Sunday, December 27, 2015

December 27, 2015 - along the Way ...

Well, we have come to the end of another year.   2015 will soon be only a memory, as a new year arises.  2016 is filled with anticipation for all that might be.  So as we move from one year to the next, we are confronted with the realities of time.  

There are a number of songs, which capture our preoccupation with time. 

“Time Marches On” by Tracy Lawrence which includes the line, “The only thing that stays the same is everything changes.”
“Nineteen Something” Mark Wills with the repeated line in the chorus, “I wouldn’t trade those days for nothin”
“We Didn’t Start the Fire” by Billy Joel with the lines in the chorus, “... It was always burnin’ since the world’s been turnin’ … No, we didn’t light it, but we tried to fight it.”

        Popular culture has often mirrored our preoccupation with time.   But how should we, who follow Jesus, look at time?

In Psalm 90, the Psalmist, whom the scripture identifies as Moses, gives us some help in how we, who believe God’s promises, ought to view time.

(Read Psalm 90) p. 480

There is a simple message offered in this psalm.  The Lord is our dwelling place for all generations.  He is our home.   Yet in the midst of that simple message comes all the messiness of life.

The psalm is made of 3 parts.  

Part 1 is praise.  It recognizes God’s eternal being and His constant sovereign care.
Part 2 is a lament over the troubles and transience of life.  
Part 3 is a prayer for God’s help throughout life.

So let’s begin with Part 1 (verses 1-2): Praise

The Psalmist begins by declaring the Lord to be his home, and not only his home but the home of all who believe in Him from generations past to generations to come.   The Lord is eternal, and from everlasting to everlasting He is God.

Therefore, the Lord alone is worthy of our praise!

Yet Part 2 (verses 3-12) acknowledges the brokenness of a sin-sick world.  

Two themes offer evidence of the brokenness of our world.

Transience - We are only here on earth for a short time.  Each year that passes is one less in the number God has given us.  As 2015 comes to a close, it will never come back again.  It is gone forever, and all that will be left are memories.  And who we are now is not who we were 10 years ago, 5 years ago, or even at the start of 2015.   Things change, we change, yet God never changes!

Trouble - Not only are our days short in number, but they are accompanied with trouble.   God is good, but sometimes life is not.  I am sure everyone of us has experienced some type of hardship or trouble this year.   There have been good times, but there have also been times we wish would never have come.

Yet through it all, God is acknowledged as the One in charge, and fear is His due.  

Jewish wisdom literature teaches, “The Fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” (Proverbs 1:7)  Fear is respect, and the knowledge that God is great and I am not.  It is as one commentator has said, “I know two things for sure: First there is a God, and second I am not him.”   God is God, and fear is His due.

Finally, in the midst of the transience and trouble of life, the Psalmist leads us in a corporate prayer for help.   This is Part 3, and it is where we find our hope and our home.

Remember that the Psalmist began by telling us that the Lord is our dwelling place.  He is our home.  Well, if the Lord is our home, then He is the one to whom we should bring our troubles, cares, and concerns.  He is the One who can help in our time of need. 

Part 3: Prayer for help

Gladness for trouble (affliction)
Establishment for transience
Favor for wrath

God has granted us His grace through His Son; the eternal Word who became flesh in the person of Jesus of Nazareth.   This is the miracle we celebrated at Christmas, and He is the miracle we celebrate all through the year. 

But as one year passes and a new year dawns, what do we, as those who believe God’s promise fulfilled in Jesus, learn from this Psalm?  

Our time on earth is limited.   We have a set number of years.  There will be trouble and hardship, and eventually our troubled days will come to an end.  Therefore, wisdom teaches us to number them, to feel them, “to taste tears and enjoy laughter”; to use them as best we can to make the truth of God’s kingdom come alive!

Our time, as are our lives, is in God’s hands.   We belong to God.  He has been our dwelling place for generations.  He is our home.  He will watch over us, and no matter what we think or feel, He will never leave us or forsake us.   

Finally, time is moving toward an end.  It is not an endless cycle, repeated over and over again, rather time is linear.  It will never be repeated, and it is heading toward a pre-determined end.   God knows when that day will be.   Jesus will return and will make all things new and all the sad things will come untrue.

Our times and our lives are in God’s hands.  We can trust Him because to Him the future is already history. 

To God be the glory!  Great things He has done, is doing, and will continue to do!

Amen.

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

November 10, 2015 - along the Way ...

It has been a few weeks since I have posted on my blog.   The last few weeks have been very full.  I recently started my second unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE).   This second unit takes place at the Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque.   On top of the extra more than 20 hours each week for the CPE, I have participated in a few funerals, served on call with the Albuquerque Police Department, and last week drilled alongside those who serve in the New Mexico Air National Guard.

All these events, as well as the special days in the month of November, have me thinking about gratitude and service.

Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends" (John 15:13)

Jesus willingly laid down his life (see John 10:18) for us, His friends, and every military veteran follows Jesus' pattern in their willingness to lay down their lives if necessary for the cause of freedom.  As such, these men and women deserve our admiration, appreciation, and respect.  To all who have served, are serving, and those who one day will serve, "Thank you".

I have the privilege to serve alongside some great folks, the men and women who serve in the New Mexico Air National Guard (the "Tacos").   We occasionally recite a creed that reminds us of the seriousness of our commitment.   A line in "The Airman's Creed" says very plainly, "I defend my country with my life."

While it is our hope and prayer that no one from the NM ANG will ever have to actually give their life in defense of this country or our state, we each vow that if necessary we will defend this state and our nation even to the cost of our lives.   This is love; this is great love; in fact Jesus said there is no greater love than this.

Thank you again to all who have served, are serving, and someday will serve.   You are my heroes, and I am honored to serve alongside you as we journey together along the Way ....

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

October 14, 2015 - along the Way ...

Since we have covered all the seven deadly sins and their accompanying virtues, we will move onto other matters. 

This week I want to consider the definition of the church.   Jesus tells us in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”  So according to Jesus the church, which is the body of Christ, is present wherever 2 or 3 gather in Jesus’ name.  

So what does that mean?  

Too often we think of the church as a place, or a building, or a group of people (usually the same group of people) with which we gather each week, especially on Sunday.   But what if Jesus’ definition is more inclusive than that?  

What if we began to see the church, as the body of Christ, present anywhere at least two people gather in agreement in Jesus’ name?   How might our perception of the church and its purpose change?

Last week, as a chaplain with the local police, I had an opportunity to gather with some workers at a local business following the tragic death of one of their co-workers.   As I walked around, I chatted with a few different people.   It was amazing to me to see how many professed faith in God, yet others lamented that there were not many believers there, likely because they did not attend the same weekly worship gathering.   

What might happen in that business, if the believers recognized each other as brothers and sisters-in-Christ?   How might their workplace change?   How might they be able to encourage one another? 


I believe it is time we learn to see the church as Jesus defines it, “where two or three gather in my name”.   As we do, we will begin to see more opportunities to carry out the purpose of the church which is to reveal Christ and His kingdom to those around us wherever we find ourselves as we journey together along the Way … 

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

October 6, 2015 - along the Way ...

Today we will discuss the final of the "deadly sins" and its accompanying virtue.    The last of the seven deadly sins is wrath or anger.

Anger comes from misdirected desire because it often involves a response to something I wanted or felt I deserved but did not receive.   It is my desire to be respected and valued, which is not bad in itself, but when misdirected can lead to a sense of entitlement.   I feel I am owed respect, and when I do not get it, I get angry.

