Scripture
Mark 14:37-38a - He came back and found them sound asleep. He said to Peter, "Simon, you went to sleep on me? Can't you stick it out with me a single hour? Stay alert, be in prayer, so you don't enter the danger zone without even knowing it.
What is the danger zone? This verse in the Living Bible says 'Lest the tempter overpower you." I think the danger zone is 'gray.' In life, some things are black and white. Most things are not...they have many shades of gray. Gray becomes the boundary between right and wrong. We all like to live life dangerously - how close to sin can we get without crossing the line? The danger zone. We are at risk in the danger zone. And, unfortunately, we can't complete avoid it...or won't. But there is an answer...
Those who know me at all, know that I am not a sports dude. But if we take an analogy from football we might find some help. Each football team has a defensive team and an offensive team. The defense keeps the other team from scoring and the offense moves the ball toward the goal. It is almost impossible to win a game without strength in both areas.
Here Jesus says to stay alert and pray. Alertness is our defense. We are on guard, trying to keep the enemy from gaining any grounds in our lives. We know from other parts of scripture that prayer is our offense. We move the ball down the field when we pray.
Father, help me to be alert to the movement of the enemy and prayer in each and every situation that he will have no room to wiggle in my life.
Monday, November 3, 2008
(Sunday) The Order of Worship?
Scripture
Mark 12:30 - 'Listen, Israel: The Lord your God is one; so love the Lord God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy.'
I wonder if there is purpose to the order of these words. God is an intentional God, so there probably is, which would/could mean:
The world tries to put them in a different order - brain first...the 'thinking man' doesn't need God...all the evidence leads to darwinism and all that junk...forget the emotions you can't trust them. I think if it wasn't important, satan wouldn't try so hard to rearrange the order.
Part of our job as lead worshipers is to help people see the order...help them experience God from their primal core outward...
Mark 12:30 - 'Listen, Israel: The Lord your God is one; so love the Lord God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy.'
I wonder if there is purpose to the order of these words. God is an intentional God, so there probably is, which would/could mean:
- Love God with Passion...our emotions come first, they are the most primal/core of all of us.
- Love God with Prayer...the soul is our distinct connection with God. It's what sets us apart as the image of God.
- Love God with our Intelligence...where the heart and soul are - so the head follows. when the head is first we become 'too smart' to need God.
- Love God with our Energy...our physical bodies play a role. Our hands and feet serve. Our arms raise in worship. Our knees kneel in surrender.
The world tries to put them in a different order - brain first...the 'thinking man' doesn't need God...all the evidence leads to darwinism and all that junk...forget the emotions you can't trust them. I think if it wasn't important, satan wouldn't try so hard to rearrange the order.
Part of our job as lead worshipers is to help people see the order...help them experience God from their primal core outward...
Friday, October 31, 2008
(Thursday) Risks of Faith
Scripture
Mark 5:34 - Jesus said to her, "Daughter, you took a risk of faith and now you're healed and whole. Live well! Live blessed! Be healed of your plague."
God always wants our faith to grow. We like our safe little world...where we think we are in control. Here the woman took a step of faith as she stretched out her hands. She didn't ask for his permission, she just believed...hoped. Her desperation drove her to take a risk. God rewarded.
What does risk look like for us today? We've all trust God for something and been disappointed. So obviously every risk doesn't get answered our way.
Faith that risks is active.
Faith that risks is intentional/purposeful.
Faith that risks is authentic/honest.
Faith that risks is driven by desperation for a touch from God.
Father may I be desperate enough for more of you that I risk my safe little world for the wild unknown of Your Great Adventure.
Mark 5:34 - Jesus said to her, "Daughter, you took a risk of faith and now you're healed and whole. Live well! Live blessed! Be healed of your plague."
God always wants our faith to grow. We like our safe little world...where we think we are in control. Here the woman took a step of faith as she stretched out her hands. She didn't ask for his permission, she just believed...hoped. Her desperation drove her to take a risk. God rewarded.
What does risk look like for us today? We've all trust God for something and been disappointed. So obviously every risk doesn't get answered our way.
Faith that risks is active.
Faith that risks is intentional/purposeful.
Faith that risks is authentic/honest.
Faith that risks is driven by desperation for a touch from God.
Father may I be desperate enough for more of you that I risk my safe little world for the wild unknown of Your Great Adventure.
(Wednesday) The Power of Story
Scripture
Mark 4:33 - With many stories like these, he presented his message to them, fitting the stories to their experience and maturity. He was never without a story when he spoke.
Some things never change. The entertainment industry has learned to harness the power of telling a good story. They know how to move people. The church is slower to get it. Jesus understood. We live vicariously through the stories of other people, and when we enter their story we leave changed...for better or for worse.
Father, help me to harness the power of my story, the story you have given me to live out each day, to always be ready with a life changing word that is fitted to the experience and maturity of my audience. Even more importantly, as I enter your story each day, may I leave changed.
Mark 4:33 - With many stories like these, he presented his message to them, fitting the stories to their experience and maturity. He was never without a story when he spoke.
Some things never change. The entertainment industry has learned to harness the power of telling a good story. They know how to move people. The church is slower to get it. Jesus understood. We live vicariously through the stories of other people, and when we enter their story we leave changed...for better or for worse.
Father, help me to harness the power of my story, the story you have given me to live out each day, to always be ready with a life changing word that is fitted to the experience and maturity of my audience. Even more importantly, as I enter your story each day, may I leave changed.
(Tuesday) Meeting the Greater Need
Scripture
Mark 2:5 - Impressed by their bold belief, Jesus said to the paraplegic, "Son, I forgive your sins."
This guy and his friends fight the crowd - to the point of removing the roof to lower him to Jesus. He had hope and expectations of Jesus in this moment. He cam to have his sins forgiven? No way! He wanted to walk.
Jesus knew why he was there. Everyone did. Jesus could have healed him in the way everyone expected, and no one would have been upset. Instead Jesus forgives his sins - a far greater need met. The presenting issue was serious, but didn't trump the greater issue - his soul sickness.
Jesus knew the religious men would be upset.
But he still took on the greater need first.
Often, the greater need requires ticking off people who don't understand the difference between a symptom and a cause. Healing the greater need requires risk. No one likes to be misunderstood. And, people don't necessarily get it themselves. But it is still the right thing to do.
Father, may I have the courage of Jesus to tack the greatest needs in people's lives when you place them in my path, and may I see the needs for what they are - even if others won't understand.
Mark 2:5 - Impressed by their bold belief, Jesus said to the paraplegic, "Son, I forgive your sins."
This guy and his friends fight the crowd - to the point of removing the roof to lower him to Jesus. He had hope and expectations of Jesus in this moment. He cam to have his sins forgiven? No way! He wanted to walk.
Jesus knew why he was there. Everyone did. Jesus could have healed him in the way everyone expected, and no one would have been upset. Instead Jesus forgives his sins - a far greater need met. The presenting issue was serious, but didn't trump the greater issue - his soul sickness.
Jesus knew the religious men would be upset.
But he still took on the greater need first.
Often, the greater need requires ticking off people who don't understand the difference between a symptom and a cause. Healing the greater need requires risk. No one likes to be misunderstood. And, people don't necessarily get it themselves. But it is still the right thing to do.
Father, may I have the courage of Jesus to tack the greatest needs in people's lives when you place them in my path, and may I see the needs for what they are - even if others won't understand.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
(Friday) I'm No Apostle Paul
Scripture
Acts 19:11-12 - God did powerful things through Paul, things quite out of the ordinary. The word got around and people started taking pieces of clothing - handkerchiefs and scarves and the like that had touched Paul's skin and then touching the sick with them. The touch did it - they were headed and whole.
I was watching a televangelist do this one time. As a special offer to his "faithful" listeners, he would "pray" over a handkerchief and then for a special, financial gift, they would send it to you for God's blessing on your life.
I thought, "You're not the Apostle Paul buddy."
Imagine the lack of humility to put yourself in Paul's shoes.
Though I may never stoop to this guy's level, it certainly would be easy to over-impress myself with myself. When your live is lived on a stage where people appreciate you, it would be easy to think "I'm hot stuff." Really I just need to remember that God's work is in me, more than through me. It is Him who touches lives, and really, I'm no Apostle Paul either! But sometimes I get to be the handkerchief...and that is the privilege of living in the shadow of the Cross.
Acts 19:11-12 - God did powerful things through Paul, things quite out of the ordinary. The word got around and people started taking pieces of clothing - handkerchiefs and scarves and the like that had touched Paul's skin and then touching the sick with them. The touch did it - they were headed and whole.
I was watching a televangelist do this one time. As a special offer to his "faithful" listeners, he would "pray" over a handkerchief and then for a special, financial gift, they would send it to you for God's blessing on your life.
I thought, "You're not the Apostle Paul buddy."
Imagine the lack of humility to put yourself in Paul's shoes.
