tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-335698062023-11-16T01:07:01.973-05:00Worship WellUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger828125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-49382718189196944232011-12-16T15:13:00.002-05:002011-12-16T15:19:21.569-05:00The Essence of Sin - Stott<div>For the essence of sin is man substituting himself for God, while the essence of salvation is God substituting himself for man. Man asserts himself against God and puts himself where only God deserves to be; God sacrifices himself for man and puts himself where only man deserves to be. Man claims prerogatives that belong to God alone; God accepts penalties that belong to man alone. John Stott - The Cross of Christ</div><div><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-77752894255212246942010-12-01T07:39:00.001-05:002010-12-01T08:01:19.045-05:00Pax or Shalom?<!--StartFragment--><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right:49.5pt"><span style="font-family:Verdana">As we meet with couples and others, most of them are initially looking for détente. You remember the Cold War? "We won't fire our missiles at you, you don't fire yours at us!" I have to admit sometimes that is what I am looking for too. It seems good enough.<br /><br /><b>How do you define peace? </b></span><span style="font-family:Verdana"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right:49.5pt"><span style="font-family:Verdana"> The word, as commonly used in English, comes from the Latin "pax." <b>Pax</b></span><span style="font-family:Verdana"> to the Romans meant a cessation of hostilities between the conqueror and the vanquished. Think of Pax Romana from your High School history class. The Romans veni, vidi, vicied and so they dictated the terms of peace. Until the Vandals came south. You see pax is always temporary because it changes with who is in the position of strength.<br /><br />After World War I we dictated the terms of the peace with Germany. It did not prevent World War II.<br /><br />On the other hand, the ancient Hebrew concept of peace, rooted in the word "<b>shalom</b></span><span style="font-family:Verdana">," meant wholeness, completeness, soundness, health, safety and prosperity, carrying with it the implication of permanence.<br /><br />Rabbi Robert I. Kahn compares "Roman" peace/pax and "Hebrew" shalom:<br /><br />One person can dictate a peace; shalom is a mutual agreement.<br /> <br /> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right:49.5pt"><span style="font-family:Verdana">Peace is a temporary pact; shalom is a permanent covenant.<br /> <br /> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right:49.5pt"><span style="font-family:Verdana">Peace can be negative, the absence of commotion. Shalom is positive, the presence of serenity and wholeness<br /> <br /> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right:49.5pt"><span style="font-family:Verdana">Peace can be partial; shalom is whole and complete.<br /><br /><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">What kind of peace are you looking for this season? What kind of peace are they looking for? Pax or Shalom? </span></b></span><span style="font-family:Verdana">Don’t settle for less. Not w/in-laws or out-laws. Not w/neighbors. Shalom or bust.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right:49.5pt"><span style="font-family:Verdana"> <b>So where do we see shalom, how do we get it?</b></span><span style="font-family:Verdana"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right:49.5pt"><span style="font-family:Verdana">Isaiah 9<br /><br />5 Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.<br /><b>6</b></span><span style="font-family:Verdana"> For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.<br /><br /><b>Dramatic change here.</b></span><span style="font-family:Verdana"> Bloody garments and boots will be burned. Of all things the answer is a child. A son. The government will be on his shoulders, counselor, everlasting, mighty. Prince of peace (shalom) <b>Jesus is shalom.</b></span><span style="font-family:Verdana"> For them and us. Everything else is détente at best. Everything.<br /><br />Why is His peace different?</span><span style="font-family:Verdana"> Remember the bloody garment and the warrior boot? Listen to Isaiah 53, maybe with new hearing:<br /><br />"Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; <b>the punishment that brought us peace was on him</b></span><span style="font-family:Verdana">, and by his wounds we are healed."<br /><br />There can be no shalom without war. There can be pax without war.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But shalom, as I said, comes as a mutual agreement; a permanent covenant. The punishment that brought peace was laid on him. The full war, all guns blazing, all bombs dropped, all IEDs detonating, all nuclear missiles and spiritual weapons of mass destruction pummeling him. The wrath of God on the Son.<br /><br />Shalom came on that day. That war brought us peace. It was a mutual agreement. He went as a prisoner. Surrendered, Stripped. He was the scapegoat. Yet innocent. That brought peace.<br /><br />That is what we have been freely given. Shalom: wholeness, completeness, soundness, health, safety and prosperity, the tranquil state of our soul assured of salvation through Christ. That enables us to fear nothing from God and to be content with our earthly lot, whatever it is.<br /><br />That is what they need. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right:49.5pt"><span style="font-family:Verdana">This season: Pax or shalom?<o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment--> <p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;font-size:large;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-31938343884751931482010-11-13T14:59:00.000-05:002010-11-13T15:00:04.838-05:00Fenelon for you<!--StartFragment--><span style="color:#033299;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">“Tell God all that is in your heart, as one unloads one's heart, it's pleasures, and it's pains, to a dear friend. Tell him your troubles, that he may comfort you; tell him your joys, that he may sober them; tell him your longings, that he may purify them; talk to him of your temptations, that he may shield you from them; show him the wounds of your heart, that he may heal them; lay bare your indifference to good, your depraved tastes for evil, your instability. Tell him how self-love makes you unjust to others, how vanity tempts you to be insincere, how pride disguises you to yourself and others. If you thus pour out your weaknesses, needs, troubles, there will be no lack of what to say. You will never exhaust the subject. People who have no secrets from each other never want for subject of conversation. They do not weigh their words, for there is nothing to be held back, neither do they seek for something to say. They talk out of the abundance of their heart, without consideration they say just what they think. Blessed are they who attain to such familiar, unreserved intercourse with God.”</span></b></span></span> <!--EndFragment-->Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-57196256886725546952010-11-12T15:41:00.000-05:002010-11-12T15:42:28.018-05:00He is God<!--StartFragment--><p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial; font-size: large; ">Every once in a while the thought comes back to my mind. It recently happened when I was reading Hebrews. </span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span style="font-size:12.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> The whole book of Hebrews is worth your time and attention. The great theologian John Owen wrote a seven volume commentary on it because he found so much in it that pointed to the supremacy in Christ. It starts like this:<br /><br />“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways,</span> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe.</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.” (Hebrews 1:1-3)<br /><br />You could meditate on those verses for weeks.<br /><br />The author is saying that Jesus is God. </span> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">That </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">is the thought that keeps coming back to my mind and heart. He is not just another Moses or some mysterious priest like Melchizidek. He is not a super angel. He is not the best prophet who ever lived. He is God. He is heir of all things and the universe was made through Him. He sustains all things. He is robed in splendor. Wow. I am glad that thought comes to my mind every once in a while. It is good news. Because He is God, He is all powerful and His will is going to be done.<br /><br />The thought that follows that thought is this: He disrobed. He set aside Himself to become sin for us. He went to a cross almost naked and endured the wrath of God the Father for us. He did it for His glory and so that we could have a robe. The robe of Christ’s righteousness. Amazing. Simple. Costly. Complex. He is God and He came for us. As we enter the Advent season can we encourage you to reflect on that? Maybe some of you wonder if it is true. Can we encourage you to explore during this season?<br /><br />We believe he came for you. Even better, He is coming back for you. The king will return and He will not be naked. He will be robed in majesty, surrounded by glory and full of love for His people. Join us this season as we celebrate the once and future king.</span> <br /></span></span> <!--EndFragment--> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-89668193912953233622010-11-08T12:55:00.000-05:002010-11-08T12:56:06.043-05:00Could be Dangerous<!--StartFragment--><p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I had noted this rough patch on my nose for a week or two. I could feel it was different and, when I wrinkled my nose, I felt a general tightness on the top of it. Kind of like sunburn, but it did not go away. I also had a spot on my forehead that had been growing a bit darker and seemed to itch a bit more than it had. So off to the dermatologist I went. Here was my thinking: Could be nothing or it could be something. Better to have a professional tell me because I do not have the education to make the determination. </span></span></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> The one on the nose was something. The dermatologist compared it to a picture on her wall. She dealt with it right then. There was a bit of a sting as she froze it, leaving a red mark, but I am told a scab will form and it will fall off in a week or so. We caught it before it went to the second picture on the wall in her office. You don’t want to know what the fourth and final picture looked like, yuck! While I was there, she said, “Let me take a look around,” and she did. Here a spot and there a spot. Some to be concerned with and others no problem. I will be going back again for a bit more work.