John Newton, a former slave trader turned Christian, penned words that are still powerful and resonating today. "Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now am found; was blind but now I see." I cannot read or write these words without seeing an older African-American lady in a nursing home in Kansas City where I used to live. I did a church service at that home and we often sang that great hymn. I can still see her; eyes closed, head back, voice clear and strong. I think Mrs. Stuckey has gone to be with the Lord now and I believe she still sings powerfully of his grace.
We sing a lot about grace and many books and lessons have been written about grace. It is a topic that all of us want to know, grasp and understand. After all, it is important. "For by grace you are saved through faith, not of yourselves; it is the gift of God so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8). Ephesians 2:5 also notes that "by grace you are saved." The Greek word for grace is "charis" and is found over one hundred times in the New Testament. The Biblical writers pray for "grace and peace." Christians are told to let their conversations be "always with grace." Paul admonishes Christians to "grow in grace." Grace is mentioned a lot. The key question, as I see it, is what does it mean? What is "grace?"
A definition that I have heard often is that grace is "unmerited favor." I think that's a good definition, but it seems to lack some power or force. Grace may be better seen than defined. Grace is Barabbas' story. He deserved death. He was spared and set free. Grace is recognizing that you can't stack enough rocks to reach heaven. It means realizing that you don't have to DO anything to earn God's favor or love. You simply don't. You can't. Grace is getting it all, not because of what you did, but because of what he did.
Why is this important? I think there are some people who are still mired in the idea that they have to do something to gain God's approval. Of course, because we are saved by grace, we act. That's another blog for another day. For now, though, if you've worried that you haven't done enough for God to go to heaven; if you're concerned that someday God is going to send you to hell for what you didn't accomplish, this GRACE is for you. Receive it. Drink it in. Amazing grace...how sweet the sound.
Thanks for reading....
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Political Musings
I have avoided the area of politics in this blog, not because I don't like it, but because I do not think that I have an opinion that is necessarily interesting or noteworthy. I think, though, I am going to break my vow not to write about it for this second blog today. I will write about it this time because I think what is happening politically is intersecting with spiritual things ( a topic far more intriguing for me).
There is a lot of discussion about the "Tea Party" and the influence it exerts on the electorate. Though not explicitly a Christian group, there are a lot of evangelical Christians invloved in this conservative movement. As I understand it, there is no "official" leader of the Tea Party, but the most notable national figures have been Glenn Beck and Sarah Palin. I want to give you this disclaimer before I go much further. I consider myself a conservative and a Christian. I am active politcally and even ran for local office in another life. Having established that, I want to say that I am bewildered and shocked at how Christians have embraced Beck and Palin. I have serious concerns with both.
Glenn Beck is an accomplished journalist and I agree with many of his ideas (though I find him a bit "over the top"). A few weeks ago, though, he led a march to Washington that was really a call for spiritual renewal. It was time for America to get back to God. I watched that rally and was impressed with what was said. It did seem that Beck was calling the nation back to God. It was like a Promise Keeper event in my mind. It was later that day that I discovered that Glenn Beck was/is a Mormon. Now, as far as that goes, he has a right to be what he chooses and there are a lot of good Mormon people. He could run for office or commentate on the news and be a Mormon as I see it. However, in my opinion, what he can't do is call the nation back to God and pray to God because his God and the God of Christianity isn't the same one. Beck doesn't seem to bother me as much as the hypocrisy of those on the right. Mitt Romney was rejected by many evangelicals because he was Mormon, but many of those same folks accept and endorse Beck. I just don't get it.
Sarah Palin is the "mama grizzly" for the Tea Party and its members. She has become a media star and political power. I voted for Palin and McCain in 2008 and I would consider voting for her again. However, my confidence in Palin has wobbled a bit lately. In this week's senate primary in Deleware she bucked the party leadership and backed Christine O'Donnell against veteran congressman Mike Castle. In doing this, she opposed Karl Rove, the architect of conservative victories in 2000 and 2004. Again, she has every right to do this and she should do as she sees fit. However, Palin bills herself as a Christian woman. She cites her faith readily and often in her book. I believe her. She knows Jesus Christ. To endorse O'Donnell, as I see it, violates that faith. O'Donnell has several issues for which she must give an answer. Some of them are in the area of character and values. There were/are areas of dishonesty and lying. I guess it is possible that Palin may not have known about all of these, but if she didn't, she should have. I find it hypocritical again for conservative Christians to stand for "the values of faith" and support candidates who so clearly fall short.
