Have you ever noticed that when we pray we ask for deliverance, healing, comfort, or more of whatever it is we want? Just wondering.
Have you ever heard people talk about going through difficult times and then testify about how much God taught them through those experiences - and how they wouldn't want anything about that time to change?
We are on a journey through Acts right now, and as I read I am stunned by the fact that the early believers did not pray for the persecution to stop. No, they prayed for boldness in order to speak clearly and continually about their Savior. And as I'm thinking about that, I'm reminded that later Paul often spoke of how he was able to witness to those around him while in prison.
What if we prayed for boldness instead of deliverance? What if we prayed for illness rather than healing? What if we prayed for discomfort instead of comfort. What if we stopped trying to acquire things and spent all that effort on helping others? What if we prayed that WE would be bold? What if we prayed that through everything God would be glorified? What might God reveal to us about Himself if we prayed differently?
What if . . . .
Psalm 116:12-14: What shall I render to the Lord for all His benefits to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord, I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of His people.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Monday, September 19, 2011
Random Thoughts on Prayer
Prayer. A six-letter word that can be more difficult than it sounds. How do we do it? What is its purpose? How often do we do it? What are we to pray about? Who and what should we pray for? So many questions.
Prayer is not a natural for me. As a matter of fact it's a real struggle at times. Now, if you tell me that it's all about having a conversation with God? I think I do that almost always. One conversation right after another -- about everything that's going on in my realm at the time -- both mundane and important.
I have friends, some of you know them, Dana, Jana, and Jennifer, who melt my heart of stone when they pray. Their prayers make me feel as though I've entered the very throne room of God. If I had to say what I've missed most about being home? That would probably be it. Praying with Dana, Jana, and Jennifer. I'm so glad God has given me the privilege of hearing them . . .
Last year our small group started a video series by Jim Cymbala, pastor of The Brooklyn Tabernacle in New York City. Their experience with prayer is amazing and well documented. One of the things that has stuck with me from that series is this, when they pray for someone they pray that ultimately that person would come to the place where they will call upon the name of the Lord. Let that roll around and settle in your brain and then your heart for a few minutes. At the risk of offending some of you -- that scares the hell out of me. Maybe because I know how stubborn I can be at times.
This morning as I was trying to finish up the study in 2 Samuel (there's been lots of interruptions) I came across this passage in 1 Chronicles 29:18. David is praying for his people and for Solomon. "Oh LORD, the GOD of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, our fathers, preserve this forever in the intentions of the heart of Your people, and direct their heart to You." Sweet, sweet magnificence.
If I call upon the name of the Lord who or what can interfere with that? When I call upon the name of the Lord I've gone straight to the top. He alone has all the answers I need. He alone can release me from the chains that bind. With Jesus as our High Priest we ARE in the very throne room of God. Amazing.
If I pray for your heart to be directed to God where else can you go? Is there any better place to be? Who else can calm your fears, convict you of sin, and heal your mind, body, soul, and spirit? There is no one else.
Two short lines, but so powerful. And so for all who read this today and others on my heart, here is my prayer for you: May you call upon the name of the Lord, and may your heart be directed to Him.
This blog is dedicated to those beautiful friends of mine who speak so sweetly and so eloquently when they talk with their Father. I love you ladies! - Dana Hodges, Jana McDonald, Jennifer Parker
Prayer is not a natural for me. As a matter of fact it's a real struggle at times. Now, if you tell me that it's all about having a conversation with God? I think I do that almost always. One conversation right after another -- about everything that's going on in my realm at the time -- both mundane and important.
I have friends, some of you know them, Dana, Jana, and Jennifer, who melt my heart of stone when they pray. Their prayers make me feel as though I've entered the very throne room of God. If I had to say what I've missed most about being home? That would probably be it. Praying with Dana, Jana, and Jennifer. I'm so glad God has given me the privilege of hearing them . . .
Last year our small group started a video series by Jim Cymbala, pastor of The Brooklyn Tabernacle in New York City. Their experience with prayer is amazing and well documented. One of the things that has stuck with me from that series is this, when they pray for someone they pray that ultimately that person would come to the place where they will call upon the name of the Lord. Let that roll around and settle in your brain and then your heart for a few minutes. At the risk of offending some of you -- that scares the hell out of me. Maybe because I know how stubborn I can be at times.
This morning as I was trying to finish up the study in 2 Samuel (there's been lots of interruptions) I came across this passage in 1 Chronicles 29:18. David is praying for his people and for Solomon. "Oh LORD, the GOD of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, our fathers, preserve this forever in the intentions of the heart of Your people, and direct their heart to You." Sweet, sweet magnificence.
If I call upon the name of the Lord who or what can interfere with that? When I call upon the name of the Lord I've gone straight to the top. He alone has all the answers I need. He alone can release me from the chains that bind. With Jesus as our High Priest we ARE in the very throne room of God. Amazing.
If I pray for your heart to be directed to God where else can you go? Is there any better place to be? Who else can calm your fears, convict you of sin, and heal your mind, body, soul, and spirit? There is no one else.
Two short lines, but so powerful. And so for all who read this today and others on my heart, here is my prayer for you: May you call upon the name of the Lord, and may your heart be directed to Him.
