I'm not in a bad mood, depressed or otherwise upset tonight. I actually had a pretty decent evening with my wife; running to the grocery store after work so that we could fill up our cupboards. Then, dinner and a few DVR'ed episodes of "How I Met Your Mother" were on the agenda.
It was a nice simple evening. I just don't feel much like blogging right now. I'll scoot out of the blogosphere in a minute, but please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Good Night
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
God Bless The Salvation Army
After Thanksgiving, the volunteers for the Salvation Army begin their annual trek to the fronts of grocery and department stores. They stand for hours on end in the rain, snow, wind and ice, ringing their bells and gathering money for the less fortunate souls of our society.
Most people simply walk on by; ignoring the sound of the bell. Some shoppers avoid making eye contact with the volunteer, or rush past the doorway with heaping carts in an attempt to project how busy they are. I've been guilty of these same things in the past. However, tonight as my wife and I walked past one of the famous red buckets, we pulled out our last $0.31 of cold hard cash from the car's ashtray. The thought behind this token gift was that although it was practically a monetary insult, it was all of the cash we had on hand until payday. Even if it only bought someone a hot beverage, it was well worth it.
In the book of Matthew, a parable of Sheep and Goats was illustrated in chapter 25. The people whom had loving hearts toward their fellow man and reached out to help were classified as "Sheep". Those who were too involved in their own selfish desires and didn't show compassion toward others were called "Goats". Let's see what the Lord has to say about these two types of people:
Matthew 25:31-46
“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’
“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’
“They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’
“He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’
“Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”
Don't be a Goat.
This Christmas season, please consider giving to the Salvation Army, or a local mission, community toy/food drive, adopted church family, struggling friend or relative. No matter how "tight" our budgets are this year, there are those within our community who aren't making ends meet. Even if you cannot give currency, consider volunteering your time or providing a hot meal. Even the smallest of gifts can make a big difference, and sometimes just letting people know you care is more than enough.
Good Night
Sunday, November 28, 2010
It Had To Be God
I'm totally slammed with last minute "to do" lists for work tomorrow, but I wanted to share this really neat article with you (Honestly, I had nothing for tonight's blog, but when my wife told me about it- I just had to share). It's about the journey of three teenagers, who were lost at sea for more than 50 days.
Since late September, the Lord provided for them. Rainwater for drink, jumping fish and strategically placed birds offered up just enough sustenance to get them through the ordeal. A watchful eye from a boat more than 800 miles from land, that just happened to spot them. So many things had to go "just right" for their survival. I'm reminded of the prophets and how the Lord took care of them in similar ways, too.
Jonah was sheltered from the harsh sun by a plant that the Lord provided, and he survived the experience of being within the stomach of a whale for three days, before being vomited out onto the beach.
Elijah was fed by ravens in the desert during a severe drought. The miracle of the never ending flour and oil also proved adequate provision for Elijah, the widow and her son for many days.
Paul barely escaped a shipwreck, among many other trials.
There was always "just enough" to keep them going; no more, no less. Coincidence? No. It was all the work of God. After discussing the events of the article above, I'm convinced that the Lord is doing important work within these three young men from Fiji.
Good Night
Since late September, the Lord provided for them. Rainwater for drink, jumping fish and strategically placed birds offered up just enough sustenance to get them through the ordeal. A watchful eye from a boat more than 800 miles from land, that just happened to spot them. So many things had to go "just right" for their survival. I'm reminded of the prophets and how the Lord took care of them in similar ways, too.
Jonah was sheltered from the harsh sun by a plant that the Lord provided, and he survived the experience of being within the stomach of a whale for three days, before being vomited out onto the beach.
Elijah was fed by ravens in the desert during a severe drought. The miracle of the never ending flour and oil also proved adequate provision for Elijah, the widow and her son for many days.
Paul barely escaped a shipwreck, among many other trials.
There was always "just enough" to keep them going; no more, no less. Coincidence? No. It was all the work of God. After discussing the events of the article above, I'm convinced that the Lord is doing important work within these three young men from Fiji.
Good Night
Saturday, November 27, 2010
What Is God Telling You?
Tonight, our guest pastor shared scripture from James chapters 1 and 2. The thrust of the message was to get up and start living our lives with faith and works. Not action without faith, nor idle faith- it's faith in action that God wants from us.
James 2:19-26 (The Message)
19-20Do I hear you professing to believe in the one and only God, but then observe you complacently sitting back as if you had done something wonderful? That's just great. Demons do that, but what good does it do them? Use your heads! Do you suppose for a minute that you can cut faith and works in two and not end up with a corpse on your hands?
21-24Wasn't our ancestor Abraham "made right with God by works" when he placed his son Isaac on the sacrificial altar? Isn't it obvious that faith and works are yoked partners, that faith expresses itself in works? That the works are "works of faith"? The full meaning of "believe" in the Scripture sentence, "Abraham believed God and was set right with God," includes his action. It's that mesh of believing and acting that got Abraham named "God's friend." Is it not evident that a person is made right with God not by a barren faith but by faith fruitful in works?
25-26The same with Rahab, the Jericho harlot. Wasn't her action in hiding God's spies and helping them escape—that seamless unity of believing and doing—what counted with God? The very moment you separate body and spirit, you end up with a corpse. Separate faith and works and you get the same thing: a corpse.
I'm still not certain of what God is telling me. However, I want to have ears to hear what he's trying to say, so that I can be obedient and listen to His will for my life and walk in it. What is He telling you?
Good Night
James 2:19-26 (The Message)
19-20Do I hear you professing to believe in the one and only God, but then observe you complacently sitting back as if you had done something wonderful? That's just great. Demons do that, but what good does it do them? Use your heads! Do you suppose for a minute that you can cut faith and works in two and not end up with a corpse on your hands?
21-24Wasn't our ancestor Abraham "made right with God by works" when he placed his son Isaac on the sacrificial altar? Isn't it obvious that faith and works are yoked partners, that faith expresses itself in works? That the works are "works of faith"? The full meaning of "believe" in the Scripture sentence, "Abraham believed God and was set right with God," includes his action. It's that mesh of believing and acting that got Abraham named "God's friend." Is it not evident that a person is made right with God not by a barren faith but by faith fruitful in works?
25-26The same with Rahab, the Jericho harlot. Wasn't her action in hiding God's spies and helping them escape—that seamless unity of believing and doing—what counted with God? The very moment you separate body and spirit, you end up with a corpse. Separate faith and works and you get the same thing: a corpse.
I'm still not certain of what God is telling me. However, I want to have ears to hear what he's trying to say, so that I can be obedient and listen to His will for my life and walk in it. What is He telling you?
