My own MP3 player!
I got one! It was 'mine'! I could load all the songs that I could ever want on that puppy, plug in my headset and get to cutting the grass! This was a PERFECT birthday gift (or was it Father's Day?) from the family. I could hardly wait to step into the 21st century...
...but I had a problem...
...I had no clue how to use it. None.
I did not know how to power it up. I had no clue where the volume control was or where the headset plugged into the jack. I didn't have the foggiest how to 'download' any tunes. My 'no tech, low tech' inadequacies were fully exposed. I felt like I needed a 'Forrest Gump' moment, "Run Forrest! Run!" I so so embarrassed at my total inability to make sense of that small rectangle that I wanted to run far away and hide, (like to a Best Buy MP3 Seminar).
Then, kindness was lavished all over this MP3 idiot. My young adult kids patiently showed me how to make my new toy function. As they schooled me, it was like a light turned on inside my head. I realized that I did not have to run. In just moments, my embarrassment turned into a 'Ah Ha' moment. I got it. I understood. I was no longer intimidated by that techno gadget. Charlette, (my lady for 30 years) showed me how to get my favorite tunes into my MP3. I was ready to take on the lawn as I was fully equipped by Sanyo and Honda! All it took was an 'Ah Ha' moment.
"Then the man said, 'Lord, I believe,' and he worshiped Him, (Jesus)." John 9:38
Jesus made it a habit of making blind eyes see. In this instance, an adult man, completely blind since birth, is touched by Jesus, and through a follow up act of obedience, is made to see. Some argued that his own prenatal sin was the cause of his blindness, (see John 9:1-2), a proposition that Jesus rejected entirely. When he could see, he became Exhibit A for those who preferred to prosecute Jesus for His audacity to heal on the Sabbath, rather than to celebrate with the 20/20 Man and to thank God for His obvious merciful movement in their midst.
For this man, there was a greater redemptive act in store to be offered by the Son of Man. When Jesus found this rejected man who had been banished from the high minded and cold hearted assembly of the 'religious' (his crime was that he knew he had been the object of God's grace while others debated the obvious) He asked;
"Do you believe in the Son of Man?" (John 5:35)
This was the 'Ah Ha' moment for the once physically blinded beggar. Looking into the eyes of Jesus, his spiritual eyes were now opened to recognize not only his Healer, but his Deliverer. In that moment of stark realization, he gave Jesus more than his gratitude, he gave him his faith; "Lord, I believe." Those three words of response are loaded with meaning and application for all who will take note and pay special attention here in the 21st technical century of electronic sophistication. In fact, the Son of Man continues to perform spiritual lasiks surgery, revealing His awesome light to those groping in daily spiritual darkness.
He too, patiently waits for you and I to get to the 'Ah Ha' moment. He has kindly provided for multiple physical and material needs apart from our full realization of His generosity and mercy. In doing so He is making known a love far greater than even material kindness can fully express.
"Who is he, sir? Tell me so that I may believe in him." (John 9:36).
"You have now seen Him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you." (John 9:37)
I bet you are 'getting it' now! Knowing Christ as Lord initially is a huge 'Ah Ha!'. You will find that 'Ah Ha' moments just multiply from that point on!
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Shock and Awe
"No one ever spoke the way this man does."
John 7:46
John 7:46
When Jesus spoke, the hearts of many became ground zero. Immediate spiritual realizations rocked His audiences, His disciples and those whom He conversed privately with. Every word was precisely timed and directly aimed. It was like Jesus had an intrinsic GPS system that guided every word to an intended soul destination...that NEVER missed the target!
What was the point?
Some were so stunned that they would marvel; "Surely this man is the Prophet!" (John 7:40). Others were so overwhelmed that they would say outrightly; "This man is the Christ!" (John 7:41). People then, like people now...were spiritually famished...right in the middle of society steeped in religious exercise and expression. In this chapter of the Bible, the annual Feast of Tabernacles was being celebrated...a remembrance of God's miraculous provisions for His people in their post-deliverance wanderings in the desert sands of Sinai, centuries and centuries before. Smack in the middle of this entire week of religious festivity, the Temple in eyesight...religious people in a spiritual black hole longed for a personal God Movement.
Does this not strike you as odd?
Teachers of the Scripture (they were called Pharisees) made it their habit to study, apply and communicate God's Word to Israel. They were disciplined learners, academically advanced, entrusted with setting the spiritual direction of the nation...and they did...they led their listeners to spiritually empty personal barrenness. They did this while they taught incessantly and while they hoisted themselves up on public prayer platforms in the business district during the lunch hour. Meticulous to the detail, these spiritual leaders and communicators parceled out to the fraction any financial offerings dedicated to God. They prided themselves on having touched all the religious bases and expecting others to listen to their renderings of Scripture (mixed with their own intellect and rule keeping) so that the 'God-man' connection could be made and sustained.
