"Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full." -John 16:24
These were the words I heard the Lord quietly speak to my spirit as I read His word this morning. It seemed strange to me that on the eve of Christmas I would be encouraged to ask something of Him rather than being encouraged to give. Somehow it didn't seem quite right that I should be asking for anything when He came to give everything. Then, it occurred to me that perhaps it's not all that strange that Jesus continues to desire to give of Himself, indeed He never ceases to give.
So, I thought about what I really need. With all the change my family and I have experienced over this past year I've often felt exhausted and the ability to really give from my heart, the way Jesus always did, seems to be lying dormant. That's when I realized why the Lord chose this morning, in this season, to encourage me to ask of Him. I think that what I need most right now is a renewed ability to selflessly love again. I'm tired of feeling as though I have nothing to offer others. I know this hasn't at all been true, but the exhaustion of this past extended season has taken its toll.
I've happened to watch the movie, "The Grinch" with my family several times over the past week or so, and I couldn't help thinking about a particular scene. It's near the end of the movie when the Grinch finally learns what Christmas is really about and his heart grows three sizes. This is what I desire, to have my own capacity to love others expanded far beyond what I've known before. This is what I asked of the Lord.
If the Lord were to invite you to ask something new of Him today how might you reply?
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Words of Life
Pure words are very rarely heard among the people of this world. Even while a well intended and meaning person may attempt to speak with complete truth and honesty the ability to really do so is fleeting. It is not for lack of effort or desire that this challenge exists. So many of us really want to be completely transparent, honest, and loving with one another, and at times we are. Most often I fear there remains, however small and minute, a measure perhaps of pride or insecurity, or maybe anxiety, or even selfishness. I know at least this has been true of me, but I do not think this to be an uncommon reality. Even the great writers of the Bible spoke of the need of being refined. They recognized that they were not unlike jewels and precious metals concerning purity. They often used the image of a metal worker refining silver to describe their (and our) need for refinement.
In our world today, a premium is paid for drinking water that has been purified. It is water that has gone through intricate and thorough filtration processes, sometimes repeatedly, all in an effort to extract the smallest germ, bacteria, or particle so that the water can be considered pure. These are those which mostly can only be seen through the lenses of a microscope. Yet, if they can be found, even in the smallest of numbers, the water cannot be labeled as pure. Our words are like that. They often contain ill feelings and thoughts that are veiled by the sounds actually formed by our mouths. Oh, we don't intend for this to be how it is with one another, but we cannot help what is really felt deep down, which is the reason that we so desperately need the Refiner's touch. And isn't that interesting? This Refiner of people, the One who takes us as we are and cleanses us, bringing His skilled and gentle strengthening touch is also the One well accustomed with purity.
I love the way David writes about this in the twelfth Psalm. In verse six he writes, “The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times.” While true purity of speech ever remains a challenge for people, well intended as we may be, it has never been a challenge for Jesus. His words are life giving, rich and abounding with blessing. They are filled with hope and peace. Reassurance and rest are found in them. Truth and honesty are at their core where love also abounds. They flow from His lips more pure than the highest mountain stream. There is no guile, no deceit, no insecurity or anxiety in them. They contain no pretense, no false humility, no pride or arrogance, no lie is found in them whatsoever. Evil and wickedness, all that defiles, anything untoward could never enter into His speech.
It is for the Lord's efforts alone that pure speech can be found at all, sometimes through the voices of believers, but always by His Spirit. May we cling to the words He's spoken to us, centuries ago, which saints long ago captured and wrote upon scrolls of parchment. May we embrace the words His Spirit speaks to our souls still today and may our ears ever be open to Him. And may we allow our own mouths and tongues be instruments for His pure words to flow to one another.
In our world today, a premium is paid for drinking water that has been purified. It is water that has gone through intricate and thorough filtration processes, sometimes repeatedly, all in an effort to extract the smallest germ, bacteria, or particle so that the water can be considered pure. These are those which mostly can only be seen through the lenses of a microscope. Yet, if they can be found, even in the smallest of numbers, the water cannot be labeled as pure. Our words are like that. They often contain ill feelings and thoughts that are veiled by the sounds actually formed by our mouths. Oh, we don't intend for this to be how it is with one another, but we cannot help what is really felt deep down, which is the reason that we so desperately need the Refiner's touch. And isn't that interesting? This Refiner of people, the One who takes us as we are and cleanses us, bringing His skilled and gentle strengthening touch is also the One well accustomed with purity.
I love the way David writes about this in the twelfth Psalm. In verse six he writes, “The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times.” While true purity of speech ever remains a challenge for people, well intended as we may be, it has never been a challenge for Jesus. His words are life giving, rich and abounding with blessing. They are filled with hope and peace. Reassurance and rest are found in them. Truth and honesty are at their core where love also abounds. They flow from His lips more pure than the highest mountain stream. There is no guile, no deceit, no insecurity or anxiety in them. They contain no pretense, no false humility, no pride or arrogance, no lie is found in them whatsoever. Evil and wickedness, all that defiles, anything untoward could never enter into His speech.
It is for the Lord's efforts alone that pure speech can be found at all, sometimes through the voices of believers, but always by His Spirit. May we cling to the words He's spoken to us, centuries ago, which saints long ago captured and wrote upon scrolls of parchment. May we embrace the words His Spirit speaks to our souls still today and may our ears ever be open to Him. And may we allow our own mouths and tongues be instruments for His pure words to flow to one another.
The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times.
Psalm 12:6
Saturday, September 12, 2009
A Season of Change
I listened to the minister speak of a preferred future verses God's promised future as I drove through Merced, CA the other day and I could most definitely relate. He talked about a number of major transitions in his own life, and others' lives, in which there was always a preferred future that he expected to unfold. This was an attempt at a picture and a plan to get to the place the Lord had some time earlier spoken of concerning him. However, the Lord had other ideas in mind, another plan to unfold that was necessary in order to bring him into the future He had promised rather than the one the minister preferred. He found that when he waited for the Lord to lead him through the change instead of pressing ahead with his own plans he experienced something far better, far more grace-filled, and blessed than anything he could have devised.
This morning I consider the past 11 years of my life with a different perspective than I had just 1 year ago. There have been many many changes my family and I have walked through which no doubt would have gone without God's blessing (there is a difference between provision and blessing) had we not waited upon Him. I quickly remember praying for the Lord to bring me companionship, but not just that, a bride who would honor Him first of all and would together walk with me alongside Jesus. The Lord completely blew me away when He blessed me with Charis' hand (8 years now). He promised with each of our children that He would teach me how to love them as they needed, to be the father He desired me to be. Then, there were jobs the Lord brought my way, each one I hardly felt qualified to hold. There have been very meaningful, sometimes tender, conversations which required special care and attention. All of these required in one way or another me to wait upon the Lord, sometimes just for the sake of timing, but often because of what He was doing behind the scenes. Although I believe I've understood this value of waiting upon Him I now have new appreciation for it as we seem to be experiencing it in an entirely different dimension.
It was nearly a year ago when the Lord first spoke to Charis and I about moving away from Utah and into California to connect with another church family. I immediately recognized I would need a new job, my daughter a new school, and something that has proved to be the hardest part of all. We would be leaving the most precious church family we'd ever known. Some of the dearest people in the world to us, and closest friends, would of course remain there while we set out for some place unknown to us then. Yet, we knew with certainty what the Lord had spoken, so unmistakable was His message to us. We began to prepare ourselves as well as we could for the eventual transition. However it would be about another 3 months before we were sure of the place God was leading us. In January we drove out to Bakersfield, CA, as it seemed this was where He had in mind for us. By the time we left there, after attending several services and spending time with some of the folks from this new church, we knew this place would eventually be our new home.
