Dinner
The afternoon was spent in the Word and reuniting with some old friends. I went to dinner at DeVinci’s. It was a great Italian restaurant. I had the spicy rope sausage and the best garlic loaf (not bread, it was a loaf. I asked the server if she knew why the spelled DeVinci with an "E" instead of an "A", she said she didn’t know but that she thinks it has to do with some different dialect in Italy that the owner belong to. However, since the Da Vinci Code movie she has been asked that question several times. I then asked if she had read the book. She said she had, but that she is reading Angels & Demons (the prequel) and says it is even better. Everyone says that–let’s be honest–I am not reading it. I then tried to engage her in a discussion of what she thought of the book. She didn’t understand the hoopla–it is fiction. Although when I pushed her, she still accepted some of the underline lies that Dan Brown sets forth in his book as historical fact. Anyway–it was a great dinner.
Right now, I am in the plenary session, the GA will be electing the moderator of church for the next 2 years.
Problems with LES
And LES strikes for the first time. LES is the computer program in which all assembly business is put on. There are no printed reports given to commissioners. The GA is dealing with the consent agenda which is a mass approval of many business items (which most people don’t read). Sometimes sneaky things pass through the consent agenda (I don’t know of any items this time). One commissioner complain that they couldn’t access LES. After taking a poll of whether commissioners could access LES 55% said they couldn’t. So half of the voters couldn’t access the information that was before the Assembly. This is a dangerous and a reason to call into question all actions that this GA takes unless the system is fixed. I love technology but this is a reckless use of technology with many commissioners who are not computer savvy. We should not sideline the collective judgment of our church because some people are not computer savvy.
15 minutes later--The second vote on ability to access LES is 22% cannot access but the consensus is that LES is slow and not responsive. I would concur with that assessment even when I use it during off-peak hours of the assembly. The consent agenda was just passed even though 1/5 of the assembly couldn’t assess the documents.
The beginning of disunity in regards to PUP
A overture was made by Presbytery of the James to deal with the PUP report (Peace, Unity, Purity) to deal with the recommendations independently of each other. The stated clerk and the committee of bills and overtures voted to not send the overture to any committees because this overture was not of a substantive matter, but a parliamentary procedure that the GA should do if it wished to deal with the report in such a manner. The motion is approved by an 80% margin (hope that is not a sign of things to come).
Another compliant about LES is made by a commissioner.
Rick Ufford-Chase just stated that we need to bear with LES, because, "it is important experiment." I wonder if the PUP report is an "important experiment" (experiment is the words that PUP members describe their proposals) as well.
Election of the Moderator
The good news is that the commissioners will not need LES for the election of the moderator. Because of delays the moderator just broke the assembly into singing a round of "Swing Low Sweet Chariot," and "I want to sing, I want to shout." Okay-dokee!
Tim Halverson: "Truly Reformed! Truly Evangelical! Truly catholic!" Halverson platform is based on a vision of discipleship, mission and growth (I am not sure what he means about growth). He talks the talk about evangelism and proclaim Jesus Christ. Halverson claims he is a centrists not with his views, but with because Jesus is the center. Halverson is liberal evangelical(?)
Joan Gray: "Polity is not to save us!" Joan stance is more about healing and learning to be a church amidst our differences. Learning to deal and live in conflict. Trusting in God and lifting up the role of elders. Her agenda is to lift up, empower and equip elders. Joan is an author of one the main polity books for our denomination. Joan is an conservative evangelical.
Kerry Carson: Status quo has lead us to status decline." Agenda is to focus on Great Commandment and Great Commission. Loving each other–going the extra mile for each other to experience renewal. The church compare to a roller coaster–hang on to Jesus when we fear. Believes that the best days of the PCUSA are ahead of us. Kerry is a conservative evangelical.
My money is Halverson at this point. Most energetic and unique presentation.
Deborah Block: Block is former moderator of the Covenant Network. Her platform takes about the day of Pentecost and being united by the Spirit. She tells a few stories about "experiencing" the spirit and it being unifying. (Experience is the post-modern foundation for truth) She has Pentecost vision of the church, diverse and focused on mission.
My money is still on Halverson.
Now for an hour of questions. I think it would be more interesting if the candidates had to answer in the form of a question.
Highlights of the Moderator Q&A:
-Carson(white guy) stated that he knows what it means to be a minority. Yikes!
-Block had a weak and blurred answered regarding upholding Jesus is the only path of salvation.
-Block stated that if a gay person meets the standard of ordination in the Book of Order then the presbytery must ordained them (unfortunately–they standards won’t allow them).
–Halverson stated that his dreams was to ordained homosexuals–but he feels that a biblical case hasn’t been made yet to ordained him and the church does not have an overwhelming consensus on this matter. Halverson stated the issues was about Biblical interpretation.
-Gray stated that she has learned to be uncomfortable with her position of not ordaining homosexuals.
-Carson stated that he can’t because the scripture doesn’t allow it.
-Halverson upset that only 2 overtures of 140 deal with Evangelism.
-Carson asked the assembly if we are ready to receive missionaries from other countries to help us to spread the good news in our neighbors. Are we ready? Are we willing (what a great question).
-Robert Gagnon (author of The Bible and Homosexuality Practice) asked the question about recommendation 5 of PUP report. His question was a better answer than the moderatoral candidates. All I have to say is Robert Gagnon for moderator.
-Halverson agrees with PUP only if is the overwhelming majority of the Assembly (no chance of this!)
-Carson doesn’t agree with it, but would be willing to accept it if the whole church were to vote on it (meaning if it wasn’t Authoritative nterpretation).
-Block doesn’t see how the Kenyon case (women’s ordination) is connected with the PUP report (really-it is pretty clear connection).
-The last question to the candidates was what picture would they draw to describe the PCUSA in 2-4 years.
-Gray stated that it would be a heart ablazed
-Carson stated that it would be hands holding it each up.
-Block said it would be diverse handprints
-Halverson said it would be a windmill because it has a strong foundation and does something (mission).
Why they wouldn’t say a cross?
1st Vote
Block-28%
Carson-22%
Gray-28%
Halverson-22%
2nd Vote
Block-32%
Carson-14%
Gray-41%
Halverson-14%
3rd Vote
Block-31%
Carson-4%
Gray- 62%
Halverson-4%
It is a good thing I am not a gambling man.
Joan Gray is new moderator and she is evangelical and conservative. She stated in the interviews that she doesn’t support ordination of homosexuals and she doesn’t support the PUP report. This is unbelievable. Although, the moderator doesn’t have much say and doesn’t always indicate the way the GA is leaning. However, this looks to be a good sign. My prayer during this process is that God would pick the most unlikely, that he would pick the candidate that would rise up and lead this denomination and God would show this Assembly and the world that He is working. Alleluia–God is amazing. Gray was that candidate. Most people that Block would win easily.