<br /><br />As I left the office I was reminded that my sin is like that. All of it is a blemish no doubt. Some of it is growing into something darker and more sinister. It could be dangerous. I will never rid my soul fully of all the inclinations I have to besmirch the work of Christ, but I would be wiser if I noted, by feeling, the things that are giving my soul a tightness. How? I do not have all the education I need to tell the difference, so I am wiser if I go to those around me who can shine the spotlight on me and say, “Yes, that one needs to be dealt with; it might sting for awhile, but it needs to be dealt with!”<br /><br />I don’t know who that would be for you. It may be a discipleship leader or an accountability partner. It could be a pastor or a friend. Don’t get me wrong. All sin is bad. Some is just worse and can move your life into looking like picture four. Believe me, you don’t want that. So, reach out and let yourself be examined by the One who loves you and can see what you need. It may sting a bit and it might leave a red mark but the balm of Gilead will soothe your heart and bring comfort to your soul.<br /><br />Worship Well.</span> </span> <!--EndFragment--> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-54324193607181411102010-10-11T18:43:00.000-04:002010-10-11T18:45:36.350-04:00I want to be God!!!<span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>“The best way to conceive of the fundamental project of human reality is to say that man is the being whose project is to be God"</i> - Jean Paul Sartre<br /><br />I want to be God. If you knew me, you might say, “Well there are moments when you act like it!” This is true. But more than you know or can see, I deeply want to be God. You see, I have become a bit like Him. I have</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> some</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> of what He has, and I want more. I want more power, more knowledge, and more presence. I want what He has, and I am willing to do a lot of devious things to get it. I want to become God. Men want to become God. I know that is not the nice Christian thing to say or to think, but I think it is true. So what do I do with that? Do I join an accountability group and ask the guys to ask me question #6 each week; “Did you want to be God this week?” The answer is yes. The answer was yes last week, and it will be yes next week. I want to be God. What do I do with that? I am stuck, but I must press on.<br /><br />God became man. I want to become God, and God became man. God said in effect, “You want to be God? I’ll become man. I’ll become sin. I will not consider equality with God the Father a thing to be grasped.” God became man. So what do I do with that?<br /><br />Man wants to be God. God became man. Here is the kicker: Christ enables men to become like Him. Are we back where we started? No, we are on a whole new road. Sartre was right; our project is to be God. It started in the garden. We became like God then, in the sense that we knew good and evil. But, He did not let us taste of the tree of life. Since that day, every man and woman has wanted to get to that tree to gain eternal life. Every human who ever lived wanted to be God, through earthly power, a lasting legacy or even by discovering the fountain of youth.<br /><br />But, something happened that day. Death entered the world. He said we would die, and we did. We would all die physically and spiritually. Those who are not in Christ are dead in their sin and trespasses. What about those who are in Christ? We who are in Christ carry death with us. Part of us, our sin nature, is separated from God, and what is separated from God is dead. That part of us, wants to be God. That is the part of us that wants to overthrow the king. Until we breathe our last breath, it will keep trying to usurp power, all to no avail and much pain. But, Christ has given us a new nature - Christ in us, the hope of glory. Our new nature wants to become like God too, but not in the same way. It wants to become like Christ. By the power of the Spirit, our new nature wants to be like Him.<br /><br />Now that could be a good question to be asked each week; “Are you beholding Him and are you becoming like Him?” He wants that. He wants more of Him. He wants to make us into little Christs. That is the fundamental project of the blessed triune God, to make much of Himself.<br /><br />One day we will see him face to face. We will be glorified. I can’t describe what that means or what it is. Somehow we will be able to stand in the presence of inestimable beauty and rejoice. We will be like Him. In the mean time, we can look to Him, ask Him to change us and pray that He shrinks that part within us that wants to usurp the crown.</span></span> <!--EndFragment-->Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-87555882213591099242010-10-11T18:41:00.000-04:002010-10-11T18:42:56.376-04:00Football? Forget Alabama!<!--StartFragment--><p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We are in the middle of it all now aren’t we? It is college football season. Your team may be at the top or bottom of the rankings. Maybe they have a shot at going undefeated or perhaps you hope they win one game. Wherever they are, my guess is you still watch a game, go to a game or at least read about it in the paper each week. We love our football in Georgia.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span style="font-size:12.0px"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> I can understand why people go to watch a winning team. It makes sense that a stadium will fill up to watch a truly great football team. What I would like to discuss is why people go to watch a loser team. Why do people go to watch, or even follow, a team that has a 2-5 record? Why not change teams? Why not shift allegiances? That way you can always be on the winning team and you can always celebrate! One year pick Alabama, the next Georgia and maybe, if they are outstanding, take a year and cheer for Georgia Tech. Even better, you could change allegiance </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">every game</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, perhaps waiting until the 4th quarter to decide who to root for.<br /><br />Now I know you Georgia fans think I just committed heresy. Why? </span></span> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Because there is something inside of us that is loyal.</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> I have friends who liked TCU when they went 1-11. They are loyal to their school. Why? It is because part of them has been knit into the fabric of what they have come from. Their DNA was changed by what they experienced and to be disloyal would be to disavow themselves.<br /><br />Christianity may be on the downswing in America. Polls indicate that there are fewer people going to church than there were twenty years ago. Eventually Muslims could be the majority religion. Even now, some would say “No Religion” is the majority in the country. So what are we to do? Is our team going 1 and 9?<br /><br />Perhaps our religion will end up on the losing side of a lot of social issues and we will have some of our religious freedoms restricted. If so, what will you do?<br /><br />The believer in Christ is called to persevere and bless; to know that he may live a persecuted life. It is part of our DNA because Jesus was persecuted. So we should surmise that we may be in the minority. That is a tough reality pill to swallow but it is the truth of the gospel. People may look at us as losers.<br /><br />So what are we to do? Well, what we can’t do is change sides. You see we believe that once the gospel of Jesus Christ has gripped your heart, it is irreversible. His grace can not be resisted and He keeps those He loves forever. Those who are in Christ paradoxically have joy in that.<br /><br />So win or lose in the short run, we are His and He is ours. We cheer for Him. We celebrate Him, even if things look dark. We rest in His finished work and we look for Him to come again to consummate all things. It may be in overtime, but He will come and His victory will be celebrated. Until the final whistle blows, we bless the world, for His name sake.<br /><br />Worship Well<br /></span></span> <br /></span></span> <!--EndFragment--> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-2696178823476734352010-08-26T13:35:00.000-04:002010-08-26T13:37:07.777-04:00I Love the Way You Lie<!--StartFragment--> <p align="center" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It is the latest smash hit music video (no pun intended).</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></i></span><span style="font-family: Verdana; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">“I Love the Way You Lie”</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></i></span><span style="font-family: Verdana; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">by Eminem and Rihanna features Megan Fox and Dominic Monaghan as a couple who have a tempestuous relationship to say the least. Eminem raps about his inner struggle to control his rage and abusive tendencies. Rihanna sings the chorus: </span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom:12.0pt"><span style="font-family: Verdana; "> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">“J</span><span style="color:#323232"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ust gonna stand there and watch me burn. But that's alright, because I like the way it hurts. Just gonna stand there and hear me cry. But that's alright because I love the way you lie. I love the way you lie...” </span></span></i></span><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(50, 50, 50); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br />The scenes with Monaghan and Fox are alternating ones of sex and violence. It’s definitely not a family friendly video. So why do we bring it to your attention? Aside from the fact that we want you to be culturally aware (the video has more than 30 million views on You Tube), we want to state:</span> </span></p> <ol start="1" type="1"> <li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(50, 50, 50); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Violence against a woman is never right. Never. Even if she says she likes the way it hurts. She doesn’t. