God is good all the time ... all the time God is good, is a common saying in my neck of the woods. We often forget it when life gets difficult, but the honest truth is that the bad times make the good times that much sweeter. Those times in life where you can see the hand of God at work changing your life and you see the countless number of blessings that He has brought into your life.
It is then that you realize that the hard times themselves are a blessing also. Those times make you remember that you need God. The hard times lead to the times of praise that we owe to God. The hard times remind you of how sinful you are and how loving God is in His grace toward us.
God has done so much for me these last couple of months. I can't begin to describe the good things he has brought into my life. My health has been so bad the last few years, but the last couple of months my health has progressed very rapidly. I am able to do things I could not do a few months ago that many people take for granted. Thankful for a doctor who listens and when he sees good results gets excited. Thankful for friends who are so accepting and loving that good or bad they encourage you or celebrate with you. Thankful for new people in my life that are so beautiful inside and out. Thankful for a job whose reward isn't in the check but in the lives of those I meet.
Tomorrow, I could lose all of this. Friends, family, and health could be gone tomorrow and I would be sad, upset, angry, and frustrated. I would not be human if I did not feel that way, but count me with Job who said, "Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him." My God is good all the time regardless of the circumstances of my life. My God loves me with all that He has, and that was proven on the cross.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
A Worthy Life
This semester we have been discussing Plato's The Republic in philosophy class. It begins in the search for justice in a man then in society. By justice they mean the search for the right kind of life. This is the question we all face each and every day.
What does it mean to live justly? What does a good life consist of? Solomon in Ecclesiastes says to fear God and keep His commandments for this is the whole duty of man. The gospels tell us to love God and love your neighbor as yourself. These are great starting points, but what does that look like in every day life? I want to focus on one aspect where we limit God's work in our life and thereby limit his ability to mold us and shape us.
I think our biggest difficulty in finding this just life is the limitation we place on ourselves. We limit God by allowing societal based moralities to influence the people we allow in our lives. We all want to be loved and to express love in many forms, yet we want to love only certain people. We are biased toward those we want in our lives. By what standard do we choose the people we allow in or life? Physical standards such as height, weight, hair color, eye color, skin color, or gender may be some traits that determine whether we accept or reject people. I am 6'4" tall and losing weight (enough said). I am blonde haired and blue eyed. I am white (caucasian for you pc types) and male. If I choose to exclude all those who aren't like me physically I am saying to God, "Only speak to me through people who are like me physically." What if God has a word for me from a short Hispanic lady? Did I miss out because I reject her physically? It is very possible that I may miss something God wants me to learn because I reject her based on appearance.
What about those who are poor or may not be as wealthy as I am? Do they have anything to offer me in this search for a just life? What about those who are wealthier than I am? Can I listen to them? Rejecting someone based on their economic standing is no different than rejecting someone based on appearance.
What about those who are younger or older? Adults tend to dismiss the thoughts of a child or even a teenager. Youth think it's weird when an older person shares their life. Some of the best moments in my life have been shared with a child who loves unconditionally and gives their heart without measure. Tonight I was surrounded at work with kids from ages 5-9 and all wanted to play Connect Four against me. What a privilege I have to be loved by kids who want to spend time with me. Young people can find wisdom and guidance from those older than them. They can hear life stories and if they listen well can receive guidance for their own future.
Let me us Jesus for an example. He was surrounded by every person type you could think of: young, old, rich poor, the Jew and the Samaritan, or the leper and the Pharisee. You can find harsh words for all of these in the gospels, but you will never find Jesus rejecting a person based on their differences. In fact you see Jesus breaking the social constraints of his day when he touches a leper or speaks to a woman directly; especially a Samaritan woman. Jews and Samaritans hated each other. He never rejected a rich man or a poor man. He even went so far as to set a child in their midst and say that we must have faith like that of a child.
My point is simply this: this life is too short to allow a corrupt society to dictate to me who I should let into my life. Those of you who know me well should know that I give my heart away quickly. I have often had it stomped on and discarded, yet I see nothing in scripture that tells me to guard my heart by keeping it from others. Scripture tells me to guard it from harmful influences that will hinder it from receiving what God has planned for me. When we base our acceptance or rejection of people based on standards other than the example of Jesus, we do wrong. And that, my friends, separates us from following Christ and the good life He wants us to have.
What does it mean to live justly? What does a good life consist of? Solomon in Ecclesiastes says to fear God and keep His commandments for this is the whole duty of man. The gospels tell us to love God and love your neighbor as yourself. These are great starting points, but what does that look like in every day life? I want to focus on one aspect where we limit God's work in our life and thereby limit his ability to mold us and shape us.
I think our biggest difficulty in finding this just life is the limitation we place on ourselves. We limit God by allowing societal based moralities to influence the people we allow in our lives. We all want to be loved and to express love in many forms, yet we want to love only certain people. We are biased toward those we want in our lives. By what standard do we choose the people we allow in or life? Physical standards such as height, weight, hair color, eye color, skin color, or gender may be some traits that determine whether we accept or reject people. I am 6'4" tall and losing weight (enough said). I am blonde haired and blue eyed. I am white (caucasian for you pc types) and male. If I choose to exclude all those who aren't like me physically I am saying to God, "Only speak to me through people who are like me physically." What if God has a word for me from a short Hispanic lady? Did I miss out because I reject her physically? It is very possible that I may miss something God wants me to learn because I reject her based on appearance.
What about those who are poor or may not be as wealthy as I am? Do they have anything to offer me in this search for a just life? What about those who are wealthier than I am? Can I listen to them? Rejecting someone based on their economic standing is no different than rejecting someone based on appearance.
What about those who are younger or older? Adults tend to dismiss the thoughts of a child or even a teenager. Youth think it's weird when an older person shares their life. Some of the best moments in my life have been shared with a child who loves unconditionally and gives their heart without measure. Tonight I was surrounded at work with kids from ages 5-9 and all wanted to play Connect Four against me. What a privilege I have to be loved by kids who want to spend time with me. Young people can find wisdom and guidance from those older than them. They can hear life stories and if they listen well can receive guidance for their own future.
Let me us Jesus for an example. He was surrounded by every person type you could think of: young, old, rich poor, the Jew and the Samaritan, or the leper and the Pharisee. You can find harsh words for all of these in the gospels, but you will never find Jesus rejecting a person based on their differences. In fact you see Jesus breaking the social constraints of his day when he touches a leper or speaks to a woman directly; especially a Samaritan woman. Jews and Samaritans hated each other. He never rejected a rich man or a poor man. He even went so far as to set a child in their midst and say that we must have faith like that of a child.
My point is simply this: this life is too short to allow a corrupt society to dictate to me who I should let into my life. Those of you who know me well should know that I give my heart away quickly. I have often had it stomped on and discarded, yet I see nothing in scripture that tells me to guard my heart by keeping it from others. Scripture tells me to guard it from harmful influences that will hinder it from receiving what God has planned for me. When we base our acceptance or rejection of people based on standards other than the example of Jesus, we do wrong. And that, my friends, separates us from following Christ and the good life He wants us to have.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Phineas and Levi
I looked at the old man in amazement. Phineas, with his weather beaten face had seen much in his lifetime and often had difficulty recalling facts, but when I asked him about Jesus, his mind became clear and the stories poured out of him.
"I was there you know!" he said to me with vigor. "I remember it as though it was yesterday. It was a hot day in the desert. He had gone into the wilderness after John was executed because Jesus wanted to pray. John was his cousin, which few people knew, and Jesus loved him dearly. I came because I wanted to see this one who people were saying was the Messiah. I was convinced that Jesus was just another country preacher trying to make a name for himself."
He paused for a moment to gather his strength. I watched as he struggled to breathe as though he was overcome with an excitement too great for his feeble body. It seemed as if his spirit remembered the days of strength and vigor which his body no longer had.
"Are you okay?" I asked. He raised his eyes to mine, and they sparkled with life anew yet stared through me as if he were in a different place.
"Hmmm? Yes, yes, I am fine. He wasn't much to look at you know," he replied.
"Who?"
"Jesus! He wasn't much to look at when you first saw him. There was nothing about him that stood out." He paused and struggled to breathe. "Where was I?"
"You were telling me about that day when Jesus fed so many."
"Oh, yes, I remember now. The little boy was standing there as the disciples talked to Jesus. They wanted to send us away because it was supper time and they had nothing to feed us with. The little boy looked at me with a big smile and proclaimed, 'I have some food!'"