What was the point?
Some were so stunned that they would marvel; "Surely this man is the Prophet!" (John 7:40). Others were so overwhelmed that they would say outrightly; "This man is the Christ!" (John 7:41). People then, like people now...were spiritually famished...right in the middle of society steeped in religious exercise and expression. In this chapter of the Bible, the annual Feast of Tabernacles was being celebrated...a remembrance of God's miraculous provisions for His people in their post-deliverance wanderings in the desert sands of Sinai, centuries and centuries before. Smack in the middle of this entire week of religious festivity, the Temple in eyesight...religious people in a spiritual black hole longed for a personal God Movement.
Does this not strike you as odd?
Teachers of the Scripture (they were called Pharisees) made it their habit to study, apply and communicate God's Word to Israel. They were disciplined learners, academically advanced, entrusted with setting the spiritual direction of the nation...and they did...they led their listeners to spiritually empty personal barrenness. They did this while they taught incessantly and while they hoisted themselves up on public prayer platforms in the business district during the lunch hour. Meticulous to the detail, these spiritual leaders and communicators parceled out to the fraction any financial offerings dedicated to God. They prided themselves on having touched all the religious bases and expecting others to listen to their renderings of Scripture (mixed with their own intellect and rule keeping) so that the 'God-man' connection could be made and sustained.
"No one ever spoke the way that this man does."
That one comment triggered some serious anger issues for these religious but empty zealots.
Jesus did not speak to be lauded as a 'communicator'. Jesus did not speak to be admired or to scratch an ego itch. Listen to what He has to say and you decide...
Jesus did not speak to be lauded as a 'communicator'. Jesus did not speak to be admired or to scratch an ego itch. Listen to what He has to say and you decide...
"If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether My teaching comes from God or whether I speak of My own. He who speaks on his own does so to gain honor for himself, but he who works for the honor of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him." John 7:17-18
This is why the words of Jesus still 'shock and awe' in the 21st century ear...He came with a message and for a reason...'the Word made flesh'...communicating the heart of God for those 'religious' or irreligious in an audible and visual way. When He spoke, the literal dead were made alive. When He spoke, fish jumped in nets and storm winds calmed. When He spoke, compassion mattered more than duty. When Jesus opened His mouth, the Father's will that He be offered as sacrifice for sin...a permanent sacrifice for sin...a lasting sacrifice for sin so that where 'sin abounded grace did much more abound' was the offer on the table for those who would believe.
Jesus declared that He came directly from the Father and He was sent by the Father's commissioning to rescue the guilt ridden, to return the lost glory, stolen in the Garden of Eden, and to promise future hope with Him where sin had no place or power to ever 'steal' again.
This is why the words of Jesus still 'shock and awe' in the 21st century ear...He came with a message and for a reason...'the Word made flesh'...communicating the heart of God for those 'religious' or irreligious in an audible and visual way. When He spoke, the literal dead were made alive. When He spoke, fish jumped in nets and storm winds calmed. When He spoke, compassion mattered more than duty. When Jesus opened His mouth, the Father's will that He be offered as sacrifice for sin...a permanent sacrifice for sin...a lasting sacrifice for sin so that where 'sin abounded grace did much more abound' was the offer on the table for those who would believe.
Jesus declared that He came directly from the Father and He was sent by the Father's commissioning to rescue the guilt ridden, to return the lost glory, stolen in the Garden of Eden, and to promise future hope with Him where sin had no place or power to ever 'steal' again.
"Many in the crowd put their faith in Him."
John 7:31
John 7:31
Count me in 'the crowd' too!
You may be in search of meaning for today and purpose and hope for your future. Listen to the words of Jesus...and to others who speak His words to you. Listen carefully. Listen repeatedly. Listen prayerfully.
You can trust Him. In a world of skepticism...you can trust Him. In a culture of constant religious duty and time consuming and energy sapping, spirit depleting exercises...you can trust Him. Trust Him with your heart...he won't break it. Trust Him with your life...he won't waste it. Take Him at His Word. It is the kind of 'Shock and Awe' that will certainly rock doubt and skepticism into a heap from which you will arise as an astonished believer.
You may be in search of meaning for today and purpose and hope for your future. Listen to the words of Jesus...and to others who speak His words to you. Listen carefully. Listen repeatedly. Listen prayerfully.