Good Night
Friday, November 26, 2010
Transition To The Christmas Season
It's only a day after Thanksgiving; the tastes and smells of a turkey dinner with all of the trimmings are still fresh in my mind. However, today's focus shifted toward Christmas. After crashing into bed last night, my wife and son and I headed back out to Stayton first thing this morning, to reunite with our other children and their grandparents. The goal of the day was to remove the Fall/Harvest decor and set up for Christmas. This is a well established tradition for our children, whom know especially well that the day after Thanksgiving means decorating the tree and listening to their grandfather tell the story of the meaning of the candy cane.
That's pretty neat, isn't it? I'll bet you'll never view a candy cane in the same way again.
In the days that follow, especially as consumerism shifts into high gear, it's important to remember the true meaning of Christmas. It's all about the birth of Christ.
Good Night
That's pretty neat, isn't it? I'll bet you'll never view a candy cane in the same way again.
In the days that follow, especially as consumerism shifts into high gear, it's important to remember the true meaning of Christmas. It's all about the birth of Christ.
Good Night
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving!
No matter where you are, or what you've gone through, it's time to pause and think about the people and things in your life that you're thankful for.
Personally, I'm grateful that my family is healthy and we were able to fill our bellies today. We've got shelter and warmth to cradle us tonight and the freedom to sleep soundly. Life is good.
Philippians 4:10-14 (The Message)
Content Whatever the Circumstances
10-14I'm glad in God, far happier than you would ever guess—happy that you're again showing such strong concern for me. Not that you ever quit praying and thinking about me. You just had no chance to show it. Actually, I don't have a sense of needing anything personally. I've learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I'm just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I've found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. I don't mean that your help didn't mean a lot to me—it did. It was a beautiful thing that you came alongside me in my troubles.
Good Night
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Nothing Is More Important Than Family
Although nothing should take center stage in our lives more than our relationship with Jesus, it's important to mention that aside from God, nothing matters more than family.
"Thank you, Lord for giving me such a great family; a loving wife and wonderful children. I swear to you that I'll protect them and honor them. Thank you for entrusting them to me. Amen."
Good Night
"Thank you, Lord for giving me such a great family; a loving wife and wonderful children. I swear to you that I'll protect them and honor them. Thank you for entrusting them to me. Amen."
Good Night
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
It's Interesting What One Can Glean From A Movie
On Monday, my wife and I decided that we needed a date. We both had the day off, the kids were home and we happened to have a couple of free tickets to the local theater, because of a poor experience the last time we visited. All we needed to spring for was lunch. So, after feeding the kids, we set off for the show.
Unstoppable was the movie of choice. If you haven't seen it, I highly recommend it. It's along the same vein as Apollo 13, only a bit more dramatic and a little shy on fact. That, and it centered around locomotives instead of spacecraft. It's loosely based on events that actually occurred in Ohio in 2001, when an unmanned runaway train traveled down the main line for miles. In reality and in the movie, the train posed danger to both person and property. It could have ended in disaster, but collectively through human ingenuity, the ending was bright.
After the credits were rolling, my thoughts went back to the employee who was responsible for setting this horrific story in motion. I thought about the lives he needlessly affected, all from a place of complacency and laziness. Then, my thoughts shifted toward the leadership of the fictitious rail company whom the disaster centered. When alerted of the unfolding situation, why was their first concern about money and stock price instead of protecting human life? Why were they so callous and selfish? Finally, I thought about the main characters and how these ordinary men became heroes by going above and beyond the call of duty to aid in a situation beyond their control. Without question, they risked their own skin to save the lives of many others.
The more I thought about it, the more it bothered me; our entire world is affected by the first two types of people. Every day, we're affected by poor customer service, shoddy work, and people who serve without a servant's heart. We also get to experience leadership that isn't always up front and honest about their intentions. You see it in the headlines nearly every month; "Executive lays off thousands, receives a 10 million dollar bonus". It simply isn't right.
We need more heroes. We need more Christians who are willing to step up and shine in a world that's passing further and further into darkness. We need to really and truly stand up and be salt and light to the people of the Earth. We're not called to be lazy, worthless sluggards. Nor are we to be greedy misers with self-centered ambition. We need to stand out in a good and holy way!
Matthew 5:13 (The Message)
13"Let me tell you why you are here. You're here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You've lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.
If we aren't outstanding in whatever we're doing, we're no better off than the slack employee, or greedy CEO. I challenge you to take a look around and pinpoint the areas where you can be a hero. For me, it's to be a better husband to my wife, father to my children, volunteer within the church body and employee in the workplace. It also means being a "foul weather friend" when the chips are down and other "friends" have bailed out.
These are ordinary opportunities, ones that most people face each and every day. Like the valiant men in Unstoppable, I want to rise to the occasion and be an everyday hero. With the Lord's blessing and strength, you can do the same.
Good Night
Unstoppable was the movie of choice. If you haven't seen it, I highly recommend it. It's along the same vein as Apollo 13, only a bit more dramatic and a little shy on fact. That, and it centered around locomotives instead of spacecraft. It's loosely based on events that actually occurred in Ohio in 2001, when an unmanned runaway train traveled down the main line for miles. In reality and in the movie, the train posed danger to both person and property. It could have ended in disaster, but collectively through human ingenuity, the ending was bright.
After the credits were rolling, my thoughts went back to the employee who was responsible for setting this horrific story in motion. I thought about the lives he needlessly affected, all from a place of complacency and laziness. Then, my thoughts shifted toward the leadership of the fictitious rail company whom the disaster centered. When alerted of the unfolding situation, why was their first concern about money and stock price instead of protecting human life? Why were they so callous and selfish? Finally, I thought about the main characters and how these ordinary men became heroes by going above and beyond the call of duty to aid in a situation beyond their control. Without question, they risked their own skin to save the lives of many others.
The more I thought about it, the more it bothered me; our entire world is affected by the first two types of people. Every day, we're affected by poor customer service, shoddy work, and people who serve without a servant's heart. We also get to experience leadership that isn't always up front and honest about their intentions. You see it in the headlines nearly every month; "Executive lays off thousands, receives a 10 million dollar bonus". It simply isn't right.
We need more heroes. We need more Christians who are willing to step up and shine in a world that's passing further and further into darkness. We need to really and truly stand up and be salt and light to the people of the Earth. We're not called to be lazy, worthless sluggards. Nor are we to be greedy misers with self-centered ambition. We need to stand out in a good and holy way!
Matthew 5:13 (The Message)
13"Let me tell you why you are here. You're here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You've lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.
If we aren't outstanding in whatever we're doing, we're no better off than the slack employee, or greedy CEO. I challenge you to take a look around and pinpoint the areas where you can be a hero. For me, it's to be a better husband to my wife, father to my children, volunteer within the church body and employee in the workplace. It also means being a "foul weather friend" when the chips are down and other "friends" have bailed out.
