Ok, so the title isn't the best in the world. I'm ok with that; virtually everything I do is not the best in the world and I've had to learn to be ok with that too. But, still, I like the title. Here's why.
I've never really been a health fanatic (and I don't plan to become one today). Sure, I try be sensible in my eating and physical activity. I remember saying when I was a kid that when I grew up I would get a milkshake anytime I wanted one. Well, here I am and I want one...but I rarely get one. Why? Because I'm trying to eat more healthy foods and milkshakes rarely, though sometimes, qualify.
Lent is the 40-day period leading up to Easter, the resurrection day of Jesus. It is on the church calendar to commemorate Jesus' 40 days in the wilderness after his baptism. Other biblical characters spent a period of 40 days in a similar way, such as Moses and Elijah. Of course, Israel spent 40 years in the wilderness. So Lent, is a time when we are allowed, if we so choose, to enter the "wilderness" and do without and thus share a time with Jesus in a different kind of way. Peole choose to fast, go without TV, or don't eat out, etc. Virtually anything in your normal lifestyle could qualify as something you give up.
So I'm re-lenting as it relates to my diet. No, I'm not dieting. I'm choosing to develop better eating habits. And it won't be easy. I fully expect that Satan will attempt to lead me to compromise. I choose to relentlessly pursue better eating habits. More green, even raw veggies. Fewer sweets. More water. Less bacon and more oats (that was hard to write!).
What about you? Have you chosen to give up something?
Feb 17, 2010
Feb 12, 2010
Season of Lent
It's that time of the year again. Time for Lent. A time for us to participate, even in small ways, in the death of Christ as we anticipate celebrating together his resurrection come Easter. It is an opportunity to give something up, not just for the sake of giving it up but to surrender a part of self in order to be more intentionally filled by God. The idea is that we surrender something of meaning and use that space to be more open to God at work in us. It is an experience for us in going deeper into the heart and life of loving God and loving others.
I've surrendered different things over the last several years I've participated in the Lenten season...things like caffeine, various foods, and the snooze button on my alarm clock. Those are small, simple things but they provide an opportunity for me to be reminded that my life is LESS about self and MORE about God.
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday (April 17) and continues for 44 days leading up to Easter. Traditionally participants enjoy whatever they have given up each Sunday throughout the 44 days as a reminder of coming together as God's people to celebrate the resurrection.
I invite you to participate. And be creative. There are plenty of unique and wonderful ways to surrender a part of ourselves to God during this time of year. If you have already decided on your own, maybe you would like to share with the rest of us?
May God bless you during this time as you die to self, and rest in him...
--Mike
I've surrendered different things over the last several years I've participated in the Lenten season...things like caffeine, various foods, and the snooze button on my alarm clock. Those are small, simple things but they provide an opportunity for me to be reminded that my life is LESS about self and MORE about God.
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday (April 17) and continues for 44 days leading up to Easter. Traditionally participants enjoy whatever they have given up each Sunday throughout the 44 days as a reminder of coming together as God's people to celebrate the resurrection.
I invite you to participate. And be creative. There are plenty of unique and wonderful ways to surrender a part of ourselves to God during this time of year. If you have already decided on your own, maybe you would like to share with the rest of us?
May God bless you during this time as you die to self, and rest in him...
--Mike
Feb 5, 2010
Settled Christianity
I think sometimes as Christians, one of our biggest enemies is our own contentment.
It's easy to buy into the idea that once we find a place where we are comfortable and where we fit in, we put down roots and set up shop. We become so content to remain where we are that we forget that we are on a journey toward becoming more like Christ. We become "settled," when God calls us to be continually on the move. What invites us to be contentment home owners on Christianity street? Fear? Comfort? Ignorance? Indifference? Apathy? Maybe you can fill in your own blank...
The God story of Scripture calls Abraham to leave his home and all he's known...calls Noah to build an ark with no hint of water anywhere...calls Moses despite his "weaknesses" to help deliver God's people out of Egypt...calls the prophets to speak truth regardless of the consequences...calls Peter to drop his nets to become a rock of the church...calls Paul out of a life of "blindness" to proclaim the "light" he encountered on the road to Damascus...and calls us to seek, pursue, grow, and change. It is not a message of stagnation but a message of movement. Jesus invites us not to stay, to kick our feet up, and to get comfortable...BUT to love, to serve, to go, and to make disciples. It is not a call of arrival, but a call to travel...a call to be, and to keep on be-coming the hands and feet of Jesus in our communities.
I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back. So let's keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision—you'll see it yet! Now that we're on the right track, let's stay on it. Stick with me, friends. Keep track of those you see running this same course, headed for this same goal. There are many out there taking other paths, choosing other goals, and trying to get you to go along with them. I've warned you of them many times; sadly, I'm having to do it again. All they want is easy street...
Philippians 3:12-19 (The Message)
--Mike
It's easy to buy into the idea that once we find a place where we are comfortable and where we fit in, we put down roots and set up shop. We become so content to remain where we are that we forget that we are on a journey toward becoming more like Christ. We become "settled," when God calls us to be continually on the move. What invites us to be contentment home owners on Christianity street? Fear? Comfort? Ignorance? Indifference? Apathy? Maybe you can fill in your own blank...
The God story of Scripture calls Abraham to leave his home and all he's known...calls Noah to build an ark with no hint of water anywhere...calls Moses despite his "weaknesses" to help deliver God's people out of Egypt...calls the prophets to speak truth regardless of the consequences...calls Peter to drop his nets to become a rock of the church...calls Paul out of a life of "blindness" to proclaim the "light" he encountered on the road to Damascus...and calls us to seek, pursue, grow, and change. It is not a message of stagnation but a message of movement. Jesus invites us not to stay, to kick our feet up, and to get comfortable...BUT to love, to serve, to go, and to make disciples. It is not a call of arrival, but a call to travel...a call to be, and to keep on be-coming the hands and feet of Jesus in our communities.
