Looking in the rear view mirror of my Chevy van, I noticed that the center metal strip of the rear doors remained a constant distance from the highway white strip. When the van went around a corner or moved, it was always the same proportional distance away. . . and then I had this thought -- is it possible to drive by simply looking in your rear view mirror?
Now I know that some of you possibly reading this are wondering, he isn't going to is he? while those of you who truly know me, know that ... oh yes he is! So I cast my gaze to where I had come from and tried to drive successfully down the road.
At first, the experience was incredible. It worked! I was driving by viewing everything from the rear of the vehicle, and then it happened. I began hearing the sound of rumbling. The kind of rumbling that comes when ones tires hit that strip on the right side of the road. And I began to have other thoughts, thoughts like, how can you know when the road ahead curves to the right or the left. Looking only to where you have been doesn't allow you to adjust to the future direction of your vehicle. How interesting!
I have now discovered that in order to successfully navigate ones course, you must look ahead to where you are going. Looking to the past helps assess that we indeed are going in the right direction, but we must concentrate our vision toward the future.
If this forward looking is important in driving, how important is it in our lives, and in our walk with God?
As we close out 2008, there is some value to look to the past, but I'm guessing it is more important to look to the future. What is your "destination" for 2009? What road or path is God putting before you? Are you recognizing that you must always cast yours forward?
Have a very happy and forward looking New Year!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Monday, December 8, 2008
Giving In?
My father-in-law has a tendency to latch on to a phrase (or a joke) and repeat it for an extended period of time – each time saying it as if it were the first time. Right now it is an old German phrase – “Too fast old, too late smart”
When I was much younger, if someone were to get in my way, or challenge me, I would rise to the occasion and meet the challenge, letting the pieces land where they will. Over the years I have grown and matured a bit to realize that strength is not always in meeting the challenge head on, but sometimes it is in knowing when to give in.
These thoughts flooded in on me as I read these Proverbs today - "He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city." (16:32). The point is made in the opposite way in Proverbs 25:28, "Like a city that is broken into and without walls, is a man who has no control over his spirit."
Humility, submission, servant hood, acceptance of God's will--characteristics which our macho culture dismisses as weakness, but which are the epitome of strength. Only the truly strong can walk away from a fight when he could win it. Only the truly strong can humble themselves to get down and wash the feet of others, as Jesus did the disciples.
The toughest job any of us will ever have to do is to submit ourselves to another. I guess that makes Philippians 2:5-8 all that more significant.
What today does God want you to submit to? Giving in to His will isn’t weakness, it is an incredible display of strength!
When I was much younger, if someone were to get in my way, or challenge me, I would rise to the occasion and meet the challenge, letting the pieces land where they will. Over the years I have grown and matured a bit to realize that strength is not always in meeting the challenge head on, but sometimes it is in knowing when to give in.
These thoughts flooded in on me as I read these Proverbs today - "He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit, than he who captures a city." (16:32). The point is made in the opposite way in Proverbs 25:28, "Like a city that is broken into and without walls, is a man who has no control over his spirit."
Humility, submission, servant hood, acceptance of God's will--characteristics which our macho culture dismisses as weakness, but which are the epitome of strength. Only the truly strong can walk away from a fight when he could win it. Only the truly strong can humble themselves to get down and wash the feet of others, as Jesus did the disciples.
The toughest job any of us will ever have to do is to submit ourselves to another. I guess that makes Philippians 2:5-8 all that more significant.
What today does God want you to submit to? Giving in to His will isn’t weakness, it is an incredible display of strength!
Monday, November 10, 2008
Out of the Box!
Many times, life, real-authentic-messy-authentic life, doesn't fit into our neat little boxes.
On a special night in 1995 the world of my family was altered forever with the placement of a new foster child – an 8 week old girl. Several years later we had the great pleasure to adopt her into our hearts and family. When it came time to give her a name, we decided to just tack “Lowery” on the end of her given name – she now had 5 names. Her name goes from side to side on her birth certificate.
When we named her, we didn’t pay close attention to a hyphen that was placed between her birth surname, and her new surname. Many years later, my daughter came home from school angry. When I asked her what upset her, she explained that in school when her name was called, it was called under the “M’s” for McMillan, not the “L’s” for Lowery. “I’m not a McMillan, Dad, I’m a Lowery”. So we hired an attorney and had the hyphen removed.
Recently we received a phone call from the middle school guidance counselor who called to inform me that they had notified my daughter’s teachers of the change, but they had one more issue. In the school’s data system they use first name, middle initial, last name for each student, so what initial of her 3 middle names did we want to use. – Life didn’t fit their boxes.
My father is 82. A while ago he purchased genealogy software to help him put together our family history. As he began this task we soon discovered that the software doesn’t fit our family – they don’t have categories for us (I hear you snickering . . .). My father has been married four times, and has children by three of them. June’s grandson was living with her at the time of their marriage, and after their marriage, my Dad, adopted his new grandson . . . so my father’s grandson is my brother . . . see what I mean?
I am reminded that God doesn’t always fit in our boxes. How can the infinite be contained by the finite? He can’t! Our world measures success by popularity, by wealth, by influence. God measures by obedience, faithfulness, and faith. God is always about taking the foolish things of this world.
What about your life doesn’t fit neatly in someone’s box? What about your relationship with God is outside the box? Take time today to celebrate Life!
On a special night in 1995 the world of my family was altered forever with the placement of a new foster child – an 8 week old girl. Several years later we had the great pleasure to adopt her into our hearts and family. When it came time to give her a name, we decided to just tack “Lowery” on the end of her given name – she now had 5 names. Her name goes from side to side on her birth certificate.
When we named her, we didn’t pay close attention to a hyphen that was placed between her birth surname, and her new surname. Many years later, my daughter came home from school angry. When I asked her what upset her, she explained that in school when her name was called, it was called under the “M’s” for McMillan, not the “L’s” for Lowery. “I’m not a McMillan, Dad, I’m a Lowery”. So we hired an attorney and had the hyphen removed.
