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In a few words, let me just say - WOW! I loved this book! It took what is an often discussed issue (marriage) and addressed it in a little different light than I have ever heard it taught on or discussed. Mark and Grace Driscoll begin with the premise that marriage starts with a foundation of friendship and is built on that. The intimacy and baggage we bring into our relationship is magnified greatly if we, over time, stop being friends and allow sin and lies to take our hearts away from one another.
Overall, I thought this book was great and a MUST READ for any and all people who are married, planning on being married soon, or interact with people who are. They write in a very REAL way - so be prepared for the curtain to get drawn as they deal with real issues, real questions and present a biblical view of friendship, marriage and sex. The topic that the write on is a difficult one, but the Driscoll's do a great job tearing down walls and opening up lines of communication within marriages. They don't shy away from tough issues, hard questions and make sure to give scriptural evidence for their positions.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Awakening to the journey...
I know it is a little early for a title and a thought as deep as this one, but bear with me please...
I have been taking my time through the book of Matthew as of late, and the Spirit of God is simply peeling away the scales from my eyes so that I can see the power of the Word, the continuity of the Story of God and the unbelievable person and work of Jesus that is ever-present throughout the Bible.
What on earth am I talking about?
Glad you asked...
This morning, as I am tracking through Matthew, I came to the Sermon on the mount. I have heard it said that it only takes 12 minutes to read through the entire thing, and I thought that it would be good to listen to all that we have recorded of what Jesus said that day - so I simply read through the whole sermon account, and than read it again looking for key words (kingdom of heaven, fulfill, etc) and for Old Testament references (Matthew is writing to a Jewish audience, so the Old Testament passages are extremely significant in this particular Gospel).
After my second reading of the sermon account, I decided to just go verse by verse through it as far as I could get and pray and contemplate through it...
I made it ALMOST through verse 1 :)
Here is Matthew 5:1
"When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him."
What do you read in that verse? If you are like me, you probably saw basic geographic and situational information and nothing more; right. Matthew is just filling in some basic info - so we know kinda the scene for the sermon, right. The good stuff is coming up.
Or, is 2 Timothy 2 3:16 maybe in effect ("All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness.")
Think with me a minute, as I am processing through this still as I type...
Matthew is writing to a Jewish audience.
The Old Testament passages and references abound throughout this literary work always for a purpose - to point to Jesus as the fulfillment of and supreme agent throughout the Old Testament. Matthew is writing to point his Jewish readers to the Old Testament and basically say "see, here, this is what we were told, and HERE HE IS!! Messiah Jesus, is here; He's God, and been telling this story for a long time, believe it!!
So, what if, this is more than setting.
What if, Matthew is calling his readers to think back on Exodus 19 and 20 - where God comes DOWN to the mountain and calls Moses up to receive the law and commands for the people.
ONLY as we read through the New Testament (especially Hebrews) we learn that Jesus is the GREATER Moses, and so this time, instead of Jesus coming DOWN to the mountain to reveal to Moses the law --> He goes UP the mountain as fully man, fully God, sits down and waits for the people to draw close, and begins to clarify and fulfill and instruct the Old Testament law that He laid out for Moses.
Did your mind just explode with the majesty and awesomeness (thank you Kung Fu Panda) of our God!!!!
IF not, hold on, because here is where it really gets good....
In Exodus, the priests and the people are instructed by God to NOT come close to the mountain because they are unclean and cannot approach the holiness of God - they will die!
In Matthew, God has come to us, and eagerly awaits his people to draw close to him so he can teach and instruct them in how to love and obey the will of God.
BAM! that just happened.
I love that with the incarnation of Jesus (God became man) we see the line that kept us from God disappears. Not because WE did anything, but because God DID IT ALL. He came to us. Got cozy, walked up a mountain (that he created) and taught the people what He had revealed to Moses!
Like I said, I am still fleshing this out - but I do know this, as I read Matthew 5:1, I was exhilarated by the majesty of God, blown away by the singularity of the message of the Bible (it truly is all about Jesus!) and captivated by the personal relationship that has been made available to me because Jesus came down to earth, to make the unattainable attainable.
I have been taking my time through the book of Matthew as of late, and the Spirit of God is simply peeling away the scales from my eyes so that I can see the power of the Word, the continuity of the Story of God and the unbelievable person and work of Jesus that is ever-present throughout the Bible.
What on earth am I talking about?
Glad you asked...
This morning, as I am tracking through Matthew, I came to the Sermon on the mount. I have heard it said that it only takes 12 minutes to read through the entire thing, and I thought that it would be good to listen to all that we have recorded of what Jesus said that day - so I simply read through the whole sermon account, and than read it again looking for key words (kingdom of heaven, fulfill, etc) and for Old Testament references (Matthew is writing to a Jewish audience, so the Old Testament passages are extremely significant in this particular Gospel).
After my second reading of the sermon account, I decided to just go verse by verse through it as far as I could get and pray and contemplate through it...
I made it ALMOST through verse 1 :)
Here is Matthew 5:1
"When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him."
What do you read in that verse? If you are like me, you probably saw basic geographic and situational information and nothing more; right. Matthew is just filling in some basic info - so we know kinda the scene for the sermon, right. The good stuff is coming up.
Or, is 2 Timothy 2 3:16 maybe in effect ("All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness.")
Think with me a minute, as I am processing through this still as I type...
Matthew is writing to a Jewish audience.
The Old Testament passages and references abound throughout this literary work always for a purpose - to point to Jesus as the fulfillment of and supreme agent throughout the Old Testament. Matthew is writing to point his Jewish readers to the Old Testament and basically say "see, here, this is what we were told, and HERE HE IS!! Messiah Jesus, is here; He's God, and been telling this story for a long time, believe it!!
So, what if, this is more than setting.
What if, Matthew is calling his readers to think back on Exodus 19 and 20 - where God comes DOWN to the mountain and calls Moses up to receive the law and commands for the people.
ONLY as we read through the New Testament (especially Hebrews) we learn that Jesus is the GREATER Moses, and so this time, instead of Jesus coming DOWN to the mountain to reveal to Moses the law --> He goes UP the mountain as fully man, fully God, sits down and waits for the people to draw close, and begins to clarify and fulfill and instruct the Old Testament law that He laid out for Moses.
Did your mind just explode with the majesty and awesomeness (thank you Kung Fu Panda) of our God!!!!IF not, hold on, because here is where it really gets good....
In Exodus, the priests and the people are instructed by God to NOT come close to the mountain because they are unclean and cannot approach the holiness of God - they will die!
In Matthew, God has come to us, and eagerly awaits his people to draw close to him so he can teach and instruct them in how to love and obey the will of God.
BAM! that just happened.
I love that with the incarnation of Jesus (God became man) we see the line that kept us from God disappears. Not because WE did anything, but because God DID IT ALL. He came to us. Got cozy, walked up a mountain (that he created) and taught the people what He had revealed to Moses!
Like I said, I am still fleshing this out - but I do know this, as I read Matthew 5:1, I was exhilarated by the majesty of God, blown away by the singularity of the message of the Bible (it truly is all about Jesus!) and captivated by the personal relationship that has been made available to me because Jesus came down to earth, to make the unattainable attainable.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Reflecting on Christmas and my son's name...
This morning, as my household woke up and we began the fun of unwrapping presents, feeding our baby, feeding our coffee addiction, and enjoying Christmas music for one last day; I couldn't help but think about how cool it is to have a new baby to celebrate this Christmas season!
And, to top it off, the name God gave us for our wonderful little baby boy is "Levi" which means "joined in humility". As I was worshipping Jesus this morning and thanking him for coming as a little baby (and holding my little baby) the way in which Jesus came and joined mankind in humility, to redeem us and set us free, to understand our suffering, to feel temptation like we do, to feel love, hunger, thirst, betrayal, tiredness and frustration as we do truly blew me away!
As God always tends to do, he uses the common every day stuff to show me more of who He is and take me to a deeper love and appreciation for what He came to do for us. This Christmas, the gospel rings true for me and I pray that it rings true for you as well!
And, to top it off, the name God gave us for our wonderful little baby boy is "Levi" which means "joined in humility". As I was worshipping Jesus this morning and thanking him for coming as a little baby (and holding my little baby) the way in which Jesus came and joined mankind in humility, to redeem us and set us free, to understand our suffering, to feel temptation like we do, to feel love, hunger, thirst, betrayal, tiredness and frustration as we do truly blew me away!
As God always tends to do, he uses the common every day stuff to show me more of who He is and take me to a deeper love and appreciation for what He came to do for us. This Christmas, the gospel rings true for me and I pray that it rings true for you as well!
Friday, December 23, 2011
Dancing with Jesus...
Early this afternoon, my oldest son and I (really weird referring to Micah as my oldest) were searching through movies to try and find a movie to settle in and watch for the evening. I was hunting for Christmas movies and he was hunting for movies that he is too young to watch, but wants to try and scam his way into watching (Gremlins). I came across a movie I bought on Black Friday last year for $1 but never even bothered to open; Evan Almighty.