Well, it is midnight. Day 1 down, and I am official sleep deprived already.
Friday, June 16, 2006
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Here in Birmingham: Teddy Bears and Pet Murphy Beds
Well, I am here. Staying at the Holiday Inn, however, I don’t feel any smarter.
The plane ride was uneventful, although a little too bumpy for my pleasure. I did learn that apparently Detroit is on the way to Birmingham from Hartford.. On the first leg of my journey I was perusing through the AirMall magazine and found a Murphy Pet Bed. That is right a murphy bed for your dog. I laughed out loud and thought to myself who would buy one of these things and what dog would ever sleep on one. Most dogs I know rule their owners house, and sleep everywhere except their designated bed. Well on the second leg of my journey, I was sitting next to a lady who open up the AirMall magazine, and when she spotted the Murphy Pet Bed, immediately announce that she needed one, and wondered if she could build one herself. So apparently the Murphy Pet Bed has a niche market that consist of gullible pet owners.
I arrived late at night, didn’t get to bed until midnight and then starting my day at 5:30am. Yikes! I already feel overwhelmed with the amount of issues that need to be dealt with. Our denomination needs intercession and prayer. I signed up to testify in front of committees on two issues, the Abrahamic Heritage issue, and the FOG taskforce (I will speak more about this later).
My roommate is nice, he is a older pastor from Florida, although used to live in New Hampshire. He has a car so that is helpful, because the Civic Center is about 10 minutes away on Freeway from our hotel. This morning as I jumped into his car (literally jumped, he has the biggest SUV–I’ve seen)–there was a teddy bear grasping the steering wheel. He introduced me to CB (Chauffeur Bear). Apparently CB likes to drive, but isn’t allow to drive in the streets because he doesn’t have a license or at least won’t provide one when asked. So CB gets to drive around in parking lots when we are not there. I am not sure how he does this, because George (my roommate) takes the key with him. So I guess CB hotwires the car. I was relived to hear that CB wouldn’t be driving us, because I didn’t particularly feel safe with him driving–I think it is the blank look in his eyes, or that he never blinks that makes me nervous.
The plane ride was uneventful, although a little too bumpy for my pleasure. I did learn that apparently Detroit is on the way to Birmingham from Hartford.. On the first leg of my journey I was perusing through the AirMall magazine and found a Murphy Pet Bed. That is right a murphy bed for your dog. I laughed out loud and thought to myself who would buy one of these things and what dog would ever sleep on one. Most dogs I know rule their owners house, and sleep everywhere except their designated bed. Well on the second leg of my journey, I was sitting next to a lady who open up the AirMall magazine, and when she spotted the Murphy Pet Bed, immediately announce that she needed one, and wondered if she could build one herself. So apparently the Murphy Pet Bed has a niche market that consist of gullible pet owners.
I arrived late at night, didn’t get to bed until midnight and then starting my day at 5:30am. Yikes! I already feel overwhelmed with the amount of issues that need to be dealt with. Our denomination needs intercession and prayer. I signed up to testify in front of committees on two issues, the Abrahamic Heritage issue, and the FOG taskforce (I will speak more about this later).
My roommate is nice, he is a older pastor from Florida, although used to live in New Hampshire. He has a car so that is helpful, because the Civic Center is about 10 minutes away on Freeway from our hotel. This morning as I jumped into his car (literally jumped, he has the biggest SUV–I’ve seen)–there was a teddy bear grasping the steering wheel. He introduced me to CB (Chauffeur Bear). Apparently CB likes to drive, but isn’t allow to drive in the streets because he doesn’t have a license or at least won’t provide one when asked. So CB gets to drive around in parking lots when we are not there. I am not sure how he does this, because George (my roommate) takes the key with him. So I guess CB hotwires the car. I was relived to hear that CB wouldn’t be driving us, because I didn’t particularly feel safe with him driving–I think it is the blank look in his eyes, or that he never blinks that makes me nervous.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Identity Thief: Knowledge from the Spirit
"But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him”— these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit; for the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. For what human being knows what is truly human except the human spirit that is within? So also no one comprehends what is truly God’s except the Spirit of God. Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit that is from God, so that we may understand the gifts bestowed on us by God." (1 Corinthians 2:9-12, NRSV)
Our relationship to God can be tricky. But the mechanics of it are really quite simply. It is about God. We are not able to know God unless God reveals himself to us. God doesn’t just reveal himself to us in the visible form of God in the Son, Jesus, but he reveals himself in our hearts with His Spirit. We cannot know God unless God has given us His Spirit to know him. We cannot know God unless God reveals himself to us
So what does that mean? Does it mean that my salvation is not dependent on me? Yes, salvation and knowing God is dependent on God alone. The Father gives us His Spirit to confess that Jesus is Lord so we may glorify the Father.
We can’t know anyone unless they allow themselves to be known. We can get information about people and details about them, but to know them they must reveal themselves to us. We can’t steal the knowledge of a person, nor can we apprehend the ability to know God unless God allows us to know Him.
Our relationship to God can be tricky. But the mechanics of it are really quite simply. It is about God. We are not able to know God unless God reveals himself to us. God doesn’t just reveal himself to us in the visible form of God in the Son, Jesus, but he reveals himself in our hearts with His Spirit. We cannot know God unless God has given us His Spirit to know him. We cannot know God unless God reveals himself to us
So what does that mean? Does it mean that my salvation is not dependent on me? Yes, salvation and knowing God is dependent on God alone. The Father gives us His Spirit to confess that Jesus is Lord so we may glorify the Father.
We can’t know anyone unless they allow themselves to be known. We can get information about people and details about them, but to know them they must reveal themselves to us. We can’t steal the knowledge of a person, nor can we apprehend the ability to know God unless God allows us to know Him.
Monday, June 12, 2006
Perishing Thought
"But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke him up and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?”" (Mark 4:38, NRSV)
Questions are fantastic. You can learn a lot from questions even when they are the wrong questions or have the wrong premise.
The disciples wake Jesus up and wonder if they care if they are perishing? Since the creation of the world that has been God’s concern, that we are perishing. The purpose that He entered into this world is so that we won’t perish. That is why Jesus is there with the disciples so they and the rest of the world won’t perish, but live with him forever.
Questions are fantastic. You can learn a lot from questions even when they are the wrong questions or have the wrong premise.