I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back. So let's keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision—you'll see it yet! Now that we're on the right track, let's stay on it. Stick with me, friends. Keep track of those you see running this same course, headed for this same goal. There are many out there taking other paths, choosing other goals, and trying to get you to go along with them. I've warned you of them many times; sadly, I'm having to do it again. All they want is easy street...
Philippians 3:12-19 (The Message)
--Mike
Feb 3, 2010
What Kind of Party?
I know I live in somewhat of a bubble but that bubble is now smaller than it used to be. Why? Key Parties! No, not Tea Parties. Yes, Key Party. What's a Key Party? you wonder. Here's how it was explained to me.
Some married couples get together to enjoy each other's company. So far so good. Snacks, conversations, etc. Again, so far so good, right? Depends on how one defines "etc." At a Key Party, one's house key is dropped into a container. But when you leave someone selects a key from the container and goes home with the owner. Translated, a Tea Party is a change-of-partners-for-the-evening for a night of sexual immorality and adultery. But hey, participants are consenting adults and no one's harmed. Right? Wrong! But that's another post.
Here's what shocked me most, actually hurt me most. Christians in Reidland are known participants. Surely not! Is this true? Have you ever heard of such? I'm asking for verification. I'd really like to know? Can anyone help me? Rumor? Truth?
One thing I know...no Christian husband or wife who loves his/her spouse with the love of God would ever participate. It's called unbridled lust, sin. That's not being unfairly judgmental. Here's God's judgment: "the sexually immoral...will not inherit the kingdom of God" (1 Cor.6:9).
--Posted by Terrell
Some married couples get together to enjoy each other's company. So far so good. Snacks, conversations, etc. Again, so far so good, right? Depends on how one defines "etc." At a Key Party, one's house key is dropped into a container. But when you leave someone selects a key from the container and goes home with the owner. Translated, a Tea Party is a change-of-partners-for-the-evening for a night of sexual immorality and adultery. But hey, participants are consenting adults and no one's harmed. Right? Wrong! But that's another post.
Here's what shocked me most, actually hurt me most. Christians in Reidland are known participants. Surely not! Is this true? Have you ever heard of such? I'm asking for verification. I'd really like to know? Can anyone help me? Rumor? Truth?
One thing I know...no Christian husband or wife who loves his/her spouse with the love of God would ever participate. It's called unbridled lust, sin. That's not being unfairly judgmental. Here's God's judgment: "the sexually immoral...will not inherit the kingdom of God" (1 Cor.6:9).
--Posted by Terrell
Jan 28, 2010
Why is the Reidland Church Special to You?
Last week we put together a video for our Vision Sunday about what makes the Reidland church special. There were a wide variety of reasons shared by many of our members and I think the video paints a pretty good picture of why people are drawn to Reidland. I hope you enjoy...
Why is the Reidland Church Special to You? from Reidland Church on Vimeo.
Jan 21, 2010
The Theological and Practical Connection Between Prayer and Coincidence
You didn't know that did you? That there was a theological and practical connection between prayer and coincidence.
It's sort of like the athlete who seems to be in the right place at the right time to make the winning shot, snatch the winning rebound, intercept the opponent's pass, etc. And then in the next game the same athlete does the same things all over again. How? Luck? Skill? It looks easy when we watch them do it but is it simply a matter of being in the right place at the right time?
Athletes work toward perfection, which means they practice. Remember the practice-makes-perfect thing. The best atheletes work hard and are consistent in effort in order to be in the right place at the right time.
Ok, nuff said about athletes, especially since you've already figured out that I'm not simply coaching. Maybe my point is found in a simple statement from Mother Teresa statement, you know, the point about the connection between prayer and coincidence. See if her statement doesn't resonate with you: "When I pray, coincidences happen. When I stop, they don't." Any questions?
It's sort of like the athlete who seems to be in the right place at the right time to make the winning shot, snatch the winning rebound, intercept the opponent's pass, etc. And then in the next game the same athlete does the same things all over again. How? Luck? Skill? It looks easy when we watch them do it but is it simply a matter of being in the right place at the right time?
Athletes work toward perfection, which means they practice. Remember the practice-makes-perfect thing. The best atheletes work hard and are consistent in effort in order to be in the right place at the right time.
Ok, nuff said about athletes, especially since you've already figured out that I'm not simply coaching. Maybe my point is found in a simple statement from Mother Teresa statement, you know, the point about the connection between prayer and coincidence. See if her statement doesn't resonate with you: "When I pray, coincidences happen. When I stop, they don't." Any questions?
Dec 4, 2009
Avoiding God
"One often meets his destiny on the road he takes to avoid it."
An intriguing quote from one of the great philosophical movies of the last several years...Kung Fu Panda. It's intriguing because at times it can be reflective of our experience with God. At least it has been that way with me. There have been moments in my past when I tried to run away from the calling God had on my life. Several thoughts and emotions creep in and influence the choice to flee.
Fear. Hurt. Frustration. Disappointment. Doubt. Disinterest.
But as much as I tried to go in any other direction, one thing became clear. God wasn't interested in my excuses. And he wasn't going to leave me alone until I surrendered to Him. Why do we think we often know better than God? Why do we try to fool ourselves into thinking we will be more happy or more fulfilled as long as we stay in control of our lives?
What do you think would have happened in the lives of people in Scripture like Paul, Peter, or John if they chose a direction for themselves other than where God was calling them to follow? God dreams bigger than we can even begin to imagine.
And He simply waits for us to join him on a road that will lead to an unavoidable Kingdom destiny.
--Mike
An intriguing quote from one of the great philosophical movies of the last several years...Kung Fu Panda. It's intriguing because at times it can be reflective of our experience with God. At least it has been that way with me. There have been moments in my past when I tried to run away from the calling God had on my life. Several thoughts and emotions creep in and influence the choice to flee.
Fear. Hurt. Frustration. Disappointment. Doubt. Disinterest.
But as much as I tried to go in any other direction, one thing became clear. God wasn't interested in my excuses. And he wasn't going to leave me alone until I surrendered to Him. Why do we think we often know better than God? Why do we try to fool ourselves into thinking we will be more happy or more fulfilled as long as we stay in control of our lives?
