"I know what I'm doing!" You've heard it said, maybe said it yourself, and whether it is spoken to a parent or a spouse; a teacher or a supervisor, the implication is always the same, "I don't need you or your input."
Numerous times as a father I heard these words as I attempted to teach one of my children how to do something. Their struggle for independence and desire to demonstrate what they knew would cause them to jump ahead of my instructions while informing me that they had it covered. Sometimes, they did. Often, they did not, and neither did I when took the same approach at their age. It is an important piece of knowledge we must acquire by learning from our mistakes. Even as adults, it is still difficult to acknowledge that we do not know everything and accept that we need help.
David, Israel's well-known king, made his share of bad decisions including sleeping with the wife of one of his soldiers, and when he found that she was pregnant and his sin could not be hidden, made arrangements for her husband to be moved to the center of the battle to die. He suffered greatly for his choices, but learned from them as well. In Psalm 25:9, he writes, "He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way."
David learned the valuable lesson of humility. He discovered through that virtue God would teach him the right thing to do and show him God's way to live. By recognizing his need for direction and his dependence upon God, he put himself in a position to be more than he thought possible, even when he thought too highly of himself.
It is a lesson for all of us. When we can honestly accept that we are not God, that we do not know all things and that we cannot always discern the right way, we develop a teachable spirit that God can use to lead us into blessing. As long as we think we have it covered, that we need nobody and no direction we set ourselves up for failure and frustration. When we embrace humility, we open ourselves to good directions, wise decisions and godly blessings.
David learned the hard way the deep pain that comes from pride and arrogance. Many of us have learned that painful lesson as well, but we can also allow these tough experiences to teach us humility and prepare us for a better future. There is never a bad time to start embracing humility. It is never too late. It is a decision we renew again and again, but we do so knowing that God gives grace to the humble, guiding them and teaching them the path that leads to life.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Known for What?
Why is is that some of the most simple lessons seem more challenging to learn and put into practice?
Recently, I was browsing religion and faith blogs to find some personal inspiration and to make connection with other bloggers with similar interests. I found a number of interesting sites and posts and even discovered a couple of blogs I enjoyed so much I added them to the Cafe's Favorite Places. It was wonderful to find places of inspiration for the daily journey and places that challenge me to grow in my faith and understanding.
What shocked me during the search, were the number of places I encountered that were, well, the only word I know for it is, "angry." These were places where it seemed every post was dedicated to something,or someone, the author was against. It seemed like I dropped in on people who were fighting, mad, and frustrated, and everyone of these sites claimed to be Christian.
Now, I do not want to sound harsh or judgmental. Maybe, these authors had a passionate reason for their emotion. Maybe, I just found a few negative sites, and of course, each person's blog is their place to determine what seems best to post. The experience, however, started me thinking about the number of people I meet who claim to know Jesus Christ, who affirm the presence of Christ in their lives through the Holy Spirit, who also seem to be overflowing with harsh judgment and anger.
To be fair, if you were with me at times when someone dangerously cuts me off while driving, or in similar challenging circumstances, you might be tempted to ask the same questions about me Though, I am getting better. We all have places where our attitudes and actions don't quite match up to our beliefs, but just because we share this struggle, does not make it acceptable, or something we should ignore. We are called to live a life worthy of the high calling of Jesus Christ, so we should always be seeking to grow more Christlike.
Once, while attending a youth retreat, the leader taught us a cute song based upon a verse of Scripture. I could sing it, but that just doesn't come across well in the written text. Some of you may know the tune, but the words are what really matters, "Be ye kind, one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake has forgiven you." This verse from Ephesians 4:32, is so simple in its meaning and direction, yet it seems so difficult to put into practice. I am called, you are called, to be kind, tenderhearted and forgiving, and this is not just a one-time event. We do not offer kindness one day and then check it off of our life list of to-dos. Rather, we are called to make these virtues a part of who we are and practice them daily.
The motivation and the power to live out this verse come from the knowledge and experience of God working in our lives. Since God shows kindness, tenderness and forgiveness toward us, we too, should share that experience with others. In doing so, we become tiny mirrors, reflecting what God does in our lives into the lives of others. When we recognize the grace we have, and continue to receive from God, it becomes easier to offer that same gift to others.
Instead of being known for anger, frustration and criticism, we could be remembered as the people who had compassion, grace and love. That certainly sounds like Jesus, and what would happen if people experienced Christians who took this simple verse from Ephesians to heart and became, as James said, "doers of the word?" It is a simple lesson and yes, it is hard to apply, but the impact we can make for God and for good in the world makes the effort worth it.
May the kindness, compassion and forgiveness of God be yours and may you share them broadly to the glory of God's name.
Recently, I was browsing religion and faith blogs to find some personal inspiration and to make connection with other bloggers with similar interests. I found a number of interesting sites and posts and even discovered a couple of blogs I enjoyed so much I added them to the Cafe's Favorite Places. It was wonderful to find places of inspiration for the daily journey and places that challenge me to grow in my faith and understanding.
What shocked me during the search, were the number of places I encountered that were, well, the only word I know for it is, "angry." These were places where it seemed every post was dedicated to something,or someone, the author was against. It seemed like I dropped in on people who were fighting, mad, and frustrated, and everyone of these sites claimed to be Christian.
Now, I do not want to sound harsh or judgmental. Maybe, these authors had a passionate reason for their emotion. Maybe, I just found a few negative sites, and of course, each person's blog is their place to determine what seems best to post. The experience, however, started me thinking about the number of people I meet who claim to know Jesus Christ, who affirm the presence of Christ in their lives through the Holy Spirit, who also seem to be overflowing with harsh judgment and anger.
To be fair, if you were with me at times when someone dangerously cuts me off while driving, or in similar challenging circumstances, you might be tempted to ask the same questions about me Though, I am getting better. We all have places where our attitudes and actions don't quite match up to our beliefs, but just because we share this struggle, does not make it acceptable, or something we should ignore. We are called to live a life worthy of the high calling of Jesus Christ, so we should always be seeking to grow more Christlike.
Once, while attending a youth retreat, the leader taught us a cute song based upon a verse of Scripture. I could sing it, but that just doesn't come across well in the written text. Some of you may know the tune, but the words are what really matters, "Be ye kind, one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake has forgiven you." This verse from Ephesians 4:32, is so simple in its meaning and direction, yet it seems so difficult to put into practice. I am called, you are called, to be kind, tenderhearted and forgiving, and this is not just a one-time event. We do not offer kindness one day and then check it off of our life list of to-dos. Rather, we are called to make these virtues a part of who we are and practice them daily.
The motivation and the power to live out this verse come from the knowledge and experience of God working in our lives. Since God shows kindness, tenderness and forgiveness toward us, we too, should share that experience with others. In doing so, we become tiny mirrors, reflecting what God does in our lives into the lives of others. When we recognize the grace we have, and continue to receive from God, it becomes easier to offer that same gift to others.
Instead of being known for anger, frustration and criticism, we could be remembered as the people who had compassion, grace and love. That certainly sounds like Jesus, and what would happen if people experienced Christians who took this simple verse from Ephesians to heart and became, as James said, "doers of the word?" It is a simple lesson and yes, it is hard to apply, but the impact we can make for God and for good in the world makes the effort worth it.
May the kindness, compassion and forgiveness of God be yours and may you share them broadly to the glory of God's name.
Monday, August 29, 2011
One Thing
What is the secret to a successful Christian life?
I frequently receive this question or some variation of it. People want to know what to do to strengthen their faith walk, to help them through difficult times and give them the power to live victorious lives. It is a good question when our desire is to know God's will and plan for lives and when we intend to act on that knowledge, but it can be deceiving when we are looking for a shortcut to deep faith.