You can trust Him. In a world of skepticism...you can trust Him. In a culture of constant religious duty and time consuming and energy sapping, spirit depleting exercises...you can trust Him. Trust Him with your heart...he won't break it. Trust Him with your life...he won't waste it. Take Him at His Word. It is the kind of 'Shock and Awe' that will certainly rock doubt and skepticism into a heap from which you will arise as an astonished believer.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Battling Skepticism
It was stupid...but at the time was entertaining.
It was the annual "Beat Bob Contest" that I drummed up with the teenagers in my Youth Ministry.
Each year I would challenge my teenagers to to 'Out Bob' me. Who could chug the most from a 2 liter un-chilled Coke was a favorite. The sounds that erupted afterwards were even better received! If you could out beat me during the pie eating contest...you were tall timber in our group! The most favorite was the Jalapeno eating contest. That brought out the most contestants. The stage would be lined with students ready to take me on...one jalapeno at a time!
I fudged a bit. Pride was at stake. I had a reputation of being unbeaten up to this point.
To help me a bit, I took a jar of jalapeno and emptied it replacing them with pickled peppers. I knew I could eat a ton of those while the kids swallowed hard the hot ones! Each year, time after time the crowd was amazed as their Youth Pastor could down jar after jar of the volcanic peppers while teen after teen ran for the bathroom. I could not be ousted! Until I was found out and forced to 'play fair', (that is what those kids called it, anyway). In all those years of beating down the competition, there was a skeptical sense that I was not all 'the man' that I had the boasted to be. On that day...I was easily dethroned by a 8th grader!
Skepticism is sometimes justified. Candidates in hunt of office pander to our appetites with pledges that the experienced electorate have heard time and time again. The idealism of hoped for change...the kind that makes a difference slips away into a sea of doubt. Athletes are paid millions to throw and catch, hit and run...and some use hidden substances that increase their physical edge on the field of play...and lose the Hall in Fame in route to their success. The people in the stands wonder who is for 'real'. Coaches grant permission to their camera crews to to tape signals from the opposing sideline to give them advantage. After all, as one put it, "If you ain't cheating...you ain't trying!" Do the Championship rings really matter? To some...you bet!
So, what can you believe in? Who can you really trust? When a pledge is given, a promise spoken, can you know for sure that it was meant for you?
Let's talk about 'faith' this week. In the culture of the dissatisfied, let's talk about trust...real trust.
It was the annual "Beat Bob Contest" that I drummed up with the teenagers in my Youth Ministry.
Each year I would challenge my teenagers to to 'Out Bob' me. Who could chug the most from a 2 liter un-chilled Coke was a favorite. The sounds that erupted afterwards were even better received! If you could out beat me during the pie eating contest...you were tall timber in our group! The most favorite was the Jalapeno eating contest. That brought out the most contestants. The stage would be lined with students ready to take me on...one jalapeno at a time!
I fudged a bit. Pride was at stake. I had a reputation of being unbeaten up to this point.
To help me a bit, I took a jar of jalapeno and emptied it replacing them with pickled peppers. I knew I could eat a ton of those while the kids swallowed hard the hot ones! Each year, time after time the crowd was amazed as their Youth Pastor could down jar after jar of the volcanic peppers while teen after teen ran for the bathroom. I could not be ousted! Until I was found out and forced to 'play fair', (that is what those kids called it, anyway). In all those years of beating down the competition, there was a skeptical sense that I was not all 'the man' that I had the boasted to be. On that day...I was easily dethroned by a 8th grader!
Skepticism is sometimes justified. Candidates in hunt of office pander to our appetites with pledges that the experienced electorate have heard time and time again. The idealism of hoped for change...the kind that makes a difference slips away into a sea of doubt. Athletes are paid millions to throw and catch, hit and run...and some use hidden substances that increase their physical edge on the field of play...and lose the Hall in Fame in route to their success. The people in the stands wonder who is for 'real'. Coaches grant permission to their camera crews to to tape signals from the opposing sideline to give them advantage. After all, as one put it, "If you ain't cheating...you ain't trying!" Do the Championship rings really matter? To some...you bet!
So, what can you believe in? Who can you really trust? When a pledge is given, a promise spoken, can you know for sure that it was meant for you?
Let's talk about 'faith' this week. In the culture of the dissatisfied, let's talk about trust...real trust.
"For it is My Father's will that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in Him shall have everlasting life, and I will raise him up on the last day."
John 6:40
John 6:40
Jesus knew what we do not want to admit. We look to the wrong places and to the wrong people. We want from others that which only He can deliver...lasting peace, soul rest, perfect contentment, eternal life, to name a few. We get duped. We have fallen to the image without looking carefully at the substance. We have done that so many times...given away our trust, that in our brokenness we pledge that we will NEVER do that again. No more marriage vows. No more verbal agreements. No more believing what you see. No more trusting the next guarantee. Warranty's have their 'small print'. We are stripped from believing faith in the One Who loves us and draws us because we have been burned by too many others in the past with words of assurance and acts that fooled us.
