360 Degrees of Life

In God I trust

2010-02-01T08:11:00.004-05:00

I heard a great reminder yesterday. Proverbs 3:5,6 says that if we trust in God with everything we have He will make our paths straight. There is a really important presupposition in this passage; outside of trusting God, our paths are crooked. If we are not trusting God with all that we are, our paths are crooked, all over the place and generally lead to frustration and dissatisfaction. The problem is that often we want God to bless us and what WE want to do rather than surrender to Him and conform to what He wants for us. I do this all the time. "God, please bless_________ and ___________ and this thing here and that opportunity over there..." an then I wonder why I get so frustrated because "nothing is working out the way I wanted it to." It's because my path is crooked. When we put our total faith in God, he will straighten our paths and get us to our destination. So, where do you place your trust? Is it in your plans and paths or is it in the God who directs our paths?

The Source of Knowledge

2010-01-25T07:04:00.003-05:00

Paul writes in Colossians 2 that Jesus is the source of all wisdom and knowledge. Can it really be that simple? Yes, it really is. James, Jesus' brother in his letter writes that if anyone lacks wisdom, just ask for it! Solomon, in the Old Testament, when given the opportunity to ask for anything he wanted, asked for wisdom! Unfortunately, too many times we pray for things and stuff, myself included and yet we are to desire wisdom and knowledge which is found in Jesus. So how do we practically do that? We spend time in God's word and pray. My friend Jan reminded us over the weekend that we need to focus on God's word. In other words, when reading, really focus on what you are reading; don't let the flood of thoughts and distractions that WILL come get in the way. The enemy of our souls wants nothing but to distract us from the Truth and we must be disciplined (yeah, no one likes that word, but it's true) to stay focused. I admire Yoga enthusiasts and their dedication to their practice and focus on the breath. We would do well to apply the same focus on our reading and study of God's word.

2010-01-16T06:09:00.002-05:00

One of the most disturbing phrases I have read in the Bible is this..." I rejoice in my sufferings." Let me put it in today's vernacular, "I love it when my life is miserable, when everything and everyone is hell bent on bringing me down and stuff just sucks." Put it bluntly, he's a masochist. Let me put this into some context. Paul, the guy who wrote most of the New Testament and who endured hardships, imprisonment, shipwrecks, poverty, beatings and outright persecution for the cause of Christ is saying that in all of this, he can be thankful and yes even joyful. Let me be honest. when things don't go well for me, I whine and complain; forget being joyful or happy and yet Paul found reason to rejoice. Why? He found that he could be more like Jesus when he was suffering for him. Today, you watch the preachers on TV with their expensive suits and huge arenas full of people mesmerized at their message of "happy, happy, joy, joy" and you'd think that they had it all together and yet Paul likens suffering for Christ as a way to be more like him and that we should rejoice in that. What a concept.

Hostile Minds

2010-01-13T06:23:00.003-05:00

Are you hostile towards God? Has that thought ever even crossed your mind? Paul in Colossians addresses people who, as he describes, were "alienated and hostile in mind" towards God. Most people I would think probably don't even give a thought to God throughout their day other than the occasional G--D---- that slips through their lips. He just isn't a real entity in their lives. The word hostile in this phrase means an enemy of God. Paul is saying that by our very thoughts we can be enemies of God; hostile in mind. So, I ask the question, by the way you think and choose to live, are you an enemy of God? Do your thoughts and actions line up to what God would consider "good"? In this day and age, it's all about what "feels" right and living for self pleasure. We can see it all around us. But just because something "feels" right, doesn't mean that it is, at least not in God's eyes and we can choose whether to live for self, or for God.

Ave Maria

2010-01-07T04:56:00.004-05:00

I've been listening to Ave Maria by Pink. Yes, I am a fan of Pink. Yes, she is edgy but she's honest and she's a great artist. No, this isn't a song slamming Catholicism. Anyways, this song really struck me because of its honesty. Here is a sampling of her song:

Ave Maria
Where did you go
Where did you go
How did you know to get out of a world gone mad
Help me let go
Of the chaos around me
The devil that hounds me
I need you to tell me

If the darkest hour comes
Before the light
Where is the light
Where is the light

The song basically describes that the world as we know it or, as she sees it, has completely fallen apart. she references suicide bombings, hurt and pain in the world and she asks, "where did you go?"

I think all of us can look around our world and ask the same question to God, "God, where did you go? Are you still in this?"

Colossians 1:15-19 speaks to this. It tells us that in Jesus all things hold together. "WHAT? the world as we know it is falling apart morally and environmentally and we're supposed to believe that Jesus still has it under control?" Yep. This is not a simple, contrite answer. The point here is that in Jesus all things hold together, he's like the glue, if you will. The issues and the problems we face in this world are the result of man's free will to choose right and wrong and for now, God is allowing it for better or for worse. Paul writes in another book a quote we all like to use, "we reap what we sow". While he was speaking to financial blessing and giving, the point holds true in every aspect of life. Others would say, "what comes around goes around" or "karma". Jesus is still in this. he walked the Earth and experienced it and promised to come back. Imagine how bad it would be if he wasn't in this? It would be infinitely worse.

So, my prayer for Pink and many, many others like her that believe this world is falling apart is that, yes, it is true, it is falling apart and yes, the Light, Jesus, will come one day and rescue those that have faith in him from this "world gone mad" and will restore this Earth to the way it was originally designed.

What Are You Living For?

2010-01-06T06:37:00.004-05:00

My favorite passage in the Bible is Colossians 1:15-20. It talks about how Jesus is the image of God and in fact, is God. It says that Jesus has supremacy. Another version uses the word preeminent; in other words, having paramount rank, dignity, or importance (Merriam Webster Dictionary). So God has placed Jesus as the highest ranking of utmost importance over all of creation. I got to thinking, have I placed Jesus as the highest ranking and of utmost importance in my life? Are all things in my life for him and because of him? My very existence is because of him based on this passage so is my life and the choices I make following suit? Is he the most important person in my life? Is he the most important person in yours? Are you living for Him or for yourself?

Oops, I did it Again...

2009-12-08T07:47:00.002-05:00

I asked another question on my Facebook. I asked what is it about "the church" that is so offensive? the message of Jesus or those that call themselves "Christians?" Well, the overwhelming majority of those that answered said, you guessed it, Christians. Christians are offensive. They are getting in the way of the message of Jesus. Wow... In the words of the great Ricky Ricardo... "You've got some 'splainin' to do..."
And we wonder why church attendance dwindles and the church has become irrelevant in our culture and yet interest in the spiritual continues to grow? C'mon "church" let's get it together....

Church?

2009-12-03T21:34:00.003-05:00

Recently, on my Facebook page, I asked this question:
If you were looking for a church to attend, what would be important for you?
I received some tremendous responses...

the ease of acceptance...no pressure to join, get involved...just let me test it out, make sure I feel I belong here...

I don't attend. I don't believe in organized religion. But I have done a lot of research on religions and believe they all have something to offer but the stigma of war which seems anti-religion because of religion has put me off.

the welcoming and warmth qualities. I can't tell you how many churches we went to where not a single person said hello or welcome etc.

Biblical truth lived out. Community. Love

remove all office style politics and spiritual abuse from leadership. none of that will help you grow

hmmm....having grown up with you in church Joey..I don't need to explain. My thing is this...church is still made up of people..the church..is not perfect..Nor should any church profess to be "the" church. It's a body made up of individuals..who in essence want nothing more than to love God with all "their heart, mind, and strength".

Some great responses. Really got me to thinking; how is the church today missing it?

The Good Life Re-defined

2009-12-01T11:35:00.003-05:00

I've had to take some time off for a number of reasons but mainly to finish my degree. this Friday I graduate with my Masters Degree in Theology. I've missed blogging so I'm going to attempt to jump right back into it.

I was thinking about the topic of "The Good Life". Just what is, "the good life"? Well, Jesus, who many believe to be a pretty good moral teacher (I actually disagree with that statement but that is in another blog ) said that He came so that we could have "life to the full"; abundant life some translations say; the good life. What does it mean to have "the good life"? Is it wrapped up in possessions, tons of money, parties and a "carefree" lifestyle that says do whatever and whenever?

The key words in this phrase are life and full or abundant. What does that actually mean?
Well, life actually means....yep, living. To be alive but it has a secondary and deeper meaning;
of the absolute fullness of life, both essential and ethical, which belongs to God. According to Jesus, our lives belong to God. The term "abundant" actually translates exceeding superior, extraordinary, surpassing, uncommon. So in context, Jesus came so that we could live lives that are "exceeding superior, extraordinary, surpassing and uncommon and fully belonging to God."

Let me ask you a question, is your life, right now, the way you are living it meeting that definition? How's that working for you? Are your relationships meeting that standard?
Do you continue to do things the way you do them because that's the way you've always done them? Do you want to try something different? Radically different? I suspect you will achieve radically different results...

Capitalism re-defined?

2009-11-09T12:41:00.000-05:00

Capitalism needs to rediscover its moral spirit, says Alpha Chairman
http://www.christiantoday.com/article/capitalism.needs.to.rediscover.its.moral.spirit.says.alpha.chairman/24540.htm

Yeah, ya think????

Thoughts...

2009-10-04T07:10:00.002-04:00

I'm, I'm, I'm.... I don't know "what" I am, really.... My last post I mentioned this idea of planting a church. I don't know what emotion I'm feeling; I guess it's a mix of bewilderment, excitement, anxiety, anticipation...

I don't feel "ready" to do this. Mind you, I'm not telling God this, like, "God, you really need to ask someone else" sort of thing. No, I'm pretty sure this is my gig. Here's the thing though... I'm not willing to do it "the way everyone else is/has been doing it." God, I'm so tired of the "traditional church" model. Don't get me wrong, there are necessary traditions that have to be but I want, desperately, a culture that is open and honest and transparent. I don't want a bunch of "pharisees" hanging out and judging the rest of the bunch. I want real, hard questions to be asked. Life is an amazing journey full of pain and joy and I want that to be reflected. I want people to serve other people, that's what Jesus did. It's really that simple, or is it?

Me a Planter?

2009-09-28T09:45:00.003-04:00

Over the last several months I have had several people in my tell me I need to plant a church. What??? Me? Plant a church? My first response was that I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy. Seriously, I've seen what church planting can do to a person. It's hard, hard work.
But, then again, nothing in life that is of worth comes easy. So, I've begun this journey of really figuring out if this is really what God wants me to do. I have to follow through as my Pastor shared with me over 3 years ago when we moved on. I have to be obedient.
I have had the privilege of meeting with quite a few Pastors that have a passion for church planting (imagine that...) and they have been extremely encouraging. One thing that I have come away with is that I won't be alone. I will be supported. I so appreciate that big C church mentality.

Huh?

2009-09-19T06:51:00.002-04:00

OK, I've been extremely negligent on my blogging and what happens? 5,000 more people looked at it in like a month? How did that happen? I should neglect it more often!

I won't bore you with the details, suffice it to say, I'm almost done with my thesis! I've started teaching this Believer's Course at LifepPoint Christian Church and this weekend we're going to discuss Christianese. I stumbled across this Youtube video that's awesome.

So, how do you avoid Christianese?

The Burning Bush

2009-08-18T07:45:00.000-04:00

"What does it take to qualify as a bush that God will use? You have to be dried up and thorny...dirty and dusty...You've got to be ordinary...You have to be burnable. God is looking for flammable bushes". Are you flammable?

Pretty amazing thoughts from Chuck Swindoll.

God is not fair...

