It was meant to be a day of rest. For years and years, the Jewish people had celebrated the Sabbath. On the seventh day of Creation, God rested. And when God handed down the Ten Commandments to the Israelites, there it was...
“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. (Exodus 20:8-11 NIV)
But for many of them on this particular Sabbath, it didn't feel blessed, or holy. For several years, they had followed their Teacher. The one that Peter had called the Messiah, the Son of the Living God.
The healer.
The one who loved those that no one else would love.
The one who raised Lazarus from the dead and sent demons into a herd of pigs.
But today, today he was dead. In a tomb.
Hope turned to hopelessness. Their dreams of salvation nailed to a cross, one painful swing of a mallet at a time.
They watched their leader, their rabbi, their friend, die the death of a common criminal.
I wonder what they did on that day between Good Friday and Easter. Did they really rest at all on this day meant for rest. Were they able to sleep or find peace?
Fast forward two thousand years...
How many of us live in that same place?
Between Good Friday and Easter.
Dreams that have been dashed.
Hopes that have been crushed.
Futures that look hopeless and bleak.
Sometimes in the midst of restlessness and hopelessness, we forget that Easter is coming.
There will come a day when the Son will rise again. When all will be made new. When hope will live and love will reign.
But between Good Friday and Easter, things don't always feel right. The world isn't as it should be. We often feel lost and confused. Like the disciples, we find it hard to believe that hope can still live after we watched it die.
There is only one who has died and been raised to eternal life. He went before us to make the way. He overcame all that Satan had to throw at him and stands victorious.
As we live in the dark place between death and life, the reality of this world, remember that in Christ, life wins! Even in the midst of pain and darkness, there is hope. Wherever you find yourself today, remember that in God's Kingdom, there is always hope, even when you can't see it. Even in the restlessness of the Sabbath between Good Friday and Easter, God is working to make all things new.
shine!
Jason
Saturday, April 19, 2014
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Till you give it away
This weekend, I celebrated seventeen years of marriage to my wonderful wife, Michelle. While I've not been a perfect husband, or anything remotely close to it, I hope I have learned something and gotten a little better.
As I reflect on the last seventeen years, I think about all of the things I've experienced and learned. One of the most valuable lessons is that love is not something we can hoard. It is not something we gain by grabbing or taking. Rather, it's something we gain as we give it away.
In a world where so many things seemed to be acquired through gathering, holding, and locking it up, love, the ultimate prize, is quite the opposite. It truly grows the most when we freely share it with others.
The happiest moments in my seventeen years of marriage, and throughout the other aspects of my life as well, are those where I gave away my heart and lived with reckless abandon for the Kingdom built on love. The Kingdom built by the great I AM.
“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. (Acts 17:24, 25 NIV)
Our God is not a God who demands, but rather, gives. And when the world lost it's way and forgot what love looked like, this God came down and dwelt among us as a fellow human. Love was not just an idea written in the pages of a religious document. Love became flesh, born in a dirty stable, and murdered because he loved the outcasts and sinners. Love was crucified because he loved freely, in the face of pride, position, and possession. Jesus was willing to give it all away, and in the end, he changed the world.
Michael W. Smith describes this kind of love with the following lyrics...
There was a man who walked on water
He came to set the people free
He was the ultimate example
Of what love can truly be
'Cause His love was His life
And He gave it away
You gotta give it away
If we want to experience true joy, true peace, and true love, we must learn that the only true way to obtain these things is by giving them away. In a world that teaches us to gather all we can, the Kingdom of God shows us that ultimate joy and peace are found along a different path.
If I have learned anything over the last seventeen years, it's the power of giving away love. My best moments as a husband have not been the ones where I was in control, but rather, the ones where I laid down my pride. And to be honest, that hasn't been nearly often enough. My best memories are usually the ones where I didn't necessarily get my way.
Do you want to find love?
Quit chasing it and start pursuing ways to share it.
Stop demanding it and start delivering it.
Instead of manipulating others to get it, start humbling yourself to give it away.
As Jesus so powerfully taught us in his life, and death...
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. (Mark 8:34, 35 NIV)
Love, the ultimate expression of life, isn't love, till we give it away.
shine!
Jason
As I reflect on the last seventeen years, I think about all of the things I've experienced and learned. One of the most valuable lessons is that love is not something we can hoard. It is not something we gain by grabbing or taking. Rather, it's something we gain as we give it away.
In a world where so many things seemed to be acquired through gathering, holding, and locking it up, love, the ultimate prize, is quite the opposite. It truly grows the most when we freely share it with others.
The happiest moments in my seventeen years of marriage, and throughout the other aspects of my life as well, are those where I gave away my heart and lived with reckless abandon for the Kingdom built on love. The Kingdom built by the great I AM.
“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. (Acts 17:24, 25 NIV)
Our God is not a God who demands, but rather, gives. And when the world lost it's way and forgot what love looked like, this God came down and dwelt among us as a fellow human. Love was not just an idea written in the pages of a religious document. Love became flesh, born in a dirty stable, and murdered because he loved the outcasts and sinners. Love was crucified because he loved freely, in the face of pride, position, and possession. Jesus was willing to give it all away, and in the end, he changed the world.
Michael W. Smith describes this kind of love with the following lyrics...
There was a man who walked on water
He came to set the people free
He was the ultimate example
Of what love can truly be
'Cause His love was His life
And He gave it away
You gotta give it away
If we want to experience true joy, true peace, and true love, we must learn that the only true way to obtain these things is by giving them away. In a world that teaches us to gather all we can, the Kingdom of God shows us that ultimate joy and peace are found along a different path.
If I have learned anything over the last seventeen years, it's the power of giving away love. My best moments as a husband have not been the ones where I was in control, but rather, the ones where I laid down my pride. And to be honest, that hasn't been nearly often enough. My best memories are usually the ones where I didn't necessarily get my way.
Do you want to find love?
Quit chasing it and start pursuing ways to share it.
Stop demanding it and start delivering it.
Instead of manipulating others to get it, start humbling yourself to give it away.
As Jesus so powerfully taught us in his life, and death...
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. (Mark 8:34, 35 NIV)
Love, the ultimate expression of life, isn't love, till we give it away.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Sitting in a hospital room
Ferris Bueller famously said, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."
Sometimes we choose to stop and look around. Other times, life makes that choice for us.
Today has been the latter for me.
For the last five hours, I have been sitting with my dad at the hospital. We finally have a room and thankfully he is resting.
It's in moments like these that you think about things you often forget about.