Though I may never stoop to this guy's level, it certainly would be easy to over-impress myself with myself. When your live is lived on a stage where people appreciate you, it would be easy to think "I'm hot stuff." Really I just need to remember that God's work is in me, more than through me. It is Him who touches lives, and really, I'm no Apostle Paul either! But sometimes I get to be the handkerchief...and that is the privilege of living in the shadow of the Cross.
(Thursday) God Doesn't Play Hide & Seek
Scripture
Acts 17:27-28 - He doesn't play hid and seek with us. He's not remote; he's near. We live and move in Him, can't get away from Him.
In Him we live and move and have our being. In Him. I have personally experienced (not for a long time) and know that it is common for Christians to have a "feeling" of distance with God. Is He really there?
If we move and find our being in Him, then do our "feelings" matter? Whether we feel something or not does not change the truth of a situation. My experience is that the feeling of distance should give us rise to close the distance, by moving in the direction of God...mentally and spiritually....keep trying. Why do most people seem to give up?
He wants to be found...so much so that he's not hiding. He's not playing hide and seek. I think the problem is most of us just don't even look very hard. We have an idea of what God should do for us, how "feeling" close should look, and when God isn't in our box we never think through the realistic-ness of our expectations.
Thank you for the "feeling" of closeness I have. I don't take it for granted. BUT thank you too that the closeness with you is true even when I don't feel it.
Acts 17:27-28 - He doesn't play hid and seek with us. He's not remote; he's near. We live and move in Him, can't get away from Him.
In Him we live and move and have our being. In Him. I have personally experienced (not for a long time) and know that it is common for Christians to have a "feeling" of distance with God. Is He really there?
If we move and find our being in Him, then do our "feelings" matter? Whether we feel something or not does not change the truth of a situation. My experience is that the feeling of distance should give us rise to close the distance, by moving in the direction of God...mentally and spiritually....keep trying. Why do most people seem to give up?
He wants to be found...so much so that he's not hiding. He's not playing hide and seek. I think the problem is most of us just don't even look very hard. We have an idea of what God should do for us, how "feeling" close should look, and when God isn't in our box we never think through the realistic-ness of our expectations.
Thank you for the "feeling" of closeness I have. I don't take it for granted. BUT thank you too that the closeness with you is true even when I don't feel it.
(Wednesday) People Users
Scripture
Acts 16:19 - When her owners saw that their lucrative little business was suddenly bankrupt, they went after Paul and Silas, roughed them up and dragged them into the market square.
So this slave girl is possessed by a demon. For whatever reason (unclear because Paul waited several days), Paul finally releases her from her spiritual bondage. It's not bad enough that she was a slave to man, but she shared her body with a demon too. Her owners could care less about her. They are upset. Their business is bankrupt. She was a means to an end, worthless chattel in their eyes. But she mattered to God.
We run the same risks with people today. Though we may not own them, anytime we view someone as a means to an end we are like those slave owners. When we elevate meeting our own needs/wants/dreams at the expense of someone else we are in sin.
As a pastor it can be tempting to get the job done at any cost - even if it uses others. I've known pastors with this mindset. I don't think I've ever done this, though it would be easy to abuse the "power" and do so. It is a good reminder to stay the course and trust that God has a plan even when I don't see it, and know that I don't have to make a way.
Acts 16:19 - When her owners saw that their lucrative little business was suddenly bankrupt, they went after Paul and Silas, roughed them up and dragged them into the market square.
So this slave girl is possessed by a demon. For whatever reason (unclear because Paul waited several days), Paul finally releases her from her spiritual bondage. It's not bad enough that she was a slave to man, but she shared her body with a demon too. Her owners could care less about her. They are upset. Their business is bankrupt. She was a means to an end, worthless chattel in their eyes. But she mattered to God.
We run the same risks with people today. Though we may not own them, anytime we view someone as a means to an end we are like those slave owners. When we elevate meeting our own needs/wants/dreams at the expense of someone else we are in sin.
As a pastor it can be tempting to get the job done at any cost - even if it uses others. I've known pastors with this mindset. I don't think I've ever done this, though it would be easy to abuse the "power" and do so. It is a good reminder to stay the course and trust that God has a plan even when I don't see it, and know that I don't have to make a way.
(Tuesday) God Listens
Scripture
Job 9:14 - So how could I ever argue with him, construct a defense that would influence God?
Job is so right. And, so wrong. He's right. God the creator of the universe is so beyond our thought process that we can't argue or influence him. It would be like a kindergartner debating a senior in high school. No competition. BUT this Almighty God of the universe wants to hear from us and in relationship is influenced (to a point obviously) by us.
God listened to Moses. God listened to Abraham. God listened to Gideon...to Solomon...the list goes on.
God cares about our desires and dreams and passion, and "allows" us to influence his plan - although he already knows and has created a plan that has room for our input. He's the big.
Thank you for caring enough to listen. May my prayers be filled with the things worth caring about.
Job 9:14 - So how could I ever argue with him, construct a defense that would influence God?
Job is so right. And, so wrong. He's right. God the creator of the universe is so beyond our thought process that we can't argue or influence him. It would be like a kindergartner debating a senior in high school. No competition. BUT this Almighty God of the universe wants to hear from us and in relationship is influenced (to a point obviously) by us.
God listened to Moses. God listened to Abraham. God listened to Gideon...to Solomon...the list goes on.
God cares about our desires and dreams and passion, and "allows" us to influence his plan - although he already knows and has created a plan that has room for our input. He's the big.
Thank you for caring enough to listen. May my prayers be filled with the things worth caring about.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
(Thursday) Bird Poop on the Monument?
Scripture
Psalm 148: 13 - Let them praise the name of God - it's the only name worth praising. His radiance exceeds anything in earth and sky; he's built a monument - his very own people.
This verse comes at the end of a chapter praising God for all of creation - detailed in the 12 verses before it. It closes with - his very own people are a monument.
A monument to what?
You build a monument because you want to remember something. The Vietnam War Memorial was built to remember those who gave their lives in that war. The Holocaust Survivors Museum to remember the tragedy of WWII. The Statue of Liberty is a monument to something positive. You build a monument to honor something or someone.
We are a monument to creation.
Monuments must be cared for. Bird poop on the monument? Not much care. We must take care that we honor the God to which we are monuments for good...not bad.
We are his people...his monument. A tribute to his creation. Are we clean or dirty?
Psalm 148: 13 - Let them praise the name of God - it's the only name worth praising. His radiance exceeds anything in earth and sky; he's built a monument - his very own people.
This verse comes at the end of a chapter praising God for all of creation - detailed in the 12 verses before it. It closes with - his very own people are a monument.
A monument to what?
You build a monument because you want to remember something. The Vietnam War Memorial was built to remember those who gave their lives in that war. The Holocaust Survivors Museum to remember the tragedy of WWII. The Statue of Liberty is a monument to something positive. You build a monument to honor something or someone.
We are a monument to creation.
Monuments must be cared for. Bird poop on the monument? Not much care. We must take care that we honor the God to which we are monuments for good...not bad.
We are his people...his monument. A tribute to his creation. Are we clean or dirty?
(Wednesday) Priestly Pressure
Scripture
Malachi 1:9 - Get on your knees and pray that I will be gracious to you. You priests have gotten everyone in trouble. With this kind of conduct, do you think I'll pay attention to you? God-of-the-Angel-Armies asks you.
There is a lot, in spiritual community, hanging on the life of the priests/pastors. I remember serving under some unhealthy pastors...for web purposes we'll call them A, B and C. When I look at the results of their ministries, I see broken and unhealthy marriages (A), a spiritually dead congregation (B) and a self-absorbed congregation (C). Unhealthy people do not a healthy congregation make. And, when they surround themselves with unhealthy people (because unhealthy people are afraid of healthy ones when they want to stay unhealthy) the sin just gets magnified further. The consequences are serious.
Father, search me and know my heart. Reveal any unclean or unhealthy way in me. I take the responsibility of leadership you have entrusted to me seriously. I want to model all the good things that people should strive for, but also recognize that I can only do so in your strength and power. May no condemnation ever come upon our church because of attitudes or actions that I might have.
Malachi 1:9 - Get on your knees and pray that I will be gracious to you. You priests have gotten everyone in trouble. With this kind of conduct, do you think I'll pay attention to you? God-of-the-Angel-Armies asks you.
There is a lot, in spiritual community, hanging on the life of the priests/pastors. I remember serving under some unhealthy pastors...for web purposes we'll call them A, B and C. When I look at the results of their ministries, I see broken and unhealthy marriages (A), a spiritually dead congregation (B) and a self-absorbed congregation (C). Unhealthy people do not a healthy congregation make. And, when they surround themselves with unhealthy people (because unhealthy people are afraid of healthy ones when they want to stay unhealthy) the sin just gets magnified further. The consequences are serious.
Father, search me and know my heart. Reveal any unclean or unhealthy way in me. I take the responsibility of leadership you have entrusted to me seriously. I want to model all the good things that people should strive for, but also recognize that I can only do so in your strength and power. May no condemnation ever come upon our church because of attitudes or actions that I might have.
(Tuesday) Renew Me.
