This is the last week before Christmas, so I wanted to encourage each of our teens to think about what they are planning to give for iChristmas. As we focus on the idea of love, it’s a great time to consider what is most important to us and how we can bless others.
Our society tells us over and over again that this is a season to want. What is on our Christmas list? What do you want for Christmas? We hear so many messages that our joy comes from what we get, that we can lose sight of what is really important. I believe that Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount have a lot to say to our culture of consumerism…
19“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
22“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. 23But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
24“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.
Where is your treasure? What are the things you consider most important? What do you really need and what is want?
Most of us are blessed beyond belief. Even those of us who consider ourselves to have little have more than most of the world. Our needs would be a dream to much of the world’s population.
There is nothing wrong with enjoying our blessings, but we must always remember to put things in context. It is important to remember that most of the things we “need” are really things we want. Real needs, such as food and shelter, are things that we take for granted, but that much of the world struggles to find on a daily basis.
Just as God gave to us, we are called to give to others. As we enter the final week before Christmas, take time to think about how blessed you are and, more importantly, how you can be a blessing to others.
shine!
Jason
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Monday, December 12, 2011
People of peace
So often when we think of peace, we think of a lack of war. But that idea of peace falls well short of the peace God ultimately desires. God does not simply wish that we would stop fighting. Peace in the Kingdom of God is so much more.
God’s peace is about restoration and redemption. It is about making things right in the world.
So, as we consider the arrival of Christ into the world, we find God preparing to answer hundreds, if not thousands of years of prayer. After many promises, prophecies, and predictions, the Messiah is about to arrive on the scene.
But the Messiah was not the one many had hoped for. Instead of a king who would rise up and defeat the empires with an army, his weapon was a cross. Instead of killing, he healed. When he faced execution, he displayed humility and servanthood, even to the point of death.
This was a Messiah who was seeking to restore the world to what God had dreamed of since the beginning. A world where everyone would be loved and no one was excluded. A world where power, position, and possessions were not the defining markers of someone’s worth. This Messiah used his power without seeking attention. His position was one of a servant. His possessions were few and humble.
As we pursue peace, we must use the values of the Kingdom way to achieve it. We are not called to be people of evil or violence. Evil breeds evil and violence breeds violence. Instead, we are called to be people of peace. People who put others first. People who love the unlovable. People who not only talk about peace, but practice it.
The Savior of the universe, God in the flesh, entered the world in the most humble of circumstances. Born in a manger in a small village in Israel, God himself entered the world as a helpless infant. His parents fled to Egypt before their son could be murdered and they raised him as a carpenter in Nazareth.
Peace did not come with a loud trumpet cry, but instead with the cry of a newborn baby. Peace did not come with a large army, but instead with the presence of shepherds, the lowest of society. Peace did not come through a large palace, but instead with some hay in a wooden bed that normally served as a feeding trough for animals.
If we are to be people of peace, we must follow the One who showed us how to make peace. We must live in way that turns the world upside down though sacrifice and servanthood. “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14)
shine!
Jason
God’s peace is about restoration and redemption. It is about making things right in the world.
So, as we consider the arrival of Christ into the world, we find God preparing to answer hundreds, if not thousands of years of prayer. After many promises, prophecies, and predictions, the Messiah is about to arrive on the scene.
But the Messiah was not the one many had hoped for. Instead of a king who would rise up and defeat the empires with an army, his weapon was a cross. Instead of killing, he healed. When he faced execution, he displayed humility and servanthood, even to the point of death.
This was a Messiah who was seeking to restore the world to what God had dreamed of since the beginning. A world where everyone would be loved and no one was excluded. A world where power, position, and possessions were not the defining markers of someone’s worth. This Messiah used his power without seeking attention. His position was one of a servant. His possessions were few and humble.
As we pursue peace, we must use the values of the Kingdom way to achieve it. We are not called to be people of evil or violence. Evil breeds evil and violence breeds violence. Instead, we are called to be people of peace. People who put others first. People who love the unlovable. People who not only talk about peace, but practice it.
The Savior of the universe, God in the flesh, entered the world in the most humble of circumstances. Born in a manger in a small village in Israel, God himself entered the world as a helpless infant. His parents fled to Egypt before their son could be murdered and they raised him as a carpenter in Nazareth.
Peace did not come with a loud trumpet cry, but instead with the cry of a newborn baby. Peace did not come with a large army, but instead with the presence of shepherds, the lowest of society. Peace did not come through a large palace, but instead with some hay in a wooden bed that normally served as a feeding trough for animals.
If we are to be people of peace, we must follow the One who showed us how to make peace. We must live in way that turns the world upside down though sacrifice and servanthood. “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:14)
shine!
Jason
Tuesday, December 06, 2011
A message of hope
What is hope?
This word has a variety of meanings.
The dictionary defines hope as, “A feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen.” This might include examples like, “I hope that my team wins this weekend,” or “I hope that I get that job.” This is a desire for something that might happen.
But when we consider the meaning of the word hope in the Kingdom of God, we find a different definition. Consider what the author of Hebrews writes…
Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath. God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. (Hebrews 6:17-19)
Our hope is God is not something that might be there. It is a promise made by the Creator of the universe. The one who made us and gives us breath has promised us eternal life. This is our anchor, the thing that holds us in place, regardless of the circumstances. It is a hope that is built on trust.
But unfortunately, we often place our hope in other things. In his letter to Timothy, Paul addresses one of the things we often place our trust in…
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. (1 Timothy 6:17-29)
When we trust in something other than God as our hope, then we usually let go of God (or at least lighten our grip). I believe this is why Paul ends this particular passage of Scripture that when they are willing to hope in God then “they may take hold of the life that is truly life.”
Most of the things besides God that we turn to for hope are hollow. They might give us hope in the short-term, but they often fall short.
When Mary became pregnant with Jesus, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:20-21)
This is a message of real hope. The Father, through the Holy Spirit, conceived Jesus in Mary’s womb. The God of the universe stepped into a human body and became one of us so that he could save us. What the angels announced would change the course of human history. God made it clear through Christ that salvation is not something we might have available to us. Rather, it is something we can trust to be an anchor for us through even the most difficult seasons of life.
shine!
Jason
This word has a variety of meanings.
The dictionary defines hope as, “A feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen.” This might include examples like, “I hope that my team wins this weekend,” or “I hope that I get that job.” This is a desire for something that might happen.
But when we consider the meaning of the word hope in the Kingdom of God, we find a different definition. Consider what the author of Hebrews writes…
Because God wanted to make the unchanging nature of his purpose very clear to the heirs of what was promised, he confirmed it with an oath. God did this so that, by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. (Hebrews 6:17-19)
Our hope is God is not something that might be there. It is a promise made by the Creator of the universe. The one who made us and gives us breath has promised us eternal life. This is our anchor, the thing that holds us in place, regardless of the circumstances. It is a hope that is built on trust.
But unfortunately, we often place our hope in other things. In his letter to Timothy, Paul addresses one of the things we often place our trust in…
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. (1 Timothy 6:17-29)
When we trust in something other than God as our hope, then we usually let go of God (or at least lighten our grip). I believe this is why Paul ends this particular passage of Scripture that when they are willing to hope in God then “they may take hold of the life that is truly life.”
Most of the things besides God that we turn to for hope are hollow. They might give us hope in the short-term, but they often fall short.
When Mary became pregnant with Jesus, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:20-21)
This is a message of real hope. The Father, through the Holy Spirit, conceived Jesus in Mary’s womb. The God of the universe stepped into a human body and became one of us so that he could save us. What the angels announced would change the course of human history. God made it clear through Christ that salvation is not something we might have available to us. Rather, it is something we can trust to be an anchor for us through even the most difficult seasons of life.
shine!
Jason
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Thankful
This week all over the country, people will gather with their families to celebrate Thanksgiving. I would like you take time this week and think about what you are thankful for in your life.
I am thankful for my awesome God whose grace and mercy never cease.
I am thankful for my amazing wife who is patient and kind with me.
I am thankful for my wonderful son who exhibits passion and excitement.
I am thankful for my dad who continues to support and encourage me.
I am thankful for the rest of my family who loves me.
I am thankful for the students at Rochester Church who love God and each other.
I am thankful for the parents at Rochester Church who love their children.
I am thankful for the entire Rochester Church family who live out the Good News.
I am thankful for so many other friends around the country (and the world), who provide love, support, and encouragement.
There are many other things that I am thankful for, but the people listed above are at the top of this list. Yes, I have a house to live in, a car to drive, and food to eat. But it was in the Creation narrative that God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” So, as I list what I am thankful for, it is the God of Creation and the human beings created in his image that top the list.
Being created in the image of God means we are created for community. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have invited us into community with them. So as I celebrate this season of Thanksgiving, I begin be celebrating those who I have become a part of my existence. Without them, life would lack meaning and purpose. Without them, I would not be able to fully experience the abundant life that God promises. A life without relationships and community is a life without, well, life.
Thank you, God, for life.
shine!
Jason
I am thankful for my awesome God whose grace and mercy never cease.
I am thankful for my amazing wife who is patient and kind with me.
I am thankful for my wonderful son who exhibits passion and excitement.