The disciples wake Jesus up and wonder if they care if they are perishing? Since the creation of the world that has been God’s concern, that we are perishing. The purpose that He entered into this world is so that we won’t perish. That is why Jesus is there with the disciples so they and the rest of the world won’t perish, but live with him forever.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Struggling Hearing God's Voice
Andrew was had one of the most honest and intellectual questions lately. He told me that he was frustrated because he knows that God can hear him, but he can’t hear God’s voice. The first time he shared this with me last week, my heart sank—I don’t want my child struggling to find God’s voice—I don’t want him to struggle with his relationship with Jesus. But it is such a fantastic question.
Previously, I told him that God was talking to him whenever there was a lightning storm. God’s voice came in the thunder and is saying, “I love you Andrew”. That seemed to calm him during the storm. Yesterday—he said as we went over the question again—he knows he can hear God’s voice in thunder but is frustrated that he can’t understand it.
How many of us know God talks to us, but are frustrated that he can’t understand him or can’t hear his voice (or are unable to recognize his voice between the noises of this world and our life). If the naiveté of a 4-year-old is struggling with this concept, how much more are we?
Yesterday, I think I had a break-through with him. I told him God speaks in many ways to us—particularly through the Bible (God’s words). However, what sparked his interested is that I told him that sometimes God speaks to me through him (Andrew) and vice-versa. He liked that idea, so I think is mulling that over. But than he asked, how can I hear God’s voice when he is in my heart. How do you answer that question? It seems to me that answer that question is the question itself. If God is in your heart—your life is transformed to respond to God and to be directed by him.
Lord, may you grant Andrew and Joshua the ability to hear your voice. May they hear you speak and recognize your words. May they be faithful children to you. May they grow deeper in love with you.
Previously, I told him that God was talking to him whenever there was a lightning storm. God’s voice came in the thunder and is saying, “I love you Andrew”. That seemed to calm him during the storm. Yesterday—he said as we went over the question again—he knows he can hear God’s voice in thunder but is frustrated that he can’t understand it.
How many of us know God talks to us, but are frustrated that he can’t understand him or can’t hear his voice (or are unable to recognize his voice between the noises of this world and our life). If the naiveté of a 4-year-old is struggling with this concept, how much more are we?
Yesterday, I think I had a break-through with him. I told him God speaks in many ways to us—particularly through the Bible (God’s words). However, what sparked his interested is that I told him that sometimes God speaks to me through him (Andrew) and vice-versa. He liked that idea, so I think is mulling that over. But than he asked, how can I hear God’s voice when he is in my heart. How do you answer that question? It seems to me that answer that question is the question itself. If God is in your heart—your life is transformed to respond to God and to be directed by him.
Lord, may you grant Andrew and Joshua the ability to hear your voice. May they hear you speak and recognize your words. May they be faithful children to you. May they grow deeper in love with you.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Joy vs. "Like"
"constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. . . . dare to speak the word with greater boldness and without fear. . . . Only, live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that, whether I come and see you or am absent and hear about you, I will know that you are standing firm in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind for the faith of the gospel," (Philippians 1:4, 14, 27)
Joy. I often lack joy—the joy of knowing the good news; the joy of being in the good news; the joy of sharing the good news. It is not about the reward of seeing people respond to the good news. The joy is being in the good news.
Why do we in our culture fear sharing, particularly verbalizing the good news? It should be joy. Yet, we feel it as a burden. We don’t want to offend. We don’t want to be disliked. We rather have people “like” us then to bask in the joy and glory of the good news.
Imagine if God was more interested in people “liking” him than loving him—or being just. Imagine Jesus more interested in being like than willing to die on the cross.
Joy. I often lack joy—the joy of knowing the good news; the joy of being in the good news; the joy of sharing the good news. It is not about the reward of seeing people respond to the good news. The joy is being in the good news.
Why do we in our culture fear sharing, particularly verbalizing the good news? It should be joy. Yet, we feel it as a burden. We don’t want to offend. We don’t want to be disliked. We rather have people “like” us then to bask in the joy and glory of the good news.
Imagine if God was more interested in people “liking” him than loving him—or being just. Imagine Jesus more interested in being like than willing to die on the cross.
Monday, May 22, 2006
Absolute Truth of Scriptures
"I (Jesus) have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world." (John 17:14, NRSV)
"Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth." (John 17:17, NRSV)
"“I (Jesus) ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word," (John 17:20, NRSV)
Truth can be a slippery thing in today’s world. People don’t like it when we assert something is absolute or certain or as truth. Ironically, have you ever listen to how many people use the word, “absolutely.” Even people that are relativism use the word, “absolutely” in their conversations. I challenge you to listen for that word. It is astonishing how much you will hear it in everyday conversations.
I think most people use that word because they feel they need to overemphasize their position, or they really don’t have a good defense. There seems to be an insecurity with people in regards to the commonness of the usage of “absolutely.” I have tried to limit my use of the word. Not that I don’t believe in absolutes or truth, but when I use the word, I want people to take notice and realize that I really believe what I am saying and I don’t take casually the absoluteness of the Truth.
In Jesus’ pray for this disciples and the church just before his arrest, he talks again about the given of the word. Jesus has given us the good word—the word that is Truth. The word is not casual or common, the word is from God and this word is like no other word—it is life-changing. In the beginning of his gospel, John points out that Jesus is the Word, and the Word is God. Here, John continues along this theme but also develops they idea, the Jesus has given us himself and his message—his word, so we may proclaim Him, the Word to the world.
Jesus declares the Word as Truth—previously John identifies Jesus as the Word, and Jesus identifies himself as the Truth. Beyond just the obvious declaration that the absolute Truth is personified, Jesus states that it is the message that he is given the Apostles to proclaim is the Truth.
The scriptures (the Bible) that we have today are the Truth, not because we declare them, but because they are the testimony and word that Jesus handed down to the Apostles. The scriptures get their authority not from the church, but from Jesus—the Truth, who hands the responsibility and word (message) to his Apostles.
Simply put Jesus is the Truth. Jesus is the Word. Jesus passes the Word which is truth to his Apostles. His Apostles proclaim the Word is Truth to the World. Eventually they write down the Word (the message) which was given to them by Jesus in the Scriptures. Therefore the Scripture that we have being inspired by the Holy Spirit—is the Word and the Truth. I that I declare to you is Absolute.
"Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth." (John 17:17, NRSV)
"“I (Jesus) ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word," (John 17:20, NRSV)
Truth can be a slippery thing in today’s world. People don’t like it when we assert something is absolute or certain or as truth. Ironically, have you ever listen to how many people use the word, “absolutely.” Even people that are relativism use the word, “absolutely” in their conversations. I challenge you to listen for that word. It is astonishing how much you will hear it in everyday conversations.
