This past week, I got a glimpse of hope for two families who were visiting the prison that I work at. For privacy reasons, I will not be sharing many details. However, I will share some basic things because I believe others need to see this glimpse.
Recently, there was the initial trial for an Inmate concerning a serious crime he had committed against another while in prison. The two families, the one of the accused and the one of the victim, were at the proceedings. From what I understand from my conversations with others, their interactions with each other in the courtroom was anything but cordial. In fact, the impression that I got was that it was pretty hostile.
Not long after the Inmate who had been arraigned returned, it was time to start processing the second session of visitors. As we were doing so, in walk two ladies who said something about being followed. I looked up perplexed, but then in walked two Sherriff’s Deputies, who immediately started talking with one the two ladies. A few moments later, another group of adults came in and I felt the tension rise very, very quickly. As the two groups talked, one Deputy stayed between the two groups, the other moved away to the side
the two groups were obviously struggling to keep things civil. And, I think I was not the only prison who thought things were going to "come to blows." Both Deputies were obviously tense, and I think most other visitors were getting nervous.
But then, something amazing happened. One woman said that she understands that the other woman was feeling deep loss and pain because... Then, the other woman acknowledged the pain that the other woman must be feeling. Though I sensed that these words were a little forced, I still got the sense that they were trying to be genuine and sincere. After this, my coworker started directing each group with what they could do as far as visiting went. The two groups then began to go their separate ways and the tension started to slowly ease.
From my experiences in ministry and with corrections, I know that both families will have a long, difficult journey ahead. Especially since the trial is just getting started. But, the impression that I got was that the two families were taking baby steps towards healing. In such an environment in which it happened, I definitely do feel that it was a miracle of God in progress, that He was slowly helping them with the healing process.
When a loved one is seriously hurt, betrayed, or even killed by someone else, often feels shock, confusion, and even rage. It is very easy for us to allow the pain, anger, loss, etc., to become bitterness. It is much harder to give the pain and anger to God and allow Him to help us forgive.
We cannot confuse forgiving others from allowing a Court of Law to hold other accountable for their actions. Forgiving them means that we allow God to take care of things, and that we let go of our need for revenge.
All of us have suffered pain from others. At times, we hold onto our own anger against ourselves because of things that we either did or failed to do. That is a part of life. The Good News is that Christ can bring healing and forgiveness into our lives. It might be a long and rocky road. But, I believe that it is worth it.
Showing posts with label journey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label journey. Show all posts
Monday, September 25, 2017
Sunday, May 7, 2017
Decisions in Life
Not that long ago, my wife pulled out a box of books that I had growing up. In the box was 20 plus books and numerous Ranger Rick magazines. My kids love being read to and my oldest is starting to read on his own. It is awesome to see.
The books that were in the box are the "Choose Your Own Adventure" series. In a nut shells, they are books with multiple endings and you had to make decisions throughout the book. It was a series that my 4th Grade teacher intodced me to. Although I had always loved to read, this book series helped me to read even more on my own. Having always been a high sensing introvert, this book fed my imagination and helped me to stop and think. And, yes,I would sometimes read through all of the endings, then try to figure out how to get to them.
Later this year, I will be celebrating 10 years with working for the State of Nebraska. And, all of those years have been with the Department of Corrections. At the end of this month, I will celebrate 16 years with the US Army (Active Duty and the Nebraska National Guard). It has not been an easy 16 years, but I have had a lot of good times. There has been pain and sorrow during those times, but also times of joy and celebration. Those jobs, my two marriages, my four deployments, helping my wife raise our two kids, etc., have all contributed to who I am today.
What I loved about those "Choose Your Own Adventure" books was that the stories would change, depending on what choices I made. If I didn't like how the story ended, I could start over. Or, I could find the endings that I liked and then try to figure out how to get there. But, those books were not like real life. If I did not like the consequences of my actions, I could not 'go back to the begining of the story' and start over. I had to choose to accept the consequences of my decisions.
This is something that I am trying to help my young kids learn. That each choice that we make will have consequences. Some will be more pleasant than others. Others will be more painful. Many of our choices will cause many regrets. But, that is life.
In my (almost) 10 years in Corrections, I have met many people, both staff and inmates, who made bad decisions, but did not want to accept the consequences. Even though their decisions brought temporary joy, pleasure, benefits, etc., the long term consequences were extremely painful. And, these people did not want to have to endure their consequences. It would sadden me, especially when it was staff who had made the bad decisions. But, it would aggravate me to no end to see adults wine about the painful consequences that they had made.
It is some that I really try to instill into my kids. That with what ever decision we make, we accept the consequences of that decision. Whether it is something minor, like staying up late to watch a good movie or have dessert with a meal. Or, something more significant like walking away from a fight, choosing to drive without using a seatbelt, choosing a college major, etc. Big or small, good or bad, each of these decisions will cause consequences. Many will be clear, many will not be clear. Sometimes we or others will experiece unexpected consequences of our choices. Sadder still, we many unfortunately experience the unforeseen consequences of the actions of others. Or yet, even the "un-actions" of others. That is, when people either choose to to act in a situation out of fear or embarrassment, or because they do not want to help because of anger towards someone or out of selfishness.
Probably the last set of situations, the unfortunate cpnsequences due to others' inaction, are the most difficult to accept. We want to have control over our lives and we want to have good experiences/consequences. It is difficult enough to endure the negative cpnsequences of our choices. It is even more difficult when spmeone else makes a bad choice and you experience severe consequences. But, it is something that he or she will have to accept.
Unlike the books or movies, or video games for that matter, we cannot go about and change things once thay have happened. That is not real life. Though they can be good in teaching us how to make good decisions in the future, we can delude ourselves into thinking that we can avoid the negative consequences of our own bad decisions, or the bad decisions of others. It is a trap that is very easy to fall into, and one we always need to be mindful of.
The books that were in the box are the "Choose Your Own Adventure" series. In a nut shells, they are books with multiple endings and you had to make decisions throughout the book. It was a series that my 4th Grade teacher intodced me to. Although I had always loved to read, this book series helped me to read even more on my own. Having always been a high sensing introvert, this book fed my imagination and helped me to stop and think. And, yes,I would sometimes read through all of the endings, then try to figure out how to get to them.
Later this year, I will be celebrating 10 years with working for the State of Nebraska. And, all of those years have been with the Department of Corrections. At the end of this month, I will celebrate 16 years with the US Army (Active Duty and the Nebraska National Guard). It has not been an easy 16 years, but I have had a lot of good times. There has been pain and sorrow during those times, but also times of joy and celebration. Those jobs, my two marriages, my four deployments, helping my wife raise our two kids, etc., have all contributed to who I am today.
What I loved about those "Choose Your Own Adventure" books was that the stories would change, depending on what choices I made. If I didn't like how the story ended, I could start over. Or, I could find the endings that I liked and then try to figure out how to get there. But, those books were not like real life. If I did not like the consequences of my actions, I could not 'go back to the begining of the story' and start over. I had to choose to accept the consequences of my decisions.
This is something that I am trying to help my young kids learn. That each choice that we make will have consequences. Some will be more pleasant than others. Others will be more painful. Many of our choices will cause many regrets. But, that is life.
In my (almost) 10 years in Corrections, I have met many people, both staff and inmates, who made bad decisions, but did not want to accept the consequences. Even though their decisions brought temporary joy, pleasure, benefits, etc., the long term consequences were extremely painful. And, these people did not want to have to endure their consequences. It would sadden me, especially when it was staff who had made the bad decisions. But, it would aggravate me to no end to see adults wine about the painful consequences that they had made.
It is some that I really try to instill into my kids. That with what ever decision we make, we accept the consequences of that decision. Whether it is something minor, like staying up late to watch a good movie or have dessert with a meal. Or, something more significant like walking away from a fight, choosing to drive without using a seatbelt, choosing a college major, etc. Big or small, good or bad, each of these decisions will cause consequences. Many will be clear, many will not be clear. Sometimes we or others will experiece unexpected consequences of our choices. Sadder still, we many unfortunately experience the unforeseen consequences of the actions of others. Or yet, even the "un-actions" of others. That is, when people either choose to to act in a situation out of fear or embarrassment, or because they do not want to help because of anger towards someone or out of selfishness.
Probably the last set of situations, the unfortunate cpnsequences due to others' inaction, are the most difficult to accept. We want to have control over our lives and we want to have good experiences/consequences. It is difficult enough to endure the negative cpnsequences of our choices. It is even more difficult when spmeone else makes a bad choice and you experience severe consequences. But, it is something that he or she will have to accept.
Unlike the books or movies, or video games for that matter, we cannot go about and change things once thay have happened. That is not real life. Though they can be good in teaching us how to make good decisions in the future, we can delude ourselves into thinking that we can avoid the negative consequences of our own bad decisions, or the bad decisions of others. It is a trap that is very easy to fall into, and one we always need to be mindful of.
Saturday, December 3, 2016
Foreign Memories
This morning has been spent relaxing at home. After wrestling with knee and lower back pain all week, it is a welcomed break. Got some extra rest, and then started going through some magazines that have been piling up. Since I work 12 hour shifts for fouy days straight at a prison, have a wife and two young kids, and teach a Bible Study, I ofen do not have time to just sit and read for fun. This morning is one of those exceptions.
The first magazine that I picked up was from my Alma Mater, Centre College, in Danville, Kentucky. The focus of this fall edition was on the Centre-in-Strasbourg experience. To my surprise, it started 25 years ago, in the fall of 1991. I knew that it was a fairly new program when I took part in it, but had forgotten how young it was.
I had my 'Centre-in-Strasbourg' experience during thw fall of 1993. I was a sophomore at Centre and a German major. Because Strasburg is near the French-German boarder and Kehl, Germany, is about 20 minutes by train, studying there made perfect sense. I do have a lot of mixed feelings about my experiences there. But, it was a good experience overall.
I have always loved traveling. My parents and I visited several distant cousins in Germany and Holland when I was 14. This was not their first trip, just mine. That experience as a teenager really solidified my love for traveling and experiencong other cultures.
While with the Army, I have deployed to Iraq three times and to Qatar once. That is on top of two vacations in Germany (once with my parents and once on my own) and my Strasbourg experience. Though each of those experiences had some difficult times, they were overwhelmingly good.
Because of all of these experiences and a strong desire to learn about other cultures, I have found it easier to interact with those who have a different cultural and ethnic background. This has helped me in many different ways.
It definitely has helped me in better understanding life in general. It has also given me better insight into other people's experiences and a deeper appreciation for the historical context of Scripture. As I read Scripture, I try very hard to understand what the historical context was when it was written, the important linguistical aspects of the original language, as well as the cultures of Ancient Israel, Ancient Roam, etc. All of these things give a much fuller picture of what the original author of the passage was trying to tell the original audience. This, in turn, helps us to better understand the applications for us today.
When we watch the news or meet someone from another country, trying to understand at least some of their culture, history, and how they view things (their ethnical, cultural and religious values) can aid us in seeing a more whole person or event. This understanding does not mean you necessarily agree with them, or even like how they act. But, it means you are taking the time to understand who they are and how they see the world around them.
When we take the time to better understand how others perceive their world, this can help you to better understand your own experiences and how they have shaped you. I have found this to be true on many occasions. In studying German and learning the basics of French, Spanish, biblical Hebrew and Greek, and some Arabic, I have a great appreciation and respect for those who try to learn English. And, I have slowly gleaned the benefits of studying a foreign language, especially with getting a better understanding of my own mother language and how language can influence thought.
In life, we experience many different things. How I experience something may not be how someone else experiences it. If I at least try to understand how others have experienced things, I may earn the respect of them to try to understand my perspective.
During this Advent Season, let us seek to learn and grow. Part of this will include being stretched by 'foreign experiences' be it through travel to another place for the first time, or meeting someone different than ourselves. Are we going to open oursleves up for them?
The first magazine that I picked up was from my Alma Mater, Centre College, in Danville, Kentucky. The focus of this fall edition was on the Centre-in-Strasbourg experience. To my surprise, it started 25 years ago, in the fall of 1991. I knew that it was a fairly new program when I took part in it, but had forgotten how young it was.
I had my 'Centre-in-Strasbourg' experience during thw fall of 1993. I was a sophomore at Centre and a German major. Because Strasburg is near the French-German boarder and Kehl, Germany, is about 20 minutes by train, studying there made perfect sense. I do have a lot of mixed feelings about my experiences there. But, it was a good experience overall.
I have always loved traveling. My parents and I visited several distant cousins in Germany and Holland when I was 14. This was not their first trip, just mine. That experience as a teenager really solidified my love for traveling and experiencong other cultures.
While with the Army, I have deployed to Iraq three times and to Qatar once. That is on top of two vacations in Germany (once with my parents and once on my own) and my Strasbourg experience. Though each of those experiences had some difficult times, they were overwhelmingly good.