It was both a great relief to actually know where we'd be moving to as well as a deep sadness because it represented a further assurance that we would indeed be leaving the place we had called home for so long. For whatever reason I had expected everything to move very quickly after that visit. However, it felt like anything but quick. First, we tried selling our house on our own. After 3 months of trying this, and without anyone coming to see it, we finally decided to call our friend Mitch, and have it listed. After about 2 months, and 6 or 7 showings, we finally had an agreed upon offer.
Still, there was still the matter of finding a job. I had done numerous job searches but could find very little in or near Bakersfield, in my line of work. Somewhere around March a couple of folks talked to me about the possibility of working from home and with 1 of the businesses who are a part of the organization I supported. This sounded like a great idea and after talking it over with my wife, and praying about it, I told them I'd be interested if such a possibility presented itself. Well, it would be about 3-4 months before there was anything concrete. In the meantime I had taken a voluntary demotion so that my replacement could be trained. Then, as we approached our closing date on the sale of our home the job finally came through. Whew, talk about last minute!
When the dust finally settled (for the most part) we had landed in Merced (about 2.5 hours north of Bakersfield) so that we could be near to some very close family here while we began looking for homes down the road. We had determined several weeks earlier that we would home-school our little girl for now and through the moving out/in process we crazily figured it was the right time to start. There were definitely a few bumps early on, but we felt this was the route the Lord wanted us to take for her schooling, at least for now, so we persisted. Thankfully, a few weeks into Charis and Caitrin have begun to hit a groove.
Some of our dust will continue settling for sometime now I'm sure, especially considering we haven't made it all the way to Bakersfield just yet. However, the Lord has been abundantly gracious to us. Even in the midst of all this change, our lives truly feeling uprooted, He has continued to work things out for us in such a way that has become increasingly clear that our waiting upon Him has been very important. Early on in this process He spoke to me a passage from Psalm 37. He told me to "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him". I continued to speak this to me throughout the entire process, and each time there was a sense that He wanted to do something within me.
So, while I couldn't control the pour housing market, the lack of jobs, or simply the difficult timing of it all I could do one thing. I could repeatedly yield myself to His plans and his timing. This I've chosen to do and will continue to. While He's worked out some very cool things for us in terms of practical needs, the most valuable things have been the changes I've sensed within. This has also been some of the hardest change, as it's required the depleting of my pride and selfishness and stretch my faith, and then stretched it some more.
Still, I will continue to be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him. For, as the minister spoke of a preferred future verses God's promised future while I drove through Merced I knew exactly what He was talking about.
This morning I consider the past 11 years of my life with a different perspective than I had just 1 year ago. There have been many many changes my family and I have walked through which no doubt would have gone without God's blessing (there is a difference between provision and blessing) had we not waited upon Him. I quickly remember praying for the Lord to bring me companionship, but not just that, a bride who would honor Him first of all and would together walk with me alongside Jesus. The Lord completely blew me away when He blessed me with Charis' hand (8 years now). He promised with each of our children that He would teach me how to love them as they needed, to be the father He desired me to be. Then, there were jobs the Lord brought my way, each one I hardly felt qualified to hold. There have been very meaningful, sometimes tender, conversations which required special care and attention. All of these required in one way or another me to wait upon the Lord, sometimes just for the sake of timing, but often because of what He was doing behind the scenes. Although I believe I've understood this value of waiting upon Him I now have new appreciation for it as we seem to be experiencing it in an entirely different dimension.
It was nearly a year ago when the Lord first spoke to Charis and I about moving away from Utah and into California to connect with another church family. I immediately recognized I would need a new job, my daughter a new school, and something that has proved to be the hardest part of all. We would be leaving the most precious church family we'd ever known. Some of the dearest people in the world to us, and closest friends, would of course remain there while we set out for some place unknown to us then. Yet, we knew with certainty what the Lord had spoken, so unmistakable was His message to us. We began to prepare ourselves as well as we could for the eventual transition. However it would be about another 3 months before we were sure of the place God was leading us. In January we drove out to Bakersfield, CA, as it seemed this was where He had in mind for us. By the time we left there, after attending several services and spending time with some of the folks from this new church, we knew this place would eventually be our new home.
It was both a great relief to actually know where we'd be moving to as well as a deep sadness because it represented a further assurance that we would indeed be leaving the place we had called home for so long. For whatever reason I had expected everything to move very quickly after that visit. However, it felt like anything but quick. First, we tried selling our house on our own. After 3 months of trying this, and without anyone coming to see it, we finally decided to call our friend Mitch, and have it listed. After about 2 months, and 6 or 7 showings, we finally had an agreed upon offer.
Still, there was still the matter of finding a job. I had done numerous job searches but could find very little in or near Bakersfield, in my line of work. Somewhere around March a couple of folks talked to me about the possibility of working from home and with 1 of the businesses who are a part of the organization I supported. This sounded like a great idea and after talking it over with my wife, and praying about it, I told them I'd be interested if such a possibility presented itself. Well, it would be about 3-4 months before there was anything concrete. In the meantime I had taken a voluntary demotion so that my replacement could be trained. Then, as we approached our closing date on the sale of our home the job finally came through. Whew, talk about last minute!
When the dust finally settled (for the most part) we had landed in Merced (about 2.5 hours north of Bakersfield) so that we could be near to some very close family here while we began looking for homes down the road. We had determined several weeks earlier that we would home-school our little girl for now and through the moving out/in process we crazily figured it was the right time to start. There were definitely a few bumps early on, but we felt this was the route the Lord wanted us to take for her schooling, at least for now, so we persisted. Thankfully, a few weeks into Charis and Caitrin have begun to hit a groove.
Some of our dust will continue settling for sometime now I'm sure, especially considering we haven't made it all the way to Bakersfield just yet. However, the Lord has been abundantly gracious to us. Even in the midst of all this change, our lives truly feeling uprooted, He has continued to work things out for us in such a way that has become increasingly clear that our waiting upon Him has been very important. Early on in this process He spoke to me a passage from Psalm 37. He told me to "Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him". I continued to speak this to me throughout the entire process, and each time there was a sense that He wanted to do something within me.
So, while I couldn't control the pour housing market, the lack of jobs, or simply the difficult timing of it all I could do one thing. I could repeatedly yield myself to His plans and his timing. This I've chosen to do and will continue to. While He's worked out some very cool things for us in terms of practical needs, the most valuable things have been the changes I've sensed within. This has also been some of the hardest change, as it's required the depleting of my pride and selfishness and stretch my faith, and then stretched it some more.
Still, I will continue to be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him. For, as the minister spoke of a preferred future verses God's promised future while I drove through Merced I knew exactly what He was talking about.
He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn,
your vindication like the noonday sun.
Be still before the Lord,
and wait patiently for him
Psalm 37:6-7a
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Two Shepherds
For six weeks I watched a beautiful transformation take place and the Lord allowed me a place of honor, up close, taking it all in. No picture captures it more perfectly than one particular scene from Pastor Mark and Cheryl’s sending off party.
Much of the evening had been spent honoring the two of them, but this one portion epitomizes both Pastor Mark’s and Pastor Robert’s heart. They were both welcomed up front, fittingly to the altar, along with our longest active member and a very dear friend, Ginny Dominquez. She first stood before Mark, with a shepherd’s staff in her hands, a symbol of how faithful, tenderly, and lovingly he had served this family of believers for 15 years. She spoke to him about the way he’d lived out these virtues before us and how thankful we’ve been for his care. The staff was then extended to him and embraced before being offered back to Ginny and then transferred to Robert. Words of welcome, holy expectation, and trust were offered to him, believing God had brought about this change, this transition of shepherds over a flock. Robert then also embraced the staff and humbly accepted the responsibility. Tears were in his eyes and gratitude was on his lips for Mark, who’d walked so close beside him these last six weeks, and for the Lord’s call and for the family welcoming.
