Everyone wants it. People will pay great money for it. People will steal for it. People will lie to get it. People will give up their dignity to maintain. People will sacrifice their purity to keep it. People will give away almost anything else to have this one thing.
Identity.
As I write this I find myself in the midst of an identity recalibration. I am really not sure what else to call it. It's not a crisis. It's not a total change. It is a recalibration; an adjustment.
My identity is in Jesus, by what that means is certainly changing. It is changing away from things like how I do church and what I believe about a thousand different "doctrines." This is hard, because "church" is my employer. It is my job. And that creates a extra set of expectations and issues. It is a blessing and a curse. (Well, curse might be a bit strong, but I hope you get the idea.)
God is shaping more and more into finding my identity in the person of Jesus Christ. Not in the church. Not in my faith. Not in my spiritual disciplines and habits. Simply in Jesus.
I am a part of a faith community who has tended to seek it's identity in the way we "do church." It has affected the way we interpret texts. It impacts our approach to life. In a practical way it affects the way we live our lives. I have seen plently of people who will fight to the death for the way we do church, but the rest of their life tends to look very little like what Jesus talks about throughout the Gospels.
The problem is that many (in and out of our specific religious tribe) have made church a part of their identity instead of making Jesus their ONLY identity. This mindset has allowed many Christians to be faithful on Sunday mornings while mistreating employees, friends, and family on Monday. It creates situations where teenagers praise Jesus on Wednesday night and sleep with their boyfriend on Friday night. It makes it "OK" for us to put a few dollars in the contribution plate while ignoring our neighbor who needs food or clothing. I could go on and on, but the point is this: when our identity is in anything other that Jesus Himself, our life will be filled with inconsistancy and identity confusion.
I say all this above because at many points along my walk I have been that person. And, to be honest, parts of me continue to be that person. But God has really worked on me over the last couple of months and started opening my eyes to what I could be. He is showing me that identity anywhere but in His Son is selling ourselves short. It is a problem that started in the Garden of Eden and continues today.
I have plenty more to say, but I will stop for now. I just want to encourage you to pray about where you seek your identity. Is it in your job? Your friends? Your possesions? Your boyfriend/girlfriend? Your music? Your spouse? Or one of a hundred other places?
Seek your identity in the one place that the One who made you wants to find it: Jesus Christ.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Friday, August 04, 2006
Being relevant?
There seems to be this new movement in churches to be relevant. Well, maybe it's not new, but there is a new angle. It seems to me that some are submursing themselves into the culture for the sake of being "relevant." I struggle with this method.
As I consider the words of Jesus he called people to a higher standard. While I believe He abhored "morality" without mercy, I also think Jesus would be bothered by allowing current culture almost completely unchecked access to our hearts and minds. Whether it's music, movies, TV, lifestyle, or any number of other areas, I wonder how Jesus would live in America today.
I do not have an answer to the questions below; they are simply food for thought.
Would Jesus spend his evenings watching American Idol or Survivor?
How often would Jesus go to out to eat at restaurants?
What would Jesus have in His iPod?
I guess I could go on and on.
I will admit that I am a fan of culture. I enjoy a good movie. I listen to music quite a bit. I enjoy Olive Garden, Chili's, and a host of other places. But I struggle with the balance between cultural awareness and cultural acceptance.
I know that Paul said, "Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone so that I might bring them to Christ." (1 Corinthians 9:22) But Paul also said one verse earlier, "But I do not discard the law of God; I obey the law of Christ."
So where do we find the balance? How do we reach the world without looking like the world? How do we follow the mandate of James which states that, "Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us." (James 1:27)
We are called to compassion AND purity.
God demands mercy AND holiness.
We seek to reach the lost AND remain faithful.
I want to reach the lost - especially teens - but what does that look like in the year 2006? The words of Dan Stockstill (my YM professor at Harding University) still ring in my head. "What you win them with is what you win them too."
Are we trying to win the lost with culture plus Jesus? Are we seeking to be relevant at the expense of holiness?
I often fear that we sometimes make Jesus in the image of our culture as opposed to letting Him shape our interaction with culture. For example...
Jesus the action figure who is at our disposal when we need Him.
Jesus the social activist who seeks to addresses issues without a call for holiness.
Jesus the lucky charm who helps us when we are in trouble or need luck.
Jesus the drive-thru window who gives us our house, our car, and other material items.
While Jesus does help us in times of need, calls us to help the poor and outcasts, and provides for us, He first and foremost calls us to be completely sold-out and dedicated to Him. This is a goal that all of us should strive for, but none of us will ever achieve completely. Sin will continue to trip us up.
The question at hand is that do we sometimes seek to be so relevant that we give sin an outlet into our innermost being?
Yeah, you may think of the easy targets, like sexual impurity and violence. But what about the ways that we are gently, subtly shaped in the image of our consumerist culture?
(I am about to indict myself severly.)
How many families in Africa could be fed by the money I spend on a dinner for three at Texas Roadhouse?
How many poor children in America could actually have a week's worth of clothes for the cost of one outfit from Old Navy?
How many American inner-city single mothers could pay one (or more) month's rent for what it costs for an iPod?
Yes, I believe the church in America has a long way to go before we realize the dream of God. I am beginning to more vividly understand the words of Jesus when He says, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!" (Matthew 19:24)
I think that while Jesus is primarily talking about eternal life, there is certainly a sense in which this applies to our lives in this world. How can we fulfill the dream of God when our vision is blurred by the culture we live in?
I write the words above as a challenge to me and others as we seek to be the body of Christ in the world we live in. Being a true follower of Christ in the richest nation in the world is certainly challenging. And the more I get to know Jesus, the more I realize how much I need a merciful Savior who loves me in spite of my failings and misunderstandings. I an thankful that God remains faithful to me as I continue to fail Him.
shine!
Jason
As I consider the words of Jesus he called people to a higher standard. While I believe He abhored "morality" without mercy, I also think Jesus would be bothered by allowing current culture almost completely unchecked access to our hearts and minds. Whether it's music, movies, TV, lifestyle, or any number of other areas, I wonder how Jesus would live in America today.
I do not have an answer to the questions below; they are simply food for thought.
Would Jesus spend his evenings watching American Idol or Survivor?
How often would Jesus go to out to eat at restaurants?
What would Jesus have in His iPod?
I guess I could go on and on.
I will admit that I am a fan of culture. I enjoy a good movie. I listen to music quite a bit. I enjoy Olive Garden, Chili's, and a host of other places. But I struggle with the balance between cultural awareness and cultural acceptance.
I know that Paul said, "Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone so that I might bring them to Christ." (1 Corinthians 9:22) But Paul also said one verse earlier, "But I do not discard the law of God; I obey the law of Christ."
So where do we find the balance? How do we reach the world without looking like the world? How do we follow the mandate of James which states that, "Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us." (James 1:27)
We are called to compassion AND purity.
God demands mercy AND holiness.
We seek to reach the lost AND remain faithful.
I want to reach the lost - especially teens - but what does that look like in the year 2006? The words of Dan Stockstill (my YM professor at Harding University) still ring in my head. "What you win them with is what you win them too."
Are we trying to win the lost with culture plus Jesus? Are we seeking to be relevant at the expense of holiness?
I often fear that we sometimes make Jesus in the image of our culture as opposed to letting Him shape our interaction with culture. For example...
Jesus the action figure who is at our disposal when we need Him.
Jesus the social activist who seeks to addresses issues without a call for holiness.
Jesus the lucky charm who helps us when we are in trouble or need luck.
Jesus the drive-thru window who gives us our house, our car, and other material items.
