DON'T BE STALE!

 

     

     Imagine going into a nice Italian Restaurant for a great meal. You enter with your loved one and you are seated at a nice table in a quiet corner by a Hostess. After you get seated and handed a menu, one of the restaurant employees brings you a basket of hot, fresh Italian Bread! Yum! You grab a piece of bread, put some butter on it and as your mouth is watering, you take a bite. Yuck! It's as hard as a rock and ... it's stale! Your loved one figures, "Maybe it's just that one piece?" They do the same thing and guess what? The whole breadbasket is stale! Your waitress walks up to your table asking, "Are you ready to order?" You tell her the breadbasket you were given has all stale bread. "Would you please give us some fresh Italian bread?" She says, "Oh, I am so sorry. Let me take that away and get you both a fresh batch of hot, Italian bread in a basket." She returns with a new basket and the problem is solved. Fresh, new Italian bread! 

     No, this blog is not about bread or food. I do work two jobs that have to deal with food so I'm around it all the time. It is very rare working at Chick Fil-A where I have heard a guest walk up and say, "The bread on this sandwich is stale!" Maybe 2 times in working there over ten years. This blog is about our lives and how we are living in the moment. Are we stale around others? Do we seem very enthusiastic around other people?

     Have you ever looked around and said to yourself, "Am I really making a difference in this world? When people look at me on a daily basis, what do they see?" Recently, while I was on a register at Trader Joe's, it was very slow. We were about to close in about an hour. I started thinking to myself, "What do people see when they see me? Do they see an enthusiastic guy? Do they see an old, tired guy who is working hard? Do I come across as stale?" And the important question. "Do they see Jesus in me?" Let me be transparent! I am working very hard on not being stale. Not a whole lot of people know about my ministry background here in South Carolina. I am not called Pastor Dave. I am Dave! People don't care what I have accomplished, nor do they ask and that's okay. In New York, when I was Pastoring, I would be introduced by people and that person would share all my accomplishments. It would be embarrassing many times, but it did feel good. I'm sure that person would look at me thinking, "Wow, that guy is really on fire for God." I have realized that regardless of my title in a church and the jobs I have, I don't want people to look at me as being a stale person. I want them to see Jesus in me whether I am taking orders outside at Chick Fil-A, opening boxes of frozen food at Trader Joe's or walking into a Walmart to buy food. 

     Maybe you don't attend church and don't understand what it means "Putting Jesus first in your life." How about doing "random acts of kindness" for others? How about just sharing a smile with someone? Trust me when I say I see a lot of unhappy, miserable people ordering food or purchasing food. It makes me sad to see this. I don't want to be that person who will make their day even worse. I certainly do not know what they are going through or what is making them unhappy. I don't want to be stale when I interact with them. I want to be that person who puts a smile on their face (even if it's a forced smile) 😁. 

     So, to conclude, let us never appear to others as a stale person or stale personality. Going back to that Italian bread, it was recognized almost right away how stale it was. It was certainly not something favorable or enticing. There needed to be a change. I have made my own personal vow in 2026 and beyond that even if I am tired, cranky or feeling down, I still want to come across to others as a positive, friendly person. Certainly not stale. People want friendly and positive. Stale is a "turn off." I hope you all feel the same way!

THANK YOU FOR READING! HAVE A GREAT WEEK!    

VALENTINE'S DAY

 

     Valentine's Day has always been a day where you celebrate love! It could be your spouse, girlfriend or boyfriend and your kids. The local flower shops and 1-800 FLOWERS do very well financially to sell flowers and of course. most men do it last minute. At your local Dollar Tree, you will always see people looking for just the right Valentine's Day card and other stores sell candy with delicious heart shaped boxes of chocolate. There have been several proposals on Valentine's Day and, if the weather will cooperate in New York, some beautiful weddings. Hopefully not during a snowstorm. Many of you may not know but Valentine's Day was not just thought up one day and made up by men who were bored. There was a real Valentine. It was actually St. Valentine. Let's explore!

