I don't know what it's like to literally be abandoned even though I can have feelings of abandonment from time to time. It's hard to imagine being left on the doorsteps of a church (or any other place for that matter) unwanted for any number of reasons but that is reality for many people. I can't pretend to understand completely what people feel having been abandoned but my heart hurts for them. Sara's sister Carlie and her fiance, Patrick, came to visit us for the weekend and we had a great time together. Not only am I thankful for Sara's family but I'm thankful to have such a great future brother-in-law. His story is a little deeper than most people I know. From what I understand Patrick was abandoned as a child and finds it difficult to believe in a God who allows children to be abandoned. My heart hurts for him and I hope as our relationship grows I might be able to share with Patrick the message of the gospel in a new light. If anything, God has a heart for the marginalized, the disenfranchized, and the abandoned. He has not turned his back on them but on the contrary yearns to bring them close to his heart. It is not a message of abandonment but of adoption. God is waiting for us to renounce the stories that have defined our past and claim the promise of adoption as his children. My prayer is that my life might be a reflection of that message in ways that Patrick might be drawn to healing grace and find his place in the open arms of God's family. May God be praised!
Monday, October 11, 2004
Tuesday, September 21, 2004
Just a Thought...
Sometimes I stop and wonder why it can be so difficult to find peace and rest living in the midst of the frenzied chaos we term the American Dream. Then I remember I've got to much to do to stop and think about such things! I'm so busy...
Lord, may we find peace and rest in you and may we take time to just "be" in your presence.
Lord, may we find peace and rest in you and may we take time to just "be" in your presence.
Saturday, September 11, 2004
Sabbatical
I guess it is obvious that I have taken a break from blogging, not necessarily out of desire but out of necessity. The beginning of each new school year always seems to bring about different levels of disorientation as I try to juggle changing schedules of school, work, marriage, and physical well-being. I'm not so sure I've yet achieved any semblance of organized status but I will continue to press on. Last week Sara and I decided to begin a Saturday morning tradition of going to a new local coffee shop here in Abilene called Java City. We find that it is easier for us to accomplish our studies apart from the comfy coziness of our humble abode. So here we find ourselves once again this Saturday slaving away all for the pursuit of higher education, well and I guess transformation is an important aspect too.
I've been doing a lot of reading lately for classes and I came across what I consider to be a great excerpt in a book entitled, StormFront: The Good News of God. Here is what the authors have to say regarding the subject of community as the church in the world today:
At it's best, the church has affirmed those who are called to a radical simplicity of lifestyle, to remind the rest of us that we don't need what we think we need. The church has understood the value of people committed to celibacy, who remind us that sex is neither a necessity nor a god. We have learned from those who continually open their homes to others, who cure the rest of us of the idolatry of our privacy. We are nourished by devoted parents who sacrifice career advancement for the sake of time with their children, who help the rest of us keep our priorities straight. We are strengthened by people who are lavish in prayer and spiritual disciplines, who remind those of us with harder spirits of where our real help comes from and goad us out of our complacency. The church thrives when it is made up of communities of Christians willing to commit themselves to support each other in risky, venturesome ways, when Christians are willing to resist creatively the many ways in which the dominant in our world crush the weak.
In short, the gospel resounds in the life of the church when Christians find a thousand joyful ways to take the mixed-up values of this world and turn them upside down--when Christians aren't afraid to walk down a path the world calls madness, a path that is really the road to life. In this each of us will have a distinctive calling. But that calling is discerned and embraced within the context of a loving and discerning community. It is vitally important that we not carry someone else's cross, but rather that our eyes are fixed firmly on where Jesus is calling us. But it is also vital for us to encourage each other in our shared discipleship. In this way, each individual life bears witness to the power of the cross, and the shared life of the entire community bears witness with harmony, unity, and power to the mysterious way in which God brings life out of what the world calls death...This is what it means to participate in the reign of God and to be united with Christ in his death. This is the life that the gospel invites Christians to receive, to enter, and to proclaim.
It is energizing to know that we are the body of Christ made up of many important parts, called to live in the world and not of it to the glory of the One whose abundant love is made evident in the life of Jesus! Praise God that we may enter and proclaim that community.
I've been doing a lot of reading lately for classes and I came across what I consider to be a great excerpt in a book entitled, StormFront: The Good News of God. Here is what the authors have to say regarding the subject of community as the church in the world today:
At it's best, the church has affirmed those who are called to a radical simplicity of lifestyle, to remind the rest of us that we don't need what we think we need. The church has understood the value of people committed to celibacy, who remind us that sex is neither a necessity nor a god. We have learned from those who continually open their homes to others, who cure the rest of us of the idolatry of our privacy. We are nourished by devoted parents who sacrifice career advancement for the sake of time with their children, who help the rest of us keep our priorities straight. We are strengthened by people who are lavish in prayer and spiritual disciplines, who remind those of us with harder spirits of where our real help comes from and goad us out of our complacency. The church thrives when it is made up of communities of Christians willing to commit themselves to support each other in risky, venturesome ways, when Christians are willing to resist creatively the many ways in which the dominant in our world crush the weak.
In short, the gospel resounds in the life of the church when Christians find a thousand joyful ways to take the mixed-up values of this world and turn them upside down--when Christians aren't afraid to walk down a path the world calls madness, a path that is really the road to life. In this each of us will have a distinctive calling. But that calling is discerned and embraced within the context of a loving and discerning community. It is vitally important that we not carry someone else's cross, but rather that our eyes are fixed firmly on where Jesus is calling us. But it is also vital for us to encourage each other in our shared discipleship. In this way, each individual life bears witness to the power of the cross, and the shared life of the entire community bears witness with harmony, unity, and power to the mysterious way in which God brings life out of what the world calls death...This is what it means to participate in the reign of God and to be united with Christ in his death. This is the life that the gospel invites Christians to receive, to enter, and to proclaim.
It is energizing to know that we are the body of Christ made up of many important parts, called to live in the world and not of it to the glory of the One whose abundant love is made evident in the life of Jesus! Praise God that we may enter and proclaim that community.
Thursday, August 19, 2004
Perseverance
Anyone else see the men's all-around gymnastic final last night? What a show! Sara and I were glued to the television as we watched Paul Hamm persevere after falling on his backside to come back and win gold in amazing athletic fashion. It seems there is a life lesson somewhere in there: Even in the moments when you fall on your butt the race is not over. Get up, persevere, and strive toward the prize. I'm sure that moment will go down in Olympic history and we got to witness it.
On a side note, we have continued our cross country trip as we have left the damp and soggy terrain of Florida and made our way to the flatlands of Oklahoma. Only one problem: It's still raining!
On a side note, we have continued our cross country trip as we have left the damp and soggy terrain of Florida and made our way to the flatlands of Oklahoma. Only one problem: It's still raining!
Monday, August 16, 2004
In the Aftermath
WOW! I'm not sure what other words to use. I haven't ever experienced anything like that before and I hope I don't have to again. I can't imagine what it must have been like for the people in the Port Charlotte/Punta Gorda area when Hurricane Charley came ashore at full force because it was more than I wanted to experience when it hit Orlando rated at a 2. You could fill the tremendous force of the storm as it swirled around our house. It's hard to produce words to describe it. The lights kept flickering in and out but thankfully we never lost power for more than a few minutes. As we tried to catch glimpses of the storm outside it was obvious that the rain was coming in horizontally and changing direction at every whim. There was also an eerie glow illuminating the night sky and the windows rattled with every gust.
The next morning we got up and got our first look at the seriousness of the aftermath. Trees were pulled out of the ground, billboards destroyed, houses damaged, roads blocked, power lines down, traffic lights out. It was a feeling of mass chaos and utter disbelief. My heart goes out to those that experienced much worse. WOW! What an unbelievable exhibition of power and force. I'm thankful that God is ultimately in control of something so unpredictable as nature.
If you would like to check out some pictures from my parents neighborhood check out the link below. Then click on the "2004 photos" link and then on "hurricane charley." The pictures might be best viewed in a slideshow format.
http://photobucket.com/albums/v214/darlingmc/
Blessings
The next morning we got up and got our first look at the seriousness of the aftermath. Trees were pulled out of the ground, billboards destroyed, houses damaged, roads blocked, power lines down, traffic lights out. It was a feeling of mass chaos and utter disbelief. My heart goes out to those that experienced much worse. WOW! What an unbelievable exhibition of power and force. I'm thankful that God is ultimately in control of something so unpredictable as nature.
If you would like to check out some pictures from my parents neighborhood check out the link below. Then click on the "2004 photos" link and then on "hurricane charley." The pictures might be best viewed in a slideshow format.
http://photobucket.com/albums/v214/darlingmc/
Blessings
Friday, August 13, 2004
When You Come Home
I look forward to opportunities to come home and visit family. I love to walk off the airplane and out of the terminal after being away for long periods of time and into the open and waiting arms of unconditional love. It never fails that a smile crosses my face when I see my family at the end of the corridor. It's good to be "home."
As I write I'm reminded of a song by Mark Schultz entitled, "When You Come Home." The chorus goes something like this:
When you come home no matter how far
Run through the door and into my arms
It's where you are loved, where you belong
And I will be here, when you come home
It's become a fairly emotional song for me but you'll probably have to listen to it to better understand why. I am thankful to come home to the loving embrace of my family but it is in these times that I am also reminded of how thankful I am to be able to fall into the open arms of God's unconditional love. Coming home evokes a lot of emotions within me, however, I did not expect to come home to an unexpected welcoming committee.
Sara and I arrived in Orlando this morning around 10:30 having already been up since about 4am (which I believe is way too early for any kind of physical activity outside of breathing, and maybe some small amounts of snoring). We were thankful and grateful to not only have arrived but to have arrived safely because the "welcoming committee" I alluded to was...Hurricane Charley! Now, we are sitting on the couch in front of the television as the hurricane hits the west coast of Florida and travels toward Orlando. I believe life is always an adventure but I didn't expect to land right in the middle of this wild ride to begin our vacation.
I pray God's hand of protection is over everyone within the line of this powerful storm!
As I write I'm reminded of a song by Mark Schultz entitled, "When You Come Home." The chorus goes something like this:
When you come home no matter how far
Run through the door and into my arms
It's where you are loved, where you belong
And I will be here, when you come home
It's become a fairly emotional song for me but you'll probably have to listen to it to better understand why. I am thankful to come home to the loving embrace of my family but it is in these times that I am also reminded of how thankful I am to be able to fall into the open arms of God's unconditional love. Coming home evokes a lot of emotions within me, however, I did not expect to come home to an unexpected welcoming committee.
Sara and I arrived in Orlando this morning around 10:30 having already been up since about 4am (which I believe is way too early for any kind of physical activity outside of breathing, and maybe some small amounts of snoring). We were thankful and grateful to not only have arrived but to have arrived safely because the "welcoming committee" I alluded to was...Hurricane Charley! Now, we are sitting on the couch in front of the television as the hurricane hits the west coast of Florida and travels toward Orlando. I believe life is always an adventure but I didn't expect to land right in the middle of this wild ride to begin our vacation.
I pray God's hand of protection is over everyone within the line of this powerful storm!
Thursday, August 12, 2004
Florida Bound
Well, Sara and I are off to Florida via an overnight stop in Dallas, for what will hopefully amount to a little "fun in the sun!" We'll get to spend a few days with my family before school starts and then it's back to the usual daily grind. I can't wait for even just the smallest of breaks. I'm thankful for vacations and the opportunity for a little R and R. So mom, dad--be looking for us cause we're on our way!
See ya soon.
See ya soon.
Wednesday, August 11, 2004
And Mike Wept...
Some might say there were a few tears this morning, although I'm inclined to say that it was just something momentarily in my eye that made them spontaneously water. But, as much as I may have been trained to do otherwise I'd like to think I'm man enough to admit it...so, okay, I cried. Really, what's wrong with a spontaneous outpouring of hysterical sobbing. I mean, we all know the proclaimed "shortest verse of the Bible:" and Jesus wept. Surely it's okay for me to water my face if Jesus did it, right?
At this point you are probably wondering about the cause behind such a sensitive and "in touch with my feminine side" effect. This morning Andy, Randi, and baby Ally loaded up and left for the wide open frontier of...Kentucky. Sara and I held it together until they left the driveway and turned the corner to begin their trek. But, about that time we lost all control. Goodbye's can be so difficult at times. You know it's not the end but at the same time you know life will be different. I know they will do great things and that God will be praised through their lives and in their relationships with others but the tremendous possibilites don't make me miss them any less. This may only be the first time I wept, because I think the chances are it probably won't be the last.
Take care my friends, may God bless you! Oh, and don't be strangers.
At this point you are probably wondering about the cause behind such a sensitive and "in touch with my feminine side" effect. This morning Andy, Randi, and baby Ally loaded up and left for the wide open frontier of...Kentucky. Sara and I held it together until they left the driveway and turned the corner to begin their trek. But, about that time we lost all control. Goodbye's can be so difficult at times. You know it's not the end but at the same time you know life will be different. I know they will do great things and that God will be praised through their lives and in their relationships with others but the tremendous possibilites don't make me miss them any less. This may only be the first time I wept, because I think the chances are it probably won't be the last.
Take care my friends, may God bless you! Oh, and don't be strangers.
Tuesday, August 10, 2004
The Miracle of Life and Death
Monday was a long day for two of the families in our small group and can probably be best summed up in the profound realization expressed by the daughter (kindergarten age) of one of the before-mentioned families: "wow, we know someone who died on the same day someone else was born."
It continues to amaze me how truly perceptive children are because it was a day in which one couple welcomed a newborn baby girl into the world while another family said goodbye to a loved one--in this case a grandfather and even a great grandfather. It can be a time for tears, both of pain and sorrow and of happiness and joy. It can be a time of transition, as we adjust to life now different than the way it was before. More importantly though, is that both represent a time of hope. There is hope for the endless possbilities of a life yet to be lived to the glory of God and there is hope in the transforming power of a legacy left for all of those who follow because of a life fully lived. In the end, both seem to provide yet another small glimpse into the miracle that is the gift of life. And, in all likelihood, the families will leave this moment changed in some way(s) because of the impact of the experience to the praise and glory of God. I think it is evident that it has already influenced at least one particular young one.
Leave it to those who Jesus calls us to have faith like to provide us (once again) with insight into meaningful life!
I don't think I'd want to have it any other way...Father, thank you for the gift of life.
It continues to amaze me how truly perceptive children are because it was a day in which one couple welcomed a newborn baby girl into the world while another family said goodbye to a loved one--in this case a grandfather and even a great grandfather. It can be a time for tears, both of pain and sorrow and of happiness and joy. It can be a time of transition, as we adjust to life now different than the way it was before. More importantly though, is that both represent a time of hope. There is hope for the endless possbilities of a life yet to be lived to the glory of God and there is hope in the transforming power of a legacy left for all of those who follow because of a life fully lived. In the end, both seem to provide yet another small glimpse into the miracle that is the gift of life. And, in all likelihood, the families will leave this moment changed in some way(s) because of the impact of the experience to the praise and glory of God. I think it is evident that it has already influenced at least one particular young one.
