Confession: I did go to a Kenny G concert the other day. Its not as bad as it may seem, as I had a free ticket, and so didn't pay $30ish dollars to sit and watch a guy blow into a sax for 2 hours. That's what I expected anyway, and was pleasantly blown away. Not only is he extremely talented, but the rest of his "group," as it were, are quite skilled as well. Since it was live, it was much more in the typical jazz style-improve and solos-than you can get on a cd. But this isn't really about my enjoyment of the concert, but rather my reaction to it.
As I was driving home, reflecting on that concert and thanking Him for all the recent blessings I have experienced, I found myself almost afraid of what was coming next. I don't know what it is, but I cannot seem to understand grace. Still. Had coffee with DJ on Thursday, and reflected on 2009. Its been such a great year, and while its had its ups and downs, I have so much to be thankful for, and I can see His hand all over it. I can not seem to grasp God blessing me just because, or Him being actually pleased with me. I vacillate between thinking I deserve blessings, or that He is about to send some hardship, so I shouldn't enjoy it too much. I know better, but doesn't seem to penetrate my heart. I am apprehensive about tomorrow, thinking that there is some great hardship about to befall me or that He will basically say, "That's enough, time for some more sanctification." So twisted. And even when He does send trials, they are not to be feared. I realized a while back, that I have a hard time accepting grace, both from God, and from others. More on that later, but as we approach the New Year, I think it'd be best to be thankful for the blessings of the past, and trust in His care for the future, whatever it may look like...
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Reflections on: Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence
Rank on rank the host of heaven
spreads its vanguard on the way,
as the Light of light descendeth
from the realms of endless day,
that the powers of hell may vanish
as the darkness clears away.
It kind of has a haunting tune...reverent one might say. Such a neat song. The third verse has such a neat perspective, much different that what I normally think of during Advent. While His coming was the greatest gift, its more than just a cute story of a baby in a manger. His coming was also the final move in the cosmic battle between God and Satan. He uses battle imagery throughout Scripture, and its reflected in that verse. The vanguard is the first line of troops that go into battle. I can't imagine what it must have been like for the angels who, way more than we, understand what was at stake, and what it meant for the "Light of light" to descend from heaven to become a man. Imagine escorting the King of Kings down from heaven as he goes from All-powerful to the most vulnerable. Gives me chills...
Something to meditate on as we enter the advent season...
spreads its vanguard on the way,
as the Light of light descendeth
from the realms of endless day,
that the powers of hell may vanish
as the darkness clears away.
It kind of has a haunting tune...reverent one might say. Such a neat song. The third verse has such a neat perspective, much different that what I normally think of during Advent. While His coming was the greatest gift, its more than just a cute story of a baby in a manger. His coming was also the final move in the cosmic battle between God and Satan. He uses battle imagery throughout Scripture, and its reflected in that verse. The vanguard is the first line of troops that go into battle. I can't imagine what it must have been like for the angels who, way more than we, understand what was at stake, and what it meant for the "Light of light" to descend from heaven to become a man. Imagine escorting the King of Kings down from heaven as he goes from All-powerful to the most vulnerable. Gives me chills...
Something to meditate on as we enter the advent season...
Sunday, December 6, 2009
The Incarnation
Let all mortal flesh keep silence,
And with fear and trembling stand;
Ponder nothing earthly minded,
For with blessing in His hand,
Christ our God to earth descendeth,
Our full homage to demand.
King of kings, yet born of Mary,
As of old on earth He stood,
Lord of lords, in human vesture,
In the body and the blood;
He will give to all the faithful
His own self for heavenly food.
Rank on rank the host of heaven
Spreads its vanguard on the way,
As the Light of light descendeth
From the realms of endless day,
That the powers of hell may vanish
As the darkness clears away.
At His feet the six wingèd seraph,
Cherubim with sleepless eye,
Veil their faces to the presence,
As with ceaseless voice they cry:
Alleluia, Alleluia
Alleluia, Lord Most High!
Monday, November 23, 2009
You are part of the "Great Congregation"
Psalm 40:10 "I have not hidden your deliverance within my heart; I have spoken of your faithfulness and your salvation; I have not concealed your steadfast love and your faithfulness from the great congregation."
Not sure who the 'great congregation" is, but I dare not hide from ya'll His steadfast love and faithfulness. So here's a testimony from a few weeks back.
Jeremiah 31:4 "Again I will build you, and you will be built, O Virgin Israel!"
On the surface, out of context, that seems like a nice verse from God to his people Israel, but this verse, in the context of the book of Jeremiah, is a radical shift in the language God uses to address his people and a turning point in their relationship with him. I hope so also with me.
The last month or so has been what some could call a desert spiritually. I would not however, because while the image of a desert makes me think that I am wandering and don't know where to find rest and refreshment. I did, but refused to go. More of an implicit refusal than an explicit refusal, but still a refusal. Funny how we have to relearn lessons. Thought I figured this one out in Rwanda...
So a few weeks ago, after working late in to the evening, I was on my way home, when I decided to stop by Miller Plaza and the fountain. I was pretty listless, and just sitting there, thinking about little. I had my Bible with me in my pocket. I'd kept it close lately, a subconscious admitting that I needed to read it, but yet I never really pulled it out. Finally, almost out of desperation, I pull it out and open to Jeremiah 31. How random. I had been studying the first half a few months ago, but never got to chapter 31.
Never again will I discount opening the Bible and letting God direct me to a passage. This was just what I needed to send me back to Him.
As I said, on the surface it seems to be merely a nice story of God loving Israel, but when you know the context of the earlier part of the book, you realize what an incredible thing He is saying. Reading over the first few chapters, and also looking at Hosea, God continues to refer to Israel as prostitutes, pointing out their whoring of themselves to anything and everything other than God. He condemns their actions in rather harsh terms, and things are not looking good for Israel. Then, as He works through their punishment and restoration an amazing thing happens, He calls them Virgins.
