Ok. So I have been wanting to discuss the "woman at the well" story, but today I am going to stretch out on a limb and talk about something else. Today's blog is going to probably be a bit cheesy, but I don't really care because it's what was on my heart, and I hope that in some way it touches you as well.
Last night, Clinton and I watched the new Disney movie, Tangled, on dvd. I had already seen the movie when it was in theaters, but since Clinton had not seen it, I only felt it necessary to bring him in on the fun. :) If you have not seen the movie, I would recommend it. I have always been a Disney fan, although I feel that in recent years, their movies fall short of the classical Beauty and the Beast era. However, I greatly enjoyed this one, and I will be adding it to my collection. There's just something about a good Disney movie that makes me feel like a kid again. For that brief hour or so, I am swept into another world, and I find myself enthralled by the enchantment and wonder of the characters, songs, and plot. Well, last night was no exception, for my warm fuzzies mounted and lingered long after the movie was over. In fact, I even got Clinton to let me watch the "romance" musical number again. :)
Ok, so I could go on and on, but I want to get to my point. There are several parts in the movie that I find just beautiful, but the one I want to talk about today is a song. The main characters are sitting in a boat in the middle of a lake, surrounded by night. Slowly at first, the sky begins to light up one at a time with glowing lanterns. It's just beautiful. But as they light up the sky, the characters begin singing their "love ballad," and this is where I found my eyes welling up (the first time, they came at the end as well). It wasn't really the "lovey dovey" portion that got my waterworks going, but the chorus of the song:
"And at last I see the light
And it's like the fog has lifted
And at last I see the light
And it's like the sky is new
And it's warm and real and bright
And the world has somehow shifted
All at once everything looks different
Now that I see you"
I wish you could hear it, that I could have found a clip of just the chorus, but to me it was beautiful. Through those words, in that moment, I was reminded of my walk with Christ. I was overcome with the truth in these words. Not that long ago, I walked in sin and darkness. I was empty and lost. But today, I am so thankful that I have seen the light, that my fog as been lifted, and how different everything looks now that I see Christ, my Savior. My heart overflows with tenderness, humility, peace, and joy at the truth in these words. I pray that today you would be reminded of the warm fuzzies you felt when you saw the light. If you haven't seen that light yet, then I pray that your fog would be lifted, and you would allow the Father to envelope you in his loving warmth, and let him change your world.
Who would'a thought I could get some spiritual deepening out of a Disney movie? God did, and I think it was just as beautiful as He intended.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Parched
Thirst. What does it mean to have thirst or to thirst for something? I'm pretty sure all of us can relate to what it means to be thristy. Webster describes thrist as this:
Thirst
Thirst
a : a sensation of dryness in the mouth and throat associated with a desire for liquids; also : the bodily condition (as of dehydration) that induces this sensation b : a desire or need to drink
I know you're all thinking"duh" we knew that already, and I agree. However, in the past few days, the term thrist has been brought to my attention several times. Beginning on Saturday, my devtional reading from Ashes to Fire was about the woman at the well, then our pastor spoke about the same story, and then reading my "Devotions for Lent," the same passage was used. After hearing this passage THREE times in the past few days, I thought," hm, maybe I should blog about it." So today, we are going to talk about being thristy.
I love the definition that states it is a "craving" a "longing," You can almost feel the urgency of this simple word, a deep need to be fulfilled. I looked up "thirsty" in the keyword search on biblegateway.com to count how many times it's referenced, and then I decided the word "multiple" would capture my point. Thirst is referred to several times throughout the Bible, most appropriately in the context of both physical and emotional need. One of my favorite passages is in Psalms 63, where David cries out "My soul thirsts for you, my flesh yearns for you. In a dry and weary land where there is no water." You can feel how parched his soul is for God, how desperate he is to be filled and quenched with living water. Even Jesus, in his last hours cries out on the cross "I am thirsty."
