Every now and then an image strikes me and it gives me cause to pause and reflect on the state of my heart. How much do I care about what is going on in the lives of those around me?
Check out the 45 second clip below and not only notice what happens but especially what doesn’t happen.
Every day people around us are struck down by the “vehicles” of rejection, condescension, judgment, superiority, poverty, injustice and apathy. What am I doing about it?
Friday, June 06, 2008
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Restoring the Soul
With respect to doing ministry I’ve been “running” pretty hard for several months. I have some vacation coming up in mid-Summer but more than taking a break from work I have needed to tend to my soul. So, I spent a couple of days in Ocean Shores, Washington this past week. I love sitting by the ocean, watching waves, reading or journaling, etc. It connects me with God in ways that my soul can take a deep long drink.
The Psalmist said, “As the deer longs for the water brooks, so my soul longs for You, O God.” (Psalm 42:1)
Whether your soul gets empty by serving God and people, or by squandering life and sinning, an empty soul is an empty soul.
I’ve been reminded about biblical heroes who got to empty, non-faith(full) places in their lives. Noah got drunk. Abraham lied. Jacob deceived. Moses had a temper. Elijah burned out. Jeremiah got depressed and suicidal. Jonah was a racist. Thomas doubted. John Mark deserted Paul. Timothy had ulcers.
How is your soul? Do you understand why it is well (or not) with your soul? Do you know how to engage God and be restored?
The Psalmist said, “As the deer longs for the water brooks, so my soul longs for You, O God.” (Psalm 42:1)
Whether your soul gets empty by serving God and people, or by squandering life and sinning, an empty soul is an empty soul.
I’ve been reminded about biblical heroes who got to empty, non-faith(full) places in their lives. Noah got drunk. Abraham lied. Jacob deceived. Moses had a temper. Elijah burned out. Jeremiah got depressed and suicidal. Jonah was a racist. Thomas doubted. John Mark deserted Paul. Timothy had ulcers.
How is your soul? Do you understand why it is well (or not) with your soul? Do you know how to engage God and be restored?
Saturday, May 24, 2008
How Does One Say "Thanks" For Giving Your Life?
The last Monday in May is observed in the US as Memorial Day, a day to remember those who have died in our nation’s service. Perhaps because we focus on having a three day weekend and therefore we travel or do house projects or host backyard BBQ’s, we don’t often reflect very well on the sacrifice that has been made by over a million American servicemen and women. Their sacrifices enable our freedom.
Friday the Associated Press released a story about a recent awarding of the Medal of Honor to PFC Ross McGinnis of Pennsylvania. The Medal of Honor is the nation’s highest military honor.
In 2006 there was much violence on the Northeastern side of Baghdad, Iraq. On December 4 a patrol was dispatched to the area and Private McGinnis was in the gunner’s hatch of a Humvee when a grenade was tossed by insurgents into the vehicle. McGinnis had been trained in such a situation to yell, “Grenade” and then leap from the vehicle to safety. However, the grenade fell to the floor of the Humvee and lodged in a corner. None of the three soldiers in the Humvee below McGinnis could get out of the vehicle. Rather than jump to his own safety McGinnis jumped to the floor of the Humvee and cradled the grenade next to his body. The explosion was mostly absorbed by his body. McGinnis was instantly killed and his three buddies were wounded but saved.
Staff Sergeant Ian Newland was one of the soldiers saved by McGinnis. He was the most severely wounded of the three surviving soldiers. After several surgeries Newland still has over 50 pieces of metal under his skin that cannot be removed.
USA Today reported that in answer to the question, “Why McGinnis did it?” Newland says, “Because we were his brothers. He loved us.” In a YouTube testimony Newland said, “Not a day goes by, not an hour goes by that I don’t think about McGinnis’ sacrifice. Whenever I smell my daughter’s hair or see my son’s smile or feel the soft touch of my wife I am grateful all over again for the sacrifice of my friend.”
Newland said, “How can you really thank someone who gave his life for you? The way that I’ll thank Ross is to live my life to the fullest. If Ross could give his 19-year-old life, then I will live all my life for however many years I live, in order to live it to the fullest.”
First, I want to say thanks for all those who have given the ultimate sacrifice of their life for my freedom. Newland’s comments stirred greater joy in me today as I enjoyed just being in the same house with my wife and son.
Second, I must add that the details and sentiments of these news reports are so closely connected to my faith in Jesus Christ. In a similar way, my sin and rebellion against God in effect dropped a bomb of condemnation in the vehicle of my life that was certain death. Jesus called out to me, fell on the bomb and absorbed all the deadly outcomes that were meant for me. I’m eternally saved and as Newland pointed out, the only way to really say thanks is to live my life to the fullest. The main difference is that McGinnis is gone and won’t be seen in this world again. Jesus however, rose from the dead and I “see” Him and do life with Him everyday. His presence and power enable me to live life to the fullest. Thank you Jesus.
Friday the Associated Press released a story about a recent awarding of the Medal of Honor to PFC Ross McGinnis of Pennsylvania. The Medal of Honor is the nation’s highest military honor.
In 2006 there was much violence on the Northeastern side of Baghdad, Iraq. On December 4 a patrol was dispatched to the area and Private McGinnis was in the gunner’s hatch of a Humvee when a grenade was tossed by insurgents into the vehicle. McGinnis had been trained in such a situation to yell, “Grenade” and then leap from the vehicle to safety. However, the grenade fell to the floor of the Humvee and lodged in a corner. None of the three soldiers in the Humvee below McGinnis could get out of the vehicle. Rather than jump to his own safety McGinnis jumped to the floor of the Humvee and cradled the grenade next to his body. The explosion was mostly absorbed by his body. McGinnis was instantly killed and his three buddies were wounded but saved.
Staff Sergeant Ian Newland was one of the soldiers saved by McGinnis. He was the most severely wounded of the three surviving soldiers. After several surgeries Newland still has over 50 pieces of metal under his skin that cannot be removed.