     There are several myths to how Valentine's Day came about. The first myth goes back to third century Rome. A local priest absolutely despised Emperor Claudius the Second. This Priest would secretly perform wedding ceremonies for soldiers even though it was against the law.  Since they were legally married, they would not have to go fight in a war. When Claudius found out about this, he had that Priest arrested and beheaded for going against his orders and laws. At the same time of this Priests arrest, the second myth is about a Catholic Bishop named Saint Valentine of Terni. He was also arrested and beheaded by Claudius for officiating wedding ceremonies which was against the law. The third myth is about a man named Valentine. He was arrested and put in jail for helping Christian prisoners in the Roman jails. This Valentine fell in love with the jailer's daughter and he wrote her messages from jail. The last one he wrote her said, "From your Valentine." Valentine's Day started out as a "Religious Holiday" and that would change years later. By the 1840, Valentine cards were being sent to loved ones because they believe Valentine's death was on February 14th! To this very day, we celebrate Valentine's Day to celebrate love for those we care about and love.

     As I reflect on Valentine's Day, of course I think about those who love me very much, but I also think a lot about how much God loves me. To think that He sent His one and only son to this earth to die on the cross for my sins just blows me away. That my friend's is true love! Of course it is important to give your loved one's flowers, a Valentine's Day card and maybe even a box of chocolates (yum) 😋! They certainly need to know you love them and care about them and, in my opinion, they need to be told this every single day. 

     When I sit back and reflect on Valentine's Day, I am grateful for those who love me. I know there are several people out there who have lost a loved one or maybe never found that right relationship where they would feel loved by someone special. I hope you realize more than anything you have a God who loves you so much. John 3:16, the most memorized verse in the Bible tells us, "For God so loved the world, that he gave His one and only Son; that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but will have everlasting life." True love! A God who loves us! That's what it's all about!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY EVERYONE!!

MY HEART BREAKS FOR THE HOMELESS!!

 

     It was 1991. Our church was hosting a Christmas Dinner for the homeless. I had just started as a Pastor, and I was curious about this event our church hosted for the first time. Our church, Smithtown Gospel Tabernacle, had just started supporting a local ministry called "Hope for the Future" whose director was Diane Dunne. She had a warehouse in Farmingdale, NY filled with food and supplies, and she would go into New York City and feed the homeless and needy twice a week. Six years later, I would later join her as a Board Member, and I also wrote articles for her newsletter. 

     Being a young Pastor and being curious, I wanted to know what they did at this event. I walked into the gym and many of our church members and the homeless were having relay races. All I could say as I walked into the gym was, "Wow, the smell is horrible!" 💩 When you don't shower, you smell. I was not very sympathetic. 😞As I entered the courtyard by the church offices, Diane Dunne, who I barely knew at the time walked over to me and asked me if I saw a gentleman named Freddie. She described to me what he looks like and boy, was she in a panic. I couldn't understand why until she told me he was a pyromaniac. WHAT? I didn't stay to volunteer, but I drove home with a bad attitude and thinking to myself, "Why can't these people just go out and get a job. Why are they so lazy? Just get a job at McDonald's flipping burgers!" Little did I know back then God wanted to do a work in my heart and give me a heart for those in need. Here's my brief story! My Readers Digest version.

     After starting as a Children's Pastor and looking for opportunities to minister, I was invited to come to NY City and join one of the Hope for the Future Ministries outreaches. I will never forget my first one. It was August 1994. I brought a group of adults with me, and we did a program in a park using puppets, clown skits and music. At the end of the program, I became very sick and could barely stand up. On the ride home I laid in the back of the van moaning. The whole ceiling was spinning around. I had the flu big time!

     Diane Dunne was very impressed with my ministry. When I formed Kids in Missions in 1996, I would bring the kids to her warehouse to help her out by making sandwiches and stocking food. I also brought kids into the city to do ministry at Thompkins Square Park. That Christmas Dinner for the homeless dinner I first attended? Well, I became the Keynote Speaker for several years. I will never forget after one Homeless Dinner event, a member from our church, Ron Kennedy told me he drove the homeless "home" after the dinner in the church bus. He told me how his heart broke when he pulled up to a park in Manhattan. He opened the bus door and watch everyone pile out into the cold night. They were not going home. They were back out on the streets. His heart broke, and yes, so did mine! God gave me a heart for the homeless and needy.

     After one event, Diane asked me if I would become a Board Member of Hope for the Future Ministries. I have to confess that after sharing at the Annual Christmas Dinner and going into the city to do ministry, I started having a bigger heart for the homeless and those in need. I actually told several people that if I ever got tired of doing kids ministry, my second and third choices would be ministry to the homeless and kids ministry. 