2009-08-14T07:07:00.004-04:00

"He rewards evil and chastises the good..." If I were to write a Psalm right now, it would look something like that. "What", you ask? Let me bare my heart for a moment. It really bugs me when people who claim Christ are living blatantly outside of God's will and he still blesses them. That rubs me. In the words of Kevin Meany, "That's not right!" Well, at least not in my eyes. I don't get it. I strive to do what God wants of me; I obey as best I can and I do my best to stay pure before him and someone blatantly goes against his will without remorse comes along and is blessed immeasurably. "Hello, God, um, did you miss it, I'm over here!"

I guess that's why I'm not God. There's this little verse tucked away in Isaiah 55:8 that reminds me that God's ways are not mine. He doesn't think the way I do and in his defense (like he really needs it...) he does see the big picture way better than I do. Is God "fair"? I did a quick search and found no verses in the Bible describing God as "fair" as you and I would define fairness but he is just.

The bottom line I guess is that God, I believe and have to believe, has my best interests at heart. How he deals with another one of his children is none of my business; that's between God and the other person. I just need to stay focused on my relationship with him and be aware of the blessings I've received.

Lessons of Service

2009-08-05T06:32:00.002-04:00

I read a quote this morning that spoke to me.

"If you can't do the good you would, do the good you can. You may have had big-time plans in your life, but the opportunities just haven't come along. Is it really the teaching (or any other gift) that draws your heart or is it the prestige? Failure teaches us a servant's attitude. Those without such an attitude resist getting their hands dirty. They want the polished part, the popular part but the tough stuff behind the scenes? Give that to someone else."

Ouch. I remember once telling my Pastor that I would serve regardless of a paycheck. Well, here I stand, wanting to serve but also waiting for the paycheck. Bad on me. I need to serve and let God take care of the rest. He knows my needs, I just need to do what I am called to do and let him take care of the rest. God is teaching me service. I want a paid staff pastoral position but am I going to turn down serving God simply because I'm not getting a check or a title? I need to serve regardless. God will take care of the details in his time.

Which Way Do I Go?

2009-08-03T09:31:00.003-04:00

One of the challenges I face (well, maybe not a challenge) is the direction I should go with regards to ministry. I have an open door to serve in a solid church with good leadership and a good standing in the community but at this point, it would be on a volunteer basis with potential down the road for a paid staff position. My goal is full time paid ministry. God can use any way to get me to the final outcome. the question is, is this the way I go or do I "hold out" for the money. Sounds pretty crass doesn't it? Do I turn down a very good ministry opportunity simply because there is no money and wait for a paid gig? This week I feel will be an important week as I meet with some different Pastors and I should have a good idea of the direction then.

Nowhere to Hide

2009-07-31T07:19:00.003-04:00

"What I did must have become known," Moses thought to himself. This, after killing an Egyptian who had been beating down an Israelite (Exodus 2:11-15). The scary reality is that all we do whether in secret or in public will always become known because there is nothing hidden from God. We may THINK we are being discreet when we are in the middle of some sin but the truth is God is well aware of what we are doing. Does he like it? No. Does he still love us? Absolutely; nothing will ever change that but he will never, ever approve of the sin in our lives, he can't He is a holy and just God but he will always love us no matter what. And Moses, the great rescuer of the nation of Israel was no different than you and I. He blew it, thought he could get away with it and it came back to haunt him. But you know what? God still used him. Amazing; God still chooses to use people who have blown it big time.

Things Are Not always What They Seem

2009-07-07T07:18:00.004-04:00

What do you do when things are exactly the way they are supposed to be but nowhere near where you want them to be? It's so easy sometimes for me to forget that there are no accidents or surprises in life, at least not in God's perspective. With God, things are always just exactly as they are supposed to be even when it isn't what I may want them to be. Because God is sovereign and because He is ultimately in control of all then it stands to reason that whatever circumstances I find myself in have been orchestrated for a particular purpose and reason. But what about free will? Great question! Free will is how we choose to respond to such circumstances. Free will says that I can choose to be miserable in any given set of circumstances or I can choose to be joyful and accepting understanding that God has a plan. That's my choice. I can choose to learn from my circumstances. I can choose to do something about it. I can choose to respond positively or negatively; there are a myriad of ways I can choose to live in any given set of circumstances but the circumstances themselves are outside of my control.

Certainly, I can make them worse or better and that is part of my free will. For example, when faced with a job loss (a circumstance which is out of my control)I can choose to sulk and blame everyone (negative) or I can be proactive and seek out new work (positive).

There are a number of stories about people who have chosen to rise above their circumstances and it would do us well to spend time reading and studying the things they did to master their circumstances rather than to be slaves to them.

Governor Sanford's Affairs

2009-06-30T12:44:00.004-04:00

So, really, do I have to hear anymore about Gov. Sanford's affair? Honestly, I don't care. I mean, yes, I do care but this is really weird. We had a previous President that was all but a sexual predator and the media excused it. "It didn't matter"and "didn't reflect on how he ran the country", they said. Now, the recent rash (and yes, it's a rash alright!) of Republican confessions is all over the news and they're questioning the morality of these men and will it affect the 2010 elections and blah, blah, blah... interesting double standard to say the least but here's my point...

If he wasn't a Christian than why are we as Christians surprised that he was unfaithful? Why do we expect non-Christians to hold to Christian standards of morality? It's hard enough sometimes for a Christian to remain pure and honorable in this world and we expect a man (or woman) outside of faith to live this way? I don't know if Gov. Sanford has a personal faith in Jesus. If he does then the church needs to come alongside and help bring he and his family back together lovingly and provide support and accountability for him. There is no room for being judgemental because we are ALL one bad decision away from ruining our own lives. If he is not a Christian, why are we at all surprised?

Goin' to the Chapel...

2009-06-21T08:57:00.003-04:00

We went to a beautiful wedding yesterday. We had a great time celebrating Julie and Greg's marriage. A couple of things crossed my mind as we were there. 1st is how few people get married in churches anymore. Don't get me wrong, I've attended glorious Christian weddings on the beach and in other settings but there's something about a church; it's is as if you're inviting God to the wedding. This was an amazing sanctuary with the huge pipe organ that left me almost breathless. It was majestic and awesome. This was an amazing church. Honestly, I'm more partial to contemporary settings for church understanding that some, especially newcomers feel too uncomfortable stepping into such a majestic setting (and really, we shouldn't) but this was truly majestic and inspiring.

The second thing that was really unique was a "sand ceremony". Rather than lighting a candle together, the couple placed two different colors of sand into a glass vase symbolizing their joining. In the same way that marriage is a lifelong union never to be separated, the sands can never be separated; they are blended, united. The really cool thing though was that the Pastor poured in pure white sand first symbolizing that their marriage was based on the foundation of Jesus. Really cool.

I love weddings, obviously because they are such a special celebration but also for the new and unique lessons I can learn.

"Goin' to the chapel..."

Church Testing

2009-06-14T12:52:00.003-04:00

So, in our "search for a church" we visited a Lutheran church today. Quite different from what we're used to but I did find it interesting taking part in some new practices. For example, whenever the Pastor prayed, he turned his back toward the audience and faced the cross or the communion table. Not sure which as both were next to each other. Secondly was his robe. Even though this was a "contemporary" service, he still wore his traditional robe.

Also, we took communion which is practiced every week rather than 3 or 4 times a year. I like that. I like being reminded of what Jesus did for us and taking part in the meal that He ordained. Weekly communion was a part of the early church since the beginning but has been reduced to an occasional practice in most churches over the past century. Communion is an important part of the worship experience. I would welcome participating on a weekly basis.

Another aspect to the service was reading prayers. I know people who refuse to read prayers or creeds but really, what's the difference? We sing the words to other peoples songs and we read the Psalms which were someone else's prayers so why not use a prayer or creed that communicates the heart of the worshiper? I understand when it becomes a ritual for rituals sake but the same can be said for not having them.

In all, it was great to experience something new and different. It's so easy to get caught up in the same styles of worship and neglect that there is so much more to Christian worship than what we think it is or should be. While I so desperately want to be in a church and serving, I'm enjoying the opportunity to experience some styles of worship that I would otherwise not. It's tough breaking out of old habits and experiences but I learn so much from it when I do.

A New Chapter

2009-06-04T06:23:00.002-04:00

This last weekend was the final service for The Well, our church family. I know for me, the tendency is going to want to keep everyone together. We even joked about visiting another local church all wearing our Well t-shirts. But the reality is, we all walk our own paths; we are all on an individually created journey unique to our own experiences. To artificially cause them to join simply for my own gratification would be like trying to make oil and water mix. It's futile unless of course it is God's will.

So, here we are beginning a new chapter. Ironically, my journal ran out of pages this week so I began a new journal with a new chapter and new experiences. When Abram was prompted by God to "go", he didn't tell him where. He didn't even point in a direction. We are in a similar situation. God has said go and I stick my finger in the air, figuratively of course, and try to make sense of where to go. I know this, an old Pastor friend of mine used to say, "find out where God is moving and join him in that work."

Just a Kiss Away... In church?

2009-05-29T06:36:00.004-04:00

I'm going to shock you. Did you know that several hundred years ago, the ealry Christian church was accused of participating in....orgies? Yes, that's what I said. You can wikipedia it if you need further definition. The early church was accused of, get this, cannabalism and orgies. A far cry of what the church is accused of today, that's for sure.

During the 2nd Century a man by the name of Justin Martyr recorded the beginnings of the early church. So why the bad rap? The early church had a beautiful symbol for expressing God's pure love for each other. In fact, Paul actually refers to it in Romans 16:16; the holy kiss. Now, as I think back on how this passage has been "tamed", I laugh. According to Justin, the kiss was a kiss on the lips (forget this cheek stuff). Why?

"It is the kiss-exchanged on the lips because it is identified with the breath of God in the creation stories- that has so scandalized the critics of Christianity...however, the kiss is not a scandal, but a sign of the pure love of God. It is a spiritual expression of unity as the community moves toward sharing Holy Communion". Robert E. Webber, Rediscovering the Missing Jewel

I love it. It's such a beautiful image. I know what you're thinking, and I'm not necessarily advocating that the mega-church down the street start a kissing session during the worship service. This "holy kiss" occurred in small house churches where the people were intimately involved in each others lives. It was a symbol of God's love. I come from a Hispanic family where we all kissed and hugged; it's natural to me. Others may be more uncomfortable with that level of intimacy and that's okay. Some have been abused and injured and we need to be sensitive about this but again, when we develop the intimacy, love and concern for others in small, close knit groups, that level of intimacy is a safe environment.

More Worship

2009-05-27T09:31:00.003-04:00

In keeping with this idea of worship, here's another thought...

"...modern Christians want to understand what they are doing when they worship and through worship desire an authentic experience of God."

Worship then needs to be understandable and experiential. I guess it's like a roller coaster. You can explain to me how one works; you get into the car, it starts moving slowly on the track, goes up then comes down really fast and repeat. That's all well and good but I want to experience it first hand. Yes, tell me how it works but I want to experience it first hand. It's the same with worship. there is nothing wrong with understanding the mechanics of worship and is probably pretty important to after all, you have to know the rules before you can break them. However, experience is also necessary for a complete understanding of what worship is.

Worship is...

2009-05-26T13:01:00.002-04:00

Here's a pretty intense thought on what worship is...

"the entire experience of worship is a symbolic meeting with God in which the eternal covenant established by Jesus is reaffirmed in the physical action of worship."

Worship is more than just the music part of a church service; it's the whole experience from walking through the door going in to walking through the door going out. By worshipping, we re-establish that which Jesus did; it is a re-enactment of his work for us. Now that doesn't mean that we literally nail someone on a cross (as some cultures do) but it does mean that we take time to reflect on his life and death and life again in everything that we do in worship.

Does your worship service allow or cause you to truly reflect on Jesus or is it merely a time of "entertainment" or "obligation" to fill a Sunday morning?

Who or What Do You Worship?

