Well, Super Tuesday has come and gone. I’m not nearly as political as I used to be. I do care and I am thankful that I live in a country that allows us to pick our leaders. I do believe that everyone who is allowed to vote has a responsibility to do so – it’s a privilege that many do not enjoy.
Yet, I do not believe we can legislate morality. I get a bit annoyed with those who believe if we just elect the right candidate our country will be saved. I just don’t see that in the Bible. In fact, throughout the Bible I see many political leaders creating more problems than good. And yet, God’s truth and love marches on.
So, should we vote? Of course. Should we expect our country to be “saved” by a candidate? That’s crazy. If we want to see real change, towards good and caring, the answer is very simple (and yet apparently very difficult to accomplish). We simply need to follow the Golden rule – treat others the way you want to be treated. It starts with each of us choosing to put other’s needs above our own.
Too simplistic? Maybe, but why not give it a try and see what happens? After all, it is what Jesus said the whole Bible was about.
Let’s make every day super – by finding ways to improve someone else’s day.
/D
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Monday, February 04, 2008
How About those Giants?!
As a Cowboys fan, I have to admit rooting for the Giants was like kissing my sister (I don't have a sister, but let's not let details get in the way of a good cliché), but I had to pull for the NFC East.
It really was a great game. What I found interesting was how many people were not so much cheering for the Giants, but against the Patriots (I must admit I felt a bit of this). Why?
Is it that we don’t like to see others reach "perfection" because we know we are so far from it? Do we not like to see others succeed? Or was it that we did not like some of the personalities on that team – the coaches or some of the players?
I’m not sure why I felt this way. I’m not a big fan of their coach – he seems gruff and short with people – not a real “people person”. But it does bother me that I had this negative reason to cheer for someone else. Of course, I feel this every time the Redskins play, but as a Cowboys fan that just comes with the territory. :-)
/D
It really was a great game. What I found interesting was how many people were not so much cheering for the Giants, but against the Patriots (I must admit I felt a bit of this). Why?
Is it that we don’t like to see others reach "perfection" because we know we are so far from it? Do we not like to see others succeed? Or was it that we did not like some of the personalities on that team – the coaches or some of the players?
I’m not sure why I felt this way. I’m not a big fan of their coach – he seems gruff and short with people – not a real “people person”. But it does bother me that I had this negative reason to cheer for someone else. Of course, I feel this every time the Redskins play, but as a Cowboys fan that just comes with the territory. :-)
/D
Saturday, February 02, 2008
True Friends?
I was reading Proverbs and verse 18 in chapter 18 caught my attention; it reads “It’s harder to make amends with an offended friend than to capture a fortified city.”
The first thing that popped into my mind was some strained relationships I have in my life and I thought, “Yeah, that’s true.” I think the reason it’s hard is because with friends we develop a bond, a closeness – trust. And when things fall apart, well, we have that much farther to fall and feel the hurt that much deeper.
But then I had another thought; “Wait a minute; if we’re friends shouldn’t we be able to work through the difficult times? Shouldn’t the closeness and the trust be an asset to resolving our differences?”
As I think about the times I have failed others I now must wonder; were we really friends or were we just going through the motions?
If you’ve been hurt by a friend (and maybe that friend was me) may I encourage you to NOT be a “fortified city”. Relationships are so fragile; and they take so much effort to form to begin with; let’s not just throw them away like yesterdays trash. After all – aren’t we supposed to be loving God and loving people?
/D
The first thing that popped into my mind was some strained relationships I have in my life and I thought, “Yeah, that’s true.” I think the reason it’s hard is because with friends we develop a bond, a closeness – trust. And when things fall apart, well, we have that much farther to fall and feel the hurt that much deeper.
But then I had another thought; “Wait a minute; if we’re friends shouldn’t we be able to work through the difficult times? Shouldn’t the closeness and the trust be an asset to resolving our differences?”
As I think about the times I have failed others I now must wonder; were we really friends or were we just going through the motions?
If you’ve been hurt by a friend (and maybe that friend was me) may I encourage you to NOT be a “fortified city”. Relationships are so fragile; and they take so much effort to form to begin with; let’s not just throw them away like yesterdays trash. After all – aren’t we supposed to be loving God and loving people?
/D
Great Thoughts
While I've been blogging for a while, these latest posts seem to have finally generated some "conversations". I invite you all to take some time and go back to the old posts and read the additional comments & join the conversations.
Remember, if you type your comments and then click on the "Anonymous" cirlce below where you put your comments you do not have to have a Blogger account to comment. And, you're welcome to put your name in the post (or not) - don't you just love choices!
/D
Remember, if you type your comments and then click on the "Anonymous" cirlce below where you put your comments you do not have to have a Blogger account to comment. And, you're welcome to put your name in the post (or not) - don't you just love choices!
/D
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Define "Church"
Okay – here’s a question for all of you – what’s “church”?
Over the past year my definition of church has changed significantly. I think most people’s definition of church would include some or all of the following elements:
1) A building where people meet;
2) There must be a decent number of people;
3) Some music, a sermon and a passing of the plate.
Honestly, I don’t think any of these things are bad, but I also don’t think any of these are “church.” I believe all you need for church is two or three people and Jesus. Isn’t that what Jesus said in Matthew 18:20?
The church is believers (those who believe Jesus came to restore our relationship with God) gathered together. No mention of buildings, crowds, music, sermons or offerings. Again, none of these things are bad – UNLESS they get in the way of people helping people and people spending time with Jesus together.
In fact, Jesus told the church leaders they needed to figure out what God meant when He said, “I desire mercy not sacrifice.” (Hosea 6:6; Matthew 9:13 & 12:7). Mercy is what we show towards each other; Sacrifice is a ritual we perform. Another time Jesus taught that if we are bringing our offering to God and remember that someone has something against us we are to leave the offering and go work thing out with the other person. Then come back and worship God (Matthew 5:23-24).
It appears God values relationships over rituals.
Okay, that’s enough stirring of the pot for one day. Let me know what you think.
/D
Over the past year my definition of church has changed significantly. I think most people’s definition of church would include some or all of the following elements:
1) A building where people meet;
2) There must be a decent number of people;
3) Some music, a sermon and a passing of the plate.
Honestly, I don’t think any of these things are bad, but I also don’t think any of these are “church.” I believe all you need for church is two or three people and Jesus. Isn’t that what Jesus said in Matthew 18:20?
The church is believers (those who believe Jesus came to restore our relationship with God) gathered together. No mention of buildings, crowds, music, sermons or offerings. Again, none of these things are bad – UNLESS they get in the way of people helping people and people spending time with Jesus together.
In fact, Jesus told the church leaders they needed to figure out what God meant when He said, “I desire mercy not sacrifice.” (Hosea 6:6; Matthew 9:13 & 12:7). Mercy is what we show towards each other; Sacrifice is a ritual we perform. Another time Jesus taught that if we are bringing our offering to God and remember that someone has something against us we are to leave the offering and go work thing out with the other person. Then come back and worship God (Matthew 5:23-24).
It appears God values relationships over rituals.
Okay, that’s enough stirring of the pot for one day. Let me know what you think.
/D
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Love to hear your thoughts
I love to get your responses and read your thoughts. You can post comments by clicking the word "Comment" in the bottom border of each post. You do not have to have a blogger account to post - you can just click the "Anonymous" choice. Of course, you can always put your name in your post or stay completely anonymous - your choice!
I do read all comments posted and they will not appear on the blog until I have read them.
/D
I do read all comments posted and they will not appear on the blog until I have read them.
/D
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Too many stories?
I’m filtering through the seemingly endless e-mails I get from all of the spiritual leadership gurus. These are the people who have “succeeded” in church-world and are willing to share their “how I did it” stories so we can all attempt to copy them.
Of course, most of the podcasts, articles, blogs, etc. start with the typical “Don’t copy us” statement. So, why do we copy them? And why print or post their stories? I think we all like to hear the “good news” stories regarding churches and ministries and that’s great. But, really, why do we chase these “formulas”?
Here’s my take (and why I’ve done it so long myself) – our personal connection with God is weak (I was going to say “sucks” but my wife hates that word). Yet, it’s true. We’re living based on someone else’s connection with God (at least we assume they’re connected).
Here’s an idea – read the stories for a “pump me up” and then get into the Bible and find a quiet place to ask God, “Father, what do You want to do that You can only do through me?” If we believe God has uniquely created each of us, then we must believe He has a unique plan tailored specifically for us.
I gotta go – I’ve gotta ask God something! :-)
/D
Of course, most of the podcasts, articles, blogs, etc. start with the typical “Don’t copy us” statement. So, why do we copy them? And why print or post their stories? I think we all like to hear the “good news” stories regarding churches and ministries and that’s great. But, really, why do we chase these “formulas”?
Here’s my take (and why I’ve done it so long myself) – our personal connection with God is weak (I was going to say “sucks” but my wife hates that word). Yet, it’s true. We’re living based on someone else’s connection with God (at least we assume they’re connected).
Here’s an idea – read the stories for a “pump me up” and then get into the Bible and find a quiet place to ask God, “Father, what do You want to do that You can only do through me?” If we believe God has uniquely created each of us, then we must believe He has a unique plan tailored specifically for us.
I gotta go – I’ve gotta ask God something! :-)
/D
Monday, January 28, 2008
Too long
Wow, almost two months since my last post - I'm such a slacker!
It's been a busy two months - holidays, a new seminar class started Jan. 2nd, and still working on starting a church (oh, yeah, and it's tax season). Some cool news on the church-front - we will begin having meetings in our home this coming Sunday.
We did have some meetings at the Park this past summer (and may do that again this coming summer), but it's been a while since we've had a "public" gathering. So, I'm looking forward to spending time with these guys again this coming weekend.
We've also started some new ideas - we're calling it Project Relevant and I'll be posting more on this in the near future. You can also check it out (though there's not much there yet) at ProjectRelevant.com.
/D
It's been a busy two months - holidays, a new seminar class started Jan. 2nd, and still working on starting a church (oh, yeah, and it's tax season). Some cool news on the church-front - we will begin having meetings in our home this coming Sunday.
We did have some meetings at the Park this past summer (and may do that again this coming summer), but it's been a while since we've had a "public" gathering. So, I'm looking forward to spending time with these guys again this coming weekend.
We've also started some new ideas - we're calling it Project Relevant and I'll be posting more on this in the near future. You can also check it out (though there's not much there yet) at ProjectRelevant.com.
/D
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
A New Paradigm
I'm finishing up another seminar class. I believe this one has, by far, been the best one I have taken. The material is practical and relevant. It is helping me "put legs on" beliefs and views I have held for a while about church and religion.
I'll be sharing many of my thoughts with you (via this blog) over the next few weeks (or longer).
Dave
I'll be sharing many of my thoughts with you (via this blog) over the next few weeks (or longer).
Dave
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Worry Poll
Well, the "worry" poll closed with all but one of you worrying most about your future (myself included).
The future is a funny thing when you think about it. We have very little control of what happens next year or even the next few minutes. Sure, we can make plans, but life has a way of throwing curve balls.
I guess the best advice I can think of is - plan for tomorrow, but don't miss today. Live in the moment.
I often catch myself thinking if I just get ___ or when ___ happens everything will be great or if ___ would just do ___ everything would be better. Yet, most of these things I really can't control and I miss today worrying about tomorrow.
A phrase I've become very fond of and remind myself often with is "enjoy the journey!" Don't miss out on all of the great things happening right now because you think something better is coming tomorrow. If better things come - great, but today can be pretty great, too.
Enjoy the journey!
There is a new poll question up now.
The future is a funny thing when you think about it. We have very little control of what happens next year or even the next few minutes. Sure, we can make plans, but life has a way of throwing curve balls.
I guess the best advice I can think of is - plan for tomorrow, but don't miss today. Live in the moment.
I often catch myself thinking if I just get ___ or when ___ happens everything will be great or if ___ would just do ___ everything would be better. Yet, most of these things I really can't control and I miss today worrying about tomorrow.
A phrase I've become very fond of and remind myself often with is "enjoy the journey!" Don't miss out on all of the great things happening right now because you think something better is coming tomorrow. If better things come - great, but today can be pretty great, too.
Enjoy the journey!
There is a new poll question up now.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Loving People
How can I love people more?
This has been a constant question in my life for the past six months or so. I believe that my two main purposes in life are to love God and to love people. The God part is hard when things get messed up in my life, but it’s a whole lot easier than the “loving people” part.
I trust God, I don’t trust people (at least not the way I trust God).
But, do I have to trust people to love them? Not if I’m attempting to love them unconditionally.
I watch the movie Georgia Rule this week. My first thought after it was over was, “That didn’t do much for me.” But, then I started thinking about “Why?”. Without giving away the story line, the basis of the story is a family that’s dysfunctional and abusive. Thankfully, I did not have to deal with that growing up. But, it also means that I really don’t identify with people who have experienced this – because I’ve never taken the time to get to know them and to care about who they are.
All that has led me back to wondering how I can do a better job of loving the people around me. I think it really comes down to slowing down long enough to ask how they are doing and really wanting to hear the answer.
This has been a constant question in my life for the past six months or so. I believe that my two main purposes in life are to love God and to love people. The God part is hard when things get messed up in my life, but it’s a whole lot easier than the “loving people” part.
I trust God, I don’t trust people (at least not the way I trust God).
But, do I have to trust people to love them? Not if I’m attempting to love them unconditionally.
I watch the movie Georgia Rule this week. My first thought after it was over was, “That didn’t do much for me.” But, then I started thinking about “Why?”. Without giving away the story line, the basis of the story is a family that’s dysfunctional and abusive. Thankfully, I did not have to deal with that growing up. But, it also means that I really don’t identify with people who have experienced this – because I’ve never taken the time to get to know them and to care about who they are.
All that has led me back to wondering how I can do a better job of loving the people around me. I think it really comes down to slowing down long enough to ask how they are doing and really wanting to hear the answer.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Who's Responsible
Okay, I want to know who’s responsible – someone has obviously mashed the fast forward button on life and it’s stuck there.
I truly have no idea where the days go. I have enjoyed my days recently – getting to catch up with some friends, doing some yard work and a little real work – but truthfully, time just seems to be moving much faster these days. I remember always hear “old people” talk like this – uh oh – this must mean…
Anyway, lots going on in my life, and here’s one thing I’ve spent a bunch of time thinking about lately. What’s love? Some say it’s an emotion, others say a feeling, still others say it’s choice. I think it's all of these things. I certainly feel love towards some and others I must choose to love.
The Bible’s main focus is love and 1 Corinthians 13 is the famous “love chapter.” I’ve done something I don’t often do and committed this entire chapter to memory (it’s not THAT long). And the reason I have is because I’m really trying to figure out how to fulfill what Jesus said was the most important thing in life – love God and love people. If I’m going to attempt this, I think it’s a good idea to know how God defines love. So, 1 Corinthians 13 is where I’ve been for a while now.
How about looking this up for yourself. Even if your not a religious person (which, by the way, I’m not either – put that’s a whole different blog), your life is impacted by this crazy little thing called love. So, check it out and let me know what you think!
Dave
I truly have no idea where the days go. I have enjoyed my days recently – getting to catch up with some friends, doing some yard work and a little real work – but truthfully, time just seems to be moving much faster these days. I remember always hear “old people” talk like this – uh oh – this must mean…
Anyway, lots going on in my life, and here’s one thing I’ve spent a bunch of time thinking about lately. What’s love? Some say it’s an emotion, others say a feeling, still others say it’s choice. I think it's all of these things. I certainly feel love towards some and others I must choose to love.
The Bible’s main focus is love and 1 Corinthians 13 is the famous “love chapter.” I’ve done something I don’t often do and committed this entire chapter to memory (it’s not THAT long). And the reason I have is because I’m really trying to figure out how to fulfill what Jesus said was the most important thing in life – love God and love people. If I’m going to attempt this, I think it’s a good idea to know how God defines love. So, 1 Corinthians 13 is where I’ve been for a while now.
How about looking this up for yourself. Even if your not a religious person (which, by the way, I’m not either – put that’s a whole different blog), your life is impacted by this crazy little thing called love. So, check it out and let me know what you think!
Dave
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
1,000 Visitors
Wow! This blog site hits the 1,000 visitors mark today. Which means the six of you that actually read this have been here a lot :-).
