I'm going to be transparent right now - so you can read as long as you promise to still love me when I'm done. . . I have to be honest, though, because that was the commitment that I made when I started this blog. So love me or not, here is what is on my heart and mind at this particular moment in life:
humility is really, really, really, hard.
I like to think of myself as a humble person. I am willing to admit that I am a sinner - and most of the time I am quick to admit when I have sinned. I see wonderful qualities in other people that I admire and applaud, and I recognize my own inability to excel in some of those very same areas. I, I, I, I, I. That isn't a sentence, but a fairly comprehensive summary of this paragraph.
I am willing to be humble on my own terms. As long as I am the one humbling myself, then its ok. But what if someone else humbles me? What if I don't recognize and admit my sin but someone else points it out? Am I willing to be humbled, or only to admit my need for it?
In all honesty, I don't really want to be humbled in front of anyone. I don't really want for them to see my flaws, question my motives, or know that I sin. I want to hold all the power in that area and allow that information to leak out slowly, and only inasmuch as I see fit. But that isn't true humility, is it?
I am flawed. If you didn't know that already, now you do. I'm guessing you aren't surprised. . . And let's just get it out there - you're flawed too. But here is the amazing, beautiful thing about the body of Christ. We can extend grace to each other and love each other - flaws and all! We can choose to believe the best in each other even when we smell the stench of our sinful ways. And when we, as the body of Christ, choose to love and support each other despite our sin (rather than just trying to pretend we don't do it), a crazy thing happens. . . We all start sinning less!
Its a theory that I learned about in education classes called the self-fulfilling prophesy. When you believe that your students are incapable of success, you subconsciously create an environment where it is impossible for them to succeed. When you have high expectations and believe that your students possess all of the talent and drive to meet them - they often rise to the occasion and blow your expectations right out of the water!
And so it is in the body of Christ. . . when we believe the best in each other, when we love and support each other, then we each rise up and begin to live the way we really should. We don't ignore our sin, but believe God can grow us and use us in spite of it. You want to know what I think about you? I believe that you can really walk with God. Not some half-hearted, lukewarm walk with God. I believe that you can walk in such a way that He will beam with pride on the day you see Him face to face. I believe that through you God can change the whole world. I believe that if you surrender all of yourself to Him and follow after Jesus your life can make a ripple that will effect hundred and thousands of lives to come!! I believe that God can do that no matter what you've done in the past (or yesterday, or this morning). . .
We all need to be humbled sometimes. . . and I need to have a willing and open heart to recieve it. But we also need to hear the love and encouragement of those around us that tells us despite our sinfulness and selfishness, God can and will do awesome things in and through us!
Oh, please pray for true humility in me, and I'll pray for God's powerful, miraculous hand to change through world through you.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Predictable
One thing I love about scripture (and the God who breathed life into it) is the consistency and dependability of its standards. Sometimes people struggle to reconcile the God of the Old Testament with the God of the New Testament. How can a God who commands us to love, forgive and serve even our enemies be the same God who marched the Israelites into war and told them to take no prisoners? On the surface, it is difficult to understand - and some might even allow it to make the whole of the Christian faith seem illegitimate.
My simple response to these struggles would be that the character and priorities of God never change. The way that His character and priorities are demonstrated in the world change depending on the context and place in time in redemptive history - but the truth is that God's standards for us are not different than they were 2,000 years ago!
Matt is reading Leviticus again. When I say that, I don't mean reading through a chapter a day until he is through. I mean that there are 4 commentaries piled on the floor; each one digging into the original culture, context, and language of the book. I think this is the 3rd time in 4 years that he has studied Leviticus so deeply. I can't help but laugh when I think about his fascination with this book - it is a part of the bible that a lot of us skim over or even avoid.
His passion for studying Leviticus, though, is a great reminder that the Old Testament can teach us just as much about God's character and priorities as the New Testament can! We have to do a little more work to connect and relate the stories of old to our cultural context now - but the same God who commanded sacrifices for the forgiveness of sins in Leviticus is knocking at your door and asking you to accept the sacrifice of His Son as the forgiveness for your sins here and now!!
God never changes. And in a world that seems so uncertain, unstable, and unpredictable - that is the most wonderfully comforting and peace-giving truth that we can know.
And once we accept the beautiful and comprehensive salvation that He offers, we can also know that His view of us will never change either.
Hallelujah. What a Savior.
My simple response to these struggles would be that the character and priorities of God never change. The way that His character and priorities are demonstrated in the world change depending on the context and place in time in redemptive history - but the truth is that God's standards for us are not different than they were 2,000 years ago!
Matt is reading Leviticus again. When I say that, I don't mean reading through a chapter a day until he is through. I mean that there are 4 commentaries piled on the floor; each one digging into the original culture, context, and language of the book. I think this is the 3rd time in 4 years that he has studied Leviticus so deeply. I can't help but laugh when I think about his fascination with this book - it is a part of the bible that a lot of us skim over or even avoid.