I am thankful for my dad who continues to support and encourage me.
I am thankful for the rest of my family who loves me.
I am thankful for the students at Rochester Church who love God and each other.
I am thankful for the parents at Rochester Church who love their children.
I am thankful for the entire Rochester Church family who live out the Good News.
I am thankful for so many other friends around the country (and the world), who provide love, support, and encouragement.
There are many other things that I am thankful for, but the people listed above are at the top of this list. Yes, I have a house to live in, a car to drive, and food to eat. But it was in the Creation narrative that God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone.” So, as I list what I am thankful for, it is the God of Creation and the human beings created in his image that top the list.
Being created in the image of God means we are created for community. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have invited us into community with them. So as I celebrate this season of Thanksgiving, I begin be celebrating those who I have become a part of my existence. Without them, life would lack meaning and purpose. Without them, I would not be able to fully experience the abundant life that God promises. A life without relationships and community is a life without, well, life.
Thank you, God, for life.
shine!
Jason
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Labels
I'm currently reading a book entitled The Geeks Shall Inherit the Earth by Alexandra Robbins. It provides interesting insight into the world of teenagers today and the things they have to deal with in their lives.
One of the most troubling things I am coming across in this book for far is the idea labels. Now, to be fair, people have been labeled throughout history. But, there seems to something more severe, more intense about much of the labeling today. Today's teenagers are the loneliest generation in history, even thought they are the most connected. The adult world has often abandoned them, so an underground sub-culture has develop that is unlike anything I knew as a teenager.
In the midst of that development, labels seem to have become more powerful than ever. In a world where students can communicate 24/7 via texting, Facebook, and other technological tools, drama can unfold in ways that we could never even have dreamed of 20 years ago. Something you said in a private conversation at lunch could be broadcast for hundreds of students to read before dinner time. One comment could change the social landscape for a student.
Labels have become more powerful, dangerous, and damaging. Another reason for this is the increased absence of adults from adolescents lives. With the hectic pace of today's society and the ever-present ability to communicate with virtually anyone, we are losing the safe haven of home and the ability of students to escape from the adolescent world. When I was a teenager, I could come home, sit with my parents, and have time away from the drama that was high school. Many of today's students don't have that luxury. Text messages and Facebook posts keep things going all through the evening and even into the night.
Don't get me wrong. I love technology. And there are a lot of benefits that this technology offers. But there is also a dangerous side. And even if a particular student decides to avoid the world of texting and Facebook, the actions of other students who do use them can still have an impact.
In addition, the pressure seems to be greater than ever to succeed. While GPAs and ACT scores have been important for a long time, I don't think we fully understand the high level of stress today's students feel to get their GPA up from a 3.4 to a 3.5, or that push to get their ACT score up one more point. It could mean a difference of thousands of dollars in scholarship money.
So what does all of this have to do with labels? When students feel alone and abandoned, labels before even more powerful. When a student's value is based on how well they perform, labels become more defining. Labels can cause pain. Labels can change social status. Labels can impact the entire adolescent experience.
It's true that at some level, labels are unavoidable. You will have circles of friends you hang out with. People will use adjectives to describe your personality. But labels that put up walls, tear down people, and divide us are wrong. We are all unique, but none of us deserve to be labeled.
The apostle said, "So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." (Galatians 3:26-28 NIV)
In the Kingdom of God, there should not be any labels, except one. "Child of God."
We cannot change how the world acts, but if we are citizens of God's Kingdom, we live by a different standard. We should be a people who embrace all, regardless of the labels the world has placed on someone. We are different, or at least we should be. If there is anywhere that labels like that need to be removed, it is in the body of Christ. Otherwise, we have missed a key element of what it means to be people of God.
shine!
Jason
One of the most troubling things I am coming across in this book for far is the idea labels. Now, to be fair, people have been labeled throughout history. But, there seems to something more severe, more intense about much of the labeling today. Today's teenagers are the loneliest generation in history, even thought they are the most connected. The adult world has often abandoned them, so an underground sub-culture has develop that is unlike anything I knew as a teenager.
In the midst of that development, labels seem to have become more powerful than ever. In a world where students can communicate 24/7 via texting, Facebook, and other technological tools, drama can unfold in ways that we could never even have dreamed of 20 years ago. Something you said in a private conversation at lunch could be broadcast for hundreds of students to read before dinner time. One comment could change the social landscape for a student.
Labels have become more powerful, dangerous, and damaging. Another reason for this is the increased absence of adults from adolescents lives. With the hectic pace of today's society and the ever-present ability to communicate with virtually anyone, we are losing the safe haven of home and the ability of students to escape from the adolescent world. When I was a teenager, I could come home, sit with my parents, and have time away from the drama that was high school. Many of today's students don't have that luxury. Text messages and Facebook posts keep things going all through the evening and even into the night.
Don't get me wrong. I love technology. And there are a lot of benefits that this technology offers. But there is also a dangerous side. And even if a particular student decides to avoid the world of texting and Facebook, the actions of other students who do use them can still have an impact.
In addition, the pressure seems to be greater than ever to succeed. While GPAs and ACT scores have been important for a long time, I don't think we fully understand the high level of stress today's students feel to get their GPA up from a 3.4 to a 3.5, or that push to get their ACT score up one more point. It could mean a difference of thousands of dollars in scholarship money.
So what does all of this have to do with labels? When students feel alone and abandoned, labels before even more powerful. When a student's value is based on how well they perform, labels become more defining. Labels can cause pain. Labels can change social status. Labels can impact the entire adolescent experience.
It's true that at some level, labels are unavoidable. You will have circles of friends you hang out with. People will use adjectives to describe your personality. But labels that put up walls, tear down people, and divide us are wrong. We are all unique, but none of us deserve to be labeled.
The apostle said, "So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." (Galatians 3:26-28 NIV)
In the Kingdom of God, there should not be any labels, except one. "Child of God."
We cannot change how the world acts, but if we are citizens of God's Kingdom, we live by a different standard. We should be a people who embrace all, regardless of the labels the world has placed on someone. We are different, or at least we should be. If there is anywhere that labels like that need to be removed, it is in the body of Christ. Otherwise, we have missed a key element of what it means to be people of God.
shine!
Jason
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
iChristmas 2011
With “Black Friday” only a few weeks away, I wanted to take this opportunity to remind everyone about our annual iChristmas campaign.
The ARISE Ministry will once again be celebrating iChristmas. This is an opportunity to live out the true meaning of Christmas. Here is the challenge to our students:
As you are making a Christmas list for your parents, write this on the list: “Please buy me one less gift and put the money you would have spent on that gift into an envelope marked ‘iChristmas’ and put it under the Christmas tree with my other gifts.” The one gift should be more than a pair of socks, but what you are willing to sacrifice is up to you.
Starting on Sunday, December 25, students can turn in their iChristmas money in the ARISE Black Box on the wall in the main lobby.
Each year, the money raised for iChristmas supports a ministry of the Rochester Church. In the past, the ministries we have supported include our missionaries in Rio and Uganda as well as Cass Park. This year, we are planning to contribute all iChristmas funds to the DuBaere Family Fund. (Please make checks out to “Rochester Church of Christ” and write “DuBaere Family Fund” in the memo line.)
Thank you to all of the students who participated in iChristmas in previous years. Continue the iChristmas tradition this year. For those of you who didn’t have an opportunity to give an iChristmas gift last year, make this the year to start a new tradition.
As the push for Christmas begins, please consider what you are going to sacrifice for iChristmas this year. Imagine if 50 people each contributed $20 this year. As a ministry we would collect $1,000. That amount would be a huge blessing to the DuBaere family.
As you think about iChristmas, consider the blessing you could be to another family in our church. You might think $20 isn’t much, but together we could have a huge, positive impact.
shine!
Jason
The ARISE Ministry will once again be celebrating iChristmas. This is an opportunity to live out the true meaning of Christmas. Here is the challenge to our students:
As you are making a Christmas list for your parents, write this on the list: “Please buy me one less gift and put the money you would have spent on that gift into an envelope marked ‘iChristmas’ and put it under the Christmas tree with my other gifts.” The one gift should be more than a pair of socks, but what you are willing to sacrifice is up to you.
Starting on Sunday, December 25, students can turn in their iChristmas money in the ARISE Black Box on the wall in the main lobby.
Each year, the money raised for iChristmas supports a ministry of the Rochester Church. In the past, the ministries we have supported include our missionaries in Rio and Uganda as well as Cass Park. This year, we are planning to contribute all iChristmas funds to the DuBaere Family Fund. (Please make checks out to “Rochester Church of Christ” and write “DuBaere Family Fund” in the memo line.)
Thank you to all of the students who participated in iChristmas in previous years. Continue the iChristmas tradition this year. For those of you who didn’t have an opportunity to give an iChristmas gift last year, make this the year to start a new tradition.
As the push for Christmas begins, please consider what you are going to sacrifice for iChristmas this year. Imagine if 50 people each contributed $20 this year. As a ministry we would collect $1,000. That amount would be a huge blessing to the DuBaere family.