Leave it to those who Jesus calls us to have faith like to provide us (once again) with insight into meaningful life!
I don't think I'd want to have it any other way...Father, thank you for the gift of life.
Sunday, August 08, 2004
Spur of the Moment
I stepped a little further out of my comfort zone again today at church. After service we made our way to class a little late because we were visiting with some people. When we walked in we caught the tail end of an explanation that there wasn't a teacher for the class for some reason and that there wasn't anything else prepared. Sara, jokingly leaned over to me and said, "you should have brought your Elijah lesson" (which is one I've used recently at another church). I kind of laughed it off and kept listening to the announcements. After finishing the announcements the guy said, "I guess we'll spend some time in fellowship with each other unless someone has something." Before I knew what was happening I found myself raising my hand and in the blink of an eye I was up introducing myself and sharing a lesson from the life of Elijah. I was pretty nervous because it really was on the spur of the moment and I really didn't even have any time to think about it. Afterward, people said they really enjoyed it and a few said they really needed to hear that lesson. Go figure. Sara's first response to me was, "I can't believe you really did that!" To tell you the truth, neither can I. My heart didn't stop racing until about ten minutes after I was finished. I probably wouldn't have done that even up to just a few months ago but for whatever reason I decided to give it a whirl today. I guess it is just a small example of how God is working to transform me and I believe he blessed our time together.
Thursday, August 05, 2004
Friends are Friends Forever
The life of a graduate student is one lived in transition. To go through a masters program (at least in our case) in many ways feels like a temporary stopping ground to prepare for the future. One aspect in regard to transition we all must face at one time or another involves the friends we make along the way. This is never more real for me than right now. It seems like just when you finally feel like your really close to someone the reality of grad school (in that it eventually comes to an end) sets in and it's time for your friend(s) to move on in life. Andy is definitely one of those friends for me. He and his wife Randi (and their new baby Ally) leave next week for Kentucky and I don't know if I'm ready for that. He's become one of my best friends in a short time and I think it's going to be hard to not have him around--thank goodness for cell phones, long distance, and airplanes. But, I'm thankful to know that we share something in common which is ulitmately greater than our friendship alone...we are brothers in Christ. No matter how far apart we are I know that the love of God in Christ binds us together. Sure, I'll miss him and the fun we have together but I know it's not the end. In fact I pray it is just the beginning. I know God has a plan for them as he does for all of us, even when we find ourselves in uncertain periods of transition. That's why I'm thankful that in Jesus, friends really are friends forever!
God, thank you for blessing us with friends to walk beside us in this journey!
God, thank you for blessing us with friends to walk beside us in this journey!
Monday, August 02, 2004
Officially Presbyterian
Yesterday was a day of firsts. It was my first time to orchestrate a liturgy oriented service. It was my first time to lead a congregation in song to the accompaniment of an organ. It was the first time I had to worry about switching from one pulpit on one side of the stage to a larger one on the other side at the appropriate times. And, it was my first time to preach in a Presbyterian church (and listed in the bulletin as a visiting pastor). But, it was a great experience and it was a blessing to worship with the wonderful people of Eastland First Presbyterian. Apparently it was a blessing to them as well although there were points in the service in which I wasn't so sure because the majority just stared back at me from their seats with few, if any signs of affirmation. All in all, I believe my first experience as 'priest for a day' could be viewed as a success. It leads me to wonder what else I could do to broaden my horizons...
Thursday, July 29, 2004
Happy Birthday!
I turned the big twenty-four today and it was a great birthday. I woke up to a big surprise when I opened a new ipod which was from Sara, my parents, and my in-laws collaboratively. I think I was more shocked than anything. I have been drooling over ipods for the past year so I'm excited to finally wipe off the drool and get busy playing with my new toy! Thanks to all the parties involved in such a great surprise.
It's going to be tough to top considering everything I've experienced this past year but I look forward to experiencing all this next year has to offer as I work my way up to twenty-five. Then next year, just because, maybe I'll go rent a car!
It's going to be tough to top considering everything I've experienced this past year but I look forward to experiencing all this next year has to offer as I work my way up to twenty-five. Then next year, just because, maybe I'll go rent a car!
Monday, July 26, 2004
One Year and Counting...
Wonderfully Wedded Bliss! No, I'm not trying to make anyone sick to their stomachs. I'm just both happy and thankful to celebrate our one year anniversary today. As far as I'm concerned I'm the luckiest man alive. I love Sara and wouldn't wish to spend my life with anyone else. She is a blessing beyond measure...or in a familiar commercial's words...Priceless!
We had a wonderful time celebrating our first year of marriage over the weekend in Austin. We stayed right along the river so the view was great. On friday night after we arrived, my wonderful wife took me to a local japanese restaurant so I could indulge myself in some fabulous sushi. It was definitely close to heaven. For all you non-sushi people, you are really missing out. I can't explain what's so great about it, I just know it is. Did I mention my wife is wonderful?
On Saturday, we drove down to San Marcos and did some shopping. We ate lunch at centerpointe station which boasts that they have the best hamburgers and milkshakes in Texas. I would at least agree that they have a good argument but I'm not sure if they win outright. Then we came back and went to the pool and relaxed for a while. We ate dinner at another local place called Zax and then came the main event (at least from my perspective, probably not Sara's!). We got to witness the world's largest urban bat colony right there in Austin under the Congress "Bat" Bridge which was next to our hotel. We saw masses of people lining the bridge railing around dusk on Friday night from our room window and couldn't figure out what was causing all the commotion (one fleeting thought was that it could be a mass bridge jump...I'm glad I was wrong). Once we learned of the bats I had to check them out the next night so we found ourselves lining the bridge railing with the rest of the crazy tourists waiting for sundown. Sure enough, as the sun set hundreds upon hundreds of bats left in exodus out from underneath the bridge. The line of bats just kept going for twenty minutes and we could still see them far off in the distance. Strange.
Later we decided to walk through downtown to a coffee shop about eight blocks away. The coffee shop, Halcyon, was a pretty unique little coffee shop with good atmosphere and since I didn't have coffee I can at least speak to their great desserts. Of course the walk back to the hotel seemed much longer.
Sunday morning we got to go for a great bike ride on a trail around the lake and then came back and ordered room service for breakfast. The best part was it was free! The concierge had given us a free in-room breakfast for two so we got to order anything we wanted for free which as far as I'm concerned is the only way to do room service. It was a great end to a great weekend.
Throughout the weekend we spent time reflecting on the many memories we have already shared together and talked about our future as a family. I'm encouraged and strengthened to know I have a partner like Sara to walk beside me hand in hand through this journey of life. I look forward to the laughs, the cries, the good times, the difficult ones, and most importantly the joy of growing in relationship with Sara as we seek to live for God's glory. May he keep our paths straight as we endeavor to serve him!
Did I mention my wife is wonderful?
We had a wonderful time celebrating our first year of marriage over the weekend in Austin. We stayed right along the river so the view was great. On friday night after we arrived, my wonderful wife took me to a local japanese restaurant so I could indulge myself in some fabulous sushi. It was definitely close to heaven. For all you non-sushi people, you are really missing out. I can't explain what's so great about it, I just know it is. Did I mention my wife is wonderful?
On Saturday, we drove down to San Marcos and did some shopping. We ate lunch at centerpointe station which boasts that they have the best hamburgers and milkshakes in Texas. I would at least agree that they have a good argument but I'm not sure if they win outright. Then we came back and went to the pool and relaxed for a while. We ate dinner at another local place called Zax and then came the main event (at least from my perspective, probably not Sara's!). We got to witness the world's largest urban bat colony right there in Austin under the Congress "Bat" Bridge which was next to our hotel. We saw masses of people lining the bridge railing around dusk on Friday night from our room window and couldn't figure out what was causing all the commotion (one fleeting thought was that it could be a mass bridge jump...I'm glad I was wrong). Once we learned of the bats I had to check them out the next night so we found ourselves lining the bridge railing with the rest of the crazy tourists waiting for sundown. Sure enough, as the sun set hundreds upon hundreds of bats left in exodus out from underneath the bridge. The line of bats just kept going for twenty minutes and we could still see them far off in the distance. Strange.
Later we decided to walk through downtown to a coffee shop about eight blocks away. The coffee shop, Halcyon, was a pretty unique little coffee shop with good atmosphere and since I didn't have coffee I can at least speak to their great desserts. Of course the walk back to the hotel seemed much longer.
Sunday morning we got to go for a great bike ride on a trail around the lake and then came back and ordered room service for breakfast. The best part was it was free! The concierge had given us a free in-room breakfast for two so we got to order anything we wanted for free which as far as I'm concerned is the only way to do room service. It was a great end to a great weekend.
Throughout the weekend we spent time reflecting on the many memories we have already shared together and talked about our future as a family. I'm encouraged and strengthened to know I have a partner like Sara to walk beside me hand in hand through this journey of life. I look forward to the laughs, the cries, the good times, the difficult ones, and most importantly the joy of growing in relationship with Sara as we seek to live for God's glory. May he keep our paths straight as we endeavor to serve him!
Did I mention my wife is wonderful?
Friday, July 23, 2004
Sneak Peek
Sara and I head out today for a little weekend getaway to celebrate our one year anniversary. It's been a great first year and I look forward to a great weekend in Austin. Sara is such a blessing in my life. I can't imagine sharing it with anyone else. As I mentioned earlier, here is a little sneak peek into the sermon I preached last weekend on Real Life Grace:
What does grace in real life look like? I think 1 Peter provides us with ways in which the grace of God can be “fleshed” out in our daily lives. We participate in and become dispensers of the grace of God when we pray with and for people, when we love each other deeply, when we offer hospitality without grumbling, and when we use our gifts that God has given us to serve others. However, by no means are those intended to limit the abundant and overflowing grace of God. Real Life Grace takes many forms.
Grace in real life might be a family caring for a one year old with a catheter and double diapering during his six week recovery from surgery because his pregnant 24 year old mother has only been out of prison a few months and lives several hours from the hospital. It’s sharing life with a loving spouse who is patient and understanding even when you feel undeserving. Grace is experiencing the miracle of birth or looking down in response to the tugging on your pant leg only to find the huge grin of a child and the words “I love you daddy” or “I love you mommy.” It’s loving people…regardless of situation or circumstance, regardless of background, race or economic status.
In reality, we receive and dispense the grace of God in so many ways, more ways than we can count. To live as a people marked by the grace of God means that we are called to pour out that same life giving grace into the lives of others on a daily basis—in our words and in our actions. As Christians, it’s who we are. We can’t separate life in Christ from living out the grace of God because by his very grace we are given new life in Christ! To live as the redeemed is to break forth into a fallen world with the message of redeeming grace.
Have a Blessed weekend!
What does grace in real life look like? I think 1 Peter provides us with ways in which the grace of God can be “fleshed” out in our daily lives. We participate in and become dispensers of the grace of God when we pray with and for people, when we love each other deeply, when we offer hospitality without grumbling, and when we use our gifts that God has given us to serve others. However, by no means are those intended to limit the abundant and overflowing grace of God. Real Life Grace takes many forms.
Grace in real life might be a family caring for a one year old with a catheter and double diapering during his six week recovery from surgery because his pregnant 24 year old mother has only been out of prison a few months and lives several hours from the hospital. It’s sharing life with a loving spouse who is patient and understanding even when you feel undeserving. Grace is experiencing the miracle of birth or looking down in response to the tugging on your pant leg only to find the huge grin of a child and the words “I love you daddy” or “I love you mommy.” It’s loving people…regardless of situation or circumstance, regardless of background, race or economic status.
In reality, we receive and dispense the grace of God in so many ways, more ways than we can count. To live as a people marked by the grace of God means that we are called to pour out that same life giving grace into the lives of others on a daily basis—in our words and in our actions. As Christians, it’s who we are. We can’t separate life in Christ from living out the grace of God because by his very grace we are given new life in Christ! To live as the redeemed is to break forth into a fallen world with the message of redeeming grace.
Have a Blessed weekend!
Monday, July 19, 2004
Another Day, Another Year Older
At least spiritually speaking, happy re-birthday to me! It was twelve years ago, July 19, 1992 that I was buried with Christ and raised again to new life. I thank God for the transformation he has brought throughout my life. I guess it's not like I was ever really a heathen but how glorious to put off the old to be clothed with the new. Thank you Jesus. I grew up in the church, in a godly family. I began the journey long before that summer day in 1992 but that moment became a marker, a spiritual pillar which proclaims my commitment to God, my belief in Jesus as Lord and Savior, my acceptance of his grace, my openness to receive his Spirit, and my statement of the truth that life can only be found in Him. Of course, my journey did not end in that moment either for God continues to mold and shape me into his image, into his likeness each new day. It is kind of like going up to that wall in the house where there are lines representing how much you have grown each year. Today I look at those lines and am reminded of how much I have grown...how far I have come because of who He is and who I am in Him. Praise God for new beginnings and for love and grace that is never ending! I look forward to the next twelve years (and beyond) of life in relationship with Him.
Sunday, July 18, 2004
On the Edge of Exhaustion
What a busy week. VBS wrapped up on Wednesday night and overall it went fairly well after the few hiccups the first night. Sara and I had a great time with our 3rd graders and already look forward to working with VBS next year. This summer's experience was different from those I've been involved with in the past though. I guess I just expected more. I thought since it was a big congregation that there would be more resources to put on more of a production. I don't want to be negative though. I think it was effective, I just had different expectations. It was a blessing and such an encouragement to work with those who were involved.
Well, beyond VBS I still had a lot of other things to occupy my time this week. I had to take advantage of any spare moments all week to prepare for teaching and preaching this past Sunday. So that kept me very busy Thursday and Friday. But more on Sunday's outcome in a minute.
Friday night we were invited over for dinner with the Wiggins (a family from our small group). It was a refreshing blessing after a busy week to visit with them and be entertained by their little bundle of energy (their daughter Kennedy). We shared some good fellowship along with some great ribs! On the way home (on our bicycles) we decided to ride over to campus and catch the end of a Kadesh camp devotional. Sometimes there is just nothing quite like the sound of a couple hundred teenagers singing their hearts out to God in praise! Even if it was just for those few minutes, that was a moment to remember. Makes me want to be a camp counselor again.
On Saturday, Sara and I had decided to go to Dallas mainly to go to the Texas Ranger game that night because ACU was hosting some Alumni event. During the day though we got to have lunch with a friend of mine, Daniel, who was in town from Orlando. After lunch Daniel and I went to go see the new movie King Arthur while Sara happily went on her way to do some shopping. I thought King Arthur was a pretty good film and some of the parts that were most interesting to me involved the tension between religion and war and Arthur's desire to serve God even in battle. Thus, there were plenty of thought-provoking scenes and lines. Later that evening the ball game was great fun. For some reason summer and baseball just go well together. The horrible part was the long drive back to Abilene after the game putting us home around 12:30am. The older I get the more I realize that late nights and long drives simply don't go well together.