I am not sure that Christians mix very well in the arena of politics. I would be a fool (more than you already think) to deny that they are already in the same pot, however. What is a Christian to do? I think the same thing Micah 6:8 advocates. That's a good beginning.
Thanks for reading....
There is a lot of discussion about the "Tea Party" and the influence it exerts on the electorate. Though not explicitly a Christian group, there are a lot of evangelical Christians invloved in this conservative movement. As I understand it, there is no "official" leader of the Tea Party, but the most notable national figures have been Glenn Beck and Sarah Palin. I want to give you this disclaimer before I go much further. I consider myself a conservative and a Christian. I am active politcally and even ran for local office in another life. Having established that, I want to say that I am bewildered and shocked at how Christians have embraced Beck and Palin. I have serious concerns with both.
Glenn Beck is an accomplished journalist and I agree with many of his ideas (though I find him a bit "over the top"). A few weeks ago, though, he led a march to Washington that was really a call for spiritual renewal. It was time for America to get back to God. I watched that rally and was impressed with what was said. It did seem that Beck was calling the nation back to God. It was like a Promise Keeper event in my mind. It was later that day that I discovered that Glenn Beck was/is a Mormon. Now, as far as that goes, he has a right to be what he chooses and there are a lot of good Mormon people. He could run for office or commentate on the news and be a Mormon as I see it. However, in my opinion, what he can't do is call the nation back to God and pray to God because his God and the God of Christianity isn't the same one. Beck doesn't seem to bother me as much as the hypocrisy of those on the right. Mitt Romney was rejected by many evangelicals because he was Mormon, but many of those same folks accept and endorse Beck. I just don't get it.
Sarah Palin is the "mama grizzly" for the Tea Party and its members. She has become a media star and political power. I voted for Palin and McCain in 2008 and I would consider voting for her again. However, my confidence in Palin has wobbled a bit lately. In this week's senate primary in Deleware she bucked the party leadership and backed Christine O'Donnell against veteran congressman Mike Castle. In doing this, she opposed Karl Rove, the architect of conservative victories in 2000 and 2004. Again, she has every right to do this and she should do as she sees fit. However, Palin bills herself as a Christian woman. She cites her faith readily and often in her book. I believe her. She knows Jesus Christ. To endorse O'Donnell, as I see it, violates that faith. O'Donnell has several issues for which she must give an answer. Some of them are in the area of character and values. There were/are areas of dishonesty and lying. I guess it is possible that Palin may not have known about all of these, but if she didn't, she should have. I find it hypocritical again for conservative Christians to stand for "the values of faith" and support candidates who so clearly fall short.
I am not sure that Christians mix very well in the arena of politics. I would be a fool (more than you already think) to deny that they are already in the same pot, however. What is a Christian to do? I think the same thing Micah 6:8 advocates. That's a good beginning.
Thanks for reading....
Cotton Candy Dangers
"He has shown thee, O man, what is good and what the Lord requires of you; but to do justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God" (Micah 6:8). I like that Old Testament verse (praise chorus, too, but that highlights my age and advancing years). In its context, the prophet is speaking of how he should come before the Lord on behalf of the wayward people. Burnt offerings, calves, rams and rivers of oil are not really adequate. What the Lord desires is a changed heart; one that does what is just, merciful and walks humbly with its Creator. The prophet in this text, I believe, is speaking of genuine faith as opposed to its common counterfeit, shallow or superficial faith.
I have heard and read quite a bit lately about a resurgence of spirituality. It seems to cut across geographic and denominational lines. I am always excited when people are motivated and inspired to live Godly lives and I hope to do that as well as I am able. My concern, you knew it was coming, is about what is motivating this renewal of spiritual passion.