This blog is dedicated to those beautiful friends of mine who speak so sweetly and so eloquently when they talk with their Father. I love you ladies! - Dana Hodges, Jana McDonald, Jennifer Parker
Monday, September 12, 2011
Not Just A Quilt
I started a beginning quilting class on Saturday. My Mamma made many, many quilts, and I can never remember a time when she wasn't working on one. Most were pieced and quilted by hand. I used to love looking at the finished product and seeing pieces of different articles of clothing worn by myself or some member of the family. Always a fun thing. And yes, I still have many of her quilts. They hold a very special place in my heart.
Since I need another project to add to the long list of ongoing projects (sarcasm font) I decided it was time to get busy. I went from being the only girl who never took home-ec in school to being the mom who made everything our family wore. The only thing I didn't master was making Mike's dress pants. Then, like other moms I had to start working full time, and the sewing machine went into the closet for 20 years. It's been out the last year making blankets for little guys. O Happy Day!
Oh, and I also taught sewing classes. So, imagine my surprise when I go to the first class and learn all kinds of new things! I am so excited. And of course, technology and new methods and products continue to evolve, meaning I am way behind. Some of my notions will need to be replaced, because it's important to use the right tools. Michael will be so impressed. Not.
After some basic lingo instruction we discussed the correct way to cut the fabric using a rotary cutter and mat. I can't tell you how many inches of ribbing for t-shirts I've used that process on. Millions, okay, maybe just thousands, but a lot. Our instructor stressed the importance of squaring up the fabric in order to make precision cuts, and the need to re-square everything after the third cut. If you get off just a little on one cut by the end of 12 you could be in serious trouble. The seam width is also very important. So important that we were given fabric pieces to practice on in order to get the correct settings on our machines.
There are some great spiritual parallels here. In the quilt of our lives we have 'pieces' from many different places. We can look back and see the influences and impacts made by other people. Some of them were made directly, some were made indirectly - a piece of fabric from someone else's clothing. And those influences, like pieces of a quilt, show up in different patterns, and different paradigms depending on the time and event. We continue to learn and gain new insights. And new pieces are being introduced all the time. And they all come together to make us who we are and who we are becoming. Some of the pieces we really like, they are our favorites. There are others we'd love to forget, if only we could.
Occasionally we need to stop and 'square-up.' We need to do some checking and make sure we're on the right track. Are we using the right tools? Are we using them correctly? It's easy to get off track. We start letting things in a little at a time - an eighth of a inch that ends up being a whole inch. An inch that distorts, warps, and damages the finished product. An inch that makes the quilt difficult to work with, makes it hard to look at, and causes pain to the creator and those around it.
Hebrews says, "the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." God's word is our 'squarer-up-er'. When we learn and study different pieces of it we are influenced by it, given deeper insights.
We think we know one part well and then a different instructor comes on the scene and refreshes and updates the truth for us. It means different things to us at different times. A verse that once convicted and admonished now speaks comfort and rest. It reminds us of who we were, and who we are becoming in Christ Jesus. It encourages and admonishes to keep us from self-inflicted pain. It reminds us that He is using everything to make us into a new creature, a beautiful creation.
Is He teaching you new things? Is He updating and giving you new insights into what you already know? Is He bringing you the correct tools? Is He telling you to 'square-up?' Are you even paying attention to know what He's doing? He IS the Master Quilter, and He longs to make a beautiful creation, each one unique, each one with its own purpose, each one with its own flaws which He makes right.
O Happy Day!
Since I need another project to add to the long list of ongoing projects (sarcasm font) I decided it was time to get busy. I went from being the only girl who never took home-ec in school to being the mom who made everything our family wore. The only thing I didn't master was making Mike's dress pants. Then, like other moms I had to start working full time, and the sewing machine went into the closet for 20 years. It's been out the last year making blankets for little guys. O Happy Day!
Oh, and I also taught sewing classes. So, imagine my surprise when I go to the first class and learn all kinds of new things! I am so excited. And of course, technology and new methods and products continue to evolve, meaning I am way behind. Some of my notions will need to be replaced, because it's important to use the right tools. Michael will be so impressed. Not.
After some basic lingo instruction we discussed the correct way to cut the fabric using a rotary cutter and mat. I can't tell you how many inches of ribbing for t-shirts I've used that process on. Millions, okay, maybe just thousands, but a lot. Our instructor stressed the importance of squaring up the fabric in order to make precision cuts, and the need to re-square everything after the third cut. If you get off just a little on one cut by the end of 12 you could be in serious trouble. The seam width is also very important. So important that we were given fabric pieces to practice on in order to get the correct settings on our machines.
There are some great spiritual parallels here. In the quilt of our lives we have 'pieces' from many different places. We can look back and see the influences and impacts made by other people. Some of them were made directly, some were made indirectly - a piece of fabric from someone else's clothing. And those influences, like pieces of a quilt, show up in different patterns, and different paradigms depending on the time and event. We continue to learn and gain new insights. And new pieces are being introduced all the time. And they all come together to make us who we are and who we are becoming. Some of the pieces we really like, they are our favorites. There are others we'd love to forget, if only we could.