USA Today reported that in answer to the question, “Why McGinnis did it?” Newland says, “Because we were his brothers. He loved us.” In a YouTube testimony Newland said, “Not a day goes by, not an hour goes by that I don’t think about McGinnis’ sacrifice. Whenever I smell my daughter’s hair or see my son’s smile or feel the soft touch of my wife I am grateful all over again for the sacrifice of my friend.”
Newland said, “How can you really thank someone who gave his life for you? The way that I’ll thank Ross is to live my life to the fullest. If Ross could give his 19-year-old life, then I will live all my life for however many years I live, in order to live it to the fullest.”
First, I want to say thanks for all those who have given the ultimate sacrifice of their life for my freedom. Newland’s comments stirred greater joy in me today as I enjoyed just being in the same house with my wife and son.
Second, I must add that the details and sentiments of these news reports are so closely connected to my faith in Jesus Christ. In a similar way, my sin and rebellion against God in effect dropped a bomb of condemnation in the vehicle of my life that was certain death. Jesus called out to me, fell on the bomb and absorbed all the deadly outcomes that were meant for me. I’m eternally saved and as Newland pointed out, the only way to really say thanks is to live my life to the fullest. The main difference is that McGinnis is gone and won’t be seen in this world again. Jesus however, rose from the dead and I “see” Him and do life with Him everyday. His presence and power enable me to live life to the fullest. Thank you Jesus.
Friday, May 23, 2008
"Prince Caspian" Intrigues
Thursday I got to see the latest rendering of C.S. Lewis’ “The Chronicles of Narnia”. “Prince Caspian” picks up where “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe” ended.
I’ll not summarize or review the plot. There are a lot of reviews one can read. If you like profound and important messages conveyed in story telling then I think you’ll like “Caspian”. I would not recommend it for smaller children because of the amount of warring and sword fighting in the story, though there is no blood or gore.
Lewis has a way of capturing theological truths and insights with pithy sayings. Throughout the day I continued to linger on the line uttered by young Lucy upon her seeing Aslan the Lion (a Christ figure) for the first time in years.
Lucy sees Aslan and with awe and wonder remarks, “You’re much bigger than you used to be.” Aslan kindly replies, “Yes, and as you get older I’ll become bigger and bigger.” (my paraphrase)
The longer I’ve known God through faith in Christ the “bigger” He has seemed to me. I’ve been a Christ follower for 37 years and I’m more impressed with the sovereignty, majesty and benevolence of God than ever before. I’m more awed and moved to humble worship than before. I’m more trusting of His goodness and justice, though I’m more aware of human brokenness, then ever before.
Perhaps you saw the film and were impacted by another thought. Please share.
I’ll not summarize or review the plot. There are a lot of reviews one can read. If you like profound and important messages conveyed in story telling then I think you’ll like “Caspian”. I would not recommend it for smaller children because of the amount of warring and sword fighting in the story, though there is no blood or gore.
Lewis has a way of capturing theological truths and insights with pithy sayings. Throughout the day I continued to linger on the line uttered by young Lucy upon her seeing Aslan the Lion (a Christ figure) for the first time in years.
Lucy sees Aslan and with awe and wonder remarks, “You’re much bigger than you used to be.” Aslan kindly replies, “Yes, and as you get older I’ll become bigger and bigger.” (my paraphrase)
The longer I’ve known God through faith in Christ the “bigger” He has seemed to me. I’ve been a Christ follower for 37 years and I’m more impressed with the sovereignty, majesty and benevolence of God than ever before. I’m more awed and moved to humble worship than before. I’m more trusting of His goodness and justice, though I’m more aware of human brokenness, then ever before.
Perhaps you saw the film and were impacted by another thought. Please share.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Pray God's Comfort for the Chapman Family
Steven Curtis Chapman has for years been one of my favorite singers and song writers. I’m moved by his lyrics and his authenticity. I have followed his life, ministry and family for over 15 years. He has won 5 Grammy’s and over 50 Dove Awards.
The last time I heard Chapman sing in person was at Key Arena in Seattle at a marriage conference. He told some of the story of a song he wrote along with his wife Mary Beth several years ago. A friend of one of their children had a difficult family life. Her dad had been arrested and was in jail. The song asked the question, “Who’s gonna love Maria?” Ten years after recording that song Steven met a small Chinese girl who had been orphaned and the foster parents named her Maria. When Steven held her and looked into her beautiful eyes the song lyrics began echoing in his head and heart and he knew that he had to adopt that child, even though he and Mary Beth already had five other children!
The Chapmans not only adopted three Chinese children but they also launched a ministry to help others with the expense of adoption. They have provided grants to over 1700 other families to help with adoption expenses.
Wednesday 5 year old Maria was accidentally killed when she was run over by a SUV at her home driven by her older teenage brother. Several family members witnessed the accident. You can read more about it here.
What a precious family and sweet little girl. My heart breaks for them and I pray God’s grace and comfort upon them.
The Chapman’s song expressed their heart about the plight of children who live with too much pain and too little love. Maria became the picture of the need of so many children. The words are below--
Maria
Maria -she's too young to understand, but old enough to feel the pain
The last time I heard Chapman sing in person was at Key Arena in Seattle at a marriage conference. He told some of the story of a song he wrote along with his wife Mary Beth several years ago. A friend of one of their children had a difficult family life. Her dad had been arrested and was in jail. The song asked the question, “Who’s gonna love Maria?” Ten years after recording that song Steven met a small Chinese girl who had been orphaned and the foster parents named her Maria. When Steven held her and looked into her beautiful eyes the song lyrics began echoing in his head and heart and he knew that he had to adopt that child, even though he and Mary Beth already had five other children!
The Chapmans not only adopted three Chinese children but they also launched a ministry to help others with the expense of adoption. They have provided grants to over 1700 other families to help with adoption expenses.
Wednesday 5 year old Maria was accidentally killed when she was run over by a SUV at her home driven by her older teenage brother. Several family members witnessed the accident. You can read more about it here.
What a precious family and sweet little girl. My heart breaks for them and I pray God’s grace and comfort upon them.