I have been reading and have almost finished Sinclair Lewis' novel Elmer Gantry. I am sure that many of you have seen the movie with Burt Lancaster. It is a classic in American cinema. The concept of "Elmer Gantry" has been around since the novel and the movie. Whenever someone attracts a large crowd; is perceived not to have much substance; and is questioned about his/her motives; the label applied to them is "Elmer Gantry." I understand that. Certainly a large part of the book and all of the movie focuses on Elmer Gantry and his amazing ability and his dumbfounding hypocrisy. There is, though, in my opinion, a different message in this controversial novel. It is clear to me that Sinclair Lewis was an unbeliever who wrote this novel to ridicule and mock evangelical Christians of his day (possibly most directly Dwight L. Moody). It was interesting that Lewis did research for the book in Kansas City and set the fictional Bible College that Gantry attended in Kansas. The book, when it came out in the 1920's, generated much controversy and churches derided it from the beginning. As I read it now, nearly ninety years after it was penned, I am stunned by two things. First, Lewis does an amazing and painfully accurate job of describing the hypocritical and mean things that Christians do to each other and to the "non-Christian" world. He writes scathingly of hypocrisy, double-standards, stirring passion through emotion without any real substance, greed, indecency and just plain ugliness. It is obvious to me that he can't stand Christians (of that stripe anyway). I would dismiss it as the writing of an atheistic individual if there wasn't so much truth in it. I am convicned that many in the church today are being caught up in the same "show" that produced "Elmer Gantry." Second, Lewis misses what really ignites renewal and revival. It is never a part of the novel because, I think, Lewis never understood it. What is this "it?" Real change and the ability to live in it come from Jesus Christ. Lewis seems to view God and Jesus as creations of man to advance a scheme. He doesn't consider the possiblity that they may be real. As I see it, that's where we find the power to live effective Christian lives. Christians have, continue to, and will continue to do hypocritical things. Do not, though, measure Christ through the Christian. Though we fail from time to time, he remains what he is and the more that we are connected to him, the greater our chance of success.
I can hear you as you are reading, I get that. So what? Let me respond by sharing with you an observation. About a month ago I attended the Washington Fair and Fair Parade. It is a pretty big deal here in Franklin County. As I watched the floats go by, I noticed how the kids were excited for candy. One of the most popular treats on that hot, August day was cotton candy. It was pink or blue. It looked soft, fluffy and, well, delicious. No, I didn't eat any; I just looked at it. I thought about cotton candy again recently. Reading about Gantry's "stirring, emotional revivals" and about how the people were "carried away with him in the spirit" made me think of cotton candy. Gantry was excellent at stirring up the crowd and creating a moment of excitement, passion and ministry. Looking at what he actually said to the crowds, well, that was less than inspiring. For Gantry it wasn't what was said that mattered, but simply how it was said and what was generated from it. Cotton candy looks pretty and tastes sweet but it has no lasting nutritional value. I pray that the spiritual renewal that seems to have hit many people across the nation has substance to it. I pray that it is rooted in something deeper than emotion and passion. I pray that we, as a people, will return to Jesus Christ and become people of the book. In my opinion, that's when we'll be renewed.
Thanks for reading....
I have heard and read quite a bit lately about a resurgence of spirituality. It seems to cut across geographic and denominational lines. I am always excited when people are motivated and inspired to live Godly lives and I hope to do that as well as I am able. My concern, you knew it was coming, is about what is motivating this renewal of spiritual passion.
I have been reading and have almost finished Sinclair Lewis' novel Elmer Gantry. I am sure that many of you have seen the movie with Burt Lancaster. It is a classic in American cinema. The concept of "Elmer Gantry" has been around since the novel and the movie. Whenever someone attracts a large crowd; is perceived not to have much substance; and is questioned about his/her motives; the label applied to them is "Elmer Gantry." I understand that. Certainly a large part of the book and all of the movie focuses on Elmer Gantry and his amazing ability and his dumbfounding hypocrisy. There is, though, in my opinion, a different message in this controversial novel. It is clear to me that Sinclair Lewis was an unbeliever who wrote this novel to ridicule and mock evangelical Christians of his day (possibly most directly Dwight L. Moody). It was interesting that Lewis did research for the book in Kansas City and set the fictional Bible College that Gantry attended in Kansas. The book, when it came out in the 1920's, generated much controversy and churches derided it from the beginning. As I read it now, nearly ninety years after it was penned, I am stunned by two things. First, Lewis does an amazing and painfully accurate job of describing the hypocritical and mean things that Christians do to each other and to the "non-Christian" world. He writes scathingly of hypocrisy, double-standards, stirring passion through emotion without any real substance, greed, indecency and just plain ugliness. It is obvious to me that he can't stand Christians (of that stripe anyway). I would dismiss it as the writing of an atheistic individual if there wasn't so much truth in it. I am convicned that many in the church today are being caught up in the same "show" that produced "Elmer Gantry." Second, Lewis misses what really ignites renewal and revival. It is never a part of the novel because, I think, Lewis never understood it. What is this "it?" Real change and the ability to live in it come from Jesus Christ. Lewis seems to view God and Jesus as creations of man to advance a scheme. He doesn't consider the possiblity that they may be real. As I see it, that's where we find the power to live effective Christian lives. Christians have, continue to, and will continue to do hypocritical things. Do not, though, measure Christ through the Christian. Though we fail from time to time, he remains what he is and the more that we are connected to him, the greater our chance of success.
