TODAY'S READING: Ephesians 6:1-3
Respect. Sacrifice. Honor. They are all vital to a healthy relationship. As Paul reminds us of the Commandment handed down to Moses centuries earlier, he adds a charge for a children to obey their parents.
We so often remove passages of Scripture out of their context. If we do that here, we miss some of the flavor of what Paul is talking about. If you have a few minutes, go back and read chapters four, five, and six of Ephesians.
In Ephesians 4:1-16, Paul discusses our unity in the body of Christ and how every part must do its work.
In Ephesians 4:17-5:20, he goes on to describe a number of details about what living together will look like. Paul talks about how we treat one another and the various sinful behaviors that can damage relationships.
In Ephesians 5:21-6:9, Paul discusses specific relationships: husband and wife, parents and children, and master and slave (which also applies to employer and employee).
It is in the middle of that part of his letter that Paul talks about children honoring and obeying their parents. When I look at these few verses in light of what Paul is talking about before and after, it tells me that children obeying and honoring their parents is a part of the larger healthiness of the church.
In order for the body of Christ to be "healthy and growing and full of love" (Ephesians 4:16) we must all work together in the roles we have. We will not have effective parents in the next generation unless children today learn to honor and obey their parents. This places incredible responsibility on parents and children to work together. We must all learn to respect each other.
Children show respect by honoring and obeying their parents. Paul describes in Ephesians 6:4 one way that parents - especially fathers - can show respect to their children. "And now a word to you fathers. Don't make your children angry by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction approved by the Lord."
Let's commit today to working harder on showing respect for one another. As we strive to treat each other with love and respect, the body of Christ will be unified and strengthened. Then Christ's light can shine even brighter through our families.
shine!
Jason
Friday, April 28, 2006
Unity through respect
TODAY'S READING: Ephesians 6:1-3
Respect. Sacrifice. Honor. They are all vital to a healthy relationship. As Paul reminds us of the Commandment handed down to Moses centuries earlier, he adds a charge for a children to obey their parents.
We so often remove passages of Scripture out of their context. If we do that here, we miss some of the flavor of what Paul is talking about. If you have a few minutes, go back and read chapters four, five, and six of Ephesians.
In Ephesians 4:1-16, Paul discusses our unity in the body of Christ and how every part must do its work.
In Ephesians 4:17-5:20, he goes on to describe a number of details about what living together will look like. Paul talks about how we treat one another and the various sinful behaviors that can damage relationships.
In Ephesians 5:21-6:9, Paul discusses specific relationships: husband and wife, parents and children, and master and slave (which also applies to employer and employee).
It is in the middle of that part of his letter that Paul talks about children honoring and obeying their parents. When I look at these few verses in light of what Paul is talking about before and after, it tells me that children obeying and honoring their parents is a part of the larger healthiness of the church.
In order for the body of Christ to be "healthy and growing and full of love" (Ephesians 4:16) we must all work together in the roles we have. We will not have effective parents in the next generation unless children today learn to honor and obey their parents. This places incredible responsibility on parents and children to work together. We must all learn to respect each other.
Children show respect by honoring and obeying their parents. Paul describes in Ephesians 6:4 one way that parents - especially fathers - can show respect to their children. "And now a word to you fathers. Don't make your children angry by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction approved by the Lord."
Let's commit today to working harder on showing respect for one another. As we strive to treat each other with love and respect, the body of Christ will be unified and strengthened. Then Christ's light can shine even brighter through our families.
shine!
Jason
Respect. Sacrifice. Honor. They are all vital to a healthy relationship. As Paul reminds us of the Commandment handed down to Moses centuries earlier, he adds a charge for a children to obey their parents.
We so often remove passages of Scripture out of their context. If we do that here, we miss some of the flavor of what Paul is talking about. If you have a few minutes, go back and read chapters four, five, and six of Ephesians.
In Ephesians 4:1-16, Paul discusses our unity in the body of Christ and how every part must do its work.
In Ephesians 4:17-5:20, he goes on to describe a number of details about what living together will look like. Paul talks about how we treat one another and the various sinful behaviors that can damage relationships.
In Ephesians 5:21-6:9, Paul discusses specific relationships: husband and wife, parents and children, and master and slave (which also applies to employer and employee).
It is in the middle of that part of his letter that Paul talks about children honoring and obeying their parents. When I look at these few verses in light of what Paul is talking about before and after, it tells me that children obeying and honoring their parents is a part of the larger healthiness of the church.
In order for the body of Christ to be "healthy and growing and full of love" (Ephesians 4:16) we must all work together in the roles we have. We will not have effective parents in the next generation unless children today learn to honor and obey their parents. This places incredible responsibility on parents and children to work together. We must all learn to respect each other.
Children show respect by honoring and obeying their parents. Paul describes in Ephesians 6:4 one way that parents - especially fathers - can show respect to their children. "And now a word to you fathers. Don't make your children angry by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction approved by the Lord."
Let's commit today to working harder on showing respect for one another. As we strive to treat each other with love and respect, the body of Christ will be unified and strengthened. Then Christ's light can shine even brighter through our families.
shine!
Jason
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Rebellion kills
TODAY'S READING: Deuteronomy 21:18-21
Rebellion is a significant problem today. Not just young people, but people of all ages rebel against authority. Now, I will grant you the fact that some authority figures have taken advantage of their power and created this mess. However, that does not free us from respecting those in authority. This idea is a chord that runs through Scripture. Here are a few examples...
Obey the government, for God is the one who put it there. All governments have been placed in power by God. So those who refuse to obey the laws of the land are refusing to obey God, and punishment will follow. For the authorities do not frighten people who are doing right, but they frighten those who do wrong. So do what they say, and you will get along well. The authorities are sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for you will be punished. The authorities are established by God for that very purpose, to punish those who do wrong. So you must obey the government for two reasons: to keep from being punished and to keep a clear conscience. (Romans 13:1-5)
Slaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear. Serve them sincerely as you would serve Christ. Work hard, but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free. (Ephesians 6:5-8)
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)
Government.
Employers.
Shepherds.
God's word is pretty clear. We are called to respect authority in all areas of our life. And as I discussed earlier this week, this starts at home.
Well, back to our Deuteronomy passage. Am I advocating that we start killing children who are stubborn or rebellious? Not really. I would like to have a youth group to work with.
But seriously, the message behind what we read here is that respect and obedience is an important part of the community. If we cannot develop mutual respect and honor our society will fall apart. What would that look like? Divorce. Abortion. Suicide. Violence. Loneliness. Disconnectedness. Selfishness. Recreational sex. Addictions. Poverty. Class warfare. Racism. Need I say more?
It is obvious to me that respect has slowly deteriorated in our culture. It can be seen in the way we treat one another and in our behavior. It is made evident by the things our culture places value on.
But as followers of Christ we are called to live differently. We are compelled to resist the flow and live swimming upstream. Even in the absence of respect, we are to be respectful. When honor is not observed, we must show honor to others. When society tells us to "do what feels right," we are challenged by God to do what we know is right.
Is it easy? No. It will not be easy either. But unless we are willing to be transformed by God and stop conforming to the world we live in, we will never make a difference. We may be misunderstood. We will probably be mocked. And chances are we will face persecution. But isn't that what we signed up for when we decided to follow Jesus?
"When the world hates you, remember it hated me before it hated you. The world would love you if you belonged to it, but you don't. I chose you to come out of the world, and so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? `A servant is not greater than the master.' Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you. And if they had listened to me, they would listen to you! The people of the world will hate you because you belong to me, for they don't know God who sent me." (John 15:18-21)
Today we don't kill children for disrespect, but the reality is that disrespect still kills. It kills our ability to love others sacrificially. It kills our ability serve selflessly. It kills our ability to trust and obey God. And maybe that is why stubborn, rebellious children were killed back then. Not as punishment, but to protect their hearts and the hearts of the community they lived in. Isn't it important that we continue to protect the hearts of those in the community of God in this day and age?
shine!
Jason
Rebellion is a significant problem today. Not just young people, but people of all ages rebel against authority. Now, I will grant you the fact that some authority figures have taken advantage of their power and created this mess. However, that does not free us from respecting those in authority. This idea is a chord that runs through Scripture. Here are a few examples...
Obey the government, for God is the one who put it there. All governments have been placed in power by God. So those who refuse to obey the laws of the land are refusing to obey God, and punishment will follow. For the authorities do not frighten people who are doing right, but they frighten those who do wrong. So do what they say, and you will get along well. The authorities are sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for you will be punished. The authorities are established by God for that very purpose, to punish those who do wrong. So you must obey the government for two reasons: to keep from being punished and to keep a clear conscience. (Romans 13:1-5)
Slaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear. Serve them sincerely as you would serve Christ. Work hard, but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free. (Ephesians 6:5-8)
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)
Government.
Employers.
Shepherds.
God's word is pretty clear. We are called to respect authority in all areas of our life. And as I discussed earlier this week, this starts at home.
Well, back to our Deuteronomy passage. Am I advocating that we start killing children who are stubborn or rebellious? Not really. I would like to have a youth group to work with.
But seriously, the message behind what we read here is that respect and obedience is an important part of the community. If we cannot develop mutual respect and honor our society will fall apart. What would that look like? Divorce. Abortion. Suicide. Violence. Loneliness. Disconnectedness. Selfishness. Recreational sex. Addictions. Poverty. Class warfare. Racism. Need I say more?
It is obvious to me that respect has slowly deteriorated in our culture. It can be seen in the way we treat one another and in our behavior. It is made evident by the things our culture places value on.
But as followers of Christ we are called to live differently. We are compelled to resist the flow and live swimming upstream. Even in the absence of respect, we are to be respectful. When honor is not observed, we must show honor to others. When society tells us to "do what feels right," we are challenged by God to do what we know is right.
Is it easy? No. It will not be easy either. But unless we are willing to be transformed by God and stop conforming to the world we live in, we will never make a difference. We may be misunderstood. We will probably be mocked. And chances are we will face persecution. But isn't that what we signed up for when we decided to follow Jesus?
"When the world hates you, remember it hated me before it hated you. The world would love you if you belonged to it, but you don't. I chose you to come out of the world, and so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? `A servant is not greater than the master.' Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you. And if they had listened to me, they would listen to you! The people of the world will hate you because you belong to me, for they don't know God who sent me." (John 15:18-21)
Today we don't kill children for disrespect, but the reality is that disrespect still kills. It kills our ability to love others sacrificially. It kills our ability serve selflessly. It kills our ability to trust and obey God. And maybe that is why stubborn, rebellious children were killed back then. Not as punishment, but to protect their hearts and the hearts of the community they lived in. Isn't it important that we continue to protect the hearts of those in the community of God in this day and age?
shine!
Jason
Rebellion kills
TODAY'S READING: Deuteronomy 21:18-21
Rebellion is a significant problem today. Not just young people, but people of all ages rebel against authority. Now, I will grant you the fact that some authority figures have taken advantage of their power and created this mess. However, that does not free us from respecting those in authority. This idea is a chord that runs through Scripture. Here are a few examples...
Obey the government, for God is the one who put it there. All governments have been placed in power by God. So those who refuse to obey the laws of the land are refusing to obey God, and punishment will follow. For the authorities do not frighten people who are doing right, but they frighten those who do wrong. So do what they say, and you will get along well. The authorities are sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for you will be punished. The authorities are established by God for that very purpose, to punish those who do wrong. So you must obey the government for two reasons: to keep from being punished and to keep a clear conscience. (Romans 13:1-5)
Slaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear. Serve them sincerely as you would serve Christ. Work hard, but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free. (Ephesians 6:5-8)
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)
Government.
Employers.
Shepherds.
God's word is pretty clear. We are called to respect authority in all areas of our life. And as I discussed earlier this week, this starts at home.
Well, back to our Deuteronomy passage. Am I advocating that we start killing children who are stubborn or rebellious? Not really. I would like to have a youth group to work with.
But seriously, the message behind what we read here is that respect and obedience is an important part of the community. If we cannot develop mutual respect and honor our society will fall apart. What would that look like? Divorce. Abortion. Suicide. Violence. Loneliness. Disconnectedness. Selfishness. Recreational sex. Addictions. Poverty. Class warfare. Racism. Need I say more?
It is obvious to me that respect has slowly deteriorated in our culture. It can be seen in the way we treat one another and in our behavior. It is made evident by the things our culture places value on.
But as followers of Christ we are called to live differently. We are compelled to resist the flow and live swimming upstream. Even in the absence of respect, we are to be respectful. When honor is not observed, we must show honor to others. When society tells us to "do what feels right," we are challenged by God to do what we know is right.
Is it easy? No. It will not be easy either. But unless we are willing to be transformed by God and stop conforming to the world we live in, we will never make a difference. We may be misunderstood. We will probably be mocked. And chances are we will face persecution. But isn't that what we signed up for when we decided to follow Jesus?
"When the world hates you, remember it hated me before it hated you. The world would love you if you belonged to it, but you don't. I chose you to come out of the world, and so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? `A servant is not greater than the master.' Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you. And if they had listened to me, they would listen to you! The people of the world will hate you because you belong to me, for they don't know God who sent me." (John 15:18-21)
Today we don't kill children for disrespect, but the reality is that disrespect still kills. It kills our ability to love others sacrificially. It kills our ability serve selflessly. It kills our ability to trust and obey God. And maybe that is why stubborn, rebellious children were killed back then. Not as punishment, but to protect their hearts and the hearts of the community they lived in. Isn't it important that we continue to protect the hearts of those in the community of God in this day and age?
shine!
Jason
Rebellion is a significant problem today. Not just young people, but people of all ages rebel against authority. Now, I will grant you the fact that some authority figures have taken advantage of their power and created this mess. However, that does not free us from respecting those in authority. This idea is a chord that runs through Scripture. Here are a few examples...
Obey the government, for God is the one who put it there. All governments have been placed in power by God. So those who refuse to obey the laws of the land are refusing to obey God, and punishment will follow. For the authorities do not frighten people who are doing right, but they frighten those who do wrong. So do what they say, and you will get along well. The authorities are sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for you will be punished. The authorities are established by God for that very purpose, to punish those who do wrong. So you must obey the government for two reasons: to keep from being punished and to keep a clear conscience. (Romans 13:1-5)
Slaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear. Serve them sincerely as you would serve Christ. Work hard, but not just to please your masters when they are watching. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free. (Ephesians 6:5-8)
Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)
Government.
Employers.
Shepherds.
God's word is pretty clear. We are called to respect authority in all areas of our life. And as I discussed earlier this week, this starts at home.
Well, back to our Deuteronomy passage. Am I advocating that we start killing children who are stubborn or rebellious? Not really. I would like to have a youth group to work with.
But seriously, the message behind what we read here is that respect and obedience is an important part of the community. If we cannot develop mutual respect and honor our society will fall apart. What would that look like? Divorce. Abortion. Suicide. Violence. Loneliness. Disconnectedness. Selfishness. Recreational sex. Addictions. Poverty. Class warfare. Racism. Need I say more?
It is obvious to me that respect has slowly deteriorated in our culture. It can be seen in the way we treat one another and in our behavior. It is made evident by the things our culture places value on.
But as followers of Christ we are called to live differently. We are compelled to resist the flow and live swimming upstream. Even in the absence of respect, we are to be respectful. When honor is not observed, we must show honor to others. When society tells us to "do what feels right," we are challenged by God to do what we know is right.
Is it easy? No. It will not be easy either. But unless we are willing to be transformed by God and stop conforming to the world we live in, we will never make a difference. We may be misunderstood. We will probably be mocked. And chances are we will face persecution. But isn't that what we signed up for when we decided to follow Jesus?
"When the world hates you, remember it hated me before it hated you. The world would love you if you belonged to it, but you don't. I chose you to come out of the world, and so it hates you. Do you remember what I told you? `A servant is not greater than the master.' Since they persecuted me, naturally they will persecute you. And if they had listened to me, they would listen to you! The people of the world will hate you because you belong to me, for they don't know God who sent me." (John 15:18-21)
Today we don't kill children for disrespect, but the reality is that disrespect still kills. It kills our ability to love others sacrificially. It kills our ability serve selflessly. It kills our ability to trust and obey God. And maybe that is why stubborn, rebellious children were killed back then. Not as punishment, but to protect their hearts and the hearts of the community they lived in. Isn't it important that we continue to protect the hearts of those in the community of God in this day and age?
shine!
Jason
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Preparation for life
TODAY'S READING: Proverbs 13:1
Instruction. Direction. Discipline. Boundaries. We may not always like these things, but the reality is that we need them. If we want to grow and mature we must learn to accept the discipline and instruction that comes our way. It prepares us for life.
As we talked about yesterday, parents are not perfect. However, for most parents their goal is to help you develop and grow to become a mature adult. Discipline and instruction are there to help in that process. And when we are wise we will listen to the advice parents and other adults provide. Foolishness is not listening. We show how foolish we are when we don't listen to discipline and instruction.
And once again, we see how our relationship with our earthly parents relates to our relationship with God. Consider what the Hebrew author writes...
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:7-11)
Discipline is a type of weeding out process. It gets rid of the junk in our life. And that process is not always pleasant because we can get really attached to our junk. Separation from things we enjoy but that are bad for us can be uncomfortable. But in the end it makes us healthier physically, spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.
