I was reading an article in Worshiper* magazine today. It started with an idea that spurred my thinking. Rev. Smith said that the "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" mentality is "Sage wisdom from a culture in which the measure of all things tends to be results and success. Whatever's working, go with it!" His article goes on to talk about how that concept does not work for the worship of God.
If you've been a Christian for a while, you've found that Jesus does not fit the mold of the world's thinking. Some of His teachings clearly go against the norm...if someone strikes you, turn your cheek...if a brother asks you to walk a mile with him, walk two miles...if someone demands your coat, offer your shirt...
So I wondered what Jesus would think about that proverb "If it ain't broke, don't fix it". I think He would reword it to say, "It ain't fixed until it's broke." Doesn't make sense to you? Let's look at some scripture on that.
In Mark 6:30-44 you see an event similar to Woodstock. Thousands of people followed Jesus to a remote area just to be with Him. Note that the 5,000 it mentions was just the men they counted--there were women and children too. As the day wore on, the people needed to be fed. There were no food tents, no kosher hotdog vendor who followed the crowd. Nobody thought to bring the kids a happy meal or protein bars. The situation needed a fix. They found they only had five loaves and two fish. ..so Jesus' solution? Break the only things they had all to pieces...and the fragments fed everyone. They even had leftovers!
Ruth Stull said, "If my life is broken when given to Jesus, it is because pieces will feed a multitude, while a loaf will satisfy only a little lad."
You see, there's more to life when it's broken apart. Only then does Jesus have something to work with. If our lives are comfortable, orderly and perfect...how can He get any glory? How can there be any hope for that unbeliever who's life has just crumbled around them?
Nothing gives more volume to a Christian life than the experience of brokenness. If you really get to know a strong Christian, you will find their life has been broken in some form or fashion--probably more than once!
When we praise God despite illness, bankruptcy or death...that's when Jesus is revealed to unbelievers. It's the broken vessel that allows Living Water to pour out to others.
It's a scary prayer to think of, but I'm finding it an amazing step in faith. Can you take this adventure with me? Then pray, "Lord, give me the gift of brokenness."
Life isn't fixed until it's broken. Jesus knew that, or He would not have laid down His life for you. You see, we never could have earned eternal life on our own. The gift of eternal life was achieved only when His own life was broken for us. How can we not do the same for Him?
And when He had taken {some} bread {and} given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, "This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me." Luke 22:19
*Worshiper Summer 2008, When It Is Broken by Rev. Scotty Smith
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Thursday, July 17, 2008
No Deposit, No Return
When someone wants to buy something of great value like a diamond ring or a house, they are usually required to put down a deposit. Sometimes it's 20% or more. The seller wants to make sure you are serious about the purchase, and that you'll be back to sign a contract for monthly payments or to pay it off completely. If you don't return, you lose the deposit.
If you don't have money, then something usually of equal or more value is left with the seller. They hold this deposit until the buyer returns for the item. Only an unscrupulous seller would keep the deposit and sell the item to another while the first buyer is away.
Normally a well-known business name is someone you would make this deal with. The guy behind WalMart with a van full of "diamond" rings--not so much.
Did you know that when you became a Christian, God put down a deposit for you? He wants you to know that you are His, and He will be back for you. Jesus paid the price and it was high. It cost Him life itself.
The transaction was made when you prayed to receive Jesus as your Savior. No, it's not 20% of your net worth, and it wasn't a roll of quarters for the bundle of chemicals that you're made of. The Bible tells us that God deposited the Holy Spirit within our hearts.
Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and anointed us is God, who also sealed us and gave {us} the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge. 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 (NLT)
The "deposit" or Holy Spirit remains within you. He is better than your conscience. He is a comforter, counselor...a still, small voice that speaks to your heart when you need Him. No wonder He's a jealous God--He made an eternal investment in you!
Or do you think that the Scripture speaks to no purpose: "He jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us"? James 4:5 (NLT)
For those that have not made the choice to accept Jesus Christ, they do not have this deposit, this promise. Ever wonder why some people feel so empty? It's because they have yet to receive this gift--and it is free. All they have to do is ask. They think that saving up their own good works is enough for a deposit of their own...but it's never enough. The more they do, the more they fall short. It's a frightening cycle. If you have never asked Jesus Christ into your life, I would not waste another moment. The gift only He can give is free. There are no brownie points, no drycleaning your soul before the prayer.
Let me ask you this one question: Did you receive the Holy Spirit by keeping the law? Of course not, for the Holy Spirit came upon you only after you believed the message you heard about Christ. Galatians 3:2 (NLT)
You can bet Jesus Christ will live up to His promise of returning. I hope you find comfort in that. When you find yourself lonely and wondering if you will ever feel loved, know that He is coming back. And He loves you like you are the only person in the world. That in itself is priceless.
"Don't be troubled. You trust God, now trust in me. There are many rooms in my Father's home, and I am going to prepare a place for you. If this were not so, I would tell you plainly. When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. John 14:1-3 (NLT)
If you don't have money, then something usually of equal or more value is left with the seller. They hold this deposit until the buyer returns for the item. Only an unscrupulous seller would keep the deposit and sell the item to another while the first buyer is away.
Normally a well-known business name is someone you would make this deal with. The guy behind WalMart with a van full of "diamond" rings--not so much.
Did you know that when you became a Christian, God put down a deposit for you? He wants you to know that you are His, and He will be back for you. Jesus paid the price and it was high. It cost Him life itself.
The transaction was made when you prayed to receive Jesus as your Savior. No, it's not 20% of your net worth, and it wasn't a roll of quarters for the bundle of chemicals that you're made of. The Bible tells us that God deposited the Holy Spirit within our hearts.
Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and anointed us is God, who also sealed us and gave {us} the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge. 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 (NLT)
The "deposit" or Holy Spirit remains within you. He is better than your conscience. He is a comforter, counselor...a still, small voice that speaks to your heart when you need Him. No wonder He's a jealous God--He made an eternal investment in you!
Or do you think that the Scripture speaks to no purpose: "He jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us"? James 4:5 (NLT)
For those that have not made the choice to accept Jesus Christ, they do not have this deposit, this promise. Ever wonder why some people feel so empty? It's because they have yet to receive this gift--and it is free. All they have to do is ask. They think that saving up their own good works is enough for a deposit of their own...but it's never enough. The more they do, the more they fall short. It's a frightening cycle. If you have never asked Jesus Christ into your life, I would not waste another moment. The gift only He can give is free. There are no brownie points, no drycleaning your soul before the prayer.
Let me ask you this one question: Did you receive the Holy Spirit by keeping the law? Of course not, for the Holy Spirit came upon you only after you believed the message you heard about Christ. Galatians 3:2 (NLT)
You can bet Jesus Christ will live up to His promise of returning. I hope you find comfort in that. When you find yourself lonely and wondering if you will ever feel loved, know that He is coming back. And He loves you like you are the only person in the world. That in itself is priceless.
"Don't be troubled. You trust God, now trust in me. There are many rooms in my Father's home, and I am going to prepare a place for you. If this were not so, I would tell you plainly. When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. John 14:1-3 (NLT)
Monday, June 09, 2008
Go Green 2
It's still wildfire season in Florida, and I can't seem to get away from the visual of the blackened brush on my way to the grocery store.
The palmetto bushes are now a riot of green against the black and brown damage of the brush fires in my area. I am amazed how close the fires got to some buildings. Two churches in my area had the fires licking at their parking lots, ready to pounce on the roof and steeple.
The fires have revealed a lot about the areas that burned. I can see homes once hidden behind thick brush, trees and kudzu, where before you only saw a meandering driveway. I can also see the sheer number of trees that stand with blackened trunks--they look like hundreds of creosote power poles. But what amazes me most is that I can see the tiniest growth. A shoot against all that black and brown is a flare of hope, a rocket of life that is a party amongst all the gloom.