I've been remembering so many times that my dad was there for me. Videotaping marching band performances. Lunches at Markley's. Sitting with him as he did his work with many area attorneys. Supporting Michelle and me when we went to Harding for my Bible degree. And so many more fond memories.
There's something about seeing your parent laying in a hospital bed that makes you more appreciative, more nostalgic. We often forget about the simple but meaningful things our parents have done for us. We often fail to remember the numerous small sacrifices they made to help us get where we are. We can get so wrapped in our own lives that we neglect to be thankful for the lives that shaped and supported our growth and development.
I know not everyone has pleasant memories of their parents, but we all have had a "parent" in our lives.
Take time today to say thank you. Tell them what you appreciate and what they have done that has been a blessing to you. I have done that with my dad, but not enough.
As I sit here in this hospital room, I know that God is using this experience to remind me that I need to take more time to show my dad how much I appreciate him. I hope these thoughts will cause you to stop and take a moment to do the the same for someone who has helped you along the way. Don't wait for a moment like this where life makes the choice for you.
Like Ferris said, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."
Don't miss it.
shine!
Jason
Sometimes we choose to stop and look around. Other times, life makes that choice for us.
Today has been the latter for me.
For the last five hours, I have been sitting with my dad at the hospital. We finally have a room and thankfully he is resting.
It's in moments like these that you think about things you often forget about.
I've been remembering so many times that my dad was there for me. Videotaping marching band performances. Lunches at Markley's. Sitting with him as he did his work with many area attorneys. Supporting Michelle and me when we went to Harding for my Bible degree. And so many more fond memories.
There's something about seeing your parent laying in a hospital bed that makes you more appreciative, more nostalgic. We often forget about the simple but meaningful things our parents have done for us. We often fail to remember the numerous small sacrifices they made to help us get where we are. We can get so wrapped in our own lives that we neglect to be thankful for the lives that shaped and supported our growth and development.
I know not everyone has pleasant memories of their parents, but we all have had a "parent" in our lives.
Take time today to say thank you. Tell them what you appreciate and what they have done that has been a blessing to you. I have done that with my dad, but not enough.
As I sit here in this hospital room, I know that God is using this experience to remind me that I need to take more time to show my dad how much I appreciate him. I hope these thoughts will cause you to stop and take a moment to do the the same for someone who has helped you along the way. Don't wait for a moment like this where life makes the choice for you.
Like Ferris said, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."
Don't miss it.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, November 10, 2013
It's not what you do...
It's not what you do, it's what you do with what you do.
It's been eight months since I wrote on this blog. Since then I have changed careers, moved back to a new state, sold a house, and experienced a host of other changes along the way.
I remember the Sunday I stood before my church family in Rochester to annouce that we were leaving to move back home. As I shared with them that I would also be making a career move, one of the thoughts I shared was that you don't have to get a paycheck from a church to be a minister.
It had been over fifteen years since I had either been in school for a Bible degree or working full-time for a church. What would it look like to not be working at a church? I had not been a Christian that long before going into full-time ministry, so I did not have a lot of experience in this realm. For years I had taught and preached about making your faith a part of your every day life. I had encouraged students and adults alike to live out their faith at their schools, their jobs, and other places they go. Now it was my turn to "practice what I preach."
The last eight months have been filled with opportunities to minister. Have I taken advantage of every opportunity? No. But, I witnessed God placing so many opportunities before me to impact others and spread the Kingdom and I have strived to be faithful to my calling.
Whether it's been praying with someone who lost a family member, serving the middle schoolers at our church, providing groceries for those in need, serving family, or simply spending time listening to someone who needed to talk, God has given me so many chances to make a difference.
And this takes me back to where I started this post: It's not what you do, it's what you do with what you do.
God will call some people into full-time ministry, some for a lifetime and others for a season. But all of us, every person who is a Christian is called to be a minister. Regardless of where you get your paycheck from, your purpose comes from God.
Do you get paid to run a company? If so, treat your employees with grace, compassion, and mercy.
Do you get paid to be secretary? Make sure that every person you talk to leaves your desk knowing that at least one person will treat them with honor.
Do you get paid to be a cashier at a department store? Find a way to compliment each customer and go the extra mile to serve them.
I could go on and on, but the point is this. God has called every believer to be a minister. Regardless of what you do, find ways to be an ambassador for the Kingdom in every circumstance.
shine!
Jason
It's been eight months since I wrote on this blog. Since then I have changed careers, moved back to a new state, sold a house, and experienced a host of other changes along the way.
I remember the Sunday I stood before my church family in Rochester to annouce that we were leaving to move back home. As I shared with them that I would also be making a career move, one of the thoughts I shared was that you don't have to get a paycheck from a church to be a minister.
It had been over fifteen years since I had either been in school for a Bible degree or working full-time for a church. What would it look like to not be working at a church? I had not been a Christian that long before going into full-time ministry, so I did not have a lot of experience in this realm. For years I had taught and preached about making your faith a part of your every day life. I had encouraged students and adults alike to live out their faith at their schools, their jobs, and other places they go. Now it was my turn to "practice what I preach."
The last eight months have been filled with opportunities to minister. Have I taken advantage of every opportunity? No. But, I witnessed God placing so many opportunities before me to impact others and spread the Kingdom and I have strived to be faithful to my calling.
Whether it's been praying with someone who lost a family member, serving the middle schoolers at our church, providing groceries for those in need, serving family, or simply spending time listening to someone who needed to talk, God has given me so many chances to make a difference.
And this takes me back to where I started this post: It's not what you do, it's what you do with what you do.
God will call some people into full-time ministry, some for a lifetime and others for a season. But all of us, every person who is a Christian is called to be a minister. Regardless of where you get your paycheck from, your purpose comes from God.
Do you get paid to run a company? If so, treat your employees with grace, compassion, and mercy.
Do you get paid to be secretary? Make sure that every person you talk to leaves your desk knowing that at least one person will treat them with honor.
Do you get paid to be a cashier at a department store? Find a way to compliment each customer and go the extra mile to serve them.
I could go on and on, but the point is this. God has called every believer to be a minister. Regardless of what you do, find ways to be an ambassador for the Kingdom in every circumstance.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Christ's offering
As we come to the end of Paul’s letter to the Philippians, I am also nearing the end of my time here at Rochester. In some ways I can relate to how Paul must have felt as he penned these words. No, I am not in my 60’s. I am also not under house-arrest. However, I am nearing the end of over seven years of ministry here at Rochester.
