I had a conversation with an acquaintance who stopped by the farm one day. I hadn't spoken with him for months, maybe even a year or more. I asked him a bit about his job. His remarks, while sounding correct, were clothed in heaviness...the job is God's provision...I need to be thankful...
When we are living in a way that "kicks against the goads", in disharmony with God's design, we can easily fall into an insidious trap. We decide that the discomfort we feel in our disconnect with God, with abundant life, is the cross we must bear. So life becomes heavy, gray. We throw ourselves more fully into the duties of church and christianity. We say the right words...the appropriate phrases needed to gain the approval of others in the same state. Our heaviness and lifelessness trademarks our life. Our "cross" weighs on us in an unending manner. And truly it is our self-created cross. It is not the cross of Christ, the cross that invariably encounters us in our transformation process.
Our self-defined cross and the cross of Christ have nothing in common. The cross of Christ remains for a season and is always followed by abundant life. The light on the other side of the darkeness shines more glorious than can be imagined. On the other hand the self-defined cross leads nowhere. There is a permanency to its dull grayness.
The self created cross is always accompanied by a deep sadness, a heaviness that permeates the fibers of our being. We become devoid of emotion. A certain heaviness shrouds our every action and word. There may even be a bit of pride accompanying the sadness - "look at how severely my cross affects me".
How different from the cross of Christ. Note the example of Jesus - MY GOD MY GOD WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME! The raw emotional pain of those words almost startle one's sensibilities. I have noticed that people who pick up the cross of Christ, the one that invariably confronts us as we follow Him, are far from emotionless. In fact their emotion frequently boils up in a violent eruption. Fortunately, regardless of the severity of the cross and depth of pain accompanying it, it only lasts for a season. Jesus for the joy set before Him endured the cross... How different from the misery resulting from kicking against the goads!
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
misery index
“It is hard for you to kick against the goads.” These were the words of Jesus to Saul (about to become Paul) when Saul’s plans were abruptly interrupted by divine intervention. Goads were pointed sticks used to prod oxen to press forward into their harness, pulling their attached load. The oxen quickly learned that kicking against the goads was a painful endeavor. Life for an ox became easier once submission to the master occurred.
Apparently Saul kicked against the goads in a metaphoric manner. What were the goads against which Saul kicked? What was it that caused him pain and discomfort? What was he resisting? We find the answer later in this account. The words of God to Ananias give insight into the Master’s plan for Saul – “for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.”
Saul’s struggle against the Master’s plan resulted in nothing more than pain, frustration, and chaos, not only in Saul’s life but in the lives of those around him as well. During this struggle Saul continued to be a religious leader, a Pharisee of Pharisees, to use his words. His life was filled with religious activity and duty. In spite of the religious activity, he still resisted God’s will, his religiosity providing a cover for his rebellion
And so it is for us today – when we refuse to harmonize with God’s plan, we still find ourselves kicking against the goads in misery. Many Christians are most miserable because they refuse to submit to the hand of the Master. Like Saul, they may engage in a great deal of religious activity all the while kicking against the hand of God. And like Saul, they are most miserable.
Apparently Saul kicked against the goads in a metaphoric manner. What were the goads against which Saul kicked? What was it that caused him pain and discomfort? What was he resisting? We find the answer later in this account. The words of God to Ananias give insight into the Master’s plan for Saul – “for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.”
Saul’s struggle against the Master’s plan resulted in nothing more than pain, frustration, and chaos, not only in Saul’s life but in the lives of those around him as well. During this struggle Saul continued to be a religious leader, a Pharisee of Pharisees, to use his words. His life was filled with religious activity and duty. In spite of the religious activity, he still resisted God’s will, his religiosity providing a cover for his rebellion
And so it is for us today – when we refuse to harmonize with God’s plan, we still find ourselves kicking against the goads in misery. Many Christians are most miserable because they refuse to submit to the hand of the Master. Like Saul, they may engage in a great deal of religious activity all the while kicking against the hand of God. And like Saul, they are most miserable.
Friday, October 28, 2011
contemporary church
As I look back 10-15 years, I find a lot of myself in the following video. While I believe that our heart was good, the focus became establishing this "cool relevant thing". The conferences we attended all espoused this cookie cutter approach to church. Sunday morning services were cool. We bought into the "cutting edge church liturgy".
This coming Sunday around 10 AM (or at 8:30 and 11:00) you can find a "church" near you just like portrayed in the video. Unfortunately it may be just as devoid of God as what you see in the following clip.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3RJBd8zE48A&feature=player_embedded
This coming Sunday around 10 AM (or at 8:30 and 11:00) you can find a "church" near you just like portrayed in the video. Unfortunately it may be just as devoid of God as what you see in the following clip.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3RJBd8zE48A&feature=player_embedded
Sunday, October 2, 2011
the risk
These likewise are the ones sown on stony ground who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness; and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word’s sake, immediately they stumble.
Lately I have been thinking about all the people who started well in this walk with God but have since deserted the pathway to life. Ten years ago many of the people to whom we related had discovered the works and writings of John Eldredge. His message of the possibilites of a very real heart connection with God stirred our hearts. A whole new world opened before us, a world marked by adventure and life, a world so unlike the dull dutifulness of religious exercise.
And so we embarked on a new journey - pursuing God and being pursued by God. Our dissatisfaction with the emptiness of religious exercise coupled the wild and untamed call of the Holy Spirit drew us to launch into the unknown.
Unfortunately in the ensuing years, people slowly but surely left the pathway to life. One here, two there, they returned to religious exercise from which they came. I still have conversations from time to time with some of those who have returned to the place from which they came. In every conversation I notice the same thing - ta lifelessness, a puposelessness permeates their words and actions. The excitement of following a very real and upredictable God has been replaced with a heaviness that is justified as "the cross I have to bear".
Without a doubt, following Jesus will always take us to and through the cross. However, the "Jesus way" never stops with the cross, rather the cross is simply a portal to eternal life. Conversely the cross devised by human ideas never leads to anywhere but death.
Why would people leave the way of a lifegiving journey with Jesus to return to something that can offer nothing but mediocrity, unfruitfulness and death? That is the question I have mulled for the past weeks. What causes people to trade the goodness of abundant life for the dry morsels of religious duty and exercise?
I think it has to do with risk and cost. There is a very real danger in following Jesus. He requires everything - go sell what you have and come follow me. In that time of decision, suddenly the deadness of the past life seems so safe and attractive. Furthermore Jesus begins to probe into the wounds and unhealthy regions of our life. The ugliness of our wounded heart spills out. We feel needy and small. Once again we are confronted with a choice - will we open our hearts to the Healer with the scalpel or will we close our hearts so our appearance of goodness can be maintained?
The word (the logos) offends them, causing them to stumble. The same word which they received with joy now causes them to fall away.
Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
Lately I have been thinking about all the people who started well in this walk with God but have since deserted the pathway to life. Ten years ago many of the people to whom we related had discovered the works and writings of John Eldredge. His message of the possibilites of a very real heart connection with God stirred our hearts. A whole new world opened before us, a world marked by adventure and life, a world so unlike the dull dutifulness of religious exercise.
And so we embarked on a new journey - pursuing God and being pursued by God. Our dissatisfaction with the emptiness of religious exercise coupled the wild and untamed call of the Holy Spirit drew us to launch into the unknown.
Unfortunately in the ensuing years, people slowly but surely left the pathway to life. One here, two there, they returned to religious exercise from which they came. I still have conversations from time to time with some of those who have returned to the place from which they came. In every conversation I notice the same thing - ta lifelessness, a puposelessness permeates their words and actions. The excitement of following a very real and upredictable God has been replaced with a heaviness that is justified as "the cross I have to bear".
Without a doubt, following Jesus will always take us to and through the cross. However, the "Jesus way" never stops with the cross, rather the cross is simply a portal to eternal life. Conversely the cross devised by human ideas never leads to anywhere but death.
Why would people leave the way of a lifegiving journey with Jesus to return to something that can offer nothing but mediocrity, unfruitfulness and death? That is the question I have mulled for the past weeks. What causes people to trade the goodness of abundant life for the dry morsels of religious duty and exercise?
I think it has to do with risk and cost. There is a very real danger in following Jesus. He requires everything - go sell what you have and come follow me. In that time of decision, suddenly the deadness of the past life seems so safe and attractive. Furthermore Jesus begins to probe into the wounds and unhealthy regions of our life. The ugliness of our wounded heart spills out. We feel needy and small. Once again we are confronted with a choice - will we open our hearts to the Healer with the scalpel or will we close our hearts so our appearance of goodness can be maintained?
The word (the logos) offends them, causing them to stumble. The same word which they received with joy now causes them to fall away.
Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
the woman...and her enemies
As I helped pack some things in preparing for our recent move, I came across a photo of a housewarming party in 1997. We had started Grace Covenant Church nine months earlier and were finally moving into our newly constructed house. People willingly gave of their time to help us finish the house and to help us move from Lewistown. And then they surprised us with a welcome party. We felt loved and appreciated. The future stretched before us, full of possibilities. We planned to change our community and our world. We were so encouraged by the outpouring of support.