"What little boy?"
"The boy with the lunch!" he exclaimed. "Bright little fellow too. His name was Levi and he had wandered up as they were discussing what to do. I looked at him and smiled."
"Why did he tell you about his food? What could that possibly accomplish?"
"I thought the same thing. But I was shocked as he strolled up to one of the disciples, Andrew, I think, and tugged on his tunic. I tried to stop him, but I was too late. I wondered what their reaction would be to a small child intervening in their discussion."
I leaned in with anticipation to hear what would happen. I often wondered what happened in the inner circle of Jesus and his disciples. He could see my anticipation and smiled at me.
"Andrew knelt down to hear what the boy said because it was difficult to hear with all the debating going on. Andrew raised his head and looked the little boy in the eyes and smiled. He stood up straight away and grasping the little boys hand led him to Jesus."
"What? You mean he didn't rebuke the boy for interrupting?" I sat in amazement.
"No, Jesus welcomed him with a smile. I couldn't hear what he said to him, but I watched as Andrew and the other disciples began to ask people to sit and ordered them into various groups."
"What happened next?" I asked.
"I was in the group closest to Jesus, but I could not hear what he said. He took the boys lunch and lifted it up to the heavens and appeared to pray. Then he began to distribute it to the disciples. I watched closely as Jesus continued to reach into the boy's pouch and fill basket after basket with food. We all ate until our bellies were full."
"What?? You are lying!" I exclaimed.
"I am too old to lie," he chuckled, "besides I was a skeptic. I only came to see Jesus and walk away convinced he was just another country preacher who wanted to make a name for himself. Yet when I witnessed this ... this ... miracle, I became a believer. Only one who is from God could do such things."
"What happened to the boy?"
"Well, I watched as the disciples filled baskets with the leftovers and gave them to the boy. There was so much that he could not carry it. So, I offered to lend him a hand. On the way to his house, he looked at me with tears in his eyes, and I asked him what was wrong. He said to me, 'My family has so little. We are very poor and this will be enough to feed us for a week!' Jesus not only provided for those there, he provided for the one who gave all that he could."
He closed his eyes and seemed to drift away. I nudged his elbow and asked once again, "Are you okay?"
"Hmmm? Yes, I am fine. He wasn't much to look at you know."
"I was there you know!" he said to me with vigor. "I remember it as though it was yesterday. It was a hot day in the desert. He had gone into the wilderness after John was executed because Jesus wanted to pray. John was his cousin, which few people knew, and Jesus loved him dearly. I came because I wanted to see this one who people were saying was the Messiah. I was convinced that Jesus was just another country preacher trying to make a name for himself."
He paused for a moment to gather his strength. I watched as he struggled to breathe as though he was overcome with an excitement too great for his feeble body. It seemed as if his spirit remembered the days of strength and vigor which his body no longer had.
"Are you okay?" I asked. He raised his eyes to mine, and they sparkled with life anew yet stared through me as if he were in a different place.
"Hmmm? Yes, yes, I am fine. He wasn't much to look at you know," he replied.
"Who?"
"Jesus! He wasn't much to look at when you first saw him. There was nothing about him that stood out." He paused and struggled to breathe. "Where was I?"
"You were telling me about that day when Jesus fed so many."
"Oh, yes, I remember now. The little boy was standing there as the disciples talked to Jesus. They wanted to send us away because it was supper time and they had nothing to feed us with. The little boy looked at me with a big smile and proclaimed, 'I have some food!'"
"What little boy?"
"The boy with the lunch!" he exclaimed. "Bright little fellow too. His name was Levi and he had wandered up as they were discussing what to do. I looked at him and smiled."
"Why did he tell you about his food? What could that possibly accomplish?"
"I thought the same thing. But I was shocked as he strolled up to one of the disciples, Andrew, I think, and tugged on his tunic. I tried to stop him, but I was too late. I wondered what their reaction would be to a small child intervening in their discussion."
I leaned in with anticipation to hear what would happen. I often wondered what happened in the inner circle of Jesus and his disciples. He could see my anticipation and smiled at me.
"Andrew knelt down to hear what the boy said because it was difficult to hear with all the debating going on. Andrew raised his head and looked the little boy in the eyes and smiled. He stood up straight away and grasping the little boys hand led him to Jesus."
"What? You mean he didn't rebuke the boy for interrupting?" I sat in amazement.
"No, Jesus welcomed him with a smile. I couldn't hear what he said to him, but I watched as Andrew and the other disciples began to ask people to sit and ordered them into various groups."
"What happened next?" I asked.
"I was in the group closest to Jesus, but I could not hear what he said. He took the boys lunch and lifted it up to the heavens and appeared to pray. Then he began to distribute it to the disciples. I watched closely as Jesus continued to reach into the boy's pouch and fill basket after basket with food. We all ate until our bellies were full."
"What?? You are lying!" I exclaimed.
"I am too old to lie," he chuckled, "besides I was a skeptic. I only came to see Jesus and walk away convinced he was just another country preacher who wanted to make a name for himself. Yet when I witnessed this ... this ... miracle, I became a believer. Only one who is from God could do such things."
"What happened to the boy?"
"Well, I watched as the disciples filled baskets with the leftovers and gave them to the boy. There was so much that he could not carry it. So, I offered to lend him a hand. On the way to his house, he looked at me with tears in his eyes, and I asked him what was wrong. He said to me, 'My family has so little. We are very poor and this will be enough to feed us for a week!' Jesus not only provided for those there, he provided for the one who gave all that he could."
He closed his eyes and seemed to drift away. I nudged his elbow and asked once again, "Are you okay?"
"Hmmm? Yes, I am fine. He wasn't much to look at you know."
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
hmmmm......
It seems I do some of my best thinking in the shower. While I was in the shower today, I was reflecting on my "career" path. If you were to ask me last year at this time if would I be working with children AND enjoying it, I would most likely have said no. It seems to me however that as I have followed God on this strange and winding journey, I have found my needs to be met. He has provided for my schooling, books, gas for travel, and even a few wants. He has provided me with a clearer picture of how He wants me to serve. Last year I would have said that I have no ability to work with kids, today I believe that is where He is calling and leading me to serve Him.
The insight I received this morning is rather simple yet for some reason unseen by me and probably many others. If we just follow Him and stay on His path then our needs will be met. He has walked the path before us and left for us all the things necessary for our journey. If we stray from His path, who knows what awaits us there? Can we be certain that we will find the things necessary for life? It is uncertain. Yet following Christ, we can be sure of His guidance and provision. Does that mean that life will be simple, easy, and uncluttered? Absolutely not! But have you ever noticed that when things get difficult when we follow Him, there seems to be that someone on our path that gives us what we need. It may be a kind word, or a hug, or something more substantial like money, clothing, or shelter. Is it a coincidence? I do not believe it to be so.
What about those who experience this yet are not followers of Christ? Could it be Him seeking to draw them to Himself? His love for those not following Him is not less than those He has adopted into His family, is it?
I believe the tragic events of my life over the last few years have been planned and orchestrated by God to bring me where He wanted me to be. I still have needs: financial, emotional, spiritual, physical, and emotional. Most people would look at my situation and call me a loser or worse. I say I am right where God wants me and that makes me better off than anyone who has no needs, because I am trusting in His provision for my needs whatever they may be. I know He has walked before me and prepared the way. If I continue to follow Him, then whatever I need has already been met by Him in His wisdom and love.
The insight I received this morning is rather simple yet for some reason unseen by me and probably many others. If we just follow Him and stay on His path then our needs will be met. He has walked the path before us and left for us all the things necessary for our journey. If we stray from His path, who knows what awaits us there? Can we be certain that we will find the things necessary for life? It is uncertain. Yet following Christ, we can be sure of His guidance and provision. Does that mean that life will be simple, easy, and uncluttered? Absolutely not! But have you ever noticed that when things get difficult when we follow Him, there seems to be that someone on our path that gives us what we need. It may be a kind word, or a hug, or something more substantial like money, clothing, or shelter. Is it a coincidence? I do not believe it to be so.
What about those who experience this yet are not followers of Christ? Could it be Him seeking to draw them to Himself? His love for those not following Him is not less than those He has adopted into His family, is it?