I remember watching the movie once a long time ago and thinking it was pretty clean, and a pretty funny movie so we (meaning I) picked that as our family feature film for the evening and we settled in, just the four of us, to watch the movie.
Micah loved it, he thought the animals were cool, the boat was awesome, and that Steve Carrell was hilarious (especially since he is continually hitting himself with a hammer or being pooped on by birds); but what struck me came at the very end of the movie...
Steve Carrell has spent the whole movie doubting God, fighting God, and doing his best to rebel against God's will for his life - to build an ark to save the town and change some legislation to protect the forest and the animals. In the end, Steve's character begrudgingly submits to God's will and ends up not only being the town laughingstock but the towns savior (little "s" is vital) as well!
He emerges from this journey God (Morgan Freeman - a great choice for the role in my opinion) has had him on with a better outlook on life, a better understanding of how to be a dad and a husband, and a much better view of God. As the movie is concluding, he and his family head out on a hike with a picnic lunch and they are laughing and running and hugging when Steve looks up and sees God leaning under a shade tree smiling.
He leaves his family behind to go meet with God under the tree for a few moments (I'm sure there's a lesson there somewhere about priorities) and as they chat and talk about the events that have transpired over the last few months, Steve's character realizes that at every turn - God knew what he was doing! That God was in control!
And, here was the cool part...
All throughout the movie, whenever Steve's character does something noteworthy or exciting (always self-centered and selfishly motivated) he has a cheesy cornball dance move that he does (think Kevin James in the movie "Hitch" but worse!!).
BUT...
That day, under the shade tree as he meets with God, God invites him to not only do his dance of celebration for obeying His will, but JOINS HIM IN THE DANCE!!!
As my family and I sat on our couch and watched this movie, I realized that I so often have a stuffy and religious understanding of God, that I lose sight of the fact that He wants me to enjoy him, to be silly with him, to make him laugh, to dance, to sing, to play! He loves it when my family gets the giggles. He loves it when I learn new things, or play with my boy, or enjoy coffee with friends. God is not so serious as to avoid doing a silly dance with me.
God forgive me for always thinking that I need to be serious and "reverent" with you. Forgive me for thinking that the BEST way to approach you is through rituals and practices that man put in place to limit your ability and increase their own. God, set me free to dance under the shade tree with you. God, free me to be silly for your glory!
Micah loved it, he thought the animals were cool, the boat was awesome, and that Steve Carrell was hilarious (especially since he is continually hitting himself with a hammer or being pooped on by birds); but what struck me came at the very end of the movie...
Steve Carrell has spent the whole movie doubting God, fighting God, and doing his best to rebel against God's will for his life - to build an ark to save the town and change some legislation to protect the forest and the animals. In the end, Steve's character begrudgingly submits to God's will and ends up not only being the town laughingstock but the towns savior (little "s" is vital) as well!
He emerges from this journey God (Morgan Freeman - a great choice for the role in my opinion) has had him on with a better outlook on life, a better understanding of how to be a dad and a husband, and a much better view of God. As the movie is concluding, he and his family head out on a hike with a picnic lunch and they are laughing and running and hugging when Steve looks up and sees God leaning under a shade tree smiling.
He leaves his family behind to go meet with God under the tree for a few moments (I'm sure there's a lesson there somewhere about priorities) and as they chat and talk about the events that have transpired over the last few months, Steve's character realizes that at every turn - God knew what he was doing! That God was in control!
And, here was the cool part...
All throughout the movie, whenever Steve's character does something noteworthy or exciting (always self-centered and selfishly motivated) he has a cheesy cornball dance move that he does (think Kevin James in the movie "Hitch" but worse!!).
BUT...
That day, under the shade tree as he meets with God, God invites him to not only do his dance of celebration for obeying His will, but JOINS HIM IN THE DANCE!!!
As my family and I sat on our couch and watched this movie, I realized that I so often have a stuffy and religious understanding of God, that I lose sight of the fact that He wants me to enjoy him, to be silly with him, to make him laugh, to dance, to sing, to play! He loves it when my family gets the giggles. He loves it when I learn new things, or play with my boy, or enjoy coffee with friends. God is not so serious as to avoid doing a silly dance with me.
God forgive me for always thinking that I need to be serious and "reverent" with you. Forgive me for thinking that the BEST way to approach you is through rituals and practices that man put in place to limit your ability and increase their own. God, set me free to dance under the shade tree with you. God, free me to be silly for your glory!
Thursday, December 22, 2011
What a journey...
We get to go home today!!! It has been a long few days in the hospital but our boy has captured our hearts. He exited the womb at 10lbs 11oz; and will be going home at 9lbs 12oz. Typical baby stuff to lose some weight straight out of the womb which truly is unfair, Levi has been out of the womb for 3 days and dropped 10% of his body weight! Best diet plan ever!!! His cheeks look less puffy, his legs are long and skinny, his fingers are long and already like trying to go up my nose or tangled in my beard, but what an amazing little boy he is!
On our first day in the hospital, I was driving back from an errand to pick up a fan to help my hormonal wife keep her temperature down as she came off of the drugs from surgery, when I had a crazy flashback....
This is not our first time here at St. Joe's Women's hospital together. Probably close to 10 years ago, when Katie and I were on one of our first "dates" (she was still figuring out if she would tolerate the chunky monkey named Nathan and I was still delirious that someone as amazing as her would consider riding in a car with me, let alone date me!!); we came to St. Joe's Women's to visit a friend in the mommy area of the hospital after she had just had a brand new baby.
I remember looking at the mommy, the baby, and how natural it looked for Katie to hold the baby, interact with the mom and be a part of that world. I, on the other hand, sat awkwardly in the corner and longed for the time when Katie and I could leave and go eat dinner somewhere (surprise, surprise, I wanted food). I walked away from the experience scared. Scared because I remember thinking that Katie was born to be a mommy; and I wasn't comfortable around babies. I remember thinking that if our relationship progressed, one day it would be her in that bed, and what would I be doing? It is no longer socially acceptable for the dad to sit in the waiting room smoking cigars; so what's a guy to do? I can remember being scared for the first time about our relationship; not because of what it wasn't, but because of what it was...REAL.
Fast forward God's story about a decade and here we are, at St. Joe's Women's Hospital and this time it is my wife in the hospital bed, having just given birth to our 2nd child. This time, I do not sit in the corner awkwardly waiting for food. This time, I wrap my arms around our little baby and snuggle with him. There is no hesitancy in me about picking him up, loving on him and caring for him.
It has been almost 10 years since that night at the hospital where I internally panicked for the future, and now I can say that 10 years ago I was correct. My wife was born to be a mommy. And it took me a while, and while it was not as natural for me as it was for her, I am meant to be a daddy. 10 years ago, God allowed a glimpse into my future. He began softening my heart and showing me where He would lead me if I would simply follow Him. And now, today, I get to go home with my amazing wife, my 2 sons and begin life with my crazy blessed family of 4.
I am so excited for what God is teaching me, and more aware of how life is one long story, that God is weaving and speaking into existence. I am not the main character, I am a supporting role, and my job here is to reflect the glory of God back to him, while I enjoy all that He is and does for me. Today, a few days before Christmas, probably just like Joseph would have felt, I am a proud daddy of a very cool baby boy. I swaddle him, I help try and feed him, I soothe his cries, I change his dirty diapers, and the whole time I look at him my heart swells with love. Joseph's little boy was the God-man, who would set me free from the slavery of sin. My son, well he's a boy who won't be God, won't die for mankind, and has NO ability to free anyone from sin - he will be raised to know, love and trust that little baby who would grow like he will and is now ascended to the right hand of God our Father.
Today, I am thankful that this is God's story, and ecstatic for my role in His narrative. And just like I want to shout from the rooftops and tell people about my sons, that is what His story is about - telling people about His Son.
On our first day in the hospital, I was driving back from an errand to pick up a fan to help my hormonal wife keep her temperature down as she came off of the drugs from surgery, when I had a crazy flashback....
This is not our first time here at St. Joe's Women's hospital together. Probably close to 10 years ago, when Katie and I were on one of our first "dates" (she was still figuring out if she would tolerate the chunky monkey named Nathan and I was still delirious that someone as amazing as her would consider riding in a car with me, let alone date me!!); we came to St. Joe's Women's to visit a friend in the mommy area of the hospital after she had just had a brand new baby.
I remember looking at the mommy, the baby, and how natural it looked for Katie to hold the baby, interact with the mom and be a part of that world. I, on the other hand, sat awkwardly in the corner and longed for the time when Katie and I could leave and go eat dinner somewhere (surprise, surprise, I wanted food). I walked away from the experience scared. Scared because I remember thinking that Katie was born to be a mommy; and I wasn't comfortable around babies. I remember thinking that if our relationship progressed, one day it would be her in that bed, and what would I be doing? It is no longer socially acceptable for the dad to sit in the waiting room smoking cigars; so what's a guy to do? I can remember being scared for the first time about our relationship; not because of what it wasn't, but because of what it was...REAL.