I can hear you as you are reading, I get that. So what? Let me respond by sharing with you an observation. About a month ago I attended the Washington Fair and Fair Parade. It is a pretty big deal here in Franklin County. As I watched the floats go by, I noticed how the kids were excited for candy. One of the most popular treats on that hot, August day was cotton candy. It was pink or blue. It looked soft, fluffy and, well, delicious. No, I didn't eat any; I just looked at it. I thought about cotton candy again recently. Reading about Gantry's "stirring, emotional revivals" and about how the people were "carried away with him in the spirit" made me think of cotton candy. Gantry was excellent at stirring up the crowd and creating a moment of excitement, passion and ministry. Looking at what he actually said to the crowds, well, that was less than inspiring. For Gantry it wasn't what was said that mattered, but simply how it was said and what was generated from it. Cotton candy looks pretty and tastes sweet but it has no lasting nutritional value. I pray that the spiritual renewal that seems to have hit many people across the nation has substance to it. I pray that it is rooted in something deeper than emotion and passion. I pray that we, as a people, will return to Jesus Christ and become people of the book. In my opinion, that's when we'll be renewed.
Thanks for reading....
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Men and Women of Honor
In the movie "Blindside" there is a part, near the end, where Michael Ohr is working on his English paper. He has to achieve a certain grade to pass and become eligilble to play football in college. He isn't sure what topic to select and he chooses a passage from "The Charge of the Light Brigade." The topic he selects is "honor." He is not so much interested in "courage" as he is "honor."
In the last few days I have thought about what professional atheltes conduct themselves with class. I have wondered about whether it is all right for Christians to use certain language or is that beneath them. I have tried to identify what it is for people to be respected and why it might be important. Is there any integrity among our leaders? Is there honesty in our media? As I rolled through these thoughts this morning before church, it occurred to me that there may be one all-encompassing trait, that if displayed, could make a big difference. That trait is honor.
What is honor? We hear songs about it: I am a man who will fight for your honor. I'll be the hero you've been dreaming of. (That song always brings to mind a date I had and a particular movie, a chick flick, I believe). We hear the word used in speeches: We've come to honor those who gave their lives..." It is found in the marriage vows: To Love, Honor and Cherish..." We hear a lot about it, but what is it?
Honor goes much deeper than courage and bravery. Courage and bravery inspire a person to do something challenging. Honor extends that to insure that the challenging task is really a task worth doing. Honor is more than integrity. Integrity, a good thing, is close to honesty and involves not only truth in words but in character. Honor pushes that one step further. It promotes truth is a manner that is kind and respectful. Honor is that quiet dignity one possesses when he/she is doing what is right and is not concerned with who will notice. Honor is that trait that motivates one to do what is right when it is costly and lonely.
I am convinced that honor is not really thought of very often today. How many people or things can we really call "honorable?"
How can we change that? The Bible gives some insight into how we can regain honor. Proverbs 15:33 notes that "humility comes before honor." The entire verse reads, "The fear of the Lord teaches a man wisdom and humility comes before honor." Solomon notes that a healthy respect of who God is and what he does is the first step in wisdom. He adds to that, if you want honor, then be humble. If we are going to recapture lost "honor," we begin by humbling ourselves before God and others. I am reminded of the movie "Raiders of the Lost Ark: The Last Crusade" and the scene in which they were entering the cave to find the holy grail. The clue said, "Only the penitent man can enter." Now, in the movie that meant that unless you were on your knees, you lost your head. I think there is truth there. Honorable people are humble people. Do not think more of yourself than you should. Do not seek to exalt yourself. Put others and their well-being ahead of your own. These are the marks of a humble spirit and the first steps toward honor. The Bible also tells us that whoever pays attention to correction gains honor. Proverbs 13:18 reads, "He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored." If we are to live an "honorable" life, we must have a teachable and correctable spirit. That's a bit tough, isn't it? I don't know very many people who "like" being corrected. Most folks bristle at the thought and some reject it. A man or woman of honor realizes that he/she is still a work in progress and is open to and willing to change and correct.