I believe the tragic events of my life over the last few years have been planned and orchestrated by God to bring me where He wanted me to be. I still have needs: financial, emotional, spiritual, physical, and emotional. Most people would look at my situation and call me a loser or worse. I say I am right where God wants me and that makes me better off than anyone who has no needs, because I am trusting in His provision for my needs whatever they may be. I know He has walked before me and prepared the way. If I continue to follow Him, then whatever I need has already been met by Him in His wisdom and love.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Communing With God
In reading The Shadow of the Galilean by Gerd Theissen, I came across a description of the Temple in Jerusalem during the time of Jesus. Although I knew these facts, they had never struck me this way before.
The outer court is called the court of the Gentiles. All may enter there. We have many relationships in life and the vast majority of them reside here in the court of the Gentiles. People we see at work, school, in the community, at the gas station, or a restaurant. People whose faces we know, yet may not know their names or much else other than their appearance.
Next is the inner Temple precinct, as Theissen calls it. Only Jews may enter there. In our life, we have friends we know from our every day activities. We know their names, a little about their background, and share a common purpose. I think of this like my church. I know something about the people there. I share a common purpose and background with them. I was once lost, but now I am a follower of Jesus Christ. Most at church have had a similar experience. Just like the court of the Jews at the Temple where they were bound by their allegiance to the one true God.
Then we have the Temple proper where only the priests may enter. These are my close friends. The ones I confide in and turn to in times of need. The ones I have done spiritual warfare with and struggled through difficulties with. I know what they are made of and know that, just as I have their back, they have mine. Only these people get to see my "bad" side. The side that most people never know of or see. They hear my struggles with sin and the thoughts and desires of my heart.
Finally, there is the Holy of Holies. Only the High Priest may enter there. I am my high priest. I alone enter and stand before God daily to give an account of my life. No one can enter in with me. None can stand there to accuse me. None can stand there to defend me. I am open and naked before God. Only here do I open myself up completely, because to do otherwise would be to lie to myself. Here is where I come to make my confession daily that I am a sinner in need of a savior. Daily do I claim the name of Christ as the one who has redeemed from the pit of Hell and penalty of sin. Daily I stand and praise God for what He has done in my life. Only He has been the one with me when times were the darkest. Only He has been the one to give me comfort in my hour of deepest need. Only He has lifted me up beyond where words can express. Only He can give me what I need. Hope.
Where are you in your communing with God? Are you standing in the court of the Gentiles? Aloof from God and unable to come into His presence? Are you standing in the court of the Jews? You are religious, yet there is still a separation between you and God that you cannot seem to repair. Are you a priest who serves in the Temple proper? You go to church, tithe, sing in the choir, lead on committees, and serve the community, yet you haven't made the commitment necessary to come into His presence. Do you stand in the Holy of Holies? You give thanks and praise to God daily for your salvation. You intercede on behalf of your friends and family on the outside who cannot come in to the sanctuary with you. Alone you stand before God with no one at your side.
This is a somber picture of the responsibility we have before God. Each of us will give an account to God on judgement day. There will be no one beside you to comfort or support you. Indeed no one can, for God will look you in the eye one on one and ask, "What did you do with my Son whom I sent on your behalf?" On that day no excuse can assuage nor blame laid at the feet of others. You alone will stand and you alone will give an account of your life. Where will He find you?
The outer court is called the court of the Gentiles. All may enter there. We have many relationships in life and the vast majority of them reside here in the court of the Gentiles. People we see at work, school, in the community, at the gas station, or a restaurant. People whose faces we know, yet may not know their names or much else other than their appearance.
Next is the inner Temple precinct, as Theissen calls it. Only Jews may enter there. In our life, we have friends we know from our every day activities. We know their names, a little about their background, and share a common purpose. I think of this like my church. I know something about the people there. I share a common purpose and background with them. I was once lost, but now I am a follower of Jesus Christ. Most at church have had a similar experience. Just like the court of the Jews at the Temple where they were bound by their allegiance to the one true God.
Then we have the Temple proper where only the priests may enter. These are my close friends. The ones I confide in and turn to in times of need. The ones I have done spiritual warfare with and struggled through difficulties with. I know what they are made of and know that, just as I have their back, they have mine. Only these people get to see my "bad" side. The side that most people never know of or see. They hear my struggles with sin and the thoughts and desires of my heart.
Finally, there is the Holy of Holies. Only the High Priest may enter there. I am my high priest. I alone enter and stand before God daily to give an account of my life. No one can enter in with me. None can stand there to accuse me. None can stand there to defend me. I am open and naked before God. Only here do I open myself up completely, because to do otherwise would be to lie to myself. Here is where I come to make my confession daily that I am a sinner in need of a savior. Daily do I claim the name of Christ as the one who has redeemed from the pit of Hell and penalty of sin. Daily I stand and praise God for what He has done in my life. Only He has been the one with me when times were the darkest. Only He has been the one to give me comfort in my hour of deepest need. Only He has lifted me up beyond where words can express. Only He can give me what I need. Hope.
Where are you in your communing with God? Are you standing in the court of the Gentiles? Aloof from God and unable to come into His presence? Are you standing in the court of the Jews? You are religious, yet there is still a separation between you and God that you cannot seem to repair. Are you a priest who serves in the Temple proper? You go to church, tithe, sing in the choir, lead on committees, and serve the community, yet you haven't made the commitment necessary to come into His presence. Do you stand in the Holy of Holies? You give thanks and praise to God daily for your salvation. You intercede on behalf of your friends and family on the outside who cannot come in to the sanctuary with you. Alone you stand before God with no one at your side.
This is a somber picture of the responsibility we have before God. Each of us will give an account to God on judgement day. There will be no one beside you to comfort or support you. Indeed no one can, for God will look you in the eye one on one and ask, "What did you do with my Son whom I sent on your behalf?" On that day no excuse can assuage nor blame laid at the feet of others. You alone will stand and you alone will give an account of your life. Where will He find you?
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Learning From Kids
Kids have it right! I have written on this blog about the importance of relationships, but last night I got even more proof of how important relationships are to people.
I had 6 or 7 kids, and as one table had a lot of stuff on it, I went and got another table for them to setup a board game on. I helped them setup the game, which didn't last long as is common with kids. After a few minutes though, I noticed that all of the kids at the other table had migrated over to the new table. One little girl who was very shy at first and would not tell me her name got a coloring sheet and moved over to the new table. With all of the other kids around, yet she wanted me to color with her. She didn't mean for me to get a page and sit down and color my paper, but she wanted me to help her color her paper.
I listen as they meet each other and find areas of common interests whether it be how old they are, or where they go to school, or what they like to do. We seek to find common ground with those around us and find a reason to spend time with someone. We seem to want to find ways to not be alone in this world. We need other people.
It doesn't matter to the kid if we have a Wii, games, coloring sheets, or many other things, but they want me, as the one they see in charge, to participate with them. Just as some parents may need to learn that you can surround a kid with all the best toys, games, or electronic gadgets, but in the end all they really want is a relationship with their parent. When you substitute a TV, video game, books, movies, or toys for your time spent with them, you do a disservice to a child. Time is our most precious commodity because it is in limited supply while here on this earth. Spend it wisely by investing it in other people.
I had 6 or 7 kids, and as one table had a lot of stuff on it, I went and got another table for them to setup a board game on. I helped them setup the game, which didn't last long as is common with kids. After a few minutes though, I noticed that all of the kids at the other table had migrated over to the new table. One little girl who was very shy at first and would not tell me her name got a coloring sheet and moved over to the new table. With all of the other kids around, yet she wanted me to color with her. She didn't mean for me to get a page and sit down and color my paper, but she wanted me to help her color her paper.
I listen as they meet each other and find areas of common interests whether it be how old they are, or where they go to school, or what they like to do. We seek to find common ground with those around us and find a reason to spend time with someone. We seem to want to find ways to not be alone in this world. We need other people.
It doesn't matter to the kid if we have a Wii, games, coloring sheets, or many other things, but they want me, as the one they see in charge, to participate with them. Just as some parents may need to learn that you can surround a kid with all the best toys, games, or electronic gadgets, but in the end all they really want is a relationship with their parent. When you substitute a TV, video game, books, movies, or toys for your time spent with them, you do a disservice to a child. Time is our most precious commodity because it is in limited supply while here on this earth. Spend it wisely by investing it in other people.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Independence Day
The events of my life over the last few years have left me very dependent on my dad for the majority of the basic necessities of life. This can lend a deafening blow to one's ego as a man. Yet with my new job at the YMCA, I have received a brief bump in income and an odd temptation has arisen. This small taste of self-sufficiency has brought to mind memories of an old life where I worked, paid my bills, and was master of my destiny! Sortof.