Then, today was a great but long and tiring day. We drove out to Maryneal Church of Christ which is about an hour west of Abilene. We had a full house of about 12 people but both the class and the sermon went well at least from my point of view. I spoke on Grace and maybe I'll post some excerpts later. The people were very gracious and after church we went over to the George's for lunch and to spend the afternoon with them. We were blessed with a great home-cooked meal of which I will never complain. I did have one surprise though. Later in the afternoon Sara asked what time we were supposed to be back at church. They answered saying, "we have class at 5:00pm." Sara then asked, "well who is teaching class?" They both pointed at me. The problem with this was that I was told I had the class and sermon in the morning and then a short devotional talk at 6:00pm Sunday night. I didn't know about evening class and guess what time this conversation took place? Yep, 4:30pm! I had 20 minutes to put together something for class. Thankfully it all worked out okay but it probably only helped that I had spoken on grace just that morning! Even though everything went great, by the time I finished I was sure ready to get home. Four talks in one day is enough to wear anyone out!
I just pray that in all things God was glorified! Now I think I'll get some rest...
Blessings
Well, beyond VBS I still had a lot of other things to occupy my time this week. I had to take advantage of any spare moments all week to prepare for teaching and preaching this past Sunday. So that kept me very busy Thursday and Friday. But more on Sunday's outcome in a minute.
Friday night we were invited over for dinner with the Wiggins (a family from our small group). It was a refreshing blessing after a busy week to visit with them and be entertained by their little bundle of energy (their daughter Kennedy). We shared some good fellowship along with some great ribs! On the way home (on our bicycles) we decided to ride over to campus and catch the end of a Kadesh camp devotional. Sometimes there is just nothing quite like the sound of a couple hundred teenagers singing their hearts out to God in praise! Even if it was just for those few minutes, that was a moment to remember. Makes me want to be a camp counselor again.
On Saturday, Sara and I had decided to go to Dallas mainly to go to the Texas Ranger game that night because ACU was hosting some Alumni event. During the day though we got to have lunch with a friend of mine, Daniel, who was in town from Orlando. After lunch Daniel and I went to go see the new movie King Arthur while Sara happily went on her way to do some shopping. I thought King Arthur was a pretty good film and some of the parts that were most interesting to me involved the tension between religion and war and Arthur's desire to serve God even in battle. Thus, there were plenty of thought-provoking scenes and lines. Later that evening the ball game was great fun. For some reason summer and baseball just go well together. The horrible part was the long drive back to Abilene after the game putting us home around 12:30am. The older I get the more I realize that late nights and long drives simply don't go well together.
Then, today was a great but long and tiring day. We drove out to Maryneal Church of Christ which is about an hour west of Abilene. We had a full house of about 12 people but both the class and the sermon went well at least from my point of view. I spoke on Grace and maybe I'll post some excerpts later. The people were very gracious and after church we went over to the George's for lunch and to spend the afternoon with them. We were blessed with a great home-cooked meal of which I will never complain. I did have one surprise though. Later in the afternoon Sara asked what time we were supposed to be back at church. They answered saying, "we have class at 5:00pm." Sara then asked, "well who is teaching class?" They both pointed at me. The problem with this was that I was told I had the class and sermon in the morning and then a short devotional talk at 6:00pm Sunday night. I didn't know about evening class and guess what time this conversation took place? Yep, 4:30pm! I had 20 minutes to put together something for class. Thankfully it all worked out okay but it probably only helped that I had spoken on grace just that morning! Even though everything went great, by the time I finished I was sure ready to get home. Four talks in one day is enough to wear anyone out!
I just pray that in all things God was glorified! Now I think I'll get some rest...
Blessings
Monday, July 12, 2004
Open the VBS Floodgates
VBS at Highland kicked off last night and the theme is Son Games. Sara and I are 3rd grade team guides which has already been a lot of fun but crazy at the same time since we had over 180 kids after having only 90 signed up the day before. Hopefully tonight some of the kinks will be worked out and any confusion will be kept to a minimum. I'll just continue to do my best to keep my eyes on our 30 little green name tags and hold on for dear life. After last night, I am reaffirmed in thinking that 3rd grade is one of those stages in life when everyone can be diagnosed as A.D.D. I'm sure it's just my turn to try to manage the energy I dished out as a former rambunctious VBS kid!
In all seriousness, VBS has been one of my most favorite activities to participate in over the years. I have so many fond memories of being a kid myself and working with the kids as I've gotten older. There's just something special about watching children experience the message of the gospel in fun and exciting ways. And, sometimes even more than the verbal messages, VBS provides us with opportunities to display tangible reflections of the love of God in Christ. For some kids it may be the only time and place that this life-giving message can be received. So, let the children come--and in the meantime maybe I can try to maintain at least half the energy they unleash!
Thank you God for the awesome responsibility of raising up children to love and glorify you! One day, may my children love you as many of these little ones do.
In all seriousness, VBS has been one of my most favorite activities to participate in over the years. I have so many fond memories of being a kid myself and working with the kids as I've gotten older. There's just something special about watching children experience the message of the gospel in fun and exciting ways. And, sometimes even more than the verbal messages, VBS provides us with opportunities to display tangible reflections of the love of God in Christ. For some kids it may be the only time and place that this life-giving message can be received. So, let the children come--and in the meantime maybe I can try to maintain at least half the energy they unleash!
Thank you God for the awesome responsibility of raising up children to love and glorify you! One day, may my children love you as many of these little ones do.
Thursday, July 08, 2004
Human Tendency
It seems as though I have been coming across a recurring theme as of late. In the past few weeks I have been reading over Judges and I am continually amazed at the pattern of participation on the part of the people of God in these texts. Basically, the people are evil in the eyes of the Lord and God raises up a judge to rule over his people and bring them back to him. Once the people return to God and live for him, a period of provision and prosperity ensues. However, once the judge is gone the people return to their wicked ways and do evil in the sight of the Lord. My first thoughts are to say, "what are they thinking?" They have tasted the goodness of the Lord and enjoyed living in his presence but as soon as they have their own say in the matter they succumb to their fleshly desires and sacrifice relationship with God. To me, the ridiculousness seems so obvious.
Then came the story of Elijah found in 1 Kings 16:29-19:21 as I was searching for something to teach class on at Cottonwood this past week. If you haven't read this sequence of events recently I would highly recommend it. Elijah is called by God to be a prophet to the people of Israel. Throughout his journey God does amazing and miraculous things using Elijah as a vehicle of his glory. God provides food and water to Elijah in the midst of a drought and famine. He provides an unending supply of food for Elijah, a widow and her son from the small remains of oil and flour. Then later, when the son suddenly dies he miraculously brings the son back to life in answer to Elijah's prayer. But there is more. God is with Elijah on Mt. Carmel for the contest between the prophets of Baal and proves his power and might by lighting a water-drenched sacrifice on fire. It was obvious to everyone Elijah encountered that he was a man of God and that God was with him, so surely he was aware of it himself. He was faithful, a man who knew no doubt, a man who trusted God. However, Jezebel threatens his life and he flees and tells God he has had enough. No more. His faith crumbled as doubt crept in. We are left to wonder is this the same man about whom the widow proclaimed, "now I know you are surely a man of God and the Lord speaks through you?" He experienced God in ways few others had before. What reason did he have to fear, to doubt?
What about the disciples of Jesus? These are people who walked with Jesus on a daily basis. They saw firsthand the healings performed. They saw lives ultimately transformed. They gave up their own way of life and all they had to follow him yet Jesus continually confronts them saying, "you still don't get it--oh you of little faith." Peter denied Jesus three times. Their confidence shattered when faced with his death. And, although the Resurrection quickly strengthened momentary weakness the tendency to give into humanity could not be escaped. I can't imagine what it must take to bring mountain top faith down to the very valley depths of denial and despair. They feasted with Christ. How could they fear? Why would they doubt?
But, before I question their experience am I ready to come face to face with my own reflection? The mirror quickly becomes something to fear. There are times when I cling to the mountain moving power of faith. And then there are others when all I can do is stumble through the clouded unknown. History seems to portray that life is full of ups and downs. I believe it is less than what God intended yet the reality is that it is a tendency of humanity. Still, in all things God is faithful and remains true to what he has promised. He knows what's best for our lives but it can be so hard to let go. We want to have control. We want to be in the know.
Maybe if we could only experience tangible reflections of his promise as in the days of old. Maybe if the evidence of his miraculous hand was prevalent day in and day out. Maybe if we had walked with Christ in someone else's shoes. Or maybe if we had only witnessed the life-changing power of the resurrection. Then, maybe our faith could be strengthened and all fear could be cast out. Then, maybe we could be rid of our tendency to doubt.
The truth is that God offers us the power of the resurrection in our daily lives. He calls us to commune with him, to trust his goodness, to rest in his faithfulness. We may experience times of weakness, of despair, and times when we are simply down and out, but rest assured because we live in relationship with one whose strength far outweighs any human tendency to doubt. So, take hold of his promise and be reminded that in a world in which we live through our share of roller coaster ups and downs we can be thankful that for a faith to move mountains--something as small as a mustard seed is all that is required!
Then came the story of Elijah found in 1 Kings 16:29-19:21 as I was searching for something to teach class on at Cottonwood this past week. If you haven't read this sequence of events recently I would highly recommend it. Elijah is called by God to be a prophet to the people of Israel. Throughout his journey God does amazing and miraculous things using Elijah as a vehicle of his glory. God provides food and water to Elijah in the midst of a drought and famine. He provides an unending supply of food for Elijah, a widow and her son from the small remains of oil and flour. Then later, when the son suddenly dies he miraculously brings the son back to life in answer to Elijah's prayer. But there is more. God is with Elijah on Mt. Carmel for the contest between the prophets of Baal and proves his power and might by lighting a water-drenched sacrifice on fire. It was obvious to everyone Elijah encountered that he was a man of God and that God was with him, so surely he was aware of it himself. He was faithful, a man who knew no doubt, a man who trusted God. However, Jezebel threatens his life and he flees and tells God he has had enough. No more. His faith crumbled as doubt crept in. We are left to wonder is this the same man about whom the widow proclaimed, "now I know you are surely a man of God and the Lord speaks through you?" He experienced God in ways few others had before. What reason did he have to fear, to doubt?
What about the disciples of Jesus? These are people who walked with Jesus on a daily basis. They saw firsthand the healings performed. They saw lives ultimately transformed. They gave up their own way of life and all they had to follow him yet Jesus continually confronts them saying, "you still don't get it--oh you of little faith." Peter denied Jesus three times. Their confidence shattered when faced with his death. And, although the Resurrection quickly strengthened momentary weakness the tendency to give into humanity could not be escaped. I can't imagine what it must take to bring mountain top faith down to the very valley depths of denial and despair. They feasted with Christ. How could they fear? Why would they doubt?
But, before I question their experience am I ready to come face to face with my own reflection? The mirror quickly becomes something to fear. There are times when I cling to the mountain moving power of faith. And then there are others when all I can do is stumble through the clouded unknown. History seems to portray that life is full of ups and downs. I believe it is less than what God intended yet the reality is that it is a tendency of humanity. Still, in all things God is faithful and remains true to what he has promised. He knows what's best for our lives but it can be so hard to let go. We want to have control. We want to be in the know.
Maybe if we could only experience tangible reflections of his promise as in the days of old. Maybe if the evidence of his miraculous hand was prevalent day in and day out. Maybe if we had walked with Christ in someone else's shoes. Or maybe if we had only witnessed the life-changing power of the resurrection. Then, maybe our faith could be strengthened and all fear could be cast out. Then, maybe we could be rid of our tendency to doubt.
The truth is that God offers us the power of the resurrection in our daily lives. He calls us to commune with him, to trust his goodness, to rest in his faithfulness. We may experience times of weakness, of despair, and times when we are simply down and out, but rest assured because we live in relationship with one whose strength far outweighs any human tendency to doubt. So, take hold of his promise and be reminded that in a world in which we live through our share of roller coaster ups and downs we can be thankful that for a faith to move mountains--something as small as a mustard seed is all that is required!
Tuesday, July 06, 2004
Real Life Grace
We all experience grace in remarkable ways but what does grace look like in real life?
Grace looks like a small group of caring families who have come to pray over your illness. Grace looks like wonderful meals brought over at the drop of a hat when life suddenly gets a little chaotic. Grace is when a loving couple spends 5 hours in the emergency room with you and your wife providing comfort and friendship as you await a diagnosis. Grace is when people graciously give in a time of need knowing that God has blessed them to bless you. Grace is resting in the knowledge that many people are lifting you up in prayer. Grace is knowing that I am loved and a child of God! I know beyond a doubt that grace encompasses so much more than these few simple things but this is how the grace of God showered down on my wife and I this past week. It is vital for us to realize that we participate in something powerful and life changing when we live out our daily lives as tangible reflections of the abundant and overflowing grace of God!
What does real life grace look like to you?
Grace looks like a small group of caring families who have come to pray over your illness. Grace looks like wonderful meals brought over at the drop of a hat when life suddenly gets a little chaotic. Grace is when a loving couple spends 5 hours in the emergency room with you and your wife providing comfort and friendship as you await a diagnosis. Grace is when people graciously give in a time of need knowing that God has blessed them to bless you. Grace is resting in the knowledge that many people are lifting you up in prayer. Grace is knowing that I am loved and a child of God! I know beyond a doubt that grace encompasses so much more than these few simple things but this is how the grace of God showered down on my wife and I this past week. It is vital for us to realize that we participate in something powerful and life changing when we live out our daily lives as tangible reflections of the abundant and overflowing grace of God!
What does real life grace look like to you?
Sunday, July 04, 2004
Thankful to Be a Citizen
We had a wonderful time with the family at Cottonwood Church of Christ this morning. It was a great experience and it is obvious that they are a very loving and caring congregation. One of the ladies even graciously invited us to have some lunch with her after church at Subway over in Cross Plains (in which she is a part owner). Now, though I find myself very worn out as today probably required the most excitement and energy I've had to give the last few days. For those interested, the following is basically what I shared in the service this morning:
I don’t know about you but I am thankful to be a citizen. I believe that in my short twenty-four years of life I’ve had a fair share of opportunities to experience other countries and other cultures, at least enough to realize that I am grateful to live in America. I’ve spent some time in Mexico and I’ve been to parts of Africa where it’s evident they don’t have the same opportunities nor the same access to the choices we have available to us each and every day. It’s a different way of life in those places. They are places in which poverty and persecution prevail. By no means is it life lived on easy street. Yet it is a way of life they are used to and for some reason, at least with the majority of people that I have encountered in these places, they don’t let the challenge of lesser circumstances get them down.