While Jesus does help us in times of need, calls us to help the poor and outcasts, and provides for us, He first and foremost calls us to be completely sold-out and dedicated to Him. This is a goal that all of us should strive for, but none of us will ever achieve completely. Sin will continue to trip us up.
The question at hand is that do we sometimes seek to be so relevant that we give sin an outlet into our innermost being?
Yeah, you may think of the easy targets, like sexual impurity and violence. But what about the ways that we are gently, subtly shaped in the image of our consumerist culture?
(I am about to indict myself severly.)
How many families in Africa could be fed by the money I spend on a dinner for three at Texas Roadhouse?
How many poor children in America could actually have a week's worth of clothes for the cost of one outfit from Old Navy?
How many American inner-city single mothers could pay one (or more) month's rent for what it costs for an iPod?
Yes, I believe the church in America has a long way to go before we realize the dream of God. I am beginning to more vividly understand the words of Jesus when He says, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!" (Matthew 19:24)
I think that while Jesus is primarily talking about eternal life, there is certainly a sense in which this applies to our lives in this world. How can we fulfill the dream of God when our vision is blurred by the culture we live in?
I write the words above as a challenge to me and others as we seek to be the body of Christ in the world we live in. Being a true follower of Christ in the richest nation in the world is certainly challenging. And the more I get to know Jesus, the more I realize how much I need a merciful Savior who loves me in spite of my failings and misunderstandings. I an thankful that God remains faithful to me as I continue to fail Him.
shine!
Jason
Being relevant?
There seems to be this new movement in churches to be relevant. Well, maybe it's not new, but there is a new angle. It seems to me that some are submursing themselves into the culture for the sake of being "relevant." I struggle with this method.
As I consider the words of Jesus he called people to a higher standard. While I believe He abhored "morality" without mercy, I also think Jesus would be bothered by allowing current culture almost completely unchecked access to our hearts and minds. Whether it's music, movies, TV, lifestyle, or any number of other areas, I wonder how Jesus would live in America today.
I do not have an answer to the questions below; they are simply food for thought.
Would Jesus spend his evenings watching American Idol or Survivor?
How often would Jesus go to out to eat at restaurants?
What would Jesus have in His iPod?
I guess I could go on and on.
I will admit that I am a fan of culture. I enjoy a good movie. I listen to music quite a bit. I enjoy Olive Garden, Chili's, and a host of other places. But I struggle with the balance between cultural awareness and cultural acceptance.
I know that Paul said, "Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone so that I might bring them to Christ." (1 Corinthians 9:22) But Paul also said one verse earlier, "But I do not discard the law of God; I obey the law of Christ."
So where do we find the balance? How do we reach the world without looking like the world? How do we follow the mandate of James which states that, "Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us." (James 1:27)
We are called to compassion AND purity.
God demands mercy AND holiness.
We seek to reach the lost AND remain faithful.
I want to reach the lost - especially teens - but what does that look like in the year 2006? The words of Dan Stockstill (my YM professor at Harding University) still ring in my head. "What you win them with is what you win them too."
Are we trying to win the lost with culture plus Jesus? Are we seeking to be relevant at the expense of holiness?
I often fear that we sometimes make Jesus in the image of our culture as opposed to letting Him shape our interaction with culture. For example...
Jesus the action figure who is at our disposal when we need Him.
Jesus the social activist who seeks to addresses issues without a call for holiness.
Jesus the lucky charm who helps us when we are in trouble or need luck.
Jesus the drive-thru window who gives us our house, our car, and other material items.
While Jesus does help us in times of need, calls us to help the poor and outcasts, and provides for us, He first and foremost calls us to be completely sold-out and dedicated to Him. This is a goal that all of us should strive for, but none of us will ever achieve completely. Sin will continue to trip us up.
The question at hand is that do we sometimes seek to be so relevant that we give sin an outlet into our innermost being?
Yeah, you may think of the easy targets, like sexual impurity and violence. But what about the ways that we are gently, subtly shaped in the image of our consumerist culture?
(I am about to indict myself severly.)
How many families in Africa could be fed by the money I spend on a dinner for three at Texas Roadhouse?
How many poor children in America could actually have a week's worth of clothes for the cost of one outfit from Old Navy?
How many American inner-city single mothers could pay one (or more) month's rent for what it costs for an iPod?
Yes, I believe the church in America has a long way to go before we realize the dream of God. I am beginning to more vividly understand the words of Jesus when He says, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!" (Matthew 19:24)
I think that while Jesus is primarily talking about eternal life, there is certainly a sense in which this applies to our lives in this world. How can we fulfill the dream of God when our vision is blurred by the culture we live in?
I write the words above as a challenge to me and others as we seek to be the body of Christ in the world we live in. Being a true follower of Christ in the richest nation in the world is certainly challenging. And the more I get to know Jesus, the more I realize how much I need a merciful Savior who loves me in spite of my failings and misunderstandings. I an thankful that God remains faithful to me as I continue to fail Him.
shine!
Jason
As I consider the words of Jesus he called people to a higher standard. While I believe He abhored "morality" without mercy, I also think Jesus would be bothered by allowing current culture almost completely unchecked access to our hearts and minds. Whether it's music, movies, TV, lifestyle, or any number of other areas, I wonder how Jesus would live in America today.
I do not have an answer to the questions below; they are simply food for thought.
Would Jesus spend his evenings watching American Idol or Survivor?
How often would Jesus go to out to eat at restaurants?
What would Jesus have in His iPod?
I guess I could go on and on.
I will admit that I am a fan of culture. I enjoy a good movie. I listen to music quite a bit. I enjoy Olive Garden, Chili's, and a host of other places. But I struggle with the balance between cultural awareness and cultural acceptance.
I know that Paul said, "Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone so that I might bring them to Christ." (1 Corinthians 9:22) But Paul also said one verse earlier, "But I do not discard the law of God; I obey the law of Christ."
So where do we find the balance? How do we reach the world without looking like the world? How do we follow the mandate of James which states that, "Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles, and refuse to let the world corrupt us." (James 1:27)
We are called to compassion AND purity.
God demands mercy AND holiness.
We seek to reach the lost AND remain faithful.
I want to reach the lost - especially teens - but what does that look like in the year 2006? The words of Dan Stockstill (my YM professor at Harding University) still ring in my head. "What you win them with is what you win them too."
Are we trying to win the lost with culture plus Jesus? Are we seeking to be relevant at the expense of holiness?
I often fear that we sometimes make Jesus in the image of our culture as opposed to letting Him shape our interaction with culture. For example...
Jesus the action figure who is at our disposal when we need Him.
Jesus the social activist who seeks to addresses issues without a call for holiness.
Jesus the lucky charm who helps us when we are in trouble or need luck.
Jesus the drive-thru window who gives us our house, our car, and other material items.
While Jesus does help us in times of need, calls us to help the poor and outcasts, and provides for us, He first and foremost calls us to be completely sold-out and dedicated to Him. This is a goal that all of us should strive for, but none of us will ever achieve completely. Sin will continue to trip us up.
The question at hand is that do we sometimes seek to be so relevant that we give sin an outlet into our innermost being?
Yeah, you may think of the easy targets, like sexual impurity and violence. But what about the ways that we are gently, subtly shaped in the image of our consumerist culture?
(I am about to indict myself severly.)
How many families in Africa could be fed by the money I spend on a dinner for three at Texas Roadhouse?
How many poor children in America could actually have a week's worth of clothes for the cost of one outfit from Old Navy?
How many American inner-city single mothers could pay one (or more) month's rent for what it costs for an iPod?