I paused for a moment to reflect on the past 14 years. This time our move was differant. Instead of proclaiming how we planned to change the world, we have been led by the Holy Spirit to take a differant approach; a focus not on the glorious but on the insignificant, following the Holy Spirit into a place of nothing-ness.
Our recent move provides a snapshot of the cost of following Jesus. The people in the picture from 14 years ago have all disappeared. Some disappeared quietly, some took parting shots as they walked away, and a few were rather vicious in their attacks on us. So we moved alone this time. Nobody excitedly following us on our journey with Jesus. Please do not think I am complaining. I am simply pointing out what is!
What is the cause for the change, for the abandonment and the attacks? Did we commit some terrible sin? Did we embrace some unbiblical heresy? No, the abandonment and attacks started when we chose the way of Jesus over the ways of church (not the Biblical "ecclesia" but the creation of man). The viciousness of the attacks intensified as we continued to follow Jesus in a practical manner, allowing the "logos" to be our guide. In recent years, we have been falsely accused, literally thrown out of a church service (by the way - this particular group's motto is "worship God, love all".), lied to and lied about.
I saw the woman, drunk with the blood of the saints and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus. And when I saw her, I marveled with great amazement. You see - the woman hates the saints of Jesus. She cares not a whit about someones religious affiliation. Her seductive charms are utilized for one purpose and one purpose alone - to disconnect people from the I AM.
As long as one yeilds to her seductiveness she allows whatever belief system one desires to create. However, the moment we turn away from her to embrace the ways of Jesus, she begins to turn her wrath on us. Her choice weapon of attack is not some vile demon. No, it is the ones who have forsaken the way of Jesus to embrace her harlotry.
The first attack will be isolation. She is fully aware of our God-given need for community. So she attempts to isolate us from relationships. Those under her spell suddenly no longer associate with us. The shunning is an effort to drive us back to her bed. She offers community and relationship if only we will disconnect from the I AM.
If the shunning does not bring us back to her fold, the attacks become more intense. She will attempt to destroy us. Baseless accusations will be unleashed on us. Those under her spell will spew her venom without regard for truth. Our words will be carefully critiqued in an effort to find some incriminating statement. If none is found, our words will be subtly twisted to create an appearance of heresy. Throughout history, she has gone as far as inciting physical violence resulting in the death of the saints. Much of the martyrdom has occurred in the name of some god in the protection of some religious system.
The followers of Jesus should not be surprised by the viciousness of her attacks. Jesus himself was crucified by those who purported to be godly.
Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me.
I paused for a moment to reflect on the past 14 years. This time our move was differant. Instead of proclaiming how we planned to change the world, we have been led by the Holy Spirit to take a differant approach; a focus not on the glorious but on the insignificant, following the Holy Spirit into a place of nothing-ness.
Our recent move provides a snapshot of the cost of following Jesus. The people in the picture from 14 years ago have all disappeared. Some disappeared quietly, some took parting shots as they walked away, and a few were rather vicious in their attacks on us. So we moved alone this time. Nobody excitedly following us on our journey with Jesus. Please do not think I am complaining. I am simply pointing out what is!
What is the cause for the change, for the abandonment and the attacks? Did we commit some terrible sin? Did we embrace some unbiblical heresy? No, the abandonment and attacks started when we chose the way of Jesus over the ways of church (not the Biblical "ecclesia" but the creation of man). The viciousness of the attacks intensified as we continued to follow Jesus in a practical manner, allowing the "logos" to be our guide. In recent years, we have been falsely accused, literally thrown out of a church service (by the way - this particular group's motto is "worship God, love all".), lied to and lied about.
I saw the woman, drunk with the blood of the saints and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus. And when I saw her, I marveled with great amazement. You see - the woman hates the saints of Jesus. She cares not a whit about someones religious affiliation. Her seductive charms are utilized for one purpose and one purpose alone - to disconnect people from the I AM.
As long as one yeilds to her seductiveness she allows whatever belief system one desires to create. However, the moment we turn away from her to embrace the ways of Jesus, she begins to turn her wrath on us. Her choice weapon of attack is not some vile demon. No, it is the ones who have forsaken the way of Jesus to embrace her harlotry.
The first attack will be isolation. She is fully aware of our God-given need for community. So she attempts to isolate us from relationships. Those under her spell suddenly no longer associate with us. The shunning is an effort to drive us back to her bed. She offers community and relationship if only we will disconnect from the I AM.
If the shunning does not bring us back to her fold, the attacks become more intense. She will attempt to destroy us. Baseless accusations will be unleashed on us. Those under her spell will spew her venom without regard for truth. Our words will be carefully critiqued in an effort to find some incriminating statement. If none is found, our words will be subtly twisted to create an appearance of heresy. Throughout history, she has gone as far as inciting physical violence resulting in the death of the saints. Much of the martyrdom has occurred in the name of some god in the protection of some religious system.
The followers of Jesus should not be surprised by the viciousness of her attacks. Jesus himself was crucified by those who purported to be godly.
Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me.
Friday, September 9, 2011
oswald chambers
I don't often post the writings of other poeple. However, this morning I read something written by Oswald Chambers in My Utmost for His Highest. It expresses my heart better than I could do it.
...bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ ” (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Determinedly Discipline Other Things.
This is another difficult aspect of the strenuous nature of sainthood. Paul said, according to the Moffatt translation of this verse, “ I take every project prisoner to make it obey Christ .” So much Christian work today has never been disciplined, but has simply come into being by impulse! In our Lord’s life every project was disciplined to the will of His Father. There was never the slightest tendency to follow the impulse of His own will as distinct from His Father’s will—“the Son can do nothing of Himself ” (John 5:19). Then compare this with what we do—we take “every thought” or project that comes to us by impulse and jump into action immediately, instead of imprisoning and disciplining ourselves to obey Christ.
Practical work for Christians is greatly overemphasized today, and the saints who are “bringing every thought [and project] into captivity” are criticized and told that they are not determined, and that they lack zeal for God or zeal for the souls of others. But true determination and zeal are found in obeying God, not in the inclination to serve Him that arises from our own undisciplined human nature. It is inconceivable, but true nevertheless, that saints are not “bringing every thought [and project] into captivity,” but are simply doing work for God that has been instigated by their own human nature, and has not been made spiritual through determined discipline.
We have a tendency to forget that a person is not only committed to Jesus Christ for salvation, but is also committed, responsible, and accountable to Jesus Christ’s view of God, the world, and of sin and the devil. This means that each person must recognize the responsibility to “be transformed by the renewing of [his] mind .” (Romans 12:2).
...bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ ” (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Determinedly Discipline Other Things.
This is another difficult aspect of the strenuous nature of sainthood. Paul said, according to the Moffatt translation of this verse, “ I take every project prisoner to make it obey Christ .” So much Christian work today has never been disciplined, but has simply come into being by impulse! In our Lord’s life every project was disciplined to the will of His Father. There was never the slightest tendency to follow the impulse of His own will as distinct from His Father’s will—“the Son can do nothing of Himself ” (John 5:19). Then compare this with what we do—we take “every thought” or project that comes to us by impulse and jump into action immediately, instead of imprisoning and disciplining ourselves to obey Christ.
Practical work for Christians is greatly overemphasized today, and the saints who are “bringing every thought [and project] into captivity” are criticized and told that they are not determined, and that they lack zeal for God or zeal for the souls of others. But true determination and zeal are found in obeying God, not in the inclination to serve Him that arises from our own undisciplined human nature. It is inconceivable, but true nevertheless, that saints are not “bringing every thought [and project] into captivity,” but are simply doing work for God that has been instigated by their own human nature, and has not been made spiritual through determined discipline.
We have a tendency to forget that a person is not only committed to Jesus Christ for salvation, but is also committed, responsible, and accountable to Jesus Christ’s view of God, the world, and of sin and the devil. This means that each person must recognize the responsibility to “be transformed by the renewing of [his] mind .” (Romans 12:2).
Sunday, September 4, 2011
reconnect
No...I didn't forget about the blog. In fact I will publish more about the woman in the near future. It's just that life has been full of responsibilities lately. We moved to the farm. We love the solitude and quietness of the old house...the peacefulness of our surroundings. The birds frequent our birdfeeders in front of the porch regularly. However getting to this place has created a bit of chaos in our lives.
Adding to the chaos has been the fact that our parents have experienced some health issues. Quite frankly - August was a month from hell. My dad had a stroke and then discovered that he has cancer. Bev's dad had surgery and ended up with a blood infection. Her mother was diagnosed with colon cancer and went through surgery to remove the cancer. We've been in numerous hospitals and medical facilities in the past month. Her parents are doing well right now, however, my father is struggling. For me - it's tough seeing the man I so deeply admire going through this right now.