In the New Testament, Jesus talks about quenching our thirst with "living water." In John 7:37-38 "Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
I think it's pretty clear that Jesus used the word "thirst" to parallel our human need for Christ because it is a word we can all relate to. At some point or another, we have all been thristy, we've all desperately needed water. However, in America, I don't think we even have a clue as to what true thirst feels like. Whenever we are a bit parched, we can simply go drink clear, clean water. I think that's how it is in our spiritual lives at times. It is not as common for us to experience utter dependance on God for all of our needs. Aside from times of trial, we are surrounded by everything we could ever want or need.
I'm sure that this blurb on thirst is no new revelation to you, but I want to explore it even more over the next few days. I think it's important for us to be reminded that we need to be thristing for Christ. Tomorrow I would like to look at the story of the woman at the well in more detail, but I feel I've written enough for today.
Hope you have a blessed Tuesday!
In the New Testament, Jesus talks about quenching our thirst with "living water." In John 7:37-38 "Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. 38 Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
I think it's pretty clear that Jesus used the word "thirst" to parallel our human need for Christ because it is a word we can all relate to. At some point or another, we have all been thristy, we've all desperately needed water. However, in America, I don't think we even have a clue as to what true thirst feels like. Whenever we are a bit parched, we can simply go drink clear, clean water. I think that's how it is in our spiritual lives at times. It is not as common for us to experience utter dependance on God for all of our needs. Aside from times of trial, we are surrounded by everything we could ever want or need.
I'm sure that this blurb on thirst is no new revelation to you, but I want to explore it even more over the next few days. I think it's important for us to be reminded that we need to be thristing for Christ. Tomorrow I would like to look at the story of the woman at the well in more detail, but I feel I've written enough for today.
Hope you have a blessed Tuesday!
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Blame the Hand Waving on my Brother
This morning I woke up and had a precious gift in my email- a song from my brother. Over the past few weeks we have been trying to work together on this little project, which proves a bit challenging so far away from each other. Well this morning he sent me the complete recorded music for the song. I was unaware that he had completed it and actually sent it, so I was so excited to download the file and start listening.
As I sat and now sit, listening to it again, I am overwhelmed. Words cannot even begin to express the amount of joy, emotion, and tenderness that flood my soul. This is not the first song he has written, but everytime I hear them, I am brought to this same place- a place of awe, a place of wonder, and a place of pure humility.(And yes, family, I did want to start hand-waving my tearing eyes) I didn't want this to be a post to brag about how wonderful my brother is, but frankly I feel I need too.
As many of you know, Logan's life has not always been an easy one. His childhood dreams of sport's hero have long gone, but instead of being bitter, he chose to embrace the talent he could use- his music. Six years ago, when all our lives were completely shattered by this tragedy, I would have never thought I would be sitting here listening to this beautiful expression of worship. Logan amazes me everyday. God has given him a talent, and he is choosing to listen and use it. And oh how he uses it! The minute that song started playing, the melody spoke to my soul. Sitting on my couch in the middle of my quiet,empty house, I was overcome by God's presence and His goodness. All I can think to do in this moment is praise Him.
I praise You Lord, for knowing six years ago, that though life would be rough, that Logan (and my family) could pull through. That you were with us all along!
I praise You Lord, for blessing Logan with such an amazing expression of his heart and soul.
I praise You Lord, for the strength you give Logan everyday, for watching over him and walking with him.
I praise You God, for allowing me to have a taste of such an intimate moment spent between you and Logan.
I am overcome. You are so great, so holy! In my finite little human world, I am so grateful that I get glimpses of your overwhelming power and glory. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. May my lips always sing your praise and may you continue to use Logan to bring people into your presence and experience your undeniable love and grace!
Today I was thinking, how can I tie this in with a spiritual "lesson"? Well I think it's pretty clear- when we use the talents God has given us to bring glory to Him, there is nothing more beautiful in all the world. When we share with others the gifts placed in our hearts, we can be a glimpse of God's splendor to those who receive it. May we not hold back our gifts. May we allow God to manifest those within our hearts and actions that others might encounter God through us. You never know when the gift you use could produce hand-waving, joyful tears to someone else! :) To Him be the Glory!