Occasionally we need to stop and 'square-up.' We need to do some checking and make sure we're on the right track. Are we using the right tools? Are we using them correctly? It's easy to get off track. We start letting things in a little at a time - an eighth of a inch that ends up being a whole inch. An inch that distorts, warps, and damages the finished product. An inch that makes the quilt difficult to work with, makes it hard to look at, and causes pain to the creator and those around it.
Hebrews says, "the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." God's word is our 'squarer-up-er'. When we learn and study different pieces of it we are influenced by it, given deeper insights.
We think we know one part well and then a different instructor comes on the scene and refreshes and updates the truth for us. It means different things to us at different times. A verse that once convicted and admonished now speaks comfort and rest. It reminds us of who we were, and who we are becoming in Christ Jesus. It encourages and admonishes to keep us from self-inflicted pain. It reminds us that He is using everything to make us into a new creature, a beautiful creation.
Is He teaching you new things? Is He updating and giving you new insights into what you already know? Is He bringing you the correct tools? Is He telling you to 'square-up?' Are you even paying attention to know what He's doing? He IS the Master Quilter, and He longs to make a beautiful creation, each one unique, each one with its own purpose, each one with its own flaws which He makes right.
O Happy Day!
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Great Expectations
While participating in Beth Moore's study of Esther a couple of years ago I kept being intrigued by her referral to a young woman who felt guilty because she had not lived up to everyone's expectations of her. That's played around in my head on occasion. We are good at telling children and youth they are 'special' and can do 'great things' if they just put their minds to it. Are we doing them a favor by telling them that, and what exactly are 'great things?'
Our daughter and youngest son both finished their bachelor's degrees in just three and a half years. Part of that feat was due to taking concurrent classes in high school, the other part was due to them being focused on what they wanted. We assumed the same thing would happen once they started grad school. Each had a specific goal in mind, a plan from God, if you will, about where and what they were to be doing. But it didn't happen that way. Were their expectations set too high? Did they hear the 'wrong' voice from God?
Recently, our daughter has started seeing someone. He lives in Chicago (everyone calm down-he's a Texas boy). He came down one weekend to see Jeanna and to meet us. The siblings are all abuzz. Their expectations for him are high, after all, it's Jeanna. This last weekend he met her in DFW to meet her friends. Their expectations are also high. He has yet to meet the siblings, but I'm thinking the DFW crowd was good practice. I actually felt bad for him having to face them. They're a great crowd, but those expectations . . .
So again, the question, "Is it fair to put our expectations on someone else. Heck, is it even fair for us to put expectations on ourselves?" Perhaps.
We know that children perform at a higher level when high expectations are set. On a personal level, I know that I perform at a higher level when certain expectations are placed on me. I'm guessing you've experienced the same.
Maybe the answer lies in the rigidity or flexibility of our expectations (and the expectations of others). Maybe when we remember that God is sovereign, and He has no problem changing our plans and those that we think are His plans, life just becomes a little more forgiving. Isn't that called grace? Maybe those changes are a reminder to us about who is actually in control.
Maybe we need to re-define 'great things'. Instead of that meaning we will be well-known in our field, or command great audiences, or invent new policies, etc., maybe it just means that we quietly go about engaging others in our workplace, or at Wal-Mart, or the kid behind the counter at the fast food place. Maybe it means we encourage someone else in a bible study class, or the gym, or when we're getting a pedicure. Maybe it means God has other things He wants to share with us and that fast-track we're on needs to be interrupted in order to get our attention.
Maybe we just need to be concerned with what God's expectations of us are. Are we available? Are we aware? Are we intentional? Are we always on mission? Micah 6:8 says, "And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." Sounds simple doesn't it?
One of the most important things I learned during our addiction treatment process was this, "Trust people to be who they are." I get push back on that a lot, but wow-to me, it screams 'Freedom!' For example, we trusted our teenagers to make good decisions, to act on the principles we had instilled in them since birth. But when they were seventeen? I trusted them to be seventeen. I knew they would make good decisions for the most part, but I also knew they had those 17-year-old brains, ideas, hormones, influences . . . I knew that some days they were going to act as if they were 17. And when they did, there were no meltdowns, recriminations, hateful words spoken in anger. . . It meant that we set down the consequences, used those as teaching moments, and moved on. And yes, we messed up too. We were parents who had our own issues (you know, like not liking rules and stuff)
So, do you make others feel guilty because they aren't meeting your expectations? Are you beating yourself up because you haven't lived up to others expectations of you? or the expectations you have for yourself? Maybe it's time to have a heart to heart with the One who knows all things. Maybe what He wants is for you to stop striving and to rest in who He is. Maybe it's time to concentrate on being instead of doing. His expectations are high, but there's help, grace, and mercy to meet them. And chances are, you're right where He wants you to be in order to work on those expectations.
Our daughter and youngest son both finished their bachelor's degrees in just three and a half years. Part of that feat was due to taking concurrent classes in high school, the other part was due to them being focused on what they wanted. We assumed the same thing would happen once they started grad school. Each had a specific goal in mind, a plan from God, if you will, about where and what they were to be doing. But it didn't happen that way. Were their expectations set too high? Did they hear the 'wrong' voice from God?