If we can learn to listen to the discipline and instruction from our parents, we will be more prepared to hear God's discipline and instruction. And that will not only make us a better member of society, it will make us a stronger warrior in the Kingdom of God.
shine!
Jason
Instruction. Direction. Discipline. Boundaries. We may not always like these things, but the reality is that we need them. If we want to grow and mature we must learn to accept the discipline and instruction that comes our way. It prepares us for life.
As we talked about yesterday, parents are not perfect. However, for most parents their goal is to help you develop and grow to become a mature adult. Discipline and instruction are there to help in that process. And when we are wise we will listen to the advice parents and other adults provide. Foolishness is not listening. We show how foolish we are when we don't listen to discipline and instruction.
And once again, we see how our relationship with our earthly parents relates to our relationship with God. Consider what the Hebrew author writes...
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:7-11)
Discipline is a type of weeding out process. It gets rid of the junk in our life. And that process is not always pleasant because we can get really attached to our junk. Separation from things we enjoy but that are bad for us can be uncomfortable. But in the end it makes us healthier physically, spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.
If we can learn to listen to the discipline and instruction from our parents, we will be more prepared to hear God's discipline and instruction. And that will not only make us a better member of society, it will make us a stronger warrior in the Kingdom of God.
shine!
Jason
Preparation for life
TODAY'S READING: Proverbs 13:1
Instruction. Direction. Discipline. Boundaries. We may not always like these things, but the reality is that we need them. If we want to grow and mature we must learn to accept the discipline and instruction that comes our way. It prepares us for life.
As we talked about yesterday, parents are not perfect. However, for most parents their goal is to help you develop and grow to become a mature adult. Discipline and instruction are there to help in that process. And when we are wise we will listen to the advice parents and other adults provide. Foolishness is not listening. We show how foolish we are when we don't listen to discipline and instruction.
And once again, we see how our relationship with our earthly parents relates to our relationship with God. Consider what the Hebrew author writes...
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:7-11)
Discipline is a type of weeding out process. It gets rid of the junk in our life. And that process is not always pleasant because we can get really attached to our junk. Separation from things we enjoy but that are bad for us can be uncomfortable. But in the end it makes us healthier physically, spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.
If we can learn to listen to the discipline and instruction from our parents, we will be more prepared to hear God's discipline and instruction. And that will not only make us a better member of society, it will make us a stronger warrior in the Kingdom of God.
shine!
Jason
Instruction. Direction. Discipline. Boundaries. We may not always like these things, but the reality is that we need them. If we want to grow and mature we must learn to accept the discipline and instruction that comes our way. It prepares us for life.
As we talked about yesterday, parents are not perfect. However, for most parents their goal is to help you develop and grow to become a mature adult. Discipline and instruction are there to help in that process. And when we are wise we will listen to the advice parents and other adults provide. Foolishness is not listening. We show how foolish we are when we don't listen to discipline and instruction.
And once again, we see how our relationship with our earthly parents relates to our relationship with God. Consider what the Hebrew author writes...
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:7-11)
Discipline is a type of weeding out process. It gets rid of the junk in our life. And that process is not always pleasant because we can get really attached to our junk. Separation from things we enjoy but that are bad for us can be uncomfortable. But in the end it makes us healthier physically, spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.
If we can learn to listen to the discipline and instruction from our parents, we will be more prepared to hear God's discipline and instruction. And that will not only make us a better member of society, it will make us a stronger warrior in the Kingdom of God.
shine!
Jason
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Bringing joy
TODAY'S READING: Proverbs 10:1
There is so much packed in this one verse of Scripture. On the surface it seems pretty basic. A wise child brings joy to his father and a foolish child brings grief to his mother. OK. So the lesson is over right? Well, maybe not.
Until you become a father you can't begin to fully appreciate this verse and what it says. I remember in my teenage years I would go out and do something that I wanted to do but it disappointed my parents. My attitude would often be, "Hey! This is my life. I will do with it what I want." Now while these is a bit of truth in that, it is not really the truth.
It is not just my life. I did not create it. I did not nurture it. It was a gift. My parents decided to have a child. I was born. And as I grew up they took care of me. They provided for me. They instructed me. They shaped me. They invested time, energy, and resources into who I was, who I am, and who I will continue to become. None of us has the right to claim life selfishly.
Unfortunately, our individualistic culture has brainwashed us into thinking that the world revolves around us. Whether we admit it or not, all of us have bought into the lie in some way, shape, or form. There are moments we all reveal the selfishness that has become a part of our being.
But this selfishness is especially visible as we transition from childhood into adulthood. Not because teenagers are any more selfish. No, I think it's more visible because teenagers are more open with their emotions. They haven't learned as well as adults the fine art of concealing their sins and shortcomings.
I share these thoughts to challenge all of us. We all struggle with bringing joy to our Father. I believe the real message behind this proverb is not just that we must strive to bring joy to our earthly father. While that is important, I really believe it is an essential part of learning to bring joy to the Father of all creation. Our
relationship with our parents is really a training ground for our relationship with God.
This is why it is so important for children to learn to honor their parents and it is equally important for parents to model Jesus to their children as much as is humanly possible. We are all together in this struggle to honor God in a fallen world. And when we realize that our role and purpose in this world is to bring honor to Him and not to please ourselves, our relationships will improve and we can all work together to lift up the name of God in this world He so desperately wants to heal and redeem.
shine!
Jason
There is so much packed in this one verse of Scripture. On the surface it seems pretty basic. A wise child brings joy to his father and a foolish child brings grief to his mother. OK. So the lesson is over right? Well, maybe not.
Until you become a father you can't begin to fully appreciate this verse and what it says. I remember in my teenage years I would go out and do something that I wanted to do but it disappointed my parents. My attitude would often be, "Hey! This is my life. I will do with it what I want." Now while these is a bit of truth in that, it is not really the truth.
It is not just my life. I did not create it. I did not nurture it. It was a gift. My parents decided to have a child. I was born. And as I grew up they took care of me. They provided for me. They instructed me. They shaped me. They invested time, energy, and resources into who I was, who I am, and who I will continue to become. None of us has the right to claim life selfishly.
Unfortunately, our individualistic culture has brainwashed us into thinking that the world revolves around us. Whether we admit it or not, all of us have bought into the lie in some way, shape, or form. There are moments we all reveal the selfishness that has become a part of our being.
But this selfishness is especially visible as we transition from childhood into adulthood. Not because teenagers are any more selfish. No, I think it's more visible because teenagers are more open with their emotions. They haven't learned as well as adults the fine art of concealing their sins and shortcomings.
I share these thoughts to challenge all of us. We all struggle with bringing joy to our Father. I believe the real message behind this proverb is not just that we must strive to bring joy to our earthly father. While that is important, I really believe it is an essential part of learning to bring joy to the Father of all creation. Our
relationship with our parents is really a training ground for our relationship with God.
This is why it is so important for children to learn to honor their parents and it is equally important for parents to model Jesus to their children as much as is humanly possible. We are all together in this struggle to honor God in a fallen world. And when we realize that our role and purpose in this world is to bring honor to Him and not to please ourselves, our relationships will improve and we can all work together to lift up the name of God in this world He so desperately wants to heal and redeem.
shine!
Jason
Bringing joy
TODAY'S READING: Proverbs 10:1
There is so much packed in this one verse of Scripture. On the surface it seems pretty basic. A wise child brings joy to his father and a foolish child brings grief to his mother. OK. So the lesson is over right? Well, maybe not.
Until you become a father you can't begin to fully appreciate this verse and what it says. I remember in my teenage years I would go out and do something that I wanted to do but it disappointed my parents. My attitude would often be, "Hey! This is my life. I will do with it what I want." Now while these is a bit of truth in that, it is not really the truth.
It is not just my life. I did not create it. I did not nurture it. It was a gift. My parents decided to have a child. I was born. And as I grew up they took care of me. They provided for me. They instructed me. They shaped me. They invested time, energy, and resources into who I was, who I am, and who I will continue to become. None of us has the right to claim life selfishly.
Unfortunately, our individualistic culture has brainwashed us into thinking that the world revolves around us. Whether we admit it or not, all of us have bought into the lie in some way, shape, or form. There are moments we all reveal the selfishness that has become a part of our being.
But this selfishness is especially visible as we transition from childhood into adulthood. Not because teenagers are any more selfish. No, I think it's more visible because teenagers are more open with their emotions. They haven't learned as well as adults the fine art of concealing their sins and shortcomings.
I share these thoughts to challenge all of us. We all struggle with bringing joy to our Father. I believe the real message behind this proverb is not just that we must strive to bring joy to our earthly father. While that is important, I really believe it is an essential part of learning to bring joy to the Father of all creation. Our
relationship with our parents is really a training ground for our relationship with God.
This is why it is so important for children to learn to honor their parents and it is equally important for parents to model Jesus to their children as much as is humanly possible. We are all together in this struggle to honor God in a fallen world. And when we realize that our role and purpose in this world is to bring honor to Him and not to please ourselves, our relationships will improve and we can all work together to lift up the name of God in this world He so desperately wants to heal and redeem.
shine!
Jason
There is so much packed in this one verse of Scripture. On the surface it seems pretty basic. A wise child brings joy to his father and a foolish child brings grief to his mother. OK. So the lesson is over right? Well, maybe not.
Until you become a father you can't begin to fully appreciate this verse and what it says. I remember in my teenage years I would go out and do something that I wanted to do but it disappointed my parents. My attitude would often be, "Hey! This is my life. I will do with it what I want." Now while these is a bit of truth in that, it is not really the truth.
It is not just my life. I did not create it. I did not nurture it. It was a gift. My parents decided to have a child. I was born. And as I grew up they took care of me. They provided for me. They instructed me. They shaped me. They invested time, energy, and resources into who I was, who I am, and who I will continue to become. None of us has the right to claim life selfishly.
Unfortunately, our individualistic culture has brainwashed us into thinking that the world revolves around us. Whether we admit it or not, all of us have bought into the lie in some way, shape, or form. There are moments we all reveal the selfishness that has become a part of our being.
But this selfishness is especially visible as we transition from childhood into adulthood. Not because teenagers are any more selfish. No, I think it's more visible because teenagers are more open with their emotions. They haven't learned as well as adults the fine art of concealing their sins and shortcomings.
I share these thoughts to challenge all of us. We all struggle with bringing joy to our Father. I believe the real message behind this proverb is not just that we must strive to bring joy to our earthly father. While that is important, I really believe it is an essential part of learning to bring joy to the Father of all creation. Our
relationship with our parents is really a training ground for our relationship with God.
This is why it is so important for children to learn to honor their parents and it is equally important for parents to model Jesus to their children as much as is humanly possible. We are all together in this struggle to honor God in a fallen world. And when we realize that our role and purpose in this world is to bring honor to Him and not to please ourselves, our relationships will improve and we can all work together to lift up the name of God in this world He so desperately wants to heal and redeem.
shine!
Jason
Monday, April 24, 2006
It all starts at home
TODAY'S READING: Exodus 20:12
What does it mean to honor your parents? In my search in the dictionary, I found two definitions that seem to fit. One says, "To hold in respect; esteem." Another definition says, "To show respect for."
Let me begin by saying there is a difference between respect and mindless obedience. Mindless obedience means that you obey someone and do exactly what they ask every time without any thought or consideration. About now some students are probably thinking, "Hey! That sounds like my house." Well, hold on a minute.
Respect still requires obedience, but it is part of a much larger picture. I am only a parent of a five-year-old and I don't have any teenagers living in my house, but I have seen both respect and lack of respect from teenagers before.
Honoring your parents to me means several things. First of all, I believe it means you give parents the benefit of the doubt. No matter how crazy or foolish their request may sound, you owe it to them to hear our their explanation. And even if you don't agree in the end, there will be times you will still be asked to honor their request.
Second of all, honoring your parents demands that you treat your parents with love and patience, even when you disagree. Disagreement is not grounds for rudeness or disrespect. I have never met a teenager that agrees with everything their parents say or ask of them, but I have seen a number who understand what it means to honor their parents regardless of whether or not they agree.
Honoring your parents also calls for honesty and integrity in dealing with your parents. Disagreement is never grounds to lie to or mislead your mother or father. Disagreement in a relationship with your parents is normal and healthy, but lying is not.
When I have seen families where parents are given the benefit of the doubt, love and patience is the norm, and honesty is central, I have seen students granted much more freedom by their parents. When parents know they can trust you, you will usually have more room. And this is exactly the way God intended it to work.
And what is equally amazing is that this type of relationship with your parents prepares you for the real world. I have not seen a study on this, but I would be willing to say that on average, people who come from homes where they honored their parents are normally going to be more successful and happy in life. When we can learn at an early age to respect those in authority, our life path will be much better. Being able to have healthy discussions and even disagreements at home will prepare us for those encounters when we become adults.
Now, before all of the students think I am ganging up on them, this is a two way street. And if we are honest, all adults would admit we make mistakes at times in parenting. After only five years of being a parent I can look back at plenty of mistakes I have made. But when parents and children can work together in a forgiving, loving, and respectful relationship, you can create a situation that will make your home more peaceful and your life better.
shine!
Jason
What does it mean to honor your parents? In my search in the dictionary, I found two definitions that seem to fit. One says, "To hold in respect; esteem." Another definition says, "To show respect for."
Let me begin by saying there is a difference between respect and mindless obedience. Mindless obedience means that you obey someone and do exactly what they ask every time without any thought or consideration. About now some students are probably thinking, "Hey! That sounds like my house." Well, hold on a minute.
Respect still requires obedience, but it is part of a much larger picture. I am only a parent of a five-year-old and I don't have any teenagers living in my house, but I have seen both respect and lack of respect from teenagers before.
Honoring your parents to me means several things. First of all, I believe it means you give parents the benefit of the doubt. No matter how crazy or foolish their request may sound, you owe it to them to hear our their explanation. And even if you don't agree in the end, there will be times you will still be asked to honor their request.
Second of all, honoring your parents demands that you treat your parents with love and patience, even when you disagree. Disagreement is not grounds for rudeness or disrespect. I have never met a teenager that agrees with everything their parents say or ask of them, but I have seen a number who understand what it means to honor their parents regardless of whether or not they agree.
Honoring your parents also calls for honesty and integrity in dealing with your parents. Disagreement is never grounds to lie to or mislead your mother or father. Disagreement in a relationship with your parents is normal and healthy, but lying is not.
When I have seen families where parents are given the benefit of the doubt, love and patience is the norm, and honesty is central, I have seen students granted much more freedom by their parents. When parents know they can trust you, you will usually have more room. And this is exactly the way God intended it to work.
And what is equally amazing is that this type of relationship with your parents prepares you for the real world. I have not seen a study on this, but I would be willing to say that on average, people who come from homes where they honored their parents are normally going to be more successful and happy in life. When we can learn at an early age to respect those in authority, our life path will be much better. Being able to have healthy discussions and even disagreements at home will prepare us for those encounters when we become adults.
Now, before all of the students think I am ganging up on them, this is a two way street. And if we are honest, all adults would admit we make mistakes at times in parenting. After only five years of being a parent I can look back at plenty of mistakes I have made. But when parents and children can work together in a forgiving, loving, and respectful relationship, you can create a situation that will make your home more peaceful and your life better.
shine!
Jason
It all starts at home
TODAY'S READING: Exodus 20:12
What does it mean to honor your parents? In my search in the dictionary, I found two definitions that seem to fit. One says, "To hold in respect; esteem." Another definition says, "To show respect for."
Let me begin by saying there is a difference between respect and mindless obedience. Mindless obedience means that you obey someone and do exactly what they ask every time without any thought or consideration. About now some students are probably thinking, "Hey! That sounds like my house." Well, hold on a minute.
Respect still requires obedience, but it is part of a much larger picture. I am only a parent of a five-year-old and I don't have any teenagers living in my house, but I have seen both respect and lack of respect from teenagers before.
Honoring your parents to me means several things. First of all, I believe it means you give parents the benefit of the doubt. No matter how crazy or foolish their request may sound, you owe it to them to hear our their explanation. And even if you don't agree in the end, there will be times you will still be asked to honor their request.
Second of all, honoring your parents demands that you treat your parents with love and patience, even when you disagree. Disagreement is not grounds for rudeness or disrespect. I have never met a teenager that agrees with everything their parents say or ask of them, but I have seen a number who understand what it means to honor their parents regardless of whether or not they agree.
Honoring your parents also calls for honesty and integrity in dealing with your parents. Disagreement is never grounds to lie to or mislead your mother or father. Disagreement in a relationship with your parents is normal and healthy, but lying is not.
When I have seen families where parents are given the benefit of the doubt, love and patience is the norm, and honesty is central, I have seen students granted much more freedom by their parents. When parents know they can trust you, you will usually have more room. And this is exactly the way God intended it to work.
And what is equally amazing is that this type of relationship with your parents prepares you for the real world. I have not seen a study on this, but I would be willing to say that on average, people who come from homes where they honored their parents are normally going to be more successful and happy in life. When we can learn at an early age to respect those in authority, our life path will be much better. Being able to have healthy discussions and even disagreements at home will prepare us for those encounters when we become adults.
Now, before all of the students think I am ganging up on them, this is a two way street. And if we are honest, all adults would admit we make mistakes at times in parenting. After only five years of being a parent I can look back at plenty of mistakes I have made. But when parents and children can work together in a forgiving, loving, and respectful relationship, you can create a situation that will make your home more peaceful and your life better.
shine!