I cannot stress this enough: their Holy God has been calling and calling, doing marvelous works for them--only to have them turn away and refuse anything to do with Him. Though they run to other lovers time and again--looking for something, anything to satisfy--He keeps after them and draws them to Himself, and then He wipes away their record. In His eyes they are Virgins, the unblemished, pure Bride, for the perfect Bridegroom. Incredible!
Bam! Shot to the heart. Despite my recent distance, implicit refusal to submit to God and seek Him, He still is pursuing me and He will accept me back. Verse 20 reads: "Is Ephraim my dear son? Is he my darling child? For as often as I speak against him, I do remember him still. Therefore my heart yearns for him; I will surely have mercy on him, declares the Lord." He yearns for us. Totally undeserved, totally incomprehensible. He remembers us still--despite all we've done and continue to do--surely I will have mercy on Him.
Then, to help matters more, He gives us instruction on how not to stray--something that is so easy to do. Verse 21 " Setup road markers for yourself; make yourself guideposts; consider well the highway, the road by which you went." They were in fellowship with Him, and then they stayed, they walked down a road that led to destruction. So to in my life: it isn't a quick thing usually, but rather a process of little decisions, compromises and excuses that lead me down that road. So I read that verse, agreed that it was a good idea, and promptly closed my Bible and stood up. Thought better of it, pulled back out my Bible and journal, and began to write down what those road markers are: what little decisions, mindsets and compromises to I continually make that lead me away from Him. If I don't acknowledge them, then it becomes much more difficult to notice when I walk down that road. Now that I have identified some, I can pray through them, and be much more alert. Be sober, be vigilant for your adversary the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking who he may devour. Wise words from Peter.
So, an exhortation to you, dear member of the "great congregation," is to take some time to pray, asking God to show you the road that takes you from Him. Set up guideposts and markers and share them with a friend: Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will life up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). Also, read Jeremiah. Its a long one, and full of "poetry," but the picture of Israel's rebellion and God's redemption is incredible. We appreciate God more when we realize who we really are, and so what He has done. We truly are the new Israel, not only as recipients of the promise, but also just as deserving of His wrath.
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. (I Peter 2:9-10)
Not sure who the 'great congregation" is, but I dare not hide from ya'll His steadfast love and faithfulness. So here's a testimony from a few weeks back.
Jeremiah 31:4 "Again I will build you, and you will be built, O Virgin Israel!"
On the surface, out of context, that seems like a nice verse from God to his people Israel, but this verse, in the context of the book of Jeremiah, is a radical shift in the language God uses to address his people and a turning point in their relationship with him. I hope so also with me.
The last month or so has been what some could call a desert spiritually. I would not however, because while the image of a desert makes me think that I am wandering and don't know where to find rest and refreshment. I did, but refused to go. More of an implicit refusal than an explicit refusal, but still a refusal. Funny how we have to relearn lessons. Thought I figured this one out in Rwanda...
So a few weeks ago, after working late in to the evening, I was on my way home, when I decided to stop by Miller Plaza and the fountain. I was pretty listless, and just sitting there, thinking about little. I had my Bible with me in my pocket. I'd kept it close lately, a subconscious admitting that I needed to read it, but yet I never really pulled it out. Finally, almost out of desperation, I pull it out and open to Jeremiah 31. How random. I had been studying the first half a few months ago, but never got to chapter 31.
Never again will I discount opening the Bible and letting God direct me to a passage. This was just what I needed to send me back to Him.
As I said, on the surface it seems to be merely a nice story of God loving Israel, but when you know the context of the earlier part of the book, you realize what an incredible thing He is saying. Reading over the first few chapters, and also looking at Hosea, God continues to refer to Israel as prostitutes, pointing out their whoring of themselves to anything and everything other than God. He condemns their actions in rather harsh terms, and things are not looking good for Israel. Then, as He works through their punishment and restoration an amazing thing happens, He calls them Virgins.
I cannot stress this enough: their Holy God has been calling and calling, doing marvelous works for them--only to have them turn away and refuse anything to do with Him. Though they run to other lovers time and again--looking for something, anything to satisfy--He keeps after them and draws them to Himself, and then He wipes away their record. In His eyes they are Virgins, the unblemished, pure Bride, for the perfect Bridegroom. Incredible!
Bam! Shot to the heart. Despite my recent distance, implicit refusal to submit to God and seek Him, He still is pursuing me and He will accept me back. Verse 20 reads: "Is Ephraim my dear son? Is he my darling child? For as often as I speak against him, I do remember him still. Therefore my heart yearns for him; I will surely have mercy on him, declares the Lord." He yearns for us. Totally undeserved, totally incomprehensible. He remembers us still--despite all we've done and continue to do--surely I will have mercy on Him.
Then, to help matters more, He gives us instruction on how not to stray--something that is so easy to do. Verse 21 " Setup road markers for yourself; make yourself guideposts; consider well the highway, the road by which you went." They were in fellowship with Him, and then they stayed, they walked down a road that led to destruction. So to in my life: it isn't a quick thing usually, but rather a process of little decisions, compromises and excuses that lead me down that road. So I read that verse, agreed that it was a good idea, and promptly closed my Bible and stood up. Thought better of it, pulled back out my Bible and journal, and began to write down what those road markers are: what little decisions, mindsets and compromises to I continually make that lead me away from Him. If I don't acknowledge them, then it becomes much more difficult to notice when I walk down that road. Now that I have identified some, I can pray through them, and be much more alert. Be sober, be vigilant for your adversary the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking who he may devour. Wise words from Peter.
So, an exhortation to you, dear member of the "great congregation," is to take some time to pray, asking God to show you the road that takes you from Him. Set up guideposts and markers and share them with a friend: Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will life up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). Also, read Jeremiah. Its a long one, and full of "poetry," but the picture of Israel's rebellion and God's redemption is incredible. We appreciate God more when we realize who we really are, and so what He has done. We truly are the new Israel, not only as recipients of the promise, but also just as deserving of His wrath.