Is honor a "lost cause" today? Should we just accept something a bit less as our standard? I don't think I want to answer that in words. I'd like it better to answer that in my actions. How about you? Think about it and, once again, thanks for reading....
In the last few days I have thought about what professional atheltes conduct themselves with class. I have wondered about whether it is all right for Christians to use certain language or is that beneath them. I have tried to identify what it is for people to be respected and why it might be important. Is there any integrity among our leaders? Is there honesty in our media? As I rolled through these thoughts this morning before church, it occurred to me that there may be one all-encompassing trait, that if displayed, could make a big difference. That trait is honor.
What is honor? We hear songs about it: I am a man who will fight for your honor. I'll be the hero you've been dreaming of. (That song always brings to mind a date I had and a particular movie, a chick flick, I believe). We hear the word used in speeches: We've come to honor those who gave their lives..." It is found in the marriage vows: To Love, Honor and Cherish..." We hear a lot about it, but what is it?
Honor goes much deeper than courage and bravery. Courage and bravery inspire a person to do something challenging. Honor extends that to insure that the challenging task is really a task worth doing. Honor is more than integrity. Integrity, a good thing, is close to honesty and involves not only truth in words but in character. Honor pushes that one step further. It promotes truth is a manner that is kind and respectful. Honor is that quiet dignity one possesses when he/she is doing what is right and is not concerned with who will notice. Honor is that trait that motivates one to do what is right when it is costly and lonely.
I am convinced that honor is not really thought of very often today. How many people or things can we really call "honorable?"
How can we change that? The Bible gives some insight into how we can regain honor. Proverbs 15:33 notes that "humility comes before honor." The entire verse reads, "The fear of the Lord teaches a man wisdom and humility comes before honor." Solomon notes that a healthy respect of who God is and what he does is the first step in wisdom. He adds to that, if you want honor, then be humble. If we are going to recapture lost "honor," we begin by humbling ourselves before God and others. I am reminded of the movie "Raiders of the Lost Ark: The Last Crusade" and the scene in which they were entering the cave to find the holy grail. The clue said, "Only the penitent man can enter." Now, in the movie that meant that unless you were on your knees, you lost your head. I think there is truth there. Honorable people are humble people. Do not think more of yourself than you should. Do not seek to exalt yourself. Put others and their well-being ahead of your own. These are the marks of a humble spirit and the first steps toward honor. The Bible also tells us that whoever pays attention to correction gains honor. Proverbs 13:18 reads, "He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored." If we are to live an "honorable" life, we must have a teachable and correctable spirit. That's a bit tough, isn't it? I don't know very many people who "like" being corrected. Most folks bristle at the thought and some reject it. A man or woman of honor realizes that he/she is still a work in progress and is open to and willing to change and correct.
Is honor a "lost cause" today? Should we just accept something a bit less as our standard? I don't think I want to answer that in words. I'd like it better to answer that in my actions. How about you? Think about it and, once again, thanks for reading....
Monday, July 26, 2010
Theological thoughts...
Well, it has been a long time, huh? I am glad to write again. The topic of this post is "theological thoughts," but that sounds a bit more academic than I think this will end up being. I have been reading and hearing quite a bit lately about Bible studies and books that are challenging people and making them think and evaluate their walk with the Lord. I am encouraged by that and believe that to be an important and necessary thing.
I have, though, picked up a theme from a few different sources that struck a note with me. This isn't in "response" to any particular work or class, but a reaction to a perception. It seems to me that there are quite a few Christians (perhaps of the emergent variety, though certainly not limited to that) that seem to advocate a withdrawal from the things of the world to really pursue the things of Christ. I get the impression that the more one gives up of the things of the world, the greater his/her opportunity to grow spiritually. I read of one Christian leader who downsized his family's house because they simply didn't need that much house. I understand this thinking and I believe it has much merit. I am concerned a bit, though, about the logical end of that kind of thinking.
Jesus told one person, the rich young ruler (Matthew 19), to give all he had to the poor. I think it is important to note Biblically that he did not issue that statement to all who had "stuff," he issued that challenge to this man. He had other followers who had "stuff" (the women mentioned in Luke 8:1-3 for example). I make that observation because I think it is dangerous to make universal a particular challenge of Jesus. He does say, though, that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 19:23). Notice he says, "hard" but not "impossible." Peter follows this statement of Jesus with the observation of how they (the apostles) had left all to follow him. Jesus replied that those who had left all will receive it again and even more in the coming kingdom.