Recently we received a phone call from the middle school guidance counselor who called to inform me that they had notified my daughter’s teachers of the change, but they had one more issue. In the school’s data system they use first name, middle initial, last name for each student, so what initial of her 3 middle names did we want to use. – Life didn’t fit their boxes.
My father is 82. A while ago he purchased genealogy software to help him put together our family history. As he began this task we soon discovered that the software doesn’t fit our family – they don’t have categories for us (I hear you snickering . . .). My father has been married four times, and has children by three of them. June’s grandson was living with her at the time of their marriage, and after their marriage, my Dad, adopted his new grandson . . . so my father’s grandson is my brother . . . see what I mean?
I am reminded that God doesn’t always fit in our boxes. How can the infinite be contained by the finite? He can’t! Our world measures success by popularity, by wealth, by influence. God measures by obedience, faithfulness, and faith. God is always about taking the foolish things of this world.
What about your life doesn’t fit neatly in someone’s box? What about your relationship with God is outside the box? Take time today to celebrate Life!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Must Have Been The Fumes!
I can't believe it has been since the middle of August when i made my last post - it must have been the fumes. I mean, after all, my bike does run a little rich. Honesty is one of our core values here at RFMC and I need to let you know that the fumes are really just an excuse . . . well actually the fumes have nothing to do with it.
The fact is I just have been so busy with other things that I let the blogging thing go by the wayside. Not that I haven't been on my computer, or that I never had a thought about the need to blog -- no the truth be told, I chose other things as greater priority in my life.
Sometimes the same thing happens in our daily walk with God. We don't consciously decide not to have a relationship with him. Our lives become crowded and hectic, and other priorities slide in. Soon we lose perspective. Then it is only as we look back that we see how far away we are from where we thought we should be.
Where are you on your journey? What priorities in your life have been pushed aside? What items need to be restored to your life?
The fact is I just have been so busy with other things that I let the blogging thing go by the wayside. Not that I haven't been on my computer, or that I never had a thought about the need to blog -- no the truth be told, I chose other things as greater priority in my life.
Sometimes the same thing happens in our daily walk with God. We don't consciously decide not to have a relationship with him. Our lives become crowded and hectic, and other priorities slide in. Soon we lose perspective. Then it is only as we look back that we see how far away we are from where we thought we should be.
Where are you on your journey? What priorities in your life have been pushed aside? What items need to be restored to your life?
Monday, July 14, 2008
Day Three -- 2008 Bike Trip
Last evening while in Altoona, PA, I went to see the Indiana Jones movie. I wasn't sure if I would enjoy this movie as Harrison Ford is quite a bit older -- maybe I was expecting him to chase guys around with a walker, but the movie was good. I give it an 8. As I was leaving the theatre and went to start my bike, there was no start! The battery was near dead. The only people left in the parking lot were two teen girls.
I think I gave them a little pause, if not an outright scare. Late at night. Two teen girls alone in the parking lot, and this 50 something biker dude comes over and asks them to help out. They were more than gracious and I was able to get the bike started and get back to my room.
Once at the motel, I hooked the battery up to a charger and hoped for the best.
Today as I hooked up the battery, and then loaded my gear. I quietly said a prayer and turned the key -- it started!
I then looked for a Suzuki dealership, cued in the GPS and off I went in my search. Now it may seem to be a pretty sweet deal except that the sun was brightly shinning and I could not see nor hear the GPS. Another fact is the address was wrong in the phone book, and thereby I was searching in all the wrong places.
Upon finding the Suzuki service center (which is actually in Bedford) Carlos was more than helpful in getting me rigs for dinnerht into the shop and testing the system. Come to find out I am grounded on three of my three stater ports (not a good thing)! No parts in stock. Was able to locate one and have it over-nighted and tomorrow at about 10am they will install it and have me back on the road!
So I went down to get gas at the nearby Sheetz and sat down at a table with Mike and Paul (Honda riders) and spent the afternoon in conversation with them. Pray for me as tomorrow we are meeting for coffee and donuts while the bike is being repaired.
Tonight am camping at Sleepy Hollow Camp Ground just down the road from the bike shop. Had a small campfire, and roasted some hot dogs for dinner. Have spent time today reading the Word and now blogging and just catchiung up on some reading.
Tomorrow is bike repair and breakfast with the boyz. Travel to Washington DC to have dinner with BT's girlfriend. More tomorrow as the saga continues -- the Lord willing!
I think I gave them a little pause, if not an outright scare. Late at night. Two teen girls alone in the parking lot, and this 50 something biker dude comes over and asks them to help out. They were more than gracious and I was able to get the bike started and get back to my room.
Once at the motel, I hooked the battery up to a charger and hoped for the best.
Today as I hooked up the battery, and then loaded my gear. I quietly said a prayer and turned the key -- it started!
I then looked for a Suzuki dealership, cued in the GPS and off I went in my search. Now it may seem to be a pretty sweet deal except that the sun was brightly shinning and I could not see nor hear the GPS. Another fact is the address was wrong in the phone book, and thereby I was searching in all the wrong places.
Upon finding the Suzuki service center (which is actually in Bedford) Carlos was more than helpful in getting me rigs for dinnerht into the shop and testing the system. Come to find out I am grounded on three of my three stater ports (not a good thing)! No parts in stock. Was able to locate one and have it over-nighted and tomorrow at about 10am they will install it and have me back on the road!
So I went down to get gas at the nearby Sheetz and sat down at a table with Mike and Paul (Honda riders) and spent the afternoon in conversation with them. Pray for me as tomorrow we are meeting for coffee and donuts while the bike is being repaired.
Tonight am camping at Sleepy Hollow Camp Ground just down the road from the bike shop. Had a small campfire, and roasted some hot dogs for dinner. Have spent time today reading the Word and now blogging and just catchiung up on some reading.