As you think about iChristmas, consider the blessing you could be to another family in our church. You might think $20 isn’t much, but together we could have a huge, positive impact.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, November 06, 2011
True friendship
The idea of what a friend is has often been distorted in our culture. Many times, friendships are based on what is in it for us. We want friends that will serve our needs and give us what we want.
While it is true that friends should show us love and be there for us, friendship is so much more. Friendship is built on trust, love, and mutual support. Many times, friends will let us down, and when that happens, we should be there for them with an attitude of forgiveness and reconciliation.
Obviously, some friendships have to end because one of the people in the relationship is acting in destructive ways. If you are constantly lied to and mistreated, it may be appropriate and necessary to end the friendship.
However, Jesus offers a friendship that exceeds any other. In Romans, 5:6-8, Paul describes it this way: “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
A true friend will do something for you, even when you don’t deserve it. Jesus displays his love for us by giving his own life, even when we live in ways that hurt him.
But Jesus’ friendship is not just something he shows us. It is also something he asks us to live our in our own lives. In John 15:12-14, the apostle records the following words that Jesus spoke, “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.”
Jesus came to show us love and teach us love. He is a friend and asks us to be a friend as well. If we believe that Jesus is our friend, then we should learn from him what it means to be a friend. He once told an expert in the law, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind,” and “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37,39)
If we are going to have a friendship with Jesus, then we have to learn to be a friend like Jesus. And that is based on loving God and loving one another. Those two principles are at the heart of what true friendship looks like.
shine!
Jason
While it is true that friends should show us love and be there for us, friendship is so much more. Friendship is built on trust, love, and mutual support. Many times, friends will let us down, and when that happens, we should be there for them with an attitude of forgiveness and reconciliation.
Obviously, some friendships have to end because one of the people in the relationship is acting in destructive ways. If you are constantly lied to and mistreated, it may be appropriate and necessary to end the friendship.
However, Jesus offers a friendship that exceeds any other. In Romans, 5:6-8, Paul describes it this way: “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
A true friend will do something for you, even when you don’t deserve it. Jesus displays his love for us by giving his own life, even when we live in ways that hurt him.
But Jesus’ friendship is not just something he shows us. It is also something he asks us to live our in our own lives. In John 15:12-14, the apostle records the following words that Jesus spoke, “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.”
Jesus came to show us love and teach us love. He is a friend and asks us to be a friend as well. If we believe that Jesus is our friend, then we should learn from him what it means to be a friend. He once told an expert in the law, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind,” and “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37,39)
If we are going to have a friendship with Jesus, then we have to learn to be a friend like Jesus. And that is based on loving God and loving one another. Those two principles are at the heart of what true friendship looks like.
shine!
Jason
Monday, October 31, 2011
I will rise
When we are faced with death, we often don’t know how to respond. Every person reacts differently. While grief is a common human experience, grieving is a unique process. No two people deal with loss in the same way.
This week, we are considering the idea that Jesus is Risen. A risen Savior is central to the Christian faith. As the apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:14, “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.”
The risen Christ is the key to our faith. The resurrection is where we find our hope. As I face death, the idea of the resurrection brings my hope in the midst of hopelessness, light in the midst of darkness, and peace in the midst of tragedy.
Chris Tomlin has written a son that speaks to the power and hope found in the risen Christ. Here are the lyrics to “I Will Rise”…
Death is very real and very painful. The loss is beyond comprehension. But, as we grieve, we should also seek to remember the risen Savior. In the midst of pain, loss, anger, and hopelessness, the resurrection offers redemption and restoration. It is the promise of rising again that can bring healing and hope.
shine!
Jason
This week, we are considering the idea that Jesus is Risen. A risen Savior is central to the Christian faith. As the apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:14, “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.”
The risen Christ is the key to our faith. The resurrection is where we find our hope. As I face death, the idea of the resurrection brings my hope in the midst of hopelessness, light in the midst of darkness, and peace in the midst of tragedy.
Chris Tomlin has written a son that speaks to the power and hope found in the risen Christ. Here are the lyrics to “I Will Rise”…
There's a peace I've come to know
Though my heart and flesh may fail
There's an anchor for my soul
I can say "It is well"
Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
There's a day that's drawing near
When this darkness breaks to light
And the shadows disappear
And my faith shall be my eyes
Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
And I hear the voice of many angels sing,
"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I hear the cry of every longing heart,
"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
CLICK HERE to watch the music video for this song
Death is very real and very painful. The loss is beyond comprehension. But, as we grieve, we should also seek to remember the risen Savior. In the midst of pain, loss, anger, and hopelessness, the resurrection offers redemption and restoration. It is the promise of rising again that can bring healing and hope.
shine!
Jason
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Jesus is life
It seems like every commercial has the same basic idea: Buy our product and your life will be richer. Whether it’s an electronic device, a car, clothing, or an alcoholic beverage, we are told that this item will make our life better.
While I believe the claim is often exaggerated, it is true that many of these items can help with some aspect of our lives. Electronic devices can help us be more organized or communicate more effectively. Some cars are better built than others. We all need clothes. Alcoholic beverages? Well, I am the most suspect of this one. Will drinking a Bud Light really help me get all the pretty girls? Most of the time, I have witnessed a different story.
We could spend all day debating the value of all of the products above and we would have a variety of opinions. But there is one thing I hope we could all agree on. None of these things bring us a life abundant in peace, joy, and love.
In John 10:10, Jesus says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
Here’s the irony. Most of the things that the world tells us will give us life to the full can lead to destruction. In and of themselves, they won’t. But when we begin to allow them to take the place of God as the ultimate source of fulfillment, they will let us down.
I often see these shirts that say, “______ is life. The rest is just details.” Fill in the blank for your life. I honestly think we often fail to consider the implications of what we say. I am guessing if you asked most of the people who wear these shirts, they would say something like, “Well, I don’t really mean that, but I really like _____.”
The unfortunate thing is that whether we bought the T-shirt or not, many of us flirt with a philosophy of life that reflects what the shirt says. We find something we are passionate about and build our self-worth, satisfaction, and significance around that thing. We place that thing ahead of the Kingdom of God.
Here is the challenging part. We can’t simply abandon the things we enjoy and spend all day sitting in church and reading our Bibles. God calls us to serve as ambassadors of the Kingdom. But we have to ask ourselves what dictates how we live our lives.
If our pursuits are directed towards ultimately finding our value in something other than God and the Kingdom, we will always fall short. We will keep chasing something to fulfill us. This is why marketing is so successful. Companies have discovered that we all long for something more and so they develop slick advertising to convince us that their thing is THE thing that will solve that.
The reality is that only one thing, and one Person, can cure your hunger for more. As Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
A life well lived will include some of the things of this world. God hopes for us to have a life filled with joy and peace. But when we allow Satan to convince us that the things God has given us are more important than God, we will buy into the lie and miss out on the full life that God desires and promises for his children.
shine!
Jason
While I believe the claim is often exaggerated, it is true that many of these items can help with some aspect of our lives. Electronic devices can help us be more organized or communicate more effectively. Some cars are better built than others. We all need clothes. Alcoholic beverages? Well, I am the most suspect of this one. Will drinking a Bud Light really help me get all the pretty girls? Most of the time, I have witnessed a different story.
We could spend all day debating the value of all of the products above and we would have a variety of opinions. But there is one thing I hope we could all agree on. None of these things bring us a life abundant in peace, joy, and love.
In John 10:10, Jesus says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
Here’s the irony. Most of the things that the world tells us will give us life to the full can lead to destruction. In and of themselves, they won’t. But when we begin to allow them to take the place of God as the ultimate source of fulfillment, they will let us down.
I often see these shirts that say, “______ is life. The rest is just details.” Fill in the blank for your life. I honestly think we often fail to consider the implications of what we say. I am guessing if you asked most of the people who wear these shirts, they would say something like, “Well, I don’t really mean that, but I really like _____.”
The unfortunate thing is that whether we bought the T-shirt or not, many of us flirt with a philosophy of life that reflects what the shirt says. We find something we are passionate about and build our self-worth, satisfaction, and significance around that thing. We place that thing ahead of the Kingdom of God.
Here is the challenging part. We can’t simply abandon the things we enjoy and spend all day sitting in church and reading our Bibles. God calls us to serve as ambassadors of the Kingdom. But we have to ask ourselves what dictates how we live our lives.
If our pursuits are directed towards ultimately finding our value in something other than God and the Kingdom, we will always fall short. We will keep chasing something to fulfill us. This is why marketing is so successful. Companies have discovered that we all long for something more and so they develop slick advertising to convince us that their thing is THE thing that will solve that.
The reality is that only one thing, and one Person, can cure your hunger for more. As Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
A life well lived will include some of the things of this world. God hopes for us to have a life filled with joy and peace. But when we allow Satan to convince us that the things God has given us are more important than God, we will buy into the lie and miss out on the full life that God desires and promises for his children.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, October 09, 2011
In the light
A few weeks ago I was able to see tobyMac in concert. As some of you may know, he used to be a part of a group called DC Talk. One of my favorite DC Talk songs is “In the Light.” As I was thinking about our topic this week of “Jesus is Light,” this song came to my mind. Here are most of the lyrics:
I keep trying to find a life
On my own, apart from You
I am the king of excuses
I've got one for every selfish thing I do
What's going on inside of me?