But then...that's life. We find the hand of God in the midst of the crap. We find rest in the midst of chaos. We enjoy the finch at the birdfeeder, the brightly colored morning glory entwining a corn stalk. The wobbly legs of a newborn calf cause us to smile. The hand of God is there...we just have to look for it!
Adding to the chaos has been the fact that our parents have experienced some health issues. Quite frankly - August was a month from hell. My dad had a stroke and then discovered that he has cancer. Bev's dad had surgery and ended up with a blood infection. Her mother was diagnosed with colon cancer and went through surgery to remove the cancer. We've been in numerous hospitals and medical facilities in the past month. Her parents are doing well right now, however, my father is struggling. For me - it's tough seeing the man I so deeply admire going through this right now.
But then...that's life. We find the hand of God in the midst of the crap. We find rest in the midst of chaos. We enjoy the finch at the birdfeeder, the brightly colored morning glory entwining a corn stalk. The wobbly legs of a newborn calf cause us to smile. The hand of God is there...we just have to look for it!
Saturday, July 30, 2011
the woman...the cost
I watched him for a while from the back of the room. His head tilted sideways in slumber. I wasn't sure if I was seeing in the spirit or if he was actually sleeping. I had trouble believing he was sleeping. It was a rather tense meeting of church members and leaders. The discourse bordered on unpleasant at times and since he was a leader that had a vested interest in the proceedings, I assumed that I was actually seeing in the spirit. God allowed me to see what really was going on.
There was a group in that meeting that had already chosen to disconnect from God. They heard the call of the woman and chose to heed her, turning aside from God in order to fulfill their own soulish desires. This leader was part of the group. Instead of embracing the radical call of discipleship that leads through the cross, the women offered an easier way. She seductively spoke of worth and value in a way that resonated with the innate desire for significance. The desires of the heart were available without the great cost demanded by God.
Now...there was a slight cost in heeding the woman as well. In order to obtain what the woman offered, there was a slight caveat. One must disconnect from God in order to receive her benefits. On the other hand, she does offer an appearance of godliness, a godliness so fashioned after the real thing that most people will never notice the differance. Scripture refers to those who slumber in relation to their connection with God. They may possess the appearance of godliness but their spiritual sensitivities have been completely dulled by their love affair with a prostitute - they sleep, completely unaware of God and His ways.
There was a group in that meeting that had already chosen to disconnect from God. They heard the call of the woman and chose to heed her, turning aside from God in order to fulfill their own soulish desires. This leader was part of the group. Instead of embracing the radical call of discipleship that leads through the cross, the women offered an easier way. She seductively spoke of worth and value in a way that resonated with the innate desire for significance. The desires of the heart were available without the great cost demanded by God.
Now...there was a slight cost in heeding the woman as well. In order to obtain what the woman offered, there was a slight caveat. One must disconnect from God in order to receive her benefits. On the other hand, she does offer an appearance of godliness, a godliness so fashioned after the real thing that most people will never notice the differance. Scripture refers to those who slumber in relation to their connection with God. They may possess the appearance of godliness but their spiritual sensitivities have been completely dulled by their love affair with a prostitute - they sleep, completely unaware of God and His ways.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
love...and the woman
When God created Adam and Eve, scripture tells us that they were "naked and not ashamed". This speaks of total intimacy - transparency of heart, soul, and body. Perhaps another word to describe this intimacy would be love. From this basis of love, healthy sexuality results. It was the way God intended it to be - intimacy - spiritual, emotional, and physical love that led to life and fruitfulness.
The prostitute offers sexuality, a quick gratification of immediate desires. However, emotional and spiritual intimacy are missing from the equation. It is not love, rather it is a cheap substitute of God's plan. In my interaction with men who have ceased battling sexual temptations and given themselves over to the sin, I have noticed a common theme. To a man, they have become foolish, unable to discern wisely about the issues of life. They become consumed by the woman and what she can do for them.
And so it is with those who choose the bed of the woman spoken of in the book of Revelation. While there may be activities that would seem to indicate that love exists, the reality of the situation is that the genuine love for people is non-existant. Jesus said that because of lawlessness, the love of many would grow could. Lawlessness is simply anything that is done outside of God's parameters.
When we heed the subtle whispers of woman and choose her bed, we depart from the ways of God - lawlessness. As such, we become loveless. We adopt the characteristics of the woman instead of having the mind of Christ. Our "love" becomes cold toward those whom Christ loves; our focus becomes the woman and the gratification she offers.
The prostitute offers sexuality, a quick gratification of immediate desires. However, emotional and spiritual intimacy are missing from the equation. It is not love, rather it is a cheap substitute of God's plan. In my interaction with men who have ceased battling sexual temptations and given themselves over to the sin, I have noticed a common theme. To a man, they have become foolish, unable to discern wisely about the issues of life. They become consumed by the woman and what she can do for them.
And so it is with those who choose the bed of the woman spoken of in the book of Revelation. While there may be activities that would seem to indicate that love exists, the reality of the situation is that the genuine love for people is non-existant. Jesus said that because of lawlessness, the love of many would grow could. Lawlessness is simply anything that is done outside of God's parameters.
When we heed the subtle whispers of woman and choose her bed, we depart from the ways of God - lawlessness. As such, we become loveless. We adopt the characteristics of the woman instead of having the mind of Christ. Our "love" becomes cold toward those whom Christ loves; our focus becomes the woman and the gratification she offers.
Monday, July 11, 2011
the woman
I’ve been thinking a lot about the woman lately. She is no ordinary hooker with cheap perfume and skimpy clothes standing on a street corner peddling her assets. No – she is different, more respectable, with more class. Her clientele tend to be more upscale – politicians, businessmen, and church leaders. For many of her clients, being in bed with her elicits no shame; rather, they view their relationship with her as an honor.
The book of Revelation, speaks of the woman; her wealth, her extravagant lifestyle as well as of her arrogance and her anger toward those who refuse to be seduced by her charms. She especially despises the saints; those who follow Jesus. In fact through the years she has been responsible for the death of the martyrs of Jesus. On the other hand, to those who yield to her enchantment, she rewards with the desires of their soul. She bestows wealth, honor, and power upon those who will become one with her.
There is a slight caveat to her “blessings”. Just like any prostitute she expects something in return for her services. While she promises to and is willing to satisfy any desire one may have, she does not perform her services because she loves her clientele. No – her driving motivation is more sinister – the control of those whom she seduces. While they may receive the immediate benefit they desire, the long-term result is one of bondage. And like any other prostitute, she can offer no more than a cheap substitute of the real thing. Her “intimacy” never results in the giving of life.
I have seen people recognize the seductiveness of her charms and choose to distance themselves from her. She doesn’t become immediately angry; she simply waits. She knows that for those who have tasted of her offerings and have chosen to walk away, the time comes when they won’t know how to act without her. At that moment she begins to seductively whisper to their soul. She dresses a bit differently, wears a new fragrance designed to speak to the specific desires of the human soul. And so they return to her bed. As they once again give themselves to her seductions, she whispers welcoming words that assuage the longing of their soul.
Those who recognize that she is nothing more than a cheap disease-laden whore, promising what only God can truly give, become the target of her wrath. She quickly enlists her clientele to do her dirty work, using them to destroy the ones who refuse to succumb to her. She will utilize whatever means needed to wreak havoc in the lives of those who resist her. Her clientele that do her bidding in the attempt to destroy the followers of Jesus will be especially rewarded by her.
However, if we read Revelation, we discover that her destruction will happen. It will be rapid and severe. Her clientele will be left with nothing; only a deep sense of mourning and loss. On that day, their allegiance to someone other than the Creator will be evident for all to see.
The book of Revelation, speaks of the woman; her wealth, her extravagant lifestyle as well as of her arrogance and her anger toward those who refuse to be seduced by her charms. She especially despises the saints; those who follow Jesus. In fact through the years she has been responsible for the death of the martyrs of Jesus. On the other hand, to those who yield to her enchantment, she rewards with the desires of their soul. She bestows wealth, honor, and power upon those who will become one with her.
There is a slight caveat to her “blessings”. Just like any prostitute she expects something in return for her services. While she promises to and is willing to satisfy any desire one may have, she does not perform her services because she loves her clientele. No – her driving motivation is more sinister – the control of those whom she seduces. While they may receive the immediate benefit they desire, the long-term result is one of bondage. And like any other prostitute, she can offer no more than a cheap substitute of the real thing. Her “intimacy” never results in the giving of life.
I have seen people recognize the seductiveness of her charms and choose to distance themselves from her. She doesn’t become immediately angry; she simply waits. She knows that for those who have tasted of her offerings and have chosen to walk away, the time comes when they won’t know how to act without her. At that moment she begins to seductively whisper to their soul. She dresses a bit differently, wears a new fragrance designed to speak to the specific desires of the human soul. And so they return to her bed. As they once again give themselves to her seductions, she whispers welcoming words that assuage the longing of their soul.