Sometimes I wonder what it would have been like to grow up in a different country and culture. What would my life look like? What kind of person would I be today if I had grown up in Thailand, Kenya, China, London, Brazil or any other place for that matter? What kind of limitations would I have had to face or what obstacles might I have had to overcome? Would I have grown up in the streets with hands outstretched hoping for just a meager handout that I might have something to feed my family? Would I have found myself caught in the cycle of poverty and sub-standard living reaching up in failed attempts to break through the ceiling to a future of prosperity? Would I be persecuted for my beliefs and scoffed at for the priority of my allegiances? At this point I guess I’ll probably never know. For, it is a world and a way of life that is completely foreign to me and I would imagine completely foreign to the majority of us.
However, it is in these moments of reflection on what could have been that I am humbly reminded of the blessings we have in America. There really is something to the gift of freedom we have been given. I am not trying to say that these other areas throughout the world are not good places to live or that it is impossible to experience a positive and fruitful way of life. Nor am I attempting to elevate America or our status as Americans over and above any other human beings throughout the world. I realize that in some ways there are conditions here in America which parallel those in other countries. But, my point thus far is simply that we cannot escape that life in other circumstances would be different.
So we come to a day such as today, known to us as Independence Day. I have many fond memories of celebrating the Fourth of July with my family and friends. From barbecue cookouts and picnics to sparklers and the big red, white and blue, July 4th has always been a celebration. But it’s taken me to this point in life to really begin to appreciate the meaning behind the celebration. I’ve lived a simple, sheltered life and as I get older I realize that I am called to so much more as a citizen. There is more to Independence Day than the ooh’s and awh’s in response to the orchestra of fireworks in the night sky. It is a day in which we remember and recognize that the freedom we have been given did not come without a price. Many people have sacrificed as much as their lives that we might live, work, and worship in freedom. In fact, you or your relatives or other loved ones may have already given their lives in the pursuit of freedom. It may be that you have family members right now who are committed to serving our country and protecting our freedom that we so gratefully cherish and I pray God’s guidance and blessing upon them all.
Yet with all the thoughts and emotions that arise on a day like today it seems hard to ignore the words of Paul in Philippians chapter 3. He offers more than a passing suggestion and does more than simply whisper in our ears. Instead he boldly proclaims that his identity is found in something greater than his heritage as a Jew. Not that I am any less grateful to be American but I must consider to what and to whom I ultimately pledge my allegiance. Much like Paul, we must question the source of our own identity. We do not boast in the fact that we are Hebrew or Gentile, Brazilian, Mexican, African or even American. For our citizenship is defined on an other-worldly level. The goal of our existence is that in effect we consider our status as Americans rubbish to knowing Jesus Christ our Lord. I believe we want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection, participate in his suffering, becoming like him in his death, and so somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Not that we have already obtained all of this but one thing we do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, we press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus.
In verse 15 of chapter 3 we catch the tail end of Paul’s challenge to and vision for the Philippians as we too seek to follow his example:
These statements from Paul do not deny the nationality found on our passports, if you will, whether it be American, Kenyan, Brazilian, German or any one of many others, but it does suggest that as Christians our most recent and everlasting identity is stamped with the seal of the Kingdom. You see, our purpose is not to live to be Americans but to live to imitate Christ as we seek to lay claim to our heavenly citizenship. Here, we revisit a common theme for us as Christians that we live in the world but not of the world. According to Paul our focus should not be on earthly things and what we might obtain in the present but our focus is grounded in the fact that we are representatives and citizens of the Kingdom here on this earth, filled with the desire to not only image Christ ourselves, but together with all the Saints call others to do the same.
In Paul’s writing to the Philippians he does not intend to discredit the legitimacy of the people’s common Roman citizenship but he does emphasize that they are first and foremost followers of Christ and citizens of heaven. He seems to suggest something more along the lines of dual citizenship. They are to live in Rome not simply as subjects of Caesar but as servants of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As American citizens we participate in the traditions and history of our country in which we exemplify what we envision as life in America but above and beyond our commitment to our country we are committed to exemplifying the life and message of Jesus Christ while we live as Americans.
The simplicity of Paul’s message yet at the same time the challenge is that we are to be a counter-cultural people. In order to accomplish that goal it might very well mean that we are to place less priority and standing on our identity as Americans and greater priority on our ultimate identity as Kingdom people. We are members of a greater society; we belong to heaven both now and forevermore.
Consider these words from Abraham Lincoln, a man who was a major contributor to and influence on the history of our own nation:
Today, as on every other Independence Day let us celebrate and recognize those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Let us take pride in our heritage and history. Let us sit back and enjoy the wide expanse of a firework filled night sky! Yet above all let us remember that our true identity is found in the One who gave his life as a sacrifice for mankind once and for all providing us with the ultimate gift of freedom. To him we owe our allegiance. In him we place our hope.
I appreciate this rewording of the same passage in Philippians 3:
There’s more to life for us who are in Christ Jesus. Throughout the journey, may we run the race together, united in the same goal, as we eagerly await the arrival of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I don’t know about you but I am thankful to be a citizen—that is first and foremost a citizen of the Kingdom!
I don’t know about you but I am thankful to be a citizen. I believe that in my short twenty-four years of life I’ve had a fair share of opportunities to experience other countries and other cultures, at least enough to realize that I am grateful to live in America. I’ve spent some time in Mexico and I’ve been to parts of Africa where it’s evident they don’t have the same opportunities nor the same access to the choices we have available to us each and every day. It’s a different way of life in those places. They are places in which poverty and persecution prevail. By no means is it life lived on easy street. Yet it is a way of life they are used to and for some reason, at least with the majority of people that I have encountered in these places, they don’t let the challenge of lesser circumstances get them down.
Sometimes I wonder what it would have been like to grow up in a different country and culture. What would my life look like? What kind of person would I be today if I had grown up in Thailand, Kenya, China, London, Brazil or any other place for that matter? What kind of limitations would I have had to face or what obstacles might I have had to overcome? Would I have grown up in the streets with hands outstretched hoping for just a meager handout that I might have something to feed my family? Would I have found myself caught in the cycle of poverty and sub-standard living reaching up in failed attempts to break through the ceiling to a future of prosperity? Would I be persecuted for my beliefs and scoffed at for the priority of my allegiances? At this point I guess I’ll probably never know. For, it is a world and a way of life that is completely foreign to me and I would imagine completely foreign to the majority of us.
However, it is in these moments of reflection on what could have been that I am humbly reminded of the blessings we have in America. There really is something to the gift of freedom we have been given. I am not trying to say that these other areas throughout the world are not good places to live or that it is impossible to experience a positive and fruitful way of life. Nor am I attempting to elevate America or our status as Americans over and above any other human beings throughout the world. I realize that in some ways there are conditions here in America which parallel those in other countries. But, my point thus far is simply that we cannot escape that life in other circumstances would be different.
So we come to a day such as today, known to us as Independence Day. I have many fond memories of celebrating the Fourth of July with my family and friends. From barbecue cookouts and picnics to sparklers and the big red, white and blue, July 4th has always been a celebration. But it’s taken me to this point in life to really begin to appreciate the meaning behind the celebration. I’ve lived a simple, sheltered life and as I get older I realize that I am called to so much more as a citizen. There is more to Independence Day than the ooh’s and awh’s in response to the orchestra of fireworks in the night sky. It is a day in which we remember and recognize that the freedom we have been given did not come without a price. Many people have sacrificed as much as their lives that we might live, work, and worship in freedom. In fact, you or your relatives or other loved ones may have already given their lives in the pursuit of freedom. It may be that you have family members right now who are committed to serving our country and protecting our freedom that we so gratefully cherish and I pray God’s guidance and blessing upon them all.
Yet with all the thoughts and emotions that arise on a day like today it seems hard to ignore the words of Paul in Philippians chapter 3. He offers more than a passing suggestion and does more than simply whisper in our ears. Instead he boldly proclaims that his identity is found in something greater than his heritage as a Jew. Not that I am any less grateful to be American but I must consider to what and to whom I ultimately pledge my allegiance. Much like Paul, we must question the source of our own identity. We do not boast in the fact that we are Hebrew or Gentile, Brazilian, Mexican, African or even American. For our citizenship is defined on an other-worldly level. The goal of our existence is that in effect we consider our status as Americans rubbish to knowing Jesus Christ our Lord. I believe we want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection, participate in his suffering, becoming like him in his death, and so somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead. Not that we have already obtained all of this but one thing we do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, we press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus.
In verse 15 of chapter 3 we catch the tail end of Paul’s challenge to and vision for the Philippians as we too seek to follow his example:
15 All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. 16 Only let us live up to what we have already attained.
17 Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. 18 For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
4:1 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!
These statements from Paul do not deny the nationality found on our passports, if you will, whether it be American, Kenyan, Brazilian, German or any one of many others, but it does suggest that as Christians our most recent and everlasting identity is stamped with the seal of the Kingdom. You see, our purpose is not to live to be Americans but to live to imitate Christ as we seek to lay claim to our heavenly citizenship. Here, we revisit a common theme for us as Christians that we live in the world but not of the world. According to Paul our focus should not be on earthly things and what we might obtain in the present but our focus is grounded in the fact that we are representatives and citizens of the Kingdom here on this earth, filled with the desire to not only image Christ ourselves, but together with all the Saints call others to do the same.
In Paul’s writing to the Philippians he does not intend to discredit the legitimacy of the people’s common Roman citizenship but he does emphasize that they are first and foremost followers of Christ and citizens of heaven. He seems to suggest something more along the lines of dual citizenship. They are to live in Rome not simply as subjects of Caesar but as servants of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As American citizens we participate in the traditions and history of our country in which we exemplify what we envision as life in America but above and beyond our commitment to our country we are committed to exemplifying the life and message of Jesus Christ while we live as Americans.
The simplicity of Paul’s message yet at the same time the challenge is that we are to be a counter-cultural people. In order to accomplish that goal it might very well mean that we are to place less priority and standing on our identity as Americans and greater priority on our ultimate identity as Kingdom people. We are members of a greater society; we belong to heaven both now and forevermore.
Consider these words from Abraham Lincoln, a man who was a major contributor to and influence on the history of our own nation:
"It is the duty of nations, as well of men, to own their dependence upon God and to recognize the sublime truth announced in the Holy Scriptures and proven by all history, that those nations only are blessed whose God is the Lord."
Today, as on every other Independence Day let us celebrate and recognize those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Let us take pride in our heritage and history. Let us sit back and enjoy the wide expanse of a firework filled night sky! Yet above all let us remember that our true identity is found in the One who gave his life as a sacrifice for mankind once and for all providing us with the ultimate gift of freedom. To him we owe our allegiance. In him we place our hope.
I appreciate this rewording of the same passage in Philippians 3:
Stick with me, friends. Keep track of those you see running this same course, headed for this same goal. There are many out there taking other paths, choosing other goals, and trying to get you to go along with them. I’ve warned you of them many times; sadly, I’m having to do it again. All they want is easy street. They hate Christ’s Cross. But easy street is a dead-end street. Those who live there make their bellies their gods; belches are their praise; all they can think of is their appetites.
But there’s far more to life for us. We’re citizens of high heaven! We’re waiting the arrival of the Savior, the Master, Jesus Christ, who will transform our earthly bodies into glorious bodies like his own. He’ll make us beautiful and whole with the same powerful skill by which he is putting everything as it should be, under and around him.
My dear, dear friends! I love you so much. I do want the very best for you. You make me feel such joy, fill me with such pride. Don’t waver. Stay on track, steady in God.
There’s more to life for us who are in Christ Jesus. Throughout the journey, may we run the race together, united in the same goal, as we eagerly await the arrival of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I don’t know about you but I am thankful to be a citizen—that is first and foremost a citizen of the Kingdom!
Friday, July 02, 2004
A "Colored People"
As I lay here on the couch with my feet elevated, recuperating from the drama which occurred yesterday and preparing for a sermon I am preaching on Sunday I came across something I wrote back in January on our differences as the people of God as we live and come together for times of corporate worship. I thought that it kind of paralleled my post the other day about each of us created as anomalies of God...
We all have our differences. For some the distance of difference may be wider than others. We lead different lives, pursue different programs, teach different disciplines, perform different occupations, and come out of different backgrounds--all of which could potentially drive us away from each other. We are a "colored" people in more ways than just the pigment of our skin. However, the most vivid, vibrant color of our lives is that of the blood of Christ. Through Christ we participate in our identity as the redeemed.
But our differences or rather our uniquenesses derive from divine intent. We are created to be unique but we are also created very similar. Ultimately, we are created to participate in relationship by God who exists in relationship.
This is just a moment of participation in the reality of our redemption. Let us commune together now and every day giving glory to God who created us for community--to love Him and to love others. May our uniqueness serve to point to our distinctiveness that is community through salvation in Christ.
We all have our differences. For some the distance of difference may be wider than others. We lead different lives, pursue different programs, teach different disciplines, perform different occupations, and come out of different backgrounds--all of which could potentially drive us away from each other. We are a "colored" people in more ways than just the pigment of our skin. However, the most vivid, vibrant color of our lives is that of the blood of Christ. Through Christ we participate in our identity as the redeemed.
Before this faith came, we were held prisoners by the law, locked up until faith should be revealed. So the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith. Now that faith has come, we are no longer under the supervision of the law.
You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.
Galatians 3:23-29
But our differences or rather our uniquenesses derive from divine intent. We are created to be unique but we are also created very similar. Ultimately, we are created to participate in relationship by God who exists in relationship.
This is just a moment of participation in the reality of our redemption. Let us commune together now and every day giving glory to God who created us for community--to love Him and to love others. May our uniqueness serve to point to our distinctiveness that is community through salvation in Christ.
Thursday, July 01, 2004
Revenge of the "Naked Gown"
With all that I have already been through in my life I've often wondered if I would make a good candidate for a program with the slogan, "Space: The Final Frontier." After all, once again I have gone where no man has gone before. It seems I rarely hesitate to take advantage of opportunities to plunge ahead into the unknown and yesterday was just another example of the frontiersman in me. The situation with my ankles was not progressing toward healing as we hoped so yesterday afternoon we made a visit to the ER at Hendrick hospital (Kevin, if you are reading I was close to calling a chaplain to come visit me but they didn't have to amputate my leg after all :-) ) There they proceeded to run a multitude of tests in order to rule out things such as cellulitis, blood clots, problems with blood ciruclation and plenty of other long technical terms with which I about found myself tongue-tied trying to repeat. My biggest fear throughout the whole traumatic adventure though was having to put on the dreaded hospital gown and for a while I thought I might escape such a horror. However, the nurses just made me to believe I wouldn't have to go down that road and then wham--the "naked gown" struck with full force. I was told I had to put it on because they had to perform some doppler test on me but I wasn't sure what the weather had to do with anything.
