Hello there! Welcom back! Yes, I'm talking to you, (and me too). I feel like a owe you somewhat of an explanation for my delay in writing. The beginning of this school year was rather difficult for me. The loss of my precious grandmother was something I was not emotionally prepared for, and her death had a profound effect of me just as her life did. Our church was experiencing the aftershocks of some very difficult changes . I know those issues may not seem as monumental as they felt, but it was not the way I planned on starting my year. To top it off, my firstborn, Polly Kate, started Kindergarten! How did that happen? Where have the last five years gone?
In the hustle and bustle of life, I think I've gotten off track. I felt emotionally overwhelmed and physically drained. Instead of trying to ground myself in Christ's love, I got caught up. We get ahead of ourselves. We get lost in the struggle. By the time we realize what's happening, we're stuck in the web of complacency.
When we realize where we are, we often try to simplify our lives by removing distractions. The problem is, we often don't remove the true obstacles. When I was tired, I decided that I should get more sleep. Seems logical right? But, instead of going to bed earlier, I found myself hitting the snooze and sacrificing my quiet time with the Prince of Peace. That name should mean something to us. It is significant. I can't tell you how much of an impact it made when I shared the first fruits of my day with Jesus. My time of peace with him each morning kept me centered throughout the day. But my neglect of that time robbed me of my peace. I was tense and irritable. Instead of molding my day around our time together, I found myself trying to squeeze God into my free time. Between school, dinner, baths, Jewelry, books, music lessons, etc. Turns out, I don't have any free time!
There is a light at the end of this tunnel. Regardless of how I tried to shut him out. God's love never failed me. I was never alone, even when I tried to convince myself of such. We all get off track. Different circumstances may breed turmoil, but the results are the same. This feeling of of suffocation, wondering where our next breath will come from. The need for harmony, order, and reconciliation can only lead us back to the Prince of Peace.
And what better time of year to help bring things into perspective. Christ was a marked man from birth. Our fleeting problems cannot even begin to compare to his struggles. A life of duress. Yet, the man who was maked for death, overcame and offers life. His birth wasn't just a display of the miracle of life. His birth made the miracle of love possible. In that love, lies the peace we seek so desperately. A peace that comes when we stop trying so hard to attain it.
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Drinkin' Salsa
Summertime brings with it a few certainties. Sunshine, heat, more heat, swimming pools, watermelon, and our garden. And every year, my husband asks for fresh homemade salsa from our garden veggies. So, I obliged and made him a giant bowl of salsa last week. And it was good! Please don't think I'm tooting my own horn here, but all of those sweet/tangy tomatoes, peppers, onions...there's no way it could have been bad. Anyways, Logan saw the salsa and asked for his own bowl and some chips to dip. Again, I obliged, and Logan set forth on his mission to devour the chips and salsa. A few minutes later, he came back and asked for more salsa. I filled his bowl but noticed that he still had lots of chips. When I looked back over, Logan wasn't bothering to dip his chips, he was just drinking the salsa! It was too cute, and sure made his daddy proud!
After I finished laughing at my little man, I got to thinking. You know, there were some pretty hot peppers in that salsa. I even warned him that the green peppers might be too hot for him to eat. Maybe it would be best if he didn't eat those. He may have followed my advice for a few minutes, but his worry was soon overtaken by the goodness of the salsa. And despite the risk, he just couldn't get enough. Green peppers and all.
As Christians, why don't we drink Jesus in like Logan drank his salsa? Why is it that we are often perfectly content to dip our chips. Of course we need a little Jesus to get to heaven, but let's not get carried away, right? I mean, what about those green peppers? We want our Jesus in small manageable doses. We're so scared of losing control that we miss the full goodness of his love and service. We speak of faith, but won't eat the green peppers. We work hard to appear righteous, so we take a dip in Jesus. Never giving up control, never fully trusting. The salsa still tastes pretty good, but we're not truly experiencing all of the flavors. We may even tell others about this great tasting salsa. But, just like I warned Logan about the pepers, sometimes we hurt our witness by limiting God's love. I don't think we do it consciously, but it happens just the same.
So what do we do then? Drink up. Stop worrying about burning our mouths on the peppers. Isn't that where the flavor comes from anyways? When we give up this false sense of control, we learn what it means to live in the love of Christ. And when we drink Him in, others see Him in us. Not merely in our empty words, but in our lives. They see him in our actions, in our gestures, in our words(though often not intentionally), and in our love for those who need. When we drink him in, there is joy, peace, and harmony. When we drink Him in, there are no limits or fear, just complete goodness. And, I'm so thankful that no matter how much I consume, I'll never run out, and never stop wanting more. So, fill 'er up! It's good I promise!
After I finished laughing at my little man, I got to thinking. You know, there were some pretty hot peppers in that salsa. I even warned him that the green peppers might be too hot for him to eat. Maybe it would be best if he didn't eat those. He may have followed my advice for a few minutes, but his worry was soon overtaken by the goodness of the salsa. And despite the risk, he just couldn't get enough. Green peppers and all.
As Christians, why don't we drink Jesus in like Logan drank his salsa? Why is it that we are often perfectly content to dip our chips. Of course we need a little Jesus to get to heaven, but let's not get carried away, right? I mean, what about those green peppers? We want our Jesus in small manageable doses. We're so scared of losing control that we miss the full goodness of his love and service. We speak of faith, but won't eat the green peppers. We work hard to appear righteous, so we take a dip in Jesus. Never giving up control, never fully trusting. The salsa still tastes pretty good, but we're not truly experiencing all of the flavors. We may even tell others about this great tasting salsa. But, just like I warned Logan about the pepers, sometimes we hurt our witness by limiting God's love. I don't think we do it consciously, but it happens just the same.
So what do we do then? Drink up. Stop worrying about burning our mouths on the peppers. Isn't that where the flavor comes from anyways? When we give up this false sense of control, we learn what it means to live in the love of Christ. And when we drink Him in, others see Him in us. Not merely in our empty words, but in our lives. They see him in our actions, in our gestures, in our words(though often not intentionally), and in our love for those who need. When we drink him in, there is joy, peace, and harmony. When we drink Him in, there are no limits or fear, just complete goodness. And, I'm so thankful that no matter how much I consume, I'll never run out, and never stop wanting more. So, fill 'er up! It's good I promise!
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Reflections of Love
I have been debating wheter or not to write about this, because I know my words will not be adequate. But, I know that I have to try, because that's what she would have wanted.
I believe that there is beauty to be found in all things. But, every once in a while, God creates something greater. Something that is capable of so much more than you or me. Something Angelic. That's exactly what he did the day he breathed the breath of life into my grandmother Polly. He sent one of His angels to dwell among us. Her life on Earth may be gone, but her spirit of love will live in the lives of those she touched.