Jason
What does it mean to honor your parents? In my search in the dictionary, I found two definitions that seem to fit. One says, "To hold in respect; esteem." Another definition says, "To show respect for."
Let me begin by saying there is a difference between respect and mindless obedience. Mindless obedience means that you obey someone and do exactly what they ask every time without any thought or consideration. About now some students are probably thinking, "Hey! That sounds like my house." Well, hold on a minute.
Respect still requires obedience, but it is part of a much larger picture. I am only a parent of a five-year-old and I don't have any teenagers living in my house, but I have seen both respect and lack of respect from teenagers before.
Honoring your parents to me means several things. First of all, I believe it means you give parents the benefit of the doubt. No matter how crazy or foolish their request may sound, you owe it to them to hear our their explanation. And even if you don't agree in the end, there will be times you will still be asked to honor their request.
Second of all, honoring your parents demands that you treat your parents with love and patience, even when you disagree. Disagreement is not grounds for rudeness or disrespect. I have never met a teenager that agrees with everything their parents say or ask of them, but I have seen a number who understand what it means to honor their parents regardless of whether or not they agree.
Honoring your parents also calls for honesty and integrity in dealing with your parents. Disagreement is never grounds to lie to or mislead your mother or father. Disagreement in a relationship with your parents is normal and healthy, but lying is not.
When I have seen families where parents are given the benefit of the doubt, love and patience is the norm, and honesty is central, I have seen students granted much more freedom by their parents. When parents know they can trust you, you will usually have more room. And this is exactly the way God intended it to work.
And what is equally amazing is that this type of relationship with your parents prepares you for the real world. I have not seen a study on this, but I would be willing to say that on average, people who come from homes where they honored their parents are normally going to be more successful and happy in life. When we can learn at an early age to respect those in authority, our life path will be much better. Being able to have healthy discussions and even disagreements at home will prepare us for those encounters when we become adults.
Now, before all of the students think I am ganging up on them, this is a two way street. And if we are honest, all adults would admit we make mistakes at times in parenting. After only five years of being a parent I can look back at plenty of mistakes I have made. But when parents and children can work together in a forgiving, loving, and respectful relationship, you can create a situation that will make your home more peaceful and your life better.
shine!
Jason
Friday, April 21, 2006
Check the can
TODAY'S READING: Exodus 20:15-17; Ephesians 4:25-28; Colossians 3:5-11
How many of your like Ravioli? I would imagine most people do. If not, substitute your favorite canned food. Now imagine I gave you a can of Ravioli (or whatever it is) and told you to enjoy. So you find a can opener and pick up the can. As the can opener blade punctures the surface something just doesn't smell right. Well, maybe it's just your imagination. You keep going. You remove the lid. Hmmm. That doesn't look like Ravioli. You dump the food into your bowl and realize something is seriously wrong. You quickly figure out that you have opened a can of dog food.
Now things have changed, haven't they? For most of us our appetite is gone. If we are not completely grossed out, we at least know that we are not getting what we hoped for.
OK. New story.
Imagine one of your friends knows you are a Christian. You talk about God from time to time. You mention that you go to church. You may even quote a Scripture from time to time. But then you begin to face the difficulties of life. Your friend hears you lie to protect yourself and thinks to himself, "Something just isn't right about that." Later, you brag about how you took a pack of gum from the store without paying for it. Your friend thinks, "Hmmm. This isn't what she told me the Bible says." Then you are sitting at the lunch table and you start talking about the good-looking girl across the room and how you are going to do whatever it takes to get her away from that other guy.
Different story. Same problem. It doesn't matter what the packaging on the outside looks like, the inside is what really matters. The can may have said Ravioli on it, but the reality was that on the inside there was dog food.
There are a lot of Christians that put on some great looking packaging, but they never changed the contents of the can. They put on their church clothes. They say the right things at church. They go to the church events. But when the events of life start to open up their lives and the true contents are revealed, the stink begins to enter the world.
I firmly believe that the biggest barrier to reaching people for Jesus is not Satan. We like to pick out a hundred different things that we believe make it hard to reach people. Now, while I would agree that many of those things contribute, I don't believe they are the main problems. Our biggest barrier to reaching people for Jesus is Christians who have changed the label but not the contents.
People don't want to change a label. They want to change their lives. People are seeking real and significant meaning to life. They don't need another club to join. They don't want another clique to be a part of. They don't need an activity to fill their schedules on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. They want life-changing, heart- filling, purposeful change in their lives. And in many of us they don't see it because it's not there.
As we finish the week looking at three of the Commandments, reflect on what they really mean.
"Do not steal" is more than a command to not take from others. It is the foundation of a life full of sacrifice and giving. It's really not about stealing. It's about sharing.
"Do not lie" is all about the truth. More than avoiding lies, it's about sharing life with honesty and integrity.
"Do not covet" calls us to respect God and others. What we have is not ours in the first place. And what our neighbors have isn't theirs. When we covet things instead of seeking and trusting God it is a change in allegiance. We are seeking fulfillment in the creation instead of our Creator.
If we simply follow the Ten Commandments to the letter of the law without seeing the character of God behind them, I believe we are simply changing the label. Eventually, the can will be opened and the true character will be revealed. It is in those moments that God's kingdom suffers and our witness is silenced.
The reality is that we all have some "dog food" in our lives, but every day should be devoted to cleaning out the can of our lives and filling it with the character of God that we see in Jesus Christ. It is only then that we can live out the words of John the Baptist. "He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less." (John 3:30)
When it's time to eat, what's in the can is far more important than the label. In the mission of God that we are a part of, what is on the inside is more important than what is on the outside. And when the inside changes there is no way to stop the light of Jesus from shining out for all to see.
shine!
Jason
How many of your like Ravioli? I would imagine most people do. If not, substitute your favorite canned food. Now imagine I gave you a can of Ravioli (or whatever it is) and told you to enjoy. So you find a can opener and pick up the can. As the can opener blade punctures the surface something just doesn't smell right. Well, maybe it's just your imagination. You keep going. You remove the lid. Hmmm. That doesn't look like Ravioli. You dump the food into your bowl and realize something is seriously wrong. You quickly figure out that you have opened a can of dog food.
Now things have changed, haven't they? For most of us our appetite is gone. If we are not completely grossed out, we at least know that we are not getting what we hoped for.
OK. New story.
Imagine one of your friends knows you are a Christian. You talk about God from time to time. You mention that you go to church. You may even quote a Scripture from time to time. But then you begin to face the difficulties of life. Your friend hears you lie to protect yourself and thinks to himself, "Something just isn't right about that." Later, you brag about how you took a pack of gum from the store without paying for it. Your friend thinks, "Hmmm. This isn't what she told me the Bible says." Then you are sitting at the lunch table and you start talking about the good-looking girl across the room and how you are going to do whatever it takes to get her away from that other guy.
Different story. Same problem. It doesn't matter what the packaging on the outside looks like, the inside is what really matters. The can may have said Ravioli on it, but the reality was that on the inside there was dog food.
There are a lot of Christians that put on some great looking packaging, but they never changed the contents of the can. They put on their church clothes. They say the right things at church. They go to the church events. But when the events of life start to open up their lives and the true contents are revealed, the stink begins to enter the world.
I firmly believe that the biggest barrier to reaching people for Jesus is not Satan. We like to pick out a hundred different things that we believe make it hard to reach people. Now, while I would agree that many of those things contribute, I don't believe they are the main problems. Our biggest barrier to reaching people for Jesus is Christians who have changed the label but not the contents.
People don't want to change a label. They want to change their lives. People are seeking real and significant meaning to life. They don't need another club to join. They don't want another clique to be a part of. They don't need an activity to fill their schedules on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. They want life-changing, heart- filling, purposeful change in their lives. And in many of us they don't see it because it's not there.
As we finish the week looking at three of the Commandments, reflect on what they really mean.
"Do not steal" is more than a command to not take from others. It is the foundation of a life full of sacrifice and giving. It's really not about stealing. It's about sharing.
"Do not lie" is all about the truth. More than avoiding lies, it's about sharing life with honesty and integrity.
"Do not covet" calls us to respect God and others. What we have is not ours in the first place. And what our neighbors have isn't theirs. When we covet things instead of seeking and trusting God it is a change in allegiance. We are seeking fulfillment in the creation instead of our Creator.
If we simply follow the Ten Commandments to the letter of the law without seeing the character of God behind them, I believe we are simply changing the label. Eventually, the can will be opened and the true character will be revealed. It is in those moments that God's kingdom suffers and our witness is silenced.
The reality is that we all have some "dog food" in our lives, but every day should be devoted to cleaning out the can of our lives and filling it with the character of God that we see in Jesus Christ. It is only then that we can live out the words of John the Baptist. "He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less." (John 3:30)
When it's time to eat, what's in the can is far more important than the label. In the mission of God that we are a part of, what is on the inside is more important than what is on the outside. And when the inside changes there is no way to stop the light of Jesus from shining out for all to see.
shine!
Jason
Check the can
TODAY'S READING: Exodus 20:15-17; Ephesians 4:25-28; Colossians 3:5-11
How many of your like Ravioli? I would imagine most people do. If not, substitute your favorite canned food. Now imagine I gave you a can of Ravioli (or whatever it is) and told you to enjoy. So you find a can opener and pick up the can. As the can opener blade punctures the surface something just doesn't smell right. Well, maybe it's just your imagination. You keep going. You remove the lid. Hmmm. That doesn't look like Ravioli. You dump the food into your bowl and realize something is seriously wrong. You quickly figure out that you have opened a can of dog food.
Now things have changed, haven't they? For most of us our appetite is gone. If we are not completely grossed out, we at least know that we are not getting what we hoped for.
OK. New story.
Imagine one of your friends knows you are a Christian. You talk about God from time to time. You mention that you go to church. You may even quote a Scripture from time to time. But then you begin to face the difficulties of life. Your friend hears you lie to protect yourself and thinks to himself, "Something just isn't right about that." Later, you brag about how you took a pack of gum from the store without paying for it. Your friend thinks, "Hmmm. This isn't what she told me the Bible says." Then you are sitting at the lunch table and you start talking about the good-looking girl across the room and how you are going to do whatever it takes to get her away from that other guy.
Different story. Same problem. It doesn't matter what the packaging on the outside looks like, the inside is what really matters. The can may have said Ravioli on it, but the reality was that on the inside there was dog food.
There are a lot of Christians that put on some great looking packaging, but they never changed the contents of the can. They put on their church clothes. They say the right things at church. They go to the church events. But when the events of life start to open up their lives and the true contents are revealed, the stink begins to enter the world.
I firmly believe that the biggest barrier to reaching people for Jesus is not Satan. We like to pick out a hundred different things that we believe make it hard to reach people. Now, while I would agree that many of those things contribute, I don't believe they are the main problems. Our biggest barrier to reaching people for Jesus is Christians who have changed the label but not the contents.
People don't want to change a label. They want to change their lives. People are seeking real and significant meaning to life. They don't need another club to join. They don't want another clique to be a part of. They don't need an activity to fill their schedules on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. They want life-changing, heart- filling, purposeful change in their lives. And in many of us they don't see it because it's not there.
As we finish the week looking at three of the Commandments, reflect on what they really mean.
"Do not steal" is more than a command to not take from others. It is the foundation of a life full of sacrifice and giving. It's really not about stealing. It's about sharing.
"Do not lie" is all about the truth. More than avoiding lies, it's about sharing life with honesty and integrity.
"Do not covet" calls us to respect God and others. What we have is not ours in the first place. And what our neighbors have isn't theirs. When we covet things instead of seeking and trusting God it is a change in allegiance. We are seeking fulfillment in the creation instead of our Creator.
If we simply follow the Ten Commandments to the letter of the law without seeing the character of God behind them, I believe we are simply changing the label. Eventually, the can will be opened and the true character will be revealed. It is in those moments that God's kingdom suffers and our witness is silenced.
The reality is that we all have some "dog food" in our lives, but every day should be devoted to cleaning out the can of our lives and filling it with the character of God that we see in Jesus Christ. It is only then that we can live out the words of John the Baptist. "He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less." (John 3:30)
When it's time to eat, what's in the can is far more important than the label. In the mission of God that we are a part of, what is on the inside is more important than what is on the outside. And when the inside changes there is no way to stop the light of Jesus from shining out for all to see.
shine!
Jason
How many of your like Ravioli? I would imagine most people do. If not, substitute your favorite canned food. Now imagine I gave you a can of Ravioli (or whatever it is) and told you to enjoy. So you find a can opener and pick up the can. As the can opener blade punctures the surface something just doesn't smell right. Well, maybe it's just your imagination. You keep going. You remove the lid. Hmmm. That doesn't look like Ravioli. You dump the food into your bowl and realize something is seriously wrong. You quickly figure out that you have opened a can of dog food.
Now things have changed, haven't they? For most of us our appetite is gone. If we are not completely grossed out, we at least know that we are not getting what we hoped for.
OK. New story.
Imagine one of your friends knows you are a Christian. You talk about God from time to time. You mention that you go to church. You may even quote a Scripture from time to time. But then you begin to face the difficulties of life. Your friend hears you lie to protect yourself and thinks to himself, "Something just isn't right about that." Later, you brag about how you took a pack of gum from the store without paying for it. Your friend thinks, "Hmmm. This isn't what she told me the Bible says." Then you are sitting at the lunch table and you start talking about the good-looking girl across the room and how you are going to do whatever it takes to get her away from that other guy.
Different story. Same problem. It doesn't matter what the packaging on the outside looks like, the inside is what really matters. The can may have said Ravioli on it, but the reality was that on the inside there was dog food.
There are a lot of Christians that put on some great looking packaging, but they never changed the contents of the can. They put on their church clothes. They say the right things at church. They go to the church events. But when the events of life start to open up their lives and the true contents are revealed, the stink begins to enter the world.
I firmly believe that the biggest barrier to reaching people for Jesus is not Satan. We like to pick out a hundred different things that we believe make it hard to reach people. Now, while I would agree that many of those things contribute, I don't believe they are the main problems. Our biggest barrier to reaching people for Jesus is Christians who have changed the label but not the contents.
People don't want to change a label. They want to change their lives. People are seeking real and significant meaning to life. They don't need another club to join. They don't want another clique to be a part of. They don't need an activity to fill their schedules on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. They want life-changing, heart- filling, purposeful change in their lives. And in many of us they don't see it because it's not there.
As we finish the week looking at three of the Commandments, reflect on what they really mean.
"Do not steal" is more than a command to not take from others. It is the foundation of a life full of sacrifice and giving. It's really not about stealing. It's about sharing.
"Do not lie" is all about the truth. More than avoiding lies, it's about sharing life with honesty and integrity.
"Do not covet" calls us to respect God and others. What we have is not ours in the first place. And what our neighbors have isn't theirs. When we covet things instead of seeking and trusting God it is a change in allegiance. We are seeking fulfillment in the creation instead of our Creator.
If we simply follow the Ten Commandments to the letter of the law without seeing the character of God behind them, I believe we are simply changing the label. Eventually, the can will be opened and the true character will be revealed. It is in those moments that God's kingdom suffers and our witness is silenced.
The reality is that we all have some "dog food" in our lives, but every day should be devoted to cleaning out the can of our lives and filling it with the character of God that we see in Jesus Christ. It is only then that we can live out the words of John the Baptist. "He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less." (John 3:30)
When it's time to eat, what's in the can is far more important than the label. In the mission of God that we are a part of, what is on the inside is more important than what is on the outside. And when the inside changes there is no way to stop the light of Jesus from shining out for all to see.
shine!
Jason
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Just looking
TODAY'S READING: Exodus 20:14; Matthew 5:27-30
Jesus continues in the Sermon on the Mount to peel back the layers and expose the nature of God. This time he tackles the subject of adultery.
I have heard a number of people - students and adults - say to me, it's OK, I'm only looking. They may see an attractive member of the opposite sex walk by and take a little extra time to look. And while they won't always admit it, some of them look too long.
This is what Jesus is dealing with here. When God said "do not commit adultery" it wasn't just about physical purity. It was also about emotional and spiritual purity. Thinking about the act is sin, just like committing the act.
Once again we are confronted with "line-drawing" theology. I see so many young people who have been taught to "wait" until marriage. But what are they being taught to wait for? They are being given a line not to cross. And each of them will draw that line somewhere different. But is it really about a line? Or is it something much more significant?
Here is a scary piece of information. This generation of teenagers views 16 to 17 hours of television each week and sees on average 14,000 sexual scenes and references each year. That's more than 38 references every day.
Did you catch that? This is not just a small spiritual skirmish. This is full blown WAR! And we must engage this struggle with the seriousness that it demands.
God does not just want us to agree to stop before we cross that line, however we define it. God wants us to run the other direction from any line we may have created. Paul said, "Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." (2 Timothy 2:22) He also wrote, "Have nothing to do with sexual sin, impurity, lust, and shameful desires." (Colossians 3:5)
These verses echo the statement of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. And that statement simply clarifies and amplifies what God told Moses a few thousand years ago. God never changes. But for generations we have tried to find the lines and live near them.
Many of us enjoy flirting with our lines. There is excitement there. We can have the fun when play near the line without crossing it. It's harmless fun, right?
Wrong!
But that is exactly what Satan wants us to believe. Often we become comfortable with the area near the line, so we move the line a little bit. Then we get comfortable there and shift the line a bit more. And you can see where this pattern goes.