I think most people use that word because they feel they need to overemphasize their position, or they really don’t have a good defense. There seems to be an insecurity with people in regards to the commonness of the usage of “absolutely.” I have tried to limit my use of the word. Not that I don’t believe in absolutes or truth, but when I use the word, I want people to take notice and realize that I really believe what I am saying and I don’t take casually the absoluteness of the Truth.
In Jesus’ pray for this disciples and the church just before his arrest, he talks again about the given of the word. Jesus has given us the good word—the word that is Truth. The word is not casual or common, the word is from God and this word is like no other word—it is life-changing. In the beginning of his gospel, John points out that Jesus is the Word, and the Word is God. Here, John continues along this theme but also develops they idea, the Jesus has given us himself and his message—his word, so we may proclaim Him, the Word to the world.
Jesus declares the Word as Truth—previously John identifies Jesus as the Word, and Jesus identifies himself as the Truth. Beyond just the obvious declaration that the absolute Truth is personified, Jesus states that it is the message that he is given the Apostles to proclaim is the Truth.
The scriptures (the Bible) that we have today are the Truth, not because we declare them, but because they are the testimony and word that Jesus handed down to the Apostles. The scriptures get their authority not from the church, but from Jesus—the Truth, who hands the responsibility and word (message) to his Apostles.
Simply put Jesus is the Truth. Jesus is the Word. Jesus passes the Word which is truth to his Apostles. His Apostles proclaim the Word is Truth to the World. Eventually they write down the Word (the message) which was given to them by Jesus in the Scriptures. Therefore the Scripture that we have being inspired by the Holy Spirit—is the Word and the Truth. I that I declare to you is Absolute.
Thursday, May 18, 2006
The In-Between Places
"Christ in you, the hope of glory. It is He whom we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone in all wisdom, so that we may present everyone mature in Christ." (Colossians 1:27b-28, NRSV)
"Whatever your task, put yourselves into it, as done for the Lord and not for your masters," (Colossians 3:23, NRSV)
The task of discipleship—Paul takes serious is role as a shepherd. He goes into communities to proclaim Christ, build relationships, build up leaders, and then He continues to shepherd them with letters when he is away (even when he is in jail).
Paul states his tasks as (1) proclaiming, (2) warning, (3) teaching—but the goal is to present everyone mature in Christ. This means that it is a process. Maturity just doesn’t happen—it takes someone to point you the way to maturity. It takes effort and time by the shepherd to lead someone to maturity.
We miss that in the church today. Most churches view discipleship or church participation as individualistic. It is up to the individual to find what they need or maturity. We are told to go to Sunday school, Sunday service, read the bible pray—well, who is making sure that we do those things, who is present us. And conversely—who are we presenting. Discipleship is about community.
Discipleship (leading someone to maturity) doesn’t happen in Sunday school, bible study, prayer, or service, it happens in the spaces in-between those things. All those things are helpful and important and certainly a part of discipleship, but true maturity comes in the in-between spaces. The life on life encounters with a mentor (shepherd, discipler).
Then Paul tells us to put ourselves into the task as if we are doing it for the Lord. Dive in wholehearted into the task that God has given us. The task of making disciples, the task of presenting people mature in Christ.
"Whatever your task, put yourselves into it, as done for the Lord and not for your masters," (Colossians 3:23, NRSV)
The task of discipleship—Paul takes serious is role as a shepherd. He goes into communities to proclaim Christ, build relationships, build up leaders, and then He continues to shepherd them with letters when he is away (even when he is in jail).
Paul states his tasks as (1) proclaiming, (2) warning, (3) teaching—but the goal is to present everyone mature in Christ. This means that it is a process. Maturity just doesn’t happen—it takes someone to point you the way to maturity. It takes effort and time by the shepherd to lead someone to maturity.
We miss that in the church today. Most churches view discipleship or church participation as individualistic. It is up to the individual to find what they need or maturity. We are told to go to Sunday school, Sunday service, read the bible pray—well, who is making sure that we do those things, who is present us. And conversely—who are we presenting. Discipleship is about community.
Discipleship (leading someone to maturity) doesn’t happen in Sunday school, bible study, prayer, or service, it happens in the spaces in-between those things. All those things are helpful and important and certainly a part of discipleship, but true maturity comes in the in-between spaces. The life on life encounters with a mentor (shepherd, discipler).
Then Paul tells us to put ourselves into the task as if we are doing it for the Lord. Dive in wholehearted into the task that God has given us. The task of making disciples, the task of presenting people mature in Christ.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Santification: The Will of God
"For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God; that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you." (1 Thessalonians 4:3-6, ESV)
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-22, ESV)
I have a little mantra that I give to my flock over and over again about the will of God. The universal will of God for everyone is quite simple. Love God! Love Neighbor! Tell people about Jesus! Okay, that really is an over-simplification, but I think it communicates the point clearly.
The most important thing we need to do in our life is to Love God, glorify him in all things. The Westminster Shorter Catechism stands it wonderfully in the first question, “What is the chief end of man? Man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.” This is end game: the glory of God. So therefore in order to glorify God we love each other and our neighbors. We show God’s love in this world. We allow Holy Spirit of God to work through us to demonstrate this love. And the best way to love this world is to share the good news that Jesus Christ, who was crucified, is risen. We need to tell people about Jesus so they to might understand the purpose of life is to glorify God.
It is a cute little mantra and I think helps people understand some difficult concepts and moves them away from the distracting and sometimes paralyzing question of “what is God’s will for my life?” The answer, of course, is to glorify God.
I love what Paul says in his letter to the Thessalonians as we expounds more fully on the will of God for them. Paul writes an encouraging letter to the community of faith—basically thanking them for keeping the faith and being an example of love to the community. He further encourages them and points out the God is not done with them yet. That God’s will is to continue to perfect them (sanctification) in this life so that they can further glorify him. God will continue to work in them to move them away from evil and the lusts of this world. Then Paul states clearly do not quench the Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit that is wanting and doing this work in us—let us not get in the way of God’s will of sanctification for us.
Let us not get in the way of God’s will for us. Let us not get in the way of God’s work. Instead let us join in it by rejoicing always and praying without ceasing.
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-22, ESV)
I have a little mantra that I give to my flock over and over again about the will of God. The universal will of God for everyone is quite simple. Love God! Love Neighbor! Tell people about Jesus! Okay, that really is an over-simplification, but I think it communicates the point clearly.
