Tomorrow morning you and I will be gathered together with other followers of The Way. Hundreds of millions of people will be gathering to worship the Savior, Emmanuel, God with us. Are you ready? Where is your heart tonight? Where are your thoughts? Do you have any grievances and struggles with others? Are you running away from dealing with those, or from giving them to God? Are you being pulled away God and your relationship to him by the movie your watching? Have you stopped to reflect on your day, your week, and go over it with Jesus?
Truth is, I've watched at least one movie and more TV today among doing all the other things I needed to do. There's nothing wrong with that, but now I find I'm not as connected to God right now as I want to be. I am aware of my own weakness, lack of discipline, distractedness. Yet now all is quiet in our home. The TV is off, I must be early to bed to rise and begin the morning of serving early with many others who will do the same.
May we think over questions like these, and admit to God our shortcomings in the answers to them, and look to Him for the filling grace and joy, so that tomorrow we can serve with hearts full, while at the same time seeing Him, hearing from Him, and being filled more.
Come, Emmanuel. Ransom the captives.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Foolishness of God at Advent
1 Corinthians 1:18-31 is an amazing passage that talks about the wisdom of God looking like absolute foolishness to mankind, except to those who love God with all their hearts. As we enter into this advent season, think about the prophets. Think about Isaiah’s suffering servant passage…this is the Messiah? A man who would be broken and bruised beyond recognition?
The whole idea of God, the Word, the Supreme Being of the universe seen and unseen, coming and taking on the form of us, to have blood coursing through his veins, to have canker sores, to be in the womb of a 13 year old girl and grow and be born as a little baby in an animal barn…when you stop and consider it, isn’t it absolutely CRAZY? It doesn’t make sense! It seems so completely ridiculous, and amazing and astounding.
I’m remembering a scene from the Fellowship of the Ring, at the council in Rivendell as the story of the ring is unfolded and the plan that Gandalf and Elrond seem to have thought of about what must be done…Boromir’s response is “This is utter folly.” The idea of pinning all the hope of the world on a four foot hobbit seems completely idiotic to a man who is used to warfare. Everyone knows it—the way to win wars and beat the enemy is to have a bigger or at least better army with superior fighting strength. Israel thought the way to beat the Roman empire was for God to send a great warrior captain to lead them into battle. But the Roman empire was the smaller story, God had bigger things to save them and us from, and needed someone even more powerful than an army. And so he promised that Emmanuel would come, God with us.
The whole idea of God, the Word, the Supreme Being of the universe seen and unseen, coming and taking on the form of us, to have blood coursing through his veins, to have canker sores, to be in the womb of a 13 year old girl and grow and be born as a little baby in an animal barn…when you stop and consider it, isn’t it absolutely CRAZY? It doesn’t make sense! It seems so completely ridiculous, and amazing and astounding.
I’m remembering a scene from the Fellowship of the Ring, at the council in Rivendell as the story of the ring is unfolded and the plan that Gandalf and Elrond seem to have thought of about what must be done…Boromir’s response is “This is utter folly.” The idea of pinning all the hope of the world on a four foot hobbit seems completely idiotic to a man who is used to warfare. Everyone knows it—the way to win wars and beat the enemy is to have a bigger or at least better army with superior fighting strength. Israel thought the way to beat the Roman empire was for God to send a great warrior captain to lead them into battle. But the Roman empire was the smaller story, God had bigger things to save them and us from, and needed someone even more powerful than an army. And so he promised that Emmanuel would come, God with us.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Ahhhh!!!
I'm still here, still in the battle, and man is it ever a fight! There is so much that comes at us each day trying to turn us off to Jesus, to his presence, to the Holy Spirit inside of us, to the bigger story God is writing for us. I don't have time to write where I've been lately, but I encourage you to do what I'm trying to learn--to bring Jesus into every moment. I know I've failed countless times in the past few days, and I've hurt myself and others, those I love deeply, in the process. But we press on knowing that Jesus is our righteousness!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Reboot?
It's been haunting me that I haven't done anything on here in a couple months. I had high hopes around my birthday of pretty much telling you about my life in my twenties. So much for that. I haven't been to the gym in at least 3 weeks either. Just like everything else, you have to fight for your blog time. You have to intentionally make time for it, otherwise it won't get done.
I think it's part of the way "the matrix" is set up, to keep us all so busy with our lives that we become like robots--eat, sleep, work, watch the kids, watch TV, play video games, etc. All the while getting more disconnected from our hearts, and yet at the end of the day there's a slight pain in the soul that says, "if I had just 30 mins to myself I could write something meaningful." Underneath the desire to write is the desire to be ALIVE. To be aware. To be alive to God and aware of Jesus in every moment.
You'll know I'm fighting for it if I keep writing...
I think it's part of the way "the matrix" is set up, to keep us all so busy with our lives that we become like robots--eat, sleep, work, watch the kids, watch TV, play video games, etc. All the while getting more disconnected from our hearts, and yet at the end of the day there's a slight pain in the soul that says, "if I had just 30 mins to myself I could write something meaningful." Underneath the desire to write is the desire to be ALIVE. To be aware. To be alive to God and aware of Jesus in every moment.
You'll know I'm fighting for it if I keep writing...
Friday, August 28, 2009
The Twenties: Decade in Review: 21
At the end of the previously mentioned summer, I turned 21. A friend named Matt, who had worked with us over the summer, met up with me at a local restaurant, where I ordered a "Red Dog" beer. I didn't know what I was doing, was clueless about beer, and hated the taste of it. But I drank the whole thing because I didn't want to look lame around my friend.
Around the same time, the college made me move into a dorm room with a freshman (I was a senior). It became a apparent almost instantly that we had nothing in common. After a couple months, he moved in with a friend so I had the room to myself. It was fun. It was a little weird being a senior living with mostly underclassmen, but I had no prior experience to compare it to, so I enjoyed it enough.
To be honest, this was a tough year for me. I was incredibly infatuated with a couple of women, struggled with adjusting to life on my own, found a few good friendships, and a few that I kept up even though I knew they weren't very good ones. Without realizing it at the time, I turned to being insanely busy to help feel a bit less lonely (which of course didn't work). Besides keeping a full schedule of 16 credit hours of classes, I:
--worked in the kitchen 8-10 hours a week, sometimes in the middle of the night
--became the worship leader for all chapels, which met 3 times a week
--acted as head of the team behind "More Than That", a student-led additional worship time meeting on Wednesday nights.
Of course, even with all that, I procrastinated with many games of ping-pong, interesting conversations, and Mariokart marathons. Through it all the loneliness and inner struggles lingered on. I had a lot of acquaintances, but only a few real friends. Unfortunately, I was blinded to their reaching out because I was so infatuated with others (let this serve as a warning to the reader to be applied in your own life).
Despite the struggles, I got a ton of good experience as a worship leader, I had a lot of laughs, and a lot of relational experience. I had always been an honor-roll/dean's list student so I graduated with about a 3.8 GPA in early May of 2001. A week after graduating, I payed $500 to UPS my library ahead of me, packed my Ford Festiva to the gills (You shoulda seen it!) and drove to Oviedo, Florida.
I had already decided in my junior year of college where I would go to seminary. I didn't know anyone when I moved to Florida, the seminary had found me a place to rent a room for $200/month. I moved in with a retiree who smoked cheap cigars in the house, and his huge black lab, and my fellow rentee, a Taiwanese RTS student. I applied to all the local retail stores for a job, and the first to call me was Publix (the one at 419 and Lockhart). I started working in the meat market, where I'd work for the next four years to put myself through Seminary.
I tried one Sunday attending an OPC church I'd heard about, but it was completely on the other side of town, and my host, Dick, mentioned his son Chuck was a pastor at nearby Willow Creek PCA. I attended in the morning and at night (like a good Reformed Dutchman...) and liked the evening crowd because most everyone was my age or a few years older. Nearly everyone was associated with the seminary in some way. I found a community where people accepted me as I was, I felt like they instantly new who I was, faults and all, but genuinely wanted me to be part of them. Thus began my journey with Willow Creek at Night and Sojourn.
Around the same time, the college made me move into a dorm room with a freshman (I was a senior). It became a apparent almost instantly that we had nothing in common. After a couple months, he moved in with a friend so I had the room to myself. It was fun. It was a little weird being a senior living with mostly underclassmen, but I had no prior experience to compare it to, so I enjoyed it enough.
To be honest, this was a tough year for me. I was incredibly infatuated with a couple of women, struggled with adjusting to life on my own, found a few good friendships, and a few that I kept up even though I knew they weren't very good ones. Without realizing it at the time, I turned to being insanely busy to help feel a bit less lonely (which of course didn't work). Besides keeping a full schedule of 16 credit hours of classes, I:
--worked in the kitchen 8-10 hours a week, sometimes in the middle of the night
--became the worship leader for all chapels, which met 3 times a week
--acted as head of the team behind "More Than That", a student-led additional worship time meeting on Wednesday nights.
Of course, even with all that, I procrastinated with many games of ping-pong, interesting conversations, and Mariokart marathons. Through it all the loneliness and inner struggles lingered on. I had a lot of acquaintances, but only a few real friends. Unfortunately, I was blinded to their reaching out because I was so infatuated with others (let this serve as a warning to the reader to be applied in your own life).
Despite the struggles, I got a ton of good experience as a worship leader, I had a lot of laughs, and a lot of relational experience. I had always been an honor-roll/dean's list student so I graduated with about a 3.8 GPA in early May of 2001. A week after graduating, I payed $500 to UPS my library ahead of me, packed my Ford Festiva to the gills (You shoulda seen it!) and drove to Oviedo, Florida.
I had already decided in my junior year of college where I would go to seminary. I didn't know anyone when I moved to Florida, the seminary had found me a place to rent a room for $200/month. I moved in with a retiree who smoked cheap cigars in the house, and his huge black lab, and my fellow rentee, a Taiwanese RTS student. I applied to all the local retail stores for a job, and the first to call me was Publix (the one at 419 and Lockhart). I started working in the meat market, where I'd work for the next four years to put myself through Seminary.
I tried one Sunday attending an OPC church I'd heard about, but it was completely on the other side of town, and my host, Dick, mentioned his son Chuck was a pastor at nearby Willow Creek PCA. I attended in the morning and at night (like a good Reformed Dutchman...) and liked the evening crowd because most everyone was my age or a few years older. Nearly everyone was associated with the seminary in some way. I found a community where people accepted me as I was, I felt like they instantly new who I was, faults and all, but genuinely wanted me to be part of them. Thus began my journey with Willow Creek at Night and Sojourn.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
The Twenties: Decade in Review: 20
20. On the eve of my birthday, 1999, I was just starting my junior year of college in Grand Rapids, MI. I was living at home, just coming off of a summer of doing construction all day every day, building and repairing homes. That year was about transition, as my parents began to follow God's leaving to move again into foster care, somewhere away from Michigan. It was interesting having just the four of us at home, no foster kids.
I was torn between hanging out with the crowd at Reformed Bible College (now Kuyper) who were conservatively minded theologically, and those who were into what we called "Praise and worship music." I sort of hung out with both, tried to do my studying or hanging out with friends in the evening, and not spend so many nights at home.
Soon after the end of the school year, we had sold our house in Rockford, I moved into the on-campus apartments, and my brother graduated high school and drove to Clovis, NM, to live with my parents on a 6000-acre ranch. That summer I worked with my Uncle and my Grandpa building homes, returning in the evenings to hang with the few students left on campus over the summer. We often watched movies or played board games. I ate far too many $1 totino's pizzas. It was my first few months of life without parental authority nearby.
I was torn between hanging out with the crowd at Reformed Bible College (now Kuyper) who were conservatively minded theologically, and those who were into what we called "Praise and worship music." I sort of hung out with both, tried to do my studying or hanging out with friends in the evening, and not spend so many nights at home.