These are ordinary opportunities, ones that most people face each and every day. Like the valiant men in Unstoppable, I want to rise to the occasion and be an everyday hero. With the Lord's blessing and strength, you can do the same.
Good Night
Monday, November 22, 2010
Let It Snow!
As I write this message tonight, God has blessed our part of the country with snow. It's such a peaceful, gentle reminder of the love and forgiveness- and cleanliness that comes to us through the salvation of Jesus Christ. Just as everything appears to be clean and pure when it snows, we're purified through the blood of Jesus.
What an amazing gift. Thank you, Lord!
Good Night
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Small Group, Finish Well!
Tonight marks the end of our "Blessed Are" journey through the Beatitudes in the book of Matthew. To celebrate the finale, we all pitched in and had a pre-Thanksgiving Day fellowship meal with all the trimmings. Turkey, ham, stuffing, potatoes, green beans, deviled eggs and rolls, plus much more was on hand- it was glorious!
Below, you'll see Matthew chapters 5-7 from The Message. It's amazing how this version of scripture speaks to me. Perhaps as you sit down with your dinner or snack tonight, you can review these absolute truths as well.
Matthew 5-7 (The Message)
Matthew 5
You're Blessed
1-2 When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down and taught his climbing companions. This is what he said:
3"You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule.
4"You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.
5"You're blessed when you're content with just who you are—no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought.
6"You're blessed when you've worked up a good appetite for God. He's food and drink in the best meal you'll ever eat.
7"You're blessed when you care. At the moment of being 'care-full,' you find yourselves cared for.
8"You're blessed when you get your inside world—your mind and heart—put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.
9"You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family.
10"You're blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God's kingdom.
11-12"Not only that—count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—give a cheer, even!—for though they don't like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble.
Salt and Light
13"Let me tell you why you are here. You're here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You've lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage.
14-16"Here's another way to put it: You're here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We're going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don't think I'm going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I'm putting you on a light stand. Now that I've put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.
Completing God's Law
17-18"Don't suppose for a minute that I have come to demolish the Scriptures— either God's Law or the Prophets. I'm not here to demolish but to complete. I am going to put it all together, pull it all together in a vast panorama. God's Law is more real and lasting than the stars in the sky and the ground at your feet. Long after stars burn out and earth wears out, God's Law will be alive and working.
19-20"Trivialize even the smallest item in God's Law and you will only have trivialized yourself. But take it seriously, show the way for others, and you will find honor in the kingdom. Unless you do far better than the Pharisees in the matters of right living, you won't know the first thing about entering the kingdom.
Murder
21-22"You're familiar with the command to the ancients, 'Do not murder.' I'm telling you that anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder. Carelessly call a brother 'idiot!' and you just might find yourself hauled into court. Thoughtlessly yell 'stupid!' at a sister and you are on the brink of hellfire. The simple moral fact is that words kill.
23-24"This is how I want you to conduct yourself in these matters. If you enter your place of worship and, about to make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then and only then, come back and work things out with God.
25-26"Or say you're out on the street and an old enemy accosts you. Don't lose a minute. Make the first move; make things right with him. After all, if you leave the first move to him, knowing his track record, you're likely to end up in court, maybe even jail. If that happens, you won't get out without a stiff fine.
Adultery and Divorce
27-28"You know the next commandment pretty well, too: 'Don't go to bed with another's spouse.' But don't think you've preserved your virtue simply by staying out of bed. Your heart can be corrupted by lust even quicker than your body. Those leering looks you think nobody notices—they also corrupt.
29-30"Let's not pretend this is easier than it really is. If you want to live a morally pure life, here's what you have to do: You have to blind your right eye the moment you catch it in a lustful leer. You have to choose to live one-eyed or else be dumped on a moral trash pile. And you have to chop off your right hand the moment you notice it raised threateningly. Better a bloody stump than your entire being discarded for good in the dump.
31-32"Remember the Scripture that says, 'Whoever divorces his wife, let him do it legally, giving her divorce papers and her legal rights'? Too many of you are using that as a cover for selfishness and whim, pretending to be righteous just because you are 'legal.' Please, no more pretending. If you divorce your wife, you're responsible for making her an adulteress (unless she has already made herself that by sexual promiscuity). And if you marry such a divorced adulteress, you're automatically an adulterer yourself. You can't use legal cover to mask a moral failure.
Empty Promises
33-37"And don't say anything you don't mean. This counsel is embedded deep in our traditions. You only make things worse when you lay down a smoke screen of pious talk, saying, 'I'll pray for you,' and never doing it, or saying, 'God be with you,' and not meaning it. You don't make your words true by embellishing them with religious lace. In making your speech sound more religious, it becomes less true. Just say 'yes' and 'no.' When you manipulate words to get your own way, you go wrong.
Love Your Enemies
38-42"Here's another old saying that deserves a second look: 'Eye for eye, tooth for tooth.' Is that going to get us anywhere? Here's what I propose: 'Don't hit back at all.' If someone strikes you, stand there and take it. If someone drags you into court and sues for the shirt off your back, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. And if someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously.
43-47"You're familiar with the old written law, 'Love your friend,' and its unwritten companion, 'Hate your enemy.' I'm challenging that. I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that.
48"In a word, what I'm saying is, Grow up. You're kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."
Matthew 6
The World Is Not a Stage
1 "Be especially careful when you are trying to be good so that you don't make a performance out of it. It might be good theater, but the God who made you won't be applauding. 2-4"When you do something for someone else, don't call attention to yourself. You've seen them in action, I'm sure—'playactors' I call them— treating prayer meeting and street corner alike as a stage, acting compassionate as long as someone is watching, playing to the crowds. They get applause, true, but that's all they get. When you help someone out, don't think about how it looks. Just do it—quietly and unobtrusively. That is the way your God, who conceived you in love, working behind the scenes, helps you out.
Pray with Simplicity
5"And when you come before God, don't turn that into a theatrical production either. All these people making a regular show out of their prayers, hoping for stardom! Do you think God sits in a box seat?
6"Here's what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won't be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace.
7-13"The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They're full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God. Don't fall for that nonsense. This is your Father you are dealing with, and he knows better than you what you need. With a God like this loving you, you can pray very simply. Like this:
Our Father in heaven,
Reveal who you are.
Set the world right;
Do what's best— as above, so below.
Keep us alive with three square meals.
Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil.
You're in charge!
You can do anything you want!
You're ablaze in beauty!
Yes. Yes. Yes.
14-15"In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do. You can't get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving others. If you refuse to do your part, you cut yourself off from God's part.
