Sometimes I feel like we have gotten away from the reason for holidays For example, this weekend is Memorial Day. It was created over a century ago to remember those who died in our nation’s service. All over the country on Monday, people will assemble at cemeteries and other places to honor those who have given their lives to serve our nation.
However, many people may not even take the time to think about these fallen heroes. They will rejoice at an extra day off of work. They will engage in a variety of activities that aren’t bad at all, but may have nothing to do with the purpose for the holiday.
I am not saying that there is anything wrong with having cookouts, spending time with friends, or enjoying a day off on Memorial Day. I have, and plan to continue, to do these kinds of things on those days. However, I make a concerted effort every year to attend a Memorial Day service in my community.
How often are we guilty of treating church the same way? How often do we assemble to see our friends and participate in some religious rituals without stopping to reflect on the significance of what our assembly is really about?
I hear parents who are more concerned about their children wanting to have fun at church than growing in their faith. Youth ministries often pour much more energy into making an event cool than thinking about how to encourage students to grow spiritually. Churches sometimes seem to create worship services that are designed more to attract new people than to call the existing members to a deeper engagement in the Kingdom of God.
Don’t get me wrong. I want to provide opportunities for children that aren’t boring and dry. Youth ministry should be relevant and engaging. Churches should be seeking ways to reach out to others. However, should those things be elevated to a higher level of significance that being Kingdom-focused and Christ-shaped?
When we gather as Christ-followers, we should rejoice at our relationships and engage in spiritual practices that form us as people of God. But at the same time, let us not forget the ultimate focus and purpose of our existence, to engage in the life-altering, world-changing call of God to participate in his mission. We are called to be people who make things right in the world. We do that through relationships. We are molded by our spiritual practices. But we must never allow the mission to be left out of the methods.
Just like a holiday where the real purpose is forgotten in the midst of parties and self-serving activities, assembling with God’s people should be a social event where we never forget or neglect the significant spiritual purposes that call us together.
shine!
Jason
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Free to be selfless
It often seems as though we love freedom, but we’re not so fond of responsibility. On a broader, societal scale, I personally believe this is one of the underlying issues that we face a nation. People want to be able to do what they want without having to face the consequences or responsibility that often come with it.
This idea of selfishness, even in the church, is not a new occurrence. In his letter to the Corinthian church, Paul wrote, "All things are lawful," but not all things are helpful. "All things are lawful," but not all things build up. Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.” (1 Corinthians 10:23-24)
It seems as though Paul was dealing with a situation where people in the church wanted to use their freedom to do what they wanted, without really considering other people.
In another letter, Paul says, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.” (Galatians 5:13-15)
So often in the church, we look more like the world than we are willing to admit. We want things our way, whether that’s style of worship, meeting our “needs,” or catering to a host of other desires we have. If we aren’t careful, we sound more like a group of individuals than a body of believers.
Jesus dealt with this attitude among his twelve disciples. When the mother of James and John asked for her sons to have a special place of honor, this is how Jesus responded…
Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:25-28)
Unfortunately, many people act as though church is another place to exercise their right to have what they want. They often exercise their freedom without considering their responsibility to the rest of the body. Jesus said, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.” (Matthew 12:25) While he wasn’t referring directly to the church, his point stands true for us today. When the church is full of people who fight for their individual rights, that will lead to division. And a church divided will be ruined and will not stand. This kind of selfishness is slowly destroying our nation and a lot of churches. If we are really going to be followers of Jesus, it’s probably time for us to listen to his advice and stop being so self-centered.
shine!
Jason
This idea of selfishness, even in the church, is not a new occurrence. In his letter to the Corinthian church, Paul wrote, "All things are lawful," but not all things are helpful. "All things are lawful," but not all things build up. Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.” (1 Corinthians 10:23-24)
It seems as though Paul was dealing with a situation where people in the church wanted to use their freedom to do what they wanted, without really considering other people.
In another letter, Paul says, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.” (Galatians 5:13-15)
So often in the church, we look more like the world than we are willing to admit. We want things our way, whether that’s style of worship, meeting our “needs,” or catering to a host of other desires we have. If we aren’t careful, we sound more like a group of individuals than a body of believers.