The Chapman’s song expressed their heart about the plight of children who live with too much pain and too little love. Maria became the picture of the need of so many children. The words are below--
Maria
Maria -she's too young to understand, but old enough to feel the pain
Of living where no love can grow with no hope for change
Maria - her world is an angry place but she makes sure that scars don't show
And with every hurt her tender heart is growing cold (but)
CHORUS
Who, who's gonna love Maria
Who, who's gonna touch her with the tenderness she longs for
Like a desert longs for rain She's got a hunger deep inside and with every tear she cries
She wonders if there's someone out there somewhere
Who's gonna love Maria (Maria)
She looks in the mirror now and the little girl is gone
But still the search for someone's love goes on and on for Maria
But does anybody care or even notice her at all
Is anyone listening close enough to hear her call (and who)
BRIDGE
Maria if you can hear me, please know that you're not forgotten
Somebody's trying to get to you
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Increasing Gas Prices, Like the Heart, Demands an Overhaul
The headline reads, “Thousands of Outdated Gas Station Pumps Can’t Sell Fuel Over $3.99”. It seems that older gas pumps haven’t been replaced with newer pumps in a lot of small town and rural locations. It costs $10,000-$15,000 per pump to replace. The less populated areas don’t do enough business and the profit margins are too slim to afford upgrades.
So, as gas prices are beginning to creep over the $4.00 per gallon mark in many places, the stations with the older pumps are facing a dilemma. How does one charge more for gas when the mechanical meter in the pump literally can’t charge more?
Many are trying to retrofit their meters with rebuilt meters that have higher numbers but the orders are backed up for 2-3 months.
I hate the idea of gas selling for over $4.00 per gallon. However, this story caused me to reflect on the limitations of our “mechanical meter”, our heart. There is a limit on the capacity a human heart can be compassionate, caring, generous, giving, sacrificial, patient, etc. Some people have more capacity than others but everyone one has an internal “meter” that literally can’t go to the next “number”.
Following Jesus Christ and receiving life from Him is the “mechanical overhaul" that gives a man or woman capacities for life that are beyond self.
So, as gas prices are beginning to creep over the $4.00 per gallon mark in many places, the stations with the older pumps are facing a dilemma. How does one charge more for gas when the mechanical meter in the pump literally can’t charge more?
Many are trying to retrofit their meters with rebuilt meters that have higher numbers but the orders are backed up for 2-3 months.
I hate the idea of gas selling for over $4.00 per gallon. However, this story caused me to reflect on the limitations of our “mechanical meter”, our heart. There is a limit on the capacity a human heart can be compassionate, caring, generous, giving, sacrificial, patient, etc. Some people have more capacity than others but everyone one has an internal “meter” that literally can’t go to the next “number”.
Following Jesus Christ and receiving life from Him is the “mechanical overhaul" that gives a man or woman capacities for life that are beyond self.
Friday, May 09, 2008
Be Prepared for This Sunday
Quick, do you remember what the significance is of this Sunday?
Yes, it is also Mother’s Day and an appropriate card or gift is in order. To see my post on the history of Mother’s Day click here. However my reminder is about something much more historic and significant. This Sunday is Pentecost.
The word “Pentecost” means fiftieth day. Originally Pentecost was celebrated by Hebrews fifty days after Passover. It was an agricultural festival that celebrated God’s goodness to provide a harvest. By the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 Jews began focusing their observance of Pentecost on God’s gift of the Torah (Law).
For Christians Pentecost Sunday falls fifty days after Easter and has taken on an entirely different meaning as is described in Acts 2, when the Holy Spirit of God powerfully fell upon followers of Jesus Christ, fulfilling the prophecies of Joel 2 and the promise of Jesus in Acts 1:8. Because God’s Spirit has fallen upon Christians we have been empowered to be witnesses to the Good News (Gospel) of Jesus’ saving work upon the cross and in our lives.
When Christians observe/celebrate Pentecost Sunday the focus is upon the hope we have in Christ and the mission He has entrusted to us. Our mission is to share His Good News with others. In my tradition on Pentecost Sunday we pray for a specific people group in the world that has yet to hear about Jesus. This year we’re praying for the people of the Amazon Basin of South America.
Thank God for Moms, for family, enjoy connecting with loved ones but this Sunday don’t forget to worship God and renew your commitment to His purpose and mission among us.
(the art is an 18th century rendition of the Spirit falling at Pentecost by Jean Restout)
Yes, it is also Mother’s Day and an appropriate card or gift is in order. To see my post on the history of Mother’s Day click here. However my reminder is about something much more historic and significant. This Sunday is Pentecost.
The word “Pentecost” means fiftieth day. Originally Pentecost was celebrated by Hebrews fifty days after Passover. It was an agricultural festival that celebrated God’s goodness to provide a harvest. By the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 Jews began focusing their observance of Pentecost on God’s gift of the Torah (Law).
For Christians Pentecost Sunday falls fifty days after Easter and has taken on an entirely different meaning as is described in Acts 2, when the Holy Spirit of God powerfully fell upon followers of Jesus Christ, fulfilling the prophecies of Joel 2 and the promise of Jesus in Acts 1:8. Because God’s Spirit has fallen upon Christians we have been empowered to be witnesses to the Good News (Gospel) of Jesus’ saving work upon the cross and in our lives.
When Christians observe/celebrate Pentecost Sunday the focus is upon the hope we have in Christ and the mission He has entrusted to us. Our mission is to share His Good News with others. In my tradition on Pentecost Sunday we pray for a specific people group in the world that has yet to hear about Jesus. This year we’re praying for the people of the Amazon Basin of South America.
Thank God for Moms, for family, enjoy connecting with loved ones but this Sunday don’t forget to worship God and renew your commitment to His purpose and mission among us.
(the art is an 18th century rendition of the Spirit falling at Pentecost by Jean Restout)
Thursday, May 08, 2008
People & Circumstances can be EGR
So I got into my new office one week ago. One of our staff ordered our phone and DSL service. We switched from our current DSL provider to Verizon. We’ve had our phone with Verizon and bundling it with DSL was going to save some money. A new modem was supposed to be shipped and our service was supposed to be operational by last Friday. Good timing for our office. Theoretically.
