none more than his own. But even Jesus was allowed the chance to live. Thank God He wasn't born in today's world and to a modern day "Mary"

Abortion kills and that's that.

Now you know.

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb." Psalm 139:12-14


© 2005, J. Brady
"I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it."

One Story He Forgot to Tell

(2005) There are a lot of people I can say I’ve been through a lot with. Of course, none haven been there with me more than my parents and sister. But there are some friends who I’ve shared some of my life’s greatest and hardest moments with. There are others that I have shared the world’s greatest and most difficult days with.

But one person comes to mind that’s literally been through just about every major world event with me on a daily basis. Sadly, he died this week. I’m talking about long time ABC News anchorman, Peter Jennings.

Since I can remember he’s been right in front of me giving me certain facts, opinions or just a human element to make what was happening real. Even as a kid I can remember hearing him talking as I would fall asleep late at night. He was an icon of American journalism. He was on America’s TV sets for four decades, along with the likes of Tom Brokaw with NBC and Dan Rather at CBS.

I can remember him covering Hurricane Alicia when we lived in Houston in 1983 and the Shuttle Challenger explosion of 1986. I recall his words when President Reagan was shot. I remember him talking to us about the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War. He was there in the elections of Carter, Reagan, Bush, Clinton and Bush. He was there during various Olympic events and he helped us deal with the Oklahoma City bombing and the Waco compound ordeal. He brought to us other events as well such as various Mid-East conflicts, “Watergate”, and Vietnam. He helped us deal with various wars, economic struggles and social issues. He even stirred the social pot with TV specials like “"The Search for Jesus" in 2000 and "Jesus and Paul — the Word and the Witness" in 2004. I watch the news today because of him.

But no one made the events of 9/11 more real than he did. I watched, as like most of us, he cried as he tried to give what facts he knew about that terrible day. It was Jennings to a “t”. He made the news worth watching and being from Canada, he wasn’t even a sworn in American until 2003.

Despite his political leanings, Jennings was a decent representative of life itself as an American. Sometimes his comments made me mad, other times he was sincere and right. But he was consistent and was always there.

Unfortunately, the one story he never completely explained was that of smoking and how it kills. He told us in April that he had been diagnosed with lung cancer. Less than 4 months later, he was dead. Suddenly the face and voice so many of us had been used too as a source of comfort and stability is now gone.

Funny how his “mark” on society now has nothing to do with what he said all of those years. Now it has to do with what he did all of those years. His legacy just might be the millions who claim they’re never smoking again.

Sure, like many, I’ve had my share of smokes in my life. Sadly, during my college years, I tried a lot of things I wish I would have never heard of. My Papa Jack smoked cigars until I was in my early teens. My mother smoked when she was younger. My granny smoked her entire life. And, like many of you reading this, I have family and friends that smoke packs and packs a week. Some smoke a pack a day like Jennings did. Sure, I enjoy a cigar, a “clove” or a pipe here and there. But now I’m thinking I’ll never have another.

I don’t want to be gone 4 months from now.

Do you?


“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own…” 1 Corinthians 6:19


© 2005, J. Brady
"I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it."

When Wrong Becomes Right

(1997) This morning I began to think about all the trials of 1996. You know, the ones we heard about everyday last year - Routier, Irvin, Simpson, Clinton, and others. As I sat there thinking about them, I was truly amazed at how our society has glorified the wrongs people have done, making light of them and only adding celebrity status to those who could use a little less of it.

Every week we hear the justification of what should undoubtedly be wrong while unmercifully neglecting the victim. Letting them endure the pain most of them live through the remainder of their lives alone. The perpetrators are now the victims according to the media and many in society.

However, I was also reminded by the Holy Spirit, of how Christ, Himself did that very thing for me. Though I have done so many things wrong in life, He has brought me out of the muck and made me a celebrity in His eyes! You too! For He has taken us all from wrong to right by the power of what Jesus did. We are all celebrities in His kingdom. He was the victim of our sin, but He lets us walk free.

To think my trial should have had a different outcome brings tears to me eyes. For we all who believe, were spared a life term, and in its place given life with no limits.