Stay up late most any night to watch a little television in the wee hours of the morning and you will discover a myriad of infomercials selling shortcuts. There are secrets to losing weight, looking younger, and building muscle. Buy the right item and your housework will be a breeze, broken items will look like new and your car will run forever. Some of these products may be effective, but the deeper philosophy all of them share is that there is a hidden, almost magical way, to accomplish goals that simply require effort to achieve.
Bring this philosophy into the Christian life and you find many people who are looking for that same magical step that will lead them to a deep and powerful walk with God. Ultimately, it is a search for a shortcut around putting in the effort to grow in faith.
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians says this, "But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (3:13b-14) It turns out there is a secret, but it is not a shortcut. Rather, Paul makes it clear that growing in the Christian life is the result of intentionally avoiding distractions and pressing on toward the goal of Christ.
He uses athletic terms to drive the point home. A serious, competitive runner sets her mind on the goal. Previous successes and failures are set aside so she can attend to the task at hand. Then, with great focus, she devotes herself to the goal. With her senses, skills and strength committed to the task, she gives her all to win the prize.
So, what is the secret to successful living? It is not surprising, nor is it a shortcut. The secret is to commit your ways, your very self to the Lord, and allow him to direct your paths. Avoid distractions and press on, focused on the goal of Christ, and give your all to the task at hand. There is no shortcut, just the the strength of focus and the power of doing that "one thing.”
Let us continue to run the race, eyes on Christ as we commit to doing that one thing, and let us encourage one another so that we may all finish well.
I frequently receive this question or some variation of it. People want to know what to do to strengthen their faith walk, to help them through difficult times and give them the power to live victorious lives. It is a good question when our desire is to know God's will and plan for lives and when we intend to act on that knowledge, but it can be deceiving when we are looking for a shortcut to deep faith.
Stay up late most any night to watch a little television in the wee hours of the morning and you will discover a myriad of infomercials selling shortcuts. There are secrets to losing weight, looking younger, and building muscle. Buy the right item and your housework will be a breeze, broken items will look like new and your car will run forever. Some of these products may be effective, but the deeper philosophy all of them share is that there is a hidden, almost magical way, to accomplish goals that simply require effort to achieve.
Bring this philosophy into the Christian life and you find many people who are looking for that same magical step that will lead them to a deep and powerful walk with God. Ultimately, it is a search for a shortcut around putting in the effort to grow in faith.
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians says this, "But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (3:13b-14) It turns out there is a secret, but it is not a shortcut. Rather, Paul makes it clear that growing in the Christian life is the result of intentionally avoiding distractions and pressing on toward the goal of Christ.
He uses athletic terms to drive the point home. A serious, competitive runner sets her mind on the goal. Previous successes and failures are set aside so she can attend to the task at hand. Then, with great focus, she devotes herself to the goal. With her senses, skills and strength committed to the task, she gives her all to win the prize.
So, what is the secret to successful living? It is not surprising, nor is it a shortcut. The secret is to commit your ways, your very self to the Lord, and allow him to direct your paths. Avoid distractions and press on, focused on the goal of Christ, and give your all to the task at hand. There is no shortcut, just the the strength of focus and the power of doing that "one thing.”
Let us continue to run the race, eyes on Christ as we commit to doing that one thing, and let us encourage one another so that we may all finish well.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Extravagant Worship
Worship is extravagant.
When we speak of worship, beyond our Christian conversations, we easily equate the action to deep emotion and value. "I worship the ground she walks on," we say, and we know that we are sharing how deeply we feel toward that person we love. To say such a thing is an expression of profound love, appreciation and desire. It is the nature of worship to evoke and respond to these rich feelings and thoughts.
Strangely, this is not always the definition of worship within the walls of the church. We speak of worship as an event, a time when we gather with other Christians to sing, pray and listen to the weekly sermon. Often there is a sense of duty attached to the experience, "I have to go to worship," and careful listeners will hear the implied words, "but I don't have to like it."
Sometimes, worship is defined by our preferences and desires. "I really didn't like worship today. It didn't move me. I just wasn't feeling it." We are disappointed if we don't know the hymns and frustrated if the experience goes too long. Instead of extravagance of worship, there is a sense of meagerness in spirit.
In the opening of Chapter 12 of John's Gospel, we find Jesus at Bethany, the place where Lazarus lived. There is a dinner party being given in Jesus' honor and people we gathered for the event. Suddenly, Mary brings roughly a pint of expensive perfume and begins to pour it on Jesus' feet, wiping it with her hair. The Bible adds, "and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume."
Jesus was blessed, but not everyone saw a blessing. For others, it was too extravagant an action. It was a poor use of an expensive perfume. Why, it could have been sold and the money given to the poor. In short, this precious gift of perfume and of Mary's heart was seen as a "waste."
But, Jesus didn't think so. To him it was deeply profound. It showed the great love and devotion in Mary's heart. It was an extravagant act. It was worship. The party was in Jesus' honor, but it was Mary who chose to bring him worship.
When we gather together in worship services. It is not primarily to get our needs met. It is not really about our preferences and desires. Nor is it meant to be a duty, an obligatory gathering to "get through." No, it is an opportunity to share our deep love for God, to offer what we have in pure abandonment to the One we love. It is a time to give ourselves in extravagant expressions of love that can, in their own way, fill the house with the fragrance of the perfume of worship.
As we gather today, and in the days to come. We need to remember that worship is an action. It is so much more than the name of an event. It is an opportunity to pour out our love for God and to receive God's love in return.
Mary surely heard the critical words as she offered her gift, but she also heard the words of Jesus himself when he affirmed her and her actions; when he made it clear how much he was blessed by her extravagant worship. Don't we want to hear the same thing? What blessing it would be to know that our actions, our gift of our very selves touched and moved the heart of God.
May we worship expectantly and extravagantly as we offer what we have to God and receive the blessing that comes from truly doing so.
When we speak of worship, beyond our Christian conversations, we easily equate the action to deep emotion and value. "I worship the ground she walks on," we say, and we know that we are sharing how deeply we feel toward that person we love. To say such a thing is an expression of profound love, appreciation and desire. It is the nature of worship to evoke and respond to these rich feelings and thoughts.
Strangely, this is not always the definition of worship within the walls of the church. We speak of worship as an event, a time when we gather with other Christians to sing, pray and listen to the weekly sermon. Often there is a sense of duty attached to the experience, "I have to go to worship," and careful listeners will hear the implied words, "but I don't have to like it."
Sometimes, worship is defined by our preferences and desires. "I really didn't like worship today. It didn't move me. I just wasn't feeling it." We are disappointed if we don't know the hymns and frustrated if the experience goes too long. Instead of extravagance of worship, there is a sense of meagerness in spirit.
In the opening of Chapter 12 of John's Gospel, we find Jesus at Bethany, the place where Lazarus lived. There is a dinner party being given in Jesus' honor and people we gathered for the event. Suddenly, Mary brings roughly a pint of expensive perfume and begins to pour it on Jesus' feet, wiping it with her hair. The Bible adds, "and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume."
Jesus was blessed, but not everyone saw a blessing. For others, it was too extravagant an action. It was a poor use of an expensive perfume. Why, it could have been sold and the money given to the poor. In short, this precious gift of perfume and of Mary's heart was seen as a "waste."
But, Jesus didn't think so. To him it was deeply profound. It showed the great love and devotion in Mary's heart. It was an extravagant act. It was worship. The party was in Jesus' honor, but it was Mary who chose to bring him worship.