2009-05-16T07:17:00.002-04:00

I heard a powerful quote this morning, (thanks Dr. Chris!)

At this moment and for as long as this world endures everyone inhabiting it is bowing down and serving something or someone; an artifact, a person, an institution, an idea, a spirit, or God through Christ…No one is exempt... We are all worshippers… Harold Best, Unceasing Worship

So, the question is... Who or what do you worship? Worship means to honor or reverence as a divine being or supernatural power.

We all worship something; it's how we are wired so, is the thing/person you worship REALLY worthy of it? Is Barack Obama (or any other President for that matter)REALLY worthy of your worship? Is U2 REALLY worthy of your adoration and praise? Certainly we can admire these people but we need to be careful how we expend our energies and passions. Ultimately, these people/images/things can become idols and false gods.

What do you worship? Is it worthy enough to be worshipped?

Hi

2009-05-14T06:48:00.002-04:00

That's it, just hi. I'm back in school mode working on a Worship Studies class and my thesis as well as golf lessons. No, the golf lessons are not a part of my course description...that would be pretty cool though. I think that's part of med school though. ;0) I've also been going through a study on Joseph which is always good. It's a great reminder that God is at work in the details of our lives even if we don't see or sense it; He is there. It's a great reminder; be patient, your time will come and God's plan and will will come to pass just allow him to work.

Best Job in the World!

2009-05-06T07:34:00.001-04:00

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090506/ap_on_re_as/as_australia_world_s_best_job

So how did I miss out on this? Caretaker of my own tropical island? Wow...

By KRISTEN GELINEAU Kristen Gelineau –
SYDNEY – A bungee jumping, ostrich-riding British charity worker was named Wednesday the winner of what's been dubbed the "Best Job in the World" — a 150,000 Australian dollar ($111,000) contract to serve as the caretaker of a tropical Australian island.

And the money is pretty good too!

So, what would your dream job be?

"Real" Positive

2009-05-05T10:29:00.003-04:00

How are you when things are going bad?

"Huh?" "I'm bad, that's how I am", you may respond, but what I mean is, do you hang it out on your sleeve for everybody to see it? I used to be a Registrar at a college...for 3 months. That's all it took before I was "moved on". I'm a pretty positive and likable guy but this job brought out the worst in me. I was so stressed and uptight; I would slam doors and give dirty looks to people; It wasn't pretty and all the while I'd be trying to help the students. Heck, the students even noticed that I had changed.

Not Joseph though. In Genesis 40 we read of a "positive" Joseph. In the midst of his "hell" he was still compassionate and concerned about others and most of all, didn't throw himself a pity party. He was positive; he knew God had a plan even though he himself didn't know what it was. In fact, the story tells us that he told the baker and the cup-bearer, "hey, don't forget who hooked you up when you're on the outside". Of course, they forgot but he still remained faithful to God.

So, how are you when things are not going so hot? Do you, like I did, slam doors and get all bent out of shape or do you genuinely seek to put others first and serve them?

God is Not Fair

2009-05-01T05:28:00.003-04:00

Have you ever made a bad decision and paid the consequences for it? Yeah, me too. It stinks, doesn't it? But hey, I deserved it. Bad decisions = bad outcomes. How about making the right decision and still suffering for it? That really stinks. You know you did the right thing and yet you still get dumped on and suffer for it. That's not fair. Well, apparently, God doesn't see "fairness" the same way we do.

In Genesis 39, we see Potiphar's wife as quite the "cougar"; she's eyeing Joseph who apparently was quite the "eye candy" according to Genesis 39:6. In fact, you could make the claim that she sexually harassed him day in and day out. So Joseph, denies her and he still gets blamed for messing around with her! It's one thing to get busted for doing what you're not supposed to; at least you deserve what's coming to you but Joseph did nothing; nada, zilch. Is God "fair?"

Apparently, God is not interested in "fair". I mean, his own son died for the sins of the world; that doesn't seem to fair now, does it? But there is a bigger meaning here. Joseph was living out what Paul wrote hundreds of years later, "we walk by faith, not by sight." Joseph could certainly have just given up and said "to Sheol with this" but instead, he remained faithful and God still continued to bless him even in prison. He must have known, deep down that God WAS with him and he had his dreams to carry him through it. It's easy to look at our circumstances and conclude otherwise but we need to remember that God is with us no matter the circumstances; we need to remain faithful to Him.

Blessed at Work

2009-04-29T08:27:00.003-04:00

"The Lord was with Joseph and he prospered... the Lord gave him success in everything he did... the Lord blessed the household...because of Joseph..." Genesis 39: 1-5

Now, I'm not into prosperity gospel, "name it claim it" and all of that and I don't believe this passage teaches that at all. This is a character issue. Here is a picture of a young Hebrew man, a slave at that, Joseph, who was so into God and God was so into him that he was good to have around. Even Potiphar, an Egyptian who had no interest in the Hebrew religion recognized that the Lord was with Joseph. Everything Joseph did was blessed by God so much so that it carried over into his duties in Potiphar's household affairs.

As Christians, are we a blessing to our workplace? Do we prosper at everything we do so much so that it brings prosperity to our employers? We hear so much talk of employers exploiting their workers and even Christians chime in saying "it's not fair" or "corporate greed this and that" blah, blah, blah... Joseph was a slave. He had NO rights and yet, God was in Him and he was blessed and was a blessing to others. Could he have complained? Yes. He was beaten up by his own family and sold into slavery but instead, he remained in God and God blessed him.

How can you be a blessing to your workplace today?

Maybe, as Christ followers, we need to stop complaining so much about our work environments (at least you're not a slave, you are free to quit) and focus on how to be a blessing to those we work for. It will be better for us in the end.

Get out of the way of "The Way"...

2009-04-24T06:41:00.003-04:00

I'm re-reading Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell, yeah, it's that good. Here's a thought,

"Times change, God doesn't...We learn and grow, and the world shifts around us, and the Christian faith is alive only when it is listening, morphing, innovating, letting go of whatever has gotten in the way of Jesus..."

What, in my life get's in the way of Jesus for other people?

"We're All Going to the Same Place Anyways..."

2009-04-21T08:33:00.003-04:00

I was having a discussion with someone last evening and the topic came to religion (as it somehow always does with me). She said, "if people would just realize that we all came from the same place and we're all going to the same place, we'd be so much better off." Well, needless to say I had to change the topic because the setting we were in didn't lend itself to the discussion. But, I want to delve deeper here.

Her belief is known as Universalism and she stated it perfectly. It doesn't matter what we believe, we all go to the same place. Well, there are some big holes in that thought. First of all, not everyone believes in the same thing so how can we go to the same place if that same place is different for everyone? Does that mean that as a Christian, I'm really entering Nirvana when I pass or that I'll be re-incarnated as Hindus believe? I didn't sign up for that; I want heaven. It's like buying a car. You save up your money in anticipation for this perfect car, say, a BMW you had all picked out. You sacrificed and scrimped and saved and when you're ready to buy, they bring out an Acura. You'd be disappointed, right? I mean you sacrificed because you knew you were going to get a BMW but instead you got an Acura (no offense to Acura owners, by the way). Which brings me to the next point; choice.

God, as I have articulated before, is pro-choice. God gave Adam and Eve a choice in the Garden. They could eat of any tree in the garden except one. What did they choose? the one that was forbidden. They had a choice. To suggest that "we all go to the same place" suggests that we really don't have a choice in the matter. God may as well have made a bunch of mind numbed robots unable to choose but he didn't; he created people who have the choice to love and follow him or to reject him. He loves us that much. John 3:16 says that God sent his son so that whoever believes would have eternal life. Belief is an act of the will. You choose to believe in something and we have the choice to believe that God loves us and loved us so much, he created a way to restore our relationship with him through the sacrifice of his son. We don't all go to the same place and I'm grateful for that choice.

Time to Re-think...

2009-04-20T06:59:00.003-04:00

I'm really digging Rob Bell's Book Velvet Elvis. Read what he writes, this is crucial to the church today.

"...the most powerful things happen when the church surrenders it's desire to convert people and convince them to join. It is when the church gives away in radical acts of service and compassion, expecting nothing in return, that the way of Jesus is most vividly put on display. To do this, the church must stop thinking about everybody in categories of in or out, saved or not, believer or unbeliever. besides the fact that these terms are offensive...they work against Jesus' teachings about how we are to treat each other."

Wow, I must say, I agree...

"In Your Heart?"

2009-04-17T05:51:00.004-04:00

My little girl once asked, "how does jesus get into my heart?" That's a really popular thought in Christianity but it's simply not biblical. How about these, "have you prayed "the sinner's prayer?" "Have you read the "four spiritual laws?" Do any of these sound familiar? Can I share something with you? None of them are biblical. That's right. You will not find anywhere in the bible any of these concepts. Please take note, I'm not suggesting that they are bad or wrong. You won't find the trinity in the bible either but that is an accepted concept in orthodox Christianity.

So, just how did early Christians "get saved"? That concept is in the Bible so we do have a framework from which to begin. here are some concepts.

We read that God loved the world so much that he gave his son so that whoever believes would have eternal life.
Paul says that "by grace you have been saved, through faith and not from works..." and that if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."

Why am I bringing all this up? Because in doing "church" differently, I think we need to get back to the basics. Let's get away from all of the processes that we've created. The Bible says that to be saved we need to do two things, believe it and confess it. We've created such a "country club" like atmosphere with our christianese and secret phrases and handshakes (OK, maybe not the handshakes) that we alienate ourselves. Don't get me wrong, the message alone will alienate us but we don't need to make it any harder. Remember, the bible teaches that God loved the whole world that whoever believes that's pretty big, it's not exclusive of anyone, and confesses that belief, would be saved.

Christian

2009-04-13T06:54:00.004-04:00

I read a great quote this morning by Rob Bell, "Christian is a great noun and a poor adjective." Love it. To be a Christian is to be a follower of Jesus. To label something as "christian" such as music, art, literature or whatever runs the risk of putting us in awkward positions. For example, I don't listen to a lot of "christian" radio because, well, honestly, I don't like it. Some of it can be really cheesy or just bad. So now, I've got this "christian" title in front of it. Is it supposed to make it better? So, bad radio with the word christian in front of it makes it better? No, it doesn't. What it does then is give the impression that christian radio is bad. What about a "christian" business owner that is corrupt? Or the "christian" politician; OK, maybe that's an oxymoron, but you get my point. Stop trying to be christian and be a Christian.

Easter Thoughts

2009-04-11T07:13:00.004-04:00

I'm kind of sad today. Tomorrow is Easter and all around me I hear people talking about going to the beach, having dinner with family or friends, stuff that really is all well and good but I don't hear anything about attending a service or celebrating the resurrection which is what Easter is really all about. And those that do go, how many go out of obligation rather than real curiosity? Have we become so bored with the story of Jesus' betrayal, death and resurrection that we just yawn at it and consider it just another option on an otherwise busy Sunday? I don't say this in judgement. It's partially my fault for not making it more of a big deal in my life so that others may get excited or at least curious about it. I mean, when I got U2 tickets, I was telling everyone. This is infinitely more important and greater. My very belief system and worldview is based on this one series of events. How do I portray it in my life so as to make it inviting to others around me?

Wrestling

2009-04-10T21:32:00.003-04:00

I know it's Easter this weekend but something else is on my mind. Have you ever wrestled with God? Genesis 32 has as interesting story about Jacob wrestling with God. Don't believe me? Read it for yourself. Apparently, Jacob put up a good fight going all night until finally, his hip was dislocated. The Bible says he walked with a limp from that day on.
I've been reading a book called Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell. In it, he invites us to "wrestle with God." There's a lot of difficult stuff in the Bible and sometimes, I know I have, we just accept it. It's what we've always been taught and we never question it. It just is. Take for example, Easter. Why did God have to send his Son to die a brutal death on a Roman cross? Why not just snap his fingers or wave a holy wand or something? I mean he SPOKE existence into creation. Why did Jesus have to die? And oh by the way, did he REALLY die? I mean if he was God incarnate, can God REALLY die? And how could he be God incarnate?
Don't miss my point; I'm not questioning the truth or authority of scripture, I'm just suggesting that we "wrestle" with it a bit. Might I add, like Jacob, we won't win and we may leave the fight limping but how awesome to walk away knowing that we "wrestled with God."