I despise my own behavior
This only serves to confirm my suspicions
That I'm still a man in need of a Savior
I wanna be in the Light
As You are in the Light
I wanna shine like the stars in the heavens
Oh, Lord be my Light and be my salvation
Cause all I want is to be in the Light
All I want is to be in the Light
The disease of self runs through my blood
It's a cancer fatal to my soul
Every attempt on my behalf has failed
To bring this sickness under control
Tell me, what's going on inside of me?
I despise my own behavior
This only serves to confirm my suspicions
That I'm still a man in need of a Savior
I wanna be in the Light
As You are in the Light
I wanna shine like the stars in the heavens
Oh, Lord be my Light and be my salvation
Cause all I want is to be in the Light
All I want is to be in the Light
We all find ourselves in the darkness sometimes. Whether it’s a decision we made or a situation we find ourselves in, the darkness can be overwhelming at times. But God desires to bring light even to the darkest of situations. Jesus seeks to save us not just from the world, but also from ourselves. The way out of darkness is simple, but not always easy. But when we decide to take that walk in the light, the love of Christ will wash over us. The apostle John says it like this…
This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us. (1 John 1:5-10)
I wanna be in the light. But walking in the light isn’t always easy. Sometimes it requires difficult decisions and unpopular choices. It may ask us to make sacrifices or call us to challenges. But once we are in the light, we find ourselves in a place that brings us grace and peace. And that is the worth the journey.
shine!
Jason
I keep trying to find a life
On my own, apart from You
I am the king of excuses
I've got one for every selfish thing I do
What's going on inside of me?
I despise my own behavior
This only serves to confirm my suspicions
That I'm still a man in need of a Savior
I wanna be in the Light
As You are in the Light
I wanna shine like the stars in the heavens
Oh, Lord be my Light and be my salvation
Cause all I want is to be in the Light
All I want is to be in the Light
The disease of self runs through my blood
It's a cancer fatal to my soul
Every attempt on my behalf has failed
To bring this sickness under control
Tell me, what's going on inside of me?
I despise my own behavior
This only serves to confirm my suspicions
That I'm still a man in need of a Savior
I wanna be in the Light
As You are in the Light
I wanna shine like the stars in the heavens
Oh, Lord be my Light and be my salvation
Cause all I want is to be in the Light
All I want is to be in the Light
We all find ourselves in the darkness sometimes. Whether it’s a decision we made or a situation we find ourselves in, the darkness can be overwhelming at times. But God desires to bring light even to the darkest of situations. Jesus seeks to save us not just from the world, but also from ourselves. The way out of darkness is simple, but not always easy. But when we decide to take that walk in the light, the love of Christ will wash over us. The apostle John says it like this…
This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us. (1 John 1:5-10)
I wanna be in the light. But walking in the light isn’t always easy. Sometimes it requires difficult decisions and unpopular choices. It may ask us to make sacrifices or call us to challenges. But once we are in the light, we find ourselves in a place that brings us grace and peace. And that is the worth the journey.
shine!
Jason
Wednesday, October 05, 2011
The pastor and intimacy
In class on Monday afternoon, we talked about the importance of creating intimacy as a key role for the pastor. The fact that most people hear intimacy and usually think only - or mainly - about sexual activity reveals an underlying struggle in the battle to foster intimacy with those to whom we minister.
We live in a world where intimacy has been redefined to the point where many people struggle to understand what intimacy is really supposed to look like. Over the last 100 years, our society has changed significantly, both for the better and the worse. While I acknowledge many benefits from our "advancements" over the last century, I want to focus in this post on some of the things that have been lost.
The advancements in technology have significantly changed the way we communicate. A little over 100 years ago, you basically had two ways to communicate. You could talk face to face with someone or send them a letter. Today, we can call, Skype, text, email, and use a variety of other methods of communication. With social media websites like Facebook, we are able to maintain "friendships" with thousands of people. While there are benefits to these changes, there is a significant downside that we often fail to recognize, or at least acknowledge. One of the casualties resulting from this myriad of communication options is the lack of depth in most relationships. While many people have a lot more "friends" thanks to Facebook, few - if any - of those relationships develop to the point of real intimacy. I may know what musicians hundreds of people like. I may get to see their pictures from a sporting event or read a catchy quote from the book they are reading. But do I really know them?
Study after study shows that while this generation of young people is the most connected in history, this same generation experiences levels of loneliness, depression, and abandonment that have never been seen before. We know more (people), but we know less. Our relationships have become much more shallow. When friends communicate mostly though texting and messages, they lose the ability to see one another's expressions, read body language, and build the level of intimacy that only comes through spending time in one another's presence.
Is it any wonder that more and more people feel disconnected from God and have a hard time developing a deeper relationship with God? The Bible is not a catalogue of text messages. The Holy Spirit seeks more than an occasional status update on how your life is going. The Father does not just want to get an occasional call from his children. God desires deep, significant intimacy. And in a world where we seem to be moving 100 miles an hour and multi-tasking, developing that kind of intimate relationship is extremely challenging, if not impossible.
In addition, the saturation of marketing as a part of our society has created an environment where almost everything is measured on a surface level. Magazines spend hours perfecting their cover photo. People pay thousands of dollars to have surgery so they can look a few years younger. The label on clothing seems to be more important that the person inside the clothes. We are told over and over again that our value is determined by what car we drive, what pants we wear, what we drink, and a variety of other products that will make us the best person possible.
We have to be careful. This is the same attitude that led to things such as Hitler's campaigns of euthanasia and genocide. I am not saying that we are all headed for mass murder, but when we determine someone's worth based on their appearance, we are focusing on the wrong thing. The reality is that things haven't changed much, even after thousands of years. God told the prophet Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7) While this has always been a struggle for people, our societies overwhelming focus on the surface has made it even harder to listen to and live according to the words spoken to Samuel.
The third leg of this stool is the immense sexualization of nearly everything. It's nearly impossible to watch TV, listen to music, or even walk down the hallways of a school and not be overwhelmed by the ways in which sexuality is shaping our society. A recent study determined that "92% of the 174 songs that made it into the Top Ten in 2009 contained one or more reproductive messages, with an average of 10.49 reproductive phrases per song." Sexuality is everywhere and almost nothing is off-limits anymore. I am not trying to be a prude, but this kind of exposure can be destructive emotional, socially, and spirituality.
Our society is teaching us to pursue immediate gratification. This onslaught of messages for cheap and easy intimacy is welcome news to a generation starving for attention, affection, and acceptance. Like a child raised on Cheetos and candy bars, this steady diet of a message that teaches short-term, immediate satisfaction develops a habit of "consuming" whatever brings happiness at the moment, regardless of the long-term "nutritional value." The very "solution" to loneliness that our society parades before us is actually making things worse.
So into the midst of this mess steps the pastor. She brings a message that is contrary to the one the world is screaming out. As voice after voice cries out in anguish, grasping whatever quick fix is available, the pastor seeks to share a message that brings true salvation, but also requires real intimacy.
People ask me all of the time why so many young people are leaving the church. I could probably list off dozens of reasons, but the scenario listed above would probably be at the top of the list. When we swim in water that is polluted with shallow relationships, surface assessments, and a sexualized view of most everything, we are sure to get sick.
So what does the pastor do?
Does he ignore everything around him and cluster his people in a bunker? No. We are called to be salt and light to the world. We cannot hide our light under a bushel.
Does she embrace the world and simply deliver the message of God by dressing it up in the clothing the society offers? No. What good is a salt that has lost it's saltiness?
The pastor must start by examining his own heart and mind. While he cannot dictate how everyone else should live, the pastor can dictate how he lives. He must set expectations and standards for himself that allow him to maintain his saltiness and shine his light. This will not look identical for every pastor, but the principles cannot be ignored.
Then the pastor must live her life in a way that reflects the light of Christ. She will not be perfect, but she must pursue perfection. Without judging others, she must present her life as a living sacrifice that embodies the character of God. When she does this, the light will expose the darkness in her midst, both in the lives of others and (here is the scariest part) herself.
This is not an easy journey or calling. Being a pastor is an immense blessing, but it also carries significant challenges. As I wrestle with all of the questions raised by the challenges above, I don't have all of the answers. But I will, in the words of Paul, "press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." (Philippians 3:12)
shine!
Jason
We live in a world where intimacy has been redefined to the point where many people struggle to understand what intimacy is really supposed to look like. Over the last 100 years, our society has changed significantly, both for the better and the worse. While I acknowledge many benefits from our "advancements" over the last century, I want to focus in this post on some of the things that have been lost.
The advancements in technology have significantly changed the way we communicate. A little over 100 years ago, you basically had two ways to communicate. You could talk face to face with someone or send them a letter. Today, we can call, Skype, text, email, and use a variety of other methods of communication. With social media websites like Facebook, we are able to maintain "friendships" with thousands of people. While there are benefits to these changes, there is a significant downside that we often fail to recognize, or at least acknowledge. One of the casualties resulting from this myriad of communication options is the lack of depth in most relationships. While many people have a lot more "friends" thanks to Facebook, few - if any - of those relationships develop to the point of real intimacy. I may know what musicians hundreds of people like. I may get to see their pictures from a sporting event or read a catchy quote from the book they are reading. But do I really know them?