My heart soars with the verse from Lamentations 3:21-36, "This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. {They} are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness."
It was as if God was saying, "My daughter, how can you think that anyone could see your growth unless there was the appropriate backdrop? How would an unbeliever behold the touch of My Hand in your life, unless there was a contrast to make it obvious?"
"But the natural man does not receive the things of the spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." 1 Corinthians 2:14
I am in awe that God would use a meek mouse of a girl to shout His amazing love to the world. Being a Christian is not for sissies my friend. When you finally do make that decision to follow Christ, you'd better be ready to feel the heat of hell at your back door. Because most people can't see the obvious, it has to be as clear as the shock of green palmetto against a few blackened trees.
The palmetto bushes are now a riot of green against the black and brown damage of the brush fires in my area. I am amazed how close the fires got to some buildings. Two churches in my area had the fires licking at their parking lots, ready to pounce on the roof and steeple.
The fires have revealed a lot about the areas that burned. I can see homes once hidden behind thick brush, trees and kudzu, where before you only saw a meandering driveway. I can also see the sheer number of trees that stand with blackened trunks--they look like hundreds of creosote power poles. But what amazes me most is that I can see the tiniest growth. A shoot against all that black and brown is a flare of hope, a rocket of life that is a party amongst all the gloom.
My heart soars with the verse from Lamentations 3:21-36, "This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. {They} are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness."
It was as if God was saying, "My daughter, how can you think that anyone could see your growth unless there was the appropriate backdrop? How would an unbeliever behold the touch of My Hand in your life, unless there was a contrast to make it obvious?"
"But the natural man does not receive the things of the spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned." 1 Corinthians 2:14
I am in awe that God would use a meek mouse of a girl to shout His amazing love to the world. Being a Christian is not for sissies my friend. When you finally do make that decision to follow Christ, you'd better be ready to feel the heat of hell at your back door. Because most people can't see the obvious, it has to be as clear as the shock of green palmetto against a few blackened trees.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Go Green
'Tis the season for wildfires and so far we've come away unscathed. On the way to the grocery store, there are scars of fires that riddle my neighborhood. Once the fire was finally out, smoke hung in the heat of the day. It was enough to make your throat sore for days. As I drove by the blackened acres, it amazed me how much farther in to the brush you could see. Where one section was seemingly impassable by kudzu and palmetto, stark black trunks stood bare for any passerby to ogle at. After about a week, the remaining pine trees dropped their needles to the floor. A fine layer of brown seemed to carpet the charred ground.
The thing that always amazes me is after about three weeks the palmetto bushes begin to change. Before the fire, they were great green fans that sheltered animals and made any meandering through the woods very difficult. Afterwards, the plants trunks looked like writhing black snakes on the ground, easily stepped over. But give them three weeks or so, this seemingly dead plant sends out a flare of green. You see, the palmetto is very resilient and hard to kill.
It's a beautiful sight to see shots of green amongst the black. The green is so bright and sharp, it's almost as if someone tagged each plant with a garish green flag--the green flag of "Go!".
I wonder how many lives out there feel blackened and charred by a wildfire that Life has sparked. Do you only see the damage and ruin caused by words, abuse or natural disaster? The human soul is like a palmetto plant. Take time to mourn, to lay dormant and allow others to cloak you with comfort. But do not linger there because depression can set in and you will remain down, your growth stunted.
My God is in the renewal business. No matter how bad it gets, no matter how much you think you can't stand, He is there to comfort, restore and renew. Yes you will still have the scars of the past, but the new growth that comes will be like the new growth of a blackened palmetto. The contrast of life against death will cause others to stop and wonder--just who is this Jesus you believe in?
The thing that always amazes me is after about three weeks the palmetto bushes begin to change. Before the fire, they were great green fans that sheltered animals and made any meandering through the woods very difficult. Afterwards, the plants trunks looked like writhing black snakes on the ground, easily stepped over. But give them three weeks or so, this seemingly dead plant sends out a flare of green. You see, the palmetto is very resilient and hard to kill.
It's a beautiful sight to see shots of green amongst the black. The green is so bright and sharp, it's almost as if someone tagged each plant with a garish green flag--the green flag of "Go!".
I wonder how many lives out there feel blackened and charred by a wildfire that Life has sparked. Do you only see the damage and ruin caused by words, abuse or natural disaster? The human soul is like a palmetto plant. Take time to mourn, to lay dormant and allow others to cloak you with comfort. But do not linger there because depression can set in and you will remain down, your growth stunted.
My God is in the renewal business. No matter how bad it gets, no matter how much you think you can't stand, He is there to comfort, restore and renew. Yes you will still have the scars of the past, but the new growth that comes will be like the new growth of a blackened palmetto. The contrast of life against death will cause others to stop and wonder--just who is this Jesus you believe in?
Friday, April 11, 2008
Friendly Fire
One of the tragedies of war is something called "Friendly Fire". In the American Heritage Dictionary it is defined as
As a Christian we are in a spiritual war against hell itself. We are in the field with enemy fire all around us. The "friendly fire" we face in our battlefield can be just as devastating.
A stray word meant for someone else can actually ricochet. One comment I hear from non-church goers is, "Why would I want to go be with a bunch of hypocrits? The way some christians talk is no different from non-christians!"
Gossip cloaked as prayer requests can rally a well-meaning Christian to blast another for possible sinful behavior, and another casualty of war falls out of church.
The most common instance is being blinded by our own sin, we strike out in anger at our own loved ones like they are the enemy. When the smoke clears, we want to take back those words and recall the bombs we lobbed but it is too late. Our loved one's trust is mortally wounded and it may take years to recover.
How do we avoid "friendly fire" in our walk with Christ? The Bible says do not associate with a gossip. (Proverbs 20:19) Be careful how you receive prayer requests. Are you truly praying for that person, or are you "passing it on" to the next "concerned" friend?
Proverbs 26:18-19 says that a person who deceives his neighbor and then claims it as a joke is like a crazy person shooting flaming arrows. Think about what you're saying before you let loose with cutting remarks. Saying you were joking does not repair the injury at all. You're only trying to duck the blame for the pain you caused.
In Matthew 7:1-6 Jesus tells us to check ourselves before we try to point out what another person's problems are. When you find the statement, "You know what your problem is?" bubbling up in your mouth, stop and make sure what irks you about someone else is not exactly what God wants you to deal with!
Today you can start over--that's what God is all about: new beginnings. Ask God to remind you of those you have hurt with friendly fire. Go to those people or write a letter and ask forgiveness. Our God is a god of restoration. If they refuse your apology, don't get angry. You've done your part. After that it's God's turn to work on their heart.
Finally, if you do find yourself in a battle with a loved one, stop and do what a good friend once told me. Take that person's hand gently and tell them, "You are not my enemy!"
We are in a war and the book of Revelation says we will win. That should strengthen your resolve to keep up the good fight. Just remember to be sure of your target.
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual {forces} of wickedness in the heavenly {places.}
Ephesians 6:12
n. Discharge of a military weapon that injures or kills a member of one's own armed forces or an ally.Normally this happens because of obscured vision, the aim was off, or bad intelligence was provided. The consequences can be tragic. A soldier can lose their life. If they suffer physical injury, they must live with it daily that the injury was caused by a comrade.
As a Christian we are in a spiritual war against hell itself. We are in the field with enemy fire all around us. The "friendly fire" we face in our battlefield can be just as devastating.
A stray word meant for someone else can actually ricochet. One comment I hear from non-church goers is, "Why would I want to go be with a bunch of hypocrits? The way some christians talk is no different from non-christians!"
Gossip cloaked as prayer requests can rally a well-meaning Christian to blast another for possible sinful behavior, and another casualty of war falls out of church.