Will We Ever Learn?

2009-04-01T08:10:00.004-04:00

So, I'm scrambling to get some papers done by the deadline next week while still allowing some of the information I'm blowing through to actually sink in! What a concept! As I'm writing about "Common Themes of Old Testament Prophecy" it's occurring to me that nothing has changed really over the last few thousand years. The basic problem of mankind is that we continue to live the way we want to live rather than by the principles set forth by God. I mean, he even tells us, "if you live this way, you'll be blessed; you'll do well." But in our stubbornness we say "wait, I've got a better way!" It sounds like my 4 year old when I ask her to do something; "Wait, wait" she yells as she tries to do it her way. Then, out of frustration she realizes her way really wasn't the best way and to boot, she has the consequences of disobeying me in the first place. If she'd done it the way I told her in the first place, things would have worked out just fine.

We are no different when it comes to God. He's laid out a plan and a method for us to live our lives that in the end is guaranteed successful but we seem to think we can do it better. When it doesn't work, we then have the audacity to blame God for the consequences. Will we ever learn?

Happy Birthday Alaina!

2009-03-27T06:21:00.003-04:00

4 years ago this evening, Easter Sunday, around 7 pm, you came into this world. Of course, you interrupted my fajita dinner and let's not forget the fact that you were so impatient you wanted to come 3 weeks prior putting your poor mom in the hospital for 2 weeks on bed rest, but that's all beside the point. ;0)

You are an amazing little girl. You know what you want in life and you go full force. You will be a leader one day and my prayer is that God will use this gift He has given you to impact your world. You are such a blessing!

We love you and adore you!!

Happy Birthday Laini!

Things Just don't Change Much

2009-03-25T06:03:00.000-04:00

...Oppression of the poor, sexual immorality and personal indulgences. Sounds like a page right out of our own newspapers! Well, while these issues certainly plague our political and social structure, these are the very same issues that plagued the Jews in the Old Testament. Human depravity is constant no matter what time period and the solution to it is also the same; turning from these behaviors and submitting to God. Do you want to see changes in our politics and social structure? Stop trying to legislate and pray. Only the changing of men's (gender inclusive) hearts will change the slippery slope we're on as a nation. Spending trillions of dollars (we don't have!) won't get our economy back in shape and punishing wealthy people with taxes won't change their spending habits; they'll just find new ways to shelter their money. No; we need a revival. We need to see people all across this nation turning back to God individually and then corporately. It's the same message of the Old Testament and it still rings true today.

This Isn't Summer Camp

2009-03-24T09:05:00.000-04:00

Desperate tent city revival for America's homeless

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jfdUjgQlF9EylQA0IXkiLMA6EUVg

No, this isn't summer camp, this is a tent city in California for those that have been severely affected by the downturn in the economy. California, specifically has been hard hit with over 10% unemployment and high cost of living.

Is this where we are headed? I'm not trying to be Mr. doom and gloom, but this is reality for some across this nation. When I see this I have to ask; don't these people have friends or relatives that can take them in until they can get they're lives back together? What have we become as a society of people that we have to depend on the government to take care of others. It's not the governments responsibility; it is ours as a society to take care of our neighbors. This is the Good Samaritan 2009. Who is your neighbor? Look around. Do you know someone who is down and out? Are you willing to take a friend or loved one in and inconvenience yourself for the good of someone else? What if it were you? Do you have someone you could turn to take you in?

Saturday Night Unplugged Re-launch

2009-03-20T05:33:00.004-04:00

It was an amazing evening. I don't know where over 1/2 the people came from. we had a full house! Saturday Night Unplugged at the downtown Volcanos was a huge success! The place was packed. It wasn't without out its glitches though like forgetting the mic stand and poor room arrangement and feeling disconnected from everyone. Beyond that, there was some really great music and good conversation. This is truly and "experiment in translation" that will morph until we get it right.

Distracted....

2009-03-19T06:46:00.001-04:00

I'm trying to get my work done but I'm so distracted. Not by other activities, well, OK, that too but more than that, my thoughts. I've been studying some concepts on the book of Jeremiah and one thought is screaming out at me that is so relevant for today. I have to share it...

"Many people today trust in their rituals for security. they think God will accept them because of their baptism, church attendance, faithful giving or service to their church. But Jeremiah warns us that apart from faith, even important church activities are merely empty rituals...the Lord calls us to submit our entire lives to him and focus on things that please him."

Why is this important? allow me to vent; I've asked many people in my community if they are a part of a church; the response? "Oh, I go to ___________ church, but I haven't gone in _______ weeks." In my head I'm thinking, clearly then, you don't go to ____________ church! Just showing up when you feel like it doesn't make you a part of that church anymore than walking into a hospital cures you from an illness.

I'm sorry, that sounds so judgmental and I don't mean it to, really but it's so frustrating for me because I was like that once. I went to church because it was the thing to do and that was it. when I started getting involved and putting some "skin in the game" is when it really clicked.

"Sunday is a family day", I hear. Great! share it with with more family! A group of people with like minded faith is an amazing family! And best of all, they don't live with you! ;0)

It's so frustrating to see people going day in and day out through their lives with no real purpose or drive. They just "show up", so to speak and hope things will be good that day. There is so much more to life than getting up in the morning, drinking your coffee, getting the kids ready, off to school, off to work, return and repeat! !!!! WAKE UP!!! That is not life! It's merely existing. There is an abundant life waiting to be lived, you just have to put some skin in to it.

Happy Saint Patrick's Day!

2009-03-17T07:18:00.003-04:00

Saint Patrick's Day. I would bet a small sum of money that most people don't really know what this patron saint's day is all about. For most, it's about wearing green or getting pinched (and risking a sexual harassment suit) and indulging in green beer. OK, I must admit, I have enjoyed a nice Amber Bock on occasion and, being part Irish and all (look up Antrim County in Ireland) but green beer? Yuck. Just the sight of it...

Anyways, here are some facts about our green day friend.

According to www.History.com,

It is known that St. Patrick was born in Britain to wealthy parents near the end of the fourth century. He is believed to have died on March 17, around 460 A.D. Although his father was a Christian deacon, it has been suggested that he probably took on the role because of tax incentives and there is no evidence that Patrick came from a particularly religious family. At the age of sixteen, Patrick was taken prisoner by a group of Irish raiders who were attacking his family's estate. They transported him to Ireland where he spent six years in captivity. (There is some dispute over where this captivity took place. Although many believe he was taken to live in Mount Slemish in County Antrim, it is more likely that he was held in County Mayo near Killala.) During this time, he worked as a shepherd, outdoors and away from people. Lonely and afraid, he turned to his religion for solace, becoming a devout Christian. (It is also believed that Patrick first began to dream of converting the Irish people to Christianity during his captivity.)

After more than six years as a prisoner, Patrick escaped. According to his writing, a voice-which he believed to be God's-spoke to him in a dream, telling him it was time to leave Ireland.
To do so, Patrick walked nearly 200 miles from County Mayo, where it is believed he was held, to the Irish coast. After escaping to Britain, Patrick reported that he experienced a second revelation-an angel in a dream tells him to return to Ireland as a missionary. Soon after, Patrick began religious training, a course of study that lasted more than fifteen years. After his ordination as a priest, he was sent to Ireland with a dual mission-to minister to Christians already living in Ireland and to begin to convert the Irish. (Interestingly, this mission contradicts the widely held notion that Patrick introduced Christianity to Ireland.)"

So, while your indulging in green tainted food and beverage today, you can quiz your friends on the history of Saint Patrick's Day.

Coffee Talk

2009-03-13T06:01:00.002-04:00

I'm mulling over some news from the week in preparation for our coffee house event this weekend. I'm reading about the killings in Alabama pondering questions I might ask to drum up discussion. My main thought is that, in general, people tend to think "People" are generally good at heart but then here comes this story and it throws that thought into a tailspin. How can a "generally good person" go on a killing rampage? Is it possible that our concept of man is seriously flawed? And if so, how does it affect us individually since, well, we're "Man" (gender inclusive). Really, we are all one bad decision from significantly altering our lives.

But then there's the question; where was God in all of this? How could He allow this to happen to a small community that no one had ever heard of before this? God is supposed to be sovereign and in control...

So, these are some of the things I'm pondering; some of the questions of life to bring to light with the hopes of creating a discussion that causes people to think more deeply about the world they live in...

Have a great weekend!

1984 all Over Again...

2009-03-12T06:37:00.001-04:00

In 1984, Dr. Adrien Rogers said this and was recently posted in the congressional record by Steve King of Iowa;

“Friend, you cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the wealthy out of freedom. And what one person receives without working for, another person must work for without receiving. The government can’t give to anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody. And when half of the people get the idea they don’t have to work because the other half’s going to take care of them, and when the other half get the idea it does no good to work because somebody’s going to get what I work for. That, dear friend, is about the end of any nation.”

Thoughts?

Death of Religion?

2009-03-09T07:01:00.004-04:00

I'm still rubbing the sleep out of my eyes from this weekend's loss of an hour of sleep. Anyways, I came across this article this week and found it pretty interesting. I'll elaborate more on it throughout the week ( I hope!).

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090309/ap_on_re/rel_religious_america

The article basically says that the number of people who claim a religion is declining in America. Can I be honest, my first reaction (and usually the worst one) is "DUH!!! Just look around at all of the junk going on in society!" But then, I step back for a minute, take a breath and go, hmmm. Why?

Maybe I can't be really objective on this because, well, I am, according to sociologists, (gulp) religious. EW! I really dislike that word but for sake of the article, yes, I'm a "religious person". I attend a service on a weekly basis and fit all of the criteria that sociologists use to define religion. But for many, religion doesn't work. Why? I can't answer that for anyone else because I can't speak from that experience. I can only postulate. Maybe it's because religion is seen by some as a big business or an attempt to control people or it's just one big fairy tale. Whatever the reason, "religion" doesn't work anymore. I guess the next question is, what does work?
Thoughts?

Stop Complaining and Get Back Up...

2009-03-05T05:30:00.000-05:00

I love this guy's attitude. All too often we complain about our circumstances; I know I do. Our joy is not and should not be based on our circumstances; it is based on a concious decision to be joyful regardless of our circumstances.

A Simple Thought...

2009-03-03T12:38:00.001-05:00

"God’s work demands all that we have, and sometimes challenges us to go beyond what we think we are capable of doing. But ultimately, life in his service is always rewarding and fulfilling."

Think on that...

More paradigm shift!

2009-02-27T06:50:00.002-05:00

Too often, in "the church" we segragate people and not just based on race and ethnicity. We do it by what we "believe". Last night we had a great meeting that really challenged us/me to re-think how we share with people. In the past, it has been Christians that put up the walls between "saved" and "unsaved", "Christian" and "Non-Christian". So much so that now, when we try to break down the walls, the "world" puts them back up( I've used a lot of Christianese jargon here and I hope it is blaring you in the face because it is for me).

"Let me explain, no, it's too much, let me sum up..." We've got to stop looking at faith as "us vs. them" and realize it's all of us together, we're just on different journeys. We're either moving towards God or away from him. In the context of historical "Christianity" there is no such thing as a "christian". That word never shows up in the Bible. Jews at that time in the New Testament, if they believed Jesus were called "believers in Jesus" or "followers of Jesus or of the Way." When we realize that the only thing separating "us from "them" is belief, it simplifies things. We stop focusing on behaviors or "sins" and just focus on building relationships with people. From there, we "earn" the right or the privilege to speak truth into people's lives and create the opportunity for God to change lives.