Study after study shows that while this generation of young people is the most connected in history, this same generation experiences levels of loneliness, depression, and abandonment that have never been seen before. We know more (people), but we know less. Our relationships have become much more shallow. When friends communicate mostly though texting and messages, they lose the ability to see one another's expressions, read body language, and build the level of intimacy that only comes through spending time in one another's presence.
Is it any wonder that more and more people feel disconnected from God and have a hard time developing a deeper relationship with God? The Bible is not a catalogue of text messages. The Holy Spirit seeks more than an occasional status update on how your life is going. The Father does not just want to get an occasional call from his children. God desires deep, significant intimacy. And in a world where we seem to be moving 100 miles an hour and multi-tasking, developing that kind of intimate relationship is extremely challenging, if not impossible.
In addition, the saturation of marketing as a part of our society has created an environment where almost everything is measured on a surface level. Magazines spend hours perfecting their cover photo. People pay thousands of dollars to have surgery so they can look a few years younger. The label on clothing seems to be more important that the person inside the clothes. We are told over and over again that our value is determined by what car we drive, what pants we wear, what we drink, and a variety of other products that will make us the best person possible.
We have to be careful. This is the same attitude that led to things such as Hitler's campaigns of euthanasia and genocide. I am not saying that we are all headed for mass murder, but when we determine someone's worth based on their appearance, we are focusing on the wrong thing. The reality is that things haven't changed much, even after thousands of years. God told the prophet Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7) While this has always been a struggle for people, our societies overwhelming focus on the surface has made it even harder to listen to and live according to the words spoken to Samuel.
The third leg of this stool is the immense sexualization of nearly everything. It's nearly impossible to watch TV, listen to music, or even walk down the hallways of a school and not be overwhelmed by the ways in which sexuality is shaping our society. A recent study determined that "92% of the 174 songs that made it into the Top Ten in 2009 contained one or more reproductive messages, with an average of 10.49 reproductive phrases per song." Sexuality is everywhere and almost nothing is off-limits anymore. I am not trying to be a prude, but this kind of exposure can be destructive emotional, socially, and spirituality.
Our society is teaching us to pursue immediate gratification. This onslaught of messages for cheap and easy intimacy is welcome news to a generation starving for attention, affection, and acceptance. Like a child raised on Cheetos and candy bars, this steady diet of a message that teaches short-term, immediate satisfaction develops a habit of "consuming" whatever brings happiness at the moment, regardless of the long-term "nutritional value." The very "solution" to loneliness that our society parades before us is actually making things worse.
So into the midst of this mess steps the pastor. She brings a message that is contrary to the one the world is screaming out. As voice after voice cries out in anguish, grasping whatever quick fix is available, the pastor seeks to share a message that brings true salvation, but also requires real intimacy.
People ask me all of the time why so many young people are leaving the church. I could probably list off dozens of reasons, but the scenario listed above would probably be at the top of the list. When we swim in water that is polluted with shallow relationships, surface assessments, and a sexualized view of most everything, we are sure to get sick.
So what does the pastor do?
Does he ignore everything around him and cluster his people in a bunker? No. We are called to be salt and light to the world. We cannot hide our light under a bushel.
Does she embrace the world and simply deliver the message of God by dressing it up in the clothing the society offers? No. What good is a salt that has lost it's saltiness?
The pastor must start by examining his own heart and mind. While he cannot dictate how everyone else should live, the pastor can dictate how he lives. He must set expectations and standards for himself that allow him to maintain his saltiness and shine his light. This will not look identical for every pastor, but the principles cannot be ignored.
Then the pastor must live her life in a way that reflects the light of Christ. She will not be perfect, but she must pursue perfection. Without judging others, she must present her life as a living sacrifice that embodies the character of God. When she does this, the light will expose the darkness in her midst, both in the lives of others and (here is the scariest part) herself.
This is not an easy journey or calling. Being a pastor is an immense blessing, but it also carries significant challenges. As I wrestle with all of the questions raised by the challenges above, I don't have all of the answers. But I will, in the words of Paul, "press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." (Philippians 3:12)
shine!
Jason
Sunday, October 02, 2011
Journey with Jesus
For the month of October, our students are invited to take a “Journey with Jesus” by reading through all four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. I am going to encourage students to focus on one Gospel each week. Here is a guide for the month:
On the morning of Sunday, October 30, we will celebrate the students who completed the “journey.”
If we want to live like Jesus, we need to get to know him better. There is nothing that can help us walk like Jesus better than knowing him. Shortly after that first Pentecost when 3,000 people were baptized, the believers were already faced with challenges. As a matter of fact, Peter and John were put in jail for preaching about the resurrection of Jesus.
They were brought in front of the rulers, the elders, and the teachers of the law, including the High Priest. These fishermen from Galilee found themselves being questioned by some of the most studied biblical scholars of their day. It would be similar to you being brought before the Supreme Court and then told to defend yourself.
In spite of the challenge before them and the fact that they were outnumbered, look at what Luke writes about the situation: When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. (Acts 4:13)
This is why I believe the “Journey with Jesus” is so important. It is a chance for you to spend a month being with Jesus. As you read the story of Jesus from four different perspectives, you can gain a better understanding of who Jesus is, and, who you need to be. This isn’t just an exercise in gaining knowledge. It is a crucial way to gaining wisdom and learn about the One you are supposed to follow.
It may seem like a lot of reading, but it will likely be some of the most important reading you will ever do. It may not be for a grade, but what you receive will be far more important than an “A”. You will receive words that will shape and transform you into the image of the One who created you.
shine!
Jason
- October 2-8 --> Matthew
- October 9-15 --> Mark
- October 16-22 --> Luke
- October 23-29 --> John
On the morning of Sunday, October 30, we will celebrate the students who completed the “journey.”
If we want to live like Jesus, we need to get to know him better. There is nothing that can help us walk like Jesus better than knowing him. Shortly after that first Pentecost when 3,000 people were baptized, the believers were already faced with challenges. As a matter of fact, Peter and John were put in jail for preaching about the resurrection of Jesus.
They were brought in front of the rulers, the elders, and the teachers of the law, including the High Priest. These fishermen from Galilee found themselves being questioned by some of the most studied biblical scholars of their day. It would be similar to you being brought before the Supreme Court and then told to defend yourself.
In spite of the challenge before them and the fact that they were outnumbered, look at what Luke writes about the situation: When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. (Acts 4:13)
This is why I believe the “Journey with Jesus” is so important. It is a chance for you to spend a month being with Jesus. As you read the story of Jesus from four different perspectives, you can gain a better understanding of who Jesus is, and, who you need to be. This isn’t just an exercise in gaining knowledge. It is a crucial way to gaining wisdom and learn about the One you are supposed to follow.
It may seem like a lot of reading, but it will likely be some of the most important reading you will ever do. It may not be for a grade, but what you receive will be far more important than an “A”. You will receive words that will shape and transform you into the image of the One who created you.
shine!
Jason
Friday, September 30, 2011
Loving your enemy
Earlier this week, one of my students posed this question:
"On todays lesson, how would we have people we call enemies if we always love, never hate?"
This is a great question and I thought I would spend a few minutes responding. First of all, here is how the dictionary defines enemy: "A person who is actively opposed or hostile to someone or something." So based on that definition, an enemy would be someone who is opposed to or hostile towards you. So we would call them enemies, regardless of how we treat them.
But, let me get to the heart of the issue that may or may not be behind this particular question. I will begin by sharing a portion of the passage that was central to our conversation in class, Romans 12:17-21:
No matter how much we love people, some will continue to choose to hate us. We may always love others, but that doesn't mean they have to return the favor. I believe this is what Paul is trying to say in the above passage. As much as we are able to, we should seek to live at peace with others. We should even extend love towards them regardless of their response.
But even if we could always show love - which, at least in my life is more of a goal than a reality - there will be times when people don't show love back. But God's desire is pretty clear. Regardless of whether others treat you as a friend or an enemy, show them love and grant them peace.
To be honest, this can be difficult. I don't want to treat someone kindly when they are rude to me. I don't want to show love when someone displays hatred towards me. I don't want to extend peace to someone who is waging war with me. But this is the path we choose when we follow Christ. It isn't always the easy road, but it is the way that leads to the abundant life.
At the end of the day, we may always have enemies, but we don't always have to be an enemy.
shine!
Jason
"On todays lesson, how would we have people we call enemies if we always love, never hate?"
This is a great question and I thought I would spend a few minutes responding. First of all, here is how the dictionary defines enemy: "A person who is actively opposed or hostile to someone or something." So based on that definition, an enemy would be someone who is opposed to or hostile towards you. So we would call them enemies, regardless of how we treat them.
But, let me get to the heart of the issue that may or may not be behind this particular question. I will begin by sharing a portion of the passage that was central to our conversation in class, Romans 12:17-21:
17Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”
21Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
No matter how much we love people, some will continue to choose to hate us. We may always love others, but that doesn't mean they have to return the favor. I believe this is what Paul is trying to say in the above passage. As much as we are able to, we should seek to live at peace with others. We should even extend love towards them regardless of their response.