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></li> <li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Verdana; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Men who have anger issues need to get help. They can rationalize with themselves all they want, but the cycle will repeat itself.</span></span></li></ol><span style="font-family: Verdana; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Now that we have stated the obvious, can we share from the heart? People struggle. </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">All people struggle with something</span></i></span><span style="font-family: Verdana; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. For some of us, our struggle manifests itself as rage against God. For others, it manifests itself as withdrawal from Him. Some of us do both; alternating between rage and withdrawal.<br /><br />In some cases, we strangely learn to live and even love being in a bad place. It becomes like a home and because we can see no way out, we adapt to the new, sick reality.<br /><br />We want to encourage you today to choose another alternative. Take your struggles to Him. He won’t hit you. He won’t stand there and watch you burn. He will begin to heal you by the power of His love. There is no other way to get real healing. If you need help to do that, we are here for you. He is the Good Shepherd and He is ready to minister to you. If you have a friend, point him or her to the One who can stop the madness. He will hear the cry. We love the way He heals. </span> </span><!--EndFragment-->Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-89103416743599859392010-08-14T10:12:00.000-04:002010-08-14T10:13:53.165-04:00Facebook and Jesus Christ Superstar<!--StartFragment--><p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Flashback. Almost 40 years ago, Andrew Lloyd Weber wrote the musical </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Jesus Christ Superstar</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. The title song is sung by Judas as he questions who Jesus is. Judas sings, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">“</span></i><i><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Every time I look at you I don't understand. Why you let the things you did get so out of hand. You'd have managed better if you'd had it planned. Now why'd you choose such a backward time and such a strange land? If you'd come today you could have reached the whole nation. Israel in 4 BC had no mass communication.....”</span></span></i></span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Now He has Facebook.<br /><br />Phenomenon would be an understatement. Facebook may be here to stay. It has over 500 million subscribers and it is rapidly pushing to 1 billion. Imagine. 1/6th of the people on the planet using one social networking tool. If you do not count the impoverished in third world countries who have no access to a computer, it may account for more than half of the population on the planet. The world can communicate as one.<br /></span> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> </i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So what do you think? Does it make a difference that the Son of God came 2000 years ago? Could he have waited for Facebook? Would that have been a quicker way to spread the news? Apparently not.<br /><br />Marshall McLuhan once said that the the medium is the message. McLuhan’s work is complicated to fully explain in a short piece but he was saying that content does not matter as much as the vehicle through which the content is delivered. I am not going to make an argument here about why Facebook itself is more culture shaping then a Facebook post by a 16 year old boy but I will say that the medium itself is what shapes society over time. Facebook is shaping society.<br /><br />That is pretty esoteric. More thinking maybe needed by all of us. However, in the simplest of terms I can say that (1) Jesus’ birth fulfilled the prophecies so He came at the time appointed by God. (2) Jesus is the center of all things (3) He is more important and shapes the world more than content and (4) God has called His people to deliver His message.<br /><br />Can Facebook be helpful to deliver the message? In large part; probably not. Facebook </span> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">as a medium</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> won’t help spread the love of Jesus. The love of Jesus is spread by the love of people who are in Christ. Those people may </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">use </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Facebook to that end, as long as they remember that Facebook </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">as a medium</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> has a message and it is not the message of Christ.<br /><br />Yes, you can post your thoughts and responses to me on Facebook. </span> </span> <!--EndFragment--> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-37077941664189267102010-07-09T10:49:00.002-04:002010-07-09T11:08:11.112-04:00Quotables<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>"Indeed, when I am in really great trouble, as any one who knows me intimately will tell you, I refuse everything except food and drink." </i></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Oscar Wilde ‘The importance of Being Earnest’</i></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We are all addicted to something; and when we are hurting we run to it. Each of us have a bottle hidden somewhere in the cupboard of our life that no one knows about except us, or so we think. Oscar Wilde has his, I have mine and you have yours. Now here is the thing: You don’t </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">have </span></i></span><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">to tell anybody. When you’re in trouble you can just run to food or drink or sex or anything else that gives you comfort and helps you feel in control and you do not have to tell a soul. I can say with relative certainty that you will feel better for a while. After all, you can’t control all things in life so you might as well control your intake of a controlled substance.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Now that I aired that out, does it smell like freedom? Here would be the motto: “Do what you please to dull pain and promote pleasure!”</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So where do we go from here? How about the Internet? Maybe to Dairy Queen for a large dipped cone? Perhaps the bottle of Glenfiddich? Nope. Sadly, and really gladly, we have to deal with Wilde’s entire quote. Lets start with why we are in trouble and then we can talk about what it means to run to something. Maybe along the way we will stop and chat about who intimately knows us.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Trouble is our middle name. Some of it is self inflicted. Even Jesus said that in this life we would have trouble and He knew what trouble was all about. No one escapes without some problems; strife, pain or anguish and most of us get a lot more than we want. So it would be good for us to learn to expect it and to learn how to deal with it. I often find that trouble comes when I least expect it. In fact that may be lesson number one: expect trouble. For some reason, I let it blindside me and so I often have a delayed response to try and cope with it. I wish I would remember what my driving instructor said when I was 16: “Just remember that every one else on the road is an idiot. They will cut into your lane, brake too quickly and generally try to run over you so drive defensively!” Good lesson. Trouble will come our way. So, perhaps we can now write our thesis as follows, “We will have trouble most every day!” Simple enough and I hope you won’t disagree with it. If so, you can stop reading and enjoy the rest of your trouble free day.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Now if you are still with me, lets talk about running to stuff when trouble comes. I think Wilde overstates the ability of food and drink and understates the complexity of trouble. No doubt, food and drink are great comforters. That is why whiskey and chocolate companies do well in times of recession as well as in times of excess. Food and drink are easy to come by and socially acceptable. But, for the most part people do not know we are in trouble when we drink or eat to excess. Most of us use food and drink as a quick but temporary fix for dealing with our trouble but they really are grammar school comforters. They can only satiate the body in a selected, time limited way. They may temporarily numb the soul, but they cannot sooth it so we must turn to harder drugs to accomplish what we need.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In general terms we run to “<i>not God</i>” to get shelter. By “<i>not God</i>” I mean anything that is not Him. That sounds so simple and tragic but it is amazingly deceptive. We run to success, hoarding, sex, or physical escape in order to alleviate the pain of trouble. We run to what we please. But it turns out it does not please us; motto aside.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The one thing we do not want to do is face it head on. I know a few people who say they like conflict. Most of them a boxers. No one likes conflict. No one wants to go head on and deal with hard issues. All of us would rather take the easy way because the hard way is painful. So, we medicate and avoid. That is not a healthy thing. Over time we get spiritually fat and our soul's arteries harden. Our spiritual and emotional muscles atrophy and we begin to doubt the future possibility of walking again, let along running. Try as we might, avoidance does not work and running to anything other than the problem or a solution only serves to make matters worse. What to do?</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Well I suggest taking a bite of a cupcake, having a glass of wine or doing whatever you think will do the trick and then ask your self truthfully, “Is it working?” You know the answer and so do I so we might as well get on with the hard but healthy work of self-examination, of reconciliation and even of repentance.