Soon after the end of the school year, we had sold our house in Rockford, I moved into the on-campus apartments, and my brother graduated high school and drove to Clovis, NM, to live with my parents on a 6000-acre ranch. That summer I worked with my Uncle and my Grandpa building homes, returning in the evenings to hang with the few students left on campus over the summer. We often watched movies or played board games. I ate far too many $1 totino's pizzas. It was my first few months of life without parental authority nearby.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Aidan is One!
A year ago today, God gave us our firstborn son. Aidan Michael was not our first pregnancy, but he has been worth the wait. He has brought much joy into our lives. He's helped us grow as individuals, largely in that we've had to face up to the challenges of parenthood. I must say we've been blessed with what most people would consider to be an easy baby. But still, we've learned to sacrifice our time, energy, desires, and free time, for his sake.
I've grown a lot in the past year as a man, and I attribute a fair amount of that growth to being a father. I know and trust that in the months ahead, more growth will take place as each stage of Aidan's development presents new challenges. More and more I have a desire for our family to be more structured with regard to time and time management. There are things that my parents did growing up that I want to incorporate into our family life--taking what I had, and making our own version of it.
So while I look to the next year of raising Aidan, I thank God for the past year, for the amazing and incredible gift of a son who is so cute, entertaining, and full of joy.
Happy Birthday Aidan. Daddy loves you.
I've grown a lot in the past year as a man, and I attribute a fair amount of that growth to being a father. I know and trust that in the months ahead, more growth will take place as each stage of Aidan's development presents new challenges. More and more I have a desire for our family to be more structured with regard to time and time management. There are things that my parents did growing up that I want to incorporate into our family life--taking what I had, and making our own version of it.
So while I look to the next year of raising Aidan, I thank God for the past year, for the amazing and incredible gift of a son who is so cute, entertaining, and full of joy.
Happy Birthday Aidan. Daddy loves you.
Monday, August 3, 2009
5 things my teams did yesterday that you might not know actually get done
1. Move about 300 chairs out of the way in classrooms to make room for Grace Fellowship classrooms.
2. Go through all the seats between services and take out all trash, put a Bible and an invite card on every seat (yes, you are supposed to take those cards WITH YOU and GIVE THEM AWAY!!)
3. Shook 300 hands and gave out 300 worship guides.
4. Set up almost 100 feet of pipe and drape, 4 trade show kiosks, 20ish tables, two plasma TV's, 20ish signs, 3 carts worth of toys, and much more...AND...took it all back down and packed it all up again.
5. Loaded a 16x7 trailer in less than 5 minutes.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
In Answer to a survey from Seminary
Today I filled out an online survey from Reformed Theological Seminary, where I received my Masters' degree. I kept getting emails encouraging me to do it, and kept deleting the emails, but finally gave in today, and decided to let my voice be heard. At the end, here's some comments I put:
I hope RTS and other seminaries will move toward ecumenism and training men and women to lead churches and ministries that are effective in bringing the gospel to our society. I fear many churches are like little country clubs operating much the same way they did in the last century. We're focused on keeping things going, perpetuating the status quo, because that's all we're trained for. We're so focused on right doctrine...but it doesn't necessarily lead to right practice in the lives of not only our congregants, but also our leaders.
I hope RTS and other seminaries will learn from some of the emerging "new Calvinists" like Mark Driscoll and Mark Chandler, and dare I say, be willing to reach across denominational boundaries and learn from today's leaders like Craig Groeschel, Andy Stanley, Steven Furtick, Ed Stetzer, and Francis Chan, to name a few. I hope practical theology found in the writings and conference speeches from men like these will be brought more into seminary training.
My current ministry position is "administrative director." I have had to learn nearly EVERYTHING from the ground up--how to lead teams and volunteers, how to run an office, how to do budgets, how to do bookkeeping, how to run a portable church,...
I've been so thankful God called me into the direction he did. I love the church I'm a part of, leading and growing as a follower of Jesus alongside new Christians, young Christians, and those from other denominational backgrounds. Gone are the days of pastor do-it-all. Let's move into the future bringing the best of what the Reformed faith offers and humbly offering it to the world and the church, helping the bride shine as bright as She can for her Groom, Jesus!
I hope RTS and other seminaries will move toward ecumenism and training men and women to lead churches and ministries that are effective in bringing the gospel to our society. I fear many churches are like little country clubs operating much the same way they did in the last century. We're focused on keeping things going, perpetuating the status quo, because that's all we're trained for. We're so focused on right doctrine...but it doesn't necessarily lead to right practice in the lives of not only our congregants, but also our leaders.
I hope RTS and other seminaries will learn from some of the emerging "new Calvinists" like Mark Driscoll and Mark Chandler, and dare I say, be willing to reach across denominational boundaries and learn from today's leaders like Craig Groeschel, Andy Stanley, Steven Furtick, Ed Stetzer, and Francis Chan, to name a few. I hope practical theology found in the writings and conference speeches from men like these will be brought more into seminary training.
My current ministry position is "administrative director." I have had to learn nearly EVERYTHING from the ground up--how to lead teams and volunteers, how to run an office, how to do budgets, how to do bookkeeping, how to run a portable church,...
I've been so thankful God called me into the direction he did. I love the church I'm a part of, leading and growing as a follower of Jesus alongside new Christians, young Christians, and those from other denominational backgrounds. Gone are the days of pastor do-it-all. Let's move into the future bringing the best of what the Reformed faith offers and humbly offering it to the world and the church, helping the bride shine as bright as She can for her Groom, Jesus!
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Don't Squander Your Freedom
233 years ago today the declaration of independence was signed. A thought came to me this morning that I would like to share with you--I was reminded of a passage in Galatians 5:
"It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don't use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that's how freedom grows. For everything we know about God's Word is summed up in a single sentence: Love others as you love yourself. That's an act of true freedom" (v. 13-14, MSG).
I think this can be applied to the individual and to this country of America. Paul originally was directing it toward the newly converted Christians in Galatia. They were abusing their freedom by just doing whatever they wanted, thereby becoming slaves again to their sinful ways, their idols, their addictions. Ultimately, when you've been given freedom in Christ, who set you free from sin, it's not so that you can just keep on sinning and not worry about the consequences. You must act responsibly and beware becoming enslaved again.
We live in a great country and God has for these 233 years given us amazing blessings and incredible privileges of freedom and global influence. Our freedom as a country was won through hardship, death, and war by thousands of soldiers and their families. We've been given this freedom. Yet we are indebted to credit card companies, to banks, and to other nations because we want to just do whatever we want. We've made the mess that leads to recession by just buying whatever we want whenever we want it. Now we're not ALL to blame as citizens, because many of us try to be good citizens who are morally, judicially, and financially responsible. That's the kind of living that's worth dying for.
As Paul's words apply individually: "use your freedom to serve one another in love....Love others as you love yourself. That's an act of true freedom." If enough individuals lived by this, it would be true of us corporately, and we would continue to enjoy freedom for many long years to come.
I'm thankful that we live in freedom, thankful for the incredible blessing it is to live in the United States. Thankful to Jesus for the freedom from sin that He won for me. I did not pay for either. Thankful people live responsibly, lovingly, so as to enjoy freedom.
"It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don't use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that's how freedom grows. For everything we know about God's Word is summed up in a single sentence: Love others as you love yourself. That's an act of true freedom" (v. 13-14, MSG).
I think this can be applied to the individual and to this country of America. Paul originally was directing it toward the newly converted Christians in Galatia. They were abusing their freedom by just doing whatever they wanted, thereby becoming slaves again to their sinful ways, their idols, their addictions. Ultimately, when you've been given freedom in Christ, who set you free from sin, it's not so that you can just keep on sinning and not worry about the consequences. You must act responsibly and beware becoming enslaved again.
We live in a great country and God has for these 233 years given us amazing blessings and incredible privileges of freedom and global influence. Our freedom as a country was won through hardship, death, and war by thousands of soldiers and their families. We've been given this freedom. Yet we are indebted to credit card companies, to banks, and to other nations because we want to just do whatever we want. We've made the mess that leads to recession by just buying whatever we want whenever we want it. Now we're not ALL to blame as citizens, because many of us try to be good citizens who are morally, judicially, and financially responsible. That's the kind of living that's worth dying for.
As Paul's words apply individually: "use your freedom to serve one another in love....Love others as you love yourself. That's an act of true freedom." If enough individuals lived by this, it would be true of us corporately, and we would continue to enjoy freedom for many long years to come.
I'm thankful that we live in freedom, thankful for the incredible blessing it is to live in the United States. Thankful to Jesus for the freedom from sin that He won for me. I did not pay for either. Thankful people live responsibly, lovingly, so as to enjoy freedom.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
The Great King
I was listening to Sons of Korah yet again this afternoon while doing office work, specifically their version of Psalm 95. I love this Psalm.
Verse 3 says, "For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods." Verses 4 and 5 describe the absolute magnitude of creation, that by his hand they were created and are sustained. Sometimes we forget the sheer magnitude of God. We can't fathom it. This declaration was as gutsy in that day as it is today--there are plenty of religions out there, plenty of other gods out there, plenty of other kings in the world. Here, we are declaring that we are coming to worship Yahweh, the great God, the great King. Do we have a posture in our lives, our worship, our prayer, of kneeling before our great King?
Verse 7 then makes another significant statement: we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care. We do not belong to some witless idol. Neither do we belong to ourselves. We are HIS people, we are the privileged people who belong to the great God, the King, the Mighty One. He is our Shepherd.
As verse 2 says, "Let us come before Him with thanksgiving, and extol Him with music and song."
Verse 3 says, "For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods." Verses 4 and 5 describe the absolute magnitude of creation, that by his hand they were created and are sustained. Sometimes we forget the sheer magnitude of God. We can't fathom it. This declaration was as gutsy in that day as it is today--there are plenty of religions out there, plenty of other gods out there, plenty of other kings in the world. Here, we are declaring that we are coming to worship Yahweh, the great God, the great King. Do we have a posture in our lives, our worship, our prayer, of kneeling before our great King?
Verse 7 then makes another significant statement: we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care. We do not belong to some witless idol. Neither do we belong to ourselves. We are HIS people, we are the privileged people who belong to the great God, the King, the Mighty One. He is our Shepherd.
As verse 2 says, "Let us come before Him with thanksgiving, and extol Him with music and song."
Saturday, June 20, 2009
The Earth is Filled...
I've been to the Canadian Rockies, the Colorado Rockies, many beautiful spots in Michigan, Mammoth Cave, and many other amazing places in the US. I've yet to see many more things (for example, I've never been to the Grand Canyon). I love those days when you get to visit amazing places that happened by chance over billions of years because of a big bang... J/K.
We're staying in Greenville, SC, and heading to Atlanta tomorrow. Yesterday, we decided to take a day trip up to Asheville just because we heard it's a cool town nestled in the mountains, and we had no idea where to go or what to do, but we went anyway. After lunch, we visited a botanical garden which was helpful for Aidan, and then thought we'd try to find the Blue Ridge Parkway. I think it was a God-ordained thing because we found it within 5 minutes, not only the highway, but it's headquarters and a visitor center. We set off to the North on the Parkway, winding up and up, stopping now and then at awesome overlooks.
Eventually, we made our way to Mount Mitchell, parking at the summit. I was a little surprised at myself for how amazed I was. It was one of those moments that come few and far between for me, but often in the mountains, where I found myself in tears over the beauty, majesty, and wonder that I saw. I literally could not help but audibly praise God. I was reminded of the familiar song found in several places in the Bible, and often sung today in songs, "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty, the earth is filled with Your glory."