Jesus dealt with this attitude among his twelve disciples. When the mother of James and John asked for her sons to have a special place of honor, this is how Jesus responded…
Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:25-28)
Unfortunately, many people act as though church is another place to exercise their right to have what they want. They often exercise their freedom without considering their responsibility to the rest of the body. Jesus said, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.” (Matthew 12:25) While he wasn’t referring directly to the church, his point stands true for us today. When the church is full of people who fight for their individual rights, that will lead to division. And a church divided will be ruined and will not stand. This kind of selfishness is slowly destroying our nation and a lot of churches. If we are really going to be followers of Jesus, it’s probably time for us to listen to his advice and stop being so self-centered.
shine!
Jason
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Remembering a fallen soldier
On Thursday, May 20, I had the honor of offering the invocation for the Michigan State Senate. Following the prayer, I went upstairs and sat in the gallery. A few minutes later, one of the state senators stepped to a microphone and began to read a dedication for Army Sgt. Lucas Beachnaw, who was killed in Afghanistan on January 13, 2010. As this senator read the dedication, I realized I was sitting next to several members of the Beachnaw family.
It was a solemn and honoring moment for the family of a young man who, at the age of 23, sacrificed his life for his country. I can't imagine how it would feel to be the mother of this young man. I felt honored to be present for this sacred moment.
Sgt. Beachnaw was a brother and a son. His absence surely leaves a void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. While I never had an opportunity to meet him, it was evident that there are many who miss this young man.
War is a complex thing and people have argued and will continue to argue about the need for war. My purpose in this post is not to discuss of debate the merits of war. Rather, it is to remind us that every war comes at a cost, and that cost often involves human lives. Some lose their lives and others suffer physical and emotional injuries that they carry for the rest of their lives.
I honor Sgt. Beachnaw for his sacrifice. I pray for his friends and family as they continue to deal with their loss. Let us never forget those who suffer from the consequences of war, both the soldiers and their friends and family.
shine!
Jason
It was a solemn and honoring moment for the family of a young man who, at the age of 23, sacrificed his life for his country. I can't imagine how it would feel to be the mother of this young man. I felt honored to be present for this sacred moment.
Sgt. Beachnaw was a brother and a son. His absence surely leaves a void in the lives of those who knew and loved him. While I never had an opportunity to meet him, it was evident that there are many who miss this young man.
War is a complex thing and people have argued and will continue to argue about the need for war. My purpose in this post is not to discuss of debate the merits of war. Rather, it is to remind us that every war comes at a cost, and that cost often involves human lives. Some lose their lives and others suffer physical and emotional injuries that they carry for the rest of their lives.
I honor Sgt. Beachnaw for his sacrifice. I pray for his friends and family as they continue to deal with their loss. Let us never forget those who suffer from the consequences of war, both the soldiers and their friends and family.
shine!
Jason
Friday, May 21, 2010
Invocation
Here is the text of the invocation I delivered at the Michigan Senate on Thursday, May 20, 2010:
Father, today we begin by praying for those in this chamber and their families. We thank you for the loved ones who sacrifice time with these men and women so they are able to engage in the work of the senate. Protect the husbands, wives, children, and others who are back home.
Father, we also thank you for the millions of citizens across the state of Michigan who are represented by those who sit here. I ask you to remind these senators about those whom they represent as they debate, deliberate, and decide on the legislation before them. Help them to always be mindful of those whom they have been elected to represent.
Father, please provide wisdom for these men and women. Let them lean on eternal wisdom from above that can only be provided by You. Help them to look beyond themselves and provide them with the ability to discern what is best, not for their self interests, but for the people of the State of Michigan.
Father, I ask that the dialogues and debates that occur today will be carried out with a measure of civility. Let words of passion be tempered with humility. May words of disagreement be softened by compassion. Allow anger to be resolved without malice and forgiveness to be the rule rather than the exception.
Father, in all the laws that are written, debated, and voted upon, allow there to be a measure of justice. May the laws this body approves consider those who are overlooked, forgotten, neglected, or otherwise mistreated. Let divine justice, the justice that sets the world right, be the justice that emerges from this chamber.
In addition, Father, we ask for mercy to be at the heart of the business of this body. While we acknowledge the importance of law, let us never forget the importance of mercy. Law without mercy leads to oppression. Mercy without law leads to disorder. Let us seek a balance of justice and mercy that protects all, serves all, and provides everyone with the ability to pursue the dreams you have planted in their hearts.