"...and the people did what was right in their own eyes."

2009-02-23T05:00:00.000-05:00

That, my friends, is the crux of moral relativism. While we may think this is a relatively new concept in our "post-modern" era, let me assure you, it is age old. In fact, this particular phrase comes from the book of Judges. The book of Judges outlines a lawless time when Israel, God's chosen people, had settled into the Promised Land. After the death of Joshua, Israel plunged into a period of "doing what was right in their own eyes" which resulted in disobedience to God.

We see that same spirit, and it is a spirit, today. It is nothing new. In the 60's, people cast aside all authority and rules and today, we see the fruit of it. It's amazing to talk to people; smart, intelligent college graduates that have no clue who Jesus is other than the first part of a curse phrase! They live life in their own way and, as long they are not hurting anyone else, they're doing OK.

Moral relativism is not "OK". There ARE absolutes in life. Our decisions do affect other people. Too many people have believed the lie that tells us otherwise and the affects are painful. Just look around at our world today. It's not hard to see that "doing what is right in our own eyes" may not be right after all.

Forgiveness is What?

2009-02-17T06:55:00.002-05:00

I ran across a really good definition of forgiveness yesterday. allow me to share...

"Forgiveness is agreeing to live with the consequences of someone else's sins".

Think on that... We agree to live with the pain and inconvenience of someone else's wrong doing. Now, I know, it's not fair but that's what true forgiveness is. It's the story of the cross lived out in our own lives; Jesus died on a cross enduring all that pain both physically and spiritually for our wrong doing and He did it freely and willingly.

Forgiveness is not cheap...

I'm Not A Christian...

2009-02-16T06:33:00.002-05:00

I'm in a paradigm shift of sorts. Kind of sounds like a Star Wars or Star Trek thing doesn't it?
Well, I'm redefining for myself what it means to be a Christian because I came to the conclusion that we're not talking about the same thing any more. Take for instance the word "gay". Fifty years ago, it meant something quite different than what it means today. I believe the word Christian is undergoing the same metamorphosis. Today, "Christian" can mean any number of things but for some, maybe even many, it means something very negative. So, over the weekend, I came up with a few conclusions. Allow me to share...

I am NOT a Christian if....
You think I think I've got it all figured out.
You think I think I'm better than you.
You think I think I have all the answers.
You think I think I never screw up.

I am a Christian simply because I believe Jesus is who He said He is and did what He said He would do... Nothing more, nothing less.

Please hear me out, I know that there are Christians that would want you to believe the list I shared but I don't believe that those things are what make a person a Christian. The real definition of a Christian has nothing to do with any of those things.

So, how does my new definition play out in my life? It's a whole lot easier than trying to convince people of something that's not true, that's for sure. It means that I can be honest and authentic with people and yes, even a bit vulnerable because I have nothing to hide; I'm just like them with the same struggles and issues of life.

Honestly, I like my definition a whole lot more.

When the "Should" Hit's the Fan

2009-02-12T06:57:00.004-05:00

Where have I been? I admit; I can't keep up with my life right now. Do you ever have one of those seasons in life? Yes, I know you do. I'm in one of them now and it's fast paced and I feel like if I stop for a moment the back of the bus is going to slam me in the back of the head.

An old Catholic Priest named Brennan Manning used to say something very profound, "Never should on yourself". What does that mean? It means to often in life we look at the things we "should" be doing and are not. That creates guilt which drives us to "try harder" causing us to fail all the more and perpetuating the vicious cycle. I should be reading my Bible more, I should be spending quality time with family and friends, I should be exercising, I should be blogging blah, blah, blah! The voice in our head drives us crazy and we feel worthless and guilty for not being good enough. In the words of the great Bob Newhart, "Stop it!".

Stop should-ing on yourself and accept where you are. Once the guilt cycle stops it's easier to handle. Life comes at us in seasons and some are absolutely insane and others are calm; it truly is the proverbial roller coaster ride. Have fun and enjoy the ride!

Sheep and Body Parts

2009-02-03T17:14:00.005-05:00

Recently, we took part at a local Farmer's Market. We took care of sheep. Yep, you heard (or read) right; we took care of sheep. No, I'm not talking about the fluffy white animals that go
b-a-a-a-a-a. No, the sheep we took care of are infinitely more precious to God. Peter, the foot-in-mouth disciple was instructed by Jesus as a gesture of love to "feed his sheep", 3 times actually. That is what we did. We took care of sheep.

One of the lessons I've been learning as of late is that the church has nothing to do with the walls we meet within. Rather, it is the people inside. we don't "go to church", we ARE the church. I've said it before, you arm doesn't attend your body, it is an instrumental and necessary part of it. In the same way, if you call yourself a Christian and are not a part of a church body, you are simply an appendage lying lifeless on the ground. You have no life and no function. However, when you are attached to the body, the church, you and the church can accomplish that which God has purposed you for. In other words, outside of the church, you cannot fulfill your God given role; your destiny. "That's closed minded of you Joey", well, I didn't make that up; take it up with the Author. 1 Corinthians 12:12-27.

So, what do sheep and body parts have in common? Hmmmm. Nothing. Oh, wait, there is something actually. As a "church" body, we can't wait for people to come to us; we need to go out. Jesus' last command was to wait and everyone will come to you, right? Um, that's a big, fat negative. Jesus' last words on Earth were to go! Where? Everywhere! In today's vernacular that means to our own towns and cities, states and nation and, if need be to other nations! Jesus said Go! So we are being obedient and we are going and the Farmer's Market is just one example what what we can you.

So, the question is, are you a part of a body or just a limb lying around with no function. It's time to "re-attach yourself". It'll do you, and the body, some good.

Consider this...

2009-01-27T11:29:00.001-05:00

We are created in the Image of God. Evolutionists believe we are created from primordial pond scum. Is it no wonder that these people suffer from depression and are doped up on anti-depressants and anti-psychotics? Is it any wonder that they have little hope? "Being created in the image of God is what sets us apart from the animal kingdom. Our soul has the ability to think, feel and choose...we have the capacity to participate with God in the shaping of our lives."

Where's the Duck Tape!

2009-01-24T18:23:00.003-05:00

Not one week in office and already my head is going to explode! Where's the duck tape! Someone, please explain to me how our new President can begin the process to release the terrorists from Gitmo and rescind the executive order banning federal money (that's OUR money) for abortions overseas. He even had the audicity to refer to it as "family planning." Mr. President, abortion is no more "family planning" than genocide is "population control."
God help us...

President Barack H. Obama

2009-01-21T05:00:00.000-05:00

Ok, I know, enough with the cliche's, "today history was made". Well, sorry, I'm going to repeat it; "Today, history WAS made." The fact that we have a black American in the White House is inspiring. It tells me that we need to stop whining and complaining out our position and status, stop the "freebies" and as Obama put it, "pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off " and get this country back on track.
Quite frankly, I'm sick of the partisan politics and the googly eyed, star struck, rock star loving media and groupies and how they fawn over the name Obama. PLEASE! Stop it; this is not Aerosmith! And what about these groupie t-shirts and mugs and paraphernalia? I mean c'mon! He is a man elected to do a job and quite honestly, a very tough one at that. Don't be surprised if he let's you down because he will. I don't care what letter you carry on the back of your name, this man, OUR President, needs first and foremost, our prayers. Psalm 75 is very sobering...

No one from the east or the west, or from the desert can exalt a man. But it is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another.

God has brought up this man to be our President either by selection or by permission. You can either accept this or be against it. Personally, I'll accept it. I'd rather work with God than against Him...

Living Life in the Fast Lane

2009-01-19T07:17:00.003-05:00

Forget fast lane; right now, I'm living on the Autobahn! Without boring you of all the details and happenings in my life right now, suffice it to say, I'm "busier than a one armed paper hanger"(yeah, I know, really, REALLY corny!) I know we all have those seasons in our lives where we're swimming in activities and dead lines. I don't know how you handle it but for me, I need to stay focused and avoid distractions. That's tough to do sometimes. It's important also to remember that people are way more important than projects and sometimes when I'm busy I'll pull away from people. Let's be honest, people can take a lot of our time but in the end, it is relationships that matter most because that's where we can have the most impact. So, I need to remind myself to not withdraw and look for opportunities to engage and interact with people; the projects can wait.

Miracle on the Hudson

2009-01-16T06:03:00.003-05:00

Unless you live under a rock, you've seen the non-stop coverage of Flight 1549 crash landing in the Hudson River. I don't care what naysayers say, God's hand was on that plane as it came down. Someone on that plane has a call on their life to do something and a plane crashing was not going to stop it. Do you get what I mean? At least one person on that plane has a call on their life to do something great; I don't mean necessarily to become President or something like that, I mean that they have a call that is so important to God He kept a plane from crashing for that person to be able to fulfill that call! It could have been several people, it doesn't matter the number. Whoever that person maybe, I hope they realize their call and the importance of it because God saved a plane from crashing just for them...

Enjoy the Ride!

2009-01-14T20:47:00.004-05:00

Man, it feels like we hit the new year sprinting! We came back from VA after a great trip, hit New Years, started our fast, got back to work and it's been non-stop. I feel like I'm speeding past stuff that I need to pay attention to but I'm moving too fast and not quite sure how to slow down. I can't begin to tell you all that's going on in our lives right now. It's all good, it really is but it's fast and furious.
Over the next few weeks things should settle especially when we re-launch The Well but until then, I'm afraid this pace is going to continue. Enjoy the ride!

"There's Probably no God"

2009-01-08T06:51:00.002-05:00

http://www.christiantoday.com/article/atheist.bus.ads.say.probably.no.god/22249.htm

Recently, in England, 600 buses rolled out across the city with the slogan, "there's probably no God. Now stop worrying and enjoy life". Wow. Where do I begin? PROBABLY? Is that the best they can do?

The great mathematician and theologian Blaise Paschal addressed this gamble centuries ago. Paschal (known for his mathematical theories) in his Wager, addresses the thought that that
"even though the existence of God cannot be determined through reason, a person should "wager" as though God exists, because so living has potentially everything to gain, and in theory nothing to lose."

Essentially, we're looking at the great "what if". If God does exist, how does that affect how we live? Obviously, if He doesn't exist, we can live however we want with no eternal consequences. At the end of our life, we take the eternal dirt nap and push up daisies, that's it. End of story.

But what if? What if it's not a fairy tale? What if there is something to this Christianity which has endured 2,000 years of persecution through out the ages and continues to flourish? I don't gamble but my understanding of the phrase "call your bluff" means "to equal the bet". Are you willing to call God's bluff? Are you willing to put your life up to his? That's the gamble my friends; life. If God doesn't exist then I'm a fool, at worst. Everything I've ever believed is a joke. But, If God does exist and you choose to live as if He doesn't, the consequences are far much more grave than being foolish. This is the gamble my friend... Are you in?

Big Guns...

2009-01-07T12:38:00.002-05:00

There are situations in life that bring us to our knees, literally and figuratively. It is at those times that we need the "big guns." Prior to the Iraq War, the military was testing a massive 21,000 pound bomb called the MOAB, affectionately called, the mother of all bombs. It was designed to devastate underground bunkers such as the kind in the Middle East where terrorists would hide. The reason was, it was necessary to have a massive explosion that would penetrate deep into the ground and mountains and destroy these bunkers.