Tomorrow is bike repair and breakfast with the boyz. Travel to Washington DC to have dinner with BT's girlfriend. More tomorrow as the saga continues -- the Lord willing!
Day Two of the "Bike Trip"
"Listen to the sound of the falling rain" . . . is the song that flooded my thoughts as I woke today. The rain was so kewl hitting on the fabric of the tent -- it almost seemed like a lullaby, so I turned over and catched a few more rays.
Now in this situation, one is faced with a momentous decision. Do I sit the day in the tent, or do I pack up my things and head out into the rain threatened reality of my world? I decided not to let a little water keep me down and headed out. Where to go?
I decided to retrace my steps along Rte 6 and hook back up to Rte 219. What an incredibly beautiful ride. The road winds along shoulders of lush forest geen, the smell of rododendrum tree blossoms pungently fragranting the air. All of this ocurred of course while riding through rain. What a wet day.
I am having a little difficulty with the bike not starting. I'm not sure if the problem is the new battery I purchased before leaving, or some other item. Came over to Altoona PA because another biker said it was the closest Suzuki place available.
So here I am in Altoona drying out from the day. The Suzuki dealership is not open on Sundays so I will have to wait to contact them in the am in order to have the bike checked out.
Alive and well in Altoona -- where do they get these names?
Now in this situation, one is faced with a momentous decision. Do I sit the day in the tent, or do I pack up my things and head out into the rain threatened reality of my world? I decided not to let a little water keep me down and headed out. Where to go?
I decided to retrace my steps along Rte 6 and hook back up to Rte 219. What an incredibly beautiful ride. The road winds along shoulders of lush forest geen, the smell of rododendrum tree blossoms pungently fragranting the air. All of this ocurred of course while riding through rain. What a wet day.
I am having a little difficulty with the bike not starting. I'm not sure if the problem is the new battery I purchased before leaving, or some other item. Came over to Altoona PA because another biker said it was the closest Suzuki place available.
So here I am in Altoona drying out from the day. The Suzuki dealership is not open on Sundays so I will have to wait to contact them in the am in order to have the bike checked out.
Alive and well in Altoona -- where do they get these names?
Day One of Bike Trip
Today (actually it was yesterday, but this is the first i've had to be on the computer) began my annual bike trip. Decided I would post to my blog day by day - well allmost. . . .
The day began by loading my belongings on the bike and securing them into place. As I was laboring, my brother David arrived on his bike. While he patiently waited I still had a few items left to process before I could pull out.
We then headed to Knead the Dough for breakfast together. Coffee, my brother, and great conversation -- it doesn't get any better than that! We had a tasty fair of steak, eggs, homefries, toast, and for desert, one of KTD's special cinamon rolls. Wow!
After breakfast we stopped to fuel up at Porter Country Mart, and then on to visit with George Bell before leaving town. When we arrived Miguel was there and they had been playing backgammon. If you know what the rules are for rolling doubles, please call George and give him the official scoop. After prayer we headed out to ride along Rte 18. We stopped at Brown's Berry Patch to unload some of the coffee and while there David sprang a leak -- his bike did rather! Bad spot on the gas tank and it was leaking pretty bad.
We headed for David's home rather than riding on. At the house we spent some time just talking and I suggested that David call a "bone yard" to find a used tank.
From there I launched back out and went south on Rte 98, and then connected with Rte 219. I decided that I knew where Rte 219 started, so let's see where it ends! I traveled down Rte 219 to Rte 6 and went into the Allegany National Forest and tried to hook up with my cousin Nancy Stolt who was to be camping in Cook's Forest. I never was able to find them, so I picked a camp site for the nite and set up the tent. Across for the camp there is a restaurant called "Trails End" where I had the most incredible burger! As I retired for the night, the first drops of rain began to gently fall.
On the whole it was quite an auspicious day for the first of this bike trip. The weather was great, and the scenery was exquisite.
As I reflected on the day, I was made aware of how many times we think we have a handle on the direction and effect of our day, but then we spring a leak, or we fall off a deck, or --- you fill in your blank ......................... The good news is, I don't have to completely understand, or be in control -- God is!
Can you simply today "be still, and know that I am God"?
Keepin' the shinney side up!
The day began by loading my belongings on the bike and securing them into place. As I was laboring, my brother David arrived on his bike. While he patiently waited I still had a few items left to process before I could pull out.
We then headed to Knead the Dough for breakfast together. Coffee, my brother, and great conversation -- it doesn't get any better than that! We had a tasty fair of steak, eggs, homefries, toast, and for desert, one of KTD's special cinamon rolls. Wow!
After breakfast we stopped to fuel up at Porter Country Mart, and then on to visit with George Bell before leaving town. When we arrived Miguel was there and they had been playing backgammon. If you know what the rules are for rolling doubles, please call George and give him the official scoop. After prayer we headed out to ride along Rte 18. We stopped at Brown's Berry Patch to unload some of the coffee and while there David sprang a leak -- his bike did rather! Bad spot on the gas tank and it was leaking pretty bad.
We headed for David's home rather than riding on. At the house we spent some time just talking and I suggested that David call a "bone yard" to find a used tank.
From there I launched back out and went south on Rte 98, and then connected with Rte 219. I decided that I knew where Rte 219 started, so let's see where it ends! I traveled down Rte 219 to Rte 6 and went into the Allegany National Forest and tried to hook up with my cousin Nancy Stolt who was to be camping in Cook's Forest. I never was able to find them, so I picked a camp site for the nite and set up the tent. Across for the camp there is a restaurant called "Trails End" where I had the most incredible burger! As I retired for the night, the first drops of rain began to gently fall.
On the whole it was quite an auspicious day for the first of this bike trip. The weather was great, and the scenery was exquisite.
As I reflected on the day, I was made aware of how many times we think we have a handle on the direction and effect of our day, but then we spring a leak, or we fall off a deck, or --- you fill in your blank ......................... The good news is, I don't have to completely understand, or be in control -- God is!
Can you simply today "be still, and know that I am God"?