Yes, I believe the church in America has a long way to go before we realize the dream of God. I am beginning to more vividly understand the words of Jesus when He says, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!" (Matthew 19:24)
I think that while Jesus is primarily talking about eternal life, there is certainly a sense in which this applies to our lives in this world. How can we fulfill the dream of God when our vision is blurred by the culture we live in?
I write the words above as a challenge to me and others as we seek to be the body of Christ in the world we live in. Being a true follower of Christ in the richest nation in the world is certainly challenging. And the more I get to know Jesus, the more I realize how much I need a merciful Savior who loves me in spite of my failings and misunderstandings. I an thankful that God remains faithful to me as I continue to fail Him.
shine!
Jason
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Jesus is not a Republican (or a Democrat)
The more I get to know Jesus, the more I realize He would turn over tables at the Republican National Convention as much as He would at the Democrat's. He would wonder why so many people who so strongly support "family values" worry more about staying at work late for extra money than spending time at the dinner table. He would wonder why people who want tax cuts would spend all of that money on themselves instead of using to bless the poor.
Now before you think I am turning Democrat, let examine the other side. I am not in favor of the government taking my money and distributing it for me. First of all, there are way too many people between my tax dollars and the poor. My guess is that most of the money that goes to welfare serves the welfare of government workers, not those who are in need. Second, government is providing help without a heart. There is money, but very little guidance.
As we look at this mess called poverty no party is innocent. The Republicans love to blame the Democrats for creating an entitlement mentality, and they are right. When people are giving money without accountability what do you expect. But the Democrats have a point when they say Republicans don't care about the poor either. They allege that Republicans don't care about the poor, and they are right. One side wants to hand out money. The other side wants to force responsbility.
Both sides have good motives, but they both fall miserably short. Let's look at Jesus and see how He would handle this situation today. (And since we are the body of Christ who is called to be His hands and feet, don't you think we should consider what Jesus thinks?)
Jesus helped the poor and held them accountable. He was willing to give His time, His energy, and even His reputation to help those who were "unwanted" by society. He was both Servant and Savior. He loved and challenged people. When He encountered the woman caught in adultery, He didn't just give her a handout and He didn't tell her to help herself. He protected her and gave her new direction in life. When Jesus met the woman at the well, He gave her living water and challenged her to change her life.
Jesus would have rediculed the Republicans for being self-centered as much as He would have chastised the Democrats for being self-centered. Responsiblity without support is just as bad as a handout without support.
While I could go on and on, I will finish with this thought. If Jesus wouldn't have claimed a political party, why should I? Will I still vote? Yes. Jesus said to "give unto Caesar, what is Caesar's." But will I claim allegence to a political party? I am working through that right now.
I have been a Republican all my life. I have a minor in political science. But Jesus seems to be calling to me to rise above all the noise, namecalling, and nonsense. I will follow Him and see where it leads me.
shine!
Jason
Now before you think I am turning Democrat, let examine the other side. I am not in favor of the government taking my money and distributing it for me. First of all, there are way too many people between my tax dollars and the poor. My guess is that most of the money that goes to welfare serves the welfare of government workers, not those who are in need. Second, government is providing help without a heart. There is money, but very little guidance.
As we look at this mess called poverty no party is innocent. The Republicans love to blame the Democrats for creating an entitlement mentality, and they are right. When people are giving money without accountability what do you expect. But the Democrats have a point when they say Republicans don't care about the poor either. They allege that Republicans don't care about the poor, and they are right. One side wants to hand out money. The other side wants to force responsbility.
Both sides have good motives, but they both fall miserably short. Let's look at Jesus and see how He would handle this situation today. (And since we are the body of Christ who is called to be His hands and feet, don't you think we should consider what Jesus thinks?)
Jesus helped the poor and held them accountable. He was willing to give His time, His energy, and even His reputation to help those who were "unwanted" by society. He was both Servant and Savior. He loved and challenged people. When He encountered the woman caught in adultery, He didn't just give her a handout and He didn't tell her to help herself. He protected her and gave her new direction in life. When Jesus met the woman at the well, He gave her living water and challenged her to change her life.
Jesus would have rediculed the Republicans for being self-centered as much as He would have chastised the Democrats for being self-centered. Responsiblity without support is just as bad as a handout without support.
While I could go on and on, I will finish with this thought. If Jesus wouldn't have claimed a political party, why should I? Will I still vote? Yes. Jesus said to "give unto Caesar, what is Caesar's." But will I claim allegence to a political party? I am working through that right now.
I have been a Republican all my life. I have a minor in political science. But Jesus seems to be calling to me to rise above all the noise, namecalling, and nonsense. I will follow Him and see where it leads me.
shine!
Jason
Jesus is not a Republican (or a Democrat)
The more I get to know Jesus, the more I realize He would turn over tables at the Republican National Convention as much as He would at the Democrat's. He would wonder why so many people who so strongly support "family values" worry more about staying at work late for extra money than spending time at the dinner table. He would wonder why people who want tax cuts would spend all of that money on themselves instead of using to bless the poor.
Now before you think I am turning Democrat, let examine the other side. I am not in favor of the government taking my money and distributing it for me. First of all, there are way too many people between my tax dollars and the poor. My guess is that most of the money that goes to welfare serves the welfare of government workers, not those who are in need. Second, government is providing help without a heart. There is money, but very little guidance.
As we look at this mess called poverty no party is innocent. The Republicans love to blame the Democrats for creating an entitlement mentality, and they are right. When people are giving money without accountability what do you expect. But the Democrats have a point when they say Republicans don't care about the poor either. They allege that Republicans don't care about the poor, and they are right. One side wants to hand out money. The other side wants to force responsbility.
Both sides have good motives, but they both fall miserably short. Let's look at Jesus and see how He would handle this situation today. (And since we are the body of Christ who is called to be His hands and feet, don't you think we should consider what Jesus thinks?)
Jesus helped the poor and held them accountable. He was willing to give His time, His energy, and even His reputation to help those who were "unwanted" by society. He was both Servant and Savior. He loved and challenged people. When He encountered the woman caught in adultery, He didn't just give her a handout and He didn't tell her to help herself. He protected her and gave her new direction in life. When Jesus met the woman at the well, He gave her living water and challenged her to change her life.
Jesus would have rediculed the Republicans for being self-centered as much as He would have chastised the Democrats for being self-centered. Responsiblity without support is just as bad as a handout without support.
While I could go on and on, I will finish with this thought. If Jesus wouldn't have claimed a political party, why should I? Will I still vote? Yes. Jesus said to "give unto Caesar, what is Caesar's." But will I claim allegence to a political party? I am working through that right now.
I have been a Republican all my life. I have a minor in political science. But Jesus seems to be calling to me to rise above all the noise, namecalling, and nonsense. I will follow Him and see where it leads me.
shine!
Jason
Now before you think I am turning Democrat, let examine the other side. I am not in favor of the government taking my money and distributing it for me. First of all, there are way too many people between my tax dollars and the poor. My guess is that most of the money that goes to welfare serves the welfare of government workers, not those who are in need. Second, government is providing help without a heart. There is money, but very little guidance.
As we look at this mess called poverty no party is innocent. The Republicans love to blame the Democrats for creating an entitlement mentality, and they are right. When people are giving money without accountability what do you expect. But the Democrats have a point when they say Republicans don't care about the poor either. They allege that Republicans don't care about the poor, and they are right. One side wants to hand out money. The other side wants to force responsbility.
Both sides have good motives, but they both fall miserably short. Let's look at Jesus and see how He would handle this situation today. (And since we are the body of Christ who is called to be His hands and feet, don't you think we should consider what Jesus thinks?)