Here are the words Paul wrote nearly 2,000 years ago…
I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Greet all God’s people in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings. All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
During my time here, I have found strength in God and strength in my relationships with many of you. You have given me as much or more than I feel I have ever given you. Your passion and energy have encouraged me. Your love and support have held me up. Your service and compassion have given me hope. You have been such a blessing to me and my family in ways you will never know. For that, I say thank you!
I will end with the same words that Paul penned to his friends in Philippi many years ago… The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
shine!
Jason
Here are the words Paul wrote nearly 2,000 years ago…
I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Greet all God’s people in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings. All God’s people here send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
During my time here, I have found strength in God and strength in my relationships with many of you. You have given me as much or more than I feel I have ever given you. Your passion and energy have encouraged me. Your love and support have held me up. Your service and compassion have given me hope. You have been such a blessing to me and my family in ways you will never know. For that, I say thank you!
I will end with the same words that Paul penned to his friends in Philippi many years ago… The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, March 03, 2013
Christ's peace
Peace. It is a word with a variety of meanings.
A state of tranquillity or quiet: as freedom from civil disturbance or a state of security or order within a community provided for by law or custom.
Freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions.
Harmony in personal relations.
A state or period of mutual concord between governments.
A pact or agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity.
Used interjectionally to ask for silence or calm or as a greeting or farewell.
Now, while not all of these definitions fit what Paul says in Philippians 4:6-7, I do believe that the peace of God connects with each of them. Here is what Paul writes…
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
You might think, hey, that sounds great, but I really don’t think it’s that easy.
I would agree with you. Finding the kind of peace Paul describes is not found by just saying a few words. It requires work. It requires us to develop a relationship.
The kind of peace Paul is talking about provides freedom and harmony. It is something that is grown, not magically produced. It continues to develop in our lives as we strive to build a relationship with God and allow ourselves to be transformed.
It is in the next two verses that Paul tells us the kind of work needed to find this peace…
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8-9)
In our world of fast food and lighting speed Internet, I think we have become convinced that we can have anything we want as quick as possible. While that may be true with a burger or a song from iTunes, that’s not true when it comes to relationships and peace. They take work…and time. They require us to invest time and energy in God and other people. Peace is certainly achievable, but not without dedication and focus. There is a peace that surpasses understanding, but it can only be found when we pursue it, and the One who offers it.
shine!
Jason
A state of tranquillity or quiet: as freedom from civil disturbance or a state of security or order within a community provided for by law or custom.
Freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions.
Harmony in personal relations.
A state or period of mutual concord between governments.
A pact or agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity.
Used interjectionally to ask for silence or calm or as a greeting or farewell.
Now, while not all of these definitions fit what Paul says in Philippians 4:6-7, I do believe that the peace of God connects with each of them. Here is what Paul writes…
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
You might think, hey, that sounds great, but I really don’t think it’s that easy.
I would agree with you. Finding the kind of peace Paul describes is not found by just saying a few words. It requires work. It requires us to develop a relationship.
The kind of peace Paul is talking about provides freedom and harmony. It is something that is grown, not magically produced. It continues to develop in our lives as we strive to build a relationship with God and allow ourselves to be transformed.
It is in the next two verses that Paul tells us the kind of work needed to find this peace…
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:8-9)
In our world of fast food and lighting speed Internet, I think we have become convinced that we can have anything we want as quick as possible. While that may be true with a burger or a song from iTunes, that’s not true when it comes to relationships and peace. They take work…and time. They require us to invest time and energy in God and other people. Peace is certainly achievable, but not without dedication and focus. There is a peace that surpasses understanding, but it can only be found when we pursue it, and the One who offers it.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Christ's confidence
What do you have confidence in?
As Americans, this passage in Philippians can be challenging to fully embrace. Think about what Paul says Philippians 3:4-6.
For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— though I myself have reasons for such confidence.
If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.
Paul talks about the confidence he has “in the flesh.” His bloodline. His nationality. His position. According to all of these things, Paul has the “right” to place a lot of confidence in himself.
This sounds a lot like the American attitude of self-reliance and individualism. We place a lot of pride in our intelligence, our athletic ability, our ability to perform, and a variety of other talents and gifts. While there is nothing wrong with enjoying and embracing the talents God has given us, but we have to be careful not to make them the place where we find our confidence.
After all the things that Paul listed that he could have confidence in, he comes back to this…
But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.
Paul’s confidence is not in those other things that he had trusted in for much of his earlier life. Rather, he considers them garbage. The word that the NIV translates “garbage” is actually the Greek word Skuvbalon (skuvbalon), a word more accurately translated “dung.” What Paul is really saying is that all those things that Paul used to put his confidence in have been (to use a milder, modern metaphor) flushed down the toilet.
As Paul challenges us to consider where we place our confidence, he tells us that the things of the flesh are the same as what we leave in our toilet. I know it’s a pretty gross visual, but I think it really tells us how strongly Paul feels about where we place our confidence.
shine!
Jason
As Americans, this passage in Philippians can be challenging to fully embrace. Think about what Paul says Philippians 3:4-6.
For it is we who are the circumcision, we who serve God by his Spirit, who boast in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh— though I myself have reasons for such confidence.
If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.
Paul talks about the confidence he has “in the flesh.” His bloodline. His nationality. His position. According to all of these things, Paul has the “right” to place a lot of confidence in himself.
This sounds a lot like the American attitude of self-reliance and individualism. We place a lot of pride in our intelligence, our athletic ability, our ability to perform, and a variety of other talents and gifts. While there is nothing wrong with enjoying and embracing the talents God has given us, but we have to be careful not to make them the place where we find our confidence.
After all the things that Paul listed that he could have confidence in, he comes back to this…
But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.
Paul’s confidence is not in those other things that he had trusted in for much of his earlier life. Rather, he considers them garbage. The word that the NIV translates “garbage” is actually the Greek word Skuvbalon (skuvbalon), a word more accurately translated “dung.” What Paul is really saying is that all those things that Paul used to put his confidence in have been (to use a milder, modern metaphor) flushed down the toilet.
As Paul challenges us to consider where we place our confidence, he tells us that the things of the flesh are the same as what we leave in our toilet. I know it’s a pretty gross visual, but I think it really tells us how strongly Paul feels about where we place our confidence.
shine!
Jason
Monday, February 18, 2013
Christ's light
Have you every heard the expression that when someone lights up a room when they walk in? The idea is that simply by being present, someone can change the atmosphere and attitude among a gathering of people.