Scripture
Psalm 1:2-3 - Instead you thrill to God's Word, you chew on scripture day and night. You're a tree replanted in Eden bearing fresh fruit every month, never dropping a leaf, always in blossom.
God's Word is the cornerstone. When we thrill ourselves to God's Word something happens. There is a cause and effect relationship. God's Word = always in bloom, bearing fruit regularly.
Interestingly we do not bear fruit always, but monthly. Even connected to the lifesource there is a cylcle. Though we always blossom, we bear fruit in a cycle.
I take this to mean that we are always renewed by the Word of God, but only in season do we bear fruit. The cycle is blossom, pollinate, become fruit, ripen, get plucked, renew. A cycle is healthy. Every part is critical to the whole. It's OK to rest!
When we get out of balance we interrupt the cycle. But the cycle can also be interrupted by an external blight...if we disconnect from the lifesource.
I want a healthy cycle. Renew me.
Psalm 1:2-3 - Instead you thrill to God's Word, you chew on scripture day and night. You're a tree replanted in Eden bearing fresh fruit every month, never dropping a leaf, always in blossom.
God's Word is the cornerstone. When we thrill ourselves to God's Word something happens. There is a cause and effect relationship. God's Word = always in bloom, bearing fruit regularly.
Interestingly we do not bear fruit always, but monthly. Even connected to the lifesource there is a cylcle. Though we always blossom, we bear fruit in a cycle.
I take this to mean that we are always renewed by the Word of God, but only in season do we bear fruit. The cycle is blossom, pollinate, become fruit, ripen, get plucked, renew. A cycle is healthy. Every part is critical to the whole. It's OK to rest!
When we get out of balance we interrupt the cycle. But the cycle can also be interrupted by an external blight...if we disconnect from the lifesource.
I want a healthy cycle. Renew me.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Song of Nehemiah
Scripture
Nehemiah 9...I was inspired by the "remembering" song that was sung by the Levites. Throughout the history of Israel, whenever they would return from straying from God's Word, they would remember all he had done for them. It would inspire them to move forward in relationship with God, faithful to His Word. Though I haven't "strayed" from God in the same sense as Israel, I wrote my own "remembering song." It's not good poetry. It wouldn't make a good song. But it reflected my heart as I worshiped this afternoon.
You, O God, are worthy of praise.
You are enthroned in the heavens.
You have surrounded yourself
with beings who praise you as you deserve.
You need no one,
yet you concern yourself with the affairs of men.
You created a perfect home for us
that we allowed our sin and greed to destroy;
And then you made a way for our redemption
and drew us back into your arms again.
I was born from my mother's womb
into a life that missed the foundation
And you made a way for me
to add it to my meager life
Allowing me to build my life anew
on the rock that never moves or changes.
In the pain of abuse
you were there.
When I walked my own way
you were there.
You always have been
always are drawing me to you.
You placed the people in my life
to bring about healing.
A road that still continues
to this day.
You never allowed the sins of my past
to keep me from becoming
The man of God
you in tend me to become.
You have granted to me a place of influence
the opportunity to encourage people's lives toward you;
An honor I recognize,
a responsibility I treasure.
May all of the days of my life
be surrendered to the purposes of your plans.
May every moment I live
bring you the highest honor you deserve.
Yours is the Kingdom and the power
forever and ever.
Mine is but vapor,
living for a moment to please you.
Nehemiah 9...I was inspired by the "remembering" song that was sung by the Levites. Throughout the history of Israel, whenever they would return from straying from God's Word, they would remember all he had done for them. It would inspire them to move forward in relationship with God, faithful to His Word. Though I haven't "strayed" from God in the same sense as Israel, I wrote my own "remembering song." It's not good poetry. It wouldn't make a good song. But it reflected my heart as I worshiped this afternoon.
You, O God, are worthy of praise.
You are enthroned in the heavens.
You have surrounded yourself
with beings who praise you as you deserve.
You need no one,
yet you concern yourself with the affairs of men.
You created a perfect home for us
that we allowed our sin and greed to destroy;
And then you made a way for our redemption
and drew us back into your arms again.
I was born from my mother's womb
into a life that missed the foundation
And you made a way for me
to add it to my meager life
Allowing me to build my life anew
on the rock that never moves or changes.
In the pain of abuse
you were there.
When I walked my own way
you were there.
You always have been
always are drawing me to you.
You placed the people in my life
to bring about healing.
A road that still continues
to this day.
You never allowed the sins of my past
to keep me from becoming
The man of God
you in tend me to become.
You have granted to me a place of influence
the opportunity to encourage people's lives toward you;
An honor I recognize,
a responsibility I treasure.
May all of the days of my life
be surrendered to the purposes of your plans.
May every moment I live
bring you the highest honor you deserve.
Yours is the Kingdom and the power
forever and ever.
Mine is but vapor,
living for a moment to please you.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Understanding the Un-Understandable
Scripture
Acts 1:23-26 - They nominated two: Joseph Barsabbas, nicknamed Justus, and Matthias. Then they prayed, "You, O God, know every one of us inside and out. Make plain which of these two men you choose to take the place in this ministry and leadership that Judas threw away in order to go his own way." They then drew straws. Matthias won and was counted in with the eleven apostles.
Probably none of us would ever think of drawing straws for something as important as picking a new apostle. We'd pray, then wait for the answer. I mean, surely the Holy Spirit would just speak. Frankly, I'd never think of this solution. My imagination could come up with lots of ways God could answer this prayer (and many others), but this isn't one of them. How many times do we miss the answer because we decide ahead of time how he will answer?
We work so hard to constrain God to whatever box we have built for him. We are desperate to understand the un-understandable. Our mind are too small though, and we end up shrinking Him to size and then wonder where the power has gone.
Our God will not be tamed.
Amen.
Father, make my mind bigger, that I might better understand how you work. Forgive me for shrinking you to the size of my imagination. May I never be satisfied with the smallness that my imagination limits you to. I want to witness the power and majesty of you moving in ways I could never understand.
Acts 1:23-26 - They nominated two: Joseph Barsabbas, nicknamed Justus, and Matthias. Then they prayed, "You, O God, know every one of us inside and out. Make plain which of these two men you choose to take the place in this ministry and leadership that Judas threw away in order to go his own way." They then drew straws. Matthias won and was counted in with the eleven apostles.
Probably none of us would ever think of drawing straws for something as important as picking a new apostle. We'd pray, then wait for the answer. I mean, surely the Holy Spirit would just speak. Frankly, I'd never think of this solution. My imagination could come up with lots of ways God could answer this prayer (and many others), but this isn't one of them. How many times do we miss the answer because we decide ahead of time how he will answer?
We work so hard to constrain God to whatever box we have built for him. We are desperate to understand the un-understandable. Our mind are too small though, and we end up shrinking Him to size and then wonder where the power has gone.
Our God will not be tamed.
Amen.
Father, make my mind bigger, that I might better understand how you work. Forgive me for shrinking you to the size of my imagination. May I never be satisfied with the smallness that my imagination limits you to. I want to witness the power and majesty of you moving in ways I could never understand.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Eternal Hindsight
Scripture
Luke 23:26 - As they led him off, they made Simon, a man from Cyrene who happened to be coming in from the countryside, carry the cross behind Jesus.
Observation & Application
Imagine you are Simon. You are coming into town...see a commotion and the next thing you are following some guy up a hill carrying his cross. Imagine how confused you'd be, scared, frustrated, angry. You might have heard of this guy. We don't know in Simon's case. It would be easy to see that he might resent the journey he was taking.
But...in retrospect...throughout eternity...what a privilege to serve the King of Kings by carrying his cross.
How many times do we feel the same way about some part of our journey that we don't understand? We question, get frustrated, angry, resent that God won't move us to the next level, we seem forgotten, we don't like the people he's placed around us. We want to escape.
I wonder how many of these situations we'll look at through the lens of eternal hindsight and see that we were serving the King of Kings? Probably all of them!
What should that do to our mindset now?
Father, give us an eternal perspective on our everyday lives now. May we serve you, even when it seems like wasted effort, knowing that you are guiding and leading and we are really serving you.
Luke 23:26 - As they led him off, they made Simon, a man from Cyrene who happened to be coming in from the countryside, carry the cross behind Jesus.
Observation & Application
Imagine you are Simon. You are coming into town...see a commotion and the next thing you are following some guy up a hill carrying his cross. Imagine how confused you'd be, scared, frustrated, angry. You might have heard of this guy. We don't know in Simon's case. It would be easy to see that he might resent the journey he was taking.
But...in retrospect...throughout eternity...what a privilege to serve the King of Kings by carrying his cross.
How many times do we feel the same way about some part of our journey that we don't understand? We question, get frustrated, angry, resent that God won't move us to the next level, we seem forgotten, we don't like the people he's placed around us. We want to escape.
I wonder how many of these situations we'll look at through the lens of eternal hindsight and see that we were serving the King of Kings? Probably all of them!
What should that do to our mindset now?