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God's people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. (I Peter 2:9-10)
Thursday, November 19, 2009
You alone, are worthy of my praise...
Once again, I'm listening to a song on the way home...here's the chorus:
I will give You all my worship, I will give You all my praise
You alone I long to worship, You alone are worthy of my praise.
I remember singing this in Youth Group, one of the leaders commenting about not liking this song, because he thought it made it seem like we are running around with praise looking to offer it to some one. I, on the other hand, do like it, because I think it hits on a important truth that we are tempted to overlook--the fact that we do have something important to offer God.
I don't think that we offer Him something in the sense that we make up for His lack, but rather we are important, and what we give has value. Denying this I think denies who we are, our value, and so denies His work in us--we are fearfully and wonderfully made, in His image, and that is important. Because we are valuable (He did send His son to die for us) then it is important what we praise, because our praise is valuable. He is a jealous God, and our praise is to be only directed towards Him. Were our praise nothing, then it would not matter that we give it to Him, and Him alone.
Simple song to be sure, but in that simplicity is wrapped up some significant truth about who we are, and how that effects our relation to God.
I will give You all my worship, I will give You all my praise
You alone I long to worship, You alone are worthy of my praise.
I remember singing this in Youth Group, one of the leaders commenting about not liking this song, because he thought it made it seem like we are running around with praise looking to offer it to some one. I, on the other hand, do like it, because I think it hits on a important truth that we are tempted to overlook--the fact that we do have something important to offer God.
I don't think that we offer Him something in the sense that we make up for His lack, but rather we are important, and what we give has value. Denying this I think denies who we are, our value, and so denies His work in us--we are fearfully and wonderfully made, in His image, and that is important. Because we are valuable (He did send His son to die for us) then it is important what we praise, because our praise is valuable. He is a jealous God, and our praise is to be only directed towards Him. Were our praise nothing, then it would not matter that we give it to Him, and Him alone.
Simple song to be sure, but in that simplicity is wrapped up some significant truth about who we are, and how that effects our relation to God.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Malcolm Gladwell: Humility
Reflections from: Catalyst 2009
Catalyst is a Christian Leadership Conference held every year in Atlanta, GA. Bryan College has sent students for a number of years. I attended my Junior and Senior years of college, and returned this year as a chaperone/alum. 13,000 people gathered for three days of leadership training, and lots of fun along the way. Here are some notes from a talk by one of my favorite authors, Malcolm Gladwell, on the necessity of humility in leadership.
Catalyst is a Christian Leadership Conference held every year in Atlanta, GA. Bryan College has sent students for a number of years. I attended my Junior and Senior years of college, and returned this year as a chaperone/alum. 13,000 people gathered for three days of leadership training, and lots of fun along the way. Here are some notes from a talk by one of my favorite authors, Malcolm Gladwell, on the necessity of humility in leadership.
Gladwell is first foremost a storyteller. In his writings for periodicals and books, he weaves together seemingly disconnected stories, finding overlooked, and underappreciated, correlations. He draws lessons and insights from these stories, providing relevant lessons for the challenges of today.
This address began with a story from the Civil War, specifically the Battle of Chancellorsville.
Abraham Lincoln had recently replaced the ineffective General McClellan with Thomas Hooker, a young, arrogant general of the Union Army. Knowing that Lee was holed up nearby, Hooker commissioned a troop of spies to find out what they could about Lee’s position. Hooker’s intelligence was unrivaled: He broke Lee’s code, and regularly intercepted messages. It was through this network of information gathering that Hooker was able to know Lee’s position, on an almost daily basis. Using this information, Hooker devised a plan to trap Lee.
Outnumbering him at least 2 to 1, and confident in his knowledge of Lee’s whereabouts, Hooker was convinced he couldn’t lose. “God almighty could not prevent us from victory,” he reportedly said.
He was wrong. Secure in his vast amount of information, he refused to listen when aids came to him telling of Lee’s maneuvering. Undaunted, he continued to prepare for battle, and refused to let anyone else speak to him—he set his plan, and he knew best. Hooker was so sure that Lee would retreat to Richmond that his forces were completely overwhelmed when Lee instead surprised them by attacking first. Hooker, trapped by his own overconfidence, paid the ultimate price.
Gladwell then compared this fiasco with the financial crisis, where “experts” knew everything about the market and could predict what would happen. They thought they knew the outcome of their actions, and this overconfidence led to a financial meltdown.
Research shows that as our amount of information increases, the likelihood of making a better decision or prediction actually does not increase significantly, but what does increase is our confidence in the accuracy of the prediction. Knowledge does not equal better decisions; we all over-estimate the value of extra information.
We have a tendency to become more confident in our decisions because of how much we know. Excess confidence can lead to mis-calibration—where you think you know more than you actually do. This is counter-intuitive: we think that mistakes are due to lack of information, rather than because of overconfidence resulting from too much information. In times of crisis we think we need daring and bold decision making, what we need in times of crisis is humility.
A key sign that a leader is overconfident is when he or she stops listening to those around them; when they cut themselves off from others. It is necessary for a leader to develop humility—a willingness to listen to others, to seek wise council.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Tongues, Prophesies, and Feminists
Ponderings from the Pulpit
10/11/09 | I Corinthians 14:28-40.
14:26 - Intro: When everyone has a way that they want to do church, the service can end up in chaos. While it is good to have personal time with God, there is a big difference between personal time and public time. Paul continually brings us back to its original purpose, and so we should be asking: What is best for the church, for its building up? Is what I am doing, how I am worshiping, best for those around me? This is contrary to the very modern notion that its all about me, and what makes me feel good, and close to God.