Recently, our daughter has started seeing someone. He lives in Chicago (everyone calm down-he's a Texas boy). He came down one weekend to see Jeanna and to meet us. The siblings are all abuzz. Their expectations for him are high, after all, it's Jeanna. This last weekend he met her in DFW to meet her friends. Their expectations are also high. He has yet to meet the siblings, but I'm thinking the DFW crowd was good practice. I actually felt bad for him having to face them. They're a great crowd, but those expectations . . .
So again, the question, "Is it fair to put our expectations on someone else. Heck, is it even fair for us to put expectations on ourselves?" Perhaps.
We know that children perform at a higher level when high expectations are set. On a personal level, I know that I perform at a higher level when certain expectations are placed on me. I'm guessing you've experienced the same.
Maybe the answer lies in the rigidity or flexibility of our expectations (and the expectations of others). Maybe when we remember that God is sovereign, and He has no problem changing our plans and those that we think are His plans, life just becomes a little more forgiving. Isn't that called grace? Maybe those changes are a reminder to us about who is actually in control.
Maybe we need to re-define 'great things'. Instead of that meaning we will be well-known in our field, or command great audiences, or invent new policies, etc., maybe it just means that we quietly go about engaging others in our workplace, or at Wal-Mart, or the kid behind the counter at the fast food place. Maybe it means we encourage someone else in a bible study class, or the gym, or when we're getting a pedicure. Maybe it means God has other things He wants to share with us and that fast-track we're on needs to be interrupted in order to get our attention.
Maybe we just need to be concerned with what God's expectations of us are. Are we available? Are we aware? Are we intentional? Are we always on mission? Micah 6:8 says, "And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." Sounds simple doesn't it?
One of the most important things I learned during our addiction treatment process was this, "Trust people to be who they are." I get push back on that a lot, but wow-to me, it screams 'Freedom!' For example, we trusted our teenagers to make good decisions, to act on the principles we had instilled in them since birth. But when they were seventeen? I trusted them to be seventeen. I knew they would make good decisions for the most part, but I also knew they had those 17-year-old brains, ideas, hormones, influences . . . I knew that some days they were going to act as if they were 17. And when they did, there were no meltdowns, recriminations, hateful words spoken in anger. . . It meant that we set down the consequences, used those as teaching moments, and moved on. And yes, we messed up too. We were parents who had our own issues (you know, like not liking rules and stuff)
So, do you make others feel guilty because they aren't meeting your expectations? Are you beating yourself up because you haven't lived up to others expectations of you? or the expectations you have for yourself? Maybe it's time to have a heart to heart with the One who knows all things. Maybe what He wants is for you to stop striving and to rest in who He is. Maybe it's time to concentrate on being instead of doing. His expectations are high, but there's help, grace, and mercy to meet them. And chances are, you're right where He wants you to be in order to work on those expectations.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Trust and Obey
Oh dear. I'm always shocked at how much time has passed in between each writing. My new goal is to post once a week. We shall see how that works out. Now that I've written it for the world to read perhaps I will attempt to be more accountable. And again, oh dear.
I have wanted to blog about 2 Samuel 6 since completing the lesson earlier this summer. The subject keeps rolling around in my brain, pushing, pulling, nagging, convicting ... The problem is I'm just not sure how to deal with what I've learned in this passage. It's called for action on my part, and making decisions that I really don't want to make.
Those who have known me well for a long time know two things about me. 1) I am a non-conformist. I'm not sure I mean to be, or set out to be, it just happens that way. 2) I am not particularly fond of rules. In my humble estimation rules are basically written for people like me to break. I don't mean to be disagreeable, I don't even mean to be disobedient, it's just that rules get in my way. And yes, I've matured enough to know that some rules are written in granite, and they aren't going anywhere, and out of respect to others I try to be agreeable to 'the rules.'
In Chapter Six we read the story of David and the people of Israel moving the ark of the covenant from the house of Abinadab to Jerusalem. They have made a new cart for the ark to be carried on, they are celebrating before the Lord with all kinds of instruments, and then they come to the threshing floor of Nacon. The oxen pulling the cart apparently stumble and the cart appears to be falling over. Uzzah, leading the cart, reaches out his hand to catch the ark and we read, "And the anger of the Lord burned against Uzzah, and God struck him down there for his irreverence; and he died there by the ark of God." What??? Did I really just read that? Did I miss something?
I don't know about you, but this story has bothered me most of my life. I just don't understand. David made a NEW cart. They were celebrating. They were worshiping God. The ark was about to fall on the ground. Uzzah was doing a GOOD thing! Right? Or was he? And what was David's role in all of this?
I remember discussing this passage with a friend about 12 years ago. She had read a book which mentioned this incident, and the line in the book said something like this, (God's talking), "You think your hand is cleaner than the dirt I created???" Ouch. Well that certainly added a different element into the story, so for 12 years I've walked around wondering what to do with that little thought.
Well, let's skip over to 1 Chronicles 15:1-16:4. Here we read that David and the people had not moved the ark according to the ordinances of God. Only the Levites were allowed to carry the ark of the covenant. Not only that, there were cleansings to be performed before they could carry the ark. It was to be carried in a specific manner. Very detailed instruction had been given by God to Moses on the handling of the ark of the covenant. David had neglected those instructions. There doesn't appear to be any rebellion on the part of David, no animosity, no defiance on his part, he just didn't heed the full counsel of God.