Well, it's not that different in our spiritual life. In Mark 9, the disciples were out and encountered a boy who was demon possessed. They attempted to cast it out but failed. Jesus then rebuked the spirit and it came out of the boy. the disciples, befuddled, I'm sure because they had been given authority by Jesus to heal and cast out evil spirits, asked Jesus, "What gives? Why couldn't we do it?" Jesus responded, "this kind can come out only by prayer and fasting".

Jesus had to bring out the big guns; prayer AND fasting. Sometimes, it's just not enough to pray. You have to purposefully deny yourself (fasting) of something the body needs such as food. Sometimes, it's fasting from a desire or a habit such as watching TV or spending a lot of time in an activity; in either case, it's with the sole purpose of replacing that time with prayer. Face it, we live in a spiritual dimension with spiritual enemies and spiritual battles and strongholds that need to be broken and sometimes it takes bringing out the "big guns" to break through.

God "speaks"?

2009-01-05T06:00:00.002-05:00

Have you ever wondered how or why it is that some people have this "hot line" to God? You know what I mean? They say things like, "God told me..." or "God showed me...". In the past, I used to be really skeptical about such people especially since many of them had big blue hairdo's and fake eyelashes, really flashy suits and fancy jewelry... including the women!

The reality is, showmanship and flashiness aside, God does "speak". No, He doesn't sound like Charlton Heston" and He doesn't have a British accent. Honestly, I don't know what His voice "sounds" like, but I do know when I hear Him. Jesus said that His sheep (that's you and me if you follow Jesus) will hear His voice and will recognize it. It's like when my girls were really little and when I or their mom would speak they would turn their head around to wherever they heard our voice come from. God speaks to us in many ways and we respond to Him. Sometimes it's through the counsel of a friend, a passage from the Bible and sometimes just a deep impression in your "gut", to name a few. It's our responsibility to become familiar with Him and to know Him so that we can hear His voice in our lives. That takes time and determination.
When you want to know someone you have to spend time with them. Before there was caller ID, you would answer the phone, say hello and if you didn't know the voice, you would ask, "who is this?" But when you knew the person on the other line, just the sound of their voice was enough to recognize them. It's the same with God. The more time you spend with Him, the more you will begin to recognize His voice.

Fast Times...

2009-01-03T09:08:00.001-05:00

Friday we began what has turned into our annual Daniel Fast. It's where we eat fruits, vegetables and water for 3 weeks. Now, we do show a little grace with regards to the diet (ie. some eat nuts and seeds in addition to) during the fast but by and large the idea is to simplify our lives in such a way as to be able to spend more time in prayer. By limiting what we eat we do two things; we cut out time spent in preparing meals and we create an environment to draw closer to God and be more sensitive to His prompting in our lives. From a physical standpoint, it allows us to break from the cravings of the junk we normally eat by focusing only on eating fruits and veggies as well as a few other things like nuts and beans. Basically, we cut out most if not all grains and meats and processed foods. Again, we do show a little grace as each person has different lifestyles and dietary issues. The important thing is to remain true to the spirit of the fast.

My New Years' Non-Resolution

2009-01-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

I gave up on New Years' resolutions awhile back. I mean really, if something is good and admirable enough to start at the beginning of the year, why wait? I've worked in wellness and fitness long enough to know that resolutions don't work. The push to join gyms and health clubs is huge in January and by March, it's tapered off and even dropped. People, many of them, just give up. The motivation to resolve to change just wasn't strong enough to carry them through. Resolutions, by and large, just don't seem to work. This isn't an empirical statement of course, but I know myself and I've known enough people to see that they're pointless and often lead to guilt.

The reality is though that the New Year does give us "permission" if you will, to change; to start fresh. I read back over my non-resolution for this year. It was the idea of being flexible. No, I'm not talking about taking yoga, I mean being sensitive and open to what God allows in my life and "going with it". A few weeks ago I was reminded of a quote; "instead of asking God to bless what I'm doing, find out what God is doing and get involved". That requires flexibility.

So, my question then is, what is God doing in your life and around you? We don't need to re-invent the wheel. God's plan for those that follow Him is really quite simple; go and make disciples. Now, that can take on many different forms and that's where our creativity, talents and gifts come into play but the goal is simple; introduce the seeking and the hurting to Jesus and grow them so that they do the same in other peoples lives.

So, as I sit here contemplating '09, I would have to say that my non-resolution is to stay focused. "Stay Focused in '09". There are many things that can "de-rail" us from our purpose. If you know me, you know that I juggle about 8 different "roles" so it's easy to let one dominate over another. I know what my calling is and I need to stay focused to that calling first and foremost; all else is secondary. the other things are important but cannot overshadow what my primary calling is; to go after the seeking, the hurting and the next generation and lead them to an encounter with Jesus that ultimately changes their lives and the lives of those around them.

What is your New Year's Non-Resolution?

Who is my audience?

2008-12-29T07:05:00.005-05:00

While on our trip in Virginia, we stayed with my brother-in-law's wife's parents. Her dad is a Pastor and has been for years. He now finds himself as starting a new church from the ground up; a church plant. Needless to say, we had a great time sharing "war stories" about our struggles and what we've learned. He shared that he had recently read a book that really impacted him; Preaching to a Postmodern World by Graham Johnston. It must have been impacting because he printed out for me 27 pages of quotes he had outlined from the book and gave it to me. In the foreword he writes,

"Who is my audience? We don't teach the Bible, we teach people the Bible. As vital as it is to know content, it's not enough. We must know our audiences."

I tend to get caught up in teaching theology; I like theology but the reality is, most people that I would speak to don't know or care much about theology. Heck, they may not even know what the word means. He goes on to write,

"The challenge for the biblical communicator moving into the postmodern era, then, is to present the message of Christ with freshness, relevance, and meaning to a generation of listeners who don't know what they're missing."

A friend of mine from Jr. high school that I reconnected with via facebook asked for a recommendation on a book about the Bible. I recommended one of my textbooks which was an overview of the bible which I thought would be great. Well, sure, for me it would be great because I'm a student of the Bible. For her, admittedly not knowing anything of the Bible, it was obviously too much. She was asking for a snack and I handed her a 72 oz porterhouse.

The challenge for me is to understand who my audience is; to answer the questions people are asking...

An Unordinary Christmas

2008-12-27T17:52:00.002-05:00

Several years ago, Kim and I spent Thanksgiving on the road to Johnson City, Tennessee for a wedding. This year, we were on the road for Christmas; literally. The kids were opening gifts in the back seat of the car with the dome light on as we traveled north on the highway headed towards Virginia. Yeah, we're strange like that. We were on the road 13 hours! At one point, in South Carolina, I was sprawled across a picnic bench at a rest stop determined not to get back in the car. What were we thinking??

We finally arrived at our destination; Roanoke, Virginia. Our week up here essentially is becoming a Tour de Virginia. After spending the night in Roanoke, it was off to Culpeper, VA, about 3 hours Northeast of Roanoke. Culpeper, incidentally, was founded in 1749 by none other than Lord Culpeper. We spent the night there and the next day (today) we headed down to a suburb of DC called Fredericksburg and spent the day there at the home of some relatives. We're back now in Culpeper founded by who??? That's right...

We don't take vacations much so this was a much needed break and a great time to catch up with some family that we just don't get much opportunity to see. I like traveling like this because I often wonder what it would be like to live in the places that we visit. Roanoke and Culpeper, admittedly are quite a bit slower paced for me but are quaint and homey. It was funny, at one point while driving down the highway in VA, we passed a sign that said we were entering the technological district of VA. As we drove along, all I saw were hills and cows.

Fredericksburg was more to my liking (it's just outside of DC) and I dug the fact that the houses had basements!

We'll be here another day in Culpeper and then back to Roanoke for a day. We'll then head back to Florida with a stop possibly in Charlotte but definitely in Savannah, GA.

Happy New Year!

God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen?

2008-12-23T18:10:00.000-05:00

So, I'd never really given any thought to this song; it just sounded quaint and had a neat tune. Well, today, I learned what this song really means. In old England, the word "rest" actually means "make". The term "merry" doesn't mean happy like we think it does. When we read of Robin Hood and his "merry" men, it had nothing to do with a bunch of happy guys in green tights. "Merry" actually meant "mighty". Robin Hood and his "mighty" men fought against the oppressive English rule. So, put the phrase in today's vernacular and you have "God Make You Mighty Gentleman". So, instead of "Merry Christmas", I will wish you a...

Mighty Christmas!

Be Careful Who You Help

2008-12-22T05:00:00.001-05:00

http://www.yahoo.com/s/1005181

California does it again. The Supreme Court of CA has ruled that it is OK for someone to sue a "Good Samaritan". In other words, if you see an accident and feel compelled to help someone and they are injured while you are helping them, you can now be sued in California. This has not been the case, until now. During an accident, a co-worker pulled another co-worker from a car fearing it would catch fire which apparently left her as a paraplegic. She is now suing the co-worker. She claims she was "treated like a ragdoll."

So, if you are in CA and you witness an accident or any situation which may require your intervention to save someone's life, be sure to call your attorney first or at least have a waiver for them to sign. Nice... What have we become?

Christmas blog

2008-12-18T06:39:00.004-05:00

It's less than 10 days before Christmas and I haven't blogged once on it! Last year, i had like 11 posts on Christmas. So, I got to thinking, why re-invent the wheel? So, instead of doing it all over again, I'm just going to refer you back to those earlier blogs! "That's cheating" you say... It's my blog, so, it's not really... ;0) "Well, you're lazy"... No, just resourceful! ;0)

Enjoy!
http://360degreesoflife.blogspot.com/2007/11/whats-that-coming-from-my-radio.html

2008-12-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

I borrowed this from my friends blog who got it from someone else... Anyways, it's great. It's simple. I love the simplicity of this video. This guy travels around the world to dance in all sorts of places with all sorts of people. I wanna do that. I want to meet people from all over the world and share a dance or a song or whatever it is that connects two people from different walks of life, different language, different beliefs... It's beautiful... Enjoy.

Newsflash....

2008-12-15T06:40:00.002-05:00

10 days until Christmas. "Are you ready for Christmas?" everyone asks... It's coming, ready or not. Let me be open and honest with you. I get freaked out over Christmas too. I get caught up in the worrying about who to get what and how much (or how little) we have to spend just like the next guy. I'm turning into my grandfather; he used to sit back off to the side every Christmas and watch everyone else. He could care less if anyone ever got him anything and of course, we as the grand kids got him the obligatory wallet or socks. One year I got him a Swiss army pocket knife; that was cool! (I still have it...)
As a dad now, I really don't want anything for me, I usually buy it myself anyways which infuriates my wife (love you honey!). I'm not sure really what the point of my note is today just that Christmas is right around the corner and are you ready? Are you ready to celebrate the birth of the One that came to set things right for us with God? It's really all about Him...

The Lessons of Poo

2008-12-12T08:28:00.005-05:00

I'm telling you, if you just slow down for a minute, life speaks lessons! I went for a great run this morning; had my worship on in the mp3 player (no, not an ipod, an mp3. I'm not cool enough for an ipod) and just rockin' when I felt something slishy under my foot. Yep, I stopped to look down and there stuck to the bottom of my shoe were leaves which were stuck to the poo I stepped in. Well, life is like that. We're cruisin' along, not a care, worshipping God in all that we do and slish.... we step in it; we didn't even see it but we get caught up in the crap of life. It has a way of sticking to us without us even wanting it to. Paul tells us that a soldier doesn't entangle himself in the cares of the world; he is bound only to one purpose; duty to his commander. So it is with us as Christians; we are duty bound to serve our commander; God. When we get caught up in the affairs and cares of the world it takes us off focus. We have to stop, take our eyes off the course and wipe the stuff off before we can go on. Can we always avoid it? No, we're still human and we're bound to step in it sometime or other; just wipe it off and keep on runnin'!

No comment necessary...