We are all wrong. It's Him who makes us right.


"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone and behold the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ...not counting men's sins against them." 2 Corinthians 4:17-19

© 1997, J. Brady
"I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it."

Grandma Knows Why...

(1993) She was neat.

For almost a century she walked this earth; giving, loving, and sharing the joys of being a friend, a mother, a wife, a Christian, a grandmother and for a few like me, a great grandmother. In the last few years, she could barely hear, barely see and barely walk. Yet her lovable little body continually beamed like the little light of life that she always was. However, that life, which spanned a road over 92 years long, came to and end; an end that will leave many in tears and some asking why.

I guess I consider myself blessed to not only to have had a great grandparent in my life, but to have had a deep, fun, neat relationship with Grandma as well. I can remember days of going to visit her and talking to her about school, my job, or finding "Mrs. right". I remember the stories she would tell me of the Great Depression, or about her and Papaw getting married on a carriage, or even her talking about seeing him again one day soon in Heaven above. I can even remember discussing those good old Dallas Cowboys, as she would ask me if they were still winning and if "Tom" was still their coach. She liked Tom.

She was just one neat, smart, and lovable lady.

And though it's hard to let her go, I have to ask myself, who am I to keep her from the warm sun, the blue skies, and the gentle breeze of a nice heavenly day with the very Creator of our lives? For is that not the true goal our lives as well? To one day step into eternity, claim our prize and live in paradise with the ones we loved forever? How anyone could live without such hope I will never understand. How empty and pointless life must be.

Yet, even with this hope, death is still the most difficult issue we face. As we "lose" those we love or are faced with losing our own lives, death becomes a dark cloud over every emotion we bare within.

But in Christ and with God, there is victory. Though death seems so final and merciless, in reality it is the door to heaven. For as Christians, we have the assurance of knowing and saying, "Oh death where is your sting?" while claiming the victory that is ours. That is why Grandma lived and that is why Grandma died.

So now, when we find ourselves asking why, we can be assured of the truth we know and of the truth that she lived.

Like the little edge-burned plaque says, that I made for her when I was 14 or 15, Grandma would answer our whys like this...

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, and whoever believes in Him, shall not die, but have everlasting life."

That, my friends, is why.
Maude Speers...home, as of January 10, 1993.

“But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.” I Thessalonians 4: 13-14


© 1993, J. Brady
“I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it.”

Then God Created

(1997) Imagine if you will -

It was a beautiful place indeed. Tall green trees covered the land, most of them bearing some type of fruit. Birds sang in the air, while different sounds rang out - a lion, an elephant and monkeys.

A small stream slowly made its way through the area, its small rapid currents crashing against the rocks. In the sky the sun was high above sending rays of colored light through the clouds. A gentle breeze kept the day cool.

It was a splendid day.

When Adam awoke that day, his nose was filled an enchanting smell of flowers. He sat up and pondered on the smell a moment and then reluctantly went over his mental list of daily chores. After a few minutes he got up and began his daily routine; pray, eat, feed some animals and hunt for dinner.

He finished the day and slowly made his away back to his sleeping area. The sun had gone down as the day ended. Now the birds were asleep and the crickets and locust took over. A wolf in the back ground yelled its mating call and an owl pitched in its nightly tune.

Adam ate his dinner and then relaxed on the ground gazing up at the stars. As usual, he felt something was not right. He was lonely. For days he had been here all alone, doing the same thing everyday with no one to share it with. He was tired and worn out. Not from his day, but from his sadness of being isolated. Surrounded by all of this beauty and yet sometimes he would rather be dead. He sadly looked into the stars wondering about his purpose and his existence. If only there were another like he...He slowly fell asleep. This was how every night ended for the new man. Sad, lonely and crying.

Tomorrow he assumed it would be no different.

He awoke startled in the morning...something was strange. He felt it in the night, as if he was having a dream so real it seemed it was happening. Quietly he got to his feet, completely naked as was custom and looked around. He was scared, vulnerable and incapable of doing anything to protect himself. A few minutes later he relaxed and began to eat breakfast. He thought about the night and his loneliness. So, he sat there and ate and began to cry again when it happened...