Those who recognize that she is nothing more than a cheap disease-laden whore, promising what only God can truly give, become the target of her wrath. She quickly enlists her clientele to do her dirty work, using them to destroy the ones who refuse to succumb to her. She will utilize whatever means needed to wreak havoc in the lives of those who resist her. Her clientele that do her bidding in the attempt to destroy the followers of Jesus will be especially rewarded by her.
However, if we read Revelation, we discover that her destruction will happen. It will be rapid and severe. Her clientele will be left with nothing; only a deep sense of mourning and loss. On that day, their allegiance to someone other than the Creator will be evident for all to see.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
sola scriptura 2
As I am growing older, I am become more convinced of the power of the scriptures. There have been several transformational experiences in my life. One of them began to occur when I was reading the words of Jesus in gospels. The Holy Spirit whispered in my heart - Hear it like they heard it. As I began to remove my filter given me by Christendom, personal transformation began to occur. I discovered that for years, instead of allow the scriptures to speak to and shape me, I spoke to the scripture and attempted to shape them.
It is a fearful thing to allow the scriptures to speak to us in an unfiltered manner. I still feel the discomfort at times. Part of the problem is that so much of the belief system given us by Christendom does not align with the scriptures. Our understanding of salvation, the gospel, heaven and hell, have all been skewed by the unscriptural belief system. The problem arises at that point of discomfort. Will I stubbornly cling to the accepted beliefs or will I choose to be transformed? Will I lay aside my filter to be changed by the written word?
Several years ago I had a conversation with an acquaintance. He spoke to me about his difficulty with my unfiltered reading of the scriptures. In the conversation he mentioned that there were people who were convinced that I was deceived. When I asked why these people refused to speak to me about my "deception" I was shocked at his answer. He replied that they say "you know the Bible better than they do and therefore they do not want to discuss your deception!
Apparently my "deception" is not about my beliefs being shaped by scripture but rather how my putting scripture into practice exposes their own unscriptural beliefs. The words of Jesus as He quoted Isaiah ring true - This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.
While it is a fearful thing to allow the scriptures to speak to us, they will also be a mighty instrument of transformation in the hand of God. Read the scriptures unfiltered. Hear the words as the original hearers would have heard them.
It is a fearful thing to allow the scriptures to speak to us in an unfiltered manner. I still feel the discomfort at times. Part of the problem is that so much of the belief system given us by Christendom does not align with the scriptures. Our understanding of salvation, the gospel, heaven and hell, have all been skewed by the unscriptural belief system. The problem arises at that point of discomfort. Will I stubbornly cling to the accepted beliefs or will I choose to be transformed? Will I lay aside my filter to be changed by the written word?
Several years ago I had a conversation with an acquaintance. He spoke to me about his difficulty with my unfiltered reading of the scriptures. In the conversation he mentioned that there were people who were convinced that I was deceived. When I asked why these people refused to speak to me about my "deception" I was shocked at his answer. He replied that they say "you know the Bible better than they do and therefore they do not want to discuss your deception!
Apparently my "deception" is not about my beliefs being shaped by scripture but rather how my putting scripture into practice exposes their own unscriptural beliefs. The words of Jesus as He quoted Isaiah ring true - This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.
While it is a fearful thing to allow the scriptures to speak to us, they will also be a mighty instrument of transformation in the hand of God. Read the scriptures unfiltered. Hear the words as the original hearers would have heard them.
Monday, May 23, 2011
sola scriptura
In the Roman Catholic Church, both the tradition of the church and the scriptures carry equal weight. In other words, the traditions of the church are as sacred as the words of scripture. In the early 1500's Martin Luther taught that the source of authority is "sola scriptura" (scripture alone). The reformation championed that phrase in the subsequent years.
Today evangelical churches still profess to hold to the concept of "sola scriptura". While the evangelicals declare that they are differant from the Roman Catholics when it comes to the sacredness of church tradition, their actions indicate otherwise. I am becoming more convinced that even though there has been almost 500 years of declaration that they stand on, evangelicals hold the same beliefs as the Roman Catholics. If you do not believe me, dare to challenge any of their extra-biblical beliefs.
Let me illustrate. Bev and I had a conversation with a group of leaders recently. During the conversation we were asked about where we attend church. Since we do not attend church, the answer was simple - we don't. Their consternation was almost amusing. I then asked if I could stretch their theology a bit. My question to them was "where in scripture do you find that we are to go to church". After a bit of fumbling, one person responded with the scripture in Hebrews encouraging us to not forsake gathering together. I replied that we do gather together with other believers to be encouraged. We just don't go to church on Sunday morning. While it was a good conversation, their discomfort with "sola scriptura" was obvious.
Why do evangelicals associate going to church with spirituality? It is because they believe that the traditions of the church are equal to scripture. To question "going to church" (which isn't even a biblical concept) is seen as questioning God Himself. Our church tradition has so affected us that despite our claims of sola scriptura, our actions show that we really believe otherwise.
Today evangelical churches still profess to hold to the concept of "sola scriptura". While the evangelicals declare that they are differant from the Roman Catholics when it comes to the sacredness of church tradition, their actions indicate otherwise. I am becoming more convinced that even though there has been almost 500 years of declaration that they stand on, evangelicals hold the same beliefs as the Roman Catholics. If you do not believe me, dare to challenge any of their extra-biblical beliefs.
Let me illustrate. Bev and I had a conversation with a group of leaders recently. During the conversation we were asked about where we attend church. Since we do not attend church, the answer was simple - we don't. Their consternation was almost amusing. I then asked if I could stretch their theology a bit. My question to them was "where in scripture do you find that we are to go to church". After a bit of fumbling, one person responded with the scripture in Hebrews encouraging us to not forsake gathering together. I replied that we do gather together with other believers to be encouraged. We just don't go to church on Sunday morning. While it was a good conversation, their discomfort with "sola scriptura" was obvious.
Why do evangelicals associate going to church with spirituality? It is because they believe that the traditions of the church are equal to scripture. To question "going to church" (which isn't even a biblical concept) is seen as questioning God Himself. Our church tradition has so affected us that despite our claims of sola scriptura, our actions show that we really believe otherwise.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
share the wealth 2
My parents come from rather humble beginnings. While they were successful business/farm owners they did not start with a lot of resources. As my dad says - I started from scratch and it wasn't even itchy where I scratched. His father and his only brother were killed in a farm accident when dad was only six years old. My mom grew up a middle child in a family of fourteen children. Both parents talk about eating off the land when growing up; lots of fried potatoes and stewed tomatoes along with whatever vegetables and fruits were in season. When they butchered an animal, the entire animal was utilized in some manner.
When my dad was 35, he took the plunge and purchased a farm. He borrowed the money for the down payment and the owner financed the rest. I can remember times when money was in short supply. My mom raised chickens to sell as well as vegetables. The early weeks of July were raspberry picking time. Her and I picked gallons of wild raspberries to sell every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning during raspberry season.
As I reflect on their humble beginnings, two things come to mind for which I am very grateful; gifts that they gave to me. First, I never heard them complain about needing to work hard, about it being unfair that dad did not inherit his home farm. They never talked about the difficulty of life. What they did talk about was their thankfulness for what they had. My dad speaks highly of the people who believed enough in him to help make his dreams possible. There was no bitterness in them toward the poverty from which they came; just a deep sense of gratefulness for what they had.
The second gift has to do with an attitude as well. Both of my parents had a willingness to do whatever it took to realize their dreams. Obstacles were meant to be overcome, not hindrances to which one would yield. They understood that the realization of dreams required personal sacrifice.
Both attitudes, thankfulness and a willingness to do whatever it takes, are sorely lacking in society and the church. Far too frequently people adopt a victim's attitude. They continually feel bitter about their presumed lack of opportunity, complaining about their circumstances. They blame other people for the perceived injustices against them. Obstacles rule their world. They never live in God's mandate to Adam and Eve to subdue the earth. Instead they are subdued by their own circustances.
In their sixty years of marriage, my parents have moved from poverty to a place of financial stability. The attitudes of thankfulness and their willingness to "do whatever it takes" were largely responsible for the transformation. Their example is a tremendous gift to me!
When my dad was 35, he took the plunge and purchased a farm. He borrowed the money for the down payment and the owner financed the rest. I can remember times when money was in short supply. My mom raised chickens to sell as well as vegetables. The early weeks of July were raspberry picking time. Her and I picked gallons of wild raspberries to sell every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning during raspberry season.
As I reflect on their humble beginnings, two things come to mind for which I am very grateful; gifts that they gave to me. First, I never heard them complain about needing to work hard, about it being unfair that dad did not inherit his home farm. They never talked about the difficulty of life. What they did talk about was their thankfulness for what they had. My dad speaks highly of the people who believed enough in him to help make his dreams possible. There was no bitterness in them toward the poverty from which they came; just a deep sense of gratefulness for what they had.
The second gift has to do with an attitude as well. Both of my parents had a willingness to do whatever it took to realize their dreams. Obstacles were meant to be overcome, not hindrances to which one would yield. They understood that the realization of dreams required personal sacrifice.