The beauty of God is unsurpassed. Whatever we have created that we think is beautiful, (and it IS, because God's made us in his image to reflect his beauty), God is far more beautiful, and his creation so much more amazing. Standing there I felt COMPELED. It is a compelling beauty. It propels you toward God, toward worship. I could not have asked for a better adventure for yesterday. May we seek out these kinds of moments in our daily lives, on top of mountain summits or not.
BTW, I think it's awesome that at 10 months, Aidan's already been at the highest elevation east of the Mississippi! What awesome adventures are yet to come!
We're staying in Greenville, SC, and heading to Atlanta tomorrow. Yesterday, we decided to take a day trip up to Asheville just because we heard it's a cool town nestled in the mountains, and we had no idea where to go or what to do, but we went anyway. After lunch, we visited a botanical garden which was helpful for Aidan, and then thought we'd try to find the Blue Ridge Parkway. I think it was a God-ordained thing because we found it within 5 minutes, not only the highway, but it's headquarters and a visitor center. We set off to the North on the Parkway, winding up and up, stopping now and then at awesome overlooks.
Eventually, we made our way to Mount Mitchell, parking at the summit. I was a little surprised at myself for how amazed I was. It was one of those moments that come few and far between for me, but often in the mountains, where I found myself in tears over the beauty, majesty, and wonder that I saw. I literally could not help but audibly praise God. I was reminded of the familiar song found in several places in the Bible, and often sung today in songs, "Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord God Almighty, the earth is filled with Your glory."
The beauty of God is unsurpassed. Whatever we have created that we think is beautiful, (and it IS, because God's made us in his image to reflect his beauty), God is far more beautiful, and his creation so much more amazing. Standing there I felt COMPELED. It is a compelling beauty. It propels you toward God, toward worship. I could not have asked for a better adventure for yesterday. May we seek out these kinds of moments in our daily lives, on top of mountain summits or not.
BTW, I think it's awesome that at 10 months, Aidan's already been at the highest elevation east of the Mississippi! What awesome adventures are yet to come!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
The Generous Life - Prov. 11:25
This morning I was reading Proverbs 11:25:
"The liberal soul shall be made fat; he who waters will also be watered himself."
The above is basically a literal translation, while the NIV reading really obscures some of the richness of the text: "A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed."
I encourage you to study the literal words more here. In this text, generosity is not just a few dollars here and there, it is giving liberally, abundantly. We're not restricting this to just money either, but including time, talents, resources, and your heart, your love.
Such a person shall be "made fat." Huh? The expression is figurative, pointing to being rich, being satisfied, having more than your fill. But again, not necessarily rich in lots of money--you could have more than your fill of joy, contentment, blessing, favor in the eyes of God and others.
Watering and being watered--the idea behind this is LOTS of water, to be saturated, drenched.
The person who gives freely, liberally, and abundantly of their resources will himself experience so much blessing from God they they will be completely satisfied in Him. But remember, we don't give in order to receive; we give, period. God gives to us, so we give back to Him and to others. Abundantly, sacrifically, wholeheartedly. Are you holding on to things too tightly, or wanting anything more than God right now? Let it go, and trust your heavenly Father. Let Him bless you, instead of trying to bless yourself, and ultimately being dissatisfied.
"The liberal soul shall be made fat; he who waters will also be watered himself."
The above is basically a literal translation, while the NIV reading really obscures some of the richness of the text: "A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed."
I encourage you to study the literal words more here. In this text, generosity is not just a few dollars here and there, it is giving liberally, abundantly. We're not restricting this to just money either, but including time, talents, resources, and your heart, your love.
Such a person shall be "made fat." Huh? The expression is figurative, pointing to being rich, being satisfied, having more than your fill. But again, not necessarily rich in lots of money--you could have more than your fill of joy, contentment, blessing, favor in the eyes of God and others.
Watering and being watered--the idea behind this is LOTS of water, to be saturated, drenched.
The person who gives freely, liberally, and abundantly of their resources will himself experience so much blessing from God they they will be completely satisfied in Him. But remember, we don't give in order to receive; we give, period. God gives to us, so we give back to Him and to others. Abundantly, sacrifically, wholeheartedly. Are you holding on to things too tightly, or wanting anything more than God right now? Let it go, and trust your heavenly Father. Let Him bless you, instead of trying to bless yourself, and ultimately being dissatisfied.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
5 things that get me up at 4:30am on Sundays
5. Knowing Chad has probably been up for an hour already preparing for worship.
4. Knowing 10 other volunteers will be at church by 6am to help setup. And by 7:30am, about 30 people will be working to prepare for the morning.
3. The knowledge that there will be coke, coffee, donuts, and other food to keep me going. I can crash in the afternoon.
2. Knowing that God has put me in a place and position where my gifts and skill set makes things happen on Sundays. (and the same goes for every other person serving)
1. I thoroughly enjoy Sunday mornings because it's the best day of my week, it's an honor to serve every person who comes through the door, whether Christians for 40 years or people who have yet to follow Jesus.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
"I don't want to be Like You."
I'm reading John Burke's No Perfect People Allowed, and I'm only in chapter two but HAD to share this paragraph with you:
"It was not so much that Chris didn't like me; after all, he didn't really know me. What he didn't like was what I represented. He didn't like Christians, or should I say, the stereotype of what Christians are like. I'm afraid Chris' sentiments extend more broadly than most Christians care to realize. I've since discovered that the average person has a strong perception of what Christians are against, but little of what Christians are for. I was simply confirming his negative stereotype of a narrow, intolerant, arrogant perseon who just wanted everyone "to be like me." In our postmodern world, you can't separate the message from the messenger.
"I think Chris was really saying, 'Arguments don't convince me. Show me a faith that's attractive, and I'll consider it. Otherwise, I'm not interested, no matter how 'true' you say it is.' .Truth had gone relational" (p. 30, emphasis mine).
Just this week I've seen/read a lot of negativity about the decisions of our government. That's a whole 'nother blog entry or more, but it reinforces this idea of being known as "against abortion, against Muslims, against liberals, against rock music"...on and on I could go.
We are FOR Christ, for his kingdom, for his glory, for the world, for salvation, for loving the unloved, for the orphan and the widow, for becoming all things to all men so that by all possible means we might save some (1 Cor. 9:19-23). This verse demands further study and clarification, but it means that we must bring a gospel that is attractive by our lives, by our hearts, by our attitudes, by our love.
"It was not so much that Chris didn't like me; after all, he didn't really know me. What he didn't like was what I represented. He didn't like Christians, or should I say, the stereotype of what Christians are like. I'm afraid Chris' sentiments extend more broadly than most Christians care to realize. I've since discovered that the average person has a strong perception of what Christians are against, but little of what Christians are for. I was simply confirming his negative stereotype of a narrow, intolerant, arrogant perseon who just wanted everyone "to be like me." In our postmodern world, you can't separate the message from the messenger.
"I think Chris was really saying, 'Arguments don't convince me. Show me a faith that's attractive, and I'll consider it. Otherwise, I'm not interested, no matter how 'true' you say it is.' .Truth had gone relational" (p. 30, emphasis mine).
Just this week I've seen/read a lot of negativity about the decisions of our government. That's a whole 'nother blog entry or more, but it reinforces this idea of being known as "against abortion, against Muslims, against liberals, against rock music"...on and on I could go.
We are FOR Christ, for his kingdom, for his glory, for the world, for salvation, for loving the unloved, for the orphan and the widow, for becoming all things to all men so that by all possible means we might save some (1 Cor. 9:19-23). This verse demands further study and clarification, but it means that we must bring a gospel that is attractive by our lives, by our hearts, by our attitudes, by our love.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Your Kingdom Come
Last night at the Hillsong United worship event, one of the leaders from Hillsong gave an amazing 10 minute message about the Kingdom of God. It was a great summary of the essence of Jesus' teaching about the Kingdom. I hope to hit the highlights.
The kingdom of God is his sovereign rule and reign. It exists fully in heaven. The kingdom of God came to earth when Jesus, the Son of God, took on human flesh. He went about preaching "Repent, for the Kingdom of God is here!" I HIGHLY recommend this article to you--in less than two easy pages, it summarizes what the author took two seminary classes to explain to me: The Kingdom of God.
After Jesus ascended into heaven, His Spirit came to be IN us. God the Father dwells in heaven, and Jesus is at his right hand, but the Spirit of God lives inside of us. In this way, heaven is here on earth. We are God's kingdom, his body, his church. Jesus taught us to pray "Our Father who is in heaven, may your name be hallowed ("your name" means "you" in this particular instance; "hallowed"--revered, honored, feared). "Your Kingdom Come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."
Here's the thing--not only are we to pray that God's kingdom would come, but we are to make it so. We are his ambassadors (2 Cor. 5:20). Because we have his Spirit in us and he works his purposes through us, we bring heaven to earth. We are to proclaim the Kingdom of God every day by our words and our actions.
This happens when you and I lay down all that we are--everything--and give it to Him, and ask Him to be our everything. Almost every song last night spoke about surrendering ourselves, and wanting nothing more than to be what God wants us to be, and do what He wants us to do. Will we not just sing it, but live it?
The kingdom of God is his sovereign rule and reign. It exists fully in heaven. The kingdom of God came to earth when Jesus, the Son of God, took on human flesh. He went about preaching "Repent, for the Kingdom of God is here!" I HIGHLY recommend this article to you--in less than two easy pages, it summarizes what the author took two seminary classes to explain to me: The Kingdom of God.
After Jesus ascended into heaven, His Spirit came to be IN us. God the Father dwells in heaven, and Jesus is at his right hand, but the Spirit of God lives inside of us. In this way, heaven is here on earth. We are God's kingdom, his body, his church. Jesus taught us to pray "Our Father who is in heaven, may your name be hallowed ("your name" means "you" in this particular instance; "hallowed"--revered, honored, feared). "Your Kingdom Come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."
Here's the thing--not only are we to pray that God's kingdom would come, but we are to make it so. We are his ambassadors (2 Cor. 5:20). Because we have his Spirit in us and he works his purposes through us, we bring heaven to earth. We are to proclaim the Kingdom of God every day by our words and our actions.
This happens when you and I lay down all that we are--everything--and give it to Him, and ask Him to be our everything. Almost every song last night spoke about surrendering ourselves, and wanting nothing more than to be what God wants us to be, and do what He wants us to do. Will we not just sing it, but live it?
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Sunday Mind Dump
It's late but I'm a little juiced from watching Magic/Cavs game three. Might as well start there...
--was certainly not the most fun game to watch, there were bad calls on both sides
--Dwight needs to watch his elbow and his composure
--We've GOT to take game 4, unfortunately I won't be able to watch it as I'll be at the Hillsong United concert.
--Really enjoyed the cuteness of Aidan today. He's such a great little boy, and brings so much joy into our lives!
--Thankful for Aidan's Uncle Don who watched him last night on date night
--This morning I preached at Grace Fellowship about "The Best Investment You'll Ever Make." It was great!
--Tons of people were gone--the first sunny day in a week, plus memorial day. I hope many of you will take advantage of the podcast!
--I hope that if you are a person who serves at Grace, that you were encouraged today, that you went home with a fresh perspective on why investing in other people MATTERS, it matters to God!
--Thank you to many for the prayers and encouragement--I don't preach often, but I'm really OK with that because God has called Pastor Mike to preach and lead us. When I do, I need your prayers, and I felt them today.
--I really hope you're on board in this fasting challenge--Anne and I are fasting until dinnertime tomorrow. Looking forward to whatever God might want for us out of it!
--was certainly not the most fun game to watch, there were bad calls on both sides
--Dwight needs to watch his elbow and his composure
--We've GOT to take game 4, unfortunately I won't be able to watch it as I'll be at the Hillsong United concert.
--Really enjoyed the cuteness of Aidan today. He's such a great little boy, and brings so much joy into our lives!