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">To do that we will need to engage with someone who knows us intimately. He will tell us. We may need a lot of ground to be uncovered but it is the wise thing to do. Pain now or pain later, but pain will come and from it health can happen if we look to the One who knows us best and cares for us most. The Holy Spirit will enable us to choose health and life and peace. He will help us choose "not other". Then we can be free and forgive. He is the one who knows us intimately and further, He is the one who has seen trouble and dealt with it on our behalf. He calls us to come to Him and He will give us what we need. </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-37769713192563335292010-06-25T15:48:00.003-04:002010-06-26T09:34:58.115-04:00The Full Discussion with Steve Brown<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I have had some great feedback on the interview I had with Steve. Here is the link to his site if you want to listen or download it </span><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/steve-brown-etc"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Steve Brown Etc.</span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Need more info? You can get the book by calling 678-405-2205 and get free shipping. Or if the Perimeter Bookstore link is now working you can click here: </span><a href="http://www.echristianstore.com/perimeterchurch/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Bookstore</span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you are in a far away place you can go to Paypal at </span><a href="http://minorityrulesbyrandyschlichting.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Minority Rules</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> to order.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Blessings!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">RS</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-38116630297196910332010-06-21T10:30:00.006-04:002010-06-24T18:12:58.055-04:00What did Steve Brown say?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I just had a radio interview with Steve Brown. I love that guy. He will be at Perimeter this weekend. I think this week, you will be able to hear the interview on </span><a href="http://stevebrownetc.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Steve Brown Etc.</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> BTW, you should listen to Steve all the time.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Now, knowing Steve and me, and how the conversation went, I am sure they will have to edit some of what we said before it airs, so keep checking this week. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">We chatted about </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Minority Rules</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">. Steve gave out this address to listeners, so if you are looking for the book click here: </span><a href="http://www.echristianstore.com/perimeterchurch/default.aspx?tabid=8716&Item=schlichting&scid=1"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Minority Rules</span></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">You can also check out other great books like Randy Pope's The Answer and music by my good friend Laura Story at the Perimeter bookstore.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b>NOTE: The bookstore has had some server computer problems so, if the link does not work, you can call 678-405-2205 and Luann or one of her very capable staff will help you.</b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">To recap our discussion. Christianity may be in decline in numbers but it can be on the increase in quality. Christians are a minority and the sooner we rest in that title, the sooner we can learn how to deal with it, because that is the way it has always been. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">We are a minority and that is good. It enables us to step aside from power brokering and move towards living by four minority rules: Knowing we are free, celebrating Jesus, living in community and you have to buy the book to learn the fourth one.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Blessings and I would love feedback!</span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-21766733498077225662010-05-10T11:11:00.000-04:002010-05-10T11:12:07.630-04:00Vive La Difference!<!--StartFragment--><p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The French say it well, “Vive la difference!” Men and women are different, even though they are both created in the image of God. Because of the difference, I often find in working with couples that the husband or wife struggles to communicate in a language that their spouse can understand. Hundreds of books have been written on the topic. Men are from planet X and women are from planet Y. Pink and blue. Love and Respect. There must be something to it, would you agree? </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />I think we may go down the wrong track if we say that God deals with women differently than He does with men. Both are sinners in need of a savior. Both need to know love and forgiveness. There is not a bible for women and a separate bible for men. Jesus came for both, but He created them male and female and we do well to remember that He is wise in all things. There are a lot of good things about “la difference” but there are also a lot of challenging things. How we communicate is a primary one.<br /><br />This week we thought we might help you learn by example. I met with a couple in which the man was rightly talking about commitment, duty, loyalty, and debriefing after a military operation as a way to describe how he thought a marriage and family should work. He spoke of wielding the sword of the Word as William Wallace did in </span> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Braveheart</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">. He spoke of being a son of the king. All good word pictures and the Bible supports them. As he spoke, I noted that his wife was not as enthusiastic about being deployed, debriefed and fulfilling duty as he was. Wielding scripture verses like a broad sword did not connect for her.<br /><br />In his mind, those images conjured up the call to go back to the manual to remember the rules for holy living as found in Colossians and other places. “Love your neighbor, die to self and serve others for the King!” were themes that he could connect with as found in scripture. For the wife, they drew a blank. Not to say she does not believe in duty, service and the King. The </span> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">language</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> did not connect to her soul.<br /><br />What could I do to help this couple? Sing!<br /><br />I mentioned The Sound of Music. What? Yes, the Sound of Music with Julie Andrews. </span> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">“When the dog bites, when the bee stings, when I’m feeling sad.” </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Most of you ladies can sing the next line, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">“I simply remember my favorite things and then I don’t feel so bad!”</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> There is no sword there; just fond memories of favorite things. That word picture is just as valid as William Wallace in a kilt. That language connected for the wife. So where might those favorite things be found for the woman in Christ? The bible. A woman’s </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">truly </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">favorite things, when hard things are happening or action needs to occur, can be remembered in the story of Christ and Him crucified. They are recalled in the verses that speak of loving your neighbor and sacrificing for your children. They are brought home in the texts that speak of a woman being a handmaid to her Lord and in the passages that remind a woman she is a daughter of the king. Those are the same </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">types </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">of verses as for the man, we </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">just took a different route to get to them.<br /></span> </i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />Now I know that some women love Braveheart and some guys Sound of Music. The important thing to note is God is revealed and He uses revelation to point us to Him. Our role, as we communicate, is to help people connect what </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">they connect to</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> in an intimate way, to God.<br /><br />Worship Well<br /><br /><br /></span> </span><span style="font-size:12.0px"><br /></span></span> <!--EndFragment--> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-17414707753300728132010-05-09T15:21:00.000-04:002010-05-09T15:23:11.968-04:00Dancing with the star<!--StartFragment--><p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial; font-size: 12px; ">Unbelievably<span>,</span> it is one of the most watched shows on TV. It is called Dancing With The Stars. Celebrities, some of them B list, join together with professional dancers and learn how to cha cha, rumba, waltz and tango amongst other things. Each week judges judge, the audience votes and someone is kicked off the show. It is a familiar theme on American television these days. It seems that someone is getting kicked off of some metaphorical island each week.<span> The</span><span> e</span>xcept<span>ion</span> <span>being </span><i>L<span>OST</span></i> where people want to get off the island and can’t seem to make it happen no matter how much they blow things up, how many boats they get in or how many airplanes they have. </span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span style="font-size:12.0px"><br />On Dancing With The Stars<span>, </span>each couple desperately tries for a perfect score of 30 as three judges can give a maximum score of 10 each. To date, this season no one has achieved that mark and frankly most have been a C+ or B- at best, in my opinion. Of course, that does not mean much, I only took Beginner Ballroom and half of Ballroom II.<br /><br />So why do they do it<span>,</span> and what do they want? They want glory. Everyone wants to be judged well and to receive acclaim for what they have done. Some are willing to work hard. Some are willing to cut corners. Some are will do anything to be viewed highly and to get some glory. The bottom line is that all of us want to be known and loved.<br /><br />The trophy in Dancing With The Stars is a cheap mirror ball. That is it. There is no cash prize. There is no gold ring. But amazingly, people covet what comes with that trophy: to be known as the best among fans and judges.