Both attitudes, thankfulness and a willingness to do whatever it takes, are sorely lacking in society and the church. Far too frequently people adopt a victim's attitude. They continually feel bitter about their presumed lack of opportunity, complaining about their circumstances. They blame other people for the perceived injustices against them. Obstacles rule their world. They never live in God's mandate to Adam and Eve to subdue the earth. Instead they are subdued by their own circustances.
In their sixty years of marriage, my parents have moved from poverty to a place of financial stability. The attitudes of thankfulness and their willingness to "do whatever it takes" were largely responsible for the transformation. Their example is a tremendous gift to me!
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
sharing the wealth
Last post I shared about being wealthy, not from the perspective of money and possessions but from the perspective of the intangible things that contribute to my well being. The inheritance that I received from my parents while I was growing up is of value beyond measure. Last weekend when we were in NY together, I became more aware of some of those things and how they have affected me.
One aspect of that inheritance has to do with the way I view life. Somehow, my parents communicated to me the truth that "the world does not revolve around me". In other words, I grew up being very aware of the larger picture of life. While I always knew that God created me to be uniquely me, I was also very aware that I was part of a larger picture. In other words, my life was meant to live in harmony with others.
So often I see people who seem to think that the world revolves around them. Unfortunately, this attitude is as prevelant in Christians as it is in the rest of society. If anyone ought to know that life is not about me and my desires, it out to be Christians. The pattern of Jesus highlights a life lived with the realization that there is a cause beyond the preservation of self.
Self-centered people never achieve greatness in any way. Their impact on society is minimal. They are frequently victims, always suffering some injustice done to them. They are self-absorbed, rarely noticing other people. Their self-absorbtion causes them to use and abuse people. "Big picture" perspective eludes them since their focus is limited to their own puny existence.
The way of Jesus is one of serving, of pouring out one's life for the benefit of others. The way of Jesus enables one to discern the big picture and how we fit into God's work harmoniously. It is the way of harmony, life, and fruitfulness.
I thank God that my parents gave me the gift of being "others aware".
One aspect of that inheritance has to do with the way I view life. Somehow, my parents communicated to me the truth that "the world does not revolve around me". In other words, I grew up being very aware of the larger picture of life. While I always knew that God created me to be uniquely me, I was also very aware that I was part of a larger picture. In other words, my life was meant to live in harmony with others.
So often I see people who seem to think that the world revolves around them. Unfortunately, this attitude is as prevelant in Christians as it is in the rest of society. If anyone ought to know that life is not about me and my desires, it out to be Christians. The pattern of Jesus highlights a life lived with the realization that there is a cause beyond the preservation of self.
Self-centered people never achieve greatness in any way. Their impact on society is minimal. They are frequently victims, always suffering some injustice done to them. They are self-absorbed, rarely noticing other people. Their self-absorbtion causes them to use and abuse people. "Big picture" perspective eludes them since their focus is limited to their own puny existence.
The way of Jesus is one of serving, of pouring out one's life for the benefit of others. The way of Jesus enables one to discern the big picture and how we fit into God's work harmoniously. It is the way of harmony, life, and fruitfulness.
I thank God that my parents gave me the gift of being "others aware".
Monday, May 2, 2011
I'm wealthy
Bev and I spent this past weekend in NY at the cabin with my family. We had a great several days. My parents are both in their 80's and I think that everyone there had a sense of gratefulness that both parents could be there.
We ate together, a lot of really good food. We drank lots of coffee. We enjoyed the warm sunshine together, marvelling at the beauty of nature. But most of all we talked a lot. We both told and heard stories, stories of my parents romance more than 60 years ago, stories of childhood memories. We talked about dreams, life, and love. We sang hymns together. Before our Sunday morning brunch we joined in praise by singing the Doxology. Something about the weekend touched our hearts deeply and the words of the song were sung with passion and gusto. There was a lot of laughter, there were tears that flowed as we spoke of heart issues.
In many ways the weekend was a celebration of our heritage, a celebration about from where we have come.
On the way home yesterday, I remarked to Bev that I truly am a wealthy man. When I embrace my heritage and the stories that helped shape me, a true sense of prosperity emerges. It is not a wealth that can be measured in an amount of money, it transcends money and possesions. The greatest enjoyment from wealth occurs when it is shared. In the coming days/weeks, I will share some of my wealth from the weekend.
We ate together, a lot of really good food. We drank lots of coffee. We enjoyed the warm sunshine together, marvelling at the beauty of nature. But most of all we talked a lot. We both told and heard stories, stories of my parents romance more than 60 years ago, stories of childhood memories. We talked about dreams, life, and love. We sang hymns together. Before our Sunday morning brunch we joined in praise by singing the Doxology. Something about the weekend touched our hearts deeply and the words of the song were sung with passion and gusto. There was a lot of laughter, there were tears that flowed as we spoke of heart issues.
In many ways the weekend was a celebration of our heritage, a celebration about from where we have come.
On the way home yesterday, I remarked to Bev that I truly am a wealthy man. When I embrace my heritage and the stories that helped shape me, a true sense of prosperity emerges. It is not a wealth that can be measured in an amount of money, it transcends money and possesions. The greatest enjoyment from wealth occurs when it is shared. In the coming days/weeks, I will share some of my wealth from the weekend.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
the "covering doctrine"
When I first began to blog, my intent was to write about the things that I was processing in my mind, hence the title "Musings of a Jesus Follower". I usually do not post things other people write. However I recently read a great article on one of the faulty foundations that the church world promotes. Almost since it inception, the institutional church has held to a doctrine of "covering".
While I strongly believe that we need to learn the principle of submission in order to be trusted with authority, the teaching on covering has more to do with control than anything else. I came across a great article about covering and authority. It is rather lengthy but it is worth the time needed to read. Feel free to comment on the article here.
It is found at the following location:
http://www.greatsouthland.org/pages/covering.html
While I strongly believe that we need to learn the principle of submission in order to be trusted with authority, the teaching on covering has more to do with control than anything else. I came across a great article about covering and authority. It is rather lengthy but it is worth the time needed to read. Feel free to comment on the article here.
It is found at the following location:
http://www.greatsouthland.org/pages/covering.html
Saturday, April 9, 2011
truth
Recently I heard a radio talk show host make the following statement - it takes a great deal of courage to deal with the truth. The statement resonated with me, both in my heart and as well as experientially. While truth will set us free, it also has the power to make us very uncomfortable.
Our discomfort with truth stems from the fact that each of us is born with need/desire to be god. We want to self-determine (be in charge), self-preserve (make sure I always look good), and in general, ensure the well-being of the self-god. Our self-centered paradigms frequently conflict with truth. How we deal with the point of that conflict will determine our level of self-deception.
It is a dangerous thing to see the truth and then turn away from it in order to preserve our paradigms, paradigms that to us are more important than what really is. We choose to willingly embrace a lie and in so doing we choose the way of the father of lies.
On the other hand, if we make the difficult choice to embrace the truth, we will most certainly be set free. Truth will renew the mind and open the eyes to a new way of living. The more one lives according to truth, the greater the fruitfulness in life. While it may cause a great deal of discomfort, embrace truth! Have courage! Be free!
Our discomfort with truth stems from the fact that each of us is born with need/desire to be god. We want to self-determine (be in charge), self-preserve (make sure I always look good), and in general, ensure the well-being of the self-god. Our self-centered paradigms frequently conflict with truth. How we deal with the point of that conflict will determine our level of self-deception.
It is a dangerous thing to see the truth and then turn away from it in order to preserve our paradigms, paradigms that to us are more important than what really is. We choose to willingly embrace a lie and in so doing we choose the way of the father of lies.
On the other hand, if we make the difficult choice to embrace the truth, we will most certainly be set free. Truth will renew the mind and open the eyes to a new way of living. The more one lives according to truth, the greater the fruitfulness in life. While it may cause a great deal of discomfort, embrace truth! Have courage! Be free!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
the cross and the crown
The way of Jesus is found in the following words - Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
In these words we discover both a cross and a crown. A cross in that Jesus did not cling to what was rightfully His. A cross in that Jesus relinquished His rights to self-exaltation and self-determination. A cross in that the pathway of God led through suffering and death. We also find a crown. The Father gave Jesus a name above every name; a supreme authority. All creation recognizes the supremacy of Christ.
However, the crown came only because of the cross. Satan tempted Jesus to take a shortcut to glory - Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.” Ah yes...the glory without the cross. How appealing to our self-perserving nature!
If we are followers of Jesus, we can expect His example to be our own road map. The image of God within us yearns for greatness and glory. However, that glory can only be achieved by yielding to God's ways. We continually face the temptation to grasp at the glory without yielding to the work and the ways of God. Satan still offers a similitude of glory without needing to go through the cross; a glory that allows us to choose our own cross (which incidentally is not a cross at all) instead of allowing God to determine our cross. Far too often the appealing offer of the crown without the cross entices us and we yield to the way of self-preservation.