Which brings us back to the words Jesus spoke on the Mount. It's not just looking. It's an opening for sin. It is a chance for evil to stick its foot in the door.
I know Jesus takes it seriously. I don't believe he is advocating that we actually pluck out eyes and cut off hands, but I think He wants us to realize how important this really is. Any sentence we begin with, "It's just..." could be the beginning of a path into darkness. Let us become more and more aware of the little traps that Satan sets for us every day. And as we do so we can fight battles that are easier to win. It's not harmless. It's not just looking. It's one of the first battles in the war for your soul. Don't surrender and give the enemy territory to work with.
shine!
Jason
Jesus continues in the Sermon on the Mount to peel back the layers and expose the nature of God. This time he tackles the subject of adultery.
I have heard a number of people - students and adults - say to me, it's OK, I'm only looking. They may see an attractive member of the opposite sex walk by and take a little extra time to look. And while they won't always admit it, some of them look too long.
This is what Jesus is dealing with here. When God said "do not commit adultery" it wasn't just about physical purity. It was also about emotional and spiritual purity. Thinking about the act is sin, just like committing the act.
Once again we are confronted with "line-drawing" theology. I see so many young people who have been taught to "wait" until marriage. But what are they being taught to wait for? They are being given a line not to cross. And each of them will draw that line somewhere different. But is it really about a line? Or is it something much more significant?
Here is a scary piece of information. This generation of teenagers views 16 to 17 hours of television each week and sees on average 14,000 sexual scenes and references each year. That's more than 38 references every day.
Did you catch that? This is not just a small spiritual skirmish. This is full blown WAR! And we must engage this struggle with the seriousness that it demands.
God does not just want us to agree to stop before we cross that line, however we define it. God wants us to run the other direction from any line we may have created. Paul said, "Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." (2 Timothy 2:22) He also wrote, "Have nothing to do with sexual sin, impurity, lust, and shameful desires." (Colossians 3:5)
These verses echo the statement of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. And that statement simply clarifies and amplifies what God told Moses a few thousand years ago. God never changes. But for generations we have tried to find the lines and live near them.
Many of us enjoy flirting with our lines. There is excitement there. We can have the fun when play near the line without crossing it. It's harmless fun, right?
Wrong!
But that is exactly what Satan wants us to believe. Often we become comfortable with the area near the line, so we move the line a little bit. Then we get comfortable there and shift the line a bit more. And you can see where this pattern goes.
Which brings us back to the words Jesus spoke on the Mount. It's not just looking. It's an opening for sin. It is a chance for evil to stick its foot in the door.
I know Jesus takes it seriously. I don't believe he is advocating that we actually pluck out eyes and cut off hands, but I think He wants us to realize how important this really is. Any sentence we begin with, "It's just..." could be the beginning of a path into darkness. Let us become more and more aware of the little traps that Satan sets for us every day. And as we do so we can fight battles that are easier to win. It's not harmless. It's not just looking. It's one of the first battles in the war for your soul. Don't surrender and give the enemy territory to work with.
shine!
Jason
Just looking
TODAY'S READING: Exodus 20:14; Matthew 5:27-30
Jesus continues in the Sermon on the Mount to peel back the layers and expose the nature of God. This time he tackles the subject of adultery.
I have heard a number of people - students and adults - say to me, it's OK, I'm only looking. They may see an attractive member of the opposite sex walk by and take a little extra time to look. And while they won't always admit it, some of them look too long.
This is what Jesus is dealing with here. When God said "do not commit adultery" it wasn't just about physical purity. It was also about emotional and spiritual purity. Thinking about the act is sin, just like committing the act.
Once again we are confronted with "line-drawing" theology. I see so many young people who have been taught to "wait" until marriage. But what are they being taught to wait for? They are being given a line not to cross. And each of them will draw that line somewhere different. But is it really about a line? Or is it something much more significant?
Here is a scary piece of information. This generation of teenagers views 16 to 17 hours of television each week and sees on average 14,000 sexual scenes and references each year. That's more than 38 references every day.
Did you catch that? This is not just a small spiritual skirmish. This is full blown WAR! And we must engage this struggle with the seriousness that it demands.
God does not just want us to agree to stop before we cross that line, however we define it. God wants us to run the other direction from any line we may have created. Paul said, "Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." (2 Timothy 2:22) He also wrote, "Have nothing to do with sexual sin, impurity, lust, and shameful desires." (Colossians 3:5)
These verses echo the statement of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. And that statement simply clarifies and amplifies what God told Moses a few thousand years ago. God never changes. But for generations we have tried to find the lines and live near them.
Many of us enjoy flirting with our lines. There is excitement there. We can have the fun when play near the line without crossing it. It's harmless fun, right?
Wrong!
But that is exactly what Satan wants us to believe. Often we become comfortable with the area near the line, so we move the line a little bit. Then we get comfortable there and shift the line a bit more. And you can see where this pattern goes.
Which brings us back to the words Jesus spoke on the Mount. It's not just looking. It's an opening for sin. It is a chance for evil to stick its foot in the door.
I know Jesus takes it seriously. I don't believe he is advocating that we actually pluck out eyes and cut off hands, but I think He wants us to realize how important this really is. Any sentence we begin with, "It's just..." could be the beginning of a path into darkness. Let us become more and more aware of the little traps that Satan sets for us every day. And as we do so we can fight battles that are easier to win. It's not harmless. It's not just looking. It's one of the first battles in the war for your soul. Don't surrender and give the enemy territory to work with.
shine!
Jason
Jesus continues in the Sermon on the Mount to peel back the layers and expose the nature of God. This time he tackles the subject of adultery.
I have heard a number of people - students and adults - say to me, it's OK, I'm only looking. They may see an attractive member of the opposite sex walk by and take a little extra time to look. And while they won't always admit it, some of them look too long.
This is what Jesus is dealing with here. When God said "do not commit adultery" it wasn't just about physical purity. It was also about emotional and spiritual purity. Thinking about the act is sin, just like committing the act.
Once again we are confronted with "line-drawing" theology. I see so many young people who have been taught to "wait" until marriage. But what are they being taught to wait for? They are being given a line not to cross. And each of them will draw that line somewhere different. But is it really about a line? Or is it something much more significant?
Here is a scary piece of information. This generation of teenagers views 16 to 17 hours of television each week and sees on average 14,000 sexual scenes and references each year. That's more than 38 references every day.
Did you catch that? This is not just a small spiritual skirmish. This is full blown WAR! And we must engage this struggle with the seriousness that it demands.
God does not just want us to agree to stop before we cross that line, however we define it. God wants us to run the other direction from any line we may have created. Paul said, "Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." (2 Timothy 2:22) He also wrote, "Have nothing to do with sexual sin, impurity, lust, and shameful desires." (Colossians 3:5)
These verses echo the statement of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. And that statement simply clarifies and amplifies what God told Moses a few thousand years ago. God never changes. But for generations we have tried to find the lines and live near them.
Many of us enjoy flirting with our lines. There is excitement there. We can have the fun when play near the line without crossing it. It's harmless fun, right?
Wrong!
But that is exactly what Satan wants us to believe. Often we become comfortable with the area near the line, so we move the line a little bit. Then we get comfortable there and shift the line a bit more. And you can see where this pattern goes.
Which brings us back to the words Jesus spoke on the Mount. It's not just looking. It's an opening for sin. It is a chance for evil to stick its foot in the door.
I know Jesus takes it seriously. I don't believe he is advocating that we actually pluck out eyes and cut off hands, but I think He wants us to realize how important this really is. Any sentence we begin with, "It's just..." could be the beginning of a path into darkness. Let us become more and more aware of the little traps that Satan sets for us every day. And as we do so we can fight battles that are easier to win. It's not harmless. It's not just looking. It's one of the first battles in the war for your soul. Don't surrender and give the enemy territory to work with.
shine!
Jason
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Murder in all its degrees
TODAY'S READING: Exodus 20:13; Matthew 5:21-26
We just don't get it sometimes. We want God to make a list of does and don'ts. We want Christianity in a box. We want God to draw the line so we know when we have passed it. One problem. That's not what God wants. And since He is God, it would be wise to look at His approach.
I don't believe that the Ten Commandments are the definitive list of do's and don'ts we make them to be. Hold on. Before you call me a heretic, hear me out.
Remember when you were a small child? Much of life came down to a small set of instructions. You've seen the poster, right? "Everything I need to know I learned in Kindergarten." While there is one sense in which that is true, we also mature and learn the foundations behind what we learned at that young age.
Unfortunately, many people of God have never moved past the basics. They look at the Ten Commandments as a basis for law as opposed to what it really was. God was revealing His character to His people. And that is what brought them to the Sermon on the Mount.
God had tried for generations to reveal to His people what He was really like. But when all else failed, God had to come down and live among us. And here we see that human embodiment of God basically telling them that they "missed it."
Yes, God told Moses on the mountain "Do not murder." But underlying that commandment was the part of God's character that values life. Not just physical life, but emotional and spiritual life as well. God's people decided to draw a line at "do not murder," but they killed plenty of people with their words and actions. And Jesus makes it very clear that damaged human relationships will damage our relationship with God. Why? Aren't we created in God's image? Aren't we the only creatures on the planet who have a special relationship with the Father that allows God to live in us as Spirit?
Our "line-drawing" theology has so distorted our view of holiness. And this is one of the battles that Jesus fought from the Sermon on the Mount to the hill at Calvary. Holiness is not law-keeping.
Holiness is not following the rules. Holiness is not doing the minimum to please God. Holiness is about bringing heaven to earth. It requires us to be consumed by God's character. Holiness does not occur when we look "good." Holiness occurs when we are good on the inside. Holiness is an attribute, not an activity. And when it comes to murder, it's not just about taking a life. The real heart of the commandment is value and respect for every aspect of human life.
When we can begin to wrap our arms around this concept of becoming godly as opposed to acting godly we will move beyond the basics and develop into the followers that Jesus intends for us to be. Then we can truly fulfill the mission we were created to accomplish in the first place and the world can be changed by the mission of God at work in our lives.
shine!
Jason
We just don't get it sometimes. We want God to make a list of does and don'ts. We want Christianity in a box. We want God to draw the line so we know when we have passed it. One problem. That's not what God wants. And since He is God, it would be wise to look at His approach.
I don't believe that the Ten Commandments are the definitive list of do's and don'ts we make them to be. Hold on. Before you call me a heretic, hear me out.
Remember when you were a small child? Much of life came down to a small set of instructions. You've seen the poster, right? "Everything I need to know I learned in Kindergarten." While there is one sense in which that is true, we also mature and learn the foundations behind what we learned at that young age.
Unfortunately, many people of God have never moved past the basics. They look at the Ten Commandments as a basis for law as opposed to what it really was. God was revealing His character to His people. And that is what brought them to the Sermon on the Mount.
God had tried for generations to reveal to His people what He was really like. But when all else failed, God had to come down and live among us. And here we see that human embodiment of God basically telling them that they "missed it."
Yes, God told Moses on the mountain "Do not murder." But underlying that commandment was the part of God's character that values life. Not just physical life, but emotional and spiritual life as well. God's people decided to draw a line at "do not murder," but they killed plenty of people with their words and actions. And Jesus makes it very clear that damaged human relationships will damage our relationship with God. Why? Aren't we created in God's image? Aren't we the only creatures on the planet who have a special relationship with the Father that allows God to live in us as Spirit?
Our "line-drawing" theology has so distorted our view of holiness. And this is one of the battles that Jesus fought from the Sermon on the Mount to the hill at Calvary. Holiness is not law-keeping.
Holiness is not following the rules. Holiness is not doing the minimum to please God. Holiness is about bringing heaven to earth. It requires us to be consumed by God's character. Holiness does not occur when we look "good." Holiness occurs when we are good on the inside. Holiness is an attribute, not an activity. And when it comes to murder, it's not just about taking a life. The real heart of the commandment is value and respect for every aspect of human life.
When we can begin to wrap our arms around this concept of becoming godly as opposed to acting godly we will move beyond the basics and develop into the followers that Jesus intends for us to be. Then we can truly fulfill the mission we were created to accomplish in the first place and the world can be changed by the mission of God at work in our lives.
shine!
Jason
Needs
TODAY'S READING: Exodus 20:3-6; Matthew 6:19-34
Needs. What are our needs? I think the answer you get will depend on who you ask. Do you need new clothes? Do you need that car? Do you need the latest (fill in the blank)?
You may be asking, "What in the world does that have to do with serving God?" The answer in a word...everything. What we "need" determines our god.
One of the definitions of worship is "One that is worshiped, idealized, or followed." Read that again. Do you see the central focus of a god? It's all about who or what is controlling your life. Not in a overpowering way (although that is often the way little "g" gods work), but in the sense of providing direction.
We have plenty of gods today. Want some evidence?
Does the kind of car we buy control our spending?
Does the clothing that stars wear impact our purchasing?
Does fitting in with our friends impact how we act?
Does having the "right" name brand affect what you own?
Do the lifestyles of famous people change your attitude towards sin?
Does the music you listen to impact your decisions?
You may not relate to any of these. You may relate to some of them. You may relate to all of them. If you need to, create with your own list.
What we worship will often change what we "need." Things that were once additional luxuries become needs. And often these needs directly affect our outlook on life. And the reality is that these new "needs" can often drive a wedge between us and God. Once we begin to accept new gods, we need to make room for them. So in the process we reduce God's influence. And eventually God's guidance in our life evaporates.
That is why Jesus warns that we cannot serve two masters. And when the two masters disagree - as God and the world always will - one will eventually have to be removed from the throne. And as wants become needs, our desire for and obedience to God will be gone and the new master we have selected will climb onto the throne. And then our ability to impact this world for the Kingdom is gone. Who or what is sitting on the throne in your life? Is it time to overthrow
a false leader to make room for the King of Kings?
shine!
Jason
Needs. What are our needs? I think the answer you get will depend on who you ask. Do you need new clothes? Do you need that car? Do you need the latest (fill in the blank)?
You may be asking, "What in the world does that have to do with serving God?" The answer in a word...everything. What we "need" determines our god.
One of the definitions of worship is "One that is worshiped, idealized, or followed." Read that again. Do you see the central focus of a god? It's all about who or what is controlling your life. Not in a overpowering way (although that is often the way little "g" gods work), but in the sense of providing direction.
We have plenty of gods today. Want some evidence?
Does the kind of car we buy control our spending?
Does the clothing that stars wear impact our purchasing?
Does fitting in with our friends impact how we act?
Does having the "right" name brand affect what you own?
Do the lifestyles of famous people change your attitude towards sin?
Does the music you listen to impact your decisions?
You may not relate to any of these. You may relate to some of them. You may relate to all of them. If you need to, create with your own list.
What we worship will often change what we "need." Things that were once additional luxuries become needs. And often these needs directly affect our outlook on life. And the reality is that these new "needs" can often drive a wedge between us and God. Once we begin to accept new gods, we need to make room for them. So in the process we reduce God's influence. And eventually God's guidance in our life evaporates.
That is why Jesus warns that we cannot serve two masters. And when the two masters disagree - as God and the world always will - one will eventually have to be removed from the throne. And as wants become needs, our desire for and obedience to God will be gone and the new master we have selected will climb onto the throne. And then our ability to impact this world for the Kingdom is gone. Who or what is sitting on the throne in your life? Is it time to overthrow
a false leader to make room for the King of Kings?
shine!
Jason
Murder in all its degrees
TODAY'S READING: Exodus 20:13; Matthew 5:21-26
We just don't get it sometimes. We want God to make a list of does and don'ts. We want Christianity in a box. We want God to draw the line so we know when we have passed it. One problem. That's not what God wants. And since He is God, it would be wise to look at His approach.
I don't believe that the Ten Commandments are the definitive list of do's and don'ts we make them to be. Hold on. Before you call me a heretic, hear me out.
Remember when you were a small child? Much of life came down to a small set of instructions. You've seen the poster, right? "Everything I need to know I learned in Kindergarten." While there is one sense in which that is true, we also mature and learn the foundations behind what we learned at that young age.
Unfortunately, many people of God have never moved past the basics. They look at the Ten Commandments as a basis for law as opposed to what it really was. God was revealing His character to His people. And that is what brought them to the Sermon on the Mount.
God had tried for generations to reveal to His people what He was really like. But when all else failed, God had to come down and live among us. And here we see that human embodiment of God basically telling them that they "missed it."
Yes, God told Moses on the mountain "Do not murder." But underlying that commandment was the part of God's character that values life. Not just physical life, but emotional and spiritual life as well. God's people decided to draw a line at "do not murder," but they killed plenty of people with their words and actions. And Jesus makes it very clear that damaged human relationships will damage our relationship with God. Why? Aren't we created in God's image? Aren't we the only creatures on the planet who have a special relationship with the Father that allows God to live in us as Spirit?
Our "line-drawing" theology has so distorted our view of holiness. And this is one of the battles that Jesus fought from the Sermon on the Mount to the hill at Calvary. Holiness is not law-keeping.
Holiness is not following the rules. Holiness is not doing the minimum to please God. Holiness is about bringing heaven to earth. It requires us to be consumed by God's character. Holiness does not occur when we look "good." Holiness occurs when we are good on the inside. Holiness is an attribute, not an activity. And when it comes to murder, it's not just about taking a life. The real heart of the commandment is value and respect for every aspect of human life.