His passion for studying Leviticus, though, is a great reminder that the Old Testament can teach us just as much about God's character and priorities as the New Testament can! We have to do a little more work to connect and relate the stories of old to our cultural context now - but the same God who commanded sacrifices for the forgiveness of sins in Leviticus is knocking at your door and asking you to accept the sacrifice of His Son as the forgiveness for your sins here and now!!
God never changes. And in a world that seems so uncertain, unstable, and unpredictable - that is the most wonderfully comforting and peace-giving truth that we can know.
And once we accept the beautiful and comprehensive salvation that He offers, we can also know that His view of us will never change either.
Hallelujah. What a Savior.
Monday, August 24, 2009
coram Deo
Another way that I have seen God grow and change my faith (filling me with a greater sense of freedom) is in understanding the scope of His active presence in and around me. For example, when I read the story of creation I am inspired and amazed by the sheer power of my God; one who can simply speak and create something out of nothing. But now I recognize that God upholds His creation by the same spoken word - the same amazing power. Every moment God is ordaining, sustaining, and directing all of created existence. . .
Just as God is every day sustaining his created order, he also sustains his created people. Have you breathed in the last 5 minutes? That is God's sustaining grace and power working in and through you to give you life.
It is so easy to loose sight of these truths, isn't it? We so often get caught up in our routines, responsibilities, and difficulties that we forget God in the midst of daily life. But he is ever present, enabling your body to keep living and sustaining the earth to be your home.
As I think about the freedom that comes from understanding God, I am reminded that this understanding and freedom cannot and should not be limited to what we consider 'spiritual' parts of life. All of life, all of creation, and every part of you is fully God's, and therefore spiritual. We are most alive, most content, and most fulfilled when we live in light of that truth.
A fabulous term for this way of living is coram Deo. To live coram Deo is to acknowledge God's presence everywhere and in everything.
So my prayer for us today is that we would recognize God in every area of life, submit ourselves to his creative authority, and worship him with all of the creative power that we have.
Before the face of God. . . coram Deo.
God bless.
"The continuation of the universe from one moment to the next is therefore as great a miracle and as fully the work of God as is its coming into being at the beginning. In this profound sense, we all live 'every instant by the grace of God'."
pg. 36 (Living at the Crossroads)
Just as God is every day sustaining his created order, he also sustains his created people. Have you breathed in the last 5 minutes? That is God's sustaining grace and power working in and through you to give you life.
"For in him we live and move and have our being."
Acts 17:28
"In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind."
Job 12:10
It is so easy to loose sight of these truths, isn't it? We so often get caught up in our routines, responsibilities, and difficulties that we forget God in the midst of daily life. But he is ever present, enabling your body to keep living and sustaining the earth to be your home.
As I think about the freedom that comes from understanding God, I am reminded that this understanding and freedom cannot and should not be limited to what we consider 'spiritual' parts of life. All of life, all of creation, and every part of you is fully God's, and therefore spiritual. We are most alive, most content, and most fulfilled when we live in light of that truth.
A fabulous term for this way of living is coram Deo. To live coram Deo is to acknowledge God's presence everywhere and in everything.
"To live coram Deo is to live in and to be aware of God's presence, responsive to his word, ready to serve him."
pg. 35 (Living at the Crossroads)
So my prayer for us today is that we would recognize God in every area of life, submit ourselves to his creative authority, and worship him with all of the creative power that we have.
Before the face of God. . . coram Deo.
God bless.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
All Aboard!
Ok, so I want to reflect a little farther on the freedom that comes from walking with Jesus. There is an analogy that Francis Chan uses that I think fits perfectly. He talks about a train running on a track. Suppose that train wanted to excercise its freedom, so it removed itself from the track. Is that train now free? NO! That train can't even move. The place of greatest freedom for it is right on the track. Once it returns to the track it can move as fast and far as it longs to! When that train was built it had an intended purpose. It was created to fulfill a function - and that function was good! So, ultimate freedom for the train is in being and doing was it was meant to be and do.
We are all created with different personalities, gifts and tendencies (1 Cor 12) - so in some ways we will all fulfill our purpose and thus find freedom differently. For example, I am a musician. I have been drawn to music as far back as I can remember - and I feel most alive, most engaged, and most worshipful when I am interacting with God and others through music.
Outside of our different personalities, though, is a common bond that unites us in purpose. Every one of us has been created in the image of God (Gen 1:27). We were uniquely made to reflect God's character and authority. Because we were originally created for this specific purpose, we will find the deepest fulfillment and freedom when we are whole-heartedly and passionately living out of that purpose. Running away from God doesn't give us ultimate freedom, because in doing so we are denying the loving Maker who knows what will ultimately bring us happiness, peace, and fulfillment here on earth. Half-heartedly acknowledging God but then living for our own purposes does not bring complete freedom and contentment either, because God's purpose and will is supposed to effect and influence every area of our lives.