Because of all of these experiences and a strong desire to learn about other cultures, I have found it easier to interact with those who have a different cultural and ethnic background. This has helped me in many different ways.
It definitely has helped me in better understanding life in general. It has also given me better insight into other people's experiences and a deeper appreciation for the historical context of Scripture. As I read Scripture, I try very hard to understand what the historical context was when it was written, the important linguistical aspects of the original language, as well as the cultures of Ancient Israel, Ancient Roam, etc. All of these things give a much fuller picture of what the original author of the passage was trying to tell the original audience. This, in turn, helps us to better understand the applications for us today.
When we watch the news or meet someone from another country, trying to understand at least some of their culture, history, and how they view things (their ethnical, cultural and religious values) can aid us in seeing a more whole person or event. This understanding does not mean you necessarily agree with them, or even like how they act. But, it means you are taking the time to understand who they are and how they see the world around them.
When we take the time to better understand how others perceive their world, this can help you to better understand your own experiences and how they have shaped you. I have found this to be true on many occasions. In studying German and learning the basics of French, Spanish, biblical Hebrew and Greek, and some Arabic, I have a great appreciation and respect for those who try to learn English. And, I have slowly gleaned the benefits of studying a foreign language, especially with getting a better understanding of my own mother language and how language can influence thought.
In life, we experience many different things. How I experience something may not be how someone else experiences it. If I at least try to understand how others have experienced things, I may earn the respect of them to try to understand my perspective.
During this Advent Season, let us seek to learn and grow. Part of this will include being stretched by 'foreign experiences' be it through travel to another place for the first time, or meeting someone different than ourselves. Are we going to open oursleves up for them?
Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Changes
Well, the first day of fall was last Thursday, September 22, 2016. It wasn't until a few days later that the weather really started feeling like fall, though. For me, fall and spring and the most enjoyable times of the year. Everything in nature is changing, the weather is more mild, and seasonal activities are drawing to a close or just starting.
I am not sure which I enjoy more, spring or fall. Both bring about all sorts of awesome changes. Animals start migrating, leaves either change color due to dying off or buds are starting to appear, etc. I especially love the cooler weather. We can often leave the windows open all day long and the house stays cool. Little to no need for using the AC or furnace. At an extra layer of clothing like a long sleeved shirt, a sweater or light jacket, and you can walk around outside very comfortably.
We all experience things in life differently. We all have our different perspectives and experiences that color how we perceive the world around us. We all appreciate different things about nature, other people, animals, even the world around us. Because of these rich differences, some will enjoy one thing while others will enjoy something else.
While some people focus on cleaning out their house during the spring, I am doing some of that this fall. Going through piles and piles of boxes, getting rid of things that are no longer wanted or needed. It can be a real challenge sometimes, especially if someone doesn’t like change.
But yet, change is unavoidable. It will happen. Throughout life, our bodies change. We change from babies, to toddlers, to children, to teens, to adulthood, etc. Our bodies go through stages of becoming stronger and then slowly growing weaker due to injury, illness, or even old age. Change can come gradually, throughout a lifetime, or suddenly because of the birth of a child, a change in employment, or a sudden illness or injury.
Just as the seasons will change, so will our lives. Relationships will come and go. We will get new jobs, get promoted, laid off, or something else. In fact, favorite hobbies and genre of music can change greatly over time. We will never know until that change comes.
Though change will come, one thing will always stay the same. God’s holiness and God’s love for us. God will always be a holy and righteous God, punishing evil and sin, and seeking justice for those who are oppressed. And, God will always be loving and compassionate, willing to forgive those who repent.
Though there will always be change in our lives, is it not wonderful that God never changes?! I encourage each of you, as you rake the leaves, dig out the long sleeved clothes, find your sweaters, brew your hot apple cider and/or coco, etc., take time to reflect on this. Even if fall might not be your favorite season, do take some time to admire how God is painting a different scene around you. Take time to breath in all of the new smells, feel the changes of weather, etc. Also reflect on how God has brought you from where you used to be, to where you are now. Even if you are facing many difficult, seemingly overwhelming challenges, God does not change. What He has brought you through so far, He will continue to bring you through. The changes and victories may be small, even unknowable right now. Just like the slow, subtle changes in the weather, the length of day, etc. But, over time, may God open your eyes to all that He has done, and still will do.
I am not sure which I enjoy more, spring or fall. Both bring about all sorts of awesome changes. Animals start migrating, leaves either change color due to dying off or buds are starting to appear, etc. I especially love the cooler weather. We can often leave the windows open all day long and the house stays cool. Little to no need for using the AC or furnace. At an extra layer of clothing like a long sleeved shirt, a sweater or light jacket, and you can walk around outside very comfortably.
We all experience things in life differently. We all have our different perspectives and experiences that color how we perceive the world around us. We all appreciate different things about nature, other people, animals, even the world around us. Because of these rich differences, some will enjoy one thing while others will enjoy something else.
While some people focus on cleaning out their house during the spring, I am doing some of that this fall. Going through piles and piles of boxes, getting rid of things that are no longer wanted or needed. It can be a real challenge sometimes, especially if someone doesn’t like change.
But yet, change is unavoidable. It will happen. Throughout life, our bodies change. We change from babies, to toddlers, to children, to teens, to adulthood, etc. Our bodies go through stages of becoming stronger and then slowly growing weaker due to injury, illness, or even old age. Change can come gradually, throughout a lifetime, or suddenly because of the birth of a child, a change in employment, or a sudden illness or injury.
Just as the seasons will change, so will our lives. Relationships will come and go. We will get new jobs, get promoted, laid off, or something else. In fact, favorite hobbies and genre of music can change greatly over time. We will never know until that change comes.
Though change will come, one thing will always stay the same. God’s holiness and God’s love for us. God will always be a holy and righteous God, punishing evil and sin, and seeking justice for those who are oppressed. And, God will always be loving and compassionate, willing to forgive those who repent.
Though there will always be change in our lives, is it not wonderful that God never changes?! I encourage each of you, as you rake the leaves, dig out the long sleeved clothes, find your sweaters, brew your hot apple cider and/or coco, etc., take time to reflect on this. Even if fall might not be your favorite season, do take some time to admire how God is painting a different scene around you. Take time to breath in all of the new smells, feel the changes of weather, etc. Also reflect on how God has brought you from where you used to be, to where you are now. Even if you are facing many difficult, seemingly overwhelming challenges, God does not change. What He has brought you through so far, He will continue to bring you through. The changes and victories may be small, even unknowable right now. Just like the slow, subtle changes in the weather, the length of day, etc. But, over time, may God open your eyes to all that He has done, and still will do.
Sunday, March 20, 2016
Asking The Right Questions
This morning after church, we had a congregational meeting to discuss some important future plans. Two years ago last January, our church burned down. There was, praise God, no loss of life. Just the loss of the church. Almost from the start, some people were already talking about how soon we could start rebuilding.
At this time, some plans have been drawn up and a lot of money has been set aside for building the new church. It isnot fully funded yet. But we have some moeny set aside already. We have a good start; but, I am concerned that our focus is not where it should be. My greatest concern is that there is too much of a focus on the physical building, a physical church, but not much thought on being the church to our community.
What do I mean by "being the church?" Much, actually. Being a Christian is more than just making verbal confessions, carrying a Bible, with you all of the time, more than just memorizing Scripture, and attending worship worship at a church. It is much more than that. It is, first and foremost, a personal relationship with God throughthe life, death, and resurrection of Christ Jesus. But, it doesn't end there. Not by a long shot.
Being a Christian means being a Follower of Christ. It means living a life of obedience to not just how God wants us to live morally, but also with how He wants us to serve Him and others. I think that my current life is an excellent example.
As many of you might already know, I work at a State prison here in Nebraska as Custody Staff. It is not a job that I actively sought out. In fact, when I have been job hunting, I have sought out a ministry position. Working in a church or a Christian organization is my heart's desire. I attended seminary ad got a Master's of Divinity (2000 at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary) because that is where I felt God was calling me. But yet, I am working someplace totally different.
Not just that, but personality wise I am in a very challenging place. As an INFJ, I excell in theological study, teaching, and ministering to people. But yet, God is choosing to use me in a place very much outside of what come to me naturally. The last few weeks have been even more vividly so. Over the last year, as I have learned more about the personality that God has given me, I have begun to better understand why I have always been sensitive to my emotional surroundings. Keeping that in mind, it might come to a shock to you that God has been keeping meposted in visiting. My job in visiting, as Custody Staff, is to enforce rules with Inmates and the visitors. On top of all that, during the visiting periods are a huge, volital mix of emotions. Just a few of them are anger over bad d3cisions, grief over damaged and destroyed relationships, grief over shattered dreams, anger over not being in contol of one's life, etc. The more people who are together, the greater the intensity of these feelings. Yesterday, I had three big groups to deal with, with one being an almost to compacity of the large room. By the end of the day, I felt like I was a 110 volt motor that had been plugged into a 220 volt outlet. Being "very exhausted"was a gross understatement. One might logically ask, why would a loving God put someone like me in an environment that was so draining?! I wrestle with that a lot.
God has given me a few glimpses here and there. Over the 7+ years that I havemworked at this particular prison, God hasnused me to greatimpact many lives there. Both staff and inmates. It doesn't always appear like I do. But, I doget glimpses at times. For example, as I was getting ready do do my searches on a group of Inmates before their visiting session, they were already grumbling about how long it would take. Then one Inmate said, "Hey, I know Underwood... He's cool..." That is all he said. Might not seem like much, but I felt a large amount of the building anger and frustration drop. They all chose to cooperate and, when another staff member arrived to help, things ran very smoothly.
Why did I share this story? Over the last 7+ years, I have had to live in utter dependence to God for strength and with guidance for doing my job. A lot that I do as Custody Staff does not come naturally as an INFJ. It has been a huge struggle on many ocassions. But, from time-to-time, God gives me glimpses of how He has touched lives through me. But, tnis is only because I prayerfylly choose to be God's instrument.
For us as a church, I see us at a crossroads. Will we focus on our physical needs of having our own church building now,; or, will we prayerfully seek to learn how to be The Church to our community? One is a road of easy decisions. One is a road of very difficult introspection and decisions. And, the worst th8ng of all, living uncomforably.
I do not know why God has me where I am at. Working at the prison has been a growing experience, but also a painful one. It is definitely not what I want and would have chose on my own. But, my desire to be obedient to God has beenthe reason why I have stayed so far. And, I believe that we, as a local church, is facing a similar kind of decision. We greatly need God's help in making the right decisions for doing His will. It is a great strugglento be obedient as an individual. The more people who gather to seek His Will, the more conflict and confusion can arise. Especially if each is seeking what makes them, as an individual, feel safe. But, since when has God called us to do things that make us feel safe? I think that Abraham, Moses, Dietrich Bohnhoffer, Frederich Douglas, Maartin Luther, Martin Luther King, Jr., etc., would argue that our comfort is not God's greatest concern.it is our obedience. Let us prayerfully contemplate that.
At this time, some plans have been drawn up and a lot of money has been set aside for building the new church. It isnot fully funded yet. But we have some moeny set aside already. We have a good start; but, I am concerned that our focus is not where it should be. My greatest concern is that there is too much of a focus on the physical building, a physical church, but not much thought on being the church to our community.
What do I mean by "being the church?" Much, actually. Being a Christian is more than just making verbal confessions, carrying a Bible, with you all of the time, more than just memorizing Scripture, and attending worship worship at a church. It is much more than that. It is, first and foremost, a personal relationship with God throughthe life, death, and resurrection of Christ Jesus. But, it doesn't end there. Not by a long shot.
Being a Christian means being a Follower of Christ. It means living a life of obedience to not just how God wants us to live morally, but also with how He wants us to serve Him and others. I think that my current life is an excellent example.
As many of you might already know, I work at a State prison here in Nebraska as Custody Staff. It is not a job that I actively sought out. In fact, when I have been job hunting, I have sought out a ministry position. Working in a church or a Christian organization is my heart's desire. I attended seminary ad got a Master's of Divinity (2000 at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary) because that is where I felt God was calling me. But yet, I am working someplace totally different.
Not just that, but personality wise I am in a very challenging place. As an INFJ, I excell in theological study, teaching, and ministering to people. But yet, God is choosing to use me in a place very much outside of what come to me naturally. The last few weeks have been even more vividly so. Over the last year, as I have learned more about the personality that God has given me, I have begun to better understand why I have always been sensitive to my emotional surroundings. Keeping that in mind, it might come to a shock to you that God has been keeping meposted in visiting. My job in visiting, as Custody Staff, is to enforce rules with Inmates and the visitors. On top of all that, during the visiting periods are a huge, volital mix of emotions. Just a few of them are anger over bad d3cisions, grief over damaged and destroyed relationships, grief over shattered dreams, anger over not being in contol of one's life, etc. The more people who are together, the greater the intensity of these feelings. Yesterday, I had three big groups to deal with, with one being an almost to compacity of the large room. By the end of the day, I felt like I was a 110 volt motor that had been plugged into a 220 volt outlet. Being "very exhausted"was a gross understatement. One might logically ask, why would a loving God put someone like me in an environment that was so draining?! I wrestle with that a lot.