Love you all!
As I sat and now sit, listening to it again, I am overwhelmed. Words cannot even begin to express the amount of joy, emotion, and tenderness that flood my soul. This is not the first song he has written, but everytime I hear them, I am brought to this same place- a place of awe, a place of wonder, and a place of pure humility.(And yes, family, I did want to start hand-waving my tearing eyes) I didn't want this to be a post to brag about how wonderful my brother is, but frankly I feel I need too.
As many of you know, Logan's life has not always been an easy one. His childhood dreams of sport's hero have long gone, but instead of being bitter, he chose to embrace the talent he could use- his music. Six years ago, when all our lives were completely shattered by this tragedy, I would have never thought I would be sitting here listening to this beautiful expression of worship. Logan amazes me everyday. God has given him a talent, and he is choosing to listen and use it. And oh how he uses it! The minute that song started playing, the melody spoke to my soul. Sitting on my couch in the middle of my quiet,empty house, I was overcome by God's presence and His goodness. All I can think to do in this moment is praise Him.
I praise You Lord, for knowing six years ago, that though life would be rough, that Logan (and my family) could pull through. That you were with us all along!
I praise You Lord, for blessing Logan with such an amazing expression of his heart and soul.
I praise You Lord, for the strength you give Logan everyday, for watching over him and walking with him.
I praise You God, for allowing me to have a taste of such an intimate moment spent between you and Logan.
I am overcome. You are so great, so holy! In my finite little human world, I am so grateful that I get glimpses of your overwhelming power and glory. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. May my lips always sing your praise and may you continue to use Logan to bring people into your presence and experience your undeniable love and grace!
Today I was thinking, how can I tie this in with a spiritual "lesson"? Well I think it's pretty clear- when we use the talents God has given us to bring glory to Him, there is nothing more beautiful in all the world. When we share with others the gifts placed in our hearts, we can be a glimpse of God's splendor to those who receive it. May we not hold back our gifts. May we allow God to manifest those within our hearts and actions that others might encounter God through us. You never know when the gift you use could produce hand-waving, joyful tears to someone else! :) To Him be the Glory!
Love you all!
Friday, March 25, 2011
Stuck Like a Kidney Stone
Every week our pastor sends out an encouraging/challenging email to our congregation. For those of you who don't know my pastor, he is very clever, witty, and always draws from real-life scenarios to pertain to spiritual situations. For the past like 60 days now, our pastor has been praying for almost 500 prayer requests every..single..day. He has been suffering from terrible headaches, and for about the past month, a kidney stone that just won't go away. I am continually in awe at his heart, strength, and energy to love our church and God, for he never gives up!
The email this week was kind of an update on his kidney stone..which he is going to try to have removed for the second time today, but also a spiritual lesson. Just like his kidney stone seems "stuck", we as Christians can sometimes get stuck too. We get to a certain point in our lives and we just let life pass us by. We become content with our situations, and we never change. The following is a quote from that email:
The email this week was kind of an update on his kidney stone..which he is going to try to have removed for the second time today, but also a spiritual lesson. Just like his kidney stone seems "stuck", we as Christians can sometimes get stuck too. We get to a certain point in our lives and we just let life pass us by. We become content with our situations, and we never change. The following is a quote from that email:
"Hebrews 6:1 says: “Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity…” Refuse to be content with where you are in your Christian walk. In other words… press on! Dive into God’s word. Move on to maturity. Don’t stay in the same place. Hunger and thirst for righteousness. Reject the easy path of laziness or indifference. Like I’ve been telling my kidney stone for the last four weeks “Get moving!” -Rob Prince
I felt that in light of this week's focus on holiness and grace, that this illustration was perfect. We can't begin to take on a life of holy living if we don't move! Let's not be satisfied ever with where we are, our walk with Christ is just that- a WALK. We don't sit around and wait to get somewhere, we have to move.