What do you think would have happened in the lives of people in Scripture like Paul, Peter, or John if they chose a direction for themselves other than where God was calling them to follow? God dreams bigger than we can even begin to imagine.
And He simply waits for us to join him on a road that will lead to an unavoidable Kingdom destiny.
--Mike
Nov 24, 2009
The Sermon
One more time...a quotation from Francis Chan's Crazy Love: "We've conditioned ourselves to hear messages without responding. Sermons have become Christian entertainment. We go to church to hear a well-developed sermon and a convicting thought. We've trained ourselves to believe that if we're convicted, our job is done. If you're just hearing the Word and not actually doing something with it, you're deceiving yourself" (p. 184).
Is that what the sermon is, "Christian entertainment?" A few weeks ago I was privileged to hear a preacher par exellence. He is a homiletics professor, has written several best-sellers and is a outstanding man of God. As I listened and observed I was impressed by how good he was--easy to hear, friendly, engaging, etc. It's almost as if I was critiquing his message, style, mannerisms, and so on. This preacher was giving me a WORD from God and here I was checking out his style. I almost missed the word from God.
How do you listen to sermons? Ever hear/say any of these? (1) "I just wasn't into it today." Really? Was God for some reason unworthy of your praise on this day? (2) "I just didn't get anything out of the sermon today." Ok, did you give God anything or was it all about you? Worship is designed far more to give God something (praise) that to give you something (good entertainment). (3) "I had trouble staying focused during the sermon." Ok, is that because you stayed up late last night, had plans after church or maybe didn't want to see God and be challenged by his glory? Worship, including the sermon, is not about you. Anyone who comes to worship looking for God will find him. Anyone coming to worship for entertainment will find himself.
The sermon is all about bridge-building, connecting God's eternal world and our world in the anticipation that the gap between the two will be narrowed. The sermon is about learning to reflect God, to look like God, to smell like Christ. The sermon is not about entertainment. Or if it should have any entertainment value at all it is that of entertaining God by displaying him and his calling to hearers.
So, next time you hear a sermon try this: ask yourself what God is calling you to do or be or change as a result of that sermon? Rather than judging the sermon, how about letting the sermon judge you? At least that's what I'm going to try to do the next time I hear a sermon.
Is that what the sermon is, "Christian entertainment?" A few weeks ago I was privileged to hear a preacher par exellence. He is a homiletics professor, has written several best-sellers and is a outstanding man of God. As I listened and observed I was impressed by how good he was--easy to hear, friendly, engaging, etc. It's almost as if I was critiquing his message, style, mannerisms, and so on. This preacher was giving me a WORD from God and here I was checking out his style. I almost missed the word from God.
How do you listen to sermons? Ever hear/say any of these? (1) "I just wasn't into it today." Really? Was God for some reason unworthy of your praise on this day? (2) "I just didn't get anything out of the sermon today." Ok, did you give God anything or was it all about you? Worship is designed far more to give God something (praise) that to give you something (good entertainment). (3) "I had trouble staying focused during the sermon." Ok, is that because you stayed up late last night, had plans after church or maybe didn't want to see God and be challenged by his glory? Worship, including the sermon, is not about you. Anyone who comes to worship looking for God will find him. Anyone coming to worship for entertainment will find himself.
The sermon is all about bridge-building, connecting God's eternal world and our world in the anticipation that the gap between the two will be narrowed. The sermon is about learning to reflect God, to look like God, to smell like Christ. The sermon is not about entertainment. Or if it should have any entertainment value at all it is that of entertaining God by displaying him and his calling to hearers.
So, next time you hear a sermon try this: ask yourself what God is calling you to do or be or change as a result of that sermon? Rather than judging the sermon, how about letting the sermon judge you? At least that's what I'm going to try to do the next time I hear a sermon.
Nov 13, 2009
Even In Death...
...I am reminded about what it means to live.
This past week we ventured to Oklahoma to attend the funeral services for Sara's grandfather. It was a beautiful time of remembrance and celebration of a life lived to the glory of God. As much as we often fear death though, it is funny how death often has the potential to teach us so much about life.
Floyd was a man who gave of himself as much as he could. He loved the Lord. He loved people. He loved his church. He loved his family. The more stories I got to hear about grandpa, the more I found myself being reminded of a few simple truths. Life is short. He lived a good life and was blessed in many years, but I am reminded that we never really know how long we have on this earth. So, what am I going to do with this life I have been given? How am I going to live? What will be my legacy?
I believe we are called to Live Intentionally and not just live with good intentions. I want to make conscious decisions every day to live for God and for others. Life goes by too quickly to choose not to live intentionally. I'm also reminded to take time to love others. Even when it might not "fit in my schedule."
I remember playing with a pair of my dad's shoes when I was a lot younger. I remember how big they seemed compared to the size of my own feet. I would put them on and try to walk around. It felt awkward, clumsy...I would even stumble and fall a few times. But there was a simple joy to be found in doing my best to try to walk around in my father's shoes. Sometimes I think that's how we feel about our life with God. The shoes can seem so huge, even overwhelming when we try to follow in his footsteps. As we try to live out his way of life in this world we can feel awkward, and clumsy...we might even stumble and fall from time to time. As we continue to wear the shoes on a daily basis though, eventually we will begin to grow into them. But we have to be intentional about walking in them even when it feels uncomfortable and it may not feel like it's the right fit.
I believe God wants us to dream big...to walk forward in faith, trusting Him to do great things! But I think He also wants us to be mindful of the simple things life teaches...so that as we continue to learn to die to ourselves and follow Him, even in death we can be reminded about what it means to truly live.
--Mike
This past week we ventured to Oklahoma to attend the funeral services for Sara's grandfather. It was a beautiful time of remembrance and celebration of a life lived to the glory of God. As much as we often fear death though, it is funny how death often has the potential to teach us so much about life.
Floyd was a man who gave of himself as much as he could. He loved the Lord. He loved people. He loved his church. He loved his family. The more stories I got to hear about grandpa, the more I found myself being reminded of a few simple truths. Life is short. He lived a good life and was blessed in many years, but I am reminded that we never really know how long we have on this earth. So, what am I going to do with this life I have been given? How am I going to live? What will be my legacy?