Jesus helped the poor and held them accountable. He was willing to give His time, His energy, and even His reputation to help those who were "unwanted" by society. He was both Servant and Savior. He loved and challenged people. When He encountered the woman caught in adultery, He didn't just give her a handout and He didn't tell her to help herself. He protected her and gave her new direction in life. When Jesus met the woman at the well, He gave her living water and challenged her to change her life.
Jesus would have rediculed the Republicans for being self-centered as much as He would have chastised the Democrats for being self-centered. Responsiblity without support is just as bad as a handout without support.
While I could go on and on, I will finish with this thought. If Jesus wouldn't have claimed a political party, why should I? Will I still vote? Yes. Jesus said to "give unto Caesar, what is Caesar's." But will I claim allegence to a political party? I am working through that right now.
I have been a Republican all my life. I have a minor in political science. But Jesus seems to be calling to me to rise above all the noise, namecalling, and nonsense. I will follow Him and see where it leads me.
shine!
Jason
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Brazil!
Tomorrow our team of 29 will leave for Brazil. We will be working with the Victory church in Rio for the next 10 days. Please pray for our safe travels, and more importantly, pray that lives will be touched by God. Ask God for an outpouring of His Spirit and that we can be His hands and feet to the church in Rio and the Brazilians we will meet. Thank you for your prayers!
brilho!
brilho!
Re-imagining the church as a village
Last Sunday I had the honor and privilege of sharing the pulpit with our pulpit minister, Patrick Mead. Together Patrick and I presented a fundamental paradigm shift in how ministry to youth and their families is done. The lesson was entitled "Re-imagining the Church as a Village." While this concept has been around for several years (and is actually more biblical than the one most youth ministries follow today), it is certainly a new direction for me and for the Rochester church. God has been leading me this way for a few years and it is exciting to see God continuing my journey. You can listen to the sermon by going to http://rccaudio.christianwitness.us/. There you can either download the lesson or listening to it in streaming audio format.
shine!
shine!
Brazil!
Tomorrow our team of 29 will leave for Brazil. We will be working with the Victory church in Rio for the next 10 days. Please pray for our safe travels, and more importantly, pray that lives will be touched by God. Ask God for an outpouring of His Spirit and that we can be His hands and feet to the church in Rio and the Brazilians we will meet. Thank you for your prayers!
brilho!
brilho!
Re-imagining the church as a village
Last Sunday I had the honor and privilege of sharing the pulpit with our pulpit minister, Patrick Mead. Together Patrick and I presented a fundamental paradigm shift in how ministry to youth and their families is done. The lesson was entitled "Re-imagining the Church as a Village." While this concept has been around for several years (and is actually more biblical than the one most youth ministries follow today), it is certainly a new direction for me and for the Rochester church. God has been leading me this way for a few years and it is exciting to see God continuing my journey. You can listen to the sermon by going to http://rccaudio.christianwitness.us/. There you can either download the lesson or listening to it in streaming audio format.
shine!
shine!
Blind-spot
TODAY'S READING: 2 Samuel 12:1-14
Have you ever been driving down the road and when you go to switch lanes you begin to move over and you hear someone honk their horn? When you look again there is a car in the lane you were moving into. Most of us who drive understand there is a blind-spot that we must be aware of when we drive.
How many of us are aware of our spiritual blind-spots? David certainly didn't see his. I am sure that when he slept with Bathsheba, found out she was pregnant, and plotted to have her husband killed, he was aware of the sin. But, he continued to plot and hide the truth.
Then, when Nathan told the story we read today, David never saw the parallel between what he had done and what Nathan had said. It wasn't until Nathan said the words, "You are that man!" Then Nathan goes on to remind David of all the blessings God gave him.
David committed a serious sin in spite of all the ways that God had blessed him and been with him. David's blind-spot caused him to create a huge mess. And the rest of David's life would be filled with struggles because of this.
No matter how successful we are, all of us have spiritual blind-spots. That is one of the reasons it is essential we have healthy, close relationships with spiritual-minded people. Those relationships will help keep us accountable. It will take spiritually-minded close friends to help us see our blind-spots.
Do you have at least one close friend who keeps an eye out for you? Do you have someone who you can share your struggles with that will keep you accountable. As you strive to become the person God wants you to be, make sure you surround yourself with people who will watch your back in this journey called following Jesus.
shine!
Jason
Have you ever been driving down the road and when you go to switch lanes you begin to move over and you hear someone honk their horn? When you look again there is a car in the lane you were moving into. Most of us who drive understand there is a blind-spot that we must be aware of when we drive.
How many of us are aware of our spiritual blind-spots? David certainly didn't see his. I am sure that when he slept with Bathsheba, found out she was pregnant, and plotted to have her husband killed, he was aware of the sin. But, he continued to plot and hide the truth.
Then, when Nathan told the story we read today, David never saw the parallel between what he had done and what Nathan had said. It wasn't until Nathan said the words, "You are that man!" Then Nathan goes on to remind David of all the blessings God gave him.
David committed a serious sin in spite of all the ways that God had blessed him and been with him. David's blind-spot caused him to create a huge mess. And the rest of David's life would be filled with struggles because of this.
No matter how successful we are, all of us have spiritual blind-spots. That is one of the reasons it is essential we have healthy, close relationships with spiritual-minded people. Those relationships will help keep us accountable. It will take spiritually-minded close friends to help us see our blind-spots.
Do you have at least one close friend who keeps an eye out for you? Do you have someone who you can share your struggles with that will keep you accountable. As you strive to become the person God wants you to be, make sure you surround yourself with people who will watch your back in this journey called following Jesus.
shine!
Jason
Blind-spot
TODAY'S READING: 2 Samuel 12:1-14
Have you ever been driving down the road and when you go to switch lanes you begin to move over and you hear someone honk their horn? When you look again there is a car in the lane you were moving into. Most of us who drive understand there is a blind-spot that we must be aware of when we drive.
How many of us are aware of our spiritual blind-spots? David certainly didn't see his. I am sure that when he slept with Bathsheba, found out she was pregnant, and plotted to have her husband killed, he was aware of the sin. But, he continued to plot and hide the truth.
Then, when Nathan told the story we read today, David never saw the parallel between what he had done and what Nathan had said. It wasn't until Nathan said the words, "You are that man!" Then Nathan goes on to remind David of all the blessings God gave him.
David committed a serious sin in spite of all the ways that God had blessed him and been with him. David's blind-spot caused him to create a huge mess. And the rest of David's life would be filled with struggles because of this.
No matter how successful we are, all of us have spiritual blind-spots. That is one of the reasons it is essential we have healthy, close relationships with spiritual-minded people. Those relationships will help keep us accountable. It will take spiritually-minded close friends to help us see our blind-spots.
Do you have at least one close friend who keeps an eye out for you? Do you have someone who you can share your struggles with that will keep you accountable. As you strive to become the person God wants you to be, make sure you surround yourself with people who will watch your back in this journey called following Jesus.
shine!
Jason
Have you ever been driving down the road and when you go to switch lanes you begin to move over and you hear someone honk their horn? When you look again there is a car in the lane you were moving into. Most of us who drive understand there is a blind-spot that we must be aware of when we drive.
How many of us are aware of our spiritual blind-spots? David certainly didn't see his. I am sure that when he slept with Bathsheba, found out she was pregnant, and plotted to have her husband killed, he was aware of the sin. But, he continued to plot and hide the truth.
Then, when Nathan told the story we read today, David never saw the parallel between what he had done and what Nathan had said. It wasn't until Nathan said the words, "You are that man!" Then Nathan goes on to remind David of all the blessings God gave him.
David committed a serious sin in spite of all the ways that God had blessed him and been with him. David's blind-spot caused him to create a huge mess. And the rest of David's life would be filled with struggles because of this.