God has given me a few glimpses here and there. Over the 7+ years that I havemworked at this particular prison, God hasnused me to greatimpact many lives there. Both staff and inmates. It doesn't always appear like I do. But, I doget glimpses at times. For example, as I was getting ready do do my searches on a group of Inmates before their visiting session, they were already grumbling about how long it would take. Then one Inmate said, "Hey, I know Underwood... He's cool..." That is all he said. Might not seem like much, but I felt a large amount of the building anger and frustration drop. They all chose to cooperate and, when another staff member arrived to help, things ran very smoothly.
Why did I share this story? Over the last 7+ years, I have had to live in utter dependence to God for strength and with guidance for doing my job. A lot that I do as Custody Staff does not come naturally as an INFJ. It has been a huge struggle on many ocassions. But, from time-to-time, God gives me glimpses of how He has touched lives through me. But, tnis is only because I prayerfylly choose to be God's instrument.
For us as a church, I see us at a crossroads. Will we focus on our physical needs of having our own church building now,; or, will we prayerfully seek to learn how to be The Church to our community? One is a road of easy decisions. One is a road of very difficult introspection and decisions. And, the worst th8ng of all, living uncomforably.
I do not know why God has me where I am at. Working at the prison has been a growing experience, but also a painful one. It is definitely not what I want and would have chose on my own. But, my desire to be obedient to God has beenthe reason why I have stayed so far. And, I believe that we, as a local church, is facing a similar kind of decision. We greatly need God's help in making the right decisions for doing His will. It is a great strugglento be obedient as an individual. The more people who gather to seek His Will, the more conflict and confusion can arise. Especially if each is seeking what makes them, as an individual, feel safe. But, since when has God called us to do things that make us feel safe? I think that Abraham, Moses, Dietrich Bohnhoffer, Frederich Douglas, Maartin Luther, Martin Luther King, Jr., etc., would argue that our comfort is not God's greatest concern.it is our obedience. Let us prayerfully contemplate that.
Friday, January 29, 2016
Magi and Shepherds
References:
• The Coming of the Magi
• Magi, The
• Easton's Bible Dictionary: Shepherd
• Matthew 2:1-12 NAS
• Luke 2:1-20 NAS
A few weeks ago, our pastor was giving a sermon about ‘post holiday hangovers.’ That is, after all of the exciting and fun times that one has, the ‘down feeling’ that all of us feel to some extent. Throughout the sermon, he talked about how we have lots of excitement and fun with friends and families while together. But, after a while, the ‘mountain top experience’ turns into ‘a valley’ to one extent or another. Although the sermon was quite interesting, my INFJ brain locked onto some of the points that he was referencing and went off on its own direction. Hence, what I will be talking about in this blog entry.
During his sermon, our pastor talked about the Magi and the local shepherds who visited Jesus and His family while they were staying in Bethlehem. It is interesting that these two groups are the only ones that are recorded with their visits. Based on what Scripture states in Matthew 2:16, Jesus was approximately 12-24 months old at the time. As all of us know, a lot can happen in a person’s life in just one month, let alone 24.
During my previous deployment to Iraq in 2010-’11, I left when my son was about 8 months old. When I returned, he was just almost 20 months old. Not only was he a bit bigger when I returned a year later, he was walking, starting to talk, and really getting into things. He went from barely being able to crawl to someone who could stand up and follow me around, though significantly slower. Honestly, it took me quite a while to get used to all of the changes that he had.
During both of my kids’ first two years, many people have come in and out of their lives. There are some children their ages with whom they have become friends and see fairly often. There are family members that have visited numerous times to see them. There are friends of the family, that have come to visit. Some of them are significant members of our community and some are ‘average Jane’ or ‘average Joe.’ As I grew up, my parents have kept a diary, of sorts, of people who have come to visit. As people come to visit for the first time or during significant events, they would sign their guestbook, so that they would have a record of their attendance.
Granted, many people during Jesus’ time could not read or write well. But, I would hazard a guess that Joseph, being a carpenter, probably had a basic education so that he could do his job well. Though things like parchment or papyrus were expensive, they could be obtained. Many times, animal hides were used in lieu of something else to write one. Or even tablets of clay were used for recording pieces of important information.
I sometimes wonder, who else visit Mary, Joseph, and the infant/toddler Jesus? How many close friend and relatives came to visit and give their blessings? How many friends did Mary and Joseph make while living in Bethlehem? Did any of them stay in contact with Mary and Joseph while they lived in Egypt and/or Nazareth? Scripture is strangely quiet about this.
What is interesting to me are the two extremes of people who are listed as visiting Jesus and His family. I’m not sure if you have thought much about it, but the shepherds and the Magi (sometimes called ‘Wisemen’) are two extremes. The shepherds would be of the low, peasant part of society. Whereas the Magi would be of the upper crust.
Throughout the centuries, there have been some farmers and herdsmen who were well off. But, most have been middle class or lower. More than likely, the shepherds of Jesus’ time were poor people who struggle to provide for their families. Constantly on the move in order to provide the fresh water and food for their livestock, they would not have much time for education, religious training, etc. Most of what they learned was acquired in the field. Their classroom was the world. They would have a keen understand of nature and how animals lived. But, many of them would lack anything more than a real basic education in other areas.
For the shepherds, their livestock was their life. Each and every sheep or goat in their herd was precious to them. Their wool and meat (mutton) was extremely important to the shepherds. It meant whether they could afford food and shelter, providing for their families, etc. For the majority of the shepherds to up and leave their herds during the night in order to visit Jesus and His family is an astound step of faith. Think about it… Many predators like lions, wolves, and bears, would love any opportunity to snatch just one sheep from the herd for a quick meal. Shepherds would have to watch a flock of sheep in shifts during the night in order to protect them. The fewer shepherds watching the flock, the higher the likelihood of predators killing some of them. Don’t forget that there would be thieves out there who would also like to have a ‘free sheep or goat’ of they thought they could get away with it.
Here they are, shepherds with minimal education and working long, hard hours, to take care of their flock. Maybe not the outcasts of society, but definitely not people of significance. But yet, God sent angles to them. Not just to announce to them that a Savior had been born, but to invite them to come and see Jesus. Not governors, religious leaders, or other leaders of society. Just lowly shepherds. On top of that, they risked a lot, leaving their flocks with a skeleton crew to watch them while they visited Jesus and His family.
Let’s contrast that with the Magi’s visit… While we do not know who the Magi were, we know that they brought three different costly gifts. We do not know exactly where they came from, just that they ‘came from the east.’ There are several possibilities according the article noted above concerning where the Magi came from. No matter where they came from, the definitely had to travel a long ways. Whether they traveled on horses, on camels, or another way, it would have taken them several weeks to several months to get to Bethlehem.
According to the map program that I have on my computer (Maps 4.1601.10150.0 © 2015 HERE, © 2015 Microsoft Corporation), the driving distance from Baghdad, Iraq, to Bethlehem, West Bank (Israel), is 621 miles. Of course, this is using modern roads. Let’s make the assumption that the modern roads between these two cities are based on ancient travel routes. Let’s also make the assumption that they traveled together in a caravan. According to one reference that I found ( http://news.softpedia.com/news/10-Amazing-Facts-About-Camels-68843.shtml), a caravan of camels can travel 18-25 miles a day (30-40 km). If that is the case, then it would have taken the Magi at least 24 days to travel from Baghdad to Bethlehem, if they traveled every day on flat ground. Quite a long time, isn’t it?
The Magi came baring gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Each of these items have a gifts have symbolic meaning, as well as great monetary value. These astrologers/religious leaders traveled a long distance, bring costly and royal gifts, to a peasant child. Fascinating, huh? Scripture is silent as to who they were, what kind of work they left in order to visit Jesus, exactly how they knew that the Son of God had been born in Bethlehem, or exactly where they came from.
Let’s think about all of this means for a few moments…. Simple and lowly shepherds were invited to witness Jesus’ birth. They left their flocks (their livelihood) in order to witness this incredible event. A year or so later, several Magi arrived ‘from the east’ baring costly and royal gifts for Jesus. It was revealed to foreigners and lowly peasants about Jesus’ birth, not to the religious leaders (Scribes and Pharisees) of Israel. Intriguing, isn’t it? Did you notice that this is similar the kind of people that Jesus reached out to through His ministry?
As we go about our lives, let us keep this in mind. God often reaches out to all sorts of people through us. And God uses all sorts of people to do His will. Whether it is the lowly farmer, shepherd, rancher, or the highly educated philosopher or religious leader, God uses all sorts of people. His message will never change. But, you never know how God will use you. Just as the shepherds and the Magi responded to God’s direction, let us strive to obey, too.
• The Coming of the Magi
• Magi, The
• Easton's Bible Dictionary: Shepherd
• Matthew 2:1-12 NAS
• Luke 2:1-20 NAS
A few weeks ago, our pastor was giving a sermon about ‘post holiday hangovers.’ That is, after all of the exciting and fun times that one has, the ‘down feeling’ that all of us feel to some extent. Throughout the sermon, he talked about how we have lots of excitement and fun with friends and families while together. But, after a while, the ‘mountain top experience’ turns into ‘a valley’ to one extent or another. Although the sermon was quite interesting, my INFJ brain locked onto some of the points that he was referencing and went off on its own direction. Hence, what I will be talking about in this blog entry.
During his sermon, our pastor talked about the Magi and the local shepherds who visited Jesus and His family while they were staying in Bethlehem. It is interesting that these two groups are the only ones that are recorded with their visits. Based on what Scripture states in Matthew 2:16, Jesus was approximately 12-24 months old at the time. As all of us know, a lot can happen in a person’s life in just one month, let alone 24.
During my previous deployment to Iraq in 2010-’11, I left when my son was about 8 months old. When I returned, he was just almost 20 months old. Not only was he a bit bigger when I returned a year later, he was walking, starting to talk, and really getting into things. He went from barely being able to crawl to someone who could stand up and follow me around, though significantly slower. Honestly, it took me quite a while to get used to all of the changes that he had.
During both of my kids’ first two years, many people have come in and out of their lives. There are some children their ages with whom they have become friends and see fairly often. There are family members that have visited numerous times to see them. There are friends of the family, that have come to visit. Some of them are significant members of our community and some are ‘average Jane’ or ‘average Joe.’ As I grew up, my parents have kept a diary, of sorts, of people who have come to visit. As people come to visit for the first time or during significant events, they would sign their guestbook, so that they would have a record of their attendance.
Granted, many people during Jesus’ time could not read or write well. But, I would hazard a guess that Joseph, being a carpenter, probably had a basic education so that he could do his job well. Though things like parchment or papyrus were expensive, they could be obtained. Many times, animal hides were used in lieu of something else to write one. Or even tablets of clay were used for recording pieces of important information.
I sometimes wonder, who else visit Mary, Joseph, and the infant/toddler Jesus? How many close friend and relatives came to visit and give their blessings? How many friends did Mary and Joseph make while living in Bethlehem? Did any of them stay in contact with Mary and Joseph while they lived in Egypt and/or Nazareth? Scripture is strangely quiet about this.
What is interesting to me are the two extremes of people who are listed as visiting Jesus and His family. I’m not sure if you have thought much about it, but the shepherds and the Magi (sometimes called ‘Wisemen’) are two extremes. The shepherds would be of the low, peasant part of society. Whereas the Magi would be of the upper crust.
Throughout the centuries, there have been some farmers and herdsmen who were well off. But, most have been middle class or lower. More than likely, the shepherds of Jesus’ time were poor people who struggle to provide for their families. Constantly on the move in order to provide the fresh water and food for their livestock, they would not have much time for education, religious training, etc. Most of what they learned was acquired in the field. Their classroom was the world. They would have a keen understand of nature and how animals lived. But, many of them would lack anything more than a real basic education in other areas.
For the shepherds, their livestock was their life. Each and every sheep or goat in their herd was precious to them. Their wool and meat (mutton) was extremely important to the shepherds. It meant whether they could afford food and shelter, providing for their families, etc. For the majority of the shepherds to up and leave their herds during the night in order to visit Jesus and His family is an astound step of faith. Think about it… Many predators like lions, wolves, and bears, would love any opportunity to snatch just one sheep from the herd for a quick meal. Shepherds would have to watch a flock of sheep in shifts during the night in order to protect them. The fewer shepherds watching the flock, the higher the likelihood of predators killing some of them. Don’t forget that there would be thieves out there who would also like to have a ‘free sheep or goat’ of they thought they could get away with it.