I'm blessed. I've spent 31 amazing years being touched by my grandmother's love. Even though they lived an hour away, my mom made sure we visitied at least every other week. In the summers, I would basically go live with my grandma and grandpa. Grandma would make huge pallets on the floor for me and all of my cousins to sleep on when we would visit. We would always stay up talking until grandpa would come in and holler at us to be quiet!!! In the morning, we would wake to a breakfast of eggs, bacon, and toast. After breakfast, grandma would head to the sewing room to work on her latest project. I say projects, but I should say masterpieces. I've never known anyone with such a creative eye. She always knew exactly what colors were needed to make the perfect quilt or to paint the perfect picture. She was an amazing artist. Lunch was another full course meal. We ate in the living room while grandma watched her shows. Then back to sewing or maybe a nap. At five o'clock, we would eat dinner. Pop ate at the bar and watched Wheel of Fortune while we all ate at the table and played games. Upwords was one of her favorites. She taught me every card game I know. Spades, Canasta, and she loved to play old Saul...otherwise known Solitaire. I remember one particular time we were playing dominoes. She was beating my socks off, which happened quite frequently. When it came to games, she showed no mercy. After beating me horribly several games in a row, she gently patted my hand and in her softest voice said, "oh honey, you'll do better next time." When we got to loud playing games, pop would turn the tv volume waaaay up, to let us know we were too loud, but grandma would just smile and giggle. She loved being with us, almost as much as we loved being with her. We used to pick up rocks along the road when we would take walks together. After my daughter was born, she surprised me by giving me some of the rocks she had saved from our walks. It was always the littlest things that brought her the most joy. While doing my student teaching, I lived with my grandparents. During that time, our relationship began to change. We went from being just a grandmother and granddaughter, to being great friends.
As I grew up in her love, I began to learn things about life that must be shown not told. You know, in the 31 years of my life, I cannot recall one single instance where she complained or spoke harshly of someone. Not one single time. She never wasted a minute of life. She was always busy and faced each day with a smile on her face. If you ever asked her how she was, she was "fine", even when she wasn't. One of my favorite pictures of her was coming out of a doctors appointment after learning that her cancer had returned. Her smile was indescribable. She was absolutely glowing. My grandma also led me in a great deal of spiritual growth. I loved to sit with her in church and rub her hands. Just like her spirit and her smile, they were incredibly soft. I loved to listen to her prayers, becuase her words were so beautiful. She truly knew her heavenly father. She was always so thankful for what she had. Even when it was little or difficult. I know God waited anxiously to hear from her each day.
Galatians 5:22-23 was written about my grandma. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." She exemplified each one of these virtues every moment of her life. Her relationship with God was such that her spirit was one with His. Her needs were never put above those of anyone else. She loved endlessly. She shared Jesus. Not with her words. It wasn't necessary. She shared Jesus by sharing his love with others. If you met her, then you felt the love of God. You were changed.
I am truly blessed. I am blessed to have been loved by my grandma Polly. I am blessed with countless memories of her grace and joy. I am blessed to have beautiful family and a daughter that bears her name. I was blessed to know her spirit, and I live witht he hope that I will be blessed to meet her again.
I believe that there is beauty to be found in all things. But, every once in a while, God creates something greater. Something that is capable of so much more than you or me. Something Angelic. That's exactly what he did the day he breathed the breath of life into my grandmother Polly. He sent one of His angels to dwell among us. Her life on Earth may be gone, but her spirit of love will live in the lives of those she touched.
I'm blessed. I've spent 31 amazing years being touched by my grandmother's love. Even though they lived an hour away, my mom made sure we visitied at least every other week. In the summers, I would basically go live with my grandma and grandpa. Grandma would make huge pallets on the floor for me and all of my cousins to sleep on when we would visit. We would always stay up talking until grandpa would come in and holler at us to be quiet!!! In the morning, we would wake to a breakfast of eggs, bacon, and toast. After breakfast, grandma would head to the sewing room to work on her latest project. I say projects, but I should say masterpieces. I've never known anyone with such a creative eye. She always knew exactly what colors were needed to make the perfect quilt or to paint the perfect picture. She was an amazing artist. Lunch was another full course meal. We ate in the living room while grandma watched her shows. Then back to sewing or maybe a nap. At five o'clock, we would eat dinner. Pop ate at the bar and watched Wheel of Fortune while we all ate at the table and played games. Upwords was one of her favorites. She taught me every card game I know. Spades, Canasta, and she loved to play old Saul...otherwise known Solitaire. I remember one particular time we were playing dominoes. She was beating my socks off, which happened quite frequently. When it came to games, she showed no mercy. After beating me horribly several games in a row, she gently patted my hand and in her softest voice said, "oh honey, you'll do better next time." When we got to loud playing games, pop would turn the tv volume waaaay up, to let us know we were too loud, but grandma would just smile and giggle. She loved being with us, almost as much as we loved being with her. We used to pick up rocks along the road when we would take walks together. After my daughter was born, she surprised me by giving me some of the rocks she had saved from our walks. It was always the littlest things that brought her the most joy. While doing my student teaching, I lived with my grandparents. During that time, our relationship began to change. We went from being just a grandmother and granddaughter, to being great friends.
As I grew up in her love, I began to learn things about life that must be shown not told. You know, in the 31 years of my life, I cannot recall one single instance where she complained or spoke harshly of someone. Not one single time. She never wasted a minute of life. She was always busy and faced each day with a smile on her face. If you ever asked her how she was, she was "fine", even when she wasn't. One of my favorite pictures of her was coming out of a doctors appointment after learning that her cancer had returned. Her smile was indescribable. She was absolutely glowing. My grandma also led me in a great deal of spiritual growth. I loved to sit with her in church and rub her hands. Just like her spirit and her smile, they were incredibly soft. I loved to listen to her prayers, becuase her words were so beautiful. She truly knew her heavenly father. She was always so thankful for what she had. Even when it was little or difficult. I know God waited anxiously to hear from her each day.
Galatians 5:22-23 was written about my grandma. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." She exemplified each one of these virtues every moment of her life. Her relationship with God was such that her spirit was one with His. Her needs were never put above those of anyone else. She loved endlessly. She shared Jesus. Not with her words. It wasn't necessary. She shared Jesus by sharing his love with others. If you met her, then you felt the love of God. You were changed.
