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.
Monday, June 29, 2015
Thursday, June 25, 2015
Reflections and Short-Comings
When I first arrived here in the Middle East, I had hoped to help lead worship at some point and maybe help teach a Bible Study or two. To my great surprise, I was invited to preach not long after my arrival. Soon after that, the Chaplains said that they were looking for someone to lead one of the two Bible Studies. Although I felt God nudging me, because of work, I was not available to do anything. So, I spent time praying about. The nudging from God continued, so when work settled down, I volunteered to lead the Bible Study, which the Chaplains immediately thanked me for. Initially I though I would to a study on specific topics or current events. But, one afternoon or evening, as I was thinking about different topics to discuss, I felt God nudging me a different direction.
The direction that I felt God nudging me was to study the Minor Prophets. The Major Prophets are Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel. The Minor Prophets are Jonah, Micah, Haggai, Zephaniah, etc. The reason why they are called a 'Major' or 'Minor' Prophet is not because of content, but because of length. Isaiah, Jeremiah, and the other Major Prophets have 40 or more chapters. The Minor Prophets have 14 or fewer chapters. The content of all the Books of the Prophets are important. Some wrote more, some wrote less.
Although I have been writing a blog entry about doing the Bible Study on the Minor Prophets, that is not this particular entry. This entry is about something else that has been weighing on me, that God has been correcting me on. And, part of it is because of the studying that I have been doing.
If one studies the Old Testament, it becomes apparent that the Hebrew people would go through times of being very devout and sincere in following Yahweh (the Hebrew Name for God). And, there were times when they would very eagerly seek after the false gods of their neighbors and commit spiritual adultery against God, Who was to be their first and only love. And, with their spiritual adultery, along would come actual sexual immorality, human sacrifice and even child sacrifice, corruption within the legal and religious leaders, etc. God would repeatedly send Judges and later prophets to rebuke His people and call them to repentance so that they could, once again, enjoy His blessings.
Throughout Israel's history, they would sometimes being very faithful to God and sometimes be utterly rebellious against Him. But yet, God still sent people to call them to repentance. In Ezekiel 3 and 33, God calls Ezekiel to be the 'watchman' for Israel. Now, the role of a watchman was to, literately, stand in a tower or on the wall of the fortified town or city. They were there to watch for danger and, if they saw it coming, to give the inhabitants of the town or city warning. If they did their job and warned the people of pending danger, the people had a choice of listening or not to him. God called Ezekiel to be the watchman for Israel to warn them of coming judgment for their sins and rebellion. If Ezekiel did his part, he would not be held accountable for the actions of others. But, if Ezekiel did not do his part and warn others of God's judgments for their sins, then they would suffer the consequences and Ezekiel would be held accountable for not warning them.
Over the centuries, the Church (Body of Christ, not just a physical church or a particular denomination) has been both faithful and unfaithful to God. There have been seasons where the Church has eagerly sought God, to be obedient to His Will, and to allow Him to mighty and awesome things through them in the lives of others. And, there have been times where the Church, just like Israel, has abandoned God and sought the pleasures of the world. I know that not all churches in the United States and in Europe have forsaken God to embrace secularism, sexual immorality, etc. But, many have. In fact, several denominations have already turned towards or have embraced these things. They have given up the things of God in return to be accepted by the world and please others. And, for many of us in the Church, instead of fervently praying for our political leaders, religious leaders, etc., we have become more focused on other things. I know I have.
But yet, I am reminded of what God promised Solomon in I Kings 8. That is, no matter how far away a person or a nation may turn from God. Upon acknowledging their sins and turning back to God, He promised to forgive them and heal them. Jesus repeatedly told us in parables, like The Lost Coin and the Prodigal Son, that God seeks out those who are lost and eagerly welcomes them back when they repent. Today, God has given each of those who are His Disciples the Holy Spirit. We are called to listen to God speak to us, through Scripture, through our prayer lives, throughout our lives as we work and play. God wants to use us to minister to others, to pray for others, to be His ambassadors. For renewal, or even revival to happen, we must make ourselves available to Him.
As I mentioned in my blog entry a while back about Dietrich Bonhoeffer. There is cheap grace and there is costly grace. Cheap grace is where we are not challenged, we are not changed. It costs us nothing. Costly grace is grace that causes us to change in response. That is, out of thankfulness to God for saving and redeeming us through the life, death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, we willing choose to do His Will. And, actively following God costs us. It costs us comfort, it costs us relationships, it might even cost us our jobs or maybe even our lives.
As I continue to lead the Bible Studies on the Minor Prophets, worship God in the Chapel services, and do my work here, I know I need to be more purposeful in praying for others. For the people of the country that I am, for the leaders here, and for those back in the States. I encourage each of you to share in this with me. But, more importantly than just praying for others… We all need to actively seek God's will with using us to bring about change that honors Him. It very well may cost some of us a lot. As a US Soldier, I am reminded often that “All gave some, some gave all.” In the E-mail devotional I get concerning the Persecuted Church, I am reminded daily that for Christ, “...some gave all.” Should I not be just as willing??
The direction that I felt God nudging me was to study the Minor Prophets. The Major Prophets are Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel. The Minor Prophets are Jonah, Micah, Haggai, Zephaniah, etc. The reason why they are called a 'Major' or 'Minor' Prophet is not because of content, but because of length. Isaiah, Jeremiah, and the other Major Prophets have 40 or more chapters. The Minor Prophets have 14 or fewer chapters. The content of all the Books of the Prophets are important. Some wrote more, some wrote less.
Although I have been writing a blog entry about doing the Bible Study on the Minor Prophets, that is not this particular entry. This entry is about something else that has been weighing on me, that God has been correcting me on. And, part of it is because of the studying that I have been doing.