<br /><br />Now there is nothing wrong with wanting to achieve success. We encourage people to be the best they can be. In fact, God set eternity in our hearts<span>, </span>and we have a desire for glory. If our quest for glory is human<span>-</span>centered though, it will quickly degenerate to a quest for personal power and all the corruption that comes with that. If our quest for glory is God centered, if we are honoring Him as we dance, sing or work at a computer station<span>,</span> our quest is elevated to one of joy and delight. He is the God of great things<span>, </span>and we are called to glorify Him and enjoy Him forever.<br /><br />So can we remind all of us, that we should not fix our eyes on the temporary glory of this world? Jesus came, and He is the one we should glorify in all things. <span>That includes</span><span> </span>dancing. It is His party<span>,</span> and He calls us to keep in step with Him.<br /><br /></span></span> <!--EndFragment--> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-65892490003094149312010-05-09T15:18:00.000-04:002010-05-09T15:20:45.808-04:00Μακάριοι<!--StartFragment--><p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Matthew the </span><span style="color:#1F497D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">G</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ospel writer uses the Greek word Μακάριοι (makarios) to describe those who are </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">in </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">the kingdom and </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">happy</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> about it. That describes you and me if we are believers in Jesus Christ. Poor in spirit, mourning, meek and those who are merciful in heart are happy. We know it sounds odd to the world, but to us it makes sense. We are blessed.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"></span></p><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Interestingly, the same word is also used seven times in the book of Revelation. You can check out all the references on your own</span><span style="color:#7030A0;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">but today we want to bring to your attention the Μακάριοι of Revelation 19:9. Here it is in context:</span></div><span style="font-size:12.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> <span style="color:#1F497D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">‘</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Then a voice came from the throne, saying: "Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, both small and great!" Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: "Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear." (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of the saints.) Then the angel said to me, "Write: 'Blessed (Μακάριοι) are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!' " And he added, "These are the true words of God."</span><span style="color:#1F497D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">’<br /></span> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />It is hard for our human minds to comprehend the picture here but I hope that you feel as I do when I read that passage. It excites me. It moves me. It makes me happy. It gives me confidence. One day</span><span style="color:#7030A0;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">we who are small and great will be with Him</span><span style="color:#7030A0;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">and then we will be Μακάριοι with a capital M!<br /><br />For today, we can all take joy and be of good cheer. The time for the wedding of the lamb is not far away. Until that day comes</span> <span style="color:#7030A0;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">we can participate in the coming of the kingdom. Take another look at the passage. He has given something to wear </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">before</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> the feast. He has given us, the church, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">righteous acts</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> to </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">in which to </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">walk.</span><span style="color:#1F497D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Today</span><span style="color:#7030A0;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">,</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> we will be nourished by Him</span><span style="color:#7030A0;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">and then we will go out to fill up what is lacking in His afflictions as Paul said. When He comes, we will be ready</span><span style="color:#7030A0;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">and it will be quite the feast.<br /><br />Those are the true words of God.<br /><br />Enjoy</span> <span style="color:#7030A0;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">.</span><br /></span><br /></span></span> <!--EndFragment--> <p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-75800326126462719112010-03-13T18:43:00.002-05:002010-03-13T18:45:29.068-05:00Growing?<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, serif; font-size: 13px; ">No one likes to shrink. Put a shirt, or a pair of pants, in the clothes dryer and the last thing you want is shrinkage. Get your paycheck and note that it is a bit smaller than last month and you really experience how miserable shrinkage can be. How about your political party? Whether it is blue or red or green, no one likes to have fewer votes in this year’s election than they did in the last year’s election. Simply put, we do not like shrinkage. We like growth; healthy growth, in all aspects of our lives. So as springtime makes its way to Atlanta, lets talk about growing. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"> Now some growth can be worse than shrinkage. Weeds in the yard, inches around the waist, and clutter down in the basement to name a few. That type of growth will be discussed some other time. This month I want to discuss growth that we all really <i>want.</i></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"> As I do, I want to ask you to think about what is behind our desire for growth and how we can grow in the fullest way possible.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana">So, let me first set the stage for the discussion. Here is my premise. I find that people like to grow in three areas:</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"><b>They like to grow financially</b></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana">. Who doesn’t want more money? People really do want a new this or that and, in order to get it, their bank account needs to get bigger.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"><b>They like to grow intellectually.</b></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"> Everyone wants to know more; even if is about a reality TV show star or the neighbor next door. The Internet and CNN have stoked the flame of desire we have for more news and information about everything from cakes to cats.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana">Finally, people want to <b>grow in their relationships</b></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"> with others. Everyone wants to have friends, feel loved and be listened to by those they like. Humans have a deep desire to belong, and to believe that others value them. Further, they do not want their relationships to become stagnant. They want their relationships to deepen over time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana">Those desires for growth, I believe, come from deeper needs. Needs for security, freedom and purpose.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"><b>Money</b></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"> gives us a type of security doesn’t it? Scarlet O’Hara said it well when she was down and desperate, “I’ll never be hungry again!” Money is a motivator to security. <b>Knowledge</b></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"> buys us freedom from deception and gives us a sense of power. The more you know, the less they can fool you. And having meaningful <b>relationships</b></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"> lifts us up to the high plain of purpose in life. Friendship can be a great reward can’t it?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana">Now here is the problem. Money, knowledge and relationships can only take us so far. Most people will admit that money cannot fully buy security. <i>I know you want the chance to prove that and some days so do I</i></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana">, but I can tell you that I know a lot of rich people who will say money is not the answer. In fact it can create insecurity.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana">Knowledge does not fully free us because we know deep down that we can never know it all. We will always fall short of perfect knowledge and someone will deceive us along the way. So how about relationships? No matter how staunch our friends and family are, they cannot fully fill the deep need we have for true purpose in life. There is something in us that wants more purpose then another human can give us. We need a relationship that lets us expose <i>who</i></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"> we are and a relationship that receives us just <i>as</i></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"> we are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We need a relationship that lifts us up in spite of ourselves.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana">In every one of those areas: money, knowledge and relationships, our growth eventually gets stunted and may even begin to shrink. Somehow, it seems that someone always has more then we do, knows more then we do and often has the relationships we long for, but cannot get.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>At the end of the day, we wind up dissatisfied and feeling empty. We don’t want that, but there does not seem to be a better way.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana">So, what is the solution? I suggest that you look beyond. Here is what I mean. Take a glance at people who seem to have a deeper sense of security, freedom and purpose. Look to those who have a life that transcends money, knowledge and even friends. Look beyond material wealth to things that can enrich your soul. Try expanding what you know by going beyond the rational to explore the deep mysteries of religion. When you do that, I believe you will be poised for growth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><br /><br />I am not necessarily lobbying for you to start with Christianity here. I am suggesting that you ask yourself if you are truly growing in a <i>healthy and satisfying way.