I am beginning to understand what this all looks like in such a different way lately. For years I had defined my role and purpose through other people. I used the examples of Christians around me to understand the Christ-life rather than simply looking to Jesus himself to reveal my true identity. The more I study God's word - the more I understand who Jesus was and what He came to do - the clearer my purpose becomes. The freer I am to live for His plan and purpose. . . Having looked to others for this understanding for so long, I had become enslaved to other's expectations of me. Oh how I worked and labored (often unsuccessfully) to become the kind of woman I thought everyone else wanted and expected! I was definitely not free. . .
I am free now not because I am living a reckless, self-centered life. I am free because I am living a purposeful, Jesus-centered life. I don't have to impress or appease anyone. And on some level, at some point, we will probably disagree. But I'm not going to let that discourage me anymore. I am finally running on the track that God created for me. I feel the wind at my back and the sun on my face - and I am convinced that this is the only way to find true security, confidence, fulfillment, and peace in this life. God has given us everything we need (2 Pet 1:3) - it is up to us to hop on board and run in the paths of His commands. Not because someone else told us to, but because at the core of who we are we know and believe that His way is really the way, and following His commands is what will make us truly free. . .
We are all created with different personalities, gifts and tendencies (1 Cor 12) - so in some ways we will all fulfill our purpose and thus find freedom differently. For example, I am a musician. I have been drawn to music as far back as I can remember - and I feel most alive, most engaged, and most worshipful when I am interacting with God and others through music.
Outside of our different personalities, though, is a common bond that unites us in purpose. Every one of us has been created in the image of God (Gen 1:27). We were uniquely made to reflect God's character and authority. Because we were originally created for this specific purpose, we will find the deepest fulfillment and freedom when we are whole-heartedly and passionately living out of that purpose. Running away from God doesn't give us ultimate freedom, because in doing so we are denying the loving Maker who knows what will ultimately bring us happiness, peace, and fulfillment here on earth. Half-heartedly acknowledging God but then living for our own purposes does not bring complete freedom and contentment either, because God's purpose and will is supposed to effect and influence every area of our lives.
I am beginning to understand what this all looks like in such a different way lately. For years I had defined my role and purpose through other people. I used the examples of Christians around me to understand the Christ-life rather than simply looking to Jesus himself to reveal my true identity. The more I study God's word - the more I understand who Jesus was and what He came to do - the clearer my purpose becomes. The freer I am to live for His plan and purpose. . . Having looked to others for this understanding for so long, I had become enslaved to other's expectations of me. Oh how I worked and labored (often unsuccessfully) to become the kind of woman I thought everyone else wanted and expected! I was definitely not free. . .
I am free now not because I am living a reckless, self-centered life. I am free because I am living a purposeful, Jesus-centered life. I don't have to impress or appease anyone. And on some level, at some point, we will probably disagree. But I'm not going to let that discourage me anymore. I am finally running on the track that God created for me. I feel the wind at my back and the sun on my face - and I am convinced that this is the only way to find true security, confidence, fulfillment, and peace in this life. God has given us everything we need (2 Pet 1:3) - it is up to us to hop on board and run in the paths of His commands. Not because someone else told us to, but because at the core of who we are we know and believe that His way is really the way, and following His commands is what will make us truly free. . .
Friday, August 21, 2009
Free
I was talking with a friend this morning (one of my favorite things in the whole world to do=), and thinking about the idea of freedom. How many of us are really free? Do our lives really reflect the freedom that we have in Jesus? Do we live as if we are still in bondage, or do we run unhindered after the one who redeemed us from our chains? Do we even know what freedom is? Or what it looks like?
I am just beginning to understand what freedom is in my life. I am just now learning how to run unhindered, totally comfortable and confident in my own skin. I am amazed and excited to see how much my life has changed since God has begun this freeing work in my heart - and I long for those I love to experience the same freeing grace. . .
I might dig into the theology of all that a little later - but for now, I just want to leave you thinking. . .
What things in this world often enslave you?
What would it take for you to be free?
Do you believe that Jesus' death on the cross is supposed to bring you freedom right now, during your life on earth? Or have you always thought that the freedom we have in Christ was just something for the future; something to experience only when we eventually enter heaven?
I am just beginning to understand what freedom is in my life. I am just now learning how to run unhindered, totally comfortable and confident in my own skin. I am amazed and excited to see how much my life has changed since God has begun this freeing work in my heart - and I long for those I love to experience the same freeing grace. . .
I might dig into the theology of all that a little later - but for now, I just want to leave you thinking. . .
What things in this world often enslave you?
What would it take for you to be free?
Do you believe that Jesus' death on the cross is supposed to bring you freedom right now, during your life on earth? Or have you always thought that the freedom we have in Christ was just something for the future; something to experience only when we eventually enter heaven?
The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed.
Isaiah 61:1
I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free.
Psalm 119:32
So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.