If one studies the Old Testament, it becomes apparent that the Hebrew people would go through times of being very devout and sincere in following Yahweh (the Hebrew Name for God). And, there were times when they would very eagerly seek after the false gods of their neighbors and commit spiritual adultery against God, Who was to be their first and only love. And, with their spiritual adultery, along would come actual sexual immorality, human sacrifice and even child sacrifice, corruption within the legal and religious leaders, etc. God would repeatedly send Judges and later prophets to rebuke His people and call them to repentance so that they could, once again, enjoy His blessings.
Throughout Israel's history, they would sometimes being very faithful to God and sometimes be utterly rebellious against Him. But yet, God still sent people to call them to repentance. In Ezekiel 3 and 33, God calls Ezekiel to be the 'watchman' for Israel. Now, the role of a watchman was to, literately, stand in a tower or on the wall of the fortified town or city. They were there to watch for danger and, if they saw it coming, to give the inhabitants of the town or city warning. If they did their job and warned the people of pending danger, the people had a choice of listening or not to him. God called Ezekiel to be the watchman for Israel to warn them of coming judgment for their sins and rebellion. If Ezekiel did his part, he would not be held accountable for the actions of others. But, if Ezekiel did not do his part and warn others of God's judgments for their sins, then they would suffer the consequences and Ezekiel would be held accountable for not warning them.
Over the centuries, the Church (Body of Christ, not just a physical church or a particular denomination) has been both faithful and unfaithful to God. There have been seasons where the Church has eagerly sought God, to be obedient to His Will, and to allow Him to mighty and awesome things through them in the lives of others. And, there have been times where the Church, just like Israel, has abandoned God and sought the pleasures of the world. I know that not all churches in the United States and in Europe have forsaken God to embrace secularism, sexual immorality, etc. But, many have. In fact, several denominations have already turned towards or have embraced these things. They have given up the things of God in return to be accepted by the world and please others. And, for many of us in the Church, instead of fervently praying for our political leaders, religious leaders, etc., we have become more focused on other things. I know I have.
But yet, I am reminded of what God promised Solomon in I Kings 8. That is, no matter how far away a person or a nation may turn from God. Upon acknowledging their sins and turning back to God, He promised to forgive them and heal them. Jesus repeatedly told us in parables, like The Lost Coin and the Prodigal Son, that God seeks out those who are lost and eagerly welcomes them back when they repent. Today, God has given each of those who are His Disciples the Holy Spirit. We are called to listen to God speak to us, through Scripture, through our prayer lives, throughout our lives as we work and play. God wants to use us to minister to others, to pray for others, to be His ambassadors. For renewal, or even revival to happen, we must make ourselves available to Him.
As I mentioned in my blog entry a while back about Dietrich Bonhoeffer. There is cheap grace and there is costly grace. Cheap grace is where we are not challenged, we are not changed. It costs us nothing. Costly grace is grace that causes us to change in response. That is, out of thankfulness to God for saving and redeeming us through the life, death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, we willing choose to do His Will. And, actively following God costs us. It costs us comfort, it costs us relationships, it might even cost us our jobs or maybe even our lives.
As I continue to lead the Bible Studies on the Minor Prophets, worship God in the Chapel services, and do my work here, I know I need to be more purposeful in praying for others. For the people of the country that I am, for the leaders here, and for those back in the States. I encourage each of you to share in this with me. But, more importantly than just praying for others… We all need to actively seek God's will with using us to bring about change that honors Him. It very well may cost some of us a lot. As a US Soldier, I am reminded often that “All gave some, some gave all.” In the E-mail devotional I get concerning the Persecuted Church, I am reminded daily that for Christ, “...some gave all.” Should I not be just as willing??
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.
Saturday, May 23, 2015
Memorial and Remembrance
Memorial Day is on May 25th of this year. Many of you out there, who celebrate this day, will have BBQ, picnics, visit families, eat big meals, and maybe even watch a parade or go to a ceremony at a cemetery. Some of you will ignore the day, some of you will have to work, and some of you may ponder different things on this day.
I would encourage you to visit this Web Page, which is dedicated to this day. Unlike what many people think, it is not a day dedicated to honoring those who are presently serving (Armed Forces Day) or those who have served in the past (Veterans Day). Memorial Day is set aside to remember those who gave up their lives in service to this country and to protect our freedoms.
I am proud to be serving in the Nebraska National Guard and continue to serve my country. I have been deployed three times and am currently on my fourth deployment. But, Memorial Day is not about me and what I am doing. My Grandfather, MAJ (RET) Earl Underwood SR, who passed away a few years ago, proudly served as a career Army man. But, this day is not about him. Instead, let me tell you about my friend, Kyu Chay.
When I was Active Duty, from 2001-2005, I was stationed at FT Bragg, NC, home of the 82nd Airborne Division. I was a member of the Bravo Company (Blacksheep), 313th Military Intelligence Battalion. Being a Blacksheep, we were attached to 2nd Brigade of the 82nd Airborne Division (this is before things were restructured in 2005). During that time, I was an intelligence analyst and SGT Chay was a linguist (interpreter). We worked together at times and I always enjoyed working with him. He loved a good laugh, wanted to bring out the good of others, and was a very hard worker. Although we didn't hang out together after we were done working, he was someone I highly respected. So did pretty much everyone in our Blacksheep company.