I am truly blessed. I am blessed to have been loved by my grandma Polly. I am blessed with countless memories of her grace and joy. I am blessed to have beautiful family and a daughter that bears her name. I was blessed to know her spirit, and I live witht he hope that I will be blessed to meet her again.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Dying to Live
I like to read. In fact, I like to re-read books, because I always find things I missed the first time. I recently re-read a book called "Blue Like Jazz" by Donald Miller. This isn't the first time I've re-read the book. I often read it whenever I need to find a little hope. In the book, Miller details his experience of finding a tangible Christ in the midst of a sinful world. Many of you know about the turmoil in our church, and know how hard it has been on everyone involved. So, upon hiring a new preacher, I wanted to read the book and find some of the encouragement it always seems to offer. You know what I mean, make myself feel better because I was right and everyone else was wrong, but I'm going to move forward and take the high road, because that's what I'm supposed to do! Right? Off I go. Reading frantically, waiting for that "aha" moment of inspiration, secretly feeding my own agenda, and patting myself of the back, telling myself how I'm going to forgive those people who hurt me. Not just forgive them, but love them! Looking back it's no surprise that my moment of edification didn't come. After I read the book, I actually felt depressed instead of inspired. What the heck? Instead of God using this book to speak to me of all the things I've done right, I felt called out. Here's the quote that kept nagging at my soul:
"If we are not willing to wake up in the morning and die to ourselves, perhaps we should ask ourselves whether or not we are really following Jesus."
Ruminate on that for a moment. I've been stuck on it for days, and I don't imagine it's going away any time soon. What if my motives have been self serving all along. I clothe myself in Jesus, but my focus is on how it looks on me. It's not always comfortable, so I cover it with a jacket. When I go out, I know it's there, but no one else can see it. What do you do when something fundamental like this is eating at you? Well, I start looking for answers. The story of the rich young ruler (Luke 8) immediately comes to my mind. He's willing to follow all the rules to follow Jesus. But, when it came down to truly giving up his own desires, to giving up himself, the love of his possessions proved to be greater than the love of his Father. Here are a few of my other favorite verses on Jesus' desire for us to die to ourselves.
Matthew 16:24-25 "Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it."
Philippians 3:8 "Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,"
Galatians 2:20 "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."
As much as I try to make it, and want it to be sometimes, it's just not about me! I got so annoyed when Travis was playing mariachi music on the computer the other night. He loves it! Me, not so much. Why won't he listen to what "I" like?! I'm spoiled rotten. Just like the Burger King Commercial says, "Have it your way". I think our society revolves around that motto. I know I do! And that's the problem. As Christians the point shouldn't be having it "our" way, but rather "His" way. I've talked about giving things up before, but this is so much more than that. In order for Christ to manifest in our lives, we have to move out so He can move in. I don't mean just clean out the guest room so He'll have a place to visit. I mean give Him your house! Give Him yourself. I know it's easier said than done. It means letting go of the anger you may have inside. It means letting go of that false sense of control that we all cling to. It means, that I have to stop focusing on how I've been wronged and start thinking about how I can repair the wrongs I've done to others. The goal is to look in the mirror and see the face of God instead of our own. To see Him, because we no longer exist! It's a difficult concept/tasks, and it will take us a lifetime to get it. But, when we do, the Kingdom of Heaven, of our Father awaits.
"If we are not willing to wake up in the morning and die to ourselves, perhaps we should ask ourselves whether or not we are really following Jesus."
Ruminate on that for a moment. I've been stuck on it for days, and I don't imagine it's going away any time soon. What if my motives have been self serving all along. I clothe myself in Jesus, but my focus is on how it looks on me. It's not always comfortable, so I cover it with a jacket. When I go out, I know it's there, but no one else can see it. What do you do when something fundamental like this is eating at you? Well, I start looking for answers. The story of the rich young ruler (Luke 8) immediately comes to my mind. He's willing to follow all the rules to follow Jesus. But, when it came down to truly giving up his own desires, to giving up himself, the love of his possessions proved to be greater than the love of his Father. Here are a few of my other favorite verses on Jesus' desire for us to die to ourselves.
Matthew 16:24-25 "Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it."
Philippians 3:8 "Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,"
Galatians 2:20 "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."
As much as I try to make it, and want it to be sometimes, it's just not about me! I got so annoyed when Travis was playing mariachi music on the computer the other night. He loves it! Me, not so much. Why won't he listen to what "I" like?! I'm spoiled rotten. Just like the Burger King Commercial says, "Have it your way". I think our society revolves around that motto. I know I do! And that's the problem. As Christians the point shouldn't be having it "our" way, but rather "His" way. I've talked about giving things up before, but this is so much more than that. In order for Christ to manifest in our lives, we have to move out so He can move in. I don't mean just clean out the guest room so He'll have a place to visit. I mean give Him your house! Give Him yourself. I know it's easier said than done. It means letting go of the anger you may have inside. It means letting go of that false sense of control that we all cling to. It means, that I have to stop focusing on how I've been wronged and start thinking about how I can repair the wrongs I've done to others. The goal is to look in the mirror and see the face of God instead of our own. To see Him, because we no longer exist! It's a difficult concept/tasks, and it will take us a lifetime to get it. But, when we do, the Kingdom of Heaven, of our Father awaits.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Storm Season
I love the spring! Hands down, it is my favorite time of year. Not for the typical reasons like blooming flowers, green grass, rebirth of life, etcetera, etcetera. Not even for the possibility of improving my golf game (although that ranks pretty high!). Nope, the reason I love spring so much is because it brings storms. If it weren't for my family and need for a steady income, I'd hit the road and chase storms year round! I can think of few things that are a greater display of God's power, love, and grace all at the same time. Maybe that last statement seems like a stretch to you, but allow me to explain. Please forgive the short science lesson. I'll try to keep it short, but you all know how I tend to ramble, so I make no promises!
Thunderstorms start when warm humid spring air gets forced upwards by incoming cold air. As the air rises, it cools and condenses forming clouds. This proces off updraft can happen over and over within the cloud creating large raindrops and hail. Those clouds may look soft and fluffy, but actually they're far from it! Their interiors are full of turmoil! Water particles violenty collide with ice particles and become charged particles called hydrometeors. The larger negative particles go to the bottom of the cloud and small positive charges go to the top. This separation of charges is the fuel behind lighting. The more the charges separate, the greater the potential release of energy is. So, the cloud is building and building and building until....BANG!!!! Lightning strikes. Finally, all of those charges that were separated come back together restoring the natural balance. Rain falls, lightning strikes, and temperatures mix until the atmosphere is once again in balance. Okay, I know that was kind of long, but stick with me.
Lately, my life has felt like one giant thunderstorm. As a teacher, spring time is pure insanity! Something is going on every night of the week. Students are bouncing off the walls impatiently awating the end of school. They're no more interested in school than in having a root canal! It's also a busy time of year for my jewelry business. Trying to get enough pieces made for art shows throughout the summer is time consuming to say the least. Not to mention trying to keep up with our new website. Then there's church. It's been a roller coster of emotions. Lots of differing OPINIONS (mine included) have caused a great disturbance in the church. I feel like we've been one giant thundercloud. Everone in a different place, with nothing but tension and anger in the middle.