I love the following prayer in my Devotions for Lent. I hope you will make this your prayer as well.
Prayer to the Holy Spirit- Augustine of Hipp (Algeria/354-430)
Breathe in me,
O Holy Spirit,
that my thoughts may all be holy.
Act in me,
O Holy Spirit,
that my work, too, may be holy.
Draw my heart,
O Holy Spirit,
that I love only what is holy.
Stregthen me,
O Holy Spirit,
to defend all that is holy.
Gaurd me, the,
O Holy Spirit,
that I may always be holy.
Have a blessed, lovely weekend!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
"Woe is Me"
In reflecting on holiness and grace this week, I have been thinking about what it means for us to be holy. Yesterday I expressed that we cannot become holy without God's saving grace and refining strength. Today I read a passage that beautifully describes our need to recognize our lack of holiness, for that is the beginning of holy living.
Devotions for Lent
Keith Potter
Holy God
"In the season of Lent we remember the great sacrifice that Jesus Christ made, the forgiveness that was paid for with his life. We confess that our sins have gotten in the way of a relationship with God.
However, our confession will be thin and hollow unless we understand how great and holy God is. We are forever underestimating the seriousness of sin and its effects, making us unlike God and unfit for his good fellowship. Our efforts as forgiving ourselves and others will be thin and hollow as well unless we understand how God's grace completely covers us through Jesus Christ, makins us righteous in God's eyes and fit for his good fellowship.
So in this season, we meditate on God's holiness and wonder what it would be like to be filled only with loving intentions and healthy movtivations, like our God.
In Isaiah 6, we discover the story of the great prophet starts with a grand vision of God on his throne, surrouned by angelic beings. Day and night, these attendants cry out "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of Heaven's Armies! The whole earth is filled with his glory! (Isaiah 6:3)
Isaiah's response?
"It's all over! I am doomed, for I am a sinful man. I have filthy lips, and I live among a people with filthy lips. Yet I have seen the King, The Lord of Heaven's Armies."(Isaiah 6:5)
Seeing God gave Isaiah the eyes to see himself. Unclean. Badly acculturated in the filth of his surroundings. Anything but holy.
So God touched Isaiah. He enjoyes forgiveness and cleansing and a new readiness. God calls out for a human agent.
Isaiah response, "Lord, I'll go! Send me."
That can be our story. In light of God's holiness, we come undone. "Woe is me! I'm an unclean person among unclean people. Now that I really see you, Lord, I see myself. Help!"
And God does help, with a grace greater than our sin. If his holiness is great, his grace is somehow overarching, for it covers every sin of ours that must offend the purity of his holiness. "Come, let us tell of the Lord's greatness; let us exalt his name together." (Psalm 34:3)
Wow. Before we can start to become holy, we must recognize how truly unholy we are. When we compare ourselves to how holy God is, we are but filth. I have to wonder though, the more we allow God to touch us, to change us, to refine, how much more will we begin to recognize how holy He truly is? I pray that we would never cheapen our view of God, that our hearts will always be willing to cry out "Woe is me! For I am unclean!" and that we keep in persepective how amazing His grace really is.
Devotions for Lent
Keith Potter
Holy God
"In the season of Lent we remember the great sacrifice that Jesus Christ made, the forgiveness that was paid for with his life. We confess that our sins have gotten in the way of a relationship with God.
However, our confession will be thin and hollow unless we understand how great and holy God is. We are forever underestimating the seriousness of sin and its effects, making us unlike God and unfit for his good fellowship. Our efforts as forgiving ourselves and others will be thin and hollow as well unless we understand how God's grace completely covers us through Jesus Christ, makins us righteous in God's eyes and fit for his good fellowship.
So in this season, we meditate on God's holiness and wonder what it would be like to be filled only with loving intentions and healthy movtivations, like our God.