In early 2003, we deployed to Kuwait, waiting for the green light to go into Iraq and remove Saddam Hussein from power. At times we worked near each other, other times we did not. Because we had different roles to play in intelligence gathering, I didn't see the linguists very often. Eventually, in 2004, we returned to the States. I earned my E5 and, within a year, left Active Duty. Although I did keep in touch with some friends from the 'Blacksheep Family,' as we called ourselves, Chay was one that I did not keep in contact with.
Even though not all of us were close friends, all of us who served in B CO Blacksheep were a family because we had served together. Not just in peace time, but during a time of armed conflict. For those who have not been in the military, law enforcement, or similar high risk job, it's hard to understand the kind of 'Family' that we are. And really, it is hard to describe. It's a brotherhood (in the sense of including both men and women) of people that work hard together, protecting each other, fighting for each others' lives so that, with luck and/or God's Grace (depending on your perspective) you can all return home together. Even though I have served with people that I enjoyed working with and with those who really got under my skin (and I am sure the feeling was mutual), I am proud to have served with all of them.
In 2006, I volunteered to deploy with the 867th Quartermaster Battalion, Nebraska National Guard. We started our deployment in Iraq during the summer and was there until the summer of 2007. It was during this time that my wife and I started dating, which was a real high point of my deployment. I learned that Kyu Chay, who had made Staff Sergeant (SSG), was also serving in Afghanistan. It would be his last service to this great country.
At the end of October, 2006, I received an E-mail from a fellow Blacksheep entitled, “Family Tragedy.” It was then that I found out that one of our own had paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving in Afghanistan. He had been killed by a roadside bomb. At first, I just felt a bit numb, shocked really. Here was a guy that I knew, had not been real close friends with, but had served with just three years prior. Not long after that, it just really, really hit me. Honestly, words can't express what it feels like when a brother-in-arms that you know, personally, lays down his or her life. He left behind a wife and two young kids, his parents and a brother. But, he also left behind more than 20 of the Blacksheep Family that had known him and had served with him, and called him a brother.
On Thursday, 21MAY2015, we had a Memorial Day 5K run/walk. When I ran it, I was thinking of Chay. Someone that I knew who had laid down his life for our Country. Even though it was over 90 degrees at night when we ran (it gets hot here in the Middle East), I still ran. Even though my body wanted to stop, I chose to still run. I reminded myself that even though I am not currently on Jump Status, I served as an Airborne Paratrooper for three years, and will always be one. I can push myself. I also reminded myself that, while I am still serving and can run, there are those who have served and gave their lives. They can no longer hold their children, love their spouses, work their jobs, talk with their friends. Therefore, I pushed myself to complete the 5K, even though my body was not wanting to run. I pushed myself because others who came before me are no longer able to. It's part of the reason why I still choose to serve. But, on that Memorial Day Run, I choose to push myself hard to run because Brothers (and Sisters)-in-Arms are no longer able to do so.
During this Memorial Day weekend, I hope you have fun being with friends and relaxing. But, please don't go around thanking those of us who are serving and still alive. Although we always do really appreciate it, help us to remember those who no longer can. Help us to remember the husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, who chose to put on the uniform and sign a blank check for “up to and including my life” in service to this country…...and never came home. It is because of their sacrifices that we remember this weekend. The holes in some of our hearts that will never be filled because one who was Family is no longer there. Let us remember and never forget.
I would encourage you to visit this Web Page, which is dedicated to this day. Unlike what many people think, it is not a day dedicated to honoring those who are presently serving (Armed Forces Day) or those who have served in the past (Veterans Day). Memorial Day is set aside to remember those who gave up their lives in service to this country and to protect our freedoms.
I am proud to be serving in the Nebraska National Guard and continue to serve my country. I have been deployed three times and am currently on my fourth deployment. But, Memorial Day is not about me and what I am doing. My Grandfather, MAJ (RET) Earl Underwood SR, who passed away a few years ago, proudly served as a career Army man. But, this day is not about him. Instead, let me tell you about my friend, Kyu Chay.
When I was Active Duty, from 2001-2005, I was stationed at FT Bragg, NC, home of the 82nd Airborne Division. I was a member of the Bravo Company (Blacksheep), 313th Military Intelligence Battalion. Being a Blacksheep, we were attached to 2nd Brigade of the 82nd Airborne Division (this is before things were restructured in 2005). During that time, I was an intelligence analyst and SGT Chay was a linguist (interpreter). We worked together at times and I always enjoyed working with him. He loved a good laugh, wanted to bring out the good of others, and was a very hard worker. Although we didn't hang out together after we were done working, he was someone I highly respected. So did pretty much everyone in our Blacksheep company.
In early 2003, we deployed to Kuwait, waiting for the green light to go into Iraq and remove Saddam Hussein from power. At times we worked near each other, other times we did not. Because we had different roles to play in intelligence gathering, I didn't see the linguists very often. Eventually, in 2004, we returned to the States. I earned my E5 and, within a year, left Active Duty. Although I did keep in touch with some friends from the 'Blacksheep Family,' as we called ourselves, Chay was one that I did not keep in contact with.
Even though not all of us were close friends, all of us who served in B CO Blacksheep were a family because we had served together. Not just in peace time, but during a time of armed conflict. For those who have not been in the military, law enforcement, or similar high risk job, it's hard to understand the kind of 'Family' that we are. And really, it is hard to describe. It's a brotherhood (in the sense of including both men and women) of people that work hard together, protecting each other, fighting for each others' lives so that, with luck and/or God's Grace (depending on your perspective) you can all return home together. Even though I have served with people that I enjoyed working with and with those who really got under my skin (and I am sure the feeling was mutual), I am proud to have served with all of them.