--Thankful for Aidan's Uncle Don who watched him last night on date night
--This morning I preached at Grace Fellowship about "The Best Investment You'll Ever Make." It was great!
--Tons of people were gone--the first sunny day in a week, plus memorial day. I hope many of you will take advantage of the podcast!
--I hope that if you are a person who serves at Grace, that you were encouraged today, that you went home with a fresh perspective on why investing in other people MATTERS, it matters to God!
--Thank you to many for the prayers and encouragement--I don't preach often, but I'm really OK with that because God has called Pastor Mike to preach and lead us. When I do, I need your prayers, and I felt them today.
--I really hope you're on board in this fasting challenge--Anne and I are fasting until dinnertime tomorrow. Looking forward to whatever God might want for us out of it!
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
"We're in"
Part of this week's work is sifting through over 1400 emails to declutter my inbox. In doing so, I came across a forward from Pastor Mike. Someone in the church wrote this during our Generous Life series. I'm continually inspired and excited when I see our people having this kind of attitude! :
"This past Sundays sermon stirred my inner being and my spirit as did my wife's and we had great conversation around these questions. what more can we do? what can we afford? what sacrifices can we make? and I wish I could do more! Like many, we are struggling to make ends meet with the way the economy is currently.
Ultimately the conclusion to those questions was what if Christ had that same attitude? He gave it all! He didn't just have one hand nailed to the cross and say I wish I could do more. With that alone hanging over our heads and weighing heavy on our hearts we will be making some menial sacrifices.
We truly believe that Grace Fellowship is and will make a huge impact in Central Florida. God is working, living and breathing within its walls, its members, leaders and it is truly a blessing to be a part of His ultimate design and purpose. Leading others to the cross and helping them take those small yet gigantic steps. So if takes a little sacrifice we're in!
"This past Sundays sermon stirred my inner being and my spirit as did my wife's and we had great conversation around these questions. what more can we do? what can we afford? what sacrifices can we make? and I wish I could do more! Like many, we are struggling to make ends meet with the way the economy is currently.
Ultimately the conclusion to those questions was what if Christ had that same attitude? He gave it all! He didn't just have one hand nailed to the cross and say I wish I could do more. With that alone hanging over our heads and weighing heavy on our hearts we will be making some menial sacrifices.
We truly believe that Grace Fellowship is and will make a huge impact in Central Florida. God is working, living and breathing within its walls, its members, leaders and it is truly a blessing to be a part of His ultimate design and purpose. Leading others to the cross and helping them take those small yet gigantic steps. So if takes a little sacrifice we're in!
Friday, April 10, 2009
Sin is Broken
After you've read the account of Christ's suffering and death today, spend a moment worshipping Him.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Two Problems with "Pastor Do it All"
This is NOT mine, I got this from the book LifeKeys, pgs 78-79.
"Thinking that leaders can do it all has two problems. First, when leaders think tehy have to do everyhitng, the results are often less than satisfactory. Perhaps a vsionary ministry led by someone with the gift of apostleship falters because of inherent disorganization; someoen with the gift of administration may have helped bring order to chaos....Maybe an education class falls short of its goal because the materials weren't ready for the teacher; someone with the gift of helps could have solved the problem....
"Second, an unexamined belief that a minister can do everything means that the leader isn't allowed to discover which gifts he or she really has. think of all the gifts that ministers can be called on to use: teaching, administration, leading, shepherding, mercy, knowledge, wisdom, helps, giving, encouragement....Let's be honest: most leaders lack at least some of these! We can force them to do it all, a pathway to exhaustion and defeat by the endless needs of the congregation. Or we can let them use the gifts God has given them and step forward with our own gifts to fulfill the roles God meant for us to play."
"Thinking that leaders can do it all has two problems. First, when leaders think tehy have to do everyhitng, the results are often less than satisfactory. Perhaps a vsionary ministry led by someone with the gift of apostleship falters because of inherent disorganization; someoen with the gift of administration may have helped bring order to chaos....Maybe an education class falls short of its goal because the materials weren't ready for the teacher; someone with the gift of helps could have solved the problem....
"Second, an unexamined belief that a minister can do everything means that the leader isn't allowed to discover which gifts he or she really has. think of all the gifts that ministers can be called on to use: teaching, administration, leading, shepherding, mercy, knowledge, wisdom, helps, giving, encouragement....Let's be honest: most leaders lack at least some of these! We can force them to do it all, a pathway to exhaustion and defeat by the endless needs of the congregation. Or we can let them use the gifts God has given them and step forward with our own gifts to fulfill the roles God meant for us to play."
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Christianese
I did a little search for this word and came across this funny dictionary. When, by God's grace, someone who has never been to church before walks through the door into your church, it really matters what message we send! We are their first encounter with Jesus. The nature of first impressions tells us we they will probably decide in the first 7 minutes whether they will come back a second time. We don't want to speak in a foreign language. Jesus needs to be accessible!
What other Christianese terms are out there?
What other Christianese terms are out there?
Friday, March 20, 2009
3 questions to ask yourself
I got these from a friend of mine on Monday. They can help us learn to walk with God moment by moment:
1. What would Jesus Do?
2. What does God think?
3. What is the Holy Spirit saying? What does He want me to know about Him and about myself right now?
1. What would Jesus Do?
2. What does God think?
3. What is the Holy Spirit saying? What does He want me to know about Him and about myself right now?
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Change or Die
On Thursday, Anne and I, and 14 other people from Grace, were in Anderson, SC listening to Perry Noble. One of the things he championed, as other church leaders have, is that the church needs to change or die.
Look at the new facebook that unveiled this week. It now looks more like twitter plus many of the extras we all like. It changed. It updated. It's creators saw that what they had going wasn't as effective as it needed to be.
Three weeks ago Andy Stanley related at Catalyst One day that even in the latter half of the 20th century, many church pastors built and conducted their ministries in much the same way for 20 to 50 years without much change. I saw an example of this when I went to Grand Rapids last month. While the church I visited has seen several new pastors, and a few aesthetic makeovers, it still looks like a church from 1970. The church has not added to their number. Seminary graduates still wax eloquent in the pulpit after a few "praise songs" sung along with the organ. I am not saying this to tear this local church down, (it's full of wonderful, simple, country-folk), but to challenge the process, or lack thereof.
Back in seminary the battle cry was "Semper Reformanda" (always reforming). But do we really know what that means? We say it, but what it actually looks like differs greatly among those who utter it.
The church at large is already fading into oblivion in the United States. But there are many churches who are seizing the opportunity, this moment in history. It is a critical one. The purpose and place of the church in the world has always been critical--people are dying and spending eternity in judgment and separation from God. But in this financial economy, in this information economy, in this idealogy economy, the message of Jesus Christ as the Way, the Truth, and THE Life needs to be heard.
I realize these thoughts are incomplete and would be better put into several blog entries. I just had to get them out though, and let you fill in the blanks. Please feel free to add to the discussion.
In closing, here are a couple questions for you: Does my church want to change? By change I mean: become "relevant" (for lack of a better term), to actually put the timeless gospel message in a context and language and experience that people can understand.
Secondly, do I want my church to change? Why or why not?
Perry Noble twittered this morning, "if a church wants to see change in the community, then it must be willing to BE the change that it wants to see!"
Look at the new facebook that unveiled this week. It now looks more like twitter plus many of the extras we all like. It changed. It updated. It's creators saw that what they had going wasn't as effective as it needed to be.
Three weeks ago Andy Stanley related at Catalyst One day that even in the latter half of the 20th century, many church pastors built and conducted their ministries in much the same way for 20 to 50 years without much change. I saw an example of this when I went to Grand Rapids last month. While the church I visited has seen several new pastors, and a few aesthetic makeovers, it still looks like a church from 1970. The church has not added to their number. Seminary graduates still wax eloquent in the pulpit after a few "praise songs" sung along with the organ. I am not saying this to tear this local church down, (it's full of wonderful, simple, country-folk), but to challenge the process, or lack thereof.
Back in seminary the battle cry was "Semper Reformanda" (always reforming). But do we really know what that means? We say it, but what it actually looks like differs greatly among those who utter it.
The church at large is already fading into oblivion in the United States. But there are many churches who are seizing the opportunity, this moment in history. It is a critical one. The purpose and place of the church in the world has always been critical--people are dying and spending eternity in judgment and separation from God. But in this financial economy, in this information economy, in this idealogy economy, the message of Jesus Christ as the Way, the Truth, and THE Life needs to be heard.
I realize these thoughts are incomplete and would be better put into several blog entries. I just had to get them out though, and let you fill in the blanks. Please feel free to add to the discussion.
In closing, here are a couple questions for you: Does my church want to change? By change I mean: become "relevant" (for lack of a better term), to actually put the timeless gospel message in a context and language and experience that people can understand.
Secondly, do I want my church to change? Why or why not?
Perry Noble twittered this morning, "if a church wants to see change in the community, then it must be willing to BE the change that it wants to see!"
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Thursday, March 5, 2009
The 200th Post!
Yes, it has taken me a lot longer than many bloggers to reach 200 posts. I've got a long way to go to becoming a better blogger, but fellow bloggers tell me practice, practice, practice. I am humbled and grateful for your readership. I always welcome your dialogue with me, in fact I covet it, as part of my yearning for community with you.
I was reading Proverbs 3 yesterday and again today. Note the structure of verses 1-12: each set of two verses has a command and a blessing. Verses 1 and 2:
1 My son, do not forget my teaching,
but keep my commands in your heart,
2 for they will prolong your life many years
and bring you prosperity.
"Do not forget." "keep them."
What's the result? "long life" and "prosperity." Do you want to "live long and prosper?" Know and do what God says.
Verses 3 and 4:
3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.
4 Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man.
Hold on HARD AND FAST to love and faithfulness--make these a part of your personal DNA.
What's the result? Favor with God and man.
You do vs 5-12. There's a lot to be learned here!
(Side note: Verses were invented 1500 years after the New Testament was written).
I was reading Proverbs 3 yesterday and again today. Note the structure of verses 1-12: each set of two verses has a command and a blessing. Verses 1 and 2:
1 My son, do not forget my teaching,
but keep my commands in your heart,
2 for they will prolong your life many years
and bring you prosperity.
"Do not forget." "keep them."
What's the result? "long life" and "prosperity." Do you want to "live long and prosper?" Know and do what God says.
Verses 3 and 4:
3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.
4 Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man.
Hold on HARD AND FAST to love and faithfulness--make these a part of your personal DNA.
What's the result? Favor with God and man.
You do vs 5-12. There's a lot to be learned here!
(Side note: Verses were invented 1500 years after the New Testament was written).
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Are You Playing it Safe?
If I posted this already, I don't care. You need to see it again.
It's sort of funny, but what is Jesus saying to you in this?
It's sort of funny, but what is Jesus saying to you in this?
Sunday, March 1, 2009
checking in
I have unintentionally been taking a break on here. I sort of was in a fog the whole time I was in Michigan. It was a good trip and I can tell you more about it soon, maybe. Since then, the rest of the week has just been heavy on content, between the conference I attended Thursday (Catalyst One Day at Northpoint) and getting back into gear around home and church.
I've sort of had a love-hate relationship with this blog. It takes work for me, but sometimes it just really flows easy. At this moment I have the energy to explain myself but not the energy to put together a coherent, inspirational entry. Hopefully they will start to flow again this week. 'Til then...peace out...
I've sort of had a love-hate relationship with this blog. It takes work for me, but sometimes it just really flows easy. At this moment I have the energy to explain myself but not the energy to put together a coherent, inspirational entry. Hopefully they will start to flow again this week. 'Til then...peace out...