Keepin' the shinney side up!
Monday, June 9, 2008
Little Things
Wow! The weather here is so hot and humid -- almost a 30 degree jump from last week! Yesterday in church it was hot! When it gets that hot it becomes so hard to focus.
Isn't it amazing the things that can distract us? We let the heat rob us of effectively worshipping the Lord. This would almost seem like whinning and complaining . . . good thing I'm just writing in my blog! It's not really complaining when it's in your blog -- a little known blogging fact!
Recently I have been reading about Exodus, not the band, but the journey of God's people out Egypt toward the promised land. These folks were absolutely incredible, and had brought whinning to a whole new level -- by their standards I'm still an amatuer! Instead of celebrating what God was doing for them, they chose to focus on what He was not doing.
Two sundays ago we handed out bracelets to place on your wrist. The thought is to wear it for 21 days on the same wrist without complaining. If you complain you have to switch it to the other wrist and start all over again. The reason for the 21 days is that it takes that long to make something a habit. i'm still working on day two!
So what do you need to stop whinning about? What can you do to focus on what God has done for you? If you need to -- get a bracelet.
Isn't it amazing the things that can distract us? We let the heat rob us of effectively worshipping the Lord. This would almost seem like whinning and complaining . . . good thing I'm just writing in my blog! It's not really complaining when it's in your blog -- a little known blogging fact!
Recently I have been reading about Exodus, not the band, but the journey of God's people out Egypt toward the promised land. These folks were absolutely incredible, and had brought whinning to a whole new level -- by their standards I'm still an amatuer! Instead of celebrating what God was doing for them, they chose to focus on what He was not doing.
Two sundays ago we handed out bracelets to place on your wrist. The thought is to wear it for 21 days on the same wrist without complaining. If you complain you have to switch it to the other wrist and start all over again. The reason for the 21 days is that it takes that long to make something a habit. i'm still working on day two!
So what do you need to stop whinning about? What can you do to focus on what God has done for you? If you need to -- get a bracelet.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
On Being Reminded
Our family practice is to gather each morning, Monday through Friday, at 7 am for family devotions - a time where we read a portion of scripture, ask some questions, and take some time to pray with and for each other.
This morning was no different. Our story for today came from 2 Chronicles 20, a portion of the Old Testament that chronicles the story of God leading His people Israel. In the story there is a king by the name of Jehoshaphat. He was a strong king who loved God and encouraged his people to serve God also.
One day Jehoshaphat realizes that three other armies had joined together to take him and his army out. Because of this threat the people of Israel came together to seek the Lord. They fasted and prayed looking to God for the answer. God answered them and spoke to them through a guy named Jahaziel - where did they come up with these names? Any ways -- the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jazz.
The first thing Jehoshaphat did was praise God for the victory that was coming later. Then a choir was formed to march before the army and sing. Can you picture this large army marching onto the field of battle led by a choir. Imagine if you will a scene from "Braveheart" and the warriors are led by a choir -- not the macho image that you would think strike terror.
God fought the battle for Israel that day. As they march and are led by people singing the praises of God, God confuses the armies and they ambush one another and destroy each other. When Israel confronts their enemies, they have been uterly destroyed, and for the next three days they take spoils, and on the fourth they bless God and return home with great joy.
I am reminded this morning that when the enemy looms large, it is a good thing to pray and seek God's guidance. I am reminded that God still speaks to His people through His Spirit. I am reminded that we need to live and act in faith. I am reminded that God is the one who will fight for us. I am reminded that praise is a wonderful weapon. I am reminded that the victory and spoils are ours. I am reminded to worship and celebrate the victories.
What threat or battle are you facing today? Are you going to spend some time praying and seeking God's wisdom and direction? Are you going to live as a victor by faith before the fact? Will you spend time today praising God? What enemy is He going to defeat for you today?
I needed to be reminded today, maybe you did too.
This morning was no different. Our story for today came from 2 Chronicles 20, a portion of the Old Testament that chronicles the story of God leading His people Israel. In the story there is a king by the name of Jehoshaphat. He was a strong king who loved God and encouraged his people to serve God also.
One day Jehoshaphat realizes that three other armies had joined together to take him and his army out. Because of this threat the people of Israel came together to seek the Lord. They fasted and prayed looking to God for the answer. God answered them and spoke to them through a guy named Jahaziel - where did they come up with these names? Any ways -- the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jazz.
The first thing Jehoshaphat did was praise God for the victory that was coming later. Then a choir was formed to march before the army and sing. Can you picture this large army marching onto the field of battle led by a choir. Imagine if you will a scene from "Braveheart" and the warriors are led by a choir -- not the macho image that you would think strike terror.
God fought the battle for Israel that day. As they march and are led by people singing the praises of God, God confuses the armies and they ambush one another and destroy each other. When Israel confronts their enemies, they have been uterly destroyed, and for the next three days they take spoils, and on the fourth they bless God and return home with great joy.
I am reminded this morning that when the enemy looms large, it is a good thing to pray and seek God's guidance. I am reminded that God still speaks to His people through His Spirit. I am reminded that we need to live and act in faith. I am reminded that God is the one who will fight for us. I am reminded that praise is a wonderful weapon. I am reminded that the victory and spoils are ours. I am reminded to worship and celebrate the victories.
What threat or battle are you facing today? Are you going to spend some time praying and seeking God's wisdom and direction? Are you going to live as a victor by faith before the fact? Will you spend time today praising God? What enemy is He going to defeat for you today?
I needed to be reminded today, maybe you did too.
Slacking!
"I was busy and I just couldn't find the time" That's my story and I'm sticking to it! The last time I posted to my blog was almost a month ago. Time certainly does fly, and it's easy to become distracted.
One of our core values at RFMC is this thing called honesty -- which is sometimes very hard to deal with -- and if I am completely honest, I do know why I haven't written. I would like to confess that so much has been going on with me and my world that I not sure I even know how to communicate in any effective way all the wonderful and miraculous things God is doing, and that would be true, but it is not the whole truth.