When we gather together in worship services. It is not primarily to get our needs met. It is not really about our preferences and desires. Nor is it meant to be a duty, an obligatory gathering to "get through." No, it is an opportunity to share our deep love for God, to offer what we have in pure abandonment to the One we love. It is a time to give ourselves in extravagant expressions of love that can, in their own way, fill the house with the fragrance of the perfume of worship.
As we gather today, and in the days to come. We need to remember that worship is an action. It is so much more than the name of an event. It is an opportunity to pour out our love for God and to receive God's love in return.
Mary surely heard the critical words as she offered her gift, but she also heard the words of Jesus himself when he affirmed her and her actions; when he made it clear how much he was blessed by her extravagant worship. Don't we want to hear the same thing? What blessing it would be to know that our actions, our gift of our very selves touched and moved the heart of God.
May we worship expectantly and extravagantly as we offer what we have to God and receive the blessing that comes from truly doing so.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
You Are
Jesus had a way of asking difficult questions. They were not difficult in the way an exam question might be, nor were they challenging in the way a hard trivia question is. Jesus' questions were rarely looking only for information, rather he was probing for understanding. Jesus did not just ask, "what do you know?" He asked, "how is what you know becoming revelation to you?"
In one of his more challenging questions, Jesus asked his disciples, "But what about you? Who do you say that I am?" (Mark 8:29) It was a very pointed question and Jesus was not looking for them to parrot back what he previously told them. He wanted to know who they truly believed he was, because that belief would shape their future understanding and their actions. Their beliefs about Jesus would affect their relationship with Jesus, and that would make all the difference.
The question was not just for the disciples. It is an important question for the followers of Christ today as well. How we answer the question, "Who is Jesus?" will affect our relationship with him and with his Gospel. In turn, it will shape our journey of faith, our ministry with others and ultimately, our destiny.
Last Sunday, our Minister of College Ministries preached a sermon on this question and I continue to reflect on it. Who do I really believe Jesus is? The issue is not what did my parents teach me to believe, nor is it what was I told in Sunday School or even seminary. The question is, who has the Holy Spirit revealed Jesus Christ to be through the Scripture and through my relationship with him.
In response, I could simply quote a creed, or offer up the "official" answer to the question and, while these would be fine and meaningful responses. I would like to offer my response from another source of ancient words that speaks volumes. In this simple, yet profound Celtic prayer is a declaration of who Jesus is that resonates deeply in me. It does not replace the classical response that, "Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God." Instead, it builds on this truth and gives room to ponder the greatness of Christ in every facet of our lives. May these words bless you as they continue to bless me.
You are the peace of all things calm
You are the place to hide from harm
You are the light that shines in dark
You are the heart's eternal spark
You are the door that's open wide
You are the guest who waits inside
You are the stranger at the door
You are the calling of the poor
You are my Lord and with me from ill
You are the light, the truth, the way
You are my Saviour this very day.
Celtic oral tradition - 1st millennium
In one of his more challenging questions, Jesus asked his disciples, "But what about you? Who do you say that I am?" (Mark 8:29) It was a very pointed question and Jesus was not looking for them to parrot back what he previously told them. He wanted to know who they truly believed he was, because that belief would shape their future understanding and their actions. Their beliefs about Jesus would affect their relationship with Jesus, and that would make all the difference.
The question was not just for the disciples. It is an important question for the followers of Christ today as well. How we answer the question, "Who is Jesus?" will affect our relationship with him and with his Gospel. In turn, it will shape our journey of faith, our ministry with others and ultimately, our destiny.
Last Sunday, our Minister of College Ministries preached a sermon on this question and I continue to reflect on it. Who do I really believe Jesus is? The issue is not what did my parents teach me to believe, nor is it what was I told in Sunday School or even seminary. The question is, who has the Holy Spirit revealed Jesus Christ to be through the Scripture and through my relationship with him.
In response, I could simply quote a creed, or offer up the "official" answer to the question and, while these would be fine and meaningful responses. I would like to offer my response from another source of ancient words that speaks volumes. In this simple, yet profound Celtic prayer is a declaration of who Jesus is that resonates deeply in me. It does not replace the classical response that, "Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God." Instead, it builds on this truth and gives room to ponder the greatness of Christ in every facet of our lives. May these words bless you as they continue to bless me.
You are the peace of all things calm
You are the place to hide from harm
You are the light that shines in dark
You are the heart's eternal spark
You are the door that's open wide
You are the guest who waits inside
You are the stranger at the door
You are the calling of the poor
You are my Lord and with me from ill
You are the light, the truth, the way
You are my Saviour this very day.
Celtic oral tradition - 1st millennium
Friday, August 26, 2011
Great Followers
The tech and business world is abuzz with thoughts and comments surrounding Steve Jobs resignation as CEO of Apple Inc. What will happen to the company's products and services? What impact will this decision have on stock prices, and how will the news affect Wall Street overall? What happens now? What happens next?
Whenever significant changes occur in such public ways, there are always many questions and many assumptions. This news is no different and the discussion even made its way into our van as we came home last night. My son began talking about who could replace Jobs and where Apple would look to find someone. This provoked some interesting conversation, but a key point I raised in our discussion was that any company looking to successfully navigate a change like this would be wise to look for someone within the company who understood the company's DNA. My wife and son agreed then they said, "but it won't be the same."
They are right. We all know that when leadership changes, something significant shifts. Even though we talk about the power of an institution to follow its design, we know that leadership plays a significant roll in how the vision is put into practice and how people are willing to follow.
The Apostle Paul wrote the Corinthians, "Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ." (1 Corinthians 11:1) He understood the importance of leadership to shape others, and he also understood that the good leadership involves being a good follower.
Leadership is a popular theme in the world, and it is in the Church as well. It seems everyone wants to be a leader. Those in charge are highly valued and respected and many aspire to be in someone else's position. It is almost like an adult version of King of the Hill. The best leaders, however, are not just those with the right degrees, background or connections. Great leadership comes from following a great model and then modeling those same great behaviors for others to follow.
This is why Paul could tell his listeners to follow him, for he knew that he was following Christ. He sought to model his life after the life of Jesus and invited the Corinthians to do the same by following him to Christ. We should do likewise.
Jesus invested tremendous time in his disciples, helping them understand the kingdom of God through his words and actions. On the night of his crucifixion, he began his last meal with them, by taking on the role of a servant and washing their feet. Then he told them that they should do as he did, following his example.
Jesus is our example. We need to follow him, and then we need to be Jesus with flesh on for the world around us. When people look at us they should see the One who we follow in us, in our words and in our actions. It should be clear that we belong to him.
Thankfully, our leader will never resign, so there is no concern over his replacement, but as followers, we can help others follow as well. If we follow the model set before us, and allow him to dwell within us, then we too, can encourage those around us to follow us as we follow Christ. We need to be good followers first, then we can begin to think about becoming leaders.
May the eyes of our hearts be on the Leader so that we can be followers worth following.
Whenever significant changes occur in such public ways, there are always many questions and many assumptions. This news is no different and the discussion even made its way into our van as we came home last night. My son began talking about who could replace Jobs and where Apple would look to find someone. This provoked some interesting conversation, but a key point I raised in our discussion was that any company looking to successfully navigate a change like this would be wise to look for someone within the company who understood the company's DNA. My wife and son agreed then they said, "but it won't be the same."
They are right. We all know that when leadership changes, something significant shifts. Even though we talk about the power of an institution to follow its design, we know that leadership plays a significant roll in how the vision is put into practice and how people are willing to follow.
The Apostle Paul wrote the Corinthians, "Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ." (1 Corinthians 11:1) He understood the importance of leadership to shape others, and he also understood that the good leadership involves being a good follower.