In 2006, I volunteered to deploy with the 867th Quartermaster Battalion, Nebraska National Guard. We started our deployment in Iraq during the summer and was there until the summer of 2007. It was during this time that my wife and I started dating, which was a real high point of my deployment. I learned that Kyu Chay, who had made Staff Sergeant (SSG), was also serving in Afghanistan. It would be his last service to this great country.
At the end of October, 2006, I received an E-mail from a fellow Blacksheep entitled, “Family Tragedy.” It was then that I found out that one of our own had paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving in Afghanistan. He had been killed by a roadside bomb. At first, I just felt a bit numb, shocked really. Here was a guy that I knew, had not been real close friends with, but had served with just three years prior. Not long after that, it just really, really hit me. Honestly, words can't express what it feels like when a brother-in-arms that you know, personally, lays down his or her life. He left behind a wife and two young kids, his parents and a brother. But, he also left behind more than 20 of the Blacksheep Family that had known him and had served with him, and called him a brother.
On Thursday, 21MAY2015, we had a Memorial Day 5K run/walk. When I ran it, I was thinking of Chay. Someone that I knew who had laid down his life for our Country. Even though it was over 90 degrees at night when we ran (it gets hot here in the Middle East), I still ran. Even though my body wanted to stop, I chose to still run. I reminded myself that even though I am not currently on Jump Status, I served as an Airborne Paratrooper for three years, and will always be one. I can push myself. I also reminded myself that, while I am still serving and can run, there are those who have served and gave their lives. They can no longer hold their children, love their spouses, work their jobs, talk with their friends. Therefore, I pushed myself to complete the 5K, even though my body was not wanting to run. I pushed myself because others who came before me are no longer able to. It's part of the reason why I still choose to serve. But, on that Memorial Day Run, I choose to push myself hard to run because Brothers (and Sisters)-in-Arms are no longer able to do so.
During this Memorial Day weekend, I hope you have fun being with friends and relaxing. But, please don't go around thanking those of us who are serving and still alive. Although we always do really appreciate it, help us to remember those who no longer can. Help us to remember the husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, who chose to put on the uniform and sign a blank check for “up to and including my life” in service to this country…...and never came home. It is because of their sacrifices that we remember this weekend. The holes in some of our hearts that will never be filled because one who was Family is no longer there. Let us remember and never forget.
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
Blood Oaths and Grace
Scripture:
Genesis 15
Ephesians 2:1-10
The other evening (17May2015), I was sitting in Chapel and the text of the sermon was based on Ephesians 2:1-10. The sermon was focused on God's Grace and that we don't deserve it and cannot earn it. I did enjoy the sermon, but I was distracted for a while.
I don't know about those of you out there reading this blog, but there are times where I am listening to a really good sermon, speech, TV show, etc., and my mind suddenly starts wandering on to something else. Sometimes this is because my mind tries to translate what I am hearing from English to German. And, since my vocabulary isn't the greatest (use it or loose it), I sometimes miss a lot because my mind is searching for the right German word or phrase for something that I just heard. Sometimes my mind wonders because of things going on in my life at that time. With either of these two situations, I usually have to consciously reign my mind in and refocus on the situation at hand so that I can continue to glean from what is being said.
Then, there are times like this evening where I am listening to something and then a Scripture passage comes to my mind. It has been my experience that, when this happens, it is because God desires me to do something with it. Sometimes, it is to share with a friend because the Scripture passage addresses something in their life. Other times it is something for me. Sometimes the connection is obvious. But, there are other times where the connection is not so obvious. In this particular situation, it took me a few moments to see the connection.
The passage that the Chaplain was using was Ephesians 2:1-10, talking about God's unmerited grace. That is, grace that we do not deserve and cannot afford to purchase. It is a free Gift from God and given to us, in spite of what we've done. This unmerited Grace puts us all on the same, level playing field. That is, we all stand before God in the same fashion, not deserving what we get. No matter what any of us have done (how 'good' or how 'bad'), all of us have sinned and are in need of God's grace. At the end of the day, none of us is any better than anyone else. All of us have sinned against God, each and every day, in though, word, and in deed. We all should receive His justice. Instead, He offers us His Grace.
It is interesting to me that God would bring to my mind the blood oath that took place in Genesis 15 during this sermon. Here is a good discussion of what a "blood oath” is and how it relates to Abram (later renamed by God to Abraham). In this context, it was a covenant that God made with Abram, promising him an heir from his own body. Remember, Abram was approximately 75 years old (Genesis 12:4) when he left Haran for Egypt. Because Abram and Sarai were childless, Abram assumed that his inheritance would go to one of his servants (Genesis 15:2-4). But, God again told Abram that would have a child born to him and Sarai. And, God made a covenant with Abram, a blood oath.
In Abram's time, two people would sometimes make a blood oath to seal an important purchase, treaty, or other important event. The large animals were cut in half and all of the blood and gore would be collected within an area, and perhaps birds of some sort, also. Then, both people would walk through the gore, between the dead animals. As each person did this, they were essentially declaring “may the rendering of the animals be done to myself if I do not uphold my part of the deal.” But yet, God does something different with Abram.
Instead of both God and Abram walking through the gore and each having to uphold their part of the deal, God prevented Abram from walking between the animals. In the form of a torch, God passed between the animal carcasses, but Abram did not. That is because God caused Abram to fall into a deep sleep and was unable to move. God and God alone would be responsible for all parts of His promise to Abram. There was nothing Abram could do to earn this blessing, and nothing that he could do that would take it away from him. God was granting Abram this blessing without any requirements. All Abram had to do was trust God to fulfill it, in His good timing.