We didn’t receive the modem or the service so I called. Since that first call I’ve literally spoken to 18 Verizon reps and logged at least three and half hours on the phone. The details of the problems are too boring to write about but if you’ve ever tried to discuss a multifaceted issue with a robot, I mean person, who can only talk with you about one issue, then you begin to understand the dilemma. Once I would introduce an issue that was beyond their programming, sorry, I mean training, then they would thrust you back into the voicemail tunnel so that you could figure out which button to push next.
Both the people and circumstances were EGR (extra grace required).
I’m a busy guy. Most people are today so I don’t feel extraordinary about that. However, I have a relationship with God that works like this: “I’m Your servant. You are Lord over my time. I’ll spend time every day in ways that You want.”
So after the tenth person and a couple of hours I’m questioning, “God, is this how you want me spending my time?” There are leaders to support, sermons and studies to prepare, people in need that require attention……you get the point. Was sitting at my desk on “hold” how God wanted me to spend my time.
Then the “light bulb” came on. How does anyone grow in patience unless one experiences people and circumstances that require patience? Since I didn’t possess enough patience to deal with the mounting frustrations I needed extra grace from God to have and grow into more patience.
As most have discovered, if you need patience (or love, forgiveness, generosity, wisdom, etc.) usually God doesn’t just dump that upon you. Usually God gives grace to you in a circumstance that requires patience (love, forgiveness, etc.). Accepting God’s grace and then moving forward with that person or circumstance that is EGR brings life change and growth.
Today if someone offers the typical American greeting, “How’s it going?” I will honestly reply, “I’m in a season of personal growth.”
We didn’t receive the modem or the service so I called. Since that first call I’ve literally spoken to 18 Verizon reps and logged at least three and half hours on the phone. The details of the problems are too boring to write about but if you’ve ever tried to discuss a multifaceted issue with a robot, I mean person, who can only talk with you about one issue, then you begin to understand the dilemma. Once I would introduce an issue that was beyond their programming, sorry, I mean training, then they would thrust you back into the voicemail tunnel so that you could figure out which button to push next.
Both the people and circumstances were EGR (extra grace required).
I’m a busy guy. Most people are today so I don’t feel extraordinary about that. However, I have a relationship with God that works like this: “I’m Your servant. You are Lord over my time. I’ll spend time every day in ways that You want.”
So after the tenth person and a couple of hours I’m questioning, “God, is this how you want me spending my time?” There are leaders to support, sermons and studies to prepare, people in need that require attention……you get the point. Was sitting at my desk on “hold” how God wanted me to spend my time.
Then the “light bulb” came on. How does anyone grow in patience unless one experiences people and circumstances that require patience? Since I didn’t possess enough patience to deal with the mounting frustrations I needed extra grace from God to have and grow into more patience.
As most have discovered, if you need patience (or love, forgiveness, generosity, wisdom, etc.) usually God doesn’t just dump that upon you. Usually God gives grace to you in a circumstance that requires patience (love, forgiveness, etc.). Accepting God’s grace and then moving forward with that person or circumstance that is EGR brings life change and growth.
Today if someone offers the typical American greeting, “How’s it going?” I will honestly reply, “I’m in a season of personal growth.”
Sunday, May 04, 2008
A Little Splash of Color Refreshes the Soul
It was a long week. My regular routine also included moving my office across town, launching a major community service project for my Rotary Club, attending two parties to celebrate friends and message prep that was a little extraordinary.
By 1:00 p.m. Sunday I just wanted to go home and take a nap but my wife suggested that we go to Mt. Vernon, Washington and check out the Tulip Festival. Today was the last day for this season and in all our years in Washington we had never seen the tulips.
Wow. I couldn’t get over the brilliance of the colors. I was moved to worship God as a masterful Artist who lavishly yet symmetrically brought together light, shade, shape and delicacy. Photos won’t do it justice but I’ll post a few so that you can get a glimpse of the splendor. I drank deeply of God’s presence and returned home with refreshment.
By 1:00 p.m. Sunday I just wanted to go home and take a nap but my wife suggested that we go to Mt. Vernon, Washington and check out the Tulip Festival. Today was the last day for this season and in all our years in Washington we had never seen the tulips.
Wow. I couldn’t get over the brilliance of the colors. I was moved to worship God as a masterful Artist who lavishly yet symmetrically brought together light, shade, shape and delicacy. Photos won’t do it justice but I’ll post a few so that you can get a glimpse of the splendor. I drank deeply of God’s presence and returned home with refreshment.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Life is Humbling; God is Good
A few years ago one of my favorite authors, one that I have read so much I consider him a distant mentor, published a new book that I was very eager to purchase and read. I paid around $27 for the book and began devouring it. I wasn’t disappointed. I not only learned from his writing I was also more firmly grounded in my faith and personal identity.
You can imagine my shock about six months later when I saw 5 new copies of this book in a second hand book store for $6 each! I remember thinking, “How much work and how much of his life was poured into that book and now it is on a bargain table?” I was reminded that every achievement, trophy, prize, award, or accomplishment is short lived.
That memory flew back to me today. I’m in the midst of moving my office a few blocks away to a new location. It’s been years since I’ve done a serious purge of my stuff. As I looked into one container there lay over 25 years of cassette tapes of sermons I’ve preached. People often ask, “How long does it take to prepare a message?” For years I spent 8-12 hours per week for each message. In recent years it’s been closer to 20 hours per week. It’s much more challenging to speak today than 20 years ago but that’s a different post.
So…..yes, I threw away every one of those cassettes. A lot of my life was in those messages but they are mostly long forgotten by those who heard. Honestly, most of my messages are forgotten within 48 hours but that’s a different post.
It’s humbling; but God is good. I’m so privileged to get to spend a significant portion of my life praying and studying and writing and then speaking. For those readers that have heard me speak often, thank you for sharing in a mystical and powerful exchange as we gather around God’s Word weekly in worship.