In Philippians 2:12-18, Paul goes from the passage describing Christ’s mindset (Philippians 2:1-11) to a call for us to shine our light in the world…
Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.
Paul says that we should act in order to fulfill God’s good purpose. What is that purpose? To bring about the salvation of all Creation. God is working in the world to renew and restore the world. This is what the Kingdom of God is all about, restoring God’s reign in the world.
You and I are invited to be a part of something much bigger than any of us individually. We are called to shine like stars in a world often engulfed by darkness. That means we have to live differently.
And as Paul reminds us, we will do that when we firmly hold to the word of life. Christ is not just an example, he is an anchor. He is the one that taught us how to live through his words and his behavior.
So often, in the middle of a tragedy or crisis I hear people ask, “Where is God?” While that is a valid question, often the answer can be found in you or me.
Darkness is not the presence of anything. It is the absence of light. When you and I bring light into the midst of darkness, God will be there. Darkness will vanish when light walks into the room.
The next time you think, “Where is God?” You should look into the mirror and ask God how to help you shine. It is in that moment that you can be the answer to that question, and in a small but significant way, bring about God’s ongoing work or salvation in the world.
shine!
Jason
In Philippians 2:12-18, Paul goes from the passage describing Christ’s mindset (Philippians 2:1-11) to a call for us to shine our light in the world…
Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.
Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me.
Paul says that we should act in order to fulfill God’s good purpose. What is that purpose? To bring about the salvation of all Creation. God is working in the world to renew and restore the world. This is what the Kingdom of God is all about, restoring God’s reign in the world.
You and I are invited to be a part of something much bigger than any of us individually. We are called to shine like stars in a world often engulfed by darkness. That means we have to live differently.
And as Paul reminds us, we will do that when we firmly hold to the word of life. Christ is not just an example, he is an anchor. He is the one that taught us how to live through his words and his behavior.
So often, in the middle of a tragedy or crisis I hear people ask, “Where is God?” While that is a valid question, often the answer can be found in you or me.
Darkness is not the presence of anything. It is the absence of light. When you and I bring light into the midst of darkness, God will be there. Darkness will vanish when light walks into the room.
The next time you think, “Where is God?” You should look into the mirror and ask God how to help you shine. It is in that moment that you can be the answer to that question, and in a small but significant way, bring about God’s ongoing work or salvation in the world.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Christ's humility
If we are Christians, it means we are Christ followers. Our purpose is not to agree to a set of rules or regulations. Rather, it is to imitate a person, the person of Jesus Christ. In Philippians 2:1-11, Paul offers one of the best summarizes of who Christ is and what it looks like when Christians seek to follow him…
Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God
something to be used to his own advantage;
rather, he made himself nothing
by taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
Such simple and plain words. So easy to understand. So difficult to live. Our culture often demands that we live in a way that is contrary to the one described in the passage above. Rather than making ourselves nothing, we are told that we are the center of the universe. Rather than humbling ourselves, we are taught that pride is an essential virtue. Rather than becoming obedient, we see all around that one of the highest values is to be your own person.
While the things I mentioned above are not always bad, allowing them to dominate our personality makes it nearly impossible to follow Jesus. The places Jesus leads us to demand sacrifice, humility, and obedience. Without that mindset that Paul describes, we will find it very hard to live up to the calling we have received. But, when we live like the people Paul describes in the passage above, we can learn what it means to truly follow Jesus wherever he leads us.
shine!
Jason
Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
Who, being in very nature God,
did not consider equality with God
something to be used to his own advantage;
rather, he made himself nothing
by taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
Such simple and plain words. So easy to understand. So difficult to live. Our culture often demands that we live in a way that is contrary to the one described in the passage above. Rather than making ourselves nothing, we are told that we are the center of the universe. Rather than humbling ourselves, we are taught that pride is an essential virtue. Rather than becoming obedient, we see all around that one of the highest values is to be your own person.
While the things I mentioned above are not always bad, allowing them to dominate our personality makes it nearly impossible to follow Jesus. The places Jesus leads us to demand sacrifice, humility, and obedience. Without that mindset that Paul describes, we will find it very hard to live up to the calling we have received. But, when we live like the people Paul describes in the passage above, we can learn what it means to truly follow Jesus wherever he leads us.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, February 03, 2013
Christ's calling
Christ calls us to follow him, regardless of the situation. As we read Paul’s words in Philippians 1:12-30, we find a man who is under house arrest, but still living in a way that he shares the gospel with those around him.
Paul writes the following…
Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. (Philippians 1:27-30)
These are both challenging and encouraging words. Regardless of what happens to you, live your life in such a way that the gospel, the announcement of the Kingdom of God, pours forth from your life through your words and actions.
This will not be easy. As Paul says, we don’t just believe in Christ we suffer for him. When we live our lives in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, there will be challenging times before us. When you stand against the powers of this world, they will fight back.
This does not mean every moment of your life will involve suffering or that it will always be difficult. However, we are naïve if we believe that life will be easy if we follow Jesus.
There are times when people abandon their faith because things get difficult. Whether a job loss, a death, divorce, or a variety of other challenges, these kinds of events can bring us to a place where we question God and what we believe.
There is nothing wrong with the doubt, but it is what we do with the doubt and difficulty that makes all the difference. It is in these moments that we must remember that we are not called to a comfortable life; we are called to a life of sacrifice. It is in those moments that we must remember that we have been called to serve a God who sacrificed.
Christ lived in a manner worthy of the gospel and he was killed for it. Should we expect any different? This doesn’t mean that by living for Christ we will be killed. But it does mean that following Christ will often bring us to places we never expected and challenges we never anticipated. And it is in those moments that our witness can be the most powerful, if we are willing to follow the One who goes before us.
shine!
Jason
Paul writes the following…
Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God. For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. (Philippians 1:27-30)
These are both challenging and encouraging words. Regardless of what happens to you, live your life in such a way that the gospel, the announcement of the Kingdom of God, pours forth from your life through your words and actions.
This will not be easy. As Paul says, we don’t just believe in Christ we suffer for him. When we live our lives in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, there will be challenging times before us. When you stand against the powers of this world, they will fight back.
This does not mean every moment of your life will involve suffering or that it will always be difficult. However, we are naïve if we believe that life will be easy if we follow Jesus.
There are times when people abandon their faith because things get difficult. Whether a job loss, a death, divorce, or a variety of other challenges, these kinds of events can bring us to a place where we question God and what we believe.