This week...as you read through John 6-10, mark EVERY time you read the word 'believe'. You will see that in Christ, the deepest of needs are dealt with head on, and skepticism melts away even the hardest of hearts. It's time for you to believe. It is time for you to partake of the 'Bread of Life'. It is time for you to jump in the boat that He keeps from drift. It is time for you to be seated with among the crowds for a taste of the divine nourishment that cannot be counterfeited.
Pull out the dollar from your pocket. "In God We Trust". Before you spend it...believe it...not in the ability of the money to bring you what you are looking for, but in the truth for a supply that 100 cents just can't make happen.
It's time to 'believe'. He keeps His promises. I have met too many people along the journey that have confirmed that. They have risen above the ranks of the skeptics...and you can too!
This week...as you read through John 6-10, mark EVERY time you read the word 'believe'. You will see that in Christ, the deepest of needs are dealt with head on, and skepticism melts away even the hardest of hearts. It's time for you to believe. It is time for you to partake of the 'Bread of Life'. It is time for you to jump in the boat that He keeps from drift. It is time for you to be seated with among the crowds for a taste of the divine nourishment that cannot be counterfeited.
Pull out the dollar from your pocket. "In God We Trust". Before you spend it...believe it...not in the ability of the money to bring you what you are looking for, but in the truth for a supply that 100 cents just can't make happen.
It's time to 'believe'. He keeps His promises. I have met too many people along the journey that have confirmed that. They have risen above the ranks of the skeptics...and you can too!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Riptide
The best family vacation ever!
Anna Maria Island, Florida....many years ago...we still recall this one because it was nothing short of absolute fun for all seven of the Weber Tribe.
We were living in Tampa at the time and were offered a beach cabin by a wonderfully kind member of our church. We did not have to pray long over that invitation! We enjoyed the beach, (private I might add), the sun, the surf, fetching up sand dollars, sunset evening, sand castles...and well, you get it. Quiet, enjoyable, night time family games with the kids...this was the absolute best experience we could ever have dreamed of.
Nearing the end of our week, the morning surf seemed different. Our youngest, (now away at college) was goofing in what seemed to be shallow waves, well within our view from the beach. We began to notice that he began to drift...and then to bob up and down while he was adrift, and then to obviously struggle to catch his breath above the water that was now sweeping him away. He was caught in a riptide!
In shock and panic, emotion took over. With Charlette coaching me from the shore I ran to the water and began to swim as hard as I could to our son. When I reached him, he clung to me, both of us relieved by the safety of being locked together. His clutch was one that I would never forget...he was not letting go...and that was fine with the both of us! As I turned to swim with him parallel to the beach, ( the only way out of the riptide), I turned and to my amazement there was my oldest son! He was a young, young teenager at the time. I was horrified...now three of us were in harm's way. "What are you doing here?" I screamed! "That is my little brother, and he needs me!" Seth said without a hesitation.
We made it back to the shore...all three of us...and a bond formed that day between the youngest and the oldest that remains strong to this moment...years and years later.
Anna Maria Island, Florida....many years ago...we still recall this one because it was nothing short of absolute fun for all seven of the Weber Tribe.
We were living in Tampa at the time and were offered a beach cabin by a wonderfully kind member of our church. We did not have to pray long over that invitation! We enjoyed the beach, (private I might add), the sun, the surf, fetching up sand dollars, sunset evening, sand castles...and well, you get it. Quiet, enjoyable, night time family games with the kids...this was the absolute best experience we could ever have dreamed of.
Nearing the end of our week, the morning surf seemed different. Our youngest, (now away at college) was goofing in what seemed to be shallow waves, well within our view from the beach. We began to notice that he began to drift...and then to bob up and down while he was adrift, and then to obviously struggle to catch his breath above the water that was now sweeping him away. He was caught in a riptide!
In shock and panic, emotion took over. With Charlette coaching me from the shore I ran to the water and began to swim as hard as I could to our son. When I reached him, he clung to me, both of us relieved by the safety of being locked together. His clutch was one that I would never forget...he was not letting go...and that was fine with the both of us! As I turned to swim with him parallel to the beach, ( the only way out of the riptide), I turned and to my amazement there was my oldest son! He was a young, young teenager at the time. I was horrified...now three of us were in harm's way. "What are you doing here?" I screamed! "That is my little brother, and he needs me!" Seth said without a hesitation.
We made it back to the shore...all three of us...and a bond formed that day between the youngest and the oldest that remains strong to this moment...years and years later.