This memory of independence tends to lead me to be impatient and seek to do things to "better" my position. Yet in the back of my mind I hear God whisper, "Patience." I have watched over these last few years as God has step by step, piece by piece, and inch by inch reconstruct my life. And so, I must be patient and wise in handling my life and waiting on God to fulfill His purpose in me.
So, as I briefly ponder God's work in my life and look forward to that independence day in the future, I must remind myself that when it comes I truly need to find myself in dependence.
This memory of independence tends to lead me to be impatient and seek to do things to "better" my position. Yet in the back of my mind I hear God whisper, "Patience." I have watched over these last few years as God has step by step, piece by piece, and inch by inch reconstruct my life. And so, I must be patient and wise in handling my life and waiting on God to fulfill His purpose in me.
So, as I briefly ponder God's work in my life and look forward to that independence day in the future, I must remind myself that when it comes I truly need to find myself in dependence.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Worthwhile Words
Do people who constantly complain annoy you? Ever meet someone who is never satisfied? I have noticed recently, that I am surrounded by people who complain a lot and are never satisfied. Honestly, that isn't really what bothers me. What I have noticed are the completely innocuous things we complain about. Let me give you some examples of things I hear people complain about or they just do not like: Other people, the way food is prepared, having not enough work to do OR having to actually do work, the weather, etc. I have also noticed that not only are these topics of complaints, but that these are the major topics of ordinary conversation of those around me who complain. In other words, if they aren't complaining, they aren't speaking. Conversation is a lost art. People seem to have nothing to talk about but the things that annoy them (like this post!).
Which leads me to the question: Are our lives so spiritually empty that we have nothing to talk about but complain about things that we cannot change or that do not matter? Do we have so little understanding of the people and world around us that we cannot make an impact at changing the environment around us with a different attitude? There are topics and times of legitimate complaint, do not misunderstand me, but if complain about these things is all you do then you may need to do a little soul searching.
I used to complain a lot more than I do now. With the events of my life over the last few years I have come to understand that I am not in control and that what comes into my life comes from God. Do I accept everything gladly? Absolutely not. I complain, but I usually complain to God. But I must admit a good venting to a friend at times helps!
May I suggest that there are some things worth complaining about. I understand that the chicken not being "brown" enough, or stating that "it's hot" five times in an hour when it's 95 degrees, or lamenting that children do not sit still, be quiet, and behave are life changing events that warrant a great deal of time and thought to express. But may I suggest some other topics of complaint? One topic of complaint that I feel we can discuss with each other and take directly to God is the fact that I (meaning each of us) am not where I need to be spiritually. That is a major topic that should be thought of and dealt with daily. I need my brothers and sisters in Christ to help me walk this path God has laid before me. Hebrews 10:24 tells us to encourage or provoke one another to love and good works. Galatians 6:2 says to bear one another's burdens and help your sibling in Christ. Another topic of complaint could be that I (meaning each of us) struggle with sin. 1 John 1:9 tells us to confess our sins and that God will forgive AND cleanse us from these sins. Maybe another topic could be that I (meaning each of us) do not love God or others enough. I still too often want my way or want things to suit me and no one else. Luke 10:27 tells me to love God with all I have AND to love my neighbor like I love my self. Or maybe complain that I (meaning each of us) do not know scripture well enough. 2 Timothy 2:15 tells me to be diligent to show that I can handle accurately God's word.
These are just some suggestions about things that we can complain about, feel free to edit as you wish. Because Lord knows I don't know what I am talking about! I would be better off just not writing these posts that no one ever reads! I mean, seriously? Why would I waste my time writing this nonsense when no one will read it anyway? I take all this time and effort and thinking (which is difficult for me anyway) and then I link it on Facebook and does anyone read it? NOOOO!! Maybe just the two people that receive it by email. They MIGHT read it, and even then who knows? Last time I posted something I wrote on Facebook I lost two friends anyway! Maybe I should just post all my garbage up on Facebook and lose all my friends! Yeah that's it! I think I will! Who needs friends anyway? I mean, seriously!?! Right? I am gonna stop writing now. I am beginning to annoy myself with all this complaining!
Which leads me to the question: Are our lives so spiritually empty that we have nothing to talk about but complain about things that we cannot change or that do not matter? Do we have so little understanding of the people and world around us that we cannot make an impact at changing the environment around us with a different attitude? There are topics and times of legitimate complaint, do not misunderstand me, but if complain about these things is all you do then you may need to do a little soul searching.
I used to complain a lot more than I do now. With the events of my life over the last few years I have come to understand that I am not in control and that what comes into my life comes from God. Do I accept everything gladly? Absolutely not. I complain, but I usually complain to God. But I must admit a good venting to a friend at times helps!
May I suggest that there are some things worth complaining about. I understand that the chicken not being "brown" enough, or stating that "it's hot" five times in an hour when it's 95 degrees, or lamenting that children do not sit still, be quiet, and behave are life changing events that warrant a great deal of time and thought to express. But may I suggest some other topics of complaint? One topic of complaint that I feel we can discuss with each other and take directly to God is the fact that I (meaning each of us) am not where I need to be spiritually. That is a major topic that should be thought of and dealt with daily. I need my brothers and sisters in Christ to help me walk this path God has laid before me. Hebrews 10:24 tells us to encourage or provoke one another to love and good works. Galatians 6:2 says to bear one another's burdens and help your sibling in Christ. Another topic of complaint could be that I (meaning each of us) struggle with sin. 1 John 1:9 tells us to confess our sins and that God will forgive AND cleanse us from these sins. Maybe another topic could be that I (meaning each of us) do not love God or others enough. I still too often want my way or want things to suit me and no one else. Luke 10:27 tells me to love God with all I have AND to love my neighbor like I love my self. Or maybe complain that I (meaning each of us) do not know scripture well enough. 2 Timothy 2:15 tells me to be diligent to show that I can handle accurately God's word.
These are just some suggestions about things that we can complain about, feel free to edit as you wish. Because Lord knows I don't know what I am talking about! I would be better off just not writing these posts that no one ever reads! I mean, seriously? Why would I waste my time writing this nonsense when no one will read it anyway? I take all this time and effort and thinking (which is difficult for me anyway) and then I link it on Facebook and does anyone read it? NOOOO!! Maybe just the two people that receive it by email. They MIGHT read it, and even then who knows? Last time I posted something I wrote on Facebook I lost two friends anyway! Maybe I should just post all my garbage up on Facebook and lose all my friends! Yeah that's it! I think I will! Who needs friends anyway? I mean, seriously!?! Right? I am gonna stop writing now. I am beginning to annoy myself with all this complaining!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Tension
As I finished up the semester a little over a week ago, I had already been suffering from tension. Not like the tension that causes headaches, but the tension like on a rope that you are pulling on with someone tied to the other end of it. With school, I always have something to do with homework, papers, or reports. This takes a priority in my daily life. When that ends, I find many other things begin pulling at me. What now is my priority? This confusion isn't for a lack of things to do, but a lack of priorities on my part. What is that one thing that is needful? What absolutely has to be done? This is my quandary.
I read the Bible. I pray. I go to work. I take care of what needs to be done at home, yet none of these give me a sense of fulfillment or purpose. What is that underlying element that I turn to and work on when all else is done? Right now, I don't know what that is. I love my job as difficult and annoying as it may be when dealing with middle-schoolers and grade-schoolers. But I get to interact with them and can share my faith with them and I thoroughly enjoy that and thank God for that opportunity. But when I leave work, work stays there.
So now there are many things pulling at me for priorities: different desires to read more, study greek, hobbies, financial needs, or focusing on what my life needs to get back to "living." I could go on and on. Different things creep in, both good and bad, and want to take control. Bad memories creep in and affect my moods. I get to thinking about past relationships and wondering about why they turned out how they did. At any moment I may have loneliness, joy, fullness, gladness, depression, frustration, aggression, emptiness, or worthlessness coursing through the veins of my emotions and it may change at any given moment for no apparent reason.