When we can begin to wrap our arms around this concept of becoming godly as opposed to acting godly we will move beyond the basics and develop into the followers that Jesus intends for us to be. Then we can truly fulfill the mission we were created to accomplish in the first place and the world can be changed by the mission of God at work in our lives.
shine!
Jason
We just don't get it sometimes. We want God to make a list of does and don'ts. We want Christianity in a box. We want God to draw the line so we know when we have passed it. One problem. That's not what God wants. And since He is God, it would be wise to look at His approach.
I don't believe that the Ten Commandments are the definitive list of do's and don'ts we make them to be. Hold on. Before you call me a heretic, hear me out.
Remember when you were a small child? Much of life came down to a small set of instructions. You've seen the poster, right? "Everything I need to know I learned in Kindergarten." While there is one sense in which that is true, we also mature and learn the foundations behind what we learned at that young age.
Unfortunately, many people of God have never moved past the basics. They look at the Ten Commandments as a basis for law as opposed to what it really was. God was revealing His character to His people. And that is what brought them to the Sermon on the Mount.
God had tried for generations to reveal to His people what He was really like. But when all else failed, God had to come down and live among us. And here we see that human embodiment of God basically telling them that they "missed it."
Yes, God told Moses on the mountain "Do not murder." But underlying that commandment was the part of God's character that values life. Not just physical life, but emotional and spiritual life as well. God's people decided to draw a line at "do not murder," but they killed plenty of people with their words and actions. And Jesus makes it very clear that damaged human relationships will damage our relationship with God. Why? Aren't we created in God's image? Aren't we the only creatures on the planet who have a special relationship with the Father that allows God to live in us as Spirit?
Our "line-drawing" theology has so distorted our view of holiness. And this is one of the battles that Jesus fought from the Sermon on the Mount to the hill at Calvary. Holiness is not law-keeping.
Holiness is not following the rules. Holiness is not doing the minimum to please God. Holiness is about bringing heaven to earth. It requires us to be consumed by God's character. Holiness does not occur when we look "good." Holiness occurs when we are good on the inside. Holiness is an attribute, not an activity. And when it comes to murder, it's not just about taking a life. The real heart of the commandment is value and respect for every aspect of human life.
When we can begin to wrap our arms around this concept of becoming godly as opposed to acting godly we will move beyond the basics and develop into the followers that Jesus intends for us to be. Then we can truly fulfill the mission we were created to accomplish in the first place and the world can be changed by the mission of God at work in our lives.
shine!
Jason
Needs
TODAY'S READING: Exodus 20:3-6; Matthew 6:19-34
Needs. What are our needs? I think the answer you get will depend on who you ask. Do you need new clothes? Do you need that car? Do you need the latest (fill in the blank)?
You may be asking, "What in the world does that have to do with serving God?" The answer in a word...everything. What we "need" determines our god.
One of the definitions of worship is "One that is worshiped, idealized, or followed." Read that again. Do you see the central focus of a god? It's all about who or what is controlling your life. Not in a overpowering way (although that is often the way little "g" gods work), but in the sense of providing direction.
We have plenty of gods today. Want some evidence?
Does the kind of car we buy control our spending?
Does the clothing that stars wear impact our purchasing?
Does fitting in with our friends impact how we act?
Does having the "right" name brand affect what you own?
Do the lifestyles of famous people change your attitude towards sin?
Does the music you listen to impact your decisions?
You may not relate to any of these. You may relate to some of them. You may relate to all of them. If you need to, create with your own list.
What we worship will often change what we "need." Things that were once additional luxuries become needs. And often these needs directly affect our outlook on life. And the reality is that these new "needs" can often drive a wedge between us and God. Once we begin to accept new gods, we need to make room for them. So in the process we reduce God's influence. And eventually God's guidance in our life evaporates.
That is why Jesus warns that we cannot serve two masters. And when the two masters disagree - as God and the world always will - one will eventually have to be removed from the throne. And as wants become needs, our desire for and obedience to God will be gone and the new master we have selected will climb onto the throne. And then our ability to impact this world for the Kingdom is gone. Who or what is sitting on the throne in your life? Is it time to overthrow
a false leader to make room for the King of Kings?
shine!
Jason
Needs. What are our needs? I think the answer you get will depend on who you ask. Do you need new clothes? Do you need that car? Do you need the latest (fill in the blank)?
You may be asking, "What in the world does that have to do with serving God?" The answer in a word...everything. What we "need" determines our god.
One of the definitions of worship is "One that is worshiped, idealized, or followed." Read that again. Do you see the central focus of a god? It's all about who or what is controlling your life. Not in a overpowering way (although that is often the way little "g" gods work), but in the sense of providing direction.
We have plenty of gods today. Want some evidence?
Does the kind of car we buy control our spending?
Does the clothing that stars wear impact our purchasing?
Does fitting in with our friends impact how we act?
Does having the "right" name brand affect what you own?
Do the lifestyles of famous people change your attitude towards sin?
Does the music you listen to impact your decisions?
You may not relate to any of these. You may relate to some of them. You may relate to all of them. If you need to, create with your own list.
What we worship will often change what we "need." Things that were once additional luxuries become needs. And often these needs directly affect our outlook on life. And the reality is that these new "needs" can often drive a wedge between us and God. Once we begin to accept new gods, we need to make room for them. So in the process we reduce God's influence. And eventually God's guidance in our life evaporates.
That is why Jesus warns that we cannot serve two masters. And when the two masters disagree - as God and the world always will - one will eventually have to be removed from the throne. And as wants become needs, our desire for and obedience to God will be gone and the new master we have selected will climb onto the throne. And then our ability to impact this world for the Kingdom is gone. Who or what is sitting on the throne in your life? Is it time to overthrow
a false leader to make room for the King of Kings?
shine!
Jason
Friday, April 14, 2006
Just do it
TODAY'S READING: Matthew 28:16-20
Do you ever have doubts? I know that I do from time to time. The reality is that all of us who seek to know God will have doubts from time to time. It may be when we face a difficult time or when we are in a season of life that brings forth doubt.
Jesus comes to His disciples and some of then still doubted. Even in the midst of worship there were things they were not sure about. You would think that Jesus would attempt to answer their questions and relieve the doubt. But He doesn't.
Jesus' message is clear. Go out and live the way I did. Make disciples. Help them turn their lives around. Teach them to live like Me. And remember, I will always be here.
We face the same challenge today. We may not understand everything about God. (The reality is we never will in this life.) We will have doubts at times. God will not always answer every question. Moses himself said, "There are secret things that belong to the LORD our God, but the revealed things belong to us and our descendants forever, so that we may obey these words of the law." (Deuteronomy 29:29)
In the midst of doubt, struggle, or difficulty, Jesus still desires for us to be faithful followers. Faithfulness is not optional, it is a lifestyle. As a matter of fact, it is often through living out our faith that questions are answered. Paul wrote, "I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ." (Philemon 6)
When we are willing to move beyond our doubts and serve God anyway, we will often gain clarity of purpose and life. We will grow in our understanding of God.
For years, Nike has used the slogan "Just do it." The word Nike is Greek for victory. If we want to achieve true victory in Jesus, we must hear, trust, and act on His call to "just do it" and know that He will always be with us.
shine!
Jason
Do you ever have doubts? I know that I do from time to time. The reality is that all of us who seek to know God will have doubts from time to time. It may be when we face a difficult time or when we are in a season of life that brings forth doubt.
Jesus comes to His disciples and some of then still doubted. Even in the midst of worship there were things they were not sure about. You would think that Jesus would attempt to answer their questions and relieve the doubt. But He doesn't.
Jesus' message is clear. Go out and live the way I did. Make disciples. Help them turn their lives around. Teach them to live like Me. And remember, I will always be here.
We face the same challenge today. We may not understand everything about God. (The reality is we never will in this life.) We will have doubts at times. God will not always answer every question. Moses himself said, "There are secret things that belong to the LORD our God, but the revealed things belong to us and our descendants forever, so that we may obey these words of the law." (Deuteronomy 29:29)
In the midst of doubt, struggle, or difficulty, Jesus still desires for us to be faithful followers. Faithfulness is not optional, it is a lifestyle. As a matter of fact, it is often through living out our faith that questions are answered. Paul wrote, "I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ." (Philemon 6)
When we are willing to move beyond our doubts and serve God anyway, we will often gain clarity of purpose and life. We will grow in our understanding of God.
For years, Nike has used the slogan "Just do it." The word Nike is Greek for victory. If we want to achieve true victory in Jesus, we must hear, trust, and act on His call to "just do it" and know that He will always be with us.
shine!
Jason
Just do it
TODAY'S READING: Matthew 28:16-20
Do you ever have doubts? I know that I do from time to time. The reality is that all of us who seek to know God will have doubts from time to time. It may be when we face a difficult time or when we are in a season of life that brings forth doubt.
Jesus comes to His disciples and some of then still doubted. Even in the midst of worship there were things they were not sure about. You would think that Jesus would attempt to answer their questions and relieve the doubt. But He doesn't.
Jesus' message is clear. Go out and live the way I did. Make disciples. Help them turn their lives around. Teach them to live like Me. And remember, I will always be here.
We face the same challenge today. We may not understand everything about God. (The reality is we never will in this life.) We will have doubts at times. God will not always answer every question. Moses himself said, "There are secret things that belong to the LORD our God, but the revealed things belong to us and our descendants forever, so that we may obey these words of the law." (Deuteronomy 29:29)
In the midst of doubt, struggle, or difficulty, Jesus still desires for us to be faithful followers. Faithfulness is not optional, it is a lifestyle. As a matter of fact, it is often through living out our faith that questions are answered. Paul wrote, "I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ." (Philemon 6)
When we are willing to move beyond our doubts and serve God anyway, we will often gain clarity of purpose and life. We will grow in our understanding of God.
For years, Nike has used the slogan "Just do it." The word Nike is Greek for victory. If we want to achieve true victory in Jesus, we must hear, trust, and act on His call to "just do it" and know that He will always be with us.
shine!
Jason
Do you ever have doubts? I know that I do from time to time. The reality is that all of us who seek to know God will have doubts from time to time. It may be when we face a difficult time or when we are in a season of life that brings forth doubt.
Jesus comes to His disciples and some of then still doubted. Even in the midst of worship there were things they were not sure about. You would think that Jesus would attempt to answer their questions and relieve the doubt. But He doesn't.
Jesus' message is clear. Go out and live the way I did. Make disciples. Help them turn their lives around. Teach them to live like Me. And remember, I will always be here.
We face the same challenge today. We may not understand everything about God. (The reality is we never will in this life.) We will have doubts at times. God will not always answer every question. Moses himself said, "There are secret things that belong to the LORD our God, but the revealed things belong to us and our descendants forever, so that we may obey these words of the law." (Deuteronomy 29:29)
In the midst of doubt, struggle, or difficulty, Jesus still desires for us to be faithful followers. Faithfulness is not optional, it is a lifestyle. As a matter of fact, it is often through living out our faith that questions are answered. Paul wrote, "I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ." (Philemon 6)
When we are willing to move beyond our doubts and serve God anyway, we will often gain clarity of purpose and life. We will grow in our understanding of God.
For years, Nike has used the slogan "Just do it." The word Nike is Greek for victory. If we want to achieve true victory in Jesus, we must hear, trust, and act on His call to "just do it" and know that He will always be with us.
shine!
Jason
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Running to the tomb
TODAY'S READING: Luke 24:1-12
I would imagine that by this point in the week you are getting used to this. As we look at each of the different accounts of that Sunday morning we see this lack of understanding. We saw a few days ago how Peter and John ran to the tomb when the women came to them. Now we know what happened to the others. They thought the resurrection was just plain nonsense.
So back to Peter. Peter knew something had happened. Granted, Peter was rather spontaneous, but he knew something had happened. So he takes off and runs to the tomb. Once he gets there he looks in but still wonders what happened.
While we may wonder why Peter didn't "get it," there is another side of the story we need to consider. Peter was willing to go to the tomb and check it out while the others didn't even come.
There are times in our life where God asks us to do something that we don't understand. We may even go there and still wonder why. Often it is not until later that we see the clear picture. Suddenly, everything makes sense.
When you face situations that don't seem to make sense, remember Peter. Remember that Peter took off for the tomb before he knew exactly what he would see. He even wondered what happened after he was there. But as he began to understand everything that had unfolded he realized who Jesus really was.
Sometimes in our lives we need to follow Jesus even if we don't understand why at the moment. More often than not we will look back later and realize that something incredible happened in that moment. When we can have faith like Peter and pursue the path before us, God will work in ways we can't imagine.
shine!
Jason
I would imagine that by this point in the week you are getting used to this. As we look at each of the different accounts of that Sunday morning we see this lack of understanding. We saw a few days ago how Peter and John ran to the tomb when the women came to them. Now we know what happened to the others. They thought the resurrection was just plain nonsense.
So back to Peter. Peter knew something had happened. Granted, Peter was rather spontaneous, but he knew something had happened. So he takes off and runs to the tomb. Once he gets there he looks in but still wonders what happened.
While we may wonder why Peter didn't "get it," there is another side of the story we need to consider. Peter was willing to go to the tomb and check it out while the others didn't even come.
There are times in our life where God asks us to do something that we don't understand. We may even go there and still wonder why. Often it is not until later that we see the clear picture. Suddenly, everything makes sense.
When you face situations that don't seem to make sense, remember Peter. Remember that Peter took off for the tomb before he knew exactly what he would see. He even wondered what happened after he was there. But as he began to understand everything that had unfolded he realized who Jesus really was.
Sometimes in our lives we need to follow Jesus even if we don't understand why at the moment. More often than not we will look back later and realize that something incredible happened in that moment. When we can have faith like Peter and pursue the path before us, God will work in ways we can't imagine.
shine!
Jason
Running to the tomb
TODAY'S READING: Luke 24:1-12
I would imagine that by this point in the week you are getting used to this. As we look at each of the different accounts of that Sunday morning we see this lack of understanding. We saw a few days ago how Peter and John ran to the tomb when the women came to them. Now we know what happened to the others. They thought the resurrection was just plain nonsense.
So back to Peter. Peter knew something had happened. Granted, Peter was rather spontaneous, but he knew something had happened. So he takes off and runs to the tomb. Once he gets there he looks in but still wonders what happened.
While we may wonder why Peter didn't "get it," there is another side of the story we need to consider. Peter was willing to go to the tomb and check it out while the others didn't even come.
There are times in our life where God asks us to do something that we don't understand. We may even go there and still wonder why. Often it is not until later that we see the clear picture. Suddenly, everything makes sense.
When you face situations that don't seem to make sense, remember Peter. Remember that Peter took off for the tomb before he knew exactly what he would see. He even wondered what happened after he was there. But as he began to understand everything that had unfolded he realized who Jesus really was.
Sometimes in our lives we need to follow Jesus even if we don't understand why at the moment. More often than not we will look back later and realize that something incredible happened in that moment. When we can have faith like Peter and pursue the path before us, God will work in ways we can't imagine.
shine!
Jason
I would imagine that by this point in the week you are getting used to this. As we look at each of the different accounts of that Sunday morning we see this lack of understanding. We saw a few days ago how Peter and John ran to the tomb when the women came to them. Now we know what happened to the others. They thought the resurrection was just plain nonsense.
So back to Peter. Peter knew something had happened. Granted, Peter was rather spontaneous, but he knew something had happened. So he takes off and runs to the tomb. Once he gets there he looks in but still wonders what happened.
While we may wonder why Peter didn't "get it," there is another side of the story we need to consider. Peter was willing to go to the tomb and check it out while the others didn't even come.
There are times in our life where God asks us to do something that we don't understand. We may even go there and still wonder why. Often it is not until later that we see the clear picture. Suddenly, everything makes sense.
When you face situations that don't seem to make sense, remember Peter. Remember that Peter took off for the tomb before he knew exactly what he would see. He even wondered what happened after he was there. But as he began to understand everything that had unfolded he realized who Jesus really was.
Sometimes in our lives we need to follow Jesus even if we don't understand why at the moment. More often than not we will look back later and realize that something incredible happened in that moment. When we can have faith like Peter and pursue the path before us, God will work in ways we can't imagine.
shine!
Jason
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Look for Jesus
TODAY'S READING: John 20:24-29
We have dubbed him "Doubting Thomas", but I hope over the last couple of days you have seen he isn't the only one doubting.vActually, I think we treat Thomas unfairly, because most (if not all) of us would have wanted to "see it to believe it" ourselves.
But the last thing Jesus said to Thomas rings loudly in my ears. "You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who haven't seen me and believe anyway."
I want to go back a little bit in the story and look at the exchange between Jesus and Thomas. Thomas had said he would not believe until he saw the holes in Jesus' hands and the wound in His side. Jesus shows up and tells Thomas to put his finger in the hole and his hand in his wound. He challenges Thomas to believe.
While we are not able to see Jesus' body today, we are able to see Him in other ways. I think He challenges us to believe. If we watch for Him at work we might catch a glimpse. We can't see holes in His hands, but we could see hands serving others in His name. We can't see the wound in His side, but we can see the wounded being healed by His love. We can't hear Thomas say "My Lord and my God", but we can see lives changed.
We are blessed if we believe without seeing Jesus. And we will be blessed when we allow others to catch a glimpse of Jesus. People will believe when we become His hands. People will believe when we help others heal. People will believe when we touch lives.