That is what God gives to each of us. His Grace, that is very costly to Him, is something that we cannot ever earn. It is His free Grace that we have to accept on faith (to trust in, to receive). The Bible is full of God extending His Grace to us, in spite of our many, many failings. We are not to treat this Grace lightly. Because of how costly this Grace was for us, we should not just receive it, but respond with a thankful heart and live a life of worship, a living sacrifice to God. Not to 'repay it,' for there is no way that we could ever earn or pay back the Grace the God has given us. All we can do is receive it, trust in it, and live a life of thankfulness in response to all that God has done for us.
Genesis 15
Ephesians 2:1-10
The other evening (17May2015), I was sitting in Chapel and the text of the sermon was based on Ephesians 2:1-10. The sermon was focused on God's Grace and that we don't deserve it and cannot earn it. I did enjoy the sermon, but I was distracted for a while.
I don't know about those of you out there reading this blog, but there are times where I am listening to a really good sermon, speech, TV show, etc., and my mind suddenly starts wandering on to something else. Sometimes this is because my mind tries to translate what I am hearing from English to German. And, since my vocabulary isn't the greatest (use it or loose it), I sometimes miss a lot because my mind is searching for the right German word or phrase for something that I just heard. Sometimes my mind wonders because of things going on in my life at that time. With either of these two situations, I usually have to consciously reign my mind in and refocus on the situation at hand so that I can continue to glean from what is being said.
Then, there are times like this evening where I am listening to something and then a Scripture passage comes to my mind. It has been my experience that, when this happens, it is because God desires me to do something with it. Sometimes, it is to share with a friend because the Scripture passage addresses something in their life. Other times it is something for me. Sometimes the connection is obvious. But, there are other times where the connection is not so obvious. In this particular situation, it took me a few moments to see the connection.
The passage that the Chaplain was using was Ephesians 2:1-10, talking about God's unmerited grace. That is, grace that we do not deserve and cannot afford to purchase. It is a free Gift from God and given to us, in spite of what we've done. This unmerited Grace puts us all on the same, level playing field. That is, we all stand before God in the same fashion, not deserving what we get. No matter what any of us have done (how 'good' or how 'bad'), all of us have sinned and are in need of God's grace. At the end of the day, none of us is any better than anyone else. All of us have sinned against God, each and every day, in though, word, and in deed. We all should receive His justice. Instead, He offers us His Grace.
It is interesting to me that God would bring to my mind the blood oath that took place in Genesis 15 during this sermon. Here is a good discussion of what a "blood oath” is and how it relates to Abram (later renamed by God to Abraham). In this context, it was a covenant that God made with Abram, promising him an heir from his own body. Remember, Abram was approximately 75 years old (Genesis 12:4) when he left Haran for Egypt. Because Abram and Sarai were childless, Abram assumed that his inheritance would go to one of his servants (Genesis 15:2-4). But, God again told Abram that would have a child born to him and Sarai. And, God made a covenant with Abram, a blood oath.
In Abram's time, two people would sometimes make a blood oath to seal an important purchase, treaty, or other important event. The large animals were cut in half and all of the blood and gore would be collected within an area, and perhaps birds of some sort, also. Then, both people would walk through the gore, between the dead animals. As each person did this, they were essentially declaring “may the rendering of the animals be done to myself if I do not uphold my part of the deal.” But yet, God does something different with Abram.
Instead of both God and Abram walking through the gore and each having to uphold their part of the deal, God prevented Abram from walking between the animals. In the form of a torch, God passed between the animal carcasses, but Abram did not. That is because God caused Abram to fall into a deep sleep and was unable to move. God and God alone would be responsible for all parts of His promise to Abram. There was nothing Abram could do to earn this blessing, and nothing that he could do that would take it away from him. God was granting Abram this blessing without any requirements. All Abram had to do was trust God to fulfill it, in His good timing.
That is what God gives to each of us. His Grace, that is very costly to Him, is something that we cannot ever earn. It is His free Grace that we have to accept on faith (to trust in, to receive). The Bible is full of God extending His Grace to us, in spite of our many, many failings. We are not to treat this Grace lightly. Because of how costly this Grace was for us, we should not just receive it, but respond with a thankful heart and live a life of worship, a living sacrifice to God. Not to 'repay it,' for there is no way that we could ever earn or pay back the Grace the God has given us. All we can do is receive it, trust in it, and live a life of thankfulness in response to all that God has done for us.
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
Stereotypes and Prejudice
Picture this… You see a white guy running down a road, and he appears to be running as hard as he can. Be hind him, you see a black SUV with police lights on top and a black guy driving. The guy driving is wearing a Military Police uniform and is telling the white guy running to, “Keep running!” Think about this mental picture for a few minutes…
Over the last few months, I have become more and more disgusted with the media concerning stereotypes. Whether it was the situation in Ferguson, MO, last year, or the more recent situation in Baltimore, MD. Hundreds of people are protesting and capitalizing on many different stereotypes. Just a few of them that I see are:
- All blacks are persecuted and have to rise up.
- Most white cops are evil racists and must be eradicated.
- Since the Civil Rights Marches during the 1960's didn't 'fully get rid of' racism, we have to act out violently.
- Anytime a white cop arrests a black person, it has to be racially motivated.
I could go on and on, because there are many, many different stereotypes out there. There are stereotypes of people in colleges, there are stereotypes of people in politics, there are stereotypes of those in the military. But, since Ferguson and Baltimore have been in the news so much recently, I will focus on those.