Suddenly, something touched his shoulder. He jumped, screamed, turned around and couldn't believe his eyes. What he saw was more beautiful than gold. It was the most gorgeous thing he had ever seen. It had long brown hair that was gleaming in the morning sun. It had a different, enticing shape. Its eyes were as blue as the ocean and its skin as smooth as silk.

Slowly he approached it as it extended its hand toward him. He embraced it and felt love, kindness, compassion, companionship, happiness and joy. This was it! He spoke to it and he called it woman. Her name would be Eve and he knew together they would live in happiness forever and ever. She smiled at him and they embraced...kissing and crying, they held each other for days upon days.

After all of this waiting, Adam had finally received the gift of love. A gift of love from God that he would never forget. No longer was he lonely; instead he was in love. In love with the most incredible of all of God's creations...woman!

"My sister my bride, you have thrilled my heart with a glance of your eyes, with one sparkle from your necklace. Your love is so sweet, my sister, my bride..." Song of Solomon 4:9-10

© 1997, J. Brady
“I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it.”

9/11 - God Bless America

(2001) As the united gathering of the men and women of Congress stood on the steps of the legislature, tears came to my eyes as they proudly sang "God bless America" and declared this country would move on, fight and stand up for freedom. Unfortunately, the most horrible of terrorist attacks had occurred hours earlier in which hijacked airplanes were crashed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and then another one was diverted from its WhiteHouse target to the fields near Pittsburgh.

Suddenly our eyes shifted from tax cuts, policy implementations and partisan concerns to realize that life is precious and can be taken at any moment. As tears have surfaced in our eyes and as our hearts have pounded with fear, anger and hurt, the realization of the days behind and the days ahead of never being same, have gripped our minds.

Like anyone with a human sense of concern, I have sat with my TV on in the office waiting for retaliation, waiting for news of heroes and miracles, waiting for our leader, President George W. Bush to make statements of strength and honor. Most importantly we have all prayed for God to provide those miracles, provide that strength and direct us to the retaliation He would have for such evil acts on our land.

As I heard on the news many countries have been directly impacted by the crumbling of the buildings in downtown New York City as over 60 countries lost offices and citizens in the destruction. Over 450 businesses have lost employees, friends, partners, paperwork, materials, money, irreplaceable items and documents. For many, those businesses came to a sudden end around 8:48am, PST. Later that afternoon, thousands of children waited for mom or dad, grandma or granddad to come pick them up for school. Someone had to explain to them, that this was not going to happen. How painful it must have been for the messenger and those receiving such horrible words!

Like many, I have asked, "God what can I do?"

Maybe you've asked the same. Whether we are here or there, or in another country, we can be a part of the healing. We can give blood. We can drop by our local Red Cross and give a few dollars, some clothes or canned food. We can pray everyday during lunch until this issue is resolved and everyone that can be, is found. We can teach others the promise of Freedom, here in the U.S. and concerning eternity with Christ. We can show support by putting out our flags and wearing read, white and blue.

Above all, we can prove to the world that we will not relinquish what thousands of people have fought for and given their lives for - freedom. This is America and though we have been in moral decay, we are still the country who proudly prints "IN GOD WE TRUST" on our money, and whose President reads scripture on worldwide TV. We are the United States and God's hand is on this land. For that, we all must unite, keep our prayers to God coming, and as Christians, take this opportunity to show love thousands of miles away, to the hurting, and broken; to those whose loved ones will not be coming home. This is our time to shine. Let's not let Him down.

He will bring healing. Just let Him use you to do it and I will join you. God bless America, my home sweet home...

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5

© 2001, J. Brady
“I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it.”

Chasing Squirrels

(2005) Dogs. One of the greatest creations God ever came up with. A true expression of His love for us. Actually, all animals are incredible examples of God's creativity and love, but there's just something about a dog.