Once again I find myself apologizing for not posting recently - time is flying by!!
I am reading a new book called unChristian. It's based on a three year study by the Barna Group and looks at how Christians and Christianity are viewed by our culture. The primary group studied are those ages 16 - 29, but it also provides information from older adults.
Whether you would consider yourself a Christian or not (BTW about 70% of you probably do), it's an honest look at the "Christian culture" which has a real image problem in the United States today.
I'll post more about this soon (and probably in video). Thanks for being patient during my "busy time" away from the blog!
Once again I find myself apologizing for not posting recently - time is flying by!!
I am reading a new book called unChristian. It's based on a three year study by the Barna Group and looks at how Christians and Christianity are viewed by our culture. The primary group studied are those ages 16 - 29, but it also provides information from older adults.
Whether you would consider yourself a Christian or not (BTW about 70% of you probably do), it's an honest look at the "Christian culture" which has a real image problem in the United States today.
I'll post more about this soon (and probably in video). Thanks for being patient during my "busy time" away from the blog!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Hello!
Hey All,
I have been on the road a lot for the past couple of weeks and finishing up another seminary class. Sorry I have not posted in a long time.
I'm still here and plan on getting back on schedule with at least weekly posts this week.
Dave
I have been on the road a lot for the past couple of weeks and finishing up another seminary class. Sorry I have not posted in a long time.
I'm still here and plan on getting back on schedule with at least weekly posts this week.
Dave
Thursday, September 27, 2007
USA Women's Soccer Team at World Cup
The USA Women's soccer team had not played there best in the tournament, but we're on a roll. In a tournament like the World Cup, teams usually come in nervous and just focus on improving as the tournament progresses. The USA Women's team was doing just that. They began with a 2-2 tie to N. Korea, and then posted three straight shut out games, with their quarter final game being a 3-0 win over England. Watch my video to find out what happened next...
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Saturday, September 15, 2007
New Poll, New Look
Those of you who know me know I like change (at least most of the time). So, a new look for the blog is here (we'll see how long it lasts :-) ).
I'm in the middle of a seminary class and tax extensions are due (I'm a pastor and a CPA - wierd combo, huh?), so things have been busy for me recently. I am trying to at least get a post up each week, but I do hope to pick up the pace a little in the next few weeks.
I've also posted a new poll and I'd like to get your response (all responses are anonymous). I'll probably blog on worry in the coming weeks, so I'd like to know what area you worry about the most. And if you don't like any of the choices, shoot me a comment about what you worry about (this can also be anonymous).
Dave
I'm in the middle of a seminary class and tax extensions are due (I'm a pastor and a CPA - wierd combo, huh?), so things have been busy for me recently. I am trying to at least get a post up each week, but I do hope to pick up the pace a little in the next few weeks.
I've also posted a new poll and I'd like to get your response (all responses are anonymous). I'll probably blog on worry in the coming weeks, so I'd like to know what area you worry about the most. And if you don't like any of the choices, shoot me a comment about what you worry about (this can also be anonymous).
Dave
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Dancing with Jesus
Wanted to share this video with all of you. It also sparked our new poll question (on the right side of the page).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyheJ480LYA&eurl
Dave
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
New Look - Same Blog
Hey there!
We've made some improvements to the blog.
One is the new poll feature on the right side of the page.
How about taking a few seconds to read the poll question and give me your honest answer.
Thanks!!
Dave
We've made some improvements to the blog.
One is the new poll feature on the right side of the page.
How about taking a few seconds to read the poll question and give me your honest answer.
Thanks!!
Dave
Friday, August 03, 2007
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Friday, July 27, 2007
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Going Video
Hey all,
Sorry it's been a while since my last post - I seem to say that alot on this blog.
I'm going to start posting these blogs as videos, so check back soon to see what's new.
/D
Sorry it's been a while since my last post - I seem to say that alot on this blog.
I'm going to start posting these blogs as videos, so check back soon to see what's new.
/D
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
I love Summer
Sorry, it's been a while since I've posted. I love Summer, but it does horrible things to my schedule. Actually, it does great things to my schedule - it gives me time to get out and do some different things.
Many of you know I am part of a new church start. This has been an adventure (and will be for a long while). We just reserved a shelter at a local park for five "Gatherings". I'm excited about it for two reasons: 1) I'm ready to start meeting new people and have a chance to build some new relationships, and 2) Because it's OUTSIDE!
For me, nature has a way of bringing me closer to God. Actually, more accurately, it helps me be more aware of God. The Bible assures me God is always with me - I'm just not always real focused on Him.
I don't know if you're a spiritual person or not, but for me, just looking at creation helps me to understand there must be a Creator. So, take some time this week (or, heck, all summer...all year) and take a look around you and see if you don't become more aware of a God who loves you.
/D
Many of you know I am part of a new church start. This has been an adventure (and will be for a long while). We just reserved a shelter at a local park for five "Gatherings". I'm excited about it for two reasons: 1) I'm ready to start meeting new people and have a chance to build some new relationships, and 2) Because it's OUTSIDE!
For me, nature has a way of bringing me closer to God. Actually, more accurately, it helps me be more aware of God. The Bible assures me God is always with me - I'm just not always real focused on Him.
I don't know if you're a spiritual person or not, but for me, just looking at creation helps me to understand there must be a Creator. So, take some time this week (or, heck, all summer...all year) and take a look around you and see if you don't become more aware of a God who loves you.
/D
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Worship
Wow, it's been over a month since my last post. Sorry about that.
I've had a number of thoughts over the last month but haven't taken time to write about them. One that I intended to write on was Science and Faith. I still plan to write on this, but my last month has been full of a seminary class I'm in on Worship.
It's a great class - and I'll give you my primary "take away" so far. We are always worshipping! What or Who we worship varies greatly, but we are all always valuing somthing or someone and that's the essence of worship. A great book we read this class was Louie Giglio's The Air I Breathe. Whether you consider yourself religious or spiritual or not, I highly recommend it!
So, if we are always worshipping - the question is who or what are you worshipping? Even the athiest worships - it may be self, money, power - but we all worship.
This week, take some time to consider what or who it is you are worshipping most of the time. Then consider whether or not this person or thing is truly worthy of your worship.
If you want to consider God's value - let me pass on Louie's challenge from his book. Open a Bible to Psalms (it's almost the center of the Bible) and just start reading at Psalm 1 and look for the attributes of God. I found four just in Psalm 1. Then as you grow to understand who God is better, you can decide if He is worthy of your worship.
D.
I've had a number of thoughts over the last month but haven't taken time to write about them. One that I intended to write on was Science and Faith. I still plan to write on this, but my last month has been full of a seminary class I'm in on Worship.
It's a great class - and I'll give you my primary "take away" so far. We are always worshipping! What or Who we worship varies greatly, but we are all always valuing somthing or someone and that's the essence of worship. A great book we read this class was Louie Giglio's The Air I Breathe. Whether you consider yourself religious or spiritual or not, I highly recommend it!
So, if we are always worshipping - the question is who or what are you worshipping? Even the athiest worships - it may be self, money, power - but we all worship.
This week, take some time to consider what or who it is you are worshipping most of the time. Then consider whether or not this person or thing is truly worthy of your worship.
If you want to consider God's value - let me pass on Louie's challenge from his book. Open a Bible to Psalms (it's almost the center of the Bible) and just start reading at Psalm 1 and look for the attributes of God. I found four just in Psalm 1. Then as you grow to understand who God is better, you can decide if He is worthy of your worship.
D.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Going Public
Many of you already know that our family and two others have been in the process of starting a church. Since the end of last Summer we have been meeting, planning and praying.
This coming Sunday (May 6th) we are hosting a picnic at a local park. It’s really our first public meeting and we’re not really sure what to expect. We are a very casual church and our vision is to return to doing church as it was done by the early church – a real focus on relationships. More about people, less about programs.
One thing we work hard NOT to do is to judge other churches or other ministries – but we are also clear about what we believe God wants us to do – or more accurately who God wants us to be. We want to be real! This means being open about our own struggles and building relationships with others so we can all help each other.
Our vision is to build life-changing relationships with God, each other and our community. While all three of these relationship areas will always be “works in progress,” our group has been focused on the first two for the better part of a year. We now look forward to being more proactive in building relationships with those in our community.
If you are in the Newport News, Hampton, York County or Williamsburg area and would like to join us on May 6th, please go to our website and let us know (www.RelevantCC.com).
Whether you would consider yourself a spiritual person or not, I think we would all agree that healthy relationships make life a lot more fun. So, wherever you are – take some time this week and focus your attention on the people around you – see if you can develop a more authentic relationship – you’ll be glad you did!
This coming Sunday (May 6th) we are hosting a picnic at a local park. It’s really our first public meeting and we’re not really sure what to expect. We are a very casual church and our vision is to return to doing church as it was done by the early church – a real focus on relationships. More about people, less about programs.
One thing we work hard NOT to do is to judge other churches or other ministries – but we are also clear about what we believe God wants us to do – or more accurately who God wants us to be. We want to be real! This means being open about our own struggles and building relationships with others so we can all help each other.
Our vision is to build life-changing relationships with God, each other and our community. While all three of these relationship areas will always be “works in progress,” our group has been focused on the first two for the better part of a year. We now look forward to being more proactive in building relationships with those in our community.
If you are in the Newport News, Hampton, York County or Williamsburg area and would like to join us on May 6th, please go to our website and let us know (www.RelevantCC.com).
Whether you would consider yourself a spiritual person or not, I think we would all agree that healthy relationships make life a lot more fun. So, wherever you are – take some time this week and focus your attention on the people around you – see if you can develop a more authentic relationship – you’ll be glad you did!
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Thank You from a Hokie!
The response to the events at VT has been incredible. I believe the American spirit has shown up again as it did after 9/11.While our loss as been enormous, our resolve to love those who have been the most effected continues to show that love is still able to triumph over evil.
The unity of colleges across our country has been inspiring. To see students that are normally rivals where our colors in support has brought tears to my eyes on more than one occasion. To see the many tributes from so many places has been inspiring.
I have already written about how proud I am to be a Hokie based on the response of the students and faculty at VT. I must also say how proud I am to be an American based on the way our country has embraced our University. While many would expect school unity – the unity of our entire nation is amazing -- and healing.
To all of you who have shown your love and support – THANK YOU!
/
/
/D
Friday, April 20, 2007
Proud to be a Hokie!
This has been a week that most of us would prefer to forget. The unthinkable attack has changed the landscape of my school, our country and the world.
Yet, as horrible as the act was – the overall response from students (young and old) and faculty have shown the human spirit at its best. None of us would want to have to relive these past few days, but I’ve often heard people say that when you’re under pressure the real “you” comes out. The “you” I’ve seen in the VT community and the Hokie Nation as a whole makes me more proud than ever to be a Hokie.
These events are the type that you never forget – they will last a lifetime. But, as with all things, time tends to dull the clarity. What will be remembered is what we choose to focus on. For me, I’ll let the acts of a madman fade, but I will never forget the courage and unity of my VT family.
To the students and faculty – thank you for being “you.” You have represented us all well beyond what my words can adequately express! God Bless!
Yet, as horrible as the act was – the overall response from students (young and old) and faculty have shown the human spirit at its best. None of us would want to have to relive these past few days, but I’ve often heard people say that when you’re under pressure the real “you” comes out. The “you” I’ve seen in the VT community and the Hokie Nation as a whole makes me more proud than ever to be a Hokie.
These events are the type that you never forget – they will last a lifetime. But, as with all things, time tends to dull the clarity. What will be remembered is what we choose to focus on. For me, I’ll let the acts of a madman fade, but I will never forget the courage and unity of my VT family.
To the students and faculty – thank you for being “you.” You have represented us all well beyond what my words can adequately express! God Bless!
/D
Thursday, April 19, 2007
More Thoughts on VT
As we all continue to go through the array of emotions that follow something like the shootings at VT, it's natural that we will be a different places emotionally.
Some of you are very angry;
Some are deeply grieved;
Some of you are still in shock;
Some of you are already beginning to tire of the news and move on.
And there are many many more places you may be emotionally. All of this is natural and normal.
But here's a thought: for a society who seems to continue to move further away from ideas such as - there is an absolute truth - we sure seem to all agree how horrible Cho's actions were. Maybe I should explain that a little more. We live in a world where many people have come to the conclusion there is no one truth. What works for you is fine for you, it may or may not work for me and that's okay.
But if this is true (or is there no such things as absolute truth - hmm), then why would we all agree that the actions of Cho are so wrong, so evil? My point is simply this - there is a right and wrong, there is good and evil, there is absolute truth. Therefore, as we continue to mourn and to slowly heal, will we recognize that there is such a thing as truth? And will we allow ourselves to think about the One who is Truth.
As we've seen across the country and the world - spirituality is alive and well. People who barely know each other gather together for prayer. It's times like these that we will either blame God or lean on God (sometimes both).
In my own personal life tragedies - I've found that while it's easy to blame God, the truth is God is love, God grieves over evil, and God is able to provide comfort far greater then we think is possible. I believe our natural emotions are God-given and therefore, we do not need to ignore them or supress them. At the same time, we can find peace that passes understanding in a God who truly cares.
Gather close to family and friends and let them know you love them. And draw close to God and He we draw close to you.
/D
Some of you are very angry;
Some are deeply grieved;
Some of you are still in shock;
Some of you are already beginning to tire of the news and move on.
And there are many many more places you may be emotionally. All of this is natural and normal.
But here's a thought: for a society who seems to continue to move further away from ideas such as - there is an absolute truth - we sure seem to all agree how horrible Cho's actions were. Maybe I should explain that a little more. We live in a world where many people have come to the conclusion there is no one truth. What works for you is fine for you, it may or may not work for me and that's okay.
But if this is true (or is there no such things as absolute truth - hmm), then why would we all agree that the actions of Cho are so wrong, so evil? My point is simply this - there is a right and wrong, there is good and evil, there is absolute truth. Therefore, as we continue to mourn and to slowly heal, will we recognize that there is such a thing as truth? And will we allow ourselves to think about the One who is Truth.
As we've seen across the country and the world - spirituality is alive and well. People who barely know each other gather together for prayer. It's times like these that we will either blame God or lean on God (sometimes both).
In my own personal life tragedies - I've found that while it's easy to blame God, the truth is God is love, God grieves over evil, and God is able to provide comfort far greater then we think is possible. I believe our natural emotions are God-given and therefore, we do not need to ignore them or supress them. At the same time, we can find peace that passes understanding in a God who truly cares.
Gather close to family and friends and let them know you love them. And draw close to God and He we draw close to you.
/D
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Virgina Tech Tragedy
As we have watched the events of the last two days unfold on our TV screens, we find ourselves caught between disbelief, anger and the question that always comes in times like these – why?
There are no easy answers, but the God’s Word reminds us that “these three remain faith, hope and love, but the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13)
We gather together to acknowledge death, but more importantly to celebrate life.
None of us know how much time we will have here on earth – and times like these have a way of bringing to the forefront what is most important.
I graduated from VT in 1990. I was Resident Advisor (RA) in the AJ dorm where the first shooting took place. I attended classes in Norris. I often reflect on my days at Tech – and if I could go back and do it all over again I would! But, as with all things, time continues to move forward. We’re not meant to live in the past. I pray that each of us will reflect on how God has uniquely gifted each of us. And that we will take real steps towards becoming the person He desires for us to be – a person of faith, a person of hope and a person of love.
In the coming weeks, life will go on – another news event will dominate the media – our own busy schedules will move us further from this day. But I hope that – in some small or large way – the reminders of the events of this week will help us to refocus on what’s truly most important.
I hope that our communities will learn to love as Christ loves. We live in a broken world filled with broken people. I encounter so many hurting people – I too am a hurting person. We have been designed for relationship and love. While the actions of this young man are deplorable – my heart aches for the life he lived. He’s described as a “loner.” I know many I would describe that way – I myself prefer solitude to crowds - but we’ve been made for relationships.
People need people.
In the creation story there’s an interesting point where God looks at his creation and calls it “good.” He then creates man and calls it “very good.” Here is man – in perfect harmony with creation and the Creator. Then God makes this statement – “It is not good for man to be alone.” (Genesis 2:18)
While creation was “good” and the created man was “very good” – it was NOT good for him to be alone. And God created Eve – to which Adam in the original language said – WOW! I don’t know if Adam said that or not, but that’s what I would have said.