What do we make of that? First, Jesus appears to be challenging the priority of the heart. He demands to be first. In the case of the rich ruler, there was some doubt with respect to what mattered most. There was no doubt in the case of the apostles. This seems to be a discusison more about priorities than it does about "stuff." Second, "stuff" can get in the way. It is not a surprise that Jesus spoke of money more than many other dangers and it is clear that "the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil" (1 Timothy 6:10). Notice, though, that it is the LOVE of money. Again, I believe Paul to be addressing, as Jesus did, a priority issue. Having made that case, I turn to why is this important and why did it make me come out of hiding to write again.
I think it is dangerous and a bit hypocritcal to denounce all things material. The truth, as I see it, is that we (the church) need people who are gifted and have the right priority to give generously and abundantly for the kingdom's sake. If we begin to nurture the perspective that "all things material" are bad, I think we do the kingdom a disservice. To be blunt...
Churches need believers who have the means to fund the mission trip to Haiti, Jamaica, Mexico, etc. Without those who generously give, those with the "heart to go" must sit and wait.
Ministries need believers who have the means to write the $5,000 check to fund the shortage in the program.
The body of Christ needs those who have a large home to be able to open it to the traveling youth group or mission family. I have downsized a bit recently and it would have to be a very small group to fit into where I now live.
The bottom line, as I see it, is that material things are just that: things. They are neither good nor bad. Things/money have a tempting nature that must be watched. For the kingdom work, though, in Jesus' time and our time, we need people who have that gift and ability to use the things they have for his sake. I guess I am appealing for a bit of balance. Thanks for reading and feel free to comment...
I have, though, picked up a theme from a few different sources that struck a note with me. This isn't in "response" to any particular work or class, but a reaction to a perception. It seems to me that there are quite a few Christians (perhaps of the emergent variety, though certainly not limited to that) that seem to advocate a withdrawal from the things of the world to really pursue the things of Christ. I get the impression that the more one gives up of the things of the world, the greater his/her opportunity to grow spiritually. I read of one Christian leader who downsized his family's house because they simply didn't need that much house. I understand this thinking and I believe it has much merit. I am concerned a bit, though, about the logical end of that kind of thinking.
Jesus told one person, the rich young ruler (Matthew 19), to give all he had to the poor. I think it is important to note Biblically that he did not issue that statement to all who had "stuff," he issued that challenge to this man. He had other followers who had "stuff" (the women mentioned in Luke 8:1-3 for example). I make that observation because I think it is dangerous to make universal a particular challenge of Jesus. He does say, though, that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 19:23). Notice he says, "hard" but not "impossible." Peter follows this statement of Jesus with the observation of how they (the apostles) had left all to follow him. Jesus replied that those who had left all will receive it again and even more in the coming kingdom.
What do we make of that? First, Jesus appears to be challenging the priority of the heart. He demands to be first. In the case of the rich ruler, there was some doubt with respect to what mattered most. There was no doubt in the case of the apostles. This seems to be a discusison more about priorities than it does about "stuff." Second, "stuff" can get in the way. It is not a surprise that Jesus spoke of money more than many other dangers and it is clear that "the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil" (1 Timothy 6:10). Notice, though, that it is the LOVE of money. Again, I believe Paul to be addressing, as Jesus did, a priority issue. Having made that case, I turn to why is this important and why did it make me come out of hiding to write again.
I think it is dangerous and a bit hypocritcal to denounce all things material. The truth, as I see it, is that we (the church) need people who are gifted and have the right priority to give generously and abundantly for the kingdom's sake. If we begin to nurture the perspective that "all things material" are bad, I think we do the kingdom a disservice. To be blunt...
Churches need believers who have the means to fund the mission trip to Haiti, Jamaica, Mexico, etc. Without those who generously give, those with the "heart to go" must sit and wait.
Ministries need believers who have the means to write the $5,000 check to fund the shortage in the program.
The body of Christ needs those who have a large home to be able to open it to the traveling youth group or mission family. I have downsized a bit recently and it would have to be a very small group to fit into where I now live.
The bottom line, as I see it, is that material things are just that: things. They are neither good nor bad. Things/money have a tempting nature that must be watched. For the kingdom work, though, in Jesus' time and our time, we need people who have that gift and ability to use the things they have for his sake. I guess I am appealing for a bit of balance. Thanks for reading and feel free to comment...