Here they are, shepherds with minimal education and working long, hard hours, to take care of their flock. Maybe not the outcasts of society, but definitely not people of significance. But yet, God sent angles to them. Not just to announce to them that a Savior had been born, but to invite them to come and see Jesus. Not governors, religious leaders, or other leaders of society. Just lowly shepherds. On top of that, they risked a lot, leaving their flocks with a skeleton crew to watch them while they visited Jesus and His family.
Let’s contrast that with the Magi’s visit… While we do not know who the Magi were, we know that they brought three different costly gifts. We do not know exactly where they came from, just that they ‘came from the east.’ There are several possibilities according the article noted above concerning where the Magi came from. No matter where they came from, the definitely had to travel a long ways. Whether they traveled on horses, on camels, or another way, it would have taken them several weeks to several months to get to Bethlehem.
According to the map program that I have on my computer (Maps 4.1601.10150.0 © 2015 HERE, © 2015 Microsoft Corporation), the driving distance from Baghdad, Iraq, to Bethlehem, West Bank (Israel), is 621 miles. Of course, this is using modern roads. Let’s make the assumption that the modern roads between these two cities are based on ancient travel routes. Let’s also make the assumption that they traveled together in a caravan. According to one reference that I found ( http://news.softpedia.com/news/10-Amazing-Facts-About-Camels-68843.shtml), a caravan of camels can travel 18-25 miles a day (30-40 km). If that is the case, then it would have taken the Magi at least 24 days to travel from Baghdad to Bethlehem, if they traveled every day on flat ground. Quite a long time, isn’t it?
The Magi came baring gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Each of these items have a gifts have symbolic meaning, as well as great monetary value. These astrologers/religious leaders traveled a long distance, bring costly and royal gifts, to a peasant child. Fascinating, huh? Scripture is silent as to who they were, what kind of work they left in order to visit Jesus, exactly how they knew that the Son of God had been born in Bethlehem, or exactly where they came from.
Let’s think about all of this means for a few moments…. Simple and lowly shepherds were invited to witness Jesus’ birth. They left their flocks (their livelihood) in order to witness this incredible event. A year or so later, several Magi arrived ‘from the east’ baring costly and royal gifts for Jesus. It was revealed to foreigners and lowly peasants about Jesus’ birth, not to the religious leaders (Scribes and Pharisees) of Israel. Intriguing, isn’t it? Did you notice that this is similar the kind of people that Jesus reached out to through His ministry?
As we go about our lives, let us keep this in mind. God often reaches out to all sorts of people through us. And God uses all sorts of people to do His will. Whether it is the lowly farmer, shepherd, rancher, or the highly educated philosopher or religious leader, God uses all sorts of people. His message will never change. But, you never know how God will use you. Just as the shepherds and the Magi responded to God’s direction, let us strive to obey, too.
Saturday, July 11, 2015
Touching Lives
Scripture verses to ponder:
Ecclesiastes 11:1-6 NKJV
John 3:3-13 NKJV
1 Corinthians 3:1-11 NKJV
Hebrews 13:1-7 NKJV
Every so often during the last couple of weeks, I have been looking at the stats for my blog site, “Law and Grace.” As of the time of writing this blog entry, I have had over 620 visits since I first started it in 2012. Now, how many of those were people who clicked on a link to my blog, saw what it was about and left without reading much, I don't know. But, I am excited by the fact that my blog has been visited so many times. Especially considering the fact that this entry will be my 27th published entry.
Something that excites me more than the number of people that have visited my blog is the fact that so many people from different countries that have visited it. According to the stats page, the majority of the people who have visited my blog are from the US, with over 400. Considering the fact that I am from the US and that most of my friends and relatives live there, that is no surprise. What is a surprise is that people from countries like Germany, Netherlands, Russia, the Ukraine, Romania, amongst other, have visited my site. Again, I don't know how many stayed to read and how many clicked on my site and then left. That is only known by God. But, it shows that I am starting to touch lives all over the world. That is totally awe inspiring!
And, that really got me thinking… As the passages that I listed above, we often do not know, or even have a clue, as to what God chooses to do through us. Each and every person that we interact with through out lives, be it just once, or through an on going relationship, we impact them either positively or negatively. Kind of like leaving footprints in their lives. A very popular poem about this concept, called “Footprints in the Sand,” can be found here. A song written about this poem can be found here. Gives one a different view of how Christ walks with us, huh? But, let's take that idea a little further.
Lets say that each of our lives is like a beach. For those of us whose lives are longer (I am over 40 years old and experienced a lot), our 'track of beach' will probably be long and wide. Others would be much longer and wider than mine. Others much, much narrower and shorter. And, picture various footprints appearing and disappearing, going this way and that. These would be the footprints of others that have impacted you, either positively or negatively. When you add onto this how many lives impact you through your on-line relationships, it can really become filled and confusing. I am sure that my stretch of beach would be a huge swath of churned sand, kicked all over the place. Especially considering the gruff personalities I have interacted with in the military and in corrections. Some of them have been quite negative, even cruel. But, others would be neatly made because the person making them were friendly and caring with how they interacted with me, even if it was just briefly.
Whether short or over a long period of time, whether gruff, mean, or kind, each of the footprints left a mark on my life. Each of them shaped me into the person that I am today. Looking back, even some of the more gruff and 'difficult' people that I had to deal with were able to positively change me. It was not pleasant for me at the time, but over the months and years, I was able to see how they were (intentionally or not) directing me and how God used that to change me. Kind of like how Joseph viewed his brothers. Years before, they had sold him into slavery in . But, God never abandoned Joseph and continued to mature and train him so that, after many years, Joseph would be ready to become second in command of all Egypt and save the nation, and many surrounding countries from a very, very severe drought and famine. Though Joseph's brothers had evil intent, God used all of the circumstances to bring about great and awesome good for all.
If God could use Joseph in such an awesome way, then I knew that He can use me in awesome ways to touch the lives of others. Whether it is the people that I interact with on a day-to-day basis, face-to-face, friends that I talk with via the Internet, or 'faceless' people that are able to read my blog from around the world. I have faith that God will touch the lives of those around me. In fact, a particular Scripture passage comes to my mind:
I believe that God can and will use me to impact the lives of those around me. When I walk in obedience to Him, He will use that to bless the lives of others. Though it may not always be in the way that I intend or the way that they perceive, God will accomplish what He wills in due time. Even when I make a fool of myself and do not walk according to the Spirit, but according to my flesh, I trust that He can use that, too. Even if its along the lines of, “Look… Don't do that, or else this will happen.” For me, that is the awesome thing about God. Even when I seek to do His will and fail because of my brokenness and human frailty (or even human foolishness), God can still use it for His greater good. I do have an obligation to Him to strive to walk in the Spirit and to be obedient to Him. Out of thankfulness for all that He has done that I don't deserve (Romans 5:1-10), I want to be obedient. But, even when I want to serve Him wholeheartedly, even when I fail He will still use it. That gives me a lot of peace, knowing that as I make myself available to Him, He will use me in awesome ways!
Hebrews 12:1-6 is such an encouragement to me. Many have gone before me, some suffering great evil so that the Gospel of Christ could be proclaimed. And now, each of those witnesses are cheering us on to continue to do good and live lives of obedience. It may not always be easy, sometimes it may be down right painful. Some may even have to lay down their lives in order for the Gospel of Christ to be clearly and loudly proclaimed. Those are more extreme examples. In our own lives, we can daily live self-sacrificially, in obedience to God, and proclaim the Gospel of Christ in our words and actions. Though we may see evidence of God touching the lives of others, that may not always be the case.
As I started, I will end reflecting on how many people have at least looked at different pages of my blog. Though different stats give different totals, one thing doesn't change. Many people from all over the world have been exposed to what I have been writing. I have not heard much in the way of how I have impacted them. Many don't know me from Adam, Cain, or Noah. Some of whom will probably not realize how my words have impacted for some time, when God brings to mind something that I wrote that, all of a sudden, now makes sense or illuminates something. A song by a Christian singer, Ray Boltz, comes to mind. The song is called, “Thank You.” You can find the lyrics here and a video here. The person who is a subject of the song sought to obediently live for Christ and the song is a celebration that, upon entering Heaven, Christ started showing him just how many lives were touched through his words and actions. Let all be encouraged to live more obediently to God and to make ourselves available to Him. Only He knows how much He can use each of us to change the lives of those around us.
Ecclesiastes 11:1-6 NKJV
John 3:3-13 NKJV
1 Corinthians 3:1-11 NKJV
Hebrews 13:1-7 NKJV
Every so often during the last couple of weeks, I have been looking at the stats for my blog site, “Law and Grace.” As of the time of writing this blog entry, I have had over 620 visits since I first started it in 2012. Now, how many of those were people who clicked on a link to my blog, saw what it was about and left without reading much, I don't know. But, I am excited by the fact that my blog has been visited so many times. Especially considering the fact that this entry will be my 27th published entry.
Something that excites me more than the number of people that have visited my blog is the fact that so many people from different countries that have visited it. According to the stats page, the majority of the people who have visited my blog are from the US, with over 400. Considering the fact that I am from the US and that most of my friends and relatives live there, that is no surprise. What is a surprise is that people from countries like Germany, Netherlands, Russia, the Ukraine, Romania, amongst other, have visited my site. Again, I don't know how many stayed to read and how many clicked on my site and then left. That is only known by God. But, it shows that I am starting to touch lives all over the world. That is totally awe inspiring!
And, that really got me thinking… As the passages that I listed above, we often do not know, or even have a clue, as to what God chooses to do through us. Each and every person that we interact with through out lives, be it just once, or through an on going relationship, we impact them either positively or negatively. Kind of like leaving footprints in their lives. A very popular poem about this concept, called “Footprints in the Sand,” can be found here. A song written about this poem can be found here. Gives one a different view of how Christ walks with us, huh? But, let's take that idea a little further.
Lets say that each of our lives is like a beach. For those of us whose lives are longer (I am over 40 years old and experienced a lot), our 'track of beach' will probably be long and wide. Others would be much longer and wider than mine. Others much, much narrower and shorter. And, picture various footprints appearing and disappearing, going this way and that. These would be the footprints of others that have impacted you, either positively or negatively. When you add onto this how many lives impact you through your on-line relationships, it can really become filled and confusing. I am sure that my stretch of beach would be a huge swath of churned sand, kicked all over the place. Especially considering the gruff personalities I have interacted with in the military and in corrections. Some of them have been quite negative, even cruel. But, others would be neatly made because the person making them were friendly and caring with how they interacted with me, even if it was just briefly.
Whether short or over a long period of time, whether gruff, mean, or kind, each of the footprints left a mark on my life. Each of them shaped me into the person that I am today. Looking back, even some of the more gruff and 'difficult' people that I had to deal with were able to positively change me. It was not pleasant for me at the time, but over the months and years, I was able to see how they were (intentionally or not) directing me and how God used that to change me. Kind of like how Joseph viewed his brothers. Years before, they had sold him into slavery in . But, God never abandoned Joseph and continued to mature and train him so that, after many years, Joseph would be ready to become second in command of all Egypt and save the nation, and many surrounding countries from a very, very severe drought and famine. Though Joseph's brothers had evil intent, God used all of the circumstances to bring about great and awesome good for all.
If God could use Joseph in such an awesome way, then I knew that He can use me in awesome ways to touch the lives of others. Whether it is the people that I interact with on a day-to-day basis, face-to-face, friends that I talk with via the Internet, or 'faceless' people that are able to read my blog from around the world. I have faith that God will touch the lives of those around me. In fact, a particular Scripture passage comes to my mind:
6 Seek the Lord while He may be found, Call upon Him while He is near. 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, And the unrighteous man his thoughts; Let him return to the Lord, And He will have mercy on him; And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon. 8 "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways," says the Lord. 9 "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. 10 "For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, And do not return there, But water the earth, And make it bring forth and bud, That it may give seed to the sower And bread to the eater, 11 So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. 12 "For you shall go out with joy, And be led out with peace; The mountains and the hills Shall break forth into singing before you, And all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. 13 Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress tree, And instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree; And it shall be to the Lord for a name, For an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off." (Isaiah 55:6-13 NKJV)
I believe that God can and will use me to impact the lives of those around me. When I walk in obedience to Him, He will use that to bless the lives of others. Though it may not always be in the way that I intend or the way that they perceive, God will accomplish what He wills in due time. Even when I make a fool of myself and do not walk according to the Spirit, but according to my flesh, I trust that He can use that, too. Even if its along the lines of, “Look… Don't do that, or else this will happen.” For me, that is the awesome thing about God. Even when I seek to do His will and fail because of my brokenness and human frailty (or even human foolishness), God can still use it for His greater good. I do have an obligation to Him to strive to walk in the Spirit and to be obedient to Him. Out of thankfulness for all that He has done that I don't deserve (Romans 5:1-10), I want to be obedient. But, even when I want to serve Him wholeheartedly, even when I fail He will still use it. That gives me a lot of peace, knowing that as I make myself available to Him, He will use me in awesome ways!