The whole truth is that I would rather rest and relax than write. Writing is a difficult task for this very verbal person, and to sit and write is not something I enjoy. So rather than take the hard road, I have opted for the easier road. I've been slacking!
Well this morning it changes, and I will once again try to hone my writing skills and share with others this wonderful journey that God has blessed me with.
What difficult thing are you avoiding? What step or steps can you take today to put forth just a little extra effort?
Relax. You can start right after that cup of coffee, but start!
One of our core values at RFMC is this thing called honesty -- which is sometimes very hard to deal with -- and if I am completely honest, I do know why I haven't written. I would like to confess that so much has been going on with me and my world that I not sure I even know how to communicate in any effective way all the wonderful and miraculous things God is doing, and that would be true, but it is not the whole truth.
The whole truth is that I would rather rest and relax than write. Writing is a difficult task for this very verbal person, and to sit and write is not something I enjoy. So rather than take the hard road, I have opted for the easier road. I've been slacking!
Well this morning it changes, and I will once again try to hone my writing skills and share with others this wonderful journey that God has blessed me with.
What difficult thing are you avoiding? What step or steps can you take today to put forth just a little extra effort?
Relax. You can start right after that cup of coffee, but start!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Of Language and Registry
Going out for breakfast is always an adventure; yesterday was no exception. Linda and I went to one of my favorite places - Knead the Dough. For reasons of God's design I have the gift of going somewhere and attracting people.
One of the people that was snared in this net was a gentleman whom we first made contact with two years ago while Christmas caroling in the neighborhood. He and his family had just moved here and we were the first people to stop at his new home and make them feel a part of a larger community. My guest is a band teacher at a school in Buffalo.
In the course of our conversation he shared that much of his wife's family are latino and speak mostly spainish. We shared with him that during the summer we had several Mexican migrants who came to worship and that we had someone in the church who would translate my messages into espanol. The extent of my spainish is non-existent. I don't know the language, and when I do hear it spoken, I feel left out and confused, which quickly turns to frustration and me just shutting it out.
In the hispanic community there are some unique language and cultural issues. First generation immigrants hispanics are mostly spainsih speaking only and maintain the traditions of the previous country. Second generation hispanics, for the most part desire to be assimilated into American culture, and their primary language is english and in a lot of cases they have rejected the tradition and language of their parents country. Third generation hispanics seem to have an identity crisis. They try to rediscover their roots, but reject both of the previous generations cultures and have developed their own language - spanglish - a combination of both languages which is deeply rooted in a slang. This this generation is no longer interested in assimilation, but is about latino pride and domination.
My friend shared with me that he attended a seminar where the speaker presented the concept of slang, informal, and formal registries. He noted that all of us sitting at the table could easily switch from our formal registry, using proper grammar and syntax, and yet also be able to use slang and informal registry - knowing when it was appropriate to use which and be able to effectively move between them. It seems that in this current generation of texting and instant messages, there is the inability to grasp the formal registry and therefore has prohibited this generation in its ability to communicate effectively.
As I have been thinking about this - there is a point here - the Scripture occured to me...
In 2nd Corinthians it reads:
14The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15The spiritual man makes judgments about all things,
Before Christ we are only able to understand and hear one language. When we came into contact with Spirit-filled people we weren't able to understand. Only as the Holy Spirit opened our eyes and hearts to the things of the Spirit were we able to know and understand this language. Knowing this language of the Spirit also puts in the unique place of being able to understand both worlds and become bi-lingual so to speak.
Are you able to discern the things of the Spirit? Are you able to speak from your spiritual registry and communicate to others? Who today will you "speak their language" with so that they might hear words of life transforming Hope and Good News?
I now believe I'm bi-lingual - who knew?! LOL
One of the people that was snared in this net was a gentleman whom we first made contact with two years ago while Christmas caroling in the neighborhood. He and his family had just moved here and we were the first people to stop at his new home and make them feel a part of a larger community. My guest is a band teacher at a school in Buffalo.
In the course of our conversation he shared that much of his wife's family are latino and speak mostly spainish. We shared with him that during the summer we had several Mexican migrants who came to worship and that we had someone in the church who would translate my messages into espanol. The extent of my spainish is non-existent. I don't know the language, and when I do hear it spoken, I feel left out and confused, which quickly turns to frustration and me just shutting it out.
In the hispanic community there are some unique language and cultural issues. First generation immigrants hispanics are mostly spainsih speaking only and maintain the traditions of the previous country. Second generation hispanics, for the most part desire to be assimilated into American culture, and their primary language is english and in a lot of cases they have rejected the tradition and language of their parents country. Third generation hispanics seem to have an identity crisis. They try to rediscover their roots, but reject both of the previous generations cultures and have developed their own language - spanglish - a combination of both languages which is deeply rooted in a slang. This this generation is no longer interested in assimilation, but is about latino pride and domination.
My friend shared with me that he attended a seminar where the speaker presented the concept of slang, informal, and formal registries. He noted that all of us sitting at the table could easily switch from our formal registry, using proper grammar and syntax, and yet also be able to use slang and informal registry - knowing when it was appropriate to use which and be able to effectively move between them. It seems that in this current generation of texting and instant messages, there is the inability to grasp the formal registry and therefore has prohibited this generation in its ability to communicate effectively.
As I have been thinking about this - there is a point here - the Scripture occured to me...
In 2nd Corinthians it reads:
14The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15The spiritual man makes judgments about all things,
Before Christ we are only able to understand and hear one language. When we came into contact with Spirit-filled people we weren't able to understand. Only as the Holy Spirit opened our eyes and hearts to the things of the Spirit were we able to know and understand this language. Knowing this language of the Spirit also puts in the unique place of being able to understand both worlds and become bi-lingual so to speak.
Are you able to discern the things of the Spirit? Are you able to speak from your spiritual registry and communicate to others? Who today will you "speak their language" with so that they might hear words of life transforming Hope and Good News?