One of the greatest joys in my life has been times when people come to the realization that Jesus is real and that He is risen. In those moments when they discover their Lord and their God, I feel blessed. And I know that they are blessed as well. And there is no greaterreward in life than leading someone to the resurrected Christ.
shine!
Jason
We have dubbed him "Doubting Thomas", but I hope over the last couple of days you have seen he isn't the only one doubting.vActually, I think we treat Thomas unfairly, because most (if not all) of us would have wanted to "see it to believe it" ourselves.
But the last thing Jesus said to Thomas rings loudly in my ears. "You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who haven't seen me and believe anyway."
I want to go back a little bit in the story and look at the exchange between Jesus and Thomas. Thomas had said he would not believe until he saw the holes in Jesus' hands and the wound in His side. Jesus shows up and tells Thomas to put his finger in the hole and his hand in his wound. He challenges Thomas to believe.
While we are not able to see Jesus' body today, we are able to see Him in other ways. I think He challenges us to believe. If we watch for Him at work we might catch a glimpse. We can't see holes in His hands, but we could see hands serving others in His name. We can't see the wound in His side, but we can see the wounded being healed by His love. We can't hear Thomas say "My Lord and my God", but we can see lives changed.
We are blessed if we believe without seeing Jesus. And we will be blessed when we allow others to catch a glimpse of Jesus. People will believe when we become His hands. People will believe when we help others heal. People will believe when we touch lives.
One of the greatest joys in my life has been times when people come to the realization that Jesus is real and that He is risen. In those moments when they discover their Lord and their God, I feel blessed. And I know that they are blessed as well. And there is no greaterreward in life than leading someone to the resurrected Christ.
shine!
Jason
Look for Jesus
TODAY'S READING: John 20:24-29
We have dubbed him "Doubting Thomas", but I hope over the last couple of days you have seen he isn't the only one doubting.vActually, I think we treat Thomas unfairly, because most (if not all) of us would have wanted to "see it to believe it" ourselves.
But the last thing Jesus said to Thomas rings loudly in my ears. "You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who haven't seen me and believe anyway."
I want to go back a little bit in the story and look at the exchange between Jesus and Thomas. Thomas had said he would not believe until he saw the holes in Jesus' hands and the wound in His side. Jesus shows up and tells Thomas to put his finger in the hole and his hand in his wound. He challenges Thomas to believe.
While we are not able to see Jesus' body today, we are able to see Him in other ways. I think He challenges us to believe. If we watch for Him at work we might catch a glimpse. We can't see holes in His hands, but we could see hands serving others in His name. We can't see the wound in His side, but we can see the wounded being healed by His love. We can't hear Thomas say "My Lord and my God", but we can see lives changed.
We are blessed if we believe without seeing Jesus. And we will be blessed when we allow others to catch a glimpse of Jesus. People will believe when we become His hands. People will believe when we help others heal. People will believe when we touch lives.
One of the greatest joys in my life has been times when people come to the realization that Jesus is real and that He is risen. In those moments when they discover their Lord and their God, I feel blessed. And I know that they are blessed as well. And there is no greaterreward in life than leading someone to the resurrected Christ.
shine!
Jason
We have dubbed him "Doubting Thomas", but I hope over the last couple of days you have seen he isn't the only one doubting.vActually, I think we treat Thomas unfairly, because most (if not all) of us would have wanted to "see it to believe it" ourselves.
But the last thing Jesus said to Thomas rings loudly in my ears. "You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who haven't seen me and believe anyway."
I want to go back a little bit in the story and look at the exchange between Jesus and Thomas. Thomas had said he would not believe until he saw the holes in Jesus' hands and the wound in His side. Jesus shows up and tells Thomas to put his finger in the hole and his hand in his wound. He challenges Thomas to believe.
While we are not able to see Jesus' body today, we are able to see Him in other ways. I think He challenges us to believe. If we watch for Him at work we might catch a glimpse. We can't see holes in His hands, but we could see hands serving others in His name. We can't see the wound in His side, but we can see the wounded being healed by His love. We can't hear Thomas say "My Lord and my God", but we can see lives changed.
We are blessed if we believe without seeing Jesus. And we will be blessed when we allow others to catch a glimpse of Jesus. People will believe when we become His hands. People will believe when we help others heal. People will believe when we touch lives.
One of the greatest joys in my life has been times when people come to the realization that Jesus is real and that He is risen. In those moments when they discover their Lord and their God, I feel blessed. And I know that they are blessed as well. And there is no greaterreward in life than leading someone to the resurrected Christ.
shine!
Jason
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Things change at the tomb
TODAY'S READING: John 20:1-10
Can you imagine being Peter or John? My guess is that they were still hurting from the events that occurred a few days earlier. Their friend had been nailed to cross. The man who they followed had been defeated. Their Messiah had been killed. The closest thing I can imagine is how our nation must have felt when President Kennedywas killed. A great leader had been brought down in his prime.
Then to add insult to injury the body had been stolen. What?!?! Not only did they have to deal with this great loss, but now His body had been stolen. So Peter and John run to the scene of the crime.
They began to investigate. First the outside of the tomb. Then they looked inside. After that they moved inside. As they examined the evidence it suddenly dawned on them. Like Bruce Willis' character at the end of The Sixth Sense they realized they had missed something big.
Time and time again Jesus had said He would raise from the dead, but they didn't understand. Sure, they thought Jesus would be raised in the resurrection that many Jews believed in, but they didn't understand that it would be THE Resurrection. It wasn't until they saw the evidence in the tomb that all the pieces of the puzzle came together. Then the picture was clear. This was not just a man. This was not just another rabbi. This was the Messiah. This was the Son of God. He kept His promise. He completed His mission. He was the hope of all mankind.
Want to see the evidence that they believed? This same Peter who denied Jesus before the empty tomb stood before thousands and proclaimed His name after the tomb. The same John that was worried about what seat he would get in heaven was willing to be exiled to an island for preaching Jesus. These men were changed forever by the empty tomb. Are you?
Before the empty tomb popularity means everything, but after the empty tomb we live to serve God.
Before the empty tomb our possessions define us, but after the empty tomb Jesus is our identity.
Before the empty tomb our pleasure is found in the flesh, but after the empty tomb we find fulfillment in the Holy Spirit.
Before the empty tomb position brings power, but after the empty tomb power is found in humility.
Before the empty tomb we look out for "number one", but after the empty tomb we become the servant of all.
The empty tomb is a life-changing event. It was for the people who first found it 2,000 years ago. It still is for those who find it today. Don't leave the empty tomb unchanged. Leave it knowing that Jesus is risen and that nothing else in this world is more important than following Him.
shine!
Jason
Can you imagine being Peter or John? My guess is that they were still hurting from the events that occurred a few days earlier. Their friend had been nailed to cross. The man who they followed had been defeated. Their Messiah had been killed. The closest thing I can imagine is how our nation must have felt when President Kennedywas killed. A great leader had been brought down in his prime.
Then to add insult to injury the body had been stolen. What?!?! Not only did they have to deal with this great loss, but now His body had been stolen. So Peter and John run to the scene of the crime.
They began to investigate. First the outside of the tomb. Then they looked inside. After that they moved inside. As they examined the evidence it suddenly dawned on them. Like Bruce Willis' character at the end of The Sixth Sense they realized they had missed something big.
Time and time again Jesus had said He would raise from the dead, but they didn't understand. Sure, they thought Jesus would be raised in the resurrection that many Jews believed in, but they didn't understand that it would be THE Resurrection. It wasn't until they saw the evidence in the tomb that all the pieces of the puzzle came together. Then the picture was clear. This was not just a man. This was not just another rabbi. This was the Messiah. This was the Son of God. He kept His promise. He completed His mission. He was the hope of all mankind.
Want to see the evidence that they believed? This same Peter who denied Jesus before the empty tomb stood before thousands and proclaimed His name after the tomb. The same John that was worried about what seat he would get in heaven was willing to be exiled to an island for preaching Jesus. These men were changed forever by the empty tomb. Are you?
Before the empty tomb popularity means everything, but after the empty tomb we live to serve God.
Before the empty tomb our possessions define us, but after the empty tomb Jesus is our identity.
Before the empty tomb our pleasure is found in the flesh, but after the empty tomb we find fulfillment in the Holy Spirit.
Before the empty tomb position brings power, but after the empty tomb power is found in humility.
Before the empty tomb we look out for "number one", but after the empty tomb we become the servant of all.
The empty tomb is a life-changing event. It was for the people who first found it 2,000 years ago. It still is for those who find it today. Don't leave the empty tomb unchanged. Leave it knowing that Jesus is risen and that nothing else in this world is more important than following Him.
shine!
Jason
Things change at the tomb
TODAY'S READING: John 20:1-10
Can you imagine being Peter or John? My guess is that they were still hurting from the events that occurred a few days earlier. Their friend had been nailed to cross. The man who they followed had been defeated. Their Messiah had been killed. The closest thing I can imagine is how our nation must have felt when President Kennedywas killed. A great leader had been brought down in his prime.
Then to add insult to injury the body had been stolen. What?!?! Not only did they have to deal with this great loss, but now His body had been stolen. So Peter and John run to the scene of the crime.
They began to investigate. First the outside of the tomb. Then they looked inside. After that they moved inside. As they examined the evidence it suddenly dawned on them. Like Bruce Willis' character at the end of The Sixth Sense they realized they had missed something big.
Time and time again Jesus had said He would raise from the dead, but they didn't understand. Sure, they thought Jesus would be raised in the resurrection that many Jews believed in, but they didn't understand that it would be THE Resurrection. It wasn't until they saw the evidence in the tomb that all the pieces of the puzzle came together. Then the picture was clear. This was not just a man. This was not just another rabbi. This was the Messiah. This was the Son of God. He kept His promise. He completed His mission. He was the hope of all mankind.
Want to see the evidence that they believed? This same Peter who denied Jesus before the empty tomb stood before thousands and proclaimed His name after the tomb. The same John that was worried about what seat he would get in heaven was willing to be exiled to an island for preaching Jesus. These men were changed forever by the empty tomb. Are you?
Before the empty tomb popularity means everything, but after the empty tomb we live to serve God.
Before the empty tomb our possessions define us, but after the empty tomb Jesus is our identity.
Before the empty tomb our pleasure is found in the flesh, but after the empty tomb we find fulfillment in the Holy Spirit.
Before the empty tomb position brings power, but after the empty tomb power is found in humility.
Before the empty tomb we look out for "number one", but after the empty tomb we become the servant of all.
The empty tomb is a life-changing event. It was for the people who first found it 2,000 years ago. It still is for those who find it today. Don't leave the empty tomb unchanged. Leave it knowing that Jesus is risen and that nothing else in this world is more important than following Him.
shine!
Jason
Can you imagine being Peter or John? My guess is that they were still hurting from the events that occurred a few days earlier. Their friend had been nailed to cross. The man who they followed had been defeated. Their Messiah had been killed. The closest thing I can imagine is how our nation must have felt when President Kennedywas killed. A great leader had been brought down in his prime.
Then to add insult to injury the body had been stolen. What?!?! Not only did they have to deal with this great loss, but now His body had been stolen. So Peter and John run to the scene of the crime.
They began to investigate. First the outside of the tomb. Then they looked inside. After that they moved inside. As they examined the evidence it suddenly dawned on them. Like Bruce Willis' character at the end of The Sixth Sense they realized they had missed something big.
Time and time again Jesus had said He would raise from the dead, but they didn't understand. Sure, they thought Jesus would be raised in the resurrection that many Jews believed in, but they didn't understand that it would be THE Resurrection. It wasn't until they saw the evidence in the tomb that all the pieces of the puzzle came together. Then the picture was clear. This was not just a man. This was not just another rabbi. This was the Messiah. This was the Son of God. He kept His promise. He completed His mission. He was the hope of all mankind.
Want to see the evidence that they believed? This same Peter who denied Jesus before the empty tomb stood before thousands and proclaimed His name after the tomb. The same John that was worried about what seat he would get in heaven was willing to be exiled to an island for preaching Jesus. These men were changed forever by the empty tomb. Are you?
Before the empty tomb popularity means everything, but after the empty tomb we live to serve God.
Before the empty tomb our possessions define us, but after the empty tomb Jesus is our identity.
Before the empty tomb our pleasure is found in the flesh, but after the empty tomb we find fulfillment in the Holy Spirit.
Before the empty tomb position brings power, but after the empty tomb power is found in humility.
Before the empty tomb we look out for "number one", but after the empty tomb we become the servant of all.
The empty tomb is a life-changing event. It was for the people who first found it 2,000 years ago. It still is for those who find it today. Don't leave the empty tomb unchanged. Leave it knowing that Jesus is risen and that nothing else in this world is more important than following Him.
shine!
Jason
Monday, April 10, 2006
Is He really alive?
TODAY'S READING: Mark 16:1-8
Do you ever wonder what you would have thought if you had been there? I am not sure if I would have understood what was going on. Sure, with 2,000 years of Christianity and the rest of the story available to read it makes sense to us. Sometimes we are too hard on the people who were there. We act like one of those people who already saw the movie and we can't understand why the person watching it for the first time doesn't see the end coming.
But then again, maybe we are more like the people who were there than we think. Do we believe in the resurrection? Sure. Do we know that the stone is going to be rolled away? Yeah. But...
What about the ending that hasn't come yet? Do we believe that Jesus will return? Do we know that we will all stand before God? Do we believe that Jesus is still alive?
As you reflect on those questions, consider this...
Do we live like it?
Do we live like Jesus is alive or do we try to handle life on our own?
Do we live like Jesus is the living Lord and Savior or Someone in a book?
Do we live like our friends and neighbors need Jesus or that it doesn't really matter?
Do we live like our life has been bought with Jesus' blood or do we live for ourselves?
Do we live like church is a 24/7 relationship with family or do we treat it like another activity or social club?
Do we live like following Jesus is a lifestyle or a hobby?
We may wonder about the women at the tomb because they seemed a little clueless about what is going on. But I wonder what someone would think if they read about us hundreds of years from now. Would we seem like the women at the tomb? Would they wonder why we didn't understand what Jesus had been telling us and preparing us for all along?
shine!
Jason
Do you ever wonder what you would have thought if you had been there? I am not sure if I would have understood what was going on. Sure, with 2,000 years of Christianity and the rest of the story available to read it makes sense to us. Sometimes we are too hard on the people who were there. We act like one of those people who already saw the movie and we can't understand why the person watching it for the first time doesn't see the end coming.
But then again, maybe we are more like the people who were there than we think. Do we believe in the resurrection? Sure. Do we know that the stone is going to be rolled away? Yeah. But...
What about the ending that hasn't come yet? Do we believe that Jesus will return? Do we know that we will all stand before God? Do we believe that Jesus is still alive?
As you reflect on those questions, consider this...
Do we live like it?
Do we live like Jesus is alive or do we try to handle life on our own?
Do we live like Jesus is the living Lord and Savior or Someone in a book?
Do we live like our friends and neighbors need Jesus or that it doesn't really matter?
Do we live like our life has been bought with Jesus' blood or do we live for ourselves?
Do we live like church is a 24/7 relationship with family or do we treat it like another activity or social club?
Do we live like following Jesus is a lifestyle or a hobby?
We may wonder about the women at the tomb because they seemed a little clueless about what is going on. But I wonder what someone would think if they read about us hundreds of years from now. Would we seem like the women at the tomb? Would they wonder why we didn't understand what Jesus had been telling us and preparing us for all along?
shine!
Jason
Is He really alive?
TODAY'S READING: Mark 16:1-8
Do you ever wonder what you would have thought if you had been there? I am not sure if I would have understood what was going on. Sure, with 2,000 years of Christianity and the rest of the story available to read it makes sense to us. Sometimes we are too hard on the people who were there. We act like one of those people who already saw the movie and we can't understand why the person watching it for the first time doesn't see the end coming.
But then again, maybe we are more like the people who were there than we think. Do we believe in the resurrection? Sure. Do we know that the stone is going to be rolled away? Yeah. But...
What about the ending that hasn't come yet? Do we believe that Jesus will return? Do we know that we will all stand before God? Do we believe that Jesus is still alive?
As you reflect on those questions, consider this...
Do we live like it?
Do we live like Jesus is alive or do we try to handle life on our own?
Do we live like Jesus is the living Lord and Savior or Someone in a book?
Do we live like our friends and neighbors need Jesus or that it doesn't really matter?
Do we live like our life has been bought with Jesus' blood or do we live for ourselves?
Do we live like church is a 24/7 relationship with family or do we treat it like another activity or social club?
Do we live like following Jesus is a lifestyle or a hobby?
We may wonder about the women at the tomb because they seemed a little clueless about what is going on. But I wonder what someone would think if they read about us hundreds of years from now. Would we seem like the women at the tomb? Would they wonder why we didn't understand what Jesus had been telling us and preparing us for all along?
shine!
Jason
Do you ever wonder what you would have thought if you had been there? I am not sure if I would have understood what was going on. Sure, with 2,000 years of Christianity and the rest of the story available to read it makes sense to us. Sometimes we are too hard on the people who were there. We act like one of those people who already saw the movie and we can't understand why the person watching it for the first time doesn't see the end coming.
But then again, maybe we are more like the people who were there than we think. Do we believe in the resurrection? Sure. Do we know that the stone is going to be rolled away? Yeah. But...