There is nothing wrong with the doubt, but it is what we do with the doubt and difficulty that makes all the difference. It is in these moments that we must remember that we are not called to a comfortable life; we are called to a life of sacrifice. It is in those moments that we must remember that we have been called to serve a God who sacrificed.
Christ lived in a manner worthy of the gospel and he was killed for it. Should we expect any different? This doesn’t mean that by living for Christ we will be killed. But it does mean that following Christ will often bring us to places we never expected and challenges we never anticipated. And it is in those moments that our witness can be the most powerful, if we are willing to follow the One who goes before us.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Christ's community
God created us for community. It is only in community that the Gospel can be most fully realized in our lives. Consider what Paul wrote to the church in Philippi near the beginning of his letter to them…
I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me. God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. (Philippians 1:3-11)
Paul was reminding them of the importance of community to the Christian faith. It is in community that God continues to help us serve and grow. When we are with others we can gain knowledge of depth and insight. Love grows most effectively when we are with others.
It is when we find ourselves sharing life with others that God will carry on the work he is doing in our lives.
But it’s about more than just community. It’s about what – or most accurately, who – is in the center of that community. For a group of people to truly embrace the Gospel and bear the fruit of righteousness, Jesus Christ must be at the center of the community. I don’t believe it’s a mistake or chance that in each of the three paragraphs above, Jesus Christ is present. It is through Christ, and a community of people following him, that the world will discover and encounter the grace and love of God.
shine!
Jason
I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart and, whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me. God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. (Philippians 1:3-11)
Paul was reminding them of the importance of community to the Christian faith. It is in community that God continues to help us serve and grow. When we are with others we can gain knowledge of depth and insight. Love grows most effectively when we are with others.
It is when we find ourselves sharing life with others that God will carry on the work he is doing in our lives.
But it’s about more than just community. It’s about what – or most accurately, who – is in the center of that community. For a group of people to truly embrace the Gospel and bear the fruit of righteousness, Jesus Christ must be at the center of the community. I don’t believe it’s a mistake or chance that in each of the three paragraphs above, Jesus Christ is present. It is through Christ, and a community of people following him, that the world will discover and encounter the grace and love of God.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, January 13, 2013
We are all witnesses
Witness...
Testimony by word or deed to your religious faith
A close observer
Someone who sees an event and reports what happened
What does it mean to actively be a witness? To witness?
Think about the definitions listed above. How do we as witnesses to the Christian faith now make witness a verb?
How are you witnessing by word or deed to your faith?
Yes, it often starts by us observing what God is doing in the world and then reporting it to others. But if we all do is witness with words we have missed a vital part of what it means to witness as a follower of Jesus.
Christian witnesses are not only to be hearers of the Word and tellers of the Word. It is essential that we are doers of the Word as well. We must seek to live out the message we proclaim.
In Romans 12:9-21, Paul provides one of the best summaries of what it means to witness to the presence of God in the world...
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do 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. 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.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:9-21 NIV)
Notice the first and last phrases in this passage...
Love must be sincere.
Overcome evil with good.
So simple, but yet so challenging. Easy to say, but often difficult to live.
How will you witness to the Kingdom of God? As you seek to live out the characteristics described above, what will you do to embody these characteristics?
God wants us to do more than talk about love. He desires more than telling others how to live. He calls us to follow Him and discover ways in our lives to live out the kind of love and goodness that offers glimpses at the Kingdom of God.
shine!
Jason
Testimony by word or deed to your religious faith
A close observer
Someone who sees an event and reports what happened
What does it mean to actively be a witness? To witness?
Think about the definitions listed above. How do we as witnesses to the Christian faith now make witness a verb?
How are you witnessing by word or deed to your faith?
Yes, it often starts by us observing what God is doing in the world and then reporting it to others. But if we all do is witness with words we have missed a vital part of what it means to witness as a follower of Jesus.
Christian witnesses are not only to be hearers of the Word and tellers of the Word. It is essential that we are doers of the Word as well. We must seek to live out the message we proclaim.
In Romans 12:9-21, Paul provides one of the best summaries of what it means to witness to the presence of God in the world...
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do 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. 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.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:9-21 NIV)
Notice the first and last phrases in this passage...
Love must be sincere.
Overcome evil with good.
So simple, but yet so challenging. Easy to say, but often difficult to live.
How will you witness to the Kingdom of God? As you seek to live out the characteristics described above, what will you do to embody these characteristics?
God wants us to do more than talk about love. He desires more than telling others how to live. He calls us to follow Him and discover ways in our lives to live out the kind of love and goodness that offers glimpses at the Kingdom of God.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, January 06, 2013
Live to give
Christmas is a season of giving, and I want to encourage us to carry the spirit of giving into the new year. Over the next few weeks, our church will be considering what it means to be disciples of Jesus. Take time this week individually and as a family to consider Paul’s words in Romans 12…
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do 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. 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.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
shine!
Jason
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do 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. 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.”
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, December 16, 2012
The story of hope
Want to hear a crazy idea?
The hope of all mankind, all of creation, rests on God become human and humanity becoming humble.
It started with the most unlikely of plot twists. Creator becoming a part of creation. God becoming a part of the world he created. The one who was in the beginning, the one through whom all things were made, entered the world as a helpless baby named Jesus
And if that’s not crazy enough for you, this Jesus would live a life that would result in his execution. Executed for what? For radically loving people, even the people no one else wanted around.
But the story doesn’t end there. As Christ hangs on the cross and breathes his last, we are about to encounter another plot twist. On the third day, this dead man is resurrected. The one who had been killed at the hands of an angry mob and jealous leaders is raised from the dead.
In the days that follow, he spends as much time as possible with his disciples. He reminds them of what he has taught them and prepares them for the next turn in the story. He’s leaving. And they’re left behind to continue the work.
Wait! Isn’t he the Savior? Isn’t it the Messiah’s job to fix everything? Yes. And no. Through his life, death, burial, and resurrection, Christ ushered in a new Kingdom, a new way of life. And while some of the last words he spoke were, “it is finished,” we are not. Not yet.
We must look back to the one who was born in the lowliest of circumstances and a most scandalous situation. The Creator of the universe took the ultimate risk to enter the world as a humble, helpless baby, born out of wedlock.
If we can learn anything from Jesus, it’s that we need to learn everything from him. How to think. How to treat others. How to look at ourselves. How to live.