It was simply the most beautiful and emotional transfer of leadership I’ve ever witnessed, rote with care and concern for one another, mutual respect and true brotherhood. Yet, it was not a scene which unfolded in that moment alone. For those six weeks (the first two of these occurring before either of them knew what would transpire) I watched and walked near them. There were many early morning meetings, at Starbucks of course, which really centered in their heart-filled exchange about our church family, listening together to what the Lord was saying. There was perhaps the most wonderful family camp we’ve ever held. At one point Mark and Cheryl were prayed for by the entire church (a moment I sadly missed). There were times of concerned conversations for each other and those they had been called to care for. I watched as they both served each other in prayer, counsel, and even in work. All along they were of one heart, mind, and spirit.
They walked together so well through this transition, as dual shepherds of a single flock because God had graced them and because they were both set upon loving God with all they had and loving others well. Yes indeed, I had a very privileged place of honor near them both as they walked along. However, it was not my privilege alone. This journey, taken by two shepherds was not done in private, as though isolated from those they cared for. It was walked out in front them, lived out free of pride or shame, or any other ill thing. It was walked out openly because it was ordained of the Lord, and those of us a part of this church family can all attest to the privilege of witnessing the beauty of their six week journey together. Thank you Pastors Mark and Robert for giving us such an example.
Much of the evening had been spent honoring the two of them, but this one portion epitomizes both Pastor Mark’s and Pastor Robert’s heart. They were both welcomed up front, fittingly to the altar, along with our longest active member and a very dear friend, Ginny Dominquez. She first stood before Mark, with a shepherd’s staff in her hands, a symbol of how faithful, tenderly, and lovingly he had served this family of believers for 15 years. She spoke to him about the way he’d lived out these virtues before us and how thankful we’ve been for his care. The staff was then extended to him and embraced before being offered back to Ginny and then transferred to Robert. Words of welcome, holy expectation, and trust were offered to him, believing God had brought about this change, this transition of shepherds over a flock. Robert then also embraced the staff and humbly accepted the responsibility. Tears were in his eyes and gratitude was on his lips for Mark, who’d walked so close beside him these last six weeks, and for the Lord’s call and for the family welcoming.
It was simply the most beautiful and emotional transfer of leadership I’ve ever witnessed, rote with care and concern for one another, mutual respect and true brotherhood. Yet, it was not a scene which unfolded in that moment alone. For those six weeks (the first two of these occurring before either of them knew what would transpire) I watched and walked near them. There were many early morning meetings, at Starbucks of course, which really centered in their heart-filled exchange about our church family, listening together to what the Lord was saying. There was perhaps the most wonderful family camp we’ve ever held. At one point Mark and Cheryl were prayed for by the entire church (a moment I sadly missed). There were times of concerned conversations for each other and those they had been called to care for. I watched as they both served each other in prayer, counsel, and even in work. All along they were of one heart, mind, and spirit.
They walked together so well through this transition, as dual shepherds of a single flock because God had graced them and because they were both set upon loving God with all they had and loving others well. Yes indeed, I had a very privileged place of honor near them both as they walked along. However, it was not my privilege alone. This journey, taken by two shepherds was not done in private, as though isolated from those they cared for. It was walked out in front them, lived out free of pride or shame, or any other ill thing. It was walked out openly because it was ordained of the Lord, and those of us a part of this church family can all attest to the privilege of witnessing the beauty of their six week journey together. Thank you Pastors Mark and Robert for giving us such an example.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Soul Revolution
"For to me to live is Christ, to die is gain"
-Apostle Paul
While this is a truly revolutionary thought I've read these words many many times, yet today they are illuminated in my soul with the light of Holy Spirit revelation, like a torch burning in a dark night. To read this chapter (Philippians 1) quickly might likely cause some to think of Paul as a braggart. He seems full of himself if you don't listen closely. On the other hand, when you take your time and allow God to lead you, even quietly whispering to you as you read, you instead find something else all together. Paul speaks to those people, the Church at Philippi, with a deep and profound love and from a heart of compassion for them. He writes to them with concern, as they are beginning to endure persecution for believing.
Paul knew a little something about persecution. Since turning Christ and choosing to serve him he endured nearly constant suffering. So he begins to share with them what he's learned. I don't believe his intent is to speak of how great he is either. On several occasions he freely speak of his own weaknesses and inability to follow Christ as well as he would like (in others of his letters). Furthermore, he writes this letter as a prisoner of Rome. No, he is most certainly not writing as an arrogant and proud man. He is purposing to show them how to endure their challenges with victory and peace.
And so we come back to this statement, "For to me to live is Christ, to die is gain." In other words, "Friends, it is of no concern whatsoever to me what happens to this physical body. My life is not mine anyway. It has been given to Christ and so if I go on living it is really Him living through me. If I do not, well this I am also unafraid of, in fact I embrace this because it means I will be home with my Daddy, my Abba, my Savior, and those friends and believers who before me. I will be before the throne of the King of all creation." Sure, that's a lot to infer from this one statement, however I really do believe this is the thrust of the overall passage. And as I considered these ideas underlying the message Paul was communicating to these beloved friends that's when I was struck with a deep sense of awe as well as conviction.
As a I said before I believe Paul was writing to honor and glorify God rather than anything in himself. Yet, when I attempted to apply them to my own life they didn't seem to fit. I am far too often moved by fear. There remains too much in the way of pride in me. While others may not see it I know it's there for I can sense it and feel it. Quite simply there remains too much of self in me to write the kinds of words Paul wrote with any honesty or sincerity. Still, that is exactly what I desire, to be able to declare to those in desperation, those in need, those longing for answers from God, that "I too have struggled and endured hardship but not lost hope because my life is bound to Christ. If I live on, whether in hardship or comfort, it is "Christ who lives in me. And if I die whether in the midst of trial or beyond it will be of great gain to me."
Oh Lord, I pray You so transform my life that if I were to say the kinds of things Paul declared they would not only be true but would minister to and encourage others the same way You have encouraged and challenged me today through the words of Your servant Paul. In Jesus name I pray...Amen.
-Apostle Paul
While this is a truly revolutionary thought I've read these words many many times, yet today they are illuminated in my soul with the light of Holy Spirit revelation, like a torch burning in a dark night. To read this chapter (Philippians 1) quickly might likely cause some to think of Paul as a braggart. He seems full of himself if you don't listen closely. On the other hand, when you take your time and allow God to lead you, even quietly whispering to you as you read, you instead find something else all together. Paul speaks to those people, the Church at Philippi, with a deep and profound love and from a heart of compassion for them. He writes to them with concern, as they are beginning to endure persecution for believing.
Paul knew a little something about persecution. Since turning Christ and choosing to serve him he endured nearly constant suffering. So he begins to share with them what he's learned. I don't believe his intent is to speak of how great he is either. On several occasions he freely speak of his own weaknesses and inability to follow Christ as well as he would like (in others of his letters). Furthermore, he writes this letter as a prisoner of Rome. No, he is most certainly not writing as an arrogant and proud man. He is purposing to show them how to endure their challenges with victory and peace.
And so we come back to this statement, "For to me to live is Christ, to die is gain." In other words, "Friends, it is of no concern whatsoever to me what happens to this physical body. My life is not mine anyway. It has been given to Christ and so if I go on living it is really Him living through me. If I do not, well this I am also unafraid of, in fact I embrace this because it means I will be home with my Daddy, my Abba, my Savior, and those friends and believers who before me. I will be before the throne of the King of all creation." Sure, that's a lot to infer from this one statement, however I really do believe this is the thrust of the overall passage. And as I considered these ideas underlying the message Paul was communicating to these beloved friends that's when I was struck with a deep sense of awe as well as conviction.
As a I said before I believe Paul was writing to honor and glorify God rather than anything in himself. Yet, when I attempted to apply them to my own life they didn't seem to fit. I am far too often moved by fear. There remains too much in the way of pride in me. While others may not see it I know it's there for I can sense it and feel it. Quite simply there remains too much of self in me to write the kinds of words Paul wrote with any honesty or sincerity. Still, that is exactly what I desire, to be able to declare to those in desperation, those in need, those longing for answers from God, that "I too have struggled and endured hardship but not lost hope because my life is bound to Christ. If I live on, whether in hardship or comfort, it is "Christ who lives in me. And if I die whether in the midst of trial or beyond it will be of great gain to me."