I now believe I'm bi-lingual - who knew?! LOL
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Samaria Is My World
In Jesus' instructions to His disciples, and to the church, He said: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
In a recent article by Tim Stafford, he writes, "Christians often act like they live in Jerusalem". That statement caught my attention. What does he mean Jerusalem? And the more I thought about it, I think he means we are expecting everyone in our world to think, act, and live, as if they are Christians. The fact is we often are expecting non-believers to act like believers.
The reality is that we live in Babylon - we are aleins and strangers; isn't that what the Word says? So why are we surprised when we see a movie that offends our values? Babylonian movies reflect Babylonian values.
The more I thought about it though, I no longer think we live in Babylon -- we live in Samaria. Babylon is far from Jerusalem, and what you believe or how you worship is of little significance as long as you keep the peace and contribute to civic life. Remember Daniel and the boys? They were fine until they were thought to undermine the government and got caught up in the politics of the day.
Samaria is different from Babylon. In Samaria the people knew a lot about the religion of Jerusalem, and they had a definite bias against it. They knew each other and the fued between them was being fueled from both sides -- each thinking they were right and the other wrong.
More and more I am convinced that we don't have unchurched people around us -- people from Babylon. People whom are just dying to hear the good news and will immediately respond to this message of hope. You and I, however, live in Samaria, a land that is full of cynics and skeptics. The people in our land are not ignorant of the church, in fact they are very aware of it, and they have had some contact with it, and it has most likely been bad. The people you and I work and play with each day, are people who look at the church and see only its hypocracy.
How do we share our faith with cynics and skeptics? By being authentic and real people of faith, who live their lives transparently before a world looking for the authentic. This type of witness is not going to be accomplished with a chic track or the four spirutal laws. An authentic witness must be lived out day by day, moment by moment. An authentic witness may take years to substantiate. We are trying to overcome the broken bond of trust.
What are you going to do today that will show the people of Samaria that live around you that the grace of God is real and can transform their lives? Is there an area of your life where you need to build greater integrity, that you might live authentically?
In a recent article by Tim Stafford, he writes, "Christians often act like they live in Jerusalem". That statement caught my attention. What does he mean Jerusalem? And the more I thought about it, I think he means we are expecting everyone in our world to think, act, and live, as if they are Christians. The fact is we often are expecting non-believers to act like believers.
The reality is that we live in Babylon - we are aleins and strangers; isn't that what the Word says? So why are we surprised when we see a movie that offends our values? Babylonian movies reflect Babylonian values.
The more I thought about it though, I no longer think we live in Babylon -- we live in Samaria. Babylon is far from Jerusalem, and what you believe or how you worship is of little significance as long as you keep the peace and contribute to civic life. Remember Daniel and the boys? They were fine until they were thought to undermine the government and got caught up in the politics of the day.
Samaria is different from Babylon. In Samaria the people knew a lot about the religion of Jerusalem, and they had a definite bias against it. They knew each other and the fued between them was being fueled from both sides -- each thinking they were right and the other wrong.
More and more I am convinced that we don't have unchurched people around us -- people from Babylon. People whom are just dying to hear the good news and will immediately respond to this message of hope. You and I, however, live in Samaria, a land that is full of cynics and skeptics. The people in our land are not ignorant of the church, in fact they are very aware of it, and they have had some contact with it, and it has most likely been bad. The people you and I work and play with each day, are people who look at the church and see only its hypocracy.
How do we share our faith with cynics and skeptics? By being authentic and real people of faith, who live their lives transparently before a world looking for the authentic. This type of witness is not going to be accomplished with a chic track or the four spirutal laws. An authentic witness must be lived out day by day, moment by moment. An authentic witness may take years to substantiate. We are trying to overcome the broken bond of trust.
What are you going to do today that will show the people of Samaria that live around you that the grace of God is real and can transform their lives? Is there an area of your life where you need to build greater integrity, that you might live authentically?
It's Head, Heart, Feet!
For a long time there has been a dynamic at play in the Christian world. There are those Christians who believe that it is imperative to have a cognitive recognition of our faith. They would say it is about the head, and they would disparage other brothers and sisters in Christ who respond to the Gospel call with their hearts. These heart Christians believed that to engage the mind was to somehow minimize the experience of their faith.
In the middle of this debate, there are some who have ventured to believe that it is both - head and heart. Neither head nor heart need be checked at the door as we take the next steps in our journey of faith. To deny either is to somehow minimize the Faith.
Lately I have come to realize that I am a 3-D Christian. I am of the mindset that it is head and heart, but that they only have relevance and authenticity, when coupled with feet! If all i am is head, or heart, but have not feet, I am nothing. Our Christian faith is not something that is only thought about and dialogued, nor is it something that just gives us warm fuzzies and emotional highs. Head and heart only have true perspective when we put feet to our Christian experience and walk our talk.
How can you today put feet to your Christian experience and realize a 3-D faith?
In the middle of this debate, there are some who have ventured to believe that it is both - head and heart. Neither head nor heart need be checked at the door as we take the next steps in our journey of faith. To deny either is to somehow minimize the Faith.
Lately I have come to realize that I am a 3-D Christian. I am of the mindset that it is head and heart, but that they only have relevance and authenticity, when coupled with feet! If all i am is head, or heart, but have not feet, I am nothing. Our Christian faith is not something that is only thought about and dialogued, nor is it something that just gives us warm fuzzies and emotional highs. Head and heart only have true perspective when we put feet to our Christian experience and walk our talk.
How can you today put feet to your Christian experience and realize a 3-D faith?
Monday, February 11, 2008
God Still Answrs Prayer
A gentleman in our church recently rented an apartment to a woman who was in need. He not only rented to her, but he and his wife have reached out to her in the name of Jesus. The woman has a sister whose 1 year old baby girl was to have serious surgery. The church prayed.
Korina came through the surgery well - an answer to prayer. A couple days later she developed a fever. The church prayed. The fever left her. On Friday concern rose that the baby was gaining weight from fluid build up and had as of yet not been able to do either bodily function.