Within each of us is the story of hope. Through the Holy Spirit, every follower of Jesus is empowered with the ability to share the hope that can only be found in the Kingdom of God. But we will only realize that power when we humble ourselves and boldly obey Jesus’ command, “Follow me.” It is in that following that we will find the hope for all humanity, and in the process, help lead others to it as well.
shine!
Jason
The hope of all mankind, all of creation, rests on God become human and humanity becoming humble.
It started with the most unlikely of plot twists. Creator becoming a part of creation. God becoming a part of the world he created. The one who was in the beginning, the one through whom all things were made, entered the world as a helpless baby named Jesus
And if that’s not crazy enough for you, this Jesus would live a life that would result in his execution. Executed for what? For radically loving people, even the people no one else wanted around.
But the story doesn’t end there. As Christ hangs on the cross and breathes his last, we are about to encounter another plot twist. On the third day, this dead man is resurrected. The one who had been killed at the hands of an angry mob and jealous leaders is raised from the dead.
In the days that follow, he spends as much time as possible with his disciples. He reminds them of what he has taught them and prepares them for the next turn in the story. He’s leaving. And they’re left behind to continue the work.
Wait! Isn’t he the Savior? Isn’t it the Messiah’s job to fix everything? Yes. And no. Through his life, death, burial, and resurrection, Christ ushered in a new Kingdom, a new way of life. And while some of the last words he spoke were, “it is finished,” we are not. Not yet.
We must look back to the one who was born in the lowliest of circumstances and a most scandalous situation. The Creator of the universe took the ultimate risk to enter the world as a humble, helpless baby, born out of wedlock.
If we can learn anything from Jesus, it’s that we need to learn everything from him. How to think. How to treat others. How to look at ourselves. How to live.
Within each of us is the story of hope. Through the Holy Spirit, every follower of Jesus is empowered with the ability to share the hope that can only be found in the Kingdom of God. But we will only realize that power when we humble ourselves and boldly obey Jesus’ command, “Follow me.” It is in that following that we will find the hope for all humanity, and in the process, help lead others to it as well.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, December 09, 2012
Look at me!?
Think about it. What if you were chosen to announce God’s grand entrance into the world? How would you react?
I know how I would react. Hey, everyone! Look at me! While I might not admit it, I would want everyone to know how important I am because I am announcing the arrival of someone important. I would want to be famous by association.
However, that was not John the Baptist’s attitude (which is probably why I would never be chosen for this task, but he was). Consider what the apostle John writes…
Now this was John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him who he was. He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, “I am not the Messiah.” (John 1:19-20)
While most of us would never claim to be the Messiah, there are probably a lot of us who like to think we are. John the Baptist on the other hand, was quick to deny his importance. As he continued to answer the questions of the Jewish leaders, he turned to Scripture to emphasize his place in the story…
John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’” (John 1:23)
John humbly accepted and admitted his role. He was not God, but simply a servant. His task was to prepare the way for the One who was coming. He was not the Messiah, but he was called to be a voice announcing the Messiah’s arrival.
As the Jewish leaders continued to question John the Baptist, he continued to respond to them with humility…
“I baptize with water,” John replied, “but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.” (John 1:26-27)
Oh, that I would have an attitude like John the Baptist. In a world where athletes hope to the make the ESPN Top 10, celebrities seek fame and fortune, and many people pursue popularity and prominence, we find a man with one of the most important jobs in the history of the world – announcing the coming of the Messiah – and yet with one of the most humble attitudes we can imagine.
What can sometimes get lost in the story of Jesus’ birth is the humility of the man who proclaimed the coming of the Savior of the world. Christmas is about the Word becoming flesh, but it should also be a time for us to consider our own pride and self-importance. We all can learn from John the Baptist and his humility.
shine!
Jason
I know how I would react. Hey, everyone! Look at me! While I might not admit it, I would want everyone to know how important I am because I am announcing the arrival of someone important. I would want to be famous by association.
However, that was not John the Baptist’s attitude (which is probably why I would never be chosen for this task, but he was). Consider what the apostle John writes…
Now this was John’s testimony when the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him who he was. He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, “I am not the Messiah.” (John 1:19-20)
While most of us would never claim to be the Messiah, there are probably a lot of us who like to think we are. John the Baptist on the other hand, was quick to deny his importance. As he continued to answer the questions of the Jewish leaders, he turned to Scripture to emphasize his place in the story…
John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’” (John 1:23)
John humbly accepted and admitted his role. He was not God, but simply a servant. His task was to prepare the way for the One who was coming. He was not the Messiah, but he was called to be a voice announcing the Messiah’s arrival.
As the Jewish leaders continued to question John the Baptist, he continued to respond to them with humility…
“I baptize with water,” John replied, “but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.” (John 1:26-27)
Oh, that I would have an attitude like John the Baptist. In a world where athletes hope to the make the ESPN Top 10, celebrities seek fame and fortune, and many people pursue popularity and prominence, we find a man with one of the most important jobs in the history of the world – announcing the coming of the Messiah – and yet with one of the most humble attitudes we can imagine.
What can sometimes get lost in the story of Jesus’ birth is the humility of the man who proclaimed the coming of the Savior of the world. Christmas is about the Word becoming flesh, but it should also be a time for us to consider our own pride and self-importance. We all can learn from John the Baptist and his humility.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Passing on our faith
So often we focus more on our areas of disagreement than we do agreement. This is true in so many areas of our life, including our faith. When parents and teenagers have arguments, it is often a result of focusing on the areas where they don’t see eye to eye.
One of the things I have learned is that when we sit around and talk, we tend to focus on differences, but when we serve alongside each other, we are more likely to focus on our areas of agreement.
As I look back on the words of Scripture and God’s wisdom, I find that passing on our faith to the next generation requires words and action. Consider the words Moses spoke to the people of God…
These are the commands, decrees and laws the Lord your God directed me to teach you to observe in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess, so that you, your children and their children after them may fear the Lord your God as long as you live by keeping all his decrees and commands that I give you, and so that you may enjoy long life. Hear, Israel, and be careful to obey so that it may go well with you and that you may increase greatly in a land flowing with milk and honey, just as the Lord, the God of your ancestors, promised you. (Deuteronomy 6:1-3)
Carefully reread what Moses said in the middle of this passage: “…so that you, your children and their children after them may fear the Lord your God as long as you live by keeping all his decrees and commands that I give you…” The way to pass on faith is by living out your faith. Faith is not primarily exclusively a set of ideas to teach; it is a way of life. If we are going to pass on our faith to the next generation, we must live it out.