Recently I have been going through the memory of my life altering events from recent years. Tomorrow is May 25th and it will have been three years since my mother died and my wife left me. And honestly I have to say that sometimes it still hurts like hell. It seems as though now I am finally beginning to actually deal with the loss of my mother. The betrayal of my wife in leaving me how and when she did honestly left me in a state that I do not have the words to truly convey the depth of feeling I had. I felt like a zombie: lifeless. I blindly walked into another relationship a few months later seeking something to help ease the pain and I felt like I had decided to move on. That was the biggest mistake of my life and still has unresolved issues that pull at me as well.
Do I get a headache from all these things pulling at me at once? No, for me it is more of a heartache. When all the emotions have filtered through and I get down to brass tacks, I am always pulled back to God by His love, kindness, and mercy for me. He alone is worthy of my time and effort, and in whatever I do, whether work or play, I believe that it is all a part of His plan to make me who I am.
I read the Bible. I pray. I go to work. I take care of what needs to be done at home, yet none of these give me a sense of fulfillment or purpose. What is that underlying element that I turn to and work on when all else is done? Right now, I don't know what that is. I love my job as difficult and annoying as it may be when dealing with middle-schoolers and grade-schoolers. But I get to interact with them and can share my faith with them and I thoroughly enjoy that and thank God for that opportunity. But when I leave work, work stays there.
So now there are many things pulling at me for priorities: different desires to read more, study greek, hobbies, financial needs, or focusing on what my life needs to get back to "living." I could go on and on. Different things creep in, both good and bad, and want to take control. Bad memories creep in and affect my moods. I get to thinking about past relationships and wondering about why they turned out how they did. At any moment I may have loneliness, joy, fullness, gladness, depression, frustration, aggression, emptiness, or worthlessness coursing through the veins of my emotions and it may change at any given moment for no apparent reason.
Recently I have been going through the memory of my life altering events from recent years. Tomorrow is May 25th and it will have been three years since my mother died and my wife left me. And honestly I have to say that sometimes it still hurts like hell. It seems as though now I am finally beginning to actually deal with the loss of my mother. The betrayal of my wife in leaving me how and when she did honestly left me in a state that I do not have the words to truly convey the depth of feeling I had. I felt like a zombie: lifeless. I blindly walked into another relationship a few months later seeking something to help ease the pain and I felt like I had decided to move on. That was the biggest mistake of my life and still has unresolved issues that pull at me as well.
Do I get a headache from all these things pulling at me at once? No, for me it is more of a heartache. When all the emotions have filtered through and I get down to brass tacks, I am always pulled back to God by His love, kindness, and mercy for me. He alone is worthy of my time and effort, and in whatever I do, whether work or play, I believe that it is all a part of His plan to make me who I am.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Sad but True
Tonight on the way home, I was listening to John Hancock on WBT radio out of Charlotte. I heard something that I didn't know whether to cry about or laugh at. Mr. Hancock is not an overly religious gentleman, but is the son of a minister. When a nice lady called in and asked him about the recent prediction that tomorrow is going to be the rapture. She asked if the Bible said that no one can know the day, and he replied that it does say that, which is accurate. Once he had answered her question, she said she would stop worrying.
My thought, however, was that this dear poor woman called a radio talk show host to ask about spiritual matters. No offense to Mr. Hancock or the caller, but if I wanted to know something about my car I wouldn't call a gynecologist. If my foot was hurting, I wouldn't call a skiing instructor. If I wanted siding put on my house, I wouldn't call a librarian. Yet this lady calls a radio talk show host whose show is not about religion specifically, nor do I believe that Mr. Hancock would claim to be a Bible expert.
It saddens me that people do these types of things. Why not crack open the Bible and see for yourself? Google it. Bing it. Yahoo search it. Do not take someone's word for something as potentially important as this event, even an "expert." It seems that this is the way with most people. We do not wish to think for ourselves because then we would be responsible for what we know and what we do with it. As long as we can say, "That's what they told me," we can lay blame at the feet of someone else. Sad but true.
My thought, however, was that this dear poor woman called a radio talk show host to ask about spiritual matters. No offense to Mr. Hancock or the caller, but if I wanted to know something about my car I wouldn't call a gynecologist. If my foot was hurting, I wouldn't call a skiing instructor. If I wanted siding put on my house, I wouldn't call a librarian. Yet this lady calls a radio talk show host whose show is not about religion specifically, nor do I believe that Mr. Hancock would claim to be a Bible expert.
It saddens me that people do these types of things. Why not crack open the Bible and see for yourself? Google it. Bing it. Yahoo search it. Do not take someone's word for something as potentially important as this event, even an "expert." It seems that this is the way with most people. We do not wish to think for ourselves because then we would be responsible for what we know and what we do with it. As long as we can say, "That's what they told me," we can lay blame at the feet of someone else. Sad but true.
Is This Offensive?
Romans 9:14-18 (NASB)
What shall we say then? There is no injustice with God, is there? May it never be! For He says to Moses, "I WILL HAVE MERCY ON WHOM I HAVE MERCY, AND I WILL HAVE COMPASSION ON WHOM I HAVE COMPASSION." So then it does not depend on the man who wills or the man who runs, but on God who has mercy. For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, "FOR THIS VERY PURPOSE I RAISED YOU UP, TO DEMONSTRATE MY POWER IN YOU, AND THAT MY NAME MIGHT BE PROCLAIMED THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE EARTH." So then He has mercy on whom He desires, and He hardens whom He desires.
Is this offensive to you? Does it interfere with your sense of "fairness"? I have come to the conclusion today that Romans 9 is one of the greatest chapters in the Bible. It tells me more about God and His glory than any other chapter in the Bible ... maybe.
We are discussing a book by Erwin Lutzer in Sunday school: Ten Lies About God. In the three lessons I have lead the discussion, each seem to have at their core the desire to exalt man over God. Whether it is God's command over nature and the horrible natural disasters that occur, the condemnation of non-believers who never had a "chance" to hear the gospel, or God's freedom in election, each lie wants to exalt man and blame God. The old question of "Why do bad things happen to good people" pops it's head up. In a moment of clarity during one f the lessons, I asked the question, "From God's perspective, who is innocent?" If Romans 3 does not come to mind, go read your Bible. Paul concludes that there is none righteous and that all have sinned. We never learn God's perspective do we? That's what theology does and that's just for the academia and for the preachers and Bible-thumpers. Jonathan Edwards would disagree.
Although a Calvinist, and in this day and age that's a bad word and labels people as uncaring and impractical, Edwards life and view of all things flowed from his belief about who God is. For Edwards, obedience to the commands of Christ was preeminent to the Christian life. What were Christ's commands? Love God and love your neighbor, and not in word only but in DEED and in TRUTH. People also hate the book of James, but James is pointing to the obvious fact that real faith requires an attitude of the heart followed by a subsequent act of obedience. If we say we love Christ but do not love others around us and meet their needs as Christ did, are we fooling ourselves? C.S. Lewis says that what we are comes out in what we do. That's a good statement because it agrees with Jesus words in Mark 7. At our core we are and always will be sinners thus none of us are innocent before God. So to charge God with guilt over bad things happening to "good" people is false.
Why then do we as the creatures say to the Creator, "That's not fair"? It is a symptom of the sin in our heart. Although we have sinned like Adam, we want to make God obligated and bound to our will and desire and free ourselves from responsibility. If you have children or work with children this concept should be easy to grasp. When the child does wrong they want to justify and blame us and make excuses, thus charging us with guilt for their transgression. Does this remind you of Adam's response to God seeking him in the garden? "The woman whom YOU gave to be with me, she gave me from the tree, and I ate." It's your fault God!! If you had not given me this woman, I wouldn't have eaten!! It's her fault God!! Yet in the end if you look at scripture, Adam freely took of the fruit and ate it.
So, why do Christians have a problem with free election of God in salvation? I think there are at least a couple of things I can point to. First is our sinful nature. As a Christian we still have to deal with and subdue those old desires. We still say to God; "That's not fair!" We still want to shackle God with our perspective and sense of fairness. Second is the American culture. We have developed a deep abiding sense of entitlement in America. We believe that we are exceptional people and we are. We do more than any other nation to help the poor of our nation and those of other nations as well. Unfortunately we ascribe our greatness to our people or our form of government rather than God. We can see the influence of Christ's teachings in taking care of the sick and the poor, yet we ascribe it to our innate goodness. Once again we exalt man and dethrone God.
Even so, scripture says that God "has mercy on whom He desires, and He hardens whom He desires." You can either accept it or stand with those who accuse God and say, "That's not fair!" I think I am with Joshua on this one.