Sunday morning word came that if she did not pee or poop soon (they set a deadline of 6 pm Sunday night) a radical surgery would have to be performed to rectify this issue. The church prayed.
Last night I received a call that informed me at 5:55 pm she began to pee and poop.
And the church celebrates! God still answers prayer!
Tomorrow is an all-church all-day of fasting and prayer for our church. Join me in praying for those who need God's touch and transformation in their lives. Our new prayer chapel will be open and ready for you to come and spend sometime in the Presence of God.
And the church prayed!
Korina came through the surgery well - an answer to prayer. A couple days later she developed a fever. The church prayed. The fever left her. On Friday concern rose that the baby was gaining weight from fluid build up and had as of yet not been able to do either bodily function.
Sunday morning word came that if she did not pee or poop soon (they set a deadline of 6 pm Sunday night) a radical surgery would have to be performed to rectify this issue. The church prayed.
Last night I received a call that informed me at 5:55 pm she began to pee and poop.
And the church celebrates! God still answers prayer!
Tomorrow is an all-church all-day of fasting and prayer for our church. Join me in praying for those who need God's touch and transformation in their lives. Our new prayer chapel will be open and ready for you to come and spend sometime in the Presence of God.
And the church prayed!
One Life Can Make A Difference!
Increasingly each day we are overwhelmed and feel like our world is spinning out of control and we are powerless to change a thing -- ever feel that way?
Yesterday, Dennis came to me and told me he had something he would like to share with me. Dennis works for a collection agency and manages a particular office. The agency is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, and has offices around the world.
Dennis shared that he is often frustrated by the fact that he many times is required to work on Sundays and is prohibited from attending worship. Being frustrated, this past week when his boss visited he informed his boss that he felt the company was putting money before God and that he (Dennis) felt it was wrong and was no longer gong to require the emplyees in his branch to come in on Sundays before 2:00 pm, and that way give each employee in his office the chance to worship.
Later that afternoon Dennis' boss came back to him and informed him that after thinking about it, he agreed, that Dennis was right. He told Dennis that from that moment on everyone in the company would have the opportunity on Sunday AM to attend their place of worship -- all 6,000 employees!
One person, speaking up and taking a stand, can make a difference.
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!
Yesterday, Dennis came to me and told me he had something he would like to share with me. Dennis works for a collection agency and manages a particular office. The agency is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, and has offices around the world.
Dennis shared that he is often frustrated by the fact that he many times is required to work on Sundays and is prohibited from attending worship. Being frustrated, this past week when his boss visited he informed his boss that he felt the company was putting money before God and that he (Dennis) felt it was wrong and was no longer gong to require the emplyees in his branch to come in on Sundays before 2:00 pm, and that way give each employee in his office the chance to worship.
Later that afternoon Dennis' boss came back to him and informed him that after thinking about it, he agreed, that Dennis was right. He told Dennis that from that moment on everyone in the company would have the opportunity on Sunday AM to attend their place of worship -- all 6,000 employees!
One person, speaking up and taking a stand, can make a difference.
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!
All Inclusive
Today as i was reading my email, I opened the daily one I receive from a woman in our church who sends out a Scripture verse each and every day. Today this is our verse:
Acts 2; 21
And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Everyone - it's a pretty inclusive word! As I have sat here this am meditating on this verse, this word continues to strike me. Who is everyone? Dumb question I know, but the question stands. Does this include the person who was rude to me? The businessman who took advantage of me? The man who raped a 12 year old? The man who has snubed his nose and finger in the face of God and everyone else for 50 years?
You betcha! Because of this verse I take heart each and every morning, because I am also everyone! My wife is everyone! You are everyone.
The condition of this verse is "calls on his name". Seems easy enough, and yet we have sometimes such a hard time humbling ourselves and seeking God's help.
Today is a good day to seek him -- in fact, every day is a good day to seek him!
Acts 2; 21
And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Everyone - it's a pretty inclusive word! As I have sat here this am meditating on this verse, this word continues to strike me. Who is everyone? Dumb question I know, but the question stands. Does this include the person who was rude to me? The businessman who took advantage of me? The man who raped a 12 year old? The man who has snubed his nose and finger in the face of God and everyone else for 50 years?
You betcha! Because of this verse I take heart each and every morning, because I am also everyone! My wife is everyone! You are everyone.
The condition of this verse is "calls on his name". Seems easy enough, and yet we have sometimes such a hard time humbling ourselves and seeking God's help.
Today is a good day to seek him -- in fact, every day is a good day to seek him!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Community
On Sunday, February 3, I boarded a plane and traveled to Orlando, Florida, where I had the opportunity to attend Asbury Seminary Minister's Conference. In the past this conference was held on their Kentucky campus and I had the opportunity to stay with friends while attending the conference. Those who know me are aware that I am a person who enjoys being around people.
While in Orlando I stayed at a hotel 15 minutes from the campus. I had a suite all to myself! Now while that seems like a great deal, I was reminded of a very important truth -- we were meant to live in community. Though I was in one of the largest cities, and while I was surrounded by others, I longed for those who knew me.
This morning I am sitting in front of the fire, it is gently snowing, and the kids are arguing in their rooms -- what sweet music! Sharing life together is one of the greatest joys there are. Truly we are better together!
While in Orlando I stayed at a hotel 15 minutes from the campus. I had a suite all to myself! Now while that seems like a great deal, I was reminded of a very important truth -- we were meant to live in community. Though I was in one of the largest cities, and while I was surrounded by others, I longed for those who knew me.
This morning I am sitting in front of the fire, it is gently snowing, and the kids are arguing in their rooms -- what sweet music! Sharing life together is one of the greatest joys there are. Truly we are better together!
Good Question!
The other day i heard the kewlest question:
"Why is it that every funeral i attend has not been my own?"