But even if we could always show love - which, at least in my life is more of a goal than a reality - there will be times when people don't show love back. But God's desire is pretty clear. Regardless of whether others treat you as a friend or an enemy, show them love and grant them peace.
To be honest, this can be difficult. I don't want to treat someone kindly when they are rude to me. I don't want to show love when someone displays hatred towards me. I don't want to extend peace to someone who is waging war with me. But this is the path we choose when we follow Christ. It isn't always the easy road, but it is the way that leads to the abundant life.
At the end of the day, we may always have enemies, but we don't always have to be an enemy.
shine!
Jason
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
What are we doing to our children?
This morning I arrived at a local middle school shortly before 7:00am. As I was walking up to the flagpole, I heard a familiar sound. It was a marching band. I looked over to see the high school band on the field, under the lights. Since it wasn't even daylight yet, they needed the lights on to practice on the field.
This got me to thinking and asking the question posed in the title of this post: What are we doing to our children?
I have read various studies that seem to agree on two fundamental things about teenagers and sleep. First of all, they have found that as children move into adolescence, their bodies naturally shift to an later bedtime. When a teenager suddenly wants to stay up later, it seems they are responding to a change that God created to occur. The other thing they have discovered is that most teenagers need 8-1/2 to 9-1/2 hours of sleep each night. These findings are not from one random study. Almost all the studies I have encountered confirm this information.
It seems like our society has chosen to ignore this and keep on going. If we really listened to this data, would we do things like schedule a marching band practice that starts before 7:00am? (Trust me, I am not picking on marching band. I loved marching band in high school. This is just the tangible example I encountered this morning.)
What in the world are we doing? We're either stupid, blind, or so driven by something that we ignore the obvious.
Think about this...
We medicate a significant number of adolescents in this country for ADHD, ADD, depression, and a variety of other mental and emotional issues. (Let me take a time-out before I go any further. I have been working with teenagers for over a dozen years and there are certainly situations where medication is an appropriate and necessary part of treatment. There are students I have ministered to for whom some form of medication was the right response. I want to set the record straight on that before I continue.)
While I am not a doctor (and never even played one on TV), I think that we often use medicine as the solution and ignore the real problem, our inability to be grown-ups. It seems like we often fail our teenagers in several ways. Sometimes, I think that in our desire to help our children be successful, we push them to do as much as they can to build self-esteem, develop skills, fill their resume for college applications, and - if we're honest - to make us look like successful parents.
In addition, we sometimes struggle to tell our children to say no. I am always impressed with the parents who tell their children that they can only participate in one significant sport/activity at a time. I am not sure if these parents do this for their own sanity, to protect their children, or some of both. Whether it's the desire to have our children like us, an attempt to avoid one more thing to fight about, or some other reason, it seems like there are times when adolescents lack someone helping them say no to things.
Add to this the fact that just when adolescents need adult guidance the most, we often seem to be absent. Barbara Strauch, in her book The Primal Teen, outlines some recent discoveries about the development of the adolescent mind that show how physical changes in the brain significantly cloud the ability of teens to see consequences and the bigger picture in their decision-making process. When we ask teenagers, "Didn't you know that would happen if you did that?" and they say, "No," they aren't being defiant (well, at least much of the time). They're brains are going through changes that make it difficult for them to think about the consequences of their decisions.
So whether it's something as severe as a destructive decision or something as (seemingly) harmless as the inability to make wise decisions about how many things to get involved in, teenagers need guidance.
But here's the other side to this coin. They aren't eight-years-old any more. They are entering a phase a life where they need the freedom to make their own decisions, think for themselves, and (more than we would like) to make mistakes. We cannot hold their hand and make every decision for them.
Unfortunately, there isn't an instruction manual for all this. Every child is different and every family will have to navigate their own path through this phase of life. I don't have a teenager yet and I know that I will make my share of mistakes when we get there. I have made enough mistakes as a parent already, but I know there are more in the future.
I have digressed, so let me return to where I started. I am not writing this as a reaction to an individual family, but rather as a reaction to who we have become as a society.
I work with teenagers who struggle with depression, loneliness, anger, and a host of other emotional issues. In the last dozen years I have watched the frequency and level of these struggles increase. We medicate teens. We blame teens. We punish teens. We ask what's wrong with teens these days. We create more activities to keep them out of trouble. But it seems we avoid the real issue and the best solution.
Do we want to reduce teen suicide? Teen depression? Teen loneliness? I have a simple but challenging answer.
Sabbath.
We need to slow down. I am not just talking about our teens. I am talking about us, too. And in saying this I implicate myself. I am too busy. My schedule is too full. I have too many things on my personal calendar. I probably have too many things on my youth ministry calendar.
We are way too busy. In our drive to be successful, we are failing. While we try to build self-esteem, we are destroying ourselves. As we strive to find worth in performance, possessions, and popularity, we often feel worthless on the inside. We can never measure up to the expectations we place before us. We can never do enough. There is always more to do.
We are raising up a generation that doesn't know what rest is. When they're not running somewhere, they're surfing the web. When they're not engaged in some activity, they are listening to their iPod, watching TV, or playing video games. Text messages are sent and received all hours of the day. Nowhere is safe from the invasion of the cell phone.
I don't have an easy answer. If I am going to be completely honest, I often don't want to unplug and slow down either. Our society is addicted to being busy. There is usually time almost every day that I get frustrated with myself for not taking enough time to be still.
And this leads me to a good place to stop (I have gone on too long already). In all of our efforts to pursue happiness and success, we rob ourselves of opportunities to experience joy. In Psalm 46:10, God says, "Be still, and know that I am God." One of the questions parents ask me is, "Why are so many young people leaving the church?" An answer I often hear is that the church isn't relevant. While I agree that we need to communicate in ways that speak to our audience, I don't think that's the ultimate answer.
Maybe the reason so many of our children are abandoning their faith is because they don't slow down enough to hear God's voice. And if we want someone to blame, we should probably start by looking in the mirror.
shine!
Jason
This got me to thinking and asking the question posed in the title of this post: What are we doing to our children?
I have read various studies that seem to agree on two fundamental things about teenagers and sleep. First of all, they have found that as children move into adolescence, their bodies naturally shift to an later bedtime. When a teenager suddenly wants to stay up later, it seems they are responding to a change that God created to occur. The other thing they have discovered is that most teenagers need 8-1/2 to 9-1/2 hours of sleep each night. These findings are not from one random study. Almost all the studies I have encountered confirm this information.
It seems like our society has chosen to ignore this and keep on going. If we really listened to this data, would we do things like schedule a marching band practice that starts before 7:00am? (Trust me, I am not picking on marching band. I loved marching band in high school. This is just the tangible example I encountered this morning.)
What in the world are we doing? We're either stupid, blind, or so driven by something that we ignore the obvious.
Think about this...
We medicate a significant number of adolescents in this country for ADHD, ADD, depression, and a variety of other mental and emotional issues. (Let me take a time-out before I go any further. I have been working with teenagers for over a dozen years and there are certainly situations where medication is an appropriate and necessary part of treatment. There are students I have ministered to for whom some form of medication was the right response. I want to set the record straight on that before I continue.)
While I am not a doctor (and never even played one on TV), I think that we often use medicine as the solution and ignore the real problem, our inability to be grown-ups. It seems like we often fail our teenagers in several ways. Sometimes, I think that in our desire to help our children be successful, we push them to do as much as they can to build self-esteem, develop skills, fill their resume for college applications, and - if we're honest - to make us look like successful parents.
In addition, we sometimes struggle to tell our children to say no. I am always impressed with the parents who tell their children that they can only participate in one significant sport/activity at a time. I am not sure if these parents do this for their own sanity, to protect their children, or some of both. Whether it's the desire to have our children like us, an attempt to avoid one more thing to fight about, or some other reason, it seems like there are times when adolescents lack someone helping them say no to things.
Add to this the fact that just when adolescents need adult guidance the most, we often seem to be absent. Barbara Strauch, in her book The Primal Teen, outlines some recent discoveries about the development of the adolescent mind that show how physical changes in the brain significantly cloud the ability of teens to see consequences and the bigger picture in their decision-making process. When we ask teenagers, "Didn't you know that would happen if you did that?" and they say, "No," they aren't being defiant (well, at least much of the time). They're brains are going through changes that make it difficult for them to think about the consequences of their decisions.
So whether it's something as severe as a destructive decision or something as (seemingly) harmless as the inability to make wise decisions about how many things to get involved in, teenagers need guidance.
But here's the other side to this coin. They aren't eight-years-old any more. They are entering a phase a life where they need the freedom to make their own decisions, think for themselves, and (more than we would like) to make mistakes. We cannot hold their hand and make every decision for them.
Unfortunately, there isn't an instruction manual for all this. Every child is different and every family will have to navigate their own path through this phase of life. I don't have a teenager yet and I know that I will make my share of mistakes when we get there. I have made enough mistakes as a parent already, but I know there are more in the future.
I have digressed, so let me return to where I started. I am not writing this as a reaction to an individual family, but rather as a reaction to who we have become as a society.