What shall we say then? There is no injustice with God, is there? May it never be! For He says to Moses, "I WILL HAVE MERCY ON WHOM I HAVE MERCY, AND I WILL HAVE COMPASSION ON WHOM I HAVE COMPASSION." So then it does not depend on the man who wills or the man who runs, but on God who has mercy. For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, "FOR THIS VERY PURPOSE I RAISED YOU UP, TO DEMONSTRATE MY POWER IN YOU, AND THAT MY NAME MIGHT BE PROCLAIMED THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE EARTH." So then He has mercy on whom He desires, and He hardens whom He desires.
Is this offensive to you? Does it interfere with your sense of "fairness"? I have come to the conclusion today that Romans 9 is one of the greatest chapters in the Bible. It tells me more about God and His glory than any other chapter in the Bible ... maybe.
We are discussing a book by Erwin Lutzer in Sunday school: Ten Lies About God. In the three lessons I have lead the discussion, each seem to have at their core the desire to exalt man over God. Whether it is God's command over nature and the horrible natural disasters that occur, the condemnation of non-believers who never had a "chance" to hear the gospel, or God's freedom in election, each lie wants to exalt man and blame God. The old question of "Why do bad things happen to good people" pops it's head up. In a moment of clarity during one f the lessons, I asked the question, "From God's perspective, who is innocent?" If Romans 3 does not come to mind, go read your Bible. Paul concludes that there is none righteous and that all have sinned. We never learn God's perspective do we? That's what theology does and that's just for the academia and for the preachers and Bible-thumpers. Jonathan Edwards would disagree.
Although a Calvinist, and in this day and age that's a bad word and labels people as uncaring and impractical, Edwards life and view of all things flowed from his belief about who God is. For Edwards, obedience to the commands of Christ was preeminent to the Christian life. What were Christ's commands? Love God and love your neighbor, and not in word only but in DEED and in TRUTH. People also hate the book of James, but James is pointing to the obvious fact that real faith requires an attitude of the heart followed by a subsequent act of obedience. If we say we love Christ but do not love others around us and meet their needs as Christ did, are we fooling ourselves? C.S. Lewis says that what we are comes out in what we do. That's a good statement because it agrees with Jesus words in Mark 7. At our core we are and always will be sinners thus none of us are innocent before God. So to charge God with guilt over bad things happening to "good" people is false.
Why then do we as the creatures say to the Creator, "That's not fair"? It is a symptom of the sin in our heart. Although we have sinned like Adam, we want to make God obligated and bound to our will and desire and free ourselves from responsibility. If you have children or work with children this concept should be easy to grasp. When the child does wrong they want to justify and blame us and make excuses, thus charging us with guilt for their transgression. Does this remind you of Adam's response to God seeking him in the garden? "The woman whom YOU gave to be with me, she gave me from the tree, and I ate." It's your fault God!! If you had not given me this woman, I wouldn't have eaten!! It's her fault God!! Yet in the end if you look at scripture, Adam freely took of the fruit and ate it.
So, why do Christians have a problem with free election of God in salvation? I think there are at least a couple of things I can point to. First is our sinful nature. As a Christian we still have to deal with and subdue those old desires. We still say to God; "That's not fair!" We still want to shackle God with our perspective and sense of fairness. Second is the American culture. We have developed a deep abiding sense of entitlement in America. We believe that we are exceptional people and we are. We do more than any other nation to help the poor of our nation and those of other nations as well. Unfortunately we ascribe our greatness to our people or our form of government rather than God. We can see the influence of Christ's teachings in taking care of the sick and the poor, yet we ascribe it to our innate goodness. Once again we exalt man and dethrone God.
Even so, scripture says that God "has mercy on whom He desires, and He hardens whom He desires." You can either accept it or stand with those who accuse God and say, "That's not fair!" I think I am with Joshua on this one.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Victory
Romans 8:35-37 (NASB)
35 Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 Just as it is written, "FOR YOUR SAKE WE ARE BEING PUT TO DEATH ALL DAY LONG; WE WERE CONSIDERED AS SHEEP TO BE SLAUGHTERED." 37 But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.
What a way to begin a day!! The end of the school semester has brought ample time for my brain to flood with all other types of thoughts and emotions. Painful memories, current struggles and doubts, and many other things that tend to hamper faith have come to the forefront of my mind, but today I started with these verses. It struck me that the verses do not say we endure, but it says that we conquer!! We win!! We have overcome any obstacle that may inhibit us from experiencing the fullness of the life of Christ. How so? Is the life of victory in Christ an easy care free life? May it never be!! It is through tribulation, distress, persecution, and suffering that we come to know and experience the fullness of Christ. Through Him, and through Him only, do we not only overcome these obstacles but we conquer them as a glorious victory on the field of battle called life. When we refuse to let the disease that is destroying our body overcome our joy in Christ, we conquer!! When we refuse to let the needs of life overwhelm us, we conquer!! When we refuse to lash out at the one who is hurting us, we conquer!! When we refuse to give in to the temptations of life, in public and in private, we conquer!! When we face death and we refuse to lose hope, we conquer!! In all these things Christ's power, glory, and magnificence is brought to the forefront of our minds, shown in our lives, and seen by others. In these times we bear a greater witness for Christ than we could in a thousand lifetimes of joy, peace, and ease.
The greatest theological question people seem to have is "How can there be a good God and suffering in this world?" When we face the trials of life, refuse to give in to the despair they can bring, and give Christ glory, then we show that only through Him can we endure the suffering this life brings with hope. Because only in Christ do we have hope. Who else answers the question "How can a man be justified before God?" Through Him we have conquered the greatest peril to a man's soul: the debt of sin that separates us from Him. Peter said in Acts that there is no other name under Heaven given among men whereby we MUST be saved!! Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but by me." Only in Him and through Him is there any hope at all for this life and the life that follows for it is appointed for man once to die and after this the judgment. We have an appointment to keep that no one has ever missed and a follow up immediately after. Are you prepared for the follow up? Will you win this race of life? Only through Jesus Christ is victory possible.
35 Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 Just as it is written, "FOR YOUR SAKE WE ARE BEING PUT TO DEATH ALL DAY LONG; WE WERE CONSIDERED AS SHEEP TO BE SLAUGHTERED." 37 But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.
What a way to begin a day!! The end of the school semester has brought ample time for my brain to flood with all other types of thoughts and emotions. Painful memories, current struggles and doubts, and many other things that tend to hamper faith have come to the forefront of my mind, but today I started with these verses. It struck me that the verses do not say we endure, but it says that we conquer!! We win!! We have overcome any obstacle that may inhibit us from experiencing the fullness of the life of Christ. How so? Is the life of victory in Christ an easy care free life? May it never be!! It is through tribulation, distress, persecution, and suffering that we come to know and experience the fullness of Christ. Through Him, and through Him only, do we not only overcome these obstacles but we conquer them as a glorious victory on the field of battle called life. When we refuse to let the disease that is destroying our body overcome our joy in Christ, we conquer!! When we refuse to let the needs of life overwhelm us, we conquer!! When we refuse to lash out at the one who is hurting us, we conquer!! When we refuse to give in to the temptations of life, in public and in private, we conquer!! When we face death and we refuse to lose hope, we conquer!! In all these things Christ's power, glory, and magnificence is brought to the forefront of our minds, shown in our lives, and seen by others. In these times we bear a greater witness for Christ than we could in a thousand lifetimes of joy, peace, and ease.
The greatest theological question people seem to have is "How can there be a good God and suffering in this world?" When we face the trials of life, refuse to give in to the despair they can bring, and give Christ glory, then we show that only through Him can we endure the suffering this life brings with hope. Because only in Christ do we have hope. Who else answers the question "How can a man be justified before God?" Through Him we have conquered the greatest peril to a man's soul: the debt of sin that separates us from Him. Peter said in Acts that there is no other name under Heaven given among men whereby we MUST be saved!! Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but by me." Only in Him and through Him is there any hope at all for this life and the life that follows for it is appointed for man once to die and after this the judgment. We have an appointment to keep that no one has ever missed and a follow up immediately after. Are you prepared for the follow up? Will you win this race of life? Only through Jesus Christ is victory possible.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Time
Life has been hectic lately, and it will continue to be so for a while longer. It made me think of how precious time truly is. The fact is at 42 years of age my life is probably well past half over. I have already lived a majority of my life. But I have to say that I am thankful that, with God, quantity of life is not the issue but quality. He has given me life eternal. This is something that I will not inherit when I die but have it now. I have an abundant life. It is blessed no matter how sour things get. But one thing is for certain, with time (and God's grace) comes change. One of my favorite Selah songs is "Timeless." The lyrics from this song truly express how I feel about the topic of time.