Dogs can teach us so much about ourselves, caring for another, forgiveness and love. They wag their tails after being abused. They' lick your face when you're sad. They give you "hugs" and "cuddle" with you when you're tired or stressed. They apologize in their own weird way when they've done something wrong and know it. They run around like mad when you come home....every time, even if it's only been a few minutes or hours. They only cry or whimper when the pain is strong and unbearable. They know no stranger; everyone is a friend. They protect and defend. But best of all, when everyone else has left you, a dog will be there with a smile on his tail.

But...they don't live real long.

Some may say it's silly to be sad when your family dog dies. It's not. It's real and it hurts and unless you're not human, you feel it hard. Dogs are a part of the family.

Our pastor and his family lost their precious pal "Buffy" and he cried from the pulpit the next Sunday. Buffy had been a part of their family for many, many years. I never met the pup but I know how he feels.

My best friend lost his buddy "Brandon" years ago to an illness. He filmed a final tribute video the day they had to put him asleep. I remember him calling me in tears about it that night. He's never watched the video either. It stays in a box.

My family lost our Chihuahua mix "Sandy" while I was away in college. She joined the family as a puppy by following me home across the street when I was a kid. She lived for 19 long, fun years, but I never got to say goodbye. I still miss the times of her growling like a Lion when anyone got near her food.

Well, Ashley, a fun, loving dog with black hair and a great personality, was my wife's family dog for over 14 years and she died today. Since Julie was 16 Ashley roamed their home offering a sniff or lick and being a happy presence in the home. If not that, she was roaming the backyard looking for mystery squirrels to chase, or sniffing out trouble on the few streets around them. She was funny in the few short years I got to play with her. I'd say, "Stop breathing Ashley!" if she was panting. She'd close her mouth and stop, looking at me like, "Uhh. Ok. Not sure just why...but I will". It cracked me up.

In her old age she had some pain. She had spotty hair, arthritis and tumors, but she still enjoyed just hanging out. Though dad kept her shaved like some canine cancer patient, she'd still do her best to play and live a dogs life. One thing was for sure. She always bounded out of the house when we visited to see Julie, her lifelong pal. Her nub of a tail would go crazy with joy from seeing her again.

Dogs just love. That's what they're here for.

Some Christians say our dogs have no souls and simply die and return to the dust. But, I have a different way of looking at it. I see animals as God's creative expression to man of His love. Especially dogs. It only fits the character of God to throw them in as an extra joy of life in heaven. It would be "so God" as they say. Even the Word hints that animals will be in heaven waiting on us. Surely dogs will be there, with tails a waggin'. Julie and I share two great dogs together today, Max and Sam. They never cease to entertain or amaze us either.

There's just a whole lot we can learn from dogs.

I know we learned allot from Ashley. I can't wait to see her bounding for us again. I believe we will because I believe she's already there.

I just hope there are squirrels for her to chase. Otherwise, she might get bored waiting.

"He saw heaven opened and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. It contained all kinds of four-footed animals, as well as reptiles of the earth and birds of the air." Acts 10-11-13

© 2005, J. Brady
"I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it."

Punch Time

(1998) Like faith comes before belief, consistency comes before results...and only action puts faith and consistency into practice.

Sounds easy. Believe me, it's not.

In just 26 short years I have discovered one thing that I am sure of: Life cannot be fully enjoyed with all of God's blessings unless we first learn to live by consistent faith and persistent action. Symmetry is the key. The two go hand in hand. One requires the other and the other the same.
However, life doesn't seem bent towards making faith and consistency easy areas of our lives to master. Life continually deals us blows; blows that for many are the knockout punch. The game's over and then time begins its deathly toll.

Success itself is learning to overcome those punches, to pick oneself up, face the enemy and fight. Consistently throwing back punches (action) knowing that, in God's time (faith) the results of those efforts will be fruitful. Consistency of action produces mental toughness and emotional stability.

But knowing the formula doesn't make the mixture easy to put together. Putting faith and action together is a real struggle for me. Sometimes life's blows take away my punch, other times my punches weaken as my faith is shaken.

Have you been there? Are you working on something you know God has called you to do, but it just doesn't seem to be coming together? Has it caused you to doubt what you thought you knew?