I believe we are called to Live Intentionally and not just live with good intentions. I want to make conscious decisions every day to live for God and for others. Life goes by too quickly to choose not to live intentionally. I'm also reminded to take time to love others. Even when it might not "fit in my schedule."
I remember playing with a pair of my dad's shoes when I was a lot younger. I remember how big they seemed compared to the size of my own feet. I would put them on and try to walk around. It felt awkward, clumsy...I would even stumble and fall a few times. But there was a simple joy to be found in doing my best to try to walk around in my father's shoes. Sometimes I think that's how we feel about our life with God. The shoes can seem so huge, even overwhelming when we try to follow in his footsteps. As we try to live out his way of life in this world we can feel awkward, and clumsy...we might even stumble and fall from time to time. As we continue to wear the shoes on a daily basis though, eventually we will begin to grow into them. But we have to be intentional about walking in them even when it feels uncomfortable and it may not feel like it's the right fit.
I believe God wants us to dream big...to walk forward in faith, trusting Him to do great things! But I think He also wants us to be mindful of the simple things life teaches...so that as we continue to learn to die to ourselves and follow Him, even in death we can be reminded about what it means to truly live.
--Mike
Nov 11, 2009
Transforming Waters
I just read a story about a convicted felon who was baptized while in prison. He was lowered into a wooden coffin that had been lined with plastic and filled with water. He carefully stepped into the water and was immersed. His dead body was given new life by the power of God. The man sat in the coffin weeping, saying "I want to wear these clothes as long as I can. I am now a free man...this (razor) wire can't shackle my soul. I know that I deserved to come here, to pay for what I did. But I also learned here that someone else paid for my crimes." (Hicks & Taylor, Down in the River to Pray, 216). A similar coffin would hold his body again but death would have no power over him at that time.
The power of God at work in baptism is more powerful than our wickedness, more powerful than all the wickedness of the whole world. Uniting with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus through our own death, burial and resurrection is a powerful act of faith, submission, obedience in which transformation into the image of God is powerfully displayed. All who experience this new birth have new hope and new life. Everyone! I truly mean everyone. Including the above prisoner who had molested his 10-year-old daughter. But who am I to cast the first stone? All sinners, regardless of the nature of their sins, are in need of the transforming power of God which is uniquely unleashed in baptism. So let's drop the rocks in our hands.
What do you think?
The power of God at work in baptism is more powerful than our wickedness, more powerful than all the wickedness of the whole world. Uniting with the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus through our own death, burial and resurrection is a powerful act of faith, submission, obedience in which transformation into the image of God is powerfully displayed. All who experience this new birth have new hope and new life. Everyone! I truly mean everyone. Including the above prisoner who had molested his 10-year-old daughter. But who am I to cast the first stone? All sinners, regardless of the nature of their sins, are in need of the transforming power of God which is uniquely unleashed in baptism. So let's drop the rocks in our hands.
What do you think?
Nov 4, 2009
Can A Christian Be A Patriot?
Interesting question, huh? Maybe you've never thought about it before? Maybe you don't see it to be an issue at all and wonder what's the deal? Maybe it sounds unChristian or unAmerican to even ask the question? Anyway, it's being discussed more in Christian circles nowadays and we should welcome the discussion and be civil in our participation.
Over 100 years ago David Lipscomb questioned to what extent Christians should be involved in civil government. After all, what do the kingdoms of men have to do with the kingdom of God? So, Lipscomb opposed Christians running for political office, voting, etc. He most certainly would have opposed any American symbol being a part of a religious service, such as a flag.
What brought this to my attention again is the latest issue of Restoration Quarterly wherein an article by an ACU professor, Victor McCracken, is titled "Can A Christian Be A Patriot?" It's an interesting read. He notes how the American flag has sometimes received recognition in churches and schools and wonders whether Christians should question this activity. One of our national mottos, often seen as a bumper sticker, is "God bless America." Shouldn't we want God to bless all nations? McCracken shares the development of his own view as he has considered this subject.
Personally, I beleive we should be proud to be Americans--just like a dozen songs proclaim. Not arrogant though. Maybe rather than proud, perhaps we should think "fortunate." Then again, to be fortunate or blessed has little to do with geography and culture and is far, far more a matter of spiritual inheritance. In the kingdom of God there are no "Americans." God's people are "neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female" (Gal. 3:28).
As this kind of discussion will continue, you might be thinking about your first allegiance. Our first allegiance must always be pledged to God. All other allegiances pale compare to this. Let us never forget that we are first patriots of the kingdom of God.
Over 100 years ago David Lipscomb questioned to what extent Christians should be involved in civil government. After all, what do the kingdoms of men have to do with the kingdom of God? So, Lipscomb opposed Christians running for political office, voting, etc. He most certainly would have opposed any American symbol being a part of a religious service, such as a flag.
What brought this to my attention again is the latest issue of Restoration Quarterly wherein an article by an ACU professor, Victor McCracken, is titled "Can A Christian Be A Patriot?" It's an interesting read. He notes how the American flag has sometimes received recognition in churches and schools and wonders whether Christians should question this activity. One of our national mottos, often seen as a bumper sticker, is "God bless America." Shouldn't we want God to bless all nations? McCracken shares the development of his own view as he has considered this subject.
Personally, I beleive we should be proud to be Americans--just like a dozen songs proclaim. Not arrogant though. Maybe rather than proud, perhaps we should think "fortunate." Then again, to be fortunate or blessed has little to do with geography and culture and is far, far more a matter of spiritual inheritance. In the kingdom of God there are no "Americans." God's people are "neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female" (Gal. 3:28).
As this kind of discussion will continue, you might be thinking about your first allegiance. Our first allegiance must always be pledged to God. All other allegiances pale compare to this. Let us never forget that we are first patriots of the kingdom of God.
Oct 30, 2009
Kiva...an opportunity to help!
Have you ever heard of Kiva?