14:27-28 - Tongues: It is not a superior gift, and must be restricted. No more than 2 or 3, and their must be an interpreter. Is this quenching the Spirit? No! That is how He wanted it. "But these people really love Jesus." Then they need to love Him enough to obey Him. Worship as He says, not as I want.
14:29-33 - Prophesy: Again, 2 or 3 at the most. The Spirit of the prophet is subject to the prophet--it can be controlled, so do so. God is not a God of confusion, but of peace. Our services need to reflect the character of God. Where God is at work their is order and peace.
14:33-35 - Women: Can women speak in church? Of course, look at Chapter 11 (when women pray or prophesy...cover their heads.) There are many things they can do, but they cannot be elders or pastors--exercise authority. They are not permitted to question or judge the prophesy or giver publicly, evaluate and judge it on their own. This speaks to being in submission to the authority, both of the church, and of her husband. "Ask at home" - husbands better be studying and ready for questions about what happens in church. Be willing to study it out, perhaps even say, "Why don't we study this together?"
14:36-40 - Conclusion: Paul anticipates argument and so concludes with basically asking, "did you write the Bible? Didn't think so. This is a command of God." Where am I, in my life, doing what the Corinthians were doing? Where am I writing my own Scripture, where am I tempted to think that I am special and don't have to obey commands of God?
10/11/09 | I Corinthians 14:28-40.
14:26 - Intro: When everyone has a way that they want to do church, the service can end up in chaos. While it is good to have personal time with God, there is a big difference between personal time and public time. Paul continually brings us back to its original purpose, and so we should be asking: What is best for the church, for its building up? Is what I am doing, how I am worshiping, best for those around me? This is contrary to the very modern notion that its all about me, and what makes me feel good, and close to God.
14:27-28 - Tongues: It is not a superior gift, and must be restricted. No more than 2 or 3, and their must be an interpreter. Is this quenching the Spirit? No! That is how He wanted it. "But these people really love Jesus." Then they need to love Him enough to obey Him. Worship as He says, not as I want.
14:29-33 - Prophesy: Again, 2 or 3 at the most. The Spirit of the prophet is subject to the prophet--it can be controlled, so do so. God is not a God of confusion, but of peace. Our services need to reflect the character of God. Where God is at work their is order and peace.
14:33-35 - Women: Can women speak in church? Of course, look at Chapter 11 (when women pray or prophesy...cover their heads.) There are many things they can do, but they cannot be elders or pastors--exercise authority. They are not permitted to question or judge the prophesy or giver publicly, evaluate and judge it on their own. This speaks to being in submission to the authority, both of the church, and of her husband. "Ask at home" - husbands better be studying and ready for questions about what happens in church. Be willing to study it out, perhaps even say, "Why don't we study this together?"
14:36-40 - Conclusion: Paul anticipates argument and so concludes with basically asking, "did you write the Bible? Didn't think so. This is a command of God." Where am I, in my life, doing what the Corinthians were doing? Where am I writing my own Scripture, where am I tempted to think that I am special and don't have to obey commands of God?
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
And We're Back...
Hello, Hello, its been a while.
To kick off the return to blogging, I offer you this new series: The Hunt for a Homestead. In this groundbreaking new addition to our blog, we'll be covering the home-searching process, complete with links, tips, and anecdotes to explain our journey to find a house. Should be worthwhile.
Hunt for a Homestead
Next was a brand-new house in Alton Park. (5 years old, but we would be the first owners). It was listed at 123k, but we could get it for 75, with what I initially thought was a government grant, but turned out to be an interest-free loan, payable back when we sold, or accepted tenants. Not a good financial move, so we're moving on.
Currently we are looking at a septa-plex on Mitchell Ave (yes, seven plexes). Its a complicated deal that would involve purchasing with a third-party via an LLC. Its is still an option, but for the future. The house is under renovation, and is not currently on the market.
To kick off the return to blogging, I offer you this new series: The Hunt for a Homestead. In this groundbreaking new addition to our blog, we'll be covering the home-searching process, complete with links, tips, and anecdotes to explain our journey to find a house. Should be worthwhile.
Hunt for a Homestead
- Ultimate Goal: Purchase a house, along with a few other guys, live in it for a while, and then lease or sell as I move in to another with a wife and kids.
- Cast: Jeff, Tyler, and Brett. Jeff and I are pretty much going to buy once we find something, while Tyler and Brett are merely interested in considering it. Zach would be interested in renting from us once we find a place, and he finds a job.
- Properties: First, there was a nice house on Highland Park Ave for 43k. Great price, nice house, but needed a lot of work. Once we finally got inside to look at it, we found out that someone else saw its potential, and put an offer on it.
Next was a brand-new house in Alton Park. (5 years old, but we would be the first owners). It was listed at 123k, but we could get it for 75, with what I initially thought was a government grant, but turned out to be an interest-free loan, payable back when we sold, or accepted tenants. Not a good financial move, so we're moving on.
Currently we are looking at a septa-plex on Mitchell Ave (yes, seven plexes). Its a complicated deal that would involve purchasing with a third-party via an LLC. Its is still an option, but for the future. The house is under renovation, and is not currently on the market.
- Where we are now: Jeff, Tyler, and I are looking for a house to move into immediately. Brett and Zach are thinking about moving in November or maybe even December. If we can find a 4-bedroom then we'll be set, but we may settle for a three, and see how many we can realistically accommodate.
- Financial: Here is an interesting article on 15-year mortgage vs. paying off a 30-year early. The gist: Actually doing a 15yr would save a few thousand in interest. The benefit of a 30, is that you aren't locked in to the higher interest rate, should you fall on hard times, and, perhaps the biggest thing, is that most people aren't disciplined to actually pay off the 30 year mortgage faster. By signing a 15-year mortgage, you are forced to make those bigger payments. Interesting as we get closer to taking out a loan...
Monday, October 12, 2009
Its been a while...
and a little while longer it shall be...