Hebrews 12:1-6 is such an encouragement to me. Many have gone before me, some suffering great evil so that the Gospel of Christ could be proclaimed. And now, each of those witnesses are cheering us on to continue to do good and live lives of obedience. It may not always be easy, sometimes it may be down right painful. Some may even have to lay down their lives in order for the Gospel of Christ to be clearly and loudly proclaimed. Those are more extreme examples. In our own lives, we can daily live self-sacrificially, in obedience to God, and proclaim the Gospel of Christ in our words and actions. Though we may see evidence of God touching the lives of others, that may not always be the case.
As I started, I will end reflecting on how many people have at least looked at different pages of my blog. Though different stats give different totals, one thing doesn't change. Many people from all over the world have been exposed to what I have been writing. I have not heard much in the way of how I have impacted them. Many don't know me from Adam, Cain, or Noah. Some of whom will probably not realize how my words have impacted for some time, when God brings to mind something that I wrote that, all of a sudden, now makes sense or illuminates something. A song by a Christian singer, Ray Boltz, comes to mind. The song is called, “Thank You.” You can find the lyrics here and a video here. The person who is a subject of the song sought to obediently live for Christ and the song is a celebration that, upon entering Heaven, Christ started showing him just how many lives were touched through his words and actions. Let all be encouraged to live more obediently to God and to make ourselves available to Him. Only He knows how much He can use each of us to change the lives of those around us.
Monday, June 29, 2015
Pursuing the Heavenly Goal
Scripture Reading
Hebrews 12:1-3
2 Timothy 2:1-13
On many occasions, I have heard it said about the Christian life: “The Christian life is not a sprint. It is a marathon.” I have also heard the Christian life likened to a journey. I believe that both sayings have a lot of merit. I gave my life to Christ in January of 1994, over 20 years ago. It has been quit a challenging road for me.
I wonder how many of you have done some major hiking and/or backpacking? When I was 10 years old, my parents, my dad's cousin, his god-son, and I hiked the Grand Canyon (http://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm). We went down the South Rim and stayed the night at several different places at the bottom. After about 6 days, we hiked up the North Rim. It was a very tiring experience, but a very positive memory. It was almost as taxing mentally as it was physically. Especially the last day when we hiked up the North Rim. We all had to encourage each other to keep on going, to put one foot in front of another. And, there were times where we had to remind ourselves that we needed to take a break and rest for a while.
Having been in the Army for over 15 years, I have gone on many ruck marches. For those who have not had the joy of experience it, imagine this… You are wearing a 5+ lb. helmet, carrying at 2-4 liters of water, carrying a M4, M16 or another type of weapon (8 lbs. or more), and a ruck sack with at least 35 lbs. Most of the time when I have done it, we left the barracks early in the morning and then marched roughly 6-8 miles back as a group. Then, when our leadership decided to, we would be released to walk the rest of the way back to the barracks. The thing is, we had to accomplish the whole ruck march within a specific period of time, and it was about 12 miles long. Needless to say, we were all quite tired by the end.
But yet, I would never be able to do a ruck march or a long hike without some sort of training. For the ruck march, we would often do short rucks (as we call them) with rucks carrying anywhere from 45-60 lbs. Although these rucks would be significantly shorter (45 minutes to just over an hour), they would be demanding enough to prepare us for the actual ruck march that we would have to do each year. Combine the rucking with running on a regular basis and you set yourself up for good stamina to accomplish the ruck march.
Speaking of running… Twice a year I have to do what's called the APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test). The standard test includes how many push-ups one can do within 2 minutes, how many sit-ups a person can do within 2 minutes, and how fast a person can run 2 miles. For me, I have to run the 2 miles in less than 17 minutes. For some people, the 2 miles run is a piece of cake. But, for some people like me, we have have to purposely work at our runs.
I do a variety of different kinds of runs to prepare myself for doing the 2 mile run. I will run a longer distance at a somewhat slower pace (right now, my long run is 6.2 miles) to build on my sustained cardio. Right now, running the 10 K takes me anywhere from 57 minutes to 1 hour and 5 minutes. Although I like to run it at a faster time, my goal is to complete the route without walking, even if it means jogging slowly for a while. On other days, I will do a shorter run, usually about 2-3 miles, at a faster pace. My goal then is to maintain an average time to where I would past my APFT run. As long as I run faster than a 9 minute mile, I am good. I will also add sprints, interval running, or something similar to work on my over all speed.
As with the ruck marching, I have to be purposeful in my training. I have to disciple myself to run at least 2 times a week, preferably 3 times a week. Its the same with doing calisthenics (push-ups, sit-ups, etc.) 2-3 times a week so that I will do well. Although I would rather get up early and exercise, sometimes I have things that I need to do in the morning, or my body needs some extra sleep. Then, I have to take time in the evenings to work out. As with learning a new language, studying for a test, or learning a new hobby, it takes time and self-disciple.
The Christian life is the same thing. After 20+ years, I still stumble and fall. Just like I can get distracted or not fill like exercising, I have to pick myself back up when I miss a workout or don't do well on a particular day. And yes, there are days where I go for a run and my body, for what ever reason, is so exhausted that completing it is not extremely difficult. The other day I went to the gym to do my regular calisthenics and kettlebell routine. But, because I had completed a long run the day before and had not taken in enough calories to compensate for all that I had burned, I was not at my best that morning. In fact, I really struggled to complete my workout and had to change some of the routines a little so that I could do them safely.
All of us have things that we struggle with. Whether it is lustful thoughts, pride, mistakes that we made in the past, chemical dependency, healing from abusive relationships, etc., each of these can make life much more difficult. Over time, having a prayer and accountability partner, regular devotions, an active prayer life, regular church and Bible Study attendance, etc., can help us to better deal with each of these. And, each of those help us to deepen our relationship with Christ. This strengthening of that relationship enables us to become more like Him, which is what we Protestants call sanctification. It is an ongoing process, one we will be engaging in for the rest of our natural lives here on earth. Just as it often helps to have an exercise partner so that one stays consistent and is challenged to improve, so meeting with other Christians for prayer and encouragement is very important.
I have heard said once that each of us should have a 'Timothy,' a 'Paul,' and a 'Silas.' Timothy was a young man that Paul mentored to become a pastor. Several of his Epistles (especially 1 & 2 Timothy) talk about this relationship, as well as several places in Acts. That is, each of us should seek to have a 'Timothy,' someone that we can mentor, and a 'Paul,' someone whom can mentor us. And the 'Silas' relationship? Silas was a close friend and traveling companion of Paul. Silas was a close friend that Paul to turn to for help, guidance, sharing burdens, etc. A close friend in Christ. The 'Paul' in our lives gives us someone to look up to and mentor us in our walks with Christ because of their experiences. And, we often have many people in our lives that are a 'Paul' to us. Some for only a season and some who mentor us for many, many years.
The 'Silas' would be the ones that we regular do things with, like prayer groups, family outings, coffee and doughnuts, etc., so that you can encourage each other, share experiences, use as a sounding board, etc. And, finally, the 'Timothy' is one that you mentor. Even if you have not been a Christian for very long, mentoring someone else in things that you have learned is very helpful. To be able to teach something to someone else, it challenges you to learn it well. Even if it's the bare basics, I am sure that God can help you find someone that you can mentor. And, just like the 'Paul,' the 'Silas,' and the 'Timothy's' in our lives can change often.
Just as each of these relationships are important in one's growth, so too is spending time with God in personal and cooperate worship. I know that, for most of you, cooperate worship is self-explanatory. Attending Bible Studies, prayer services, worship services, etc., are all well known forms of cooperate worship. But, you might be wondering what I might mean by personal worship.
Two of the more well known forms of personal worship are doing individual Bible reading/studying/devotions and spending time in prayer. In on, Bible study/devotions, you read Scripture to learn what God has to say to you and learn more about Him. In prayer, you life of your needs and desires to Him and seek to listen to His response. Something else I have added to this for my own spiritual growth is going on a prayer walk.
In doing a prayer walk, I do just that… I literately put on my walking shoes, make sure I am dressed for the weather, and go for a walk. But, while I am walking, instead of letting my thoughts wander about my day, how much I am missing my family at that time, how much someone that I work with has bugged me that day, etc., I spend time in prayer. I pray for those who might be around me, I pray for the leadership of the military base that I am on, I pray for my leadership, I pray for my family, I pray for the country that I am in, and what ever else God brings to my mind. I have found it to be a great way to not only get some physical exercise, but to get some good spiritual exercising. Not only am I praying for others, but I am seeking to listen to God with what He might be saying to me.
There are many things that one can do to help draw closer to God, with others and alone. Just like with physical exercise, growing in one's faith takes dedication, time, and energy. Just like there are things that can hinder one's physical exercising (lack of sleep, physical injury, lack of time, etc.), there are many things that can hinder a person's spiritual growth (unrepentant sin in one's life, lack of discipline, becoming to busy with other things, apathy, etc.). And, just like one can plateau in physical exercise, so one can plateau in spiritual exercises, where it seems that you are not going anywhere.
One other thing that has helped me a lot, both with physical exercising and with spiritual growth, is the setting of goals. I'll give you an example of when I do the 10K/6.2 mile run. On the course that I run, there are a number of large buildings or other landmarks that I pass by. During my route, I focus on the next goal that I am running towards. At one point, there is a long distance between some of the landmarks. But, throughout the rest of the course, the landmarks are much closer together. I take advantage of this and constantly remind myself that “Building 123” is my next goal, as I am approaching it. When I get close, I remind myself “Almost to Building 123, tower XT is my next goal.” And, as I get close to that goal, I focus on that goal and what the next one is. Even when my body is feeling extremely tired, that has really helped me to stay focused and at least maintain a jogging pace.
The same can be applied to one's spiritual life. Setting small goals and 'landmarks' throughout the week, and one's life, to help keep you focused. For example, one goal might be to read a Psalm a day. Or, you might focus on studying each of the Minor Prophets. Another goal could be setting aside a specific time during the day to do 5-10 minutes of devotions and prayer. Another could be to meet with a friend who is also a Christian once a week for coffee, going for a walk, or something else where you can share prayer requests, insights, etc. While I was stationed at FT Bragg, my prayer life was deeply blessed by a friend we spent a few minutes most days talking and praying. It became a 'running joke' between us with one of us would start the prayer (dial) and the other would end it (hang up). Considering the fact that we usually did this over the phone, it was quite appropriate. Even when one, or even both of us, were in the field, we tried to do this at least weekly. It was something that both of us really benefited from.
As we journey through life, we will encounter all sorts of joys, headaches, sorrows, and excitements. The same is true with our spiritual walks. Just as it makes things easier sharing the joys, sorrows, etc., of life with others, so it is with one's spiritual walk. I encourage each of you reading this blog entry (and, yes, I know it is rather long), to seek out ways to improve you walk with Christ. It will take time and the road may often be bumpy. But, I know that I have been richly blessed by the different things that I have done over the years. And, my life has been even more difficult when I have not been disciplining myself spiritual. So, therefore I seek to learn from my mistakes (and apathy) and draw closer to Christ, “the Author and finisher” of my faith.
Hebrews 12:1-3
2 Timothy 2:1-13
On many occasions, I have heard it said about the Christian life: “The Christian life is not a sprint. It is a marathon.” I have also heard the Christian life likened to a journey. I believe that both sayings have a lot of merit. I gave my life to Christ in January of 1994, over 20 years ago. It has been quit a challenging road for me.
I wonder how many of you have done some major hiking and/or backpacking? When I was 10 years old, my parents, my dad's cousin, his god-son, and I hiked the Grand Canyon (http://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm). We went down the South Rim and stayed the night at several different places at the bottom. After about 6 days, we hiked up the North Rim. It was a very tiring experience, but a very positive memory. It was almost as taxing mentally as it was physically. Especially the last day when we hiked up the North Rim. We all had to encourage each other to keep on going, to put one foot in front of another. And, there were times where we had to remind ourselves that we needed to take a break and rest for a while.
Having been in the Army for over 15 years, I have gone on many ruck marches. For those who have not had the joy of experience it, imagine this… You are wearing a 5+ lb. helmet, carrying at 2-4 liters of water, carrying a M4, M16 or another type of weapon (8 lbs. or more), and a ruck sack with at least 35 lbs. Most of the time when I have done it, we left the barracks early in the morning and then marched roughly 6-8 miles back as a group. Then, when our leadership decided to, we would be released to walk the rest of the way back to the barracks. The thing is, we had to accomplish the whole ruck march within a specific period of time, and it was about 12 miles long. Needless to say, we were all quite tired by the end.