Thankfully throughout the process I was blessed with the presence of my very supportive and loving wife as well as a wonderful couple in our small group--we'll just call them Mark and Debbie in order to protect their privacy. It quickly became obvious that if we weren't close to this couple before we sure are now as they were present for all kinds of inside information which I'm sure they now regret with great embarassment. I was encouraged by something Debbie had to say to me though ( I guess you could call it encouraging) when it came time to experience the combination of my bobo (translation backside or tush, whichever you prefer) and a shot of steroids because she was quick to point out I had a nice "target" for the nurse to place a rather long, sharp and menacing needle. Of course this encouragment came from a former nurse who in her prime (of nursing that is) was used to sticking, as far as I understand plenty of old men with needles in the backside which consisted of much more glutimus minimus than maximus. I guess I can consider that coment about my "target" a complement. In the end they diagnosed me with an acute flare-up of my arthritis combined with some form of altaneous vasculitis (be my guest to interpret that foreign language) so I've got some meds and hope to be feeling much better by the end of the weekend although now I have to find some kind of treatment for the rather large hole in my right back pocket. All in all we were there for about five hours which I guess is fairly reasonable for an ER visit and based on my experience I would recommend a visit to your local ER for anyone looking for a day of fun, entertainment, and adventure. I would just suggest avoiding the "naked gown" at all costs. I'm sure there is plenty more of the "great frontier" for me to experience but in the future I think I'll be a little more hesitant to "Go west young man!"
Keep us in your prayers and blessings to all
Thankfully throughout the process I was blessed with the presence of my very supportive and loving wife as well as a wonderful couple in our small group--we'll just call them Mark and Debbie in order to protect their privacy. It quickly became obvious that if we weren't close to this couple before we sure are now as they were present for all kinds of inside information which I'm sure they now regret with great embarassment. I was encouraged by something Debbie had to say to me though ( I guess you could call it encouraging) when it came time to experience the combination of my bobo (translation backside or tush, whichever you prefer) and a shot of steroids because she was quick to point out I had a nice "target" for the nurse to place a rather long, sharp and menacing needle. Of course this encouragment came from a former nurse who in her prime (of nursing that is) was used to sticking, as far as I understand plenty of old men with needles in the backside which consisted of much more glutimus minimus than maximus. I guess I can consider that coment about my "target" a complement. In the end they diagnosed me with an acute flare-up of my arthritis combined with some form of altaneous vasculitis (be my guest to interpret that foreign language) so I've got some meds and hope to be feeling much better by the end of the weekend although now I have to find some kind of treatment for the rather large hole in my right back pocket. All in all we were there for about five hours which I guess is fairly reasonable for an ER visit and based on my experience I would recommend a visit to your local ER for anyone looking for a day of fun, entertainment, and adventure. I would just suggest avoiding the "naked gown" at all costs. I'm sure there is plenty more of the "great frontier" for me to experience but in the future I think I'll be a little more hesitant to "Go west young man!"
Keep us in your prayers and blessings to all
Wednesday, June 30, 2004
Just Another Anomaly
For those of you who have waited with baited breath for my return from the great outdoors--here I am. The family reunion was wonderful. We all enjoyed our time together immensely. There was food, fellowship, golfing, boating, tubing, volleyball, more food, games, swimming, a proposal and so much more. We were excited because the proposal came from a great guy named Patrick to Sara's sister, Carlie. It was very sweet. We all look forward to the wedding most likely within the next year. When is the next reunion anyway?
The only downside to this weekend was that I had some apparent flare-up with my arthritis or at least that is what I thought at first. For those who do not know I have battled arthritis now since I was about 9 or 10 years old and this weekend my ankles began to swell uncontrollably. I normally experience swelling all the time but what was different this time was that the swelling would not go down. It only continued to spread to my feet and toes and then up my legs. Finally, after we returned home late Monday night I decided to go into the doctor on Tuesday morning. However, it wasn't surprising that the doctor didn't quite no what to make of it either. After ruling out anything to do with blood circulation or clotting she decided that it must be some form of infection although she cannot explain how or why. She prescribed some antibiotic to combat the infection and a diarhetic to remove the fluid and hopefully reduce the swelling (did I mention I have to go upstairs to use the bathroom in our apartment). Now we play the waiting game which includes my feet elevated above my head while I lay on the couch. I can think of other things I could be doing but I guess I should take advantage of the added rest.
It is easy to wonder why these sorts of things happen to me. There is always something strange going on in my body. Over time I've resigned myself to think that I am just another anomaly. Maybe I'm just special, I don't know. Although I would rather not have to go down this road to prove it each time. You know, I may be an anomaly in more ways than one but the truth is that you are too. We are all created to be special. We are unique in our own ways. Who we are is not only representative of whose we are but also of where we have been (what kind of person we are when we come out on the other end of both joy and adversity). In that sense every person is another anomaly created by God. Even though I may not know why things happen the way they do at least I can rest assured in the promise that He does. May you rest in that promise too.
The only downside to this weekend was that I had some apparent flare-up with my arthritis or at least that is what I thought at first. For those who do not know I have battled arthritis now since I was about 9 or 10 years old and this weekend my ankles began to swell uncontrollably. I normally experience swelling all the time but what was different this time was that the swelling would not go down. It only continued to spread to my feet and toes and then up my legs. Finally, after we returned home late Monday night I decided to go into the doctor on Tuesday morning. However, it wasn't surprising that the doctor didn't quite no what to make of it either. After ruling out anything to do with blood circulation or clotting she decided that it must be some form of infection although she cannot explain how or why. She prescribed some antibiotic to combat the infection and a diarhetic to remove the fluid and hopefully reduce the swelling (did I mention I have to go upstairs to use the bathroom in our apartment). Now we play the waiting game which includes my feet elevated above my head while I lay on the couch. I can think of other things I could be doing but I guess I should take advantage of the added rest.
It is easy to wonder why these sorts of things happen to me. There is always something strange going on in my body. Over time I've resigned myself to think that I am just another anomaly. Maybe I'm just special, I don't know. Although I would rather not have to go down this road to prove it each time. You know, I may be an anomaly in more ways than one but the truth is that you are too. We are all created to be special. We are unique in our own ways. Who we are is not only representative of whose we are but also of where we have been (what kind of person we are when we come out on the other end of both joy and adversity). In that sense every person is another anomaly created by God. Even though I may not know why things happen the way they do at least I can rest assured in the promise that He does. May you rest in that promise too.
Wednesday, June 23, 2004
The Whisper of Nature is Calling My Name
Rest and Relaxation...Nothing could be better than that except when it is combined with being in the midst of the beauty of God's creation. And, am I ever ready for some vacation time. Sara and I are leaving today to begin our trek to Fairfield Bay Resort somewhere north of Little Rock in Arkansas for the "Siner Family Reunion." This is really my first opportunity to have extended time with the extended family and I am looking forward to it. Some people might cringe at the mention of visiting in-laws but I enjoy time with them. Sure, they are different than my family but that's what makes each of us special. Our differences don't have to cause friction even though they have the capability to but instead they can be used to strengthen and draw us closer. I learn a lot from the Siner family. I am introduced to new perspectives which I might not otherwise be exposed to. I appreciate them and love them for who they are and I hope they feel the same about me. I wouldn't trade them for anyone else. So I look forward to this weekend and the opportunity it presents to get to know them more.
I also look forward to some time away. It is supposed to be beautiful there and I hope to take full advantage of the beauty it offers. I wonder if I should inform my employers not to worry about me if I don't show up for work next week! I might get attached to life in the great outdoors. Anyway, I probably won't be able to write until we return the first of next week. Maybe I'll have some good stories to share.
Until then, may we all not take for granted the blessing of family.
I also look forward to some time away. It is supposed to be beautiful there and I hope to take full advantage of the beauty it offers. I wonder if I should inform my employers not to worry about me if I don't show up for work next week! I might get attached to life in the great outdoors. Anyway, I probably won't be able to write until we return the first of next week. Maybe I'll have some good stories to share.
Until then, may we all not take for granted the blessing of family.
Sunday, June 20, 2004
Father's Day
Some simple thoughts on a day in which we give an extra amount of honor and thanks to our fathers:
I am thankful for my dad. We have shared so many great memories together. I remember his involvement in Indian guides when I was younger. I remember his advice when I kept encountering a school bully (although we won't share that advice here). I remember putting up the basketball hoop in the driveway and shooting hoops together. I remember watching basketball games together and him coming to watch mine. I remember the ways in which he displayed love for my mom. I remember the home projects, grilled feasts, and the responsibility of mowing the yard. I remember his example of what it means to be a Christian man, father, and husband. There are more memories than I can count. In all these years nothing has changed--he is still the same great dad he's always been. I hope one day I can follow in his footsteps. In my family relationships, I pray that like my father, I too may glorify God and image Christ and especially in this case, with my future son(s) and/or daughter(s).
God thank you for the blessings of fathers. Thank you that we may call you Abba Father. Even when there are those who do not have good fatherly examples I thank you that we can claim the promise that you are father to the fatherless!
I am thankful for my dad. We have shared so many great memories together. I remember his involvement in Indian guides when I was younger. I remember his advice when I kept encountering a school bully (although we won't share that advice here). I remember putting up the basketball hoop in the driveway and shooting hoops together. I remember watching basketball games together and him coming to watch mine. I remember the ways in which he displayed love for my mom. I remember the home projects, grilled feasts, and the responsibility of mowing the yard. I remember his example of what it means to be a Christian man, father, and husband. There are more memories than I can count. In all these years nothing has changed--he is still the same great dad he's always been. I hope one day I can follow in his footsteps. In my family relationships, I pray that like my father, I too may glorify God and image Christ and especially in this case, with my future son(s) and/or daughter(s).
God thank you for the blessings of fathers. Thank you that we may call you Abba Father. Even when there are those who do not have good fatherly examples I thank you that we can claim the promise that you are father to the fatherless!
Friday, June 18, 2004
Live to Leave a Legacy
I remember my dog named Cricket. He was a small black-haired dog with one white paw and crooked teeth in which one tooth jutted out beyond his mouth. He was a good little dog: friendly, loyal and loving, the epitome of man’s best friend. But, unfortunately he was also a sick dog. He experienced seizures which incapacitated him from time to time and before long his sickness caught up to him. It was one of the first times I had to deal with loss.
I don’t know when your first experiences with loss occurred but the reality of life is that we will all encounter loss at some point. Sometimes it is the loss of a job or a way of life. Other times it might be the loss of a family pet, a relative, or other loved ones who hold important places in our lives. It seems as though we experience loss in different degrees depending on the level of importance in our lives but also depending on the amount of expectancy. For instance, death can be difficult in all circumstances but when someone dies suddenly or unexpectedly the shock of that loss and the grief that follows can be much greater than when we are better prepared and are expecting someone to die.
This last week, a family I have been fairly close to most of my life experienced a sudden and unexpected loss. The father, Mark, was on a kayaking trip with his son Matt, who is fourteen years old. Toward the end of their trip they were headed down the river when Matt’s kayak got stuck in a whirlpool section of the rapids. He was able to get out of the boat but his kayak was still stuck in the circular current of the river. Mark tied a rope to his waist and went to try to retrieve the boat and upon doing so somehow got pulled under the water. Matt was able to pull his father out but could not revive him so he was forced to run about two miles to get help. By the time help arrived though it was too late.
Death is supposed to be easier for us to handle as Christians because we have the promise of life both now and forever more. I don’t know how I would respond in this situation because I haven’t had to face death in a way that hits so close to home. My heart goes out to a family that is forced to face the reality of the brevity of life in this way but I am thankful that as believers there is life beyond the grave. We who are in Christ Jesus will once again experience the resurrection of our old selves and receive new life to reign with him forever for God through Christ has conquered death.
But, in light of this reminder, I am also thankful that Mark leaves behind a legacy for his family, his friends, and all those that come after him. He leaves a legacy as a faithful follower, friend, husband, father and image of the love of Jesus Christ. It is true that we are not promised our next breath. We are never guaranteed long life for we could be here today and gone tomorrow. However, what we are promised and what we can guarantee is that we can live our lives now, each and every day to the glory of God through which we leave a legacy of love that far outweighs and outlasts are earthly existence. Rest assured that the saints who have gone before us will be there to cheer us on to the end. Run the race! Claim victory in Jesus! Live to leave a legacy to the glory of God!
God, thank you for people like Mark who live their lives to leave a legacy for your glory. May we all choose to live our lives every day that we may do the same.
I don’t know when your first experiences with loss occurred but the reality of life is that we will all encounter loss at some point. Sometimes it is the loss of a job or a way of life. Other times it might be the loss of a family pet, a relative, or other loved ones who hold important places in our lives. It seems as though we experience loss in different degrees depending on the level of importance in our lives but also depending on the amount of expectancy. For instance, death can be difficult in all circumstances but when someone dies suddenly or unexpectedly the shock of that loss and the grief that follows can be much greater than when we are better prepared and are expecting someone to die.
This last week, a family I have been fairly close to most of my life experienced a sudden and unexpected loss. The father, Mark, was on a kayaking trip with his son Matt, who is fourteen years old. Toward the end of their trip they were headed down the river when Matt’s kayak got stuck in a whirlpool section of the rapids. He was able to get out of the boat but his kayak was still stuck in the circular current of the river. Mark tied a rope to his waist and went to try to retrieve the boat and upon doing so somehow got pulled under the water. Matt was able to pull his father out but could not revive him so he was forced to run about two miles to get help. By the time help arrived though it was too late.
Death is supposed to be easier for us to handle as Christians because we have the promise of life both now and forever more. I don’t know how I would respond in this situation because I haven’t had to face death in a way that hits so close to home. My heart goes out to a family that is forced to face the reality of the brevity of life in this way but I am thankful that as believers there is life beyond the grave. We who are in Christ Jesus will once again experience the resurrection of our old selves and receive new life to reign with him forever for God through Christ has conquered death.
But, in light of this reminder, I am also thankful that Mark leaves behind a legacy for his family, his friends, and all those that come after him. He leaves a legacy as a faithful follower, friend, husband, father and image of the love of Jesus Christ. It is true that we are not promised our next breath. We are never guaranteed long life for we could be here today and gone tomorrow. However, what we are promised and what we can guarantee is that we can live our lives now, each and every day to the glory of God through which we leave a legacy of love that far outweighs and outlasts are earthly existence. Rest assured that the saints who have gone before us will be there to cheer us on to the end. Run the race! Claim victory in Jesus! Live to leave a legacy to the glory of God!
God, thank you for people like Mark who live their lives to leave a legacy for your glory. May we all choose to live our lives every day that we may do the same.
Wednesday, June 16, 2004
Radical Hospitality
(The following thoughts spring from an inspiring and challenging message from Randy Harris this past Sunday at Highland)
When I read those words, at first glance I don't exactly picture them together. I had no idea that hospitality could be termed radical. Maybe I haven't connected the two words because it is easier to have a much more limited understanding of the word hospitality in order to place it nice and neatly within my own comfort zone box. It might be that adding the word radical simply serves to confront me with the idea that there is deeper meaning behind hospitality than I have ever dared to realize.
I grew up in a white, middle-class, churched family where hospitality involved having people over in your home whether it be for a meal, or just for the simple pleasure of fun and fellowship. All in all, I believe my parents did a good job of instilling in me an appropriate desire for hospitality and the importance for incorporating it into my life. But then I read the words, Radical Hospitality, and once again I find myself confused. What's so radical about hospitality?