Monday, February 23, 2009
Things I've Done This Weekend
1. Participated as an usher in my brother's wedding
2. Put over 600 miles and counting on the rental car
3. Wore a tux for the first time since my wedding
4. Rode in a stretch suburban
5. Shoveled snow (we've had about 9 inches since I've been here)
6. Had a little jam session with my cousin Anneke who plays guitar
7. Reconnected with lots of family members, especially those I'm staying with
8. Didn't go to church (or get up at 5am) on Sunday morning.
9. Hung out at a family gathering
10. Eaten some REALLY GOOD glutton free apple pie.
On tap for today: Lunch with Mom and Dad, Movie with Mom and Dad, drop my cousin at the (teeny tiny) airport, maybe a stop by my alma mater, and dinner with some old family friends.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Committees
"Committees are an invention of man in the 20th century that should never have crept into the church."
Agree? Disagree?
Agree? Disagree?
Monday, February 16, 2009
Seeing Your Father
I play a game with my 6 month old Aidan where I sit on the floor and do half-summer-saults while holding him in my hands or on my lap. He loves it and gives me this big smile as I say, "Wheee!!" I always have him facing me, but a couple days ago I did it once where he was facing out and could not see my face as I rocked him way back and then forward.
Anne was watching and noticed that when he was facing away, he almost started crying--you know, when the eyes get big and then the lower lip comes out and starts to quiver. I turned him around facing me and did it again, and the big smile returned.
I was always holding on to him, but he couldn't see me. When God starts giving us tumultuous times, whether they be big or small, I think having faith like a child involves seeing Him and trusting him in our circumstance. When we're not in control, knowing that He's got us, fixing our eyes on Him, may help us to move closer to the kind of faith that can say when life is a bit crazy, "Wheee!!!"
Anne was watching and noticed that when he was facing away, he almost started crying--you know, when the eyes get big and then the lower lip comes out and starts to quiver. I turned him around facing me and did it again, and the big smile returned.
I was always holding on to him, but he couldn't see me. When God starts giving us tumultuous times, whether they be big or small, I think having faith like a child involves seeing Him and trusting him in our circumstance. When we're not in control, knowing that He's got us, fixing our eyes on Him, may help us to move closer to the kind of faith that can say when life is a bit crazy, "Wheee!!!"
Chew on This
Thoughts from this morning's CLC group:
--"You can't fake being faithful." Agree? Disagree?
--"In order to be holy (1 Peter 1:13-16), we must seek out fresh encounters with Christ."
--"when you fall, what is your soft place to land?"
--I found myself also noting the correlation as we studied 1 Peter 5:5-7, then directly afterward studied 1 Cor. 9:6-10. Do you see a correlation there?
--"You can't fake being faithful." Agree? Disagree?
--"In order to be holy (1 Peter 1:13-16), we must seek out fresh encounters with Christ."
--"when you fall, what is your soft place to land?"
--I found myself also noting the correlation as we studied 1 Peter 5:5-7, then directly afterward studied 1 Cor. 9:6-10. Do you see a correlation there?
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
"They" to "we"
Acts 16:9-10 is the first of three texts in Acts where the writer/narrator goes from speaking in 3rd person plural to 2nd person plural--"they" to "we." The physician Luke was an educated man and someone whom Paul considered to be one of his closer co-laborers in the work of the ministry.
This transition makes one simple point--at some point, we must get in on the "we" part of serving Jesus. We can't just notice and take in all the things that other people are doing for Jesus and not participate ourselves. The timing of this in a believer's life looks different for each person, but let me assure you, its not years and years after becoming one.
Luke became a "companion." When you decide to invest in the lives of other people, to sacrifice your time and efforts, to take up your cross (as Jesus referred to it), you become more connected with the community of people around you who are doing the same. You develop friendships and bonds around following Jesus hard and seeking to build his church. Together, you move forward and see lives changed, people healed, relationships restored, sins forgiven. It's worth every bit of the sacrifice.
This transition makes one simple point--at some point, we must get in on the "we" part of serving Jesus. We can't just notice and take in all the things that other people are doing for Jesus and not participate ourselves. The timing of this in a believer's life looks different for each person, but let me assure you, its not years and years after becoming one.
Luke became a "companion." When you decide to invest in the lives of other people, to sacrifice your time and efforts, to take up your cross (as Jesus referred to it), you become more connected with the community of people around you who are doing the same. You develop friendships and bonds around following Jesus hard and seeking to build his church. Together, you move forward and see lives changed, people healed, relationships restored, sins forgiven. It's worth every bit of the sacrifice.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Do What It Says
On what standard or basis do we live our lives as Christians day to day? The answer that anyone who has been doing church for a while is "The Bible." Of course, that is the right answer, but do we sometimes just have the right answer but not live it out? How many people in churches today read the Bible on a regular basis, and look to God in His Word for sustenance, wisdom, truth, and practical instruction? I know some of you readers do exactly that. Sadly, some Christians haven't opened a Bible except on Sunday mornings in a long time.
I confess, daily devotions have always been a struggle for me. It was always about "doing devotions" and feeling tremendously guilty when I failed to do them. I disappointed God by neglecting Him and his Word. But guilt in this circumstance needs to lead to desire, a desire for God and his Word. A desire to live the life that he has for me. Lately that desire has rekindled. It started when I read Luke over Christmas break. I started into Acts and I'm only halfway through. But the more I dig in and read and study, I'm finding my relationship with God growing.
Do you feel disconnected from God? Do you need an answer? Do you feel something missing in your life? Try reading his Word. Then try doing what it says.
I confess, daily devotions have always been a struggle for me. It was always about "doing devotions" and feeling tremendously guilty when I failed to do them. I disappointed God by neglecting Him and his Word. But guilt in this circumstance needs to lead to desire, a desire for God and his Word. A desire to live the life that he has for me. Lately that desire has rekindled. It started when I read Luke over Christmas break. I started into Acts and I'm only halfway through. But the more I dig in and read and study, I'm finding my relationship with God growing.
Do you feel disconnected from God? Do you need an answer? Do you feel something missing in your life? Try reading his Word. Then try doing what it says.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Cinemology, Part Eight
I watched Evan Almighty last night, and while most of you probably have seen it, here's are just a couple of the ideas that hit me:
1. Evan says, "With great power comes great responsibility….Please help me change the world." He's an honest man who's spent his life in the game of politics and building his neat little suburban life with the rich and famous. In a moment of clarity as he realizes this next step in his life, he prays this prayer. As Christians, we have the greatest power in the world, we have Holy Spirit. How often do we pray a prayer as big as "help me change the world"?
2. Do we ask God to do things and then completely ignore His answers, or even get mad about His answers to our prayers?
3. One of the themes of Genesis 6-8 that is depicted well here is the culture of unbelief and selfishness present in Noah's day. Nearly everyone was living their lives without regard for God. They were seeking their own comfortable lives, believing that they were in control of their destiny. God had a little lesson for them about faith.
4. In the movie (unlike Genesis 6-8), at the last minute, when everyone realizes the impending doom, Evan encourages them all on the boat. Even before the flood comes, he pleads with them to get on the ark, but they refuse. 1) We are called to plead with people to avoid the impending doom 2) Some will realize and turn their lives over right away, others will not do it until it's staring them right in the face 3) some will never see their doom until it is too late.
5. A GREAT lesson on how God answers prayer:
1. Evan says, "With great power comes great responsibility….Please help me change the world." He's an honest man who's spent his life in the game of politics and building his neat little suburban life with the rich and famous. In a moment of clarity as he realizes this next step in his life, he prays this prayer. As Christians, we have the greatest power in the world, we have Holy Spirit. How often do we pray a prayer as big as "help me change the world"?
2. Do we ask God to do things and then completely ignore His answers, or even get mad about His answers to our prayers?
3. One of the themes of Genesis 6-8 that is depicted well here is the culture of unbelief and selfishness present in Noah's day. Nearly everyone was living their lives without regard for God. They were seeking their own comfortable lives, believing that they were in control of their destiny. God had a little lesson for them about faith.
4. In the movie (unlike Genesis 6-8), at the last minute, when everyone realizes the impending doom, Evan encourages them all on the boat. Even before the flood comes, he pleads with them to get on the ark, but they refuse. 1) We are called to plead with people to avoid the impending doom 2) Some will realize and turn their lives over right away, others will not do it until it's staring them right in the face 3) some will never see their doom until it is too late.
5. A GREAT lesson on how God answers prayer:
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
My 25 Things
Some people in my life think these are super lame. I think it's a fun way to get to know others, sort of like ice-breaker games. Here goes:
1. I have a slight hearing loss. Along with being born with CLP (warning: slightly graphic photo), I had over 10 sets of tubes put in my ears growing up.
2. Hence, I constantly say, "What?" or "say again?" Because I usually don't hear the first couple words unless you really get my attention. Please humor me.
3. I had never been to the Amway Arena in the 7 and a half years I've lived here---until Monday night. We left when the Magic were down by 20 with 5 mins left in the game.
4. I have around 60 long lost foster brothers out there somewhere. I've tried looking up a few on Facebook, never really found them. If I did, not sure I would friend any of them.
5. I once made the front page of section C in the newspaper.
6. I've spent 4 hrs in Europe--a layover in Amsterdam--we went to the Corrie Ten-Boom home.
Correction: See #9.
7. The remaining leg of the trip was to Tel Aviv for a week long tour of Israel.
8. This was the first time I had ever flown.
9. The plane out of Schipol airport had an engine fire so we landed back in and spent the night. Flew out the next morning on a 747.
10. I grew up camping and trout fishing in Michigan and I really miss it.
11. I've moved more times than I can count--around 15.
12. I didn't have a "real job" until I moved to Florida. Before that, I worked with family doing auto detailing and repair, building homes and home repair, and then worked at Reformed Bible College (now Kuyper) in the kitchen.
13. My first job after that was in the meat department at Publix. I put myself through a good part of Seminary this way.
14. I was not going to do this for fear of being labeled a narcissist, but if I am, then so are many of my friends on Facebook. What if we're not narcissists, we just want to be known?
15. I am almost always behind the times on stuff, including music. I love jam band stuff and many of my friends don't.
16. I just realized most of the people who fill these out are women. hmmmmmm...
17. I have quite cheap taste on food. I love Totino's pizzas, much to the annoyance of my wife.
18. I don't consider myself to be creative.
19. I can be self-deprecating at times.
20. I tend to drive "with purpose." I don't follow the rest of the sheep in the lane going 10 mph if there's a perfectly good lane going 30mph. If I-4 is a mess, I will take all sorts of back roads to get home. It's crazy. I'll have to map it out for you some time.
View Larger Map
21. I've never taken a guitar lesson in my life, but I've been playing about 12 years. Most people think I'm good, I think I'm average (see #19). I do miss having a djembe.
22. My first concert of the "non-Christian" sort was Dave Matthews Band at the Gorge in Seattle, WA. I was 23 y.o. Flew from Orlando to there and spent the weekend hanging out with Clint. One of the best trips of my life.
23. My wife was the first girl I ever kissed.
24. Our son Aidan's birth was the craziest, most chaotic, and most glorious moment of my life. Second to our wedding.
25. I'm a helpless sinner saved by the grace of God through Jesus Christ.
BONUS: 26. I LOVE my job at Grace and am so excited I get to be part of seeing people build relationship with Jesus.
P.S. : If you want a few more, scroll down here.
1. I have a slight hearing loss. Along with being born with CLP (warning: slightly graphic photo), I had over 10 sets of tubes put in my ears growing up.
2. Hence, I constantly say, "What?" or "say again?" Because I usually don't hear the first couple words unless you really get my attention. Please humor me.
3. I had never been to the Amway Arena in the 7 and a half years I've lived here---until Monday night. We left when the Magic were down by 20 with 5 mins left in the game.