Leadership is a popular theme in the world, and it is in the Church as well. It seems everyone wants to be a leader. Those in charge are highly valued and respected and many aspire to be in someone else's position. It is almost like an adult version of King of the Hill. The best leaders, however, are not just those with the right degrees, background or connections. Great leadership comes from following a great model and then modeling those same great behaviors for others to follow.
This is why Paul could tell his listeners to follow him, for he knew that he was following Christ. He sought to model his life after the life of Jesus and invited the Corinthians to do the same by following him to Christ. We should do likewise.
Jesus invested tremendous time in his disciples, helping them understand the kingdom of God through his words and actions. On the night of his crucifixion, he began his last meal with them, by taking on the role of a servant and washing their feet. Then he told them that they should do as he did, following his example.
Jesus is our example. We need to follow him, and then we need to be Jesus with flesh on for the world around us. When people look at us they should see the One who we follow in us, in our words and in our actions. It should be clear that we belong to him.
Thankfully, our leader will never resign, so there is no concern over his replacement, but as followers, we can help others follow as well. If we follow the model set before us, and allow him to dwell within us, then we too, can encourage those around us to follow us as we follow Christ. We need to be good followers first, then we can begin to think about becoming leaders.
May the eyes of our hearts be on the Leader so that we can be followers worth following.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Get Out There
Jesus told his disciples they were to, "Go." The Great Commission, as it has come to be known, was an assignment to take the knowledge and experience of the saving grace of God and go to furthest corners of the world to share it. Such a task requires action to complete. There is no room for passivity and apathy, this is a mission of passion and purpose.
Sometimes, it seems as if the nature of this call upon the church is lost behind a myriad of programs and good ideas. If we look carefully, it seems that we are more inspired by the classic Field of Dreams quote, "If you build it, they will come," than we are by Christ's call to, "Go into all the world."
We wait inside our building, our services and events for people to come to us. We make our buildings larger, more accessible and more attractive so that people will notice and come running to join us. Sadly, when they do not come, we tend to blame them or the culture, but we rarely consider that we may be the problem.
King Solomon wrote,
Jesus' very ministry reflected his view of the Great Commission. Most of his ministry recorded in the gospels did not take place in the synagogues or the temple. Rather, he was found teaching on the hillside, conversing with people on the streets, near the shore, and even beside community water wells. Jesus made himself available to people wherever he was, and clearly proclaimed, "the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
There is certainly a place for church buildings, worship services, and special events. We need Sunday School classes, Bible studies, and fellowship. But, the call upon our lives is not to live within the walls, waiting for the world to come and visit. Instead, we are to go into all the world and share the Good News of the love of God and salvation in Jesus Christ.
Today, let's take up the call of Christ to go; to get out there. Let's go out to where broken, lost and hurting people are and be the city set on hill that cannot be hidden and the light that is placed in the open so that everyone can see. Instead of waiting for others to find us, let's go to find them so that we can share the gift of God in Jesus Christ and see the world transformed through him.
Sometimes, it seems as if the nature of this call upon the church is lost behind a myriad of programs and good ideas. If we look carefully, it seems that we are more inspired by the classic Field of Dreams quote, "If you build it, they will come," than we are by Christ's call to, "Go into all the world."
We wait inside our building, our services and events for people to come to us. We make our buildings larger, more accessible and more attractive so that people will notice and come running to join us. Sadly, when they do not come, we tend to blame them or the culture, but we rarely consider that we may be the problem.
King Solomon wrote,
"Out in the open wisdom calls aloud, she raises her voice in the public square; on the top of the wall she cries out, at the city gate she makes her speech." (Proverbs 1:20-21)The wisdom of God calls aloud in the public square, on the top of the wall and at the city gate. It is vocal, reaching out to others, and it is certainly not meant to be kept to ourselves. Our experience of God is immensely personal, but it is never private. Our faith is meant to be shared. The Gospel is meant to be proclaimed, not only within the walls of our churches, but in the midst of the daily lives of others.
Jesus' very ministry reflected his view of the Great Commission. Most of his ministry recorded in the gospels did not take place in the synagogues or the temple. Rather, he was found teaching on the hillside, conversing with people on the streets, near the shore, and even beside community water wells. Jesus made himself available to people wherever he was, and clearly proclaimed, "the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
There is certainly a place for church buildings, worship services, and special events. We need Sunday School classes, Bible studies, and fellowship. But, the call upon our lives is not to live within the walls, waiting for the world to come and visit. Instead, we are to go into all the world and share the Good News of the love of God and salvation in Jesus Christ.
Today, let's take up the call of Christ to go; to get out there. Let's go out to where broken, lost and hurting people are and be the city set on hill that cannot be hidden and the light that is placed in the open so that everyone can see. Instead of waiting for others to find us, let's go to find them so that we can share the gift of God in Jesus Christ and see the world transformed through him.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Keep Your Peace
Sometimes, I think that the proper greeting during the passing of the peace should be, "Peace be with you. Now, try not to lose it." Peace can be far easier to find than it is to keep. We know moments of peace, but we also know the moments that steal that peace away. The first part of John 10:10 says, "The thief comes only to steal and to kill and to destroy...." and I believe one of the key targets of these evil actions is our peace.
Two weeks ago, as we preparing for our Sunday Worship Service, I was busy connecting my laptop to our LCD projector in order to put some of the key service images before the congregation. I made the connections, turned the power on and then, I waited... and waited. I quickly found myself becoming frustrated at the time it was taking for my electronics to come to life. I soon realized that I was so accustomed to my iPad's immediate accessibility that I was annoyed by the 60 to 90 second start-up time my computer needed to be ready for action.
I laughed then, and still smile when I think about what that image represents for me and for many others I know. Life moves at tremendous speed, and anything that keeps us from moving with it quickly becomes a frustration. We are overloaded with information and applications. We fill our schedules to overflowing and try to find time for one more thing. There is little time remaining to find, or keep our peace. It reminds me of the saying, "hurry isn't of the devil, it is the devil," or as my wife's family used to say, "if the devil can't make you sin, he will make you busy."
In the midst of our hurry, it is hard to tend to, and guard, our hearts. Then, into the rush of our lives, come the challenges and distractions that chip away at our peace. Obstacles that frighten us appear in our path, enemies of body, mind and spirit threaten to attack, and we stand trembling between the two wondering which way to turn.
In one of my favorite Bible passages, the Israelites faced this position in a very physical way. God, through Moses, brought the people out of Egypt. They were filled with awe, joy and peace. That is, until they found themselves pressed up against the Red Sea with Pharaoh's army bearing down upon them. Under attack and with no means of escape, fear took hold and all seemed lost.
It was in the face of these fears and threats that Moses speaks one of the most encouraging words in the Bible. He said, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still." (Exodus 14:13-14)
Just picture the image. All the odds are against you, but then you hear the promise that God himself will fight for you. For your part, you need only be still. Several translations say, "you need only hold (keep) your peace." The battle really is the Lord's. Our part is to hold onto our peace. Fixing our faith on Almighty God we grasp the peace we are given and hold on until the Lord delivers us.
The Bible talks of the, "peace that passes all understanding," and Jesus even told his disciples that he was leaving his followers his peace. Throughout all of John 14, we hear the resounding call, "Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not let them be afraid." It is the very peace of Christ that keeps us in the face of challenge and adversity. Our task is merely to hold on as we watch the deliverance of the Lord.
It is easy to get caught up in our circumstances, or intimidated by life's challenges, but fixing our eyes on these things only leads to surrendering our peace. When we fix our eyes on God, and put our trust in him, we can find peace in the midst of the greatest storm and we can hold fast to that peace while God brings us safely through to the other side.