We live in a dangerous world. We can't pretend to ignore that reality. On a daily basis we must face the possibility of encountering "monsters" (as Randy termed it) of all different shapes and sizes. In all likelihood, we will be hurt in one way or another as we encounter these "monsters" but, in line with our normal tendencies, is the answer to shelter ourselves from these experiences? I don't believe so. I think this is where the word radical comes into play. The ministry of Jesus provides us with an image of Radical Hospitality which blows away any previous misconceptions of the words. He lived and walked among the sick, the poor, the unclean, the marginalized and the sinner proclaiming the message of the Kingdom of God, not only in the form of words but also exemplified in a life of love and compassion for all people.
Therefore, Radical Hospitality is more than sharing time together with people you know and are comfortable with, although that is a part of it. Radical Hospitality extends beyond our comfort zones. It takes seriously the command to go into all the world and share the message of Christ. It means meeting people where they are, no matter who they are. In a world where monsters aren't just make-believe, we must be more hesitant to judge others and more willing to live among them. Granted, we must still be cautious in some respects. This approach doesn't make the world any less dangerous. We are likely to get burned or hurt in our pursuit of this type of hospitality. But Radical Hospitality calls us to move forward in Christ willing to take a risk and remembering that there are people to be loved and lives to be transformed.
Are You Ready To Be Radical?
When I read those words, at first glance I don't exactly picture them together. I had no idea that hospitality could be termed radical. Maybe I haven't connected the two words because it is easier to have a much more limited understanding of the word hospitality in order to place it nice and neatly within my own comfort zone box. It might be that adding the word radical simply serves to confront me with the idea that there is deeper meaning behind hospitality than I have ever dared to realize.
I grew up in a white, middle-class, churched family where hospitality involved having people over in your home whether it be for a meal, or just for the simple pleasure of fun and fellowship. All in all, I believe my parents did a good job of instilling in me an appropriate desire for hospitality and the importance for incorporating it into my life. But then I read the words, Radical Hospitality, and once again I find myself confused. What's so radical about hospitality?
We live in a dangerous world. We can't pretend to ignore that reality. On a daily basis we must face the possibility of encountering "monsters" (as Randy termed it) of all different shapes and sizes. In all likelihood, we will be hurt in one way or another as we encounter these "monsters" but, in line with our normal tendencies, is the answer to shelter ourselves from these experiences? I don't believe so. I think this is where the word radical comes into play. The ministry of Jesus provides us with an image of Radical Hospitality which blows away any previous misconceptions of the words. He lived and walked among the sick, the poor, the unclean, the marginalized and the sinner proclaiming the message of the Kingdom of God, not only in the form of words but also exemplified in a life of love and compassion for all people.
Therefore, Radical Hospitality is more than sharing time together with people you know and are comfortable with, although that is a part of it. Radical Hospitality extends beyond our comfort zones. It takes seriously the command to go into all the world and share the message of Christ. It means meeting people where they are, no matter who they are. In a world where monsters aren't just make-believe, we must be more hesitant to judge others and more willing to live among them. Granted, we must still be cautious in some respects. This approach doesn't make the world any less dangerous. We are likely to get burned or hurt in our pursuit of this type of hospitality. But Radical Hospitality calls us to move forward in Christ willing to take a risk and remembering that there are people to be loved and lives to be transformed.
Are You Ready To Be Radical?
Friday, June 11, 2004
MORE THAN CONQUERORS
The Message of Revelation
To understand Revelation we must examine it within its historical setting. John is writing this to the churches of Asia with the intent that it be read aloud to the congregation. It is not a depiction of the end times but it is a revelation of what is soon to take place.
The theology of Revelation can best be summed up in one word: VICTORY!! John is writing to these churches because persecution and suffering are inevitable. He is writing to encourage them to remain faithful in the midst of persecution because the battle has already been won. Victory is secure because Satan has been defeated through Jesus Christ. Through Christ they don’t have to fear death/martyrdom because if they remain faithful and do not compromise their faith, they will be made MORE THAN CONQUERORS!
Revelation can be difficult for us to understand because we don’t always know how to understand the Apocalyptic language. John wrote to people who understood the historical, sociological-political, and literary contexts. His intent was not for it to be read literally, but instead understood in symbolic terms.
Even though John had this specific and narrow audience in mind there are lessons or theological principles which we can claim for our lives today. Most importantly, the message of VICTORY is still the same for us. We may not have to give up our lives but suffering and persecution are still inevitable. We can receive encouragement and confidence from this message just as the early Christians mentioned in Revelation did. If we remain faithful, do not compromise our faith and proclaim that Christ is Lord, we too can claim VICTORY and the promise of reigning with Christ!
It is also important to realize that God knows his people and will nourish and provide for his people even in the midst of crisis. The challenge for us is to sort out our faith before the crisis strikes. We are to be firmly planted in God and Christ, prepared for whatever period of suffering we encounter. We can also understand our existence in an already/not yet mindset. The Kingdom is here in the now but it will also come in its fullness later. We have been raised with Christ now and we will experience the glory of his resurrection later.
The message of Revelation for believers is a message of empowerment. It is a message that cannot help but impact my life. What better message do we have to share than we are MORE THAN CONQUERORS through Jesus Christ! Although life may not be easy, Satan is defeated and the VICTORY is ours. The very essence of that message should break forth from our lives like rushing water. Through Christ we have hope. In Christ we have freedom. The bonds of Satan have been broken and once we come face to face with this truth we are empowered to live like the redeemed!
Trust in God, do not compromise your faith with the world, and proclaim Christ as Lord. Fall to your knees and worship at his feet recognizing his holiness, righteousness and sovereignty. Then go in Christ and proceed as Conqueror!
To understand Revelation we must examine it within its historical setting. John is writing this to the churches of Asia with the intent that it be read aloud to the congregation. It is not a depiction of the end times but it is a revelation of what is soon to take place.
The theology of Revelation can best be summed up in one word: VICTORY!! John is writing to these churches because persecution and suffering are inevitable. He is writing to encourage them to remain faithful in the midst of persecution because the battle has already been won. Victory is secure because Satan has been defeated through Jesus Christ. Through Christ they don’t have to fear death/martyrdom because if they remain faithful and do not compromise their faith, they will be made MORE THAN CONQUERORS!
Revelation can be difficult for us to understand because we don’t always know how to understand the Apocalyptic language. John wrote to people who understood the historical, sociological-political, and literary contexts. His intent was not for it to be read literally, but instead understood in symbolic terms.
Even though John had this specific and narrow audience in mind there are lessons or theological principles which we can claim for our lives today. Most importantly, the message of VICTORY is still the same for us. We may not have to give up our lives but suffering and persecution are still inevitable. We can receive encouragement and confidence from this message just as the early Christians mentioned in Revelation did. If we remain faithful, do not compromise our faith and proclaim that Christ is Lord, we too can claim VICTORY and the promise of reigning with Christ!
It is also important to realize that God knows his people and will nourish and provide for his people even in the midst of crisis. The challenge for us is to sort out our faith before the crisis strikes. We are to be firmly planted in God and Christ, prepared for whatever period of suffering we encounter. We can also understand our existence in an already/not yet mindset. The Kingdom is here in the now but it will also come in its fullness later. We have been raised with Christ now and we will experience the glory of his resurrection later.
The message of Revelation for believers is a message of empowerment. It is a message that cannot help but impact my life. What better message do we have to share than we are MORE THAN CONQUERORS through Jesus Christ! Although life may not be easy, Satan is defeated and the VICTORY is ours. The very essence of that message should break forth from our lives like rushing water. Through Christ we have hope. In Christ we have freedom. The bonds of Satan have been broken and once we come face to face with this truth we are empowered to live like the redeemed!
Trust in God, do not compromise your faith with the world, and proclaim Christ as Lord. Fall to your knees and worship at his feet recognizing his holiness, righteousness and sovereignty. Then go in Christ and proceed as Conqueror!
Tuesday, June 08, 2004
A Revelation of Clearer Vision
This week I have been taking a week intensive course in Revelation with Dr. Ian Fair and I believe all this talk about Apocalyptic literature, prophecy, and revelation is causing me to see my own resemblance of visions. I woke up this morning and recalled having a strange dream or vision of some kind during the night. Although I guess it is possible that I just hit my head a little too hard in my sleep. Nevertheless, I will do my best to relay this revelation including some small additions from further reflection.
So, there it is, as clear as mud. I realize it is quite a strange vision and I don't know quite what to make of it but I think I have some ideas. Maybe you might have some suggestions. I just hope this class isn't making me crazy! And, don't worry, I'll be sure to give an update on any future visions.
In the second year (of graduate school), in the sixth month on the eighth day, while I was participating in the week intensive Revelation course, there came to me a vision in my sleep (although one might not be so brave as to proclaim this vision is from God via the mouth of Jesus, as in other prophetic revelations—I don’t know, I'll leave it for you to decide).
I looked up and there before me was a town square. The streets were filled with all sorts of people—men, women, and children representing many different ethnicities. I walked down the street and all the people were bustling with energy and excitement. Then, up the street to my right came Michael Jordan. There was something different about him though. As he came closer I realized that he was 15ft taller than the rest of the people gathered around. He was a giant. Everyone flocked toward him and with utter amazement they proclaimed, “Can you believe it, there’s Michael Jordan!” Some reached out just in hopes of brushing against him.
I decided to move on and continued down the street and around the corner. It didn’t take long before a large shadow crossed my path. I looked out ahead of me but was slightly blinded by the sun behind him. As he approached I heard the squeals of recognition, “Brad Pitt!” The crowd clamored excitedly attempting to get closer to him. Beyond him was Julia Roberts and over to the left was Brett Farve and behind him Tiger Woods. All of them towered over the crowds, standing at least 20 ft. tall. Many stared in amazement and admiration of these people with such great talents and accomplishments.
I left the square and continued through a local neighborhood where I passed a mother and father playing with their children in the front yard. Further down the road on the left was a school and there a teacher stood outside teaching her students under a tree. I looked around and the crowds of people were nowhere to be seen. Then I continued to the end of the street, around the bend and back toward town. Up ahead I came upon a small church building. The minister waved at me from the parking lot and I acknowledged his greeting but kept my course. Finally, I reached the town square and it seemed even more crowded and boisterous than before. People were still laughing and conversing about the events of earlier that day seemingly waiting to catch another glimpse of someone so worthy of honor and praise. As I walked with my head down and made my way back to the place I began I nearly bumped head on into a man. He looked very familiar to me but I could not quite recognize his face. Suddenly, I realized who it was--it was Jesus. I quickly turned around to greet him but he was already gone and it was painfully obvious that no one else in the busy streets saw him either.
So, there it is, as clear as mud. I realize it is quite a strange vision and I don't know quite what to make of it but I think I have some ideas. Maybe you might have some suggestions. I just hope this class isn't making me crazy! And, don't worry, I'll be sure to give an update on any future visions.
Sunday, June 06, 2004
Here's to New Beginnings
Today was our first day at Highland...as official members anyway! We have been there for about a year now and figured it was probably time to take the next step and make a commitment. We had been debating whether or not to pursue a ministry position at another church in the area while we are in school but in the end we decided Highland is where we wanted to be. We started a new class today entitled "Abundant Journey" and we look forward to the relationships we will build with people in this class. Today was also a special day because they incorporated a "new baby blessing" into the service in which the parents and their new babies were blessed and prayed over. Then they asked the children first followed by the entire congregation to be committed to growing up these babies in the Lord. It was a powerful and emotional experience.
Later this year, Highland will be celebrating its 75th anniversary and have asked the members of the congregation to participate in the celebration process by creating a theme title to represent God's faithfulness throughout their history. As a new member I decided I wanted to get creative and join in the fun. And, of course, I also decided to blog about it. So here goes--my idea for Highland's 75th Anniversary Celebration:
This theme represents both God's faithfulness and ours. When I think about portraits, I think about the rich history they represent. I think about the memories they capture. I think about the great cloud of witnesses that have gone before us. At times, all we have to do is catch a glimpse of these snapshots in time and we are reminded of the purpose of our journey and encouraged to continue.
I also think about what it takes to create a portrait. We all represent many different colors used together by the Master to create a beautiful portrait of love and faithfulness. If a picture speaks a thousand words then our prayer is that those words--past, present, and future--give glory, honor, and praise to God.
May we continue to be found faithful
Later this year, Highland will be celebrating its 75th anniversary and have asked the members of the congregation to participate in the celebration process by creating a theme title to represent God's faithfulness throughout their history. As a new member I decided I wanted to get creative and join in the fun. And, of course, I also decided to blog about it. So here goes--my idea for Highland's 75th Anniversary Celebration:
A Portrait of Faithfulness
This theme represents both God's faithfulness and ours. When I think about portraits, I think about the rich history they represent. I think about the memories they capture. I think about the great cloud of witnesses that have gone before us. At times, all we have to do is catch a glimpse of these snapshots in time and we are reminded of the purpose of our journey and encouraged to continue.
I also think about what it takes to create a portrait. We all represent many different colors used together by the Master to create a beautiful portrait of love and faithfulness. If a picture speaks a thousand words then our prayer is that those words--past, present, and future--give glory, honor, and praise to God.
May we continue to be found faithful
Saturday, June 05, 2004
Like a Kid in a Candy Store
It was supposed to feel like that anyway. At least that's how I envisioned it. You see, I have been looking forward to this particular weekend ever since last summer when a friend of mine told me about a book fair hosted by "Friends of the Abilene Library," and held in June each year. Thursday, I saw an article in the paper proclaiming the "good news" about the over-abundance of books looking for kind and warm shelves of which to call home sweet home and I was reminded of my friend's excited remarks about his previous experience which included six hours with books in one place. Of course, I, being the generous person I am, could not allow such books to be abandoned in such a cruel and heartless manner so Sara and I went to the civic center after work last night in hopes of "adopting" a few.
Now, I too was bubbling over with excitement, like a little school-girl (no offense) or a kid in a candy store as we approached the front doors and I saw row after row of books staring back at me with pouty lips and "puppy-dog" eyes only longing to belong--made to be special once again. I began to scan the sea of literature not sure even of where to begin. I made a bee-line to the religion section prepared to persevere for the long haul. It ended up being more like a kid at the dentist with a cavity from the candy store that once was. I finished looking through the books in about 30 minutes with only one that I even somewhat fancied taking home.
I felt a wave of disappointment come over me but I was determined to not throw in the towel. I moved to other sections--philosophy, marriage, mystery, classics, novels--none of which caught my eye. Six hours? I couldn't stay for six more minutes. I'm not sure what happened. I don't know if last year's fair was better, or if there is just a difference between my friend and I in what we look for in books. Maybe the problem is that I now work for a bookstore and in my short time there I am already very spoiled. Needless to say there are more books than I previously envisioned still left without a home and this kid is still looking for his candy...