For example, the one place I recognize this most in my life is when I am behind the wheel.   If someone pulls out in front of me or cuts me off, I feel anger rising up inside of me.   I can feel my blood pressure begin to increase, and my face becoming tense and turning red.   There is a negative biological reaction to anger, and it causes me undue stress.

Yet there is a remedy for wrath.  The accompanying virtue that I must ask God to cultivate in me is patience leading to forgiveness.   Patience means seeing the value in the other person and respecting them as I wish to be respected, so that I am able to set aside my sense of entitlement and let another have first place.  

Patience also leads to forgiveness when I choose to show love for the other person, and offer them the benefit of the doubt, extending forgiveness even as I have received forgiveness from God.

Jesus highlights this when He taught us how we should pray.   One of the petitions in the prayer Jesus taught us to pray is: "Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors".   We ask God to help us offer forgiveness to others as freely as we have received forgiveness by believing God's promise met in Christ.

Recently, I have learned a concept taught by Jeff Vander Stelt to the Soma Communities of which he has been pastor.   The concept is called "Gospel Fluency" and it involves four key questions that will help us navigate any situation in a Christlike manner.

1) Who is God?  (Theology) - What does the Bible say about who God is and how does God's being
                                                 relate to my situation?
2) What has God done? (Soteriology - Doctrine of Salvation) - What has God done in Christ and  
                                                 throughout history that would shed light on this current situation?
3) Who am I?  (Ecclesiology) - It is important to reflect on our identity (both collective and
                                                individual) in Christ to determine its relevance for the current situation.
4)  What should I do? (Missiology) - The church does what it is, our identity in Christ (determined by
                                                Who God is, and What He has done) shapes what we do.   This will
                                                make knowing the right thing to do in every situation much clearer,
                                                since as God's children we are called to love others as God has loved us
                                                in Christ.   Thus in this situation that would mean offering forgiveness.

I hope these thoughts have been helpful for you.   I invite you to share your own challenges, and how God has taught you how your identity in Christ can shape what you do in each situation, as we journey together along the Way ...

Tuesday, September 29, 2015

September 29, 2015 - along the Way ...

This week we look at the deadly sin of "sloth".

Sloth is interesting because it deals with wrongly directed desire that is really a lack of desire.   Sloth is the lack of desire to do something; be productive; use God-given gifts for God-glorifying activity.
Sloth is apathy, and a refusal to be responsive or responsible for one's calling.

The corresponding virtue to sloth is diligence; following through on one's responsibilities and calling.
Diligence should not be confused with overworking, which is often motivated by greed.   Diligence is willingness to serve in any capacity in order to bring the most glory to God.   It is not self-directed work, rather it is God-directed kingdom pursuit.

Consider Ephesians 2:10.   Following the important declaration in verses 8-9 that we are saved by grace through faith, a gift of God, not by works, Paul follows up with these words,

"For we are God's workmanship (poetry),
created in Christ Jesus,
to do good works,
which God prepared in advance for us to do."

God's grace is not merely aimed at the personal salvation of individual believers.   Our salvation is not the end, but rather the means toward God's greater ends; the accomplishment of the good works God has prepared for us.

On the one hand, diligence recognizes this responsibility and seeks to pursue these ends seeking first God's kingdom and His righteousness.   Sloth, on the other hand, ignores God's call and chooses to disregard this kingdom responsibility. 

So I encourage each of us to pursue God's kingdom wholeheartedly, and not allow sloth to prevent us from accomplishing God's good purposes for His glory.  

These have been my thoughts, and I invite you to share some of your own as we journey together along the Way ... 

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

September 22, 2015 - along the Way ...

GREED.  It is one of the most dangerous of the Seven Deadly Sins, but most often it is ignored in our lives and our preaching.  

Jesus said, "No one can serve (worship) two masters.  Either you will hate the one and love the other,
or you will devoted to the one and despise the other.   You cannot serve (worship) both God and money (things)."   - Matthew 6:24

Greed is desire that has gone in the wrong direction.   Instead of focusing on our love for God and others, greed causes us to focus on ourselves, our wants and our desires.

Jesus also said, "pagans run after all these things" (Matthew 6:32a).   Greed defines the pagan by what they do, not who they are.  So greed is most dangerous because it can take us away from God.

In contrast, following up on His statement about pagans, Jesus says, "... and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.  But seek first His (God's) kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you (all) as well." (Matthew 6:32b, 33)

This leads us to the corresponding virtue that God calls us to cultivate in opposition to greed.   The virtue is generosity.

Generosity destroys greed from the inside out because it forces us to look away from our own wants and desires to see the needs of the people around us.  Generosity seeks first God's kingdom and righteousness to come alive in the lives of others, and trusts God to provide what we (all) need for each day.

So if you feel weighed down by greed, I encourage you to ask God to make you generous.   God has given us all we need for each day, and as we learn to share generously God's kingdom will come alive to more and more people.

These are my thoughts, and I am certain you also have thoughts to share, so I invite you to share some of your own thoughts as we journey together along the Way ....

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

September 15, 2015 - along the Way ...

Envy is also identified as one of the "Seven Deadly Sins".   Envy begins with desire and quickly goes the wrong way.

Envy is not only desire for something someone else has, it also includes contempt for the person who has what you desire.  Envy can be deadly because it can lead to something much worse.

In the book, "Not the Way it's Supposed to Be: a Breviary of Sin" by Neal Plantinga he retells a story of a woman who envied another woman so much that it led to murder.   She murdered the woman and the man she wanted from the woman.   Granted, this is a very extreme example of how envy can go wrong, but a real life example nonetheless.

On the other hand, kindness is a desire we can cultivate in opposition to envy.   Kindness wants the very best for the other.   Kindness is even willing to sacrifice to see another's needs met, and celebrates with the other in their happiness.

So what about you?

Are you envious of anyone?   Are you allowing that envy to poison your soul?    If so, you can do something about it.   You can pray that God will develop in you a kindness that seeks what is best for others and not just yourself.   You can choose to bless rather than curse, and in so doing you can be a light in a world that often seems very dark.

These are my thoughts, so what about yours?   I invite you to share your thoughts as we journey together along the Way ...


Tuesday, September 8, 2015

September 8, 2015 - along the Way ...

Gluttony is another of the "Seven Deadly Sins" and temperance is its accompanying virtue.

Gluttony could be defined as "too much of a good thing".   Examples of gluttony are overeating, overexercising, over-TV watching, etc.   Anything activity that is described with the word "over" is most likely a form of gluttony.

At first glance, one might think that gluttony should not be one of the seven deadly sins because although it is misdirected desire it seems to affect only the glutton and not others around them.
However, gluttony actually affects more than just the glutton.   Gluttony prohibits the glutton from properly loving their neighbor because the whole focus is on himself.

So how does temperance counteract gluttony?

Temperance means "enjoyment of good things without overindulging".   One is temperate when she maintains the ability to say "No".   She might also say, "Yes" to enjoy the experience, but once she  experienced it, she will also say "No" to overdoing it.

Temperance allows us to enjoy the good things God has given us without them becoming "all-consuming" or unhealthy.

So what about you?

Can you think of other examples of gluttony?   Also, how might temperance be exercised in that situation?

I invite you to share your thoughts as we journey together along the Way ...

Tuesday, September 1, 2015

September 1, 2015 - along the Way ...