No matter how successful we are, all of us have spiritual blind-spots. That is one of the reasons it is essential we have healthy, close relationships with spiritual-minded people. Those relationships will help keep us accountable. It will take spiritually-minded close friends to help us see our blind-spots.
Do you have at least one close friend who keeps an eye out for you? Do you have someone who you can share your struggles with that will keep you accountable. As you strive to become the person God wants you to be, make sure you surround yourself with people who will watch your back in this journey called following Jesus.
shine!
Jason
How to be king
TODAY'S READING: 1 Samuel 18:1-16
There are all kinds of leadership training classes and seminars. You can find a host of books on how to be a leader. But we see David living out what makes an effective leader for God. It's not about seminars, books, or training sessions. Yes, those can all be helpful. But the key to a successful godly leader is found in the heart of the person. Consider what we read about David in this passage.
David was successful in what Saul asked him to do. (verse 5) David was dependable and carried out his assignments.
David was faithful, even when Saul took away some of his troops. (verse 13) David remained faithful in his tasks, even when his "boss" mistreated him.
The Lord was with David. (verses 12 & 14) When David was faithful, God was with him.
We can learn a lot from David. The biggest thing I learn from David in this situation is that we must be a servant regardless of how we are treated. I know there are times I don't want to serve because someone treated me poorly. I would imagine most of us have been there at least a few times.
David shows me that a real leader grows from a real servant. If we can show kindness, faithfulness, patience, and dependability as we serve others, God will often bless us with the opportunity to lead others. This is not a guarantee, but it is certainly a principle I have seen in Scripture and real life. Not all leaders show these characteristics, but most effective, godly leaders will show these attributes long before they are called to lead. Whether you are a leader or not, pray that God will help you develop into the kind of person who could be king, whether you are called to leadership or not. Because the reality is that all of us will lead someone. But are we doing it in a way that brings glory and honor to God?
shine!
Jason
There are all kinds of leadership training classes and seminars. You can find a host of books on how to be a leader. But we see David living out what makes an effective leader for God. It's not about seminars, books, or training sessions. Yes, those can all be helpful. But the key to a successful godly leader is found in the heart of the person. Consider what we read about David in this passage.
David was successful in what Saul asked him to do. (verse 5) David was dependable and carried out his assignments.
David was faithful, even when Saul took away some of his troops. (verse 13) David remained faithful in his tasks, even when his "boss" mistreated him.
The Lord was with David. (verses 12 & 14) When David was faithful, God was with him.
We can learn a lot from David. The biggest thing I learn from David in this situation is that we must be a servant regardless of how we are treated. I know there are times I don't want to serve because someone treated me poorly. I would imagine most of us have been there at least a few times.
David shows me that a real leader grows from a real servant. If we can show kindness, faithfulness, patience, and dependability as we serve others, God will often bless us with the opportunity to lead others. This is not a guarantee, but it is certainly a principle I have seen in Scripture and real life. Not all leaders show these characteristics, but most effective, godly leaders will show these attributes long before they are called to lead. Whether you are a leader or not, pray that God will help you develop into the kind of person who could be king, whether you are called to leadership or not. Because the reality is that all of us will lead someone. But are we doing it in a way that brings glory and honor to God?
shine!
Jason
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
How to be king
TODAY'S READING: 1 Samuel 18:1-16
There are all kinds of leadership training classes and seminars. You can find a host of books on how to be a leader. But we see David living out what makes an effective leader for God. It's not about seminars, books, or training sessions. Yes, those can all be helpful. But the key to a successful godly leader is found in the heart of the person. Consider what we read about David in this passage.
David was successful in what Saul asked him to do. (verse 5) David was dependable and carried out his assignments.
David was faithful, even when Saul took away some of his troops. (verse 13) David remained faithful in his tasks, even when his "boss" mistreated him.
The Lord was with David. (verses 12 & 14) When David was faithful, God was with him.
We can learn a lot from David. The biggest thing I learn from David in this situation is that we must be a servant regardless of how we are treated. I know there are times I don't want to serve because someone treated me poorly. I would imagine most of us have been there at least a few times.
David shows me that a real leader grows from a real servant. If we can show kindness, faithfulness, patience, and dependability as we serve others, God will often bless us with the opportunity to lead others. This is not a guarantee, but it is certainly a principle I have seen in Scripture and real life. Not all leaders show these characteristics, but most effective, godly leaders will show these attributes long before they are called to lead. Whether you are a leader or not, pray that God will help you develop into the kind of person who could be king, whether you are called to leadership or not. Because the reality is that all of us will lead someone. But are we doing it in a way that brings glory and honor to God?
shine!
Jason
There are all kinds of leadership training classes and seminars. You can find a host of books on how to be a leader. But we see David living out what makes an effective leader for God. It's not about seminars, books, or training sessions. Yes, those can all be helpful. But the key to a successful godly leader is found in the heart of the person. Consider what we read about David in this passage.
David was successful in what Saul asked him to do. (verse 5) David was dependable and carried out his assignments.
David was faithful, even when Saul took away some of his troops. (verse 13) David remained faithful in his tasks, even when his "boss" mistreated him.
The Lord was with David. (verses 12 & 14) When David was faithful, God was with him.
We can learn a lot from David. The biggest thing I learn from David in this situation is that we must be a servant regardless of how we are treated. I know there are times I don't want to serve because someone treated me poorly. I would imagine most of us have been there at least a few times.
David shows me that a real leader grows from a real servant. If we can show kindness, faithfulness, patience, and dependability as we serve others, God will often bless us with the opportunity to lead others. This is not a guarantee, but it is certainly a principle I have seen in Scripture and real life. Not all leaders show these characteristics, but most effective, godly leaders will show these attributes long before they are called to lead. Whether you are a leader or not, pray that God will help you develop into the kind of person who could be king, whether you are called to leadership or not. Because the reality is that all of us will lead someone. But are we doing it in a way that brings glory and honor to God?
shine!
Jason
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
God's warrior
TODAY'S READING: 1 Samuel 17:32-51
This story brings so many questions to my mind. Here are a few for starters...
Why do we often fail look at where we have been and see what God has prepared us for?
Why do we often try so hard to be something God didn't design us to be?
Why do we often look to ourselves as the ultimate source of power and control?
David isn't your typical warrior. First of all, his king didn't believe him but he went anyway. In most armies, if the general tells you that you can't do it, you don't head into battle. But David realized who his REAL king was. He knew who was in charge.
David didn't worry about his size of lack or military training. Sure, David realized who he was going up against. But Saul failed to acknowledge who Goliath was really going up against. Goliath was not simply fighting a shepherd boy, runt of the litter, untrained warrior. Goliath was facing the God of all creation, and David knew it!
David didn't try to be something he wasn't. Trying to put on armor that was not designed for him would have done two things. It would have limited his ability to battle the way he had learned as a shepherd protecting the flock and it would have shown a lack of trust in the Lord. David knew where his power and protection could be found.
I believe the key to David's victory can be found in verses 46 and 47 where David says, "Today the LORD will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! And everyone will know that the LORD does not need weapons to rescue his people. It is his battle, not ours. The LORD will give you to us!"
Do we fight our battles the same way? When we face temptation, sin, persecutions, and other struggles, do we look to God for the power and protection? Do we realize that the battle is ultimately God's?
Often I think we forget...
When we feel insufficient, we try to dress up in the armor of the world. Why else would we worry about what kind of clothes we wear? Why else would we put other people down to make ourselves feel better? Why else would we worry more about being popular than being faithful to God?