Romans 8:18-25
18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 19 The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. 20 For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. 22 We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23 Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? 25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
Just like the Earth cries out to it's creator to bring it peace and restoration, I have cried out and prayed for the same in my life and His church. Here's the thing about storms. They're powerful! We've all seen images of tornado damage. Homes made of brick and mortar ripped to shreds by an invisible power. The storms in our life can leave the same kind of damage. They might not be caused by physical conditions, but they do stem from our inability to accept our differences. Instead of embracing them, and using them for His Kingdom, we allow them to separate us leaving a wake of destruction behind. But, the storm itself, in all of its awesome power, isn't really the point. Although it can be breathtaking, the true beauty is what comes after the storm. Calm. Peace. Restoration. Healing. We see it on television all the time. Every time they interview storm vicitms, we find people coming together for a common good. Loving one another. It's been a tough year for our church. Lines were drawn in the sand, and people were hurt. There were casualties, that may never be repaired. But, God's grace is most evident after the storm. I believe these trials, as difficult as they are, should be treasured as opportunities to witness the love and peace of Christ. I have high hopes. Hopes for my personal life, for my family, for His church. But mostly I have hope, that whatever changes, whatever storms we meet along the way, we don't face them in fear. But rather we embrace the opportunity to see the power, beauty, love, and grace of our Father who longs to bring us peace in Him, just as he does for all of his creation. Thanks to the storm, I see a brighter day ahead.
Thunderstorms start when warm humid spring air gets forced upwards by incoming cold air. As the air rises, it cools and condenses forming clouds. This proces off updraft can happen over and over within the cloud creating large raindrops and hail. Those clouds may look soft and fluffy, but actually they're far from it! Their interiors are full of turmoil! Water particles violenty collide with ice particles and become charged particles called hydrometeors. The larger negative particles go to the bottom of the cloud and small positive charges go to the top. This separation of charges is the fuel behind lighting. The more the charges separate, the greater the potential release of energy is. So, the cloud is building and building and building until....BANG!!!! Lightning strikes. Finally, all of those charges that were separated come back together restoring the natural balance. Rain falls, lightning strikes, and temperatures mix until the atmosphere is once again in balance. Okay, I know that was kind of long, but stick with me.
Lately, my life has felt like one giant thunderstorm. As a teacher, spring time is pure insanity! Something is going on every night of the week. Students are bouncing off the walls impatiently awating the end of school. They're no more interested in school than in having a root canal! It's also a busy time of year for my jewelry business. Trying to get enough pieces made for art shows throughout the summer is time consuming to say the least. Not to mention trying to keep up with our new website. Then there's church. It's been a roller coster of emotions. Lots of differing OPINIONS (mine included) have caused a great disturbance in the church. I feel like we've been one giant thundercloud. Everone in a different place, with nothing but tension and anger in the middle.
Romans 8:18-25
18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 19 The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. 20 For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. 22 We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23 Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? 25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
Just like the Earth cries out to it's creator to bring it peace and restoration, I have cried out and prayed for the same in my life and His church. Here's the thing about storms. They're powerful! We've all seen images of tornado damage. Homes made of brick and mortar ripped to shreds by an invisible power. The storms in our life can leave the same kind of damage. They might not be caused by physical conditions, but they do stem from our inability to accept our differences. Instead of embracing them, and using them for His Kingdom, we allow them to separate us leaving a wake of destruction behind. But, the storm itself, in all of its awesome power, isn't really the point. Although it can be breathtaking, the true beauty is what comes after the storm. Calm. Peace. Restoration. Healing. We see it on television all the time. Every time they interview storm vicitms, we find people coming together for a common good. Loving one another. It's been a tough year for our church. Lines were drawn in the sand, and people were hurt. There were casualties, that may never be repaired. But, God's grace is most evident after the storm. I believe these trials, as difficult as they are, should be treasured as opportunities to witness the love and peace of Christ. I have high hopes. Hopes for my personal life, for my family, for His church. But mostly I have hope, that whatever changes, whatever storms we meet along the way, we don't face them in fear. But rather we embrace the opportunity to see the power, beauty, love, and grace of our Father who longs to bring us peace in Him, just as he does for all of his creation. Thanks to the storm, I see a brighter day ahead.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Silent witness
I know we've all heard the old saying, "be careful what you wish for, because you just might get it." Well, I don't think that has ever been more true in my life than now. To be honest, I've been frustrated lately. Not one frustration in particular, but in everything. I've thrown some pretty good pitty party's for myself to celebrate my frustration. But, in all my frustration and confusion, I perservere in one request. Each day I ask God to use me to make himself evident. I ask him to put me in a position to share him with others. I ask him to help me in making him my focus in my actions, not just words. And, well....he is.
I read a book recently by Eugene Peterson called, Tell it Slant. It was awesome. Peterson suggests that we focus not on traditional witness, but to share God in all of our conversation, even when we don't realize it. Here are a few of my favorite quotes in the book. Ruminate on them and see if they speak as loudly to you as they did me:
In our urgency to get our message out, we depersonalize what we have to say into rote phrases or a progammatic formula without regard to the person we are meeting.
I am interested in discerning the voice of God in the conversations that we enagage in when we are not intentionally thinking, "God".
I have always struggled with witnessing to others. I always worried that I would come off as too "churchy". Or, I wondered if I would be unbelievable to people who knew how truly flawed I was. Maybe we've been going about it all wrong. How many people have been turned off by what feels like "Godspeak"? Let me ask you this, do we share Christ without having to use the name of Jesus?
It's not easy. Witnessing this way requires us to live the love of Christ in such a way that others see and hear Him in us even when we don't. It requires a reliance on the Holy Spirit to speak through you in ways that we cannot do alone. This type of witness opens the door to a living experience of Christ's love in ways I never understood. Witness based on genuine relationships rather than empty words. Even as I prayed those prayers, I didn't understand how they were being answered. It was always my hope that others would see Christ in me, but I worried that my flawed nature would win out, and I would have to shout it from the rooftops before anyone believed I loved Jesus. Boy was I wrong. Because even with my little faith, Christ was speaking through me, and I didn't even know it. His message was/is love, patience, acceptance, forgiveness, generosity, and so much more. One of my students recently helped me realize just how much God is present and speaks when we are too noisy to hear it. I have spent the last few weeks sharing with her. I do a lot of listening, and just a little talking. I don't mention God over and over, but when I do, she clings to it. I'm not just sharing my love of Christ, I am also being shown His love for me.