I have now completed the third room with laminate flooring in our home, for which I am very thankful.   As we enter into a new month, I will continue to consider the "Seven Deadly Sins" and their accompanying virtues.   For this week we will consider "envy".

Envy is not simply desiring what another has, but envy actually resents the other person for having it.
It is sort of the idea that if I cannot have it, then you should not have it either.   Envy is common in our world today.

How many times do we find ourselves desiring something someone else has, and then becoming resentful?   In our resentment, we want the other to be deprived as we are.

Envy is very dangerous.  It begins with misdirected desire, and can lead to some awful things, even murder.

So if envy is misdirected desire and resentment, then what is the accompanying virtue?

Kindness is the opposite of envy.   Kindness wants what is best for everyone.   Kindness appreciates the belongings of another, and is happy to see it bring them happiness.   Kindness looks for ways to bless rather than curse.   In this way it is the opposite of envy and resentment.

Now, as you think about your week, are there opportunities where you can let kindness lead?   Also, if you feel envy and resentment cropping up from within, will you stop them in their tracks and choose to think kind thoughts instead?  

Developing virtue requires effort.   It requires reliance on God in prayer, and it requires us to be attuned to our own souls so that we can weed out envy and cultivate kindness.

So what about you?  How do you cultivate kindness?  I invite you to share your thoughts and ideas as we journey together along the Way ...

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

August 25, 2015 - along the Way ...

I apologize that I missed sending a post last week.  I was busy completing some work around the house (laminate flooring in two rooms so far).

This week I would like to continue our exploration of desire needing direction with the second of the 7 deadly sins: Pride.

Pride is defined as "thinking of yourself more highly than you ought".   Pride begins with desire.  It is our desire to feel good about ourselves, and pride can be a good thing.  It is good to take pride in your work, and in who you are.  However, pride becomes a problem when our opinion of ourselves becomes overinflated, like a balloon about to burst.

When pride becomes overinflated, it can cause us to look down on others, lose our ability to love people, and lead us to do things we should not do (whether a 40-year old man trying to jump a bicycle, or enter into a business opportunity without counting the cost).   Overinflated pride can be very damaging indeed.

On the flip side, humility is "thinking of yourself as you are for who you really are".  It is not self-deprecation, which causes us to devalue ourselves.  Humility is an honest assessment of who we are and what we are able to do.   Humility leads us to depend on God because it makes us realize how far short we fall of His glory.   Humility also allows us to love others because it causes us to recognize the inherent value of each person.

So our prayer for this week would be for God to help us develop true humility, not self-deprecation but honest assessment, so that we can be who we really are and do what God wants us to do to make His kingdom come alive!

As pride breaks Shalom, so we pray that true humility can help us experience more of what God intends for us together.

These have been my thoughts, and I invite you to share some of your own, as we journey together along the Way ...

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

August 11, 2015 - along the Way ...

This past Sunday, as we continue to seek first God's righteousness,  I taught that desire needs direction.   "The Seven Deadly Sins" are an example because each begins with desire.   Over the next few weeks, using the Seven Deadly Sins and their accompanying virtues, I will show how desire can go one of two ways:  toward sin or toward virtue (righteousness).

Sin, as Neal Plantinga defines it in his book: "Not the Way It's Supposed to Be" is "culpable Shalom-breaking".   Shalom is the world as God intends it to be; everything right; all people reconciled; true peace.    

Lust is one of the seven deadly sins.   It begins with desire, a natural God-given desire, which gets twisted, misdirected, and leads toward sin; the breaking of Shalom.

The accompanying virtue to "lust" is "chastity".   Chastity is purity.   It is rightly directed desire, which leads to respect for oneself and others.   "Chastity" is a virtue that begins in the heart with respect and leads us more toward the world as God intended.

Respect means acknowledging each person as uniquely created in God's image, and thereby each person has inherent value and worth.  Thus, each person is a person first, not an object to be used for one's own purposes.

Lust twists our natural, God-given desire into something selfish and disrespectful.  

If each person would realize the inherent value of every other person, and see each person as a person first rather than an object, we would have a more respectful society.

Pornography would not be welcome, although permissible under the law (freedom of speech and expression), it would not have a following.   In addition, sex-trafficking would become a thing of the past.  People would realize that other people are someone's child, sister, brother, mother, father, etc.
No one is a commodity to be bought and sold at a price.   It is inhumane and very disrespectful.

So ultimately Shalom (the world as God intended it to be) is broken by lust because it degrades the other person into an object, and mars the true identity of a person.

However, Shalom can be restored through respect which leads to chastity and makes God's already present kingdom come more alive for all to see.  

I encourage each of us to consider how we might ask God to lead us toward mutual respect and chastity, and away from Shalom-breaking lust.

These are my thoughts, now I invite you to share yours, as we journey together along the Way ...

Wednesday, August 5, 2015

August 5, 2015 - along the Way ...

This week I am thinking about the hardships we all go through, and the source of strength we most often overlook.

Often I hear people complain about their life.   Usually it is legitimate because life has been particularly hard recently.   It is in these moments that we must remember where our strength is found.

In I Peter 5:7, Peter writes, "Cast all your anxiety (cares) on Him because He cares for you."

Did you get that?  We can give God all our cares because He cares about us.

What an overwhelming privilege to know that the God who created the universe, and who knit each one of us together in our mother's womb (Psalm 139:13), cares so much for us that He invites us to give Him ALL of our cares and concerns.

Recently, I was reading through Psalm 139.   I invite you to do the same, but do so from the perspective of someone struggling with anxiety.    

It seems there are many people who deal with anxiety attacks in our world today.   If you are one of those people, let me encourage you to cast your anxiety on God as you make Psalm 139 (especially verse 23) your personal prayer.

Many times we feel overwhelmed, and it seems we have nowhere to turn.  In those moments, I encourage you to turn your eyes toward heaven.   Ask yourself, "Where is God in all of this?"
Realize that you have a Creator, He is always there, and He cares for you.  He is there, and He is ready to receive your anxiety, your cares, and concerns.

And remember someday I might need this same reminder as we journey together along the Way ...



August 5, 2015 - along the Way ...

This week I am thinking about the hardships we all go through, and the source of strength we most often overlook.

Often I hear people complain about their life.   Usually it is legitimate because life has been particularly hard recently.   It is in these moments that we must remember where our strength is found.

In I Peter 5:7, Peter writes, "Cast all your anxiety (cares) on Him because He cares for you."

Did you get that?  We can give God all our cares because He cares about us.

What an overwhelming privilege to know that the God who created the universe, and who knit each one of us together in our mother's womb (Psalm 139:13), cares so much for us that He invites us to give Him ALL of our cares and concerns.

Recently, I was reading through Psalm 139.   I invite you to do the same, but do so from the perspective of someone struggling with anxiety.    

It seems there are many people who deal with anxiety attacks in our world today.   If you are one of those people, let me encourage you to cast your anxiety on God as you make Psalm 139 (especially verse 23) your personal prayer.

Many times we feel overwhelmed, and it seems we have nowhere to turn.  In those moments, I encourage you to turn your eyes toward heaven.   Ask yourself, "Where is God in all of this?"
Realize that you have a Creator, He is always there, and He cares for you.  He is there, and He is ready to receive your anxiety, your cares, and concerns.

And remember someday I might need this same reminder as we journey together along the Way ...



August 5, 2015 - along the Way ...

This week I am thinking about the hardships we all go through, and the source of strength we most often overlook.

Often I hear people complain about their life.   Usually it is legitimate because life has been particularly hard recently.   It is in these moments that we must remember where our strength is found.