"If anyone see his brother commit a sin that does not lead to death, he should pray and God will give him life."
1 John 5:16
Sin can get you in trouble...deep trouble. It is possible to let yourself 'play' in danger, with the thought that the sweeping of the tide of trouble you can easily escape by sheer will. Then, you watch as your life is swept away by an avoidable compromise that led to a spiritual entrapment that cost you just about everything...until the Rescuer showed up!
Today, keep yourself out the 'riptide' of compromise. Watch your thought life. Guard your heart. Be careful what you listen to and be sure to take note of any possibility of being 'swept away'. Thank God for those that love you enough to pray for you and who place themselves in the difficult position of interceding for you...sometimes even face to face. For those that have loved you enough to warn you...listen and receive the invitation the Father is making for your safety.
AND...be willing to be used of Him to be a 'Rescuer' if you see someone that you know is being caught away by the deadly riptide of sin.
If to love God is to obey Him, (1 John is all about that theme!), then be sure that you love Him enough to keep yourself from willful sin and to accept the call of active duty that puts you in directly in the position of restoring hope to your 'brother' or your 'sister'.
'Family' is always worth putting yourself at risk for...especially those of the 'Family of Faith'. Jesus did that for you...we can do no less than that for one another.
Today, keep yourself out the 'riptide' of compromise. Watch your thought life. Guard your heart. Be careful what you listen to and be sure to take note of any possibility of being 'swept away'. Thank God for those that love you enough to pray for you and who place themselves in the difficult position of interceding for you...sometimes even face to face. For those that have loved you enough to warn you...listen and receive the invitation the Father is making for your safety.
AND...be willing to be used of Him to be a 'Rescuer' if you see someone that you know is being caught away by the deadly riptide of sin.
If to love God is to obey Him, (1 John is all about that theme!), then be sure that you love Him enough to keep yourself from willful sin and to accept the call of active duty that puts you in directly in the position of restoring hope to your 'brother' or your 'sister'.
'Family' is always worth putting yourself at risk for...especially those of the 'Family of Faith'. Jesus did that for you...we can do no less than that for one another.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
One Word
"Relationships"
He continued, "That is the MOST important word in the English language. Don't ever forget that. This one word is the bottom line for you making a difference in this world."
I should have known that. I thought maybe 'success' would be 'the word'. Maybe 'money', or 'position', 'promotion' or the word 'me' would be better. I was a young grad student at the time and also a professional on the climb to the top...until this 'one word' hit me...and it hit me hard.
How about 'character', or 'integrity', or 'vision'? These are weighty words of worthwhile pursuits. Why not them? What about 'love'? Now that is a word that is just about at the core of every song (Rock, Bach, Classic or Country) or Hallmark card. Then I realized that I could 'love' peanut butter and not people and not make a lasting difference on anyone! That would be the end result if I 'loved' any object or ambition not focused on 'relationship(s)'.
He continued, "That is the MOST important word in the English language. Don't ever forget that. This one word is the bottom line for you making a difference in this world."
I should have known that. I thought maybe 'success' would be 'the word'. Maybe 'money', or 'position', 'promotion' or the word 'me' would be better. I was a young grad student at the time and also a professional on the climb to the top...until this 'one word' hit me...and it hit me hard.
How about 'character', or 'integrity', or 'vision'? These are weighty words of worthwhile pursuits. Why not them? What about 'love'? Now that is a word that is just about at the core of every song (Rock, Bach, Classic or Country) or Hallmark card. Then I realized that I could 'love' peanut butter and not people and not make a lasting difference on anyone! That would be the end result if I 'loved' any object or ambition not focused on 'relationship(s)'.
"Dear friends, since God so loved us, we ought also love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and His love is made complete in us."
1 John 4:11-12
1 John 4:11-12
One of the messages that has saturated our culture with rare exception is that those 'words' previously mentioned are really the most important descriptions of what matters most...all of which affix attention on 'self'. Think about it. Think about it seriously. BUT, the message of the Scripture is so much different. The 'spirit of the world' does not recognize that Jesus came to love people, but to teach people, encourage people, be an example to people, but certainly not to redeem people. Yeah, Jesus was a good guy...but that is about it. That is why so many enjoy what Jesus had to say, but do not see Him as God's Son, expressing the Father's divine love for people!
'People'...now that is a 'relationship' based word! God sent His Son so that we could relate to God personally and with others who are in that relationship with Him as well. Did you read those first two words, "Dear friends...". There is the people principle from the very start!