Guard your peace. Be strong in the Lord, for the Lord will fight for you; you need only keep your peace.
Two weeks ago, as we preparing for our Sunday Worship Service, I was busy connecting my laptop to our LCD projector in order to put some of the key service images before the congregation. I made the connections, turned the power on and then, I waited... and waited. I quickly found myself becoming frustrated at the time it was taking for my electronics to come to life. I soon realized that I was so accustomed to my iPad's immediate accessibility that I was annoyed by the 60 to 90 second start-up time my computer needed to be ready for action.
I laughed then, and still smile when I think about what that image represents for me and for many others I know. Life moves at tremendous speed, and anything that keeps us from moving with it quickly becomes a frustration. We are overloaded with information and applications. We fill our schedules to overflowing and try to find time for one more thing. There is little time remaining to find, or keep our peace. It reminds me of the saying, "hurry isn't of the devil, it is the devil," or as my wife's family used to say, "if the devil can't make you sin, he will make you busy."
In the midst of our hurry, it is hard to tend to, and guard, our hearts. Then, into the rush of our lives, come the challenges and distractions that chip away at our peace. Obstacles that frighten us appear in our path, enemies of body, mind and spirit threaten to attack, and we stand trembling between the two wondering which way to turn.
In one of my favorite Bible passages, the Israelites faced this position in a very physical way. God, through Moses, brought the people out of Egypt. They were filled with awe, joy and peace. That is, until they found themselves pressed up against the Red Sea with Pharaoh's army bearing down upon them. Under attack and with no means of escape, fear took hold and all seemed lost.
It was in the face of these fears and threats that Moses speaks one of the most encouraging words in the Bible. He said, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still." (Exodus 14:13-14)
Just picture the image. All the odds are against you, but then you hear the promise that God himself will fight for you. For your part, you need only be still. Several translations say, "you need only hold (keep) your peace." The battle really is the Lord's. Our part is to hold onto our peace. Fixing our faith on Almighty God we grasp the peace we are given and hold on until the Lord delivers us.
The Bible talks of the, "peace that passes all understanding," and Jesus even told his disciples that he was leaving his followers his peace. Throughout all of John 14, we hear the resounding call, "Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not let them be afraid." It is the very peace of Christ that keeps us in the face of challenge and adversity. Our task is merely to hold on as we watch the deliverance of the Lord.
It is easy to get caught up in our circumstances, or intimidated by life's challenges, but fixing our eyes on these things only leads to surrendering our peace. When we fix our eyes on God, and put our trust in him, we can find peace in the midst of the greatest storm and we can hold fast to that peace while God brings us safely through to the other side.
Guard your peace. Be strong in the Lord, for the Lord will fight for you; you need only keep your peace.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Night Lessons
What we give our attention to during the day, often makes its way into our nights. Many of us likely remember a few scary dreams that came after watching a frightening movie, or waking up with a song we listened to playing in our heads. It is not uncommon for things we studied to surface in our minds as we try to sleep, and many people use this process to help discover answers to life-challenges they are wrestling with. I frequently find great creativity during the night (which is why the voice recorder and 3x5 cards are always nearby).
The psalmist wrote:
Recently, I was confined to the sofa for a while to keep my leg elevated due to a serious infection in the skin. My wife was busy caring for our son who was injured at work, so there was plenty of time by myself. I used that time to read some books on the Bible and foundational theology, to meditate on some Scripture and to enjoy some worship music I recently purchased. After just a few days, I found that I would awaken in the middle of the night with a praise song on my lips or a word of Scripture in my head. The time spent saturating myself in God during the day, led to praise even in the wee hours of the morning.
More importantly, God began to use the words I listened to and read, to speak to me about important issues in my life. Even as David once prayed, "search me and know me, O God," the Word of the Lord began to search my heart. Many things I needed to see were revealed. Some were very comforting, while others were quite challenging, but all were meaningful and necessary.
When we make time through conscious effort to place our attention on God, and when we saturate ourselves in the truth of his Word, then our quiet moments can become times of great revelation, instruction and encouragement. The things we actively took in begin to bear fruit, unfolding the truth of God before us. Yes, we learn and grow during our active study and meditation, but when we fill our spirits with the things of God, even the passive moments can be full of revelation.
As you walk through this day, may your eyes and ears be open, and your spirit receptive to all that God is doing around you. May you actively seek God and soak in his truth. And tonight, while you rest, may the Holy Spirit speak to you through all that you have seen and heard that you may draw closer to God, know his great love for you, and discover more of the destiny he has in store for your future.
Be blessed in the day, and in the night.
The psalmist wrote:
I will praise the Lord, who counsels me, even at night my heart instructs me. (Ps. 16:7)When we orient our hearts toward the praise of God, and when we seek and receive the counsel of God, then even in the night our heart will lead us to a deeper understanding of God and his direction for our lives. Our active attention to the Lord makes the way for even the hours of rest to become moments of growth with God.
Recently, I was confined to the sofa for a while to keep my leg elevated due to a serious infection in the skin. My wife was busy caring for our son who was injured at work, so there was plenty of time by myself. I used that time to read some books on the Bible and foundational theology, to meditate on some Scripture and to enjoy some worship music I recently purchased. After just a few days, I found that I would awaken in the middle of the night with a praise song on my lips or a word of Scripture in my head. The time spent saturating myself in God during the day, led to praise even in the wee hours of the morning.
More importantly, God began to use the words I listened to and read, to speak to me about important issues in my life. Even as David once prayed, "search me and know me, O God," the Word of the Lord began to search my heart. Many things I needed to see were revealed. Some were very comforting, while others were quite challenging, but all were meaningful and necessary.
When we make time through conscious effort to place our attention on God, and when we saturate ourselves in the truth of his Word, then our quiet moments can become times of great revelation, instruction and encouragement. The things we actively took in begin to bear fruit, unfolding the truth of God before us. Yes, we learn and grow during our active study and meditation, but when we fill our spirits with the things of God, even the passive moments can be full of revelation.
As you walk through this day, may your eyes and ears be open, and your spirit receptive to all that God is doing around you. May you actively seek God and soak in his truth. And tonight, while you rest, may the Holy Spirit speak to you through all that you have seen and heard that you may draw closer to God, know his great love for you, and discover more of the destiny he has in store for your future.
Be blessed in the day, and in the night.
Monday, August 22, 2011
LIght on the Path
During our honeymoon, my wife asked if we could please include a trip along Skyline Drive in Virginia. It is a beautiful trip through scenic woodlands along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The section we chose was about 15 miles long, and moments after beginning that portion of the trip, I was glad she suggested it. It was beautiful and being there with my new bride made it extra special.
About a mile into our journey, we ran into the worst fog I've ever seen, and certainly the most challenging I've ever driven in. I could barely see anything beyond the hood of the car. I could not see the road, with all of its twists and turns, there was no way to turn around, and no way to identify any traffic around us. I did not know what to do.
We ended up driving another six miles in the fog to the next available exit from our now obscured scenic drive. My wife diligently watched out the window for any sign of traffic and I, with my door open, slowly navigated the trip by following the yellow dividing line that was just to my left. It was challenging and frightening, but we made it through.
I think of that story often, because there are times when life feels like that trip along Skyline Drive. Things are not always clear. Sometimes it is difficult to know where to go, when to turn, or what to watch out for. We know that the path before us has curves and potential obstacles, but we cannot see them. With no ability to turn around, we know we must find a way to move forward in spite of our limited view and our fears.