John 8:36
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
your kingdom come
Prayer is a hard thing for me. I often feel like I'm trying too hard. . . forcibly crafting thoughts together when it should come more easily - flow more effortlessly. Other times I feel like I am being too spiritual about it. . . overly worried about saying everything in just the right way; you know, trying to show off my theological expertise or something. Which, of course, sounds completely ridiculous seeing as how I'm praying to GOD. But, if I'm going to be honest, its true.
Not only is praying just flat out difficult sometimes, but there are things that frustrate me about prayer in general. I don't totally understand it. I know that it is one of the greatest and most meaningful ingredients of our walk with God, and I know that Jesus depended on it for guidance and wisdom when he was on earth. . . but it seems so much more mysterious than a + b = c, you know?
I find comfort in the Lord's prayer, though. So simple, so straight foward. My absolute favorite line is your kingdom come. The applications of that phrase are endless - your kingdom come in this world, your rule and reign come over these nations, your lordship take hold in my life. . . oh, your kingdom come, Lord God, in any and every way it possibly can!!
I should pray the Lord's prayer more often. Jesus meant it as the ultimate example, and I think his theology is probably better than mine anyway (perhaps the understatement of the year, yes?).
My prayer for you? May His kingdom come in your life today too. . .
Not only is praying just flat out difficult sometimes, but there are things that frustrate me about prayer in general. I don't totally understand it. I know that it is one of the greatest and most meaningful ingredients of our walk with God, and I know that Jesus depended on it for guidance and wisdom when he was on earth. . . but it seems so much more mysterious than a + b = c, you know?
I find comfort in the Lord's prayer, though. So simple, so straight foward. My absolute favorite line is your kingdom come. The applications of that phrase are endless - your kingdom come in this world, your rule and reign come over these nations, your lordship take hold in my life. . . oh, your kingdom come, Lord God, in any and every way it possibly can!!
I should pray the Lord's prayer more often. Jesus meant it as the ultimate example, and I think his theology is probably better than mine anyway (perhaps the understatement of the year, yes?).
My prayer for you? May His kingdom come in your life today too. . .
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us
not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.
Matthew 6:9-13
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Unfashionable
One of the benefits of moving to the Northwoods has been a change in my insatiable desire and need for stuff. I am no where near as controlled by materialistic things as I was when I lived in the suburbs. . . mostly that's just because there are no stores up here. So I am forced into exile from all things hip, trendy, and fashionable (I'm making it sound worse than it is for dramatic effect). But really, it has been a great experience, because I am learning that the clothes I wore last season are actually just fine for wearing again, and the time and money I spent trying to keep up in the past can go to much better uses now. . .
Yesterday I was looking up books on Amazon.com when I came across one with the title "Unfashionable." It drew me in and after reading the description I think its a fabulous idea. Particularly in America we are so consumed with all things fashionable - whether clothes, or iPhones, or cars, or tan lines. Now, those things are not eternal and don't really matter in the scheme of things - but at the same time, the Christian life doesn't keep you from enjoying them altogether. There is nothing wrong with dressing well or baking in the sun, as long as it does not consume you - become your god. When this author was referring to being "unfashionable," he was talking not about the materialistic things of this world, but about the life we live before others in this world.
Though we might look the same, drive the same car, and use the same itouch - our lives, our attitudes, and our mission should look completely different from the world around us. And that difference does not usually put us in a place of fame and popularity. The result is much more likely that we'll be unfashionable. In fact, the bible tells us that we should expect it.
This is a difficult thing to hear for a young person considering following Christ. To ask someone to willingly give up their popularity and joyfully accept the criticism and mockery of others seems absurd - especially in middle school and high school. Girls, I know that your season in life is hard, and it is so very difficult to make the right choices. So before we start this new school year, here is a thought to encourage and motivate you to make the unfashionable or unpopular choice that seems so darn hard.
Jesus became unfashionable for you. Isaiah says that he had no beauty, no majesty; that he was mocked and rejected. It is so easy for us to become consumed with acceptance - but if this world accepts us with too much ease, it should be an indicator that we are not fully living the Christian life as God has called us to. Just look at Jesus. . . The Christian life goes against all of the standards and practices of this world.
When we live for God, we will be unfashionable. But through our genuine faith and transparent lives we have the opportunity to be used by Him to draw the hurting, lonely, sick, and desperate to the one true source of hope and comfort!! When we surrender our popularity at the foot of the cross, and there commit to living not for the applause of our friends but the pride of our Father - that is where true life begins!!
That is when the journey gets exciting.
My hope and prayer is that this year you will walk into your school and see yourself as God's missionary here on earth - not sent to blend in and hope that no one asks about your faith - but sent to stand out against the backdrop of all that is wrong and hurting in this world.
You can do it. By God's grace and through His strength you can become unfashionable too. . .
Yesterday I was looking up books on Amazon.com when I came across one with the title "Unfashionable." It drew me in and after reading the description I think its a fabulous idea. Particularly in America we are so consumed with all things fashionable - whether clothes, or iPhones, or cars, or tan lines. Now, those things are not eternal and don't really matter in the scheme of things - but at the same time, the Christian life doesn't keep you from enjoying them altogether. There is nothing wrong with dressing well or baking in the sun, as long as it does not consume you - become your god. When this author was referring to being "unfashionable," he was talking not about the materialistic things of this world, but about the life we live before others in this world.