But yet, I would never be able to do a ruck march or a long hike without some sort of training. For the ruck march, we would often do short rucks (as we call them) with rucks carrying anywhere from 45-60 lbs. Although these rucks would be significantly shorter (45 minutes to just over an hour), they would be demanding enough to prepare us for the actual ruck march that we would have to do each year. Combine the rucking with running on a regular basis and you set yourself up for good stamina to accomplish the ruck march.
Speaking of running… Twice a year I have to do what's called the APFT (Army Physical Fitness Test). The standard test includes how many push-ups one can do within 2 minutes, how many sit-ups a person can do within 2 minutes, and how fast a person can run 2 miles. For me, I have to run the 2 miles in less than 17 minutes. For some people, the 2 miles run is a piece of cake. But, for some people like me, we have have to purposely work at our runs.
I do a variety of different kinds of runs to prepare myself for doing the 2 mile run. I will run a longer distance at a somewhat slower pace (right now, my long run is 6.2 miles) to build on my sustained cardio. Right now, running the 10 K takes me anywhere from 57 minutes to 1 hour and 5 minutes. Although I like to run it at a faster time, my goal is to complete the route without walking, even if it means jogging slowly for a while. On other days, I will do a shorter run, usually about 2-3 miles, at a faster pace. My goal then is to maintain an average time to where I would past my APFT run. As long as I run faster than a 9 minute mile, I am good. I will also add sprints, interval running, or something similar to work on my over all speed.
As with the ruck marching, I have to be purposeful in my training. I have to disciple myself to run at least 2 times a week, preferably 3 times a week. Its the same with doing calisthenics (push-ups, sit-ups, etc.) 2-3 times a week so that I will do well. Although I would rather get up early and exercise, sometimes I have things that I need to do in the morning, or my body needs some extra sleep. Then, I have to take time in the evenings to work out. As with learning a new language, studying for a test, or learning a new hobby, it takes time and self-disciple.
The Christian life is the same thing. After 20+ years, I still stumble and fall. Just like I can get distracted or not fill like exercising, I have to pick myself back up when I miss a workout or don't do well on a particular day. And yes, there are days where I go for a run and my body, for what ever reason, is so exhausted that completing it is not extremely difficult. The other day I went to the gym to do my regular calisthenics and kettlebell routine. But, because I had completed a long run the day before and had not taken in enough calories to compensate for all that I had burned, I was not at my best that morning. In fact, I really struggled to complete my workout and had to change some of the routines a little so that I could do them safely.
All of us have things that we struggle with. Whether it is lustful thoughts, pride, mistakes that we made in the past, chemical dependency, healing from abusive relationships, etc., each of these can make life much more difficult. Over time, having a prayer and accountability partner, regular devotions, an active prayer life, regular church and Bible Study attendance, etc., can help us to better deal with each of these. And, each of those help us to deepen our relationship with Christ. This strengthening of that relationship enables us to become more like Him, which is what we Protestants call sanctification. It is an ongoing process, one we will be engaging in for the rest of our natural lives here on earth. Just as it often helps to have an exercise partner so that one stays consistent and is challenged to improve, so meeting with other Christians for prayer and encouragement is very important.
I have heard said once that each of us should have a 'Timothy,' a 'Paul,' and a 'Silas.' Timothy was a young man that Paul mentored to become a pastor. Several of his Epistles (especially 1 & 2 Timothy) talk about this relationship, as well as several places in Acts. That is, each of us should seek to have a 'Timothy,' someone that we can mentor, and a 'Paul,' someone whom can mentor us. And the 'Silas' relationship? Silas was a close friend and traveling companion of Paul. Silas was a close friend that Paul to turn to for help, guidance, sharing burdens, etc. A close friend in Christ. The 'Paul' in our lives gives us someone to look up to and mentor us in our walks with Christ because of their experiences. And, we often have many people in our lives that are a 'Paul' to us. Some for only a season and some who mentor us for many, many years.
The 'Silas' would be the ones that we regular do things with, like prayer groups, family outings, coffee and doughnuts, etc., so that you can encourage each other, share experiences, use as a sounding board, etc. And, finally, the 'Timothy' is one that you mentor. Even if you have not been a Christian for very long, mentoring someone else in things that you have learned is very helpful. To be able to teach something to someone else, it challenges you to learn it well. Even if it's the bare basics, I am sure that God can help you find someone that you can mentor. And, just like the 'Paul,' the 'Silas,' and the 'Timothy's' in our lives can change often.
Just as each of these relationships are important in one's growth, so too is spending time with God in personal and cooperate worship. I know that, for most of you, cooperate worship is self-explanatory. Attending Bible Studies, prayer services, worship services, etc., are all well known forms of cooperate worship. But, you might be wondering what I might mean by personal worship.
Two of the more well known forms of personal worship are doing individual Bible reading/studying/devotions and spending time in prayer. In on, Bible study/devotions, you read Scripture to learn what God has to say to you and learn more about Him. In prayer, you life of your needs and desires to Him and seek to listen to His response. Something else I have added to this for my own spiritual growth is going on a prayer walk.
In doing a prayer walk, I do just that… I literately put on my walking shoes, make sure I am dressed for the weather, and go for a walk. But, while I am walking, instead of letting my thoughts wander about my day, how much I am missing my family at that time, how much someone that I work with has bugged me that day, etc., I spend time in prayer. I pray for those who might be around me, I pray for the leadership of the military base that I am on, I pray for my leadership, I pray for my family, I pray for the country that I am in, and what ever else God brings to my mind. I have found it to be a great way to not only get some physical exercise, but to get some good spiritual exercising. Not only am I praying for others, but I am seeking to listen to God with what He might be saying to me.
There are many things that one can do to help draw closer to God, with others and alone. Just like with physical exercise, growing in one's faith takes dedication, time, and energy. Just like there are things that can hinder one's physical exercising (lack of sleep, physical injury, lack of time, etc.), there are many things that can hinder a person's spiritual growth (unrepentant sin in one's life, lack of discipline, becoming to busy with other things, apathy, etc.). And, just like one can plateau in physical exercise, so one can plateau in spiritual exercises, where it seems that you are not going anywhere.
One other thing that has helped me a lot, both with physical exercising and with spiritual growth, is the setting of goals. I'll give you an example of when I do the 10K/6.2 mile run. On the course that I run, there are a number of large buildings or other landmarks that I pass by. During my route, I focus on the next goal that I am running towards. At one point, there is a long distance between some of the landmarks. But, throughout the rest of the course, the landmarks are much closer together. I take advantage of this and constantly remind myself that “Building 123” is my next goal, as I am approaching it. When I get close, I remind myself “Almost to Building 123, tower XT is my next goal.” And, as I get close to that goal, I focus on that goal and what the next one is. Even when my body is feeling extremely tired, that has really helped me to stay focused and at least maintain a jogging pace.
The same can be applied to one's spiritual life. Setting small goals and 'landmarks' throughout the week, and one's life, to help keep you focused. For example, one goal might be to read a Psalm a day. Or, you might focus on studying each of the Minor Prophets. Another goal could be setting aside a specific time during the day to do 5-10 minutes of devotions and prayer. Another could be to meet with a friend who is also a Christian once a week for coffee, going for a walk, or something else where you can share prayer requests, insights, etc. While I was stationed at FT Bragg, my prayer life was deeply blessed by a friend we spent a few minutes most days talking and praying. It became a 'running joke' between us with one of us would start the prayer (dial) and the other would end it (hang up). Considering the fact that we usually did this over the phone, it was quite appropriate. Even when one, or even both of us, were in the field, we tried to do this at least weekly. It was something that both of us really benefited from.
As we journey through life, we will encounter all sorts of joys, headaches, sorrows, and excitements. The same is true with our spiritual walks. Just as it makes things easier sharing the joys, sorrows, etc., of life with others, so it is with one's spiritual walk. I encourage each of you reading this blog entry (and, yes, I know it is rather long), to seek out ways to improve you walk with Christ. It will take time and the road may often be bumpy. But, I know that I have been richly blessed by the different things that I have done over the years. And, my life has been even more difficult when I have not been disciplining myself spiritual. So, therefore I seek to learn from my mistakes (and apathy) and draw closer to Christ, “the Author and finisher” of my faith.
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
Why "Law and Grace"?
There are probably a number of you out there who are wondering, "Where on earth did you get the idea of 'law and grace' for theme of your blog?" That is a good question. It is actually a reflection of who I am as a person and the kind of training that I have gone through over the years. Yes, it is quite a paradox. But, then again, when you read Scripture, God seems to be quite a paradox, too. That is, He is Holy and Righteous and cannot look upon sin. However, God is also loving and forgiving and became a Man, Jesus, the Christ, and took our place on the cross.
Some people train for one kind of job and continue doing that as their career. I am not talking about summer jobs as a kid or one's first job as a teenager. I am talking more towards that of adults. While in college, people will train with a particular field in mind, like accounting, business management, languages, etc. After graduation, they will typically pursue that as their career. Though their work may vary over the years, their particular career field does not vary much. However, that is becoming less and less the case it seems. A lot of people may train to become an elementary school teacher but then they find work on an assembly line and that becomes their career. Or, they may major in business management but then, because of the job market, find work as a cook and that becomes their career. Others might join the military right out of high school and have one profession there. But, after retiring from the military, they get a college or masters degree in something very different and work that for the rest of their lives.
While in college, I gave my life to Christ and, about 6 months later, I felt God calling me to go to seminary and pursue a career in ministry. Although I initially resisted that idea, God won the argument and I began the process of searching for a seminary to attend. I graduated from Centre College in 1996 with a BA in German Studies and started my ministry training at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (LPTS) that following summer.
During my time there, one of the things that was emphasized to me was the importance of ministering to a person's felt needs. At least, that is where you start ministering. For example, lets say I am ministering to a family whose pregnancy had ended in a stillborn. Due to their understanding of church and faith, they wanted their child baptized prior to being buried. As a Presbyterian, we do not believe in baptizing the dead. However, do I just outright refuse, saying that my faith forbids it, do I go against my conscience, or do I seek another way to minister to their needs? The answer would be the latter… I could either seek out a pastor who does believe in baptizing the dead, or I could sit down with them, explain my theological perspective, and talk with them about ministry and funeral options that would help them gain closure and not violate my theological convictions. This was something that was highly emphasized, the meeting the people where they were at, and then to help them in the direction that they need to go.
Well, after graduating from seminary, my first wife and I ended up moving to Colorado. We lived with her family due do many different factors. While there, I worked for a Christian radio ministry organization in the shipping and receiving department. I have to admit, I was not happy there. I was greatly frustrated that I was working a job that would not enable us to live on our own. I was very frustrated with working a job that felt like a dead-end-job. Even though I knew that I was supporting and enabling a major Christian ministry, I felt under used and totally out of place. I also felt very frustrated with having spent years training to do ministry in a church kind of setting, and not doing anything remotely like that.
So, after about a year, I joined the Army and started my Basic Training in May of 2001. It would be along and difficult journey for me. Partly because my wife, at the time, and I got a divorce. Another part was because I was entering a totally different lifestyle then what I had grown up experiencing. Instead of having lots of freedoms to come and go as I pleased, my life was suddenly very regimented. It was very different for me and took quite a while to get used to. But, adjust I did.
A few years later, after much prayer and considering my options, I felt God directing me to leave Active Duty and pursue a job in Nebraska and live near my parents. For about 6 months, I searched for a job, preferring a ministry job, but considering other options. Finally, though, I applied for a job with the Nebraska Department of Corrections for Custody Staff/Corrections Officer. Although it was a job that I had seen on many occasions, it was one that I had no interest in applying for. Since my unemployment insurance was running out, I did not see much other choice and I applied. Even though the testing and interview process seemed to go poorly (I came down with some sort of 24 hour cold on my way down to the test and interview and it went away as I returned home… Hmmmm….), I was offered a job and I accepted.
My training for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services seemed to be a lot like that of the Army, of strict rule enforcement. Not the total picture, as I would find out later, but that was my initial impression. At least it was something familiar. But, again I found myself becoming frustrated and angry with God that I was doing anything but ministry. But, this attitude gradually changed as I worked more with other staff and inmates. Although enforcing the rules was necessary, I started finding that ministering to staff and inmates enabled me to better do my job. To minister to their felt needs, I would listen to what their needs or concerns were and find a way to address them that the rules that I worked by would allow. I now incorporate this approach to working with others as much as possible. Over the 8 years that I have worked with the Nebraska Department of Corrections (I had a break in service for over a year, but that is another conversation), I found that many of my co-workers and inmates needed someone to listen to their concerns, to be reminded that God had not forgotten them, that they were still valued as a human being, etc.