I am sure that most of you out there reading this blog know the cliché, “Don't judge a book by it's cover...” In a nutshell, that means don't make a decision about reading or not reading a book based solely on the title, the cover art, etc. Actually take time to read the summary of the book, the preface, or scan a couple of the chapters. I know that all of us are guilty of doing this. Back in April, I had a birthday and I decided to pick out two books for myself since I knew that, due to an upcoming deployment, I would not get much in the way of gifts. And, I have been a very avid reader since I was in grade school. So, I spent some time scanning a number of books in a store. Since I did not have a lot of time, I had to make a purchase fairly quickly.
Because of that, I 'judged a lot of books by their covers.' If the genre was one that I didn't care for, wasn't a small paperback, or the title did not sound appealing, I did not consider it further. But, after going through once and not finding anything 'good,' I realized that I would have to spend a little more time looking at at least some of the books more closely, otherwise I would not have any travel books. So, I took more time looking through the books and finally found two that appealed to me. One appealed to me because it was about a former US soldier and his Military Working Dog (MWD), both who had been released from the military and doing private contract work. Being in the military and having a dog myself, when I saw what the book was actually about, I chose to buy it. And, although I haven't quite finished it yet, I have really enjoyed it! (For those who want to know, it is “The Kill Switch; A Tucker Wayne Novel” by James Rollins and Grant Blackwood.)
I also selected another book called, “The Lost Island” by Preston and Child. I have not read it yet, but based on the description on the back, it is potentially a good book. I love Indiana Jones movies, but I am a little critical of some of the books out there concerning archeology or searching for lost treasure. Being a lover of history and having studied theology and ancient writings (primarily ancient Hebrew and ancient Greek), I am critical with how such such movies/books are done.
I know that, had I not changed my attitude towards finding a book last month, I would have missed out on at least one really good book. The authors of “The Kill Switch” have done a very good job and portraying the former soldier and his dog in a believable way. And, since my family has had a dog for almost 7 years, and I have been in the military for almost 14 years now, I am a bit critical of such things. Sure, there are things that have to be taken with a grain of salt, like how some of the fight scenes are described. But, that comes with most any book or movie. I am very glad that I did not go with my 'first impression,' especially with this particular book.
As I just mentioned, I have been with the US Army, both Active Duty and with the Nebraska National Guard, for almost 14 whole years. I have had the privilege of serving with many different people of very different vocations, ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, etc. Although I have been skeptical of some people based on first impressions, I have found that I am often wrong with what I initially thought. They were either having a bad day, I misread them, or something else. Most of the people I have served with I have been proud to call a brother or sister in arms.
Even while in college and seminary, I learned that initial assumptions about a person can end up being totally wrong. My life has been blessed by knowing each of this different people from all over the United States. Nay… From all over the world. Each of these experiences have enriched my life and enabled me to be a better person, I am greatly thankful for each of them.
The rioting that has happened in Baltimore and in Ferguson are excellent examples, I believe, of what can happen when people focus on fist impressions and/or the prejudices that they already have. Instead of seeking to find out what all of the details of the incident to see if the situation was justified or not, they immediately assume that the white police officer was biased and racist because he caused injury and/or death to a black person.
Yes, it is saddening when a person dies, and having to live with the fact that someone died based on the actions you took, either justly or unjustly, are things that each person faced with those situations will have to remember and deal with for the rest of his/her life. I am thankful that, as of writing this blog entry, I have not been forced to take a life. I hope that I never have to. But, due to the nature of the work that I do, as a Military Police Officer or a Corporal with the Nebraska Department of Corrections, that will always be a significant possibility. Every time someone is seriously injured or killed during any kind of military, law enforcement, corrections, or even self-defense situation an investigation will be done. It's mandatory. It's done to make sure that what ever force was used was actually justifiable, based on what the person knew at that time.
To make an assumption that a white cop killed a black person for no other reason than racism and prejudice, without making an attempt to know why everything happened, that makes your racist and prejudice. In assuming that a situation happened based on what your perceive as the causes, without seeking to find out the actual details, makes you just as 'pre-judging' as a white person who judges a black person to be on welfare and incompetent and lazy because he/she saw the person wearing dirty clothes and not working during 'regular banker's hours.' Or, just as prejudice as a person who equates all followers of Islam with those who are extremist and seek to force their 'version of Islam' onto others.
We are all fallen people with broken relationships with each other and with God. Do to our finiteness, we cannot see all things or understand all that happens around us. And, in some jobs, a person may have to make judgment calls and react to a situation based on a very incomplete understanding of all that goes on around them. The military, law enforcement, working in corrections, and firefighting are just some of the many jobs where a person has to make a split-second decision based on what they know, at that time. If they perceive that their life or the life of someone else is in jeopardy of death or serious bodily injury, they have to react. Even if it is later proved to have been a bad decision, if it can be proved that, at that time, they acted correctly, based on what they typical person in a similar situation would have reacted, then their actions will be considered justified.
When a person makes judgments based only on what they think or assume happened, and make no attempt to find out what the details of the situation is, it is very likely that your perception and understanding will be incorrect. That is bad enough. But, to go around and state that your understanding of the situation is true (that the shooting in Ferguson, MO, was racially motivated, for example) and not listen at all to evidence being shown to the contradict what you believe, then you are not doing anything positive for society. You are, in fact, actively making things worse. And, if you you such situations as an excuse to do violent things, like assault officers, destroy private property, and otherwise riot and be destructive, you are no better than the person and situation that you are 'rioting' against. When you participate in such violent acts, you show yourself to be as closed minded, arrogant and hateful as the person and situation that you are 'rioting' against.