Father, as these men and women begin the work of their day, help them, above all, to remember that they have been granted a unique and special opportunity. They have been chosen by their neighbors across this great state to determine the laws that will govern us. Help them to embrace the gravity and significance of this task and not become absorbed in their own political preservation. Allow the decisions made in this chamber to be about the future of the state of Michigan, not the political aspirations of the men and women assembled in this room.
We offer this prayer in the name of the One who created us and provided us with the ability to serve and love others; the God who shows us grace and mercy and asks us to do the same to one another. Amen.
Father, today we begin by praying for those in this chamber and their families. We thank you for the loved ones who sacrifice time with these men and women so they are able to engage in the work of the senate. Protect the husbands, wives, children, and others who are back home.
Father, we also thank you for the millions of citizens across the state of Michigan who are represented by those who sit here. I ask you to remind these senators about those whom they represent as they debate, deliberate, and decide on the legislation before them. Help them to always be mindful of those whom they have been elected to represent.
Father, please provide wisdom for these men and women. Let them lean on eternal wisdom from above that can only be provided by You. Help them to look beyond themselves and provide them with the ability to discern what is best, not for their self interests, but for the people of the State of Michigan.
Father, I ask that the dialogues and debates that occur today will be carried out with a measure of civility. Let words of passion be tempered with humility. May words of disagreement be softened by compassion. Allow anger to be resolved without malice and forgiveness to be the rule rather than the exception.
Father, in all the laws that are written, debated, and voted upon, allow there to be a measure of justice. May the laws this body approves consider those who are overlooked, forgotten, neglected, or otherwise mistreated. Let divine justice, the justice that sets the world right, be the justice that emerges from this chamber.
In addition, Father, we ask for mercy to be at the heart of the business of this body. While we acknowledge the importance of law, let us never forget the importance of mercy. Law without mercy leads to oppression. Mercy without law leads to disorder. Let us seek a balance of justice and mercy that protects all, serves all, and provides everyone with the ability to pursue the dreams you have planted in their hearts.
Father, as these men and women begin the work of their day, help them, above all, to remember that they have been granted a unique and special opportunity. They have been chosen by their neighbors across this great state to determine the laws that will govern us. Help them to embrace the gravity and significance of this task and not become absorbed in their own political preservation. Allow the decisions made in this chamber to be about the future of the state of Michigan, not the political aspirations of the men and women assembled in this room.
We offer this prayer in the name of the One who created us and provided us with the ability to serve and love others; the God who shows us grace and mercy and asks us to do the same to one another. Amen.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Being Jesus in a diverse world
I have really enjoyed the first half of our month-long class, “Being Jesus in a Diverse World.” It has been interesting to learn more about Judaism and Islam, as well as listening to and interacting with a Rabbi and an Imam.
In my opinion, one of the most important things about our Wednesday night guests has been the ability to associate a person with each faith. One of the main causes of hostility between religious groups is the dehumanization of those of the other faith. When we can get to know individuals who practice a certain faith and get to know them, we often get a different view of their religious tribe.
An expert in the law asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" (Lk 10:29)
Jesus did not answer with a statement; He answered with a story…
“A Jewish man was traveling on a trip from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road.
“By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by. A Temple assistant walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side.
“Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him. The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I’m here.’
“Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?” Jesus asked.
The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.”
Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.” (Luke 10:30-37)
Being a neighbor is not determined by what you believe. Being a neighbor is based on your religious preferences. We are all neighbors because we are all human beings created in the image of God.
One of the lessons we hope to learn out of this month’s classes is to have a better appreciation for those of different faiths. This does not mean we are going to embrace their beliefs or water down our faith. In actuality, this is an opportunity to more fully live out what we say we believe.
If we are truly going to love our neighbors as Jesus asks us to, our neighbors must include Jews, Muslims, Hindus, and Buddhists. If Jews in Jesus’ day were asked to look at Samaritans as neighbors, then Christians today have a long way to go to live out the world Jesus imagined. Jews would have probably looked at Samaritans like many Christians look at Muslims today. I believe that, for many of us, these few weeks are a good step in the right direction of learning what it means to be Jesus in a diverse world.
shine!