I know where you’re at, because these are questions that often run through my mind. As you may know, I started a ministry called "Club J" in Ft. Worth, Texas. Many times I wondered during those days, "God is this really what I should do? When are you going to help me?"
But those times and those questions were there to lead me back to Him. Time after time I would struggle and find myself back in His arms. Like a father longs to be near his sons, even more so does God long to be near us.

When the times get tough and when the doubts creep in, go to the One who made you. He knows what you need to make it.

He'll give you back your punch.

“For You have been a shelter and a refuge for me, a strong tower against the adversary.” Psalm 61:3 (AMP)

© 1998, J. Brady
“I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it.”

You'll Be Shocked at What This Mom Said...

(2005) I could not believe what I hearing nor what I was seeing. I was in shock, but I was the only one.

It was a hot summer Saturday afternoon on the 4th of July weekend. I was out running some errands and trying to get things done. Time was running out as my wife and I were getting ready for twin babies. She was 28 weeks along.

Thinking about being a parent was making me nervous, getting me excited and weighing me down some all at the same time. The pressure, the responsibility and the work involved. Wow. I had a lot in front of me but I felt we were both ready for the challenge.

As I walked into a convenience store to get some water I stood in line behind a mother and her son, who was between 9-10 years old. I was waiting on them because they were taking their time trying to pick the winning scratch off games, together! Yes, this mother was asking her son for help in trying to pick the “right one” and she was intense about it too.

He didn’t seem to care and casually gave her some off hand backtalk. That’s when the second shocker of the day arrived as she said, “You’re being such a butthole today!” My mouth dropped and the others around me just kind of smirked. They paid for their worthless lottery scam tickets and went on their merry way.

And we wonder why.

I got in the car and replayed what I had heard and seen all the way home. I went back and forth between wanting to chase her down and slap her, and wondering just who and what that kid would turn out to be.

Kids look to the adults in their lives as examples. Who you are to them is likely who they will aspire to be. Maybe he was being what she called him because that was the example she had given him throughout his short life. That’s a bet I’d take any day.

The problems we have with kids today are not the fault of TV, movies or video games. It’s not even the fault of musicians, stars or athletes. It falls 100 percent on the shoulders of today’s parents. Only parents can control those outside factors that impact the lives of children. Of all people, parents certainly should be the best they can be in front of them. But many aren’t and many don’t seem to care. They shirk their responsibility onto those things I mentioned above. It’s careless and frankly, immature.

You and I may not share our lottery games with our kids and I doubt any of you have ever called a child what she did, but that doesn’t mean we’re clear of all charges either.

Have you said other words in front of them, watched stupid shows while they sat there with you, or yelled at the guy in the car in front of you? I have, and that means I’m not much different than this lady. It’s just not shocking enough to make the Howard Stern show.

Whether you’re a parent, uncle, aunt, church volunteer or just a good family friend, remember, you’re another way the see Jesus.

They sure aren’t seeing Him at the local stop-n-shop.

“Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

© 2005, J. Brady
"I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it."

Chill Out

(2005) It's hard to admit, but sometimes I'm just a little too uptight about things. I know that's a shocker, but it is true.

I mean life is fun and all, but aren't we supposed to be serious, hard workers, people who don't have time to stand around and chat about meaningless things like how dumb, yet funny, the movie "Napoleon Dynamite" is? I mean come on! We've got things to do, people to see, bills to pay, tears to cry, and dreams to accomplish. Let's get with it!

Yea, well, when you get a little older, somewhere around the age of 35, things suddenly do slow down and you begin to see things little differently. See, each of our lives should be taken seriously and as if we've been given a mission to accomplish, cause we have. Yet, at the same time, God put us here on this earth for a short period of time with two main purposes. One, spread His love, two, enjoy the lives He has given us.

I know for me, sometimes I lose sight of both. As I've gotten older I've noticed it's easier to become more worried about money, illness, or death. Or, I can find myself spending too much time wondering "why this" or "why that" or simply missing the "good old days" of the past.
God didn't spend His energy and time forming the earth and all it's creatures just for the heck of it. He didn't spend his creativity putting together mankind just so we would carelessly live life. No, He gave us this place to live and the bodies we have for our enjoyment, cause that's the kind of God we serve. Like a father wants his child to have all that they can, God wants even more for us.