4. I have around 60 long lost foster brothers out there somewhere. I've tried looking up a few on Facebook, never really found them. If I did, not sure I would friend any of them.
5. I once made the front page of section C in the newspaper.
6. I've spent 4 hrs in Europe--a layover in Amsterdam--we went to the Corrie Ten-Boom home.
Correction: See #9.
7. The remaining leg of the trip was to Tel Aviv for a week long tour of Israel.
8. This was the first time I had ever flown.
9. The plane out of Schipol airport had an engine fire so we landed back in and spent the night. Flew out the next morning on a 747.
10. I grew up camping and trout fishing in Michigan and I really miss it.
11. I've moved more times than I can count--around 15.
12. I didn't have a "real job" until I moved to Florida. Before that, I worked with family doing auto detailing and repair, building homes and home repair, and then worked at Reformed Bible College (now Kuyper) in the kitchen.
13. My first job after that was in the meat department at Publix. I put myself through a good part of Seminary this way.
14. I was not going to do this for fear of being labeled a narcissist, but if I am, then so are many of my friends on Facebook. What if we're not narcissists, we just want to be known?
15. I am almost always behind the times on stuff, including music. I love jam band stuff and many of my friends don't.
16. I just realized most of the people who fill these out are women. hmmmmmm...
17. I have quite cheap taste on food. I love Totino's pizzas, much to the annoyance of my wife.
18. I don't consider myself to be creative.
19. I can be self-deprecating at times.
20. I tend to drive "with purpose." I don't follow the rest of the sheep in the lane going 10 mph if there's a perfectly good lane going 30mph. If I-4 is a mess, I will take all sorts of back roads to get home. It's crazy. I'll have to map it out for you some time.
View Larger Map
21. I've never taken a guitar lesson in my life, but I've been playing about 12 years. Most people think I'm good, I think I'm average (see #19). I do miss having a djembe.
22. My first concert of the "non-Christian" sort was Dave Matthews Band at the Gorge in Seattle, WA. I was 23 y.o. Flew from Orlando to there and spent the weekend hanging out with Clint. One of the best trips of my life.
23. My wife was the first girl I ever kissed.
24. Our son Aidan's birth was the craziest, most chaotic, and most glorious moment of my life. Second to our wedding.
25. I'm a helpless sinner saved by the grace of God through Jesus Christ.
BONUS: 26. I LOVE my job at Grace and am so excited I get to be part of seeing people build relationship with Jesus.
P.S. : If you want a few more, scroll down here.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
The Lord's hand was with Them
Reading this morning included Acts 11, an important chapter from a church history perspective. It is here that the church of Antioch was established, which became home base for the early church, the place from which many mission efforts flowed.
A repeated theme in Acts can be found in 11:20-21 and verse 24. "....telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. The Lord's hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord." "He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord."
Three immediate observations:
1. The Lord's hand, the presence and working of Holy Spirit is essential in people coming to know Jesus.
2. God uses men like Barnabas, Peter, Paul, Stephen--people who are not perfect, but who love Jesus with all their heart and strive to see lives changed--to bring people into his family.
3. While there are other factors involved, the combination of 1 and 2 lead not once but twice, and all over Acts, to "great numbers" of people coming to the Lord. So many that Paul and Barnabas stayed for a year to preach and organize this whole movement, this community of people who found life by believing in Jesus.
Perry Noble talked once about those of us who do ministry--staff, volunteers, everyone--being in charge of the natural, and God being in charge of the supernatural. My questions: 1. What are the other factors that might have contributed to such a "Great number?" 2. How do the "other factors" in our time support and complement the activity of Holy Spirit in us?
A repeated theme in Acts can be found in 11:20-21 and verse 24. "....telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. The Lord's hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord." "He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord."
Three immediate observations:
1. The Lord's hand, the presence and working of Holy Spirit is essential in people coming to know Jesus.
2. God uses men like Barnabas, Peter, Paul, Stephen--people who are not perfect, but who love Jesus with all their heart and strive to see lives changed--to bring people into his family.
3. While there are other factors involved, the combination of 1 and 2 lead not once but twice, and all over Acts, to "great numbers" of people coming to the Lord. So many that Paul and Barnabas stayed for a year to preach and organize this whole movement, this community of people who found life by believing in Jesus.
Perry Noble talked once about those of us who do ministry--staff, volunteers, everyone--being in charge of the natural, and God being in charge of the supernatural. My questions: 1. What are the other factors that might have contributed to such a "Great number?" 2. How do the "other factors" in our time support and complement the activity of Holy Spirit in us?
Friday, January 30, 2009
5 things I was doing 10 Years Ago
When Kelly ended this post with the question, "You?" I took it as license to copy her idea:
1. Living at home in Rockford, MI to save money on room and board in college.
2. Trying to figure out which crowd to hang out with at said conservative Bible college: the TR's, the group that when to Mars Hill when Rob Bell was still up and coming, the international students and their friends, or group that went to my old church (I had started attending an OPC church with my parents).
3. Not really fitting in with any of them but still desperately trying.
4. Doing home construction on the side when I didn't have to study, in the dead of winter in Michigan.
5. Had been playing the bongo's for a while and had just started picking up my dad's guitar and learning how to play.
1. Living at home in Rockford, MI to save money on room and board in college.
2. Trying to figure out which crowd to hang out with at said conservative Bible college: the TR's, the group that when to Mars Hill when Rob Bell was still up and coming, the international students and their friends, or group that went to my old church (I had started attending an OPC church with my parents).
3. Not really fitting in with any of them but still desperately trying.
4. Doing home construction on the side when I didn't have to study, in the dead of winter in Michigan.
5. Had been playing the bongo's for a while and had just started picking up my dad's guitar and learning how to play.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Safely Through Another Week??
Kelly and I, as well as Chad, talk often about the old songs we grew up with in church, because we're MK's and PK's. For the most part, I grew up in a megachurch, but it was the Christian Reformed brand of megachurch, which couldn't be quite as progressive as many other megachurches were being in the 90's. So while we did the Marantha praise songs, as they were called, we also still sang a lot of hymns. One that we did not sing but I still remember being automatically turned off by the title and hoping to never ever sing, was "Safely Through Another Week." Here are the lyrics: (I dare you to go here and listen to it!)
Safely through another week God has brought us on our way;
Let us now a blessing seek, on th’approaching Sabbath day;
Day of all the week the best, emblem of eternal rest,
Day of all the week the best, emblem of eternal rest.
Mercies multiplied each hour through the week our praise demand;
Guarded by almighty power, fed and guided by His hand;
Though ungrateful we have been, only made returns of sin,
Though ungrateful we have been, only made returns of sin.
While we pray for pardoning grace, through the dear Redeemer’s Name,
Show Thy reconciled face, shine away our sin and shame;
From our worldly cares set free, may we rest this night with Thee,
From our worldly cares set free, may we rest this night with Thee.
Here we come Thy Name to praise, let us feel Thy presence near,
May Thy glory meet our eyes, while we in Thy house appear:
Here afford us, Lord, a taste of our everlasting feast,
Here afford us, Lord, a taste of our everlasting feast.
When the morn shall bid us rise, may we feel Thy presence near:
May Thy glory meet our eyes, when we in Thy house appear:
There afford us, Lord, a taste of our everlasting feast,
There afford us, Lord, a taste of our everlasting feast.
May Thy Gospel’s joyful sound conquer sinners, comfort saints;
May the fruits of grace abound, bring relief for all complaints;
Thus may all our Sabbaths prove till we join the church above,
Thus may all our Sabbaths prove till we join the church above!
OK, so, by FAR the worst line in the while song is the title line.
Why? Because why do I care so much about "th'approaching Sabbath day" if what I'm living for, my goal for the week, is to make it through safely? If each day is safe and easy, my simple routine where none of my feathers get rustled, then the importance of a day of rest and re-connection decreases.
The attitude of the rest of the song is more fitting to the person who struggles with personal issues, toils to make ends meet, wrestles with his cross, suffers pain for the glory of God. For that person, "a taste of our everlasting feast" every Sunday would sure take on more meaning. That person treasures the day he meets with his brothers and sisters in Christ, hears from God, meets with God, and is strengthened for more Kingdom work for the next week.
Only pray to be brought safely through the week if you're also praying to be challenged and developed into the person God wants you to be.
Safely through another week God has brought us on our way;
Let us now a blessing seek, on th’approaching Sabbath day;
Day of all the week the best, emblem of eternal rest,
Day of all the week the best, emblem of eternal rest.
Mercies multiplied each hour through the week our praise demand;
Guarded by almighty power, fed and guided by His hand;
Though ungrateful we have been, only made returns of sin,
Though ungrateful we have been, only made returns of sin.
While we pray for pardoning grace, through the dear Redeemer’s Name,
Show Thy reconciled face, shine away our sin and shame;
From our worldly cares set free, may we rest this night with Thee,
From our worldly cares set free, may we rest this night with Thee.
Here we come Thy Name to praise, let us feel Thy presence near,
May Thy glory meet our eyes, while we in Thy house appear:
Here afford us, Lord, a taste of our everlasting feast,
Here afford us, Lord, a taste of our everlasting feast.
When the morn shall bid us rise, may we feel Thy presence near:
May Thy glory meet our eyes, when we in Thy house appear:
There afford us, Lord, a taste of our everlasting feast,
There afford us, Lord, a taste of our everlasting feast.
May Thy Gospel’s joyful sound conquer sinners, comfort saints;
May the fruits of grace abound, bring relief for all complaints;
Thus may all our Sabbaths prove till we join the church above,
Thus may all our Sabbaths prove till we join the church above!
OK, so, by FAR the worst line in the while song is the title line.
Why? Because why do I care so much about "th'approaching Sabbath day" if what I'm living for, my goal for the week, is to make it through safely? If each day is safe and easy, my simple routine where none of my feathers get rustled, then the importance of a day of rest and re-connection decreases.
The attitude of the rest of the song is more fitting to the person who struggles with personal issues, toils to make ends meet, wrestles with his cross, suffers pain for the glory of God. For that person, "a taste of our everlasting feast" every Sunday would sure take on more meaning. That person treasures the day he meets with his brothers and sisters in Christ, hears from God, meets with God, and is strengthened for more Kingdom work for the next week.
Only pray to be brought safely through the week if you're also praying to be challenged and developed into the person God wants you to be.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Pax Romana Today
If you remember anything from history class in school your probably have heard of the Pax Romana. The Roman Empire was established across a great part of the world right around the time of Jesus. As part of their contribution to the world, as any trip to Spaceship Earth will tell you, they united the world like never before by building a road system. It's similar to how the United States was changed when the interstate highway system was developed. Into that world, Christ was born. And people came from far and wide, FAST. It didn't take long for him to have a following of thousands. After he left, on Pentecost, there were people from all over the world who happened to be in Jerusalem, and their lives were changed.
Today, far, far more than the Roman road system, or the interstate highway, we have the information super highway, and more and more churches are using it to spread the gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ. Since the world has gone mobile and to the web, the church should be so also. And many ARE. It is absolutely amazing how the church today is capturing the web and technology for God's purpose and His Kingdom. Later this week, I'll blog about one example. For now, let's just be thankful for the ingenuity and creativity that God has given man, and for how he's enabled the church to use the information superhighway (this term is SO late 90's) to spread His fame.
Today, far, far more than the Roman road system, or the interstate highway, we have the information super highway, and more and more churches are using it to spread the gospel, the good news of Jesus Christ. Since the world has gone mobile and to the web, the church should be so also. And many ARE. It is absolutely amazing how the church today is capturing the web and technology for God's purpose and His Kingdom. Later this week, I'll blog about one example. For now, let's just be thankful for the ingenuity and creativity that God has given man, and for how he's enabled the church to use the information superhighway (this term is SO late 90's) to spread His fame.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Running Mind Dump
I am trying to muster up the discipline to get into a running routine. Our schedules make it somewhat challenging. I managed to put Aidan in our jogging stroller, strap him in, don my ipod with the workout playlist, and set off into the afternoon sun. Thoughts...