Kiva (from their website) "is the world's first person-to-person micro-lending website empowering individuals to lend to unique entrepreneurs around the globe." Their mission is to connect people through lending for the sake of alleviating poverty.
Isn't that in part what followers of Jesus are called to...to help any way we can to take care of the poor all around us? Poverty is such a huge issue, sometimes it can seem so overwhelming. I mean where do we even begin? But here is one opportunity that we can participate in, helping others in even the smallest of ways. And hopefully a discipline as small as this, can train us in ways to have our eyes and ears open to other opportunities to help those in need around us. After all we don't have to just help people halfway around the world, because there are poor in our own backyards. But, this is one way we can be proactive and choose to try to make a difference.
If you don't know much about it...check out their website: www.kiva.org
It's a great opportunity to use what God has blessed us with to be a blessing to others!
--Mike
Kiva (from their website) "is the world's first person-to-person micro-lending website empowering individuals to lend to unique entrepreneurs around the globe." Their mission is to connect people through lending for the sake of alleviating poverty.
Isn't that in part what followers of Jesus are called to...to help any way we can to take care of the poor all around us? Poverty is such a huge issue, sometimes it can seem so overwhelming. I mean where do we even begin? But here is one opportunity that we can participate in, helping others in even the smallest of ways. And hopefully a discipline as small as this, can train us in ways to have our eyes and ears open to other opportunities to help those in need around us. After all we don't have to just help people halfway around the world, because there are poor in our own backyards. But, this is one way we can be proactive and choose to try to make a difference.
If you don't know much about it...check out their website: www.kiva.org
It's a great opportunity to use what God has blessed us with to be a blessing to others!
--Mike
Oct 23, 2009
Flash Forward
There's a new show I've gotten sucked into on ABC called Flash Forward. The premise is that one day a mysterious event causes everyone on the planet to simultaneously lose consciousness for 137 seconds, during which people see what appear to be visions of their lives approximately six months in the future - a global “flash-forward." Some people respond to their glimpse of the future out of fear. They are afraid the visions will actually come true and their lives will be dramatically and even negatively altered forever. Others are filled with confidence as they look forward to the exciting possibilities the future apparently has in store. Either way, everyone starts to make decisions about their lives based on what they believe is yet to come. They act in ways they might not normally (both good and bad), because of the information they have received. The whole world in one sense is united because of this shared, common experience as they wait to see what the future will reveal and how it will continue to change everyone and everything.
Would you want to see a vision of your future? How do you think you might respond? Do you think the information would change the way you live?
---------------------------------------
In a way as Christians, we live in the context of our own "Flash Forward." God has given us a glimpse into the future. And it is a future that boldly proclaims God's victory over Satan, sin, evil, and death...a future of restored relationship between God and his people...a future where the kingdom of God is fully established on earth as it is in heaven. The crazy thing is that knowing that "insider" information doesn't seem to change our lives. For whatever reason we don't believe the "vision" is true. Somewhere in our head we know what the future holds, but we get too easily caught up in ourselves to allow the outcome to shape the way we live into the future. In talking about the book of Revelation and the idea of the "end times," Randy Harris sums it up this way: In the end "God wins. Choose wisely. Don't be stupid!" I think that's about as simple as it gets. Sometimes we need to be reminded of the simplicity.
Do we live in ways that point people forward to a future of God's reigning presence on earth? If not, we better be careful, because anything else might lead us to look back on the emptiness of our lives and see that it was all gone in a flash!
--Mike
Would you want to see a vision of your future? How do you think you might respond? Do you think the information would change the way you live?
---------------------------------------
In a way as Christians, we live in the context of our own "Flash Forward." God has given us a glimpse into the future. And it is a future that boldly proclaims God's victory over Satan, sin, evil, and death...a future of restored relationship between God and his people...a future where the kingdom of God is fully established on earth as it is in heaven. The crazy thing is that knowing that "insider" information doesn't seem to change our lives. For whatever reason we don't believe the "vision" is true. Somewhere in our head we know what the future holds, but we get too easily caught up in ourselves to allow the outcome to shape the way we live into the future. In talking about the book of Revelation and the idea of the "end times," Randy Harris sums it up this way: In the end "God wins. Choose wisely. Don't be stupid!" I think that's about as simple as it gets. Sometimes we need to be reminded of the simplicity.
Do we live in ways that point people forward to a future of God's reigning presence on earth? If not, we better be careful, because anything else might lead us to look back on the emptiness of our lives and see that it was all gone in a flash!
--Mike
Oct 16, 2009
Choose This Day...
(It might be helpful to view the video available through this link before continuing).
Choices. Every day we are faced with all types of choices. Those choices can lead us down a road to any number of outcomes. Whoever broke in to our building the other night had a choice. They chose to act in a way that might give them temporary satisfaction, without much concern for the negative implications. They will only continue to be faced with choices as they move forward wherever they go.
As those who have been wronged, we also have a choice. How will we respond in the midst of unfortunate or frustrating circumstances? The world would expect us to be angry. Maybe in some way we might actually be justified in that feeling. But, should we choose to feel that way? Or do we have a responsibility, a calling even, to choose to respond differently than those around us might expect? Sure, the initial feelings are ones of frustration. It's a hassle. It's inconvenient. There's immeasurable value in what was taken...it's more than just the price tag on the box. Even still, in the end it's just stuff. What does it really matter? What matters is how I choose this day to respond, whatever the circumstances...whether good or bad...mountain or valley...victim or thief. What matters is that I have a chance, I have a choice, to act redemptively even when I'm not at fault, even when there is an obvious someone else to blame, even when an enemy chooses to spit in my face.
After all, Jesus did. And he's the one I choose to follow. He's the one I decide each day to try to imitate. So don't be angry. Life's too short to chase that train. Instead, take a deep breath, and be reminded of this simple refrain: "This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him." -Deut 30:19-20.
--Mike
Choices. Every day we are faced with all types of choices. Those choices can lead us down a road to any number of outcomes. Whoever broke in to our building the other night had a choice. They chose to act in a way that might give them temporary satisfaction, without much concern for the negative implications. They will only continue to be faced with choices as they move forward wherever they go.