</i></span><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana"> If not, I would urge you to look for some ground that could have good nutrients in it for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Then pick up some materials that will challenge your thinking and look to associate with some people who may have a deeper understanding of security, freedom and purpose.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana">It won’t be easy. Growth never is. You may find that you have to test a lot of different soils before you come to one that helps you truly grow. Perhaps you will start with Religion A and end up at Religion B, or the other way around. In either direction, the questions will be the same. What will give me security? What will give me a sense of true freedom? How will I know if I have real purpose?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana">This is the time of year for new growth. Can I suggest you do a bit of digging and see what might spring up?</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:10.0pt;font-family:Verdana">Worship Well.</span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-14723944389495867362010-02-23T22:48:00.000-05:002010-02-23T22:49:50.919-05:00A Humble Prayer<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center"><b>A humble prayer for the Holy Spirit to do a deep work in my soul.<o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center"><span style="font-size:9.0pt">Philip Doddridge modernized by R Schlichting<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; "> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:3.0in;text-indent:.5in"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">“Blessed God! I sincerely acknowledge before you my own weakness and insufficiency to begin anything that is spiritually good. I have failed a thousand times; and yet my foolish heart would again ‘trust itself,’ (<a href="http://www.ccel.org/ccel/bible/asv.Prov.28.html#Prov.28.26"><span style="color:windowtext;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">Prov. 28:26</span></a>) and form resolutions in its own strength. So, I ask that <u>this</u> be the first fruits of your gracious influence upon my heart<i><u>: to bring it to a humble distrust of itself, and to a rest in you!</u></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I rejoice, O Lord, in the kind assurances which you give me of your readiness to bestow liberally and richly so great a benefit to my heart. I do therefore, according to your condescending invitation, come with boldness to your throne, that I may find grace to help in every time of need. (<a href="http://www.ccel.org/ccel/bible/asv.Heb.4.html#Heb.4.16"><span style="color:windowtext;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">Heb. 4:16</span></a>)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I mean not, O Lord God, to turn your grace into a license for immorality or perverseness (<a href="http://www.ccel.org/ccel/bible/asv.Jude.1.html#Jude.1.4"><span style="color:windowtext;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">Jude, ver. 4</span></a>) or to make my weakness an excuse for negligence and sloth. I confess that you have already given me more strength than I have used! I charge it upon myself, and not on you, that I have even recently received still more grace from you through your Word and the Spirit. I desire for the future to be found diligent in the use of all appointed means of grace. When I neglect the grace you have given me, petitions like these become a profane mockery, and they might even provoke you to take away what I have, rather than prevail upon you<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>to give me more. But firmly resolving to exert myself to the utmost to use the grace you have given, I earnestly ask for more grace, that I may be enabled to fulfill that resolution.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Be surety, O Lord, to me your servant for good. (<a href="http://www.ccel.org/ccel/bible/asv.Ps.119.html#Ps.119.122"><span style="color:windowtext;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">Psa. 119:122</span></a>) Be pleased to shed your sanctifying influences on my soul, to form me for every duty you require. Implant, I ask you, grace and virtue deep in my heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Bear with me in the midst of me foolishly assaulting your grace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I know I will continue from time to time to do that while I am still in this world and carry about with me so much sin.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Fill me with good affections towards you, my God, and towards my fellow-creatures. Remind me always of your presence, and may I remember that every secret sentiment of my soul is open to you. May I therefore guard against the first risings of sin, and the first approaches to it. May I guard that Satan may not find room for his evil suggestions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I earnestly beg that you Lord, would fill my heart with your Holy Spirit. Dwell in me, and walk with me, (<a href="http://www.ccel.org/ccel/bible/asv.iiCor.6.html#iiCor.6.16"><span style="color:windowtext;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">2 Cor 6:16</span></a>) and let my body be the temple of the Holy Ghost.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">May I be so joined to Jesus my Lord, as to be one with him, (<a href="http://www.ccel.org/ccel/bible/asv.iCor.6.html#iCor.6.17"><span style="color:windowtext;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">1 Cor. 6:17</span></a>) and feel His invigorating influences continually bearing me on, superior to every temptation and to every corruption. So that while young people shall faint and grow weary, I may so wait upon the Lord as to renew my strength, (<a href="http://www.ccel.org/ccel/bible/asv.Isa.40.html#Isa.40.30"><span style="color:windowtext;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">Isai. 40:30,31</span></a>) and may go on from one degree of faith, and love, and zeal, and holiness, to another, till I appear perfect before you in heaven; (<a href="http://www.ccel.org/ccel/bible/asv.Ps.84.html#Ps.84.7"><span style="color:windowtext;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">Psa. 84:7</span></a>) to drink in immortal vigor and joy from you, as the everlasting fountain of both, through Jesus Christ my Lord, in whom I have righteousness and strength, (<a href="http://www.ccel.org/ccel/bible/asv.Isa.45.html#Isa.45.24"><span style="color:windowtext;text-decoration:none;text-underline:none">Isai. 45:24</span></a>).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>To him I desire to ascribe praise as the source of all my improvements forever. Amen.”<o:p></o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-13110924236321316772010-02-21T21:05:00.000-05:002010-02-21T21:06:07.181-05:00They are not like us<!--StartFragment--><p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Did you watch the Winter Olympics? Truly the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat. Our hearts grieve for the young man who lost his life in the luge. It was good news that the organizers made modifications to increase safety. In the days after the accident, commentators talked about winter sports, extreme sports and the people who engage in them. One of the commentators said this, “They are not like us.” That made me think.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Anyone who will slide down a mountain at 90 miles per hour on the equivalent of two sticks, one stick, a small board or a soapbox derby car is not like us. What makes them do it? Is it the adrenaline rush, the need for speed, the glory of victory, the approval of men, the gold medal or the fame? My guess is it is none of the above. They have a deep desire to do their best, their very best. They want to give it all away and not leave anything on the table. They are extreme because they are passionate.<br /><br />Now lets compare them to the ordinary Christian. Take me for example. Can I say that I want to give it all away, to die to self and to do my very best? Would those who do not believe in the Lord Jesus Christ say about me, “He is not like us!” Hmm. That causes me to think even more. What is it about me that holds back, that resists taking risks, that keeps me on the “bunny” slope? Lack of faith. That is the difference. In the natural realm, Olympians believe that good things will happen and they believe they can do what they set out to accomplish. It should be so much more true in the spiritual realm for those who believe in Christ. All things do work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose. That would be me and you.<br /><br />So where do we go from here? To the slope. Ask your self what is one thing in your life you have been fearful to do, that would be for His glory, and then ask Him for faith to move forward. The truth is we are not like them. We are becoming like Him as we keep in step with the Spirit and move forward in faith.<br /><br />Worship Well</span> </span> <!--EndFragment--> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-24199012248952125452010-02-08T17:57:00.001-05:002010-02-08T18:00:06.921-05:00Silence<!--StartFragment--><p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Helvetica, Arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">She knew he wouldn’t be happy about it</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">,</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> but she had to make the call. “Daddy</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">? </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I’ve been in a car wreck. It</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">…</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">it was my fault.” </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Those are</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">w</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ords a father does not want to hear. After determining physical safety, he asked where she was. They hopped in the car, mom and dad, and headed down to do what only a parent can do.