As I am beginning to realize my role in His kingdom work, I find my frustrations deminishing. I am being rewarded by seeing his grace lived out in others. I am being blessed by hearing his spirit. By feeling/accepting his strengh in my weakness, because opening yourself to others is one of the most terrifying experiences ever. It is also the most rewarding. Remember that God is present in every situation whethere we acknowledge him or not. And, he WILL use you to speak, even when you are not speaking. So, be careful. Because others see you, the real you, when you think no one is looking. And, when those around you see Christ in you (even if they don't know it's him) they will seek him through you. And be prepared to share. It may be time consuming and emotionally draining, but it is through these relationships that we don't just speak God, we deliver his love to our world.
I read a book recently by Eugene Peterson called, Tell it Slant. It was awesome. Peterson suggests that we focus not on traditional witness, but to share God in all of our conversation, even when we don't realize it. Here are a few of my favorite quotes in the book. Ruminate on them and see if they speak as loudly to you as they did me:
In our urgency to get our message out, we depersonalize what we have to say into rote phrases or a progammatic formula without regard to the person we are meeting.
I am interested in discerning the voice of God in the conversations that we enagage in when we are not intentionally thinking, "God".
I have always struggled with witnessing to others. I always worried that I would come off as too "churchy". Or, I wondered if I would be unbelievable to people who knew how truly flawed I was. Maybe we've been going about it all wrong. How many people have been turned off by what feels like "Godspeak"? Let me ask you this, do we share Christ without having to use the name of Jesus?
It's not easy. Witnessing this way requires us to live the love of Christ in such a way that others see and hear Him in us even when we don't. It requires a reliance on the Holy Spirit to speak through you in ways that we cannot do alone. This type of witness opens the door to a living experience of Christ's love in ways I never understood. Witness based on genuine relationships rather than empty words. Even as I prayed those prayers, I didn't understand how they were being answered. It was always my hope that others would see Christ in me, but I worried that my flawed nature would win out, and I would have to shout it from the rooftops before anyone believed I loved Jesus. Boy was I wrong. Because even with my little faith, Christ was speaking through me, and I didn't even know it. His message was/is love, patience, acceptance, forgiveness, generosity, and so much more. One of my students recently helped me realize just how much God is present and speaks when we are too noisy to hear it. I have spent the last few weeks sharing with her. I do a lot of listening, and just a little talking. I don't mention God over and over, but when I do, she clings to it. I'm not just sharing my love of Christ, I am also being shown His love for me.
As I am beginning to realize my role in His kingdom work, I find my frustrations deminishing. I am being rewarded by seeing his grace lived out in others. I am being blessed by hearing his spirit. By feeling/accepting his strengh in my weakness, because opening yourself to others is one of the most terrifying experiences ever. It is also the most rewarding. Remember that God is present in every situation whethere we acknowledge him or not. And, he WILL use you to speak, even when you are not speaking. So, be careful. Because others see you, the real you, when you think no one is looking. And, when those around you see Christ in you (even if they don't know it's him) they will seek him through you. And be prepared to share. It may be time consuming and emotionally draining, but it is through these relationships that we don't just speak God, we deliver his love to our world.
Monday, April 12, 2010
I'm a Hypocrite!
Last week in class, we were discussing the universe, earth, etc., and the conversation veered away from academics and towards something spiritual. I often have students ask about my beliefs, and often they are surprised that my scientific understanding does not interfere or dissect my faith. And every year it makes me ask myself, what are we teaching others about the Kingdom of God?
During this conversation, one student brought up relevant argument that many people claim to be Christians, yet are very hypocritical in their actions. The right side of their mouth doesn't agree with the left. Hipocricy has been a problem that has plagued Christianity since it's foundation. So, it makes sense that we should all be very good at it by now! I don't use the word ALL lightly either. Because, at times, yes ALL of us contradict ourselves. None of us are infallible. We all do or say things, that we know go against what we believe. This is what I call sin. So yes we are all hypocrites, because yes, we all sin. Here's where my thoughts may differ from others. Being a hypocrite isn't a reason not to follow Christ, it is the very reason TO follow Him!!!
If all of us are hypocritical at times, then why are so many people turned off by us "Christians". Well, I think the answer lies in our religious schooling. We are taught that it's bad to be a hypocrite. And, to an extent, it is. At the same time, it is inevitable. I see so many young people who are excited about the message, but they don't truly understand what it means to follow Christ. They are taught to be perfect. They are taught to judge right from wrong not only in themselves, but in others. They are taught about the things you must DO and SAY and how you must ACT in order to be a Christian!!! And, when they can't keep up the charade, and finally get real, they look like hypocrites. It makes me want to scream sometimes. Why aren't we teaching others the truth???
The truth is, no one is perfect. And, if you're striving to live the perfect life, then your focus is off. It's not about living perfection, but about living the love of Jesus. Let's teach our kids the error isn't in being a hypocrite, but in claiming not to be! Let's teach Grace! Let's teach our kids about the real Jesus! Not the story book one, who was soft and cuddly, but the one who was honest, and real. Let's tell them about the Jesus who didn't always tell you what you wanted to hear. The one who said love each other, don't judge! The one who isn't fooled by the fake smile on our faces, but is moved by the genuine love of our hearts. Maybe if we all get real about our faith, and quit trying to impress each other with how good we can be, maybe we can experience the life of the Kingdom, as it was intended.
During this conversation, one student brought up relevant argument that many people claim to be Christians, yet are very hypocritical in their actions. The right side of their mouth doesn't agree with the left. Hipocricy has been a problem that has plagued Christianity since it's foundation. So, it makes sense that we should all be very good at it by now! I don't use the word ALL lightly either. Because, at times, yes ALL of us contradict ourselves. None of us are infallible. We all do or say things, that we know go against what we believe. This is what I call sin. So yes we are all hypocrites, because yes, we all sin. Here's where my thoughts may differ from others. Being a hypocrite isn't a reason not to follow Christ, it is the very reason TO follow Him!!!
If all of us are hypocritical at times, then why are so many people turned off by us "Christians". Well, I think the answer lies in our religious schooling. We are taught that it's bad to be a hypocrite. And, to an extent, it is. At the same time, it is inevitable. I see so many young people who are excited about the message, but they don't truly understand what it means to follow Christ. They are taught to be perfect. They are taught to judge right from wrong not only in themselves, but in others. They are taught about the things you must DO and SAY and how you must ACT in order to be a Christian!!! And, when they can't keep up the charade, and finally get real, they look like hypocrites. It makes me want to scream sometimes. Why aren't we teaching others the truth???