The most common instance is being blinded by our own sin, we strike out in anger at our own loved ones like they are the enemy. When the smoke clears, we want to take back those words and recall the bombs we lobbed but it is too late. Our loved one's trust is mortally wounded and it may take years to recover.
How do we avoid "friendly fire" in our walk with Christ? The Bible says do not associate with a gossip. (Proverbs 20:19) Be careful how you receive prayer requests. Are you truly praying for that person, or are you "passing it on" to the next "concerned" friend?
Proverbs 26:18-19 says that a person who deceives his neighbor and then claims it as a joke is like a crazy person shooting flaming arrows. Think about what you're saying before you let loose with cutting remarks. Saying you were joking does not repair the injury at all. You're only trying to duck the blame for the pain you caused.
In Matthew 7:1-6 Jesus tells us to check ourselves before we try to point out what another person's problems are. When you find the statement, "You know what your problem is?" bubbling up in your mouth, stop and make sure what irks you about someone else is not exactly what God wants you to deal with!
Today you can start over--that's what God is all about: new beginnings. Ask God to remind you of those you have hurt with friendly fire. Go to those people or write a letter and ask forgiveness. Our God is a god of restoration. If they refuse your apology, don't get angry. You've done your part. After that it's God's turn to work on their heart.
Finally, if you do find yourself in a battle with a loved one, stop and do what a good friend once told me. Take that person's hand gently and tell them, "You are not my enemy!"
We are in a war and the book of Revelation says we will win. That should strengthen your resolve to keep up the good fight. Just remember to be sure of your target.
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual {forces} of wickedness in the heavenly {places.}
Ephesians 6:12
Monday, February 11, 2008
Priceless
We love to visit garage sales on the weekend. We love the adventure of a treasure hunt where most everything is $1. One time we found something really cool. There was no price, so we asked about it.
The owner said, "$1".
We looked at each other and couldn't give them such a small amount--we knew it's true value.
"We'll give you $10."
The expression on the owner's face was great.
"Excuse me," he said, "that's not how it works. You're supposed to offer me a lower price."
We said, "Yes but, we know the true value and we want to give you a fair price."
We left the owner with $10 in his hand, shaking his head.
That's how it is with God. The world may tell you that you don't amount to much. That nobody wants you. That by the end of the day if nobody picks you up, you're trash.
God says something different. He knows your value. He created you. (Psalm 139:13) He counts the hairs on your head. (Luke 12:7) You are His treasure (Isaiah 62:3) and you were bought with a price. (1 Corinthians 6:20) A very steep one at that: the death of His only son Jesus.
When you want to add value to your life and the world tells you you're worthless. Look to God. He says you're priceless!
For R151 God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16
The owner said, "$1".
We looked at each other and couldn't give them such a small amount--we knew it's true value.
"We'll give you $10."
The expression on the owner's face was great.
"Excuse me," he said, "that's not how it works. You're supposed to offer me a lower price."
We said, "Yes but, we know the true value and we want to give you a fair price."
We left the owner with $10 in his hand, shaking his head.
That's how it is with God. The world may tell you that you don't amount to much. That nobody wants you. That by the end of the day if nobody picks you up, you're trash.
God says something different. He knows your value. He created you. (Psalm 139:13) He counts the hairs on your head. (Luke 12:7) You are His treasure (Isaiah 62:3) and you were bought with a price. (1 Corinthians 6:20) A very steep one at that: the death of His only son Jesus.
When you want to add value to your life and the world tells you you're worthless. Look to God. He says you're priceless!
For R151 God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16
Friday, January 18, 2008
Thank God
James E. Bibbons was quoted as saying, "If a matter is not serious enough to pray about, then it is not serious enough to worry about - and if it is serious enough to pray about, and we have prayed about it, then there is no need to worry about it."
When I was little and had a nightmare, I would lay paralyzed in my bed and yell for my mom or dad to come rescue me. I guess I was too afraid of the ankle monster that lived under my bed to try and make the dash to their room. Once they came in, turned on the light and listened to what my dream was about, I was able to settle back down and get to sleep. Most times, unless I was really sick, I would never have the bad dream again.
When I think about all the problems people face and the worries that keep them up at night, I have to ask if they've prayed about it. Sometimes they'd say that God has enough on his plate to deal with. (That would be like saying that you never talked to your father because you figured he had enough on his plate what with work and bills. That's another blog.)
Sometimes they'll answer, "Yes, I was up all night on my knees, petitioning God, begging for Him to take care of it." And yet, there is still no peace and the worry lines grow deeper in their brows.
Looking at Phlippians 4:6-7, Paul exhorts the church to "be anxious for nothing"--don't worry. Easier said than done. Then he instructs them how to do that. "in everything by prayer and supplication"...ok, we're doing that too. "...with thanksgiving..." Ah HA! Did you notice that word--thanksgiving. Sure you can pray and petition, beg and bargain but to pray like it's already done and thank God for it? Now that's a trip of faith, isn't it?
Now look at the rest of the verse...there's a condition that goes hand in hand when you pray "with thanksgiving". Check it out, "And the peace of God...will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." There's the reward my friend, peace of mind. You want to sleep at night but your worries are building nightmares in your bedroom? Praying with thanksgiving is a flashlight to those dark corners of worry. When you pray, thank God like He's already accomplished the job. Most times He already has, we just don't know about it yet.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phil 4:6-7
When I was little and had a nightmare, I would lay paralyzed in my bed and yell for my mom or dad to come rescue me. I guess I was too afraid of the ankle monster that lived under my bed to try and make the dash to their room. Once they came in, turned on the light and listened to what my dream was about, I was able to settle back down and get to sleep. Most times, unless I was really sick, I would never have the bad dream again.
When I think about all the problems people face and the worries that keep them up at night, I have to ask if they've prayed about it. Sometimes they'd say that God has enough on his plate to deal with. (That would be like saying that you never talked to your father because you figured he had enough on his plate what with work and bills. That's another blog.)
Sometimes they'll answer, "Yes, I was up all night on my knees, petitioning God, begging for Him to take care of it." And yet, there is still no peace and the worry lines grow deeper in their brows.
Looking at Phlippians 4:6-7, Paul exhorts the church to "be anxious for nothing"--don't worry. Easier said than done. Then he instructs them how to do that. "in everything by prayer and supplication"...ok, we're doing that too. "...with thanksgiving..." Ah HA! Did you notice that word--thanksgiving. Sure you can pray and petition, beg and bargain but to pray like it's already done and thank God for it? Now that's a trip of faith, isn't it?
Now look at the rest of the verse...there's a condition that goes hand in hand when you pray "with thanksgiving". Check it out, "And the peace of God...will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." There's the reward my friend, peace of mind. You want to sleep at night but your worries are building nightmares in your bedroom? Praying with thanksgiving is a flashlight to those dark corners of worry. When you pray, thank God like He's already accomplished the job. Most times He already has, we just don't know about it yet.
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phil 4:6-7
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Inside-Out
Back in high school we had spirit week to celebrate homecoming. Each day would be a special day to show your spirit: Nerd day, Black and gold day, Hat day, 50's day and Inside-Out day. All week the excitement would build. Then at Friday's pep rally we welcomed our homecoming football champions. (Go Bobcats!)
My favorite day was 50's day. Another fun "spirit day" was Inside-Out day, where students wore all their clothing inside-out. Proudly we walked from class to class with all our tags flapping in the wind--as well as pockets, lining and seams.
With one glance you knew exactly how the clothing was sewn together. It was obvious when it was nicely made or a home-ec experiment gone horribly wrong. Pockets would be visible and people would ask about gum or lunch money you thought you had hidden away. A finer detail was whether or not the fabric was printed on one side, or if the color was woven into the fabric. Then there were a few class pests who would try to rip your shirt tag out. Their goal was to snag as many Hang Ten or Ocean Pacific labels they could get.