You can imagine my shock about six months later when I saw 5 new copies of this book in a second hand book store for $6 each! I remember thinking, “How much work and how much of his life was poured into that book and now it is on a bargain table?” I was reminded that every achievement, trophy, prize, award, or accomplishment is short lived.
That memory flew back to me today. I’m in the midst of moving my office a few blocks away to a new location. It’s been years since I’ve done a serious purge of my stuff. As I looked into one container there lay over 25 years of cassette tapes of sermons I’ve preached. People often ask, “How long does it take to prepare a message?” For years I spent 8-12 hours per week for each message. In recent years it’s been closer to 20 hours per week. It’s much more challenging to speak today than 20 years ago but that’s a different post.
So…..yes, I threw away every one of those cassettes. A lot of my life was in those messages but they are mostly long forgotten by those who heard. Honestly, most of my messages are forgotten within 48 hours but that’s a different post.
It’s humbling; but God is good. I’m so privileged to get to spend a significant portion of my life praying and studying and writing and then speaking. For those readers that have heard me speak often, thank you for sharing in a mystical and powerful exchange as we gather around God’s Word weekly in worship.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Just Marveling
Recently I’ve been laying the ground work to launch a recovery ministry. As I’ve been reading materials, visiting with potential team members and interviewing others that lead recovery ministries, I’ve been sent down the road of reflection on how God has used the recovery process in me.
Raised in an extremely dysfunctional setting and adopting perfectionism and performance as tools for coping with fears, abandonment, and rejection, I was in danger of blowing up my marriage, family and church in my mid-30’s. It was at that point that a friend confided in me that he was a recovering alcoholic. I was not only curious about the 12 step program that he was working to maintain his sobriety but I began to see a way to break free from my own “stuff”. For over two years we met weekly and worked/discussed the steps with each other. God began to work deliverance in me that I long to see happen for others.
Meanwhile, every week I marvel at the broken people that God sends my way and how God somehow uses the health and life that He is working into me to bring life and hope to them. In recent days someone contacted me with obsessive fear and panic attacks. Someone else asked if I would address the “life questions” that are keeping him from God. Someone else engaged me about disillusionment with religious systems. None of these people are in my relational circles or in my church.
With 6 billion walking the planet God is so great and God is so good that He is working in and around us in many ways to redeem, restore and renew.
I’m just marveling at God today.
Raised in an extremely dysfunctional setting and adopting perfectionism and performance as tools for coping with fears, abandonment, and rejection, I was in danger of blowing up my marriage, family and church in my mid-30’s. It was at that point that a friend confided in me that he was a recovering alcoholic. I was not only curious about the 12 step program that he was working to maintain his sobriety but I began to see a way to break free from my own “stuff”. For over two years we met weekly and worked/discussed the steps with each other. God began to work deliverance in me that I long to see happen for others.
Meanwhile, every week I marvel at the broken people that God sends my way and how God somehow uses the health and life that He is working into me to bring life and hope to them. In recent days someone contacted me with obsessive fear and panic attacks. Someone else asked if I would address the “life questions” that are keeping him from God. Someone else engaged me about disillusionment with religious systems. None of these people are in my relational circles or in my church.
With 6 billion walking the planet God is so great and God is so good that He is working in and around us in many ways to redeem, restore and renew.
I’m just marveling at God today.
Friday, April 25, 2008
A Dream for the Church
I see a day…
When men and women become Spirit birthed as sons and daughters of God who are saved from condemnation and saved for eternal, abundant life with God.
When men and women become Spirit delivered and released from wounds, abuse, failures, disappointments and disillusionment and receive forgiveness for sin; comfort for grief; healing from hurts and hope for the future.
When men and women become Spirit guided people who know and understand their God-given life purpose and who establish and follow life priorities in God’s will.
When men and women become Spirit empowered to love God and others well; worshiping God whole-heartedly; living in authentic community; serving the needs of the poor and hurting; embracing and affirming the worth of all people; and reaching others with the redemptive grace of Christ.
When men and women become Spirit equipped with gifts and talents, who develop and use those abilities to serve God and others so that God’s kingdom is advanced, the culture is influenced and the world is changed.
When men and women experientially live and are therefore characterized by the “fruit of God’s Spirit” that is seen in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
When God’s Spirit births a movement that exponentially plants new congregations and calls new pastors and missionaries for the work of God’s kingdom around the world.
When men and women become Spirit birthed as sons and daughters of God who are saved from condemnation and saved for eternal, abundant life with God.
When men and women become Spirit delivered and released from wounds, abuse, failures, disappointments and disillusionment and receive forgiveness for sin; comfort for grief; healing from hurts and hope for the future.
When men and women become Spirit guided people who know and understand their God-given life purpose and who establish and follow life priorities in God’s will.
When men and women become Spirit empowered to love God and others well; worshiping God whole-heartedly; living in authentic community; serving the needs of the poor and hurting; embracing and affirming the worth of all people; and reaching others with the redemptive grace of Christ.
When men and women become Spirit equipped with gifts and talents, who develop and use those abilities to serve God and others so that God’s kingdom is advanced, the culture is influenced and the world is changed.
When men and women experientially live and are therefore characterized by the “fruit of God’s Spirit” that is seen in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
When God’s Spirit births a movement that exponentially plants new congregations and calls new pastors and missionaries for the work of God’s kingdom around the world.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
About What Do You Dream?
Some people dream about an ideal mate or job or what they would do if they became rich. Some more nobly dream of a better society. I dream about the Church. I believe that the hope of the world is found in a relationship with Jesus Christ, and I believe that the Church is the steward of Christ’s mission and message to redeem and transform humanity. Therefore, the Church is God’s strategy and primary means in order to be present among us, to woo and call us to Himself.
However, the Church, through the centuries and presently, has often found herself in a state of distraction, deception or disappointment.
This week I’ve been reflecting on the Lord’s Church, especially in the US since that is what I see and experience most. The church is declining in the US. For some time 80-85% of churches are in the plateau or declining phase. Of those churches founded before 1960, 66-75% are declining. According to David Olson research, 17.8% of America attends a church worship gathering on any given Sunday. Demographically, the younger a person is the less likely he will be involved in church.