Fast forward God's story about a decade and here we are, at St. Joe's Women's Hospital and this time it is my wife in the hospital bed, having just given birth to our 2nd child. This time, I do not sit in the corner awkwardly waiting for food. This time, I wrap my arms around our little baby and snuggle with him. There is no hesitancy in me about picking him up, loving on him and caring for him.
It has been almost 10 years since that night at the hospital where I internally panicked for the future, and now I can say that 10 years ago I was correct. My wife was born to be a mommy. And it took me a while, and while it was not as natural for me as it was for her, I am meant to be a daddy. 10 years ago, God allowed a glimpse into my future. He began softening my heart and showing me where He would lead me if I would simply follow Him. And now, today, I get to go home with my amazing wife, my 2 sons and begin life with my crazy blessed family of 4.
I am so excited for what God is teaching me, and more aware of how life is one long story, that God is weaving and speaking into existence. I am not the main character, I am a supporting role, and my job here is to reflect the glory of God back to him, while I enjoy all that He is and does for me. Today, a few days before Christmas, probably just like Joseph would have felt, I am a proud daddy of a very cool baby boy. I swaddle him, I help try and feed him, I soothe his cries, I change his dirty diapers, and the whole time I look at him my heart swells with love. Joseph's little boy was the God-man, who would set me free from the slavery of sin. My son, well he's a boy who won't be God, won't die for mankind, and has NO ability to free anyone from sin - he will be raised to know, love and trust that little baby who would grow like he will and is now ascended to the right hand of God our Father.
Today, I am thankful that this is God's story, and ecstatic for my role in His narrative. And just like I want to shout from the rooftops and tell people about my sons, that is what His story is about - telling people about His Son.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
and then there were 4
So...
Yesterday my wife gave birth to our 2nd child.
She was a trooper and did a phenomenal job, and our baby boy was born 10 lbs 11oz! For those keeping track at home, that is a HUGE baby! He measured in at 21 inches long with a 14.5" circumference for a head.
I was a little worried when I found out we were having another boy, because even though you hear moms and dads with multiple children say that you love each one fully - I thought maybe I was different. My first born, Micah, is amazing. He was such a great little baby and has turned into such an amazing young man (already calling him a man at 5 years old, because he is gonna be a man - not a boy who shaves!!). But, it concerned me that because he was so good - our 2nd boy would be continually measured against the awesomeness (thank you Kung Fu Panda) of our 1st.
Well, I can honestly say that there is nothing special about me. He came out - and while he was still all blue and lizard-looking, I would have laid my life down for him. He was mine and nothing was going to change the way I felt about him. I loved him fully and completely - just because he was my son. Not because he was HUGE. Not because he turns his head, opens his eyes, eats like a champ, or could very easily beat up all the other babies on this floor - I love him because he is mine!
As I sit this morning, a little sleep deprived, a little hungry, but enamored with my family and our newest addition - I can't help but reflect on how God feels about me. He must, if I am an imperfect father (which I am), feel all that I feel towards his children and MORE! He must look down on me and just marvel at how dear to his heart I am. Not because I preach well, or study a lot. Not because I work hard to avoid sin, or search for ways to let people know I love him. Not because I am faithful to my wife or because I try to train my children (wow, I have CHILDREN!) in the ways they should go.
But, because I am his!
What a liberating thought. This concept, this understanding, that God doesn't need me, or value me based on my abilities or performances; changes what I believe about my relationship with God and how I live my life.
I know this is not revelatory or anything brand new and it was something I would have said yesterday just like I am saying it today - but I feel like God has drawn me in closer and revealed yet again, that his love for me is not based on works, merit, or even impacted by how good those around me. He doesn't look at the men I work with, the guys on TV, the other seminary students and husbands, and say "Nate, look at how good they are...I can't love you like I love them. You aren't as awesome!"
No, that is not the heart of our Father. His heart swells with love and longs to wrap me up, hold me close and whisper words of love and tenderness into my spirit - because it is only there, in His arms that I can begin to understand who He is, and who I am because of His love.
Thank you God, for freeing me from religion, from works of my own hands. For separating the curtain that kept me out of your presence. Let me not wander in the wilderness of works and avoid the greatest treasure available - your spirit through your son. Jesus, thank you for making me a son. For righting my wrongs and allowing me to be adopted into the family of God. For making the impossible possible. For loving me when I was most unloveable, valuing me when there was nothing worthy of value. For freeing me to worship and love the rest of my days. May it start with you and flow from there!
Yesterday my wife gave birth to our 2nd child.
She was a trooper and did a phenomenal job, and our baby boy was born 10 lbs 11oz! For those keeping track at home, that is a HUGE baby! He measured in at 21 inches long with a 14.5" circumference for a head.
I was a little worried when I found out we were having another boy, because even though you hear moms and dads with multiple children say that you love each one fully - I thought maybe I was different. My first born, Micah, is amazing. He was such a great little baby and has turned into such an amazing young man (already calling him a man at 5 years old, because he is gonna be a man - not a boy who shaves!!). But, it concerned me that because he was so good - our 2nd boy would be continually measured against the awesomeness (thank you Kung Fu Panda) of our 1st.
Well, I can honestly say that there is nothing special about me. He came out - and while he was still all blue and lizard-looking, I would have laid my life down for him. He was mine and nothing was going to change the way I felt about him. I loved him fully and completely - just because he was my son. Not because he was HUGE. Not because he turns his head, opens his eyes, eats like a champ, or could very easily beat up all the other babies on this floor - I love him because he is mine!
As I sit this morning, a little sleep deprived, a little hungry, but enamored with my family and our newest addition - I can't help but reflect on how God feels about me. He must, if I am an imperfect father (which I am), feel all that I feel towards his children and MORE! He must look down on me and just marvel at how dear to his heart I am. Not because I preach well, or study a lot. Not because I work hard to avoid sin, or search for ways to let people know I love him. Not because I am faithful to my wife or because I try to train my children (wow, I have CHILDREN!) in the ways they should go.
But, because I am his!
What a liberating thought. This concept, this understanding, that God doesn't need me, or value me based on my abilities or performances; changes what I believe about my relationship with God and how I live my life.
I know this is not revelatory or anything brand new and it was something I would have said yesterday just like I am saying it today - but I feel like God has drawn me in closer and revealed yet again, that his love for me is not based on works, merit, or even impacted by how good those around me. He doesn't look at the men I work with, the guys on TV, the other seminary students and husbands, and say "Nate, look at how good they are...I can't love you like I love them. You aren't as awesome!"
No, that is not the heart of our Father. His heart swells with love and longs to wrap me up, hold me close and whisper words of love and tenderness into my spirit - because it is only there, in His arms that I can begin to understand who He is, and who I am because of His love.
Thank you God, for freeing me from religion, from works of my own hands. For separating the curtain that kept me out of your presence. Let me not wander in the wilderness of works and avoid the greatest treasure available - your spirit through your son. Jesus, thank you for making me a son. For righting my wrongs and allowing me to be adopted into the family of God. For making the impossible possible. For loving me when I was most unloveable, valuing me when there was nothing worthy of value. For freeing me to worship and love the rest of my days. May it start with you and flow from there!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
The 360 degree leader by John Maxwell
Ever wondered what it takes to make a great leader? Ever felt trapped by your position (or complete lack thereof) within your company? John Maxwell's book on how to lead effectively from wherever God has placed you within your company is the perfect tool to equip you to become a better leader. Within this quick and fascinating work, John helps the reader understand that your position isn't what stops you from leading, it is your mindset. That a great leader, is the man/woman who embraces the job he/she has today, and works hard to better those around them, and the company as well.
I thought this book was very helpful for me, a young leader, who feels surrounded by older and wiser leaders. It helped me feel equipped to speak out in meetings, embrace ideas, and run in the areas where I may be gifted differently than those around me. The tools that John Maxwell gives throughout the book has helped me become a better leader, a better follower, and a more effective communicator.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
I thought this book was very helpful for me, a young leader, who feels surrounded by older and wiser leaders. It helped me feel equipped to speak out in meetings, embrace ideas, and run in the areas where I may be gifted differently than those around me. The tools that John Maxwell gives throughout the book has helped me become a better leader, a better follower, and a more effective communicator.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Monday, September 26, 2011
Our Last Great Hope!
Ronnie Floyd's work on the Great Commission Task Force has produced a great work of literature in this book "Our last Great Hope" and throughout this work, he intends to inspire and challenge the readers to rise to the calling that Jesus leaves us with...to GO and MAKE DISCIPLES!
I would say my favorite part of this book, was the fact that he spends time challenging and reminding pastors and leaders, and all who read his book - that it is important we start with our families. Too often, in works like this, where the author is challenging us to go out and change the world for the cause of Christ, they focus so much on the going out - they neglect to inspire us to change and train our children and focus on our families. Ronnie balances this well by devoting time and pages to the importance of our families and our need to train our children and EXPECT them to walk with Jesus because of the outpouring of the Spirit in our lives, onto them!