As those who have been wronged, we also have a choice. How will we respond in the midst of unfortunate or frustrating circumstances? The world would expect us to be angry. Maybe in some way we might actually be justified in that feeling. But, should we choose to feel that way? Or do we have a responsibility, a calling even, to choose to respond differently than those around us might expect? Sure, the initial feelings are ones of frustration. It's a hassle. It's inconvenient. There's immeasurable value in what was taken...it's more than just the price tag on the box. Even still, in the end it's just stuff. What does it really matter? What matters is how I choose this day to respond, whatever the circumstances...whether good or bad...mountain or valley...victim or thief. What matters is that I have a chance, I have a choice, to act redemptively even when I'm not at fault, even when there is an obvious someone else to blame, even when an enemy chooses to spit in my face.
After all, Jesus did. And he's the one I choose to follow. He's the one I decide each day to try to imitate. So don't be angry. Life's too short to chase that train. Instead, take a deep breath, and be reminded of this simple refrain: "This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him." -Deut 30:19-20.
--Mike
Oct 14, 2009
Night Time Visitors
Had any night time prowlers lately? Not the ones that invade your home without an invitation. I'm talking about people and happenings that invade your sleep. Come to think about it, I guess dreams do invade our homes without invitations. Like an intruder they can interrupt sleep, cause restlessness, and even create fear and dread.
In my lifetime I've had three very troubling dreams. Sure, I have the same dreams lots of people have, like falling off something only to awaken startled just before I hit the ground. And I don't know what this one means--I'm sometimes getting up to preach only to realize that I'm not fully dressed. O how much I hate to share that one since no doubt someone is bound to conclude something about my sexuality that cannot be positive.
The first dream that really troubled me came maybe 20 years ago when I dreamt that my wife died. I awakened crying with real tears in my eyes. Even after I collected my senses and checked to make sure mshe was beside me, still breathing, it took several minutes for me to calm down. I still fell those emotions. Nightmare it was!
A second dream came several years ago that really troubled me; only my wife knows about it and she has probably forgotten. I'm glad. And then last night another interloper trespassed my rest. It was really bad. I've told no one about it. May never.
I'm not superstitious. I don't believe last night's dream will happen. But I would truly enjoy studying dreams more thoroughly. Maybe someday I will.
So, what are your thoughts about dreams? Does God still speak to us through them? Might they reflect some inner struggle? Do they reflect reality as we'd like it to be? Or maybe they are expressions of our greatest fears? How can God use dreams?
Come on now, don't be shy. How about sharing one of your dreams with the rest of us? And what do you think it means?
In my lifetime I've had three very troubling dreams. Sure, I have the same dreams lots of people have, like falling off something only to awaken startled just before I hit the ground. And I don't know what this one means--I'm sometimes getting up to preach only to realize that I'm not fully dressed. O how much I hate to share that one since no doubt someone is bound to conclude something about my sexuality that cannot be positive.
The first dream that really troubled me came maybe 20 years ago when I dreamt that my wife died. I awakened crying with real tears in my eyes. Even after I collected my senses and checked to make sure mshe was beside me, still breathing, it took several minutes for me to calm down. I still fell those emotions. Nightmare it was!
A second dream came several years ago that really troubled me; only my wife knows about it and she has probably forgotten. I'm glad. And then last night another interloper trespassed my rest. It was really bad. I've told no one about it. May never.
I'm not superstitious. I don't believe last night's dream will happen. But I would truly enjoy studying dreams more thoroughly. Maybe someday I will.
So, what are your thoughts about dreams? Does God still speak to us through them? Might they reflect some inner struggle? Do they reflect reality as we'd like it to be? Or maybe they are expressions of our greatest fears? How can God use dreams?
Come on now, don't be shy. How about sharing one of your dreams with the rest of us? And what do you think it means?
Oct 9, 2009
"A Sense of Responsibility"
The title above was a quote from an interview in TIME magazine with the President and First Lady, addressing the need for more 'volunteerism' in America. The interview overall was fairly interesting because of the emphasis on the good that comes from opportunities of service, both for those being served and those doing the serving. It was suggested though that volunteerism is probably down in large part because of the prevalent worry that exists during these unsettled economic times. Many people might be thinking they need to focus on taking care of themselves which apparently makes it more difficult to give your time, money, and energy to others. However, President Obama argued that this is exactly the time that Americans should offer a helping hand to their neighbor and their communities. You can read the full article by clicking here.
This got me thinking about a few things. As Christians we are supposed to be identified by how we love God and love others. In doing so, we are to live differently from the world around us. Almost everyone recognizes that serving others is a good thing. Even non-Christians find value in giving of yourself to others. So, how are we supposed to live different than the world around us when it comes to service? What makes us unique in this area as Christ-followers? We as Christians can be just as caught up in the economic instability as everyone else. It's hard not to. The reality for a lot of people is that times are tough. Plenty of people are losing jobs, money is tight, and religion isn't even a deciding factor. Believers and non-believers are both affected. Yet there is tension there. As people who follow the way of Christ in this world, we are called not to worry...is that possible? Most of the time our worry doesn't look much different from those who don't profess a foundation of faith. Sure, I have a little bit of security...it's "easy" for me to ask these questions. I'm not trying to judge or belittle other people's struggles or difficult circumstances, but I think we have to wrestle with these questions.
As God's people, how are we leading the way when it comes to living our lives uncontrolled by worry and insecurities? As God's people, how should we be out front leading the way in living for others and not for self? President Obama is right...NOW is the time to reach out a hand to help someone in need, not reach in to clutch what "precious" things we have left. NOW is the time to offer who we are and what we have to others around us, not circle the wagons and fortify our own economic standing. Tough words, I know. But, shouldn't we feel our own "sense of responsibility" to live as reflections of the One who continually gave of himself so that others could share in a new way of life? Shouldn't the church be providing everyday evidence that "volunteerism" will always be alive and well in the world through the lives of God's people? Shouldn't our lives as Christians be so defined by service and trust, that we buoy whole communities struggling to stay afloat in the waters of uncertainty, by offering hope and inspiring love?