Isn't that a great question? As long as we have breath, as long as we are breathing in and breathing out, God has a purpose for us and our lives. One of the greatest joys is not only knowing your purpose, but living it.
What is your purpose? What part of that purpose will you live out today?
May God give us the courage to become the people He has designed for us to be.
"Why is it that every funeral i attend has not been my own?"
Isn't that a great question? As long as we have breath, as long as we are breathing in and breathing out, God has a purpose for us and our lives. One of the greatest joys is not only knowing your purpose, but living it.
What is your purpose? What part of that purpose will you live out today?
May God give us the courage to become the people He has designed for us to be.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Lighten Up!
Today I was reading and came across this piece from Mike Yaconnelli. As we begin this New Year this is great insight and advice:
IT'S TIME TO PARTY (excerpts)
By Mike Yaconelli
It doesn't take much to make most of us realize that we have become too serious, too tense, too stressful. The result is that we have forgotten how to live life. It seems like the older we get, the more difficult it is for us to enjoy living.
It reminds me of a description of life given by Rabbi Edward Cohn: "Life is tough. It takes up a lot of your time, all your weekends, and what do you get in the end of it?"
I think that the life cycle is all backward. You should die first, get it out of the way. Then you live twenty years in an old-age home. You get kicked out when you're too young. You get a gold watch, you go to work. You work forty years until you're young enough to enjoy your retirement. You go to college; you party until you're ready for high school; you go to grade school; you become a little kid; you play. You have no responsibilities. You become a little baby; you go back into the womb; you spend your last months floating; and you finish up as a gleam in somebody's eye.
It's hard to imagine we were a gleam in someone's eye once. What happened to the gleam in our eye? What happened to that joyful, crazy, spontaneous, fun-loving spirit we once had? The childlikeness in all of us gets snuffed out over the years...
.The sign that Jesus is in our hearts, the evidence of the truth of the gospel is ... we still have a light on in our souls. We still have a gleam in our eye. We are alive, never boring, always playful, exhibiting in our everydayness the "spunk" of the spirit. The light in our souls is not some pietistic somberness, it is the spontaneous, unpredictable love of life...I believe it's time for the party to begin.
Copyright 1989 Mike Yaconelli. Permission is granted to send this to others, with attribution, but not for commercial purposes.
Have a light filled day!
IT'S TIME TO PARTY (excerpts)
By Mike Yaconelli
It doesn't take much to make most of us realize that we have become too serious, too tense, too stressful. The result is that we have forgotten how to live life. It seems like the older we get, the more difficult it is for us to enjoy living.
It reminds me of a description of life given by Rabbi Edward Cohn: "Life is tough. It takes up a lot of your time, all your weekends, and what do you get in the end of it?"
I think that the life cycle is all backward. You should die first, get it out of the way. Then you live twenty years in an old-age home. You get kicked out when you're too young. You get a gold watch, you go to work. You work forty years until you're young enough to enjoy your retirement. You go to college; you party until you're ready for high school; you go to grade school; you become a little kid; you play. You have no responsibilities. You become a little baby; you go back into the womb; you spend your last months floating; and you finish up as a gleam in somebody's eye.
It's hard to imagine we were a gleam in someone's eye once. What happened to the gleam in our eye? What happened to that joyful, crazy, spontaneous, fun-loving spirit we once had? The childlikeness in all of us gets snuffed out over the years...
.The sign that Jesus is in our hearts, the evidence of the truth of the gospel is ... we still have a light on in our souls. We still have a gleam in our eye. We are alive, never boring, always playful, exhibiting in our everydayness the "spunk" of the spirit. The light in our souls is not some pietistic somberness, it is the spontaneous, unpredictable love of life...I believe it's time for the party to begin.
Copyright 1989 Mike Yaconelli. Permission is granted to send this to others, with attribution, but not for commercial purposes.
Have a light filled day!
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Blessed Are The Persecuted
One doesn't get out of bed in the morning and look for ways to be persecuted, or do they?
This morning I have been reading from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount:
Matthew 5:10-12
"Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
Should I live this day so radically in Jesus, that as my light shines for Jesus, Satan will try and quelch the Light reflected from me?
Came across this qoute from Clarence Jordan, Sermon on the Mount:
"One wonders why Christians today get off so easily. Is it because unchristian Americans are that much better than unchristian Romans, or is our light so dim that the tormentor can not see it? What are the things we do that are worth persecuting?"
That last question - "What are the things we do that are worth persecuting?" that has captured my thoughts. I'm not sure that I am so excited about persecution, in fact, I know that I'm not. I have looked less globally at this verse, and rationalized that it only for those God has chosen to be persecuted. Moments later I realize that God has a more universal application for this verse.
Today, I want my light for Jesus to shine so bright, that I tick Satan off so much by my efforts through Christ for the sake of the Kingdom, that the evil one sends someone my way to shut me up - to quelch my light. Not guaranteed that I will this day be persecuted -- but I am sure gonna give the evil one cause to try!
For King and Kingdom!
This morning I have been reading from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount:
Matthew 5:10-12
"Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
Should I live this day so radically in Jesus, that as my light shines for Jesus, Satan will try and quelch the Light reflected from me?
Came across this qoute from Clarence Jordan, Sermon on the Mount:
"One wonders why Christians today get off so easily. Is it because unchristian Americans are that much better than unchristian Romans, or is our light so dim that the tormentor can not see it? What are the things we do that are worth persecuting?"
That last question - "What are the things we do that are worth persecuting?" that has captured my thoughts. I'm not sure that I am so excited about persecution, in fact, I know that I'm not. I have looked less globally at this verse, and rationalized that it only for those God has chosen to be persecuted. Moments later I realize that God has a more universal application for this verse.
Today, I want my light for Jesus to shine so bright, that I tick Satan off so much by my efforts through Christ for the sake of the Kingdom, that the evil one sends someone my way to shut me up - to quelch my light. Not guaranteed that I will this day be persecuted -- but I am sure gonna give the evil one cause to try!
For King and Kingdom!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