There are significant implications for this. If we are going to teach our children how to live out their faith, we must begin by examining how we live out our faith, not how they live out theirs. Of course, offering advice and correction to the younger generation is a vital part of our role as parents and teachers, but we cannot lose sight of the fact that they will first and foremost learn from our actions, not our words.
I believe that one of the biggest challenges every generation faces in passing on their faith is modeling what it means to be a follower of Christ. It can be easy for us to tell someone else how they should live. The more difficult aspect of passing on our faith is living it out so it can be witnessed by others.
This will require everyone to practice an extra measure of grace and humility. Grace to extend towards others when they fall short and humility to acknowledge when we fall short. If we can embrace grace and humility with an attitude of love, then faith can be passed on from generation to generation in way that can extend the Kingdom of God until Christ returns.
shine!
Jason
One of the things I have learned is that when we sit around and talk, we tend to focus on differences, but when we serve alongside each other, we are more likely to focus on our areas of agreement.
As I look back on the words of Scripture and God’s wisdom, I find that passing on our faith to the next generation requires words and action. Consider the words Moses spoke to the people of God…
These are the commands, decrees and laws the Lord your God directed me to teach you to observe in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess, so that you, your children and their children after them may fear the Lord your God as long as you live by keeping all his decrees and commands that I give you, and so that you may enjoy long life. Hear, Israel, and be careful to obey so that it may go well with you and that you may increase greatly in a land flowing with milk and honey, just as the Lord, the God of your ancestors, promised you. (Deuteronomy 6:1-3)
Carefully reread what Moses said in the middle of this passage: “…so that you, your children and their children after them may fear the Lord your God as long as you live by keeping all his decrees and commands that I give you…” The way to pass on faith is by living out your faith. Faith is not primarily exclusively a set of ideas to teach; it is a way of life. If we are going to pass on our faith to the next generation, we must live it out.
There are significant implications for this. If we are going to teach our children how to live out their faith, we must begin by examining how we live out our faith, not how they live out theirs. Of course, offering advice and correction to the younger generation is a vital part of our role as parents and teachers, but we cannot lose sight of the fact that they will first and foremost learn from our actions, not our words.
I believe that one of the biggest challenges every generation faces in passing on their faith is modeling what it means to be a follower of Christ. It can be easy for us to tell someone else how they should live. The more difficult aspect of passing on our faith is living it out so it can be witnessed by others.
This will require everyone to practice an extra measure of grace and humility. Grace to extend towards others when they fall short and humility to acknowledge when we fall short. If we can embrace grace and humility with an attitude of love, then faith can be passed on from generation to generation in way that can extend the Kingdom of God until Christ returns.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Generations to come
One of the most well known passages in the Old Testament is found in the book of Deuteronomy. It is called the Shema and is one of the most important passages in the prayer life of the Jewish people.
These words are often recited at the beginning and end of the day and would be words that many Jews would have committed to memory. Here are the words of Deuteronomy 6:4-9:
Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
I believe that one of the reasons these words are so important to the Jewish people is because they are so foundational to what it means to be the people of God and pass that faith on to the next generation. Let’s consider the implications of this short, but powerful, passage of Scripture.
It begins with the idea that the Lord is our God and that we must learn to love the Lord with all we have and are. Our emotions. Our inner being. Our bodies. God’s love must flow into every aspect of who we are, inside and out.
I think the idea here is that God so fills us that God will pour out of us. And as that happens, one generation passes their faith onto the next generation as a natural byproduct of being immersed in the Kingdom.
Most statistics state that 60%-90% of young people today will leave the church when they graduate. The question so many people ask is why. I don’t pretend to have all of the answers, but here are two reasons that I believe are a part of the issue at hand.
The first one goes back to this idea of God pouring out of us. Before we question how passionate the younger generation is about God and the Kingdom, I believe that we should make an honest assessment of our own spiritual situation. Are we so filled with the Kingdom that it naturally flows out of us? I could spend a lot more time on this, but I will leave that question for us to wrestle with.
Second, are we attempting to pass on our faith in a way that is relevant to the upcoming generation? I don’t believe that we change the underlying values of God’s Kingdom, but do we need to be more open to how the Kingdom manifests itself in the next generation? Every generation tends to believe that their way of expressing the Kingdom of God is the best and right way. However, we must be open to considering that it is only a way, not the way. What if we were more open to new methods of living out what it means to live in the Kingdom of God?
These can be daunting questions that are not always easy to answer, but if we are going to be true to the words of Deuteronomy 6, every generation has to honestly consider the two questions above and respond accordingly. When we do, God will be able to do amazing things through us, and the generations to come.
shine!
Jason
These words are often recited at the beginning and end of the day and would be words that many Jews would have committed to memory. Here are the words of Deuteronomy 6:4-9:
Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
I believe that one of the reasons these words are so important to the Jewish people is because they are so foundational to what it means to be the people of God and pass that faith on to the next generation. Let’s consider the implications of this short, but powerful, passage of Scripture.
It begins with the idea that the Lord is our God and that we must learn to love the Lord with all we have and are. Our emotions. Our inner being. Our bodies. God’s love must flow into every aspect of who we are, inside and out.
I think the idea here is that God so fills us that God will pour out of us. And as that happens, one generation passes their faith onto the next generation as a natural byproduct of being immersed in the Kingdom.
Most statistics state that 60%-90% of young people today will leave the church when they graduate. The question so many people ask is why. I don’t pretend to have all of the answers, but here are two reasons that I believe are a part of the issue at hand.
The first one goes back to this idea of God pouring out of us. Before we question how passionate the younger generation is about God and the Kingdom, I believe that we should make an honest assessment of our own spiritual situation. Are we so filled with the Kingdom that it naturally flows out of us? I could spend a lot more time on this, but I will leave that question for us to wrestle with.
Second, are we attempting to pass on our faith in a way that is relevant to the upcoming generation? I don’t believe that we change the underlying values of God’s Kingdom, but do we need to be more open to how the Kingdom manifests itself in the next generation? Every generation tends to believe that their way of expressing the Kingdom of God is the best and right way. However, we must be open to considering that it is only a way, not the way. What if we were more open to new methods of living out what it means to live in the Kingdom of God?