One of the questions asked in the study was, "What can you learn from today's study that you can apply to your life?" Here are some of my answers: 1) It is important to ask God for instruction/guidance; 2) His ways are holy; 3) Obedience to Him/His ways bring order and joy; 4) Disregarding His law/precepts/foundations brings pain and death
Did David know the rules? I don't know. But in this case, even if he didn't, ignorance was no excuse. And it didn't change the outcome-Uzzah still died. Sometimes you just have to follow the rules. Even when you mean well, like Uzzah. Even when you're the king, or the leader, or the parent, or the rule-breaker . . .
We can debate all we want about what we deem the 'non-negotiables', and we can pretend that God is who we think He should be, and that for us He will make an exception. But frankly, I haven't seen much evidence of that. It's sobering isn't it? And the ramifications are staggering. And the responsibility of knowing is daunting.
Trust and obey, there is no other way . . .
I have wanted to blog about 2 Samuel 6 since completing the lesson earlier this summer. The subject keeps rolling around in my brain, pushing, pulling, nagging, convicting ... The problem is I'm just not sure how to deal with what I've learned in this passage. It's called for action on my part, and making decisions that I really don't want to make.
Those who have known me well for a long time know two things about me. 1) I am a non-conformist. I'm not sure I mean to be, or set out to be, it just happens that way. 2) I am not particularly fond of rules. In my humble estimation rules are basically written for people like me to break. I don't mean to be disagreeable, I don't even mean to be disobedient, it's just that rules get in my way. And yes, I've matured enough to know that some rules are written in granite, and they aren't going anywhere, and out of respect to others I try to be agreeable to 'the rules.'
In Chapter Six we read the story of David and the people of Israel moving the ark of the covenant from the house of Abinadab to Jerusalem. They have made a new cart for the ark to be carried on, they are celebrating before the Lord with all kinds of instruments, and then they come to the threshing floor of Nacon. The oxen pulling the cart apparently stumble and the cart appears to be falling over. Uzzah, leading the cart, reaches out his hand to catch the ark and we read, "And the anger of the Lord burned against Uzzah, and God struck him down there for his irreverence; and he died there by the ark of God." What??? Did I really just read that? Did I miss something?
I don't know about you, but this story has bothered me most of my life. I just don't understand. David made a NEW cart. They were celebrating. They were worshiping God. The ark was about to fall on the ground. Uzzah was doing a GOOD thing! Right? Or was he? And what was David's role in all of this?
I remember discussing this passage with a friend about 12 years ago. She had read a book which mentioned this incident, and the line in the book said something like this, (God's talking), "You think your hand is cleaner than the dirt I created???" Ouch. Well that certainly added a different element into the story, so for 12 years I've walked around wondering what to do with that little thought.
Well, let's skip over to 1 Chronicles 15:1-16:4. Here we read that David and the people had not moved the ark according to the ordinances of God. Only the Levites were allowed to carry the ark of the covenant. Not only that, there were cleansings to be performed before they could carry the ark. It was to be carried in a specific manner. Very detailed instruction had been given by God to Moses on the handling of the ark of the covenant. David had neglected those instructions. There doesn't appear to be any rebellion on the part of David, no animosity, no defiance on his part, he just didn't heed the full counsel of God.
One of the questions asked in the study was, "What can you learn from today's study that you can apply to your life?" Here are some of my answers: 1) It is important to ask God for instruction/guidance; 2) His ways are holy; 3) Obedience to Him/His ways bring order and joy; 4) Disregarding His law/precepts/foundations brings pain and death
Did David know the rules? I don't know. But in this case, even if he didn't, ignorance was no excuse. And it didn't change the outcome-Uzzah still died. Sometimes you just have to follow the rules. Even when you mean well, like Uzzah. Even when you're the king, or the leader, or the parent, or the rule-breaker . . .
We can debate all we want about what we deem the 'non-negotiables', and we can pretend that God is who we think He should be, and that for us He will make an exception. But frankly, I haven't seen much evidence of that. It's sobering isn't it? And the ramifications are staggering. And the responsibility of knowing is daunting.
Trust and obey, there is no other way . . .
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Random Thoughts
I knew July was going to be crazy, and indeed, it has not let me down. June was fairly quiet, which has made all the difference I think. From spending time with Asher and Kristi to hanging out on Edisto Beach with the Wright family for a week God has not been silent. His Spirit is always there whispering, bumping, and pointing out things of great worth that He does not want me to miss. Actually, the story begins in late May on our first trip to Malakoff.
We attended church with Nathan and Kristi the third Sunday in May. Their pastor and his wife had just returned from an adoption conference in Kentucky. His sermon that morning was titled, "The Silent Call." He began spewing out numbers reflecting children who were orphans around the world. He also brought it home and gave numbers for Texas and then their county. I always think I should be accustomed to hearing such things because I worked in the field, but I have to tell you that any time those figures are repeated I feel as though I've been punched in the gut. Staggering. As a church we've lost our way. Our comforts have become more important to us than our children. The major prophets all spoke to the same issues when dealing with a sinful Israel. What were those issues? 1) Idolatry 2) Adultery 3) Their neglect of orphans and widows Sometimes the more things change, the more they stay the same.