Though we might look the same, drive the same car, and use the same itouch - our lives, our attitudes, and our mission should look completely different from the world around us. And that difference does not usually put us in a place of fame and popularity. The result is much more likely that we'll be unfashionable. In fact, the bible tells us that we should expect it.
"All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end
will be saved." Matthew 10:22
"Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." Galatians 1:10
"If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed."
1 Peter 4:14
This is a difficult thing to hear for a young person considering following Christ. To ask someone to willingly give up their popularity and joyfully accept the criticism and mockery of others seems absurd - especially in middle school and high school. Girls, I know that your season in life is hard, and it is so very difficult to make the right choices. So before we start this new school year, here is a thought to encourage and motivate you to make the unfashionable or unpopular choice that seems so darn hard.
Jesus became unfashionable for you. Isaiah says that he had no beauty, no majesty; that he was mocked and rejected. It is so easy for us to become consumed with acceptance - but if this world accepts us with too much ease, it should be an indicator that we are not fully living the Christian life as God has called us to. Just look at Jesus. . . The Christian life goes against all of the standards and practices of this world.
When we live for God, we will be unfashionable. But through our genuine faith and transparent lives we have the opportunity to be used by Him to draw the hurting, lonely, sick, and desperate to the one true source of hope and comfort!! When we surrender our popularity at the foot of the cross, and there commit to living not for the applause of our friends but the pride of our Father - that is where true life begins!!
That is when the journey gets exciting.
My hope and prayer is that this year you will walk into your school and see yourself as God's missionary here on earth - not sent to blend in and hope that no one asks about your faith - but sent to stand out against the backdrop of all that is wrong and hurting in this world.
You can do it. By God's grace and through His strength you can become unfashionable too. . .
Sunday, August 16, 2009
lukewarm
There is an interesting (and convicting) word that Jesus uses to describe a specific category of people. It is lukewarm, and if you read the references in Scripture referring to those who fit this description, you can be certain that it is not a term that you would want Jesus using to describe you. For example:
From Miriam-Websters Dictionary:
The term refers to people who have a 'loose' connection to God. They believe in him with their mouths, but do not depend on him or follow him with their lives. They tend to compartmentalize their faith into Sunday morning worship services and little else. Lukewarm means that we want the comfort and protection of God, but not the commands and kingship of God.
I think if we are honest with ourselves, we would have to admit that each one of us has lukewarm days or moments. I know that there are times when I flat out deny what I know God wants of me because I would just rather do my own thing. But having those kinds of moments is a little different from living that kind of life. While we sometimes fail to surrender all of ourselves to God, if we recognize that ultimately His ways are good - and if we devote ourselves to knowing Him and His ways - then we are not lukewarm, but believers who also happen to be humans. As humans, we will never get it right all the time (thought that shouldn't diminish our desire to try!)
On the other side of the spectrum are those who live completely lukewarm lives. . . somehow they seem totally unaware (or simply don't care) that they are missing the big picture (although I believe that on some level we always know when we are rejecting what is true). I really believe that there are faithful church-attenders who have never fully understood that God calls us not just to church attendence, but to completely transformed lives.
The Christian calling is all-encompassing. When you accept the bible as the written word of God, you have to recognize that the story within it is the true story for all of creation, for all of time. It that's the case, then God's word should impact every single arena of our lives.
I want to be a follower of Jesus who is faithful in my convictions, passionate in my pursuit of truth, and devoted to living the way my king has called me to live. Because, although God's grace is a free gift, and salvation something that we could never earn but freely receive, once we have the knowledge and understanding of God's character we have no choice but to turn and run after Him! As Paul once prayed for his brother and sisters, I pray for us:
Oh, how I hope and pray that lukewarm would never be a word describing my faith or yours.
So, because you are lukewarm— neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. Revelation 3:16
From Miriam-Websters Dictionary:
luke·warm
1 : moderately warm, tepid
2 : lacking conviction, halfhearted
The term refers to people who have a 'loose' connection to God. They believe in him with their mouths, but do not depend on him or follow him with their lives. They tend to compartmentalize their faith into Sunday morning worship services and little else. Lukewarm means that we want the comfort and protection of God, but not the commands and kingship of God.
I think if we are honest with ourselves, we would have to admit that each one of us has lukewarm days or moments. I know that there are times when I flat out deny what I know God wants of me because I would just rather do my own thing. But having those kinds of moments is a little different from living that kind of life. While we sometimes fail to surrender all of ourselves to God, if we recognize that ultimately His ways are good - and if we devote ourselves to knowing Him and His ways - then we are not lukewarm, but believers who also happen to be humans. As humans, we will never get it right all the time (thought that shouldn't diminish our desire to try!)