So, today...make an adjustment...it may be radical to others who love things and use people when you start loving people and using things. Try this as you focus on the 'one word' today;
* Remember that you are invited by God to have relationship with Him personally. He initiated the relationship (read 1 John 4:9-10 and you will see that to be true) with you because you are the object of His affection and love. He has addressed the issue that has severed the relationship that sin caused by the Cross upon which His Son died.
* Remember that your new relationship with Him will require that you pay attention to it. When you value the relationship, it grows and deepens, and you will experience the daily joy of personal intimacy with God and watching His activity in your life that will bless you and others.
* Evaluate how you relate to others. Take a serious look at the messages that you communicate to the one you are married to, the kids that you are raising, the folk that you are neighbor to, the associates that you work with in the Conference Room or the job site. If God's love is in you (if you know Him then you can expect His heart for people to become your heart for people), use your words wisely, even with the inflection and tone of your voice as well as your body language. Since 'no one has seen God at any time', how can He be paid attention to? By you expressing the kind and the quality of 'love' that is His very character at work in you. You will go the 'second mile'. You will value people just like He values you.
This is how 'His love is made complete in you' as the Scripture says. Even the word 'love' is relational. It means that you are so valued that the need you cannot meet for yourself, God is willing to meet even at the expense of sacrifice...the kind that is focused on you. YOU are loved beyond the comfort or the convenience that God could have opted for instead of sending His willing Son to the Cross. Do you love others willingly and if necessary, sacrificially? Now that is the relational test that you can self-grade.
Oscar Thompson was right. 'Relationship' IS the most important word in the English language. He was one of my professors in Seminary 25 years ago. When he died of cancer just 18 months after making this introductory statement in my first class with him, I wept. I wept not because he was right. I wept because he befriended me. He chose to relate to me. His teaching became personal to me. I knew he loved God, and I realized that he loved me (and many others too!). God's love was fully expressed to me through the life of this yielded Christ-centered man. I wept because I did not say 'thank you' for the godly imprint this dear man made on me.
One day I will be able to say 'thank you'...to Oscar and especially to the Lord Who dispatched this man to love me to Him.
The power of 'one word' can change you and others around you as well. Relate well today, and if you haven't...confess that to the God who loves you...and then get on with the joy of building 'relationships' that mean something and that will last here and forever.
'People'...now that is a 'relationship' based word! God sent His Son so that we could relate to God personally and with others who are in that relationship with Him as well. Did you read those first two words, "Dear friends...". There is the people principle from the very start!
So, today...make an adjustment...it may be radical to others who love things and use people when you start loving people and using things. Try this as you focus on the 'one word' today;
* Remember that you are invited by God to have relationship with Him personally. He initiated the relationship (read 1 John 4:9-10 and you will see that to be true) with you because you are the object of His affection and love. He has addressed the issue that has severed the relationship that sin caused by the Cross upon which His Son died.
* Remember that your new relationship with Him will require that you pay attention to it. When you value the relationship, it grows and deepens, and you will experience the daily joy of personal intimacy with God and watching His activity in your life that will bless you and others.
* Evaluate how you relate to others. Take a serious look at the messages that you communicate to the one you are married to, the kids that you are raising, the folk that you are neighbor to, the associates that you work with in the Conference Room or the job site. If God's love is in you (if you know Him then you can expect His heart for people to become your heart for people), use your words wisely, even with the inflection and tone of your voice as well as your body language. Since 'no one has seen God at any time', how can He be paid attention to? By you expressing the kind and the quality of 'love' that is His very character at work in you. You will go the 'second mile'. You will value people just like He values you.
This is how 'His love is made complete in you' as the Scripture says. Even the word 'love' is relational. It means that you are so valued that the need you cannot meet for yourself, God is willing to meet even at the expense of sacrifice...the kind that is focused on you. YOU are loved beyond the comfort or the convenience that God could have opted for instead of sending His willing Son to the Cross. Do you love others willingly and if necessary, sacrificially? Now that is the relational test that you can self-grade.
Oscar Thompson was right. 'Relationship' IS the most important word in the English language. He was one of my professors in Seminary 25 years ago. When he died of cancer just 18 months after making this introductory statement in my first class with him, I wept. I wept not because he was right. I wept because he befriended me. He chose to relate to me. His teaching became personal to me. I knew he loved God, and I realized that he loved me (and many others too!). God's love was fully expressed to me through the life of this yielded Christ-centered man. I wept because I did not say 'thank you' for the godly imprint this dear man made on me.
One day I will be able to say 'thank you'...to Oscar and especially to the Lord Who dispatched this man to love me to Him.
The power of 'one word' can change you and others around you as well. Relate well today, and if you haven't...confess that to the God who loves you...and then get on with the joy of building 'relationships' that mean something and that will last here and forever.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
God in the Wind
Tornadoes have hit.