--I always enjoy running, I just don't like doing it early in the AM and evenings don't work well for the most part.
--I listened to a live version of "The Way it Is" by Bruce Hornsby--twice. It's absolutely, hands down, one of the best jams ever. The ending is sooooooo intense! Wish there were more Christian jam bands. The closest I've found is Waterdeep's live albums from the 90's.
--It is possible to listen to Bruce Hornsby and have a God-moment.
--I kept running beside the stroller every now and then to check on Aidan, and eventually he fell asleep. There was a powerful moment where I thought about me as Aidan's dad--working hard, exerting myself, running, not necessarily on his behalf (this is where the metaphor breaks down). I thought about God, who never slumbers or sleeps. Our heavenly Father is always working, sustaining, providing, busy, being Daddy, even when we're sleeping.
--My mind also wandered to Rob Bell's first Nooma video where he had his son strapped in and held him close to his chest, and was the strength and encouragement that helped him through the middle of the raging storm.
--It all made me want to do more running with Aidan. Today a friend at church talked about he and his wife's recent trip to Africa where they climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro. An amazing adventure. I'm so excited that I will get to take Aidan on more adventures! Even going out running with him is so fun!
--what if I rested in my sonship of Jesus the way Aidan rests in his sonship to me?
--I always enjoy running, I just don't like doing it early in the AM and evenings don't work well for the most part.
--I listened to a live version of "The Way it Is" by Bruce Hornsby--twice. It's absolutely, hands down, one of the best jams ever. The ending is sooooooo intense! Wish there were more Christian jam bands. The closest I've found is Waterdeep's live albums from the 90's.
--It is possible to listen to Bruce Hornsby and have a God-moment.
--I kept running beside the stroller every now and then to check on Aidan, and eventually he fell asleep. There was a powerful moment where I thought about me as Aidan's dad--working hard, exerting myself, running, not necessarily on his behalf (this is where the metaphor breaks down). I thought about God, who never slumbers or sleeps. Our heavenly Father is always working, sustaining, providing, busy, being Daddy, even when we're sleeping.
--My mind also wandered to Rob Bell's first Nooma video where he had his son strapped in and held him close to his chest, and was the strength and encouragement that helped him through the middle of the raging storm.
--It all made me want to do more running with Aidan. Today a friend at church talked about he and his wife's recent trip to Africa where they climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro. An amazing adventure. I'm so excited that I will get to take Aidan on more adventures! Even going out running with him is so fun!
--what if I rested in my sonship of Jesus the way Aidan rests in his sonship to me?
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Much More Eloquently
My small but still rambling post yesterday was supposed to communicate the same point as this, but John Piper does it so much more eloquently.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Quick thought on President Obama's Inauguration
There's tons to be said, but it's late and my bedtime.
Obviously today was a turning point, a historical day. As if you hadn't heard that word 100 times today. It represents a triumph of sorts and we are right to feel hopeful. President Obama and his many colleagues may be instrumental in turning around some of the downturns our country has taken. But ultimately, Obama is not our hope. After watching/reading lots of footage today, many people seem to be resting their hopes on one man. While he is a great man deserving honor and respect, obedience and cooperation--and our prayers (1 Tim. 2),--he is a man. Obama's ability--any ruler's ability--to be successful in his role, depends on his relationship and obedience to Jesus Christ, the King of Kings.
Interesting times have yet to unfold before us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus. Let us seek Him together so that our land may be healed (2 Chronicles 7:14).
Obviously today was a turning point, a historical day. As if you hadn't heard that word 100 times today. It represents a triumph of sorts and we are right to feel hopeful. President Obama and his many colleagues may be instrumental in turning around some of the downturns our country has taken. But ultimately, Obama is not our hope. After watching/reading lots of footage today, many people seem to be resting their hopes on one man. While he is a great man deserving honor and respect, obedience and cooperation--and our prayers (1 Tim. 2),--he is a man. Obama's ability--any ruler's ability--to be successful in his role, depends on his relationship and obedience to Jesus Christ, the King of Kings.
Interesting times have yet to unfold before us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus. Let us seek Him together so that our land may be healed (2 Chronicles 7:14).
Monday, January 19, 2009
To Die is Gain
One good thing about having gone to a Bible College is that there is a good amount of students who go on to follow the call of Jesus to give their lives away for the sake of the gospel. Many go (or return) overseas as missionaries. One such couple I knew has been ministering in Africa for a few years now and posted this over the weekend. I thought it tied in really well with yesterday's sermon at Grace.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Sons of Korah
I keep telling people about these guys. There is just a lot of good music in the Land Down Under. Sons of Korah features some great musicianship, using quality instruments. They create moving and emotional settings of the Psalms. On the DVD, the narrative of 1 Samuel 12 is very moving. Here's a sample:
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Desires
I'm wrestling this morning with thoughts and ideas--I needed an outlet to write some of them down, so...here you go. This is sort of a public journal entry.
Much of our lives we spend wanting things that we don't have. My friend Beth once called it "Iwantitis." Such as, "I want a better car. I want a bigger house. I want to live somewhere else. I want to take these vacations. I want a PS3. I want an HDTV. I want friends. I want to be liked. I want people to call me up and invite me to ________." None of these desires are inherently sinful. They are basically part of a desire for a better life. We were born with desire. We were born with a hunger for relationship and community.
Psalm 37 says "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him..." Matthew 6:33 "Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be added to you." We know these passages of Scripture, but we're so encircled with our consumeristic culture. How radically different our desires are when compared to what I was reading in devotions this morning from Acts 5:
"The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name."
or 4:32: "All the believers were in one heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had."
I have a lot more prayer and settling to do around this idea. For starters,
God, redeem my desires. I feel an angst and unrest this morning about many things, but this is one of them. Maybe the unrest is from you and shouldn't go away. Maybe the tension of my desires at war should be there so that I will constantly need You. It's easy to quote these Scriptures, but hard to give up those desires that we see people all around us fulfilling. When our friends make purchases like those above, and we don't have the means, we're disappointed. We're sad because we want what we can't have. Yet You are ready and willing to give us Yourself. I am left praying Tozer's prayer 'I want to want thee.' I want those other things too. Rearrange my desires...."
(Wow. That was really hard to write that last three-word sentence.)
Let these words, the heart of David (Ps. 73:23-27), sink into my bones, and may You be my desire.
23 Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever."
Much of our lives we spend wanting things that we don't have. My friend Beth once called it "Iwantitis." Such as, "I want a better car. I want a bigger house. I want to live somewhere else. I want to take these vacations. I want a PS3. I want an HDTV. I want friends. I want to be liked. I want people to call me up and invite me to ________." None of these desires are inherently sinful. They are basically part of a desire for a better life. We were born with desire. We were born with a hunger for relationship and community.
Psalm 37 says "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him..." Matthew 6:33 "Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be added to you." We know these passages of Scripture, but we're so encircled with our consumeristic culture. How radically different our desires are when compared to what I was reading in devotions this morning from Acts 5:
"The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name."
or 4:32: "All the believers were in one heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had."
I have a lot more prayer and settling to do around this idea. For starters,
God, redeem my desires. I feel an angst and unrest this morning about many things, but this is one of them. Maybe the unrest is from you and shouldn't go away. Maybe the tension of my desires at war should be there so that I will constantly need You. It's easy to quote these Scriptures, but hard to give up those desires that we see people all around us fulfilling. When our friends make purchases like those above, and we don't have the means, we're disappointed. We're sad because we want what we can't have. Yet You are ready and willing to give us Yourself. I am left praying Tozer's prayer 'I want to want thee.' I want those other things too. Rearrange my desires...."
(Wow. That was really hard to write that last three-word sentence.)
Let these words, the heart of David (Ps. 73:23-27), sink into my bones, and may You be my desire.
23 Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever."
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Holy Spirit
Note to self and readers: read acts 1-5 again and note all the references to the Holy Spirit. Note what happened when the Holy Spirit came or filled someone. Acts 4:31: After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.
I think I could use a bit more Holy Spirit in my life.
I think I could use a bit more Holy Spirit in my life.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Clinging
Today during one of the worship services I was holding our five month old Aidan while we were singing Lead Me to the Cross. I was holding him close and found myself thinking about Jesus and the little children in the gospels. I put myself into the picture as that little child. I realized that Aidan was in the posture that Jesus is talking about--he had total confidence and trust in my his daddy, that I loved him, protected him, cared for him. He was also holding onto my shirt very tightly, as babies tend to do when they grab things.
I was overwhelmed by the thought of being like him in my relationship to Jesus. Clinging to Him. I was thinking about it and singing the chorus, "Bring me to my knees, Lord I lay me down; rid me of myself, I belong to You..."
This week I felt the sense of the struggle to stay engaged with Christ, to really cleave to Him. I found myself busy and distracted, all the things that tend to come along with picking back up in the new year. Some really good and encouraging things happened too. In all of it, I found myself losing grip of Christ, losing him a little, but still far closer than I was before.
There are many prayers on my heart and mind right now, but among them all is "I need You Jesus. I need you. You are everything. Be what I need."
I was overwhelmed by the thought of being like him in my relationship to Jesus. Clinging to Him. I was thinking about it and singing the chorus, "Bring me to my knees, Lord I lay me down; rid me of myself, I belong to You..."
This week I felt the sense of the struggle to stay engaged with Christ, to really cleave to Him. I found myself busy and distracted, all the things that tend to come along with picking back up in the new year. Some really good and encouraging things happened too. In all of it, I found myself losing grip of Christ, losing him a little, but still far closer than I was before.
There are many prayers on my heart and mind right now, but among them all is "I need You Jesus. I need you. You are everything. Be what I need."
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Where Love Comes From
1 Timothy 1:5 says that love comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and a sincere faith.
Paul is onto something here. I struggle to have all three of things; in fact, it's impossible without a the Holy Spirit's help. Yet, He wants us to pursue love; he boils the commandments of the law down to love. You can't really love God and others without having a pure heart. If your conscience has been seared and damaged over the years, then you don't even realize what agape love is. And God knows whether our belief and trust in Him is "unhypocritical." Want to love better? Ask God for these things to become more evident in your life.
Paul is onto something here. I struggle to have all three of things; in fact, it's impossible without a the Holy Spirit's help. Yet, He wants us to pursue love; he boils the commandments of the law down to love. You can't really love God and others without having a pure heart. If your conscience has been seared and damaged over the years, then you don't even realize what agape love is. And God knows whether our belief and trust in Him is "unhypocritical." Want to love better? Ask God for these things to become more evident in your life.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Back in the Saddle
After a busy Christmas week with our Christmas Eve services, and then preaching last Sunday, I REALLY appreciated our pastor's call to close the offices for the week over the New Year. Most of the staff as we've talked in the last day or two has mentioned sleeping 8-10 hours each night, spending time relaxing, and just taking a breather. It's obvious that we're a bit refreshed.
It was a great week for me too, as I was one of those who slept in until 9ish, spent time relaxing with Aidan, and even played video games a little. The highlight of the week for me was reading the book of Luke, spending 2-3 hrs each day at Starbucks or Panera just soaking in the Scriptures. That, coupled with my spiritual preparation for last weekend's sermon, has left me feeling like I want to be more intentional about connecting with God, experiencing him, reading His Word, praying, etc.
Now stepping back into the office again tomorrow morning, beginning with a 6am small group, I want to keep all that intentionality and heart toward God, and have it directly impact my ministry throughout the week. I want to know God more in and through the details of my work at Grace, to know that my work is done for his glory. I think anyone doing any job or staying at home with the kids or retiring or whatever--we could all develop this sense of connecting to God and allowing Him to redeem our daily lives.