Time, it's changing me
It's hard to see who I am
Touched, I'm touched by many things
So many things I don't understand
But seasons pass and I discover
Above all this there's another
Helping me to hold on to what is timeless
CHORUS
So the autumn can color me gold
And the winter can dress me in snow
But it's You I see,
The timeless part of me
In the springtime I'm young once again
In the summer I dance on the wind
But it's You I see,
The timeless part of me
Change, whether it's good or bad
You know I'm glad You're in control
Oh Lord, if I don't understand
I know Your hand will shield my soul
Seasons pass and I discover
Above all this there's another
Helping me to hold on to what is timeless.
It's hard to see who I am
Touched, I'm touched by many things
So many things I don't understand
But seasons pass and I discover
Above all this there's another
Helping me to hold on to what is timeless
CHORUS
So the autumn can color me gold
And the winter can dress me in snow
But it's You I see,
The timeless part of me
In the springtime I'm young once again
In the summer I dance on the wind
But it's You I see,
The timeless part of me
Change, whether it's good or bad
You know I'm glad You're in control
Oh Lord, if I don't understand
I know Your hand will shield my soul
Seasons pass and I discover
Above all this there's another
Helping me to hold on to what is timeless.
Of all the things in life I could hold on to, the one thing that I MUST hold on to is Christ, for He truly is timeless and above it all.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Say What?
Communication is the key to any relationship. Yet the longer I live, and the more I watch and learn about people in this life, the more I understand how hard it is to truly communicate with someone. Even when it is a good close friend who thinks like you, communication can be difficult. There are language barriers even among people who speak a common language. Words take on different connotations of meaning to people. I may say something that is plain and clear, yet to you those words have a slightly different meaning.
As I seek to teach in Sunday school or in my tutoring at the Y, the greatest difficulty I have is framing my thoughts in words so that the hearer understands and comprehends exactly what I mean, EVEN if they might phrase it differently. This is a great challenge. It requires, to some degree, an understanding of your audience. How do they think? How do they speak? What words communicate most clearly what I mean? It requires you to get to know the people who listen. It requires time to collect and specify clearly to yourself what you want to convey to the audience.
Each of us have our own idiom, or way of speaking. It is learning the language of another person so as to be able to communicate with precision that is truly difficult. Many misunderstandings happen because of semantics, which is a lack of understanding another person's meaning. They may mean the same thing, but say it a different way. This is, of course, assuming that both people truly want to communicate with each other (that's a different blog for a different day). For example, I worked at a machine shop when I was much younger and a guy was trimming a part. The gauge read 0.100. I said he was taking off a tenth of an inch, but he said he was taking off 100/1000ths. I just stared at him blankly. He had no concept that both measurements were the same thing. We were saying the same thing, but there was a lack of communication. I knew the math equivalent, while he understood it in machine shop speak. There are many factors that contribute to the growth of the language that we use. Our family background and education are the two main factors. Whether we come from a poor, rich, middle class, black, white, Latin, Asian, or other type of family, the family is the main source of learning to speak and communicate with those around us. The linguistic skills of our parents and their vocabulary range help or hinder the growth of language. Education is the other key factor that helps develop language skills. When a child begins school, they are exposed to new words and new ways of speaking. This can add to the child's vocabulary and ability to communicate with others. It also exposes them, for the first time, to different cultures. Each family unit is a culture unto itself. We may live next door to friends and family, but live life very differently.
So the next time you are uncertain of someone's meaning, do not be afraid to ask what they mean. In doing so, you can gain a clear understanding of what they mean, and also gain a glimpse into what makes them ... them.
As I seek to teach in Sunday school or in my tutoring at the Y, the greatest difficulty I have is framing my thoughts in words so that the hearer understands and comprehends exactly what I mean, EVEN if they might phrase it differently. This is a great challenge. It requires, to some degree, an understanding of your audience. How do they think? How do they speak? What words communicate most clearly what I mean? It requires you to get to know the people who listen. It requires time to collect and specify clearly to yourself what you want to convey to the audience.
Each of us have our own idiom, or way of speaking. It is learning the language of another person so as to be able to communicate with precision that is truly difficult. Many misunderstandings happen because of semantics, which is a lack of understanding another person's meaning. They may mean the same thing, but say it a different way. This is, of course, assuming that both people truly want to communicate with each other (that's a different blog for a different day). For example, I worked at a machine shop when I was much younger and a guy was trimming a part. The gauge read 0.100. I said he was taking off a tenth of an inch, but he said he was taking off 100/1000ths. I just stared at him blankly. He had no concept that both measurements were the same thing. We were saying the same thing, but there was a lack of communication. I knew the math equivalent, while he understood it in machine shop speak. There are many factors that contribute to the growth of the language that we use. Our family background and education are the two main factors. Whether we come from a poor, rich, middle class, black, white, Latin, Asian, or other type of family, the family is the main source of learning to speak and communicate with those around us. The linguistic skills of our parents and their vocabulary range help or hinder the growth of language. Education is the other key factor that helps develop language skills. When a child begins school, they are exposed to new words and new ways of speaking. This can add to the child's vocabulary and ability to communicate with others. It also exposes them, for the first time, to different cultures. Each family unit is a culture unto itself. We may live next door to friends and family, but live life very differently.
So the next time you are uncertain of someone's meaning, do not be afraid to ask what they mean. In doing so, you can gain a clear understanding of what they mean, and also gain a glimpse into what makes them ... them.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
A Merry Heart
Sometimes I think I am not serious minded enough. At 42 years of age, shouldn't I be very serious all the time? Shouldn't I be concerned with the cares of life? I don't know the answer to that question, however I do know who I am. I LOVE to have fun. I have a sharp witted tongue that is quick and can be very funny, even risque at times. I love it when people can dish it out as well as take jabs and barbs. I never try to be too personal or pick at someone with contempt, yet I have on occasion offended others. I usually make as many or more jokes about myself.
At 6'4" and around 400 lbs for my adult life, I am hard to miss. I could never be a criminal. I could see myself on a security camera and everyone who knows me would be pointing and saying, "Isn't that Darrin?" I look rather redneckish since I usually wear a beard so I love to play the dumb redneck, and do so quite well (insert witty comment here). I know ALL the good fat jokes, as well as the bad ones. I do a good imitation of Hank Hill, and have been known to take on other persona's. Once, while attending Fruitland, some friends and I went to Wal-Mart. My buddy Steven, whose middle name is Lawrence was "Louie." My first name is Melvin, so I was "Vinnie." Throughout the entire trip through the store we played out a skit similar to "Of Mice and Men" (guess who was the big dumb one?). As we walked out I exclaimed loudly, "I wanna ride the horsey!" Pleading with "Louie" to let me ride the children's horse ride at the front of the store. I tend to get along well with teenagers since I act just like them. Truly, very little in this life is ALWAYS serious to me.
Levity is what has kept me from going crazy at various times of my life. Through difficult times I have been able to appreciate the humor in each situation even if I was crying through the laughter. I am grateful to God for giving me this childlike heart that is ready, willing, and able to forgive and to laugh, laugh, laugh.
Proverbs 15:13, 17:22
At 6'4" and around 400 lbs for my adult life, I am hard to miss. I could never be a criminal. I could see myself on a security camera and everyone who knows me would be pointing and saying, "Isn't that Darrin?" I look rather redneckish since I usually wear a beard so I love to play the dumb redneck, and do so quite well (insert witty comment here). I know ALL the good fat jokes, as well as the bad ones. I do a good imitation of Hank Hill, and have been known to take on other persona's. Once, while attending Fruitland, some friends and I went to Wal-Mart. My buddy Steven, whose middle name is Lawrence was "Louie." My first name is Melvin, so I was "Vinnie." Throughout the entire trip through the store we played out a skit similar to "Of Mice and Men" (guess who was the big dumb one?). As we walked out I exclaimed loudly, "I wanna ride the horsey!" Pleading with "Louie" to let me ride the children's horse ride at the front of the store. I tend to get along well with teenagers since I act just like them. Truly, very little in this life is ALWAYS serious to me.