I would recommend that any leader within the Church, and most definitely the pastor/leader of a local church should read and take to heart the need for us to motivate our people to be missional.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
I would say my favorite part of this book, was the fact that he spends time challenging and reminding pastors and leaders, and all who read his book - that it is important we start with our families. Too often, in works like this, where the author is challenging us to go out and change the world for the cause of Christ, they focus so much on the going out - they neglect to inspire us to change and train our children and focus on our families. Ronnie balances this well by devoting time and pages to the importance of our families and our need to train our children and EXPECT them to walk with Jesus because of the outpouring of the Spirit in our lives, onto them!
I would recommend that any leader within the Church, and most definitely the pastor/leader of a local church should read and take to heart the need for us to motivate our people to be missional.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Christian Encounters: George Washington Carver!
Prior to reading this fine literary work - all I would have been able to articulate about the life of George Washington Carver was that he was able to find a lot of uses for peanuts. As I read through this work though, that barely scratches the surface of who this man was. He was a man who learned early on to overcome adversity and his hunger for knowledge carried him to great heights and continuously aided his effort to conquer the racial barrier that was so prevalent in the late 1800's.
When I ordered this book from www.booksneeze.com, I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy it - and rolled the dice on this one. I must say, though, that I really did enjoy reading about the life of George Washington Carver. I was challenged by his hunger to learn; and inspired by his continual effort to show love and acceptance. I would like to say in the face of similar challenges as GWC I would rise to similar heights, but as you read this work, you begin to understand that it is not simply him at work, but the spiritual realm working in and through this humble, teachable, and inspiring man.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Friday, March 25, 2011
Gonna try and get better at this...
I know it has been awhile since I have taken the time to share thoughts and write - which is kinda sad for me, because I really love to write and enjoy blogging, so I am gonna try and do a better job (at least for a little while)
This morning, I woke up kinda early, and I actually felt refreshed and renewed from sleep (not waking up feeling tired is AWESOME). I made some coffee, let the dog outside, and decided that instead of going for a run, or heading off to the gym - I was gonna dive into the Word and just spend some time with Jesus. And man, was it EPIC this morning. I love when I get an opportunity to be obedient and His faithfulness blows my mind...
This morning, as I was reading in the book of Luke, God showed me many different things, and caused me to wonder about a few things that I would like to share. I have been slowly making my way through this wonderful Gospel, and today I am in Luke 22.
In vs. 2 we see that the chief priests and scribes (think church staff people and pastors) are looking for a way to put Jesus to death. I know in my own study, a lot of times I think of these guys and immediately begin to judge their hatred of Jesus and desire to put him to death. I think of these evil, sneaky, black cloak-wearing, "Boris from Bullwinkle" type bad guys. But - as I pondered their hearts this morning, 2 things occurred to me: 1) these are pastors who think they are protecting there people from a heretic. 2) They have become consumed with their kingdom and not God's.
Allow me to ellaborate a bit... First of all, these are not evil guys who set out to do bad things. These are men who loved God, and wanted to be obedient to His Law. They wanted to keep people safe and make sure that they didn't fall prey to false teaching. Their desire to kill Jesus, while terrible and heart breaking, I don't think means that these guys are EXTRA evil. I think that I have been wrong in my judgment and harsh thoughts towards these guys.
But, they don't get excused from all wrong doing, in vs. 2 it says that they want to put him to death, because they "feared the people". But, at this point, every one is in love with Jesus - the tide has not yet turned, and their "fear" is of losing the peoples respect and affection. They don't want to lose their position and power in society. As a result - they fear losing their kingdom for God's.
Needless to say, this was convicting and something I had never seen in this passage before - it really hit home with me, that more often than not, I find myself fearing that God's plan, and Kingdom is going to invade my own - and just like these chief priests and scribes, I decide (subconsciously) that I am going to look for ways to put God's will and way to death, so that my kingdom can reign.
As if that wasn't enough to chew on, in this same chapter - a few other things happen...
1) While in the garden, Jesus asks his disciples to pray - not for him and the journey he is about to go on, but for themselves and the temptation they are about to face. That Jesus, while in his most desperate and trying hours on earth - would care for the lives and spirits of his friends, was/is inspirational to say the least. It goes to show you that Jesus' concern while on earth, truly was not for himself, but for those around him. Something we could all stand to practice a little more.
2) A question arose for me out of Judas' betrayal. Why did Judas need to betray Jesus? I know it fulfilled prophecy and everything, but have you ever stopped to think about why it happened? Was Jesus wearing an Abraham Lincoln mask? Was he sporting a fake 'stache and black rimmed glasses? Was he like Superman, and when he wasn't wearing the "jesus-frock" people didn't know who he was? I doubt it... Jesus spent time with lots of people, and in vs. 53 he acknowledges that he has spent time with those who come to capture him. I really doubt that Judas NEEDED to identify Jesus in the crowd. I think people knew who Jesus was. I wonder, was this a part of Jesus' suffering and identifying with humanity? Did he suffer, not just physically and emotionally from those who hated his message - but also, suffer betrayal from a close friend - just because he knew that you and I would suffer betrayal from friends and loved ones? Did his love and desire to identify with His Creation in every way, extend to being betrayed by a brother - for no other reason that he loves His people and wanted to know us that intimately?
Maybe, maybe not - there may be a deeper theological reasoning that I don't know why Judas had to betray Jesus. Maybe historically there is something that I don't get. But, I know that I am comforted in knowing that Jesus suffered everything I would suffer, and whether its the primary purpose or not, he even endured betrayal from a brother and a close friend - and can identify when I am hurt by loved ones and friends.
Thank you Jesus, you really went to great lengths for me!
This morning, I woke up kinda early, and I actually felt refreshed and renewed from sleep (not waking up feeling tired is AWESOME). I made some coffee, let the dog outside, and decided that instead of going for a run, or heading off to the gym - I was gonna dive into the Word and just spend some time with Jesus. And man, was it EPIC this morning. I love when I get an opportunity to be obedient and His faithfulness blows my mind...
This morning, as I was reading in the book of Luke, God showed me many different things, and caused me to wonder about a few things that I would like to share. I have been slowly making my way through this wonderful Gospel, and today I am in Luke 22.
In vs. 2 we see that the chief priests and scribes (think church staff people and pastors) are looking for a way to put Jesus to death. I know in my own study, a lot of times I think of these guys and immediately begin to judge their hatred of Jesus and desire to put him to death. I think of these evil, sneaky, black cloak-wearing, "Boris from Bullwinkle" type bad guys. But - as I pondered their hearts this morning, 2 things occurred to me: 1) these are pastors who think they are protecting there people from a heretic. 2) They have become consumed with their kingdom and not God's.
Allow me to ellaborate a bit... First of all, these are not evil guys who set out to do bad things. These are men who loved God, and wanted to be obedient to His Law. They wanted to keep people safe and make sure that they didn't fall prey to false teaching. Their desire to kill Jesus, while terrible and heart breaking, I don't think means that these guys are EXTRA evil. I think that I have been wrong in my judgment and harsh thoughts towards these guys.
But, they don't get excused from all wrong doing, in vs. 2 it says that they want to put him to death, because they "feared the people". But, at this point, every one is in love with Jesus - the tide has not yet turned, and their "fear" is of losing the peoples respect and affection. They don't want to lose their position and power in society. As a result - they fear losing their kingdom for God's.
Needless to say, this was convicting and something I had never seen in this passage before - it really hit home with me, that more often than not, I find myself fearing that God's plan, and Kingdom is going to invade my own - and just like these chief priests and scribes, I decide (subconsciously) that I am going to look for ways to put God's will and way to death, so that my kingdom can reign.
As if that wasn't enough to chew on, in this same chapter - a few other things happen...
1) While in the garden, Jesus asks his disciples to pray - not for him and the journey he is about to go on, but for themselves and the temptation they are about to face. That Jesus, while in his most desperate and trying hours on earth - would care for the lives and spirits of his friends, was/is inspirational to say the least. It goes to show you that Jesus' concern while on earth, truly was not for himself, but for those around him. Something we could all stand to practice a little more.
2) A question arose for me out of Judas' betrayal. Why did Judas need to betray Jesus? I know it fulfilled prophecy and everything, but have you ever stopped to think about why it happened? Was Jesus wearing an Abraham Lincoln mask? Was he sporting a fake 'stache and black rimmed glasses? Was he like Superman, and when he wasn't wearing the "jesus-frock" people didn't know who he was? I doubt it... Jesus spent time with lots of people, and in vs. 53 he acknowledges that he has spent time with those who come to capture him. I really doubt that Judas NEEDED to identify Jesus in the crowd. I think people knew who Jesus was. I wonder, was this a part of Jesus' suffering and identifying with humanity? Did he suffer, not just physically and emotionally from those who hated his message - but also, suffer betrayal from a close friend - just because he knew that you and I would suffer betrayal from friends and loved ones? Did his love and desire to identify with His Creation in every way, extend to being betrayed by a brother - for no other reason that he loves His people and wanted to know us that intimately?