In I Peter 5:7, Peter writes, "Cast all your anxiety (cares) on Him because He cares for you."

Did you get that?  We can give God all our cares because He cares about us.

What an overwhelming privilege to know that the God who created the universe, and who knit each one of us together in our mother's womb (Psalm 139:13), cares so much for us that He invites us to give Him ALL of our cares and concerns.

Recently, I was reading through Psalm 139.   I invite you to do the same, but do so from the perspective of someone struggling with anxiety.    

It seems there are many people who deal with anxiety attacks in our world today.   If you are one of those people, let me encourage you to cast your anxiety on God as you make Psalm 139 (especially verse 23) your personal prayer.

Many times we feel overwhelmed, and it seems we have nowhere to turn.  In those moments, I encourage you to turn your eyes toward heaven.   Ask yourself, "Where is God in all of this?"
Realize that you have a Creator, He is always there, and He cares for you.  He is there, and He is ready to receive your anxiety, your cares, and concerns.

And remember someday I might need this same reminder as we journey together along the Way ...



August 5, 2015 - along the Way ...

This week I am thinking about the hardships we all go through, and the source of strength we most often overlook.

Often I hear people complain about their life.   Usually it is legitimate because life has been particularly hard recently.   It is in these moments that we must remember where our strength is found.

In I Peter 5:7, Peter writes, "Cast all your anxiety (cares) on Him because He cares for you."

Did you get that?  We can give God all our cares because He cares about us.

What an overwhelming privilege to know that the God who created the universe, and who knit each one of us together in our mother's womb (Psalm 139:13), cares so much for us that He invites us to give Him ALL of our cares and concerns.

Recently, I was reading through Psalm 139.   I invite you to do the same, but do so from the perspective of someone struggling with anxiety.    

It seems there are many people who deal with anxiety attacks in our world today.   If you are one of those people, let me encourage you to cast your anxiety on God as you make Psalm 139 (especially verse 23) your personal prayer.

Many times we feel overwhelmed, and it seems we have nowhere to turn.  In those moments, I encourage you to turn your eyes toward heaven.   Ask yourself, "Where is God in all of this?"
Realize that you have a Creator, He is always there, and He cares for you.  He is there, and He is ready to receive your anxiety, your cares, and concerns.

And remember someday I might need this same reminder as we journey together along the Way ...



August 5, 2015 - along the Way ...

This week I am thinking about the hardships we all go through, and the source of strength we most often overlook.

Often I hear people complain about their life.   Usually it is legitimate because life has been particularly hard recently.   It is in these moments that we must remember where our strength is found.

In I Peter 5:7, Peter writes, "Cast all your anxiety (cares) on Him because He cares for you."

Did you get that?  We can give God all our cares because He cares about us.

What an overwhelming privilege to know that the God who created the universe, and who knit each one of us together in our mother's womb (Psalm 139:13), cares so much for us that He invites us to give Him ALL of our cares and concerns.

Recently, I was reading through Psalm 139.   I invite you to do the same, but do so from the perspective of someone struggling with anxiety.    

It seems there are many people who deal with anxiety attacks in our world today.   If you are one of those people, let me encourage you to cast your anxiety on God as you make Psalm 139 (especially verse 23) your personal prayer.

Many times we feel overwhelmed, and it seems we have nowhere to turn.  In those moments, I encourage you to turn your eyes toward heaven.   Ask yourself, "Where is God in all of this?"
Realize that you have a Creator, He is always there, and He cares for you.  He is there, and He is ready to receive your anxiety, your cares, and concerns.

And remember someday I might need this same reminder as we journey together along the Way ...



Tuesday, July 21, 2015

July 21, 2015 - along the Way ...

Over the past few weeks our local neighborhood has been terrorized by a handful of young men.   They have been tagging property, stealing things from inside cars, breaking and entering, and generally causing havoc.

Recently, three of the perpetrators were arrested and brought to justice through a partnership between a community member and our police department.   Since these young men have been brought to justice, there has been less terrorism in our community, which got me to thinking ... if a handful of young men can terrorize a neighborhood, what can a handful of people to do build up their community?

Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:14-16,
"You are the light of the world.
A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.
Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl.
Instead they put it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
In the same way, let your light shine before others,
that they may see your good deeds,
and glorify your Father in heaven."

Jesus says, "You are the light of the world."  Elsewhere, He claims, "I am the light of the world ..." (John 8:12)  So Jesus, who is THE light of the world, says to us, "you are THE light of the world."
Since we are the body of Christ now on earth, our calling is to be like Jesus bringing light to dark places.  As we do, Jesus tells us people will see what we do, and in turn they will glorify God, our Father.

Therefore, if a handful of Christ followers, and those who agree to partner with us, can bring light, doing good deeds, encouraging people, helping those in need, and working with young people to show them a better path, we can make a huge difference and make our community flourish.  

So what about you?  Are you willing to shine your light, and do some good deeds?
If so, we can make a real difference in our neighborhoods and communities as we journey together ... along the Way!

Tuesday, July 7, 2015

July 7, 2015 - along the Way ...

It has been a few weeks since I have written.  I have been on vacation the past two weeks, and have been doing some deep thinking about the church's call today.

In light of the recent Supreme Court decision to allow same-sex unions under the authority of the federal government, I think we have transitioned to a time where the church needs to be willing to listen before we speak.  But what do I mean by that?

First, we must listen to God.   We must listen to His word and His Spirit as He directs us on the paths we should follow, and the approaches we ought to take in bringing Jesus to people.  

Let us consider Moses' words to God's people in Deuteronomy 8, "And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord."  (Deuteronomy 8:3)   Jesus later picks up on these words and repeats, "Man does not live by bread alone" (Luke 4:4).   So it seems there needs to be a hunger for God's word before we recognize our need for it.

In a society where people want to speak up and be heard, it is important that we take time to listen to God's word, trust Him and not lean so heavily on our own understanding.   This is true for those opposed to same-sex civil unions (which are being erroneously called "marriage" because marriage is not domain of the government but under God's - see Genesis 2:24 and Mark 10:5-9), as well as those who promote an alternative to God's plan for marriage.   We must hunger for God's word, listen to Him, trust His word, and then do as He says.

Second, we must listen to one another.   Respectful dialogue (one where we seek first to truly understand one another's viewpoint before jumping to conclusions or fighting to have the last word) is the way toward understanding and potentially can be the way toward peace, healing, reconciliation, and ultimately renewal in Christ.   Respectful dialogue waits to be asked for one's thoughts and ideas before sharing them.  If not asked, we should not assume the right to share.

The church has moved from a time where we need to speak to a time where we need to listen before we speak.  Many people have heard our arguments, many people have grown up hearing sermons and even reading the scriptures.   People have also received education and have been exposed to alternative viewpoints.  We live in an age of information overload.  

For example, think of today's information overload like whitewater.   Like the roar of rushing waters we find it difficult to speak over the tumult.  We can scream louder and louder, but the sound gets swallowed up by the torrent around us.

In this time of information overload, I believe the church needs to take a step back, listen, and wait for God to give us the opportunity to speak.  God will wait for people to hunger and thirst for righteousness once again, and then He will give us the opportunity to speak.

We don't need to repackage the truth in line with people's tastes, any more than we need to stand back and hurl condemnation on the world from the safety of our theological fortresses.   We need to engage people in respectful dialogue demonstrating love and care for them, rather than our need to be right.