My point is that God recognized, from the beginning of creation, the need for all of us to be in relationship with Him and with each other.
Our society has come to idolize INDEPENDENCE – what we need is INTERDEPENDENCE.
So, may we, as Paul wrote in Hebrews, “look for ways to spur one another on to love and good deeds.” As we move forward – let’s allow God to increase our faith, increase our hope and increase our love.
To all in my VT family and to all who grieve – my prayers are with you.
/
/
D.
There are no easy answers, but the God’s Word reminds us that “these three remain faith, hope and love, but the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13)
We gather together to acknowledge death, but more importantly to celebrate life.
None of us know how much time we will have here on earth – and times like these have a way of bringing to the forefront what is most important.
I graduated from VT in 1990. I was Resident Advisor (RA) in the AJ dorm where the first shooting took place. I attended classes in Norris. I often reflect on my days at Tech – and if I could go back and do it all over again I would! But, as with all things, time continues to move forward. We’re not meant to live in the past. I pray that each of us will reflect on how God has uniquely gifted each of us. And that we will take real steps towards becoming the person He desires for us to be – a person of faith, a person of hope and a person of love.
In the coming weeks, life will go on – another news event will dominate the media – our own busy schedules will move us further from this day. But I hope that – in some small or large way – the reminders of the events of this week will help us to refocus on what’s truly most important.
I hope that our communities will learn to love as Christ loves. We live in a broken world filled with broken people. I encounter so many hurting people – I too am a hurting person. We have been designed for relationship and love. While the actions of this young man are deplorable – my heart aches for the life he lived. He’s described as a “loner.” I know many I would describe that way – I myself prefer solitude to crowds - but we’ve been made for relationships.
People need people.
In the creation story there’s an interesting point where God looks at his creation and calls it “good.” He then creates man and calls it “very good.” Here is man – in perfect harmony with creation and the Creator. Then God makes this statement – “It is not good for man to be alone.” (Genesis 2:18)
While creation was “good” and the created man was “very good” – it was NOT good for him to be alone. And God created Eve – to which Adam in the original language said – WOW! I don’t know if Adam said that or not, but that’s what I would have said.
My point is that God recognized, from the beginning of creation, the need for all of us to be in relationship with Him and with each other.
Our society has come to idolize INDEPENDENCE – what we need is INTERDEPENDENCE.
So, may we, as Paul wrote in Hebrews, “look for ways to spur one another on to love and good deeds.” As we move forward – let’s allow God to increase our faith, increase our hope and increase our love.
To all in my VT family and to all who grieve – my prayers are with you.
/
/
D.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
God's Love
Wow - almost a month since my last post - sorry about that, gang.
There have been some things I wanted to blog on, but just haven't gotten to it - and I still plan to return to the "Questions Jesus Asked" theme.
One thought that has stayed with me was an article I read from Charles Stanley. He was talking about God's love and while the whole article was very good, I'll give you the cliffnote version.
His point was that while many people would consider themselves Christians - they would answer "yes" if asked if Jesus was their Lord and Savior - how many of us are really in love with God? Or more to the point - how many of us have received God's love?
We assume we've received God's love when we became Christians - and in many ways that is true. However, many of us have kept this at a spiritual level.
The way Charles Stanley realized he had not fully embraced God's love on an emotional level was when he was in a real "dry spell" spiritually. He just did not feel like he was close to God. So, he did a very smart thing and gathered some other people whose opinions and wisdom he respected. When they got together one of the men asked Charles to put his head down on the table and close his eyes. Then he told him I want you to allow yourself to "feel" yourself being held by your father.
Charles said he burst into tears - you see his father passed away when he was an infant and so he has no memory of being held by his dad.
The man allowed all of that emotion to flow out and then asked again - "what does it feel like?" Charles said that for the first time he felt the "arms" of God embrace him and hold him tightly.
Have you allowed God to love you this way? Not just the - save me from hell type of relationship, but a true emotional-level falling in love with God?
Some of you may push back from this idea. To you God is too big and too distant to wrap his arms around you - heck, He doesn't even really have arms - right?
But I'd ask you to take some time and think about this a little more deeply this week. After all, most of us have probably been seperated physically from another person, but still know what it feels like to be loved ("held") by them. So, maybe it's time for you to lay your head down on the table, close your eyes, and experience what it feels like to be held by your heavenly Father.
I think you'll discover a love and a peace that will inspire you to live - not simply exist, but live - with less worry and more joy. That's not to say this life will get easier, but your understanding of God will expand, and He will give you everything you need to get through the day.
Jesus himself said - Come to me all of you who are carrying heavy burdens and I will give you rest. Why not find some rest in the arms of the One who knows you best and loves you the most?
\D
There have been some things I wanted to blog on, but just haven't gotten to it - and I still plan to return to the "Questions Jesus Asked" theme.
One thought that has stayed with me was an article I read from Charles Stanley. He was talking about God's love and while the whole article was very good, I'll give you the cliffnote version.
His point was that while many people would consider themselves Christians - they would answer "yes" if asked if Jesus was their Lord and Savior - how many of us are really in love with God? Or more to the point - how many of us have received God's love?
We assume we've received God's love when we became Christians - and in many ways that is true. However, many of us have kept this at a spiritual level.
The way Charles Stanley realized he had not fully embraced God's love on an emotional level was when he was in a real "dry spell" spiritually. He just did not feel like he was close to God. So, he did a very smart thing and gathered some other people whose opinions and wisdom he respected. When they got together one of the men asked Charles to put his head down on the table and close his eyes. Then he told him I want you to allow yourself to "feel" yourself being held by your father.
Charles said he burst into tears - you see his father passed away when he was an infant and so he has no memory of being held by his dad.
The man allowed all of that emotion to flow out and then asked again - "what does it feel like?" Charles said that for the first time he felt the "arms" of God embrace him and hold him tightly.
Have you allowed God to love you this way? Not just the - save me from hell type of relationship, but a true emotional-level falling in love with God?
Some of you may push back from this idea. To you God is too big and too distant to wrap his arms around you - heck, He doesn't even really have arms - right?
But I'd ask you to take some time and think about this a little more deeply this week. After all, most of us have probably been seperated physically from another person, but still know what it feels like to be loved ("held") by them. So, maybe it's time for you to lay your head down on the table, close your eyes, and experience what it feels like to be held by your heavenly Father.
I think you'll discover a love and a peace that will inspire you to live - not simply exist, but live - with less worry and more joy. That's not to say this life will get easier, but your understanding of God will expand, and He will give you everything you need to get through the day.
Jesus himself said - Come to me all of you who are carrying heavy burdens and I will give you rest. Why not find some rest in the arms of the One who knows you best and loves you the most?
\D
Monday, March 12, 2007
Glorify
Hello!
Sorry it's been a while since my last post - time is flying and tax season is in full swing.
I watched a Louie Giglio message last night/this morning and his point was as we experience fullfillment in Christ - God is glorified. So often Christians attempt to glorify God in some of the most superficial (dare I say phoney) ways. I don't think this is on purpose - at least not most of the time - but it's still true.
I find myself doing it, too. If I wear "Christian" t-shirts or put the "right" bumper stickers on my car. Or have a good "Christian" response to questions like "How are you?" (you know what I'm talking about - like when I answer "more blessed than I deserve") While there's nothing inherently wrong with all of this - and these things may all be accurate - aren't they just a bit...well...easy?
I don't have to go real deep into Jesus to do any of these things - how did that one commercial put it - image is everything.
Ponder Louie's thought with me - if we go deep into Jesus, the "Christian" in us will be obvious. Not based on t-shirts and cute answers, but based on a life that's been transformed by an all powerful, all knowing God who loved us way before we even gave Him a second thought. Our lives will begin to reflect a faith in God that doesn't change with our moods, that isn't shaken by things that used to put our day into a tailspin.
It is then - and only then - that those around us will KNOW something has changed. Not because of what they see on the outside, but what they see going on inside of us. It will be evident in our eyes. That is when God will truly be gorified by our lives.
What we put into our lives in an attempt to satisfy ourselves is what our lives naturally glorify.
If I think money will satisfy - I'll bring glory to a "succesful" business. If I think another person will satisfy me - I'll bring glory to that person. If I think possessions will satisfy me, I'll fill my life with the latest and greatest - and glorify those things. If it's recognition - I'll fill my shelves with honors and trophies.
Here's what David wrote in Psalm 63 - O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched a weary land where there is no water. Your unfailing love is better than life itself. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy.
Do you see it? He comes to the point and says - God you truly satisfy me and so I will naturally glorify you with my life!
What are you leaning on for satisfaction? Is it fulfilling?
\D
Sorry it's been a while since my last post - time is flying and tax season is in full swing.
I watched a Louie Giglio message last night/this morning and his point was as we experience fullfillment in Christ - God is glorified. So often Christians attempt to glorify God in some of the most superficial (dare I say phoney) ways. I don't think this is on purpose - at least not most of the time - but it's still true.
I find myself doing it, too. If I wear "Christian" t-shirts or put the "right" bumper stickers on my car. Or have a good "Christian" response to questions like "How are you?" (you know what I'm talking about - like when I answer "more blessed than I deserve") While there's nothing inherently wrong with all of this - and these things may all be accurate - aren't they just a bit...well...easy?
I don't have to go real deep into Jesus to do any of these things - how did that one commercial put it - image is everything.
Ponder Louie's thought with me - if we go deep into Jesus, the "Christian" in us will be obvious. Not based on t-shirts and cute answers, but based on a life that's been transformed by an all powerful, all knowing God who loved us way before we even gave Him a second thought. Our lives will begin to reflect a faith in God that doesn't change with our moods, that isn't shaken by things that used to put our day into a tailspin.
It is then - and only then - that those around us will KNOW something has changed. Not because of what they see on the outside, but what they see going on inside of us. It will be evident in our eyes. That is when God will truly be gorified by our lives.
What we put into our lives in an attempt to satisfy ourselves is what our lives naturally glorify.
If I think money will satisfy - I'll bring glory to a "succesful" business. If I think another person will satisfy me - I'll bring glory to that person. If I think possessions will satisfy me, I'll fill my life with the latest and greatest - and glorify those things. If it's recognition - I'll fill my shelves with honors and trophies.
Here's what David wrote in Psalm 63 - O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched a weary land where there is no water. Your unfailing love is better than life itself. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy.
Do you see it? He comes to the point and says - God you truly satisfy me and so I will naturally glorify you with my life!
What are you leaning on for satisfaction? Is it fulfilling?
\D
Friday, February 23, 2007
The Purpose of the "Law"
I know I have gotten away from my “Questions Jesus Asked,” I will get back to those in the future. Until then, you’re stuck with my random thoughts.
I am reminded again of how God wants us to treat each other. Throughout the Bible, God continuously points us to learn how to love each other. Now, you may ask, what about the Law. God gave us all these rules we are supposed to follow – that’s how we are a good person, right? Follow all the rules.
I hope this helps – NO! That’s not the purpose of the Law! The reality is we cannot keep all the rules – that was the point. If we could keep the rules we would not need Jesus. Well then, what did Jesus teach us about the Law?
Jesus was asked about the Law and He said this – Love God with everything you are and love others.
That’s it! Jesus said all of the Law and even everything we read about the Prophets are all summed up into those two things – actually, one thing – LOVE. Jesus demonstrated what that looked like when the women caught in the act of adultery was dragged out before Him. The Law said she and her partner should be stoned to death.
Jesus’ response? He said let the person who has never messed up throw the first stone. At least those people were honest enough to drop their stones and walk away.
What we tend to do is want to help everyone else live by the Law – we point out every “wrong” thing (at least in our opinion) they do – we pick up stones and hurl them.
If we really want to enjoy life, we need to learn to love – it starts with loving God and then moves to loving people as we allow God to transform our hearts.
Next time you find yourself standing with a stone in your hand – I hope you’ll drop it and walk away.
\D
I am reminded again of how God wants us to treat each other. Throughout the Bible, God continuously points us to learn how to love each other. Now, you may ask, what about the Law. God gave us all these rules we are supposed to follow – that’s how we are a good person, right? Follow all the rules.
I hope this helps – NO! That’s not the purpose of the Law! The reality is we cannot keep all the rules – that was the point. If we could keep the rules we would not need Jesus. Well then, what did Jesus teach us about the Law?
Jesus was asked about the Law and He said this – Love God with everything you are and love others.
That’s it! Jesus said all of the Law and even everything we read about the Prophets are all summed up into those two things – actually, one thing – LOVE. Jesus demonstrated what that looked like when the women caught in the act of adultery was dragged out before Him. The Law said she and her partner should be stoned to death.
Jesus’ response? He said let the person who has never messed up throw the first stone. At least those people were honest enough to drop their stones and walk away.
What we tend to do is want to help everyone else live by the Law – we point out every “wrong” thing (at least in our opinion) they do – we pick up stones and hurl them.
If we really want to enjoy life, we need to learn to love – it starts with loving God and then moves to loving people as we allow God to transform our hearts.
Next time you find yourself standing with a stone in your hand – I hope you’ll drop it and walk away.
\D
Saturday, February 17, 2007
God's Fairness
I had lunch with a friend to today and part of our discussion was on the “trouble” in this world. Jesus told us “in this world you will have trouble.” There was no ambiguity in His statement. He didn’t say you “might” have trouble; He said you “will” have trouble. We live in a broken world.
That led to some discussion about examples of people who seemed to be in the ultimate trouble – like John the Baptist when he was thrown in jail and about to be executed. He asked a very honest question of Jesus, “Are you really the One, or should we be looking for someone else?” He was admitting that he though Jesus was the Messiah, but his circumstances didn’t appear to be proving that. In other words, he was saying, “Hey, Jesus, I’ve done everything I was supposed to do but now I’m sitting in jail about to be killed. Where are you? Why aren’t you getting me out of this ‘trouble’?”
Jesus did not show up and bail John out and John was executed. What happened? We’re tempted to say, that’s not fair, that’s not right. Were on the verge (or maybe past the verge) of saying, “God, You messed that one up!” But did He?
John had fulfilled his mission in this broken world. John had lived in the wilderness, dealt with strong opposition, and lived on a diet of locust and honey. And it was time for John to hear God say, “Well done good and faithful servant. Come enjoy your Master’s pleasure.” John got to trade in this imperfect broken world for perfect heaven. He left a world of wonder and doubt, to have his faith full realized and to enter into the presence of God. What’s unfair about that? Sound pretty darn good to me!
How about Moses? We look at Moses not being able to enter the Promised land and say, “Hey, God, that’s not right! Moses dealt with a bunch of stiff necked rebels for 40+ years and then You don’t let him go into the Promised land? What gives?”
But let’s take a closer look. What happened when the people entered the Promised land? Did they all grab a La-z-boy recliner, a cold drink and watch football (ladies fill in something that would appeal to you)? No! They had to fight battles (some they won and some they lost). Where does Moses get to go instead? Heaven! Into the presence of God, into a place of no more fighting, arguing or dealing with the brokenness of this world. Which would you prefer?
The Apostle Paul wrestled with this question. He openly wrote about his internal debate about staying here in this broken world and being able to go to heaven. His heart’s desire was obviously heaven, but he also recognized that if he was still on earth then there was still a mission to continue.
Here’s my point. If you’re a follower of Christ and you’re still here in this broken world – then God still has a mission for you to continue. If you know what that is, then continue to fight the good fight knowing that God isn’t through with you yet. If you don’t know why you’re still here…well...it’s time to figure it out. Spend as much time as you need reading the Bible, talking with God, and talking with other Christians until you know what God wants you to do now. Then get in the game, knowing full well when your mission is complete you to will enjoy the satisfaction of hearing God say to you, “Well done good and faithful servant. Come enjoy your Master’s pleasure.”
\
That led to some discussion about examples of people who seemed to be in the ultimate trouble – like John the Baptist when he was thrown in jail and about to be executed. He asked a very honest question of Jesus, “Are you really the One, or should we be looking for someone else?” He was admitting that he though Jesus was the Messiah, but his circumstances didn’t appear to be proving that. In other words, he was saying, “Hey, Jesus, I’ve done everything I was supposed to do but now I’m sitting in jail about to be killed. Where are you? Why aren’t you getting me out of this ‘trouble’?”