The truth is, no one is perfect. And, if you're striving to live the perfect life, then your focus is off. It's not about living perfection, but about living the love of Jesus. Let's teach our kids the error isn't in being a hypocrite, but in claiming not to be! Let's teach Grace! Let's teach our kids about the real Jesus! Not the story book one, who was soft and cuddly, but the one who was honest, and real. Let's tell them about the Jesus who didn't always tell you what you wanted to hear. The one who said love each other, don't judge! The one who isn't fooled by the fake smile on our faces, but is moved by the genuine love of our hearts. Maybe if we all get real about our faith, and quit trying to impress each other with how good we can be, maybe we can experience the life of the Kingdom, as it was intended.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Food for Thought
Lately, I've been thinking a lot about thinking. And, the more I think about it, the more I realize what an awesome thing thought can be! Maybe I'm not making a lot of sense, but think about it...our thoughts are constant like breath, even in sleep. They are often involuntary. Ideas pop into our heads for seemingly no rhyme nor reason. Thoughts also come like flashes of lightning. We think of something great, but five seconds later we can't remember what it was! I'm not sure why I've been thinking so much lately, but it has led me to a greater reverence of thought.
The concept of thought can be very contradictory at times. I mean, thinking is so easy, that we don't have to think about it to do it. Yet, as a teacher, one of the greatest challenges I face is getting my students to think. Not just gather knowledge and fill in a blank, but to dig deep. To be able to apply a concept to abstract situations, and see the big picture. So...it's easy, but it's hard!! Thoughts can also be contradictory in their moral nature. Good and bad. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "A man is what he thinks about all day long." That can be a great thing, or a really really scary thing!
So what are we to think about all of this thinking? Well, I think, like with every other gift we are given, we should handle it with care. No good or evil can come without thought.
Phillipians 4:8 says, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
Matthew 15:18-20 says, ""But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen
hands defileth not a man."
God longs for us to think. Not just about him, but about all of his creation. Jesus often spoke in parables, not to frustrate us or cause us to argue about the meaning, but because He wants us to THINK!!! He wants us to contemplate Him. Think about what it means to follow Him. To think like Him. To serve Him. To love like Him. He doesn't want us suffer from the shallowness of spoonfed religion, but to have a deeper understanding of God. And just as important as having a deeper understanding, is realizing that the more we know...the less we understand! Sounds backwards I know. But, the more I think about and learn about our creator, the more questions I have. But this process of thinking, asking, learning, thinking more creates intimacey, respect, and desire for more. This is the process we use to get to know one another, shouldn't we also use it to get to know our Lord?
Never forget that our thoughts have power...great power that is never to be taken for granted. The can and will control of us if we lose focus. So, think about what you're thinking about. Because the thoughts that grow in your mind can manifest in your life. Hmmm...just some food for thought.
The concept of thought can be very contradictory at times. I mean, thinking is so easy, that we don't have to think about it to do it. Yet, as a teacher, one of the greatest challenges I face is getting my students to think. Not just gather knowledge and fill in a blank, but to dig deep. To be able to apply a concept to abstract situations, and see the big picture. So...it's easy, but it's hard!! Thoughts can also be contradictory in their moral nature. Good and bad. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "A man is what he thinks about all day long." That can be a great thing, or a really really scary thing!
So what are we to think about all of this thinking? Well, I think, like with every other gift we are given, we should handle it with care. No good or evil can come without thought.
Phillipians 4:8 says, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."
Matthew 15:18-20 says, ""But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen
hands defileth not a man."
God longs for us to think. Not just about him, but about all of his creation. Jesus often spoke in parables, not to frustrate us or cause us to argue about the meaning, but because He wants us to THINK!!! He wants us to contemplate Him. Think about what it means to follow Him. To think like Him. To serve Him. To love like Him. He doesn't want us suffer from the shallowness of spoonfed religion, but to have a deeper understanding of God. And just as important as having a deeper understanding, is realizing that the more we know...the less we understand! Sounds backwards I know. But, the more I think about and learn about our creator, the more questions I have. But this process of thinking, asking, learning, thinking more creates intimacey, respect, and desire for more. This is the process we use to get to know one another, shouldn't we also use it to get to know our Lord?
Never forget that our thoughts have power...great power that is never to be taken for granted. The can and will control of us if we lose focus. So, think about what you're thinking about. Because the thoughts that grow in your mind can manifest in your life. Hmmm...just some food for thought.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Give it up!
I read something cool in the news this week. Australian businessman, Karl Rabeder, is is giving away his $5.3 million dollar fortune to seek true happiness in life. Here's a link to his story if you want more delails. Karl Rebeder story. If you don't want to read it, here's the short and sweet. Rabeder is a self made millionaire who felt that more wealth and luxury would equal happiness. But happiness never came. Hard work and money would buy luxurious things, but they were never enough. So, he decided to get rid of it all! He said, "My idea is to have nothing left. Absolutely nothing. Money is counter-productive, it prevents happiness."
This story seems unbelievable in today's consumer driven society. And though we don't often admit it, none of us are immune to this sickness of materialism. At least I know I'm not! I've already decided that my next car needs to have built in GPS, leather heated seats and steering wheel!!! It's kind of funny to think about how dependent we are on "stuff". I think many of us learned that the hard way during our power outage. But, it's really not funny at all. We may think our stuff makes us happy, but the euphoria is temporary. Ever wondered why buyers remorse is so pandemic? So, if not stuff, where DO we find true happiness? I think you'll all know my answer. Of course...Jesus Christ. Talk about a man who gave it all up! H didn't give up a lot monetarily, but that's just because he didn't have any money to give. So, he gave what he had. Himself. His heart, His soul, His tears, His sweat, and ultimately, His life. What do we give for Him???
This story also tied into something else that's been on my mind lately. The season of Lent. Traditionally, Lend is a period of time leading up to Easter, when Christians prepare to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. There are may ways to observe Lent, but many Christians do so through prayer, self-denial, almsgiving, repentance, reflection, and soul-searching. The forty days are meant to represent the 40 days that Christ spent in the wilderness preparing for his ministry. During this time, Christ was immersed in communion with His heavenly father. Though traditionally a Catholic, Methodist, or Lutheran tradition, I want to encourage us all to observe lint this year.
We tend to get so caught up in life physically, emotionally, monetarily, etc. Let's get rid of it! I'm not telling you to sell all of your stuff like the Australian millionaire, but simplify. Reflect on a part of your life that consumes more of you than it should. Think about where your life focus is now. Is it on Jesus Christ? Is it really? If no, or I'm not sure was your answer, then why not? What's keeping you from the sweet peace offered by our Saviour? Whatever it is...GIVE IT UP!!! I want to encourage you to take your commitment one step farther and not just remove something, but replace it with Christ. I'm giving up my snooze button. I HATE mornings!!! I set the alarm 45 minutes early so I can ease out of my slumber. So, instead, I am going to get up and spend my first fruit of the day with Christ. I admit, I've tried this one before and failed miserably!!! Maybe you don't want to change the time of day you commune with our father. Maybe you just want to spend more time, or maybe more "real" time. Whatever you choose to do, be it prayer, meditation, reading, fasting, etcetera, I pray the outcome is fruitful. It's certainly not going to be easy, but let's encourage each other along the way. So, good luck! And here's to hope that you all experience more of Christ, by experiencing less of the world.