I picked 'Law and Grace' because it is a theme that most accurately describes who I am. As I go through life, after my years of training in ministry, Military Law Enforcement, Nebraska Department of Corrections, etc., it has become second nature to deal with issues that I face from both perspectives. Most of the time, my personal preference is a ministerial one. That is, I seek to understand what the problem is and how can I best address it, given the rules that I have to work within. But, there are times where that is not appropriate. When dealing with an out-of-control inmate or suspect, the chances of me being able to minister to them are very slim and I am more likely to rely on my Law Enforcement training. Sometimes, to prevent myself or someone else from being injured or killed, force has to be used to stop someone else. Unfortunately, that is totally natural in a fallen world. But, there are times where, even when I have to enforce laws and regulations, I still strive to show some grace. For example, while I might have to do some corrective counseling or write a misconduct report, I still try to help the person that I am correcting to see both the inappropriate actions as well as what they have done right. It's a challenge, and easier said then done on many occasions.
In reality, we all live in a world where we can deal with things from a 'law' standpoint or from a 'grace' standpoint. Although, if you ask me, it is usually a combination of both, with more of an emphasis on one or the other. Very rarely do I see people dealing with a situation from a purely grace or law perspective. In seeking to address situations from either a 'law' or from a 'grace' perspective at the same time, I find myself better able to deal with most situations effectively. It isn't easy, and sometimes it is more draining to seek to approach situations from both perspectives instead of either one or another. However, I have personally found that, when seek to find a balance between dealing with something with both 'law' and 'grace,' I have more options to choose from. And, many times the person that I am dealing with is more open to what I have to say when I use such an approach. Though it takes a lot more mental energy and time to consider my options, it becomes more of a win-win situation for everyone.
As I continue on my journey looking at life from these two different lenses, I hope to help others learn to do so. Perhaps, when more people can better look at life from these two lenses, there can be more reconciliation and, by God's Grace, a better world around us.
Some people train for one kind of job and continue doing that as their career. I am not talking about summer jobs as a kid or one's first job as a teenager. I am talking more towards that of adults. While in college, people will train with a particular field in mind, like accounting, business management, languages, etc. After graduation, they will typically pursue that as their career. Though their work may vary over the years, their particular career field does not vary much. However, that is becoming less and less the case it seems. A lot of people may train to become an elementary school teacher but then they find work on an assembly line and that becomes their career. Or, they may major in business management but then, because of the job market, find work as a cook and that becomes their career. Others might join the military right out of high school and have one profession there. But, after retiring from the military, they get a college or masters degree in something very different and work that for the rest of their lives.
While in college, I gave my life to Christ and, about 6 months later, I felt God calling me to go to seminary and pursue a career in ministry. Although I initially resisted that idea, God won the argument and I began the process of searching for a seminary to attend. I graduated from Centre College in 1996 with a BA in German Studies and started my ministry training at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (LPTS) that following summer.
During my time there, one of the things that was emphasized to me was the importance of ministering to a person's felt needs. At least, that is where you start ministering. For example, lets say I am ministering to a family whose pregnancy had ended in a stillborn. Due to their understanding of church and faith, they wanted their child baptized prior to being buried. As a Presbyterian, we do not believe in baptizing the dead. However, do I just outright refuse, saying that my faith forbids it, do I go against my conscience, or do I seek another way to minister to their needs? The answer would be the latter… I could either seek out a pastor who does believe in baptizing the dead, or I could sit down with them, explain my theological perspective, and talk with them about ministry and funeral options that would help them gain closure and not violate my theological convictions. This was something that was highly emphasized, the meeting the people where they were at, and then to help them in the direction that they need to go.
Well, after graduating from seminary, my first wife and I ended up moving to Colorado. We lived with her family due do many different factors. While there, I worked for a Christian radio ministry organization in the shipping and receiving department. I have to admit, I was not happy there. I was greatly frustrated that I was working a job that would not enable us to live on our own. I was very frustrated with working a job that felt like a dead-end-job. Even though I knew that I was supporting and enabling a major Christian ministry, I felt under used and totally out of place. I also felt very frustrated with having spent years training to do ministry in a church kind of setting, and not doing anything remotely like that.
So, after about a year, I joined the Army and started my Basic Training in May of 2001. It would be along and difficult journey for me. Partly because my wife, at the time, and I got a divorce. Another part was because I was entering a totally different lifestyle then what I had grown up experiencing. Instead of having lots of freedoms to come and go as I pleased, my life was suddenly very regimented. It was very different for me and took quite a while to get used to. But, adjust I did.
A few years later, after much prayer and considering my options, I felt God directing me to leave Active Duty and pursue a job in Nebraska and live near my parents. For about 6 months, I searched for a job, preferring a ministry job, but considering other options. Finally, though, I applied for a job with the Nebraska Department of Corrections for Custody Staff/Corrections Officer. Although it was a job that I had seen on many occasions, it was one that I had no interest in applying for. Since my unemployment insurance was running out, I did not see much other choice and I applied. Even though the testing and interview process seemed to go poorly (I came down with some sort of 24 hour cold on my way down to the test and interview and it went away as I returned home… Hmmmm….), I was offered a job and I accepted.
My training for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services seemed to be a lot like that of the Army, of strict rule enforcement. Not the total picture, as I would find out later, but that was my initial impression. At least it was something familiar. But, again I found myself becoming frustrated and angry with God that I was doing anything but ministry. But, this attitude gradually changed as I worked more with other staff and inmates. Although enforcing the rules was necessary, I started finding that ministering to staff and inmates enabled me to better do my job. To minister to their felt needs, I would listen to what their needs or concerns were and find a way to address them that the rules that I worked by would allow. I now incorporate this approach to working with others as much as possible. Over the 8 years that I have worked with the Nebraska Department of Corrections (I had a break in service for over a year, but that is another conversation), I found that many of my co-workers and inmates needed someone to listen to their concerns, to be reminded that God had not forgotten them, that they were still valued as a human being, etc.
I picked 'Law and Grace' because it is a theme that most accurately describes who I am. As I go through life, after my years of training in ministry, Military Law Enforcement, Nebraska Department of Corrections, etc., it has become second nature to deal with issues that I face from both perspectives. Most of the time, my personal preference is a ministerial one. That is, I seek to understand what the problem is and how can I best address it, given the rules that I have to work within. But, there are times where that is not appropriate. When dealing with an out-of-control inmate or suspect, the chances of me being able to minister to them are very slim and I am more likely to rely on my Law Enforcement training. Sometimes, to prevent myself or someone else from being injured or killed, force has to be used to stop someone else. Unfortunately, that is totally natural in a fallen world. But, there are times where, even when I have to enforce laws and regulations, I still strive to show some grace. For example, while I might have to do some corrective counseling or write a misconduct report, I still try to help the person that I am correcting to see both the inappropriate actions as well as what they have done right. It's a challenge, and easier said then done on many occasions.
In reality, we all live in a world where we can deal with things from a 'law' standpoint or from a 'grace' standpoint. Although, if you ask me, it is usually a combination of both, with more of an emphasis on one or the other. Very rarely do I see people dealing with a situation from a purely grace or law perspective. In seeking to address situations from either a 'law' or from a 'grace' perspective at the same time, I find myself better able to deal with most situations effectively. It isn't easy, and sometimes it is more draining to seek to approach situations from both perspectives instead of either one or another. However, I have personally found that, when seek to find a balance between dealing with something with both 'law' and 'grace,' I have more options to choose from. And, many times the person that I am dealing with is more open to what I have to say when I use such an approach. Though it takes a lot more mental energy and time to consider my options, it becomes more of a win-win situation for everyone.
As I continue on my journey looking at life from these two different lenses, I hope to help others learn to do so. Perhaps, when more people can better look at life from these two lenses, there can be more reconciliation and, by God's Grace, a better world around us.
Sunday, May 10, 2015
God is the Source of Worship
Scripture References:
Old Testament: Psalm 96 NKJV
New Testament: John 4:1-26 NASB
What is worship? What does it mean to worship God, or any other person or thing? What is God's expectation for how we are to approach Him in worship? Does worship just mean sitting in a church for an hour or two, or does it mean something else? During the sermon that I will preaching today (10MAY2014), I will be addressing these topics. I will also examine them here in this post. However, do remember, whole books have been written on the topic of Christian worship. A blog post cannot encompass all of that, but I hope to bestow some clarity upon it.
Having grown up in the Presbyterian Church (USA), I had the opportunity to learn about various church writings in what we call the Book of Confessions. They are not Scripture, but are used to help explain what Scripture means to us as Christians. One part of our Book of Confessions is the Shorter and Larger Catechism. They are written in a question and answer format to help Christians better understand what they believe and why. I will be quoting from a PDF version that I downloaded onto my computer a while ago. And, yes, it is written in King James format.
I am starting off with this quote from the Shorter Catechism because it encapsulates, I believe, what worship is all about. That is, God created us to have a relationship with Him, a personal relationship. With God being the Creator and we being the product of His creation, our relationship with Him is to be one of awe, reverence, and of thankfulness. All of which, as we will see here shortly, are all aspects of worship.
The on-line Definition of Worship (from www.merriam-webster.com)states:
- The act of showing respect and love for a god, especially by praying with other people who believe in the same god;
- the act of worshiping a god; A form of religious practice with its creed and ritual
- extravagant respect or admiration for or devotion to an object of esteem (worship of the dollar) or person
In other words, worship is holding something dear to us, that we pay homage to, that we greatly esteem. One example would be a hero that a person has, like a soldier, a firefighter, a particular movie star, etc. In holding such a person in high esteem, we strive to imitate that person, the take on the characteristics of him or her that we respect. Holding a person in high esteem can be a good thing. Children learn by imitating the people they see around them. They learn what is good about certain people and what isn't.
However, though we learn from modeling others, there is a difference between having a person as a role model and actually worshipping them. From a scriptural standpoint, we are called to respect and love those around us (which includes having people as role models) and worshipping God who created the heavens, the earth, and all that is included. Some people might just see things as mere semantics. From my faith perspective, there is a huge difference.
Through out the Old Testament, there are many examples of people giving sacrifices to God, to idols representing all sorts of deities, and ways that they went about worshipping their Gods. One of the things that really stands out to me is that, through out the Old Testament, having a personal relationship with God was an exception, not the rule. Adam and Eve initially had perfect fellowship with each other and with God, walking and talking with Him, in the Garden of Eden. But, after the Fall, all fellowship/relationships became broken. Between us and God, between all people, between us and the world around us, etc. In spite of that, God still sought out people who would fellowship with Him. However, because God is a holy God and we are a sinful and broken people, that fellowship usually had to include various kinds of sacrifices in order to 'cover' our sins and enable us to be in God's presence. Different people like Moses, Abraham, Joshua, David, etc., related to God in unique ways. And, unfortunately, all of them made some very bad decisions while seeking to 'walk with God' (a way of worshipping Him). But yet, because of their attitudes, God would accept their repentant hearts and fellowship with them again.
But yet, even though all people were called to worship God. Not everyone was able to fellowship with God, to enjoy a deep and intimate relationship with Him. People like Moses, Abraham, Jeremiah, etc., all enjoyed a very unique walk with God that most other people were only able to watch. Such a relationship was a rarity. Though many people genuinely sought to love God with all their heart and sole and live a life of obedience, it was most often at a distance.
As time went one and the Nation of Israel became established, the ways in which God called His followers to approach and worship Him became much more detailed and specific. To be able to come into God's presence at the Temple required a sacrifice to be made of some sort, depending on what the reason for approaching God was. God was very detailed with what He expected to be done. Though people could seek God in prayer outside of the Temple at any time; at the Temple, very specific requirements had to be made.
One of the things that was emphasized in the worship at the Temple was that, in order for us sinful human beings to approach a holy God, a sacrifice had to be made. Usually it was a form of an animal, grain, drink, or a combination there of. This continued on for generations until the time of Christ.
In our second Scripture passage, we see Jesus talking with a Samaritan woman. As the passage hints to, there was a deep prejudice that Jews had towards Samaritans. Jews avoided them whenever possible, looked down at, and derided them, etc. But yet, here was Jesus talking with a Samaritan woman. Not just any Samaritan woman who strove to live by God's standards, but who had numerous husbands and was currently living with a man who wasn't married to her. The text doesn't go into detail about why she had been married so many times, but it is clear that it wasn't something that God approved. Such a woman of 'loose morals' would have been the subject of a righteous Jew's great derision. But yet, here is Jesus (as John 1 states, was 'God in the flesh,'), talking with her, inviting her to have fellowship with Him. Jesus corrected several misconceptions she had of worship, and did it in a way that called her to not just change her heart, but to excitedly invite others to meet Him!