The next event also happened at church on a Sunday morning in Malakoff. The pastor's message was again challenging. The sermon was entitled "Investing in Authentic Returns," and the following points were made: 1) Faith Requires Action 2) Action Requires Awareness 3) Awareness Requires Responsibility and 4) Responsibility Requires Intentionality. I'll let you do your own wrestling with those.
The most exciting thing for me that morning was watching him baptize his own young son (our pastor recently did that as well) and then baptize two older men. One appeared to have numerous health issues and required many extra hands to get him into the baptistry, yet he was determined to be there. The other was more middle-aged, and clearly broken by the love of a faithful Savior. The latter had come to Christ as he developed a relationship with the pastor at a block party sponsored by the church. It was an amazing reminder of how Christ pursues us, young with little experience, and old with many regrets. All three answered the call to "come and see."
And then we were off to Edisto Island to spend a week on the beach with family. We have spent many, many days on a beach, but never consecutive days. We were absolutely amazed at how the beach changed from day to day, morning to evening. So for all you folks who make fun of me for changing my furniture around every other week or so I'll have you know that God does the same, only His is at the beach. And for the record, I love brown pelicans. They are amazing. They are huge, and brown, and ugly, but they can soar in the air so gracefully. It was fun to watch them as they flew together in formation, 15 to 20 in each flock. Incredible.
It's also good to see family, make new memories, and remember other times -- some good, some not so good. I love to hear and see how God is working in their lives. Sometimes there's ultimate blessings to share, and at times hard, brutal lessons to learn -- and two truths always make themselves known. 1) Our sin not only affects us, but ripples down and affects everyone around us; and 2) God is close, loves us dearly, and never leaves us hanging. There are new jobs, new friendships, new struggles, new insights, and a HUGE God who takes every step with us. Amazing.
While at the beach we received news. News that made us laugh out loud and shake our heads. We also had news that broke our hearts, kept us awake until the early hours of morning, and brought flowing tears of grief. And to be honest, the question is always the same, why? And again, God reminds us that He is sovereign, His ways are not our ways, and He has a plan. I don't particularly care for any of those answers. But I know those are the right answers because we've walked this path before. A family member said last week that they always thought if you trusted God and did the right thing hard things wouldn't happen to you. If only. Scripture tells a different story. We are being conformed into the image of Christ, and Christ suffered. Bummer.
We made it home Friday evening. The puppies were happy to see us. Jeanna was happy to see us. Saturday we went to a production of Ragtime. It was awesome. So many of the truths God has pointed out to me over the last few weeks were restated in this production. And, as usual, it's the off the wall stuff that sticks in my head. Younger Brother is standing in front of Coalhouse offering him aid. In his head (Younger Brother's) he is making all of these encouraging, factual statements (which are being sung by the Company), yet all that comes out of his mouth is, "I can blow things up!"
Alas, our hearts think so deeply and we have so much we want to say, yet all we can manage is, "I can blow things up!" Such was my dilemma last week as we attempted (on my part anyway) to pray before our last meal together. So the prayers for our family may remain unspoken, but they do not remain un-prayed. Our heavenly Father who knows me better than I know myself can attest to the desires of my heart when it comes to family. And even without my spoken prayers, He holds each one in the palm of His hand.
We attended church with Nathan and Kristi the third Sunday in May. Their pastor and his wife had just returned from an adoption conference in Kentucky. His sermon that morning was titled, "The Silent Call." He began spewing out numbers reflecting children who were orphans around the world. He also brought it home and gave numbers for Texas and then their county. I always think I should be accustomed to hearing such things because I worked in the field, but I have to tell you that any time those figures are repeated I feel as though I've been punched in the gut. Staggering. As a church we've lost our way. Our comforts have become more important to us than our children. The major prophets all spoke to the same issues when dealing with a sinful Israel. What were those issues? 1) Idolatry 2) Adultery 3) Their neglect of orphans and widows Sometimes the more things change, the more they stay the same.
The next event also happened at church on a Sunday morning in Malakoff. The pastor's message was again challenging. The sermon was entitled "Investing in Authentic Returns," and the following points were made: 1) Faith Requires Action 2) Action Requires Awareness 3) Awareness Requires Responsibility and 4) Responsibility Requires Intentionality. I'll let you do your own wrestling with those.
The most exciting thing for me that morning was watching him baptize his own young son (our pastor recently did that as well) and then baptize two older men. One appeared to have numerous health issues and required many extra hands to get him into the baptistry, yet he was determined to be there. The other was more middle-aged, and clearly broken by the love of a faithful Savior. The latter had come to Christ as he developed a relationship with the pastor at a block party sponsored by the church. It was an amazing reminder of how Christ pursues us, young with little experience, and old with many regrets. All three answered the call to "come and see."
And then we were off to Edisto Island to spend a week on the beach with family. We have spent many, many days on a beach, but never consecutive days. We were absolutely amazed at how the beach changed from day to day, morning to evening. So for all you folks who make fun of me for changing my furniture around every other week or so I'll have you know that God does the same, only His is at the beach. And for the record, I love brown pelicans. They are amazing. They are huge, and brown, and ugly, but they can soar in the air so gracefully. It was fun to watch them as they flew together in formation, 15 to 20 in each flock. Incredible.