This story seems unbelievable in today's consumer driven society. And though we don't often admit it, none of us are immune to this sickness of materialism. At least I know I'm not! I've already decided that my next car needs to have built in GPS, leather heated seats and steering wheel!!! It's kind of funny to think about how dependent we are on "stuff". I think many of us learned that the hard way during our power outage. But, it's really not funny at all. We may think our stuff makes us happy, but the euphoria is temporary. Ever wondered why buyers remorse is so pandemic? So, if not stuff, where DO we find true happiness? I think you'll all know my answer. Of course...Jesus Christ. Talk about a man who gave it all up! H didn't give up a lot monetarily, but that's just because he didn't have any money to give. So, he gave what he had. Himself. His heart, His soul, His tears, His sweat, and ultimately, His life. What do we give for Him???
This story also tied into something else that's been on my mind lately. The season of Lent. Traditionally, Lend is a period of time leading up to Easter, when Christians prepare to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. There are may ways to observe Lent, but many Christians do so through prayer, self-denial, almsgiving, repentance, reflection, and soul-searching. The forty days are meant to represent the 40 days that Christ spent in the wilderness preparing for his ministry. During this time, Christ was immersed in communion with His heavenly father. Though traditionally a Catholic, Methodist, or Lutheran tradition, I want to encourage us all to observe lint this year.
We tend to get so caught up in life physically, emotionally, monetarily, etc. Let's get rid of it! I'm not telling you to sell all of your stuff like the Australian millionaire, but simplify. Reflect on a part of your life that consumes more of you than it should. Think about where your life focus is now. Is it on Jesus Christ? Is it really? If no, or I'm not sure was your answer, then why not? What's keeping you from the sweet peace offered by our Saviour? Whatever it is...GIVE IT UP!!! I want to encourage you to take your commitment one step farther and not just remove something, but replace it with Christ. I'm giving up my snooze button. I HATE mornings!!! I set the alarm 45 minutes early so I can ease out of my slumber. So, instead, I am going to get up and spend my first fruit of the day with Christ. I admit, I've tried this one before and failed miserably!!! Maybe you don't want to change the time of day you commune with our father. Maybe you just want to spend more time, or maybe more "real" time. Whatever you choose to do, be it prayer, meditation, reading, fasting, etcetera, I pray the outcome is fruitful. It's certainly not going to be easy, but let's encourage each other along the way. So, good luck! And here's to hope that you all experience more of Christ, by experiencing less of the world.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Being Church
Every year at Christmas, I watch the Jim Carey version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas. It's weird how I notice different things about the movie each year that I never noticed before. This year, I didn't notice any new details specifically, but I did notice something even bigger.
It's Christmas time in Whoville. Everyone is hustling and bustling getting ready for the big day. It's a madhouse at the stores as everyone tries to buy last minute gifts. All the smiling faces tell us that everyone MUST be happy in Whoville...right? Well, everyone but two. Little Cindy Lou isn't just less than thrilled, she's downright sad! What's the point she thinks? What good are all these gifts? She sings the sweetest sadest song, "Where are you Christmas? Why can't I find you? Why have you gone away?" Her parents try to cheer her up, but she's not buying it. She knows something is missing. Enter the Grinch. Whoville outcast. Scorned by society because he's just horrible! But that's not the real reason. He was just different. Because he looked and acted different, he was treated as such. He is hurt down to his core by the rejection of others, and secludes himself. Cindy reaches out to the Grinch, and though he is shocked, he rejects her. But, she doesn't quit. Time and again she tries, and he rejects. The more she tries the madder he gets. So, the Grinch steals Christmas...well the presents anyways. He thinks no presents equals no Christmas. Whoville will be destroyed. But that's not what hppends. In fact, it's Cindy Lou who shows him what Christmas is truly about. Not the presents, or pretty decorations, but rather the spirit of togetherness. Something that can't be stolen. The Grinch is moved, and Christmas is saved as they all hold hands and sing around the Christmas tree.
Long post, but stay with me...What if this isn't about Christmas at all, but rather it's about Church. Haven't we all wondered if there wasn't something more? Haven't we all thought what's the point? Just like the Who's bought presents, haven't we all gone to Church out of obligation? If Christmas isn't about presents, maybe Church isn't about attendance. Maybe it's something more. Think about this for a second...What if the Grinch stole your Church building? Would that be the end? Or, would you respond like Cindy Lou? Would the absence of the building reveal the true church? Replace the Christmas tree with Jesus, and let's sing around that!!! Isn't that how we find the true spirit of our church? It's not a building or a place, but it's US! Not an institution focused on finance, but a living body! It's our hearts and lives being lived out through Jesus Christ. If churches really followed that model, we wouldn't create Grinches by turning away those who are different from us. I know we all like to think that "our" church doesn't do that....but we do. It's just "human nature". That's the point too. The church shouldn't be led by human nature but rather by Christs' nature! So, everyone who reads this should go to their church and turn it upside down right??? Nope. I just want us all to look a little, actually a lot, deeper. I don't just think there's something more, I know it. But, how we get there is not our choice or will, but HIS! We try and turn our own grand ideas into His will with the best of intentions, then can't figure out why such a wonderful idea just didn't work.
Try to think about what it truly means to be a church. Literally and figuratively. Think on it. Pray on it, and if you're led, act on it! Just make sure the actions you take are based on His plan for the New You, not your own. This topic is going to take some time to go through. My thoughts are too scrambled to get to the point in just one post. As I organize my thoughts into something a little more coherant than this post, be thinking about what you believe a church is supposed to do or be. Please share your thoughts with me too. I love hearing from all of you.
It's Christmas time in Whoville. Everyone is hustling and bustling getting ready for the big day. It's a madhouse at the stores as everyone tries to buy last minute gifts. All the smiling faces tell us that everyone MUST be happy in Whoville...right? Well, everyone but two. Little Cindy Lou isn't just less than thrilled, she's downright sad! What's the point she thinks? What good are all these gifts? She sings the sweetest sadest song, "Where are you Christmas? Why can't I find you? Why have you gone away?" Her parents try to cheer her up, but she's not buying it. She knows something is missing. Enter the Grinch. Whoville outcast. Scorned by society because he's just horrible! But that's not the real reason. He was just different. Because he looked and acted different, he was treated as such. He is hurt down to his core by the rejection of others, and secludes himself. Cindy reaches out to the Grinch, and though he is shocked, he rejects her. But, she doesn't quit. Time and again she tries, and he rejects. The more she tries the madder he gets. So, the Grinch steals Christmas...well the presents anyways. He thinks no presents equals no Christmas. Whoville will be destroyed. But that's not what hppends. In fact, it's Cindy Lou who shows him what Christmas is truly about. Not the presents, or pretty decorations, but rather the spirit of togetherness. Something that can't be stolen. The Grinch is moved, and Christmas is saved as they all hold hands and sing around the Christmas tree.