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span style="font-size:12.0px"> <span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It was</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">j</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ust a fender bender</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">,</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> and both cars were drivable. After giving insurance information</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">he slid into the driver</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">’</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">s seat of her car, with her in the passenger’s</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">seat</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, for the long ride home. Her first words, “I know it is kind of lame to say, but I am sorry.” </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">That’s</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">a</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">lways a good start.<br /><br />Of course</span> <span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">,</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> there was a lecture. Parents are parents. Some instruction never hurt anyone, did it? Maybe it did, but it made </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">his</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> sin nature feel better. That is the truth. She listened and took it all in. As he spoke, a strange thing happened. It was as if he was talking to himself. Not that she was not listening. It was that he was listening to himself. “You need to be more careful</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">;</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> always be transparent</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">L</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">isten to counsel</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">;</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> be a bit more circumspect.” Silence</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">followed</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. “God protected </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">you</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">tonight</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">;</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> it could have been worse</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">G</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">race abounds</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">;</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> it was just a fender bender.” </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">More</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> s</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ilence. “You know we are for you. We always have been and always will be. There are some financial consequences here. We will have to work that out.”<br /><br />“I know.”</span> <span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">She said.<br /></span> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />Then this, “Thanks for coming.”<br /><br />“What?”</span> <span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">He asked.<br /></span> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />“Thanks for coming to get me.”</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">She said.<br /></span> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />Silence</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">filled the car.<br /></span> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />“You know, no matter what, you can </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">always</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> call</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">and we will </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">always</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> come. Never be afraid to pick up the phone no matter where you are or what you’ve done.”<br /><br />A reassuring silence filled the car. She knew she could call, whenever. She knew she was loved forever. Sometimes</span> <span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">,</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> she might struggle to believe it or live like it, but she knew she was loved. The father knew he was loved too</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">and that he was </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">able</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> to love. No greater love has a man than what has been given to him by the Lord. He remembered times that he had made the call. The Father had always answered</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">,</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> and He had always come. </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What love, peace, security, and joy He gives us.<br /></span> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />If you are afraid to make the call, we urge you today to know that He </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">is </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">for you. You can pick up the phone called prayer. Perhaps, as He answers and comforts you in your wrecked life</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">and as you are reassured you are loved forever, He will bring a reassuring silence to your soul.<br /><br />Worship Well</span> <span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br /></span></span> <!--EndFragment--> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-21022609337506761272010-02-07T22:50:00.000-05:002010-02-07T22:51:55.565-05:00Flicking<!--StartFragment--><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span style="font-size:12.0px"> </span></span> <p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I can't seem to shake it off. Over the last month or so the Lord has really been working me over about sin. Not my specific sin (although He is having a go at that) but sin in general. Here is what I mean. In the past I have tended to view sin as “having some crumbs” on my pants after dinner. Most of the time I could ignore them. If I was in a energetic mood and they bothered me, it was easy for me to “flick” them off. Flick. It means “a </span></span><span><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">light quick blow, jerk, or touch: a </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">flick</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> of the wrist.”</span></span></span></p><p><span><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span> </span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span style="font-size:12.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In other words, I could confess them, say I was sorry, and they would be whisked away. It was as if I flicked the crumbs on the floor and the dog came by to lick them up. Easy stuff. The only problem with that is simply this: sins are not crumbs. They are stains. You can’t flick stains off of your pants. Stains are a problem. A stain has to be washed out very carefully with the right soap, or guess what? It permanently stains the garment. I am sure that has happened to you before. A stain made permanent will cause you to throw away an otherwise good pair of pants.<br /><br />So, if the word picture is catching your imagination, you might wonder what you can do about it. The Psalmist is helpful here. He says, “Cleanse me with hyssop and I will be clean, wash me and I’ll be whiter than snow.” You need to be washed. More specifically the garment of your soul needs to be cleansed by the blood of Jesus. He is the only one who can remove sin stain. All you need to do is stop trying to flick it off and give it to Him. You are not able. He is more than capable.<br /><br />As you ask to be cleansed, you might want to thank Him for His power </span> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">and</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> you might want to ask if He would make your garment a bit more stain resistant. He can do that too. You are worth more than a good pair of jeans and He won’t throw you away.<br /><br />Worship Well</span><br /></span></span> <!--EndFragment--> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-4482221535481189102010-02-03T12:58:00.003-05:002010-02-03T13:20:50.695-05:00Lost on Life<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Here is the deal. I am not going to throw out theories. I am not going to get allegorical. I am not even going to guess at sub plots. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I am going to say that this show makes me think like no other ever has. It makes me think about relationships, suffering, sacrifice, good, evil, the times to come and what has happened in the past.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If Lost is just a TV show to you, I think you may be missing the grander purpose and you will be disappointed in the end. All things are from God for you and He would call you to look at everything in light of relationships, suffering, sacrifice, good, evil, the times to come and what has happened. Lost has an uncanny ability to help me focus on those things in my life more then other TV shows. It dials me in. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Now my good friend KT has made a great argument that 24 is similar. I concede the point, but I do have to tip the hat to Lost in terms of looking to what is not natural. We all need that. The unnatural. Something that makes us think but does not necessarily give us answers. This life is a mystery and learning to live in it while seeking truth and resting in promises is good for our souls. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The gospel is that. Jesus was here, is here and will be here. It includes suffering and sacrifice. It is a mystery being revealed, but not fully. There is a promise that we will get off the island, but not too soon. So, I encourage you to join in to both; the mystery of Lost and the mysteriousness of the gospel. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Worship Well</span></div><div> </div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-85017116331653975962010-02-02T16:07:00.001-05:002010-02-02T16:09:07.826-05:00Translation Error?<!