Maybe, maybe not - there may be a deeper theological reasoning that I don't know why Judas had to betray Jesus. Maybe historically there is something that I don't get. But, I know that I am comforted in knowing that Jesus suffered everything I would suffer, and whether its the primary purpose or not, he even endured betrayal from a brother and a close friend - and can identify when I am hurt by loved ones and friends.
Thank you Jesus, you really went to great lengths for me!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Been awhile...
I don't know exactly how long it has been since I have done this, but I feel like today - I should put into words all that God is stirring in my heart.
I have been studying the Gospel of Luke and the major prophet work of Daniel - and this morning God really challenged me in both accounts.
First of all, in Luke - we see that Jesus is hands on with people, and not the type of people I would spend time with. He takes the time to hang out with tax collectors, prostitutes and "sinners". As I was reading this, I thought about those whom I spend time investing into. Why is it not the guy who stands on the corner asking for a dollar? Is there a better candidate out there for understanding the love and acceptance of the grace of God - than someone who has already hit rock bottom and is looking for help? No - I spend time with "churchy" types like me, who think like I do, and are in similar situations as I am in - because then I feel comfortable. But is life about me being comfy? I sure hope not...
Secondly, in Daniel - I was reading about Nebuchadnezzar and God's pursuit of him - and was blown away at my own narrow-mindedness. Here is a pagan king, ruling over God's people, building idols and graven images to himself, thinking of himself as equal to God, and concerned only about his glory - and what does God do? Send Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah to minister to him and relay the glory and power of God to this pagan king.
This morning - God really hit me with 2 truths - one, no one is ever to "far gone" for the gospel of grace. The truth of the gospel of grace is that I am NOT good enough, so God wrapped himself in flesh, walked as we do, suffered temptation, torture, scorn, and crucifixion - so that I could be a part of God's family. This causes me to step back and rethink how I look at people. How I judge people. How I determine who I am going to spend time with and who matters to God.
Secondly - is the length to which God will go to for a person, and to make his name and glory known! Read Daniel 3-4 and examine it from the perspective of what God does for him. Not how he saves his people and revelation to Daniel of his dream - but the length to which God goes to for the heart of Nebuchadnezzar. It is pretty awesome! And at the end of chapter 4 - the King of Babylon writes "Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven for all his work are right and his ways are just and those who walk in pride he is able to humble."
God is able to capture hearts, and willing to save those who need him most - I just need to get my opinions and junk out of the way so that God can do what He wants to do!
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Fun times...
It has been awhile since I have blogged, and for that I feel kinda bad. It's not that I didn't want to, but finding the time to share all thad God has been walking us through can be kinda difficult. So here is my attempt to briefly describe where I have been at with God...
It has been a rollercoaster ride lately. One of those coasters that seem to shoot straight up to the clouds, and then you make a 180 degree turn and plummet down to the ground only to shoot straight back up again.
Last week, we took a trip to N'Awlins, LA - which was awesome. We got to see a good friend of ours, visit our old stomping grounds and the school I used to go to, and eat a lot of amazing food while listening to some of the best music ever. It was great - but leading up to and then on the tail end of the trip, we have been under some of the fiercest spiritual battle I have ever faced.
1 - Due to a mistake on a ticket I received for not having current registration, I was suppose to have an "arraingment hearing" on the 27th of April for a FATALITY mistakenly marked on the ticket.
2 - That never really happens so there is no precedent, which means finding the right person to talk to is almost impossible.
3 - The hotel we were suppose to stay in which NEVER fills up, due to our procrastination because of the ticket problem, FILLED UP!
4 - Our friend fell and hurt her ankle and heel really bad, right before we spent a week walking all over the city
5 - On Tuesday of our vacation my son fell down some stairs, landed on his head and had a lump the size of a golfball most the week
6 - When we got home, our AC had broke so our house was 92 degrees!
7 - Stayed with my parents for 2 nights and 3 days (blessing), unable to sleep well because of staying on air mattress
8 - Some spiritual attack occurred on Sunday (as it always does) but that will remain vague...
9 - Quote from AC company number 1 - 2400 dollars (here's where you put the heart attack at)
10 - Decide to wait - and I drive all the way to Tampa yelling and wrestling with God and my flesh about the money!
11 - God puts me in my place, fills me with His Spirit and makes me okay with spending that much money to fix an AC unit on a house we have a contract on and aren't going to be living in much longer.
12 - What happens? I get a call from another company, that promises to save me a lot of money and that I am being ripped off by company number one.
13 - One more night in mom and dads house.
14 - AC guys from Accu-Temp come out and FIX our unit for $350!
15 - Last night, we were able to sleep in our own bed, in our own house, and woke up late this morning!
So, I know towards the end it got less into the attack and more into the provision from God - but it has really been a cool last couple of days! The battle can be so fierce that I at times, was just a wreck. Monday, I was driving to help out with a ministry called Amazing Love in Ybor. They feed the homeless, and have a worship service for them. I want you to catch this perspective for a second...I am driving, in my air conditioned car, to feed people who sleep on the streets and are not sure where their next meal, shower, or bed is going to be - and I am fighting with God about how "bad" my situation is! And how unfair he is being!
Yeah, here is where conviction goes.
In the car, I actually told God that I was going to praise Him in my circumstances, but my heart was praising to make God feel like a jerk for being mean to me! I don't know if I can communicate this accurately, but I felt like if I told God how awesome He was, while He was being a jerk to me, He would realize how big of a jerk He was being. (I realize my theology was terrible, but it was what I was feeling)
Then, a funny thing started to happen - as I praised, God softened my heart, and the praise become real, instead of manipulative and guilt. He opened my eyes to all the ways He had provided for us, and showed me that He had blessed us with the money to pay for the repairs, given us a cool place to sleep every night, and that if He chose to use His money to fix our AC, so be it - why should I complain and argue with Him.
So, I repented and that night - after God made me willing and joyful about paying $2400 to fix our AC, I got a call telling me that it could be fixed for $350!
And so, here I sit - excited about the future, full of love for my Daddy, and hopefully a little wiser and more trusting of Him.
It has been a rollercoaster ride lately. One of those coasters that seem to shoot straight up to the clouds, and then you make a 180 degree turn and plummet down to the ground only to shoot straight back up again.
Last week, we took a trip to N'Awlins, LA - which was awesome. We got to see a good friend of ours, visit our old stomping grounds and the school I used to go to, and eat a lot of amazing food while listening to some of the best music ever. It was great - but leading up to and then on the tail end of the trip, we have been under some of the fiercest spiritual battle I have ever faced.
1 - Due to a mistake on a ticket I received for not having current registration, I was suppose to have an "arraingment hearing" on the 27th of April for a FATALITY mistakenly marked on the ticket.
2 - That never really happens so there is no precedent, which means finding the right person to talk to is almost impossible.
3 - The hotel we were suppose to stay in which NEVER fills up, due to our procrastination because of the ticket problem, FILLED UP!
4 - Our friend fell and hurt her ankle and heel really bad, right before we spent a week walking all over the city
5 - On Tuesday of our vacation my son fell down some stairs, landed on his head and had a lump the size of a golfball most the week
6 - When we got home, our AC had broke so our house was 92 degrees!
7 - Stayed with my parents for 2 nights and 3 days (blessing), unable to sleep well because of staying on air mattress
8 - Some spiritual attack occurred on Sunday (as it always does) but that will remain vague...
9 - Quote from AC company number 1 - 2400 dollars (here's where you put the heart attack at)
10 - Decide to wait - and I drive all the way to Tampa yelling and wrestling with God and my flesh about the money!
11 - God puts me in my place, fills me with His Spirit and makes me okay with spending that much money to fix an AC unit on a house we have a contract on and aren't going to be living in much longer.
12 - What happens? I get a call from another company, that promises to save me a lot of money and that I am being ripped off by company number one.
13 - One more night in mom and dads house.
14 - AC guys from Accu-Temp come out and FIX our unit for $350!
15 - Last night, we were able to sleep in our own bed, in our own house, and woke up late this morning!
So, I know towards the end it got less into the attack and more into the provision from God - but it has really been a cool last couple of days! The battle can be so fierce that I at times, was just a wreck. Monday, I was driving to help out with a ministry called Amazing Love in Ybor. They feed the homeless, and have a worship service for them. I want you to catch this perspective for a second...I am driving, in my air conditioned car, to feed people who sleep on the streets and are not sure where their next meal, shower, or bed is going to be - and I am fighting with God about how "bad" my situation is! And how unfair he is being!
Yeah, here is where conviction goes.
In the car, I actually told God that I was going to praise Him in my circumstances, but my heart was praising to make God feel like a jerk for being mean to me! I don't know if I can communicate this accurately, but I felt like if I told God how awesome He was, while He was being a jerk to me, He would realize how big of a jerk He was being. (I realize my theology was terrible, but it was what I was feeling)
Then, a funny thing started to happen - as I praised, God softened my heart, and the praise become real, instead of manipulative and guilt. He opened my eyes to all the ways He had provided for us, and showed me that He had blessed us with the money to pay for the repairs, given us a cool place to sleep every night, and that if He chose to use His money to fix our AC, so be it - why should I complain and argue with Him.