The Psalmist wrote, "Your word is like a lamp to my feet and light to my path." (Psalm 119:105) When life is challenging and frightening, when we do not know what to do next and the path seems impossible to find, it is then that the light of God shines the brightest on our way. Through the written word of God and the living Word of Jesus Christ, we can see enough to take the next step.
Like my driving experience, we may not be able to see more than the very next step and our guide may seem like nothing more than a small yellow line by our side. Yet, we know that God is with us and that his directions will bring us safely through if we will follow his path. With the light of Christ and the light of the Scripture, we place our faith in God and take the step that we can see, and with God's help, we do it together.
Looking back, my trip through the fog that day was one of the most challenging parts of our honeymoon, but is also one of the favorite stories of my life. Remembering, and sharing, how my wife and I faced a difficult situation and made it through together still makes me smile and reminds me of the wonderful adventure we share together.
So it is with God. As we look back, we too can tell the stories of how we overcame challenges and confusion with God's light on our path. Our faith is strengthened by the memory of God's provision. Our testimony is stronger as we share the story with others, and in the end, we can celebrate the awesome adventure that comes from sharing life with God.
The path is not always clear, but the journey is worth it. As we share the adventure with God, we can put our trust in the Word to light our way.
About a mile into our journey, we ran into the worst fog I've ever seen, and certainly the most challenging I've ever driven in. I could barely see anything beyond the hood of the car. I could not see the road, with all of its twists and turns, there was no way to turn around, and no way to identify any traffic around us. I did not know what to do.
We ended up driving another six miles in the fog to the next available exit from our now obscured scenic drive. My wife diligently watched out the window for any sign of traffic and I, with my door open, slowly navigated the trip by following the yellow dividing line that was just to my left. It was challenging and frightening, but we made it through.
I think of that story often, because there are times when life feels like that trip along Skyline Drive. Things are not always clear. Sometimes it is difficult to know where to go, when to turn, or what to watch out for. We know that the path before us has curves and potential obstacles, but we cannot see them. With no ability to turn around, we know we must find a way to move forward in spite of our limited view and our fears.
The Psalmist wrote, "Your word is like a lamp to my feet and light to my path." (Psalm 119:105) When life is challenging and frightening, when we do not know what to do next and the path seems impossible to find, it is then that the light of God shines the brightest on our way. Through the written word of God and the living Word of Jesus Christ, we can see enough to take the next step.
Like my driving experience, we may not be able to see more than the very next step and our guide may seem like nothing more than a small yellow line by our side. Yet, we know that God is with us and that his directions will bring us safely through if we will follow his path. With the light of Christ and the light of the Scripture, we place our faith in God and take the step that we can see, and with God's help, we do it together.
Looking back, my trip through the fog that day was one of the most challenging parts of our honeymoon, but is also one of the favorite stories of my life. Remembering, and sharing, how my wife and I faced a difficult situation and made it through together still makes me smile and reminds me of the wonderful adventure we share together.
So it is with God. As we look back, we too can tell the stories of how we overcame challenges and confusion with God's light on our path. Our faith is strengthened by the memory of God's provision. Our testimony is stronger as we share the story with others, and in the end, we can celebrate the awesome adventure that comes from sharing life with God.
The path is not always clear, but the journey is worth it. As we share the adventure with God, we can put our trust in the Word to light our way.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
A House of Prayer
As many of us head to Worship Services this morning, I wonder what we expect will happen while we are there. Sure, we know there will be hymns, some Scripture and a message from the pastor. We likely expect to see some friends, pray for our church family, and hear the list of announcements. All this and more may well happen, but that is not the kind of expectation I am thinking of. I want to know what we expect God is going to do in us and through us as we gather.
Too often, we reduce our Sunday morning Worship Service to something that resembles a play or a concert. We go to observe and listen; to sit in our seats and have the drama of the service unfold before us. We may share a concern, offer our tithe and sing the praise songs and hymns, but do we come with an expectation that something great is going to happen?
Even as the pastor, there have been times when I've come to worship expecting very little (thankfully, not as often now). For many people, church services have become, well, boring. Nothing unexpected happens, and nothing really significant is expected. It is easy to go through the motions and miss the meaning, but when we begin to realize what worship is, it can transform our experience.
In Luke 19:46, Jesus makes the simple, yet stunning declaration, "My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations." This statement is nestled in Jesus' rebuke of the money changers at the temple. The drama of Jesus' anger and his overturning of their tables is so interesting, that we miss these important words. Jesus is not just condemning their behavior, he is challenging his listeners to understand the importance of worship and prayer.
The temple was not a place to make a profit on people's needs, nor was is merely a place for dutiful attendance. It was a place of prayer, a place of communion with God. It was a place to encounter the Holy and be made holy by the experience. It was an experience of transformation that would lead to the transformations of families, cities, and nations. It was a place of prayer for, "all nations." The same is true for our churches today.
When we gather together, it is not just to see our friends, sing our favorite songs and feel better about ourselves when we leave. Rather, we gather to encounter the dynamic presence of God, who challenges and encourages us to be who we are meant to be in Christ. We come to be changed and made new, so that we can go forth to do the same in the world. Most importantly, we come before the throne of Grace to carry the needs and concerns of our of our families, our communities, and the world to God. In intercession, we ask God to move in our world and to put things right, to make the kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven.
Maybe today is a good day let go of our expectations of the common, the ordinary, the boring, and embrace the awesome plans of God for us and for the world. Just imagine the possibilities.
AARP4FQACZXA
Too often, we reduce our Sunday morning Worship Service to something that resembles a play or a concert. We go to observe and listen; to sit in our seats and have the drama of the service unfold before us. We may share a concern, offer our tithe and sing the praise songs and hymns, but do we come with an expectation that something great is going to happen?
Even as the pastor, there have been times when I've come to worship expecting very little (thankfully, not as often now). For many people, church services have become, well, boring. Nothing unexpected happens, and nothing really significant is expected. It is easy to go through the motions and miss the meaning, but when we begin to realize what worship is, it can transform our experience.
In Luke 19:46, Jesus makes the simple, yet stunning declaration, "My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations." This statement is nestled in Jesus' rebuke of the money changers at the temple. The drama of Jesus' anger and his overturning of their tables is so interesting, that we miss these important words. Jesus is not just condemning their behavior, he is challenging his listeners to understand the importance of worship and prayer.
The temple was not a place to make a profit on people's needs, nor was is merely a place for dutiful attendance. It was a place of prayer, a place of communion with God. It was a place to encounter the Holy and be made holy by the experience. It was an experience of transformation that would lead to the transformations of families, cities, and nations. It was a place of prayer for, "all nations." The same is true for our churches today.
When we gather together, it is not just to see our friends, sing our favorite songs and feel better about ourselves when we leave. Rather, we gather to encounter the dynamic presence of God, who challenges and encourages us to be who we are meant to be in Christ. We come to be changed and made new, so that we can go forth to do the same in the world. Most importantly, we come before the throne of Grace to carry the needs and concerns of our of our families, our communities, and the world to God. In intercession, we ask God to move in our world and to put things right, to make the kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven.
Maybe today is a good day let go of our expectations of the common, the ordinary, the boring, and embrace the awesome plans of God for us and for the world. Just imagine the possibilities.
AARP4FQACZXA
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Rest in the Arms of God
I got to hold my new grandson for the first time last night. What a wonderful gift! Looking down as he rested in my arms, his sweet eyes looking back through his desire to go back to sleep, was one of the more precious moments of my life. Looking at each detail of his face, his hands, and his feet filled me with awe and the beauty of creation. In that personal moment, I sensed the joy of God.