There are many reasons that the US Church has succumbed to such a state. I am giving my one and only life to the service of Christ and His Church to see her full incarnational and missional potential reached, to the glory of Christ and for the sake of people.
Tomorrow I’ll share with you my dream.
However, the Church, through the centuries and presently, has often found herself in a state of distraction, deception or disappointment.
This week I’ve been reflecting on the Lord’s Church, especially in the US since that is what I see and experience most. The church is declining in the US. For some time 80-85% of churches are in the plateau or declining phase. Of those churches founded before 1960, 66-75% are declining. According to David Olson research, 17.8% of America attends a church worship gathering on any given Sunday. Demographically, the younger a person is the less likely he will be involved in church.
There are many reasons that the US Church has succumbed to such a state. I am giving my one and only life to the service of Christ and His Church to see her full incarnational and missional potential reached, to the glory of Christ and for the sake of people.
Tomorrow I’ll share with you my dream.
Monday, April 21, 2008
So you don't believe in ID. Why are you so insulting?
Saturday I checked out “Expelled”. In the words of P.Z. Myers, University of Minnesota professor of biology, I am “religious” and “ignorant”. Commenting on Ben Stein’s documentary Myers predicted that the movie is “going to appeal strongly to the religious, the paranoid, the conspiracy theorists and the ignorant---which means that they are going to draw in about 90% of the American market.”
“Expelled” did appeal to me. I thought it was interesting, entertaining and provocative. Anytime I see a movie and I’m stirred to have conversations with others about the content of the movie and to read numerous articles about the subject I would say that the movie is appealing.
After seeing the film and Googling several of the people interviewed on both sides of the issue the case can be made that there is an effort to stifle debate on the subject of Intelligent Design. Not only did Stein interview professors, scholars and journalists who claimed to have lost their jobs because of their merely putting the issue “on the table” but he gave opportunity to evolutionists to speak to their perspective without reducing their comments to sound bites.
Richard Dawkins is not only an atheist and best selling author of “The God Delusion” but holds in contempt those who believe in God or ID. When Stein points out to Dawkins that he’s pretty harsh in his commentary about God, Dawkins seemed to take some delight in pointing out that Stein had been too mild in his assessment. Dawkins picks up a copy of his own book and quotes himself--
When pressed that if there were no God then from where does Dawkins believe life originated, with a totally straight face Dawkins suggested a theory that aliens seeded our planet.
Another “expert” voice for evolution theorizes that life originated on the backs of crystals. Still another suggested that electric sparks from a lightning storm created organic matter. These were not obscure scientists that Stein found in an attempt to discredit the evolutionists’ argument but rather these are the leading spokespersons!
Interestingly, I noticed that the film critic site, Rotten Tomatoes, had 25 reviews of “Expelled” posted and 22 found it “rotten”. Much of the criticism was not on film making but on the foolishness of the idea of ID. “The film is crap.” “One of the sleaziest documentaries.” “Narrow-minded and intellectually dishonest.”
So you don’t believe in ID. Why are you so insulting about it?
“Expelled” did appeal to me. I thought it was interesting, entertaining and provocative. Anytime I see a movie and I’m stirred to have conversations with others about the content of the movie and to read numerous articles about the subject I would say that the movie is appealing.
After seeing the film and Googling several of the people interviewed on both sides of the issue the case can be made that there is an effort to stifle debate on the subject of Intelligent Design. Not only did Stein interview professors, scholars and journalists who claimed to have lost their jobs because of their merely putting the issue “on the table” but he gave opportunity to evolutionists to speak to their perspective without reducing their comments to sound bites.
Richard Dawkins is not only an atheist and best selling author of “The God Delusion” but holds in contempt those who believe in God or ID. When Stein points out to Dawkins that he’s pretty harsh in his commentary about God, Dawkins seemed to take some delight in pointing out that Stein had been too mild in his assessment. Dawkins picks up a copy of his own book and quotes himself--
“The God of the Old Testament is arguably the most unpleasant character in all fiction: jealous and proud of it; a petty, unjust, unforgiving control freak; a vindictive, bloodthirsty ethnic cleanser; a misogynistic, homophobic, racist, infanticidal, genocidal, filicidal, pestilential, megalomaniacal, sadomasochistic, capriciously malevolent bully.”
When pressed that if there were no God then from where does Dawkins believe life originated, with a totally straight face Dawkins suggested a theory that aliens seeded our planet.
Another “expert” voice for evolution theorizes that life originated on the backs of crystals. Still another suggested that electric sparks from a lightning storm created organic matter. These were not obscure scientists that Stein found in an attempt to discredit the evolutionists’ argument but rather these are the leading spokespersons!
Interestingly, I noticed that the film critic site, Rotten Tomatoes, had 25 reviews of “Expelled” posted and 22 found it “rotten”. Much of the criticism was not on film making but on the foolishness of the idea of ID. “The film is crap.” “One of the sleaziest documentaries.” “Narrow-minded and intellectually dishonest.”
So you don’t believe in ID. Why are you so insulting about it?
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Is There a Conspiratorial Effort to Stifle Debate on Intelligent Design?
Ben Stein is a fascinating guy. A graduate of Columbia University in economics and Yale Law School, Stein has practiced law, taught in universities, written speeches for presidents (Nixon and Ford), been a columnist for the Wall Street Journal and New York Times, written or co-written 30 books, was a game show host and has been an actor in movies, television and commercials.
No kidding, I only knew of Stein from his role as the boring high school teacher in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”. “Anyone, anyone?”
Now Stein has produced and starred in a documentary about the debate between Darwinism/Evolution and Intelligent Design called “Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed”. You can see the movie trailer here. It will be in theaters April 18.
The following appears on the movie’s blog--
Interested? I am. I plan to see it. If you do tell me what you think?
No kidding, I only knew of Stein from his role as the boring high school teacher in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”. “Anyone, anyone?”
Now Stein has produced and starred in a documentary about the debate between Darwinism/Evolution and Intelligent Design called “Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed”. You can see the movie trailer here. It will be in theaters April 18.