But, coming soon:
Life in between: Dayton and Chattanooga
Reflections from: Catalyst 2009
Ponderings from the Pulpit: What I really hear my pastor saying
Notes from the Notebook: Thoughts along the way
Won't that be worth tuning in to?
But, coming soon:
Life in between: Dayton and Chattanooga
Reflections from: Catalyst 2009
Ponderings from the Pulpit: What I really hear my pastor saying
Notes from the Notebook: Thoughts along the way
Won't that be worth tuning in to?
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile...
Jeremiah 29:4-7: This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says to all those I carried into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: "Build houses and settle down; plant gardens and eat what they produce. Marry and have sons and daughters; find wives for your sons and give your daughters in marriage, so that they too may have sons and daughters. Increase in number there; do not decrease. Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper."
House sitting for Sheldon tonight, and its a beautiful night, so after dropping Tyler off I went walking around the block a few times. The house I am looking at purchasing is around the corner from where I am staying right now, and so I wanted to get a feel for the neighborhood, I figure 10:30 at night is when you can really get to know an area. Its so weird to think that I may have a house soon, and may be a part of a neighborhood--not as a result of my parents living there, but because I chose to live and be a part of this place.
Its a big decision, and so due in large part to the council of Dad, I (finally) began to pray in earnest about the decision. Not only for our decision to move there, but about what He is doing in the neighborhood, and how we can be a part of it. I am so excited about moving there and being a part of the work He is doing, and seeing how He uses 5 guys who move into this place to bless it. I am constantly wondering how we can be the gospel here, in how we act, how we live, how we interact with the people we live by, to not come in and look to take, and seek what we can get, but to really look to how we can give and what we can do for those we live around. For example, once we get settled, I want to have a cookout and invite the neighborhood (Tyler Gay will cook!) so we can meet people and let them know we are interested in knowing and being known--one of man's deepest needs, and the thing he runs from most I think.
There is a largeish field in the back (not on "our" property, but vacant) that is overgrown with a basketball goal in the corner. Not taken care of, but with a little effort can be quite usable. Once we get a mower, I want to mow it so we can play ball there, not only us, but hopefully kids in the neighborhood. Take an afternoon and clean up all the glass in the alley way and around the field so we can really use it without risk of injury; buy some balls and make them available.
Praying over the area was so awesome, as it helped cement some of my thoughts, and really acknowledged God's integral role in anything good that will come out of us being there. I don't know what He will do, but if He blesses us with being able to buy that house and move in, I am anxious to be a part of it. I also realize that it won't often be easy, and will constantly be a place to fight the flesh and explore what sacrificial love looks like--love for those I don't even really know. But that's a part of the Great Adventure that is following Christ. He won't let us be complacent and ignore the needs around us, and His grace is evidenced with us being a part of the solution to the hurting that we come across.
House sitting for Sheldon tonight, and its a beautiful night, so after dropping Tyler off I went walking around the block a few times. The house I am looking at purchasing is around the corner from where I am staying right now, and so I wanted to get a feel for the neighborhood, I figure 10:30 at night is when you can really get to know an area. Its so weird to think that I may have a house soon, and may be a part of a neighborhood--not as a result of my parents living there, but because I chose to live and be a part of this place.
Its a big decision, and so due in large part to the council of Dad, I (finally) began to pray in earnest about the decision. Not only for our decision to move there, but about what He is doing in the neighborhood, and how we can be a part of it. I am so excited about moving there and being a part of the work He is doing, and seeing how He uses 5 guys who move into this place to bless it. I am constantly wondering how we can be the gospel here, in how we act, how we live, how we interact with the people we live by, to not come in and look to take, and seek what we can get, but to really look to how we can give and what we can do for those we live around. For example, once we get settled, I want to have a cookout and invite the neighborhood (Tyler Gay will cook!) so we can meet people and let them know we are interested in knowing and being known--one of man's deepest needs, and the thing he runs from most I think.
There is a largeish field in the back (not on "our" property, but vacant) that is overgrown with a basketball goal in the corner. Not taken care of, but with a little effort can be quite usable. Once we get a mower, I want to mow it so we can play ball there, not only us, but hopefully kids in the neighborhood. Take an afternoon and clean up all the glass in the alley way and around the field so we can really use it without risk of injury; buy some balls and make them available.
Praying over the area was so awesome, as it helped cement some of my thoughts, and really acknowledged God's integral role in anything good that will come out of us being there. I don't know what He will do, but if He blesses us with being able to buy that house and move in, I am anxious to be a part of it. I also realize that it won't often be easy, and will constantly be a place to fight the flesh and explore what sacrificial love looks like--love for those I don't even really know. But that's a part of the Great Adventure that is following Christ. He won't let us be complacent and ignore the needs around us, and His grace is evidenced with us being a part of the solution to the hurting that we come across.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Success means...
"Consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative" --Oscar Wilde
Often an argument for continuing to do something the way it has been done, is to point to successes from it, or even positive results that are assumed would not be gotten otherwise. Fallacy. We don't live in a closed system; positive results are not necessarily the result of a good model, but rather a merciful God. He will bring order to our chaos, and accomplish His purposes anyway, but that does not mean our way is necessarily correct. I would almost think we have a creative mandate to continue to innovate and never settle for what we think is good enough. God is not falsifiable...
Often an argument for continuing to do something the way it has been done, is to point to successes from it, or even positive results that are assumed would not be gotten otherwise. Fallacy. We don't live in a closed system; positive results are not necessarily the result of a good model, but rather a merciful God. He will bring order to our chaos, and accomplish His purposes anyway, but that does not mean our way is necessarily correct. I would almost think we have a creative mandate to continue to innovate and never settle for what we think is good enough. God is not falsifiable...