We tend to use our abilities to bring ourselves glory as opposed to bringing God glory. Why else would we work so hard to get promotions and recognition? Why else would we dump so many hours into success in a sport or hobby that we usually only do for a few years? Why else would we spend so much money on status symbols?
We all struggle with one or more aspects of either feeling insufficient or wanting glory. It is a part of this fallen world we live in. But we can learn a valuable lesson from David. When we face what seems like insurmountable odds, God will deliver us when we trust Him and send the glory His way. When our focus is squarely on God, He will work in our lives in ways we never imagined. When we go to battle for the only real King, victory is certain. It is His battle, not ours.
shine!
Jason
This story brings so many questions to my mind. Here are a few for starters...
Why do we often fail look at where we have been and see what God has prepared us for?
Why do we often try so hard to be something God didn't design us to be?
Why do we often look to ourselves as the ultimate source of power and control?
David isn't your typical warrior. First of all, his king didn't believe him but he went anyway. In most armies, if the general tells you that you can't do it, you don't head into battle. But David realized who his REAL king was. He knew who was in charge.
David didn't worry about his size of lack or military training. Sure, David realized who he was going up against. But Saul failed to acknowledge who Goliath was really going up against. Goliath was not simply fighting a shepherd boy, runt of the litter, untrained warrior. Goliath was facing the God of all creation, and David knew it!
David didn't try to be something he wasn't. Trying to put on armor that was not designed for him would have done two things. It would have limited his ability to battle the way he had learned as a shepherd protecting the flock and it would have shown a lack of trust in the Lord. David knew where his power and protection could be found.
I believe the key to David's victory can be found in verses 46 and 47 where David says, "Today the LORD will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! And everyone will know that the LORD does not need weapons to rescue his people. It is his battle, not ours. The LORD will give you to us!"
Do we fight our battles the same way? When we face temptation, sin, persecutions, and other struggles, do we look to God for the power and protection? Do we realize that the battle is ultimately God's?
Often I think we forget...
When we feel insufficient, we try to dress up in the armor of the world. Why else would we worry about what kind of clothes we wear? Why else would we put other people down to make ourselves feel better? Why else would we worry more about being popular than being faithful to God?
We tend to use our abilities to bring ourselves glory as opposed to bringing God glory. Why else would we work so hard to get promotions and recognition? Why else would we dump so many hours into success in a sport or hobby that we usually only do for a few years? Why else would we spend so much money on status symbols?
We all struggle with one or more aspects of either feeling insufficient or wanting glory. It is a part of this fallen world we live in. But we can learn a valuable lesson from David. When we face what seems like insurmountable odds, God will deliver us when we trust Him and send the glory His way. When our focus is squarely on God, He will work in our lives in ways we never imagined. When we go to battle for the only real King, victory is certain. It is His battle, not ours.
shine!
Jason
God's warrior
TODAY'S READING: 1 Samuel 17:32-51
This story brings so many questions to my mind. Here are a few for starters...
Why do we often fail look at where we have been and see what God has prepared us for?
Why do we often try so hard to be something God didn't design us to be?
Why do we often look to ourselves as the ultimate source of power and control?
David isn't your typical warrior. First of all, his king didn't believe him but he went anyway. In most armies, if the general tells you that you can't do it, you don't head into battle. But David realized who his REAL king was. He knew who was in charge.
David didn't worry about his size of lack or military training. Sure, David realized who he was going up against. But Saul failed to acknowledge who Goliath was really going up against. Goliath was not simply fighting a shepherd boy, runt of the litter, untrained warrior. Goliath was facing the God of all creation, and David knew it!
David didn't try to be something he wasn't. Trying to put on armor that was not designed for him would have done two things. It would have limited his ability to battle the way he had learned as a shepherd protecting the flock and it would have shown a lack of trust in the Lord. David knew where his power and protection could be found.
I believe the key to David's victory can be found in verses 46 and 47 where David says, "Today the LORD will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! And everyone will know that the LORD does not need weapons to rescue his people. It is his battle, not ours. The LORD will give you to us!"
Do we fight our battles the same way? When we face temptation, sin, persecutions, and other struggles, do we look to God for the power and protection? Do we realize that the battle is ultimately God's?
Often I think we forget...
When we feel insufficient, we try to dress up in the armor of the world. Why else would we worry about what kind of clothes we wear? Why else would we put other people down to make ourselves feel better? Why else would we worry more about being popular than being faithful to God?
We tend to use our abilities to bring ourselves glory as opposed to bringing God glory. Why else would we work so hard to get promotions and recognition? Why else would we dump so many hours into success in a sport or hobby that we usually only do for a few years? Why else would we spend so much money on status symbols?
We all struggle with one or more aspects of either feeling insufficient or wanting glory. It is a part of this fallen world we live in. But we can learn a valuable lesson from David. When we face what seems like insurmountable odds, God will deliver us when we trust Him and send the glory His way. When our focus is squarely on God, He will work in our lives in ways we never imagined. When we go to battle for the only real King, victory is certain. It is His battle, not ours.
shine!
Jason
This story brings so many questions to my mind. Here are a few for starters...
Why do we often fail look at where we have been and see what God has prepared us for?
Why do we often try so hard to be something God didn't design us to be?
Why do we often look to ourselves as the ultimate source of power and control?
David isn't your typical warrior. First of all, his king didn't believe him but he went anyway. In most armies, if the general tells you that you can't do it, you don't head into battle. But David realized who his REAL king was. He knew who was in charge.
David didn't worry about his size of lack or military training. Sure, David realized who he was going up against. But Saul failed to acknowledge who Goliath was really going up against. Goliath was not simply fighting a shepherd boy, runt of the litter, untrained warrior. Goliath was facing the God of all creation, and David knew it!
David didn't try to be something he wasn't. Trying to put on armor that was not designed for him would have done two things. It would have limited his ability to battle the way he had learned as a shepherd protecting the flock and it would have shown a lack of trust in the Lord. David knew where his power and protection could be found.
I believe the key to David's victory can be found in verses 46 and 47 where David says, "Today the LORD will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! And everyone will know that the LORD does not need weapons to rescue his people. It is his battle, not ours. The LORD will give you to us!"
Do we fight our battles the same way? When we face temptation, sin, persecutions, and other struggles, do we look to God for the power and protection? Do we realize that the battle is ultimately God's?
Often I think we forget...
When we feel insufficient, we try to dress up in the armor of the world. Why else would we worry about what kind of clothes we wear? Why else would we put other people down to make ourselves feel better? Why else would we worry more about being popular than being faithful to God?
We tend to use our abilities to bring ourselves glory as opposed to bringing God glory. Why else would we work so hard to get promotions and recognition? Why else would we dump so many hours into success in a sport or hobby that we usually only do for a few years? Why else would we spend so much money on status symbols?
We all struggle with one or more aspects of either feeling insufficient or wanting glory. It is a part of this fallen world we live in. But we can learn a valuable lesson from David. When we face what seems like insurmountable odds, God will deliver us when we trust Him and send the glory His way. When our focus is squarely on God, He will work in our lives in ways we never imagined. When we go to battle for the only real King, victory is certain. It is His battle, not ours.
shine!
Jason
Monday, June 12, 2006
A shepherd's heart
TODAY'S READING: 1 Samuel 16:1-13
We live in a society that is all about looks. If you doubt this, look around when you are in line at the grocery story. There are magazines all over with attractive people on the covers and 10 ways to look better on the inside. If that doesn't convince you, tune in for the latest show about "Hollywood's 10 Most Beautiful Stars." And on and on it goes.
When God sent Samuel to the house of Jesse to find the next king for Israel he fell into the same trap. It almost sounds like the "Mr. Israel" competition. Each of Jesse's sons is paraded before Samuel. And each time the result is the same. "Next." None of them are the one.