Father, give us an eternal perspective on our everyday lives now. May we serve you, even when it seems like wasted effort, knowing that you are guiding and leading and we are really serving you.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Know. Live. Teach.
Tuesday...just late...it's hard keeping the posting updated...
Scripture
Ezra 7:10 - Ezra had committed himself to studying the revelation of God, to living it, and to teaching Israel to live its truths and ways.
This is the kind of commitment Jesus call us to. Our sphere of influence may not be the entire nation - it might just be a small group or our family. Regardless, we are called to:
Father, thank you for the opportunities you give me to teach your truths - may they flow from a life that models what it means to know and live your ways.
Scripture
Ezra 7:10 - Ezra had committed himself to studying the revelation of God, to living it, and to teaching Israel to live its truths and ways.
This is the kind of commitment Jesus call us to. Our sphere of influence may not be the entire nation - it might just be a small group or our family. Regardless, we are called to:
- KNOW the Word of God
- LIVE out its principles
- TEACH others to do the same
Father, thank you for the opportunities you give me to teach your truths - may they flow from a life that models what it means to know and live your ways.
No Messy Cleanups Please
Scripture
Ezra 10:3 - Let's make a covenant right now with our God, agreeing to get rid of all these wives and their children, just as my master and those who honor God's commandment are saying. It's what The Revelation says, so let's do it.
At first - and second - glance, this passage just seems weird, and contradictory to the values we believe as Christians. Basically...divorce your wives and kids, in order to get right with God. It seems a bit extreme.
But then I realize that the consequences of sin are complex and usually cause pain, and extricating ourselves can seem extreme, and be very difficult to do.
There is quite a cost to follow God in the first place - even more so when we have to fix our sinful messups.
It's just better not to sin in the first place.
Father, may my life be lived in such a way that I don't sin very much so I don't have messy cleanups.
Ezra 10:3 - Let's make a covenant right now with our God, agreeing to get rid of all these wives and their children, just as my master and those who honor God's commandment are saying. It's what The Revelation says, so let's do it.
At first - and second - glance, this passage just seems weird, and contradictory to the values we believe as Christians. Basically...divorce your wives and kids, in order to get right with God. It seems a bit extreme.
But then I realize that the consequences of sin are complex and usually cause pain, and extricating ourselves can seem extreme, and be very difficult to do.
There is quite a cost to follow God in the first place - even more so when we have to fix our sinful messups.
It's just better not to sin in the first place.
Father, may my life be lived in such a way that I don't sin very much so I don't have messy cleanups.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Life's Microwave...Nuke Me God
Actually did this Friday...posted today...
Scripture
Luke 16:9 - I want you to be smart in the same way - but for what is right - using every adversity to stimulate you to creative survival, to concentrate your attention on the bare essentials so you'll live, really live, and not complacently just get by on good behavior.
God doesn't care much for lukewarm Christians. He wants us hot and on fire for His glory. According to this verse, one of the purposes of adversity is to keep us from cooling down and losing our passion in a sea of complacency. He wants us to be stimulated to creative survival. Think about it - a stressed and busy schedule - if survival is continuing to connect spiritually with God - how we come around that creatively will either spur us on or sink our ship. Someone not showing you the love? Do you choose to hate or avoid or gossip OR do you creatively figure out how to love your neighbor as yourself? The easy way is never the creative way. The easy way almost always drives us from God.
I drink tea. I heat the water in a microwave, not on the stove. Tap water isn't hot enough. The stove takes too long. Father, nuke my passion for you using the 'microwave of life' in whatever way you see fit to keep me from getting complacent.
Scripture
Luke 16:9 - I want you to be smart in the same way - but for what is right - using every adversity to stimulate you to creative survival, to concentrate your attention on the bare essentials so you'll live, really live, and not complacently just get by on good behavior.
God doesn't care much for lukewarm Christians. He wants us hot and on fire for His glory. According to this verse, one of the purposes of adversity is to keep us from cooling down and losing our passion in a sea of complacency. He wants us to be stimulated to creative survival. Think about it - a stressed and busy schedule - if survival is continuing to connect spiritually with God - how we come around that creatively will either spur us on or sink our ship. Someone not showing you the love? Do you choose to hate or avoid or gossip OR do you creatively figure out how to love your neighbor as yourself? The easy way is never the creative way. The easy way almost always drives us from God.
I drink tea. I heat the water in a microwave, not on the stove. Tap water isn't hot enough. The stove takes too long. Father, nuke my passion for you using the 'microwave of life' in whatever way you see fit to keep me from getting complacent.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Refine Me, Please
Scripture
Zechariah 13:8 - I'll deliver the surviving third to the refinery fires. I'll refine them as silver is refined, test them for purity as gold is tested. Then they'll pray to me by name and I'll answer them personally.
The refining process isn't a fun process. For silver or gold the cost is high - the shape and beauty are melted away and lost in order to let the impurities float to the tope to be scraped away by the refiner. What's left is incredibly more valuable.
In our lives the refining process usually involves the loss of a relationship, relational stress, financial or job loss, broken dreams - you name it. Never fun. But when we allow the refiner to do his work, something more valuable grows out of the pain.
Intimacy with God.
THEN we pray to God by name and get a personal answer. After the refining.
The pathway to God requires refining. We avoid wherever possible. BUT, it is the pathway we should embrace - short term pain for long term gain.
Father, refine me, please.
Zechariah 13:8 - I'll deliver the surviving third to the refinery fires. I'll refine them as silver is refined, test them for purity as gold is tested. Then they'll pray to me by name and I'll answer them personally.
The refining process isn't a fun process. For silver or gold the cost is high - the shape and beauty are melted away and lost in order to let the impurities float to the tope to be scraped away by the refiner. What's left is incredibly more valuable.
In our lives the refining process usually involves the loss of a relationship, relational stress, financial or job loss, broken dreams - you name it. Never fun. But when we allow the refiner to do his work, something more valuable grows out of the pain.
Intimacy with God.
THEN we pray to God by name and get a personal answer. After the refining.
The pathway to God requires refining. We avoid wherever possible. BUT, it is the pathway we should embrace - short term pain for long term gain.
Father, refine me, please.
(Wednesday's Post...kinda late) I am a Wretched Misfit
Scripture
Luke 14:21 - The servant went back and told the master what had happened. He was outraged and told the servant, "Quickly, get out into the city streets and alleys. Collect all who look like they need a square meal, all the misfits and homeless and wretched you can lay your hands on, and bring them here."
I am a wretched misfit. And, because the Jews were too busy to dine at the table, I now have a place at the table. This was God's plan all along...knowing from creation how things would go. When we plan a dinner party, almost without exception - we invite our "pretty friends." I'm not talking physically, necessarily, but people who fit into our lives easily. We're slow to reach out to the misfit. We're a pretty shallow culture....I am the misfit.
May I never have a heart of rejecting those who don't "fit" my life, but reach out with arms of love and grace.
In truth
Luke 14:21 - The servant went back and told the master what had happened. He was outraged and told the servant, "Quickly, get out into the city streets and alleys. Collect all who look like they need a square meal, all the misfits and homeless and wretched you can lay your hands on, and bring them here."
I am a wretched misfit. And, because the Jews were too busy to dine at the table, I now have a place at the table. This was God's plan all along...knowing from creation how things would go. When we plan a dinner party, almost without exception - we invite our "pretty friends." I'm not talking physically, necessarily, but people who fit into our lives easily. We're slow to reach out to the misfit. We're a pretty shallow culture....I am the misfit.
May I never have a heart of rejecting those who don't "fit" my life, but reach out with arms of love and grace.
In truth
(Tuesday's post...really late) No Lazy Christianity
OK...Sorry these are late. I did them each day, but didn't have a chance to post...
Scripture
Luke 13:24 - The way to life - to God - is vigorous and requires your total attention. A lot of you are going to assume that you'll set down to God's salvation banquet just because you've been hanging around the neighborhood all your lives.
It always worries me a little when I read passages like this - not for myself, but for some that I know. We all know people - friends and family - who are NOT giving God total attention. Not working vigorously to know Christ. And, though I believe in salvation by grace alone, I can't reconcile theses words easily...what does it mean to be saved?
I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection. I want to pour my life out for His glory. I want to vigorously pursue a relationship with Christ. I want to model for others what it means to live this way. I long for all "lazy" Christians to do the same.
Father, you know the "lazy" Christians I have on my heart - awaken their spirits anew to your presence. Grow in them a longing to know you more. And, may you start with me.
Scripture
Luke 13:24 - The way to life - to God - is vigorous and requires your total attention. A lot of you are going to assume that you'll set down to God's salvation banquet just because you've been hanging around the neighborhood all your lives.
It always worries me a little when I read passages like this - not for myself, but for some that I know. We all know people - friends and family - who are NOT giving God total attention. Not working vigorously to know Christ. And, though I believe in salvation by grace alone, I can't reconcile theses words easily...what does it mean to be saved?
I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection. I want to pour my life out for His glory. I want to vigorously pursue a relationship with Christ. I want to model for others what it means to live this way. I long for all "lazy" Christians to do the same.