As a result we are left bowing to Satan. We may have an appearance of glory but it is but a hollow empty shell compared to the power and authority granted by the Father as we embrace the death to self that following Jesus requires. We hustle and bustle with great gusto in an effort to look important. All our efforts, however, are rather empty with no real power to bring any kind of transformation.
There are no shortcuts to glory, no easy way to authority. Unless we submit to the Father's ways we can never truly wear a crown. The cross and the crown cannot be separated
In these words we discover both a cross and a crown. A cross in that Jesus did not cling to what was rightfully His. A cross in that Jesus relinquished His rights to self-exaltation and self-determination. A cross in that the pathway of God led through suffering and death. We also find a crown. The Father gave Jesus a name above every name; a supreme authority. All creation recognizes the supremacy of Christ.
However, the crown came only because of the cross. Satan tempted Jesus to take a shortcut to glory - Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.” Ah yes...the glory without the cross. How appealing to our self-perserving nature!
If we are followers of Jesus, we can expect His example to be our own road map. The image of God within us yearns for greatness and glory. However, that glory can only be achieved by yielding to God's ways. We continually face the temptation to grasp at the glory without yielding to the work and the ways of God. Satan still offers a similitude of glory without needing to go through the cross; a glory that allows us to choose our own cross (which incidentally is not a cross at all) instead of allowing God to determine our cross. Far too often the appealing offer of the crown without the cross entices us and we yield to the way of self-preservation.
As a result we are left bowing to Satan. We may have an appearance of glory but it is but a hollow empty shell compared to the power and authority granted by the Father as we embrace the death to self that following Jesus requires. We hustle and bustle with great gusto in an effort to look important. All our efforts, however, are rather empty with no real power to bring any kind of transformation.
There are no shortcuts to glory, no easy way to authority. Unless we submit to the Father's ways we can never truly wear a crown. The cross and the crown cannot be separated
Monday, March 21, 2011
prophets
In the Old Testament we discover prophets with strange names (to us) speaking to God’s people. Usually their writings were simply titled by their name. They were an eclectic bunch. Amos was a breeder of sheep. Hosea married a prostitute. Some are identified by their father – Joel the son of Pethuel. One, Jeremiah, was the son of a priest.
Each of them has one thing in common. Their words are passionate. Passionate in the way they pointed out where the people of God had left the ways of God. Passionate as they communicated the heart of God and His love toward His people.
One other thing they hold in common. While they spoke for God, they largely operated outside the religious and political systems of the day. They spoke to the systems and the people within the systems but they were not really connected to the systems.
Why would God not choose priests or kings to be His prophets? I am convinced that it is difficult if not impossible to speak prophetically to those who write your paycheck. The human nature subtly tempers the prophetic voice if it is pointed at the ones who give us a sense of security. So God gave His words to those who would clearly communicate them, to those who were not tied to a religious or political system. Might it still be the same today?
Each of them has one thing in common. Their words are passionate. Passionate in the way they pointed out where the people of God had left the ways of God. Passionate as they communicated the heart of God and His love toward His people.
One other thing they hold in common. While they spoke for God, they largely operated outside the religious and political systems of the day. They spoke to the systems and the people within the systems but they were not really connected to the systems.
Why would God not choose priests or kings to be His prophets? I am convinced that it is difficult if not impossible to speak prophetically to those who write your paycheck. The human nature subtly tempers the prophetic voice if it is pointed at the ones who give us a sense of security. So God gave His words to those who would clearly communicate them, to those who were not tied to a religious or political system. Might it still be the same today?
Sunday, March 13, 2011
conversation
The stillness of the early morning allows for the mind and heart to be clear. That occured again early this morning in the barn with the cows. My mind wandered through a number of conversations that I either observed or in which I participated in the past weeks. Our conversations reveal a good deal about the condition of our heart, about the paradigms to which we hold.
There was the conversation in my truck almost two weeks ago. The Vice President of Reasearch and Development in the company for which I work spent an afternoon with me. We talked about cattle nutrition, our dreams, and life in general. All the while the theme of the kingdom of God wove its way throughout the conversation. There was a conversation yesterday with Karisa at breakfast. We discussed the brokenness we encounter in the world; sin and how we so often miss the good things God has for us. Last weekend our conversation with Justin touched on community and seeing people for the way they really are. These were kingdom conversations, all dealing with issues in the realm of God. They were heart conversations with deep emotions present in every interaction.
I also observed conversations in the past several weeks, conversations between Christians. Please do not hear what I am going to say as criticism. I am simply sharing my observations. These conversations were much more shallow. There was much talk about the church service, the quality of worship, and various programs. Lest you think I am being critical, I must confess that for many years of my walk with God, these themes dominated my interaction with God and with others.
In the stillness of the morning this morning, my mind reflected on these various conversations. I had to wonder if perhaps our fascination with the trappings of church provide a cheap substitute for the real thing. Might we be too consumed with the success of our churches that we are missing the point? Might the activities of church be a replacement of the more important things in the kingdom of God? As Jesus put it - the weightier matters of justice, mercy, and faith.
There was the conversation in my truck almost two weeks ago. The Vice President of Reasearch and Development in the company for which I work spent an afternoon with me. We talked about cattle nutrition, our dreams, and life in general. All the while the theme of the kingdom of God wove its way throughout the conversation. There was a conversation yesterday with Karisa at breakfast. We discussed the brokenness we encounter in the world; sin and how we so often miss the good things God has for us. Last weekend our conversation with Justin touched on community and seeing people for the way they really are. These were kingdom conversations, all dealing with issues in the realm of God. They were heart conversations with deep emotions present in every interaction.
I also observed conversations in the past several weeks, conversations between Christians. Please do not hear what I am going to say as criticism. I am simply sharing my observations. These conversations were much more shallow. There was much talk about the church service, the quality of worship, and various programs. Lest you think I am being critical, I must confess that for many years of my walk with God, these themes dominated my interaction with God and with others.
In the stillness of the morning this morning, my mind reflected on these various conversations. I had to wonder if perhaps our fascination with the trappings of church provide a cheap substitute for the real thing. Might we be too consumed with the success of our churches that we are missing the point? Might the activities of church be a replacement of the more important things in the kingdom of God? As Jesus put it - the weightier matters of justice, mercy, and faith.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
community
We spent this weekend in South Carolina at Clemson with Justin where he is enrolled in the PhD program. Friday evening he and his friends took us to Bluegrass and Barbecue for dinner followed by a visit to Nick's, a hole in the wall bar in downtown Clemson. Justin's friends are an eclectic group. They are all graduate students. Their political views, religious beliefs, and value systems are from every end of the spectrum, from Catholic to agnostic, from liberal to conservative, from Christian to pagan. However, the camaradorie in the group was evident. They freely discuss their differences without need to condemn.
As we discussed his friends with Justin, he made the following statement - "I like my friends, they are all broken". For the most part they understand their imperfections and the places where their life falls short. Instead of hiding behind a mask of goodness, they dare to be open. Without a doubt, some are more transparent than others, personality plays a role. However, there is little posturing. Justin spoke of the difficulty that will come when the time comes for each of them to move on to another place in life. He spoke of community like he never experienced before, community that he confessed could move him to tears with the depth of relationships.
As I reflect on our interaction with Hampton, Erin, Frank, Lori, Justin, and Trenti, I got the sense that Jesus would have been comfortable with them. It is the way it should be.
As we discussed his friends with Justin, he made the following statement - "I like my friends, they are all broken". For the most part they understand their imperfections and the places where their life falls short. Instead of hiding behind a mask of goodness, they dare to be open. Without a doubt, some are more transparent than others, personality plays a role. However, there is little posturing. Justin spoke of the difficulty that will come when the time comes for each of them to move on to another place in life. He spoke of community like he never experienced before, community that he confessed could move him to tears with the depth of relationships.
As I reflect on our interaction with Hampton, Erin, Frank, Lori, Justin, and Trenti, I got the sense that Jesus would have been comfortable with them. It is the way it should be.
Friday, February 25, 2011
hazards on the journey
And He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. He spoke this word openly.
Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him. But when He had turned around and looked at His disciples, He rebuked Peter, saying, “Get behind Me, Satan! For you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.”
I find this exchange between Jesus and Peter rather fascinating. Jesus clearly outlined to those close to Him the road on which He was travelling. From the perspective of looking back through history, it seems odd that Peter would rebuke Jesus for embracing the Father's plan. While Jesus spoke of sacrifice, of dying, He also spoke of a miraculous life-giving resurrection.
For some reason Peter apparently never heard the words about resurrection. Why? I think it is because Peter's personal agenda for Jesus did not mesh with Jesus' words. Instead of hearing the voice of the Father in Jesus' words, Peter rejected the plan of God due to his lack of understanding the ways of God. Not only did he reject the plan of God, in his choice to disregard the hand of God, he became a voice for the counsel of Satan.