I believe the world is starving for God's word.  They desperately need it, but they are not yet aware of their need.  Too many are feasting on other ideas like a child who prefers junk food to good, solid nutrition.  Ultimately, the world will realize they need real food, and then they may ask us to share our thoughts and beliefs as we continue to journey together ... in respectful dialogue and committed relationships ... along the Way ...

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

June 16, 2015 - along the Way ...

I have been thinking a lot about a quote I heard recently at a Chaplain conference.    I will paraphrase the quote this way, "In our deepest wound is our greatest genius".  

At first it seems counterintuitive.   How could a wound become our genius?  No one likes being wounded.  It is not pleasant, and it hurts.

Yet in reality as you talk with people the truth of this statement becomes readily apparent.   Talk to a man whose son has died tragically at a young age.   This deep wound leads to a greater understanding of loss, and enables him to help others understand and navigate through their own losses and the losses of those around them.   No one wants the wound, and God does not cause the wound, but God uses it to reveal His strength and make us more like Jesus.

Consider Paul's words in 2 Corinthians 12:7b-10.   Following a recitation of things for which he might possibly be able to boast, he offers these words,

"Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited,
I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.
Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me.
But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness."
Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, 
so that Christ's power may rest on me.
That is why for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, 
in persecutions, in difficulties.
For when I am weak, then I am strong."

Paul acknowledges that our weaknesses become strengths through the power of God.   

So what about us?  Do we most often boast of our strengths or our weaknesses?   

Our wounds make us human.   When we share them with others, it opens us up to them and it can make them more willing to open up to us.   In this dialogue, this sharing of pain, God reveals Himself as the One who brings hope and healing to everyone in need.  

So let's not be afraid to share our weaknesses, knowing that is God's power that will rest on us when we have no strength left.   I invite you to share your thoughts and your stories, as we journey together along the Way ... 

Tuesday, May 26, 2015

May 26, 2015 - along the Way ...

This past weekend in the US we observed Memorial Day.   I was going to say "celebrated" but a holiday set aside to remember the sacrifices of those who died so that others might live in freedom is hardly a "celebration".  It is an observance, a solemn time to remember and reflect.

As I have considered these men and women and the sacrifices they and their families have made, both past and present, I have wondered about the reasons we fight.  We go to war because we believe strongly in the cause for which we are fighting.   We go to war and risk our lives so that others might live and enjoy the freedoms God has given us all.

Yet too often, especially in the current conflicts, it seems that when we return from war we hardly know how to live.  Many find a cause worth dying for, but it is hard for them to find a cause worth living for.

Since the conflicts began in Iraq and Afghanistan, the US military has experienced more deaths by suicide than combat-related deaths.   This goes to the heart of the matter.   Our warfighters are given a cause to die for, but when they return too many are given no cause worth living for.  This is sad.

God intends for people to live in freedom, so that what is right will be honored, what is beautiful will be appreciated, and what is true will be respected.  

Jesus died so that we might live.   (See Ephesians 2:1-10)  So how can we give our young people, warfighters and non-warfighters alike, something worth living for?   This should be our challenge as we seek to honor the sacrifices of those who went to war, fought, and died so that we might have the opportunity to live.

Now it's your turn.   What are you living for?   How can you share that cause with someone else who needs a reason to live?  

I invite your thoughts and ideas, as we continue to journey together along the Way ...

Tuesday, May 19, 2015

May 19, 2015 - along the Way ...

Since the celebration of Jesus' resurrection on April 5, I have been on a journey.   My sermon text for Easter Sunday was from Matthew 28, and it was during my preparation for that sermon as well as the days after that God has sent me on a journey wondering what it means to "make disciples".

My question is this:  If a disciple is a learner, what must a person learn in order to be a disciple of Jesus?

Most often I have answered this question with information.   I believe people need to know who God is, and what He has done for us in Christ, place true faith in Him, be completely forgiven of all sin, and receive eternal life.

Yet this is more about the end than the journey itself.   One of the greatest benefits we receive by believing God's promise fulfilled in Jesus is the Holy Spirit Himself.   According to a document from my tradition called the Heidelberg Catechism, "Christ by His Holy Spirit assures me of eternal life, and makes me wholeheartedly willing and ready from now on to live for Him."  (Q&A 1)

So what does it mean to live for Jesus?  Is it only about sharing information or is there something more?

As I have considered this question in light of the scriptures, I have found Paul talking more about formation than information in making disciples.   In Philippians 2, Colossians 3, Ephesians 4, Galatians 5, and Romans 12, Paul clearly highlights what it means to be a follower of Jesus.  It is about unity, forgiveness, love, joy, peace, patience, etc.  It is about being formed into the image of Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Yet for what purpose?  

Jesus calls us to be disciples so that we can "make disciples of all nations", so the disciples we "make" should also begin to look more like Jesus.   But how will know they know what it means to be like Jesus?   They have to see it in us.

As we follow Jesus, and are formed into His image by the Holy Spirit's power, we bring Jesus to every person with whom we come into contact.   As we then bring Jesus to people, God will bring them to Christ through true faith, so that they too can be formed into the image of Jesus.

As we begin to look more like Jesus, in both what we say and what we do, God will draw people to Himself and more people will place faith in Christ.

So what do you think?   What does it mean to "make disciples"?   And if a disciple is a learner, what must a person learn to be a disciple of Jesus?   I invite you to share your thoughts as we journey together along the Way ...

Tuesday, May 12, 2015

May 12, 2015 - along the Way ...

I apologize that it has been more than a few weeks since I have written my "weekly" blog.  I have been occupied with travel, conferences, and trainings.   I am just now getting back into the "normal" routine.

As I have traveled I have had opportunity to interact with folks outside my ordinary circles, and I am amazed by what I am finding.   There seems to be real interest in things spiritual, but not as much interest in anything religious.

This confirms some recent findings from a religious assessment conducted by our local Air Guard unit.  About 20% of the respondents chose "No particular religion" to be printed on their "dog tags".
In other places this has been referred to as they are "spiritual but not religious".  

So how should we, as followers of Jesus, respond to this reality?

I have done a lot of reflection on that question over the past several weeks and months, and I would like to share with you my thoughts.

First, we should not be afraid.  Anyone who is interested in entering into a spiritual conversation is a friend and is presenting an opportunity for us to share the hope we have (see I Peter 3:15).   If we are not prepared to "give an answer to anyone who asks" then we have work to do.

Second, I have considered the reverse and have found it more devastating.   In other words, would we rather have people identify as "religious but not spiritual"?   Religion devoid of God's Spirit damages our souls and the souls of others.  

Consider Jesus' words to the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law from His time:

"Woe to you, Teachers of the Law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!  You shut the kingdom of heaven in men's faces.  You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to.  

Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!  You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of hell as you are."
(Matthew 23:13, 15; NIV)

It seems that according to Jesus, being "religious but not spiritual" is most devastating and might be the quickest pathway to hell.

Finally, as I have read Jesus' words and considered them over time, I am becoming more and more convinced that Jesus was "spiritual but not religious".   It seems he reserved His harshest words for the leaders of the established religion.  And constantly Jesus was not calling people to a system of belief or a program, rather Jesus called people to Himself.

"I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.  No one comes to the Father except through me."   (John 14:6)

Similarly, the apostle Paul picks up on this same invitation, and issued it again.