Father, you know the "lazy" Christians I have on my heart - awaken their spirits anew to your presence. Grow in them a longing to know you more. And, may you start with me.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Time to Change Clothes
Scripture
Luke 11:23 - "This is war, and there is no neutral ground. If you're not on my side, you're the enemy; if you're not helping, your making things worse.
Observation & Application
Developing our relationship with Christ requires active, intentional work. It is like paddling upstream. You must keep paddling to keep moving forward. The moment you stop paddling you are moving the wrong way.
There is no neutral ground. We're either helping or hurting.
We're either growing toward Christ or we aren't. Sometimes I wonder if we think paddling along at an almost neutral rate is OK. From this passage...I don't think so. Paddle faster.
None of us likes to hear absolutes like this. Our lives are complex and we are too busy - and we know we should be shedding more and more of the world's rags, by putting on more of the garments of Christ. But we tend to let the things that matter get in the way, and become content in our rags because at least we're clothed. God calls us to change clothes.
Father, help me to give up my rags.
Luke 11:23 - "This is war, and there is no neutral ground. If you're not on my side, you're the enemy; if you're not helping, your making things worse.
Observation & Application
Developing our relationship with Christ requires active, intentional work. It is like paddling upstream. You must keep paddling to keep moving forward. The moment you stop paddling you are moving the wrong way.
There is no neutral ground. We're either helping or hurting.
We're either growing toward Christ or we aren't. Sometimes I wonder if we think paddling along at an almost neutral rate is OK. From this passage...I don't think so. Paddle faster.
None of us likes to hear absolutes like this. Our lives are complex and we are too busy - and we know we should be shedding more and more of the world's rags, by putting on more of the garments of Christ. But we tend to let the things that matter get in the way, and become content in our rags because at least we're clothed. God calls us to change clothes.
Father, help me to give up my rags.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Putting Myself in God's Shoes
Scripture
Luke 8:52 - Everyone was crying and carrying on over her. Jesus said, "Don't cry. She didn't die; she's sleeping." They laughted at him. They knew she was dead.
Observation
Try as we might, we don't think like God very often. We're a lot like the disciples and the girl's parents in this testimony. We enter the room and we know what's going on. And, the minute we know something, we close ourselves off to the work of God.
As I look back at my life, I can see that almost 100% of the time, God's working in my life was not how I knew it should/could/would happen. It was always better - not necessarily less painful (which was always my fault...stubborn, stubborn man :)) - but definitely better.
Father, forgive me for the arrogance of knowing anything. I want to see and experience the world through your eyes, recognizing that to do that I must slow down my judgments of people and situations, and spend more time putting my self in your shoes.
Luke 8:52 - Everyone was crying and carrying on over her. Jesus said, "Don't cry. She didn't die; she's sleeping." They laughted at him. They knew she was dead.
Observation
Try as we might, we don't think like God very often. We're a lot like the disciples and the girl's parents in this testimony. We enter the room and we know what's going on. And, the minute we know something, we close ourselves off to the work of God.
As I look back at my life, I can see that almost 100% of the time, God's working in my life was not how I knew it should/could/would happen. It was always better - not necessarily less painful (which was always my fault...stubborn, stubborn man :)) - but definitely better.
Father, forgive me for the arrogance of knowing anything. I want to see and experience the world through your eyes, recognizing that to do that I must slow down my judgments of people and situations, and spend more time putting my self in your shoes.
(Wednesday's Post...Late) Hands and Feet
Scripture
Luke 7:21 - In the next two or three hours Jesus healed many from disease, distress, and evil spirits.
It is hard to imagine a culture (we're obviously very westernized compared to the rest of the world) like the one in Jesus' time. To have many people healed indicates that many people needed healing.
We love to ask, "why?" Why does famine exist? Why is their suffering in the world? Why does God allow evil to run rampant in our culture?
I'm sure many were asking the same questions in the time of Jesus. What if the blind were blind so that Jesus could heal them to show his divinity? What if the sick were diseased so that Jesus could reach out and extend arms of love, and model for the church how it should do it's work? Wouldn't that be worth it?
What if it's still true today? God is still alive reaching out arms of love for the sick and diseased. What if he's still trying to show he is God, but we just don't notice or care? What if we're supposed to be his hands and feet?
Luke 7:21 - In the next two or three hours Jesus healed many from disease, distress, and evil spirits.
It is hard to imagine a culture (we're obviously very westernized compared to the rest of the world) like the one in Jesus' time. To have many people healed indicates that many people needed healing.
We love to ask, "why?" Why does famine exist? Why is their suffering in the world? Why does God allow evil to run rampant in our culture?
I'm sure many were asking the same questions in the time of Jesus. What if the blind were blind so that Jesus could heal them to show his divinity? What if the sick were diseased so that Jesus could reach out and extend arms of love, and model for the church how it should do it's work? Wouldn't that be worth it?
What if it's still true today? God is still alive reaching out arms of love for the sick and diseased. What if he's still trying to show he is God, but we just don't notice or care? What if we're supposed to be his hands and feet?
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Lovers not Fighters
Scripture
Luke 6:27 - To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst.
Observation & Application
Enemies is a very strong term. David had enemies. Daniel had enemies. For us - not so much. Their enemies were out to kill them. Our enemies might want to get us fired, hurt our reputations or generally make life difficult. A completely different class of "enemy." So this verse should be easier for us. Our physical lives are not at stake. How come it isn't easier? Our pride? Our arrogance?
God call us to be lovers, not fighters. He doesn't even call us to be neutral.
We allow our enemies to bring out the best in us when we choose to serve them, when we choose to love them. They may be able to do lots of things to us, but only we are in control of the choice to serve.
Prayer
Father help me to love and serve those I don't necessary connect with, and in so doing honor You.
Luke 6:27 - To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst.
Observation & Application
Enemies is a very strong term. David had enemies. Daniel had enemies. For us - not so much. Their enemies were out to kill them. Our enemies might want to get us fired, hurt our reputations or generally make life difficult. A completely different class of "enemy." So this verse should be easier for us. Our physical lives are not at stake. How come it isn't easier? Our pride? Our arrogance?
God call us to be lovers, not fighters. He doesn't even call us to be neutral.
We allow our enemies to bring out the best in us when we choose to serve them, when we choose to love them. They may be able to do lots of things to us, but only we are in control of the choice to serve.
Prayer
Father help me to love and serve those I don't necessary connect with, and in so doing honor You.
Monday, September 22, 2008
His Turf
Scripture
Luke 4:27 - And there were many lepers in Israel at the time of the prophet Elisha but the only one cleansed was Naaman the Syrian.
Observation
The world is filled with people who claim to know and follow God. Very few really do. There are, and always have been, religious people, but God has shown his disdain for RELIGION since time began. To me religion is words without actions...head knowledge not heart obedience. God wants our hearts and is not constrained by the artificial boundaries we set up (in this case...a gentile). He is no respecter of persons.
Application
One pattern I see in scripture is that the religious people expected God/Jesus to meet them on their "turf" (their rules, their ideas of who God is, their ideas of who God loves). The people who actually met God went on a journey that took him to his turf.
Father, enlarge my view of You. Show me where I am merely "religious" and missing out on you. Lead me on a journey of discovery to know you as you want to be known by me.
Luke 4:27 - And there were many lepers in Israel at the time of the prophet Elisha but the only one cleansed was Naaman the Syrian.
Observation
The world is filled with people who claim to know and follow God. Very few really do. There are, and always have been, religious people, but God has shown his disdain for RELIGION since time began. To me religion is words without actions...head knowledge not heart obedience. God wants our hearts and is not constrained by the artificial boundaries we set up (in this case...a gentile). He is no respecter of persons.
Application
One pattern I see in scripture is that the religious people expected God/Jesus to meet them on their "turf" (their rules, their ideas of who God is, their ideas of who God loves). The people who actually met God went on a journey that took him to his turf.
Father, enlarge my view of You. Show me where I am merely "religious" and missing out on you. Lead me on a journey of discovery to know you as you want to be known by me.
Friday, September 19, 2008
No Plan B
Scripture
Isaiah 53:10 - Still, it's what God had in mind all along, to crush him with pain. The plan was that he give himself as an offering for sin so that he'd see life come from it - life, life, and more life. And God's plan will deeply prosper through him.
Observation
I've had a crazy, exhausting week. It started on Plan A. Then, the server at DSF died. The backup was overwritten. My laptop crashed it's Outlook file. A pastor's retreat in the middle of it all. Every plan I worked failed. I went from Plan A to Plan B to Plan C faster than a speeding bullet.
When we think of Jesus, sometimes we think, "if only Plan A hadn't failed. If Adam and Eve hadn't sinned in the garden of Eden, Jesus wouldn't have had to come to save us." But here in Isaiah we find that Jesus was always Plan A. Man sinning never surprised God. It was part of the plan all along.
Application
When we connect with God, we don't need to feel any guilt or shame because of our sin. His redemption of our lives was and is still on Plan A. When things go wrong...still Plan A. We can trust his faithfulness because there is no Plan B.