Long post, but stay with me...What if this isn't about Christmas at all, but rather it's about Church. Haven't we all wondered if there wasn't something more? Haven't we all thought what's the point? Just like the Who's bought presents, haven't we all gone to Church out of obligation? If Christmas isn't about presents, maybe Church isn't about attendance. Maybe it's something more. Think about this for a second...What if the Grinch stole your Church building? Would that be the end? Or, would you respond like Cindy Lou? Would the absence of the building reveal the true church? Replace the Christmas tree with Jesus, and let's sing around that!!! Isn't that how we find the true spirit of our church? It's not a building or a place, but it's US! Not an institution focused on finance, but a living body! It's our hearts and lives being lived out through Jesus Christ. If churches really followed that model, we wouldn't create Grinches by turning away those who are different from us. I know we all like to think that "our" church doesn't do that....but we do. It's just "human nature". That's the point too. The church shouldn't be led by human nature but rather by Christs' nature! So, everyone who reads this should go to their church and turn it upside down right??? Nope. I just want us all to look a little, actually a lot, deeper. I don't just think there's something more, I know it. But, how we get there is not our choice or will, but HIS! We try and turn our own grand ideas into His will with the best of intentions, then can't figure out why such a wonderful idea just didn't work.
Try to think about what it truly means to be a church. Literally and figuratively. Think on it. Pray on it, and if you're led, act on it! Just make sure the actions you take are based on His plan for the New You, not your own. This topic is going to take some time to go through. My thoughts are too scrambled to get to the point in just one post. As I organize my thoughts into something a little more coherant than this post, be thinking about what you believe a church is supposed to do or be. Please share your thoughts with me too. I love hearing from all of you.
Friday, January 15, 2010
New Year. New You?
It's been a while, I know. The holiday season was beautifully simple, and a much needed escape from the chaos of my life. But, here we are, half way through January, and I find myself being sucked back into the swirling vortex of work, home, kids, church, appointments, etcetera, etcetera. While I didn't make any particular New Year's Resolutions, (they're just not my thing) I do have hope of simplifying my life a bit this year. That may be wishful thinking, but I'm going to think it none the less! I'm also making it a point to find time for myself amongst the madness. I want to learn how to play the guitar mom bought me 6 years ago! I'm also taking time to read. One of my favorite pastimes had become just that...the past! Thanks to my hubby (a.k.a. Santa), reading has become much more convenient with my new Kindle! Anytime I want a book, it's there at the click of a button! I love it!!!
So, I've been reading feverishly since Christmas. I started a book this week called "So You Don't Want to Go to Church Anymore". As I started reading, I could definitely see parallels to things going on in our Church. Things that need to be "fixed". For instance, the way we focus on rules over love. Or the lack of action due to differing opinions. Even more critical points attacked our foundation. Do we really, truly understand who Jesus was? What else lies within our church walls? Within the heart of the church? Lies, manipulation, hurt, anger, mistrust, fear...some of this is pretty hard to swallow. But, as I continue to read, this book is becoming more personal.
It's not really about changing your church at all, but about changing yourself. But, I'm perfect right? So, what's this got to do with me God? HAHAHA! Here's a toughy...what's your motivation in service? Do we truly do it to worship and love? Sure we do...but then again, that pat on the back feels pretty good too. How many times have you ever volunteered to do something because the voice in your head was saying, "If I don't do it, no one will, or at least it won't be done right!". Hmmmm? What about who we help? Do we love freely with all God's creations, or do we pick and choose? Or do we offer conditional help? "Sure we can help you Needy Nancy, as long as you come to our church." Funny thing is, I don't remember Christ placing conditions on His love for us. We work so hard to be good Christians, but is that what it's really about? Are we working to be good or perfect, or to be like Christ? And, is it US doing the work, or are we fully reliant upon His spirit to provide, and allowing ourselves to become tools of His grace? Do we represent Christ as a spiritual Lord in heaven or as a tangible Saviour living here and now? I'll be honest here...I'm GUILTY!!! I've done and still do these things, even if it is unconsciously at times.
This post doesn't offer the answers, but hopefully it will get the ball rolling on your own self reflection, as it has mine. I encourage you to read the book if you can. You can download it free at jakecolsen.com. It is a fictional book, and I want you to keep that in mind as you read. It is not a "Bible" study. But, it will provoke thought, self reflection, awareness, clearer vision, and likely some new realizations of your journey with Christ. There will likely be many more posts as I explore my own spiritual foundations and growth. And hopefully, if we are truthful and sincere in our search we will all find the "New You" this year.
So, I've been reading feverishly since Christmas. I started a book this week called "So You Don't Want to Go to Church Anymore". As I started reading, I could definitely see parallels to things going on in our Church. Things that need to be "fixed". For instance, the way we focus on rules over love. Or the lack of action due to differing opinions. Even more critical points attacked our foundation. Do we really, truly understand who Jesus was? What else lies within our church walls? Within the heart of the church? Lies, manipulation, hurt, anger, mistrust, fear...some of this is pretty hard to swallow. But, as I continue to read, this book is becoming more personal.
It's not really about changing your church at all, but about changing yourself. But, I'm perfect right? So, what's this got to do with me God? HAHAHA! Here's a toughy...what's your motivation in service? Do we truly do it to worship and love? Sure we do...but then again, that pat on the back feels pretty good too. How many times have you ever volunteered to do something because the voice in your head was saying, "If I don't do it, no one will, or at least it won't be done right!". Hmmmm? What about who we help? Do we love freely with all God's creations, or do we pick and choose? Or do we offer conditional help? "Sure we can help you Needy Nancy, as long as you come to our church." Funny thing is, I don't remember Christ placing conditions on His love for us. We work so hard to be good Christians, but is that what it's really about? Are we working to be good or perfect, or to be like Christ? And, is it US doing the work, or are we fully reliant upon His spirit to provide, and allowing ourselves to become tools of His grace? Do we represent Christ as a spiritual Lord in heaven or as a tangible Saviour living here and now? I'll be honest here...I'm GUILTY!!! I've done and still do these things, even if it is unconsciously at times.
This post doesn't offer the answers, but hopefully it will get the ball rolling on your own self reflection, as it has mine. I encourage you to read the book if you can. You can download it free at jakecolsen.com. It is a fictional book, and I want you to keep that in mind as you read. It is not a "Bible" study. But, it will provoke thought, self reflection, awareness, clearer vision, and likely some new realizations of your journey with Christ. There will likely be many more posts as I explore my own spiritual foundations and growth. And hopefully, if we are truthful and sincere in our search we will all find the "New You" this year.
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