The most important thing we need to do in our life is to Love God, glorify him in all things. The Westminster Shorter Catechism stands it wonderfully in the first question, “What is the chief end of man? Man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.” This is end game: the glory of God. So therefore in order to glorify God we love each other and our neighbors. We show God’s love in this world. We allow Holy Spirit of God to work through us to demonstrate this love. And the best way to love this world is to share the good news that Jesus Christ, who was crucified, is risen. We need to tell people about Jesus so they to might understand the purpose of life is to glorify God.
It is a cute little mantra and I think helps people understand some difficult concepts and moves them away from the distracting and sometimes paralyzing question of “what is God’s will for my life?” The answer, of course, is to glorify God.
I love what Paul says in his letter to the Thessalonians as we expounds more fully on the will of God for them. Paul writes an encouraging letter to the community of faith—basically thanking them for keeping the faith and being an example of love to the community. He further encourages them and points out the God is not done with them yet. That God’s will is to continue to perfect them (sanctification) in this life so that they can further glorify him. God will continue to work in them to move them away from evil and the lusts of this world. Then Paul states clearly do not quench the Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit that is wanting and doing this work in us—let us not get in the way of God’s will of sanctification for us.
Let us not get in the way of God’s will for us. Let us not get in the way of God’s work. Instead let us join in it by rejoicing always and praying without ceasing.
Monday, May 15, 2006
The folly of Belief Righteousness
"Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel," (2 Timothy 2:8, NIV)
"You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus." (2 Timothy 2:1, NIV)
Jesus, raised from the Dead—this is the good news. What I love about Paul is his unrelenting reliance on the grace of God. Paul emphasizes over and over again it is all about what Jesus (God in flesh) has done and will do. It has not about us, but a dependence on God alone.
We cannot earn our salvation, we cannot earn a relationship with the Holy God, but we can receive it when it is freely given. We cannot not even choose to accept it, unless God allows His Spirit in us to accept His grace (what? Does that mean I cannot choose to accept Jesus?) Well—basically yes. We cannot choose, because we are unholy. The gift of God is about what He does, not what we do. Therefore works righteousness is not just a matter of trying to do the right things to earn God’s approval and salvation—but belief righteousness is someone trying to believe in the right things to earn salvation.
Keep in mind—orthodoxy (right thinking) is important. But God’s grace is just that grace. We don’t suddenly believe the right beliefs—God works through us to accept him and confess Jesus with our lips. We are transformed by the Spirit to confess the Truth of Jesus Christ and receiving the Good News that Jesus is raised from the dead.
It is not about what we believe, but who resides in us and what he has done for us.
This doesn’t mean all beliefs are equal—far from it—there is only one Truth and He is Jesus. We just don’t earn our salvation by believing it, we are given it. That is grace!
"You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus." (2 Timothy 2:1, NIV)
Jesus, raised from the Dead—this is the good news. What I love about Paul is his unrelenting reliance on the grace of God. Paul emphasizes over and over again it is all about what Jesus (God in flesh) has done and will do. It has not about us, but a dependence on God alone.
We cannot earn our salvation, we cannot earn a relationship with the Holy God, but we can receive it when it is freely given. We cannot not even choose to accept it, unless God allows His Spirit in us to accept His grace (what? Does that mean I cannot choose to accept Jesus?) Well—basically yes. We cannot choose, because we are unholy. The gift of God is about what He does, not what we do. Therefore works righteousness is not just a matter of trying to do the right things to earn God’s approval and salvation—but belief righteousness is someone trying to believe in the right things to earn salvation.
Keep in mind—orthodoxy (right thinking) is important. But God’s grace is just that grace. We don’t suddenly believe the right beliefs—God works through us to accept him and confess Jesus with our lips. We are transformed by the Spirit to confess the Truth of Jesus Christ and receiving the Good News that Jesus is raised from the dead.
It is not about what we believe, but who resides in us and what he has done for us.
This doesn’t mean all beliefs are equal—far from it—there is only one Truth and He is Jesus. We just don’t earn our salvation by believing it, we are given it. That is grace!
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Pay Close Attention
Reflections on 1 Timothy 4:12-16 (NRSV)
12 Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.
I have used this verse often with the youth of the church, but this phrase from Paul to Timothy is used in the context that Timothy is given pastoral responsbilities over people. Timothy was young, but he was a man that was gifted and ordained by God to serve the people. His calling was to set an example for the all believers in his speech and his conduct—His WORDS and DEEDS. I have heard several times in the past 7 months references regarding my youth—I receive those comments, but hope my life is an example to believers (not a life of perfection, but a life of repentance).
13 Until I arrive, give attention to the public reading of scripture, to exhorting, to teaching.
I love this command to Timothy. Read the scriptures first and foremost. Read them publicly. The proclamation and reading of the scriptures God will use. People need to read the word in order to believe it. Then we are to exhort, urge them, encourage them to believe and follow the Good News—it is a matter of urgency. Lord, help me to be a pastor and friend that reads the scripture aloud and proclaiming the urgency of following Jesus.
14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders.
We are given gifts and are affirmed of those gifts by the leaders of the Church. Lord, help me not to ignore or downplay my gifts, but develop them and use the for your glory.
15 Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress.
Lord, help me devote myself to the gifts that you have given. May I use them for your Kingdom and your glory. May people see my development not to glorify me or for my praise but for yours and that my life may be an example to follow.
16 Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers.
This passage took me back the most. It gives me permission to pay attention to myself—to care for myself. I need to be diligent to my life and the teaching that comes from me—and then the reward is not just for me, but for those that hear me. I have been entrusted with the message of salvation. Lord, may I be diligent and pay close attention to my life and teachings so that people may fall deeper in love with you.
12 Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.
I have used this verse often with the youth of the church, but this phrase from Paul to Timothy is used in the context that Timothy is given pastoral responsbilities over people. Timothy was young, but he was a man that was gifted and ordained by God to serve the people. His calling was to set an example for the all believers in his speech and his conduct—His WORDS and DEEDS. I have heard several times in the past 7 months references regarding my youth—I receive those comments, but hope my life is an example to believers (not a life of perfection, but a life of repentance).
13 Until I arrive, give attention to the public reading of scripture, to exhorting, to teaching.
I love this command to Timothy. Read the scriptures first and foremost. Read them publicly. The proclamation and reading of the scriptures God will use. People need to read the word in order to believe it. Then we are to exhort, urge them, encourage them to believe and follow the Good News—it is a matter of urgency. Lord, help me to be a pastor and friend that reads the scripture aloud and proclaiming the urgency of following Jesus.
14 Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you through prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders.
We are given gifts and are affirmed of those gifts by the leaders of the Church. Lord, help me not to ignore or downplay my gifts, but develop them and use the for your glory.