16-18"When you practice some appetite-denying discipline to better concentrate on God, don't make a production out of it. It might turn you into a small-time celebrity but it won't make you a saint. If you 'go into training' inwardly, act normal outwardly. Shampoo and comb your hair, brush your teeth, wash your face. God doesn't require attention-getting devices. He won't overlook what you are doing; he'll reward you well.
A Life of God-Worship
19-21"Don't hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust or—worse!—stolen by burglars. Stockpile treasure in heaven, where it's safe from moth and rust and burglars. It's obvious, isn't it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being.
22-23"Your eyes are windows into your body. If you open your eyes wide in wonder and belief, your body fills up with light. If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, your body is a dank cellar. If you pull the blinds on your windows, what a dark life you will have!
24"You can't worship two gods at once. Loving one god, you'll end up hating the other. Adoration of one feeds contempt for the other. You can't worship God and Money both.
25-26"If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.
27-29"Has anyone by fussing in front of the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference? Instead of looking at the fashions, walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them.
30-33"If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.
34"Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.
Matthew 7
A Simple Guide for Behavior
1-5 "Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging. It's easy to see a smudge on your neighbor's face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, 'Let me wash your face for you,' when your own face is distorted by contempt? It's this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbor.
6"Don't be flip with the sacred. Banter and silliness give no honor to God. Don't reduce holy mysteries to slogans. In trying to be relevant, you're only being cute and inviting sacrilege.
7-11"Don't bargain with God. Be direct. Ask for what you need. This isn't a cat-and-mouse, hide-and-seek game we're in. If your child asks for bread, do you trick him with sawdust? If he asks for fish, do you scare him with a live snake on his plate? As bad as you are, you wouldn't think of such a thing. You're at least decent to your own children. So don't you think the God who conceived you in love will be even better?
12"Here is a simple, rule-of-thumb guide for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them. Add up God's Law and Prophets and this is what you get.
Being and Doing
13-14"Don't look for shortcuts to God. The market is flooded with surefire, easygoing formulas for a successful life that can be practiced in your spare time. Don't fall for that stuff, even though crowds of people do. The way to life—to God!—is vigorous and requires total attention.
15-20"Be wary of false preachers who smile a lot, dripping with practiced sincerity. Chances are they are out to rip you off some way or other. Don't be impressed with charisma; look for character. Who preachers are is the main thing, not what they say. A genuine leader will never exploit your emotions or your pocketbook. These diseased trees with their bad apples are going to be chopped down and burned.
21-23"Knowing the correct password—saying 'Master, Master,' for instance— isn't going to get you anywhere with me. What is required is serious obedience—doing what my Father wills. I can see it now—at the Final Judgment thousands strutting up to me and saying, 'Master, we preached the Message, we bashed the demons, our God-sponsored projects had everyone talking.' And do you know what I am going to say? 'You missed the boat. All you did was use me to make yourselves important. You don't impress me one bit. You're out of here.'
24-25"These words I speak to you are not incidental additions to your life, homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundational words, words to build a life on. If you work these words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who built his house on solid rock. Rain poured down, the river flooded, a tornado hit—but nothing moved that house. It was fixed to the rock.
26-27"But if you just use my words in Bible studies and don't work them into your life, you are like a stupid carpenter who built his house on the sandy beach. When a storm rolled in and the waves came up, it collapsed like a house of cards."
28-29When Jesus concluded his address, the crowd burst into applause. They had never heard teaching like this. It was apparent that he was living everything he was saying—quite a contrast to their religion teachers! This was the best teaching they had ever heard.
Wow. That's a lot to digest in one sitting, but well worth it (kind of like that second piece of pie I had at dinner- yum)! Over these past few months, we and our friends have learned what it means to be blessed through spiritual poverty, what God says about being meek, persecuted and merciful. We've learned the right way to live, how to treat others, and best of all how to communicate with our Lord and Savior, without being a fraud.
We're very pleased to have learned these life lessons with such a great circle of friends.
Good Night
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Thank You, God
I'm extremely thankful for my life. It doesn't always go as planned and I find that there are some things I'd change if I could. But the really important things, like family, friends and my relationship with the Lord are right where they should be.
Good Night
Good Night
Friday, November 19, 2010
Happy Birthday, Windows.
Although it's entering the weekend, I'm going to be heading in to work first thing tomorrow morning. The Facilities team will be rerouting some air returns in our Data Center, so I'll need to be present while the work takes place near the servers.
Speaking of servers; Are you aware that the first generation of Windows launched on November 20, 1985? It's hard to believe, but we've been using Windows for 25 years! Back then, Windows was a graphical layer running on top of DOS- it didn't exist as an Operating System on its own. I still remember adding the "win" statement to the AUTOEXEC.BAT file...
Many IT Professionals literally grew up on, and earn their living through this graphical user interface. Some of the younger Millennial generation know nothing of the legacy command line framework that served as the underpinnings of their beloved Windows for years (I'm old enough to remember using command driven OS's like BASIC and DOS, when there was no native GUI). I'm very thankful to the Lord for placing the desire to tinker with electronics and computers in my spirit when I was very young. I've always enjoyed learning what makes things work.
I'm taking this opportunity to express gratitude to God for the career track He's placed me on. Although I do not always like the routines and stresses associated with my line of work, I'm blessed to be allowed the privilege to earn a college-level income, despite not having a formal degree. I can't wait to see what the Lord's designs are for the second half of my life, in terms of technology and purpose.
Good Night
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Slow Progress
I had to stay home from work today because my daughter was in bed with a fever and a cough that wouldn't stop. After taking care of her needs, I began what would amount to a variety of domestic duties around the house. This occupied the hours between 8:00 AM and about 3:00 PM. After that, I made a dent in one of the volunteering computer projects for the church. This task lasted for a few hours tonight, having been broken up by a family dinner of Taco Soup.
Now that chores are finished, lunches are packed and the kids are in bed, I'm at a decent stopping place. It's time to wind down for the evening. Thankfully, it feels as though something was accomplished today. It's an answer to prayer- progress, even if just a small amount was made. One successful day at a time is all it takes. I'm very thankful.
Good Night
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Uninspired Wednesday
As the Title suggests, I'm running on empty physically, mentally and spiritually. The funny thing is, there are people in my sphere of influence that seem to be working longer hours and accomplishing more than I am, yet I'm always the one who's tired.
Maybe depression is trying to weigh in. Whatever the cause, feelings of unrest, hopelessness and frustration seem to be more common than positive thoughts of late. I've not forgotten my blessings, but I'm just being honest with what I'm feeling today.