And, it doesn't help with the media, no matter who they are, help to portray that kind of stereotyping. My wife grew-up in the Baltimore area and we have talked at length about that situation. It isn't just a white/black thing, there is also deep rooted anger concerning job and education opportunities, perception that law enforcement officers of any race arrest first, ask questions later (perceived or actual), etc. These people who give us the news or share their 'educated insights' into situations should be the first ones to actively seek out the truth and then use that knowledge to bring things to a more peaceful end, not purposely encouraging it to be worse (either because it makes them look better, more rating, or just too lazy to seek out the truth).
We live in a fallen world. It is easy for us to hate, seek only after our own gain, seek after answers that please us while dispelling truths that make us uncomfortable, etc. It is a daily challenge to stop and examine all of the evidence. It is much easier, from the safety of one's own living room to 'armchair quarterback' the decisions of others. It is important to examine things that happen in the world and make informed decisions on them. But yet, the important word here is 'informed.' That requires time and energy. Just like making new friends, experiencing new places, learning a new skill, or reading a new book, it all takes time and energy. Although first impressions will always happen (and we should strive to make good first impressions), a person is more than just one's first impression. A situation is more than just your initial thoughts after seeing or hearing about it later on.
After all of that…. Let's go back to the illustration that I started this blog out. The white guy with a black cop driving behind him, telling him to keep running. Think it was an ironic version of Ferguson that happened somewhere in the world? Did you even think that the cop was chasing a white criminal? I am sure it looked quite humorous, a white guy running on the road with a SUV behind him and a black cop telling him to keep running. I am sure that it got a lot of double takes. The thing is, I don't know for sure, because I didn't see it. I was the guy running.
Back in 2011, during third deployment to Iraq, I had to take the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). For those that don't know, the standard Army APFT includes the number of push-ups and sit-ups done by an individual within 2 minutes (for each event), and then a timed two mile run. While I was getting ready to take my APFT, a friend and fellow Military Policeman asked me if I would like him to pace me. I told him that it would be wonderful if he did. After a little discussing, we settled on him trailing me, lights on for our safety, and he would call out the time every so often. He also 'encouraged' my to 'keep running' throughout the 2 miles. Thanks to his help, I was able to successfully pass the 2 mile portion of the APFT. And, although we laughed later on about how it must have looked, I observed that it would have looked even more absurd (and hilarious), if he had been in front and I had 'chased' him. Now, wouldn't that be the sight, a white guy 'chasing' a black MP in a SUV, lights flashing, and him yelling at me to 'keep running!' Coffee and doughnuts, anyone?!
Over the last few months, I have become more and more disgusted with the media concerning stereotypes. Whether it was the situation in Ferguson, MO, last year, or the more recent situation in Baltimore, MD. Hundreds of people are protesting and capitalizing on many different stereotypes. Just a few of them that I see are:
- All blacks are persecuted and have to rise up.
- Most white cops are evil racists and must be eradicated.
- Since the Civil Rights Marches during the 1960's didn't 'fully get rid of' racism, we have to act out violently.
- Anytime a white cop arrests a black person, it has to be racially motivated.
I could go on and on, because there are many, many different stereotypes out there. There are stereotypes of people in colleges, there are stereotypes of people in politics, there are stereotypes of those in the military. But, since Ferguson and Baltimore have been in the news so much recently, I will focus on those.
I am sure that most of you out there reading this blog know the cliché, “Don't judge a book by it's cover...” In a nutshell, that means don't make a decision about reading or not reading a book based solely on the title, the cover art, etc. Actually take time to read the summary of the book, the preface, or scan a couple of the chapters. I know that all of us are guilty of doing this. Back in April, I had a birthday and I decided to pick out two books for myself since I knew that, due to an upcoming deployment, I would not get much in the way of gifts. And, I have been a very avid reader since I was in grade school. So, I spent some time scanning a number of books in a store. Since I did not have a lot of time, I had to make a purchase fairly quickly.
Because of that, I 'judged a lot of books by their covers.' If the genre was one that I didn't care for, wasn't a small paperback, or the title did not sound appealing, I did not consider it further. But, after going through once and not finding anything 'good,' I realized that I would have to spend a little more time looking at at least some of the books more closely, otherwise I would not have any travel books. So, I took more time looking through the books and finally found two that appealed to me. One appealed to me because it was about a former US soldier and his Military Working Dog (MWD), both who had been released from the military and doing private contract work. Being in the military and having a dog myself, when I saw what the book was actually about, I chose to buy it. And, although I haven't quite finished it yet, I have really enjoyed it! (For those who want to know, it is “The Kill Switch; A Tucker Wayne Novel” by James Rollins and Grant Blackwood.)
I also selected another book called, “The Lost Island” by Preston and Child. I have not read it yet, but based on the description on the back, it is potentially a good book. I love Indiana Jones movies, but I am a little critical of some of the books out there concerning archeology or searching for lost treasure. Being a lover of history and having studied theology and ancient writings (primarily ancient Hebrew and ancient Greek), I am critical with how such such movies/books are done.
I know that, had I not changed my attitude towards finding a book last month, I would have missed out on at least one really good book. The authors of “The Kill Switch” have done a very good job and portraying the former soldier and his dog in a believable way. And, since my family has had a dog for almost 7 years, and I have been in the military for almost 14 years now, I am a bit critical of such things. Sure, there are things that have to be taken with a grain of salt, like how some of the fight scenes are described. But, that comes with most any book or movie. I am very glad that I did not go with my 'first impression,' especially with this particular book.
As I just mentioned, I have been with the US Army, both Active Duty and with the Nebraska National Guard, for almost 14 whole years. I have had the privilege of serving with many different people of very different vocations, ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, etc. Although I have been skeptical of some people based on first impressions, I have found that I am often wrong with what I initially thought. They were either having a bad day, I misread them, or something else. Most of the people I have served with I have been proud to call a brother or sister in arms.