It's also good to see family, make new memories, and remember other times -- some good, some not so good. I love to hear and see how God is working in their lives. Sometimes there's ultimate blessings to share, and at times hard, brutal lessons to learn -- and two truths always make themselves known. 1) Our sin not only affects us, but ripples down and affects everyone around us; and 2) God is close, loves us dearly, and never leaves us hanging. There are new jobs, new friendships, new struggles, new insights, and a HUGE God who takes every step with us. Amazing.
While at the beach we received news. News that made us laugh out loud and shake our heads. We also had news that broke our hearts, kept us awake until the early hours of morning, and brought flowing tears of grief. And to be honest, the question is always the same, why? And again, God reminds us that He is sovereign, His ways are not our ways, and He has a plan. I don't particularly care for any of those answers. But I know those are the right answers because we've walked this path before. A family member said last week that they always thought if you trusted God and did the right thing hard things wouldn't happen to you. If only. Scripture tells a different story. We are being conformed into the image of Christ, and Christ suffered. Bummer.
We made it home Friday evening. The puppies were happy to see us. Jeanna was happy to see us. Saturday we went to a production of Ragtime. It was awesome. So many of the truths God has pointed out to me over the last few weeks were restated in this production. And, as usual, it's the off the wall stuff that sticks in my head. Younger Brother is standing in front of Coalhouse offering him aid. In his head (Younger Brother's) he is making all of these encouraging, factual statements (which are being sung by the Company), yet all that comes out of his mouth is, "I can blow things up!"
Alas, our hearts think so deeply and we have so much we want to say, yet all we can manage is, "I can blow things up!" Such was my dilemma last week as we attempted (on my part anyway) to pray before our last meal together. So the prayers for our family may remain unspoken, but they do not remain un-prayed. Our heavenly Father who knows me better than I know myself can attest to the desires of my heart when it comes to family. And even without my spoken prayers, He holds each one in the palm of His hand.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Mighty Men
This blog is one part of the 2 Samuel edition from a few weeks back. Before we begin, I need to insert a few disclaimers so that all of you know. We have two sons, and we have two grandsons. And I really do think boys are the funniest creatures God has created--especially the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade varieties. (Kristi tells me when Asher hits 7th grade she's sending him to me for a couple of years.) Teaching junior high students (boys AND girls) has been one of the highlights of my life. They make me laugh out loud. I LOVE them. Sometimes they act as if they're three, and sometimes as if they're thirty. Oh how I love them!!!
Okay, back to where I need to be. In January while Jason was in India, I went and stayed with Kami and Kayden. As I spent Sunday through Friday with Mr. Kayden Busy Boy I thought of lots of things in this life he will encounter--and the all important question, will he be ready? What does that even look like?
Several things come to mind. The most important is a personal relationship with Christ. I want him to accept Christ as his Savior early in life. That means he not only needs to hear God's word, it needs to be lived out before him in the real live world. He needs to see it from parents, grandparents, other family, and friends. Mostly, he needs to see it from his Dad. (no pressure here, nope, none at all) He needs to see those who call themselves 'Christian' on mission in their normal everyday world. I'm not talking about perfection here. I want authenticity. That means when I blow it - he knows it. I'm talking about the underlying knowledge that as we go about our life we are on mission because of Jesus Christ and who He is. We should be a walking invitation for others to "Come and see."
He also needs permission to be a boy. Unfortunately, our culture does all it can to discourage boyhood. God may have created men and women as equals, but He did NOT make them the same. We ARE different. His brain is wired differently from yours Mom. It's okay. Let him have his dirt, and worms, and bugs, and balls, and bats, and all those things that make you squirm. But also, let him have his teddy bear and his favorite blanket. Just because he's boy doesn't mean he doesn't want kisses and cuddles. Let him cry at stupid movies, (just don't be asking Nathan how many he and I have cried through together.) A man after God's own heart--David was a warrior and David was a poet, and he excelled at both.
Respect. Such a little word with huge consequences. I'll never forget in a parent/teen session we did at Immanuel when this word caused massive amounts of comments, groans, and snickers. And the underlying pain was palpable. And for the most part, these were churched families. He needs to learn how to respect others--those similar to him, those who are way different from him, those with whom he agrees, and those with whom he disagrees, those who are beautiful, and those who are ugly, those who show him respect, and even those who do not. Even those who love the color blue. (family joke) Mom and Dad, he learns respect from you. How you treat him, and how you treat one another and others matters. That respect word? It's HUGE. (as Swig would say)
I'm afraid this is getting too long so I really need to wrap it up. May I just throw out some one-liners? Mom, teach him to be the man you would want your daughter to marry. (among other things that means the sock drawer doesn't refill by magic, the oven is for baking, and you can't be hateful to your siblings or your mother) Dad, if you're the typical sitcom dad? Repent!!! The best thing you can do for your kids is love their Mom. Spend time with him. Let him know you're on his side. Our pastor reminded us again yesterday that children who have involved fathers do better at everything! They do life better. Give that gift to your boys.