15 Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress.
Lord, help me devote myself to the gifts that you have given. May I use them for your Kingdom and your glory. May people see my development not to glorify me or for my praise but for yours and that my life may be an example to follow.
16 Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers.
This passage took me back the most. It gives me permission to pay attention to myself—to care for myself. I need to be diligent to my life and the teaching that comes from me—and then the reward is not just for me, but for those that hear me. I have been entrusted with the message of salvation. Lord, may I be diligent and pay close attention to my life and teachings so that people may fall deeper in love with you.
Monday, May 08, 2006
The Sacrifice of Praise
"Through him, then, let us continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that confess his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." (Hebrews 13:15-16, NRSV)
It is interesting that the offering of praise to God is compared to and stated as a sacrifice. Literally a sacrifice is something that had to be given up—killed—in order to pay the debt. We are to give something up—kill it—in order to praise God. More so we are to do it continually!
What do I need to sacrifice? What do I need to let die in my life (I think this is more metaphorically—I don’t need to kill an animal or person—but something in my life). What do I hold on to that constricts my praise to God?
Then the very next sentence says to not forget to do GOOD and share what I have. So not only am I to sacrifice something to praise God, but a part of my sacrifice is my security and resources to help God—because that is pleasing to God.
Word and Deed aren’t separated biblically. To praise God, we need to proclaim Jesus with our lips and our actions—and it is (at least should be) a sacrifice for us. So if my life doesn’t seem sacrificial perhaps I am not proclaiming God or praising Him?
Lord, Teach me what it is that I must sacrifice to praise you. Help me to confess your name and to not neglect what is good and pleasing to you.
It is interesting that the offering of praise to God is compared to and stated as a sacrifice. Literally a sacrifice is something that had to be given up—killed—in order to pay the debt. We are to give something up—kill it—in order to praise God. More so we are to do it continually!
What do I need to sacrifice? What do I need to let die in my life (I think this is more metaphorically—I don’t need to kill an animal or person—but something in my life). What do I hold on to that constricts my praise to God?
Then the very next sentence says to not forget to do GOOD and share what I have. So not only am I to sacrifice something to praise God, but a part of my sacrifice is my security and resources to help God—because that is pleasing to God.
Word and Deed aren’t separated biblically. To praise God, we need to proclaim Jesus with our lips and our actions—and it is (at least should be) a sacrifice for us. So if my life doesn’t seem sacrificial perhaps I am not proclaiming God or praising Him?
Lord, Teach me what it is that I must sacrifice to praise you. Help me to confess your name and to not neglect what is good and pleasing to you.
Monday, May 01, 2006
God Penetrating our Hearts
"Then they prayed and said, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which one of these two you have chosen." (Acts 1:24, NRSV)
"And God, who knows the human heart, testified to them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as he did to us;" (Acts 15:8, NRSV)
"(and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”" (Luke 2:35, ESV)
"But Jesus, knowing the reasoning of their hearts, took a child and put him by his side" (Luke 9:47, ESV)
"He said to them, “Why are you frightened, and why do doubts arise in your hearts?" (Luke 24:38, NRSV)
God knows us. However, he doesn't just know us--he knows our thoughts--he knows our emotions--he knows our deepest desires and thoughts. He can see through our exterior images of ourselves into the depths of our heart.
We usually use the term "heart" in reference to our emotions or non-logical, irrational side of our soul. However, in the times of Jesus and jewish culture, the heart was the center of the soul and body where the rational mind met up with the emotional center of the body (the groin). Therefore the heart was not only the rational thoughts of the person, but the emotional entwined with them.
God doesn't just know our desires, we knows our thoughts. We knows how we rationalize and what we want.
Knowing this about us, he doesn't turn away and just condemn us for our thoughts, we engages us with compassion and challenges us to move beyond them to his will. When the early church went about the business of trying to replace Judas and get another 12th Apostle--the used the criteria of own's heart. Our human perception of a person can only go so far--but God penetrates through that boundary (our boundaries) and sees into the soul--the heart of a person.
The Apostles didn't desire to pick a replacement, the desire to seek God's will and have him pick the replacement.
How can we apply that process to our leadership style? Do we seek out God's will or our heart? Do we allow God to move in our lives or do we stiffle him with our issues and doubts.
May I be a person that allows God to penetrate my heart and seeks his will.
"And God, who knows the human heart, testified to them by giving them the Holy Spirit, just as he did to us;" (Acts 15:8, NRSV)
"(and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”" (Luke 2:35, ESV)
"But Jesus, knowing the reasoning of their hearts, took a child and put him by his side" (Luke 9:47, ESV)
"He said to them, “Why are you frightened, and why do doubts arise in your hearts?" (Luke 24:38, NRSV)
God knows us. However, he doesn't just know us--he knows our thoughts--he knows our emotions--he knows our deepest desires and thoughts. He can see through our exterior images of ourselves into the depths of our heart.
We usually use the term "heart" in reference to our emotions or non-logical, irrational side of our soul. However, in the times of Jesus and jewish culture, the heart was the center of the soul and body where the rational mind met up with the emotional center of the body (the groin). Therefore the heart was not only the rational thoughts of the person, but the emotional entwined with them.
God doesn't just know our desires, we knows our thoughts. We knows how we rationalize and what we want.
Knowing this about us, he doesn't turn away and just condemn us for our thoughts, we engages us with compassion and challenges us to move beyond them to his will. When the early church went about the business of trying to replace Judas and get another 12th Apostle--the used the criteria of own's heart. Our human perception of a person can only go so far--but God penetrates through that boundary (our boundaries) and sees into the soul--the heart of a person.
The Apostles didn't desire to pick a replacement, the desire to seek God's will and have him pick the replacement.
How can we apply that process to our leadership style? Do we seek out God's will or our heart? Do we allow God to move in our lives or do we stiffle him with our issues and doubts.
May I be a person that allows God to penetrate my heart and seeks his will.
Monday, April 24, 2006
No Other Name is Given Victory!
"When they had made the prisoners stand in their midst, they inquired, “By what power or by what name did you do this?”" (Acts 4:7, NRSV)
"let it be known to all of you, and to all the people of Israel, that this man is standing before you in good health by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead." (Acts 4:10, NRSV)
"There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among mortals by which we must be saved.”" (Acts 4:12, NRSV)
Peter and John are being questioned by the chief priests and the scribes because of the healing they did to a lame man and for proclaiming that Jesus is the Resurrection of the Dead in the temple. The accusers have the audacity, as they did with Jesus, to ask them by what power or name did you do this action? It is a great question—a question that they probably don’t want answered.