Oh Lord, I pray You so transform my life that if I were to say the kinds of things Paul declared they would not only be true but would minister to and encourage others the same way You have encouraged and challenged me today through the words of Your servant Paul. In Jesus name I pray...Amen.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Turning Again
Why can't I seem to keep from planning my own way?
The Lord says to keep going straight, or maybe just to wait,
but I still seem to drift and wander astray.
There's a pride that dwells inside me
from which I can't seem to escape
It speaks so subtly but grips me just the same
Deliver me from the enemy I can never see
the one that never seems to leave
Set me free from the binding cords of self oh God
Now with eyes set upon glory so true
My ears bent toward the clear call of grace
Now will I turn and run again after You
The Lord says to keep going straight, or maybe just to wait,
but I still seem to drift and wander astray.
There's a pride that dwells inside me
from which I can't seem to escape
It speaks so subtly but grips me just the same
Deliver me from the enemy I can never see
the one that never seems to leave
Set me free from the binding cords of self oh God
Now with eyes set upon glory so true
My ears bent toward the clear call of grace
Now will I turn and run again after You
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Simple Profound Love
I heard these words today as I attended the Men's IGNITE conference in Layton, Utah. They were words spoken to a man who was in desperate need of a word from His heavenly Daddy. He'd gone away for a weekend in search of solitude, but more importantly a profound sense of a personal word of God to Him. Instead, what He heard the Lord speak was so basic and simple that he felt tempted to dismiss it, or put his own spin on it. Thankfully he did not, and as he began to share it with others he realized it was a simple AND profound message which the Lord wants many to hear. For some it comes as a much needed reminder of how God truly feels about and cares for us. For others it may be the most revolutionary idea they've never before heard, but always needed to receive.
These words truly ministered to me today and I pray they do you as well.
These words truly ministered to me today and I pray they do you as well.
I love you ____(insert your name here).
My plans are good.
Stay close to me.
~Vince D'Acchioli
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Chasing Trust
I love my dog. His name is Chase and he's a half-yellow lab, half pit bull, mix who's as energetic and loving as any dog I've ever seen. Although I would never trade him for any other four footed beast some of his habits can really gnaw on me. One of these is his unbending propensity to search out every last stray stick, or simply low hanging branch, in the back yard and upon finding the softest thickest part of the lawn to lay down and proceed to shred them to pieces. After he's through I've got the perfect place for yet another fire pit (okay, so perhaps I'm exaggerating a little, but not much).
Somehow though, this tale wagging friend of mine taught me a very valuable lesson while in the midst of one of his lumber consuming tirades. You see I had been struggling off and on for at least weeks with trusting God to accomplish something He'd spoken to me. I never questioned the content of His direction to me, or even the reasons, simply the timing. As it turns out the timing isn't that simple after all. I'd felt fairly certain about the time frame I thought things would be worked out in. Yet, the date on the calendar has steadily approached with no sign of the change I've been awaiting. All along I've heard the Lord whispering to me to remain patient and to continue trusting Him.
Still the effort to "help God out" with the details has seemed truly necessary at times. Of course it really wasn't, but hadn't I patiently waited the prescribed time already? I mean really, I've watched those calendar pages change a few too many times already. So clearly it's time for action. The more focused I became on the specific time frame of this thing being accomplished the more my peace and joy were stripped from me just like the shreds of bark in Chase's teeth. I really do think it was about the time I saw him doing this one afternoon and it was as if God whispered to me, "You haven't really been trusting me at all, have you? The more anxious you've become the more you've allowed yourself to be chewed on and your peace is devoured. No, you need to be like one of those trees back there. They're firmly rooted and their branches extend covering nearly your entire yard. But they didn't start that way did they. It took time. Trust me."
I don't know about you but I don't want to live in a way that finds me constantly chasing the ideal of trust. I would much rather live in trust of Him who is utterly and completely trustworthy.
Have you been living day to day with peace, or is anxiety more prevalent? Would you prefer to be like the sticks in my backyard sought by my dog, or would you rather by like the trees firmly rooted and flourishing? Truly trusting Jesus, daily and with everything, can alone bring you the peace your soul needs.
Somehow though, this tale wagging friend of mine taught me a very valuable lesson while in the midst of one of his lumber consuming tirades. You see I had been struggling off and on for at least weeks with trusting God to accomplish something He'd spoken to me. I never questioned the content of His direction to me, or even the reasons, simply the timing. As it turns out the timing isn't that simple after all. I'd felt fairly certain about the time frame I thought things would be worked out in. Yet, the date on the calendar has steadily approached with no sign of the change I've been awaiting. All along I've heard the Lord whispering to me to remain patient and to continue trusting Him.
Still the effort to "help God out" with the details has seemed truly necessary at times. Of course it really wasn't, but hadn't I patiently waited the prescribed time already? I mean really, I've watched those calendar pages change a few too many times already. So clearly it's time for action. The more focused I became on the specific time frame of this thing being accomplished the more my peace and joy were stripped from me just like the shreds of bark in Chase's teeth. I really do think it was about the time I saw him doing this one afternoon and it was as if God whispered to me, "You haven't really been trusting me at all, have you? The more anxious you've become the more you've allowed yourself to be chewed on and your peace is devoured. No, you need to be like one of those trees back there. They're firmly rooted and their branches extend covering nearly your entire yard. But they didn't start that way did they. It took time. Trust me."
I don't know about you but I don't want to live in a way that finds me constantly chasing the ideal of trust. I would much rather live in trust of Him who is utterly and completely trustworthy.
Have you been living day to day with peace, or is anxiety more prevalent? Would you prefer to be like the sticks in my backyard sought by my dog, or would you rather by like the trees firmly rooted and flourishing? Truly trusting Jesus, daily and with everything, can alone bring you the peace your soul needs.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Waiting at the Bus Stop
Do you ever feel as though a particular situation in life has you waiting at a bus stop? You know the route you need to take to make it where you're going, as well as the bus number. You may have even had the route verified by a veteran of the city bus system, a seasoned bus-riding pro if you will. Maybe you've even gone straight to the source and gotten your route mapped out from the Real Bus Authority at the downtown office. Yet, still you find yourself sitting there waiting for the bus to arrive.
While it's true that the bus you're waiting for operates on a very specific schedule, it just may have had to take a construction detour, gotten a flat tire, or any number of other possibilities which only causes the delay you are now forced to deal with. Well, this bus stop is exactly where I seem to find myself today. I know where it is I need to go and perhaps even how to get there and I think I know when my bus is supposed to arrive. The problem is that as the scheduled arrival time seems to be approaching I still don't recognize any sign of my bus...And, well, you see, my bus stop is near the end of a long road which means I ought to be able to see it coming from a ways away. Yet, still I wait.
The waiting wouldn't be quite so bad if that old bus riding veteran were waiting with me. I'm sure he'd be able to provide some reassurance about the bus, or maybe he knows why it so long in coming. Unfortunately though, he seems to have caught an earlier bus this time around and so I must wait alone...or at least it seems. Of course I know the Great Bus Driver above is near enough to see me and hear me, but I sometimes struggle to do the same.
...At least that's how it feels right now.
While it's true that the bus you're waiting for operates on a very specific schedule, it just may have had to take a construction detour, gotten a flat tire, or any number of other possibilities which only causes the delay you are now forced to deal with. Well, this bus stop is exactly where I seem to find myself today. I know where it is I need to go and perhaps even how to get there and I think I know when my bus is supposed to arrive. The problem is that as the scheduled arrival time seems to be approaching I still don't recognize any sign of my bus...And, well, you see, my bus stop is near the end of a long road which means I ought to be able to see it coming from a ways away. Yet, still I wait.