Isaiah 53:10 - Still, it's what God had in mind all along, to crush him with pain. The plan was that he give himself as an offering for sin so that he'd see life come from it - life, life, and more life. And God's plan will deeply prosper through him.
Observation
I've had a crazy, exhausting week. It started on Plan A. Then, the server at DSF died. The backup was overwritten. My laptop crashed it's Outlook file. A pastor's retreat in the middle of it all. Every plan I worked failed. I went from Plan A to Plan B to Plan C faster than a speeding bullet.
When we think of Jesus, sometimes we think, "if only Plan A hadn't failed. If Adam and Eve hadn't sinned in the garden of Eden, Jesus wouldn't have had to come to save us." But here in Isaiah we find that Jesus was always Plan A. Man sinning never surprised God. It was part of the plan all along.
Application
When we connect with God, we don't need to feel any guilt or shame because of our sin. His redemption of our lives was and is still on Plan A. When things go wrong...still Plan A. We can trust his faithfulness because there is no Plan B.
(Thursday's post late) We Must Sing
Scripture
Luke 1:40 - When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby in her womb leaped. She was filled with the Holy Spirit, and sing out exuberantly.
Observation
Last night Kevin pulled out his iPhone and walked me through one of his playlists: "The Best of the 70s". From "Sad Eyes" to "Play that Funky Music" we sang through a few lines of each song. For me the 80's had the best popular music. How incredibly powerful music captures moments in our lives. Something happens and we must sing - and it leaves an imprint on our soul.
Here Mary walks in on Elizabeth. Her preggo shirt says "Almighty on Board". Both Johnny (the Baptist) and Elizabeth recognize the mystery of the moment...in the presence of the Savior...and Elizabeth breaks into a spontaneous tune.
Her spirit recognized the presence of God and had to do something to express it.
Application
Every week I have the privilege of helping to craft moments in which people have an opportunity to recognize the presence of God. May the music we play inspire them to mark the moment so that it imprints upon their soul. Though we can't make the moment happen, we are tools in the hand of an Almighty God.
Luke 1:40 - When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby in her womb leaped. She was filled with the Holy Spirit, and sing out exuberantly.
Observation
Last night Kevin pulled out his iPhone and walked me through one of his playlists: "The Best of the 70s". From "Sad Eyes" to "Play that Funky Music" we sang through a few lines of each song. For me the 80's had the best popular music. How incredibly powerful music captures moments in our lives. Something happens and we must sing - and it leaves an imprint on our soul.
Here Mary walks in on Elizabeth. Her preggo shirt says "Almighty on Board". Both Johnny (the Baptist) and Elizabeth recognize the mystery of the moment...in the presence of the Savior...and Elizabeth breaks into a spontaneous tune.
Her spirit recognized the presence of God and had to do something to express it.
Application
Every week I have the privilege of helping to craft moments in which people have an opportunity to recognize the presence of God. May the music we play inspire them to mark the moment so that it imprints upon their soul. Though we can't make the moment happen, we are tools in the hand of an Almighty God.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
We are the Temple of God
Scripture
Ezekiel 43:12 - This is the law of the temple: As it radiates from the top of the mountain, everything around it becomes holy ground. Yes, this is law, the meaning, of the temple.
Observation and Application
Ezekiel has been taken by vision, to show and then describe, the temple. This appears to be the final temple that will exist throughout eternity. The presence of God, flowing down from the mountain of God is holy. As it stretches out, it makes all things around it holy as well.
Right now, the New Testament describes us as the temple of God. His Spirit resides in us. As we surrender our lives to Him, He purifies us, making us holy. I think the same principle from Ezekiel is true, even for us...as we become more and more holy, there is an impact on those around us. Our lives are so attractive that it is lie a magnet, drawing people to lay down their lives and become holy. God working in our lives is a picture of what it will be like for eternity.
Prayer
Father, I want my life to be holy and acceptable to you - that others may see and long for the same working of You in their lives.
Ezekiel 43:12 - This is the law of the temple: As it radiates from the top of the mountain, everything around it becomes holy ground. Yes, this is law, the meaning, of the temple.
Observation and Application
Ezekiel has been taken by vision, to show and then describe, the temple. This appears to be the final temple that will exist throughout eternity. The presence of God, flowing down from the mountain of God is holy. As it stretches out, it makes all things around it holy as well.
Right now, the New Testament describes us as the temple of God. His Spirit resides in us. As we surrender our lives to Him, He purifies us, making us holy. I think the same principle from Ezekiel is true, even for us...as we become more and more holy, there is an impact on those around us. Our lives are so attractive that it is lie a magnet, drawing people to lay down their lives and become holy. God working in our lives is a picture of what it will be like for eternity.
Prayer
Father, I want my life to be holy and acceptable to you - that others may see and long for the same working of You in their lives.
(Tuesday...Late) Wasted on Eternity
Scripture
2 Corinthians 5:5 - The Spirit of God whets our appetite by giving us a taste of what's ahead. He puts a little of heaven in our hearts so that we'll never settle for less.
Observation
God has written eternity on our hearts, a longing for something that will be at some point in the future. Reading through Revelation, these past couple of weeks, especially as we near the end, I was reminded of this verse in 2 Corinthians. A taste for what's to come.
The question is what to do with it in the meantime...
Never settle for less. This world is not our home, yet most of us live like this is all their is to live for.
EVERYTHING we do should point toward eternity. Anything else is wasted time and energy.
Application
I want my life to be "wasted on eternity", on the things that matter most: loving God and loving others.
Prayer
Father, purify my life. Help me to focus all of my energies and passions toward eternity...to prioritize every though and activity with eternity in mind...no distractions.
2 Corinthians 5:5 - The Spirit of God whets our appetite by giving us a taste of what's ahead. He puts a little of heaven in our hearts so that we'll never settle for less.
Observation
God has written eternity on our hearts, a longing for something that will be at some point in the future. Reading through Revelation, these past couple of weeks, especially as we near the end, I was reminded of this verse in 2 Corinthians. A taste for what's to come.
The question is what to do with it in the meantime...
Never settle for less. This world is not our home, yet most of us live like this is all their is to live for.
EVERYTHING we do should point toward eternity. Anything else is wasted time and energy.
Application
I want my life to be "wasted on eternity", on the things that matter most: loving God and loving others.
Prayer
Father, purify my life. Help me to focus all of my energies and passions toward eternity...to prioritize every though and activity with eternity in mind...no distractions.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Why Choose Death?
Scripture
Ezekiel 33:11 - "Tell them, "As sure as I am the Living God, I take no pleasure from the death of the wicked. I want the wicked to change their ways and live. Turn your life around! Reverse your evil ways! Why die, Israel?
Observation
Apparently meth is one of the most addictive substances on earth. It only takes one time to be addicted. My thought is: why try it all, even once? You know where the road is going to take you. Yet everyday, people become addicts.
Sin's allure is incredibly strong. Once it has its tentacles in you, even hard to escape. We all have seen how it has a way of blinding us from the truth, of masquerading as the light. We get to the point where our hearts are hardened enough that we choose death over life...even as Christians...the death of a vibrant, living relationship with God. And it seems OK...too far off the narrow path and we don't even miss it.
Why die, Israel? If we know the path leads to death...why go there?
Application
Choose the path of life. Every time.
Prayer
Father help me to choose the path of life...every time, in ever situation. Protect me from a hardened heart.
Ezekiel 33:11 - "Tell them, "As sure as I am the Living God, I take no pleasure from the death of the wicked. I want the wicked to change their ways and live. Turn your life around! Reverse your evil ways! Why die, Israel?
Observation
Apparently meth is one of the most addictive substances on earth. It only takes one time to be addicted. My thought is: why try it all, even once? You know where the road is going to take you. Yet everyday, people become addicts.
Sin's allure is incredibly strong. Once it has its tentacles in you, even hard to escape. We all have seen how it has a way of blinding us from the truth, of masquerading as the light. We get to the point where our hearts are hardened enough that we choose death over life...even as Christians...the death of a vibrant, living relationship with God. And it seems OK...too far off the narrow path and we don't even miss it.
Why die, Israel? If we know the path leads to death...why go there?
Application
Choose the path of life. Every time.
Prayer
Father help me to choose the path of life...every time, in ever situation. Protect me from a hardened heart.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Pursuit
Scripture
Daniel 2:11 - What you're asking is impossible unless some god or goddess should reveal it - and they don't hang around people like us.
Observation
So King Neb has a dream. Won't tell all of his magicians, fortunetellers, etc. what the dream is. He figures an answer that isn't shining him on will come if they have to know both the dream and the interpretation.
In verse 10 the fortunetellers say "Nobody anywhere can do what you ask. And no king, great or small, has ever demanded anything like this." I mean, come on, let us blow some smoke... (my interpretation).
It is interesting that these are the "spiritual" elite of the Babylonian culture. The ones in power. The ones with wealth. The ones everyone else would like to be. And they had no hope that the gods they servied would want anything to do with them.