I work with teenagers who struggle with depression, loneliness, anger, and a host of other emotional issues. In the last dozen years I have watched the frequency and level of these struggles increase. We medicate teens. We blame teens. We punish teens. We ask what's wrong with teens these days. We create more activities to keep them out of trouble. But it seems we avoid the real issue and the best solution.
Do we want to reduce teen suicide? Teen depression? Teen loneliness? I have a simple but challenging answer.
Sabbath.
We need to slow down. I am not just talking about our teens. I am talking about us, too. And in saying this I implicate myself. I am too busy. My schedule is too full. I have too many things on my personal calendar. I probably have too many things on my youth ministry calendar.
We are way too busy. In our drive to be successful, we are failing. While we try to build self-esteem, we are destroying ourselves. As we strive to find worth in performance, possessions, and popularity, we often feel worthless on the inside. We can never measure up to the expectations we place before us. We can never do enough. There is always more to do.
We are raising up a generation that doesn't know what rest is. When they're not running somewhere, they're surfing the web. When they're not engaged in some activity, they are listening to their iPod, watching TV, or playing video games. Text messages are sent and received all hours of the day. Nowhere is safe from the invasion of the cell phone.
I don't have an easy answer. If I am going to be completely honest, I often don't want to unplug and slow down either. Our society is addicted to being busy. There is usually time almost every day that I get frustrated with myself for not taking enough time to be still.
And this leads me to a good place to stop (I have gone on too long already). In all of our efforts to pursue happiness and success, we rob ourselves of opportunities to experience joy. In Psalm 46:10, God says, "Be still, and know that I am God." One of the questions parents ask me is, "Why are so many young people leaving the church?" An answer I often hear is that the church isn't relevant. While I agree that we need to communicate in ways that speak to our audience, I don't think that's the ultimate answer.
Maybe the reason so many of our children are abandoning their faith is because they don't slow down enough to hear God's voice. And if we want someone to blame, we should probably start by looking in the mirror.
shine!
Jason
Monday, September 26, 2011
See You at the Pole
This Wednesday, September 28, is the annual See You at the Pole. The theme this year is “Converge” and the focus Scripture is Matthew 18:20 (CEV): Whenever two or three of you come together in my name, I am there with you. Below is some information I gathered from their website, www.syatp.com:
I want to encourage every student to participate in this event. It is an opportunity to join with other Christians in your school to pray for your friends, your teachers, and your school. It is a great chance to be blessed and to be a blessing to others.
shine!
Jason
What is See You at the Pole™?
See You at the Pole™ is a global movement of prayer which is student-initiated, student-organized, and student-led. It revolves around students praying together on the fourth Wednesday in September, usually before school and usually at the school's flag pole. It involves student in elementary schools, middle/junior high schools, high schools, and colleges/universities across the globe. Adults often pray in support of the students on campus by gathering nearby, at their places of work or worship, or at city halls.
Why meet at the flagpole in front of the school?
In 1990 when youth ministers in Texas first challenged young people to meet on a common day to launch their school year in prayer, one of the concerns what how to help those who wanted to pray together find each other. It was noted that virtually every school has a flagpole, and the flagpole provided an easy-to-identify place to gather. Also, one issue that the teenagers were praying about was the spiritual health of their country and their leaders, in obedience to 1 Timothy 2:1–2. Hence, the location and name of the event!
How did See You at the Pole™ start?
See You at the Pole™ was inspired by the initiative of student in one youth group in Burleson, Texas, early in 1990. The teenagers felt led to go and pray at night at several area schools during a weekend youth group retreat. They had a profound time of prayer, and their experience was shared with thousands of other youth from across Texas in the form of a challenge in June 1990 at a large conference. More than 56,000 students on 1,200 campuses in Texas and three other states were documented at the first See You at the Pole™ in September of that year. The movement continued to grow nationally and internationally from 1991 on.
I want to encourage every student to participate in this event. It is an opportunity to join with other Christians in your school to pray for your friends, your teachers, and your school. It is a great chance to be blessed and to be a blessing to others.
shine!
Jason
Monday, September 19, 2011
Spiritual diet
Imagine you walk into your local Wendy’s to grab dinner. As you sit down, you notice a teenager sitting at a table not too far away. His mom is sitting across from him. No big deal, right? You see this all the time.
But here is where things get a little bizarre. His mom reaches into her purse and pulls out a jar of baby food. You watch in amazement as she pulls out a feeding spoon, opens the jar, and begins feeding her teenager.
Sound pretty weird? I am guessing that would draw a lot of attention and seem a little out of place. You might think, “Hey, shouldn’t he be eating a burger or something? Doesn’t this guy know how to feed himself? Doesn’t he want something with a little more substance than peas from a blender?”
Absolutely!
But here’s the irony. While we would think it’s ridiculous for a teenager to be spoon-fed baby food at Wendy’s, many teenagers think nothing of being spoon-fed spirituality. They continue to look for the soft meals that are easy to swallow and require little effort. These students – and if we’re going to be fair, some adults as well – don’t want to move beyond the baby food when it comes to growing spiritually.
In Hebrews 5:11-14, we read the following: We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
Are you settling for the milk – the baby food – when it comes to spiritual growth? Are you maturing as a follower of Christ or are you still sitting in a spiritual preschool?
Sometimes maturing in our spirituality is hard work. It requires us to make sacrifices and change our priorities. It demands that we seek righteousness in our thinking and actions. It will often lead us to places where we must make difficult decisions. But the further we travel down the path, the more we will experience the joy, peace, and abundant life that Jesus talks about.
You stopped eating baby food a long time ago, right? Is it time for you to change your “eating” habits in your spiritual diet?
shine!
Jason
But here is where things get a little bizarre. His mom reaches into her purse and pulls out a jar of baby food. You watch in amazement as she pulls out a feeding spoon, opens the jar, and begins feeding her teenager.
Sound pretty weird? I am guessing that would draw a lot of attention and seem a little out of place. You might think, “Hey, shouldn’t he be eating a burger or something? Doesn’t this guy know how to feed himself? Doesn’t he want something with a little more substance than peas from a blender?”
Absolutely!
But here’s the irony. While we would think it’s ridiculous for a teenager to be spoon-fed baby food at Wendy’s, many teenagers think nothing of being spoon-fed spirituality. They continue to look for the soft meals that are easy to swallow and require little effort. These students – and if we’re going to be fair, some adults as well – don’t want to move beyond the baby food when it comes to growing spiritually.
In Hebrews 5:11-14, we read the following: We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.
Are you settling for the milk – the baby food – when it comes to spiritual growth? Are you maturing as a follower of Christ or are you still sitting in a spiritual preschool?
Sometimes maturing in our spirituality is hard work. It requires us to make sacrifices and change our priorities. It demands that we seek righteousness in our thinking and actions. It will often lead us to places where we must make difficult decisions. But the further we travel down the path, the more we will experience the joy, peace, and abundant life that Jesus talks about.
You stopped eating baby food a long time ago, right? Is it time for you to change your “eating” habits in your spiritual diet?
shine!
Jason
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Ten years ago today
Ten years ago today, nearly 3,000 people lost in their lives in the most deadly terrorist attack in American history. I remember spending much of the day watching news coverage as our nation – and much of the world – stood in shock from the day’s events. The scenes of planes crashing into buildings, people jumping from windows and falling over 1,000 feet to their deaths, and skyscrapers collapsing are forever etched in my mind.
But I also remember moments that brought hope into a dark moment of history. Firefighters, along with volunteers who just showed up, were digging through the rubble looking for survivors. On a plane flying over Pennsylvania, a handful of passengers overcame those who had hijacked their plane and prevented even further death and destruction. Members of Congress – who spend much of their time tearing one another down – stood together in a sign of unity. Across the nation, people gathered together to pray and comfort one another.
While that was a tragic day that changed our nation, the reality is that darkness surrounds us every day. People die from drug abuse. Poverty causes millions to suffer starvation and malnutrition. Children and adults suffer from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. The list could go on and on, but we must realize that the darkness isn’t just in the places you would expect.
People in suburbs live in nice homes and have a comfortable lifestyle, but sometimes their lives are hollow and lonely. Families that might look good on the outside, often struggle with anger, resentment, depression, and abandonment. Darkness doesn’t care about your social status, your bank account, or your profession. No one is immune.
We live in a world where darkness occasionally makes it presence known with a grand display, such as September 11, 2001, but where it more often subtly sneaks into our lives and the lives of those around us. As we remember a very dark day that occurred ten years ago, we must also be vigilant every day as darkness seeks to overcome us in ways that aren’t so visible or obvious.
Today, we should take a minute to reflect on what happened ten years ago. We should honor those who lost their lives, whether innocent victims or heroic responders. But we must also take a minute to reflect on our own lives to determine what we are doing today to bring light to a world full of darkness.
In Ephesians 5:8-10, Paul writes, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.”
Whether it’s terrorists flying planes into skyscrapers or the person at your school who is bullying others, darkness is all around us. Live in such a way that your life brings the fruit of the light into every situation you encounter.
shine!