So, I repented and that night - after God made me willing and joyful about paying $2400 to fix our AC, I got a call telling me that it could be fixed for $350!
And so, here I sit - excited about the future, full of love for my Daddy, and hopefully a little wiser and more trusting of Him.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Poor Pastor...
1 Corinthians 4:9-13 "For I think that God has exhibited us apostles as last of all, like men sentenced to death, because we have become a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. We are fools for Christ's sake, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are held in honor, but we in disrepute. To the present hour we hunger and thirst, we are poorly dressed and buffeted and homeless, and we labor, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we entreat. WE have become, and are still, like the scum of the world, the refuse of all things."
1 Corinthians 4:16 - "I urge you, then, be imitators of me."
As I read this passage this morning, a new perspective hit me that I had never really seen before, or maybe I have never taken the time to slow down and actually pay attention to the words I am reading...
But, look at the first chunk of verses again...doesn't sound like what we would want as a spiritual leader, does it? Someone who is the SCUM of the world? The REFUSE of all things? Not my idea of a leader I would be quick to follow. I like the idea of being an imitator of the Paul who stands before the men in Athens and points them to their false, unknown God and makes it about Jesus. Or the Paul that demands an apology from the magistrates in Philippi, because they punished a Roman citizen unfairly...
But, he refers to himself as a homeless, starving, beaten and ridiculed piece of trash.
I have heard the phrase "Be imitators of me" preached before about Paul, and what a great man of God he was, and how above reproach he was to ask people to be like him... and I have often thought that, to say that - took a level of confidence and a pair of stones, that I guess I just don't have.
And, when I read the phrase in context, it makes sense. Paul is saying, look at me, I am nothing. Jesus is everything. The world considers me garbage and I can do, and will do nothing without Jesus. Life is hard, and not gonna get any easier. But, I am plugging along, worshiping Jesus. Be like me. Put up with the hatred, the beatings, the disrespect, poverty, and hunger - for Jesus.
Kinda put things in a new light for me this morning. Paul isn't saying, I am so great be like me. He is saying, life is hard as a Christian, you are gonna get treated poorly, and if I am able to endure, so can you.
What if as pastors, we adopted that message? What if pastors and leaders looked like that today? Instead of building hangars for their planes, or adding another suit to their wardrobe - they got up in plain clothes, with calloused hands from their regular job (not a 6 figure salary from a church) and shared their trials, struggles and persecutions. And then pointed to Jesus.
That would be pretty awesome!
1 Corinthians 4:16 - "I urge you, then, be imitators of me."
As I read this passage this morning, a new perspective hit me that I had never really seen before, or maybe I have never taken the time to slow down and actually pay attention to the words I am reading...
But, look at the first chunk of verses again...doesn't sound like what we would want as a spiritual leader, does it? Someone who is the SCUM of the world? The REFUSE of all things? Not my idea of a leader I would be quick to follow. I like the idea of being an imitator of the Paul who stands before the men in Athens and points them to their false, unknown God and makes it about Jesus. Or the Paul that demands an apology from the magistrates in Philippi, because they punished a Roman citizen unfairly...
But, he refers to himself as a homeless, starving, beaten and ridiculed piece of trash.
I have heard the phrase "Be imitators of me" preached before about Paul, and what a great man of God he was, and how above reproach he was to ask people to be like him... and I have often thought that, to say that - took a level of confidence and a pair of stones, that I guess I just don't have.
And, when I read the phrase in context, it makes sense. Paul is saying, look at me, I am nothing. Jesus is everything. The world considers me garbage and I can do, and will do nothing without Jesus. Life is hard, and not gonna get any easier. But, I am plugging along, worshiping Jesus. Be like me. Put up with the hatred, the beatings, the disrespect, poverty, and hunger - for Jesus.
Kinda put things in a new light for me this morning. Paul isn't saying, I am so great be like me. He is saying, life is hard as a Christian, you are gonna get treated poorly, and if I am able to endure, so can you.
What if as pastors, we adopted that message? What if pastors and leaders looked like that today? Instead of building hangars for their planes, or adding another suit to their wardrobe - they got up in plain clothes, with calloused hands from their regular job (not a 6 figure salary from a church) and shared their trials, struggles and persecutions. And then pointed to Jesus.
That would be pretty awesome!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Acts 13....
"And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit" (Acts 13:52)
I want to paint for you a picture this morning. Imagine you are Peter or Barnabas at Antioch in Pisidia (Acts 13). You head off to temple, sit and listen to the reading from the Torah and towards the end of the reading, the religious leaders turn to you and ask you to share a word of encouragement.
What would your word be?
Peter, filled with the Spirit of God, stood up - and walked those gathered through the Old Testament and spoon fed them the gospel of Jesus Christ. He took something very personal, familiar and that they could identify with and tied it into the Gospel. And while many books and classes have been taught on doing just that, this is not what struck me today.
The people are so moved by their encounter with the Truth and so impressed by what the Spirit reveals through Paul that they invited him back another Sunday. This time, almost the whole city shows up. Imagine, the place is packed, everyone is whispering and sharing stories about what they heard last week. People are anxious to hear what this guy, Paul has to say that has everyone so excited. The religious leaders and devout Jews show up, see the crowds - and these men of God, who are suppose to teach, train and exhibit the Word of God, allow jealousy to creep into their spirit and begin to stir dissension against Paul and Barnabas. They get the devout men and women in their corner, and they begin to contradict what Paul had taught the week prior. Even though, Paul began in the Old Testament, and tied it into Jesus - there is no limit to which false teachers will go to lead people astray. But this is not what hit me.
Hearing the people being led astray and probably seeing the crowd quickly turn on them, Paul and Barnabas get up and speak out in boldness and declare that the Jews received the Gospel first, but have decided that they themselves are not worthy of eternal life, and so now the Gospel goes out to the Gentiles... there are about 10 sermons that could be preached, but still not what hit me.
The Gentiles in hearing that they can have a relationship with God, and that He loves them - rejoice and worship God - still not where I am going
This sends the religious leadership into a frenzy and they immediately begin to persecute Paul and Barnabas and DRIVE THEM OUT OF TOWN! Paul and Barnabas head out, dusting the dirt off their sandals as they go, not wasting time with the religious leaders, but moving forward to take the message of Jesus to wherever God leads them next... but still not what hit me.
"And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit."
There we are - this verse, that I have so often skimmed over, was powerful today. Think about the roller coaster ride that Paul and Barnabas and those who came to faith in Jesus in Antioch had been on. Yay for Jesus - let's hear more, No to Jesus - false teaching, YAY for Jesus - it's not just for Jews, No to Jesus - persecution and run out of town.
I don't know about you, but my head would be spinning and I would wonder what the heck God was doing. But what is their response - filled with Joy and Holy Spirit.
They grasped something I think all believers need to grab ahold of - our filling of the Spirit and joy should not, cannot, MUST NOT be conditional. Whether we are facing revival, or revulsion - we can be filled with joy and the Spirit. What hope we have, that we can serve God, be filled with His Spirit and have the fruit of His Spirit evident in our life, regardless of our circumstances.
I think about how often this is untrue in my life, and that leads me to repentance. How often I have joy after a successful preaching engagement or ministry event or divinely appointed conversation. And how quickly all of that can go out the window when something goes awry.
Oh, to be free from the conditional emotional response and simply live a life tied to the Spirt of God, filled with His love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, and self control...
Requires me to die to myself, live in Christ.
Difficult - maybe.
Attainable - gotta believe it is!
Friday, April 9, 2010
Marriage...
Sometimes I talk to people, and they talk about things that are revealed to them in a dream, and to be honest, I spent so many years as a negative, bitter skeptic that this is still usually my first reaction - but most of the time, I just end up jealous because I don't really ever dream. About anything. When I sleep - it is mostly dark, blank, amazing nothingness until the next morning.
But, about a week ago, I had a dream that has stuck with me and it hit me again this morning as I was talking with God. In my dream, I was at a funeral and some new friends and old friends had gathered together to celebrate the life of someone, who it was I do not know. But at this funeral, an old acquaintance was there, a friend from days long since past, a female. For whatever the reason would have been, I was at the funeral alone and after it was over and we were all walking our separate ways I decided to walk this woman to her car. We were reminiscing and enjoying talking when I decided to ask her out for coffee. In my dream, I had a check in my spirit, because this would violate the very boundary that I established at the foundation of my relationship with Katie. And, in my heart, I heard the lie whispered.
"It's innocent, she doesn't need to be bothered, and its simply coffee. It means nothing"
And yet, it meant everything.
It was at that point that I woke up from my dream, disturbed at "dream Nate" and his willingness to comprise it all - for NOTHING!
I remember telling my wife about the dream, and her just kind of listening and I think thinking I was crazy to be bothered, but later that day as I was hanging out with God, and He and I were going over this dream, he whispered something in my ear:
"Aren't we in a covenant relationship that is deeper than your marriage? How many times have you traded in our relationship for NOTHING?"