Upon dying for our sins and being raised for our justification (as Paul writes extensively about in the first several chapters of Romans), God provided a way for us to come into God's presence as we are. Having been put to death as a criminal and traitor, He paid our penalty of rebellion against Him. Now, through the Holy Spirit, each and every one of us is able to come into God's presence and have a personal and intimate relationship with our Creator. He is still a holy and righteous God, and we are still broken and sinful. But yet, because God is also loving and forgiving, He provided a way for us to have a personal relationship with Him that satisfies His holiness.
Now, when we think of worship today, things like liturgical services, grand cathedrals, small town churches, organ music, amongst many other things, often come to mind. All of these things are vehicles for enabling us to worship God. However, organ music, praise and worship music, a grand cathedral or even a small country church, are not necessary to enter into worship with God. They are not essential.
What is essential is one's attitude. No matter what denomination a person affiliates themselves with, no matter what kind of worship style one prefers, or the kind of music one loves to listen to, they are not essential for worship. What is essential for worship is knowing who God is (which is a life long process and journey!), knowing who we are in relationship to Him, and seeking Him in love, awe, thankfulness and with obedience.
As our Creator, God deserves our worship. As a loving and forgiving God, in spite of what any of us have done in thought, word, and deed, God is even much more deserving of our adoration and love. Think about it... The same holy God that created the vast universe, all of the stars and planets, all that we know, not only created you and me, but enabled a rebellious creation to come back into fellowship with Him. How incredibly wonderful and awesome is that!?
God calls us to approach Him with a thankful heart. One that is thankful for not just creating us, but through Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, to daily recreate us. He loves us so much that He not only calls us as we are, but then calls us to be changed and become more like Him. God calls us to come to Him wanting to learn more about Him. Not just that, though, but to take what we have learned and teach it to others.
God's intention for the Nation of Israel was to use them as a light and beacon of home to the world around them. God's intent was that, though Israel's love for God and service to Him, the people of other nations would be drawn to God through them. That is God's intent through the Church. By that, I don't mean any particular congregation, Bible study group, etc. What I mean by Church with a big 'C' is the whole Body of Christ. That means, all of us who follow Christ, past, present, and future.
Worship isn't just about coming together, hearing Scripture read and expounded upon, singing songs, etc. For us to truly worship God, we need to allow Him to change each and every one of us. If we truly worship God, we listen to what His Word says, as is found in the Bible. Upon hearing His Word and allowing it to take root in our hearts, we open ourselves to being changed by God into the person that God wants us to be. Just as when we have a relationship with a fellow human being, if we truly have a relationship with them, things they do and say change us. Just the same as the things we say and do change them. The change can be for the good, or for bad. But, as we interact with others, change will happen. The same is to be with our relationship with God. But, it just doesn't end there.
What is awesome is that worshipping God can be doing personal devotions or Bible reading, it can be while walking around your neighborhood, it can be done while doing acts of service for others, it can be done while praying for or even with people, etc. Worship is an act, it is an attitude towards God and others. The means to enable you to worship (the building, use of liturgy, type of music, etc.) not as important as the attitude you bring to God and to others. An attitude of "God, here I am, use me and change me according to Your will" is much more meaningful and wonderful in God's eyes than any fancy song, building, etc. God wants us to come together, to fellowship with Him, to fellowship with others, and to be changed so that, through us, God can change others.
Just as God intended Israel to be a light to the world around them, God calls us to be His witnesses. Through the hearing of God's Word, through prayer, and through listening for God's guidance, God wants to teach and prepare us. Not just fellowship with Him, but to become His ambassadors to the world around us. And, it is not a 'one time deal.' God calls us to this kind of living worship through out our journey in this world and with Him. Let us, then, prayerfully seek not only to know who God is, but to know Him personally. And, in knowing Him personally, to be changed and, by His Grace, be instruments of change to the world around us.
RC
Old Testament: Psalm 96 NKJV
New Testament: John 4:1-26 NASB
What is worship? What does it mean to worship God, or any other person or thing? What is God's expectation for how we are to approach Him in worship? Does worship just mean sitting in a church for an hour or two, or does it mean something else? During the sermon that I will preaching today (10MAY2014), I will be addressing these topics. I will also examine them here in this post. However, do remember, whole books have been written on the topic of Christian worship. A blog post cannot encompass all of that, but I hope to bestow some clarity upon it.
Having grown up in the Presbyterian Church (USA), I had the opportunity to learn about various church writings in what we call the Book of Confessions. They are not Scripture, but are used to help explain what Scripture means to us as Christians. One part of our Book of Confessions is the Shorter and Larger Catechism. They are written in a question and answer format to help Christians better understand what they believe and why. I will be quoting from a PDF version that I downloaded onto my computer a while ago. And, yes, it is written in King James format.
Shorter Catechism Q1 & A1 (PC USA Book of Confessions, 2014, page 245)
7.001 Q. 1. What is the chief end of man?
A. Man’s chief end is to glorify God,1 and to enjoy him forever.
7.002 Q. 2. What rule hath God given to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him?
A. The Word of God which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him.
7.003 Q. 3. What do the Scriptures principally teach?
A. The Scriptures principally teach what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man.
I am starting off with this quote from the Shorter Catechism because it encapsulates, I believe, what worship is all about. That is, God created us to have a relationship with Him, a personal relationship. With God being the Creator and we being the product of His creation, our relationship with Him is to be one of awe, reverence, and of thankfulness. All of which, as we will see here shortly, are all aspects of worship.
The on-line Definition of Worship (from www.merriam-webster.com)states:
- The act of showing respect and love for a god, especially by praying with other people who believe in the same god;
- the act of worshiping a god; A form of religious practice with its creed and ritual
- extravagant respect or admiration for or devotion to an object of esteem (worship of the dollar) or person
In other words, worship is holding something dear to us, that we pay homage to, that we greatly esteem. One example would be a hero that a person has, like a soldier, a firefighter, a particular movie star, etc. In holding such a person in high esteem, we strive to imitate that person, the take on the characteristics of him or her that we respect. Holding a person in high esteem can be a good thing. Children learn by imitating the people they see around them. They learn what is good about certain people and what isn't.
However, though we learn from modeling others, there is a difference between having a person as a role model and actually worshipping them. From a scriptural standpoint, we are called to respect and love those around us (which includes having people as role models) and worshipping God who created the heavens, the earth, and all that is included. Some people might just see things as mere semantics. From my faith perspective, there is a huge difference.
Through out the Old Testament, there are many examples of people giving sacrifices to God, to idols representing all sorts of deities, and ways that they went about worshipping their Gods. One of the things that really stands out to me is that, through out the Old Testament, having a personal relationship with God was an exception, not the rule. Adam and Eve initially had perfect fellowship with each other and with God, walking and talking with Him, in the Garden of Eden. But, after the Fall, all fellowship/relationships became broken. Between us and God, between all people, between us and the world around us, etc. In spite of that, God still sought out people who would fellowship with Him. However, because God is a holy God and we are a sinful and broken people, that fellowship usually had to include various kinds of sacrifices in order to 'cover' our sins and enable us to be in God's presence. Different people like Moses, Abraham, Joshua, David, etc., related to God in unique ways. And, unfortunately, all of them made some very bad decisions while seeking to 'walk with God' (a way of worshipping Him). But yet, because of their attitudes, God would accept their repentant hearts and fellowship with them again.
But yet, even though all people were called to worship God. Not everyone was able to fellowship with God, to enjoy a deep and intimate relationship with Him. People like Moses, Abraham, Jeremiah, etc., all enjoyed a very unique walk with God that most other people were only able to watch. Such a relationship was a rarity. Though many people genuinely sought to love God with all their heart and sole and live a life of obedience, it was most often at a distance.
As time went one and the Nation of Israel became established, the ways in which God called His followers to approach and worship Him became much more detailed and specific. To be able to come into God's presence at the Temple required a sacrifice to be made of some sort, depending on what the reason for approaching God was. God was very detailed with what He expected to be done. Though people could seek God in prayer outside of the Temple at any time; at the Temple, very specific requirements had to be made.
One of the things that was emphasized in the worship at the Temple was that, in order for us sinful human beings to approach a holy God, a sacrifice had to be made. Usually it was a form of an animal, grain, drink, or a combination there of. This continued on for generations until the time of Christ.
In our second Scripture passage, we see Jesus talking with a Samaritan woman. As the passage hints to, there was a deep prejudice that Jews had towards Samaritans. Jews avoided them whenever possible, looked down at, and derided them, etc. But yet, here was Jesus talking with a Samaritan woman. Not just any Samaritan woman who strove to live by God's standards, but who had numerous husbands and was currently living with a man who wasn't married to her. The text doesn't go into detail about why she had been married so many times, but it is clear that it wasn't something that God approved. Such a woman of 'loose morals' would have been the subject of a righteous Jew's great derision. But yet, here is Jesus (as John 1 states, was 'God in the flesh,'), talking with her, inviting her to have fellowship with Him. Jesus corrected several misconceptions she had of worship, and did it in a way that called her to not just change her heart, but to excitedly invite others to meet Him!
Upon dying for our sins and being raised for our justification (as Paul writes extensively about in the first several chapters of Romans), God provided a way for us to come into God's presence as we are. Having been put to death as a criminal and traitor, He paid our penalty of rebellion against Him. Now, through the Holy Spirit, each and every one of us is able to come into God's presence and have a personal and intimate relationship with our Creator. He is still a holy and righteous God, and we are still broken and sinful. But yet, because God is also loving and forgiving, He provided a way for us to have a personal relationship with Him that satisfies His holiness.
Now, when we think of worship today, things like liturgical services, grand cathedrals, small town churches, organ music, amongst many other things, often come to mind. All of these things are vehicles for enabling us to worship God. However, organ music, praise and worship music, a grand cathedral or even a small country church, are not necessary to enter into worship with God. They are not essential.
What is essential is one's attitude. No matter what denomination a person affiliates themselves with, no matter what kind of worship style one prefers, or the kind of music one loves to listen to, they are not essential for worship. What is essential for worship is knowing who God is (which is a life long process and journey!), knowing who we are in relationship to Him, and seeking Him in love, awe, thankfulness and with obedience.
As our Creator, God deserves our worship. As a loving and forgiving God, in spite of what any of us have done in thought, word, and deed, God is even much more deserving of our adoration and love. Think about it... The same holy God that created the vast universe, all of the stars and planets, all that we know, not only created you and me, but enabled a rebellious creation to come back into fellowship with Him. How incredibly wonderful and awesome is that!?
God calls us to approach Him with a thankful heart. One that is thankful for not just creating us, but through Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, to daily recreate us. He loves us so much that He not only calls us as we are, but then calls us to be changed and become more like Him. God calls us to come to Him wanting to learn more about Him. Not just that, though, but to take what we have learned and teach it to others.
God's intention for the Nation of Israel was to use them as a light and beacon of home to the world around them. God's intent was that, though Israel's love for God and service to Him, the people of other nations would be drawn to God through them. That is God's intent through the Church. By that, I don't mean any particular congregation, Bible study group, etc. What I mean by Church with a big 'C' is the whole Body of Christ. That means, all of us who follow Christ, past, present, and future.
Worship isn't just about coming together, hearing Scripture read and expounded upon, singing songs, etc. For us to truly worship God, we need to allow Him to change each and every one of us. If we truly worship God, we listen to what His Word says, as is found in the Bible. Upon hearing His Word and allowing it to take root in our hearts, we open ourselves to being changed by God into the person that God wants us to be. Just as when we have a relationship with a fellow human being, if we truly have a relationship with them, things they do and say change us. Just the same as the things we say and do change them. The change can be for the good, or for bad. But, as we interact with others, change will happen. The same is to be with our relationship with God. But, it just doesn't end there.
What is awesome is that worshipping God can be doing personal devotions or Bible reading, it can be while walking around your neighborhood, it can be done while doing acts of service for others, it can be done while praying for or even with people, etc. Worship is an act, it is an attitude towards God and others. The means to enable you to worship (the building, use of liturgy, type of music, etc.) not as important as the attitude you bring to God and to others. An attitude of "God, here I am, use me and change me according to Your will" is much more meaningful and wonderful in God's eyes than any fancy song, building, etc. God wants us to come together, to fellowship with Him, to fellowship with others, and to be changed so that, through us, God can change others.
Just as God intended Israel to be a light to the world around them, God calls us to be His witnesses. Through the hearing of God's Word, through prayer, and through listening for God's guidance, God wants to teach and prepare us. Not just fellowship with Him, but to become His ambassadors to the world around us. And, it is not a 'one time deal.' God calls us to this kind of living worship through out our journey in this world and with Him. Let us, then, prayerfully seek not only to know who God is, but to know Him personally. And, in knowing Him personally, to be changed and, by His Grace, be instruments of change to the world around us.
RC
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