     Today as I now reside in South Carolina, I see the homeless every day. They walk up and down the busy street I work both jobs at on Harbison Blvd. While driving through shopping centers I see them laying down on benches in the extreme heat trying to get rest at our local Walmart. Many times, when I walk to my car after my Chick Fil-A shift, they will walk up to me and ask me for money. They come into Chick Fil-A asking for drinks, food and cups of ice. There are a few who are banned from coming onto our restaurant property because they have caused several disturbances. We have had to call the Police on them unfortunately. It is heartbreaking. 

     So, to conclude, I pray you all see the needs of others and begin to get a heart not only for the needy, but for people. It doesn't matter if you are in New York City, Columbia, South Carolina, Miami, Florida or Bismark, North Dakota. There are needy people and needs everywhere you go. We live in a society that says, "It's all about you. No one else matters. Do what feels best for you. Don't worry about everyone else." But Jesus said in Matthew 25:40 - "When you do it to the least of these, you have done it unto me." I pray all get a heart for those in need and for the "least of these. Every day I think God for what I do have. I don't want to be selfish. I want to have a heart that pleases God. That is important to me. I hope you want to please him also!         

HAVE WE REACHED OUR FULL POTENTIAL YET???

 

     

          Have you reached your full potential? Maybe you are like me. I went to Bible College to become a missionary, and I came out as a Children's Pastor. I changed my major a few times. I wasn't settled on it, even as a 19-year-old kid. I have met several people who have amazing potential, but they never reach that full potential. Some were amazing athletes. Some were amazing in ministry. Some had the potential to be great leaders. For whatever reason they lost their drive and desire to reach their goals due to circumstances and bad decisions. Unfortunately, they never reached their full potential. 

     This coming Sunday is Super Bowl number 60. The New England Patriots play the Seattle Seahawks. The 2 starting quarterbacks are Drake Maye and Sam Darnold. Both these players have always had the goal in life to play in the Super Bowl. I'm sure when they were in high school or college, they daydreamed about being the starting quarterback in the big Super Bowl game. I'm sure the other players on their team dreamed the same dream. Their goal as a professional athlete is not only to reach the Super Bowl, but to win the game. 

     In life, do we feel as though we have reached our full potential? In our job? As a parent? In a relationship? I have had a good life. I can't deny that! I have always given every employer 100%. I will confess that at a young age I was very lazy. It took some motivation from people for me to rise above that and to get motivated. Beginning at age 24, I became very motivated to reach my potential in everything I did. Sometimes I succeeded and sometimes I failed. I was trying to find my "niche," and I did when I started in children's ministry and I eventually became a Children's Pastor. 

     Lately, I have been thinking a lot about what it means as an almost 62-year-old what reaching your full potential looks like. I know I have accomplished a lot in ministry, and I am certainly not bragging. I give all the glory to God. With changes happening and my involvement with children's ministry being less and less, I have put my focus more on writing and blogging. I realize I am not going to be Max Lucado or Stephen King and that's okay. I'll just be David Harff. I will reach my full potential by doing one thing. Just writing. Sitting behind my laptop and doing it. Giving it my all. 

     We all can reach our full potential by one simple step. Giving it our all. We all have special gifts and talents. I will never be known as a great chef or financial genius. Just ask my family about how my father laughed uncontrollably when he heard the Friendly's restaurant hired me to operate the kitchen grill. That job only lasted 6 weeks! 

     Reaching our full potential takes determination, drive and others to "cheer you on." The worst thing you could ever tell someone is "You can't do it" or "You are wasting your time." Could you imagine if Babe Ruth's mom told him, "Stop playing with that baseball" or Michael Jordan's parents told him "You are wasting your time shooting baskets. Now go practice that cello!" Or if Tom Hanks family told him, "Acting school? You will never make it. Learn carpentry. You will do better financially." Our world would be a different place and those people I mentioned would be miserable. They would never reach their full potential in life. 

     I have done plenty of "soul searching since I've moved to South Carolina. I know I have blogged before about making changes as I get older (and wiser) 😁, My full potential can be accomplished only by me and no one else. I have to have the drive and motivation. Nobody will do it for me. After soul searching for quite a while, I do feel good about where I am at and where I am headed. I just want to put Jesus first in my life and keep my focus on Him! Until the day He calls me home, I will strive to reach my full potential in my work, writing, ministry and relationships. I am not perfect whatsoever. I just want to do my best.

THANKS FOR READING AND I HOPE YOU REACH YOUR FULL POTENTIAL ALSO!