What about the ending that hasn't come yet? Do we believe that Jesus will return? Do we know that we will all stand before God? Do we believe that Jesus is still alive?
As you reflect on those questions, consider this...
Do we live like it?
Do we live like Jesus is alive or do we try to handle life on our own?
Do we live like Jesus is the living Lord and Savior or Someone in a book?
Do we live like our friends and neighbors need Jesus or that it doesn't really matter?
Do we live like our life has been bought with Jesus' blood or do we live for ourselves?
Do we live like church is a 24/7 relationship with family or do we treat it like another activity or social club?
Do we live like following Jesus is a lifestyle or a hobby?
We may wonder about the women at the tomb because they seemed a little clueless about what is going on. But I wonder what someone would think if they read about us hundreds of years from now. Would we seem like the women at the tomb? Would they wonder why we didn't understand what Jesus had been telling us and preparing us for all along?
shine!
Jason
Friday, April 07, 2006
Parting ways
TODAY'S READING: Acts 15:36-41
There are times we disagree and have to part ways. Here we see two servants of God with a major conflict. They disagree about John Mark to the point where they decide to go their separate ways. Paul and Silas went one way and Barnabas and John Mark went another way.
There is a huge lesson to learn from this situation. When we have a disagreement that causes us to part ways, we should separate with love. Paul and Barnabas disagreed, but each one stayed focused on the task. It doesn't seem like they had any bad feelings about each other.
When we have disagreements that cause us to part ways we should never separate with ill feelings towards each other. I have seen a number of friendships end because of a disagreement and at least one party has gone out and gossiped or talked badly about the other person. Followers of Jesus should never act this way. We may disagree but we should never mistreat each other. Consider what Jesus said in Matthew 5:43-48...
"You have heard that the law of Moses says, `Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and on the unjust, too. If you love only those who love you, what good is that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect."
Whether someone is a friend or enemy, whether we get along or disagree, Jesus calls us to treat that person with love. Then we will be able to look like Jesus and show others what God is really like.
shine!
Jason
There are times we disagree and have to part ways. Here we see two servants of God with a major conflict. They disagree about John Mark to the point where they decide to go their separate ways. Paul and Silas went one way and Barnabas and John Mark went another way.
There is a huge lesson to learn from this situation. When we have a disagreement that causes us to part ways, we should separate with love. Paul and Barnabas disagreed, but each one stayed focused on the task. It doesn't seem like they had any bad feelings about each other.
When we have disagreements that cause us to part ways we should never separate with ill feelings towards each other. I have seen a number of friendships end because of a disagreement and at least one party has gone out and gossiped or talked badly about the other person. Followers of Jesus should never act this way. We may disagree but we should never mistreat each other. Consider what Jesus said in Matthew 5:43-48...
"You have heard that the law of Moses says, `Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and on the unjust, too. If you love only those who love you, what good is that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect."
Whether someone is a friend or enemy, whether we get along or disagree, Jesus calls us to treat that person with love. Then we will be able to look like Jesus and show others what God is really like.
shine!
Jason
Parting ways
TODAY'S READING: Acts 15:36-41
There are times we disagree and have to part ways. Here we see two servants of God with a major conflict. They disagree about John Mark to the point where they decide to go their separate ways. Paul and Silas went one way and Barnabas and John Mark went another way.
There is a huge lesson to learn from this situation. When we have a disagreement that causes us to part ways, we should separate with love. Paul and Barnabas disagreed, but each one stayed focused on the task. It doesn't seem like they had any bad feelings about each other.
When we have disagreements that cause us to part ways we should never separate with ill feelings towards each other. I have seen a number of friendships end because of a disagreement and at least one party has gone out and gossiped or talked badly about the other person. Followers of Jesus should never act this way. We may disagree but we should never mistreat each other. Consider what Jesus said in Matthew 5:43-48...
"You have heard that the law of Moses says, `Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and on the unjust, too. If you love only those who love you, what good is that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect."
Whether someone is a friend or enemy, whether we get along or disagree, Jesus calls us to treat that person with love. Then we will be able to look like Jesus and show others what God is really like.
shine!
Jason
There are times we disagree and have to part ways. Here we see two servants of God with a major conflict. They disagree about John Mark to the point where they decide to go their separate ways. Paul and Silas went one way and Barnabas and John Mark went another way.
There is a huge lesson to learn from this situation. When we have a disagreement that causes us to part ways, we should separate with love. Paul and Barnabas disagreed, but each one stayed focused on the task. It doesn't seem like they had any bad feelings about each other.
When we have disagreements that cause us to part ways we should never separate with ill feelings towards each other. I have seen a number of friendships end because of a disagreement and at least one party has gone out and gossiped or talked badly about the other person. Followers of Jesus should never act this way. We may disagree but we should never mistreat each other. Consider what Jesus said in Matthew 5:43-48...
"You have heard that the law of Moses says, `Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and on the unjust, too. If you love only those who love you, what good is that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect."
Whether someone is a friend or enemy, whether we get along or disagree, Jesus calls us to treat that person with love. Then we will be able to look like Jesus and show others what God is really like.
shine!
Jason
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Know when to walk away
TODAY'S READING: Luke 4:14-30
Have you ever been in one of those situations where someone becomes unreasonable? I am sure you have. A conflict arises and someone's emotions completely take them over. It doesn't matter what you say, they will not take time to even listen.
This is what happened to Jesus. Actually what is even more amazing is the change that takes place. One minute "All who were there spoke well of him and were amazed by the gracious words that fell from his lips." But only minutes later "the people in the synagogue were furious."
Often when people's emotions take over and they struggle to think clearly things can get out of control. When Jesus faced this type of conflict He quietly slipped away.
There are times we need to simply walk away from conflict for a time. If someone is being unreasonable or emotions are flaring, there is nothing wrong with getting out of that situation.
That being said, we must be willing to revisit the conflict. This is especially true when it is a one-on-one situation. But there are times it is good to take a little time for emotions to calm. When we can take a "deep breath" and then talk about things the outcome is often much better.
Emotions are a difficult thing to deal with at times. As we discussed earlier this week, anger left to brew can become more intense. But there are also times when anger in the heat of the moment can be just as destructive. Have you ever been in a heated conflict and said something you wish you could take back? I could probably write a book full of these things.
When we slow down and consider the situation we can make the best choice. And there are times we will decide it is better to wait a few minutes or hours before addressing a conflict. But this is not an excuse to avoid it.
As you face conflicts look at the examples of Jesus. He faced a variety of conflicts and dealt with them in different ways. Every situation must be considered separately. We like to have a "one answer fits all" solution to life, but it's not that simple. When we allow Jesus' wisdom and example to become a part of who we are, we will become much more effective at dealing with conflict. And that will allow us to show the love of Jesus to everyone, even those we may disagree with or have conflicts with.
shine!
Jason
Have you ever been in one of those situations where someone becomes unreasonable? I am sure you have. A conflict arises and someone's emotions completely take them over. It doesn't matter what you say, they will not take time to even listen.
This is what happened to Jesus. Actually what is even more amazing is the change that takes place. One minute "All who were there spoke well of him and were amazed by the gracious words that fell from his lips." But only minutes later "the people in the synagogue were furious."
Often when people's emotions take over and they struggle to think clearly things can get out of control. When Jesus faced this type of conflict He quietly slipped away.
There are times we need to simply walk away from conflict for a time. If someone is being unreasonable or emotions are flaring, there is nothing wrong with getting out of that situation.
That being said, we must be willing to revisit the conflict. This is especially true when it is a one-on-one situation. But there are times it is good to take a little time for emotions to calm. When we can take a "deep breath" and then talk about things the outcome is often much better.
Emotions are a difficult thing to deal with at times. As we discussed earlier this week, anger left to brew can become more intense. But there are also times when anger in the heat of the moment can be just as destructive. Have you ever been in a heated conflict and said something you wish you could take back? I could probably write a book full of these things.
When we slow down and consider the situation we can make the best choice. And there are times we will decide it is better to wait a few minutes or hours before addressing a conflict. But this is not an excuse to avoid it.
As you face conflicts look at the examples of Jesus. He faced a variety of conflicts and dealt with them in different ways. Every situation must be considered separately. We like to have a "one answer fits all" solution to life, but it's not that simple. When we allow Jesus' wisdom and example to become a part of who we are, we will become much more effective at dealing with conflict. And that will allow us to show the love of Jesus to everyone, even those we may disagree with or have conflicts with.
shine!
Jason
Hold on a minute
TODAY'S READING: John 8:3-11
There are a number of ways to deal with conflict. While there are some situations like Jesus in the temple, there are other situations where we should be patient and quiet. Here we see one of those times. The teachers of the law and the Pharisees tried to get in Jesus' face and force Him to make a statement. They attempted to back Jesus into a corner. But Jesus knew better than to take the bait. He was patient. He took control of the situation.
There are times when we face conflict and our first reaction should not be to switch into battle mode. When faced with situations similar to the one Jesus faced here, we usually react in one of two ways. We either fight or run. Some of us would want to take the teachers and Pharisees to the mat. We would be armed and ready for battle. Others would simply turn and run before they would have to face any kind of conflict.
Jesus shows us a better way. We don't have to fight or run. We can calmly engage those we have a conflict with. The Pharisees probably hoped Jesus would fight or run. But instead, He calmly returned the challenge to them. And in the end, the situation ended peacefully.
Even more important is the fact that the woman did not have to suffer being the center of a drawn out discussion. As soon as the woman was in the middle of the crowd she could have become the center of attention. Now while I am sure people still looked at her, the way Jesus dealt with the situation brought more of the attention to Him and those who challenged Him.
Often in conflict a third party suffers more damage than anyone in the middle of the fight. When we are willing to follow the example Jesus set, we will be less likely to hurt others.
When you face conflict and you aren't sure how to respond, remember Jesus' encounter here. When we are willing to stop, take a minute, and think through the situation, we will usually make a wiser choice. And that is in the best interest of everyone involved.
shine!
Jason
There are a number of ways to deal with conflict. While there are some situations like Jesus in the temple, there are other situations where we should be patient and quiet. Here we see one of those times. The teachers of the law and the Pharisees tried to get in Jesus' face and force Him to make a statement. They attempted to back Jesus into a corner. But Jesus knew better than to take the bait. He was patient. He took control of the situation.
There are times when we face conflict and our first reaction should not be to switch into battle mode. When faced with situations similar to the one Jesus faced here, we usually react in one of two ways. We either fight or run. Some of us would want to take the teachers and Pharisees to the mat. We would be armed and ready for battle. Others would simply turn and run before they would have to face any kind of conflict.
Jesus shows us a better way. We don't have to fight or run. We can calmly engage those we have a conflict with. The Pharisees probably hoped Jesus would fight or run. But instead, He calmly returned the challenge to them. And in the end, the situation ended peacefully.
Even more important is the fact that the woman did not have to suffer being the center of a drawn out discussion. As soon as the woman was in the middle of the crowd she could have become the center of attention. Now while I am sure people still looked at her, the way Jesus dealt with the situation brought more of the attention to Him and those who challenged Him.
Often in conflict a third party suffers more damage than anyone in the middle of the fight. When we are willing to follow the example Jesus set, we will be less likely to hurt others.
When you face conflict and you aren't sure how to respond, remember Jesus' encounter here. When we are willing to stop, take a minute, and think through the situation, we will usually make a wiser choice. And that is in the best interest of everyone involved.
shine!
Jason
Know when to walk away
TODAY'S READING: Luke 4:14-30
Have you ever been in one of those situations where someone becomes unreasonable? I am sure you have. A conflict arises and someone's emotions completely take them over. It doesn't matter what you say, they will not take time to even listen.
This is what happened to Jesus. Actually what is even more amazing is the change that takes place. One minute "All who were there spoke well of him and were amazed by the gracious words that fell from his lips." But only minutes later "the people in the synagogue were furious."
Often when people's emotions take over and they struggle to think clearly things can get out of control. When Jesus faced this type of conflict He quietly slipped away.
There are times we need to simply walk away from conflict for a time. If someone is being unreasonable or emotions are flaring, there is nothing wrong with getting out of that situation.
That being said, we must be willing to revisit the conflict. This is especially true when it is a one-on-one situation. But there are times it is good to take a little time for emotions to calm. When we can take a "deep breath" and then talk about things the outcome is often much better.
Emotions are a difficult thing to deal with at times. As we discussed earlier this week, anger left to brew can become more intense. But there are also times when anger in the heat of the moment can be just as destructive. Have you ever been in a heated conflict and said something you wish you could take back? I could probably write a book full of these things.
When we slow down and consider the situation we can make the best choice. And there are times we will decide it is better to wait a few minutes or hours before addressing a conflict. But this is not an excuse to avoid it.
As you face conflicts look at the examples of Jesus. He faced a variety of conflicts and dealt with them in different ways. Every situation must be considered separately. We like to have a "one answer fits all" solution to life, but it's not that simple. When we allow Jesus' wisdom and example to become a part of who we are, we will become much more effective at dealing with conflict. And that will allow us to show the love of Jesus to everyone, even those we may disagree with or have conflicts with.
shine!
Jason
Have you ever been in one of those situations where someone becomes unreasonable? I am sure you have. A conflict arises and someone's emotions completely take them over. It doesn't matter what you say, they will not take time to even listen.
This is what happened to Jesus. Actually what is even more amazing is the change that takes place. One minute "All who were there spoke well of him and were amazed by the gracious words that fell from his lips." But only minutes later "the people in the synagogue were furious."
Often when people's emotions take over and they struggle to think clearly things can get out of control. When Jesus faced this type of conflict He quietly slipped away.
There are times we need to simply walk away from conflict for a time. If someone is being unreasonable or emotions are flaring, there is nothing wrong with getting out of that situation.
That being said, we must be willing to revisit the conflict. This is especially true when it is a one-on-one situation. But there are times it is good to take a little time for emotions to calm. When we can take a "deep breath" and then talk about things the outcome is often much better.
Emotions are a difficult thing to deal with at times. As we discussed earlier this week, anger left to brew can become more intense. But there are also times when anger in the heat of the moment can be just as destructive. Have you ever been in a heated conflict and said something you wish you could take back? I could probably write a book full of these things.
When we slow down and consider the situation we can make the best choice. And there are times we will decide it is better to wait a few minutes or hours before addressing a conflict. But this is not an excuse to avoid it.
As you face conflicts look at the examples of Jesus. He faced a variety of conflicts and dealt with them in different ways. Every situation must be considered separately. We like to have a "one answer fits all" solution to life, but it's not that simple. When we allow Jesus' wisdom and example to become a part of who we are, we will become much more effective at dealing with conflict. And that will allow us to show the love of Jesus to everyone, even those we may disagree with or have conflicts with.
shine!
Jason
Hold on a minute
TODAY'S READING: John 8:3-11
There are a number of ways to deal with conflict. While there are some situations like Jesus in the temple, there are other situations where we should be patient and quiet. Here we see one of those times. The teachers of the law and the Pharisees tried to get in Jesus' face and force Him to make a statement. They attempted to back Jesus into a corner. But Jesus knew better than to take the bait. He was patient. He took control of the situation.
There are times when we face conflict and our first reaction should not be to switch into battle mode. When faced with situations similar to the one Jesus faced here, we usually react in one of two ways. We either fight or run. Some of us would want to take the teachers and Pharisees to the mat. We would be armed and ready for battle. Others would simply turn and run before they would have to face any kind of conflict.
Jesus shows us a better way. We don't have to fight or run. We can calmly engage those we have a conflict with. The Pharisees probably hoped Jesus would fight or run. But instead, He calmly returned the challenge to them. And in the end, the situation ended peacefully.
Even more important is the fact that the woman did not have to suffer being the center of a drawn out discussion. As soon as the woman was in the middle of the crowd she could have become the center of attention. Now while I am sure people still looked at her, the way Jesus dealt with the situation brought more of the attention to Him and those who challenged Him.
Often in conflict a third party suffers more damage than anyone in the middle of the fight. When we are willing to follow the example Jesus set, we will be less likely to hurt others.
When you face conflict and you aren't sure how to respond, remember Jesus' encounter here. When we are willing to stop, take a minute, and think through the situation, we will usually make a wiser choice. And that is in the best interest of everyone involved.
shine!
Jason
There are a number of ways to deal with conflict. While there are some situations like Jesus in the temple, there are other situations where we should be patient and quiet. Here we see one of those times. The teachers of the law and the Pharisees tried to get in Jesus' face and force Him to make a statement. They attempted to back Jesus into a corner. But Jesus knew better than to take the bait. He was patient. He took control of the situation.
There are times when we face conflict and our first reaction should not be to switch into battle mode. When faced with situations similar to the one Jesus faced here, we usually react in one of two ways. We either fight or run. Some of us would want to take the teachers and Pharisees to the mat. We would be armed and ready for battle. Others would simply turn and run before they would have to face any kind of conflict.
Jesus shows us a better way. We don't have to fight or run. We can calmly engage those we have a conflict with. The Pharisees probably hoped Jesus would fight or run. But instead, He calmly returned the challenge to them. And in the end, the situation ended peacefully.
Even more important is the fact that the woman did not have to suffer being the center of a drawn out discussion. As soon as the woman was in the middle of the crowd she could have become the center of attention. Now while I am sure people still looked at her, the way Jesus dealt with the situation brought more of the attention to Him and those who challenged Him.