At the very least, it's something worth thinking about...
--Mike
This got me thinking about a few things. As Christians we are supposed to be identified by how we love God and love others. In doing so, we are to live differently from the world around us. Almost everyone recognizes that serving others is a good thing. Even non-Christians find value in giving of yourself to others. So, how are we supposed to live different than the world around us when it comes to service? What makes us unique in this area as Christ-followers? We as Christians can be just as caught up in the economic instability as everyone else. It's hard not to. The reality for a lot of people is that times are tough. Plenty of people are losing jobs, money is tight, and religion isn't even a deciding factor. Believers and non-believers are both affected. Yet there is tension there. As people who follow the way of Christ in this world, we are called not to worry...is that possible? Most of the time our worry doesn't look much different from those who don't profess a foundation of faith. Sure, I have a little bit of security...it's "easy" for me to ask these questions. I'm not trying to judge or belittle other people's struggles or difficult circumstances, but I think we have to wrestle with these questions.
As God's people, how are we leading the way when it comes to living our lives uncontrolled by worry and insecurities? As God's people, how should we be out front leading the way in living for others and not for self? President Obama is right...NOW is the time to reach out a hand to help someone in need, not reach in to clutch what "precious" things we have left. NOW is the time to offer who we are and what we have to others around us, not circle the wagons and fortify our own economic standing. Tough words, I know. But, shouldn't we feel our own "sense of responsibility" to live as reflections of the One who continually gave of himself so that others could share in a new way of life? Shouldn't the church be providing everyday evidence that "volunteerism" will always be alive and well in the world through the lives of God's people? Shouldn't our lives as Christians be so defined by service and trust, that we buoy whole communities struggling to stay afloat in the waters of uncertainty, by offering hope and inspiring love?
At the very least, it's something worth thinking about...
--Mike
Oct 6, 2009
Crazy Love
I'm hooked. Francis Chan has hooked me with his Crazy Love. And you'll love the subtitle: Overwhelmed By a Relentless God. Chan's style is simple and his words are powerful. His questions are provocative. There should be a huge warning sign on the front cover. Here are some of his thoughts:
"How many of you have read the New Testament and wondered if we in the church are missing it?" (p. 19)
"God never had an identity crisis. He knows that He's great and deserves to be the center of our lives. Jesus came humbly as a servant, but He never begs us to give Him some small part of ourselves. He commands everything..." (p. 22)
"But know this: God will not be tolerated." (p. 28)
"Worry implies that we don't quite trust that God is big enough, powerful enough, or loving enough to take care of what's happening in our lives. Stress says that the things we are involved in are important enough to merit our impatience, our lack of grace toward others, or our tight grip of control. Basically, these two behaviors communicate that it's okay to sin and not trust God because the stuff in my life is somehow exceptional." (p. 42)
In his discussion of the Parable of the Soils, Chan asserts: "Do not assume you are good soil." (p. 67)
Commenting on Lk. 14:34-35: "When salt is salty, it helps manure become good fertilizer...but lukewarm and uncommitted faith is completely useless. It can't even benefit manure." (p. 81)
"Leftoevers are not merely inadequate; form God's point of view (and lest we forget, His is the only one who matters), they're evil. Let's stop calling it 'a busy schedule' or 'bills' or forgetfulness.' It's called evil." (p. 92)
So, maybe some of these thoughts struck you; maybe not. One thing is certain--if you read all of Crazy Love you'll find yourself more excited about your relationship with God and more challenged to love him in return.
--Terrell
"How many of you have read the New Testament and wondered if we in the church are missing it?" (p. 19)
"God never had an identity crisis. He knows that He's great and deserves to be the center of our lives. Jesus came humbly as a servant, but He never begs us to give Him some small part of ourselves. He commands everything..." (p. 22)
"But know this: God will not be tolerated." (p. 28)
"Worry implies that we don't quite trust that God is big enough, powerful enough, or loving enough to take care of what's happening in our lives. Stress says that the things we are involved in are important enough to merit our impatience, our lack of grace toward others, or our tight grip of control. Basically, these two behaviors communicate that it's okay to sin and not trust God because the stuff in my life is somehow exceptional." (p. 42)
In his discussion of the Parable of the Soils, Chan asserts: "Do not assume you are good soil." (p. 67)
Commenting on Lk. 14:34-35: "When salt is salty, it helps manure become good fertilizer...but lukewarm and uncommitted faith is completely useless. It can't even benefit manure." (p. 81)
"Leftoevers are not merely inadequate; form God's point of view (and lest we forget, His is the only one who matters), they're evil. Let's stop calling it 'a busy schedule' or 'bills' or forgetfulness.' It's called evil." (p. 92)
So, maybe some of these thoughts struck you; maybe not. One thing is certain--if you read all of Crazy Love you'll find yourself more excited about your relationship with God and more challenged to love him in return.
--Terrell
Sep 16, 2009
Surrendering in Prayer
In my lifetime I suppose I 've prayed for about everything imaginable--people, pets and medical procedures as well as life, death and the suffering in between. And if I know my God the way I think I do, I'm confident he never tires of hearing his childrens' prayers. But I've been recently challenged by a little book titled Praying Like Paul. (Actually, I'm a little envious of the class that is studying through this book right now; wish I could participate.)
Author Jonathan Graf writes a simple, profound book in which he simply highlights almost 30 of the Apostle Paul's prayers as recorded in his letters. He does this under four categories: knowing and praising God; spiritual growth through suffering; the ministry of the gospel; and praying for other believers. Here's what strikes me most--while Paul certainly prayed for people and churches in a variety of settings about a variety of issues, his prayers tend to focus on big themes. God's praise and glory, gratitude for God's work in Christ, the preaching of the gospel, that people become Christ and Spirit formed, etc.