What I had thought was a picture of my earthly relationship with my lovely, beautiful and amazing wife, was really a sad and staggeringly accurate depiction of my marriage to Christ. I have been SO guilty of believing the lie that sin is harmless, or that forgiveness is already ensured, or that God won't know, and it's not a BIG deal, or my intentions are good... that I have been an adulterer.
I have cheated on Christ, many times over. And the thing that wrecks my heart, is I know that as long as I am in this flesh, and struggle and war in this life, I will continue to commit adultery.
A passage that has stuck with me a long time now, is Ezekiel 16. In this chapter, God is so madly, deeply in love with His Bride (us) and He pours out on her every blessing, adorns her with fine linens and gold and she USES that which He gave her, to betray him and whore herself out to others. And God's heart is wrecked, because His Love betrays Him. But, I love the last few verses - after God's heart has been broken, and His Bride has left him, offended and rejected him and done everything in their power to despise him - he promises Jesus and an everlasting covenant!
What an amazing display of love. I am overwhelmed when I think of his love for me, despite my consistent attempt to drive a wedge between us.
I wonder, what would our lives look like if we honored the covenant we made to Christ on the day we first called him Lord?
What would our churches look like if we remembered to live lives of devotion to our Husband?
But, about a week ago, I had a dream that has stuck with me and it hit me again this morning as I was talking with God. In my dream, I was at a funeral and some new friends and old friends had gathered together to celebrate the life of someone, who it was I do not know. But at this funeral, an old acquaintance was there, a friend from days long since past, a female. For whatever the reason would have been, I was at the funeral alone and after it was over and we were all walking our separate ways I decided to walk this woman to her car. We were reminiscing and enjoying talking when I decided to ask her out for coffee. In my dream, I had a check in my spirit, because this would violate the very boundary that I established at the foundation of my relationship with Katie. And, in my heart, I heard the lie whispered.
"It's innocent, she doesn't need to be bothered, and its simply coffee. It means nothing"
And yet, it meant everything.
It was at that point that I woke up from my dream, disturbed at "dream Nate" and his willingness to comprise it all - for NOTHING!
I remember telling my wife about the dream, and her just kind of listening and I think thinking I was crazy to be bothered, but later that day as I was hanging out with God, and He and I were going over this dream, he whispered something in my ear:
"Aren't we in a covenant relationship that is deeper than your marriage? How many times have you traded in our relationship for NOTHING?"
What I had thought was a picture of my earthly relationship with my lovely, beautiful and amazing wife, was really a sad and staggeringly accurate depiction of my marriage to Christ. I have been SO guilty of believing the lie that sin is harmless, or that forgiveness is already ensured, or that God won't know, and it's not a BIG deal, or my intentions are good... that I have been an adulterer.
I have cheated on Christ, many times over. And the thing that wrecks my heart, is I know that as long as I am in this flesh, and struggle and war in this life, I will continue to commit adultery.
A passage that has stuck with me a long time now, is Ezekiel 16. In this chapter, God is so madly, deeply in love with His Bride (us) and He pours out on her every blessing, adorns her with fine linens and gold and she USES that which He gave her, to betray him and whore herself out to others. And God's heart is wrecked, because His Love betrays Him. But, I love the last few verses - after God's heart has been broken, and His Bride has left him, offended and rejected him and done everything in their power to despise him - he promises Jesus and an everlasting covenant!
What an amazing display of love. I am overwhelmed when I think of his love for me, despite my consistent attempt to drive a wedge between us.
I wonder, what would our lives look like if we honored the covenant we made to Christ on the day we first called him Lord?
What would our churches look like if we remembered to live lives of devotion to our Husband?
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Obedience leads to success...
Have you ever had a moment where God opens your eyes, and suddenly things come into focus and life makes a little more sense?
I had one of those last night, and I have to say - I was very grateful for it. See, we were recently given the opportunity to be obedient as God asked us to step out of our comfortable place of worship (South Bay Church, awesome church check it out if you live in Riverview) and begin to journey with new friends and family at First Baptist Church of Tampa (great church as well, right across from the University of Tampa).
This may or may not surprise those who read this, but a "traditional" church would not be Katie or my first choice. So, when God began to call us to obedience it was tough. We separated ourselves from our family at South Bay quickly and quietly, not out of hurt feelings, anger, or resentment, but out of necessity for our transition.
It has been 4 months now since we left - and last night, God granted me a little bit of clarity. Sometimes, in life, ministry is hard and a struggle and every inch you take back for Jesus feels like a mile. Maybe some of you can identify? Other times, I believe, God opens up the flood gates, and you feel like all you do is show up - and the earth moves and lives are changed.
South Bay, was definitely the former. While serving in different capacities for over 2 years, it honestly felt like everything Katie or I did was 1 step forward, 2 steps back. We really felt like God limited our ability to lead and do ministry there, and we never really understood why. But, as I reflect over where I was when we began life at South Bay and where I am now, I can honestly say I am not the same man. The relationships I formed, and the amount of transformation that took place is indescribable. I joined South Bay a boy, scared of the Holy Spirit, afraid of seeing His Gifts manifest in people, awkward about worship, and timid in my pleas and petitions before God. I can honestly say - through the people of South Bay, God has redeemed much of that in my life and walk... which is pretty awesome.
Last night, as I was taking out the trash at FBC Tampa, after our first ever Nourish Culinary Class - God spoke to me, and said "welcome to the flood gates"!!!! It is so funny, that after 2 years of battling and learning and growing, and LOVING almost every minute of it - God has us at a place where He is just blessing everything Katie and I touch.
And, I don't feel like we are doing anything different. Which means, it is not my brilliant ideas, performance or ability - it is simply the Holy Spirit doing His Work, and our obedience to the voice of God. I am truly BOASTING IN THE LORD AND THE STRENGTH OF HIS MIGHT!!!!!!!
So, my challenge to you would be this - where is God asking you to be obedient? Where is he asking you to step out in faith and possibly enter into the floodgates of blessing? Because at the end of the day, it is not about you, me or the "church" we attend, it is about bringing glory to Jesus and seeing where He is moving and following Him!
I had one of those last night, and I have to say - I was very grateful for it. See, we were recently given the opportunity to be obedient as God asked us to step out of our comfortable place of worship (South Bay Church, awesome church check it out if you live in Riverview) and begin to journey with new friends and family at First Baptist Church of Tampa (great church as well, right across from the University of Tampa).
This may or may not surprise those who read this, but a "traditional" church would not be Katie or my first choice. So, when God began to call us to obedience it was tough. We separated ourselves from our family at South Bay quickly and quietly, not out of hurt feelings, anger, or resentment, but out of necessity for our transition.
It has been 4 months now since we left - and last night, God granted me a little bit of clarity. Sometimes, in life, ministry is hard and a struggle and every inch you take back for Jesus feels like a mile. Maybe some of you can identify? Other times, I believe, God opens up the flood gates, and you feel like all you do is show up - and the earth moves and lives are changed.
South Bay, was definitely the former. While serving in different capacities for over 2 years, it honestly felt like everything Katie or I did was 1 step forward, 2 steps back. We really felt like God limited our ability to lead and do ministry there, and we never really understood why. But, as I reflect over where I was when we began life at South Bay and where I am now, I can honestly say I am not the same man. The relationships I formed, and the amount of transformation that took place is indescribable. I joined South Bay a boy, scared of the Holy Spirit, afraid of seeing His Gifts manifest in people, awkward about worship, and timid in my pleas and petitions before God. I can honestly say - through the people of South Bay, God has redeemed much of that in my life and walk... which is pretty awesome.
Last night, as I was taking out the trash at FBC Tampa, after our first ever Nourish Culinary Class - God spoke to me, and said "welcome to the flood gates"!!!! It is so funny, that after 2 years of battling and learning and growing, and LOVING almost every minute of it - God has us at a place where He is just blessing everything Katie and I touch.
And, I don't feel like we are doing anything different. Which means, it is not my brilliant ideas, performance or ability - it is simply the Holy Spirit doing His Work, and our obedience to the voice of God. I am truly BOASTING IN THE LORD AND THE STRENGTH OF HIS MIGHT!!!!!!!
So, my challenge to you would be this - where is God asking you to be obedient? Where is he asking you to step out in faith and possibly enter into the floodgates of blessing? Because at the end of the day, it is not about you, me or the "church" we attend, it is about bringing glory to Jesus and seeing where He is moving and following Him!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Object of Love
I just wanted to take a quick minute to throw down some thoughts on here - hopefully to help me process.
This week, is passion week - the week that we as Christians celebrate the last days of the life of our Savior. Sunday, millions will gather to praise the God who left us with an empty tomb.
As I began this week, I thought it would be fun to read the last week of Jesus' life from one gospel account each day. So Monday I read Matthew's; Tuesday - Mark; Wednesday - Luke; and today I will read John.