I don't like that my house smells like a litter box. It seems to be a non-issue for the rest of my family, but it really and truly bothers and embarrasses me. I hate (yes, hate) that my garage is constantly a bathroom for those felines. It makes me sick to go in there for any purpose and I just boil with anger at the thought of each day that passes by where my home is permitted to be destroyed.
The kids are simply too much. They continue to absolutely trash the house, room by room and my wife and I are exhausted in trying to keep things clean. They constantly sneak food which blows our food budget and at the end of the day, mom and dad are fried. Add in the feelings of anger I have towards the cats and you have bitter, persistent resentment.
In a perfect world, the cats would go away (or at least whoever can't be rehabilitated to actually use the litter box), the house would be repaired, the kids would stop sneaking food and begin to pick up after themselves. I'm praying that this could be a possibility, because on days like today, I want to run away.
"Lord, please heal the feelings of bitterness and anger within me constantly. Please hear my prayers in dealing with the pets, kids and home repairs. Please, just help... Amen."
Good Night
Maybe depression is trying to weigh in. Whatever the cause, feelings of unrest, hopelessness and frustration seem to be more common than positive thoughts of late. I've not forgotten my blessings, but I'm just being honest with what I'm feeling today.
I don't like that my house smells like a litter box. It seems to be a non-issue for the rest of my family, but it really and truly bothers and embarrasses me. I hate (yes, hate) that my garage is constantly a bathroom for those felines. It makes me sick to go in there for any purpose and I just boil with anger at the thought of each day that passes by where my home is permitted to be destroyed.
The kids are simply too much. They continue to absolutely trash the house, room by room and my wife and I are exhausted in trying to keep things clean. They constantly sneak food which blows our food budget and at the end of the day, mom and dad are fried. Add in the feelings of anger I have towards the cats and you have bitter, persistent resentment.
In a perfect world, the cats would go away (or at least whoever can't be rehabilitated to actually use the litter box), the house would be repaired, the kids would stop sneaking food and begin to pick up after themselves. I'm praying that this could be a possibility, because on days like today, I want to run away.
"Lord, please heal the feelings of bitterness and anger within me constantly. Please hear my prayers in dealing with the pets, kids and home repairs. Please, just help... Amen."
Good Night
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Frustrated
How in the world are we supposed to do it all? Work, chores, kids, homework, volunteering, recreation and sleep? Often, there aren't enough hours in the day to do everything we need to do, let alone what we want to do.
In the garage are some old computers for the church which need rebuilding. These have been sitting there for at least 2 months now. I've not been able to sit down and get them done, as something always seems to come up. There's also a speaker system of theirs that I need to repair; as a custom adapter ring needs to be fabricated for the new pro woofer to fit within the enclosure. These things just take time- and I'm oversubscribed. By the time I'm free to work on them at night, I'm really, really tired.
I won't even begin to discuss the hobby I've been waiting five years to resume. I just need more time and energy...
Lord, please help multiply my time and let me use what I have more efficiently, so that so many things that need to be done, ACTUALLY GET DONE! Amen.
Good Night
In the garage are some old computers for the church which need rebuilding. These have been sitting there for at least 2 months now. I've not been able to sit down and get them done, as something always seems to come up. There's also a speaker system of theirs that I need to repair; as a custom adapter ring needs to be fabricated for the new pro woofer to fit within the enclosure. These things just take time- and I'm oversubscribed. By the time I'm free to work on them at night, I'm really, really tired.
I won't even begin to discuss the hobby I've been waiting five years to resume. I just need more time and energy...
Lord, please help multiply my time and let me use what I have more efficiently, so that so many things that need to be done, ACTUALLY GET DONE! Amen.
Good Night
Monday, November 15, 2010
Please Pray For My Wife's Health
My wife is ill and we haven't any idea why. We realize that autumn is typically the season for this sort of thing and it's sounding more and more like the flu, based on her symptoms: aches, pains and she feels feverish.
We've had our immunization shots in October, so I'm not sure of what the deal is. Obviously the annual shot doesn't necessarily mean you won't catch the flu, it just means your chances of contracting the strains included in the vaccine are greatly reduced.
No matter the cause, she's feeling under the weather and could use some support. Please agree with me in prayer for her health and restoration. "Lord, please hold your daughter in the palm of your hands. isolate what ails her and bring your healing touch to her body. Please restore her fully to health, so that she can resume her place as the heart of our family. Amen."
Good Night
We've had our immunization shots in October, so I'm not sure of what the deal is. Obviously the annual shot doesn't necessarily mean you won't catch the flu, it just means your chances of contracting the strains included in the vaccine are greatly reduced.
No matter the cause, she's feeling under the weather and could use some support. Please agree with me in prayer for her health and restoration. "Lord, please hold your daughter in the palm of your hands. isolate what ails her and bring your healing touch to her body. Please restore her fully to health, so that she can resume her place as the heart of our family. Amen."
Good Night
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Are You Doing Everything In Love?
Dishes. Vacuuming. Meetings at work. Rebuking a friend. How are you handling all of these situations? Are you doing all you can, as if you're serving the Lord? When it comes to fellow brothers and sisters, are your interactions pure and handled in love?
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (The Message)
13-14Keep your eyes open, hold tight to your convictions, give it all you've got, be resolute, and love without stopping.
Sadly for most of us, personal feelings and struggles can cloud our relationships and temper our complete success in even the most menial of tasks. We don't always do our best when the boss isn't looking. Sometimes, we give up and don't pursue friends we see struggling. It's not right, but thankfully life never stops presenting opportunities for us to exercise the lessons God teaches us through His Word.
Do your best in everything and keep your heart in the right place this week and see what happens!
Good Night
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (The Message)
13-14Keep your eyes open, hold tight to your convictions, give it all you've got, be resolute, and love without stopping.
Sadly for most of us, personal feelings and struggles can cloud our relationships and temper our complete success in even the most menial of tasks. We don't always do our best when the boss isn't looking. Sometimes, we give up and don't pursue friends we see struggling. It's not right, but thankfully life never stops presenting opportunities for us to exercise the lessons God teaches us through His Word.
Do your best in everything and keep your heart in the right place this week and see what happens!
Good Night
Saturday, November 13, 2010
What Makes A Day Worthwhile
Today ended up being a very long day. I ended up receiving far less sleep than my body required (thanks to a long maintenance period for work), but was able to participate in some pretty awesome things that made every minute worthwhile. For example:
1. Meeting up with some great friends at Starbucks. It's not really about the coffee (in fact, I smuggled in my own), it's about fellowship.
2. Even though the delivery was crude, broken and unpolished, sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ to a man observed to be deeply hurt and jaded.
3. Snuggling (if only for a few minutes) with my amazing wife.
4. Getting crazy with some raw ingredients lying around the house, to spontaneously bake some banana bread for the kids to enjoy.