COMPLAINING

 

     Complaining. It's something we all do. Some more than others. Some complain about work and church. Some about their family or their neighbors. Some, well, they just can't help it but all they do is complain. "It's hot out. My boss is annoying me. I can't believe I have to spend Thanksgiving with my brother-in-law. My car keeps breaking down. I wish my company would give me a raise." You all know what I mean. We have all been there! 

     While serving as a Chick Fil-A manager, I heard several complaints from guests. One guest, while I was collecting money at the drive thru window called corporate on me because I wouldn't give him 37 sauces. He ordered 2 meals. 37 sauces is very excessive. Would you agree? Another guest wanted to challenge me to a fight because he decided to change his order last minute to a large meal after I already took his money. I kindly made a suggestion to him that the next time he orders, just make sure you say, "I want a large meal." He didn't like that and asked if I would meet him out back after work. Apparently, he was "on the spectrum" and no, he was not in the parking lot when I left work that day. I also heard several people complain their orders were wrong and my all-time favorite was always, "Excuse me, I didn't get fries with my Chick Fil-A sandwich entree."  Exactly! 

     I am not writing about others complaining. I am writing about us. Yes! That person you see when you look in the mirror. Have you ever been around someone who constantly complains? Have you ever found yourself doing the same thing and joining in? As a young pastor who didn't know any better, I made the mistake of meeting with a board member and sharing with him my "frustrations." I did not agree with how things were going and I thought it would make a difference. Maybe just maybe changes would be made. They weren't. I was about 29 years old, and I regret ever meeting with this board member. My "complaining" got me nowhere. To this very day, I have learned to stop myself whenever I complain. I have a select few people I do confide in whenever I do need to vent. Complaining gets us nowhere. So, what is complaining? Mr. Google says its, "The expression of dissatisfaction or annoyance about something." We are all human. We all complain. Trust me when I say there are several times in my life when I was dissatisfied with a job, a church or a family situation. Being very young, I would complain excessively hoping at least my complaining would make a difference. As an almost 62-year-old man, I will let you know from experience that COMPLAINING GETS YOU NOWHERE! Sure, you might feel better venting, but it will not change the situation.

     The bible does talk about complaining. In fact, God encourages us to complain to him. Psalm 142:1, 2 says, "I cry aloud to the Lord; I lift up my voice to the Lord for mercy. I pour out before him my complaint; before him I tell my trouble." So, to wrap up this blog, I want to encourage you all to take a break from complaining Do you have a complaint? Talk to God about it! Psalm 142 tells us to "pour out our complaint and tell him our troubles." God wants to hear our "complaints" even if they might seem very petty. I have had several times in my car and during my quiet time when I have let God know my complaints and frustrations, especially when it comes to finances. I have always felt better when my rant was over. I'm so glad God never turns a deaf ear to us! Thank goodness he doesn't say, "Wow! I really wish he would stop his nonsense and grow up!" Thank you, God, for loving us in spite of our complaining!

     I HOPE YOU ALL HAVE A BLESSED WEEK! THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!   

IS IT REAL??

 

     Yes, I realize I posted a picture of the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus. Christmas was 25 days ago, and Easter is on April 5th. This is a blog about belief and knowing what is real. Speaking on that, I will never forget where I was when I found out Santa Claus was not real. I was in 4th grade, and I was talking to 2 other kids about Christmas. I was probably the only kid who believed Santa was real even at 10 years of age. We were talking about Christmas and I blurted out, "I wish Christmas was every single day!" One of the kids said, "If that was true your parents would be broke." I said, "What do you mean? Santa comes to our house!" Well, let's just say that comment caused me to get made fun of by several classmates, which was very embarrassing, especially since I was such a mature 4th grader ... NOT! I was humiliated but I learned that the fat chubby guy with a white beard and red suit was all made up. It was all in good fun. "Santa isn't real! How could you believe that, Harff?" That's when I found out Santa was a fake and my mom later confirmed it. I then figured out the tooth fairy was also fake. I always wondered why he or she had to use the small Dixey cups from our bathroom to put change in when he couldn't supply his own cups. It was left under my bed when I was asleep. Then lastly, it was the Easter Bunnies turn to learn of his history. I always envisioned him as some guy in a bunny costume and not a real bunny. I knew he didn't come down our chimney, so I guess he had a key for our house. He was not real. It was time for me to grow up. Just ask my mom, I did not want to grow up. Working as a children's pastor and talking to puppets is living proof I haven't grown up! 