Monday, August 24, 2009
Growing up "Christian"
There are a plethora of benefits and joys to growing up in a Christian environment and being saturated in the Word. I am also realizing a downside--or rather a consequence.There is so much that I take for granted, that I find I don't understand some of the basics. I can talk about them, probably debate them, back it up with Scripture--but I don't really understand. Case in point? The Cross. Reading tonight in J.I. Packer's Concise Theology, and he had this to say about God's goodness:
"The supreme expression of God's goodness is still, however, the amazing grace and inexpressible love that shows kindness by saving sinners who deserve only condemnation: saving them, moreover, at the tremendous cost of Christ's death on Calvary."
Hearkening back to the earlier post on the necessity of recalling--and repenting of--the fall, I really don't get the cross. I understand it to some extent, but it really fails to sink down in to my soul. I don't even begin to comprehend or appreciate the gravity of who I was, God's love, and Christ's sacrifice. I am living post-cross, and so don't understand life before a realized Savior; I am saturated with sin, and so don't understand perfect holiness; I am so completely selfish, that I can't understand selfless love--and so perpetually take these for granted.
Its impossible to understand or appreciate grace when we don't understand the fall. How can His love make sense, when I see my self as so lovable? I see sin, and I still don't get grace. Hmm...come to think of it, Dr. Held spoke in chapel on that very topic. Maybe I am not alone... I think I should listen to this.
"The supreme expression of God's goodness is still, however, the amazing grace and inexpressible love that shows kindness by saving sinners who deserve only condemnation: saving them, moreover, at the tremendous cost of Christ's death on Calvary."
Hearkening back to the earlier post on the necessity of recalling--and repenting of--the fall, I really don't get the cross. I understand it to some extent, but it really fails to sink down in to my soul. I don't even begin to comprehend or appreciate the gravity of who I was, God's love, and Christ's sacrifice. I am living post-cross, and so don't understand life before a realized Savior; I am saturated with sin, and so don't understand perfect holiness; I am so completely selfish, that I can't understand selfless love--and so perpetually take these for granted.
Its impossible to understand or appreciate grace when we don't understand the fall. How can His love make sense, when I see my self as so lovable? I see sin, and I still don't get grace. Hmm...come to think of it, Dr. Held spoke in chapel on that very topic. Maybe I am not alone... I think I should listen to this.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
I believe in Karma...
Listening to a song on my 45 min drive home from work today (I know, I should have been listening on one of Dad's sermons or something!) Despite my carnal choice, the opening line from the chorus sparked some interesting thought. "I believe in Karma, what you give is what you get returned." Started thinking about karma, and more generically, actions having consequences. Seems God has arranged His world in such a way that that is generally true. We can't comprehend anything else but cause-and-effect, because we have no reference for anything else (and indeed this may be all there is). Now there are exceptions to this rule everyday, and of course true belief in karma is nonsense, but we do well to remember the consequences for our actions.
In fact, this is key to understanding, or at least appreciating His grace. Realizing that we are not only saved from the power of sin--no longer slaves to sin, but slaves to Christ--we are also saved from the eternal consequences of sin--for the wages of sin is death. Not only is this grace manifested in our eternal salvation, but also in our earthly life. He does not see our sin, but rather Christ's righteousness. This is yet another reason why punishment is a vital part of parenting. If you teach a child right from wrong, and he learns what is supposed to happen when he sins, then he will be able to understand, or at least better feel the weight of God's grace, when he is not punished as he deserves.
But I suppose I don't really believe in karma...
In fact, this is key to understanding, or at least appreciating His grace. Realizing that we are not only saved from the power of sin--no longer slaves to sin, but slaves to Christ--we are also saved from the eternal consequences of sin--for the wages of sin is death. Not only is this grace manifested in our eternal salvation, but also in our earthly life. He does not see our sin, but rather Christ's righteousness. This is yet another reason why punishment is a vital part of parenting. If you teach a child right from wrong, and he learns what is supposed to happen when he sins, then he will be able to understand, or at least better feel the weight of God's grace, when he is not punished as he deserves.
But I suppose I don't really believe in karma...
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Reflections from Hebrews 1
An weighty chapter from a weighty book...
The writer begins by describing Christ, showing how He is superior to the prophets and angels. In vs. 3 he says this, "He upholds the universe by the word of His power." . What an incredible statement! He already mentions in vs. 2 how through Him all things were created, but this goes beyond that. He not only created it, He keeps it running. God the Sustainer.
I don't think about creation that much--at least the initial act of it. Even less the continuing sustaining of it. I think it is in man's nature to take things for granted, our continued existence notwithstanding. Just think about that for a moment, let it sink in. All that we see and experience continues to exist because of Christ's sustaining work. I'm no Greek scholar, but the English word "uphold" doesn't seem to me to be a passive word. He didn't set it up and then watches, He actively ensuring that it (the universe--all that exists) continues to function as He pleases. And we go right on with our lives not even thinking about it.
I immediately see many theological implications in this statement, and all that the writer says about Christ, but for now, just meditate on Christ the Sustainer of All. He is truly awe-some.
The writer begins by describing Christ, showing how He is superior to the prophets and angels. In vs. 3 he says this, "He upholds the universe by the word of His power." . What an incredible statement! He already mentions in vs. 2 how through Him all things were created, but this goes beyond that. He not only created it, He keeps it running. God the Sustainer.
I don't think about creation that much--at least the initial act of it. Even less the continuing sustaining of it. I think it is in man's nature to take things for granted, our continued existence notwithstanding. Just think about that for a moment, let it sink in. All that we see and experience continues to exist because of Christ's sustaining work. I'm no Greek scholar, but the English word "uphold" doesn't seem to me to be a passive word. He didn't set it up and then watches, He actively ensuring that it (the universe--all that exists) continues to function as He pleases. And we go right on with our lives not even thinking about it.