Unfortunately, the "Peter syndrome" still occurs today. Bev and I have noticed that every time that we have made a dramatic change in our lives in order to follow Jesus, good people have come out of the woodwork to oppose the change. They are not bad people, they simply have no understanding of the work of God. Due to the fact that they interpret life through their own humanistic lens, they can quickly become the accusatory voice of the enemy.
If you are going to follow Jesus, not only in word, but in action, expect this to happen. Look at the words of Jesus - Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also.
From the perspective of looking back through time, we know that Peter eventually "got it". His mistake was not an eternal mistake. And so it is today. Set your face to follow Jesus. You will be opposed (and sometimes by those close to you) but be of good cheer - resurrection is coming! The opposition by good people does not last forever.
Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him. But when He had turned around and looked at His disciples, He rebuked Peter, saying, “Get behind Me, Satan! For you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.”
I find this exchange between Jesus and Peter rather fascinating. Jesus clearly outlined to those close to Him the road on which He was travelling. From the perspective of looking back through history, it seems odd that Peter would rebuke Jesus for embracing the Father's plan. While Jesus spoke of sacrifice, of dying, He also spoke of a miraculous life-giving resurrection.
For some reason Peter apparently never heard the words about resurrection. Why? I think it is because Peter's personal agenda for Jesus did not mesh with Jesus' words. Instead of hearing the voice of the Father in Jesus' words, Peter rejected the plan of God due to his lack of understanding the ways of God. Not only did he reject the plan of God, in his choice to disregard the hand of God, he became a voice for the counsel of Satan.
Unfortunately, the "Peter syndrome" still occurs today. Bev and I have noticed that every time that we have made a dramatic change in our lives in order to follow Jesus, good people have come out of the woodwork to oppose the change. They are not bad people, they simply have no understanding of the work of God. Due to the fact that they interpret life through their own humanistic lens, they can quickly become the accusatory voice of the enemy.
If you are going to follow Jesus, not only in word, but in action, expect this to happen. Look at the words of Jesus - Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also.
From the perspective of looking back through time, we know that Peter eventually "got it". His mistake was not an eternal mistake. And so it is today. Set your face to follow Jesus. You will be opposed (and sometimes by those close to you) but be of good cheer - resurrection is coming! The opposition by good people does not last forever.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
simplicity
Recently Bev began the process of preparing to move. In the midst of sorting through stuff she came across keepsakes from our wedding. Among the items she found a bulletin from the wedding. As I looked over the format of the wedding service, a song by Don Francisco caught my attention. I had not heard the song in many years. I opened Youtube and typed the song into the search engine. Sure enough I found it.
That song stirred my memory about a number of other songs by Don Francisco. I spent the next 30 minutes or so listening to those songs. There was something innocent and pure in the lyrics and the music. It was refreshing, the simplicity of the words and music spoke of an innocence lost. The songs took me to a place many years ago, a time when I discovered God.
In many ways my journey with God was mirrored in the progression of "Christian" music in the past several decades. The innocence and simplicity got lost in the effort to be "cutting edge". It became more about performance and less about issues of the heart. The clutter and noise of a performance mentality gradually drowned the melody of simplicity from the heart of God.
Fortunately the alive heart can only put up with the external clamor for so long until it longs deeply to be heard. For the past years, I have been on a journey of returning to simplicity. This journey is not about correct theology or about flawless performance of religious duties. It is about something much more basic. Jesus distilled our walk with God into two foundational attitudes - love God and love my neighbor.
As Christ is formed more deeply in our heart, life becomes more simple. There is no longer a need for validation found in being cool or cutting edge. The words and music springing from the heart no longer need anything added to package them into a produced choreography.
Ah yes...it really is that simple!
That song stirred my memory about a number of other songs by Don Francisco. I spent the next 30 minutes or so listening to those songs. There was something innocent and pure in the lyrics and the music. It was refreshing, the simplicity of the words and music spoke of an innocence lost. The songs took me to a place many years ago, a time when I discovered God.
In many ways my journey with God was mirrored in the progression of "Christian" music in the past several decades. The innocence and simplicity got lost in the effort to be "cutting edge". It became more about performance and less about issues of the heart. The clutter and noise of a performance mentality gradually drowned the melody of simplicity from the heart of God.
Fortunately the alive heart can only put up with the external clamor for so long until it longs deeply to be heard. For the past years, I have been on a journey of returning to simplicity. This journey is not about correct theology or about flawless performance of religious duties. It is about something much more basic. Jesus distilled our walk with God into two foundational attitudes - love God and love my neighbor.
As Christ is formed more deeply in our heart, life becomes more simple. There is no longer a need for validation found in being cool or cutting edge. The words and music springing from the heart no longer need anything added to package them into a produced choreography.
Ah yes...it really is that simple!
Sunday, February 6, 2011
life
I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
- Jesus Christ
Jesus stated purpose for coming to earth was that we might have life, not just a meager existence but abundant life. The Greek word we translate as "abundant" literally means "excessive, superior in quality, super abundant". In other words, the reason Jesus came was to allow us to experience life far beyond the what we could imagine.
If Jesus came so that we might live life beyond normal, why do so many people live, not in abundant life, but in a dull dreary manner? Why do so many people go to work everyday to a job they despise? Why do people endure boring empty church services? Why do people disregard their God-given dreams, choosing instead the way of safety and boredom?
The Greek word that we translate as "sin" in the scriptures has less to do with a set of actions and more to do with missing the point. In other words, when we choose something other than the abundant life offered by Jesus, we miss the point or mark, we sin.
There are a variety of reasons why we do not embrace abundant life, choosing instead the way of sin. The expectations of people, the fear of stepping beyond our current existance, the need to be in control of our circumstances all contribute to our missing the mark.
I am at the point in my life when I am becoming increasingly aware of my mortality. In all likelihood, I have lived more than half of my life. When a teenager, life stretches before us as a never ending road the disappears over the horizon in the far distant future. For me, the horizon has become much closer. As the last half of my life comes into view, the question of how I shall live my days becomes a very present question.
If I am to experience all that God has for me in the last half of my life, then I must choose life. I am becoming increasingly aware that I really do not have the time to waste on activities and endeavors that do not bring life. "Missing the mark" (sin) always results in death. I don't have the luxury of extra days days to waste in death, in engaging in activities that cause me to miss the mark.
- Jesus Christ
Jesus stated purpose for coming to earth was that we might have life, not just a meager existence but abundant life. The Greek word we translate as "abundant" literally means "excessive, superior in quality, super abundant". In other words, the reason Jesus came was to allow us to experience life far beyond the what we could imagine.
If Jesus came so that we might live life beyond normal, why do so many people live, not in abundant life, but in a dull dreary manner? Why do so many people go to work everyday to a job they despise? Why do people endure boring empty church services? Why do people disregard their God-given dreams, choosing instead the way of safety and boredom?
The Greek word that we translate as "sin" in the scriptures has less to do with a set of actions and more to do with missing the point. In other words, when we choose something other than the abundant life offered by Jesus, we miss the point or mark, we sin.
There are a variety of reasons why we do not embrace abundant life, choosing instead the way of sin. The expectations of people, the fear of stepping beyond our current existance, the need to be in control of our circumstances all contribute to our missing the mark.
I am at the point in my life when I am becoming increasingly aware of my mortality. In all likelihood, I have lived more than half of my life. When a teenager, life stretches before us as a never ending road the disappears over the horizon in the far distant future. For me, the horizon has become much closer. As the last half of my life comes into view, the question of how I shall live my days becomes a very present question.
If I am to experience all that God has for me in the last half of my life, then I must choose life. I am becoming increasingly aware that I really do not have the time to waste on activities and endeavors that do not bring life. "Missing the mark" (sin) always results in death. I don't have the luxury of extra days days to waste in death, in engaging in activities that cause me to miss the mark.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
people that do
I am not easily impressed. However, I have a deep admiration for people whose walk with God consists of action not just talk, and especially those people whose "doing" is not promoted for the world to see. I am impressed with people who quietly and without fanfare do the work of God in the messy gutter of life.
Conversely, I am not impressed by those who continually have to broadcast the news of their ministry. Jesus spoke about people whose actions were driven by a need to be noticed - they have their reward now. Recently, while on Interstate 81 I saw a large billboard proclaiming - Steamtown Church, a church in the city that loves the city. Now perhaps that billboard was placed there by the leading of the Holy Spirit. If so, then the church needed heed the Spirit's invitation.
However, I could not help but be a bit cynical when I saw it. I mean if we love the city, then we just love the city. There is no need to make any kind of proclamation about loving the city. If we love the city, we do not need to say so since the inhabitants of the city will know they are loved. So then what is the purpose of the proclamation? Or is the proclamation an attempt to convince ourselves that we love as we should?
Love requires us to engage with those being loved, not through a program or an event, but through inviting them into our very lives. I am impressed with the young single man who opens the doors of his home to other young men struggling to find their way. I am impressed with the truck driver who visits those in the nursing homes, bringing his infectious laughter into the grayness of their existence. I am impressed by the businessman who will loan money to employees in need, knowing full well that he probably will never see the money again. These are real people in real situations, people who will never be featured on the front page of the religious section of the newspaper. Furthermore, they have no desire to be noticed and applauded. They simply see "the least of these" with a need and meet the need. They are my heroes!