Jason
In my opinion, one of the most important things about our Wednesday night guests has been the ability to associate a person with each faith. One of the main causes of hostility between religious groups is the dehumanization of those of the other faith. When we can get to know individuals who practice a certain faith and get to know them, we often get a different view of their religious tribe.
An expert in the law asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" (Lk 10:29)
Jesus did not answer with a statement; He answered with a story…
“A Jewish man was traveling on a trip from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he was attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the road.
“By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of the road and passed him by. A Temple assistant walked over and looked at him lying there, but he also passed by on the other side.
“Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for him. Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of him. The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins, telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I’m here.’
“Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by bandits?” Jesus asked.
The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.”
Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.” (Luke 10:30-37)
Being a neighbor is not determined by what you believe. Being a neighbor is based on your religious preferences. We are all neighbors because we are all human beings created in the image of God.
One of the lessons we hope to learn out of this month’s classes is to have a better appreciation for those of different faiths. This does not mean we are going to embrace their beliefs or water down our faith. In actuality, this is an opportunity to more fully live out what we say we believe.
If we are truly going to love our neighbors as Jesus asks us to, our neighbors must include Jews, Muslims, Hindus, and Buddhists. If Jews in Jesus’ day were asked to look at Samaritans as neighbors, then Christians today have a long way to go to live out the world Jesus imagined. Jews would have probably looked at Samaritans like many Christians look at Muslims today. I believe that, for many of us, these few weeks are a good step in the right direction of learning what it means to be Jesus in a diverse world.
shine!
Jason
Friday, May 14, 2010
The Big 4-0!
On this day in 1970, I entered the world. The last four decades have been filled with joy and sorrow, victories and failures. I have seen relatives born. I have seen loved one die. I've gotten married. I have a child. I have graduated from college, twice. I have changed addresses over a dozen times. I have managed teenagers and college students at Cedar Point, sold insurance for MetLife, sold Konica copiers, and - for the last decade - I have ministered to people in Ohio and Michigan. (I am sure I have forgotten some important aspects of my life, but I am getting old, so cut me some slack.)
Regardless of where I have lived and what I have done, one thing has never changed. God has always been present. Even in the first half of my life, when I barely acknowledged His existence, God was faithful. He pursued me as I ignored Him. He whispered in my ear as I began to look for Him. He led me places I never would have imagined as I began to follow Him. He has given me opportunities beyond compare as I have served His church.
Forty seems like it could be old. Many people - some joking and some serious - commiserate at 40 because it marks a significant step towards getting older. In a society where youth rules the day, getting old is often viewed as a bad thing. I actually look at turning forty as a golden opportunity. It's a chance to look back at what I have experienced, where I have failed, and what I have learned. It's a chance to look ahead to see what else God has in store for me.
Forty really isn't that bad. Before he turned 40, Moses hadn't seen the Burning Bush, hadn't led God's people out of Egypt, and hadn't seen the promised land. He had so much life ahead of him. I feel the same way. Rather than focusing so much on what is behind me, I am hoping to reflect on my past and focus on what God has in store in the future. If God could use an 80 year old man to lead millions out of captivity, I am sure he can do something with this "old" guy.
shine!
Jason
Regardless of where I have lived and what I have done, one thing has never changed. God has always been present. Even in the first half of my life, when I barely acknowledged His existence, God was faithful. He pursued me as I ignored Him. He whispered in my ear as I began to look for Him. He led me places I never would have imagined as I began to follow Him. He has given me opportunities beyond compare as I have served His church.
Forty seems like it could be old. Many people - some joking and some serious - commiserate at 40 because it marks a significant step towards getting older. In a society where youth rules the day, getting old is often viewed as a bad thing. I actually look at turning forty as a golden opportunity. It's a chance to look back at what I have experienced, where I have failed, and what I have learned. It's a chance to look ahead to see what else God has in store for me.
Forty really isn't that bad. Before he turned 40, Moses hadn't seen the Burning Bush, hadn't led God's people out of Egypt, and hadn't seen the promised land. He had so much life ahead of him. I feel the same way. Rather than focusing so much on what is behind me, I am hoping to reflect on my past and focus on what God has in store in the future. If God could use an 80 year old man to lead millions out of captivity, I am sure he can do something with this "old" guy.
shine!