Jesus did not show up and bail John out and John was executed. What happened? We’re tempted to say, that’s not fair, that’s not right. Were on the verge (or maybe past the verge) of saying, “God, You messed that one up!” But did He?
John had fulfilled his mission in this broken world. John had lived in the wilderness, dealt with strong opposition, and lived on a diet of locust and honey. And it was time for John to hear God say, “Well done good and faithful servant. Come enjoy your Master’s pleasure.” John got to trade in this imperfect broken world for perfect heaven. He left a world of wonder and doubt, to have his faith full realized and to enter into the presence of God. What’s unfair about that? Sound pretty darn good to me!
How about Moses? We look at Moses not being able to enter the Promised land and say, “Hey, God, that’s not right! Moses dealt with a bunch of stiff necked rebels for 40+ years and then You don’t let him go into the Promised land? What gives?”
But let’s take a closer look. What happened when the people entered the Promised land? Did they all grab a La-z-boy recliner, a cold drink and watch football (ladies fill in something that would appeal to you)? No! They had to fight battles (some they won and some they lost). Where does Moses get to go instead? Heaven! Into the presence of God, into a place of no more fighting, arguing or dealing with the brokenness of this world. Which would you prefer?
The Apostle Paul wrestled with this question. He openly wrote about his internal debate about staying here in this broken world and being able to go to heaven. His heart’s desire was obviously heaven, but he also recognized that if he was still on earth then there was still a mission to continue.
Here’s my point. If you’re a follower of Christ and you’re still here in this broken world – then God still has a mission for you to continue. If you know what that is, then continue to fight the good fight knowing that God isn’t through with you yet. If you don’t know why you’re still here…well...it’s time to figure it out. Spend as much time as you need reading the Bible, talking with God, and talking with other Christians until you know what God wants you to do now. Then get in the game, knowing full well when your mission is complete you to will enjoy the satisfaction of hearing God say to you, “Well done good and faithful servant. Come enjoy your Master’s pleasure.”
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Wednesday, February 14, 2007
No TRUST-passing
My two girls love to draw, doodle and journal. Our house is filled with little notebooks and binders. Today there was one sitting on the floor in the family room. I was doing a little straightening (I was tempted to call it cleaning up, but I actually only picked up four things).
As I picked up the notebook, I opened it to the front to see who the proper owner was. Here’s what I read:
This Diary belongs to the one and only [my daughter’s name in all caps]
Do not open uness permetted
No TRUST-passing
It’s really cute. And as I thought about what she wrote it hit me. When Jesus taught us to pray He mentioned us asking God to forgive our trespasses and to help us forgive those who trespass against us. I think my daughter is on to something here – when we trespass the real issue is we have TRUST-passed. We’ve done or said something that breaks the other person’s ability to Trust us. When we go against God, we’ve broken Trust. When others trespass against us – they’ve broken our Trust.
So, how do we get back on track? We must rebuild Trust. This can be a lot more difficult then we may first realize. When I break a trust with a friend, it’s natural that when something else even seems a little off – well, they will wonder, “Can I really trust him?” This is why it’s so important to maintain trust in our relationships – because it’s so easy to lose, and when we lose it we seem to lose it all.
Yet, God’s way of dealing with things is a bit different. He tells us if we admit we’ve blown it He’s faithful to totally forgive us. Wow! But then He reminds us that this is how He wants us to treat others – to forgive them. One thing I have learned is that when I forgive someone I begin to let them rebuild the trust. Trust doesn’t come back all at once, but until we are willing to forgive, it can’t come back at all.
So, be careful with others – work hard at not TRUST-pass against them. And when others TRUST-pass against you, learn to forgive and begin rebuilding the trust. And, thank God that He is willing to fully forgive us every time we ask Him to!
\
As I picked up the notebook, I opened it to the front to see who the proper owner was. Here’s what I read:
This Diary belongs to the one and only [my daughter’s name in all caps]
Do not open uness permetted
No TRUST-passing
It’s really cute. And as I thought about what she wrote it hit me. When Jesus taught us to pray He mentioned us asking God to forgive our trespasses and to help us forgive those who trespass against us. I think my daughter is on to something here – when we trespass the real issue is we have TRUST-passed. We’ve done or said something that breaks the other person’s ability to Trust us. When we go against God, we’ve broken Trust. When others trespass against us – they’ve broken our Trust.
So, how do we get back on track? We must rebuild Trust. This can be a lot more difficult then we may first realize. When I break a trust with a friend, it’s natural that when something else even seems a little off – well, they will wonder, “Can I really trust him?” This is why it’s so important to maintain trust in our relationships – because it’s so easy to lose, and when we lose it we seem to lose it all.
Yet, God’s way of dealing with things is a bit different. He tells us if we admit we’ve blown it He’s faithful to totally forgive us. Wow! But then He reminds us that this is how He wants us to treat others – to forgive them. One thing I have learned is that when I forgive someone I begin to let them rebuild the trust. Trust doesn’t come back all at once, but until we are willing to forgive, it can’t come back at all.
So, be careful with others – work hard at not TRUST-pass against them. And when others TRUST-pass against you, learn to forgive and begin rebuilding the trust. And, thank God that He is willing to fully forgive us every time we ask Him to!
\
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
A Little Busy
Hello!
Yes, I'm still here. However, things are very busy with tax season kicking into gear. This week is my final week of seminary until after tax season, so I hope to get back to posting more regularly after this week!
Dave
Yes, I'm still here. However, things are very busy with tax season kicking into gear. This week is my final week of seminary until after tax season, so I hope to get back to posting more regularly after this week!
Dave
Friday, February 02, 2007
Tipping
I’m going to step away from the Questions Jesus Asked this post, but we will continue with those in the future. This post comes from a conversation I had with some good friends today – it was about tipping at restaurants.
I understand some of the frustration people have with this subject. Here are some facts regarding tipping:
1. A standard tip used to be 10%, then it was 15%, now its 20%; and
2. The price of food has increased (so it’s 20% of a larger bill); and
3. In many places the food quality is the same (if not worse); and finally
4. The service in many places has decreased.
Sooooo… I understand the frustration…HOWEVER –
Let me attempt to provide a paradigm shift. The hourly rate for waitstaff is barely over $2 an hour. Many of those working these jobs are either young people trying to get started in life or people who need the flexible hours (such as single parents). I don’t know about you, but two bucks an hour won’t take you very far.
What if we looked at those serving us as people – people who are trying to get on track or back on track. People who may be working multiple jobs to support their family. People who are struggling with some real tough life issues. Is this all of them? No, but its many!
So, rather than view the tip as a you-do-a-good-job-and I’ll-reward-you, why not make someone’s day by giving them a generous tip? Maybe the service they provided you wasn’t so great, but just maybe your generosity will inspire them to serve the next table a little better. Maybe they’ll feel a little better about themselves. Maybe it’s just what they needed to keep going.
One last thought for those of you who consider yourselves Christians. Do you know that most waiters and waitresses hate working Sunday afternoons because Christians are notoriously horrible tippers? PLEASE, PLEASE do not leave a tract on the table as a tip!! God is NOT a tip! If you want to leave something for them, do it right next to the big fat tip!
BTW – I am not, nor have I ever been, a waiter (I was a busboy for a while during High School). I’d probably ruin more clothes by dropping stuff on people then I care to even think about. But I really do appreciate those who serve me – and I hope you will, too.
I understand some of the frustration people have with this subject. Here are some facts regarding tipping:
1. A standard tip used to be 10%, then it was 15%, now its 20%; and
2. The price of food has increased (so it’s 20% of a larger bill); and
3. In many places the food quality is the same (if not worse); and finally
4. The service in many places has decreased.
Sooooo… I understand the frustration…HOWEVER –
Let me attempt to provide a paradigm shift. The hourly rate for waitstaff is barely over $2 an hour. Many of those working these jobs are either young people trying to get started in life or people who need the flexible hours (such as single parents). I don’t know about you, but two bucks an hour won’t take you very far.
What if we looked at those serving us as people – people who are trying to get on track or back on track. People who may be working multiple jobs to support their family. People who are struggling with some real tough life issues. Is this all of them? No, but its many!
So, rather than view the tip as a you-do-a-good-job-and I’ll-reward-you, why not make someone’s day by giving them a generous tip? Maybe the service they provided you wasn’t so great, but just maybe your generosity will inspire them to serve the next table a little better. Maybe they’ll feel a little better about themselves. Maybe it’s just what they needed to keep going.
One last thought for those of you who consider yourselves Christians. Do you know that most waiters and waitresses hate working Sunday afternoons because Christians are notoriously horrible tippers? PLEASE, PLEASE do not leave a tract on the table as a tip!! God is NOT a tip! If you want to leave something for them, do it right next to the big fat tip!
BTW – I am not, nor have I ever been, a waiter (I was a busboy for a while during High School). I’d probably ruin more clothes by dropping stuff on people then I care to even think about. But I really do appreciate those who serve me – and I hope you will, too.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Questions Jesus Asked (3) – Worry & Faith
This next set of questions (found in Matthew 6) that Jesus asked are some of the most difficult for me. I know what He’s saying, but “doing” what He’s teaching is pretty tough. See for yourself…
Jesus asks a couple of questions about why do we worry about food and clothes, but the main question is verse 27 - Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?
I don’t know about you, but I understand that worrying is like a rocking chair – it gives me something to do, but it doesn’t get me anywhere. I know that. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy to stop worrying – it just comes to us so naturally… and I’m pretty good at it!
The reality is worry really doesn’t help anything. In fact, most of us would admit worry has a pretty negative affect on our lives. So, how do we stop worrying?
You may not like this answer, but I’ve found it’s the only one that works. The answer can be found in Jesus’ last question of chapter 6 – Why do you have so little faith?
See, even if you are a spiritual person – this question has a little sting to it – I mean if I do believe in God and the Bible and all that…well…I should have enough faith not to worry. But if you’re not a spiritual person – then – I guess you’re kinda stuck with your worry – I don’t have a “next best answer” for you.
But I do have some good news – you can become a spiritual person – and it really does help you move from worry to faith. Not all at once, and sometimes you’ll still get blindsided. But one thing I’m learning about my faith is that it’s still there when I get myself calmed back down - because my faith is not based on my efforts, but on the Person of Jesus (the guy asking all the tough questions here). You see, even when I “lose” faith, He remains faithful. If you want to more info. on how you can begin to find faith you can e-mail me at Dave@RedoingLife.com.
Well, let me wrap this up – how do I increase my faith and decrease my worry? I hop over several short books to the right in my Bible to Philippians 4:6-7 which says –
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
I don’t know about you, but when I want to worry about something what I’m really looking for is peace. And there’s no better peace than the peace God is able to give to us. Our worries come from our hearts and our minds, so when we take these worries to God that is what He promises to guard – our hearts and minds.
I wish I could tell you that I do this perfectly every time. I don’t! But when I do…well…I guess you’ll have to experience it for yourself – because the Bible’s right – I can’t really explain it – you just have to live it.
Peace!
Jesus asks a couple of questions about why do we worry about food and clothes, but the main question is verse 27 - Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?
I don’t know about you, but I understand that worrying is like a rocking chair – it gives me something to do, but it doesn’t get me anywhere. I know that. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy to stop worrying – it just comes to us so naturally… and I’m pretty good at it!
The reality is worry really doesn’t help anything. In fact, most of us would admit worry has a pretty negative affect on our lives. So, how do we stop worrying?
You may not like this answer, but I’ve found it’s the only one that works. The answer can be found in Jesus’ last question of chapter 6 – Why do you have so little faith?
See, even if you are a spiritual person – this question has a little sting to it – I mean if I do believe in God and the Bible and all that…well…I should have enough faith not to worry. But if you’re not a spiritual person – then – I guess you’re kinda stuck with your worry – I don’t have a “next best answer” for you.
But I do have some good news – you can become a spiritual person – and it really does help you move from worry to faith. Not all at once, and sometimes you’ll still get blindsided. But one thing I’m learning about my faith is that it’s still there when I get myself calmed back down - because my faith is not based on my efforts, but on the Person of Jesus (the guy asking all the tough questions here). You see, even when I “lose” faith, He remains faithful. If you want to more info. on how you can begin to find faith you can e-mail me at Dave@RedoingLife.com.
Well, let me wrap this up – how do I increase my faith and decrease my worry? I hop over several short books to the right in my Bible to Philippians 4:6-7 which says –
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
I don’t know about you, but when I want to worry about something what I’m really looking for is peace. And there’s no better peace than the peace God is able to give to us. Our worries come from our hearts and our minds, so when we take these worries to God that is what He promises to guard – our hearts and minds.
I wish I could tell you that I do this perfectly every time. I don’t! But when I do…well…I guess you’ll have to experience it for yourself – because the Bible’s right – I can’t really explain it – you just have to live it.
Peace!
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Questions Jesus Asked (2) – Love & Kindness
We find Jesus’ next questions at the end of Matthew 5 in verses 46 and 47:
If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that?
If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else?
Okay, Jesus is going right to the “heart” of the matter here. One of the things that bothers me is the reputation the church has as being full of hypocrites. I think it bothers me because I know I’m in church – and I know I’m a hypocrite – so I know they’re right.
I’ve often used the reply – but there are hypocrites everywhere, so take a look in the mirror. But, I think this is the response that Jesus knew we “Christians” would have and He points out that we ARE SUPPOSED TO BE DIFFERENT!
Sure, I know that most Christians admit that we know we’re not perfect and we don’t attempt to take on the perfection label. But is that it? Does that make our hypocrisy okay?
Another typical Christian response is – well not all of the people in church are really Christians. I agree, but I’ve also spent enough time in churches to know that those I would strongly suspect are Christians are just as bad as the others. In fact, why do non-Christians at church continue to act like they have always acted? Because the “Christians” in the church continue to act like they’ve always acted.
Before I move into a full-on rant, let me express to all of you who maybe have the “been-there-done-that-don’t-need-that-anymore” view of church, I would like to say (and encourage you to consider) that churches are also filled with people who DO “get it” and who do truly care about others – not just their friends, but everyone with whom they come in contact. And, the truth is, the closer any one of us is willing to come to Christ the more we learn how to see others differently. To love and be kind to all people, not just our friends.
Do we do this perfectly? No, far from it, and we need to be willing to throw our hand up in their air and admit when we blow it. But if all of us would consider Jesus’ questions here at the end of Matthew, I think we would find a challenge worth taking. How do we learn to care about those we don’t click with? How do we find ourselves looking to put other’s needs before our own?
Well, it does not come easily. In fact, unless we are first willing to surrender our agendas over to Christ, I’m not sure this is really possible at all. But as we learn that we do not naturally care about others who are not close to us (and sometimes even those who are close to us), we can also discover that we have been created for relationships and that while it’s true there’s risk involved with loving – the alternative is to be love-less – and that’s just a miserable existence, not the life we were created to live!
So, why not take a look in the mirror. How do these questions from Jesus hit you? Can you find ways to see people differently? Can you learn to love … everyone?
I’ve got the paddle next to you in the same boat – but I always love a challenge :-).
If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that?
If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else?
Okay, Jesus is going right to the “heart” of the matter here. One of the things that bothers me is the reputation the church has as being full of hypocrites. I think it bothers me because I know I’m in church – and I know I’m a hypocrite – so I know they’re right.
I’ve often used the reply – but there are hypocrites everywhere, so take a look in the mirror. But, I think this is the response that Jesus knew we “Christians” would have and He points out that we ARE SUPPOSED TO BE DIFFERENT!
Sure, I know that most Christians admit that we know we’re not perfect and we don’t attempt to take on the perfection label. But is that it? Does that make our hypocrisy okay?
Another typical Christian response is – well not all of the people in church are really Christians. I agree, but I’ve also spent enough time in churches to know that those I would strongly suspect are Christians are just as bad as the others. In fact, why do non-Christians at church continue to act like they have always acted? Because the “Christians” in the church continue to act like they’ve always acted.
Before I move into a full-on rant, let me express to all of you who maybe have the “been-there-done-that-don’t-need-that-anymore” view of church, I would like to say (and encourage you to consider) that churches are also filled with people who DO “get it” and who do truly care about others – not just their friends, but everyone with whom they come in contact. And, the truth is, the closer any one of us is willing to come to Christ the more we learn how to see others differently. To love and be kind to all people, not just our friends.