Conversely, I am not impressed by those who continually have to broadcast the news of their ministry. Jesus spoke about people whose actions were driven by a need to be noticed - they have their reward now. Recently, while on Interstate 81 I saw a large billboard proclaiming - Steamtown Church, a church in the city that loves the city. Now perhaps that billboard was placed there by the leading of the Holy Spirit. If so, then the church needed heed the Spirit's invitation.
However, I could not help but be a bit cynical when I saw it. I mean if we love the city, then we just love the city. There is no need to make any kind of proclamation about loving the city. If we love the city, we do not need to say so since the inhabitants of the city will know they are loved. So then what is the purpose of the proclamation? Or is the proclamation an attempt to convince ourselves that we love as we should?
Love requires us to engage with those being loved, not through a program or an event, but through inviting them into our very lives. I am impressed with the young single man who opens the doors of his home to other young men struggling to find their way. I am impressed with the truck driver who visits those in the nursing homes, bringing his infectious laughter into the grayness of their existence. I am impressed by the businessman who will loan money to employees in need, knowing full well that he probably will never see the money again. These are real people in real situations, people who will never be featured on the front page of the religious section of the newspaper. Furthermore, they have no desire to be noticed and applauded. They simply see "the least of these" with a need and meet the need. They are my heroes!
Sunday, January 23, 2011
north country
Bev and I spent the weekend at the Lodge. There is something intrinsically beautiful about the North Country in mid-winter. The snow, the deep blue sky, the snow dusted trees, and the abundance of wildlife all combine for a wonder-filled experience. The sub zero temperatures only serve to make the warm fire in the fireplace more inviting.
I used the snow blower to clean the lane. As I worked (well maybe it was playing) in the snow, my heart felt like it would burst with worship. The words of the hymn played in my mind and made their way past my lips – Oh Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder, consider all the worlds thy hand have made…Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee, how great Thou art… When no one is around to hear, one can sing loudly and without inhibition!
The air feels clearer when it is this cold. Somehow the mind seems clearer as well. My thought process is no longer clouded by the press of details that swirl around me at home. Dreams of the heart become more vivid. Strategy to fulfill the dreams emerges with clarity. Hope arises after being hidden underneath the pressing weight of the mundane.
Creation reveals God, stirring both praise and inspiration. Somehow this weekend, I have joined in more deeply, felt alive more fully! Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee, How great Thou art!
I used the snow blower to clean the lane. As I worked (well maybe it was playing) in the snow, my heart felt like it would burst with worship. The words of the hymn played in my mind and made their way past my lips – Oh Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder, consider all the worlds thy hand have made…Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee, how great Thou art… When no one is around to hear, one can sing loudly and without inhibition!
The air feels clearer when it is this cold. Somehow the mind seems clearer as well. My thought process is no longer clouded by the press of details that swirl around me at home. Dreams of the heart become more vivid. Strategy to fulfill the dreams emerges with clarity. Hope arises after being hidden underneath the pressing weight of the mundane.
Creation reveals God, stirring both praise and inspiration. Somehow this weekend, I have joined in more deeply, felt alive more fully! Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee, How great Thou art!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
crossroads
On of the great things about getting older is that you gain perspective. Life is meant to be lived. If we will allow it, it becomes a great teacher. In my own journey with God, there have been transitional times that deeply shaped the coming years. In the mid to late 80's I discovered God to be real, tangible beyond what I could have imagined. In the mid 90's Bev and I left our dreams to follow the invitation of the Holy Spirit. The next 17 years were deeply transformational for me.
Once again Bev and I find ourselves in transition time. This time is a bit different. 17 years ago we heard the voice of God inviting us to a specific path. In the season in which we find ourselves currently, the question we hear from God is, "what do you want to do in the coming years?" We are learning to walk in harmony with the way He created us, with the dreams He placed within us. I always assumed that the dreams we relinquished 17 years ago were discarded by God in some heavenly trashcan of selfish desires. Little did I know that when I relinquished them into His hands, instead of discarding them, He gently cared for them for me.
A bit over four years ago, I realized that I was deeply stirred by something that I thought was forever gone. I remember asking Bev if she thought that perhaps God was giving my dreams back to me. The past number of years the dreams and the strategies to fulfill them began to re-emerge.
In all my years in leadership in the institutional church, I never felt like I fit. Whenever a group of pastors gathered, it seemed to me that I was the only one who did not have a burning desire to be "in ministry". I never asked for ministry position and never felt the need to grasp for it. For 17 years, I have labored primarily in the institutional church, building structures and systems. Yet for the past five years I have become increasingly aware of the problems of "church".
Today, the rebirth of my God-given dreams leads me away from the institutional church to a place of more organic church. I want to be involved with the work of God, not just in the restoration work in the lives of individuals but in the more mundane work of producing food to feed people. I desire deep relationships that demand transformation but I have no desire to attend church functions unless they facilitate the formation of relationships. I have no stomach for the endless meetings needed to prop up the institutional church. I am tired of the religious control that masquerades as accountability. I can no longer tolerate systems and structures that hinder healing, restoration, and ultimately, the work of God.
And so after 17 years, it's over. I will still blog about my observations on my walk with Jesus. As the Holy Spirit leads, I will still teach and preach...I can't keep my mouth shut when a message burns in my heart. But I will no longer give my time and energy building something that does not harmonize with what God is doing in me.
Once again Bev and I find ourselves in transition time. This time is a bit different. 17 years ago we heard the voice of God inviting us to a specific path. In the season in which we find ourselves currently, the question we hear from God is, "what do you want to do in the coming years?" We are learning to walk in harmony with the way He created us, with the dreams He placed within us. I always assumed that the dreams we relinquished 17 years ago were discarded by God in some heavenly trashcan of selfish desires. Little did I know that when I relinquished them into His hands, instead of discarding them, He gently cared for them for me.
A bit over four years ago, I realized that I was deeply stirred by something that I thought was forever gone. I remember asking Bev if she thought that perhaps God was giving my dreams back to me. The past number of years the dreams and the strategies to fulfill them began to re-emerge.
In all my years in leadership in the institutional church, I never felt like I fit. Whenever a group of pastors gathered, it seemed to me that I was the only one who did not have a burning desire to be "in ministry". I never asked for ministry position and never felt the need to grasp for it. For 17 years, I have labored primarily in the institutional church, building structures and systems. Yet for the past five years I have become increasingly aware of the problems of "church".
Today, the rebirth of my God-given dreams leads me away from the institutional church to a place of more organic church. I want to be involved with the work of God, not just in the restoration work in the lives of individuals but in the more mundane work of producing food to feed people. I desire deep relationships that demand transformation but I have no desire to attend church functions unless they facilitate the formation of relationships. I have no stomach for the endless meetings needed to prop up the institutional church. I am tired of the religious control that masquerades as accountability. I can no longer tolerate systems and structures that hinder healing, restoration, and ultimately, the work of God.
And so after 17 years, it's over. I will still blog about my observations on my walk with Jesus. As the Holy Spirit leads, I will still teach and preach...I can't keep my mouth shut when a message burns in my heart. But I will no longer give my time and energy building something that does not harmonize with what God is doing in me.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Sweetheart Weekend
February 11-13, 2011
What is a Sweetheart Weekend?
Life has a way of interfering with the heart to heart relationship that makes a great marriage. From time to time it is advantageous to take some dedicated time away from the busyness of life to reconnect on deep heart to heart and romantic level with your spouse. The Sweetheart Weekend is a great way to spend uninterrupted time with your spouse.
Our goal is for good marriages to be strengthened over the weekend. This retreat is not designed for those whose marriages are troubled at this time.
Where and when is it held?
We (Beverly and I) will be hosting it at El-Quest Lodge in the 1000 Island Region of Upstate NY. El-Quest Lodge is a beautiful four bedroom, three bathroom, log home on the shores of Black Lake. The Sweetheart Weekend will begin with dinner on Friday evening and conclude with Sunday dinner at noon. The GPS location is 307 Black Lake Rd, Hammond, NY
How many couples can come?
We have room for only three couples at a time. Spots will be filled on a first come basis.
What will we do?
We will eat together as well as have some time for group interaction. However, the majority of the time will be reserved for you and your spouse alone. There are small quaint towns to explore. The snow covered landscape makes for beautiful long walks. There will be time for reading by the fireplace or for watching movies in the media room.
What is the cost?
The investment into your marriage is $150 per couple. That price includes all meals and bedding (with the exception of pillows). We do ask that you bring your own towels and washcloths. If funds are a problem, the generosity of some individuals has made some partial scholarships available. Additionally, if you would like to sponsor a couple, please contact us.
How do we reserve our spot?
Please contact Glen and Beverly Peachey either via phone or email.
717-436-2476 or glenpeachey@embarqmail.com
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