I immediately see many theological implications in this statement, and all that the writer says about Christ, but for now, just meditate on Christ the Sustainer of All. He is truly awe-some.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
The Necessity of Recalling the Fall
Lord, Have Mercy
Christ, Have Mercy
Lord, Have Mercy, On Me
"Of course He has mercy, don't focus on need, focus on grace."
Perhaps, but there is no understanding of grace without first understanding our need. In order to have a more full picture of what we have been saved to, we must understand what we have been saved from, and to cry out to him from the place of humility. Never assume upon grace--don't use God's faithfulness as a license to sin, and don't forget that it is all Him and none of me. It is entirely appropriate, out of realization of where I am on my own, to cry out for His mercy, not in order to receive it--He has given in already--but out of realization, and even admission, of my need.
Grace out of context can lead to an arrogance, and a constant reminder of the fall (though not in the form of condemnation) is very healthy. How quickly we forget where we were and who we were.
Jesus I've forgotten, the words that you have spoken
Promises that burned within my heart have now grown dim
With a doubting heart I follow, the paths of earthly wisdom
Forgive me for my unbelief, renew my heart again
Lord, Have Mercy
Christ, Have Mercy
Lord, Have Mercy, On Me
I have built an altar, where I worship things of men
I taken journeys, that have drawn me far from you
Now I am returning, to Your mercies ever flowing
Pardon my transgressions, help me love you again
Lord, Have Mercy
Christ, Have Mercy
Lord, Have Mercy, On Me
I longed to know you, and your tender mercies
Like a river of forgiveness, ever flowing without end
I bow heart before you, in the goodness of your presence
Your grace forever shining, like a beacon in the night
(Lyrics by Steve Merkel)
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (Romans 5:8; Hebrews 4:16)
Christ, Have Mercy
Lord, Have Mercy, On Me
"Of course He has mercy, don't focus on need, focus on grace."
Perhaps, but there is no understanding of grace without first understanding our need. In order to have a more full picture of what we have been saved to, we must understand what we have been saved from, and to cry out to him from the place of humility. Never assume upon grace--don't use God's faithfulness as a license to sin, and don't forget that it is all Him and none of me. It is entirely appropriate, out of realization of where I am on my own, to cry out for His mercy, not in order to receive it--He has given in already--but out of realization, and even admission, of my need.
Grace out of context can lead to an arrogance, and a constant reminder of the fall (though not in the form of condemnation) is very healthy. How quickly we forget where we were and who we were.
Jesus I've forgotten, the words that you have spoken
Promises that burned within my heart have now grown dim
With a doubting heart I follow, the paths of earthly wisdom
Forgive me for my unbelief, renew my heart again
Lord, Have Mercy
Christ, Have Mercy
Lord, Have Mercy, On Me
I have built an altar, where I worship things of men
I taken journeys, that have drawn me far from you
Now I am returning, to Your mercies ever flowing
Pardon my transgressions, help me love you again
Lord, Have Mercy
Christ, Have Mercy
Lord, Have Mercy, On Me
I longed to know you, and your tender mercies
Like a river of forgiveness, ever flowing without end
I bow heart before you, in the goodness of your presence
Your grace forever shining, like a beacon in the night
(Lyrics by Steve Merkel)
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (Romans 5:8; Hebrews 4:16)
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Introducing: Robert
Met Robert last week while canvassing in Coolidge for STAND. We talked for a brief moment while he filled out a survey--and told me that Chattanooga wasn't very homeless friendly. He knows, because he is on the receiving end of that unfriendly-ness. That was about all I got from our first interaction.
After work today, I went to Clumpies and while eating a delicious scoop of Mint Chocolate Chunk icecream, I saw Robert and decided to go talk to him. I had a coupon for a free scoop of Clumpies (we handed them out as incentives for completing STAND surveys) and so I went to give it to him. He immediately recognized me and remembered my name (I forgot his) and so we talked for a little bit and then walked back to Clumpies to get his scoop. We talked a bit more while he ate; though it was difficult. It wasn't that the conversation was painful, but rather I really had no idea what to talk about. He mentioned he had just got back from hitchiking to Alabama and that he was on his way to a Methodist church in the area which serves food to homeless.
His analysis of the homeless situation in Chattanooga was that there were only two places that he knew of that served food, and there was no other place aside from the Salvation Army that offered shelter (and it was full of drama, both between "guests" and those who worked there. I asked if he had heard of New City, figuring they had a homeless outreach, but he hadn't. He was only familiar with the Northshore. I went with to the church and saw some people already hanging out around there (it was 45 min before food was served.) Hung out there with him for a few minutes, and then headed back to Clumpies to continue reading.
Don't know what to do about him. I almost said I am confused, but that's not really it; I just haven’t the foggiest idea what to do. I hope I see him again; but aside from a friendly face and small talk, I don't know what else I have to offer. I need to figure out how to witness to him I think, though I'm sure he has heard from the church. That is one thing that is so very difficult--figuring out how to share my faith; tell them of the hope of the gospel that I claim to believe they (the world) so desperately needs. I suppose you really believe what you do, not merely what you say…so what am I going to do…?
On a similar vein…there is the whole prayer aspect as well. Prayer for him, and the homeless in Chattanooga, is powerful…somehow...
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
6 Hours of Bar Hopping... Pt. 1
A bachelor party to remember...
Last week I went to the wedding of some friends in college. There were a few guys from Bryan, and then 5 or 6 guys from back home, and the brother. The stated goal of the evening was to get the groom to throw up. We started out at the Firehaus and had supper, two different shots, and shared three pitchers of different beers. Then after a while we went to another bar next door, had two shots apiece, and then went to another bar, had some shots a pitchers, and then back to the first restaurant--which in our absence had been transformed into a club, with loud music, and only drinks to order. We hung out there until one of the guys was kicked out (for harassing a waitress and blocking the bar). We went outside, he threw up, and most of the guys went back in a cab, and I drove the others in the car.