     I often wonder how kids today view God. If they are fooled into believing in Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy and the Easter Bunny, do they believe God is real? When you teach them about Jesus, do they think he is going to bring them presents and leave money under their pillow? Do they think he only shows up once a year? Does he make all your dreams come true? We know God loves us, but like Santa is he making a list, checking it twice trying to figure out if you are naughty or nice? Do kids believe he is just another fairy tale? My mom shared with me several years ago about how when she was young, they would recite a prayer in school every day before classes began. Today, you are not allowed to pray in schools. God is not taught in schools anymore. It breaks my heart to hear that the New York City Mayor took his oath to office with his hand on a Koran, not a Bible. 

     In spite of what the world and schools tell our kids that God is not real and there are other paths to happiness, I know for a fact God is real. I have heard his still small voice. I have seen him work in my life and I have sensed his presence through good times and bad. When I read the bible, he speaks to me, I have read the bible several times and I will confess I learn something new each time I read it. I don't claim to be a bible scholar. I am just a regular guy who loves Jesus, I love His word and just want to be close to him. It saddens me to hear how schools would rather teach children about meditation, New Age Theology and Astrology. The very thought of teaching them about God "goes against the laws of church and state." How sad! In the last several years, after school Satan programs have also been formed starting in Florida. Their premise is "Let's make the devil fun for kids!" Fun? Seriously? I realize Bible Clubs are allowed also but many of them go through such grief to get started. So sad!

     I pray that God is real in your life. Put him first! He will never let you down! I always laugh when people say, "You are very religious" or "I guess religion works for you." The definition of "religion" is "belief in a supernatural power." Religion is man-made! All "religions" were ideas created by men looking for answers to life. In fact, all of these so called "god's" these people worship and believe in are all dead. Buddha, Muhammed, Hare Krishna, all Hindu god's ... all buried in the ground. But Jesus is alive. His tomb is empty! Forget about them! I am talking more about a RELATIONSHIP with God. That's where the "rubber meets the road" friends! That's what has made a difference in my life. I pray you take the same road and have a personal relationship with Jesus! 

HAVE A GREAT WEEK EVERYONE!!

LIFE CHANGES

 

     This blog has a double meaning. We go through life changes, as life changes. In other words, changes take place in our lives after 60 years, but we all need to make that decision to make changes on our own when it comes to life. Okay, I know this sounds like an old Abbott and Costello routine like "Who's on first?" I have discovered a lot about myself in the last few years. I have done a lot of soul searching. I need to make changes in me as I go forward in life. Maybe you do as well?

     Last summer at my church I was playing frisbee with two brothers who were waiting for their mom to finish a class. One of the brothers threw the frisbee high in the air. I went running as fast as I could to catch that frisbee. The two brothers were laughing so hard at me and one of them said really loud, "I have never seen you run before! That was funny." I answered, "I'm not too old to run!" Honestly, I can't remember the last time I ran before that frisbee run. Maybe it was the last time I went for a long jog in my neighborhood, probably in 2018. 

     While taking orders outside at Chick Fil-A here in South Carolina, a man probably 10 years older than me looked at me and jokingly said, "I was hoping to see a nice-looking young lady to take my order, not an old guy like you!" Thanks a lot, sir! Whenever I go outside to take orders with a fellow team member Donnie who is 57 years old, we are dubbed "The Old Guys" and make jokes with our guests and try to give them a good laugh. Sometimes we pretend we can't hear and hold onto our backs like we are in pain. We have fun! Donnie and I tell each other "Dad jokes." 

     At my new job at Trader Joe's, I have been asked to help close the store with several other workers. I looked around the store after we closed and realized I was the oldest one there. My bosses are the same age as my kids! I was the only worker there with gray hair. The next day, I was happy to see a lady with gray hair closing but, of course, I did not ask her how old she was! 😃

     Back at Chick Fil-A, this time in Commack, NY, a group of young girls are talking about their favorite singers and songs. I have no clue what they were talking about so, being the jokester that I am I turned to another team member who is close to my age and said out loud, "Hey, have you heard the latest 8-track from the Bay City Rollers? Wasn't it far out?" You should have seen the looks I got from those young ladies. Blank stares! 😀 

     Next month I am turning 62. I have to admit my body feels like it's going to be 62 every morning. I wake up with the same back and shoulder pain. I sometimes make "my father's noise" when I get out of bed. I realize I can't do the things I did when I was 15. Back then I loved playing sports ... football, baseball, street hockey, tennis ...I stunk at playing basketball! I do admit one thing. My body says it will be 62, but many times my brain tells me I am turning 22. I don't come home from work and grab a basketball and shoot baskets like I did after school as a kid. Many times, I sit on my couch so I can catch my breath. I do like to go to the gym, and I realize I am not going there to look like Arnold Schwarzenegger, but to try to improve on Dave Harff's health. Life changes!