2008-12-10T23:19:00.001-05:00

Keep Hope Alive

2008-12-09T08:11:00.002-05:00

When our President elect was, well, elected, he said things were going to be better. Now, he's telling us things will get worse before they get better. Whatever; He can't even answer the question of whether he still smokes or not but you can see my last post for that diatribe. My point is this, for better or worse, what is your hope tied to? Is it the economy? The new President? The stock market? Your job? All of these "things" can change in a millisecond. Hope should not be tied to something that is temporal.

I was thinking this morning (did you smell the smoke?)... When Jesus came, he never lifted anyone out of their financial/social circumstances. When Jesus was on the scene, the Roman government ruled over the Jews. Life was a struggle for them, taxation was high and they were oppressed by an elitist emperor and Roman senate (sound familiar) that pretty much only put up with the Jews. When Jesus came, people mistook his coming for a political revolution when in reality, Jesus was all about a spiritual revolution. Jesus brought hope to people in dire circumstances but he never changed the circumstances. Yes, he brought healing and miracles but the social landscape did not change all that much.

OK, so, what's my point? We, as Christ followers and Jesus Freaks are not called to change the social landscape. Jesus' last words on Earth to us were to make disciples and to preach the gospel to everyone. As a result of that, the social landscape will eventually change one heart at a time. But more important than that, we are to bring hope and that is the message of Jesus. Beyond our circumstances, Jesus is real, he brings hope, he brings peace to us. And, that is the amazing message of Christmas; Jesus came to bring hope!

Newsflash! Obama smokes...maybe!

2008-12-08T06:05:00.006-05:00

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20081207/pl_nm/us_usa_obama_smoking_3

UGHH!!!!!!! Let me make this perfectly clear; I don't care if our President-elect smokes. For crying out loud, the media didn't seem to care that President Clinton was having affairs after affair but a smoking President! NEVER! PLEASE!

We've got an economy in shambles and the media wants to know if Obama has quit smoking. Whatever... I wish Obama would just man up to it and say yes, I smoke, do you have a problem with that? Much of the Hollywood celebs and the media themselves that helped get him elected smoke; talk about a bunch of hypocrites! Don't get me wrong, I don't smoke and I do think it's an unhealthy addiction but c'mon... NEWSFLASH! He is not God (though Nancy Pelosi seems to think so), he is human!

There is a moral here, believe it or not. "He who is without sin, cast the first stone". These were Jesus' words to the Pharisees who had caught, red-handed, an adulteress. They drug her out to stone her to death but before they carried out her sentence, they asked Jesus what he thought. His response? "OK, stone her, but let the man among you who is without sin throw the first rock." One by one they all went away. Jesus forgave the woman, encouraged her to stop sinning and to go on her way.

Too often we focus on people's behaviors missing the real point of the matter; the heart. Does Obama need to deal with is smoking habit? Sure, of course. It's a deadly habit. But we all have deadly habits; collectively they are called sin and it is the cause of spiritual death in 100% of cases if left unchecked.

I know Christians who smoke; Godly wise men and women who have not kicked the habit. Are they any less of a Christian? No. Should they stop? For health reasons, of course. Is it a Biblical mandate to stop? "Thou shalt not smoke" is nowhere to be found in the Bible. Of course there are principles about being in bondage to habits and addictions and rituals and such and again I'm not condoning it but I'm not going to crucify someone because they smoke. As Christians, we are called to love, not judge; let God deal with issues of the heart.

I'm kind of crazy...

2008-12-03T08:32:00.002-05:00

This is my new project; it's a 1970's English made Raleigh bike. Sweet ride... It's a tank really; steel tubing. Really smooth ride! Not sure if you can see the detail on the bike but if you'll notice, there is only 1 gear. Great! Nice and easy, no shifting to worry about! Yep, you're right but.... there is no brake or a freewheel. This is a fixed gear bike. That means no braking AND no coasting. You have to pedal all the time. Yes, it is insane to ride these on the road and that's why I don't. I leave it for the side streets in my neighborhood or an easy path but I can tell you, you become more aware of your surroundings on one of these things; it's like a sixth sense kicks in because you have to react quickly.

It's kind of like faith; Take away everything that we know or think to be safe in our lives like jobs, a bank account or the safety net of family and you realize that you really have only one thing; faith. You can't coast you have to keep pedaling or you'll fall. You can't stop either and you have to be aware of everything that's going on around you so you can react appropriately. See a pothole? Go around it.

Faith and fixed gear riding.... I like that.

To my team... The Most Dangerous Job

2008-12-02T09:50:00.003-05:00

What do you think the most dangerous occupation is?
Well, according to insurance.com, the list is not quite as glamorous as you'd think. No counter-terrorism agent jobs or MI-6 or whatever (James Bond) type jobs. Take a look...

1 Fishers and related fisher workers
2 Logging workers
3 Aircraft pilots and flight engineers
4 Structural iron and steel workers
5 Farmers and ranchers
6 Roofers
7 Electrical power-line installers and repairers
8 Drivers/sales workers and truck drivers
9 Refuse and recyclable material collectors
10 Police and sheriff's patrol officers

But there is one job far more dangerous than any of these, all of these, combined. Know what it is?

"The ministry is one of the most perilous of professions. The devil hates the Spirit-filled minister with an intensity only to that which he feels for Christ Himself". A.W. Tozer

If you are a minister of the gospel, consider yourself marked. You have a target on your back. You cannot rest, day or night. In season and out you must be ready to fight and the enemy would like nothing more than to take you out. But he would rather do it slowly. Yes, he is torturous that way. Tozer explains that for our spiritual enemy, rather than take us out completely, "the poison dart that only paralyzes" is far more effective. "An ineffective, half-alive minister is a better advertisement for hell than a good man dead." WOW! What a picture.
So, if you're thinking of ministry, realize what you are signing up for. It's not for the faint of heart or the weak.

Eye's in the Back of My Head

2008-11-24T05:00:00.001-05:00

"Anyone who will not receive the Kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it".
Mark 10:15

I have kids and I can tell my girls just about anything and they'll believe it. Recently, I told my 3 year old that I could see everything she was doing in the backseat because I had eyes in the back of my head. You know what she did? She reached up and poked me in the head to poke me in the eye (you don't know Laini!). I reacted, saying "ouch! that hurt! You poked me in the eye". She got a kick out of it and tried it again (and again, and again...).

That's the kind of "faith" we need to have with regards to Jesus. We need to be childlike in our faith. Now, in my case I was joking around and playing; Jesus is serious. Unless we come to him with a child like faith, we will never, his words not mine, never enter the kingdom of God. How then, does that play out in our "adult" world?

Mission "Possible"

2008-11-21T06:23:00.002-05:00

Mark 9:23 "...Everything is possible for him who believes."

What does that mean to you? Let me give you the context of the verse. The disciples had just failed miserably in trying to oust a demon from a child. So, they brought the child to Jesus. The Father of the child says to Jesus, "if you can do anything...help us." "If?" Jesus responds. "Everything is possible for him who believes." He then frees the child of the demon.
This verse has been twisted like a pretzel. You see, the verse doesn't say "everything that we want will occur or will materialize if we believe." If that were the case I could believe I'll win the lottery or that I'll land the dream job or that life would be easy. No, it says that everything is "possible". In other words, if we have faith, the conditions will be favorable. Faith is not a genie in the bottle we release when we want something. It's a walk. It's a way of life and when we walk in faith, it sets up the conditions for God to move in our lives in such a way that the "miraculous" can happen.

The story doesn't end there. Afterwards, the disciples and Jesus "huddle up". The disciples, embarrassed I would imagine, ask Jesus, "what gives? Why couldn't we do that?" Remember, just a few chapters previous in Mark, Jesus had given them the authority to cast out demons. Jesus' response? You didn't read the handbook on spiritual warfare. No, I'm sorry, he didn't say that. "You didn't pray". That was his response. "OH!!!! So If I PRAY I can win the lottery!" Nope, didn't say that either. Jesus lays out a 2 step plan, if you will, for overcoming difficult situations in life. Have faith and pray. With this combination, we can face life with all its ups and downs victoriously. Remember, the outcome isn't up to us. If we're fully surrendered to God, it's his game, not ours. The outcome is up to him.

Man Imprisoned For 27 Years Says He's Not Bitter

2008-11-20T06:41:00.003-05:00

http://www.cfnews13.com/News/Local/2008/11/19/man_imprisoned_for_27_years_says_hes_not_bitter.html

VIERA -- For the first time in nearly 28 years, William Dillon woke up Wednesday morning outside a prison cell.
Dillon had been serving a life sentence for killing James Dvorak in 1981 at Indian Harbor Beach. Because of new DNA evidence, a judge granted him a new trial. His lawyers said the new DNA testing showed Dillon did not wear the killer's T-shirt.
Dillon was released Tuesday afternoon after posting $100,000 bond.
He said he's not at all bitter about spending a large portion of his life in prison.
"I'm not going to sit here and dwell on anything that's missed or passed or anything. I'm just going to move ahead right now from this day forward," Dillon said.

Without speculating on the details of the case and the re-trial, I want to focus on one thing; This man, who has spent 28 years in prison for a crime he may not have committed has no bitterness? Either he's lying or, he has experienced something that has transformed him. I don't know if he is a Christian but I can tell you, he has displayed more forgiveness than some Christians. If I were in his shoes, I'd be looking for the most high powered attorney I could find to sue whomever I could. I'm just being honest. The thought of missing my girls growing up and missing out on the experiences that I have had all because of a false conviction is beyond me. But this man has chosen to not dwell on the past and chooses to "live in the now". We can all learn from this man's attitude on life. How much energy do we spend wishing and trying to change things from the past? How much bitterness do we harbor against those that have wronged us? How much life are we missing right now because of something we had no control over? Let it go. Like this man, "move ahead right now from this day forward..."

What would you do in his shoes? How would you respond?

Who Cares?

2008-11-19T15:00:00.000-05:00

How much stock do you put into what people think of you? Do you become anxiety stricken if someone has a less than favorable opinion of you? Harv Ecker, author and conference speaker used to say that "what people think of you is more about their stuff than about you". Tozer, whom I've been reading a lot of lately writes, "a free Christian should act from within a total disregard for the opinion of others." He goes on to say, "any act done because we are afraid not to do it is of the same moral quality as the act that is not done because we are afraid to do it."
Honestly, Nike says it best, "Just Do It". But the point is, we get so caught up over what people think. I mean really, who cares if you pray in public or carry a Bible to school. Don't do it to cause controversy, do it because you love God and don't worry about what people think. Really, what they think is their problem, not yours.

How is Your Devotional Life?

2008-11-17T05:00:00.001-05:00

I've been reading and contemplating a compilation of devotional thoughts by A.W.Tozer. Tozer was a Pastor, editor and a conference speaker in the 40's and 50's. The book is called Renewed Day by Day. Anyways, I stumbled across yet another timely article called "The Devotional Life is Almost Crowded Out". In it, he blames our dependence on the the media (TV, Radio, and Newspaper, he didn't have cable and internet mind you! ) and compares it to a pet lion cub which eventually grows to devour us! "One of the ways the civilized world destroys men [and women] is by preventing them from thinking their own thoughts." This was in the 50's. How bad is it now in the age of 24 hour media? How do we get away from it?

The solution? "there are some of God's children who...want to relearn the ways of solitude and simplicity...to discover the blessedness of what has been called spiritual aloneness- a discipline that will go far in making us acquainted with God and our own souls." Are you up for the challenge? Do you really want to get to know God and your "self"?