The following appears on the movie’s blog--
“Expelled” calls attention to the plight of highly credentialed scholars who
have been forced out of prestigious academic positions because they proposed
Intelligent Design as a possible alternative to Charles Darwin’s 150-year-old
theories about the origins of life. Instead of entertaining a debate on the
merits of competing theories, the scientific establishment has moved to suppress
the ID movement in a “systematic and ruthless” way at odds with America’s
founding principles, the film asserts.
Interested? I am. I plan to see it. If you do tell me what you think?
Monday, April 14, 2008
Living a Risky Life
Sunday my godson competed in a regional gymnastics meet in the Portland area. Ben is 11 years old and in the 5th grade and has been competing well the past two years. Recently he has been attempting a new move that is not only difficult but risky.
Sunday, in this highly competitive meet, Ben decided to go for it on the new move. He faltered a bit and it cost him some points. Though he finished well he may not have finished as high as he could have had he not attempted the move.
Afterward his attitude was, “I’d rather have gone for it and not made it than not gone for it at all.” I love that!
I hung up from talking with Ben’s mom this morning and I was inspired. There are scenarios in life that God has been inviting me to enter. They are high risk. If it doesn’t work out I can look foolish. I can look like a failure. I can look incompetent. But like Ben, I’d rather go for it and fail than not go for it at all.
What about you? I’m not making a case for living risky in the sense of being reckless and ill prepared. But I am making the case for not playing life too safe.
Sunday, in this highly competitive meet, Ben decided to go for it on the new move. He faltered a bit and it cost him some points. Though he finished well he may not have finished as high as he could have had he not attempted the move.
Afterward his attitude was, “I’d rather have gone for it and not made it than not gone for it at all.” I love that!
I hung up from talking with Ben’s mom this morning and I was inspired. There are scenarios in life that God has been inviting me to enter. They are high risk. If it doesn’t work out I can look foolish. I can look like a failure. I can look incompetent. But like Ben, I’d rather go for it and fail than not go for it at all.
What about you? I’m not making a case for living risky in the sense of being reckless and ill prepared. But I am making the case for not playing life too safe.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
The "Jesus Controversy" on American Idol
This past Wednesday American Idol featured their telethon for charity called “Idol Gives Back”. Something over $60 million was donated to address poverty in the States and abroad. Pretty impressive.
To close the evening the final 8 Idol contestants surprisingly began singing “Shout to the Lord”, an evangelical worship chorus that is a favorite of many. The next day non-Christians and Christians were complaining about the song being sung.
The non-Christians were upset that such an overtly religious “Jesus” song was forced upon all the viewers who were of other faiths or no faith.
The Christians were upset that a song that is meant to worship Jesus was being commercialized and being sung by presumably non-Christian and non-worshiping contestants.
Another twist to the controversy is that the song begins, “My Jesus, my Savior…” The Idol rendition began “My Shepherd, my Savior…”, totally leaving Jesus out of the song that is all about Him.
Then the surprises just kept coming as Thursday night Idol began the evening’s elimination show with an encore of “Shout to the Lord”, only this time they had the singers begin the song correctly, “My Jesus, my Savior.”
Many are scratching their heads and wondering what is going on with the producers of Idol, particularly after following another week that featured the guest mentoring appearance of Dolly Parton. The contestants all sang “Dolly songs” and several of them mention Jesus. Many are asking, “Has Idol gone evangelical?”
There are many things upon which to reflect. I’ll just identify one. Should a worship song to Jesus not be sung by someone who is not worshiping Jesus?
Hundreds of secular artists have recorded “Amazing Grace” and thousands of artists have recorded dozens of Christmas songs that praise and worship Jesus. Additionally, in the past 20 years the “Christian” music industry has sold millions of worship recordings which featured “Christian” artists who were at the time drug addicted, adulterous and otherwise screwed up.
There’s not a lot that I can do about that. What I can address is whether the life behind my voice is in concert with the lyrics sung in the presence of and to the person of Jesus. Every Sunday churches are filled with “worshipers” who are barely present, half-hearted, sin compromised and “idolatrous” in lifestyle singing Jesus songs.
I’m not really sure if God likes or dislikes secular people singing worship songs. What I am sure about is that God EXPECTS those in the church to be authentic and whole-heartedly engaged in worshiping Him.
To close the evening the final 8 Idol contestants surprisingly began singing “Shout to the Lord”, an evangelical worship chorus that is a favorite of many. The next day non-Christians and Christians were complaining about the song being sung.
The non-Christians were upset that such an overtly religious “Jesus” song was forced upon all the viewers who were of other faiths or no faith.
The Christians were upset that a song that is meant to worship Jesus was being commercialized and being sung by presumably non-Christian and non-worshiping contestants.
Another twist to the controversy is that the song begins, “My Jesus, my Savior…” The Idol rendition began “My Shepherd, my Savior…”, totally leaving Jesus out of the song that is all about Him.
Then the surprises just kept coming as Thursday night Idol began the evening’s elimination show with an encore of “Shout to the Lord”, only this time they had the singers begin the song correctly, “My Jesus, my Savior.”
Many are scratching their heads and wondering what is going on with the producers of Idol, particularly after following another week that featured the guest mentoring appearance of Dolly Parton. The contestants all sang “Dolly songs” and several of them mention Jesus. Many are asking, “Has Idol gone evangelical?”
There are many things upon which to reflect. I’ll just identify one. Should a worship song to Jesus not be sung by someone who is not worshiping Jesus?
Hundreds of secular artists have recorded “Amazing Grace” and thousands of artists have recorded dozens of Christmas songs that praise and worship Jesus. Additionally, in the past 20 years the “Christian” music industry has sold millions of worship recordings which featured “Christian” artists who were at the time drug addicted, adulterous and otherwise screwed up.
There’s not a lot that I can do about that. What I can address is whether the life behind my voice is in concert with the lyrics sung in the presence of and to the person of Jesus. Every Sunday churches are filled with “worshipers” who are barely present, half-hearted, sin compromised and “idolatrous” in lifestyle singing Jesus songs.