In 2008, my church is encouraging members to turn their faith inside out. I thought for a moment what that would look like. Could it be as obvious as wearing your shirt inside-out?
Certainly an inside-out faith would prove how we were put together. How are your seams? Are they torn and in need of mending? Or do they need to be taken in a bit by the Master Tailor? Are you hiding anything in the dark pockets of your life? Time to empty them out! An inside-out faith would also prove whether or not it was a real faith...is your faith one-sided, or is it woven into the fabric of life? And finally, what about that tag flapping in the wind? If satan tries to "rip out" your tag, will he find "made in heaven" or a counterfeit faith that never quite measures up under pressure?
Are you ready to show your Spirit? If you are not a member of a church family, I would encourage you to find a solid church to belong to. Seek Christ this year. 2008 could be the year of Jesus' homecoming...the ultimate pep rally!
"The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil {man} out of the evil {treasure} brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart." Luke 6:45
My favorite day was 50's day. Another fun "spirit day" was Inside-Out day, where students wore all their clothing inside-out. Proudly we walked from class to class with all our tags flapping in the wind--as well as pockets, lining and seams.
With one glance you knew exactly how the clothing was sewn together. It was obvious when it was nicely made or a home-ec experiment gone horribly wrong. Pockets would be visible and people would ask about gum or lunch money you thought you had hidden away. A finer detail was whether or not the fabric was printed on one side, or if the color was woven into the fabric. Then there were a few class pests who would try to rip your shirt tag out. Their goal was to snag as many Hang Ten or Ocean Pacific labels they could get.
In 2008, my church is encouraging members to turn their faith inside out. I thought for a moment what that would look like. Could it be as obvious as wearing your shirt inside-out?
Certainly an inside-out faith would prove how we were put together. How are your seams? Are they torn and in need of mending? Or do they need to be taken in a bit by the Master Tailor? Are you hiding anything in the dark pockets of your life? Time to empty them out! An inside-out faith would also prove whether or not it was a real faith...is your faith one-sided, or is it woven into the fabric of life? And finally, what about that tag flapping in the wind? If satan tries to "rip out" your tag, will he find "made in heaven" or a counterfeit faith that never quite measures up under pressure?
Are you ready to show your Spirit? If you are not a member of a church family, I would encourage you to find a solid church to belong to. Seek Christ this year. 2008 could be the year of Jesus' homecoming...the ultimate pep rally!
"The good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil {man} out of the evil {treasure} brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart." Luke 6:45
Thursday, December 13, 2007
In the Vineyard
Last weekend I was in Bethlehem. Well ok, not the Middle East and not Pennsylvania. Our church created an authentic marketplace in Bethlehem. It was amazing. My job was to tend the vineyard. I got to dress up in a long dress, head covering and veil. I carried about 4 pounds of grapes in a basket and talked to visitors.
As characters in Bethlehem, we were to step back in time and forget all about cell phones and cars. I found myself really having a good time pretending. As visitors walked by my vineyard, I would explain to them about grapevines in Bethlehem. Ok...now you pretend you're walking by.
So now I've returned from Bethlehem. And I don't have to keep quiet. If you have ears to hear and eyes to see...read on!
In the Bible, Jesus tells us, "I am the vine, you are the branches." (John 15:5) When you become a Christian, Jesus is whom we are grafted to. He is the rootstock, we are the branches.
We have a problem though. The world is so appealing to us; we're constantly reaching for it. Sometimes we get caught up in the world and it's offerings and we find ourselves rooted and stuck. That's when our productive Christian life dries up--we stop producing fruit. (Galatians 5:22)
"...my Father is the vinedresser" (John 15:1b) If we allow God to come along and lift our branches out of the dirt, He will prune us back. This is the sting of discipline. But be assured, He only disciplines those He loves. (Hebrews 12:6) So if you've had a season of pruning--know you are loved!
Finally God is also called, "the rock". (Psalm 95:1) As we grow and reach, we find that the only way to keep from being rooted to this world is to keep leaning on the rock.
So when you feel a little dusty and dry, remember that you are a vine, grafted into the vital rootstock of Jesse: Jesus. God will keep you lifted up, pruned back, and fruitful--it's up to you to be willing to be grafted. (Let's talk if you're not sure about where you are with God.)
This Christmas may a simple vineyard in Bethlehem turn a light on in your soul.
As characters in Bethlehem, we were to step back in time and forget all about cell phones and cars. I found myself really having a good time pretending. As visitors walked by my vineyard, I would explain to them about grapevines in Bethlehem. Ok...now you pretend you're walking by.
"Welcome to my vineyard! Are you in Bethlehem for the census? I don't think I've seen you in the marketplace before. And such fine clothing, you must come fromWhat got to me about staying in character is the rich message the vineyard tells us. Every so often a visitor would look at me and I'd see the light go on in their eyes. It was amazing to watch. For those that just saw it as an educational message, I wanted so much to explain this parable to them.
Egypt or Greece!
Have you ever seen a vineyard like this? My family works very hard on our business. This is a small plot. We have several more acres that my sons watch from the tower over there. We have to be on the lookout at all times for bandits, foxes and vermin.
Where are my vines? Look closely down here...they are laying across these large rocks. We don't have a lot in Bethlehem, and what we do have Rome takes as taxes. But rocks, we do have!
See, the rootstock is planted in the ground. As the vine grows, it is trained up on the rock. You can't let the vine touch the ground because it will try to re-root itself back into the ground. The vine will be so busy trying to grow roots it won't produce the fruit you need. So constant pruning is needed. Oy, it's back breaking work!
After the season, we get a wonderful harvest. Then we cut it back for the winter and wait for spring.
I hope you have a nice visit in Bethlehem. If you cannot find a place to stay, come back and I'll put you to work in the tower. At least you'll have a place to rest your head!"
So now I've returned from Bethlehem. And I don't have to keep quiet. If you have ears to hear and eyes to see...read on!
In the Bible, Jesus tells us, "I am the vine, you are the branches." (John 15:5) When you become a Christian, Jesus is whom we are grafted to. He is the rootstock, we are the branches.
We have a problem though. The world is so appealing to us; we're constantly reaching for it. Sometimes we get caught up in the world and it's offerings and we find ourselves rooted and stuck. That's when our productive Christian life dries up--we stop producing fruit. (Galatians 5:22)
"...my Father is the vinedresser" (John 15:1b) If we allow God to come along and lift our branches out of the dirt, He will prune us back. This is the sting of discipline. But be assured, He only disciplines those He loves. (Hebrews 12:6) So if you've had a season of pruning--know you are loved!
Finally God is also called, "the rock". (Psalm 95:1) As we grow and reach, we find that the only way to keep from being rooted to this world is to keep leaning on the rock.
So when you feel a little dusty and dry, remember that you are a vine, grafted into the vital rootstock of Jesse: Jesus. God will keep you lifted up, pruned back, and fruitful--it's up to you to be willing to be grafted. (Let's talk if you're not sure about where you are with God.)
This Christmas may a simple vineyard in Bethlehem turn a light on in your soul.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Forty Days
It's almost Thanksgiving and we are in the crush of the holiday season. With our calendars filled to the brim, we will somehow cram more than the usual amount of festivities into every 24 hours. There will be shopping and cooking, gift wrapping and visiting. All with the usual work and school schedules wedged in between.
There will be countdowns to Christmas, last minute gift buying and Top 20 lists for the year. Who is your favorite movie star? How about the best song of the year? What's the 10 best ways to prepare turkey leftovers? Not to mention the multiple renditions of the song, 12 days of Christmas!
I realized today that it is almost 40 days until 2008. And I got to thinking...A time period of 40 days was pretty important throughout the Bible.