     So, life does change. We grow old. We need to adjust with those changes, and, in a sense, we need to make life changes. There are things I cannot do that I did 25-30 years ago. I need to make adjustments. Yes, I admit, it's time to slow down. Did I just write that? I love staying active, but I also realize I need to make those necessary life changes. I learned this past year that my days as a children's pastor are probably over. I'm sure a local church would rather have a young guy or girl leading their kid's ministry instead of a gray-haired guy. I know I have the experience, but I also know it's time to "turn the page" and move on to other things. It doesn't mean I plan on stopping with Grandpa Lou and company. My goal is to go into libraries with a program to encourage kids in their lives but most of all to be a "light in the darkness." I have developed a character I call "Inspector Chili Beanie" who will bring the kids on a "super sleuth" adventure at my proposed library program. I also see myself getting involved in a local ministry more so than a church. Possibly with the needy. There are needs everywhere so by the end of this year, after my sabbatical, my prayer is to be involved somewhere. Please keep me in prayer about this.  

     I would like to end by quoting a line from the movie Ferris Bueller's Day Off. "Life moves pretty fast! If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." Life does move fast! I just want to enjoy every second the Good Lord has me here. I want to make a difference in our world. It could be from my writing, doing a library program or doing whatever he is calling me to do. I just want to enjoy my life changes as we enter the second half of this decade. Who knows how much more time I have here? 1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us "In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God." I have clearly learned to be thankful during the good, the bad and the ugly things in life. As long as I am breathing here on earth I just want to give and do my best! How about you?

HAVE A GREAT WEEK AND HAVE A GREAT LIFE, FRIENDS!! 

     

     

KING DARIUS KNEW WHAT WAS UP!

 

     

     I have read the story of Daniel in the Lion's Den one hundred times. I even did a puppet show on this story in Bible College while on the Puppet Team. On tape, the voice of the lion was the same guy who did the voice for the cartoon character "Snagglepuss."The voice of Daniel was the actor who played Wilbur on the old Mr. Ed TV show. For those of you who were born after 1985, that was a TV show about a "talking horse". This story is in the book of Daniel Chapter 6, and it begins with a young, rebellious administrator who many tried to find any corruption in him. His name was Daniel. They did seem to feel that down the road Daniel would somehow break the laws of God since he seemed to be a very rebellious man. Daniel was a man of prayer, and he would soon find out how so many of these so called "Leaders" were against him and his God! What I love about Daniel is that he didn't care what people thought about him. All he wanted to do was to please God. 

     It seems as though these leaders, under the authority of King Darius wanted so much to frame poor Daniel. Under the guidance of administrators and satraps, the King issued a decree stating that anyone who prays to any god or human, except to the King in the next 30 days will be thrown into the lion's den. King Darius put this decree in writing and that's when Daniel showed these leaders he would not be intimidated.

     Daniel showed these leaders he would not compromise the most important thing in his life. His communication with God and his prayer life. The bible says he prayed 3 times a day in his room with his windows open. The same men who urged King Darius to issue the decree about prayer found Daniel praying and, as you would expect, they ratted on Daniel. "King Darius, did you not issue a decree stating no one could pray to their God but only to you?' King Darius answered, "Yes, that decree stands in accordance with the law." They told King Darius, "Daniel prays 3 times a day. He pays no attention to you." As you read this passage you can see how the king was being told what to do but also the heart the king had for Daniel. We then read how the king wanted to rescue Daniel and save him!

     The administrators and satraps were at it again telling the king he could NOT change his decree whatsoever. I'm sure reluctantly, the king gave his orders to have Daniel thrown into the lion's den. Before they were to place the stone over the mouth of the lion's den after Daniel was thrown in, the king looks down at Daniel who was surrounded by hungry lion's and says, "May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you." They placed a stone over the mouth the lion's den. The only ones in that lion's den were hungry lions and Daniel. The king went to his palace, and the bible tells us he could not eat or sleep and he also was not in the mood for any entertainment whatsoever.   