5. Realizing that we're blessed to actually have electricity, water and household appliances designed to bear the burden of cleansing our clothes and cutlery.
6. Participating in a very intimate worship service at church tonight.
7. Paying for Chai Tea for my wife and I with a free coupon and a fist full of quarters!
8. Having meaningful conversation with Robbie of West Salem Quiznos. (He's a genuine human being and his customer service skills are peerless.)
9. My heart beamed with pride, as my daughter ran a full block home to retrieve a plastic bag without complaint, as to which she used to clean up the droppings left by our dog during an afternoon walk of the neighborhood.
"Thank you, Jesus for the tapestry of blessing you freely showered on me today. Even though there were also some negative things which occurred, I'm choosing to remain focused on all of the beauty you've imparted in these examples above! Amen."
I just had to come back and add these scriptures, which align with my thoughts:
James 1:16-18 (The Message)
16-18So, my very dear friends, don't get thrown off course. Every desirable and beneficial gift comes out of heaven. The gifts are rivers of light cascading down from the Father of Light. There is nothing deceitful in God, nothing two-faced, nothing fickle. He brought us to life using the true Word, showing us off as the crown of all his creatures.
Philippians 4:8-9 (The Message)
8-9Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.
Good Night
1. Meeting up with some great friends at Starbucks. It's not really about the coffee (in fact, I smuggled in my own), it's about fellowship.
2. Even though the delivery was crude, broken and unpolished, sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ to a man observed to be deeply hurt and jaded.
3. Snuggling (if only for a few minutes) with my amazing wife.
4. Getting crazy with some raw ingredients lying around the house, to spontaneously bake some banana bread for the kids to enjoy.
5. Realizing that we're blessed to actually have electricity, water and household appliances designed to bear the burden of cleansing our clothes and cutlery.
6. Participating in a very intimate worship service at church tonight.
7. Paying for Chai Tea for my wife and I with a free coupon and a fist full of quarters!
8. Having meaningful conversation with Robbie of West Salem Quiznos. (He's a genuine human being and his customer service skills are peerless.)
9. My heart beamed with pride, as my daughter ran a full block home to retrieve a plastic bag without complaint, as to which she used to clean up the droppings left by our dog during an afternoon walk of the neighborhood.
"Thank you, Jesus for the tapestry of blessing you freely showered on me today. Even though there were also some negative things which occurred, I'm choosing to remain focused on all of the beauty you've imparted in these examples above! Amen."
I just had to come back and add these scriptures, which align with my thoughts:
James 1:16-18 (The Message)
16-18So, my very dear friends, don't get thrown off course. Every desirable and beneficial gift comes out of heaven. The gifts are rivers of light cascading down from the Father of Light. There is nothing deceitful in God, nothing two-faced, nothing fickle. He brought us to life using the true Word, showing us off as the crown of all his creatures.
Philippians 4:8-9 (The Message)
8-9Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.
Good Night
Friday, November 12, 2010
Looooooong Friday!
As I type this, I'm pulling double-duty. Downstairs, my wife's laptop has been commandeered (Thanks, Babe!) for VPN duty. I always use my Mac for VPN/Windows tasks, but tonight, I had a special need that required a keyboard mapping that I didn't want to deal with. (Nor did I want to get out another PC keyboard at the time) Her laptop is "working" downstairs, while my Mac is "playing" during the writing of this blog. I'm bouncing back and forth- upstairs and down for another hour or two.
What a way to kick off a weekend! Even so, I'm thankful that before too long, sweet slumber awaits. And tomorrow morning, it's off to Starbucks for coffee and fellowship with the guys!
I love Friday nights.
Good Night
What a way to kick off a weekend! Even so, I'm thankful that before too long, sweet slumber awaits. And tomorrow morning, it's off to Starbucks for coffee and fellowship with the guys!
I love Friday nights.
Good Night
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Veteran's Day, 2010
Now that the day is through, it's long past time to stop for a moment and reflect on the lives of the men and women who died protecting the freedom you and I take for granted each day. Freedom isn't free. It's continually paid for in blood by our fallen fathers, sons, mothers, daughters, sisters and brothers. A heartfelt "thank you" is due every serviceman and woman who give of themselves, for countless others. And, they expect nothing in return.
Jesus Christ also shed his lifeblood for countless others. His gift was once and for all, perfectly preserving our eternal freedom through the work on the cross.
John 3:16 (The Message)
"This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person's failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
Good Night
Jesus Christ also shed his lifeblood for countless others. His gift was once and for all, perfectly preserving our eternal freedom through the work on the cross.
John 3:16 (The Message)
"This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person's failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him.
Good Night
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Sleepy Wednesday
It's only the middle of the week and I'm already tired- Friday tired! At least tomorrow is Veteran's Day. It will be a good day to help the kids catch up on homework, while I catch up on cleaning the house. Fun?! My wife and I were hoping to get out in the afternoon for a much-needed date, but I'm afraid our financial situation may put a damper on that plan. We'll see.
No insight tonight, just fatigue. Even so, I'm glad tomorrow brings with it new opportunities. God's mercy is new every morning. With this knowledge, I'm hitting the sheets in a few minutes, so that morning appears to come quickly!
Lamentations 3:22-23 (The Message)
God's loyal love couldn't have run out,
his merciful love couldn't have dried up.
They're created new every morning.
How great your faithfulness!
I'm sticking with God (I say it over and over).
He's all I've got left.
Good Night
No insight tonight, just fatigue. Even so, I'm glad tomorrow brings with it new opportunities. God's mercy is new every morning. With this knowledge, I'm hitting the sheets in a few minutes, so that morning appears to come quickly!
Lamentations 3:22-23 (The Message)
God's loyal love couldn't have run out,
his merciful love couldn't have dried up.
They're created new every morning.
How great your faithfulness!
I'm sticking with God (I say it over and over).
He's all I've got left.
Good Night
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
I Feel So Foolish This Week
At various times this week, I've found myself swearing in certain situations. I'm not "cussing like a sailor", but I've let a few profane words fly as descriptors for stressful situations. I know better, and I'm ashamed. I also repent for my participation in workplace gossip; either telling, or hearing. It's not what an authentic Christian should participate in.
Lord, I'm sorry. I repent and regret my choices. It's not how you would have me live my life, nor does it set me apart as holy. Please forgive me. Amen.
Ephesians 4:29 (Amplified Bible)
Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word nor unwholesome or worthless talk [ever] come out of your mouth, but only such [speech] as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God's favor) to those who hear it.
Titus 3:2 (Amplified Bible)
To slander or abuse or speak evil of no one, to avoid being contentious, to be forbearing (yielding, gentle, and conciliatory), and to show unqualified courtesy toward everybody.