Peter answers them by saying it is Jesus, who know they guy you killed, the guy God raised from the dead. What a strong statement—Peter basically says how dare you ask—look at what you have done—you kill—we bring life and healing to people. You kill, God brings life—not much of a contest.
Then with further confidence, he declares that there is salvation (eternal life) in no one else! No other name under heaven.
We lack the confidence of Peter—we are given a relationship and saved under the only name under heaven. Being a follower of Jesus is not just being a member of another religion. The Apostles and Jesus himself state this is only under Jesus’ name. Being a follower of Jesus is an exclusive claim, an exclusive faith—that is openly inclusive for all to proclaim.
Bottom line, others (religions, faiths, people) can only bring death, but Jesus, who is the resurrection and life, brings victory (exclusive victory)!
"let it be known to all of you, and to all the people of Israel, that this man is standing before you in good health by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead." (Acts 4:10, NRSV)
"There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among mortals by which we must be saved.”" (Acts 4:12, NRSV)
Peter and John are being questioned by the chief priests and the scribes because of the healing they did to a lame man and for proclaiming that Jesus is the Resurrection of the Dead in the temple. The accusers have the audacity, as they did with Jesus, to ask them by what power or name did you do this action? It is a great question—a question that they probably don’t want answered.
Peter answers them by saying it is Jesus, who know they guy you killed, the guy God raised from the dead. What a strong statement—Peter basically says how dare you ask—look at what you have done—you kill—we bring life and healing to people. You kill, God brings life—not much of a contest.
Then with further confidence, he declares that there is salvation (eternal life) in no one else! No other name under heaven.
We lack the confidence of Peter—we are given a relationship and saved under the only name under heaven. Being a follower of Jesus is not just being a member of another religion. The Apostles and Jesus himself state this is only under Jesus’ name. Being a follower of Jesus is an exclusive claim, an exclusive faith—that is openly inclusive for all to proclaim.
Bottom line, others (religions, faiths, people) can only bring death, but Jesus, who is the resurrection and life, brings victory (exclusive victory)!
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Exact Imprint of God
"Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds. He is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word. When he had made purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs." (Hebrews 1:1-4, NRSV)
In that past month I have had numerous conversations with people who misunderstand the trinity—or what the Triune God is about. Now that is not all that surprising to not understand the trinity: three persons in one God. It is a mystery and beyond human logic. I don’t expect people to understand it. But I have had several people (church goers included) misunderstand who Jesus is.
One encounter with a person claimed he understood that Jesus was God’s son, but not God. This person wasn’t a Jehovah’s Witness, he was raised in a church that proclaimed the trinity—he had just missed the point. He had missed the point that Jesus is God. That Jesus is the creator, that Jesus is the sustainer, that Jesus is the redeemer. Jesus is the heir of all things and is the all in all.
I love this phrase in the opening of the Book of Hebrews; He is the exact imprint of God’s very being. We have the image of God, but Jesus has the exact imprint—He is God in the flesh. Jesus has inherited all things, included the name of God which is, “I AM”, therefore everything else is “I AM NOT”
When we are relationship with Jesus than “WE ARE” when we are not in relationship with God in the Flesh “WE ARE NOT”.
Lord Jesus, help me to release who you are, help me to abide in you, because everything else is NOT in comparison to you.
In that past month I have had numerous conversations with people who misunderstand the trinity—or what the Triune God is about. Now that is not all that surprising to not understand the trinity: three persons in one God. It is a mystery and beyond human logic. I don’t expect people to understand it. But I have had several people (church goers included) misunderstand who Jesus is.
One encounter with a person claimed he understood that Jesus was God’s son, but not God. This person wasn’t a Jehovah’s Witness, he was raised in a church that proclaimed the trinity—he had just missed the point. He had missed the point that Jesus is God. That Jesus is the creator, that Jesus is the sustainer, that Jesus is the redeemer. Jesus is the heir of all things and is the all in all.
I love this phrase in the opening of the Book of Hebrews; He is the exact imprint of God’s very being. We have the image of God, but Jesus has the exact imprint—He is God in the flesh. Jesus has inherited all things, included the name of God which is, “I AM”, therefore everything else is “I AM NOT”
When we are relationship with Jesus than “WE ARE” when we are not in relationship with God in the Flesh “WE ARE NOT”.
Lord Jesus, help me to release who you are, help me to abide in you, because everything else is NOT in comparison to you.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
The Gospel of Judas
There was been a lot of hoopla about the new released Gospel of Judas. National Geographic did a big special on Sunday, most of the major media outlets have covered it. Instead of reproducing a lot of the comments about the Gospel of Judas, I thought I just link you to a good blog about it.
Ben Witherington: The Sad Truth about Judas
Witherington has several posts responding to the Gospel--all of them which you should read.
The bottomline is this 1 document written by Gnostics some 300 years after Jesus and Judas, doesn't reveal anything about what the early church believe and knew about their relationship, but reveals only what a heretical group that formed 100 years after the earlier church believed.
Ben Witherington: The Sad Truth about Judas
Witherington has several posts responding to the Gospel--all of them which you should read.
The bottomline is this 1 document written by Gnostics some 300 years after Jesus and Judas, doesn't reveal anything about what the early church believe and knew about their relationship, but reveals only what a heretical group that formed 100 years after the earlier church believed.
The New Motive
"Little children, I am with you only a little longer. . . .‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’ I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”" (John 13:33-35, NRSV)
The new commandment? Loving one another doesn’t seem like a new commandment. Wasn’t loving your neighbor as yourself essential to the Law for Israel? Love isn’t new, but the motive behind love is new. We don’t love each other to benefit each other. We don’t love our neighbor because it does them good for us to love them. We don’t love each other because it makes us feel better about ourselves or somehow is a good work for us. Rather we love each other because Jesus loves us. Loving each other is a response to the Love that Jesus gives us. Loving each other is a way of glorify our Lord.
So what is the type of love that Jesus shares with us. Just prior to this “new” commandment Jesus realizing that the Father has given everything into his hands (wow! Everything is in the hands of the Son—that is trust!) turns to his disciples and washes their feet. He serves them. The love that Jesus shares with us is one of a servant—one that goes above and beyond to care for each other. We in turn must serve each other and the world.
The new commandment of love is really a new motive to respond to Jesus’ love—which is ultimate expressed on the cross. Now that is going above and beyond to serve—dying on the cross.