I think I had a Snickers bar here somewhwere...
Now, I too was bubbling over with excitement, like a little school-girl (no offense) or a kid in a candy store as we approached the front doors and I saw row after row of books staring back at me with pouty lips and "puppy-dog" eyes only longing to belong--made to be special once again. I began to scan the sea of literature not sure even of where to begin. I made a bee-line to the religion section prepared to persevere for the long haul. It ended up being more like a kid at the dentist with a cavity from the candy store that once was. I finished looking through the books in about 30 minutes with only one that I even somewhat fancied taking home.
I felt a wave of disappointment come over me but I was determined to not throw in the towel. I moved to other sections--philosophy, marriage, mystery, classics, novels--none of which caught my eye. Six hours? I couldn't stay for six more minutes. I'm not sure what happened. I don't know if last year's fair was better, or if there is just a difference between my friend and I in what we look for in books. Maybe the problem is that I now work for a bookstore and in my short time there I am already very spoiled. Needless to say there are more books than I previously envisioned still left without a home and this kid is still looking for his candy...
I think I had a Snickers bar here somewhwere...
Wednesday, June 02, 2004
Can You Feel the Heat?
Another scorching day in West Texas. According to some it was the second day in a row of 100 degree weather. All I know is that it sure felt like it. One thing I do not miss about living in Florida is the humidity. I don't miss walking outside only to return within seconds dripping in sweat. Yes, it is hot here in Abilene but I can appreciate dry heat. Here, unlike Florida, you can retreat to the shade and escape the unbearable heat of the sun. In Florida, if the temperature is 98 degrees in the sun you might be lucky to find a reprieve of 97 degrees in the shade. Well, no matter the discrepancies the evidence is clear...summer is here.
Today, Sara and I helped the mother of a couple in our small group, move in. She moved to Abilene from California. I hope she is prepared for culture shock. We started about 8:30 and finished within two hours which I believe was quite a feat. Thankfully, the heat withheld the devastating force of its wrath until after noon when we were already experiencing the benefits of one of my favorite inventions: the a/c. However, no rest for the weary--soon after we were back to work earning the "big bucks."
For dinner we got to enjoy the company of some of our closest friends as we fellowshipped over a feast of hamburgers and tortilla chips. What a blessing that God created us to share in relationship with each other.
Then it was off to Highland to receive an encouraging message on being empowered to witness because of the Spirit within us. After our time of worship, Sara and I went to the elders meeting. We had decided to place membership at Highland and take steps to get involved in ministry opportunities so this meeting was a chance to be introduced to the elders. The meeting provided yet another blessing as the elders prayed over us before we left. I only hope I may be fortunate enough to work with a church in the future who has leadership as dedicated to imitating Christ and glorifying God as the people here at Highland. We look forward to being a part of this family.
Even after such an affirming evening, Sara and I still succumbed to temptation on the way home. We remembered that United was having a sale on Blue Bell ice cream and so we stopped to indulge ourselves. The hardest part for us is choosing a flavor that fancies both our palates. By the way, in light of this most recent indulgence I guess I must include ice cream in the list of God-designed blessings for all of mankind (unless of course you are lactose intolerant).
May God continue to pour out his grace-filled blessings upon us all!
Today, Sara and I helped the mother of a couple in our small group, move in. She moved to Abilene from California. I hope she is prepared for culture shock. We started about 8:30 and finished within two hours which I believe was quite a feat. Thankfully, the heat withheld the devastating force of its wrath until after noon when we were already experiencing the benefits of one of my favorite inventions: the a/c. However, no rest for the weary--soon after we were back to work earning the "big bucks."
For dinner we got to enjoy the company of some of our closest friends as we fellowshipped over a feast of hamburgers and tortilla chips. What a blessing that God created us to share in relationship with each other.
Then it was off to Highland to receive an encouraging message on being empowered to witness because of the Spirit within us. After our time of worship, Sara and I went to the elders meeting. We had decided to place membership at Highland and take steps to get involved in ministry opportunities so this meeting was a chance to be introduced to the elders. The meeting provided yet another blessing as the elders prayed over us before we left. I only hope I may be fortunate enough to work with a church in the future who has leadership as dedicated to imitating Christ and glorifying God as the people here at Highland. We look forward to being a part of this family.
Even after such an affirming evening, Sara and I still succumbed to temptation on the way home. We remembered that United was having a sale on Blue Bell ice cream and so we stopped to indulge ourselves. The hardest part for us is choosing a flavor that fancies both our palates. By the way, in light of this most recent indulgence I guess I must include ice cream in the list of God-designed blessings for all of mankind (unless of course you are lactose intolerant).
May God continue to pour out his grace-filled blessings upon us all!
Tuesday, June 01, 2004
Isn't it Ironic?
Well, it is time once again. Time for what you might ask? Summer? Well, yes, but that is not what I am referring to this time. No, it is time to pay the summer school bill. It is a time when once again I come face to face with the actual "investment" that education requires. However, education itself is not the subject of my ramblings. I am a huge proponent of education. After all, I am a graduate student and will have participated in higher education for at least a total of eight years before the earliest possible completion date.
My subject for today more specifically involves the irony of Christian education. This day represents the struggle I encounter every other day throughout my journey through higher education at a Christian institution. I am reminded of the amount of debt my wife and I are incurring in order to pursue a life of ministry. Granted, we all have to make sacrifices in life, but it is disheartening to think that just to receive a Christian education we must sacrifice our future financial situation and quite possibly our children's as well. Believe me, money is not the goal of my life. I want to work to live, not live to work. However, I am also well aware that ministry does not always provide financial stability, which leads me to contemplate whether or not the accumulation of debt is worthwhile. It just seems ironic that based on the cost, loans are encouraged and thousands of dollars of debt are incurred in order to obtain a Christian education. Am I (are we) being a good steward?
I realize that the irony surrounding Christian education affects more than just me as a student. Faculty, staff, administration, parents, and children are all affected in some way or another(and the list probably goes on). I've heard my fair share of horror stories in regard to the paralyzing effect of school debt on the lives of many families. But, in most cases, each person valued the sacrifice for one reason or another. I for one, value my education. I value the experiences I have shared because of my pursuit of a Christian education. I believe I am a different person because of the formation I received from Christian education. I have worked hard to be a good steward while at the same time entrusting my life (including my education debt) to God. I wish the scenario could be different. I wish a Christian education could be as free to everyone as the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. However, the reality of a private institution (Christian or not) outweighs my strongest desire in regard to this matter.
So, what do I do from this point? I continue to try to be a good steward of whatever blessings God provides and continue to trust Him even in the midst of what can feel like a tidal wave of school debt(or should I say investment)! You know, faith is almost always greater than anything I can fathom. I'm just thankful God is even greater than our school debt!
Where He leads me, I will follow!
My subject for today more specifically involves the irony of Christian education. This day represents the struggle I encounter every other day throughout my journey through higher education at a Christian institution. I am reminded of the amount of debt my wife and I are incurring in order to pursue a life of ministry. Granted, we all have to make sacrifices in life, but it is disheartening to think that just to receive a Christian education we must sacrifice our future financial situation and quite possibly our children's as well. Believe me, money is not the goal of my life. I want to work to live, not live to work. However, I am also well aware that ministry does not always provide financial stability, which leads me to contemplate whether or not the accumulation of debt is worthwhile. It just seems ironic that based on the cost, loans are encouraged and thousands of dollars of debt are incurred in order to obtain a Christian education. Am I (are we) being a good steward?
I realize that the irony surrounding Christian education affects more than just me as a student. Faculty, staff, administration, parents, and children are all affected in some way or another(and the list probably goes on). I've heard my fair share of horror stories in regard to the paralyzing effect of school debt on the lives of many families. But, in most cases, each person valued the sacrifice for one reason or another. I for one, value my education. I value the experiences I have shared because of my pursuit of a Christian education. I believe I am a different person because of the formation I received from Christian education. I have worked hard to be a good steward while at the same time entrusting my life (including my education debt) to God. I wish the scenario could be different. I wish a Christian education could be as free to everyone as the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. However, the reality of a private institution (Christian or not) outweighs my strongest desire in regard to this matter.
So, what do I do from this point? I continue to try to be a good steward of whatever blessings God provides and continue to trust Him even in the midst of what can feel like a tidal wave of school debt(or should I say investment)! You know, faith is almost always greater than anything I can fathom. I'm just thankful God is even greater than our school debt!
Where He leads me, I will follow!
Friday, May 28, 2004
To Live is Christ
Even in the midst of intense persecution and imprisonment Paul clearly displayed a desire to share Christ with others. The message of the gospel was more important than his life circumstances. "To live is Christ but to die is gain." This is a man who lived to the glory of God, who lived to encourage and equip believers in order that they might participate in and further the Kingdom.
Philippians 1:9-11,20 (NLT)
I pray that your love for each other will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in your knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until Christ returns. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation--those good things that are produced in your life by Jesus Christ--for this will bring much glory and praise to God.
For I live in eager expectation and hope that I will never do anything that causes me shame, but that I will always be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past, and that my life will always honor Christ, whether I live or I die.
This was Paul's desire. This was his prayer. I must ask myself if I too, share in the same prayer. I hope so. Comapartively, I do not face the same persecution. I am not imprisoned for my beliefs. However, the call to participate in and further the Kingdom still remains. I guess the question is: will we answer?
Thursday, May 27, 2004
Life: Abundant and Invigorating
There are simple things in life which bring a smile to my face and invigorate me each day. Here are some examples (in no particular order):
Blessed be the name of the Lord! Those are just a few of mine--what are some of yours?
God, thank you that you provide us with joy for the journey! May we all find enjoyment in the simple things!
1. A shower first thing in the morning (for me, it is like other's shot of caffeine in the form of coffee)
2. Singing (along with almost any form of music)
3. Watching someone experience an "aha" moment while encountering the message of the gospel (or experiencing one myself)
4. Kissing my wife (hey, maybe I'll get some brownie points)
5. The exuberance and innocence of children (especially watching the little ones run)
6. And, for those who are West Texans, a beautiful and awe-inspiring sunset.
Blessed be the name of the Lord! Those are just a few of mine--what are some of yours?
God, thank you that you provide us with joy for the journey! May we all find enjoyment in the simple things!
Tuesday, May 25, 2004
"Reya"
On Sunday at Highland Mike Cope delivered a good thought-provoking sermon regarding community which was centered on a passage in Proverbs. His thoughts inspired further reflection on my part. Maybe this simple passage will do the same for you...
Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred.
Proverbs 15:17
I am reminded that we are designed for community--created to love God and each other! What really matters if we don't have love? The greatest of this world's "pleasures" don't mean squat if not experienced within the context of a life of love...is it just me or could that be the sound of a "resounding gong?"
When Sara and I first moved into our apartment here in Abilene we were blessed to quickly meet our neighbors Bio (pronounced Bue like blue without the L) and Daisy. They are a couple from Brazil with two very cute and precious little girls. One of the first nuggets of wisdom Bio shared with me was based on a traditional saying in Brazil. He said something to the effect of, "a good home means nothing without good neighbors." According to their culture even if you have your dream house it is impossible to enjoy it without good neighbors. What an obvious yet radical and somewhat counter-cultural statement all at the same time. The focus is on people and not possessions, on loving and sharing with each other and not on living for yourself.
Growing up, I don't remember having the best relationships with neighbors. It seemed they pretty much kept to themselves and of course we were probably just as much to blame. Now, having a greater understanding of both sides of the coin, I realize the abundant blessing of relationship with good neighbors and the joy that comes from community when we love each other. From that day on, Bio and I decided to call each other Reya, which in his native tongue means something equivalent to the combination of friend, brother and neighbor! Maybe we could adapt our own proverb similar to the one above:
Better a shack with good neighbors where there is love and community than a dream house with bad neighbors where there is hatred and division.
I pray we can all learn to be reya to one another as we seek to live out love in community!
May God bless our efforts...
Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred.
Proverbs 15:17
I am reminded that we are designed for community--created to love God and each other! What really matters if we don't have love? The greatest of this world's "pleasures" don't mean squat if not experienced within the context of a life of love...is it just me or could that be the sound of a "resounding gong?"
When Sara and I first moved into our apartment here in Abilene we were blessed to quickly meet our neighbors Bio (pronounced Bue like blue without the L) and Daisy. They are a couple from Brazil with two very cute and precious little girls. One of the first nuggets of wisdom Bio shared with me was based on a traditional saying in Brazil. He said something to the effect of, "a good home means nothing without good neighbors." According to their culture even if you have your dream house it is impossible to enjoy it without good neighbors. What an obvious yet radical and somewhat counter-cultural statement all at the same time. The focus is on people and not possessions, on loving and sharing with each other and not on living for yourself.
Growing up, I don't remember having the best relationships with neighbors. It seemed they pretty much kept to themselves and of course we were probably just as much to blame. Now, having a greater understanding of both sides of the coin, I realize the abundant blessing of relationship with good neighbors and the joy that comes from community when we love each other. From that day on, Bio and I decided to call each other Reya, which in his native tongue means something equivalent to the combination of friend, brother and neighbor! Maybe we could adapt our own proverb similar to the one above:
Better a shack with good neighbors where there is love and community than a dream house with bad neighbors where there is hatred and division.
I pray we can all learn to be reya to one another as we seek to live out love in community!
May God bless our efforts...
Monday, May 24, 2004
The Warranty Way
Up until this past Saturday my faith in "warranties" was deteriorating. In fact, I was beginning to hate warranties. Let me explain. Over the last year we have been battling with a certain company (cough, Best Buy, cough) over the consistently worsening condition of Sara's laptop. We have had to take the computer in four times in the last 8-9 months because it would not work properly for various and complicated reasons. Normally, even though it is frustrating, it would not be as big of a deal except that the closest store to us is located in Fort Worth (translation: 2 1/2 to 3 hour drive, one-way each time). Every time it was sent off, it would return with the same results--some seemingly non-important parts replaced followed by the suggestion to restore the settings. So with hopeful expectations we returned home only to find the same problems plus additional technical headaches non-existant before we sent it off in the first place. Go figure. So, since the problem could not be solved, it meant yet another joyous adventure east on I-20 toward Dallas.
Fast forward to Saturday which was a mere six visits later, and you could imagine my cynical attitude as we walked into the store to pick up our little patient once more. I mean, what's the point of a warranty if it can never be exercised to the consumer's advantage? However, by the time we walked out of the store my cynicism faded because the amazing had just happened. In my hands I held the receipt to a brand new laptop computer to replace the old one still under the three year warranty. Not only did we have a new computer but it was better, faster, and stronger than the old one. And, to top it all off, there was a hundred dollar rebate with this new computer that we received for free as well. Talk about a deal. Even though we went through multiple headaches, frustrations, and miles, I guess you could say I quickly renewed my commitment to the warranty way. Finally, a victory for the "average joe" consumer.
Needless to say, some of the first words out of my mouth were, "Where do I sign for a new three-year warranty?"