Do we do this perfectly? No, far from it, and we need to be willing to throw our hand up in their air and admit when we blow it. But if all of us would consider Jesus’ questions here at the end of Matthew, I think we would find a challenge worth taking. How do we learn to care about those we don’t click with? How do we find ourselves looking to put other’s needs before our own?
Well, it does not come easily. In fact, unless we are first willing to surrender our agendas over to Christ, I’m not sure this is really possible at all. But as we learn that we do not naturally care about others who are not close to us (and sometimes even those who are close to us), we can also discover that we have been created for relationships and that while it’s true there’s risk involved with loving – the alternative is to be love-less – and that’s just a miserable existence, not the life we were created to live!
So, why not take a look in the mirror. How do these questions from Jesus hit you? Can you find ways to see people differently? Can you learn to love … everyone?
I’ve got the paddle next to you in the same boat – but I always love a challenge :-).
Monday, January 22, 2007
Questions Jesus Asked (1) – Salt
As I begin this series of questions Jesus asked, I want to be clear that this does not make up the full teachings of Christ. However, I do think we can learn a lot from His questions & I’m really curious to see where this takes us.
I just started in Matthew – and the first questions Jesus asks is recorded in Matthew 5:13 where He asks – “What good is salt if it has lost its saltiness? Can you make it salty again?”
Okay, I could totally understand a, “Yeah, that’s helpful – what in the world is He talking about” thought to this question. And while I don’t want to make this a book – I think a little background would be real helpful.
A good starting point is to remember the culture and time frame in which Jesus was teaching – they did not have freezers and microwaves. They had not figured out how to stuff food with so many preservatives that their shelf life is longer than our average life span. So, one use for salt was to preserve foods. Part of what we can learn from this question is Jesus was talking to His followers saying, I want you to do good things and preserve goodness. I want you to be a positive influence on those around you.
Another use for salt was for cleaning. Have you ever rubbed salt in a wound? I don’t recommend it – but the truth is it will clean out a wound. So, another potential teaching here is – bring healing to those you come in contact with. While sometimes the truth stings a little, the cleansing is worth is and will bring healing – and that’s a good thing.
I’m sure there are more analogies we could make, but I’ll make just one more. Have you ever heard, “That guy or girl is worth their salt”? It’s kind of an old saying, but it came from the fact that soldiers use to be paid in salt. So, someone who was doing well was, “worth their salt.” Today, our society has changed, so a similar statement we may hear is, “That girl is worth her weight in gold.” Same idea. So, what could we learn from this aspect of being “salt”? I think its fair to say that Jesus would want His followers to make a positive difference. To have relationships that others say, “I’m glad you’re my friend. We don’t always see eye to eye, but your friendship is worth it.”
So, a couple of things from this first question that we can learn – Jesus wants us to be a positive influence, a healer, and be someone worth having a relationship with. Cool stuff! But if we really look at the way He asked the question – He’s saying if were not all of these things – what good are we?
I think I need to look at how I interact with those around me and make sure I’m “worth my salt.” How about you?
I just started in Matthew – and the first questions Jesus asks is recorded in Matthew 5:13 where He asks – “What good is salt if it has lost its saltiness? Can you make it salty again?”
Okay, I could totally understand a, “Yeah, that’s helpful – what in the world is He talking about” thought to this question. And while I don’t want to make this a book – I think a little background would be real helpful.
A good starting point is to remember the culture and time frame in which Jesus was teaching – they did not have freezers and microwaves. They had not figured out how to stuff food with so many preservatives that their shelf life is longer than our average life span. So, one use for salt was to preserve foods. Part of what we can learn from this question is Jesus was talking to His followers saying, I want you to do good things and preserve goodness. I want you to be a positive influence on those around you.
Another use for salt was for cleaning. Have you ever rubbed salt in a wound? I don’t recommend it – but the truth is it will clean out a wound. So, another potential teaching here is – bring healing to those you come in contact with. While sometimes the truth stings a little, the cleansing is worth is and will bring healing – and that’s a good thing.
I’m sure there are more analogies we could make, but I’ll make just one more. Have you ever heard, “That guy or girl is worth their salt”? It’s kind of an old saying, but it came from the fact that soldiers use to be paid in salt. So, someone who was doing well was, “worth their salt.” Today, our society has changed, so a similar statement we may hear is, “That girl is worth her weight in gold.” Same idea. So, what could we learn from this aspect of being “salt”? I think its fair to say that Jesus would want His followers to make a positive difference. To have relationships that others say, “I’m glad you’re my friend. We don’t always see eye to eye, but your friendship is worth it.”
So, a couple of things from this first question that we can learn – Jesus wants us to be a positive influence, a healer, and be someone worth having a relationship with. Cool stuff! But if we really look at the way He asked the question – He’s saying if were not all of these things – what good are we?
I think I need to look at how I interact with those around me and make sure I’m “worth my salt.” How about you?
Friday, January 19, 2007
The Value of Questions
Awhile back I heard Andy Stanley talking about how the questions we ask reveal what we value most. For instance, if I constantly ask my kids, “Is your homework finished?” I’m communicating to them that I value homework. More specifically, I value them completing their homework.
But is that what is most important? Wouldn’t a better question be, “Do you understand what you’re learning?”
Or, if I always ask my wife, “Honey, what’s for dinner?” What does that communicate to her - that I value dinner. Again, more specifically, I value someone else making dinner for me.
Wouldn’t a better question be, “How’s your day been? What can I make you for dinner?”
[Sweetheart, when you read this, I love you, and you probably really don’t want me in the kitchen :-)]
You see the point? (See, what I really value is communicating in a way that you understand my perspective.)
Okay, here’s an even better point – if it’s true that we can see what’s important to a person by listening to the questions they ask – then I think it would be great to take a look at the questions Jesus asked people.
So, at least for a little while (read - unless my ADD kicks in), that will be the focus of most of my future blogs – looking at the questions Jesus asked and learning what He valued most.
Stay tuned…
But is that what is most important? Wouldn’t a better question be, “Do you understand what you’re learning?”
Or, if I always ask my wife, “Honey, what’s for dinner?” What does that communicate to her - that I value dinner. Again, more specifically, I value someone else making dinner for me.
Wouldn’t a better question be, “How’s your day been? What can I make you for dinner?”
[Sweetheart, when you read this, I love you, and you probably really don’t want me in the kitchen :-)]
You see the point? (See, what I really value is communicating in a way that you understand my perspective.)
Okay, here’s an even better point – if it’s true that we can see what’s important to a person by listening to the questions they ask – then I think it would be great to take a look at the questions Jesus asked people.
So, at least for a little while (read - unless my ADD kicks in), that will be the focus of most of my future blogs – looking at the questions Jesus asked and learning what He valued most.
Stay tuned…
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Christmas - In Review
How was your Christmas?
Really – how was your Christmas?
I just finished listening to a guy talking about what Christmas has become – and he was right on target.
He used an illustration of a For Sale Sign in a front yard that in big letters across the bottom said:
REDUCED!
He went on to describe how we really need to plant this sign in the “front yard” of our lives – REDUCED!
Less pace for more peace!
Was this Christmas a time of more peace or more pace? You see, it’s one or the other.
How about your life in January – post-Christmas? Peaceful?
If not, why not? What’s in your life that needs to be REDUCED?
Here’s my short list:
REDUCE my “busy-ness” --
o Don’t waste time on the unimportant (I really don’t have to figure out every detail);
o Some things really can be done tomorrow – go home and spend some time with my family;
o When it’s family time – BE THERE – too often I’m in the house, but I’ve made myself busy (like….right now).
My biggest problem is I’m a “doer.” If I’m not doing something I get nervous. I’m praying that I can get a handle on my “busy-ness addiction.” I truly am addicted to “doing.” I need to learn how to shut down – relax – enjoy people (especially my family).
How about you? Where do you need to post your REDUCED sign?
Really – how was your Christmas?
I just finished listening to a guy talking about what Christmas has become – and he was right on target.
He used an illustration of a For Sale Sign in a front yard that in big letters across the bottom said:
REDUCED!
He went on to describe how we really need to plant this sign in the “front yard” of our lives – REDUCED!
Less pace for more peace!
Was this Christmas a time of more peace or more pace? You see, it’s one or the other.
How about your life in January – post-Christmas? Peaceful?
If not, why not? What’s in your life that needs to be REDUCED?
Here’s my short list:
REDUCE my “busy-ness” --
o Don’t waste time on the unimportant (I really don’t have to figure out every detail);
o Some things really can be done tomorrow – go home and spend some time with my family;
o When it’s family time – BE THERE – too often I’m in the house, but I’ve made myself busy (like….right now).
My biggest problem is I’m a “doer.” If I’m not doing something I get nervous. I’m praying that I can get a handle on my “busy-ness addiction.” I truly am addicted to “doing.” I need to learn how to shut down – relax – enjoy people (especially my family).
How about you? Where do you need to post your REDUCED sign?
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Sore Back...and Knee
Hey Gang! So, I “tweaked” my back Saturday. “Tweaked” is better than an all out pull – just a minor “ouch that hurts” – compared to “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up.”
Anyway, the back was sore but livable; however, as the days have gone by one of the muscles just above my knee has become very sore. If any of you have dealt with back pain you know what I mean when I describe how a little “tweak” of the back can cause all kinds of other problems as we do strange things to compensate for our outta-wack-back.
The same thing happens in our relationships. Many times what starts out as a “minor pain” creates all kinds of problems in a relationship. Why is this? Paul described the church as a body and talked about how when one part hurts, all the parts suffer (1 Corinthians 12). Well, this can be applied to all of our relationships. When one person is hurting, all involved feel the effects.
So, how do we heal “sore” relationships? Again, the Bible is very helpful as God teaches us to rejoice with those who rejoice and struggle with those who are struggling. Does this mean we become responsible for everyone else’s issues? Nope. We all have to take responsibility for our own decisions, but it does mean that when someone is hurting we learn to care about them and do what we can to help.
Are you hurting? I hope you have someone who can share your struggles – even if all they can do is lend a listening ear while you process. But, I also hope you celebrate with others when things are going well. I don’t think we do enough celebrating when were doing well!
So, maybe it’s time to throw that party and celebrate!!
Anyway, the back was sore but livable; however, as the days have gone by one of the muscles just above my knee has become very sore. If any of you have dealt with back pain you know what I mean when I describe how a little “tweak” of the back can cause all kinds of other problems as we do strange things to compensate for our outta-wack-back.
The same thing happens in our relationships. Many times what starts out as a “minor pain” creates all kinds of problems in a relationship. Why is this? Paul described the church as a body and talked about how when one part hurts, all the parts suffer (1 Corinthians 12). Well, this can be applied to all of our relationships. When one person is hurting, all involved feel the effects.
So, how do we heal “sore” relationships? Again, the Bible is very helpful as God teaches us to rejoice with those who rejoice and struggle with those who are struggling. Does this mean we become responsible for everyone else’s issues? Nope. We all have to take responsibility for our own decisions, but it does mean that when someone is hurting we learn to care about them and do what we can to help.
Are you hurting? I hope you have someone who can share your struggles – even if all they can do is lend a listening ear while you process. But, I also hope you celebrate with others when things are going well. I don’t think we do enough celebrating when were doing well!
So, maybe it’s time to throw that party and celebrate!!
Thursday, January 11, 2007
"Christian" vs. "Christ-follower"
I'm treading onto thin ice here - I know it - but I think it's a great conversation to have.
There has been a lot of talk - especially in the Western world - about the "Christian." The fact is many in the US would probably label themselves a Christian, but it's more by default than by their relationship with God. What I mean is people go through the religious lists and settle on Christian. The tought process is something like - well, I'm not Muslim, I'm not Mormon, I'm not Hindu, I'm not Jewish,... so, I must be a Christian.
Another way North Americans tend to look at this is by saying, well I live in a "Christian nation," so I must be a Christian.
A third way is to say well my whole family is Christian - so I am, too.
I can understand this way of thinking, but it's not really accurate. I don't make this observation to be critical, but simply to point out that the label of Christian has become very watered down - especially in our culture.
In an effort for clarity, many have begun using the title Christ-follower. It's a way of saying that I'm making the effort to live the way Christ teaches us to live in the Bible. It recognizes that this does not just happen by default, but takes intentional effort.
Now, this can go too far as well. Sometimes we can become so - well...judgmental - that we begin to feel the need to do some crazy things to prove to others that we are Christians.
The bottom line is it's not about all of our outward actions or labels as much is it is about our hearts and how we feel toward God. Do we acknowledge Him in our lives to the point of being willing to live for Him in everyday ordinary ways. Or is it a show. Or do we just do whatever we want and not really give God a second thought.
I know some may not see the humor in this video link, but I decided to share it anyway. I would also suggest you read all of the comments on this video. The best way is to click on the "View all 44 comments" (additional comments are not enabled)toward the bottom of the page after the comments that appear on the screen. This view shows them in the order posted and which ones are replying to previous posts. Here's the link...
I'm a Christ Follower
Living for Christ - from the inside out.
There has been a lot of talk - especially in the Western world - about the "Christian." The fact is many in the US would probably label themselves a Christian, but it's more by default than by their relationship with God. What I mean is people go through the religious lists and settle on Christian. The tought process is something like - well, I'm not Muslim, I'm not Mormon, I'm not Hindu, I'm not Jewish,... so, I must be a Christian.
Another way North Americans tend to look at this is by saying, well I live in a "Christian nation," so I must be a Christian.
A third way is to say well my whole family is Christian - so I am, too.
I can understand this way of thinking, but it's not really accurate. I don't make this observation to be critical, but simply to point out that the label of Christian has become very watered down - especially in our culture.
In an effort for clarity, many have begun using the title Christ-follower. It's a way of saying that I'm making the effort to live the way Christ teaches us to live in the Bible. It recognizes that this does not just happen by default, but takes intentional effort.
Now, this can go too far as well. Sometimes we can become so - well...judgmental - that we begin to feel the need to do some crazy things to prove to others that we are Christians.
The bottom line is it's not about all of our outward actions or labels as much is it is about our hearts and how we feel toward God. Do we acknowledge Him in our lives to the point of being willing to live for Him in everyday ordinary ways. Or is it a show. Or do we just do whatever we want and not really give God a second thought.
I know some may not see the humor in this video link, but I decided to share it anyway. I would also suggest you read all of the comments on this video. The best way is to click on the "View all 44 comments" (additional comments are not enabled)toward the bottom of the page after the comments that appear on the screen. This view shows them in the order posted and which ones are replying to previous posts. Here's the link...
I'm a Christ Follower
Living for Christ - from the inside out.
Comments, Comments, Comments
Hey guys & gals! I was talking with my favorite IT guy (and church planting buddy) Brian, and telling him I wish it were easier for people to post comments on this blog (not have to set-up an account, etc.).
Well - Brian took a look and made that possible (that's why we keep you around buddy!!). So, my hope is that you all will interact more with this site now that posting a comment is much easier.
By the way, your comments will not show up on the site until I approve them, so don't freak out if you post a comment and can't see it appear on the blog right away.
Enjoying the journey!!
Well - Brian took a look and made that possible (that's why we keep you around buddy!!). So, my hope is that you all will interact more with this site now that posting a comment is much easier.
By the way, your comments will not show up on the site until I approve them, so don't freak out if you post a comment and can't see it appear on the blog right away.
Enjoying the journey!!
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
The Vision of Relevant Community Church
I wanted to take some time and post what’s been happening with the new church start where I serve as one of the Pastors. We have just completed our Vision Statement – that describes what we’re all about. I’d love to get your feedback on these thoughts.
Our Vision statement is – Building life-changing relationships with God, each other and our community.
We spent many hours praying, reading God’s Word and discussing the right words to convey what we believe God is calling us be as His church.
Building – acknowledges this does not just happen – we have to be intentional and it takes work to have healthy / life-changing relationship. (Some key verses: 1 Corinthians 3:10-17; Ephesians 4:11-12)
Life-changing – we have many relationships in this world, but few are “life-changing.” We recognize that truly biblical relationships with God and others will change our lives for the better. (Key verse: Colossians 1:6)
With God – until we can have healthy relationships with other people we must have a life-changing relationship with God. Only then are we able to begin to see others as God sees them – has His prized possession. Naturally we look at the outside – looks, personalities, etc., but God enables us to understand how He sees them. (1 Samuel 16:7)
To help people connect with God we will provide environments of large group, high impact Worship that includes inspiring music and dynamic biblical teaching.