"If you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." (Romans 10:9)

Do not get me wrong.   I am not opposed to Christian religion.   I myself am a practitioner and a teacher within a solidly historical and Biblical Christian tradition.   Nevertheless, my point is that if we hope to connect this generation to the truth, then we must be willing to listen to what they are really saying, agree where agreement is prudent, and offer them Jesus, the living Lord, the fullest revelation of the triune, eternal, personal Creator God.  For it is only through faith in Jesus that anyone can be saved.

So what do you think?   Do you have thoughts about spirituality and religion?   If so, I invite you to share them here, as we continue to journey together along the Way ...


Tuesday, April 7, 2015

April 7, 2015 - along the Way ...

This past Sunday was Easter Sunday; a day to celebrate as we remember Jesus' victorious resurrection from the grave!

As I have continued to contemplate the wonder of what Jesus' resurrection means, I am continually struck by the words of the angel and the words of Jesus: "Do not be afraid."

Many of us know that the Bible tells us in the book of Proverbs, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge/wisdom." (Proverbs 1:7, 9:10)   So on one hand we are told to fear the LORD, yet on the other hand we are told: "Do not be afraid".  What then is the difference between "fear" and "being afraid"?

Fear recognizes who God is and leads us to show Him respect and reverence, and teaches us to listen to Him.  Fear is rooted in Who God is, and therefore is proper for God's holy people.

Yet being afraid is quite different.  When we are afraid we are focused on ourselves, and our weakness.  We are afraid of what we cannot control.  Jesus tells us "Do not be afraid" because now is the time to fear, to let go rather than be afraid and hold on tighter.

Control is one of the hardest things for you and I as human beings to give up.  We like to have control, even it is only the illusion of control, we like to be in control.   I think this might be why we are afraid when we receive a difficult diagnosis from our doctor.   We live with the illusion that we are in control, and we forget that our lives are in God's hands every moment of every day.  Because we belong to Him, we fear but we should not be afraid.

I am reminded of a quote from the movie, "Man of Steel".   Superman has allowed himself to be captured by the US military, while under interrogation he breaks his bonds and destroys the illusion of control.  He then says to the general, "General, you cannot control me and you never will, but that does not mean I am your enemy."

This is a good picture of the relationship between "fear" and "being afraid".   We are afraid of what we cannot control, but fear is recognition of a power greater than I; "the rock that is higher than I" (Psalm 61:2).  Superman is greater, but he is fictional.  God is greater and He is real and in Him you and I can place our trust.

In Psalm 56:3-4, the psalmist captures it beautifully, "When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.  In God, whose word I praise - in God I trust and am not afraid.  What can mere mortals do to me?"

So the Bible has it right.   Fear is the beginning of knowledge/wisdom, and those who fear have nothing for which they need be afraid.

So what about you?  What makes you afraid, and how does fear help you in those times?  I invite you to share your thoughts as we journey together along the Way ...

Tuesday, March 24, 2015

March 24, 2015 - along the Way ...

Sunday I talked a little about "the cup" which Jesus had to drink in order to do God's will.  It was a difficult cup; a cup full of suffering and pain, which lead to His death, and culminated in His victorious resurrection from the dead.   It was a "cup" that only Jesus could drink because only Jesus was the eternal Son of God in human flesh, and only Jesus was without sin.

This got me thinking about what that "cup" means for you and I.   Jesus told James and John that they would indeed drink from this "cup" but that would not guarantee a high position in Jesus' kingdom.  (see Matthew 20:23)

So do all followers of Jesus have to drink from this "cup"?

In short, yes we do.  However, I feel I need to elaborate on that a little so that we can see clearly what that means for us.

First, we drink from this "cup" because we all feel the effects of sin in this broken world.   We see broken relationships, we hear people criticize what they do not understand, we can even be persecuted as followers of Jesus suffering greatly for the gospel.   In this sense, we all drink from this "cup".

Second, the "cup" is God's will.   In Matthew 26:39, Jesus prays, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup to be taken from me.  Yet not as I will, but as You will."  And again in Matthew 26:42, "My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may Your will be done."

Jesus had to drink the "cup" in order to fulfill God's will for Him.   In the same way, God has a will for each of us.  He desires that we seek His kingdom first and seek to know and do what is right in each circumstance.   In addition, He has "created us in Jesus Christ to do good works, which (He) prepared in advance for us to do".  

In this sense, I believe God has a unique plan for each of us.   He created us and has now re-created us in Christ for a purpose.   Finding that purpose ought to be at the forefront of our minds, as we seek God's kingdom and His righteousness.

So what is God's plan for you?   What unique skills, gifts, abilities, experiences, etc. has God given you to help you understand His will for you?

Last week, I watched a sermon from Pastor Bill Hybels on video.   In the sermon, he talked about everyone discovering our own "Popeye" moment - "I've had all I can stands, and I can't stands no more."  That moment of "holy discontent" when you know something has to be done, and you believe God is calling you to do it.

So what is your "Popeye" moment?   What has God laid on your heart to do?   I encourage you to find out, and then do something about it!  Then if you are willing share it, so that the rest of us can join you as we journey together along the Way ...

Tuesday, March 17, 2015

March 17, 2015 - along the Way ...

Happy St Patrick's Day!  Since Patrick was the one responsible for bringing the good news to Ireland, so many years ago, I believe the entire body of Christ can honor him today with gratitude to God!
To God be the glory!  Great things He has done, is doing, and will continue to do!

As I consider what it means to bring the good news to our world today, I struggle with the best response to those who live with same-sex attraction.  I believe the church needs to make room for people of all backgrounds, orientations, and lifestyles.  By making room I do not mean the church should change its standards, but rather that we should make room for people to encounter the living God, so that He can transform all of us through the Holy Spirit's power by faith in Jesus Christ!

This morning I was reading in I Timothy 1, and I was struck by the juxtaposition of Paul's words to Timothy regarding the law in verses 8-11 and his words regarding his own need for grace in verses 12-17.

On the one hand, Paul says, "We know that the law is good if one uses it properly.   We also know that the law is not made for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious, for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers, for the sexually immoral, for those practicing homosexuality, for slave traders and liars and perjurers - and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine that conforms to the gospel concerning the glory of the blessed God, which he entrusted to me."

The law (think Ten Commandments, Leviticus, and the summary of the law: love God and love others) is not made for the righteous.  If we are righteous, we will do what is right under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and therefore we do not need the law.

Yet the law is good when used properly, that is for those who rebel against God and do whatever they choose.   The law shows us our wrongdoing and directs us back to the path of righteousness.

This is where verses 15-16 come in.  Paul says, "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners - of whom I am the worst.  But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life."

Jesus came to save sinners, like me, and by His mercy and grace He has saved me, and by His Holy Spirit He is leading me into paths of righteousness.   The same Paul who made these statements also says, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." (I Corinthians 11:1)   Paul was made new through his encounter with Christ, and he became an example of righteousness, not perfection, but the righteousness Christ brings to all who believe.

So what does this have to do with people living with same-sex attraction?

First, I must admit I do not understand what people living with same-sex attraction are feeling or going through on a daily basis.  I imagine it would be very difficult to remain obedient to God, and have to be alone all through life.  I admit I do not understand their pain.

Second, I am certain that God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in my and our weakness.  Although the law does not change, and is useful when used properly, I rely on the grace and mercy of God for our salvation and for daily living.

Third, in Christ I am my brother's and sister's keeper.  At some point I need to hold difficult conversations in a way that is loving - loving both the person (not dishonoring others) and loving God's truth (not delighting in evil but rejoicing with the truth).