Levity is what has kept me from going crazy at various times of my life. Through difficult times I have been able to appreciate the humor in each situation even if I was crying through the laughter. I am grateful to God for giving me this childlike heart that is ready, willing, and able to forgive and to laugh, laugh, laugh.
Proverbs 15:13, 17:22
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Dark Days
This Saturday will mark a year since my blood clot first made itself known. Thinking on this I realized that the markers in my life always refer back to dark days, hard times, or difficult situations. The times in my life that were memorable or marked a change of season in my life have always been times of trouble, pain, or loss. This is not by choice, but just a matter of fact of my life. This is not a lament on my part but a recognition of that fact.
I have long since given up any hope or desire to have any say or control of my life. It is not that I do not wish to be able to plan my life, but a few years back God hit the reset button and since then any attempt to "control" my situation has resulted in futility. So, I submit myself to God and to whatever He brings into my life, good or bad.
My health and mobility have suffered greatly over the last few years due to stress and health related issues. The blood clot alone immobilized me almost entirely for a couple of months and I was severely restricted in the ability to walk for at least four months. Along with that I now have a knee that loves to feel like it may pop out of joint at any moment.
Yesterday, however, I "played" basketball for the first time in years. The goal at the Y was low enough for me to dunk flat footed and some of the middle school kids wanted to play me. I enlisted the help of one of the counselors at the Y as a team mate because she is great at basketball. We raised the goal back to its regular height and started. It wasn't pretty or very effective, but I did move with more haste than a walk! In the end we plastered the kids pretty well.
I bring this up because God has everything covered! I needed my health to improve, yet have no way of "exercising" here at the house nor of affording a gym membership. Yet I loved to play basketball as a kid and with my job at the Y I get to play a little everyday. This has made an improvement in my overall strength and ability to move and I expect it to continue to get better.
Those whom God has given the ability to choose what they want in life may not understand this, but that is ok. This is my Journey and God has seen fit to guide me down this path. For now, I am thankful that I can still play basketball and hope that one day soon my life may be marked by times of change that result in better days and good times.
For His Glory,
DH
I have long since given up any hope or desire to have any say or control of my life. It is not that I do not wish to be able to plan my life, but a few years back God hit the reset button and since then any attempt to "control" my situation has resulted in futility. So, I submit myself to God and to whatever He brings into my life, good or bad.
My health and mobility have suffered greatly over the last few years due to stress and health related issues. The blood clot alone immobilized me almost entirely for a couple of months and I was severely restricted in the ability to walk for at least four months. Along with that I now have a knee that loves to feel like it may pop out of joint at any moment.
Yesterday, however, I "played" basketball for the first time in years. The goal at the Y was low enough for me to dunk flat footed and some of the middle school kids wanted to play me. I enlisted the help of one of the counselors at the Y as a team mate because she is great at basketball. We raised the goal back to its regular height and started. It wasn't pretty or very effective, but I did move with more haste than a walk! In the end we plastered the kids pretty well.
I bring this up because God has everything covered! I needed my health to improve, yet have no way of "exercising" here at the house nor of affording a gym membership. Yet I loved to play basketball as a kid and with my job at the Y I get to play a little everyday. This has made an improvement in my overall strength and ability to move and I expect it to continue to get better.
Those whom God has given the ability to choose what they want in life may not understand this, but that is ok. This is my Journey and God has seen fit to guide me down this path. For now, I am thankful that I can still play basketball and hope that one day soon my life may be marked by times of change that result in better days and good times.
For His Glory,
DH
Thursday, February 3, 2011
A Loving Father
As I sat at church last night waiting to speak to a friend, I noticed a young child with it's father waiting as well. The child was curious about everything and never stopped moving. I watched as the father patiently followed behind to remove their hands from anything that the child should not be into. I put down the book I was reading and just watched and thought how often God does that to us.
God follows us as we wander through this life and guides away from things that would harm us. He removes our hands from things that we do not need to handle. He patiently guides into things that are safe and meaningful in this life.
Yet we often reject this guidance and go our own way. Isaiah says, "All we like sheep have gone astray. We have turned every one to his own way." In our rebellion, God often lets us reap the fruit of our disobedience. I find it sad that we often respond with questions like: why did this happen? what did I do wrong? why didn't God stop it? We all too often want to lay the blame at God's feet for our misconduct and lay on Him the guilt that should be ours when we walk away from the loving guidance and protection of a perfect Father.
When you bemoan not having something you want, ask yourself if it is the protection of God keeping something that would be your ruin from you. And let us run with patience the race that is set before us looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.
God follows us as we wander through this life and guides away from things that would harm us. He removes our hands from things that we do not need to handle. He patiently guides into things that are safe and meaningful in this life.
Yet we often reject this guidance and go our own way. Isaiah says, "All we like sheep have gone astray. We have turned every one to his own way." In our rebellion, God often lets us reap the fruit of our disobedience. I find it sad that we often respond with questions like: why did this happen? what did I do wrong? why didn't God stop it? We all too often want to lay the blame at God's feet for our misconduct and lay on Him the guilt that should be ours when we walk away from the loving guidance and protection of a perfect Father.
When you bemoan not having something you want, ask yourself if it is the protection of God keeping something that would be your ruin from you. And let us run with patience the race that is set before us looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Approaching God
Mark 1:40-41
And a leper came to Him, beseeching Him and falling on his knees before Him, and saying to Him, "If You are willing, You can make me clean." And moved with compassion, He stretched out His hand, and touched him, and said to him, "I am willing; be cleansed."
In this brief passage, there are rich truths to instruct us on how to approach God.
Notice first, that the leper came beseeching Jesus. The word beseech comes from a compound word in the greek. It consists of a preposition meaning beside, and a verb meaning to call. This, to me, adds a great meaning to the passage because you have to come near to Him to call on God. Too often our pride prevents us from asking for help from others and especially from God. Yet the leper came to Jesus, and that was unacceptable for the leper in that culture. Being a leper, he was ceremonially unclean and was to supposed to cry out "unclean" whenever someone came near so that they could avoid being unclean themselves. This shows the need and the boldness of the leper. He needed to be cleansed of his leprosy and knew where to find the help. He was bold in approaching Jesus and Hebrews 4:16 tells us to "draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." If we, like the leper, could clearly see our needs, maybe we would have the boldness to approach the throne of God in seeking His hand to help us with our sins and downfalls. Maybe the difficulty comes from our pride and the fact that in doing so we acknowledge the Lordship of Christ and must humbly kneel before Him. This leads me to the next step in approaching God.
Notice that the leper knelt before Christ. In this act the leper acknowledges the true place of Christ as King. Pride may be the biggest sin that we face as Christians. Part of it from ourselves and another part from our culture. The American culture looks down on those who need help and are not considered a "success." In America, we strive to be the best and often times it means running over others to get there. In the Church, we try to put our best face forward as though nothing is wrong. That we are not struggling with life, with sin, and with troubles. Could it be that even in the Church we do not really care about helping our brothers and sisters? Not from pity, nor from obligation, but from love and a recognition of our own frailty should we open our eyes to see the needs of others before they ask. But do we spend the time to get to know each other in the Church? Are we afraid that others may see our faults? I figure that the Church should be the place where we are not afraid to reveal our warts. I suppose that those whose sins have been forgiven and their hearts opened up before a Holy God would and should be the most accepting and forgiving people on earth. Sounds like I am chasing a rabbit doesn't it? But if you really think about it, doesn't it all go back to the Lordship of Christ? If we bow our knee to Christ we would not judge others doing the same. The leper sets an example of acknowledging the Lordship of Christ because he had no thought, care, or concern for what others might think, only what Christ would think. The most amazing part of this passage, however, is what the leper said.
The leper approaches Christ without doubt and in faith. This is seen in what he said, "If You are willing, You can make me clean." He doesn't ask Jesus IF he can cleanse the leprosy, but he says to Jesus you CAN make me clean, if you are willing. How often do we approach God with this amount of confidence in His ability? How often do we have faith like this? How powerful is it to approach God like this? Look at the response of Christ. Mark says He was moved with compassion. Jesus was so moved with compassion, that He did that which was forbidden under Jewish law, he stretched out His hand and touched the leper.
If we come near to Christ, acknowledge His Lordship, and ask in faith will He have compassion on us as well?
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