With Each Other – once we have a life-changing relationship with God we begin to see each other differently and desire to have healthy relationships with other Christians (Christ-followers). (Key verse: The Great Commandment – Matthew 22:37-40)
We believe small group environments are critical for building healthy relationships with other believers.
With Our Community – We know God wants us to reach into our broken communities and point them towards health – which is found in life-changing relationships with God and each other. (Key verse: The Great Commission – Matthew 28:18-20)
We talked about the need to reach the world for Christ, but also realized that our main point of influence is within our community. As others come into a relationship with God we will help them discover their spiritual gifts and help them connect to ministry opportunities both in the church and with other ministries. This would include other mission ministries throughout the world.
Our Vision statement is – Building life-changing relationships with God, each other and our community.
We spent many hours praying, reading God’s Word and discussing the right words to convey what we believe God is calling us be as His church.
Building – acknowledges this does not just happen – we have to be intentional and it takes work to have healthy / life-changing relationship. (Some key verses: 1 Corinthians 3:10-17; Ephesians 4:11-12)
Life-changing – we have many relationships in this world, but few are “life-changing.” We recognize that truly biblical relationships with God and others will change our lives for the better. (Key verse: Colossians 1:6)
With God – until we can have healthy relationships with other people we must have a life-changing relationship with God. Only then are we able to begin to see others as God sees them – has His prized possession. Naturally we look at the outside – looks, personalities, etc., but God enables us to understand how He sees them. (1 Samuel 16:7)
To help people connect with God we will provide environments of large group, high impact Worship that includes inspiring music and dynamic biblical teaching.
With Each Other – once we have a life-changing relationship with God we begin to see each other differently and desire to have healthy relationships with other Christians (Christ-followers). (Key verse: The Great Commandment – Matthew 22:37-40)
We believe small group environments are critical for building healthy relationships with other believers.
With Our Community – We know God wants us to reach into our broken communities and point them towards health – which is found in life-changing relationships with God and each other. (Key verse: The Great Commission – Matthew 28:18-20)
We talked about the need to reach the world for Christ, but also realized that our main point of influence is within our community. As others come into a relationship with God we will help them discover their spiritual gifts and help them connect to ministry opportunities both in the church and with other ministries. This would include other mission ministries throughout the world.
Saturday, January 06, 2007
VT & Cowboys
Hey - wow this week went by fast.
Well, Virginia Tech looked good early but then you all must have stopped praying :-)
To make it worse I just watched my Cowboys blow a play-off game. Then again, it is just a game.
This year is off to a quick start. That whole deal about time moves faster as you get older - I don't know how that's possible - but it sure feels that way.
Well, I have to enter my period of mourning for my football teams.
Well, Virginia Tech looked good early but then you all must have stopped praying :-)
To make it worse I just watched my Cowboys blow a play-off game. Then again, it is just a game.
This year is off to a quick start. That whole deal about time moves faster as you get older - I don't know how that's possible - but it sure feels that way.
Well, I have to enter my period of mourning for my football teams.
Monday, January 01, 2007
New Year's Resolutions
Well, it’s January one and time for all of those resolutions. I couldn’t help but laugh (to myself of course) as I watched probably half a dozen…um…not so athletic…athletically challenged (for the politically correct crowd) people lumber past my house today in their so-new-they still-have the-tags sweats. I didn’t count the guy who looked like he was in pretty decent shape (running in an old t-shirt and shorts).
Now, in the name of full disclosure I have to tell you I was outside for less than two hours taking down the Christmas lights (the rest of the day I was horizontal in the recliner watching college football and writing this blog).
But I couldn’t help but think about the first day of the New Year’s Resolutions and wonder how many of those folks I’d ever see again “running” past the house.
I had the normal reaction – those resolutions will never last, but then I had another thought – at least those six people (and many others I did not see) made the effort to give it a shot (which, to this point, is more than I have done).
So, kudos to those of you who are willing to give it a try and attempt to make a change for the better in your life.
For me, having a relationship with God is kinda similar. I don’t deserve it. I know I won’t keep my end of the relationship up very well. And yet God says, “All I need for you to do is take the first step and trust me.” “Surrender your life to me and I will sustain you,” is what God tells us. In fact, it gets even better – God knows we won’t follow through perfectly – and yet our relationship with Him is secure – forever.
Want to make a change that will last? If you haven’t already asked Jesus to give you a new life (a fresh start), that’s the best New Year’s Resolution you will ever make – and the “keeping it going” is God’s part.
Have questions about what I’m talking about or just want to chat some personally – e-mail me at Dave@RedoingLife.com.
Now, in the name of full disclosure I have to tell you I was outside for less than two hours taking down the Christmas lights (the rest of the day I was horizontal in the recliner watching college football and writing this blog).
But I couldn’t help but think about the first day of the New Year’s Resolutions and wonder how many of those folks I’d ever see again “running” past the house.
I had the normal reaction – those resolutions will never last, but then I had another thought – at least those six people (and many others I did not see) made the effort to give it a shot (which, to this point, is more than I have done).
So, kudos to those of you who are willing to give it a try and attempt to make a change for the better in your life.
For me, having a relationship with God is kinda similar. I don’t deserve it. I know I won’t keep my end of the relationship up very well. And yet God says, “All I need for you to do is take the first step and trust me.” “Surrender your life to me and I will sustain you,” is what God tells us. In fact, it gets even better – God knows we won’t follow through perfectly – and yet our relationship with Him is secure – forever.
Want to make a change that will last? If you haven’t already asked Jesus to give you a new life (a fresh start), that’s the best New Year’s Resolution you will ever make – and the “keeping it going” is God’s part.
Have questions about what I’m talking about or just want to chat some personally – e-mail me at Dave@RedoingLife.com.
Happy New Year
I want to wish you all a blessed and happy New Year!
My prayer for each of us is that we would fall more in love with the Father who deeply loves us and who desires to bless us beyond measure.
May we all come to understand His mercy and grace in new and wonderful ways this year!
Happy New Year!!
My prayer for each of us is that we would fall more in love with the Father who deeply loves us and who desires to bless us beyond measure.
May we all come to understand His mercy and grace in new and wonderful ways this year!
Happy New Year!!
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Virginia Tech
As a graduate of Virginia Tech all of my attention is on tonight's Bowl Game against Georgia. So, I want you all to be praying that Tech wins!
Does that seem a bit crazy to you? Should we really pray for our team to win a game? Are there no Christians associated with the other team? And, if there are, whose prayer should God answer - theirs or ours?
The Bible says God does not show favorites, but it also says pray without ceasing and to pray about everything.
Here are my thoughts - I don't think God really cares about who wins the game tonight - but He still loves for us to invite Him to join us as we cheer. Prayer is not a way we manipulate God, it's the way we enjoy a relationship with our Father.
Honestly, whether Tech wins or loses won't really affect my life one way or the other - but the relationship I enjoy with God has eternal benefits.
So, should we pray for our team to win? Sure, but it's about loving God and making Him part of your day. And our team’s winning or losing is not a reflection of God's love for us - it's just a game. But, the relationship we build will reveal His love for us in incredible ways throughout this life and the next.
Go Tech...and Go God!
Does that seem a bit crazy to you? Should we really pray for our team to win a game? Are there no Christians associated with the other team? And, if there are, whose prayer should God answer - theirs or ours?
The Bible says God does not show favorites, but it also says pray without ceasing and to pray about everything.
Here are my thoughts - I don't think God really cares about who wins the game tonight - but He still loves for us to invite Him to join us as we cheer. Prayer is not a way we manipulate God, it's the way we enjoy a relationship with our Father.
Honestly, whether Tech wins or loses won't really affect my life one way or the other - but the relationship I enjoy with God has eternal benefits.
So, should we pray for our team to win? Sure, but it's about loving God and making Him part of your day. And our team’s winning or losing is not a reflection of God's love for us - it's just a game. But, the relationship we build will reveal His love for us in incredible ways throughout this life and the next.
Go Tech...and Go God!
Thursday, December 28, 2006
I Promise To Tell The Whole Truth
We’ve all heard that before – “I promise to tell the whole truth…” I’ve said, “If it’s not the whole truth, it’s not the truth.” Now, I have a question – Is this always true?
This Christmas has been one of a couple of “surprise” gifts. I love being a part of surprising people with good things that make them happy. However, the whole nature of a “surprise” is that it must remain a secret until the time comes for it to be revealed. This leads to… well… many “almost” the truth, but not the whole truth, type of conversations.
Is that wrong?
Somehow I think there is a danger of legalism here in that we cannot ever have fun and surprise people based on the need for always telling the entire truth. But, certainly there are many other times where there is no surprise involved, we simply don’t want to deal with the whole truth.
I guess it depends – some may call this “situational ethics,” but I do not believe that’s a fair label for this situation. In the end, the half truth is for the other person’s benefit (a fun surprise) not trying to save our own tail because the whole truth would reveal wrongdoing on our part.
So, have fun! Surprise others and make them smile. Don’t be legalistic and miss the spirit of the principle. The truth is – we know when we need to tell the whole truth and when we can keep a secret for the benefit of a surprise.
I hope some of you had some great surprises this Christmas!
This Christmas has been one of a couple of “surprise” gifts. I love being a part of surprising people with good things that make them happy. However, the whole nature of a “surprise” is that it must remain a secret until the time comes for it to be revealed. This leads to… well… many “almost” the truth, but not the whole truth, type of conversations.
Is that wrong?
Somehow I think there is a danger of legalism here in that we cannot ever have fun and surprise people based on the need for always telling the entire truth. But, certainly there are many other times where there is no surprise involved, we simply don’t want to deal with the whole truth.
I guess it depends – some may call this “situational ethics,” but I do not believe that’s a fair label for this situation. In the end, the half truth is for the other person’s benefit (a fun surprise) not trying to save our own tail because the whole truth would reveal wrongdoing on our part.
So, have fun! Surprise others and make them smile. Don’t be legalistic and miss the spirit of the principle. The truth is – we know when we need to tell the whole truth and when we can keep a secret for the benefit of a surprise.
I hope some of you had some great surprises this Christmas!
Monday, December 25, 2006
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Reality Check
This is actually three days ago as our internet has been down...
Okay, so I’m feeling pretty good about getting more involved with my community this Christmas Season. Helping people I haven’t helped before – being more aware of the less fortunate around me and thanking God for using me in this way this year. And, if I’m honest, feeling a bit proud of myself.
I’m headed out to an appointment this morning, feeling a bit hurried, facing a 45 minute drive to a client’s office. I merge into an open lane and the car in front of me merge’s over into the same lane – and then proceeds to hit his breaks slowing way down. I hit my brakes so as not to totally ruin my day and I figure he’s going to change lanes. Nope, he hits the brakes again. My thought process was, “Oh, they must be lost – poor people – I’ll patiently wait for them to decide what they want to do.” Yeah, right. No, I’m thinking, “What’s this idiot doing!” So, I pull around them on the passenger side and raise my hand with that look that says, “Hey buddy, what’s your deal.” And hit the gas.
It’s at that point that I recognize the passenger as one of my friends who is working with the new church start. Wait it gets better. Remember I just hit the gas. I turn to see the light turning yellow and then red as I speed through the intersection.
Now I’m wondering – who was driving the car my friend is in. Probably a co-worker who he’s been telling all about this great church we’re starting, right? I can hear him explaining – “Oh, yeah, well that’s Dave – he’s one of our Pastors – he’s a real nice guy. Just ignore everything you just saw.”
REALITY CHECK!
Thankfully, the driver was his son who I’m sure will have a great time retelling this story – I used to be his Youth Pastor – uggg. I’m really glad I didn’t give him the “#1 driver” sign (I haven't used that in probably 15 years and I'm really glad I didn't start then).
By the way, my cell phone rang a few seconds later. Of course it was my friend just letting me know how proud he is of me for running the light.
Actually, I’m grateful it was them. I think God was using them to show me how quickly I can become self-centered again. It was His way of saying, “Dave, I’m glad you’re starting to see what I want you to do with your life, but there’s still some rough edges we need to work on.”
Another great lesson on the road of life.
Okay, so I’m feeling pretty good about getting more involved with my community this Christmas Season. Helping people I haven’t helped before – being more aware of the less fortunate around me and thanking God for using me in this way this year. And, if I’m honest, feeling a bit proud of myself.
I’m headed out to an appointment this morning, feeling a bit hurried, facing a 45 minute drive to a client’s office. I merge into an open lane and the car in front of me merge’s over into the same lane – and then proceeds to hit his breaks slowing way down. I hit my brakes so as not to totally ruin my day and I figure he’s going to change lanes. Nope, he hits the brakes again. My thought process was, “Oh, they must be lost – poor people – I’ll patiently wait for them to decide what they want to do.” Yeah, right. No, I’m thinking, “What’s this idiot doing!” So, I pull around them on the passenger side and raise my hand with that look that says, “Hey buddy, what’s your deal.” And hit the gas.
It’s at that point that I recognize the passenger as one of my friends who is working with the new church start. Wait it gets better. Remember I just hit the gas. I turn to see the light turning yellow and then red as I speed through the intersection.
Now I’m wondering – who was driving the car my friend is in. Probably a co-worker who he’s been telling all about this great church we’re starting, right? I can hear him explaining – “Oh, yeah, well that’s Dave – he’s one of our Pastors – he’s a real nice guy. Just ignore everything you just saw.”
REALITY CHECK!
Thankfully, the driver was his son who I’m sure will have a great time retelling this story – I used to be his Youth Pastor – uggg. I’m really glad I didn’t give him the “#1 driver” sign (I haven't used that in probably 15 years and I'm really glad I didn't start then).
By the way, my cell phone rang a few seconds later. Of course it was my friend just letting me know how proud he is of me for running the light.
Actually, I’m grateful it was them. I think God was using them to show me how quickly I can become self-centered again. It was His way of saying, “Dave, I’m glad you’re starting to see what I want you to do with your life, but there’s still some rough edges we need to work on.”
Another great lesson on the road of life.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
When You Hit Rock Bottom and the Bottom Falls Out
I had a wonderfully horrible experience this week. I know that’s an oxymoron, but here’s what’s happened…
I met a guy while I was pumping gas. I was heading to lunch with a friend at a restaurant across the street, so I invited him to join us. We shared lunch and conversation for about 2 hours. I learned so much about him and we shared our own life highs and lows. In the end we prayed together and said goodbye. My new friend picked up his bag, got up off the curb (where we shared lunch together) and headed back into the woods…
That’s where he lives.
You see my new friend has been homeless for about four months. He’s struggling with a lot of life issues, emotional issues and spiritual issues (aren’t we all). The really hard part is he’s a really smart guy. He has a family (broken, like many, but a family). Yet, as we head into the coldest months of the year, he chooses to live in the woods. I asked him why – I’ve become a pretty direct person. He said he’s too embarrassed and ashamed to get help. I did my best to explain how there are places close by that WANT to help (he’s been to some of them already), but he simply won’t go.
I think the really sad part is he’s made so many bad decisions in his life he feels like that’s all he will ever do – continue to make bad decisions – he told me so. The truth is, he may be right, and only he can determine if that will come to pass.
The day we met was pretty warm, but it was soon to get very cold. That evening I took him some more water and a sleeping bag and a small book that I prayed he would read and God would reveal the truth to him. I’ve seen him a couple times since then and he’s using the sleeping bag, but it just doesn’t compare to real shelter.
My heart breaks for him, but I cannot make any decisions for him.
What I’ve tried to tell him (but he doesn’t believe) is how much his life has helped me. You see, for some reason I decided to care about this guy I’d never met. Honestly, it’s not me (I explained the real me in my last post – self-centered), but I’ve recently read a book by Rick McKinley called This Beautiful Mess and Rick has helped me put into practice some of the things that until now have just been head knowledge. What I mean is - I’ve known for a long time that God cares about the poor and the widowed and the homeless. I’ve known that my heart should break for the things that break God’s heart. But knowing about things and feeling them take place in your heart are two very different things.