In the end, walking the way of righteousness together is difficult.  We live in a broken world, and it will remain broken until Jesus returns to make all things new.   So I pray for daily grace to know how to live with integrity (showing love while valuing truth) in a broken world.  

I invite you to share your thoughts as well.   This is a very sensitive issue, and we need to be open to learning from each other as we listen to God's word together along the Way ...

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

March 10, 2015 - along the Way ...

Last week, I shared the difference between being moral and being Christlike, and the conclusion I reached is that love makes the difference.  We can be moral without being loving, but to be Christlike we must love well.

Continuing that idea I encourage you to read I Corinthians 13.   It is commonly called "the love chapter".   It is used in weddings, and finds a wide audience, yet the apostle Paul wrote I Corinthians 13 so that we would know what love is in the body of Christ.

A few days ago I was reflecting on this chapter with some friends, and two verses stood out to me.

In verse 5, "love does not dishonor others" (NIV 2011).  In other translations it is stated, "it (love) is not rude".  The idea is that love sees the person before their behavior and honors the person first.  When we stand on our moral high ground, unfortunately lots of people become dishonored as we label them by their behavior rather than seeing them for who they are.

Also, in verse 6, "Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth." (NIV 2011)  This is a great reminder.   Love rejoices with the truth, and never delights in evil.  As we honor people for who they are, we must never celebrate our or another's bad behavior.  Evil is evil, and we must call it what it is.  Evil is the absence of good, and it is never pleasing to God.   God's truth is our guide and standard as we live each day this side of heaven.

So what about you?  As you read through I Corinthians 13 what stands out to you?  I invite you to share your thoughts as we journey together along the Way ...

Tuesday, March 3, 2015

March 3, 2015 - along the Way ...

As we continue our Lenten journey to the cross with Jesus, I am struck by the continuing tension between morality and being Christlike.

Now wait, I know you are going to insist that being moral and being Christlike are one in the same.
And I will grant that being moral is part of being Christlike, but being Christlike is more than being moral.

This weekend my family and I watched the movie "Chocolat".  In the movie, the townspeople motivated by the church (or at least some significant members of the church) begin a campaign to "Boycott Immorality".  Somehow they believe if they can just rid themselves of immorality and all those who intice them toward immorality, they will achieve "tranquility".

The first problem with "boycotting immorality" is that we have to boycott ourselves.  All of us are sinful, which is worse than being immoral.  Sin lives deep within our hearts, and it resists our efforts to remove it.  Ultimately, only Christ can remove our sin and change our hearts.

One example of this problem from the movie is the case of Serge, the local bartender who likes to beat his wife.  Once his immorality is discovered, the mayor takes him to confession, enrolls him into catechism class, and cleans him up.  After a while he goes to his wife to win her back, but she refuses.   Serge claims, "God has changed me", but she remains skeptical.

Once Serge realizes that his efforts at reform have failed to bring reconciliation with his wife (or at least get her to come back home) he defaults to his old self, gets drunk, and becomes abusive.  He had not changed his sinful self, he had simply changed his moral behavior for a time.

The second problem comes when we cannot separate our hatred of immoral behavior from the people who are acting immorally.  We tend to identify the people as the enemy, and seek ways to eliminate the enemy hoping to rid ourselves of the behavior.  

Yet people are people, they are not the real enemy.   The real enemy is "not flesh and blood" (see Ephesians 6:12).  The real enemy is sin and the spiritual forces of evil that use sin as their personal weapon.  By focusing on the people, we miss the real enemy and will still lose the war.

Being Christlike goes beyond being moral because being like Christ means we continue to love our enemy and pray for those who persecute us.  In our efforts to pursue morality we must not lose the love for people that Christ maintained.  In the end, the call to love God and love neighbor trumps our efforts to be moral.

These are just some of my thoughts for this lenten journey.   I invite you to share some of your own, as we journey together along the Way ....

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

February 24, 2015 - along the Way ...

This weekend I was watching a show called "Cupcake Wars" with my wife.   On the show contestants present their best offering of cupcake based on required ingredients and a theme provided by the judges.  It never ceases to amaze me how confident many of the contestants are going into the judging.  

One contestant in particular was so confident she believed she had "nailed it" and was certain to be going into the next round.  Yet once the judging began, the judges had little if anything good to say.
She was eliminated.

This got me thinking.   How often do we rely on our own ideas of what God requires of those who belong to Him?  We even hear some people assume that there are "many roads" which lead to heaven and Jesus is just one of them.

I know that judgment is not my job.  I am nobody's judge, and I am glad.  Nevertheless, I think folks should take seriously God's judgment and listen specifically to what God has said He requires.  The Bible tells us we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus, and it tells us that faith without works is dead.  In addition, in the Jewish scriptures, in Micah 6:8, we read what is required, "To do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God."

There are many references in the Bible (which is God's word given to us so that we will know exactly what is expected) which point to what God requires of us.  I encourage each of us to read it for ourselves.  Do not simply take someone else's word for it.  Read it!  It is God's gracious gift given to all of us that we might grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus.  

So what do you think?  Can you think of examples where people are overly optimistic and are stunned by a judge's judgment?  Can you think of other scriptures that help us know what God requires of us?

Let us share these words of life with each other, as we journey together along the Way ...

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

February 17, 2015 - along the Way ...

This weekend my wife and I enjoyed viewing the film, "Old Fashioned".  It was a really GREAT movie!  Perhaps you have heard that from others, but I want to elaborate on why it was such a GREAT movie.

This film is GREAT on so many levels.  It certainly offers an alternative to the way our society often presents male-female relationships, but it also examines the interplay between righteousness and grace.

We know that Christ is our righteousness, and His righteousness is received by God's grace alone.
In Christ, God sees us as forgiven, sinless, and completely righteous.  However, the fact that God declares us righteous in Christ (what we call justification) does not lower the expectation of becoming holy (what we call sanctification) as through the Holy Spirit's power we become more like Jesus.

Jesus presents us with this challenge in what is called "The Sermon on the Mount".   In Matthew 5:17-20 Jesus says,

"Do not think I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets;
I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.
For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear;
not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen,
will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.
Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands
and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven,
but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees 
and the teachers of the law,
you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven."

Jesus never lowers the standard.  Righteousness is the expectation.  By God's grace, Jesus brings us up to the standard (justification) while empowering us through the Holy Spirit to live righteously (sanctification).  

In the movie, we are challenged to wrestle with the expectation of righteousness, while receiving the gift of God's grace in Christ.  

In some ways, I believe Clay is only able to understand and appreciate the depth of God's love because he struggled to live righteously.  

There is much more that can be said regarding this movie, but I think this is sufficient to initiate a good conversation.  If you have seen the movie, please share your own thoughts and reactions.  If you have not seen it, I highly recommend it, and invite you to share your thoughts here as well, as we journey together along the Way ... 

Tuesday, February 10, 2015

February 10, 2015 - along the Way ...

R-E-S-P-E-C-T spells respect.  So what does respect have to do with our journey along the Way?

The dictionary defines respect: "the condition of being esteemed or honored"

Respect is about honor.  It is a mindset, which in turn shapes behavior.

A few weeks ago I heard the song "Girl in a Country Song" by Maddie & Tae.  The song highlights the lack of respect women receive in too many country songs, and demands a return to times when such respect was more freely given by men like Conway Twitty and George Strait.

Respect disappears when we begin to see persons as objects rather than people created in God's image with inherent value and unique dignity.  If we allow this mindset to be present in our culture and society, then we should not be surprised when there are issues of abuse, use, and maltreatment of women along with the prevalence of human sex trafficking.