Jason
Monday, May 10, 2010
It takes a village
As I think about Mother's Day, I think about the African proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child." While much has been made about these words since Hillary Clinton used them as a title for a book and in her campaign, I want to consider them in light of the call for the church to be a place of community.
While our society has embraced this proverb through some of our actions, I believe we have abandoned some key elements of this attitude at the same time. When it comes to schools, sports teams, various activities, and even spiritual formation, many parents have looked to the village to raise their child. However, we often miss what I believe is an important part of being a village.
Parents seem to have become defensive when people actually try to act as a village. While I am not one to look back at the "good old days" with blind delusions of awe and wonder, I do sense we have lost an important part of what it means to be a village. We are often unable to criticize (constructively) or discipline (appropriately) other people's children. Whether it's a school official, a coach, or even a fellow church member, many of us have gotten to the point where we lash out at anyone who questions the behavior or attitude of our children.
While I am not sure what all has caused this shift, I am pretty sure it has not been for our good.
Those of us in the church should embrace and, if we have abandoned it, return to the idea that we are a village. While children have one mother who is ultimately responsible for rearing them, the church is full of mothers (and fathers) who can and should be helping with the rearing of every child.
I will admit that this is challenging for me at times. It's not always enjoyable as a parent to hear that your child behaved in a certain way. Sometimes it challenges my parenting, which can make me defensive. But if my primary concern is the development of my child, and not my pride or the way people perceive me, then I will receive those words with humility and openness.
Maybe this gets to the heart of one of the biggest deficiencies in the church today, the unwillingness to be confronted about much of anything. As much as my child needs other adults to observe and correct behavior and attitudes, I need the same thing. If the church could be a place where people are invited to lovingly confront others for behaviors and attitudes that don't reflect the nature and character of Christ, maybe we could experience a new level of spiritual development.
It doesn't just take a village to raise a child; it takes a village for each of us to grow as disciples of the One who made us a village in the first place.
shine!
Jason
While our society has embraced this proverb through some of our actions, I believe we have abandoned some key elements of this attitude at the same time. When it comes to schools, sports teams, various activities, and even spiritual formation, many parents have looked to the village to raise their child. However, we often miss what I believe is an important part of being a village.
Parents seem to have become defensive when people actually try to act as a village. While I am not one to look back at the "good old days" with blind delusions of awe and wonder, I do sense we have lost an important part of what it means to be a village. We are often unable to criticize (constructively) or discipline (appropriately) other people's children. Whether it's a school official, a coach, or even a fellow church member, many of us have gotten to the point where we lash out at anyone who questions the behavior or attitude of our children.
While I am not sure what all has caused this shift, I am pretty sure it has not been for our good.
Those of us in the church should embrace and, if we have abandoned it, return to the idea that we are a village. While children have one mother who is ultimately responsible for rearing them, the church is full of mothers (and fathers) who can and should be helping with the rearing of every child.
I will admit that this is challenging for me at times. It's not always enjoyable as a parent to hear that your child behaved in a certain way. Sometimes it challenges my parenting, which can make me defensive. But if my primary concern is the development of my child, and not my pride or the way people perceive me, then I will receive those words with humility and openness.
Maybe this gets to the heart of one of the biggest deficiencies in the church today, the unwillingness to be confronted about much of anything. As much as my child needs other adults to observe and correct behavior and attitudes, I need the same thing. If the church could be a place where people are invited to lovingly confront others for behaviors and attitudes that don't reflect the nature and character of Christ, maybe we could experience a new level of spiritual development.
It doesn't just take a village to raise a child; it takes a village for each of us to grow as disciples of the One who made us a village in the first place.
shine!
Jason
Saturday, May 08, 2010
Surprise!
It’s hard to believe that in less than a week I will turn 40!
I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who was a part of my surprise party last weekend! It was truly a blessing to spend the evening with so many of you. Thank you for the gifts, cards, food, and most importantly, your presence.
The last four and half years have been some of the best years of my life, and much of that joy is because of everyone at Rochester Church! We have laughed together and cried together. We have celebrated and mourned together. We have rejoiced in new life and suffered through death and loss.