Then in from the fields comes David. Not anyone's vision of what a king should be, God chooses him. Not because of his looks. Not because he is the biggest and baddest. No. God selects David because of who he is on the inside. The "runt" of the family is also the one with the heart of a shepherd.
God will often used the most unlikely people. At least unlikely in the world's eyes. But God has a different - and much healthier perspective. God looks at a person's heart. It is substance, not style, that determines who someone is.
The next time you want to judge someone's worth, consider David. Here is the little brother than ended up leading an entire nation. The next time you think someone couldn't possibly serve God, remember David. The one that everyone in the family probably looked down on was the one an entire people eventually looked up to.
We waste so much time worrying about and trying to improve our looks. But how much time do we invest in shaping our hearts? Are we concerned more with what people think about our appearance or who the real us is on the inside? As you consider these questions, remember that God chose the youngest, weakest-looking boy in the house of Jesse to guide His nation.
shine!
Jason
We live in a society that is all about looks. If you doubt this, look around when you are in line at the grocery story. There are magazines all over with attractive people on the covers and 10 ways to look better on the inside. If that doesn't convince you, tune in for the latest show about "Hollywood's 10 Most Beautiful Stars." And on and on it goes.
When God sent Samuel to the house of Jesse to find the next king for Israel he fell into the same trap. It almost sounds like the "Mr. Israel" competition. Each of Jesse's sons is paraded before Samuel. And each time the result is the same. "Next." None of them are the one.
Then in from the fields comes David. Not anyone's vision of what a king should be, God chooses him. Not because of his looks. Not because he is the biggest and baddest. No. God selects David because of who he is on the inside. The "runt" of the family is also the one with the heart of a shepherd.
God will often used the most unlikely people. At least unlikely in the world's eyes. But God has a different - and much healthier perspective. God looks at a person's heart. It is substance, not style, that determines who someone is.
The next time you want to judge someone's worth, consider David. Here is the little brother than ended up leading an entire nation. The next time you think someone couldn't possibly serve God, remember David. The one that everyone in the family probably looked down on was the one an entire people eventually looked up to.
We waste so much time worrying about and trying to improve our looks. But how much time do we invest in shaping our hearts? Are we concerned more with what people think about our appearance or who the real us is on the inside? As you consider these questions, remember that God chose the youngest, weakest-looking boy in the house of Jesse to guide His nation.
shine!
Jason
A shepherd's heart
TODAY'S READING: 1 Samuel 16:1-13
We live in a society that is all about looks. If you doubt this, look around when you are in line at the grocery story. There are magazines all over with attractive people on the covers and 10 ways to look better on the inside. If that doesn't convince you, tune in for the latest show about "Hollywood's 10 Most Beautiful Stars." And on and on it goes.
When God sent Samuel to the house of Jesse to find the next king for Israel he fell into the same trap. It almost sounds like the "Mr. Israel" competition. Each of Jesse's sons is paraded before Samuel. And each time the result is the same. "Next." None of them are the one.
Then in from the fields comes David. Not anyone's vision of what a king should be, God chooses him. Not because of his looks. Not because he is the biggest and baddest. No. God selects David because of who he is on the inside. The "runt" of the family is also the one with the heart of a shepherd.
God will often used the most unlikely people. At least unlikely in the world's eyes. But God has a different - and much healthier perspective. God looks at a person's heart. It is substance, not style, that determines who someone is.
The next time you want to judge someone's worth, consider David. Here is the little brother than ended up leading an entire nation. The next time you think someone couldn't possibly serve God, remember David. The one that everyone in the family probably looked down on was the one an entire people eventually looked up to.
We waste so much time worrying about and trying to improve our looks. But how much time do we invest in shaping our hearts? Are we concerned more with what people think about our appearance or who the real us is on the inside? As you consider these questions, remember that God chose the youngest, weakest-looking boy in the house of Jesse to guide His nation.
shine!
Jason
We live in a society that is all about looks. If you doubt this, look around when you are in line at the grocery story. There are magazines all over with attractive people on the covers and 10 ways to look better on the inside. If that doesn't convince you, tune in for the latest show about "Hollywood's 10 Most Beautiful Stars." And on and on it goes.
When God sent Samuel to the house of Jesse to find the next king for Israel he fell into the same trap. It almost sounds like the "Mr. Israel" competition. Each of Jesse's sons is paraded before Samuel. And each time the result is the same. "Next." None of them are the one.
Then in from the fields comes David. Not anyone's vision of what a king should be, God chooses him. Not because of his looks. Not because he is the biggest and baddest. No. God selects David because of who he is on the inside. The "runt" of the family is also the one with the heart of a shepherd.
God will often used the most unlikely people. At least unlikely in the world's eyes. But God has a different - and much healthier perspective. God looks at a person's heart. It is substance, not style, that determines who someone is.
The next time you want to judge someone's worth, consider David. Here is the little brother than ended up leading an entire nation. The next time you think someone couldn't possibly serve God, remember David. The one that everyone in the family probably looked down on was the one an entire people eventually looked up to.
We waste so much time worrying about and trying to improve our looks. But how much time do we invest in shaping our hearts? Are we concerned more with what people think about our appearance or who the real us is on the inside? As you consider these questions, remember that God chose the youngest, weakest-looking boy in the house of Jesse to guide His nation.
shine!
Jason
Friday, June 02, 2006
Experiencing peace
TODAY'S READING: Philippians 4:4-20
People today seek peace and comfort in so many places. Think about ome of the industries that have blossomed in recent years. Restaurants. Movies. Spas. Sports. Alcohol. Television. Vacation homes. Tobacco. Internet pornography. Recreational drug use.
Most people would agree that not all of these things are necessarily evil. But at the same time, I would dare to say that all of these things can become sinful if we try to use them to replace God as our source of comfort. Why do you think God told the nation of Israel thousands of years ago, "Do not worship any other gods besides me. Do not make idols of any kind, whether in the shape of birds or
animals or fish. You must never worship or bow down to them, for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God who will not share your affection with any other god! I do not leave unpunished the sins of those who hate me, but I punish the children for the sins of their parents to the third and fourth generations. But I lavish my love on those who love me and obey my commands, even for a thousand generations." (Exodus 20:3-6)
God realized that human beings would often seek the "quick fix." We are constantly looking for the next "magic pill" to solve our problems. If you have a hard time believing that, just look at the cover of a magazine or watch a few TV commercials.
"Ten ways to lose 50 pounds in a month."
"The quicker picker-upper."
"How to make thousands in 90 days."
"Your way, right away."
"Calgon, take me away."
"Extreme makeover"
I am sure I could fill a few pages with things like this, but you get the idea. We are a culture in search of peace and comfort in a world full of sin, destruction, and evil. And unfortunately, even many of us in the church skip the real answer and seek out quick, short-cut solutions.
Peace is not always easy to achieve, but the formula is simple. Trust in God.
Listen to His words. Meditate on His words. Live by His words.
When we are able to focus on God and what He has done for us, especially in the person of Jesus, we will begin to discover a peace beyond compare. But we must realize that this is a journey. God usually operates more like a crock-pot than a microwave. It is when we allow Him to work on our hearts and minds over time that real, significant change takes place. And this is where real peace is able to grow and mature in our lives.
shine!
Jason
People today seek peace and comfort in so many places. Think about ome of the industries that have blossomed in recent years. Restaurants. Movies. Spas. Sports. Alcohol. Television. Vacation homes. Tobacco. Internet pornography. Recreational drug use.