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Laugh A Little
"Laughter is the best medecine." This is an old adage and the title of an Erma Bombeck book (my mother would be happy that I know that). I thought a bit about laughter in the last day or so. The students at UMS (Union Middle School where I work for all of you like Kimber Lane) believe that I am the emotionless man. I am always calm, never yell, and never laugh or smile. Now, I don't know if that is the case or not, but I like the reputation, so I try to keep it going. I find it humorous to be, well, un-humorous, if you catch what I'm trying to say.
There is a lot to be said for laughter. I know that some medical research has shown that laughter can help the healing process. Laughter is good for the mind and the soul according to many "experts" in the field. I was wondering as I was walking the streets of Washington tonight, did Jesus ever laugh? I tried to think of some scripture reference that would show that. There are a few OT references to God "laughing" but most of them are at his enemies. I didn't find a reference in which Jesus laughed. I don't think, though, that means he didn't. I think his exchange with the woman of Canaan whose daughter was demon-possessed might have brought a chuckle or two. He talks of being sent to the "lost sheep of Israel," but she worshipped and kept pleading. He talked of taking "children's bread and tossing it to the dogs" and she retorted that even the dogs get crumbs. I think this had to bring a smile to his face. There is another incident that I think has a humorous moment that is often overlooked. John 11 records the raising of Lazarus. His death is not really funny. In fact, Jesus wept. There is a moment, though, at which I think Jesus had to laugh. Jesus said, "Take away the stone." Martha said (as found in the KJV), "Lord, by this time he stinketh." Did you catch that? Stinketh! That's a funny word. I don't know how it sounds in Hebrew. I am sure Mark Hahlen does and can attest to whether or not it as funny in the original. Jesus had to laugh at this. I mean, he knows that and he knows what's coming next. "Thanks Martha, I appreciate your help." I don't know if he said it or thought it, but I can see it. Funny stuff.
Well, I know what you're thinking here. What's the point of all this? I guess it is simple. Laugh. Laugh a lot. To the surprise of many, I laugh. The movie that makes me laugh the most? "It's A Mad,Mad World." Funniest scene in a movie? My brothers were with me and it had to do with a trunk and a highway. Funniest group? Bible Bowl people. I have a lot funny stories with family, friends and Bible Bowlers. I think it is important to laugh. So, today, laugh a little. I don't think it will make your problems disappear, but it might lighten the load. Thanks again for reading...
There is a lot to be said for laughter. I know that some medical research has shown that laughter can help the healing process. Laughter is good for the mind and the soul according to many "experts" in the field. I was wondering as I was walking the streets of Washington tonight, did Jesus ever laugh? I tried to think of some scripture reference that would show that. There are a few OT references to God "laughing" but most of them are at his enemies. I didn't find a reference in which Jesus laughed. I don't think, though, that means he didn't. I think his exchange with the woman of Canaan whose daughter was demon-possessed might have brought a chuckle or two. He talks of being sent to the "lost sheep of Israel," but she worshipped and kept pleading. He talked of taking "children's bread and tossing it to the dogs" and she retorted that even the dogs get crumbs. I think this had to bring a smile to his face. There is another incident that I think has a humorous moment that is often overlooked. John 11 records the raising of Lazarus. His death is not really funny. In fact, Jesus wept. There is a moment, though, at which I think Jesus had to laugh. Jesus said, "Take away the stone." Martha said (as found in the KJV), "Lord, by this time he stinketh." Did you catch that? Stinketh! That's a funny word. I don't know how it sounds in Hebrew. I am sure Mark Hahlen does and can attest to whether or not it as funny in the original. Jesus had to laugh at this. I mean, he knows that and he knows what's coming next. "Thanks Martha, I appreciate your help." I don't know if he said it or thought it, but I can see it. Funny stuff.
Well, I know what you're thinking here. What's the point of all this? I guess it is simple. Laugh. Laugh a lot. To the surprise of many, I laugh. The movie that makes me laugh the most? "It's A Mad,Mad World." Funniest scene in a movie? My brothers were with me and it had to do with a trunk and a highway. Funniest group? Bible Bowl people. I have a lot funny stories with family, friends and Bible Bowlers. I think it is important to laugh. So, today, laugh a little. I don't think it will make your problems disappear, but it might lighten the load. Thanks again for reading...