Many questions were sparked by this night of frivolity and wanton alcohol consumption. I was hit later, upon some reflection, about how assumption-prone I am and how gray the world is. I realize more and more how little I have experienced and consequently how much I don't know how to respond too. I have some pretty deeply rooted assumptions, and the world just isn't as black and white as they call for.
Why do people want to drink in such excess? I had an out--designated driver, and it wasn't difficult at all to ignore the limited peer-pressure to drink more than I was comfortable with, but everyone there had more to drink than I thought was healthy. But what is too much? I really think I don't know enough to be able to draw that line very well. I'm sure there are some indicators--perhaps throwing up would be one--but aside from external indicators such as that, if you are not allowed to legally drive, does that mean you have, dare I ask, sinned? Such a strong statement for a gray area. Beyond a moral declaration, what is my response? I keep defaulting to what do I have an obligation to do, but far beyond that, what could I do. What does love do?
Listening to a sermon the other day about discipline, and was hit by how little we do that 1) in the church as a whole, but maybe more importantly 2) how little we do it personally. Not discipline, as the pastor said, as in punishment, but as far as instruction and correction. How much we really care about people is evidenced by if we confront, or just ignore areas where they are either in obvious sin, or engaged in acts where they are hurting themselves or others. While most of the people were new acquaintances, some were old friends, and I wonder what a loving action towards them would be.
More thoughts to come, but I think I am going to call up one of those old friends and have a chat...
Last week I went to the wedding of some friends in college. There were a few guys from Bryan, and then 5 or 6 guys from back home, and the brother. The stated goal of the evening was to get the groom to throw up. We started out at the Firehaus and had supper, two different shots, and shared three pitchers of different beers. Then after a while we went to another bar next door, had two shots apiece, and then went to another bar, had some shots a pitchers, and then back to the first restaurant--which in our absence had been transformed into a club, with loud music, and only drinks to order. We hung out there until one of the guys was kicked out (for harassing a waitress and blocking the bar). We went outside, he threw up, and most of the guys went back in a cab, and I drove the others in the car.
Many questions were sparked by this night of frivolity and wanton alcohol consumption. I was hit later, upon some reflection, about how assumption-prone I am and how gray the world is. I realize more and more how little I have experienced and consequently how much I don't know how to respond too. I have some pretty deeply rooted assumptions, and the world just isn't as black and white as they call for.
Why do people want to drink in such excess? I had an out--designated driver, and it wasn't difficult at all to ignore the limited peer-pressure to drink more than I was comfortable with, but everyone there had more to drink than I thought was healthy. But what is too much? I really think I don't know enough to be able to draw that line very well. I'm sure there are some indicators--perhaps throwing up would be one--but aside from external indicators such as that, if you are not allowed to legally drive, does that mean you have, dare I ask, sinned? Such a strong statement for a gray area. Beyond a moral declaration, what is my response? I keep defaulting to what do I have an obligation to do, but far beyond that, what could I do. What does love do?
Listening to a sermon the other day about discipline, and was hit by how little we do that 1) in the church as a whole, but maybe more importantly 2) how little we do it personally. Not discipline, as the pastor said, as in punishment, but as far as instruction and correction. How much we really care about people is evidenced by if we confront, or just ignore areas where they are either in obvious sin, or engaged in acts where they are hurting themselves or others. While most of the people were new acquaintances, some were old friends, and I wonder what a loving action towards them would be.
More thoughts to come, but I think I am going to call up one of those old friends and have a chat...
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Live within the sound of Your voice...
Heard an old CCM song today by Amy Morriss on the radio. Looked all over the internet and couldn't find it to download. I've listened to a 30 sec. sample for a while though:
[Let me] live within the sound of Your voice
I want my heart so in tune, that I hear
You whisper my name...
Powerful thought. Convicting. Definately find myself caught in the busyness of life and not making time to listen for God. Ideally though, it woudn't be a single time where I listen, but rather I really "live within the sound" of His voice constantly. In some ways I think it follows the train of Paul's thought in Galatians 5
Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. [...] If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.
How do you make it a lifestyle, and not a fad that quickly fades after a few days. Scarily reminscent of the seeds that fell on the rocky ground in Mark 4:
Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and immediately it sprang up, since it had no depth of soil. And when the sun rose, it was scorched, and since it had no root, it withered away.
Monday, May 25, 2009
How do I know I am saved?
I Cor. 15:9 - If we have hoped in Christ in this life only, we are of all men most to be pitied.
"For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God... The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God." (Romans 8:14,16)
That really seems to explain it. I am such a skeptic, and I know all too well the doubts and "holes" that I think I find and that I can't explain away. Lewis said something to the effect that at the end of the day, the apologists is unsure, knowing the holes in his own arguments that the person he was addressing didn't see. Obviously he said it infinitely better than I, but the gist is what is really important, I can perhaps argue well, but at the end of the day, I am still left with some doubts and questions. That is ok. That's part of what faith is all about. I doubt that I will ever, this side of eternity, exist without my questions and some doubts, but there is a unshaky foundation that doesn't doubt, doesn't even worry, but rather remains sure that I have placed my hope and my trust on the the Living Word. Rational, not so much, explainable, not really, but I don't think it needs to be, or really is supposed to be. That is why He calls it faith.
Can I point to a specific time or place that I came to Christ? No. For many people, this would be bothersome, but for me, it isn't a real issue. While God may have a specific time when I "became His", I don't know when that was, and that is ok. Being able to point to a time and place would not lessen my doubt, and so I don't need it. Salvation is more than just belief--even the demons believe, and shudder!--all truth statements that I espouse about God, I would imagine Satan would agree with, he just wouldn't like it. Salvation rather includes the acknowledgement of truth claims, but must be accompanied by submission, without it we are no better than the first rebels, who knew everything about God, and still chose not to follow Him. Rather, I can look and see the evidence of His sanctifying work, and that is more comforting that recalling an experience that may or may not have included an actual submission of my will to His.
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