The A Team

2008-11-14T06:22:00.003-05:00

I love my wife. She pointed out something to me yesterday that I was doing and put a spiritual perspective on it. I'm putting a team of people together to help me start a Saturday night service. What she pointed out to me is that the people that I've asked to come along are people that have had a real encounter with Jesus that has turned their lives around; we're talking 180 degrees. I'm not going to go into detail of what they have gone through; that's for them to share. She told me I've gone "outside the box" selecting people that maybe others wouldn't select to be "leaders" in a church. COOL! I'm in good company. Isn't that what Jesus did? He selected 12 men who were let's say, very "unpolished". He poured his life into these men and 3 years later they went out to change world forever.

One of my favorite TV shows growing up was the A-Team. This was a team of four very odd people but each one had some sort of a skill that was useful. there was Hannibal, the ring-leader. He "loved it when a plan came together". There was Murdock, the pilot, who was just crazy. "I got no fear. I'll go up in anything. 'Cept an elevator." B.A. played by Mr. T. The tough guy that hated flying, especially with Murdock. Faceman was the, well, face. He was suave and good looking. Separately, they were a mess. Together, they accomplished the mission. Was it always pretty? No. Did it always go as planned? No, but they got it done and that is what the Church is; it's an A-Team of people with various skills and quirks that individually may not "have it all together" but as a unit they can accomplish the task at hand.

That's what I'm building; that's what God is building. I love it when a plan comes together!

If Starbucks marketed like the Church...

2008-11-12T05:00:00.000-05:00

Wow. What did you think? I know this video pushed some buttons and stepped on some "sacred cows".

The Absentee Child

2008-11-10T06:38:00.005-05:00

a 1998 statistic estimated over 3 million absent fathers in this country. That means, at least 3 million kids in this country have no dad in their lives. They may know they have a dad but they don't "know" their dad.

You know, it's like this with God. The Bible teaches that God is our Father; He created us to have relationship with us. We see an awesome picture of that in Genesis where Adam walked with God in the cool of the day. Imagine, having such a close and intimate relationship with God!
That's how God designed it! Many know there is a God, but they don't "know" God.

God was and is always there for us. He hasn't gone anywhere. We are the ones that have run from him! Isaiah 53:6 says that "We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way." That's us folks! WE have turned from God and not the other way around.

So, my question to you; if God can't be the absentee God are you the absentee child?

Christian "blood sucking creatures" (Politics)

2008-11-07T05:45:00.001-05:00

What is the definition of politics? Many blood sucking creatures... If I have to explain it, it isn't funny anymore.

So, in the aftermath, I've begun pondering a question; how political should Christians be? I can't speak for the African-American church but I know from the "Evangelical" perspective, if you didn't vote for McCain, it was practically a sin. Now, I did vote for McCain for some very specific reasons but I'm not screaming out "the sky is falling" because of an Obama presidency. Where do we get off as a Church claiming a political party? Show me chapter and verse in the Bible, please? James Dobson and others were out toting the McCain vote (after earlier saying they wouldn't support him) and black preachers across the country were heralding Obama in large part because he broke the racial barrier. Are they any less "Christian"? No.

A friend of mine who was distraught over Christians voting for Obama "Facebooked" me and I had an epiphany at that moment; I told him that the enemy of our souls would like nothing more than to divide Christians over the issue of politics and he has. How sad. I was caught up in it myself so I can say that from personal experience. "But God hates abortion" you say, yes, he does, but I'm pretty sure he's not too happy about the war either. After all, people are dying daily in Iraq and Afghanistan and entering a Christ-less eternity; that should bother us too. But because they are "terrorists or Muslim Extremists or whatever label makes us feel better about their dying, we don't seem to care too much. "But they want gay marriage," yeah, maybe so, but who made you and I the judge? Let God handle issues of the heart; I think he's pretty good at it. "But they'll increase our taxes!", give to Caesar what is Caesar's..."

My Pastor had a good long talk with me; it was an adult scolding really, but I deserved it. I had said some thing's that really hurt someone in our church. Here's the thing; as a church we are in the business of changing lives and hearts. "As we, the Church, do our job, it will change the landscape much more so than politics ever could", he said.

So, how do we break the wall between "Christian Democrats and Christian Republicans, and Christian this, that and the other" and just be Christian brothers and sisters? We put down the placards and work together; "A house divided against itself cannot stand". You know, I even question if we should vote? WHAT!!! I know, I heard you. "It's our civic duty" you say. Let me ask you a question; which is more powerful, a vote or prayer? Does voting "help" prayer? That means prayer isn't sufficient. Does prayer help voting? Prayer is not a good luck charm we rub to get our way. Explain to me how 2 Christians can vote for two different people and only one wins. One says God's will was done the other says it wasn't because "his candidate" didn't win. I've begun to believe it really doesn't matter who's in the White House. I think God will use whomever "we" elect.

I by no means have figured this out. I've got at least 2 years until the next election. What are your thoughts?

President Elect Barack Obama

2008-11-05T02:49:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to President elect Obama...

Well, it's 2:45 am and I woke up to well, let's just say, I had to wake up... (Nature called ;0) )and decided while I was up I would check the results of the election. I wasn't surprised.

A few thoughts...

“The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; He turns it wherever He will.” (Proverbs 21:1 ESV)

I've read his acceptance speech. It was good. I believe he means it.

Look, I'll just be honest; many know that I am not a fan of Barack Obama. That said, I've come to realize that WHATEVER happens in this nation, it's not an accident and that God is still in control. Sometimes, we get what we want and sometimes we get what we deserve; just follow the book of Judges and read how Israel went through leader after leader. We'll see how this plays out in the coming years. This new President needs our prayers just as much as the previous one. I pray that Barack Obama truly will be a President that attempts to bring us together, and that he will fight his own party and special interests which seeks to go further and further to the left. I pray that he will remember what our country stands for; freedom and opportunity and democracy. I pray that he will seek God's face in his decisions. Early on I remember him saying that prayer is very important to him; I hope that wasn't just political speak but rather a sincere statement.

In essence, nothing changes. A nation isn't changed by changing Presidents or laws or political titles, it's changed by prayer; by changing people's hearts. I have dear friends that love God whole heartedly that I serve with through sweat and tears that voted for Barack Obama. We all see different things in this man; that's OK. I'm good with that. It's time to come together in prayer for OUR new President and the challenges he will face.

Well, It's late, I gotta teach a class in 2 hours.

Just one more thought... Senator Al Franken?? Wow, only in America...

Have you prayed today?

2008-11-04T08:45:00.001-05:00

I heard this thought this morning...
"The saint who advances on his knees never has to retreat." Be in prayer, stay in prayer.

Election Eve Thoughts

2008-11-03T10:05:00.002-05:00

In 2 days (barring a hanging chad fiasco!) we'll know who the next President of the United States is. Exciting? Depends on who you are for and who wins, I guess. I was reminded of some things this past weekend. Really, it doesn't matter who wins the election. "Oh yes it does!" you may say. Well, if you're a Jesus follower (note, I didn't say Christian for specific reasons) then, no, it really doesn't. All throughout biblical history we see story after story of rulers that were used of God for specific reasons. For example, Pharaoh wasn't a Christian or a Jew and certainly didn't believe in the God of Abraham that the Jews followed and yet the Bible says that God used Pharaoh.

Moses, who, by his own admission, couldn't even speak (sound familiar) and yet God used him to bring the Israelites out of captivity and establish the nation.

David, in the Old Testament was considered a "man after God's own heart". He was close to God and yet, had an affair and had the woman's husband killed in battle. That makes the Monica Lewinsky scandal look tame!

Read through the book of Judges and see how "evil" rulers came and went followed by "godly" ones and how each and everyone was for a specific purpose.

My point; if you are a Christian, you are a citizen of heaven first and foremost. We are just passing through on this Earth. Our "rights" and "freedoms" come from God. Don't get tangled up in the divisiveness (like I did recently) of this election. Contrary to the pundits and the talking heads, this election is no different than any other election. The most important thing we can do is to pray. Vote yes, but pray first. Pray that God will use whomever wears the title President on November 5 and pray that the church will step up and do the "world changing" it was called to do. It's not government's responsibility to change the world. It's ours...
Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."
Matthew 28:18-20

So easy, a caveman could do it!

2008-10-30T14:31:00.000-04:00

In the Moment,
Joey

sent from my nifty Samsung Blackjack II.

Here I Go Again...

2008-10-29T05:00:00.000-04:00

I woke up Monday and decided it was time to fast again. Just like that, cold turkey. If you don't know me, I love food. Chocolate chip cookies are food for the gods. But I'm done with them and and all other processed foods and meats for awhile; just some basic grains, fruits and vegetables and an occsasional protein smoothie. I don't share this to show how "super spiritual" I am. On the contrary, I do it because I realize how much I need to "separate" from my "self" if you will.
The next few months will be some pretty exciting times for me and my family. As I look to "re-launch" Saturday Night Unplugged, I'm realizing now more than ever the magnitude of living out my call as a Pastor. People will be depending on me. that's huge...

WHAT I'm voting for, Con't.

2008-10-24T05:45:00.002-04:00

Honors life. I heard it best put this way; If I commit a crime, why should my daughter die for it? Why does an unborn baby have to suffer for her parent(s) mistake? Yes, I believe God gave us choice in how to live our lives and we can choose to live honorably towards him or not; but not the "right" to kill unborn children. I understand that Roe vs. Wade is law. I understand the sensitivity surrounding the issue. I also see the absurdity; the idea that we question whether a fetus is human, for example? We take great pains in society today to make sure we don't "accidentally" put to death someone on death row for a crime he didn't commit, and rightly so. DNA evidence is amazing at righting wrongs. I wish as a society, we cared as much for the innocent victims put to death by the millions simply because someone was irresponsible. I'm not talking about rape and incest; Rape and incest are another category altogether that are far fewer in number when compared. That needs to be addressed as well. I wish the Church would step up and take these women in and work with them and help them through their pregnancy and either encourage them to keep the baby or find adoptive parents. I wish we could get the politicians and lobbyists such as Planned Parenthood that makes millions of dollars a year in abortion services out of it. I want a President who is above the slogans and truly honors life. I also understand that these issues really are a matter of the heart and not of politics and law. If we can change people's hearts then everything else will follow.

WHAT I'm voting for...

2008-10-23T06:30:00.000-04:00

Less than 2 weeks before the election and my head is spinning. I wish I could "Frankenstein" the candidates together. Why does it have to be all or nothing, one or the other? The next several postings I'm going to share some of the things that are important to me. What do you think?

Prayer. I want my President to be prayerful, not perfect. If my President prays, I can trust that God will reveal to him the things that are important and necessary. David, the King of Israel, was an amazing King but he wasn't perfect. He had an affair and had the woman's husband killed. How's that for a White House scandal? And yet, because he was a man who truly sought God prayerfully, he was considered a man after God's own heart.

Only God knows the hearts of each of the candidates and I will not judge; it's "above my pay scale". ;0)

I pray that we elect a President who seeks counsel from wise men and women but ultimately his decisions are from prayer.

Wise Words

2008-10-20T09:59:00.002-04:00

I have lived sir a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth --- that God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without His notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid? We have been assured, Sir, in the sacred writings, that "except the Lord build the House they labor in vain that build it." I firmly believe this.

Ben Franklin

So, what does this mean? It means that God knows exactly what is going on in our nation today. And, regardless of which candidate we call President in January, God is still in control.

Treasures; Where is Your Heart?

2008-10-16T05:00:00.001-04:00

Matthew 6:19, 20 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Where is your heart? Recently, we have seen financial institutions crumble and the stock market "crash". How is this affecting you? Is it stressing you out? Don't let it; it really isn't worth it. Just trust God; He's got it all under control, really!

The Man Who Took on Lance Armstrong....and Won!

2008-10-15T05:00:00.000-04:00

http://video.on.nytimes.com/?fr_story=aaa6461ca9afe8fbf46274a1fb6514b13b928ae5

This is way cool!