Noah was in a rainstorm that lasted 40 days and 40 nights. Moses went up on the mountain to receive the Ten Commandments from God for 40 days and 40 nights. When the Israelites sinned against God, Moses appealed to God on his face for 40 days-so they would not be destroyed. The spies took 40 days to check out the Promised Land. For 40 days Goliath taunted the army of Israel, before David vanquished him. Elijah traveled after one angelic meal for 40 days and nights to the mountain of God and God revealed himself in a still small voice. Jonah warned Nineveh that it would be destroyed by God in 40 days if they did not repent. Christ was tempted for 40 days by satan in the wilderness before He began His ministry. And finally, after the resurrection, Christ appeared and spoke to many people for 40 days before He ascended to heaven.
So in the midst of all the holiday clamor, I ask that you set aside 40 minutes a day for God--it can be early morning, lunchtime or late at night. I am a firm believer that when you give God time, He seems to stop time and your day goes more smoothly!
You may find yourself in the midst of a storm right now, it will wane. You might find this short time an amazing time of growth, and find yourself journaling. You may find forgiveness and abounding love from God who only wants you to forgive yourself. It might be that someone is taunting you for your faith, pray for them for 40 days and see how quickly they quiet. You may have a journey of faith that you are starting, begin with the bread of Life--Christ's words every morning. It will sustain you for the trip. Listen to Him as He brings up things you need to repent from. You may be facing a lot of temptation these next 40 days in the form of food, spending or covetousness. God knows that and wants to release you from it.
As you shut off the noises during your quiet time these next forty days, listen as Christ speaks to you with His scripture, His people and His presence in your life.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving {And} His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name. Ps 100:4
There will be countdowns to Christmas, last minute gift buying and Top 20 lists for the year. Who is your favorite movie star? How about the best song of the year? What's the 10 best ways to prepare turkey leftovers? Not to mention the multiple renditions of the song, 12 days of Christmas!
I realized today that it is almost 40 days until 2008. And I got to thinking...A time period of 40 days was pretty important throughout the Bible.
Noah was in a rainstorm that lasted 40 days and 40 nights. Moses went up on the mountain to receive the Ten Commandments from God for 40 days and 40 nights. When the Israelites sinned against God, Moses appealed to God on his face for 40 days-so they would not be destroyed. The spies took 40 days to check out the Promised Land. For 40 days Goliath taunted the army of Israel, before David vanquished him. Elijah traveled after one angelic meal for 40 days and nights to the mountain of God and God revealed himself in a still small voice. Jonah warned Nineveh that it would be destroyed by God in 40 days if they did not repent. Christ was tempted for 40 days by satan in the wilderness before He began His ministry. And finally, after the resurrection, Christ appeared and spoke to many people for 40 days before He ascended to heaven.
So in the midst of all the holiday clamor, I ask that you set aside 40 minutes a day for God--it can be early morning, lunchtime or late at night. I am a firm believer that when you give God time, He seems to stop time and your day goes more smoothly!
You may find yourself in the midst of a storm right now, it will wane. You might find this short time an amazing time of growth, and find yourself journaling. You may find forgiveness and abounding love from God who only wants you to forgive yourself. It might be that someone is taunting you for your faith, pray for them for 40 days and see how quickly they quiet. You may have a journey of faith that you are starting, begin with the bread of Life--Christ's words every morning. It will sustain you for the trip. Listen to Him as He brings up things you need to repent from. You may be facing a lot of temptation these next 40 days in the form of food, spending or covetousness. God knows that and wants to release you from it.
As you shut off the noises during your quiet time these next forty days, listen as Christ speaks to you with His scripture, His people and His presence in your life.
Enter His gates with thanksgiving {And} His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name. Ps 100:4
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Ah Sleep
I like the quiet at night when everyone is asleep. There is a gentleness outside as people crawl into their beds to rest from the day. If I step outside with the dogs, I can hear the nocturnal animals waking up for their part of the day. Rabbits call to each other to look out for the dogs. An owl screeches like a patrol car, rounding up a vermin snack. An armadillo shuffles through the leaves in search of worms and grubs. Back by the pond a group of frogs start their do-wop serenade. Finally a battalion of mosquitoes chases me inside; their tiny engines whining in my ears.
Life goes on while you sleep. People work night-shifts, get up with colicky babies and click away on the internet. Eventually even they will sleep. Humans will die from lack of sleep. Their bodies cannot take the stress; the brain must debrief the day in your dreams. You have to rest sometime.
But God, He does not rest. His day is like a thousand years, his thousand years like a day. (2 Peter 3:8) He watches over all. He is with the sick trying to rest in a busy hospital. He comforts the little one trembling from the monster in the closet. He sees the man on the Internet, coaxing a young wayward teen to meet and sets a trap for him. He is with the soldier on his watch, scanning the horizon for movement. And He is with me as I pray for my family.
He is never too busy for the smallest problem. If God takes care of even the smallest of animals, why would He not care about your rest? (Matt 10:29-31)
He is never caught napping unawares. (Psalms 121:3) He is the parent in the other room, guarding the house as His children sleep. And I wonder, would you dare to trust Him with your rest? You ask Him to win the lotto, to protect your kids and heal a critically ill friend. Why not ask Him for simple rest? Do you think it's too mundane a request? Do you think He's too busy with wars and criminals? No, God created sleep for His children. Sometimes that's the only time He can get you to listen to Him. And you wonder why some of your best ideas come in your dreams! (Job 33:14-18)
Tonight, before you close your eyes, ask Him to be by your side as you chase sleep. Then take a few deep breaths, be still, and know that He is God. (Psalms 46:10)
But You, O LORD, are a shield about me,
My glory, and the One who lifts my head.
I was crying to the LORD with my voice,
And He answered me from His holy mountain. Selah.
I lay down and slept;
I awoke, for the LORD sustains me. Psalm 3:3-5
Life goes on while you sleep. People work night-shifts, get up with colicky babies and click away on the internet. Eventually even they will sleep. Humans will die from lack of sleep. Their bodies cannot take the stress; the brain must debrief the day in your dreams. You have to rest sometime.
But God, He does not rest. His day is like a thousand years, his thousand years like a day. (2 Peter 3:8) He watches over all. He is with the sick trying to rest in a busy hospital. He comforts the little one trembling from the monster in the closet. He sees the man on the Internet, coaxing a young wayward teen to meet and sets a trap for him. He is with the soldier on his watch, scanning the horizon for movement. And He is with me as I pray for my family.
He is never too busy for the smallest problem. If God takes care of even the smallest of animals, why would He not care about your rest? (Matt 10:29-31)
He is never caught napping unawares. (Psalms 121:3) He is the parent in the other room, guarding the house as His children sleep. And I wonder, would you dare to trust Him with your rest? You ask Him to win the lotto, to protect your kids and heal a critically ill friend. Why not ask Him for simple rest? Do you think it's too mundane a request? Do you think He's too busy with wars and criminals? No, God created sleep for His children. Sometimes that's the only time He can get you to listen to Him. And you wonder why some of your best ideas come in your dreams! (Job 33:14-18)
Tonight, before you close your eyes, ask Him to be by your side as you chase sleep. Then take a few deep breaths, be still, and know that He is God. (Psalms 46:10)
But You, O LORD, are a shield about me,
My glory, and the One who lifts my head.
I was crying to the LORD with my voice,
And He answered me from His holy mountain. Selah.
I lay down and slept;
I awoke, for the LORD sustains me. Psalm 3:3-5
Friday, October 19, 2007
Me and my Shadow
Kim Peek is the man that the movie Rain Man was based on. He is an amazing autistic savant, who has an unlimited photographic memory. His father Fran Peek is his caretaker and they go everywhere together. To strike up conversation, his father will ask you your birthday. Kim can tell you what day you were born, and what day your 65th birthday will be on in seconds. He has memorized entire books and maps around the world. He amazes everyone with his vast knowledge.
Kim has rarely shown thoughtful insight. He surprised his father in an interview when he said, "My Dad and I share the same shadow." It touched his father and humbled me. I see Kim and Fran's relationship as a heavenly example of how we should be with God.