God frequently uses my family to teach me valuable lessons. The first time my daughter called me, "Daddy," I sensed the pleasure God must feel when we recognize our connection to him. At times when parenting was challenging, I sensed the pain God must feel when we try to blaze our own path, often in opposition to his will. Last night, I reveled in the joy God must feel when he looks at us.
What stuck me most, however, was how helpless he was and yet, how trusting. Unable to do anything on his own, totally dependent upon others for everything, he slept in my arms, trusting me completely. I could not help but think what a powerful illustration this moment was of our relationship with God, utterly dependent upon him, and able to rest safely in his arms.
Life does not always feel this way. Sometimes, we begin to believe that we can do it ourselves, that we have no real need for God. Sometimes, we allow our fears and frustrations to keep us from resting, even when we are safely in the arms of God. Watching my grandson sleep with his head in the crook of my elbow, I wondered why I find it so difficult to trust and rest.
I believe this is part of what Jesus had in mind when he said that we must become as little children to enter the kingdom of God. In order to embrace the what God designs for us, we must accept the we are completely dependent upon God. There is actually no way we can do it successfully on our own. We are not actually self-made. Our success in not really the result of our own greatness and ability. We are the precious creation of God in need of God to have real life.
Once we accept our need for God and understand that he is the answer to everything in our lives, we are then in a position to rest in the arms of God. We can stop struggling and surrender to our trust in God's ability. We can discover and keep our peace. We can find our rest in God.
As we enter the weekend, may we all be willing to become as little children. May we surrender our need to control and place our lives, our very selves into the hands of God. May we find our perfect rest in him.
God frequently uses my family to teach me valuable lessons. The first time my daughter called me, "Daddy," I sensed the pleasure God must feel when we recognize our connection to him. At times when parenting was challenging, I sensed the pain God must feel when we try to blaze our own path, often in opposition to his will. Last night, I reveled in the joy God must feel when he looks at us.
What stuck me most, however, was how helpless he was and yet, how trusting. Unable to do anything on his own, totally dependent upon others for everything, he slept in my arms, trusting me completely. I could not help but think what a powerful illustration this moment was of our relationship with God, utterly dependent upon him, and able to rest safely in his arms.
Life does not always feel this way. Sometimes, we begin to believe that we can do it ourselves, that we have no real need for God. Sometimes, we allow our fears and frustrations to keep us from resting, even when we are safely in the arms of God. Watching my grandson sleep with his head in the crook of my elbow, I wondered why I find it so difficult to trust and rest.
I believe this is part of what Jesus had in mind when he said that we must become as little children to enter the kingdom of God. In order to embrace the what God designs for us, we must accept the we are completely dependent upon God. There is actually no way we can do it successfully on our own. We are not actually self-made. Our success in not really the result of our own greatness and ability. We are the precious creation of God in need of God to have real life.
Once we accept our need for God and understand that he is the answer to everything in our lives, we are then in a position to rest in the arms of God. We can stop struggling and surrender to our trust in God's ability. We can discover and keep our peace. We can find our rest in God.
As we enter the weekend, may we all be willing to become as little children. May we surrender our need to control and place our lives, our very selves into the hands of God. May we find our perfect rest in him.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Faith-full
"Don't be afraid," it is an easy thing to say, but how do you conquer the fear welling up inside you? What do you do when life brings circumstances that shake your world? Is there something you can do that is more than wishing you were not afraid? The answer is, undeniably, "Yes!"
The first step to overcoming fear in our lives is to recognize what fear really is. A close friend of mine likes to say that, "Fear is just an acronym for False Expectations Appearing Real." That may seem trite at first read, but there is more truth there than we may recognize. Fear frequently comes from our expectation that something bad is going to happen and, while our expectations may be a possible outcome, they are not the only outcome. If we are not careful, we begin to believe that our expectations are written in stone and we lose sight of our other options, and of God. When we do, we lose heart.
I frequently wrestle with this issue when we have financial challenges. I look at our need, and our resources seem so small that I become intimidated and, if I am not careful, I begin to believe that there is no solution and that we are about to experience a shipwreck. The times I give into these fears make me a part of the problem. I lose sight of any solution and I begin to magnify the challenge, not the solution. Sometimes, I even let the challenge begin to eclipse God.
If we understand that our fears are not a fixed reality for our future, then we are ready to apply the God-given antidote to fear: faith. I know, there iare a lot of silly notions about faith surrounding us, but we cannot avoid the Biblical witness to the power of faith in action. Paul told the Roman church, "the righteous will live by faith." (Romans 1:!7) We are called to live a life characterized by faith, and faith, especially faith in God, is the exact opposite of fear.
In the book of Hebrews, the author defines faith as, "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1) Notice how similar that definition is to the definition of fear. Both are about expectations, but fears are based in the expectation of impending doom, while faith is based in the expectation of the power and promise of God at work in our lives.
Jesus was teaching his disciples about faith and he told them if they had faith and believed in their hearts, they could say to the mountain, "be removed and thrown into the sea," and it would be done. (Mark 11:22-24) Jesus did not tell them to start making plans on how they should move the mountain. He certainly did not tell them to start talking about the mountain. He told them to speak to the mountain. Too often we try to address our challenges and fears by attempting to work it out on our own, and we are all tempted to rehearse aloud how challenged and afraid we are. Jesus offers another choice, talking to God about our circumstances, trusting him for action and direction, and then to begin declaring our faith in God to see us through.
This is not merely wishing things were better, nor is it casting positive thoughts into the universe in the hope of a good return. No, this is a declaration of the power and the goodness of God. It is the affirmation that we are the Lord's and that he is our Strong Tower, Fortress, Deliverer and Friend. We will still need to act, but our actions will no longer be based only on our own strength, nor will our attitude be based upon false expectations. Through faith, we can see the mountains of our lives moved, and the testimony to the faithfulness and power of God created in us.
As you experience this day, and the days to come, be faith-full, and watch your fears lose their grip as the power of God brings hope and deliverance.
The first step to overcoming fear in our lives is to recognize what fear really is. A close friend of mine likes to say that, "Fear is just an acronym for False Expectations Appearing Real." That may seem trite at first read, but there is more truth there than we may recognize. Fear frequently comes from our expectation that something bad is going to happen and, while our expectations may be a possible outcome, they are not the only outcome. If we are not careful, we begin to believe that our expectations are written in stone and we lose sight of our other options, and of God. When we do, we lose heart.
I frequently wrestle with this issue when we have financial challenges. I look at our need, and our resources seem so small that I become intimidated and, if I am not careful, I begin to believe that there is no solution and that we are about to experience a shipwreck. The times I give into these fears make me a part of the problem. I lose sight of any solution and I begin to magnify the challenge, not the solution. Sometimes, I even let the challenge begin to eclipse God.
If we understand that our fears are not a fixed reality for our future, then we are ready to apply the God-given antidote to fear: faith. I know, there iare a lot of silly notions about faith surrounding us, but we cannot avoid the Biblical witness to the power of faith in action. Paul told the Roman church, "the righteous will live by faith." (Romans 1:!7) We are called to live a life characterized by faith, and faith, especially faith in God, is the exact opposite of fear.
In the book of Hebrews, the author defines faith as, "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1) Notice how similar that definition is to the definition of fear. Both are about expectations, but fears are based in the expectation of impending doom, while faith is based in the expectation of the power and promise of God at work in our lives.