On the other side of the spectrum are those who live completely lukewarm lives. . . somehow they seem totally unaware (or simply don't care) that they are missing the big picture (although I believe that on some level we always know when we are rejecting what is true). I really believe that there are faithful church-attenders who have never fully understood that God calls us not just to church attendence, but to completely transformed lives.
The Christian calling is all-encompassing. When you accept the bible as the written word of God, you have to recognize that the story within it is the true story for all of creation, for all of time. It that's the case, then God's word should impact every single arena of our lives.
I want to be a follower of Jesus who is faithful in my convictions, passionate in my pursuit of truth, and devoted to living the way my king has called me to live. Because, although God's grace is a free gift, and salvation something that we could never earn but freely receive, once we have the knowledge and understanding of God's character we have no choice but to turn and run after Him! As Paul once prayed for his brother and sisters, I pray for us:
We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom
and understanding. Then the way you live
will always honor and please the Lord, and
your lives will produce every kind of good fruit.
All the while, you will grow as you learn to
know God better and better.Colossians 1:9-10
Oh, how I hope and pray that lukewarm would never be a word describing my faith or yours.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
God is good. End of story.
So, yesterday was quite obviously a difficult day. But I am continuously amazed to see how quickly our perspective, attitude, and emotions can change when we simply change our focus. It isn't that I can somehow magically lift my own spirit by thinking happy thoughts and sweeping my struggles under the rug. . . It is God's work in me (and you!) - aligning our hearts to beat to the right tune, reminding us of all the goodness and potential in our lives and the lives of those around us when we trust in Him and not ourselves.
Today was a crazy day (it included me locking my keys in my running car. . . oh boy!), but one that filled me with hope and joy for the year to come. What a great blessing after a day like yesterday.
This is one of the reasons I cannot fathom any part of God's word being untrue. When I actually live it out - follow its guidelines and walk in Jesus' ways - it WORKS!! That doesn't mean that life is easy or perfect (God never promises that), but that even in sadness and pain we can find hope, comfort, and joy in Him.
I hope you have experienced the great blessing of God's presence and love in your life. It can turn the darkest hours around and lift the heaviest burden. God is good; all the time.
All the time; God is good.
Today was a crazy day (it included me locking my keys in my running car. . . oh boy!), but one that filled me with hope and joy for the year to come. What a great blessing after a day like yesterday.
This is one of the reasons I cannot fathom any part of God's word being untrue. When I actually live it out - follow its guidelines and walk in Jesus' ways - it WORKS!! That doesn't mean that life is easy or perfect (God never promises that), but that even in sadness and pain we can find hope, comfort, and joy in Him.
I hope you have experienced the great blessing of God's presence and love in your life. It can turn the darkest hours around and lift the heaviest burden. God is good; all the time.
All the time; God is good.
"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. . . " Hebrews 12:2
"My eyes are ever on the Lord, for only he will release my feet from the snare." Psalm 25:15
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Homecoming
After a week and a half of traversing this continent, we are home. It was a wonderful trip, but a difficult homecoming. As we pulled out of my parent's driveway this morning it finally hit me that from this point forward things will be very different. In 3 weeks they are moving to Colorado - 1,000 miles from where we are. My bi-monthly visits will turn into bi-annual visits, and when we do return to the Chicago suburbs there will be a strange vacancy knowing that my parents are not there.
I didn't expect it to be so hard. I'm a grown woman with a family of my own, after all. But to me there is great comfort in the closeness of my family. I wish we were all closer. Unfortunately, that wasn't the only thing making my heart heavy today. Not only was I driving away from the security and safety of my parents, but I was driving towards a life and ministry that is sometimes difficult.
My last few posts have touched the surface of these struggles - the criticism and discouragement we sometimes receive, from people both inside and outside of the family of God. As I said before, I am grateful for the difficulties because I have already seen them grow and mature my faith. . . but honestly, sometimes I wish it could just be easy! I wish that we could all be in a place where everyone was running with all their might in the same direction; fighting for the same goal; dreaming the same wild, passionate dreams.
We are so blessed to be here, in this place, in this church. I am so grateful for the friends I've made, and for the students we have the opportunity to minister to. I know that God has us here for a reason, even in those moments when I feel like a square peg trying to shove myself into a round hole.
And ultimately, God has a plan. He doesn't want us to stop running, fighting, or dreaming! Even when everyone around us thinks we're crazy - HE is running, fighting, and dreaming alongside of us!! His passion and desire is to see the people in this community come to know Him - and when we devote our existence to achieving that end, well. . . He is proud.
So, today's homecoming was hard. . . because when I focus on people I can lose sight of Jesus. And when I consume myself with the struggles I sometimes face, I forget the blessings and the promises of my God. He is the one who will change hearts, stir up passion, and begin a revival - both in the family of God and the community in which we live.