He wants us to slow down, take a load off, and look around. Life is to be enjoyed and should be simple. There are times we need to be focused. Times we need to be on our knees in prayer or worship. Yet, most of our time is spent in the mundane - in the rat race of life - and if we are not careful, we will lose the thrill of all He intended. Even Solomon struggled with this. At first glance he determined life itself was meaningless. "What's the point?" he argued. "To live only to die a short time later?". Yet, He too soon realized what God was whispering in his ears. Can you hear Him? He's still speaking today....

"I want you to loosen up, trust me and live life to its fullest. Enjoy your friends. Enjoy your family. Have fun seeing the world and eating new foods. Catch a funny movie, see a play or attend a good concert. Play with your dogs and rub their faces. I wouldn't have created them if I didn't know how they make you feel. Kiss your wife and tell her she's the best cause I made her just for you. Love on your kids everyday. Your days here are too short to miss one. Work hard during the day and earn as much as you can. Your dreams are only limited by what you decide I can help you do. Tell someone about the love of God and all I have given you. Give a little. Give a little more. I've given everything for you. Serve those around you. Pay your taxes with a smile. Even Jesus paid His. Save as much as you can, but enjoy what you can too. Crank up the rock and roll and dance a little. Music is good for the heart and soothes the soul. I designed it to work that way. Eat alot but eat good. You'll need the practice cause you'll be dining with me forever. It's ok to have pizza or a bowl of Blue Bell here and there. Trust me, I know exactly where Blue Bell is made! Workout and stay healthy. Be thankful and don't worry. Have a massage if you need one. Cheer on those Cowboys, Mavs and Rangers cause I am too. Think, but don't think too much or you'll get trapped by the devil's own lies. Go see the mountains, the ocean or the plains. Travel as much as you can. I created it all just for you to see. Be involved in your community. Be patriotic. Let tears form in your eyes when you hear the national anthem. Vote. It should matter to you cause it matters to me. Pray for people. Support those in need. Be available. Enjoy your favorite TV shows, just be careful what you watch. Have fun driving your cars, flying in your planes or boating around the lake. I smile when you do. Just be joyful and happy. That will lead more people to my love than just about anything you can say or do."

Do you hear Him? I do.

It's doesn't have to be tiresome and meaningless. It's up to us to make it enjoyable and meaningful.

I'm gonna start today, how about you?

"Be Still and know that I am God" Psalm 46:10

(c) 2005, J. Brady
"I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it."

Find the Right Solution

(1999) They say you become like those you hang around. The company you keep produces the kind of character you'll be. Studies even support this idea and give some reason to believe the entire premise; that you're likely to be guilty by some form of association.

The question for us is just what will we be guilty of?

Will we be guilty of running the race with the spiritually blind? Will we be guilty of standing on the fence living by few moral standards with the rest of the world? Will we be guilty of watching the game from the stands or will we simply leave the ticket we've been given at home and casually find something else to do?

What will you, and what will I, be convicted of?

I spent many hours over this last holiday weekend with an incredible friend that challenged me in many ways. She lives by standards we all should adhere to. We talked about God and His desires to see our lives become more like Him. We discussed right and wrong and when and where lines need to be drawn. We talked about our desires to move on past issues in our lives and start walking down the right path once again. We talked about today's Christians and how so many seem careless, apathetic and overwhelmed with problems, struggles and life issues.

Then it hit me. We've been guilty by association.

Misery loves company and so many times in my own life, I've seen myself gravitate towards people rather than God. "Oh, I have this problem. Let me run over here, talk to him, talk to her and hang out with someone like me. Maybe they can help me get it together. If not, at least they'll know how I feel."

Let's just be honest. Many times we choose to be around those who help justify our actions and our ways. We'd rather remain the same than to be with God be truly be renewed and refreshed. Face it, we're afraid if we change we'll lose the identity we have that we've spent a lifetime creating.