Last night, tornadoes pummeled regions and cities of the south. This morning, many are celebrating over the election results of last night's Super Tuesday Presidential Primaries, while others are accessing their losses...stunned and grieved.
Network and cable news outlets have brought to our immediate attention the frightening details of those who have lost their lives as well as others who have lost their homes, possessions and personal memories in the devastation of their properties. This is a sad day...for Democrats, Republicans and Independants alike...our fellow citizens are in the midst of calamity as we web browse and blog. Where is God is all of this? What do we do in response to such tragedy?
At Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, a Southern Baptist campus of 3,500 students, took a direct tornadic hit! Initial estimates say that over 1/3 of campus buildings and structures have been totally destroyed. Students had been trapped in dorms in the aftermath of the storm. Hardly a car was left untouched. In the midst of the debis, there was not a single fatality as had earlier been reported. One newscast put it like this; "God was in the wind".
Yes, He was.
Here a some things that we might want to consider on this side of the storm and as lives are now in the initial stages of recovering and re-building;
Remember that in Christ, we belong to the Heavenly Father.
Last night, tornadoes pummeled regions and cities of the south. This morning, many are celebrating over the election results of last night's Super Tuesday Presidential Primaries, while others are accessing their losses...stunned and grieved.
Network and cable news outlets have brought to our immediate attention the frightening details of those who have lost their lives as well as others who have lost their homes, possessions and personal memories in the devastation of their properties. This is a sad day...for Democrats, Republicans and Independants alike...our fellow citizens are in the midst of calamity as we web browse and blog. Where is God is all of this? What do we do in response to such tragedy?
At Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, a Southern Baptist campus of 3,500 students, took a direct tornadic hit! Initial estimates say that over 1/3 of campus buildings and structures have been totally destroyed. Students had been trapped in dorms in the aftermath of the storm. Hardly a car was left untouched. In the midst of the debis, there was not a single fatality as had earlier been reported. One newscast put it like this; "God was in the wind".
Yes, He was.
Here a some things that we might want to consider on this side of the storm and as lives are now in the initial stages of recovering and re-building;
Remember that in Christ, we belong to the Heavenly Father.
"How great is the love the Father has lavished upon us, that we should be called the children of God! And that is who we are."
1 John 3:1
1 John 3:1
God is always reaching out to us. He is always at work around us, inviting us to know Him, personally, practically and intimately. Maybe you have been introduced to Him through a friend, a parent, a classmate, a work associate, a neighbor...or through a 'storm' in your own life that just about blew you apart...and then you reached out to Him through the nail scarred hand of His Son...than hand that was waiting for your embrace.
Reflect on your relationship with Him that brings real and lasting change;
Reflect on your relationship with Him that brings real and lasting change;
"Everyone who has this hope in Him, purifies himself as He is pure."
1 John 3:3
1 John 3:3
Sometimes we are jolted in taking life a bit more seriously. We come to the place that our personal assessment of our life agenda and priority is not just lacking...it is bankrupt! In the pursuit of personhood, pleasure and fulfillment, compromises, regrettable choices and sin...yes, sin, have stolen real life from us and left us with a broken life and a hardened heart. For the Christ follower especially, compromises, neglect and eventual sin have led to a starved spirit that has neither time or want for a Holy God or a holy life. Blessing or calamity draws our attention to the accountability that we have before our Redeemer Christ, and we are propelled to repentance and we long for personal cleansing and lasting spiritual transformation.
Restore your heart for the sake of others;
Restore your heart for the sake of others;
'If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him?"
1 John 3:17
1 John 3:17
Imagine yourself to be a parent of one of those Union University students for just a moment. Anxious? Fearful? Relieved? Waiting? Overwhelmed? Praying? Amazed? Grateful? All of these and more?
No loss of life...that is a blessing and indeed a miracle! What now? How are the helpless helped? How are the ruins re-built...in the soul and on the campus? How are needs met? This is the time and the hour that those who say that they know Christ especially have the joyous obligation to offer of themselves...materially, financially, emotionally, and without a doubt...prayerfully. To say that we love God and abandon the destitute is a spiritual oxymoron! Today, maybe at this moment...stop and pray God's grace upon these students, their parents and the faculty and staff of Union University. Ask for His comfort to be lavished upon them. Ask that all material provisions for urgent and immediate physical needs be met. Offer your resources to give 'teeth' to the compassion that you have and express in a tangible and practical way.
Start with Union University...and broaden the circle of your prayer to God in behalf of those who have lost loved ones in the aftermath of last night's storm.
Don't forget to look for 'God in the wind' either. In the winds of adversity or in the breezes of blessing...He is indeed, 'God in the wind'.