Jesus was teaching his disciples about faith and he told them if they had faith and believed in their hearts, they could say to the mountain, "be removed and thrown into the sea," and it would be done. (Mark 11:22-24) Jesus did not tell them to start making plans on how they should move the mountain. He certainly did not tell them to start talking about the mountain. He told them to speak to the mountain. Too often we try to address our challenges and fears by attempting to work it out on our own, and we are all tempted to rehearse aloud how challenged and afraid we are. Jesus offers another choice, talking to God about our circumstances, trusting him for action and direction, and then to begin declaring our faith in God to see us through.
This is not merely wishing things were better, nor is it casting positive thoughts into the universe in the hope of a good return. No, this is a declaration of the power and the goodness of God. It is the affirmation that we are the Lord's and that he is our Strong Tower, Fortress, Deliverer and Friend. We will still need to act, but our actions will no longer be based only on our own strength, nor will our attitude be based upon false expectations. Through faith, we can see the mountains of our lives moved, and the testimony to the faithfulness and power of God created in us.
As you experience this day, and the days to come, be faith-full, and watch your fears lose their grip as the power of God brings hope and deliverance.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Fear Not!
"The sky is falling! The sky is falling!" so say the classic words of the childhood story of the little chicken who clamored for attention. They are words we remember, and sadly, words we hear every day.
There are numerous voices that attempt to speak into our thoughts and lives every day. Some speak blessing and hope, while others curses and fear. Some come with words of life, while others invoke words of death. The saddest part of all is that many of the voices of negativity come from within the body of Christ. It is as if the spirit of Chicken Little has taken the place of the Spirit of God.
Don't get me wrong, there are things in our lives and in the world around us that should matter to us and there are times when we must speak a hard word to create a greater good. However, the children of the Most High God should not be sowing fear, hostility and death. We've received the words of life, from the One who came that we, "might have life and have it to the full." (John 10:10) and we should be speaking them into a world drowning in negativity and death.
It was Jesus himself who told us, "Do not worry about your life..." (Matthew 6:25) It was a call and command rooted in faith; in the belief that God was able to fulfill his word and order our steps by it. Later, the Apostle Paul would tell his disciple Timothy, "God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, and of love, and of self-discipline." (2 Timothy 1:7) God did not give us the Holy Spirit so we could perpetuate the fears of the world. Rather, we were given the power and love to make a kingdom difference. Might it be that the self-discipline mentioned in this passage was the discipline of keeping our heads in the face of adversity, or keeping our focus on Christ, when the voices around us are crying out for us to join them in their anxiety and fear?
There is more than enough political drama, more than enough relational drama and, dare we say, more than enough church drama. Maybe it is time for us to represent Christ, who did not waste his time running around frightening people with Caesar's latest decision, or the latest bad news in the city, or even the latest gossip heard at the temple. Jesus used his time to bless others, to bring healing, and to invite his listeners to experience life. Isn't it time for us to do the same?
Before his crucifixion, Jesus said he was giving his followers his peace. That can be our peace, even in time of chaos. And how can we forget Jesus' words, "In this life you will have troubles, but take heart, I have overcome the world!" (John 6:33)
May you have peace, keep peace, and speak peace in Jesus Name.
There are numerous voices that attempt to speak into our thoughts and lives every day. Some speak blessing and hope, while others curses and fear. Some come with words of life, while others invoke words of death. The saddest part of all is that many of the voices of negativity come from within the body of Christ. It is as if the spirit of Chicken Little has taken the place of the Spirit of God.
Don't get me wrong, there are things in our lives and in the world around us that should matter to us and there are times when we must speak a hard word to create a greater good. However, the children of the Most High God should not be sowing fear, hostility and death. We've received the words of life, from the One who came that we, "might have life and have it to the full." (John 10:10) and we should be speaking them into a world drowning in negativity and death.
It was Jesus himself who told us, "Do not worry about your life..." (Matthew 6:25) It was a call and command rooted in faith; in the belief that God was able to fulfill his word and order our steps by it. Later, the Apostle Paul would tell his disciple Timothy, "God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, and of love, and of self-discipline." (2 Timothy 1:7) God did not give us the Holy Spirit so we could perpetuate the fears of the world. Rather, we were given the power and love to make a kingdom difference. Might it be that the self-discipline mentioned in this passage was the discipline of keeping our heads in the face of adversity, or keeping our focus on Christ, when the voices around us are crying out for us to join them in their anxiety and fear?
There is more than enough political drama, more than enough relational drama and, dare we say, more than enough church drama. Maybe it is time for us to represent Christ, who did not waste his time running around frightening people with Caesar's latest decision, or the latest bad news in the city, or even the latest gossip heard at the temple. Jesus used his time to bless others, to bring healing, and to invite his listeners to experience life. Isn't it time for us to do the same?
Before his crucifixion, Jesus said he was giving his followers his peace. That can be our peace, even in time of chaos. And how can we forget Jesus' words, "In this life you will have troubles, but take heart, I have overcome the world!" (John 6:33)
May you have peace, keep peace, and speak peace in Jesus Name.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Thanks for Your Patience
I want to thank all of my subscribers and readers for their patience. I could list a number of things that have consumed my time, but the deeper reality is that I have been wrestling with inspiration, not merely the inspiration to sit at the computer and write, but the inspiration to have something of substance to say.
The past two weeks, I was forced to stop, rest and reflect due to a significant infection in my leg from a black fly bite. It was not what I wanted, but it turns out, it was exactly what I needed. I spent a significant amount of time on the sofa with my leg up. It was painful to walk, and my family had a number of things happening in their lives, so I was there alone with God. In that quiet time, I could hear the still, small voice renewing me and speaking new life to my spirit.
A friend of mine often says, "remember, God never wastes a hurt." He is not suggesting that God causes hurts, but that God is the one with the power to redeem even the hurtful places of our lives. In our pain, our challenges and our frustrations, God can make a way that leads us through and brings us out stronger that we were.
In the book of James, we are reminded to, "consider it pure joy brothers and sisters, when you face trials of many kinds." Sometimes it is difficult to find the joy in those trials, but it we believe God to be who he claims to be and if our faith is placed in God and his ability to work in our lives, then we can find peace in our chaos and joy in our struggles.
Two days ago, while riding in the car with my wife, I told her, "I would never wish to be sick or in pain, but I am so thankful for this experience. I am so glad it happened because it changed my life." The truth is, I would count what God did during this time as one of the top three or four spiritual experiences I've had in my life.
So, with my cup running over and my inspiration bursting forth... I am back. Thanks for waiting. I look forward to the journey together.
The past two weeks, I was forced to stop, rest and reflect due to a significant infection in my leg from a black fly bite. It was not what I wanted, but it turns out, it was exactly what I needed. I spent a significant amount of time on the sofa with my leg up. It was painful to walk, and my family had a number of things happening in their lives, so I was there alone with God. In that quiet time, I could hear the still, small voice renewing me and speaking new life to my spirit.
A friend of mine often says, "remember, God never wastes a hurt." He is not suggesting that God causes hurts, but that God is the one with the power to redeem even the hurtful places of our lives. In our pain, our challenges and our frustrations, God can make a way that leads us through and brings us out stronger that we were.
In the book of James, we are reminded to, "consider it pure joy brothers and sisters, when you face trials of many kinds." Sometimes it is difficult to find the joy in those trials, but it we believe God to be who he claims to be and if our faith is placed in God and his ability to work in our lives, then we can find peace in our chaos and joy in our struggles.
Two days ago, while riding in the car with my wife, I told her, "I would never wish to be sick or in pain, but I am so thankful for this experience. I am so glad it happened because it changed my life." The truth is, I would count what God did during this time as one of the top three or four spiritual experiences I've had in my life.
So, with my cup running over and my inspiration bursting forth... I am back. Thanks for waiting. I look forward to the journey together.
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