Am I walking so close to my Heavenly Father that I'm in His shadow? Do I get close enough to even touch the edge of His silhouette? I can say I have days when I feel the cooling shade of His presence in my life. But more often than not, I readily traipse outside His companionship. Without His protective shade, the burning demands of life dry up my ambition for anything. I crawl back, looking for that sheltering shade to revive my spirit from the scorch of reality. You'd think I would've learned by now!
How am I handling Life in His shadow? Am I reluctant and shy, or am I bolstered by His close presence to jump in and do whatever He asks? I should be less afraid to face anything, knowing that I am close enough to God to share His shadow! (Psalm 63:7)
Are you already there? When people see you, do they sense that something bigger is going on in your life? (When you share someone's shadow you look like one large being.) Don't be afraid to tell them what's going on when they ask.
Are you on the verge of heat exhaustion? Do you feel like you're fighting a battle all by yourself? When you were little, did you ever try to run away from your shadow? It's impossible. So it is with God. No matter how far you run away from Him, He's as close as the shadow of your right hand. (Ps 121:5)
Time to draw near to God. Read your Bible, pray and ask God to come near. Because the closer you are to a light source, the more defined your shadow will be.
Kim has rarely shown thoughtful insight. He surprised his father in an interview when he said, "My Dad and I share the same shadow." It touched his father and humbled me. I see Kim and Fran's relationship as a heavenly example of how we should be with God.
Am I walking so close to my Heavenly Father that I'm in His shadow? Do I get close enough to even touch the edge of His silhouette? I can say I have days when I feel the cooling shade of His presence in my life. But more often than not, I readily traipse outside His companionship. Without His protective shade, the burning demands of life dry up my ambition for anything. I crawl back, looking for that sheltering shade to revive my spirit from the scorch of reality. You'd think I would've learned by now!
How am I handling Life in His shadow? Am I reluctant and shy, or am I bolstered by His close presence to jump in and do whatever He asks? I should be less afraid to face anything, knowing that I am close enough to God to share His shadow! (Psalm 63:7)
Are you already there? When people see you, do they sense that something bigger is going on in your life? (When you share someone's shadow you look like one large being.) Don't be afraid to tell them what's going on when they ask.
Are you on the verge of heat exhaustion? Do you feel like you're fighting a battle all by yourself? When you were little, did you ever try to run away from your shadow? It's impossible. So it is with God. No matter how far you run away from Him, He's as close as the shadow of your right hand. (Ps 121:5)
Time to draw near to God. Read your Bible, pray and ask God to come near. Because the closer you are to a light source, the more defined your shadow will be.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Point of View
In Peru's Nazca Desert there are curious lines on the ground. As you walk around, there are pathways cleared of their dark colored rocks to expose the light sand beneath. From ground level, it seems like a maze of paths that stretch for miles. However, from the vantage point of the sky, amazing drawings come to life. You can see animals, people, insects and geometric designs. When you take into consideration that these lines were created between 200 BC and AD 700, they are even more amazing. How did these primitive people figure out how to draw these elaborate figures? And if the only way you can see the complete drawing is from the air, who where they creating these for?
I'd like to think they were related to worship. These drawings don't seem to lead anywhere; some figures go in circles. But one thing is constant--they are beautiful, complex and only visible from the sky. Could this be an offering made to something or someone bigger than themselves? Could this be a gift only visible to a higher being they believed lived above the earth? We may never know. Archeologists are still studying these ancient drawings.
Consider your own life. It seems some days you're spinning your wheels, going in circles. A door closes, and another one opens. Sometimes it doesn't make sense where God is taking you. But if you read the Bible, it says in Isaiah 55:9, "For {as} the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts." God knows the masterpiece of your life. The paths don't seem to go anywhere, but to Him they do. From His vantage point, He's got a better view of where you're going. It's when we leave God's direction that our paths lead to destruction.
His word tells us, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6)
What will your life reveal about God's touch? I know it is hard work, we're moving stones in the desert…but once we're done we'll be able to look back at our life from God's vantage point: Heaven. What do you hope to see?
I'd like to think they were related to worship. These drawings don't seem to lead anywhere; some figures go in circles. But one thing is constant--they are beautiful, complex and only visible from the sky. Could this be an offering made to something or someone bigger than themselves? Could this be a gift only visible to a higher being they believed lived above the earth? We may never know. Archeologists are still studying these ancient drawings.
Consider your own life. It seems some days you're spinning your wheels, going in circles. A door closes, and another one opens. Sometimes it doesn't make sense where God is taking you. But if you read the Bible, it says in Isaiah 55:9, "For {as} the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts." God knows the masterpiece of your life. The paths don't seem to go anywhere, but to Him they do. From His vantage point, He's got a better view of where you're going. It's when we leave God's direction that our paths lead to destruction.
His word tells us, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6)
What will your life reveal about God's touch? I know it is hard work, we're moving stones in the desert…but once we're done we'll be able to look back at our life from God's vantage point: Heaven. What do you hope to see?
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Lights Out
It was after the evening church service and we were all standing around, talking and laughing. There was a Florida rainstorm going on, so inevitably the lights went out. It's amazing how quickly the room went silent. All you could see were the EXIT lights, showing the way out of the pitch black room. The lights came back on again, and everyone resumed their laughter and conversation. My sis-in-law and I decided it was time to duck out in the rain and get home.
If the lights had stayed out, we still would've made our way outside because those EXIT lights are battery operated. They stay on when all the electricity goes off. They help you find your way out of an unfamiliar building. (Yeah, you see where I'm going with this don't you?)
Has it gotten dark in your life lately? Did all the lights go out and nobody's talking or laughing anymore? Do you find yourself trapped in unfamiliar territory and don't see a way out?
Jesus said, "I am the way…" (John 14:6) and " I am the door" (John 10:9) When you are fighting depression or life has gotten so hard that you're looking to get out, I will point you to Jesus. His light never goes out and He will always lead you out of the dark. (I know this first hand.)
All you have to do is trust. I know that's one of those little big words, but maybe if you talk to others who have taken that route, you'll see it's a real deal. That EXIT light does not lead to more darkness or a locked door; it takes you to a freedom that is so amazing you will wonder why you fumbled around by yourself this long.
Where do you start? Pick up your Bible and start with the book of John. Ask a Christian friend to pray for you. Don't give up and keep searching my friend. Ask lots of questions! I'll pray for that light to go on for you.
Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, "I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life." John 8:12
If the lights had stayed out, we still would've made our way outside because those EXIT lights are battery operated. They stay on when all the electricity goes off. They help you find your way out of an unfamiliar building. (Yeah, you see where I'm going with this don't you?)
Has it gotten dark in your life lately? Did all the lights go out and nobody's talking or laughing anymore? Do you find yourself trapped in unfamiliar territory and don't see a way out?
Jesus said, "I am the way…" (John 14:6) and " I am the door" (John 10:9) When you are fighting depression or life has gotten so hard that you're looking to get out, I will point you to Jesus. His light never goes out and He will always lead you out of the dark. (I know this first hand.)
All you have to do is trust. I know that's one of those little big words, but maybe if you talk to others who have taken that route, you'll see it's a real deal. That EXIT light does not lead to more darkness or a locked door; it takes you to a freedom that is so amazing you will wonder why you fumbled around by yourself this long.
Where do you start? Pick up your Bible and start with the book of John. Ask a Christian friend to pray for you. Don't give up and keep searching my friend. Ask lots of questions! I'll pray for that light to go on for you.
Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, "I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life." John 8:12
Monday, September 10, 2007
Repentance
Six years ago, September 11 was like any other day. People were just getting in to work, dropping off their kids at daycare or stopping for a coffee. In minutes, their world would change. Evil touched the United States and thousands lost their lives in one stroke. Were they in the wrong place at the wrong time? Were they bad people, did they somehow bring it upon themselves? Harsh questions, I know.