Change has to start with me.
Good Night
Lord, I'm sorry. I repent and regret my choices. It's not how you would have me live my life, nor does it set me apart as holy. Please forgive me. Amen.
Ephesians 4:29 (Amplified Bible)
Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word nor unwholesome or worthless talk [ever] come out of your mouth, but only such [speech] as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God's favor) to those who hear it.
Titus 3:2 (Amplified Bible)
To slander or abuse or speak evil of no one, to avoid being contentious, to be forbearing (yielding, gentle, and conciliatory), and to show unqualified courtesy toward everybody.
Change has to start with me.
Good Night
Monday, November 8, 2010
Tired Monday
It's nearing 11 O'clock and I'm out of gas... I'm too tired to go into much, but I'd like to thank my beautiful wife for making a simple trip to the grocery store fun. I love her very much; every man should be so blessed with a woman like her.
Proverbs 31:10-11 (Amplified Bible)
10 A capable, intelligent, and virtuous woman--who is he who can find her? She is far more precious than jewels and her value is far above rubies or pearls.
11 The heart of her husband trusts in her confidently and relies on and believes in her securely, so that he has no lack of [honest] gain or need of [dishonest] spoil.
That's my wife. She's the best.
Good Night
Proverbs 31:10-11 (Amplified Bible)
10 A capable, intelligent, and virtuous woman--who is he who can find her? She is far more precious than jewels and her value is far above rubies or pearls.
11 The heart of her husband trusts in her confidently and relies on and believes in her securely, so that he has no lack of [honest] gain or need of [dishonest] spoil.
That's my wife. She's the best.
Good Night
Sunday, November 7, 2010
When God Has A Lesson Planned, We'll Get The Point
Our guest speaker this weekend spent some additional time in Matthew, concerning the Beatitudes. Specifically, the subject of meekness. If you recall, I posted about this last night- but after hearing the sermon a second (and third) time, the lesson the Lord had in store for me became more clear; keep focused on Him, stop worrying and forget about running on the treadmill for material things that don't endure.
That's a tough pill to swallow, considering I've had an issue with placing far too much value on material things (and the status that we foolishly affix to them). When you're a guy that likes "stuff", it's a bit of a kick in the teeth to have the [absolutely true] Word of God tell you that materialism is backward thinking. I've fought this issue for decades.
Thankfully, the Lord has been reminding me of His lessons through the Bible, family, friends and via general life experiences. Like an artisan carefully removing portions of rock to slowly reveal a sculpture's potential, I can feel the Lord lovingly shaping my heart of stone into the likeness of His. It takes time and patience. When there's nothing left for Him to refine or remove, we'll perfectly reflect the nature of Christ.
Thank you for the way to authentic life, Lord Jesus!
Good Night
That's a tough pill to swallow, considering I've had an issue with placing far too much value on material things (and the status that we foolishly affix to them). When you're a guy that likes "stuff", it's a bit of a kick in the teeth to have the [absolutely true] Word of God tell you that materialism is backward thinking. I've fought this issue for decades.
Thankfully, the Lord has been reminding me of His lessons through the Bible, family, friends and via general life experiences. Like an artisan carefully removing portions of rock to slowly reveal a sculpture's potential, I can feel the Lord lovingly shaping my heart of stone into the likeness of His. It takes time and patience. When there's nothing left for Him to refine or remove, we'll perfectly reflect the nature of Christ.
Thank you for the way to authentic life, Lord Jesus!
Good Night
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Focus On What's Important
This morning, when my friend Scott and I got together for coffee, we talked about creativity, opportunity and the reasons why we wanted to be successful with providing financial resources for our families through business ventures. It's not that we're seeking riches directly, but we're both in weak financial shape right now and are fighting the emotional ramifications and stresses that can accompany that.
We'd discussed the opportunities that financial gain can provide. It seemed a worthy goal at the time; express creative abilities and talents that God gave us and fashion them into a business that could satisfy our needs.
Tonight's sermon seemed to point in another direction, however. Let's review Matthew chapter 6 and then noodle on those instructions for a while:
Matthew 6:19-34 (The Message)
A Life of God-Worship
19-21"Don't hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust or—worse!—stolen by burglars. Stockpile treasure in heaven, where it's safe from moth and rust and burglars. It's obvious, isn't it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being.
22-23"Your eyes are windows into your body. If you open your eyes wide in wonder and belief, your body fills up with light. If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, your body is a dank cellar. If you pull the blinds on your windows, what a dark life you will have!
24"You can't worship two gods at once. Loving one god, you'll end up hating the other. Adoration of one feeds contempt for the other. You can't worship God and Money both.
25-26"If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.
27-29"Has anyone by fussing in front of the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference? Instead of looking at the fashions, walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them.
30-33"If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.
34"Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.
I especially love verse 34. Focus on what God is doing right now and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. Stop worrying. Stop fussing. Take one day at a time.
I still think the Lord placed running a small business in my heart. But what's important is that I don't lose focus on Him. If it's meant to be, He will add it to my life. If it's not supposed to happen, He knows best. Whatever the case, I'm not to hold on to anything He gives me too tightly. It's relationships that matter, not material things.
Good Night
We'd discussed the opportunities that financial gain can provide. It seemed a worthy goal at the time; express creative abilities and talents that God gave us and fashion them into a business that could satisfy our needs.
Tonight's sermon seemed to point in another direction, however. Let's review Matthew chapter 6 and then noodle on those instructions for a while:
Matthew 6:19-34 (The Message)
A Life of God-Worship
19-21"Don't hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust or—worse!—stolen by burglars. Stockpile treasure in heaven, where it's safe from moth and rust and burglars. It's obvious, isn't it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being.
22-23"Your eyes are windows into your body. If you open your eyes wide in wonder and belief, your body fills up with light. If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, your body is a dank cellar. If you pull the blinds on your windows, what a dark life you will have!
24"You can't worship two gods at once. Loving one god, you'll end up hating the other. Adoration of one feeds contempt for the other. You can't worship God and Money both.
25-26"If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.
27-29"Has anyone by fussing in front of the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference? Instead of looking at the fashions, walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them.
30-33"If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.
34"Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.
I especially love verse 34. Focus on what God is doing right now and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. Stop worrying. Stop fussing. Take one day at a time.
I still think the Lord placed running a small business in my heart. But what's important is that I don't lose focus on Him. If it's meant to be, He will add it to my life. If it's not supposed to happen, He knows best. Whatever the case, I'm not to hold on to anything He gives me too tightly. It's relationships that matter, not material things.
Good Night
Friday, November 5, 2010
No Better Way To Spend A Friday Night!