These can be daunting questions that are not always easy to answer, but if we are going to be true to the words of Deuteronomy 6, every generation has to honestly consider the two questions above and respond accordingly. When we do, God will be able to do amazing things through us, and the generations to come.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, November 04, 2012
Something worth dying for
As Jesus prepares to send the Twelve out to spread the message of the Kingdom, he gives them some amazing instructions and some warnings that may seem daunting…
“As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.” (Matthew 10:7-8)
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. Be on your guard; you will be handed over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues.” (Matthew 10:16-17)
“Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 10:21-22)
But in the midst of all of these warnings and the seemingly insurmountable obstacles before them, Jesus speaks these words to those same disciples…
“So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:26-31)
Jesus reminds them, and us, that we do have a significant task before us. It may require sacrifice for now, but there is nothing to fear. God will be with us regardless of what we face. We may not have to physically die today, but we have to be willing to die in some other way as we seek to share the Kingdom of God. Near the end of this same chapter, Matthew records the following words of Jesus…
“Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.
“Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes a prophet as a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever welcomes a righteous person as a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” (Matthew 10:38-42)
Are you willing to take up your cross? To lose your life? Jesus said that the reward for those who are willing will be something worth dying for.
shine!
Jason
“As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.” (Matthew 10:7-8)
“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. Be on your guard; you will be handed over to the local councils and be flogged in the synagogues.” (Matthew 10:16-17)
“Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 10:21-22)
But in the midst of all of these warnings and the seemingly insurmountable obstacles before them, Jesus speaks these words to those same disciples…
“So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:26-31)
Jesus reminds them, and us, that we do have a significant task before us. It may require sacrifice for now, but there is nothing to fear. God will be with us regardless of what we face. We may not have to physically die today, but we have to be willing to die in some other way as we seek to share the Kingdom of God. Near the end of this same chapter, Matthew records the following words of Jesus…
“Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.
“Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes a prophet as a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever welcomes a righteous person as a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” (Matthew 10:38-42)
Are you willing to take up your cross? To lose your life? Jesus said that the reward for those who are willing will be something worth dying for.
shine!
Jason
Sunday, October 21, 2012
We are the plan
When Jesus came to earth to reveal the Kingdom of God, he turned the world upside down. The meek shall inherit the earth. The first shall be last and the last shall be first. Blessed are those who mourn. Love your enemies. Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.
You get the idea.
But here is the amazing thing. When Jesus left the earth, he left it up to you and me to continue his work. He even said in John 14:12, “Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.”
We are called to be Christ’s ambassadors to the world. That’s the plan. There isn’t another plan. If the Kingdom of God is going to spread, it’s up to you and me.
That doesn’t mean that God will not help us. We have the Holy Spirit to lead us, teach us, and guide us. But we are necessary partners with God for his work in the world. Paul says it this way…
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:13-15)
We are the feet that bring the good news. We are the ones who others will hear. Sometimes words. Often with our lives. We are called to live lives that preach a sermon on the good news. We must join God in his work in the world.
Are you teaching others about Jesus and the Kingdom? This doesn’t mean you shove Jesus down their throat. It isn’t about guilting people. It’s about living your life in such as way that you, in the words of Jesus, “let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
shine!
Jason
You get the idea.
But here is the amazing thing. When Jesus left the earth, he left it up to you and me to continue his work. He even said in John 14:12, “Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.”
We are called to be Christ’s ambassadors to the world. That’s the plan. There isn’t another plan. If the Kingdom of God is going to spread, it’s up to you and me.
That doesn’t mean that God will not help us. We have the Holy Spirit to lead us, teach us, and guide us. But we are necessary partners with God for his work in the world. Paul says it this way…
“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” (Romans 10:13-15)
We are the feet that bring the good news. We are the ones who others will hear. Sometimes words. Often with our lives. We are called to live lives that preach a sermon on the good news. We must join God in his work in the world.
Are you teaching others about Jesus and the Kingdom? This doesn’t mean you shove Jesus down their throat. It isn’t about guilting people. It’s about living your life in such as way that you, in the words of Jesus, “let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
shine!
Jason
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Scripture and wealth
We live in an affluent society. Even many of us who think we live modestly live pretty well compared to the rest of the world. Our society and economic prosperity can often lessen our sensitivity to the words of Scripture as they speak of wealth. The apostle Paul wrote the following…
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. (1 Timothy 6:6-10)
Notice that Paul does not say that money is evil. The Bible does not teach that money and possessions are inherently bad. However, that does not mean that our material possessions are disconnected from our faith.
How we handle our finances says a lot about our faith. How we spend our money is a reflection of what we think is important. Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount that, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)
Jesus is not saying that we cannot have possessions. Rather, he is saying that our possessions cannot have us. There is nothing wrong with having money and possessions as long as they don’t come before God and His Kingdom. Placed in the proper perspective, wealth can actually be something that helps us reveal the Kingdom of God.
If we use what we have to bless others, God can work in amazing ways. James wrote, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (James 1:27)
How does the way you look at your money and possessions reflect your faith? This can be a difficult question to ask. To be honest, it’s a difficult question for me to type. I know that my life and how I look at what I have often reveals my selfishness. I often want to hold on to what I have for my own benefit or security.
I press on knowing that God is a God of grace and mercy where I fall short, but that God is also a God of judgment and holiness that calls me to strive for a way of life that fully reflects His Kingdom. As we consider what we have, let us all find comfort from God’s grace while experiencing conviction from God’s holiness. When we open ourselves to both, we will be challenged to examine our wealth and how we can use it to expand the Kingdom.
shine!
Jason
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. (1 Timothy 6:6-10)
Notice that Paul does not say that money is evil. The Bible does not teach that money and possessions are inherently bad. However, that does not mean that our material possessions are disconnected from our faith.
How we handle our finances says a lot about our faith. How we spend our money is a reflection of what we think is important. Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount that, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)
Jesus is not saying that we cannot have possessions. Rather, he is saying that our possessions cannot have us. There is nothing wrong with having money and possessions as long as they don’t come before God and His Kingdom. Placed in the proper perspective, wealth can actually be something that helps us reveal the Kingdom of God.
If we use what we have to bless others, God can work in amazing ways. James wrote, “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (James 1:27)
How does the way you look at your money and possessions reflect your faith? This can be a difficult question to ask. To be honest, it’s a difficult question for me to type. I know that my life and how I look at what I have often reveals my selfishness. I often want to hold on to what I have for my own benefit or security.
I press on knowing that God is a God of grace and mercy where I fall short, but that God is also a God of judgment and holiness that calls me to strive for a way of life that fully reflects His Kingdom. As we consider what we have, let us all find comfort from God’s grace while experiencing conviction from God’s holiness. When we open ourselves to both, we will be challenged to examine our wealth and how we can use it to expand the Kingdom.
shine!
Jason
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