The waiting wouldn't be quite so bad if that old bus riding veteran were waiting with me. I'm sure he'd be able to provide some reassurance about the bus, or maybe he knows why it so long in coming. Unfortunately though, he seems to have caught an earlier bus this time around and so I must wait alone...or at least it seems. Of course I know the Great Bus Driver above is near enough to see me and hear me, but I sometimes struggle to do the same.
...At least that's how it feels right now.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Should we live united?
A particular commercial has been frequenting my television of late. The message is one which I think appeals to many people and calls them to "live united". It draws upon that part of every person that truly wants to help others. However, the simple phrase repeatedly employed caused me to pause and think about how united I really should be with others. To be fair I have no problem with the motivation in mind for the owner of the ad. I simply think that unity is one of those ideals that requires caution.
As a Christian believer I definitely would not want to unite with a group of people who hated Jesus. The question here is not whether I should love them, of course I should. Instead should I be so joined with them that I think, believe, and even live as they do? Obviously, to do so would cause me to abandon what I believe and who I live for. However, to be united with others for the wrong sort of cause would call for this very decision.
Oftentimes the values of a group of people are not perfectly clear. While they may seem to embrace worthy ideals there can be very hurtful motives behind them. It is therefore of tremendous importance to truly know who and what it is you are uniting with.
If it's your desire to follow Christ, as it is mine, then let me encourage you to exercise great caution with what you choose to embrace. Ultimately, if it does not bring Jesus honor then the question of unity should be no question at all.
As a Christian believer I definitely would not want to unite with a group of people who hated Jesus. The question here is not whether I should love them, of course I should. Instead should I be so joined with them that I think, believe, and even live as they do? Obviously, to do so would cause me to abandon what I believe and who I live for. However, to be united with others for the wrong sort of cause would call for this very decision.
Oftentimes the values of a group of people are not perfectly clear. While they may seem to embrace worthy ideals there can be very hurtful motives behind them. It is therefore of tremendous importance to truly know who and what it is you are uniting with.
If it's your desire to follow Christ, as it is mine, then let me encourage you to exercise great caution with what you choose to embrace. Ultimately, if it does not bring Jesus honor then the question of unity should be no question at all.
Friday, March 27, 2009
The Love of the Father
Every now and then I hear a song on the radio that somehow says exactly the message that is somewhere inside me. It's not necessarily one that's been carefully prepared for any particular person, but it dwells there just the same. Though I may not always be actively thinking of it, the thoughts and feelings remain. They rest there like an underground aquafur waiting only to be drawn out by some thirsty hands by way of a well and the working of a pump. This seems to be happening to me lately nearly every time I hear the song "Finally Home", by Mercy Me. I've now heard it enough times so that the first few strums have barely struck the guitar before I feel as though I'm the one primed. Then, as the first several lyrics land upon my ears I'm quickly reminded of a desire I believe God has placed deep within me.
The song begins, "I’m gonna wrap my arms around my daddy’s neck and tell him that i’ve missed him and tell him all about the man that i became and hope that it pleased him." As I heard this the other day I was struck by the depth of this message and surprised by how it affected me. I began to think of how greatly I long to stare into the face of my Heavenly Daddy and indeed do the very things the song spoke of. The song continued to play and draw out the reason for this longing. Having been made in the image of God and being called by Him as his son (thanks to Jesus) this longing is something which He's placed within me, and I believe all of His believers, to ever draw us toward Him. However, I realized there was more behind this longing for me. Much of it has to do, I think, with the desire I've had since I was a small boy to please my dad and to be close to him, however never really being able to achieve this. We both have blame to share for this failure and I love him dearly, yet somehow my unfullfilled longing as a little boy remains. I thank God that He has throughout His word shown me many times over that He desires to fulfill every desire deposited in me by His hand. So, I've learned to look to Him as my true Father in Heaven, the One I am really made to glorify, to bring honor to...to please.
Still, the song played on while these things were going through my mind and then others also entered my thoughts. I considered the fact that many people, even believers, have a terribly challenging time relating to God as a loving and caring father. For them it may not be so simple a matter of not having the relationship with their dads which they desired and needed. Instead, they may have been terribly hurt, abused, or even betrayed by the very person who is supposed to be their greatest earthly source of strength, defense, provision, and shelter. How in the world is such a person supposed to then be able to look upon God as a father? For to do so evokes feelings of great pain and conjures images which should never have to be etched in one's memory to begin with. For them, the idea of a Heavenly Father is a truly terrible thought inflicting a new wound every time it's considered. Even if they know and believe the truth in God's word about Him feelings of Him being the opposite may seem inescapable.
If any of you reading this feel that such a description could be yours may I offer that such pain and brutal memories are not lost upon the Lord. He too is deeply wounded by the things you've had to endure and indeed wants to bring you healing. I would not attempt to try and offer any explanation or reason for the pain which you've walked with for so long. The best I can personally offer is my own experience to you. Somehow, God overcome the hurt and pain that had gripped my own life and revealed Himself to me as the loving and caring Father He had always been, but which I had not before recognized.
Dear Friends, in spite of the hurt and pain which you may have known God wants you to know how desperately in love with you He really is. While others have inflicted wounds within you, even broken sacred trusts, He never will. He truly wants to embrace you as His own, and offer you His strength and defense, His provision and shelter. His desire for you is so great that He even gave His own life to prove it.
As this entry ends let me encourage you to consider these words of Moses to the Israelites as words meant for you...
The song begins, "I’m gonna wrap my arms around my daddy’s neck and tell him that i’ve missed him and tell him all about the man that i became and hope that it pleased him." As I heard this the other day I was struck by the depth of this message and surprised by how it affected me. I began to think of how greatly I long to stare into the face of my Heavenly Daddy and indeed do the very things the song spoke of. The song continued to play and draw out the reason for this longing. Having been made in the image of God and being called by Him as his son (thanks to Jesus) this longing is something which He's placed within me, and I believe all of His believers, to ever draw us toward Him. However, I realized there was more behind this longing for me. Much of it has to do, I think, with the desire I've had since I was a small boy to please my dad and to be close to him, however never really being able to achieve this. We both have blame to share for this failure and I love him dearly, yet somehow my unfullfilled longing as a little boy remains. I thank God that He has throughout His word shown me many times over that He desires to fulfill every desire deposited in me by His hand. So, I've learned to look to Him as my true Father in Heaven, the One I am really made to glorify, to bring honor to...to please.
Still, the song played on while these things were going through my mind and then others also entered my thoughts. I considered the fact that many people, even believers, have a terribly challenging time relating to God as a loving and caring father. For them it may not be so simple a matter of not having the relationship with their dads which they desired and needed. Instead, they may have been terribly hurt, abused, or even betrayed by the very person who is supposed to be their greatest earthly source of strength, defense, provision, and shelter. How in the world is such a person supposed to then be able to look upon God as a father? For to do so evokes feelings of great pain and conjures images which should never have to be etched in one's memory to begin with. For them, the idea of a Heavenly Father is a truly terrible thought inflicting a new wound every time it's considered. Even if they know and believe the truth in God's word about Him feelings of Him being the opposite may seem inescapable.
If any of you reading this feel that such a description could be yours may I offer that such pain and brutal memories are not lost upon the Lord. He too is deeply wounded by the things you've had to endure and indeed wants to bring you healing. I would not attempt to try and offer any explanation or reason for the pain which you've walked with for so long. The best I can personally offer is my own experience to you. Somehow, God overcome the hurt and pain that had gripped my own life and revealed Himself to me as the loving and caring Father He had always been, but which I had not before recognized.
Dear Friends, in spite of the hurt and pain which you may have known God wants you to know how desperately in love with you He really is. While others have inflicted wounds within you, even broken sacred trusts, He never will. He truly wants to embrace you as His own, and offer you His strength and defense, His provision and shelter. His desire for you is so great that He even gave His own life to prove it.
As this entry ends let me encourage you to consider these words of Moses to the Israelites as words meant for you...