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
It Will Be All Right
It has been a long time since I have posted, but that is due to a lack of time more than it is a lack of thought. I know that is hard to believe for some of you, but it is true. I do have a few minutes this morning, though, and thought I would try to get down what I believe God has been showing me in the last month or so.
Like many of you, I have been tuned in to what is going on in our nation. President Obama and the Democrats are attempting to pass a health care bill that is, at best, controversial. The Republicans and conservatives, naturally, oppose it. There has been a lot of turmoil in Washington D.C. The economy continues to drag and there is widespread concern about jobs and money. A few people I know are doing as well or better than ever, but most are just hanging in there, hoping things improve. On a personal level, I am still seeking what God will have me do next. Jobs in all areas are not a plentiful as I had hoped. It is an uncertain time. What is true for me is true for others, too. I know quite a few people who are facing tough times. I believe it is easy, in times like these, to lose sight of Jesus Christ.
Last Sunday night I was reading in the Psalms and came across Psalm 40. It is a psalm that David writes expressing his desire to do God's will. The whole psalm was refreshing to me, but the part that stood out the most was the first part of verse four. There David writes, "Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust..." That resonated with me. Through the winds of uncertainty and the storms of doubt, this verse is a call to trust. "Don't give up." "Don't waver." "Don't quit." I realize that I am not in control of my situation. I firmly believe that the Lord called me to this place. I am equally convinced that he will not abandon me. I hope that you can share that confidence, too. The Lord didn't bring about the hardship you face, but he can see you through it. Trust. The Lord didn't cause the illness, but he is the Great Physician. Trust.
The situations in which we find ourselves can cause anxiety and erode confidence. I think there are times when we can even forget that Jesus Christ is with us. I was also reading last night in Luke 24. The crucifixion has taken place and the apostles are in hiding. Disappointment hangs heavy in the air. Cleopas and another are walking to the village of Emmaus. The discussion is on what might have been. A stranger joins them and...you know the rest. They were so down that they didn't realize that Lord was right with them. I've read that before, but it took on new meaning for me recently. Jesus Christ is with me even when I struggle. He is there when I am tying to figure out my place in a new environment. He is always there. He is there for you, too. He is there when you are hurting. He is there when life stinks. He is there when life is good, too.
I am encouraged to look for Jesus and I hope you will be, too. Thanks for reading...
Like many of you, I have been tuned in to what is going on in our nation. President Obama and the Democrats are attempting to pass a health care bill that is, at best, controversial. The Republicans and conservatives, naturally, oppose it. There has been a lot of turmoil in Washington D.C. The economy continues to drag and there is widespread concern about jobs and money. A few people I know are doing as well or better than ever, but most are just hanging in there, hoping things improve. On a personal level, I am still seeking what God will have me do next. Jobs in all areas are not a plentiful as I had hoped. It is an uncertain time. What is true for me is true for others, too. I know quite a few people who are facing tough times. I believe it is easy, in times like these, to lose sight of Jesus Christ.
Last Sunday night I was reading in the Psalms and came across Psalm 40. It is a psalm that David writes expressing his desire to do God's will. The whole psalm was refreshing to me, but the part that stood out the most was the first part of verse four. There David writes, "Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust..." That resonated with me. Through the winds of uncertainty and the storms of doubt, this verse is a call to trust. "Don't give up." "Don't waver." "Don't quit." I realize that I am not in control of my situation. I firmly believe that the Lord called me to this place. I am equally convinced that he will not abandon me. I hope that you can share that confidence, too. The Lord didn't bring about the hardship you face, but he can see you through it. Trust. The Lord didn't cause the illness, but he is the Great Physician. Trust.
The situations in which we find ourselves can cause anxiety and erode confidence. I think there are times when we can even forget that Jesus Christ is with us. I was also reading last night in Luke 24. The crucifixion has taken place and the apostles are in hiding. Disappointment hangs heavy in the air. Cleopas and another are walking to the village of Emmaus. The discussion is on what might have been. A stranger joins them and...you know the rest. They were so down that they didn't realize that Lord was right with them. I've read that before, but it took on new meaning for me recently. Jesus Christ is with me even when I struggle. He is there when I am tying to figure out my place in a new environment. He is always there. He is there for you, too. He is there when you are hurting. He is there when life stinks. He is there when life is good, too.
I am encouraged to look for Jesus and I hope you will be, too. Thanks for reading...
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