As I have read through the last week of Jesus' life, a few things have impacted me that I wanted to share. First, his last week was filled with trials. And I don't just mean him standing before the high priest and Pilate. It's amazing as you read from the triumphal entry to the resurrection, Jesus' last week is extremely difficult. You would think he would go on vacation, get away to mentally prepare himself for the tough task ahead, or coast for a couple of days.
But that is not what He does. He is in the temple each day, teaching and confusing everyone. Loving on people, getting the Passover ready, essentially taking care of business! And He is about to conquer sin, death and set us free!
Also, it has been hugely beneficial for me to see how restrained Jesus was.
Imagine, just for a minute having the power to create the world, and the very creation YOU MADE defying you, spitting in your face, whipping your back and ACTING like they have the power over you!
Imagine the legions of angels standing by - simply waiting for a nod from their commander to rescue him and slay the pesky humans who were destroying the love of their life...
Imagine the restraint Jesus showed to avoid revealing himself in true splendor, power and might...
Imagine the struggle it would have been to allow the sin to descend upon Jesus - the only one undeserving of that punishment and weight. What an unfamiliar feeling, to feel the burden of sin...
Imagine the unbelievable anguish of feeling that separation from God. I think that was probably the worst. We don't get it, because we were born in a fallen world, with a nature inclined to sin - so we don't grasp the absolute perfect relational intimacy that we have waiting for us in heaven. Jesus had that, He knew it well. And in that moment, Jesus became sin - and felt the weight of loneliness and separation from the Father.
Imagine feeling a love so great that you were willing to go through everything mentioned above...
Imagine being the object of that love...
We truly are the beloved!
Friday, March 26, 2010
Acts 11
It's interesting how we hear God sometimes, isn't it? Many people can experience God in different ways, and while this isn't necessarily a popular seminary position, I believe that God speaks to each of us in unique and powerful ways. If he created us all different, and gave us different gifts, abilities and learning styles; wouldn't it make sense that He would choose to connect with us in different ways as well?
God is in the process of expanding my horizon, and it has never been more fun for me to be a believer. I look around, and my heart is broken for the condition of our world, for the condition of the Bride, for the condition of the earth - but I am having a BLAST learning and hearing from God.
This morning, I was spending some time in the book of Acts and I have been reading through Acts looking at the missional aspect of the Church. In Acts 11, Peter comes before the religious leadership of the church in Jerusalem to defend his ministry to the Gentiles and after retelling the story, the Jewish leadership rejoices that God has a heart for the Gentiles. It's like a whole new concept of who God is and a whole new understanding of how He loves people - has just been revealed to the early church! So awesome...
But, what really hit me right between the eyes, was Acts 11:27 which says "Now in these days prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch."
Did you see?
The men who had been the voice of God and brought insight to the Word of God - chose to leave Jerusalem for what God was doing in Antioch! You see, the verses preceding this one show how a handful of men from Cyprus and Cyrene share the gospel in Antioch, not just with the Jews but with the Greeks as well. God is DESTROYING the racial, ethnic and religious barriers in His quest for the human heart! I love that!
It is in Antioch that the believers are first called Christians, Paul and Barnabas begin their ministry together in Antioch and spend a year planting a church and building up the brothers in Antioch! I can only imagine the kind of stuff that was going on in this city. It must have been pretty awesome, for prophets to decide they didn't want to be in Jerusalem (you know, the place Jesus spent most of his ministry, died, rose and talked about coming back to build a new one) for Antioch!
What I believe was going on, was a hunger for God. The people (even the prophets) realized that there was an outpouring of the Spirit of God and that He was moving and shaking things up in Antioch and that the Church was on fire there and so rather than stay where they had always been, and do what they had always done - they pursued God!
How true does that need to be for me? How often do I decide that this is how God looks, moves and acts - and therefore I will go no further. How saw would it have been if the prophets had not followed where God was moving. Agabus may not have heard the word from God about the famine, the church would not have mobilized and prepared for the famine - and things could have gotten real ugly.
What happens when we decide we are going to follow God, even if it leads us away from the familiar?
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Embracing the Spirit...
Do you ever think about yourself and wonder how you ended up like you did? I mean, seriously do some introspection and marvel at who you are? I know for me - lately, I have been really looking at my heart, and I am blown away at the dichotomy of my soul. On one hand - I am so madly in love with Jesus and so desperate to see people fall in love with Him and experience His Spirit, it physically hurts. But, on the other hand - I am completely wicked and so easily distracted and selfish that I find my heart to be offensive and contemptuous.
So, this of course, causes me to pray and read. Earlier this week, God challenged me to read through Acts (one of my fav's) looking for the missional aspect of the leaders of the early church. Basically, what that means is I am reading through the lens of church planting, wanting to know what the apostles did as the Holy Spirit birthed the Bride through them.
This, is of course, rocking my face right off! And while, I could blog about this for a long, long, long time; I will try not to.
Here is what I heard this morning:
Acts 8 - Stephen has just preached like, the mac-daddy gospel to the Sanhedrin and been stoned for it. The church now, officially, is under persecution and we have the first martyr of the Christian Church.
We pick it up in 8:4 - a verse I have skimmed over several times, punched me right in the mouth today. " Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word."
Slow down and read that again.
Let it marinate.
Understand the gravity of that statement (and the next 4 verses after). The Church is officially being persecuted. Saul, in verse 3, is "ravaging" the church from house to house! And as people are fleeing for their lives what are they doing?
Preaching the Word.
Sharing the Gospel.
Does conviction creep into your soul at all as you read this? Because it should. Here, we have an example of what it means to believe in Jesus and live for Him. They are fleeing for their lives, and they CAN'T stop PREACHING! Or, maybe I should say, THEY WON'T STOP PREACHING! Jesus is absolutely paramount in their lives, even over their own safety and well-being.
Can the same be said for me? Honestly, NO.
I want Him to be, but He's not. My flesh gets in the way and I allow a muzzle to be placed over my mouth. I shy away from opportunities, or perhaps worse, I don't find ways to preach in common everyday situations.
Which leads me, sort of, to my next thought. Is there a difference from the early church to today's? Has the Spirit of God stopped working in some ways? All my schooling and upbringing has taught me that he hasn't stopped working, but all the services I have ever been at, prayer meetings I have been a part of, and classes I have ever attended give example to the contrary.
I am wakening to something. A desire deeply seeded in my soul for the movement of the Spirit of God in my life. I am shrugging of the complacency of comfort and embracing a desire for the power of God to be made evident in my life.
In Acts 4:31, the believers come together to pray and ask God to make them bold, and something happens. The PLACE they are in, is so full of the Spirit of God, that the room SHAKES! Why does this not happen today?
Is God less capable? Is He unwilling to do this? Has His desire to make Himself known through signs and wonders ceased? Some would say yes.
I, venture, no. I choose to believe that God still does move and act in this way. Does it make me uncomfortable - who cares.
I want the power of God to be made manifest in my life, so that as many people can fall in love and experience the wondrous love of Jesus in their life.
But, to go back to my first thought, that means Jesus needs to be the MOST IMPORTANT THING IN MY LIFE!
More important than family. More important than careers. More important than money. More important than fame. More important than ME.
I believe this is possible.
And I am gonna try to die to self, in pursuit of the heart and power of God!
Lord, let it be so...
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Mountain top experience....
So - it was pretty cool this morning, I was spending some time praying and God kept bring a passage to my mind.
The story of Abraham and Isaac, when God asks Abraham to take him up to a mountain that He would reveal to him, and sacrifice Isaac there.
As I was praying through the Word and asking God to open my eyes and let me see His heart and His purpose for me in this passage - a revelation came to me...
God no doubt takes people through valleys and then asks them to climbs mountains for Him. He asks Moses to do it. He has Jesus do it a couple of times.
And here, He asks Abraham to climb to the top of mountain. It is not to be given the Law, or to be tempted, or to be transfigured - it is to better understand the Father's heart.
I love as I read this story that at one point, Isaac asks his dad about the sacrifice - and Abraham's response is very deep "God himself will provide a lamb for the burnt offering" (nate paraphrase)
We can see so much in that simple statement. It is God who provides the lamb that frees Isaac. Abraham trusts that God is going to allow his son to live. Abraham's faith is unwavering. Abraham is foreshadowing Jesus. Abraham is placing the burden of sacrifice on God - not himself.
As I spent some time in this passage - I began to realize, that in my quest to be on the top of a mountain with God - so I can speak with Him and experience as much of Him as possible, it will require everything I have. Abraham was willing to lay down the life of his only son... what about me?
Now, God will not ask me to sacrifice my son as an offering, because Jesus was/is the perfect Lamb and my sin is paid for - but can I abandon all, like Abraham, for the cause of Christ?
It never really occurred to me prior to this morning, but to get to the top of the mountain, you will need to be willing to lay everything down and have faith that the God of the universe, our Father, will be there for us.
Abraham's faith should encourage and challenge each one of us to press into the heart of God, trust that He will provide, and know that no matter how heart-breaking it may be, God's way will ultimately lead to a life-changing experience with Him!
Isn't that what we want? To be changed by God?
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