Now I plan to continue praying for specific people, circumstances of health, wealth and suffering, needs, family and so on. But I want to pray more about the big themes like kingdom, peace, the lost. Of his own prayer walk, Graf writes:
"I began being struck more and more by the prayers of Paul...(who) had people with huge problems under his care, people who were facing life-and-death situations. Yet in all his recorded prayers, nowhere do I see that he prayed for specific answers to everyday situations. (Yes, he prayed for himself, that his 'thorn in the flesh' would be removed. But remember, God said, 'no,' so he stopped praying about that.) Don't get me wrong. I would be surprised if Paul didn't pray for some specific things for people he knew, so I am not saying we should never pray for specific answers. But, since all of Paul's recorded prayers were in a different vein, I wonder if a majority of our prayers for ourselves and people shouldn't be of the same kind."
Next time I pray, I want to place my personal requests for specific things in the greater context of the kingdom and the honor of God. I'm just wondering what difference that might make.
--Terrell
Author Jonathan Graf writes a simple, profound book in which he simply highlights almost 30 of the Apostle Paul's prayers as recorded in his letters. He does this under four categories: knowing and praising God; spiritual growth through suffering; the ministry of the gospel; and praying for other believers. Here's what strikes me most--while Paul certainly prayed for people and churches in a variety of settings about a variety of issues, his prayers tend to focus on big themes. God's praise and glory, gratitude for God's work in Christ, the preaching of the gospel, that people become Christ and Spirit formed, etc.
Now I plan to continue praying for specific people, circumstances of health, wealth and suffering, needs, family and so on. But I want to pray more about the big themes like kingdom, peace, the lost. Of his own prayer walk, Graf writes:
"I began being struck more and more by the prayers of Paul...(who) had people with huge problems under his care, people who were facing life-and-death situations. Yet in all his recorded prayers, nowhere do I see that he prayed for specific answers to everyday situations. (Yes, he prayed for himself, that his 'thorn in the flesh' would be removed. But remember, God said, 'no,' so he stopped praying about that.) Don't get me wrong. I would be surprised if Paul didn't pray for some specific things for people he knew, so I am not saying we should never pray for specific answers. But, since all of Paul's recorded prayers were in a different vein, I wonder if a majority of our prayers for ourselves and people shouldn't be of the same kind."
Next time I pray, I want to place my personal requests for specific things in the greater context of the kingdom and the honor of God. I'm just wondering what difference that might make.
--Terrell
Sep 11, 2009
Surrender Week
Many things in this world call for our attention. Some draw us closer to the heart of God and challenge us to become more tomorrow than we are today. Others distract us and lure us away from what can be most important. Everything around us leads us to live busy lives. So it can be even more important for us to surrender all that we are and all that we do to God.
Next Sunday we will begin an intentional week of surrender. Terrell will start us off on the 20th by challenging us to prayerfully pursue surrender in all areas of life. As a church family, we will cover 36 hours in prayer from Friday evening the 25th to Sunday morning, the 27th. We will then have a special service that morning and conclude our surrender week together with a prayer walk Sunday night.
We hope you will commit to being intentionally involved throughout the week as together we offer our lives, our families, our church, and our communities in surrender to God.
--Mike
Sep 3, 2009
Noise
Slow down just a minute. Pause. Listen. What do you hear? Can you hear the AC unit? A clock? Traffic? The TV? Kids? It's hard to get away from noise. I remember one day back in 1983 when I spent an entire day, long before sunrise and long after sunset, in the woods alone. I saw no humans, heard no voices and was too far from a road to hear traffic. But it's not too often I get to spend a whole day in the Missouri foothills. Otherwise, noise fills my life. Why, just this week one of my neighbors has been building a new driveway and the trucks have rolled in at 6 a.m. One morning a jack hammer was thumping away at 6:10, yes, A.M.
I think all of us would do well to find a little solitude. I know it's hard to do. And some have even been critical of solitude since it appears to be more of a withdrawal from than engagement of the marketplace. Yet, I fear we may be so engaged in the marketplace sometimes that we fail to regroup. At its worst, solitude is selfish. At its best, however, solitude is not escapism; it is essential preparation for service. It is being quiet to make sure your divine signals are correct. Some of the greatest biblical heroes spent time in the dessert (Moses, Elijah, John, Jesus, Paul). But they were not escaping; they were preparing.
Could you consider planning a day sometime when you get off alone somewhere (anywhere) simply to pray, read and write about spiritual matters. Surely we occasionally find time to spend an entire day with someone we love; I know we did when we were dating. What difference might it make in our spiritual formation if we spent an entire day with God? What if we began right now making a list of the things we'd like to talk about with God? Do you think that might excite God?
I'm not talking about spending a day navelgazing. I'm talking about a day of spiritual solitude, when I use of my mouth to speak to God only and my spiritual ears to listen to Him alone. Sound appealing? Sound easy? I wonder if it just might be possible that constant noise reflects spiritual laziness whereas periodic solitude and quiet reflect spiritual passion and maturity. Maybe it's time to be lazy for one day so that our spiritual journey isn't quite so hazy.
--Terrell
I think all of us would do well to find a little solitude. I know it's hard to do. And some have even been critical of solitude since it appears to be more of a withdrawal from than engagement of the marketplace. Yet, I fear we may be so engaged in the marketplace sometimes that we fail to regroup. At its worst, solitude is selfish. At its best, however, solitude is not escapism; it is essential preparation for service. It is being quiet to make sure your divine signals are correct. Some of the greatest biblical heroes spent time in the dessert (Moses, Elijah, John, Jesus, Paul). But they were not escaping; they were preparing.
Could you consider planning a day sometime when you get off alone somewhere (anywhere) simply to pray, read and write about spiritual matters. Surely we occasionally find time to spend an entire day with someone we love; I know we did when we were dating. What difference might it make in our spiritual formation if we spent an entire day with God? What if we began right now making a list of the things we'd like to talk about with God? Do you think that might excite God?
I'm not talking about spending a day navelgazing. I'm talking about a day of spiritual solitude, when I use of my mouth to speak to God only and my spiritual ears to listen to Him alone. Sound appealing? Sound easy? I wonder if it just might be possible that constant noise reflects spiritual laziness whereas periodic solitude and quiet reflect spiritual passion and maturity. Maybe it's time to be lazy for one day so that our spiritual journey isn't quite so hazy.
--Terrell
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