The new commandment? Loving one another doesn’t seem like a new commandment. Wasn’t loving your neighbor as yourself essential to the Law for Israel? Love isn’t new, but the motive behind love is new. We don’t love each other to benefit each other. We don’t love our neighbor because it does them good for us to love them. We don’t love each other because it makes us feel better about ourselves or somehow is a good work for us. Rather we love each other because Jesus loves us. Loving each other is a response to the Love that Jesus gives us. Loving each other is a way of glorify our Lord.
So what is the type of love that Jesus shares with us. Just prior to this “new” commandment Jesus realizing that the Father has given everything into his hands (wow! Everything is in the hands of the Son—that is trust!) turns to his disciples and washes their feet. He serves them. The love that Jesus shares with us is one of a servant—one that goes above and beyond to care for each other. We in turn must serve each other and the world.
The new commandment of love is really a new motive to respond to Jesus’ love—which is ultimate expressed on the cross. Now that is going above and beyond to serve—dying on the cross.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Refusing the Help we Need
Sometimes we just refuse help. No matter how dire the circumstances or how painful it is, we just refuse help.
Last night was one of those moments. Andrew, who is suffering through a poking-of-the-eye-with-the-toothbrush injury refused to take his eye ointment. The night before we woke up several times in the night whimpering and putting a cloth to his eye. Nevertheless it made for a miserable night for all of us. After taking him to the doctor, and the doctor thinking that he just irritated the eye and nothing was wrong, prescribed an eye ointment. Last night after the fury of his birthday (which was a grand event) Andrew refused to take his eye ointment (his being over-tired didn’t help the process). It took over 30 minutes of calming him down and bribing him, until eventually we had to overpower him and give it to him by force. He refused his eye medicine even though he was complaining about his eye.
People are like that. Sometimes we just don’t want help, even though, we know we need it, even though we know we are suffering, we refuse to take the help. People are that way with Jesus all the time. This world is full of death and suffering, and when you open up the doors for people to see Jesus they refuse the only help they really need.
Pray for Andrew to be open to receive the help he needs for his eye, and for people around us to receive the help that Jesus offers to them.
Last night was one of those moments. Andrew, who is suffering through a poking-of-the-eye-with-the-toothbrush injury refused to take his eye ointment. The night before we woke up several times in the night whimpering and putting a cloth to his eye. Nevertheless it made for a miserable night for all of us. After taking him to the doctor, and the doctor thinking that he just irritated the eye and nothing was wrong, prescribed an eye ointment. Last night after the fury of his birthday (which was a grand event) Andrew refused to take his eye ointment (his being over-tired didn’t help the process). It took over 30 minutes of calming him down and bribing him, until eventually we had to overpower him and give it to him by force. He refused his eye medicine even though he was complaining about his eye.
People are like that. Sometimes we just don’t want help, even though, we know we need it, even though we know we are suffering, we refuse to take the help. People are that way with Jesus all the time. This world is full of death and suffering, and when you open up the doors for people to see Jesus they refuse the only help they really need.
Pray for Andrew to be open to receive the help he needs for his eye, and for people around us to receive the help that Jesus offers to them.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Proclaiming Death
"In the same way he took the cup also, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes." (1 Corinthians 11:25-26, NRSV)
The words of Institution of the Lord’s Supper—we say them so often, they seem to roll off our tongue or pass through our ears without a second thought. But when I read them, hear them, or say them, they also seem to strike me as odd. “This cup is the new covenant in my blood”, “you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.” Those are odd things to repeat and hear over and over again.
It is interesting that Paul states that when wee participate in the Lord’s Supper we are in the action of proclaiming. By taking the Bread and the Wine as a community we are making a proclamation to the word. I usually don’t think of my participation in the Lord’s Supper as proclamation but I think of it as a way to remember and reflect on what Jesus has done for me. But yet, Paul clearly states it is a proclamation not an act of remembrance. By participation we are standing on our soap box to the world and proclaiming—proclaiming what?—proclaiming the Lord’s death. (?)
Whoa! Doesn’t it seem like we should be proclaiming his resurrection, his victory over death. That is such an odd thing to say, we proclaim death…
Well, we do proclaim death. The path of following Jesus is death. Death to this life, death to sin, death to slavery, and our ambitions and lusts— but in that death is true life. A life of servitude to our king, a life of freedom, a life of joy, an life that is everlasting.
In our proclamation of death we proclaim true life in Jesus.
The words of Institution of the Lord’s Supper—we say them so often, they seem to roll off our tongue or pass through our ears without a second thought. But when I read them, hear them, or say them, they also seem to strike me as odd. “This cup is the new covenant in my blood”, “you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.” Those are odd things to repeat and hear over and over again.
It is interesting that Paul states that when wee participate in the Lord’s Supper we are in the action of proclaiming. By taking the Bread and the Wine as a community we are making a proclamation to the word. I usually don’t think of my participation in the Lord’s Supper as proclamation but I think of it as a way to remember and reflect on what Jesus has done for me. But yet, Paul clearly states it is a proclamation not an act of remembrance. By participation we are standing on our soap box to the world and proclaiming—proclaiming what?—proclaiming the Lord’s death. (?)
Whoa! Doesn’t it seem like we should be proclaiming his resurrection, his victory over death. That is such an odd thing to say, we proclaim death…
Well, we do proclaim death. The path of following Jesus is death. Death to this life, death to sin, death to slavery, and our ambitions and lusts— but in that death is true life. A life of servitude to our king, a life of freedom, a life of joy, an life that is everlasting.
In our proclamation of death we proclaim true life in Jesus.
Monday, April 03, 2006
The Lord is on my side
"With the Lord on my side I do not fear. What can mortals do to me? The Lord is on my side to help me; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to put confidence in mortals. It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to put confidence in princes." (Psalm 118:6-9, NRSV)
How often I forget that the Lord is on my side—He is walking with me. With that knowledge and relationship it should be easy for me to walk confidently in this world, not with arrogance, but with a trust knowing that God has a plan and purpose for me and my family.
Yet, I feel I protect them from the world. I feel I can guard them. I forget that God is at my side and theirs and he loves them more than I do. Hard to imagine that someone can love my family more than me, but thankful that He does, because I don’t do a great job of loving them all the time.
Lord, help me to not fear, but trust in you and recognize that you are at my side.
How often I forget that the Lord is on my side—He is walking with me. With that knowledge and relationship it should be easy for me to walk confidently in this world, not with arrogance, but with a trust knowing that God has a plan and purpose for me and my family.
Yet, I feel I protect them from the world. I feel I can guard them. I forget that God is at my side and theirs and he loves them more than I do. Hard to imagine that someone can love my family more than me, but thankful that He does, because I don’t do a great job of loving them all the time.
Lord, help me to not fear, but trust in you and recognize that you are at my side.
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