I’m not really sure if God likes or dislikes secular people singing worship songs. What I am sure about is that God EXPECTS those in the church to be authentic and whole-heartedly engaged in worshiping Him.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
I'm Hooked on Transformation
This past Sunday I spoke about the transforming work that Jesus Christ does in the lives of those who follow Him. I confessed that I’m hooked on transformation. I’m always deeply touched, moved and inspired by stories of life transformation. I’m eternally grateful for the transforming work Christ does in me.
Today I heard a man share some of his story that I continue to replay in my mind.
He is addicted to alcohol, drugs and sex. His addiction has cost him three marriages and left him with four estranged children. About four years ago he began to follow Christ and get involved in a recovery ministry.
Today he is sober, has won back a relationship with his children and has seen his fourth and nearly lost marriage saved and renewed.
My point from Sunday was that God’s part is that He gives you a new “suit” (life). Our part is that we “put on” the suit (work out our salvation). The metaphor comes from the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 4:17-32.
My new acquaintance was given a new life from God and he did the life work of putting it on and living it. I praise God and celebrate the man’s life work.
I never get tired of seeing and hearing transformation stories.
Today I heard a man share some of his story that I continue to replay in my mind.
He is addicted to alcohol, drugs and sex. His addiction has cost him three marriages and left him with four estranged children. About four years ago he began to follow Christ and get involved in a recovery ministry.
Today he is sober, has won back a relationship with his children and has seen his fourth and nearly lost marriage saved and renewed.
My point from Sunday was that God’s part is that He gives you a new “suit” (life). Our part is that we “put on” the suit (work out our salvation). The metaphor comes from the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 4:17-32.
My new acquaintance was given a new life from God and he did the life work of putting it on and living it. I praise God and celebrate the man’s life work.
I never get tired of seeing and hearing transformation stories.
Monday, April 07, 2008
Life is Unfair, Just Ask Rodrick Stewart
For college basketball fans tonight is the Division 1 Championship Game between my hometown Memphis Tigers and the storied basketball program of the Kansas Jayhawks. The last time and only time that Memphis was in the national championship game was 1973 against the Bill Walton led UCLA Bruins. I actually got to attend that game. Even though Memphis lost it is a great memory.
Kids that love the game dream of playing in the Championship Game. Tonight one kid’s dream has literally been shattered. Reserve guard, Rodrick Stewart (pictured) will not be available to play because he fractured his kneecap Friday at the end of practice. Apparently he slipped on a wet spot on the floor just as he was jumping up to dunk the basketball. You can see a video clip here.
Rodrick and his twin brother Lodrick, were high school stars at Rainier Beach High School in Seattle. They both signed with the University of Southern California and embarked on their college careers together. The SC program went through some turmoil and Rodrick decided to transfer to Kansas. Now a senior this was his last shot at fulfilling the childhood dream. Now he will sit on the sideline and watch his teammates.
Of course it is just a game and Stewart will adjust and get over it some day. But I’m reminded how many people just in my small world have experienced how unfair life can be. Abuse, abandonment, betrayal, crime, and deceit are just the beginning of the alphabet. We could go all the way to “z” and name unfair experiences.
Unfairness often raises questions like, “Why me?” or “Why did this happen?” Many, even most of those questions will never be answered in this life. Perhaps the better question is “What now?”
One of my heroes is the ancient apostle of Christ, Paul. A rising star in theology and ecclesiology, Paul instead became a follower of Jesus and not only started churches all over the known world in his day but literally wrote over half of what became the New Testament.
But with all of the powerful and even eternal things that Paul accomplished, he endured much of life’s unfairness. On five separate occasions he received a flogging with 39 lashes of a whip. On three occasions he was beaten with rods. Once he was stoned until those hurling the rocks thought he was dead and quit. Three times he was shipwrecked on the open seas and nearly drowned. On multiple occasions he was threatened by robbers, by religious fanatics, and from anti-religion fanatics. Many times he went hungry and homeless. (see 2 Corinthians 11:23-29)
Paul was convinced that God used all of the unfairness he experienced in order to accomplish good. I have come to believe the same thing.
Kids that love the game dream of playing in the Championship Game. Tonight one kid’s dream has literally been shattered. Reserve guard, Rodrick Stewart (pictured) will not be available to play because he fractured his kneecap Friday at the end of practice. Apparently he slipped on a wet spot on the floor just as he was jumping up to dunk the basketball. You can see a video clip here.
Rodrick and his twin brother Lodrick, were high school stars at Rainier Beach High School in Seattle. They both signed with the University of Southern California and embarked on their college careers together. The SC program went through some turmoil and Rodrick decided to transfer to Kansas. Now a senior this was his last shot at fulfilling the childhood dream. Now he will sit on the sideline and watch his teammates.
Of course it is just a game and Stewart will adjust and get over it some day. But I’m reminded how many people just in my small world have experienced how unfair life can be. Abuse, abandonment, betrayal, crime, and deceit are just the beginning of the alphabet. We could go all the way to “z” and name unfair experiences.
Unfairness often raises questions like, “Why me?” or “Why did this happen?” Many, even most of those questions will never be answered in this life. Perhaps the better question is “What now?”
One of my heroes is the ancient apostle of Christ, Paul. A rising star in theology and ecclesiology, Paul instead became a follower of Jesus and not only started churches all over the known world in his day but literally wrote over half of what became the New Testament.
But with all of the powerful and even eternal things that Paul accomplished, he endured much of life’s unfairness. On five separate occasions he received a flogging with 39 lashes of a whip. On three occasions he was beaten with rods. Once he was stoned until those hurling the rocks thought he was dead and quit. Three times he was shipwrecked on the open seas and nearly drowned. On multiple occasions he was threatened by robbers, by religious fanatics, and from anti-religion fanatics. Many times he went hungry and homeless. (see 2 Corinthians 11:23-29)
Paul was convinced that God used all of the unfairness he experienced in order to accomplish good. I have come to believe the same thing.
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