Did I mention I love warranties?
Ps (The only unfortunate aspect to all of this is that it diminishes my chances of getting an ibook anytime time soon. But don't get me wrong--I'm not complaining!)
Fast forward to Saturday which was a mere six visits later, and you could imagine my cynical attitude as we walked into the store to pick up our little patient once more. I mean, what's the point of a warranty if it can never be exercised to the consumer's advantage? However, by the time we walked out of the store my cynicism faded because the amazing had just happened. In my hands I held the receipt to a brand new laptop computer to replace the old one still under the three year warranty. Not only did we have a new computer but it was better, faster, and stronger than the old one. And, to top it all off, there was a hundred dollar rebate with this new computer that we received for free as well. Talk about a deal. Even though we went through multiple headaches, frustrations, and miles, I guess you could say I quickly renewed my commitment to the warranty way. Finally, a victory for the "average joe" consumer.
Needless to say, some of the first words out of my mouth were, "Where do I sign for a new three-year warranty?"
Did I mention I love warranties?
Ps (The only unfortunate aspect to all of this is that it diminishes my chances of getting an ibook anytime time soon. But don't get me wrong--I'm not complaining!)
Friday, May 21, 2004
Who Am I?
How many times do we ask ourselves that question--who am I? It is a question that relates to all of us. It is so important to our existence that there are those who spend a large part of their lives in search of the answer. We want to be able to determine our identity in order to give our lives purpose. In that search it is easy to want to find our identity in each area of life. I am a student, a husband, a son, an employee, a minister, or you fill in the blank. We wear so many "hats" that it doesn't take long to realize how confused about our identity we really are. Around every corner more and more things compete for our attention. The temptation to compartmentalize becomes an itch needing to be scratched. Our family life is speparate from our professional life which is separate from our spiritual life and so on. Before we know it we are lost in the abyss of some multiple identity disorder. And, once again we are confused, left to sort out the inconsistencies while still asking ourselves the all too familiar question--Who am I?
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own posession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were not a people, but now you are the people of God; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
1 Peter 2:9-10
Do not be confused. The message is clear for those of us who believe. Our identity is found in Christ alone as the people of God, as children of the King! If we live out our identity in this way we will be centered not on who we are and what we do but on who we are in Him. Everything else is just another aspect of our identity. May we not be afraid to take hold of the truth of our identity. I hope you will be blessed through reflection on the words of this song.
Who Am I
(Lyrics by Mark Hall; Music by Casting Crowns)
Who am I, that the Lord of all the earth
Would care to know my name
Would care to feel my hurt
Who am I, that the Bright and Morning Star
Would choose to light the way
For my ever wandering heart
Not because of who I am
But because of what You've done
Not because of what I've done
But because of who You're
Chorus:
I am a flower quickly fading
Here today and gone tomorrow
A wave tossed in the ocean
A vapor in the wind
Still You hear me when I'm calling
Lord, You catch me when I'm falling
And You've told me who I am
I am Yours, I am Yours
Who Am I, that the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love and watch me rise again
Who Am I, that the voice that calmed the sea
Would call out through the rain
And calm the storm in me
I am Yours
Whom shall I fear
Whom shall I fear
'Cause I am Yours
I am Yours
Hi, my name is Mike. I am redeemed by Christ, a child of God, a servant of the King!
Who are you?
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own posession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were not a people, but now you are the people of God; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
1 Peter 2:9-10
Do not be confused. The message is clear for those of us who believe. Our identity is found in Christ alone as the people of God, as children of the King! If we live out our identity in this way we will be centered not on who we are and what we do but on who we are in Him. Everything else is just another aspect of our identity. May we not be afraid to take hold of the truth of our identity. I hope you will be blessed through reflection on the words of this song.
Who Am I
(Lyrics by Mark Hall; Music by Casting Crowns)
Who am I, that the Lord of all the earth
Would care to know my name
Would care to feel my hurt
Who am I, that the Bright and Morning Star
Would choose to light the way
For my ever wandering heart
Not because of who I am
But because of what You've done
Not because of what I've done
But because of who You're
Chorus:
I am a flower quickly fading
Here today and gone tomorrow
A wave tossed in the ocean
A vapor in the wind
Still You hear me when I'm calling
Lord, You catch me when I'm falling
And You've told me who I am
I am Yours, I am Yours
Who Am I, that the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love and watch me rise again
Who Am I, that the voice that calmed the sea
Would call out through the rain
And calm the storm in me
I am Yours
Whom shall I fear
Whom shall I fear
'Cause I am Yours
I am Yours
Hi, my name is Mike. I am redeemed by Christ, a child of God, a servant of the King!
Who are you?
Wednesday, May 19, 2004
Written On My Heart
"These are the commands, decrees and laws the LORD your God directed me to teach you to observe in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess, so that you, your children and their children after them may fear the LORD your God as long as you live by keeping all his decrees and commands that I give you, and so that you may enjoy long life. Hear, O Israel, and be careful to obey so that it may go well with you and that you may increase greatly in a land flowing with milk and honey, just as the LORD , the God of your fathers, promised you.
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
When the LORD your God brings you into the land he swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, to give you-a land with large, flourishing cities you did not build, houses filled with all kinds of good things you did not provide, wells you did not dig, and vineyards and olive groves you did not plant-then when you eat and are satisfied, be careful that you do not forget the LORD , who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery."
Deut. 6:1-12
We read this scripture together on Sunday night at small group and talked about what it means to have the word of God written on our hearts. When I start to think about what I have written on my heart, or at least imprinted on my mind, I realize how many insignificant and trivial things have found a home in the deep recesses of my thoughts. Useless facts and trivia abound--By the way, do you know the human head weighs eight pounds? Sure, there are flashes of scripture and (if you know me) numerous moments of spontaneous song but other than that, what do I really have written on my heart? I think it is an appropriate question of introspection for all of us.
During my time at a church outside of Nashville there was an elderly man, Brother Williams, who each week would take the opportunity to vocalize some form of scriptural exhortation for all of us. Whether or not I always agreed with his theology or application of scripture was of little importance compared to the encouragement I received from the overflow of what was written on his heart. He believed in sharing the message of scripture with anyone who would listen and many did.
At times it's easy for me to be "satisfied" with where I am because my life as a seminary student is full of the Word of God--isn't it? The truth is, it is probably easy for a lot of us. I look up to those who are at a point in which it is not. But surely I don't forget the Lord, all He is and all He does! Sometimes I just wish what came out of my mouth was more than the daily happenings, current news, or sports headlines. Don't get me wrong, I do not intend to chastise myself or anyone else because these things are not bad. I just do not want to lose sight of the importance of the internalization of the Word of God and all things of God. Ultimately I want to be satisfied not in myself but in who I am in Him!
I want to be able to do more than say, "hold on a minute and let me find that scripture to read to you." I want to be more like Brother Williams whose outward expressions of the Word of God was simply the overflow of a heart after Him. However, we should be careful that the emphasis not be on the rote memorization of scripture as much as on the outpouring of our hearts as we continue in relationship with God and interact with His Word. Afterall, out of the mouth comes the overflow of the heart!
Hopefully we all have something to say...
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
When the LORD your God brings you into the land he swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, to give you-a land with large, flourishing cities you did not build, houses filled with all kinds of good things you did not provide, wells you did not dig, and vineyards and olive groves you did not plant-then when you eat and are satisfied, be careful that you do not forget the LORD , who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery."
Deut. 6:1-12
We read this scripture together on Sunday night at small group and talked about what it means to have the word of God written on our hearts. When I start to think about what I have written on my heart, or at least imprinted on my mind, I realize how many insignificant and trivial things have found a home in the deep recesses of my thoughts. Useless facts and trivia abound--By the way, do you know the human head weighs eight pounds? Sure, there are flashes of scripture and (if you know me) numerous moments of spontaneous song but other than that, what do I really have written on my heart? I think it is an appropriate question of introspection for all of us.
During my time at a church outside of Nashville there was an elderly man, Brother Williams, who each week would take the opportunity to vocalize some form of scriptural exhortation for all of us. Whether or not I always agreed with his theology or application of scripture was of little importance compared to the encouragement I received from the overflow of what was written on his heart. He believed in sharing the message of scripture with anyone who would listen and many did.
At times it's easy for me to be "satisfied" with where I am because my life as a seminary student is full of the Word of God--isn't it? The truth is, it is probably easy for a lot of us. I look up to those who are at a point in which it is not. But surely I don't forget the Lord, all He is and all He does! Sometimes I just wish what came out of my mouth was more than the daily happenings, current news, or sports headlines. Don't get me wrong, I do not intend to chastise myself or anyone else because these things are not bad. I just do not want to lose sight of the importance of the internalization of the Word of God and all things of God. Ultimately I want to be satisfied not in myself but in who I am in Him!
I want to be able to do more than say, "hold on a minute and let me find that scripture to read to you." I want to be more like Brother Williams whose outward expressions of the Word of God was simply the overflow of a heart after Him. However, we should be careful that the emphasis not be on the rote memorization of scripture as much as on the outpouring of our hearts as we continue in relationship with God and interact with His Word. Afterall, out of the mouth comes the overflow of the heart!
Hopefully we all have something to say...
Monday, May 17, 2004
I'm Still Alive
For those of you that have worried...do not any longer. I am alive and breathing, but hopefully and most importantly, I am finished with my blogging hiatus. I can give the usual excuses like: school was wrapping up for the semester (translation--smacked head-first into paper and project deadline), or my parents were visiting for the week all the way from sunny Florida (which they were and we had a good time together), or I have been lazy and just did not get around to posting (probably partly true), but where's the fun in those excuses. Maybe I should just revert back to old-school favorties like the dog ate my computer, or my brain simply malfunctioned and shutdown because of theological overload for the semester, but in the end the reality is still the same: I just haven't blogged. So, I vow, pledge, commit, or maybe some other word a little less serious and not so over-zealous, to start afresh among the blogging community. I've kicked off this new effort with my own extreme blogover (or makeover for the slower ones), in an attempt to do away with the old to usher in the new. I hope you like the face lift. Maybe it will inspire me and fan the flames of thought so deep within--or maybe not. So with that said, look for future posting's soon. Maybe tomorrow, or the next day, or if I'm lucky, next week.
Friday, April 30, 2004
Ministry in the Midst
Let's face it. We live in the midst of a hurting and broken world. Every day there are people trying to pick up the pieces of their broken lives. We cannot escape the reality of a fallen world. However, we can realize that a fallen world cannot overcome us! What does that mean for us...empowerment! God can work through us to foster healing and restoration in the lives of others.
I would like to have the answers to the questions. I would like to help hurting people. Sometimes, I wish I could be Mr. "fix-it" man and put the pieces back together. But, maybe that is not my purpose. Instead of focusing on a ministry of "doing," (although that is part of it) maybe I would be better suited to focus on a ministry of "being." After all, I am not a doctor, a savior, or superman! Therefore, my purpose, our purpose might be better understood in terms of Henri Nouwen's idea of a "wounded healer."
"No minister can save anyone. He can only offer himself as a guide to fearful people. Yet, paradoxically, it is precisely in this guidance that the first signs of hope become visible. This is so because a shared pain is no longer paralyzing but mobilizing, when understood as a way to liberation. When we become aware that we do not have to escape our pains, but that we can mobilize them into a common search for life, those very pains are transformed from expressions of despair into signs of hope.
Through this common search, hospitality becomes community. Hospitality becomes community as it creates a unity based on the shared confession of our basic brokenness and on a shared hope...A Christian community is therefore a healing community not because wounds are cured and pains are alleviated, but because wounds and pains become openings or occasions for new vision. Mutual confession then becomes a mutual deepening of hope, and sharing weakness becomes a reminder to one and all of the coming strength."
My purpose is not necessarily to "do" but to "be"--a listener, a fellow sufferer, an image of the love of God in Christ, a wounded healer!
"Even when we know that we are called to be wounded healers, it is still very difficult to acknowledge that healing has to take place today. Because we are living in days when our wounds have become all too visible. Our loneliness and isolation has become so much a part of our daily experience, that we cry out for a Liberator who will take us away from our misery and bring us justice and peace.
To announce, however, that the Liberator is sitting among the poor and that the wounds are signs of hope and that today is the day of liberation, is a step very few can take. But this is exactly the announcement of the wounded healer. 'The master is coming--not tomorrow, but today, not next year, but this year, not after all our misery is passed, but in the middle of it, not in another place but right here where we are standing.'"
The One who came to us in the midst in the form of Jesus Christ, calls and empowers us to minister in the midst! In all things, may the Great Physician use his healing power to work through the lives of us who are wounded healers in a broken world!
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any comfort with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.
2 Corinthians 1:3-5
(Quotes from Henri Nouwen's, "The Wounded Healer")
I would like to have the answers to the questions. I would like to help hurting people. Sometimes, I wish I could be Mr. "fix-it" man and put the pieces back together. But, maybe that is not my purpose. Instead of focusing on a ministry of "doing," (although that is part of it) maybe I would be better suited to focus on a ministry of "being." After all, I am not a doctor, a savior, or superman! Therefore, my purpose, our purpose might be better understood in terms of Henri Nouwen's idea of a "wounded healer."
"No minister can save anyone. He can only offer himself as a guide to fearful people. Yet, paradoxically, it is precisely in this guidance that the first signs of hope become visible. This is so because a shared pain is no longer paralyzing but mobilizing, when understood as a way to liberation. When we become aware that we do not have to escape our pains, but that we can mobilize them into a common search for life, those very pains are transformed from expressions of despair into signs of hope.
Through this common search, hospitality becomes community. Hospitality becomes community as it creates a unity based on the shared confession of our basic brokenness and on a shared hope...A Christian community is therefore a healing community not because wounds are cured and pains are alleviated, but because wounds and pains become openings or occasions for new vision. Mutual confession then becomes a mutual deepening of hope, and sharing weakness becomes a reminder to one and all of the coming strength."
My purpose is not necessarily to "do" but to "be"--a listener, a fellow sufferer, an image of the love of God in Christ, a wounded healer!
"Even when we know that we are called to be wounded healers, it is still very difficult to acknowledge that healing has to take place today. Because we are living in days when our wounds have become all too visible. Our loneliness and isolation has become so much a part of our daily experience, that we cry out for a Liberator who will take us away from our misery and bring us justice and peace.
To announce, however, that the Liberator is sitting among the poor and that the wounds are signs of hope and that today is the day of liberation, is a step very few can take. But this is exactly the announcement of the wounded healer. 'The master is coming--not tomorrow, but today, not next year, but this year, not after all our misery is passed, but in the middle of it, not in another place but right here where we are standing.'"
The One who came to us in the midst in the form of Jesus Christ, calls and empowers us to minister in the midst! In all things, may the Great Physician use his healing power to work through the lives of us who are wounded healers in a broken world!
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any comfort with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.
2 Corinthians 1:3-5
(Quotes from Henri Nouwen's, "The Wounded Healer")
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