     As morning approached, King Darius got up and hurried over to the lion's den and called to Daniel in an anguished voice, "Daniel! servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to rescue you from the lions?" Daniel answered, "May the king live forever! My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I done anything wrong before you, your majesty." Daniel was then lifted out of the lion's den. He had no wounds because he trusted God. The king ordered that all those who falsely accused Daniel, along with their wives and children be thrown into the lion's den. When they were all thrown in, unfortunately for them they were all devoured by the hungry lions. King Darius then issued a new decree that everyone must fear and revere the God of Daniel. It was obvious that God was working on the heart of King Darius.

     What always intrigued me about this story is two things. The first thing is the fact that after Daniel is thrown into the lion's den, the king looks down at Daniel and says, "May your God rescue you," I don't know about you, but if I threw a guy into a lion's den, I would not expect that once he hit that dirt floor that he wouldn't be devoured by hungry lions. Lions are known to be vicious animals who attack. Especially some guy all by himself.  My theory has always been that the king knew in his heart that there was something special about Daniel. I don't think he really wanted to issue any decree about no one praying to their god. I believe he was very impressed with Daniel's life. But, of course, he had pressure from his peers, and we all know peer pressure is everywhere, even during bible times!

     The second thing that intrigued me was at the end of this story. The king can't eat or sleep. He wants no one to entertain him. This whole situation was troubling his heart. I'm sure he laid awake at night and was tossing and turning in his royal bed worried and troubled. This part of the story always gets me. After waking up, he runs to the lion's den calling to Daniel. Not for nothing, but I would assume Daniel was eaten by the lions and devoured after being in there all night. I would not think if it were me that I should be calling an assumed dead man saying, and I paraphrase "Is everything okay down there? Are you still there? Were you saved?" I also would not expect an answer from anyone who spent an entire night and beyond in a lion's den. However, I believe the king knew in his heart that the God Daniel serves is an amazing God who cares for his children. Even during a trying and difficult time, God demonstrated his loving and caring hand over Daniel. Daniel left that lion's den with absolutely no wounds, scratches or injuries. What an amazing testimony of God at work!

     This story teaches us the importance of prayer, but also the importance of not being ashamed of living the Christian life while we are being harassed and persecuted. It also teaches us about God's hand of protection over us during challenging times. Being thrown into a lion's den, of course, is extreme and not something we would face today. But in our own lives, we face impossible situations whether it is financial of physical. In the end, God always makes a way for us. Lastly, it teaches us to keep going no matter what situation we face. It's not the end of the world! God has a plan for us so we can never stop "running the race" that is set before us.   

     So, my challenge to you all is simple. Live the life! Live for God! Don't let anyone harass you or put you down. You have the greater one inside of you! Don't ever stop praying to him. He always has an answer for us and he wants what's best for His children! We might feel like, at times, that the situation we face is similar to being thrown into a lion's den. Romans 8:28 tells us "All things work together for the good for those who love God and are called according to his purpose. King Darius knew what was up. God proved to him he is in control!

HAVE A BLESSED DAY EVERYONE!

           

      

MY DEBT WAS PAID!!

 

     I have not told very many people about this but last November, on the 4th day exactly I was in a car accident. I was not hurt, and neither was the other driver. I was traveling down a hill on my way home and there was a green SUV over on the right side of the road in front of me. They did not have their directional on and stopped suddenly. I tried to pass and suddenly that car turned into me claiming they were going to make a left. It was a young girl and after the accident she got out of her car screaming at me claiming it was my fault. My fault? There were 3 witnesses, 2 were sitting on their porch in front of their home and they told me it was my fault. It was 4 against one! The Police arrived and not only did I have some damage to my car, I also was issued a ticket for "driving on the wrong side of the road." The ticket was for well over $200! The officer told me I would have to appear in court on December 10th, and he told me the fine might be reduced if I show up. Of course he told me "Have a nice day." Sure!