--StartFragment--><p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I felt like he was about to explode. As I read the fourth chapter of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, I had this deep sense that he was shouting at me and in a good way. “I urge you to live a life worthy!” “There is one body...one spirit...one hope..one Lord...who is over all and through all and in all!” He really set me back on my heals with his intensity. Then I came to the seventh and eight verses, </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">“</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says: </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:Arial;"><span style="font-size:14.0px"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> <br /> ‘When he ascended on high,<br /> he led captives in his train<br /> and gave gifts to men.’”<br /><br />The “it says” Paul is referring to is Psalm 68:18. Read it carefully: </span> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">“</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When you ascended on high, you led captives in your train; you received gifts from men,” (Psalm 68:18)<br /> <br />Hmm. The one ascending on high in Psalm 68 is </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">receiving </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">gifts and the one ascending on high in Ephesians 4 is </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">giving </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">gifts. There seems to be a mistake in Paul’s translation. Or is there?<br /><br />In days of old, when a conquering king would enter a city he had subdued, he would lead the captives back into their city and receive gifts from them. It is easy to get that picture. After all, “to the victor go the spoils” and to the conquering king, gifts should be given. That is the imagery of Psalm 68; a conquering king who deserves tribute.<br /><br />The Apostle Paul had seen the king. On the road to Damascus he had an encounter with the risen Jesus and he was conquered. Jesus required no tribute to be paid. He did not march Paul back to his home town and demand gifts. Instead he gave gifts. Jesus turns the role of a king on its head.<br /><br />So as Paul is writing the letter to the Ephesians, he reminds them that we have the only God who gives gifts. In fact He apportions grace to each one of us who believe in Him as savior. He is the gift giving conqueror. No other religion has a God like that.<br /><br />Paul goes on to say that God’s people should be prepared for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up. In part that will happen this week as you listen to the preaching of the word, partake of the sacrament, pray and sing. You are being prepared to go and minister in his name. Grace has been apportioned to you by your great gift giving king. That is something to get excited about.<br /><br />Worship Well </span> <br /></span></span></span> <!--EndFragment--> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-43551730446443856882010-01-30T19:24:00.002-05:002010-01-30T20:23:59.755-05:00Lost vs 24<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I have to do it. It is time to make a public stand. Lost is better than 24. I know my friend KT might disown me for saying that, but the truth has to be told. Here are the facts. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. Jack kicks some tail. Smoke monster KICKS ALL TAIL!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. People on 24 die. People on Lost die and then come back to life.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. Jack can never die. ANYONE on Lost can die.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4. Jack rules the city. No one rules the island.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">5. Jack needs computers. Lost? Technology is shut down.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">6. All that in 24 hours? C'mon. You need time? Lost will give it to you!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">7. Lost has literary and science allusions galore, including biblical ones.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">8. Lost has the future.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">9. Lost is multi ethnic.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">10. Lost has an end.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So, there you have it and that is just a taste. There is something above and beyond on Lost that Bauerites can't get to. Nothing wrong with you watching both. Just know which is better.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">OK. I am ready for comments. </span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-74373814184873305822010-01-23T21:01:00.003-05:002010-01-23T22:18:53.373-05:00LostI have not said anything about Lost since I don't know when. I just read a book by Chris Seay entitled "The gospel according to Lost" Very interesting. Chris does a nice job of recapping story line, analyzing characters and fishing out biblical themes. All very well done. Chris does not guess at what will happen. He causes the reader to think about what has happened. I recommend it as a quick read in preparation for the last season of Lost.<div><br /></div><div>It fascinates me that so many people are captivated by Lost. Something has connected here for those who believe in God <i>and</i> for those who do not. I think the essence of it is that, as we watch Lost, we see that the Losties are involved in a mystery, the end of which they can not predict. That thought touches the heart of who <i>we</i> are. We know that we are involved in a mystery, the end of which we can not predict. </div><div><br /></div><div>We hope for a good outcome and we want to make sure one happens but sometimes we fear it will not. Tension. </div><div><br /></div><div>We can read the Bible all we want, go to conferences, pray and think, but the truth is we are in a mystery and no one knows how it will end. All we can say is that things have happened. We got here somehow. Someone was here before us. There is a greater power. He is in control and we are not. He can do supernatural things. We can not. And time moves forward. Except when we live in the past.</div><div><br /></div><div>Those of us who are of faith, live with the mystery too, even though we don't like to admit it. We like to pretend we know more than we do.</div><div><br /></div><div>We do have one thing though that others outside the faith do not: hope. A deep and abiding hope that Jesus was exactly who He said He was. Not just because of the Bible, but because internally we are convicted. It goes beyond words. We know we will get off the island and we know it will be good. We just don't know when. </div><div><br /></div><div>In the mean time we are called to hang out with a motley crew of characters. Murderers, thieves and liars. As we do, we come to find out that they are us and we are called to look at ourselves. Past, present and future. That drives us to repentance and Him. </div><div><br /></div><div>What will the next season bring? No spoilers here. I know as much as you, or maybe less. All I can say is that we are in the end season and all will be consummated in due time.</div><div><br /></div><div>Blessings </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33569806.post-40989384239684262232010-01-11T18:55:00.001-05:002010-01-11T18:56:12.814-05:00Pride<!--StartFragment--><p align="CENTER" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">All of us have some sense of pride in who we are and where we came from. Our own tradition is meaningful to us, be we German, Welsh or Italian, heritage means something. There is nothing wrong in being proud of where you came from. My guess is, for many of you, your father or mother told you, “Be proud!” regardless of the newness of your shoes, the fadedness of your jeans or even the color of your skin. Pride can be good. </span></span></b></span></p><p></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="font-family:Verdana, Helvetica, Arial;"><span style="font-size:12.0px"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> There is a pride that goes deeper than the pride we have in our heritage. It goes beyond country of origin, patches on jeans or color of skin. It is a pride in </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">whose</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> we are and </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">what we are called to</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. Martin Luther King understood that. He was a proud man. His pride was found in the One who had selflessly humiliated Himself to set men and women free. MLK was proud of </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Him</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. He boasted in </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Him</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. He was free at last </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">in Him.</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><br />MLK was not interested in pride demonstrated by those who thought horizontally. Some were proud because they were black. Some were proud because they were white. MLK repudiated that level of pride as an end in itself. He knew it led to bondage. He knew there was a greater and richer pride found only through freedom in Christ. It was pride in the One who transcended color. The One whose blackened and butchered body dripped red blood on white cloth. His boasted in Jesus.<br /><br />Bono of U2, a white Irishman, said it well as he wrote of Dr King. They could take his life, but they could not take his pride. Death could not kill boasting in the Lord. Jesus died a death He did not deserve to set a people free. “What more in the name of love?” Nothing. There is nothing more to be done in the name of love. Love has done all. Now we are called; black, white and brown to take pride in who we collectively are </span> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">in Him,</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Christ Jesus our head. We are called to serve like Him, love like Him and take pride in His name as His glory spreads over the earth. To live as free men. <br /><br />One day He will bring us all together, every tribe, tongue, color and nation. Until then He calls us to work together as we sing the songs of freedom:<br /><br />Early morning, April 4<br />Shot rings out in the Memphis sky<br />Free at last, they took your life<br />They could not take your pride<br /><br />In the name of love<br />What more in the name of love<br />In the name of love<br />What more in the name of love<br />In the name of love<br />What more in the name of love...<br /><br /> Bono, U2 “Pride, (In the name of love)”</span> <br /></span></span> <!--EndFragment--> <p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com