Contrast us...those who follow Christ. We are average people. Not rich (most of us). Not powerful. And the God of the universe not only seeks us out to hang with us, but has adopted us into his family.
Prayer
Father thank you for pursuing me...help me to pursue you with the same intensity and purpose.
Daniel 2:11 - What you're asking is impossible unless some god or goddess should reveal it - and they don't hang around people like us.
Observation
So King Neb has a dream. Won't tell all of his magicians, fortunetellers, etc. what the dream is. He figures an answer that isn't shining him on will come if they have to know both the dream and the interpretation.
In verse 10 the fortunetellers say "Nobody anywhere can do what you ask. And no king, great or small, has ever demanded anything like this." I mean, come on, let us blow some smoke... (my interpretation).
It is interesting that these are the "spiritual" elite of the Babylonian culture. The ones in power. The ones with wealth. The ones everyone else would like to be. And they had no hope that the gods they servied would want anything to do with them.
Contrast us...those who follow Christ. We are average people. Not rich (most of us). Not powerful. And the God of the universe not only seeks us out to hang with us, but has adopted us into his family.
Prayer
Father thank you for pursuing me...help me to pursue you with the same intensity and purpose.
(Thursday's Post...Late) No Silent Treatment
Scripture
Psalm 139:17-18 - How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you.
Observation
I had a diet coke with a new friend today (Thursday). He was obviously a newer believer, and was hungry to understand God's Word, and to be mature. He told me he just wanted to stop messing up. He wanted to be like me.
He was surprised, and frankly didn't believe, that I am just like him. I mess up too. I finally got him to take it on faith...I mess up. He messes up. We all do, no matter how "mature" we are. Our tests just grow to match our faith and maturity.
BUT, how we process what God "thinks" of us when we mess up and our response is very important. God's thoughts about us are precious, and outnumber the grains of sand in the oceans. He never thinks "Man, Chris messed up again." I am saved by grace through Jesus Christ, who intercedes for me in the throne room of the most Holy God. I am a child of God, loved regardless of my actions. God's thoughts about me are precious. My response...to move toward Him, even when I mess up, and forget about the penance I think I should pay...
You know, when you have a fight with someone and you get the "silent treatment" while they are processing (and sometimes punishing you). We never have a silent treatment from God, though we tend impose one because of the guilt we feel.
God's thoughts about me are precious. No silent treatment.
Application
I want to grow in my understanding of grace. I want to model the "no silent treatment" that God gives me to others. I want to help others understand the freedom we have when we walk by faith through grace.
Prayer
Father, thank you that I never get the silent treatment from you, though I often deserve it. When I am tempted to punish myself...don't let me get in the way of our relationship!
Psalm 139:17-18 - How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you.
Observation
I had a diet coke with a new friend today (Thursday). He was obviously a newer believer, and was hungry to understand God's Word, and to be mature. He told me he just wanted to stop messing up. He wanted to be like me.
He was surprised, and frankly didn't believe, that I am just like him. I mess up too. I finally got him to take it on faith...I mess up. He messes up. We all do, no matter how "mature" we are. Our tests just grow to match our faith and maturity.
BUT, how we process what God "thinks" of us when we mess up and our response is very important. God's thoughts about us are precious, and outnumber the grains of sand in the oceans. He never thinks "Man, Chris messed up again." I am saved by grace through Jesus Christ, who intercedes for me in the throne room of the most Holy God. I am a child of God, loved regardless of my actions. God's thoughts about me are precious. My response...to move toward Him, even when I mess up, and forget about the penance I think I should pay...
You know, when you have a fight with someone and you get the "silent treatment" while they are processing (and sometimes punishing you). We never have a silent treatment from God, though we tend impose one because of the guilt we feel.
God's thoughts about me are precious. No silent treatment.
Application
I want to grow in my understanding of grace. I want to model the "no silent treatment" that God gives me to others. I want to help others understand the freedom we have when we walk by faith through grace.
Prayer
Father, thank you that I never get the silent treatment from you, though I often deserve it. When I am tempted to punish myself...don't let me get in the way of our relationship!
Monday, September 8, 2008
Quick Obedience
Scripture
Jeremiah 42:20 - Didn't you just now send me to your God, saying, 'Pray for us to our God. Tell us everything that God says and will do it all'?
Observation
What's the point of asking God's opinion when you've already made up your mind? Here, the remnant (those left in Israel when most of the nation was taken captive) had apparently already decided to go to Egypt. Life as the remnant wasn't easy. Egypt looked safe and maybe they could rebuild their lives. As a side note, I find it interesting that they were willing to return to their lives before God brought them out of Egypt. We are just like them. Life gets hard for us and we return to the slavery of our old lives, before we found freedom in Christ.
They meet with Jeremiah and ask Him to ask God for His will. I'm sure they were thinking, "of course, God will want this, He wants our lives to be easier." Or, something like that. They promise to obey (because they know God will affirm their decision). God says "No." They still go and suffer the consequences.
Application
It is far better to ask God for direction before I make up my mind. And, when presented with a change in plans (by Him), I need to be quick to change my mind. I want my life to be characterized by quick obedience, regardless the cost.
Jeremiah 42:20 - Didn't you just now send me to your God, saying, 'Pray for us to our God. Tell us everything that God says and will do it all'?
Observation
What's the point of asking God's opinion when you've already made up your mind? Here, the remnant (those left in Israel when most of the nation was taken captive) had apparently already decided to go to Egypt. Life as the remnant wasn't easy. Egypt looked safe and maybe they could rebuild their lives. As a side note, I find it interesting that they were willing to return to their lives before God brought them out of Egypt. We are just like them. Life gets hard for us and we return to the slavery of our old lives, before we found freedom in Christ.
They meet with Jeremiah and ask Him to ask God for His will. I'm sure they were thinking, "of course, God will want this, He wants our lives to be easier." Or, something like that. They promise to obey (because they know God will affirm their decision). God says "No." They still go and suffer the consequences.
Application
It is far better to ask God for direction before I make up my mind. And, when presented with a change in plans (by Him), I need to be quick to change my mind. I want my life to be characterized by quick obedience, regardless the cost.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Walk by Faith
Scripture
2 Chronicles 36:22 - In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia - this fulfilled the message of God preached by Jeremiah.
Observation
The Israelites had been in exile for more than 100 years. Things were bleak and not looking like they were going to change any time soon. And then God talks to Cyrus.
We rarely know who (or how) God will use to accomplish his purposes in our lives. If we did, we wouldn't be living by faith. We do know he is going to push us out of our comfort zones to places where we must trust Him more deeply. And when things seem bleak, and we feel like we have been in exile for 100 years or more...He makes a way. Though we may not understand how it all fits into the big picture of our lives, nothing is ever wasted in God's economy.
I was talking with a friend this morning. She has been on a journey of change and discomfort for the past year. Every time it seems like she gets to a "safe place" where she can relax, God takes her by the hand and stretches her faith. At times it seems overwhelming...more than she can handle. She is learning to walk by faith. And God is using who God will use to move her along her journey.
Trust. Faith. Obedience. A commitment to walk step by step as He leads...even though the path ahead seems overgrown and impossible to find the way.
Application
Like my friend, you are calling me to deeper faith and trust in You. Some of those areas are a bit challenging. I will trust You, because You are good.
Prayer
Give me the strength and courage to walk the path You are laying before me.
2 Chronicles 36:22 - In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia - this fulfilled the message of God preached by Jeremiah.
Observation
The Israelites had been in exile for more than 100 years. Things were bleak and not looking like they were going to change any time soon. And then God talks to Cyrus.
We rarely know who (or how) God will use to accomplish his purposes in our lives. If we did, we wouldn't be living by faith. We do know he is going to push us out of our comfort zones to places where we must trust Him more deeply. And when things seem bleak, and we feel like we have been in exile for 100 years or more...He makes a way. Though we may not understand how it all fits into the big picture of our lives, nothing is ever wasted in God's economy.
I was talking with a friend this morning. She has been on a journey of change and discomfort for the past year. Every time it seems like she gets to a "safe place" where she can relax, God takes her by the hand and stretches her faith. At times it seems overwhelming...more than she can handle. She is learning to walk by faith. And God is using who God will use to move her along her journey.
Trust. Faith. Obedience. A commitment to walk step by step as He leads...even though the path ahead seems overgrown and impossible to find the way.
Application
Like my friend, you are calling me to deeper faith and trust in You. Some of those areas are a bit challenging. I will trust You, because You are good.
Prayer
Give me the strength and courage to walk the path You are laying before me.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Consider the Ant
Note: There are days when I read the verses assigned to that day of the year in the Life Journal, and don't find anything applicable for my life in that moment. I find that a few verses in Ezekiel and Revelation fall into that category more frequently than say...Philippians. When this happens I pick a chapter in Proverbs (I pick whatever chapter corresponds to the day of the month I am in) and add it to my reading. Therefore...today is a Proverbs day. :)
Scripture
Proverbs 6:6 - You lazy fool, look at an ant. Watch it closely, let it teach you a thing or two.