And whether my parents are 100 miles or 1,000 miles away, God promises to be the deepest and greatest source of comfort, security, and love I will ever need. So the truth is, home is where Jesus is - and Jesus is always with me. So I find comfort in knowing that here, in the middle of no where, distant from my family, and in the good times and the bad,
I am home.
I didn't expect it to be so hard. I'm a grown woman with a family of my own, after all. But to me there is great comfort in the closeness of my family. I wish we were all closer. Unfortunately, that wasn't the only thing making my heart heavy today. Not only was I driving away from the security and safety of my parents, but I was driving towards a life and ministry that is sometimes difficult.
My last few posts have touched the surface of these struggles - the criticism and discouragement we sometimes receive, from people both inside and outside of the family of God. As I said before, I am grateful for the difficulties because I have already seen them grow and mature my faith. . . but honestly, sometimes I wish it could just be easy! I wish that we could all be in a place where everyone was running with all their might in the same direction; fighting for the same goal; dreaming the same wild, passionate dreams.
We are so blessed to be here, in this place, in this church. I am so grateful for the friends I've made, and for the students we have the opportunity to minister to. I know that God has us here for a reason, even in those moments when I feel like a square peg trying to shove myself into a round hole.
And ultimately, God has a plan. He doesn't want us to stop running, fighting, or dreaming! Even when everyone around us thinks we're crazy - HE is running, fighting, and dreaming alongside of us!! His passion and desire is to see the people in this community come to know Him - and when we devote our existence to achieving that end, well. . . He is proud.
So, today's homecoming was hard. . . because when I focus on people I can lose sight of Jesus. And when I consume myself with the struggles I sometimes face, I forget the blessings and the promises of my God. He is the one who will change hearts, stir up passion, and begin a revival - both in the family of God and the community in which we live.
And whether my parents are 100 miles or 1,000 miles away, God promises to be the deepest and greatest source of comfort, security, and love I will ever need. So the truth is, home is where Jesus is - and Jesus is always with me. So I find comfort in knowing that here, in the middle of no where, distant from my family, and in the good times and the bad,
I am home.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Upside Down
I got totally sucked into a puzzle this past week. My in-laws had started one and left it on the table, and when I found it there were about 300 pieces left to fit together. It was one of those tricky ones where everything looks the same and the pieces are about the size of your thumb nail. It was totally addicting and completely annoying. Eventually, Matt came to my aid and we finished it before the week was out. Along the way I had a little revelation, though, which seemed to make it worth my while.
There were several times when I found myself at a complete standstill. I would search and search for the right piece until I had myself convinced that it was missing altogether. . . and then the strangest thing would happen. I would stand up and walk around to the other side of the table - and suddenly everything seemed so clear. In the first 10 seconds of looking at it upside down I would usually find at least 3 pieces that I had all but given up on 5 minutes earlier. It was (as I said before) an addicting and altogether annoying experience. But it reminded me of life, and how similar it is when we are in the midst of life's stresses and struggles.
In my last post I talked about the criticizm that we receive in life. We will always have critics, and there will continually be those in our midst who question anything that seems different from tradition and convention. So how do we know when to fall back and surrender or when to march forward and fight? When is it ok to say "I'm sorry you feel that way, but I believe this is exactly what God is asking of me right now?" Well, one way to reach that point is to take a look at things upside down.
Sometimes we need to move to a different angle and seek to understand the situation from that new and different vantage point. There will be times when we conclude that our original plans and theories were off, and we need to step back and reconsider. But there will also be times when we see the truthfulness and validity or our ideas - and it is then that we can run after them with total zeal and passion. . .
I am glad that I have critics. It forces me to look deeply at my life and my philosophies. It gives me greater motivation to study the life of Jesus and word of God, so that I can always respond to those who disagree and discourage me along the way. I hope that you know what you believe - and why you believe it. . . and I hope that you are totally convinced that it is completely, wholely, and eternally true. That confidence and assurance makes all the difference when you face the arguments of your critics.
There were several times when I found myself at a complete standstill. I would search and search for the right piece until I had myself convinced that it was missing altogether. . . and then the strangest thing would happen. I would stand up and walk around to the other side of the table - and suddenly everything seemed so clear. In the first 10 seconds of looking at it upside down I would usually find at least 3 pieces that I had all but given up on 5 minutes earlier. It was (as I said before) an addicting and altogether annoying experience. But it reminded me of life, and how similar it is when we are in the midst of life's stresses and struggles.
In my last post I talked about the criticizm that we receive in life. We will always have critics, and there will continually be those in our midst who question anything that seems different from tradition and convention. So how do we know when to fall back and surrender or when to march forward and fight? When is it ok to say "I'm sorry you feel that way, but I believe this is exactly what God is asking of me right now?" Well, one way to reach that point is to take a look at things upside down.
Sometimes we need to move to a different angle and seek to understand the situation from that new and different vantage point. There will be times when we conclude that our original plans and theories were off, and we need to step back and reconsider. But there will also be times when we see the truthfulness and validity or our ideas - and it is then that we can run after them with total zeal and passion. . .