     This whole situation stressed me out. I could not believe I was given a ticket trying to avoid a vehicle that was pulled over. The other driver was a young girl, and the Police Officer was a young guy so my theory for a while was of course he would take the side of a young girl and not a gray-haired man like me. I will confess I did not like talking about this. I did lose sleep. My mind would race and think about what happened as well as stressing about this court date. I would have to face a judge, I had the option of hiring a lawyer, something I couldn't afford but I did think a lot about where I was going to get the fine money from. I wasn't sure the judge would be in favor of a transplanted New Yorker. I spent a lot of time praying about this situation asking God to take away my fears and anxiety especially. I will confess I did lose sleep waking up at 3:00 a.m. for many days. That was not good since I needed to wake up for work at 4:30 a.m. 

     Finally, December 10th arrived. I needed to report to the Town of Irmo Municipal Court at 5:00 p.m. I was nervous. I wondered the following. Will the person in the other vehicle show up? Will she be bringing a lawyer like Perry Mason? Will my fine be doubled? Will my fine be reduced. I went through security, filled out paperwork and anxiously waited for the court session to begin. There were many other cases besides mine. I watched a few cases before my name was called. One case was a man who didn't pay his fines, and he was handcuffed and taken away. Other cases were people paying their fines. The judge told us there were several cases that evening and that we could be there for a few hours. I was fortunate as my case was number eight. The judge called me name and my heart pounded. I wondered if it was possible my ticket fine would be reduced. I said a quick prayer and stood before the judge. I was praying she would not be Judge Judy! The judge read my charge "Crossing a double yellow line driving on the left side of the road etc." All I said was my name and I answered her questions with yes and no. The judge asked if the "other party" was present. I couldn't understand why she would be there unless she was given a ticket. The police officer, who was at the scene of the accident was in front of me on the right and the judge was directly in front of me. The young lady involved with the accident was not present. I took a deep breath, then I heard words from the judge I was very happy to hear. "Since the other party is not present, you are free to go, Mr. Harff. No charge." I thanked the judge, turned around and walked out of the court with a spring in my step. My debt was forgiven. I didn't have to pay the city of Irmo, South Carolina a penny! I was in shock, but I was very grateful. You have no idea.

     I am not sharing this to share a cute story about me. Sure, it was a stressful time in my life. Sure, I lost sleep over it. Sure, I was nervous walking into that tiny courthouse building. I did not know my fate whatsoever. I am sharing this story because it reminds me of an amazing event that took place well over 2000 years ago. We all had our debt paid when Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins. I am not talking about a financial debt; I am talking about our "sin debt." We are all born into this world a sinner. The bible tells us in Romans 3:23 - "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." We can't deny the fact that we do sin. Anyone who says they are without sin, just sinned. How? They just lied! In order to be forgiven of our sin, we needed someone to pay the debt of our sin. That's why God sent his one and only son Jesus. Jesus was perfect and without sin. He did miracles by healing the sick and giving the blind sight. Many followed Jesus and all they knew is that He loved them and He would change the world. The Pharisees, who still followed the "old laws" did not appreciate what Jesus was doing and they were instrumental in having Jesus crucified on a cross. Jesus did nothing wrong. He was not a criminal. He did amazing things for the people. He demonstrated love in everything He did. But his greatest act of love was when He took our place on a cross to have our sins forgiven. He shed his blood on that old, rugged cross as those spikes were nailed into his hands and feet. So how did he pay our debt? It was as if he was saying, "Don't punish them. Punish me! I'll take their place!" By taking our place on the cross of Calvary, our debt has been paid.

     My debt was forgiven in that small courtroom in Irmo, SC on December 10, 2025, by a nice, understanding judge. My "sin debt" was forgiven well over 2000 years ago by a loving savior named Jesus Christ who took my place on that blood stained cross. That judge blessed me as I did not have to pay a fine. I didn't have to reach into my wallet and pay the city of Irmo, SC money that I really didn't have. My loving savior, Jesus blessed not only me but all of mankind for taking our place on that cross and forgiven our "sin debt." If we accept him into our hearts and ask him to forgive us of our sins, we receive a free gift. Eternal life! I don't know about you, but that puts a huge smile on my face knowing I am going to heaven forever. Not because I am a nice guy or I have been in full time ministry. It's because my debt was paid of all those lousy sins that have weighed me down throughout my life. Just like in the Old Testament, I don't have to sacrifice a lamb in my backyard and drain the blood of that animal for my sins to be forgiven. Jesus was that sacrificial lamb who paid a huge price for us. My debt was paid! Your debt is paid, too! Give Jesus your life! I cannot live without him! He is truly number one in my life. He will make a difference in your life as well!

HAVE A HAPPY NEW YEAR AND GOD BLESS!