I cannot tell you why I decided to get to know a man I normally would have been friendly towards, but quickly moved away from – accept to say I believe God’s transforming my heart to break for the things that break His heart. I’ll never fully get there. And it is painful – this man has been on my mind almost constantly as I wrestle with what I can do for him without enabling his poor decisions. But then God never said loving people would always be easy – yet He desires for us to love anyway.
I read a quote a while back that said, “You only love Jesus as much as the one you love the least.” I also just read an article (in a pastor’s magazine) that essentially said, “We need to worry less about gaining more knowledge and learn more about how to love people.” Both of these are filled with rich truth about what it means to truly be a Christ-follower.
Where will my friend end up? I really don’t know.
Does it hurt to see him huddled under a sleeping bag in the morning after a very cold night? More than I can explain.
Can I save him? Can I fix him? No – but I can love him; I can choose to see him as God sees him – one made in His own image – truly loved.
I know God wants so much more for my friend, but He never forces us. God allows us to make our own decisions. So, if God respects his decisions, so must I.
I’m beginning to see the world differently now – I’m beginning to be willing to acknowledge all of the brokenness (the Mess), but along with that comes the realization that God wants to break into people’s lives, and reveal His love for them (through us) and when that happens, it’s Beautiful. This world truly is a Beautiful Mess.
I met a guy while I was pumping gas. I was heading to lunch with a friend at a restaurant across the street, so I invited him to join us. We shared lunch and conversation for about 2 hours. I learned so much about him and we shared our own life highs and lows. In the end we prayed together and said goodbye. My new friend picked up his bag, got up off the curb (where we shared lunch together) and headed back into the woods…
That’s where he lives.
You see my new friend has been homeless for about four months. He’s struggling with a lot of life issues, emotional issues and spiritual issues (aren’t we all). The really hard part is he’s a really smart guy. He has a family (broken, like many, but a family). Yet, as we head into the coldest months of the year, he chooses to live in the woods. I asked him why – I’ve become a pretty direct person. He said he’s too embarrassed and ashamed to get help. I did my best to explain how there are places close by that WANT to help (he’s been to some of them already), but he simply won’t go.
I think the really sad part is he’s made so many bad decisions in his life he feels like that’s all he will ever do – continue to make bad decisions – he told me so. The truth is, he may be right, and only he can determine if that will come to pass.
The day we met was pretty warm, but it was soon to get very cold. That evening I took him some more water and a sleeping bag and a small book that I prayed he would read and God would reveal the truth to him. I’ve seen him a couple times since then and he’s using the sleeping bag, but it just doesn’t compare to real shelter.
My heart breaks for him, but I cannot make any decisions for him.
What I’ve tried to tell him (but he doesn’t believe) is how much his life has helped me. You see, for some reason I decided to care about this guy I’d never met. Honestly, it’s not me (I explained the real me in my last post – self-centered), but I’ve recently read a book by Rick McKinley called This Beautiful Mess and Rick has helped me put into practice some of the things that until now have just been head knowledge. What I mean is - I’ve known for a long time that God cares about the poor and the widowed and the homeless. I’ve known that my heart should break for the things that break God’s heart. But knowing about things and feeling them take place in your heart are two very different things.
I cannot tell you why I decided to get to know a man I normally would have been friendly towards, but quickly moved away from – accept to say I believe God’s transforming my heart to break for the things that break His heart. I’ll never fully get there. And it is painful – this man has been on my mind almost constantly as I wrestle with what I can do for him without enabling his poor decisions. But then God never said loving people would always be easy – yet He desires for us to love anyway.
I read a quote a while back that said, “You only love Jesus as much as the one you love the least.” I also just read an article (in a pastor’s magazine) that essentially said, “We need to worry less about gaining more knowledge and learn more about how to love people.” Both of these are filled with rich truth about what it means to truly be a Christ-follower.
Where will my friend end up? I really don’t know.
Does it hurt to see him huddled under a sleeping bag in the morning after a very cold night? More than I can explain.
Can I save him? Can I fix him? No – but I can love him; I can choose to see him as God sees him – one made in His own image – truly loved.
I know God wants so much more for my friend, but He never forces us. God allows us to make our own decisions. So, if God respects his decisions, so must I.
I’m beginning to see the world differently now – I’m beginning to be willing to acknowledge all of the brokenness (the Mess), but along with that comes the realization that God wants to break into people’s lives, and reveal His love for them (through us) and when that happens, it’s Beautiful. This world truly is a Beautiful Mess.
Christian Faith - Part 2
So, here’s how I see it – a lot of people I talk with say that life has them feeling…
…tired
…weary
…hurt
…confused
Yet, Jesus said He came to give us life – real life – abundant life. He said His burden was light and that He came to give us rest. He’s called the Prince of Peace.
So, what’s the deal?
Could it be we’ve really lost sight of what matters most? Here’s what I see when I take the time to be honest with myself. I won’t say this is you – I may have never even met you – but I know me pretty well. As for me, I like what I like (profound, you’re thinking, but stick with me). Therefore, I typically do what I like to do. I go where I like to go. I eat what I like to eat. I act the way I like to act.
As you read that did any of you begin to count the “I”s? I focus most of my attention on ME. But that’s kinda ridiculous because I cannot promise myself life, or rest, or peace. If I could I’d have all that – but I can’t – hence I don’t have it – when I’m all about me.
How about you? If you had to account for everything you do, how much of what you do, say, think, etc. is about YOU and what you like?
Here’s the deal – if Jesus is the One who promised life and rest and peace (and many other great things) it only makes sense that if we want that in our lives we need to have Jesus in our lives. To have Jesus in our lives requires that we take the focus off of ourselves and put our focus on Him.
The 64 million dollar question – how do we do that – focus on Jesus?
This is the really unbelievable part – Jesus was happy to teach us how to focus on Him and how to receive these things in our lives – in fact, He wrote it all down for us. That book (actually group of books) we know as the Bible. The Bible isn’t here for us to try and make it all work on our own. The Bible is here for us to discover all that God has already done for us and how we can get credit for all of His work. Seems too good to be true – but why not check it out? What have you really got to lose…your weariness? Your hurt? Your confusion?
One final thought - Jesus’ teachings are the only “religious” teachings that show us that we do NOT have to earn what He has to offer. Every other world religion teaches you have to do something to earn God’s favor – talk about tiring, not to mention impossible. That’s why no other world religion will say you can know for sure that you have received God’s favor – tragic!
Here’s the difficult truth – we must swallow our pride (the thing inside us that says I have to earn it) and surrender to Jesus and then allow Him to transform us – and give us life, and rest, and peace.
…tired
…weary
…hurt
…confused
Yet, Jesus said He came to give us life – real life – abundant life. He said His burden was light and that He came to give us rest. He’s called the Prince of Peace.
So, what’s the deal?
Could it be we’ve really lost sight of what matters most? Here’s what I see when I take the time to be honest with myself. I won’t say this is you – I may have never even met you – but I know me pretty well. As for me, I like what I like (profound, you’re thinking, but stick with me). Therefore, I typically do what I like to do. I go where I like to go. I eat what I like to eat. I act the way I like to act.
As you read that did any of you begin to count the “I”s? I focus most of my attention on ME. But that’s kinda ridiculous because I cannot promise myself life, or rest, or peace. If I could I’d have all that – but I can’t – hence I don’t have it – when I’m all about me.
How about you? If you had to account for everything you do, how much of what you do, say, think, etc. is about YOU and what you like?
Here’s the deal – if Jesus is the One who promised life and rest and peace (and many other great things) it only makes sense that if we want that in our lives we need to have Jesus in our lives. To have Jesus in our lives requires that we take the focus off of ourselves and put our focus on Him.
The 64 million dollar question – how do we do that – focus on Jesus?
This is the really unbelievable part – Jesus was happy to teach us how to focus on Him and how to receive these things in our lives – in fact, He wrote it all down for us. That book (actually group of books) we know as the Bible. The Bible isn’t here for us to try and make it all work on our own. The Bible is here for us to discover all that God has already done for us and how we can get credit for all of His work. Seems too good to be true – but why not check it out? What have you really got to lose…your weariness? Your hurt? Your confusion?
One final thought - Jesus’ teachings are the only “religious” teachings that show us that we do NOT have to earn what He has to offer. Every other world religion teaches you have to do something to earn God’s favor – talk about tiring, not to mention impossible. That’s why no other world religion will say you can know for sure that you have received God’s favor – tragic!
Here’s the difficult truth – we must swallow our pride (the thing inside us that says I have to earn it) and surrender to Jesus and then allow Him to transform us – and give us life, and rest, and peace.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Christmas Cheer / Pain
As many of you know, my family and two other families are in the midst of starting a new church. We also have a whole crew of people who have committed to pray for us as we take this journey.
I send periodic updates and prayer requests. After re-reading an update I sent out last night, I decided this was something some of you may benefit from as well. So, I know this isn't part of the Christian Faith discussion, but in many ways it is. Here's a portion of the e-mail I sent:
This week we made a list of all of the things we are currently working on and need to start working on in the near future. While there’s some overlap, the bottom line is there are about 35 “items” we are doing regarding developing Relevant Community Church. Please be in prayer that God will help us prioritize and be efficient in (but not rush through) each of these areas.
As were in the middle of this incredible time of year – remembering our Savior’s birth, I also pray that all of us...will take the time to SLOW DOWN and truly thank God for the indescribable gift of His Son.
I know this can also be a difficult time for many – my own family shares great grief from past losses during this time of year – but we have made the decision to not let the difficulties of this world overcome the majesty and sovereignty of God. We still feel the pain – that’s normal and natural, but we don’t allow it to overcome us.
If this time of year is typically difficult for you – I pray that the God of all comfort would truly bring you the peace that only He can give and that His peace will allow you to refocus on God’s love and mercy.
If any of you have a specific prayer request you would like for me to be praying for, you can e-mail me at Dave@RedoingLife.com. I'll keep your request confidential unless you ask me to share it with others.
Merry (even if sometimes painful) Christmas!
I send periodic updates and prayer requests. After re-reading an update I sent out last night, I decided this was something some of you may benefit from as well. So, I know this isn't part of the Christian Faith discussion, but in many ways it is. Here's a portion of the e-mail I sent:
This week we made a list of all of the things we are currently working on and need to start working on in the near future. While there’s some overlap, the bottom line is there are about 35 “items” we are doing regarding developing Relevant Community Church. Please be in prayer that God will help us prioritize and be efficient in (but not rush through) each of these areas.
As were in the middle of this incredible time of year – remembering our Savior’s birth, I also pray that all of us...will take the time to SLOW DOWN and truly thank God for the indescribable gift of His Son.
I know this can also be a difficult time for many – my own family shares great grief from past losses during this time of year – but we have made the decision to not let the difficulties of this world overcome the majesty and sovereignty of God. We still feel the pain – that’s normal and natural, but we don’t allow it to overcome us.
If this time of year is typically difficult for you – I pray that the God of all comfort would truly bring you the peace that only He can give and that His peace will allow you to refocus on God’s love and mercy.
If any of you have a specific prayer request you would like for me to be praying for, you can e-mail me at Dave@RedoingLife.com. I'll keep your request confidential unless you ask me to share it with others.
Merry (even if sometimes painful) Christmas!
Christian Faith???
There are so many questions and so many answers regarding Christian Faith. What is it? How do you get it? How can you keep it? How do you live by it? On and on. I'm sure at some point I'll comment on all of those, but I want to go back to the quote from my last post - "The Christian faith is NOT an attractive set of ideas or a nice avenue to follow."
I believe many have this view of Christianity - that if I can just do enough "right" things, then I'm "good to go" [as the pre-Ecoli restaurant commercial said]. But the author of this commentary makes the point that - doing the right thing isn't the main point. It's not that doing good things is bad - obviously they wouldn't be called "good" things. It's just that that is not the be all and end all of the Chritian faith. The "good" we do as Christians should be the by-product of something much more significant - our relationship with Christ.
If you're not a follower of Christ, I have no intention of trying to alienate you or make you feel bad - not at all - in fact the opposite is true! I simply want to point out that a vast majority of the people who live in the USA consider themselves Christians - but is that based on having a relationship with Christ or because they generally view themselves as "good"? The difference is critical - and if you would consider yourself in the latter (good person) group this insight may bring you a ton of relief.
I find myself doing it both ways - living out of my relationship with Jesus some days, and other days I fall victim to trying to "live right" in my own strength. So, when I say I know how hard it is to try and always "do the right thing" I have plenty of experience. Do you find it hard to always "do the right thing"? It's really tough! Now here's something interesting - Jesus said [rough paraphrase] "Come to me all of you who are tired and worn out and I will give you rest." Yea, Jesus said He wants to give us "REST" and who couldn't use some of that!?
He also said His burden is light. What does that mean?
Well, I think this post is long enough, so ponder those thoughts and we'll pick it up from here next time!
I believe many have this view of Christianity - that if I can just do enough "right" things, then I'm "good to go" [as the pre-Ecoli restaurant commercial said]. But the author of this commentary makes the point that - doing the right thing isn't the main point. It's not that doing good things is bad - obviously they wouldn't be called "good" things. It's just that that is not the be all and end all of the Chritian faith. The "good" we do as Christians should be the by-product of something much more significant - our relationship with Christ.
If you're not a follower of Christ, I have no intention of trying to alienate you or make you feel bad - not at all - in fact the opposite is true! I simply want to point out that a vast majority of the people who live in the USA consider themselves Christians - but is that based on having a relationship with Christ or because they generally view themselves as "good"? The difference is critical - and if you would consider yourself in the latter (good person) group this insight may bring you a ton of relief.
I find myself doing it both ways - living out of my relationship with Jesus some days, and other days I fall victim to trying to "live right" in my own strength. So, when I say I know how hard it is to try and always "do the right thing" I have plenty of experience. Do you find it hard to always "do the right thing"? It's really tough! Now here's something interesting - Jesus said [rough paraphrase] "Come to me all of you who are tired and worn out and I will give you rest." Yea, Jesus said He wants to give us "REST" and who couldn't use some of that!?
He also said His burden is light. What does that mean?
Well, I think this post is long enough, so ponder those thoughts and we'll pick it up from here next time!
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Jack Frost & Ephesians
I love Jack Frost's hair in Santa Cluase 3. I'm not sure why - I just want hair like that.
What got me thinking about ole Jack was the fact that this week I've been partially sidelined by a cold. By the way, have I mentioned how much I hate winter.
Anyway, the cold has given me some time to slow down (by default) and think. Currently, I'm still medicated and tired so this will be short - but more to come.
For a while I've been drawn to the Letter of Ephesians in the Bible. It's one of those real practical books and talks a lot about how the Christians and the church should behave. Since I'm in the middle of starting a new church, you can see why this would be so interesting to me.
Anyway, here's a quote from a commentary I'm reading: "The Christian faith is NOT an attractive set of ideas or a nice avenue to follow. Rather, it is so deep an engagement with Christ, so deep a union with our Lord, that Paul [the man God used to write the letter] can only describe it as living in Christ."
I know there some Christianeze in there, but that is a very powerful thought!
I'll have more on this in future posts. For now, ponder that thought and see what you think it really means.
What got me thinking about ole Jack was the fact that this week I've been partially sidelined by a cold. By the way, have I mentioned how much I hate winter.
Anyway, the cold has given me some time to slow down (by default) and think. Currently, I'm still medicated and tired so this will be short - but more to come.
For a while I've been drawn to the Letter of Ephesians in the Bible. It's one of those real practical books and talks a lot about how the Christians and the church should behave. Since I'm in the middle of starting a new church, you can see why this would be so interesting to me.
Anyway, here's a quote from a commentary I'm reading: "The Christian faith is NOT an attractive set of ideas or a nice avenue to follow. Rather, it is so deep an engagement with Christ, so deep a union with our Lord, that Paul [the man God used to write the letter] can only describe it as living in Christ."
I know there some Christianeze in there, but that is a very powerful thought!
I'll have more on this in future posts. For now, ponder that thought and see what you think it really means.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Real LIFE
Hello All! I have a war raging within me today. No not emotional or mental (okay maybe I've always got a mental war - but that's a subject for another day). This one is physical - the healthy thingies are fighting with the unhealthy thingies... I've gotta cold. So, if this post makes no sense at all, I'll blame the drugs :-).