I love my job. I love the people I work with. I love seeing people's lives CHANGED, redeemed, made whole. I love seeing relationships restored, seeing people find the answer and the Truth that I read about last week. As you get back into the routine of life post-holiday, I hope you too will more quickly turn to our Heavenly Father for whatever it is that you need each day.
It was a great week for me too, as I was one of those who slept in until 9ish, spent time relaxing with Aidan, and even played video games a little. The highlight of the week for me was reading the book of Luke, spending 2-3 hrs each day at Starbucks or Panera just soaking in the Scriptures. That, coupled with my spiritual preparation for last weekend's sermon, has left me feeling like I want to be more intentional about connecting with God, experiencing him, reading His Word, praying, etc.
Now stepping back into the office again tomorrow morning, beginning with a 6am small group, I want to keep all that intentionality and heart toward God, and have it directly impact my ministry throughout the week. I want to know God more in and through the details of my work at Grace, to know that my work is done for his glory. I think anyone doing any job or staying at home with the kids or retiring or whatever--we could all develop this sense of connecting to God and allowing Him to redeem our daily lives.
I love my job. I love the people I work with. I love seeing people's lives CHANGED, redeemed, made whole. I love seeing relationships restored, seeing people find the answer and the Truth that I read about last week. As you get back into the routine of life post-holiday, I hope you too will more quickly turn to our Heavenly Father for whatever it is that you need each day.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Where Your Treasure Is...
I've always enjoyed the music of Iona, a sort of celtic progressive rock band from the UK. In the 90's they came out with this song.
Reading Luke this past week showed me that this song's words are true. The basic point is that God treasured us enough to save us by sending his treasured Son Jesus. Jesus commands our hearts. He wants us to desire and treasure Him and His kingdom more than anything. For God and us, it's true--where your treasure is, there is your heart.
Reading Luke this past week showed me that this song's words are true. The basic point is that God treasured us enough to save us by sending his treasured Son Jesus. Jesus commands our hearts. He wants us to desire and treasure Him and His kingdom more than anything. For God and us, it's true--where your treasure is, there is your heart.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Thoughts While Reading Luke, Final chapters
Chapter 20
--the parable of the tenants—Wow. An interesting allegorical summary of the Old Testament. Over and over again people have rejected Your word.
--Again and again in Luke we see the “masses”, the poor, the oppressed, etc. flocking to hear Jesus, and the religious leaders aimed at killing him, but having problems doing it because all the people hang on his every word. The religious leaders missed the point. They missed the Messiah when he was standing right in front of them, because they had different expectations.
Chapter 21
--God, please increase my faith to be more like that of the widow!
--People have done lots and lots of study about how much of this chapter refers to the invasion of Jerusalem in AD 70 and how much of it refers to the 2nd coming. No matter what, I want to be among those faithful to you!
--This chapter would be quite scary without verse 28—Hang on to Jesus!
Ch 22
--The last supper was for You a looking ahead, to us it is a look back. You accomplished a thing that is so great we can’t really grasp it.
--You redirected the meal for the disciples instead of looking back to the Old Testament, you said we should all now remember YOU. Remember Your redemption of us.
--what a hard lesson for Peter. It seems only fitting that after he denied you and you looked into his eyes, he went and “wept bitterly.” It must have been utter anguish. Yet Lord, there are many of us who find it easier to deny knowing you, who would probably cave in if put under pressure. Thank you Lord, that you are for us and are merciful to us.
--How amazing that you were killed just for speaking the truth of who You are.
Chapter 23
--The angry mob gets their way.
--“Father, Forgive them…” How amazing. I’m totally in awe at your ability to forgive these people. Your point all along was that they didn’t know what they were doing. They couldn’t believe who You are. Thank you for revealing yourself, thank you for forgiveness.
--Love the criminal’s conversion. Thank you Jesus that all can be saved—this story is proof that you are able to bring us to the truth of who you are, that you are the Savior and King.
--They rested on the Sabbath—the women in this story are so awesome—so faithful to You God!
Chapter 24
--The unspeakable joy is palpable here. How glorious it must have been for these people, one by one, who loved You so much and believed in you, to begin to realize that you had come back to life. It would be absolutely uncontainable! No wonder those two felt like their “hearts were burning.”
--He opened their minds so they could understand—Yes!
--I LOVE how this book ends—with the disciples’ example of what our lives are to be—uncontainable joy because we believe in Him and have been saved, which leads us to worship and be witnesses of the truth.
--One book’s ending is another’s beginning—when you ascended, you left us with this work, this life to live, this task of building your kingdom. Lord, may you find me busy doing what the disciples were doing. Let me understand and know the presence of your Holy Spirit within me, strengthen me to walk in love for You. Thank you for Your Word. Thank you for your life and your work.
--the parable of the tenants—Wow. An interesting allegorical summary of the Old Testament. Over and over again people have rejected Your word.
--Again and again in Luke we see the “masses”, the poor, the oppressed, etc. flocking to hear Jesus, and the religious leaders aimed at killing him, but having problems doing it because all the people hang on his every word. The religious leaders missed the point. They missed the Messiah when he was standing right in front of them, because they had different expectations.
Chapter 21
--God, please increase my faith to be more like that of the widow!
--People have done lots and lots of study about how much of this chapter refers to the invasion of Jerusalem in AD 70 and how much of it refers to the 2nd coming. No matter what, I want to be among those faithful to you!
--This chapter would be quite scary without verse 28—Hang on to Jesus!
Ch 22
--The last supper was for You a looking ahead, to us it is a look back. You accomplished a thing that is so great we can’t really grasp it.
--You redirected the meal for the disciples instead of looking back to the Old Testament, you said we should all now remember YOU. Remember Your redemption of us.
--what a hard lesson for Peter. It seems only fitting that after he denied you and you looked into his eyes, he went and “wept bitterly.” It must have been utter anguish. Yet Lord, there are many of us who find it easier to deny knowing you, who would probably cave in if put under pressure. Thank you Lord, that you are for us and are merciful to us.
--How amazing that you were killed just for speaking the truth of who You are.
Chapter 23
--The angry mob gets their way.
--“Father, Forgive them…” How amazing. I’m totally in awe at your ability to forgive these people. Your point all along was that they didn’t know what they were doing. They couldn’t believe who You are. Thank you for revealing yourself, thank you for forgiveness.
--Love the criminal’s conversion. Thank you Jesus that all can be saved—this story is proof that you are able to bring us to the truth of who you are, that you are the Savior and King.
--They rested on the Sabbath—the women in this story are so awesome—so faithful to You God!
Chapter 24
--The unspeakable joy is palpable here. How glorious it must have been for these people, one by one, who loved You so much and believed in you, to begin to realize that you had come back to life. It would be absolutely uncontainable! No wonder those two felt like their “hearts were burning.”
--He opened their minds so they could understand—Yes!
--I LOVE how this book ends—with the disciples’ example of what our lives are to be—uncontainable joy because we believe in Him and have been saved, which leads us to worship and be witnesses of the truth.
--One book’s ending is another’s beginning—when you ascended, you left us with this work, this life to live, this task of building your kingdom. Lord, may you find me busy doing what the disciples were doing. Let me understand and know the presence of your Holy Spirit within me, strengthen me to walk in love for You. Thank you for Your Word. Thank you for your life and your work.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Thoughts While Reading Luke, Part Four
Chapter 14
--how do I try to exalt myself and take honor rather than being humble?
--How often do I choose to go about my business instead of coming to feast at the table of the Lord?
--verse 27—God, I’ve been wrestling with this one recently. On the one hand, I think that I have taken up my cross, only by your grace working in me, because of the things I have done so far in my walk with you. But when I read this, I wonder how much I’ve really let it cost me. I guess I’m saying that it has cost me some, but not as much as others. Help me Lord to “take my next step” in following you harder. Fill me with the Holy Spirit—be my strength.
--33-35—wow. I remember Chan’s words on this. I don’t want to be considered so useful that I’m not even helpful to a pile of crap.
Chapter 15
--Lost sheep, lost coin, lost son. Love these stories!
--It matters to you, God, when people turn from sin. It means people choosing life, your will, You, over sin and death. Thank you for finding me, your lost lamb.
--Lord, please get rid of the elder brother in me. I hope that of all the places I could be that you find me humbling myself before you realizing I need you.
Chapter 16
--This chapter is a bit tough to understand without further study. I love how the parable of the rich man and Lazarus ends though—Jesus is making a point to his followers.
Chapter 17
--Confront sin, then forgive! How often to we harbor negativity towards another? How often do we fail to confront others?
--“the Kingdom of God is within you.”
--Jesus’ description of his second coming is quite scary unless you are his faithful follower. Jesus, may you find us faithful to you and ready for your coming.
Chapter 18
--“always pray and not give up.” How comparatively rarely I pray and how easily I give up! I need to practice prayer!
--29-30—Have I given it all up for you God? I feel so afraid to pray that I would seek less and less my own comfort. But your promise here makes it worth it. God I pray that I would run after you with more abandon and passion, that I would seek your kingdom harder. I pray that for those around me as well. I pray that we would see you as the prize, see the blessing of knowing You as worth all of our sacrifice.
Chapter 19
--LOVE the story of Zacchaeus—His life was changed on the spot—and look how it changed his heart and his perspective! Thank you Jesus for seeking and saving the lost.
--The story of your entering into Jerusalem and what you did when you got there—one can feel the suspense rising in the story. Let me remember that you weep over those who continually reject you, that you wish people would turn to you.
--how do I try to exalt myself and take honor rather than being humble?
--How often do I choose to go about my business instead of coming to feast at the table of the Lord?
--verse 27—God, I’ve been wrestling with this one recently. On the one hand, I think that I have taken up my cross, only by your grace working in me, because of the things I have done so far in my walk with you. But when I read this, I wonder how much I’ve really let it cost me. I guess I’m saying that it has cost me some, but not as much as others. Help me Lord to “take my next step” in following you harder. Fill me with the Holy Spirit—be my strength.
--33-35—wow. I remember Chan’s words on this. I don’t want to be considered so useful that I’m not even helpful to a pile of crap.
Chapter 15
--Lost sheep, lost coin, lost son. Love these stories!
--It matters to you, God, when people turn from sin. It means people choosing life, your will, You, over sin and death. Thank you for finding me, your lost lamb.
--Lord, please get rid of the elder brother in me. I hope that of all the places I could be that you find me humbling myself before you realizing I need you.
Chapter 16
--This chapter is a bit tough to understand without further study. I love how the parable of the rich man and Lazarus ends though—Jesus is making a point to his followers.
Chapter 17
--Confront sin, then forgive! How often to we harbor negativity towards another? How often do we fail to confront others?
--“the Kingdom of God is within you.”
--Jesus’ description of his second coming is quite scary unless you are his faithful follower. Jesus, may you find us faithful to you and ready for your coming.
Chapter 18
--“always pray and not give up.” How comparatively rarely I pray and how easily I give up! I need to practice prayer!
--29-30—Have I given it all up for you God? I feel so afraid to pray that I would seek less and less my own comfort. But your promise here makes it worth it. God I pray that I would run after you with more abandon and passion, that I would seek your kingdom harder. I pray that for those around me as well. I pray that we would see you as the prize, see the blessing of knowing You as worth all of our sacrifice.
Chapter 19
--LOVE the story of Zacchaeus—His life was changed on the spot—and look how it changed his heart and his perspective! Thank you Jesus for seeking and saving the lost.
--The story of your entering into Jerusalem and what you did when you got there—one can feel the suspense rising in the story. Let me remember that you weep over those who continually reject you, that you wish people would turn to you.