But my friends, court is about in session and your problems, issues and fears aren't going to give you the freedom you're hungry for. It's time we be with the very One who can change us from the outside in and from the inside out.

Be guilty alright. But be guilty of focusing not on the problems, but on the solution - Jesus Christ Himself.

If He created the world and His radiance alone could make the lame walk, the blind see and the hurting joyful again, what will happen to you and me when we find ourselves with Him and in His presence day in and day out?

Makes me wonder. What will we be guilty of then?

Hhmm. Just maybe we'll actually be guilty of being like Jesus.

What an interesting concept.


"After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with Him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone. There he was transfigured before them. His clothes become dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them." Mark 9:2-3

(c) 1999, J. Brady
"I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it."

My First Child Was a Dog

(2005) If you've never been to the SPCA (a local shelter for dogs and cats in the DFW area) then be prepared to take a cat or dog home if you do. That's exactly what happened to me in 1999.

I had been thinking about adding to my family at the time. I was single but dating and thought a neat little dog would help me adjust my life around taking care of something. Mom had told me I had a self-centered life and needed to learn about taking care of someone besides me. I agreed.

I had no idea what I was about to get into. Thanks mom.

Upon visiting the SPCA that day I walked in a saw this cute little black dog sitting in cage. He saw me and started whimpering. They told me he was a Jack Russell mix and that he had been found outside in the rain near Longview. Apparently he was abused by his owners and they decided to drop him off in the rain along a highway. How sad. I thought he was cute but I still wanted to look around. I liked this other red haired dog too.

As I prepared to walk out I looked over and again saw this cute little black dog staring at me. He whimpered again, wagged his tail and gave me this look that said, "I'm not gonna make it if you don't get me outta here." With the passed down, family trait "sucker" written on my forehead (thanks dad), I gave in.

On the way home, I decided I needed to make my first stop at the local pet supply store. The SPCA had put the dog in this carry box, if you will, with a handle on the top. It had little holes in it so he could see out and breathe. I left him in the box in the front seat as I ran in. He didn't seem to like being in there too much but I'd only be gone a second.

Well, I came back to find the dog sitting in the front seat waiting on me with this silly grin on his face. He had literally shredded that box from the inside out into a million little pieces that were now all over my car! He did all of this in less than 10 minutes. Yep, life as I had known it was about to change...

That was the beginning of things with my first "child". He would provide me many more stories, laughter and worry over the years to come. But, I'm glad the SPCA rescued this "little black dog" for me.

He became my best friend. I named him Max.

Colossians 1:22 "...yet now He has brought you back as His friends. He has done this through His death on the cross in His own human body. As a result, He has brought you into the very presence of God, and you are holy and blameless as you stand before Him without a single fault.

(c) 2005, J. Brady
"I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it."

No Bones About It - Volume One

I like to write. If you know me at all you know I've gone nuts with this concept of "blogs". I really have. Get me some meds quick.

Well, welcome to my world, where I hope to help show you how things in life are more than they appear. I'll make no bones about it either. I'm gonna show you how life is more than meets the eye.

Stay tuned for what is the begining of my 2nd book. "Second?" You ask. Well, yes. My first is being written, called "Seasons", but it's more for the family. It's boring 'cause it's a detailed journal of my life. Nothing more. Some of you are in it however...Actually most of you are.

This, however, will be my first printed edition and it's all gonna start right here. I hope I can share exactly what the title states - short stories with a point about anything from the realities of life, people, sports, kids, friends, dogs, politics, business, etc. that can help you in your daily walk. Some will be funny, some will be tough to read, but two things I promise; I will be real and they will all be me at my finiest!

Though most are recent, some were written years ago...you can tell by the (C) and year on the bottom of each one. I started doing this when I was in highschool. I'll eventually release an archived version called "No Bones About It - the untold stories". Probably in my "empty nest days" years from now!

Being a Christian isn't easy but all of these things can sure help us along the way. Maybe God can show us all things we've never thought of.

Come along with me. Let's have some fun.

I say it as I see it and I make no bones about it!