The Lord your God, who is going before you, will fight for you as he did in Egypt, before your very eyes, and in the wilderness. There you saw how the Lord your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way until you reached this place. ~ Deuteronomy 1:29b-31
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Too Focused?...On Me?
However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.
Acts 20:24
Acts 20:24
I have often considered, meditated upon, and even quoted verses such as these wanting them to be true of me. In some ways there may be indications of such selflessness and true Christ-centered and focused living in me, but not to the extent that I could speak these words of Paul as though my own. All too often I can find myself sitting beside, or standing near, a person who may be in need of Jesus. Who isn’t? Then, the Lord whispers to me to at least pause from whatever I’m doing. When this happens I know what’s about to come next.
“Tell them, such and such”.
“Are you sure you don’t just want me to pray for them Lord? Because that I can do, no problem.”
Then, before I know it the moment is gone. This happened, I fear, just yesterday evening. I was waiting at the airport for my flight arrive and reading an excellent book about God’s desire for the Jewish people when the Lord told me to put it down for a moment and being praying for the person seated next to me. So, I figured that was easy enough, and began to do just that. I was expecting the Lord to then give me some further direction, but it never happened. I prayed for about a minute and then figured it was time to read again, it is a really good book after all. Oh, I did pause again later to chat with him about the boarding delays of our flights, but I knew it was not the conversation we were supposed to have.
It’s situations like this that occur more often than I’d like to admit which cause me to realize I am still far too me-focused. I worry too much about having exactly the right words or what the other person may think of me. I suppose the same thing could be true of the person who doesn’t have such inhibition but may instead be somewhat impressed by their own words. However, that’s not usually my challenge. No, I’m typically too conscious of how I might be perceived and before I know it another opportunity to glorify Jesus and help another person consider Him is gone. Clearly, I cannot proclaim Paul’s words as my own, but one day I hope to, or at least be able to say something similar and it be true of me.
Oh lord, forgive me for being so concerned with me. It seems the destruction of selfish tendencies is an ever continuing challenge. I truly want to be a man given over to Your plans and purposes so that You could somehow be honored by the way I live and speak. All too often it seems I fall short of this goal, but I continue on toward it anyway. I pray that You would continue to shape me, day by day. May You be glorified in me Jesus. Amen.
“Tell them, such and such”.
“Are you sure you don’t just want me to pray for them Lord? Because that I can do, no problem.”
Then, before I know it the moment is gone. This happened, I fear, just yesterday evening. I was waiting at the airport for my flight arrive and reading an excellent book about God’s desire for the Jewish people when the Lord told me to put it down for a moment and being praying for the person seated next to me. So, I figured that was easy enough, and began to do just that. I was expecting the Lord to then give me some further direction, but it never happened. I prayed for about a minute and then figured it was time to read again, it is a really good book after all. Oh, I did pause again later to chat with him about the boarding delays of our flights, but I knew it was not the conversation we were supposed to have.
It’s situations like this that occur more often than I’d like to admit which cause me to realize I am still far too me-focused. I worry too much about having exactly the right words or what the other person may think of me. I suppose the same thing could be true of the person who doesn’t have such inhibition but may instead be somewhat impressed by their own words. However, that’s not usually my challenge. No, I’m typically too conscious of how I might be perceived and before I know it another opportunity to glorify Jesus and help another person consider Him is gone. Clearly, I cannot proclaim Paul’s words as my own, but one day I hope to, or at least be able to say something similar and it be true of me.
Oh lord, forgive me for being so concerned with me. It seems the destruction of selfish tendencies is an ever continuing challenge. I truly want to be a man given over to Your plans and purposes so that You could somehow be honored by the way I live and speak. All too often it seems I fall short of this goal, but I continue on toward it anyway. I pray that You would continue to shape me, day by day. May You be glorified in me Jesus. Amen.
Friday, February 13, 2009
The Hard Reality of Change
This I have observed in my very near to be 30 years of life, change is inevitable. Some changes we may hope for and expectantly await upon for many years. We look forward to them and upon their arrival we can be quite eager to embrace them. They may come in the form of the fulfillment of long awaited desires, the holding of a longed for loved one, or the freeing from an unwanted sickness or burden. Oh how we can be lifted from many nights, or even years, of searching on our knees for answers to our longings when the season of hoped for change arrives.
However, some changes we do not look forward to. We would more readily run from them rather than to them. To reject them would make infinitely more sense to us than to hold our arms open to them. Still, while we may never offer to hold them close we often are not given the opportunity to resist them either. Instead of being freed from a burden or sickness perhaps it seems more likely that one has fallen upon us. Instead of the embrace of a loved one there may be the bitterest of distance. Or, instead of the fulfillment of our desires perhaps we might hear the sound of a suddenly closed door.
It's likely that both kinds of change resonate within us. We have experienced them both, and have had enough taste of the latter that we quickly recognize 
we do not want to endure such kinds of transitions. Yet, the reality is that we likely will. The question for those of us navigating this harsh terrain both now and in those undesired seasons to come is how. How will we traverse the road that seems forced upon us? Or, better yet, with whom will we travel?
Sometimes it can seem that no one could understand the pain of our experiences or the difficulty we face. We may suffer from confusion or even resentment as we struggle to understand why our struggle has come and why it persists. This seems to be especially true when the change is one that feels as though it will alter your whole life. I have felt this, and at times even in the season I currently live. When I do I question what the Lord has in store, why His goodness may seem so long in coming, or why I am even made to endure the challenge at all. It's not been my intent to be irreverent toward Him, simply an honest wondering and an attempt to understand what He is working for me.
As I read my Bible this morning I was confronted with two very difficult changes felt by two individuals with two very different responses. I saw how Moses struggled to understand how God could call him to lead his people out of captivity and yet his efforts to do so only resulted in making conditions for them worse. I also saw Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane as he suffered with the reality that He soon would give His life for all mankind and He knew it would be brutal to His body as well as His soul. Moses painfully questioned how God could allow his people to suffer more after he had done what the Lord directed him to do. Jesus, desired not to endure his pain and suffering but willingly offered to do just what God the Father had ordained. In both circumstances God was eventually and supremely glorified. Most of us can more closely relate to the response of Moses. However, only in Jesus do we have someone who has known our every challenge, and through His cross not only relates to the very pain we feel day to day or year to year, but also wants to lead us through it.
While there may be those that we can look to for support and encouragement in our challenging times, especially through change Jesus is truly the only one with the ability to lead us through. May we then look to Him, and if we must wait upon Him to move the mountain before us let us wait upon Him indeed for it is that very mountain He longs to move for you and I.
"Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done."
Luke 22:42
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Saltwater For Her Soul
I was only 8 years old when I began to recognize a transformation occurring within my grandmother. She had developed a very serious case of lung cancer, along with other complicating conditions. I remember rather vividly some weekend trips to the Oregon Coast with my beloved grandparents the last 2 summers she was alive. As she would muse of her desire to walk along the beach and allow the embrace of soothing ocean waves to reach her the mind of my gigantic, yet utterly gentle grandpa was already at work. To the mind of a little boy my grandma would explain how the saltwater helped to sooth her feet and truly made her feel well.
All of this was more than enough for me to decide that we certainly should go. I loved the beach already, and if it was going to make my grandma well then there couldn't possibly be anything further to figure out except what to take along. Before I knew it we seemed to have crested the hill as we traveled along the hi-way and the ocean was in sight. Yet, well ahead of any ocean wave there seemed to be a surge of peace and healing that overcame my grandma. I was certainly excited for her to be done with all of this cancer business and for those rude sores to remove their grip from her body. My grandparents would take what must have been incredibly relaxing strolls as the edge of the waves would slide smoothly across their feet, back and forth. Of course, I couldn't notice the rapidness of her healing that simply must have been taking place with all of that ocean saltwater because I was too busy challenging waves twice my height. Nevertheless, I was thrilled to know that she would soon be well and was therefore content to watch them walk along as I fought to my heart's content.