A weeks' worth of anticipation had come down to tonight. A dear family friend, Eric, came over for Taco Soup and Wii Sports. It was truly a fun time this evening. Afterward, Ice Cream with chocolate sauce and butterfinger topping was for dessert. Yum!
I honestly can't think of a better way to spend a Friday evening. It was wonderful fellowship.
Good Night
I honestly can't think of a better way to spend a Friday evening. It was wonderful fellowship.
Good Night
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Forgiveness
Tonight, my wife and I sat down and watched an episode of The Big Bang Theory on the DVR. As always, it was very funny. Tonight's moral was based on forgiveness. Sheldon ends up sabotaging an FBI interview that ultimately costs Howard his place on a high profile government operation.
Howard was devastated and rightfully angry at Sheldon for the way he was treated. At first, he didn't accept Sheldon's apology. However, through comedic process, the friends were reunited by the time the credits were rolling. I love that show.
We've all wronged someone at some point in our lives. And, we've each been hurt by others. There are no exceptions to this rule in the human race. Not in this age, anyway. What do you do when someone treats you badly? Let's take a peek in the New Testament and see what Jesus says:
Matthew 18:21-33 (New International Version)
The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant
21 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”
22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
23 “Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24 As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him. 25 Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.
26 “At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ 27 The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.
28 “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded.
29 “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’
30 “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. 31 When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened.
32 “Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’
That's pretty deep. If we want God to forgive us for the mistakes we make, it's imperative that we treat others with a forgiving heart. That's something that hits close to home for me and is often easy to grasp in concept, but difficult to put into practice.
Who do you need to forgive, or seek forgiveness from? What are you waiting for?
Good Night
Howard was devastated and rightfully angry at Sheldon for the way he was treated. At first, he didn't accept Sheldon's apology. However, through comedic process, the friends were reunited by the time the credits were rolling. I love that show.
We've all wronged someone at some point in our lives. And, we've each been hurt by others. There are no exceptions to this rule in the human race. Not in this age, anyway. What do you do when someone treats you badly? Let's take a peek in the New Testament and see what Jesus says:
Matthew 18:21-33 (New International Version)
The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant
21 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”
22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
23 “Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24 As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him. 25 Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.
26 “At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ 27 The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.
28 “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded.
29 “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’
30 “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. 31 When the other servants saw what had happened, they were outraged and went and told their master everything that had happened.
32 “Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. 33 Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’
That's pretty deep. If we want God to forgive us for the mistakes we make, it's imperative that we treat others with a forgiving heart. That's something that hits close to home for me and is often easy to grasp in concept, but difficult to put into practice.
Who do you need to forgive, or seek forgiveness from? What are you waiting for?
Good Night
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
I Love The Message
Ever since our pastor shared a translation of the Bible called The Message with us, it's been wonderful for literally interpreting "the message" (pun intended) in plain terms that I can understand. It's practical, and beautiful.
I was listening to the Daily Audio Bible podcast this week and we've been spending some time in Titus. This is another book written by the Apostle Paul, and I must have skimmed through it all too quickly last year, because I don't recall all of the nuggets of truth that are present there today.
Take this series of verses for example:
Titus 3:3-5 (The Message)
It wasn't so long ago that we ourselves were stupid and stubborn, dupes of sin, ordered every which way by our glands, going around with a chip on our shoulder, hated and hating back. But when God, our kind and loving Savior God, stepped in, he saved us from all that. It was all his doing; we had nothing to do with it. He gave us a good bath, and we came out of it new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit. Our Savior Jesus poured out new life so generously. God's gift has restored our relationship with him and given us back our lives. And there's more life to come—an eternity of life! You can count on this.
Think about verse 3. Doesn't that sound like the MO for most of the world today? How applicable that is, despite being written about 2,000 years ago! Now, if everyone would accept the gift of Christ's salvation through His crucifixion, burial and resurrection, we would all be lead to eternal life!
Maybe there are people you know who do not know Jesus- I'm aware of more than a few people in my own sphere of influence. Shouldn't we step out and share our testimonies with them? Shouldn't we be spreading the good news? What's stopping us from advancing the kingdom?
Good Night
I was listening to the Daily Audio Bible podcast this week and we've been spending some time in Titus. This is another book written by the Apostle Paul, and I must have skimmed through it all too quickly last year, because I don't recall all of the nuggets of truth that are present there today.
Take this series of verses for example:
Titus 3:3-5 (The Message)
It wasn't so long ago that we ourselves were stupid and stubborn, dupes of sin, ordered every which way by our glands, going around with a chip on our shoulder, hated and hating back. But when God, our kind and loving Savior God, stepped in, he saved us from all that. It was all his doing; we had nothing to do with it. He gave us a good bath, and we came out of it new people, washed inside and out by the Holy Spirit. Our Savior Jesus poured out new life so generously. God's gift has restored our relationship with him and given us back our lives. And there's more life to come—an eternity of life! You can count on this.
Think about verse 3. Doesn't that sound like the MO for most of the world today? How applicable that is, despite being written about 2,000 years ago! Now, if everyone would accept the gift of Christ's salvation through His crucifixion, burial and resurrection, we would all be lead to eternal life!
Maybe there are people you know who do not know Jesus- I'm aware of more than a few people in my own sphere of influence. Shouldn't we step out and share our testimonies with them? Shouldn't we be spreading the good news? What's stopping us from advancing the kingdom?
Good Night
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Date Night, Take 2
For 2 days in a row, my wife and I have been trying to fit in the time for a movie. After kids coming in and out of our room, setback after setback, we finally did it!
Thank you, Jesus.
Thank you, Jesus.
Monday, November 1, 2010
November
There's no more "heading into Fall". We're smack-dab in the middle of it. Blustery winds and rain, along with the sea of falling leaves of crimson, gold and fire are all around us. It's difficult to believe that we're heading into the home stretch of 2010! It seems like only a few days ago, we were beating the heat of Summer, giving thanks for the Central Air Conditioner.
November is definitely a time to move indoors, nestle in and prepare for the rapidly approaching winter months. It's a time of change and reflection.
Today marks unprecedented, painful reflection for a co-worker of mine. This past weekend, his wife passed away. Although I do not know exact specifics, she was battling health issues for a while. He's not too much older than I am (within 10 years, I'm sure) and it hurts to try and empathize. I can't imagine what I'd be feeling, if I were in his position. The pain and sense of loss would be unbearable.
Please join with me in prayer, for Derrick and the members of his family:
"Lord, Jesus. I can't imagine what Derrick is going through right now. Please touch his heart, and begin to heal the raw condition of his spirit. Please let him grieve in a healthy way, Lord. Please let him cling to you throughout this process and guide he and his family into a relationship with you. Please let him know that this is not the end of life, but the beginning. Amen."
Good Night
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