Jason
But I also remember moments that brought hope into a dark moment of history. Firefighters, along with volunteers who just showed up, were digging through the rubble looking for survivors. On a plane flying over Pennsylvania, a handful of passengers overcame those who had hijacked their plane and prevented even further death and destruction. Members of Congress – who spend much of their time tearing one another down – stood together in a sign of unity. Across the nation, people gathered together to pray and comfort one another.
While that was a tragic day that changed our nation, the reality is that darkness surrounds us every day. People die from drug abuse. Poverty causes millions to suffer starvation and malnutrition. Children and adults suffer from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. The list could go on and on, but we must realize that the darkness isn’t just in the places you would expect.
People in suburbs live in nice homes and have a comfortable lifestyle, but sometimes their lives are hollow and lonely. Families that might look good on the outside, often struggle with anger, resentment, depression, and abandonment. Darkness doesn’t care about your social status, your bank account, or your profession. No one is immune.
We live in a world where darkness occasionally makes it presence known with a grand display, such as September 11, 2001, but where it more often subtly sneaks into our lives and the lives of those around us. As we remember a very dark day that occurred ten years ago, we must also be vigilant every day as darkness seeks to overcome us in ways that aren’t so visible or obvious.
Today, we should take a minute to reflect on what happened ten years ago. We should honor those who lost their lives, whether innocent victims or heroic responders. But we must also take a minute to reflect on our own lives to determine what we are doing today to bring light to a world full of darkness.
In Ephesians 5:8-10, Paul writes, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.”
Whether it’s terrorists flying planes into skyscrapers or the person at your school who is bullying others, darkness is all around us. Live in such a way that your life brings the fruit of the light into every situation you encounter.
shine!
Jason
Tuesday, September 06, 2011
The Big Idea
Starting in September, we will be kicking off a new church-wide initiative on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. We will be using The Big Idea as a way to help us think more deeply about a particular theme. Our Sunday morning sermon, adult Bible classes, and teen classes will approach this main theme from a variety of angles and perspectives.
The first theme is “Who We Are,” and will run for the month of September. Here is The Really Big Idea that will drive our theme:
Our Sunday morning and Wednesday evening series will both take different angles on this theme. The Sunday morning series, BFF, will consider what it means to make our relationship with God the central piece of our identity. On Wednesday nights, we will look at what it means to make godly love a core characteristic of who we are.
I am looking forward to this Fall and all of the opportunities we will have to explore what it means to live in God’s kingdom.
shine!
Jason
The first theme is “Who We Are,” and will run for the month of September. Here is The Really Big Idea that will drive our theme:
We so what we are. Our activity is the result of our identity. We serve a God who created us for community, called us to greater faith and discipleship, and empowered is to partner with him in service for his kingdom. Especially in times of transition, we need to remind ourselves that as the church we have a mission and calling that is rooted in God. As we transition in our leadership, we are standing firm in our commitment to being the people of God who will live as his people in this time and place – Rochester Church is still a place where people can connect, grow, and serve in Christ.
It is a great time to be the church. As the church, we are the people of God – we are defined and identified by his presence. And out identity points us towards our activity. In short, we do what we are. Put another way, our activity is the result of our identity. In every season, we must remind ourselves that we serve a God who created us for community, called us to greater faith and discipleship, and empowered us to partner with him in service for his kingdom. This is the mission of the Rochester Church of Christ.
Our Sunday morning and Wednesday evening series will both take different angles on this theme. The Sunday morning series, BFF, will consider what it means to make our relationship with God the central piece of our identity. On Wednesday nights, we will look at what it means to make godly love a core characteristic of who we are.
I am looking forward to this Fall and all of the opportunities we will have to explore what it means to live in God’s kingdom.
shine!
Jason
Monday, August 29, 2011
Just a little talk with Jesus
There is an older hymn called “Just A Little Talk With Jesus.” As we finish our summer series on prayer, I wanted to share the lyrics of this hymn…
At first glace this song might seem a little simplistic. You might think, “Whatever!” Just a little talk with Jesus doesn’t make everything right for me. When I am struggling, it doesn’t help. When life stinks, it doesn’t help.
While I agree that just saying one little prayer may not make it right, I believe that a life lived in conversation with Jesus will.
Prayer is not like a saying “Abracadabra.” It is not like the case on the wall that says “Break Glass in Case of Emergency.” It is an ongoing conversation with God.
Think about if the only time you talked to your parents or a friend was when you were in trouble. Do you think that would be much of a relationship?
Sometimes we pray in emergencies. There will be moments we ask God for help. But it should be in the larger context of a way of life that is marked by prayer.
If our life is filled with moments of having little talks with Jesus, God will begin to transform us. We will be shaped into the people we should be. And in the process, prayer will lead us through life, both the good times and the bad.
Does just a little talk with Jesus make it right? When talking with Jesus is how we live, then our lives will be right. And when we strive to live like that, our lives may not be perfect, but they will be filled with the peace that surpasses understanding that Paul writes about in Philippians.
shine!
Jason
Just A Little Talk With Jesus
Verse 1:
I once was lost in sin but Jesus took me in
And then a little light from heaven filled my soul
It bathed my heart in love and wrote my name above
And just a little talk with Jesus made me whole
Chorus:
Now let us have a little talk with Jesus
Let us tell Him all about our troubles
He will hear our faintest cry
He will answer by and by
Now when you feel a little prayer wheel turning
And you know a little fire is burning
You will find a little talk with Jesus makes it right
Verse 2:
Sometimes my path seems dreary without a ray of cheer
And then the cloud about me hides the light of day
The mists in me rise and hide the stormy skies
But just a little talk with Jesus clears the way
Verse 3:
I may have doubts and fears, my eyes be filled with tears
But Jesus is a friend who watches day and and night
I go to Him in prayer, He knows my every care
And just a little talk with Jesus makes it right
Chorus
At first glace this song might seem a little simplistic. You might think, “Whatever!” Just a little talk with Jesus doesn’t make everything right for me. When I am struggling, it doesn’t help. When life stinks, it doesn’t help.
While I agree that just saying one little prayer may not make it right, I believe that a life lived in conversation with Jesus will.
Prayer is not like a saying “Abracadabra.” It is not like the case on the wall that says “Break Glass in Case of Emergency.” It is an ongoing conversation with God.
Think about if the only time you talked to your parents or a friend was when you were in trouble. Do you think that would be much of a relationship?
Sometimes we pray in emergencies. There will be moments we ask God for help. But it should be in the larger context of a way of life that is marked by prayer.
If our life is filled with moments of having little talks with Jesus, God will begin to transform us. We will be shaped into the people we should be. And in the process, prayer will lead us through life, both the good times and the bad.
Does just a little talk with Jesus make it right? When talking with Jesus is how we live, then our lives will be right. And when we strive to live like that, our lives may not be perfect, but they will be filled with the peace that surpasses understanding that Paul writes about in Philippians.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, August 21, 2011
To know and be known
This past Sunday in class, we wrestled with the idea of unanswered prayers. There were some questions that were raised and we had a great discussion. However, it seemed like at the end we had surfaced more questions than answers.
That might make some people uneasy, but for me it is simply a part of the journey. While God is near and accessible, God is also beyond comprehension. We are seeking to develop a relationship with a God who desires intimacy, but also requires awe.
In his letter to the churches around Ephesus, Paul penned the following prayer…
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Paul realized that God is both within reach and beyond our understanding. In the same prayer, Paul asks for God to live within us while calling us to seek a love that surpasses our ability to comprehend it.
This journey can be frustrating and discouraging at times. There are moments in life when we fail to understand why something happens or where God might be in the midst of the mess.
In those moments, I don’t believe that God wants us to blindly accept reality and just “deal with it.” At that same time, I don’t believe that God wants us to walk away. God weeps when we weep, smiles when we smile, and stands beside us when we can no longer stand. That is where prayer comes in.
Prayer is a way for us to connect with a God that loves us more than we can imagine. God wants us to cry when we need to shed tears and laugh when we rejoice. God wants to walk this journey of life with us so that when our life here ends, we can continue the journey with God into eternity. In the meantime, God wants nothing more than to know his people and for God’s people to know him.
shine!
Jason
That might make some people uneasy, but for me it is simply a part of the journey. While God is near and accessible, God is also beyond comprehension. We are seeking to develop a relationship with a God who desires intimacy, but also requires awe.
In his letter to the churches around Ephesus, Paul penned the following prayer…
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Paul realized that God is both within reach and beyond our understanding. In the same prayer, Paul asks for God to live within us while calling us to seek a love that surpasses our ability to comprehend it.
This journey can be frustrating and discouraging at times. There are moments in life when we fail to understand why something happens or where God might be in the midst of the mess.
In those moments, I don’t believe that God wants us to blindly accept reality and just “deal with it.” At that same time, I don’t believe that God wants us to walk away. God weeps when we weep, smiles when we smile, and stands beside us when we can no longer stand. That is where prayer comes in.
Prayer is a way for us to connect with a God that loves us more than we can imagine. God wants us to cry when we need to shed tears and laugh when we rejoice. God wants to walk this journey of life with us so that when our life here ends, we can continue the journey with God into eternity. In the meantime, God wants nothing more than to know his people and for God’s people to know him.
shine!
Jason
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