So what do I want for my boys? for Kayden, and Asher, and Nolan, and Jace, and Stephen, and Sam, and Jack, and Parker, and Mac, and Jonathan, and Austin, and Zach, and Jacob, and Colton, and Wyatt, and Caleb, and Balta, and Isaac, and all the rest? I want them to be men who love their Savior, and their wives, and their children. I want them to be men who will stand up for what is right. I want them to hit home runs, and score soccer goals, and get dirty. I want them to sing in the choir or march in the band. I want them to trust God when He sends them as summer missionaries instead of working a full time job to earn money for college. I want them to be men who will step up to teach a Bible class or coach a little league team. I want them to be brave enough to mentor other boys (those without involved fathers) who need a man to admonish and encourage them. I want them to be great leaders and great followers. They need to know how to do both.
David's mighty men were brave, loyal, gallant, faithful, and real. They loved David and they loved their families. Remember Ziklag? They risked their lives for David simply by joining him as he ran from Saul. They seemed determined to uphold what God had made clear. And yes, sometimes too zealously. And in all of that they weren't afraid to rebuke David when necessary. They were followers, but they were also leaders. Scripture names each one separately. Seriously. What a Hall of Fame!
Friends, our communities need godly men now more than ever before. Referring again to the meeting with Kay Arthur a few months ago, she said one of their ministry's greatest needs is men who will lead Precept classes. Teach your sons to be Mighty Men of God. I'm praying for you and for them.
Okay, back to where I need to be. In January while Jason was in India, I went and stayed with Kami and Kayden. As I spent Sunday through Friday with Mr. Kayden Busy Boy I thought of lots of things in this life he will encounter--and the all important question, will he be ready? What does that even look like?
Several things come to mind. The most important is a personal relationship with Christ. I want him to accept Christ as his Savior early in life. That means he not only needs to hear God's word, it needs to be lived out before him in the real live world. He needs to see it from parents, grandparents, other family, and friends. Mostly, he needs to see it from his Dad. (no pressure here, nope, none at all) He needs to see those who call themselves 'Christian' on mission in their normal everyday world. I'm not talking about perfection here. I want authenticity. That means when I blow it - he knows it. I'm talking about the underlying knowledge that as we go about our life we are on mission because of Jesus Christ and who He is. We should be a walking invitation for others to "Come and see."
He also needs permission to be a boy. Unfortunately, our culture does all it can to discourage boyhood. God may have created men and women as equals, but He did NOT make them the same. We ARE different. His brain is wired differently from yours Mom. It's okay. Let him have his dirt, and worms, and bugs, and balls, and bats, and all those things that make you squirm. But also, let him have his teddy bear and his favorite blanket. Just because he's boy doesn't mean he doesn't want kisses and cuddles. Let him cry at stupid movies, (just don't be asking Nathan how many he and I have cried through together.) A man after God's own heart--David was a warrior and David was a poet, and he excelled at both.
Respect. Such a little word with huge consequences. I'll never forget in a parent/teen session we did at Immanuel when this word caused massive amounts of comments, groans, and snickers. And the underlying pain was palpable. And for the most part, these were churched families. He needs to learn how to respect others--those similar to him, those who are way different from him, those with whom he agrees, and those with whom he disagrees, those who are beautiful, and those who are ugly, those who show him respect, and even those who do not. Even those who love the color blue. (family joke) Mom and Dad, he learns respect from you. How you treat him, and how you treat one another and others matters. That respect word? It's HUGE. (as Swig would say)
I'm afraid this is getting too long so I really need to wrap it up. May I just throw out some one-liners? Mom, teach him to be the man you would want your daughter to marry. (among other things that means the sock drawer doesn't refill by magic, the oven is for baking, and you can't be hateful to your siblings or your mother) Dad, if you're the typical sitcom dad? Repent!!! The best thing you can do for your kids is love their Mom. Spend time with him. Let him know you're on his side. Our pastor reminded us again yesterday that children who have involved fathers do better at everything! They do life better. Give that gift to your boys.
So what do I want for my boys? for Kayden, and Asher, and Nolan, and Jace, and Stephen, and Sam, and Jack, and Parker, and Mac, and Jonathan, and Austin, and Zach, and Jacob, and Colton, and Wyatt, and Caleb, and Balta, and Isaac, and all the rest? I want them to be men who love their Savior, and their wives, and their children. I want them to be men who will stand up for what is right. I want them to hit home runs, and score soccer goals, and get dirty. I want them to sing in the choir or march in the band. I want them to trust God when He sends them as summer missionaries instead of working a full time job to earn money for college. I want them to be men who will step up to teach a Bible class or coach a little league team. I want them to be brave enough to mentor other boys (those without involved fathers) who need a man to admonish and encourage them. I want them to be great leaders and great followers. They need to know how to do both.
David's mighty men were brave, loyal, gallant, faithful, and real. They loved David and they loved their families. Remember Ziklag? They risked their lives for David simply by joining him as he ran from Saul. They seemed determined to uphold what God had made clear. And yes, sometimes too zealously. And in all of that they weren't afraid to rebuke David when necessary. They were followers, but they were also leaders. Scripture names each one separately. Seriously. What a Hall of Fame!
Friends, our communities need godly men now more than ever before. Referring again to the meeting with Kay Arthur a few months ago, she said one of their ministry's greatest needs is men who will lead Precept classes. Teach your sons to be Mighty Men of God. I'm praying for you and for them.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)