I am glad that I have critics. It forces me to look deeply at my life and my philosophies. It gives me greater motivation to study the life of Jesus and word of God, so that I can always respond to those who disagree and discourage me along the way. I hope that you know what you believe - and why you believe it. . . and I hope that you are totally convinced that it is completely, wholely, and eternally true. That confidence and assurance makes all the difference when you face the arguments of your critics.
But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened." But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.1 Peter 3:14-16
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
a costly choice
Matt and I are in Colorado with the kids. I am so grateful for this opportunity to get away and relax with my family!! Even the mundane daily routines of life are more fun when you're on vacation. =) We also had a fabulous weekend at home before we left for the mountains. Our Saturday service was so encouraging in so many ways.
Most of all, I was so moved by the message. The topic dealt with the issue of materialism, and about how we can get so wrapped up in our stuff (or the stuff we wish we had). The speaker was teaching from a passage in Luke where a woman breaks a bottle of perfume (worth over a year's salary!!) over Jesus' head. She was doing this humble, generous, beautiful thing. . . and the disciples scoffed at her - saying that she had wasted precious funds that could have gone to something meaningful, like helping the poor. Now, obviously God cares about the poor. The scriptures are filled with verses that talk about how we are to take care of those who are in need. . . but in this instance, Jesus didn't agree with his annoyed disciples. He applauded the woman for her bold, heart-felt offering. Our speaker connected that story to what many of us experience today. He said that when we step out and take bold steps in our faith, allowing our relationship with God to permeate every corner of our lives, we tend to get criticized too. I don't know why, but it happens all the time.
It was really easy for me to get overwhelmed and discouraged when Matt and I first started working in ministry. I had these naive assumptions that everything would be peachy - that people would see our passion and motivation and just run alongside us, helping and encouraging us, and holding us accountable in our walks with Christ. But I very quickly realized that not everyone appreciated our attempts. I don't mean that in a bitter or judgemental way. I just mean (quite literally) that not everyone sees life with God exactly the same way, nor do they prioritize exactly the same way. So what I may see as one of the greatest and most important goals in living out my faith, another might see as a simplistic distraction from the things that really matter.
I'm not done processing what all of that means, or how I'm supposed to respond in the meantime. . . but I was so encouraged to know that I am not alone in these experiences. And just because I often feel discouraged doesn't mean that I have it all wrong. No matter what anyone says or thinks, my ultimate goal is first and always to love Jesus and live to honor his legacy and work on earth.
If you find yourself in a situation like this, where you think you are making good choices that reflect the character and priorities of God - but others are criticizing your actions. . . remember that they might not always be right. And before we accept their words and turn from our path, we must search out the written word of God for direction, encouragement, and perspective.
After all, I'd much rather hear a "well done" from my Father in heaven than my audience here on earth. . . I'll take an eternity over 15 minutes any day.
Most of all, I was so moved by the message. The topic dealt with the issue of materialism, and about how we can get so wrapped up in our stuff (or the stuff we wish we had). The speaker was teaching from a passage in Luke where a woman breaks a bottle of perfume (worth over a year's salary!!) over Jesus' head. She was doing this humble, generous, beautiful thing. . . and the disciples scoffed at her - saying that she had wasted precious funds that could have gone to something meaningful, like helping the poor. Now, obviously God cares about the poor. The scriptures are filled with verses that talk about how we are to take care of those who are in need. . . but in this instance, Jesus didn't agree with his annoyed disciples. He applauded the woman for her bold, heart-felt offering. Our speaker connected that story to what many of us experience today. He said that when we step out and take bold steps in our faith, allowing our relationship with God to permeate every corner of our lives, we tend to get criticized too. I don't know why, but it happens all the time.
It was really easy for me to get overwhelmed and discouraged when Matt and I first started working in ministry. I had these naive assumptions that everything would be peachy - that people would see our passion and motivation and just run alongside us, helping and encouraging us, and holding us accountable in our walks with Christ. But I very quickly realized that not everyone appreciated our attempts. I don't mean that in a bitter or judgemental way. I just mean (quite literally) that not everyone sees life with God exactly the same way, nor do they prioritize exactly the same way. So what I may see as one of the greatest and most important goals in living out my faith, another might see as a simplistic distraction from the things that really matter.
I'm not done processing what all of that means, or how I'm supposed to respond in the meantime. . . but I was so encouraged to know that I am not alone in these experiences. And just because I often feel discouraged doesn't mean that I have it all wrong. No matter what anyone says or thinks, my ultimate goal is first and always to love Jesus and live to honor his legacy and work on earth.
If you find yourself in a situation like this, where you think you are making good choices that reflect the character and priorities of God - but others are criticizing your actions. . . remember that they might not always be right. And before we accept their words and turn from our path, we must search out the written word of God for direction, encouragement, and perspective.
After all, I'd much rather hear a "well done" from my Father in heaven than my audience here on earth. . . I'll take an eternity over 15 minutes any day.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)