Often in conflict a third party suffers more damage than anyone in the middle of the fight. When we are willing to follow the example Jesus set, we will be less likely to hurt others.
When you face conflict and you aren't sure how to respond, remember Jesus' encounter here. When we are willing to stop, take a minute, and think through the situation, we will usually make a wiser choice. And that is in the best interest of everyone involved.
shine!
Jason
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Cleaning out the temple
TODAY'S READING: Matthew 21:12-17
Many of us have a hard time with this Jesus. We like kind, gentle Jesus with the child on His knee. We enjoy the Jesus who healed the blind. We can deal with the Jesus on the cross. We rejoice at the risen Jesus. But what about the angry Jesus?
It can be hard to see Jesus angry. Maybe it's because most of the renditions of Jesus show Him as this skinny little guy. My guess is Jesus was much more muscular than we imagine Him. Do you know many carpenters that are skinny little guys? And the ones we know have power tools.
In this scene I picture Jesus as this muscular guy walking into the temple, angry at what He sees. That being said, I fully believe Jesus was in control of His anger. I don't see it as some blind rage just throwing things everywhere. No, this was more like a controlled anger that was very pointed and intentional. Jesus was extremely upset at what He saw.
People who claimed to be God's people were anything but that. They had taken the temple God intended as a place of worship and made it a place for their benefit. They were profiting from worship. They were turning God's place into a self-serving center.
Jesus' anger was justified and needed. Jesus is very patient with those who don't know Him or who are sincerely seeking Him. But things are different with those who take advantage of Him. God expects more from those who claim to be His people.
We may say about the Pharisees, "They deserved it." But what about us? How do we treat the temple?
You may say, "The temple is gone." Well, sort of. Didn't Paul write, "Or don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body." (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
If Jesus could walk into your temple today, what would His reaction be? Would He need to clear out your temple? Have you made it into something it shouldn't be? Do you use it more for your purposes than His? I am sure that there are "tables" that need to be turned over in all of our lives. What would Jesus overturn in your temple?
shine!
Jason
Many of us have a hard time with this Jesus. We like kind, gentle Jesus with the child on His knee. We enjoy the Jesus who healed the blind. We can deal with the Jesus on the cross. We rejoice at the risen Jesus. But what about the angry Jesus?
It can be hard to see Jesus angry. Maybe it's because most of the renditions of Jesus show Him as this skinny little guy. My guess is Jesus was much more muscular than we imagine Him. Do you know many carpenters that are skinny little guys? And the ones we know have power tools.
In this scene I picture Jesus as this muscular guy walking into the temple, angry at what He sees. That being said, I fully believe Jesus was in control of His anger. I don't see it as some blind rage just throwing things everywhere. No, this was more like a controlled anger that was very pointed and intentional. Jesus was extremely upset at what He saw.
People who claimed to be God's people were anything but that. They had taken the temple God intended as a place of worship and made it a place for their benefit. They were profiting from worship. They were turning God's place into a self-serving center.
Jesus' anger was justified and needed. Jesus is very patient with those who don't know Him or who are sincerely seeking Him. But things are different with those who take advantage of Him. God expects more from those who claim to be His people.
We may say about the Pharisees, "They deserved it." But what about us? How do we treat the temple?
You may say, "The temple is gone." Well, sort of. Didn't Paul write, "Or don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body." (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
If Jesus could walk into your temple today, what would His reaction be? Would He need to clear out your temple? Have you made it into something it shouldn't be? Do you use it more for your purposes than His? I am sure that there are "tables" that need to be turned over in all of our lives. What would Jesus overturn in your temple?
shine!
Jason
Cleaning out the temple
TODAY'S READING: Matthew 21:12-17
Many of us have a hard time with this Jesus. We like kind, gentle Jesus with the child on His knee. We enjoy the Jesus who healed the blind. We can deal with the Jesus on the cross. We rejoice at the risen Jesus. But what about the angry Jesus?
It can be hard to see Jesus angry. Maybe it's because most of the renditions of Jesus show Him as this skinny little guy. My guess is Jesus was much more muscular than we imagine Him. Do you know many carpenters that are skinny little guys? And the ones we know have power tools.
In this scene I picture Jesus as this muscular guy walking into the temple, angry at what He sees. That being said, I fully believe Jesus was in control of His anger. I don't see it as some blind rage just throwing things everywhere. No, this was more like a controlled anger that was very pointed and intentional. Jesus was extremely upset at what He saw.
People who claimed to be God's people were anything but that. They had taken the temple God intended as a place of worship and made it a place for their benefit. They were profiting from worship. They were turning God's place into a self-serving center.
Jesus' anger was justified and needed. Jesus is very patient with those who don't know Him or who are sincerely seeking Him. But things are different with those who take advantage of Him. God expects more from those who claim to be His people.
We may say about the Pharisees, "They deserved it." But what about us? How do we treat the temple?
You may say, "The temple is gone." Well, sort of. Didn't Paul write, "Or don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body." (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
If Jesus could walk into your temple today, what would His reaction be? Would He need to clear out your temple? Have you made it into something it shouldn't be? Do you use it more for your purposes than His? I am sure that there are "tables" that need to be turned over in all of our lives. What would Jesus overturn in your temple?
shine!
Jason
Many of us have a hard time with this Jesus. We like kind, gentle Jesus with the child on His knee. We enjoy the Jesus who healed the blind. We can deal with the Jesus on the cross. We rejoice at the risen Jesus. But what about the angry Jesus?
It can be hard to see Jesus angry. Maybe it's because most of the renditions of Jesus show Him as this skinny little guy. My guess is Jesus was much more muscular than we imagine Him. Do you know many carpenters that are skinny little guys? And the ones we know have power tools.
In this scene I picture Jesus as this muscular guy walking into the temple, angry at what He sees. That being said, I fully believe Jesus was in control of His anger. I don't see it as some blind rage just throwing things everywhere. No, this was more like a controlled anger that was very pointed and intentional. Jesus was extremely upset at what He saw.
People who claimed to be God's people were anything but that. They had taken the temple God intended as a place of worship and made it a place for their benefit. They were profiting from worship. They were turning God's place into a self-serving center.
Jesus' anger was justified and needed. Jesus is very patient with those who don't know Him or who are sincerely seeking Him. But things are different with those who take advantage of Him. God expects more from those who claim to be His people.
We may say about the Pharisees, "They deserved it." But what about us? How do we treat the temple?
You may say, "The temple is gone." Well, sort of. Didn't Paul write, "Or don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body." (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
If Jesus could walk into your temple today, what would His reaction be? Would He need to clear out your temple? Have you made it into something it shouldn't be? Do you use it more for your purposes than His? I am sure that there are "tables" that need to be turned over in all of our lives. What would Jesus overturn in your temple?
shine!
Jason
Monday, April 03, 2006
Does that make you angry?
TODAY'S READING: Ephesians 4:25-27
Sometimes I find hope in passages like this. You ask why? Because people 2,000 years ago struggled with the same things you and I do. Here are people who spent time with Paul and they can't live perfectly either. Sometimes I feel like we put "First Century Christianity" on some kind of pedestal. We want to look like the first century church. You want to know a secret? Shhhh. Don't tell anybody. We already do look like them, and it's often not a good thing.
Want to look like the early Christians?
Sexual immorality? It was a major problem.
Dishonesty? All over the place.
Worshipping the culture? Not just our problem.
Pride? Try reading Paul's letters to the Corinthian church.
And the more I read about the early church, they had very little ability to deal with conflict properly. They would complain about each other. Divisions within churches were all over the place. Christians were putting one another down. It's seem pretty obvious that people were angry towards one another.
Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like times have changed much. See anything on the list up there we don't deal with? I don't. While everything around us may have changed, human beings are still the same on the inside. Our hearts still struggle with sin.
In the passage we are considering today, Paul is dealing with interpersonal relationships and especially anger. Because following Jesus is so relationship-based, this is crucial. Relating well with others is vital to being a healthy disciple of Jesus.
So how does anger impact our relationships and conflict? Anger is often a necessary part of conflict. Notice Paul does not condemn anger. Rather, Paul warns us that anger not dealt with can cause sin. When we don't do something healthy with our anger it allows Satan a backdoor into our heart.
Anger can create feelings of hate. We can become bitter towards someone. We may begin to gossip about the person we are angry with. Anger can lead us to act in ungodly ways towards someone.
But when we deal with our anger and approach the person we are angry with, good things can happen. Anger is usually a symptom of conflict. It is a sign that we need to deal with something. And when anger is used as a motivator for resolution as opposed to a tool for Satan, good things can happen.
We can help each other grow spiritually.
Our eyes may be opened to see things in a fresh way.
We may find impurities in our life that need to be changed.
Friendships can be made stronger.
Anger is not bad. Anger misused can be fatal. I am not talking about shooting someone (while that has happened). No, anger can be fatal spiritually. It can eat away at us and eventually put up a barrier between us and God. Our anger towards others may lead us to becoming angry at God.
Do you struggle with anger? Does anger seem to take control of you at times? Do you feel like your life is full of conflict? Find a friend to help you work through your anger. Seek out people who seem peaceful that will not be as likely to fuel your anger. Go to God in prayer. Search the Bible for God's wisdom about anger. Make room in your schedule each day for quiet time with God so that He can begin to cleanse your soul.
There is no easy formula to deal with anger. Conflict will never cease. There is no magic pill. Discipleship is hard work, and dealing with anger is no exception. It was Jesus that said, "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross, and follow me."
shine!
Jason
Sometimes I find hope in passages like this. You ask why? Because people 2,000 years ago struggled with the same things you and I do. Here are people who spent time with Paul and they can't live perfectly either. Sometimes I feel like we put "First Century Christianity" on some kind of pedestal. We want to look like the first century church. You want to know a secret? Shhhh. Don't tell anybody. We already do look like them, and it's often not a good thing.
Want to look like the early Christians?
Sexual immorality? It was a major problem.
Dishonesty? All over the place.
Worshipping the culture? Not just our problem.
Pride? Try reading Paul's letters to the Corinthian church.
And the more I read about the early church, they had very little ability to deal with conflict properly. They would complain about each other. Divisions within churches were all over the place. Christians were putting one another down. It's seem pretty obvious that people were angry towards one another.
Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like times have changed much. See anything on the list up there we don't deal with? I don't. While everything around us may have changed, human beings are still the same on the inside. Our hearts still struggle with sin.
In the passage we are considering today, Paul is dealing with interpersonal relationships and especially anger. Because following Jesus is so relationship-based, this is crucial. Relating well with others is vital to being a healthy disciple of Jesus.
So how does anger impact our relationships and conflict? Anger is often a necessary part of conflict. Notice Paul does not condemn anger. Rather, Paul warns us that anger not dealt with can cause sin. When we don't do something healthy with our anger it allows Satan a backdoor into our heart.
Anger can create feelings of hate. We can become bitter towards someone. We may begin to gossip about the person we are angry with. Anger can lead us to act in ungodly ways towards someone.
But when we deal with our anger and approach the person we are angry with, good things can happen. Anger is usually a symptom of conflict. It is a sign that we need to deal with something. And when anger is used as a motivator for resolution as opposed to a tool for Satan, good things can happen.
We can help each other grow spiritually.
Our eyes may be opened to see things in a fresh way.
We may find impurities in our life that need to be changed.
Friendships can be made stronger.
Anger is not bad. Anger misused can be fatal. I am not talking about shooting someone (while that has happened). No, anger can be fatal spiritually. It can eat away at us and eventually put up a barrier between us and God. Our anger towards others may lead us to becoming angry at God.
Do you struggle with anger? Does anger seem to take control of you at times? Do you feel like your life is full of conflict? Find a friend to help you work through your anger. Seek out people who seem peaceful that will not be as likely to fuel your anger. Go to God in prayer. Search the Bible for God's wisdom about anger. Make room in your schedule each day for quiet time with God so that He can begin to cleanse your soul.
There is no easy formula to deal with anger. Conflict will never cease. There is no magic pill. Discipleship is hard work, and dealing with anger is no exception. It was Jesus that said, "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross, and follow me."
shine!
Jason
Does that make you angry?
TODAY'S READING: Ephesians 4:25-27
Sometimes I find hope in passages like this. You ask why? Because people 2,000 years ago struggled with the same things you and I do. Here are people who spent time with Paul and they can't live perfectly either. Sometimes I feel like we put "First Century Christianity" on some kind of pedestal. We want to look like the first century church. You want to know a secret? Shhhh. Don't tell anybody. We already do look like them, and it's often not a good thing.
Want to look like the early Christians?
Sexual immorality? It was a major problem.
Dishonesty? All over the place.
Worshipping the culture? Not just our problem.
Pride? Try reading Paul's letters to the Corinthian church.
And the more I read about the early church, they had very little ability to deal with conflict properly. They would complain about each other. Divisions within churches were all over the place. Christians were putting one another down. It's seem pretty obvious that people were angry towards one another.
Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like times have changed much. See anything on the list up there we don't deal with? I don't. While everything around us may have changed, human beings are still the same on the inside. Our hearts still struggle with sin.
In the passage we are considering today, Paul is dealing with interpersonal relationships and especially anger. Because following Jesus is so relationship-based, this is crucial. Relating well with others is vital to being a healthy disciple of Jesus.
So how does anger impact our relationships and conflict? Anger is often a necessary part of conflict. Notice Paul does not condemn anger. Rather, Paul warns us that anger not dealt with can cause sin. When we don't do something healthy with our anger it allows Satan a backdoor into our heart.
Anger can create feelings of hate. We can become bitter towards someone. We may begin to gossip about the person we are angry with. Anger can lead us to act in ungodly ways towards someone.
But when we deal with our anger and approach the person we are angry with, good things can happen. Anger is usually a symptom of conflict. It is a sign that we need to deal with something. And when anger is used as a motivator for resolution as opposed to a tool for Satan, good things can happen.
We can help each other grow spiritually.
Our eyes may be opened to see things in a fresh way.
We may find impurities in our life that need to be changed.
Friendships can be made stronger.
Anger is not bad. Anger misused can be fatal. I am not talking about shooting someone (while that has happened). No, anger can be fatal spiritually. It can eat away at us and eventually put up a barrier between us and God. Our anger towards others may lead us to becoming angry at God.
Do you struggle with anger? Does anger seem to take control of you at times? Do you feel like your life is full of conflict? Find a friend to help you work through your anger. Seek out people who seem peaceful that will not be as likely to fuel your anger. Go to God in prayer. Search the Bible for God's wisdom about anger. Make room in your schedule each day for quiet time with God so that He can begin to cleanse your soul.
There is no easy formula to deal with anger. Conflict will never cease. There is no magic pill. Discipleship is hard work, and dealing with anger is no exception. It was Jesus that said, "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross, and follow me."
shine!
Jason
Sometimes I find hope in passages like this. You ask why? Because people 2,000 years ago struggled with the same things you and I do. Here are people who spent time with Paul and they can't live perfectly either. Sometimes I feel like we put "First Century Christianity" on some kind of pedestal. We want to look like the first century church. You want to know a secret? Shhhh. Don't tell anybody. We already do look like them, and it's often not a good thing.
Want to look like the early Christians?
Sexual immorality? It was a major problem.
Dishonesty? All over the place.
Worshipping the culture? Not just our problem.
Pride? Try reading Paul's letters to the Corinthian church.
And the more I read about the early church, they had very little ability to deal with conflict properly. They would complain about each other. Divisions within churches were all over the place. Christians were putting one another down. It's seem pretty obvious that people were angry towards one another.
Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like times have changed much. See anything on the list up there we don't deal with? I don't. While everything around us may have changed, human beings are still the same on the inside. Our hearts still struggle with sin.
In the passage we are considering today, Paul is dealing with interpersonal relationships and especially anger. Because following Jesus is so relationship-based, this is crucial. Relating well with others is vital to being a healthy disciple of Jesus.
So how does anger impact our relationships and conflict? Anger is often a necessary part of conflict. Notice Paul does not condemn anger. Rather, Paul warns us that anger not dealt with can cause sin. When we don't do something healthy with our anger it allows Satan a backdoor into our heart.
Anger can create feelings of hate. We can become bitter towards someone. We may begin to gossip about the person we are angry with. Anger can lead us to act in ungodly ways towards someone.
But when we deal with our anger and approach the person we are angry with, good things can happen. Anger is usually a symptom of conflict. It is a sign that we need to deal with something. And when anger is used as a motivator for resolution as opposed to a tool for Satan, good things can happen.
We can help each other grow spiritually.
Our eyes may be opened to see things in a fresh way.
We may find impurities in our life that need to be changed.
Friendships can be made stronger.
Anger is not bad. Anger misused can be fatal. I am not talking about shooting someone (while that has happened). No, anger can be fatal spiritually. It can eat away at us and eventually put up a barrier between us and God. Our anger towards others may lead us to becoming angry at God.
Do you struggle with anger? Does anger seem to take control of you at times? Do you feel like your life is full of conflict? Find a friend to help you work through your anger. Seek out people who seem peaceful that will not be as likely to fuel your anger. Go to God in prayer. Search the Bible for God's wisdom about anger. Make room in your schedule each day for quiet time with God so that He can begin to cleanse your soul.
There is no easy formula to deal with anger. Conflict will never cease. There is no magic pill. Discipleship is hard work, and dealing with anger is no exception. It was Jesus that said, "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross, and follow me."
shine!
Jason
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