Jesus’ disciples asked the same thing about a tragic massacre. Jesus assured them that the magnitude of the event had nothing to do with how much the people had sinned. He even related another event where a tower had fallen and taken several lives. Towers in those days where considered a sanctuary, so people rationalized that the dead had sinned greatly.
He made it clear that these tragedies were not brought on by their sin. In fact, He said the bigger question was whether or not they repented of their sins. Jesus was more concerned about spiritual death. He told His disciples, “…but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish." Luke 13:1-5
It’s a hard statement to swallow, but think about it. It’s going to happen, we will all die one day and face God. We don’t have a choice when and where. BUT, we do have a choice as to whether or not we will live on in heaven after our physical death.
When you reflect on the anniversary of 9-11, pray that people will realize how delicate life really is. You could be gone tomorrow. And the most important questions are not, “Do you have your affairs in order?” or “Have you told your family you love them?” The most important question is, “Do you know Christ?”
Before you go to sleep tonight. Consider repentance, because to Christ that was the most important thing.
If you'd like to know for sure whether you're heaven bound or not, drop in here: Need Him.
…that if you confess with your mouth Jesus {as} Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. For the Scripture says, "WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED." Romans 10:9-11
Jesus’ disciples asked the same thing about a tragic massacre. Jesus assured them that the magnitude of the event had nothing to do with how much the people had sinned. He even related another event where a tower had fallen and taken several lives. Towers in those days where considered a sanctuary, so people rationalized that the dead had sinned greatly.
He made it clear that these tragedies were not brought on by their sin. In fact, He said the bigger question was whether or not they repented of their sins. Jesus was more concerned about spiritual death. He told His disciples, “…but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish." Luke 13:1-5
It’s a hard statement to swallow, but think about it. It’s going to happen, we will all die one day and face God. We don’t have a choice when and where. BUT, we do have a choice as to whether or not we will live on in heaven after our physical death.
When you reflect on the anniversary of 9-11, pray that people will realize how delicate life really is. You could be gone tomorrow. And the most important questions are not, “Do you have your affairs in order?” or “Have you told your family you love them?” The most important question is, “Do you know Christ?”
Before you go to sleep tonight. Consider repentance, because to Christ that was the most important thing.
If you'd like to know for sure whether you're heaven bound or not, drop in here: Need Him.
…that if you confess with your mouth Jesus {as} Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. For the Scripture says, "WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED." Romans 10:9-11
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Launching Pad
The shuttle lifted off to another mission this week. We stood in the parking lot of the church and felt the ble minutes later. The launch had a beautiful orange tail that changed colors as it made it's way through the atmosphere. The trail of smoke was towering, then bent as the shuttle found it's "window" to space. The winds in the sky then seemed to make the rocket trail dance a bit as the shuttle became a bright star in the sky.
How long did it take to get to this point? The teacher that was on board waited 20 years for this. She signed up when another teacher was getting ready to blast off in '86. There were months of preparation, training and medical testing. For the vehicle, there was repair, tune-ups, computer upgrades and test after test after test.
When we discover that God has a purpose for us, we go to great lengths to discover it. A whole industry is built around this quest. We spend our money on thousands of self-help books, life coaches and "find yourself" conferences...only to find ourselves looking to the sky and asking God, "Who am I?"
Did you know that you are still on the launch pad? Don't let that discourage you! There is a lot of testing to go through. There are upgrades, repairs and lots and lots of training.
Get real with yourself, if you were told what your God-given purpose was right now...you'd be very excited. But then after you told everyone and thought about it...wouldn't it be a bit scary? Would the doubts creep in, or much worse...what if like a Christmas gift that you open on December 20th, it gets forgotten and shoved in a corner?
You do have a God-given purpose. The more you see yourself on the launch pad getting ready for your "mission", the less you will worry about it. For now, your duty is to care for that baby or parent. That training is being a loyal employee and doing your best for your boss. That repair is reading your Bible, studying the Word and growing in your faith. It may sound like ho-hum every day stuff...but to God it's being faithful in all things. Matthew 25:14-30
And as your faith grows and you become the person God knew you were when He created you, countdown will commence and you will be ready for the ride of your life!
How long did it take to get to this point? The teacher that was on board waited 20 years for this. She signed up when another teacher was getting ready to blast off in '86. There were months of preparation, training and medical testing. For the vehicle, there was repair, tune-ups, computer upgrades and test after test after test.
When we discover that God has a purpose for us, we go to great lengths to discover it. A whole industry is built around this quest. We spend our money on thousands of self-help books, life coaches and "find yourself" conferences...only to find ourselves looking to the sky and asking God, "Who am I?"
Did you know that you are still on the launch pad? Don't let that discourage you! There is a lot of testing to go through. There are upgrades, repairs and lots and lots of training.
Get real with yourself, if you were told what your God-given purpose was right now...you'd be very excited. But then after you told everyone and thought about it...wouldn't it be a bit scary? Would the doubts creep in, or much worse...what if like a Christmas gift that you open on December 20th, it gets forgotten and shoved in a corner?
You do have a God-given purpose. The more you see yourself on the launch pad getting ready for your "mission", the less you will worry about it. For now, your duty is to care for that baby or parent. That training is being a loyal employee and doing your best for your boss. That repair is reading your Bible, studying the Word and growing in your faith. It may sound like ho-hum every day stuff...but to God it's being faithful in all things. Matthew 25:14-30
And as your faith grows and you become the person God knew you were when He created you, countdown will commence and you will be ready for the ride of your life!
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Fish Tale
In August it rains a lot in Florida. You can pretty much count on afternoon rainstorms that last 20 minutes and dump an inch or more. Today was no different. I had errands to run and the rain started. After an hour with no let up, I figured I better get going. I wouldn’t melt.
On the way out of my neighborhood, there were huge puddles. Ponds were so full they were spilling into the street. And then I saw it…no lie: catfish in the street. These ugly mud-colored fish were trying to swim on the asphalt. One curious driver was outside of his vehicle in the rain, touching a catfish with the toe of his boot. I don’t think he thought it was real. I watched another slither off into the grass.
I bet the fish were more surprised than we were.
How is life going for you today? Have you had a little rain in your life? I wonder, has the problems and worries of this life driven you out of your comfort zone? Do you, like the fish, find yourself struggling as you make your way to safer waters?
I want you to know, that feeling that you get when you know you’re not where you need to be is no daydream. We are aliens on this planet.
Don’t get me wrong. I don’t believe we’re from Mars, or our ancestors are little green men. The Bible tells us we are strangers in this world. Just like those catfish didn’t belong on the street, we belong in heaven with God. (2 Corinthians 5:1)
God puts in the heart of every man and woman a longing. Some people call it a God-shaped hole. We feel like a fish on the road, making our way to the next puddle…the next paycheck, the next romance, the next drink, the next buzz. Why waste your time trying to find that thing that makes you feel whole or right again? I know what you’re missing my dear fish. You need water…living water. And I know just Who can supply it.
Jesus answered and said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again; but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life." John 4:13-14
On the way out of my neighborhood, there were huge puddles. Ponds were so full they were spilling into the street. And then I saw it…no lie: catfish in the street. These ugly mud-colored fish were trying to swim on the asphalt. One curious driver was outside of his vehicle in the rain, touching a catfish with the toe of his boot. I don’t think he thought it was real. I watched another slither off into the grass.
I bet the fish were more surprised than we were.
How is life going for you today? Have you had a little rain in your life? I wonder, has the problems and worries of this life driven you out of your comfort zone? Do you, like the fish, find yourself struggling as you make your way to safer waters?
I want you to know, that feeling that you get when you know you’re not where you need to be is no daydream. We are aliens on this planet.