I've thought about those days and memories many many times these last 20 years or so. Most recently I thought of them as I jogged along a beach alone enjoying the same gentle embrace of the ocean my grandma had once known. Her own fight with cancer ended when I was just 9, and she only 63. I still remember the scene in our living room as my mom got off the phone and delivered the terribly dreadful news to us kids. I was truly heart-broken. It just didn't seem to be real, but before long it sunk in. In spite of her passing so many years ago it was just this week as I was enjoying that jog when I finally realized the saltwater healing she spoke of. As they both walked along in the sand and the water there was a peace of such depth that must have been instilled in the well of her soul. I believe the several trips she would make there as she attempted to fight off her enemy was for the healing she desired inside. Ultimately I believe the Lord was meeting her again in those times and places and preparing a healing for her far greater than she could have ever known as long as she lived here.
She never intended the saltwater to be for her hands and feet, but for her soul. I thank my God that He used something so basic as water, sodium, and sand to bring her restoration and the healing she truly needed.
Whatever the dark valley you or your loved one may find yourself in may you allow the Lord to lead you beside still waters and restore your soul.
All of this was more than enough for me to decide that we certainly should go. I loved the beach already, and if it was going to make my grandma well then there couldn't possibly be anything further to figure out except what to take along. Before I knew it we seemed to have crested the hill as we traveled along the hi-way and the ocean was in sight. Yet, well ahead of any ocean wave there seemed to be a surge of peace and healing that overcame my grandma. I was certainly excited for her to be done with all of this cancer business and for those rude sores to remove their grip from her body. My grandparents would take what must have been incredibly relaxing strolls as the edge of the waves would slide smoothly across their feet, back and forth. Of course, I couldn't notice the rapidness of her healing that simply must have been taking place with all of that ocean saltwater because I was too busy challenging waves twice my height. Nevertheless, I was thrilled to know that she would soon be well and was therefore content to watch them walk along as I fought to my heart's content.
I've thought about those days and memories many many times these last 20 years or so. Most recently I thought of them as I jogged along a beach alone enjoying the same gentle embrace of the ocean my grandma had once known. Her own fight with cancer ended when I was just 9, and she only 63. I still remember the scene in our living room as my mom got off the phone and delivered the terribly dreadful news to us kids. I was truly heart-broken. It just didn't seem to be real, but before long it sunk in. In spite of her passing so many years ago it was just this week as I was enjoying that jog when I finally realized the saltwater healing she spoke of. As they both walked along in the sand and the water there was a peace of such depth that must have been instilled in the well of her soul. I believe the several trips she would make there as she attempted to fight off her enemy was for the healing she desired inside. Ultimately I believe the Lord was meeting her again in those times and places and preparing a healing for her far greater than she could have ever known as long as she lived here.
She never intended the saltwater to be for her hands and feet, but for her soul. I thank my God that He used something so basic as water, sodium, and sand to bring her restoration and the healing she truly needed.
Psalm 23:1-3a
The Lord is my shepherd, and I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul.
Whatever the dark valley you or your loved one may find yourself in may you allow the Lord to lead you beside still waters and restore your soul.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Chasing Barry Sanders
A funny thing happened on the way to the grocery store yesterday. As I was driving down the hi-way with my wife and kids, we spotted what appeared to be a little puppy running this way and that, in the middle of the road, oblivious of the 50 mph traffic. As an animal lover in the first degree, I could not allow this emergency to go by without responding. So, with a fortuitous break in the traffic, I made a u-turn, pulled into the shoulder, and began my best impersonation of Pavlov... unfortunately, I had with me neither dogfood or bell.
I was able to coax the little dude (of course, it could have been a female, but aren't all dogs really boys?) within arms reach several times as I improvised (not having any dogfood) with a ripped plastic bag and a rock... his vision must not have been up to the usual standards. But, I digress. As he came near I attempted to coral the little fella but each time he escaped my grasp. This resulted in a harried chase down the side of the hi-way, sidewalk, and side streets which seemed necessary as he consistently would have gone back into traffic if not for "shewing". Eventually the chase concluded under the carport of an apartment complex parking lot, about a 1/2 mile from the original scene.
My wife even assisted in my attempt to liberate this sopping wet, grimmy, ball of a dog from apparent danger... but to no avail. When we had him nearly detained, he became increasingly irritated (clearly he didn't understand that our desire was to keep him from harm by not allowing him to go where he'd like - especially when that would most possibly mean beneath the wheels of a 1-2 speeding mass).
Dejected at my failure to help this dog, and finally gasping for breath, I succombed to the realization that little "Barry Sanders", as my wife and I decided to name him, would not be rescued. As I returned to our vehicle and settled my distraught little girl in the back seat, my beloved wife turned to me and simply said "you can't help him if he doesn't want to be helped". Of course, she was absolutely right, but that reality will not prevent me from chasing other "Barry Sanders" wherever they might be. For, it is my duty, it is my call and yours, to venture wherever we must to help those scared, lonely, cold and wet balls of fur created by God.
I was able to coax the little dude (of course, it could have been a female, but aren't all dogs really boys?) within arms reach several times as I improvised (not having any dogfood) with a ripped plastic bag and a rock... his vision must not have been up to the usual standards. But, I digress. As he came near I attempted to coral the little fella but each time he escaped my grasp. This resulted in a harried chase down the side of the hi-way, sidewalk, and side streets which seemed necessary as he consistently would have gone back into traffic if not for "shewing". Eventually the chase concluded under the carport of an apartment complex parking lot, about a 1/2 mile from the original scene.
My wife even assisted in my attempt to liberate this sopping wet, grimmy, ball of a dog from apparent danger... but to no avail. When we had him nearly detained, he became increasingly irritated (clearly he didn't understand that our desire was to keep him from harm by not allowing him to go where he'd like - especially when that would most possibly mean beneath the wheels of a 1-2 speeding mass).
Dejected at my failure to help this dog, and finally gasping for breath, I succombed to the realization that little "Barry Sanders", as my wife and I decided to name him, would not be rescued. As I returned to our vehicle and settled my distraught little girl in the back seat, my beloved wife turned to me and simply said "you can't help him if he doesn't want to be helped". Of course, she was absolutely right, but that reality will not prevent me from chasing other "Barry Sanders" wherever they might be. For, it is my duty, it is my call and yours, to venture wherever we must to help those scared, lonely, cold and wet balls of fur created by God.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
A Simple Question
I was asked a very simple but meaningful question the other day. From one pastor to another I was essentially asked what kind of ministry I was most passionate about. I was then surprised by the difficulty I experienced in actually phrasing and providing a response to this question. I told this pastor that I don't feel particularly compelled to minister to one particular group of people over any other, and that generally I simply desire to see all kinds of people coming to know Jesus, discovering that God has gifted them to minister, and then seeing them equipped to carry out that ministry, whatever it may be. I suppose those in church circles might call this evangelism and discipleship. While that probably is an accurate description I think something can get lost in the translation of these words as they are so often used. I prefer to think of it as a relationship and a journey. Yeah...that's what gets me excited, helping people truly connect with Jesus and then embrace the journey He has uniquely designed for them which is to be embarked upon right beside Him.
Still, even as this is basically what I was saying I'm afraid it doesn't say a great deal about what actually stirs me. There are a multitude of ways that a person could be used of the Lord to help others come to know Him and then find and embrace their own ministry. Basically, what I said is that I think the Great Commission (basically..."Go to everyone and help them come to know and love God and others") Jesus gave to all believers is good and I agree with it. I might as well have grunted like a caveman uttering God good...people need God. That is to say I probably didn't offer the kind of response that was really sought. It's not as though I haven't thought through this before, but I suppose it had been a while since someone had asked me that kind of a question. So...here is another attempt to answer it with a little more practical detail.