Most people would agree that not all of these things are necessarily evil. But at the same time, I would dare to say that all of these things can become sinful if we try to use them to replace God as our source of comfort. Why do you think God told the nation of Israel thousands of years ago, "Do not worship any other gods besides me. Do not make idols of any kind, whether in the shape of birds or
animals or fish. You must never worship or bow down to them, for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God who will not share your affection with any other god! I do not leave unpunished the sins of those who hate me, but I punish the children for the sins of their parents to the third and fourth generations. But I lavish my love on those who love me and obey my commands, even for a thousand generations." (Exodus 20:3-6)
God realized that human beings would often seek the "quick fix." We are constantly looking for the next "magic pill" to solve our problems. If you have a hard time believing that, just look at the cover of a magazine or watch a few TV commercials.
"Ten ways to lose 50 pounds in a month."
"The quicker picker-upper."
"How to make thousands in 90 days."
"Your way, right away."
"Calgon, take me away."
"Extreme makeover"
I am sure I could fill a few pages with things like this, but you get the idea. We are a culture in search of peace and comfort in a world full of sin, destruction, and evil. And unfortunately, even many of us in the church skip the real answer and seek out quick, short-cut solutions.
Peace is not always easy to achieve, but the formula is simple. Trust in God.
Listen to His words. Meditate on His words. Live by His words.
When we are able to focus on God and what He has done for us, especially in the person of Jesus, we will begin to discover a peace beyond compare. But we must realize that this is a journey. God usually operates more like a crock-pot than a microwave. It is when we allow Him to work on our hearts and minds over time that real, significant change takes place. And this is where real peace is able to grow and mature in our lives.
shine!
Jason
Experiencing peace
TODAY'S READING: Philippians 4:4-20
People today seek peace and comfort in so many places. Think about ome of the industries that have blossomed in recent years. Restaurants. Movies. Spas. Sports. Alcohol. Television. Vacation homes. Tobacco. Internet pornography. Recreational drug use.
Most people would agree that not all of these things are necessarily evil. But at the same time, I would dare to say that all of these things can become sinful if we try to use them to replace God as our source of comfort. Why do you think God told the nation of Israel thousands of years ago, "Do not worship any other gods besides me. Do not make idols of any kind, whether in the shape of birds or
animals or fish. You must never worship or bow down to them, for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God who will not share your affection with any other god! I do not leave unpunished the sins of those who hate me, but I punish the children for the sins of their parents to the third and fourth generations. But I lavish my love on those who love me and obey my commands, even for a thousand generations." (Exodus 20:3-6)
God realized that human beings would often seek the "quick fix." We are constantly looking for the next "magic pill" to solve our problems. If you have a hard time believing that, just look at the cover of a magazine or watch a few TV commercials.
"Ten ways to lose 50 pounds in a month."
"The quicker picker-upper."
"How to make thousands in 90 days."
"Your way, right away."
"Calgon, take me away."
"Extreme makeover"
I am sure I could fill a few pages with things like this, but you get the idea. We are a culture in search of peace and comfort in a world full of sin, destruction, and evil. And unfortunately, even many of us in the church skip the real answer and seek out quick, short-cut solutions.
Peace is not always easy to achieve, but the formula is simple. Trust in God.
Listen to His words. Meditate on His words. Live by His words.
When we are able to focus on God and what He has done for us, especially in the person of Jesus, we will begin to discover a peace beyond compare. But we must realize that this is a journey. God usually operates more like a crock-pot than a microwave. It is when we allow Him to work on our hearts and minds over time that real, significant change takes place. And this is where real peace is able to grow and mature in our lives.
shine!
Jason
People today seek peace and comfort in so many places. Think about ome of the industries that have blossomed in recent years. Restaurants. Movies. Spas. Sports. Alcohol. Television. Vacation homes. Tobacco. Internet pornography. Recreational drug use.
Most people would agree that not all of these things are necessarily evil. But at the same time, I would dare to say that all of these things can become sinful if we try to use them to replace God as our source of comfort. Why do you think God told the nation of Israel thousands of years ago, "Do not worship any other gods besides me. Do not make idols of any kind, whether in the shape of birds or
animals or fish. You must never worship or bow down to them, for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God who will not share your affection with any other god! I do not leave unpunished the sins of those who hate me, but I punish the children for the sins of their parents to the third and fourth generations. But I lavish my love on those who love me and obey my commands, even for a thousand generations." (Exodus 20:3-6)
God realized that human beings would often seek the "quick fix." We are constantly looking for the next "magic pill" to solve our problems. If you have a hard time believing that, just look at the cover of a magazine or watch a few TV commercials.
"Ten ways to lose 50 pounds in a month."
"The quicker picker-upper."
"How to make thousands in 90 days."
"Your way, right away."
"Calgon, take me away."
"Extreme makeover"
I am sure I could fill a few pages with things like this, but you get the idea. We are a culture in search of peace and comfort in a world full of sin, destruction, and evil. And unfortunately, even many of us in the church skip the real answer and seek out quick, short-cut solutions.
Peace is not always easy to achieve, but the formula is simple. Trust in God.
Listen to His words. Meditate on His words. Live by His words.
When we are able to focus on God and what He has done for us, especially in the person of Jesus, we will begin to discover a peace beyond compare. But we must realize that this is a journey. God usually operates more like a crock-pot than a microwave. It is when we allow Him to work on our hearts and minds over time that real, significant change takes place. And this is where real peace is able to grow and mature in our lives.
shine!
Jason
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Producing fruit
I worked on a farm for two summers in 1984 and 1985. I remember getting up around five most mornings to get to the fields and get to work. At $1.50 an hour, I wasn't getting rich, but it gave me a little money.
Anyway, one of my jobs on the farm was to walk through the fields and get rid of weeds. The farmer knew that weeds would make it more difficult for the crops to grow and produce. Whether it was the weeds taking some of the moisture and nutrients from the ground or getting to the size where they blocked sunlight, weeds were nothing but hurtful to the crops. If they were not safely and fully removed, the plants would die or at best they would not produce any crops.
This is exactly what Jesus is talking about in the parable we read today. The cares of this life and the lure of wealth are just like the weeds. They either steal our energy away from serving God or they block out our ability to see the Son.
We may still go to church. We may keep up the appearances of serving God. But are we producing fruit?
This is what the cares of life and the lure of wealth do to us. They change us from healthy plants producing a crop to nonproductive plants. If we are not careful we are transformed from people sharing our faith and leading people to Jesus to people who are satisfied with sitting in a pew.
Is worry impacting your ability to produce a crop for God? Find someone to help you, pray with you, or challenge you to pull the weeds out of your life so you can bring forth the fruit that God is calling you to produce.
shine!
Jason
Anyway, one of my jobs on the farm was to walk through the fields and get rid of weeds. The farmer knew that weeds would make it more difficult for the crops to grow and produce. Whether it was the weeds taking some of the moisture and nutrients from the ground or getting to the size where they blocked sunlight, weeds were nothing but hurtful to the crops. If they were not safely and fully removed, the plants would die or at best they would not produce any crops.
This is exactly what Jesus is talking about in the parable we read today. The cares of this life and the lure of wealth are just like the weeds. They either steal our energy away from serving God or they block out our ability to see the Son.
We may still go to church. We may keep up the appearances of serving God. But are we producing fruit?
This is what the cares of life and the lure of wealth do to us. They change us from healthy plants producing a crop to nonproductive plants. If we are not careful we are transformed from people sharing our faith and leading people to Jesus to people who are satisfied with sitting in a pew.
Is worry impacting your ability to produce a crop for God? Find someone to help you, pray with you, or challenge you to pull the weeds out of your life so you can bring forth the fruit that God is calling you to produce.
shine!
Jason
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