Don’t get me wrong. I don’t believe we’re from Mars, or our ancestors are little green men. The Bible tells us we are strangers in this world. Just like those catfish didn’t belong on the street, we belong in heaven with God. (2 Corinthians 5:1)
God puts in the heart of every man and woman a longing. Some people call it a God-shaped hole. We feel like a fish on the road, making our way to the next puddle…the next paycheck, the next romance, the next drink, the next buzz. Why waste your time trying to find that thing that makes you feel whole or right again? I know what you’re missing my dear fish. You need water…living water. And I know just Who can supply it.
Jesus answered and said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again; but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life." John 4:13-14
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Reception
I have a dear friend who made a big decision to sell her house, buy an RV and travel the nation with her husband, a dog and a cat. They decided together that now was the time, and when her house sold so quickly, it was more confirmation to get going.
She is sorely missed at our Bible study group. My sister in law called her the other day. She made it safely to Tennessee and is settling in nicely. (The dog is happy; the cat is not.) She remarked to my sis in law that she was standing on a “mound”, away from the campsite. It was the only place she had good reception for her cell phone. She had to find a high point so her signal could clear the mountains and reach the closest tower.
There was another traveler who had to go up on a mountain to get a good reception: Moses. In Exodus 19, you find Moses climbing up Mt. Sinai to talk to God. Several times he climbs up high to make that connection with God. The 10 Commandments were given to Moses after one of those sessions with God.
In Matthew, Jesus climbed a mountain so He could speak to the crowds that gathered. It was like stepping onto a podium. He had to climb higher than the crowd so they could hear Him better.
How has your prayer time been? Have you been experiencing dropped calls or bad reception? Do you find yourself too busy to climb up a little higher than all the ruckus? I implore you to set aside at least 10 minutes today, get away from the chatter of this world and talk to God. God’s network is pretty amazing. He promises that if we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us. (James 4:8)
I bet if you take the time to make that connection daily, you will soon hear that still small voice whisper, “Can you hear Me now?”
Hear my cry, O God; Give heed to my prayer. From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Psalms 61:1-2
She is sorely missed at our Bible study group. My sister in law called her the other day. She made it safely to Tennessee and is settling in nicely. (The dog is happy; the cat is not.) She remarked to my sis in law that she was standing on a “mound”, away from the campsite. It was the only place she had good reception for her cell phone. She had to find a high point so her signal could clear the mountains and reach the closest tower.
There was another traveler who had to go up on a mountain to get a good reception: Moses. In Exodus 19, you find Moses climbing up Mt. Sinai to talk to God. Several times he climbs up high to make that connection with God. The 10 Commandments were given to Moses after one of those sessions with God.
In Matthew, Jesus climbed a mountain so He could speak to the crowds that gathered. It was like stepping onto a podium. He had to climb higher than the crowd so they could hear Him better.
How has your prayer time been? Have you been experiencing dropped calls or bad reception? Do you find yourself too busy to climb up a little higher than all the ruckus? I implore you to set aside at least 10 minutes today, get away from the chatter of this world and talk to God. God’s network is pretty amazing. He promises that if we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us. (James 4:8)
I bet if you take the time to make that connection daily, you will soon hear that still small voice whisper, “Can you hear Me now?”
Hear my cry, O God; Give heed to my prayer. From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Psalms 61:1-2
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
A Poem
My friend and niece had a baby. The same friend lost her brother this year, tragically. Then our pastors did a sermon series on Heaven...got me to thinking and a poem practically wrote itself! Enjoy.
A Parallel Universe
When we are born
we depart
a small universe
No more floating
a tiny orbit
inside a darkened space
Propelled into light
we leave with no choice
to land in a world
so different from what
we left
We gasp at the air
and open our eyes
to brilliance and sound
and soon wrapped
in arms of love
When we die
we depart
a small universe
No more floating
a tiny orbit
inside a darkened space
Propelled into light
we leave with no choice
to land in a world
so different from what
we left
We gasp at the air
and open our eyes
to brilliance and sound
and soon wrapped
in arms of
Love
Kelly Edens
June 7, 2007
A Parallel Universe
When we are born
we depart
a small universe
No more floating
a tiny orbit
inside a darkened space
Propelled into light
we leave with no choice
to land in a world
so different from what
we left
We gasp at the air
and open our eyes
to brilliance and sound
and soon wrapped
in arms of love
When we die
we depart
a small universe
No more floating
a tiny orbit
inside a darkened space
Propelled into light
we leave with no choice
to land in a world
so different from what
we left
We gasp at the air
and open our eyes
to brilliance and sound
and soon wrapped
in arms of
Love
Kelly Edens
June 7, 2007
Friday, June 08, 2007
Power Factor
My husband is in the electrical wholesale business. We had a discussion this morning on the term Power Factor. I thought, man that sounds like a great title to one of those self-help books! He saw that look in my eye...the wheels were turning and he went off to work. Then I started digging.
Did you know, Power factor is the ratio between the amount of energy supplied and the actual amount of energy used? The result is known as reactive power, and is essentially wasted energy capacity.
"A motor running with a 70 percent power factor is only using 70 percent of the incoming current for useful work. If you increase the power factor at the motor, more of the supplied energy will be transferred into useable work by the electrical system...Wasted energy capacity, also known as poor power factor, is often overlooked. It can result in higher energy costs, safety problems and, in some cases, additional financial charges." (Alliant Energy)
What's your spiritual power factor? Did you realize you have access to a Master switch that can light up the universe? That's a potential for major wow. How much spiritual power do you use? Are you a Sunday only church attendee? Do you only think about God as you sit down to eat and say grace? Or is it only when you suddenly find yourself in a real crisis...then you decide to "plug in" to God?
We're not using our power factor to it's potential! If we're using 70%, I'd really be shocked! We don't plug in to our Power Source and wonder why the cost of our choices are so high, our eternal life is at risk and why the heck we can't keep money in our pocket!
Did you know that the Bible says if we rely on Christ, we will do more than what He did on earth? (John 14:12-14) Our spiritual Power Factor is the ratio between the amount of energy God supplies (unlimited!) and the actual amount of energy we use in our day to day walk with Him. No wonder some people are able to move mountains!
Are you willing to try plugging in today? It's time to get reconncected to our Source. Get out your user's manual, the Bible, and give our spiritual Electrician a call.
Ephesians 3:14-21 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; {and} that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him {be} the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.
Did you know, Power factor is the ratio between the amount of energy supplied and the actual amount of energy used? The result is known as reactive power, and is essentially wasted energy capacity.
"A motor running with a 70 percent power factor is only using 70 percent of the incoming current for useful work. If you increase the power factor at the motor, more of the supplied energy will be transferred into useable work by the electrical system...Wasted energy capacity, also known as poor power factor, is often overlooked. It can result in higher energy costs, safety problems and, in some cases, additional financial charges." (Alliant Energy)
What's your spiritual power factor? Did you realize you have access to a Master switch that can light up the universe? That's a potential for major wow. How much spiritual power do you use? Are you a Sunday only church attendee? Do you only think about God as you sit down to eat and say grace? Or is it only when you suddenly find yourself in a real crisis...then you decide to "plug in" to God?
We're not using our power factor to it's potential! If we're using 70%, I'd really be shocked! We don't plug in to our Power Source and wonder why the cost of our choices are so high, our eternal life is at risk and why the heck we can't keep money in our pocket!
Did you know that the Bible says if we rely on Christ, we will do more than what He did on earth? (John 14:12-14) Our spiritual Power Factor is the ratio between the amount of energy God supplies (unlimited!) and the actual amount of energy we use in our day to day walk with Him. No wonder some people are able to move mountains!
Are you willing to try plugging in today? It's time to get reconncected to our Source. Get out your user's manual, the Bible, and give our spiritual Electrician a call.
Ephesians 3:14-21 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; {and} that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him {be} the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.
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