Observation
We have ants at our house. Though we've seen them in the kitchen, the living room and the bathroom, most of the time they can be found in the concrete seam where the garage meets the driveway. Every few weeks I'll walk outside and see an ant orgy going on, and gleefully get the ant killer and spray the heck out of them. Later I clean up the leftover carcases and we don't see them again for a few weeks. And then the cycle begins again. As I consider the ant, three things popped into my mind today when I read this passage.
1. Ants are persistent. They persevere. Ants face bigger than life challenges every day of their existence. And, just as the journey of a thousand miles begins with just one step, a colony teeming with life begins by moving one grain of sand/dirt over and over. Rather than being focused on the big picture, which is often too overwhelming, they focus on the step in front of them. And over time, have a colony the size of my driveway.
2. Ants are resistent. They don't let anything stop them. You'd think that they'd stop coming up in the same place. They don't let a little persecution stop them. They just keep doing what instinct tells them to do. Even if it puts them in a dangerous relationship with me.
3. Ants are consistent. They are focused. Each ant has a role to play in the colony, and plays it with focus. You don't find the little worker ant trying to lay the eggs for the queen. The scout ants don't spent time carving out the homestead.
Application
I need these characteristics in my life. Even today, my list of things to get done is almost overwhelming. I need to tackle it one item at a time. In the face of opposition, I need to resist. I know what God has called me to. I can't let a little "bug spray" stop me. And, I need to consistently do the things God has gifted me to do and stop doing the things he hasn't...which is easier said than done.
Prayer
Father, give me wisdom to apply these three principles in my life.
Scripture
Proverbs 6:6 - You lazy fool, look at an ant. Watch it closely, let it teach you a thing or two.
Observation
We have ants at our house. Though we've seen them in the kitchen, the living room and the bathroom, most of the time they can be found in the concrete seam where the garage meets the driveway. Every few weeks I'll walk outside and see an ant orgy going on, and gleefully get the ant killer and spray the heck out of them. Later I clean up the leftover carcases and we don't see them again for a few weeks. And then the cycle begins again. As I consider the ant, three things popped into my mind today when I read this passage.
1. Ants are persistent. They persevere. Ants face bigger than life challenges every day of their existence. And, just as the journey of a thousand miles begins with just one step, a colony teeming with life begins by moving one grain of sand/dirt over and over. Rather than being focused on the big picture, which is often too overwhelming, they focus on the step in front of them. And over time, have a colony the size of my driveway.
2. Ants are resistent. They don't let anything stop them. You'd think that they'd stop coming up in the same place. They don't let a little persecution stop them. They just keep doing what instinct tells them to do. Even if it puts them in a dangerous relationship with me.
3. Ants are consistent. They are focused. Each ant has a role to play in the colony, and plays it with focus. You don't find the little worker ant trying to lay the eggs for the queen. The scout ants don't spent time carving out the homestead.
Application
I need these characteristics in my life. Even today, my list of things to get done is almost overwhelming. I need to tackle it one item at a time. In the face of opposition, I need to resist. I know what God has called me to. I can't let a little "bug spray" stop me. And, I need to consistently do the things God has gifted me to do and stop doing the things he hasn't...which is easier said than done.
Prayer
Father, give me wisdom to apply these three principles in my life.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Chip or Mold?
Scripture
Revelation 9:20 - The remaining men and women who weren't killed by these weapons went on their merry way - didn't change their way of life, didn't quit worshiping demons, didn't quit centering their lives around lumps of gold and silver and brass, hunks of stone and wood that couldn't see or hear or move.
Observation
The human capacity to live in denial often astounds me. It shouldn't - I've just about seen it all, yet it does. Here the human race is being knocked up along side of the head by God. Trying to get their attention. Trying to get them to acknowledge the futility of the path they are following. And...they go their merry way.
I was talking with somone this week about the method of their approach to a particular problem in his life. He acknowledged the failure of the method and the resulting consequences, but was still seemingly unmotivated to pursue a change in the method to get better results.
We can make ourselves believe anything we want, but when it is not grounded in THE TRUTH we set ourselves up to hardened hearts. Since God chastens those he loves, he has to chip us instead of molding us. He'll go for the same result - one is just more painful than the other.
Application
I want to see myself through the lens of God's truth. I want my heart to be soft to His leading, accountable to those who can see our blind spots, and willing to let go of the safe lies I cling to as I embrace the wild adventure God has planned for my life.
Prayer
Father, reveal to me through Your Word and the words of friends, those areas of my life that you want changed. I submit who I am and who I want to be to You for Your purposes.
Revelation 9:20 - The remaining men and women who weren't killed by these weapons went on their merry way - didn't change their way of life, didn't quit worshiping demons, didn't quit centering their lives around lumps of gold and silver and brass, hunks of stone and wood that couldn't see or hear or move.
Observation
The human capacity to live in denial often astounds me. It shouldn't - I've just about seen it all, yet it does. Here the human race is being knocked up along side of the head by God. Trying to get their attention. Trying to get them to acknowledge the futility of the path they are following. And...they go their merry way.
I was talking with somone this week about the method of their approach to a particular problem in his life. He acknowledged the failure of the method and the resulting consequences, but was still seemingly unmotivated to pursue a change in the method to get better results.
We can make ourselves believe anything we want, but when it is not grounded in THE TRUTH we set ourselves up to hardened hearts. Since God chastens those he loves, he has to chip us instead of molding us. He'll go for the same result - one is just more painful than the other.
Application
I want to see myself through the lens of God's truth. I want my heart to be soft to His leading, accountable to those who can see our blind spots, and willing to let go of the safe lies I cling to as I embrace the wild adventure God has planned for my life.
Prayer
Father, reveal to me through Your Word and the words of friends, those areas of my life that you want changed. I submit who I am and who I want to be to You for Your purposes.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
A "Fresh" Perspective
Warning: I don't promise that these posts will make sense to anyone other than me. :) I am putting them here to model what a connection with God can look like. You are unique. Yours will probably look different. That's OK.
Scripture
Revelation 7:11-12 - And they were standing, dressed in white robes and waving palm branches, standing before the Throne and the Lamb and heartily singing: Salvation to our God on His Throne! Salvation to the Lamb!
Observation
I had the privilege of meeting an older visitor before a service a few weeks ago. He asked me if we were a 7-11 church. He could see the puzzled look on my face as I struggled with how to respond. He said, "you know, one of those churches who sings 7 words 11 times." His thinking was obvious - too much repetition is bad...is shallow.
When I read the book of Revelation I see repetition over and over and over and over... A few words repeated forever. It never indicates that God tires of hearing those few words day in and day out; nor does it indicate that the elders (or angels or saints) ever tire of saying them.
I have to admit. It is easy for me to grow bored with some of the worship songs I've sung. (Since I'm blogging this I won't mention any titles...don't want to get sued). This passage reminds me of how much I really don't get God. I really can sing of His love forever...just not the same song. My humanity limits my imagination and awareness of God.
How arrogant we are to think that the mere 26 letters we have in our alphabet could ever be strung together in a way that even begins to describe God completely. Maybe the freshness we are looking for is not in the lyrics, but down in the depths of our hearts. Imagine the elders, in God's presence all the time, constant aware of His Awesome Presence. Of course they never tire of singing the same thing.
Application
I need to live my life in such a way that I practice His Presence in every moment, in every situation. Then, the freshness will well up from deep inside of me, making all things new.
Prayer
Father, I long to connect with you in a deeper way today. Please meet me, awaken me to Your presence and bring a fresh perspective as You renew my spirit.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Off we go...
Thank you for choosing to join me on this journey. I am so excited to see what God is going to do in our church, our ministry and our lives. For my part, I commit to putting at least four of my quiet times up here each week, with encouraging words whenever I can get them up.
Already one of you called me and said "thank for kicking me in the butt." I choose to view it as extreme encourage to do what you already want to do...spend time with God.
Hopefully you have seen in me these past months the evidence of spending time with God on a daily basis. I think I've missed less than 10 days this year...which I say not to brag, but to encourage you that it is possible.
If you want the accountability, reply to this blog and tell us you are joining the journey. Feel free to just sign it with your first name and last initial. Thanks to those of you who have already told me you are up for the challenge.
My prayer is this: God bless us by changing our lives and deepening our relationship with you!
Love you all, Chris
Already one of you called me and said "thank for kicking me in the butt." I choose to view it as extreme encourage to do what you already want to do...spend time with God.
Hopefully you have seen in me these past months the evidence of spending time with God on a daily basis. I think I've missed less than 10 days this year...which I say not to brag, but to encourage you that it is possible.
If you want the accountability, reply to this blog and tell us you are joining the journey. Feel free to just sign it with your first name and last initial. Thanks to those of you who have already told me you are up for the challenge.
My prayer is this: God bless us by changing our lives and deepening our relationship with you!
Love you all, Chris
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Welcome CMers...
If you are reading this then you are at least considering joining the 20-4-70 challenge.
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