What's real life?
I believe there's a huge difference between existing and living! So many times we seem to choose the former over the later - to just "get by." Now, I know we all have our off days - but that's not what I'm talking about. I see so many who day after day seem to settle for just getting through another day.
I know this world can throw some pretty rough stuff our way. Yet, I see examples of people (almost weekly) who face far tougher situations then I do and yet they have learned how to truly live. They have made the choice that regardless of what life gives them - they are going to live life to the full.
Jesus talked about this kind of life (it's one of my favorite Bible verses - John 10:10). He said one of the reasons He came to earth was so that we could have real life. So, what does that look like? Well, people have written entire books on this subject, but let me boil it down to four words (I don't claim that I've summed up the meaning of life with these four words, but it's a start):
L ove
I ntegrity
F orgive
E ternal
Love is a decision more than an emotion. When we learn to truly love others, we will build relationships that will see us through the good and the bad days of life.
Integrity is also a decision. It's choosing to do the right thing and let the chips fall where they may. This gets at being authentic - admiting when we're wrong, when we need help, when we need forgiveness.
Learning to forgive others is incredible freeing for you. So many people walk around with the smoothering weight of unforgiveness against others who don't even know there's an issue. Our unforgiveness "kills" us and has little to no affect on the other person. Learning to forgive removes our burden.
The best life I could imagine is one without all of the garbage of this world, and goes on forever - eternal life. The only way I know to have this is through a peronal relationship with Jesus. Here again, there's so many things I could say to try and convince you of this truth, but that's not really my point. You'll either believe this part or you won't. I'm just sharing how I've discovered real life and since I believe this is all true it would be rude of me not to share this with you.
There you have it - at least a starting point towards having a real life!
Want to see an example of guy who could have let the "trials" of life get him down, but instead choose to have a real life? Check out the videos from Nick Vujicic...
http://www.lifewithoutlimbs.org/media.htm
What's real life?
I believe there's a huge difference between existing and living! So many times we seem to choose the former over the later - to just "get by." Now, I know we all have our off days - but that's not what I'm talking about. I see so many who day after day seem to settle for just getting through another day.
I know this world can throw some pretty rough stuff our way. Yet, I see examples of people (almost weekly) who face far tougher situations then I do and yet they have learned how to truly live. They have made the choice that regardless of what life gives them - they are going to live life to the full.
Jesus talked about this kind of life (it's one of my favorite Bible verses - John 10:10). He said one of the reasons He came to earth was so that we could have real life. So, what does that look like? Well, people have written entire books on this subject, but let me boil it down to four words (I don't claim that I've summed up the meaning of life with these four words, but it's a start):
L ove
I ntegrity
F orgive
E ternal
Love is a decision more than an emotion. When we learn to truly love others, we will build relationships that will see us through the good and the bad days of life.
Integrity is also a decision. It's choosing to do the right thing and let the chips fall where they may. This gets at being authentic - admiting when we're wrong, when we need help, when we need forgiveness.
Learning to forgive others is incredible freeing for you. So many people walk around with the smoothering weight of unforgiveness against others who don't even know there's an issue. Our unforgiveness "kills" us and has little to no affect on the other person. Learning to forgive removes our burden.
The best life I could imagine is one without all of the garbage of this world, and goes on forever - eternal life. The only way I know to have this is through a peronal relationship with Jesus. Here again, there's so many things I could say to try and convince you of this truth, but that's not really my point. You'll either believe this part or you won't. I'm just sharing how I've discovered real life and since I believe this is all true it would be rude of me not to share this with you.
There you have it - at least a starting point towards having a real life!
Want to see an example of guy who could have let the "trials" of life get him down, but instead choose to have a real life? Check out the videos from Nick Vujicic...
http://www.lifewithoutlimbs.org/media.htm
Sunday, December 10, 2006
More on Motives
Jeri posted a comment about how when we judge someone else's motive it really allows us to react the way we want to react. There's a lot of truth to that statement. The reason I doubt someone else's motives is based on my feelings towards them.
Often times what appears to have taken place may simply be a misunderstanding. I know we could all come up with examples of people who really are just mean, but a vast majority of the time we seem to get hurt by those we thought were friends (which is why it hurts so much).
The reality is, we may simply have misunderstood them. The antidote to this disease is communication. When we preceive someone has done something to hurt us our first reaction should be - "Wait a minute, that doesn't seem like something they would do or say, I need to give them a call (or visit)." Too many of us get most of our exercise by "jumping to conclusions."
I'm the first to admit that I do not always communicate clearly, so there's a pretty good chance I don't always hear clearly. One of the best ways to avoid needing to attempt to judge someone else's motives is to reduce the amount of conflict to begin with by giving them the benefit of the doubt until you have a chance to make sure you really understand the situation (and that understanding comes from talking to them directly - not someone else).
By the way, if it seems like everybody is out to get you, maybe you need to evaluate your own motives and ability to communicate well. The real problem maybe staring back at you in the mirror. I don't mean this as a cut - I mean it to help you see the truth and make things better. And the reason I know this could be true, is beacuse I'm sometimes the guy in the mirror.
Often times what appears to have taken place may simply be a misunderstanding. I know we could all come up with examples of people who really are just mean, but a vast majority of the time we seem to get hurt by those we thought were friends (which is why it hurts so much).
The reality is, we may simply have misunderstood them. The antidote to this disease is communication. When we preceive someone has done something to hurt us our first reaction should be - "Wait a minute, that doesn't seem like something they would do or say, I need to give them a call (or visit)." Too many of us get most of our exercise by "jumping to conclusions."
I'm the first to admit that I do not always communicate clearly, so there's a pretty good chance I don't always hear clearly. One of the best ways to avoid needing to attempt to judge someone else's motives is to reduce the amount of conflict to begin with by giving them the benefit of the doubt until you have a chance to make sure you really understand the situation (and that understanding comes from talking to them directly - not someone else).
By the way, if it seems like everybody is out to get you, maybe you need to evaluate your own motives and ability to communicate well. The real problem maybe staring back at you in the mirror. I don't mean this as a cut - I mean it to help you see the truth and make things better. And the reason I know this could be true, is beacuse I'm sometimes the guy in the mirror.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Judging Motives
This is one of those ideas I have thought about often and I believe it to be true, but difficult to do. The principle is that we simply cannot judge other people’s motives – and we shouldn’t try. Obviously, this usually only surfaces as an issue when someone we do not trust attempts to do something good or nice for us.
When this happens to me my initial reaction is pretty much always a question – what’s the catch? In other words, I don’t trust you, what are you up to?
I do believe that it is normal and healthy to have this reaction, but here’s the problem. As a Christ follower I know God expects me to forgive others – after all He has completely forgiven me. However, I’m certainly not God and so I find that standard hard to live up to. Yet, that’s still what I know is the right thing to do.
How can others seek peace with me if I don’t give them a chance?
Again, let me be very clear, I do NOT have this one all figured out and do NOT practice what I’m “preaching” as often as I want to. But it is still true – if I want to heal relationships with those who have done me wrong in the past I must allow them a chance to do the right thing (you can see how this ties in with my post earlier this week).
BUT – what if they mistreat me again? What if I’m right and their motives are wrong?
This is the hard part of this idea – because too often their motives are still out of whack. I believe we need to approach these situations with caution – I do not believe we are called to be “doormats” for people to continue to hurt us. This is why we must have another relationship that we know is always solid. And the only One I know who always has my best in mind… is God. It is the security of that relationship that allows me to be willing to risk being hurt by others, because my sense of self-worth does not come from my relationship with other people – it comes from knowing who I am in God’s eyes – lived out in a daily relationship with Him.
My guess is some of you (maybe all of you) – regardless of your current relationship with God find this post a bit challenging to buy. Will you at least take some time to think about it? Consider it a Christmas present to me (and to yourself), to consider how you may be able to restore some old relationships that went bad for some reason or another. If we could all work on treating others better and giving more second (and third and fourth…) chances, what a much more merry Christmas would be.
If you know you’re the one on the end of this deal that “did someone else wrong,” go back and read “It’s Never to Late to Do the Right Thing” post from earlier this week.
Okay, that’s enough for one post. I’d love to get your feedback – so leave me your comments.
Here's one of the best songs I know that talks about who I am because of my relationship with God through Jesus...
When this happens to me my initial reaction is pretty much always a question – what’s the catch? In other words, I don’t trust you, what are you up to?
I do believe that it is normal and healthy to have this reaction, but here’s the problem. As a Christ follower I know God expects me to forgive others – after all He has completely forgiven me. However, I’m certainly not God and so I find that standard hard to live up to. Yet, that’s still what I know is the right thing to do.
How can others seek peace with me if I don’t give them a chance?
Again, let me be very clear, I do NOT have this one all figured out and do NOT practice what I’m “preaching” as often as I want to. But it is still true – if I want to heal relationships with those who have done me wrong in the past I must allow them a chance to do the right thing (you can see how this ties in with my post earlier this week).
BUT – what if they mistreat me again? What if I’m right and their motives are wrong?
This is the hard part of this idea – because too often their motives are still out of whack. I believe we need to approach these situations with caution – I do not believe we are called to be “doormats” for people to continue to hurt us. This is why we must have another relationship that we know is always solid. And the only One I know who always has my best in mind… is God. It is the security of that relationship that allows me to be willing to risk being hurt by others, because my sense of self-worth does not come from my relationship with other people – it comes from knowing who I am in God’s eyes – lived out in a daily relationship with Him.
My guess is some of you (maybe all of you) – regardless of your current relationship with God find this post a bit challenging to buy. Will you at least take some time to think about it? Consider it a Christmas present to me (and to yourself), to consider how you may be able to restore some old relationships that went bad for some reason or another. If we could all work on treating others better and giving more second (and third and fourth…) chances, what a much more merry Christmas would be.
If you know you’re the one on the end of this deal that “did someone else wrong,” go back and read “It’s Never to Late to Do the Right Thing” post from earlier this week.
Okay, that’s enough for one post. I’d love to get your feedback – so leave me your comments.
Here's one of the best songs I know that talks about who I am because of my relationship with God through Jesus...
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Strength
ESPN has started using a song I recognized from way back to advertise their Monday Night Football. They only play three lines from the chorus which are:
Give me love
Give me hope
Give me strength
I remembered the rest of the chorus goes:
Give me someone to live for
I need it now
I need it now
I was able to find the song and the band – it was The Alarm and the song is called Strength.
I can’t say for sure what the band was trying to say, but what I think they're saying is –
Give me a reason to live – actually they come right out and say give me “someone” to live for. Sounds like they are really searching.
Other parts of the song say, “I need someone I can depend on,” “I don’t know if I’m living or dying,” “I can’t control what I’m going through now, will you light the fire that I need to survive.”
They also talk about the pain of this life.
Which brings me to why I am so glad I’ve found Someone to live for. In fact, we’ll celebrate His birthday in a couple of weeks. Can you relate to this song – the searching – the needing – the desire to have a real purpose for living.
Maybe this Christmas, for the first time, you can truly celebrate the miracle of this Season – God becoming a man to bring us… well… love, hope and strength. If you could use some of these things this Christmas (and for the rest of your life) why not consider finding Someone to live for? Why not come to really know the Christ of CHRISTmas.
If you want to talk more about this you can e-mail me at dave@RedoingLife.com.
Here's another song about searching...
Give me love
Give me hope
Give me strength
I remembered the rest of the chorus goes:
Give me someone to live for
I need it now
I need it now
I was able to find the song and the band – it was The Alarm and the song is called Strength.
I can’t say for sure what the band was trying to say, but what I think they're saying is –
Give me a reason to live – actually they come right out and say give me “someone” to live for. Sounds like they are really searching.
Other parts of the song say, “I need someone I can depend on,” “I don’t know if I’m living or dying,” “I can’t control what I’m going through now, will you light the fire that I need to survive.”
They also talk about the pain of this life.
Which brings me to why I am so glad I’ve found Someone to live for. In fact, we’ll celebrate His birthday in a couple of weeks. Can you relate to this song – the searching – the needing – the desire to have a real purpose for living.
Maybe this Christmas, for the first time, you can truly celebrate the miracle of this Season – God becoming a man to bring us… well… love, hope and strength. If you could use some of these things this Christmas (and for the rest of your life) why not consider finding Someone to live for? Why not come to really know the Christ of CHRISTmas.
If you want to talk more about this you can e-mail me at dave@RedoingLife.com.
Here's another song about searching...
Monday, December 04, 2006
It's Never Too Late To Do The Right Thing
This is a principle I heard some time ago – unfortunately, I do not remember who said it.
It’s so true – It’s never too late to do the right thing!
I have my fair share (probably more than my fair share) of things I wish I had not done – poor decisions, poor timing, poor comments, poor thoughts, poor actions. And, there usually comes that time when you realize that what you have said or done was not the right thing to say or do. The question is – How do I respond when I realize I’ve messed up?
Usually, I want to make it right – I want to fix it. Okay, then why, more often than not, do I NOT fix it?
I believe we deceive ourselves into thinking it’s too late to fix it. You know all of the clichés: The horse has left the barn; the water’s gone under the bridge…
But is that really true? I admit, the hurt cannot be erased, the consequences for poor decisions still must be dealt with, and it will take time to rebuild relationships…but is it ever too late to do the right thing?
Let, me dig a little deeper. Do we ever make it too late for someone else to correct what they have done to us?
Is there a point in our relationships with others where we would hold up the stop sign and say, “Sorry – it’s too late for you to make this right”?
What I realize is that as bad as I am in correcting my mistakes with others, I’m probably worse at drawing the line with others and saying – you’re too late.
I read recently that the only way we are able to maintain a perspective that allows others to come to us and find forgiveness and healing from us is when we keep in mind the ultimate forgiveness and healing we’ve received from God through Jesus Christ. Even with this relationship in my life, I sometimes find it a tough sell to allow others to “make it right” with me.
I guess what it boils down to is the reality that we will (probably more often than we like) find ourselves on both sides of this deal. Sometimes we need to go and make it right, and sometimes we need to allow others to make it right with us. If we remember that Golden Rule from pre-school – we’ll find our relationships will improve considerably. Sure, we’ll still blow it…and so will the guy or gal next to us…but I’m finding the more I practice this principle (from both sides) the better my relationships get and the LESS I need to practice this principle.
It’s so true – It’s never too late to do the right thing!
I have my fair share (probably more than my fair share) of things I wish I had not done – poor decisions, poor timing, poor comments, poor thoughts, poor actions. And, there usually comes that time when you realize that what you have said or done was not the right thing to say or do. The question is – How do I respond when I realize I’ve messed up?
Usually, I want to make it right – I want to fix it. Okay, then why, more often than not, do I NOT fix it?
I believe we deceive ourselves into thinking it’s too late to fix it. You know all of the clichés: The horse has left the barn; the water’s gone under the bridge…
But is that really true? I admit, the hurt cannot be erased, the consequences for poor decisions still must be dealt with, and it will take time to rebuild relationships…but is it ever too late to do the right thing?
Let, me dig a little deeper. Do we ever make it too late for someone else to correct what they have done to us?
Is there a point in our relationships with others where we would hold up the stop sign and say, “Sorry – it’s too late for you to make this right”?
What I realize is that as bad as I am in correcting my mistakes with others, I’m probably worse at drawing the line with others and saying – you’re too late.
I read recently that the only way we are able to maintain a perspective that allows others to come to us and find forgiveness and healing from us is when we keep in mind the ultimate forgiveness and healing we’ve received from God through Jesus Christ. Even with this relationship in my life, I sometimes find it a tough sell to allow others to “make it right” with me.
I guess what it boils down to is the reality that we will (probably more often than we like) find ourselves on both sides of this deal. Sometimes we need to go and make it right, and sometimes we need to allow others to make it right with us. If we remember that Golden Rule from pre-school – we’ll find our relationships will improve considerably. Sure, we’ll still blow it…and so will the guy or gal next to us…but I’m finding the more I practice this principle (from both sides) the better my relationships get and the LESS I need to practice this principle.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Tired
Hello all - sorry I have not posted much this week. This has been a busy week with seminary and work. I'm pretty beat right now, so I'll simply wish all of you Happy December. Yep - it's already December - wow!
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