Ever since it seemed I had a desire to minister to other people I've had a passion for preaching. I remember reading the book of Jeremiah on one occasion and he spoke of the Lord's message being like a fire that was shut up in his bones if He didn't deliver it to the people. I've often felt something that perhaps approaches such a description. When I've stumbled upon something in scripture that seems to me vitally important for others to hear and understand it's difficult to contain the words and emotion that well inside of me. However, my usual audience is a mountain filled sky, a field of sage brush, and the occasional Magpie or Robin. When I have opportunity to deliver such a message to others I feel like Eric Liddell (Chariots of Fire) who said "when I run, I feel His (God) pleasure." Of course the preparation that can go into a message can be nerve wracking at times, just as my ever patient and beloved wife has often seen...And nothing I'm writing here should have any reflection upon the actual quality of my preaching. :)
I also have a similar passion for writing. This is something I've only discovered within the last 5 years or so. I suppose it comes from a desire to first communicate with the Lord the thoughts and feelings that if not written can become like building pressure, perhaps not unlike the arising of steam within a pot. It's my hope that the things I write and share with others might just serve to encourage them a little more in their journeys with Christ.
Finally, I love having opportunities to sit with another person, sharing a cup of coffee, and listening to their stories. If there is something for me to offer in the way of encouragement or exhortation through the emptying of a cup or two then I feel blessed. Yet, whether or not I have anything to offer it seems to me that people always have a need of really being heard. I don't think we do this enough for one another. So many times we are too focused on our own concerns that we don't take the time to simply be available to others. And although this is something I enjoy doing I know I don't do it enough either. Still, it is something I treasure and hopefully after that cup has dried my friends find themselves feeling filled up and their load lightened.
There...those are the things that stir my passion as a minister of Christ. I suppose this exercise is far more helpful to me than anyone else who might happen to read this, but it is important to know how God has wired us to serve Him and others. And that may just be the point for you as well. For if you love Jesus as I do and you desire to walk with Him then be assured He has anointed you a minister of His gospel. His Great Commission is every bit for you as it is for anyone else. So then allow me to ask you the same question that was posed to me. What passion or passions has God stirred or is stirring in you in the way of ministering to others? I'd really love to hear what you have heard.
Still, even as this is basically what I was saying I'm afraid it doesn't say a great deal about what actually stirs me. There are a multitude of ways that a person could be used of the Lord to help others come to know Him and then find and embrace their own ministry. Basically, what I said is that I think the Great Commission (basically..."Go to everyone and help them come to know and love God and others") Jesus gave to all believers is good and I agree with it. I might as well have grunted like a caveman uttering God good...people need God. That is to say I probably didn't offer the kind of response that was really sought. It's not as though I haven't thought through this before, but I suppose it had been a while since someone had asked me that kind of a question. So...here is another attempt to answer it with a little more practical detail.
Ever since it seemed I had a desire to minister to other people I've had a passion for preaching. I remember reading the book of Jeremiah on one occasion and he spoke of the Lord's message being like a fire that was shut up in his bones if He didn't deliver it to the people. I've often felt something that perhaps approaches such a description. When I've stumbled upon something in scripture that seems to me vitally important for others to hear and understand it's difficult to contain the words and emotion that well inside of me. However, my usual audience is a mountain filled sky, a field of sage brush, and the occasional Magpie or Robin. When I have opportunity to deliver such a message to others I feel like Eric Liddell (Chariots of Fire) who said "when I run, I feel His (God) pleasure." Of course the preparation that can go into a message can be nerve wracking at times, just as my ever patient and beloved wife has often seen...And nothing I'm writing here should have any reflection upon the actual quality of my preaching. :)
I also have a similar passion for writing. This is something I've only discovered within the last 5 years or so. I suppose it comes from a desire to first communicate with the Lord the thoughts and feelings that if not written can become like building pressure, perhaps not unlike the arising of steam within a pot. It's my hope that the things I write and share with others might just serve to encourage them a little more in their journeys with Christ.
Finally, I love having opportunities to sit with another person, sharing a cup of coffee, and listening to their stories. If there is something for me to offer in the way of encouragement or exhortation through the emptying of a cup or two then I feel blessed. Yet, whether or not I have anything to offer it seems to me that people always have a need of really being heard. I don't think we do this enough for one another. So many times we are too focused on our own concerns that we don't take the time to simply be available to others. And although this is something I enjoy doing I know I don't do it enough either. Still, it is something I treasure and hopefully after that cup has dried my friends find themselves feeling filled up and their load lightened.
There...those are the things that stir my passion as a minister of Christ. I suppose this exercise is far more helpful to me than anyone else who might happen to read this, but it is important to know how God has wired us to serve Him and others. And that may just be the point for you as well. For if you love Jesus as I do and you desire to walk with Him then be assured He has anointed you a minister of His gospel. His Great Commission is every bit for you as it is for anyone else. So then allow me to ask you the same question that was posed to me. What passion or passions has God stirred or is stirring in you in the way of ministering to others? I'd really love to hear what you have heard.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
To Resolve...or Not?
Someone asked me the other day what my resolutions were for this new year. It was a fairly simple question for me to answer because I really don’t have any. However, I then explained that while I believe very much in the value of making worthy resolutions it seems there is something lacking in the motivation behind these when they are centered only on a calendar date.
So does that mean New Year’s resolutions are never worthwhile? Of course not! I think that just maybe we ought to base our desires for personal change and growth on something more than the passage of time though. And perhaps we ought to tell those that care about us the things we want to grow in. Then, they can either tell us if we're completely off our rockers, or encourage us in good change.
Before I finish up this simple query I do have one last question. If New Year’s Day should not be considered the best source of motivation when it comes to personal change, then what is? Well, the Lord always desires to speak to us and call us away from bad habits, or simply into healthier ones. To me, this is truly good news because God is not bound to only encourage is to resolve something new in our lives when January 1st rolls around. Also, if I happen to fail at an annual resolution it doesn’t really matter because the Lord will continue to speak to me, as well as equipping me to embrace His resolutions for my life.
So, go ahead and make those resolutions, but try and do so with an understanding of what the Lord desires for your life. Let Him be the one that guides you and equips you for your journey…And may you call upon Him to do so continually.
So does that mean New Year’s resolutions are never worthwhile? Of course not! I think that just maybe we ought to base our desires for personal change and growth on something more than the passage of time though. And perhaps we ought to tell those that care about us the things we want to grow in. Then, they can either tell us if we're completely off our rockers, or encourage us in good change.
Before I finish up this simple query I do have one last question. If New Year’s Day should not be considered the best source of motivation when it comes to personal change, then what is? Well, the Lord always desires to speak to us and call us away from bad habits, or simply into healthier ones. To me, this is truly good news because God is not bound to only encourage is to resolve something new in our lives when January 1st rolls around. Also, if I happen to fail at an annual resolution it doesn’t really matter because the Lord will continue to speak to me, as well as equipping me to embrace His resolutions for my life.
So, go ahead and make those resolutions, but try and do so with an understanding of what the Lord desires for your life. Let Him be the one that guides you and equips you for your journey…And may you call upon Him to do so continually.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD,
"plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Jeremiah 29:11
Friday, January 2, 2009
My Victorious Lord
Lost and Broken
Confused and Torn
I look to You my Lord
Words of Life
Gently Spoken
You’ve healed my wounded soul
I will serve You
And I’ll bow before You
Your blood has cleansed me
Your feet crushed my enemy
Standing up now
Moving forward
Your sword is in my hand
Your truth revealed
My future’s sealed Lord free the captives now
I’m Your soldier
I’m marching with You
You’ve come to free us
You reign victorious
Confused and Torn
I look to You my Lord
Words of Life
Gently Spoken
You’ve healed my wounded soul
I will serve You
And I’ll bow before You
Your blood has cleansed me
Your feet crushed my enemy
Standing up now
Moving forward
Your sword is in my hand
Your truth revealed
My future’s sealed Lord free the captives now
I’m Your soldier
I’m marching with You
You’ve come to free us
You reign victorious
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