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.
Monday, August 24, 2009
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)