AND, if you have a kid off at college...be sure to contact them today assuring them of your love and blessing them with your affirmations. Hey, I have three in college...one far away, one further away...one near by...not to mention the two others stretched from Virginia to south central Kansas...I better get to emailing and texting...right away!
No loss of life...that is a blessing and indeed a miracle! What now? How are the helpless helped? How are the ruins re-built...in the soul and on the campus? How are needs met? This is the time and the hour that those who say that they know Christ especially have the joyous obligation to offer of themselves...materially, financially, emotionally, and without a doubt...prayerfully. To say that we love God and abandon the destitute is a spiritual oxymoron! Today, maybe at this moment...stop and pray God's grace upon these students, their parents and the faculty and staff of Union University. Ask for His comfort to be lavished upon them. Ask that all material provisions for urgent and immediate physical needs be met. Offer your resources to give 'teeth' to the compassion that you have and express in a tangible and practical way.
Start with Union University...and broaden the circle of your prayer to God in behalf of those who have lost loved ones in the aftermath of last night's storm.
Don't forget to look for 'God in the wind' either. In the winds of adversity or in the breezes of blessing...He is indeed, 'God in the wind'.
AND, if you have a kid off at college...be sure to contact them today assuring them of your love and blessing them with your affirmations. Hey, I have three in college...one far away, one further away...one near by...not to mention the two others stretched from Virginia to south central Kansas...I better get to emailing and texting...right away!
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
'SuFat' Tuesday
Does anyone really know what day it is?According to the political calendar, it is 'Super Tuesday'...the day when loads of states will be engaged in the Presidential primary ballot casting for delegate selection for the Democratic and Republican Parties. You know about the candidates and who is running for the highest office in the land...and you may be one of the many who after making careful investigation of the issues and the candidates knows exactly who it is that you will opt for and cheer on as the election results come in later in the evening.
According to the 'Party' calendar...well...its 'Fat Tuesday' or "Mardi Gras". This is the climax for parties and parades that began on January 6th and is to conclude on this day before Ash Wednesday. Folk by the thousands crowd the streets of New Orleans especially...many of which have no idea what it is exactly that is being celebrated...they just like the jazz and the party atmosphere!
According to the liturgical calendar, this is the day before the season of Lent is to be observed, a time when introspection and spiritual preparation for Easter begins in earnest...with the discarding of habits or the giving up of whatever it may be that keeps you from being the person of character or spirituality that you hope one day to realize. For some, that means giving up Snickers candy bars, (say it isn't so!), or smoking, or over eating, gossiping or gambling or you name it...the list is endless!
That is why I have called today 'SuFat Tuesday' for 2008.
Make it 'official'.No matter what today is to some or to many, this can be the day that you KNOW something important, eternal and with certainty, according to the Scriptures...
"We know that we have passed from death to life because we love our brothers."
1 John 3:14
You may be confused as to who to vote for, or what all the partying on the Gulf Coast is about, but one thing you can know for sure is that in Christ, you are free to live, to live well, to live for others, and to live eternally. That is God's guarantee to you.
So in all the choices of 'SuFat Tuesday'...make sure that you choose real life. No candidate can guarantee that. No party can ever satisfy that. If you need more answers, go to the 'First Steps' page on our website and begin the journey to real living TODAY!
According to the 'Party' calendar...well...its 'Fat Tuesday' or "Mardi Gras". This is the climax for parties and parades that began on January 6th and is to conclude on this day before Ash Wednesday. Folk by the thousands crowd the streets of New Orleans especially...many of which have no idea what it is exactly that is being celebrated...they just like the jazz and the party atmosphere!
According to the liturgical calendar, this is the day before the season of Lent is to be observed, a time when introspection and spiritual preparation for Easter begins in earnest...with the discarding of habits or the giving up of whatever it may be that keeps you from being the person of character or spirituality that you hope one day to realize. For some, that means giving up Snickers candy bars, (say it isn't so!), or smoking, or over eating, gossiping or gambling or you name it...the list is endless!
That is why I have called today 'SuFat Tuesday' for 2008.
Make it 'official'.No matter what today is to some or to many, this can be the day that you KNOW something important, eternal and with certainty, according to the Scriptures...
"We know that we have passed from death to life because we love our brothers."
1 John 3:14
You may be confused as to who to vote for, or what all the partying on the Gulf Coast is about, but one thing you can know for sure is that in Christ, you are free to live, to live well, to live for others, and to live eternally. That is God's guarantee to you.
So in all the choices of 'SuFat Tuesday'...make sure that you choose real life. No candidate can guarantee that. No party can ever satisfy that. If you need more answers, go to the 'First Steps' page on our website and begin the journey to real living TODAY!
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