Even while in college and seminary, I learned that initial assumptions about a person can end up being totally wrong. My life has been blessed by knowing each of this different people from all over the United States. Nay… From all over the world. Each of these experiences have enriched my life and enabled me to be a better person, I am greatly thankful for each of them.
The rioting that has happened in Baltimore and in Ferguson are excellent examples, I believe, of what can happen when people focus on fist impressions and/or the prejudices that they already have. Instead of seeking to find out what all of the details of the incident to see if the situation was justified or not, they immediately assume that the white police officer was biased and racist because he caused injury and/or death to a black person.
Yes, it is saddening when a person dies, and having to live with the fact that someone died based on the actions you took, either justly or unjustly, are things that each person faced with those situations will have to remember and deal with for the rest of his/her life. I am thankful that, as of writing this blog entry, I have not been forced to take a life. I hope that I never have to. But, due to the nature of the work that I do, as a Military Police Officer or a Corporal with the Nebraska Department of Corrections, that will always be a significant possibility. Every time someone is seriously injured or killed during any kind of military, law enforcement, corrections, or even self-defense situation an investigation will be done. It's mandatory. It's done to make sure that what ever force was used was actually justifiable, based on what the person knew at that time.
To make an assumption that a white cop killed a black person for no other reason than racism and prejudice, without making an attempt to know why everything happened, that makes your racist and prejudice. In assuming that a situation happened based on what your perceive as the causes, without seeking to find out the actual details, makes you just as 'pre-judging' as a white person who judges a black person to be on welfare and incompetent and lazy because he/she saw the person wearing dirty clothes and not working during 'regular banker's hours.' Or, just as prejudice as a person who equates all followers of Islam with those who are extremist and seek to force their 'version of Islam' onto others.
We are all fallen people with broken relationships with each other and with God. Do to our finiteness, we cannot see all things or understand all that happens around us. And, in some jobs, a person may have to make judgment calls and react to a situation based on a very incomplete understanding of all that goes on around them. The military, law enforcement, working in corrections, and firefighting are just some of the many jobs where a person has to make a split-second decision based on what they know, at that time. If they perceive that their life or the life of someone else is in jeopardy of death or serious bodily injury, they have to react. Even if it is later proved to have been a bad decision, if it can be proved that, at that time, they acted correctly, based on what they typical person in a similar situation would have reacted, then their actions will be considered justified.
When a person makes judgments based only on what they think or assume happened, and make no attempt to find out what the details of the situation is, it is very likely that your perception and understanding will be incorrect. That is bad enough. But, to go around and state that your understanding of the situation is true (that the shooting in Ferguson, MO, was racially motivated, for example) and not listen at all to evidence being shown to the contradict what you believe, then you are not doing anything positive for society. You are, in fact, actively making things worse. And, if you you such situations as an excuse to do violent things, like assault officers, destroy private property, and otherwise riot and be destructive, you are no better than the person and situation that you are 'rioting' against. When you participate in such violent acts, you show yourself to be as closed minded, arrogant and hateful as the person and situation that you are 'rioting' against.
And, it doesn't help with the media, no matter who they are, help to portray that kind of stereotyping. My wife grew-up in the Baltimore area and we have talked at length about that situation. It isn't just a white/black thing, there is also deep rooted anger concerning job and education opportunities, perception that law enforcement officers of any race arrest first, ask questions later (perceived or actual), etc. These people who give us the news or share their 'educated insights' into situations should be the first ones to actively seek out the truth and then use that knowledge to bring things to a more peaceful end, not purposely encouraging it to be worse (either because it makes them look better, more rating, or just too lazy to seek out the truth).
We live in a fallen world. It is easy for us to hate, seek only after our own gain, seek after answers that please us while dispelling truths that make us uncomfortable, etc. It is a daily challenge to stop and examine all of the evidence. It is much easier, from the safety of one's own living room to 'armchair quarterback' the decisions of others. It is important to examine things that happen in the world and make informed decisions on them. But yet, the important word here is 'informed.' That requires time and energy. Just like making new friends, experiencing new places, learning a new skill, or reading a new book, it all takes time and energy. Although first impressions will always happen (and we should strive to make good first impressions), a person is more than just one's first impression. A situation is more than just your initial thoughts after seeing or hearing about it later on.
After all of that…. Let's go back to the illustration that I started this blog out. The white guy with a black cop driving behind him, telling him to keep running. Think it was an ironic version of Ferguson that happened somewhere in the world? Did you even think that the cop was chasing a white criminal? I am sure it looked quite humorous, a white guy running on the road with a SUV behind him and a black cop telling him to keep running. I am sure that it got a lot of double takes. The thing is, I don't know for sure, because I didn't see it. I was the guy running.
Back in 2011, during third deployment to Iraq, I had to take the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). For those that don't know, the standard Army APFT includes the number of push-ups and sit-ups done by an individual within 2 minutes (for each event), and then a timed two mile run. While I was getting ready to take my APFT, a friend and fellow Military Policeman asked me if I would like him to pace me. I told him that it would be wonderful if he did. After a little discussing, we settled on him trailing me, lights on for our safety, and he would call out the time every so often. He also 'encouraged' my to 'keep running' throughout the 2 miles. Thanks to his help, I was able to successfully pass the 2 mile portion of the APFT. And, although we laughed later on about how it must have looked, I observed that it would have looked even more absurd (and hilarious), if he had been in front and I had 'chased' him. Now, wouldn't that be the sight, a white guy 'chasing' a black MP in a SUV, lights flashing, and him yelling at me to 'keep running!' Coffee and doughnuts, anyone?!
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.
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