No sweat

Prayer Warriors?

We hit triple digits at our house this afternoon, which should mean sweating like a hot horse. But with 5% humidity that doesn't happen. We should be in the mid-80's at this time of year and the weather guy says we'll be there in another two days. That's a good thing because I'm spending all of Wednesday working outside.
I spent today working inside, ripping up carpet and vinyl in anticipation of installing new vinyl tomorrow. I worked quickly and it was hard work. Doing that on a Monday and not drinking enough left me whooped. I think that from here on, if possible, I'm going to keep Mondays free, at least of more physical jobs. After a Sunday I need a recovery day. I know a lot of pastors who are fine the next day but I've never been able to dial back the energy on a Sunday morning and I feel the effects the next day.

I got word that Marge Koning died early this morning. I think she was 89. Marge was a very nice lady and I enjoyed having her in my church. She had a good sense of humor, laughed easily, and teasing her on occasion, especially about her beloved Detroit Tigers, gave us a good connection.
I'm glad Marge is in God's presence this evening; she's a happy person. I feel badly for Ken & Sue who will miss her a lot. The two of them too great care of her for many, many years.

The Pope arrives here tomorrow. Well, not here here, but NY here. President Bush is going to pick him up at the airport. Cell phone lot?
You're supposed to stand when the President enters the room. I think that bit of protocol probably applies to Americans and not others.
When you're ushered into the Pope's presence you're supposed to kiss his papal ring. He extends his hand, you bend over and kiss that sign of his authority.
Question: should a Christian do that? On the one hand it shows respect for someone who holds an office. On the other hand, we don't recognize his authority as Pope, God's vicar over all believers. So would kissing his ring constitute giving to man what belongs only to God?
What would you do if you got an audience with the Pope? What will President Bush do?

I sent off our tax checks this morning. I figured it didn't make sense to send the money to them any earlier than necessary. I hope they spend it wisely.