It all begins with our minds.   If we perceive people as objects, then we can do whatever we want with them and to them.

So as followers of Jesus, we should offer respect to every person we encounter along the Way, whether or not they agree with us, or even share our faith.  Respect is the beginning point for true relationships, it is a mindset, and it is the first step toward rebuilding community.

So I am curious, what do you think?  Do you believe a person's mindset can affect his or her behavior?  What do you think about respect?   I invite you to share your thoughts, as we journey together along the Way ...

Tuesday, February 3, 2015

February 3, 2015 - along the Way ...

One of the great things about the annual American event that is the Super Bowl is the commercials.  Each year even folks who care nothing about American football tune in to see what new, inventive, funny angles advertisers will take.

This year, my favorite commercial was the one that made the most impact on me and my daughter Hannah.  It was the Coca-Cola commercial where the server attendant accidentally spilled Coke into the servers, and things went from hate and negativity to happy and positive.

I think that is what Jesus meant when he told us in Matthew 5:14, "You are the light of the world."

Let's face it we live in a very dark world.   There is a lot of negativity, or as Taylor Swift sings, "Haters gonna hate, hate, hate".  Most of us find it easier to criticize (not critique and there is a difference) than to build up and encourage.

The hate was evident in twitter feeds and Facebook commentary on everything from the commercials in the Super Bowl, to the halftime show, to the critical play call at the goal line, which appeared to "cost" the Seahawks the game.  (I'll spare everyone my thoughts on that - let's just say "one play does not determine the outcome of a game")

It is easier for us to hate than to love, yet love is the light that this dark world needs.

As followers of Jesus, we should be known more for our love than our hate, more for what we are for than what we are against, offering words to build up and encourage rather than tear down (see Ephesians 4:29).

Then I believe this world will see our light.

Let me know your thoughts.  Do you agree or disagree?  Did you have a favorite commercial, or do you want to comment on my statement that one play does not determine a game?  Whatever.  I invite you to share your thoughts as we journey together along the Way ...


Tuesday, January 27, 2015

January 27, 2015 - along the Way ...

Yesterday I had the privilege of viewing the film American Sniper.  It was apparent from the beginning that this was going to be no ordinary film or viewing experience.   Several older gentlemen were in line to see the movie, veterans, as well as other folks you would not normally think you would see at a theater.   Obviously, many folks were there, as I was, to honor the legacy of an American hero.

As I have reflected on the film watching experience, several thoughts have come to mind.

(Let me also warn that this movie is rated "R" for a reason.  It shows the evil that lives among us, and as such it has strong language, questionable morality, and horror.  I do not recommend it for children under the age of 15, at least.)

First, I have thought about God's word.   In Psalm 18:34 and Psalm 144:1, King David intimates of the LORD,
"He trains my hands for battle" (Psalm 18:34)

"Praise be to the LORD my Rock,
who trains my hands for war,
my fingers for battle." (Psalm 144:1)

It is not something we usually like to emphasize, but the fact is when a man or woman has been equipped for battle, like Chris Kyle obviously was, their "gifts" come from God.

I really like how Kyle himself explains it.  Throughout his life, as seen in the movie, he was more interested in the number of lives he saved, than the number of lives he had to take.   He did his job, and his job was to make sure more men and women made it home to their families after the battle.
I am certain there are many warfighters and their families who thank God for people like Chris Kyle.

Second, I thought the movie carried a realistic picture of military life and what it must like to be engaged in battle.  War is not glamorous, and warfighters are not perfect or without fear.  Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act even when afraid.  That was evident in the film. 

Third, I thought it makes us aware of the sacrifices warfighter make on our behalf.  They do not enter the service of their country lightly, and they understand the costs.

In one scene, Kyle is depicted with his wife lamenting the fact that there is a war going on, and everyone seems to be oblivious to it.

I believe we need to think more regularly about the sacrifices being made, honor them, and choose to live courageously in the freedom we have been given.  

And this leads me to my last thought, "Do we know how to live well in the freedoms we have been given?"   

It intrigues me to consider how often warfighters find their purpose in battle, and yet when the battle is over, too many have a hard time finding a new purpose.  

Is not the purpose of engaging in war, the necessary evil, to gain us the freedom we crave?   Yet once the freedom has been won, we seem to have a hard time finding purpose for the freedom.   

In Galatians 5:1, Paul says, 

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.
Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery."

We are free to serve Jesus, yet too often we either misunderstand the reason we are free, or we simply allow ourselves to be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.   

I encourage us all to learn to live in the freedom we have been given as US citizens, and offer that freedom to God for His purposes and His glory!

What about you?  Did you see the movie?  Do you have thoughts?  I invite you to share them, or any reflections on what I have written, as we journey together along the Way ... 


Tuesday, January 20, 2015

January 20, 2015 - along the Way ...

Over the past few days I have been reading the story of Joseph in the Bible in the book of Genesis.  Joseph had an interesting life, to say the least, and his story helps us understand what we mean when we say God is with us.

In Genesis, the author often states, "The LORD was with Joseph". 

God was with Joseph when he was sold into slavery (Genesis 39:2-3), when he was wrongfully imprisoned (Genesis 39:21), when he interpreted Pharaoh's dream (Genesis 41:38), and when he was appointed caretaker over all of Egypt's harvest, and even at the reconciliation with his brothers (Genesis 50:20).

Interestingly, the author clearly states, "The LORD was with Joseph" in the hard times, and the same is assumed during the good times.  Nevertheless, whether in good times or bad, the LORD was with Joseph.  And He is with us too.

A few months ago, I learned something that has helped me understand my own journey better, and has assisted me in helping others understand their journey as well.  

I imagine most have heard that there are two factors which determine a person's life journey: nature and/or nurture.  This suggests that some people are born with specific challenges or good/bad character traits, while others develop those challenges or good/bad character based on the care they received or did not receive when they were young.  The first suggestion attributes character development to nature, while the second suggestion attributes it to nurture.   In reality, both are factors, and must be considered as we think about character development.  Yet are you aware that there is a third factor?

The third factor is the one that makes all the difference in the world.   The third factor, beyond nature and nurture, is choice.   Each person, no matter what has happened to them, has a choice as to how they will respond to a given situation.

For example, one could say Joseph had it made.  He was born into a good family, even though his mom died when he was young, his father took special interest in him and taught him about the LORD and sought to develop his character.

Yet later in life things went differently.   He was attacked by his brothers, sold into slavery, wrongfully imprisoned, and then forgotten after helping interpret a dream for Pharaoh's cupbearer.   Things had gone from really good to bad to worse.  

Even so, Joseph still had a choice.  He could choose how to respond.  Would he wallow in misery, blaming others for the horrible things that had happened to him, or would he trust God, and live with integrity no matter the circumstances.

Joseph chose to trust God, and because of God's abiding presence and Joseph's choices things turned around for him.   In fact, it was though the crucible of the hard times that Joseph became the person God needed him to be to carry out such a monumental task (Genesis 50:20).

So what about you?   Have you been living as if life has dealt you a bad hand?  Have you been blaming your mom and dad for your misfortune in life, or believing you were born with a raw deal?
If so, I want to encourage you to look to God.   He is with you, and will be with you.   You have a choice how you will respond to each situation you face today.

I invite you to share your thoughts, struggles, challenges, pain, and I promise to pray with you as we journey together along the Way ...