As I look back on the last four decades of my life, it is amazing to see all of the ways that God has been leading me and all of the relationships God has made it possible for me to enjoy.
As I think about so many of you who have become an important part of my life, let me share with you the words of the apostle Paul. I believe that they reflect my thoughts about so many of you (except for the imprisonment part…haha):
Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
So it is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart. You share with me the special favor of God, both in my imprisonment and in defending and confirming the truth of the Good News. God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus.
I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God. (Philippians 1:3-11)
Thanks again to all of you for your various signs of appreciation. I was touched by your thoughtfulness and willingness to sacrifice an evening on my behalf. Your love never ceases to amaze me! Michelle, Matthew, and I consider it a blessing from God to call all of you friends and family.
shine!
Jason
I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who was a part of my surprise party last weekend! It was truly a blessing to spend the evening with so many of you. Thank you for the gifts, cards, food, and most importantly, your presence.
The last four and half years have been some of the best years of my life, and much of that joy is because of everyone at Rochester Church! We have laughed together and cried together. We have celebrated and mourned together. We have rejoiced in new life and suffered through death and loss.
As I look back on the last four decades of my life, it is amazing to see all of the ways that God has been leading me and all of the relationships God has made it possible for me to enjoy.
As I think about so many of you who have become an important part of my life, let me share with you the words of the apostle Paul. I believe that they reflect my thoughts about so many of you (except for the imprisonment part…haha):
Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
So it is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart. You share with me the special favor of God, both in my imprisonment and in defending and confirming the truth of the Good News. God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus.
I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God. (Philippians 1:3-11)
Thanks again to all of you for your various signs of appreciation. I was touched by your thoughtfulness and willingness to sacrifice an evening on my behalf. Your love never ceases to amaze me! Michelle, Matthew, and I consider it a blessing from God to call all of you friends and family.
shine!
Jason
Saturday, May 01, 2010
O Caminho Church in Niteroi, Brazil
Check out this video from the O Caminho Church in Niteroi, Brazil. I met one of the members of the team, Juliana, when she was a member at a church in Belo Horizonte. It is amazing to see how God is using her now to minister to her native country.
Do I listen?
Do you have a hard time listening?
I know that I often have a hard time listening. Sure, I can hear. But do I listen?
I often find myself in conversation thinking about my response before the other person is done talking. So rather than really listening, I am half-listening. This is even true in my relationship with God. There are often times when I want to answer God or ask God something before I have really taken time to listen.
The psalmist has a powerful message that reminds us who God is and why it is important for us to listen to Him…
God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling.
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.
The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;
he utters his voice, the earth melts.
The LORD of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Come, behold the works of the LORD,
how he has brought desolations on the earth.
He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the chariots with fire.
"Be still, and know that I am God.?
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!"
The LORD of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress. (Psalm 46)
Here we read a brief description of the power of our God. We are reminded of his strength, his peace, and his protection.
So often in life we feel helpless or hopeless and we make ourselves even busier in an attempt to run or hide from our problems. If we listen to the words of Psalm 46, we discover a different approach. When we can be still, we can hear God. In the midst of all of the noise in the world, God seeks a place to speak into our lives. If you feel overwhelmed or burdened, be still…
shine!
Jason
I know that I often have a hard time listening. Sure, I can hear. But do I listen?
I often find myself in conversation thinking about my response before the other person is done talking. So rather than really listening, I am half-listening. This is even true in my relationship with God. There are often times when I want to answer God or ask God something before I have really taken time to listen.
The psalmist has a powerful message that reminds us who God is and why it is important for us to listen to Him…
God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling.
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;
God will help her when morning dawns.
The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;
he utters his voice, the earth melts.
The LORD of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Come, behold the works of the LORD,
how he has brought desolations on the earth.
He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the chariots with fire.
"Be still, and know that I am God.?
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!"
The LORD of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress. (Psalm 46)
Here we read a brief description of the power of our God. We are reminded of his strength, his peace, and his protection.
So often in life we feel helpless or hopeless and we make ourselves even busier in an attempt to run or hide from our problems. If we listen to the words of Psalm 46, we discover a different approach. When we can be still, we can hear God. In the midst of all of the noise in the world, God seeks a place to speak into our lives. If you feel overwhelmed or burdened, be still…
shine!
Jason
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