In Isaiah 6, we discover the story of the great prophet starts with a grand vision of God on his throne, surrouned by angelic beings. Day and night, these attendants cry out "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of Heaven's Armies! The whole earth is filled with his glory! (Isaiah 6:3)
Isaiah's response?
"It's all over! I am doomed, for I am a sinful man. I have filthy lips, and I live among a people with filthy lips. Yet I have seen the King, The Lord of Heaven's Armies."(Isaiah 6:5)
Seeing God gave Isaiah the eyes to see himself. Unclean. Badly acculturated in the filth of his surroundings. Anything but holy.
So God touched Isaiah. He enjoyes forgiveness and cleansing and a new readiness. God calls out for a human agent.
Isaiah response, "Lord, I'll go! Send me."
That can be our story. In light of God's holiness, we come undone. "Woe is me! I'm an unclean person among unclean people. Now that I really see you, Lord, I see myself. Help!"
And God does help, with a grace greater than our sin. If his holiness is great, his grace is somehow overarching, for it covers every sin of ours that must offend the purity of his holiness. "Come, let us tell of the Lord's greatness; let us exalt his name together." (Psalm 34:3)
Wow. Before we can start to become holy, we must recognize how truly unholy we are. When we compare ourselves to how holy God is, we are but filth. I have to wonder though, the more we allow God to touch us, to change us, to refine, how much more will we begin to recognize how holy He truly is? I pray that we would never cheapen our view of God, that our hearts will always be willing to cry out "Woe is me! For I am unclean!" and that we keep in persepective how amazing His grace really is.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Creatures of Habit
Well it's been awhile since I have posted anything. Over the past 10 days, I have been to Chicago and back, Dodge City and back, hung out with family, worked with preschoolers, discussed serious life concerns, and as of this morning, unpacked ridiculous amounts of clothing from Old Navy before even the sun wanted to get up. Needless to say, I've been a bit busy, and a bit exhausted. Although my trips were very enjoyable, I have been on an emotional roller coaster through all of it. Thus, I have not blogged because frankly I just didn't feel like it.
In reflecting on these past few days, and feeling like I needed to get back to my blog, I identified with the statement: "we are creatures of habit." I, probably more so than others, because I tend to follow strict schedules and guidelines for each day. Although these past few days were definitely not normal for me, I found myself slipping back into my selfish habits. The longer I went without blogging, the easier it became to just not do it. The longer I went with half-heartedly doing my devotions, the easier it became to switch back into "me mode". The more I had going on, the easier it became to justify satisfying my needs, my wants, my lack of motivation etc. For awhile there, I felt I was on a roll with being "on top" of things in my life, and now I've let them slip enough that I have felt utterly unmotivated and selfish. It's been one of those weeks where yah just want to eat the whole gallon of ice cream because "Whats the point? Let me drown my sorrows in this yummy goodness now, and maybe tomorrow will be better. "
So I must apologize for my lack of discipline when it comes to this blog. I never want to write anything unless it is from the heart, and lately, my heart has not felt like being shared (except maybe to throw a pity party). I say all of this because I don't want to be a creature of selfish habits. I think habits can be very beneficial if exercised in the right way. But I know for me, I tend to use mine as excuse...an excuse not to change, an excuse to give up, and an excuse to wallow in my selfishness.
But here's the cool thing, I don't have to be stuck in these selfish habits forever, because I am capable of creating new habits. Did you know that you can create a new habit in about 30 days? Granted, it takes consistency, reminders, maybe even a buddy, but we can change. That's the beauty of being human..we can always change. God sent His Son that we would have life and be free from the bondage of sin, that we could be triumphant over sinful, selfish habits.
This week in my Lent Devotional, it's about God's holiness and grace. Obviously, the two go hand in hand.In 1 Peter, God says "I am Holy, you be holy." But today I have to wonder if my habits are reflecting a holy life.,. I'm pretty sure I know the answer. So, how exactly do we become creatures of holiness?
Romans 5:17 " For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God's wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ."
Because of Christ's death, He gave us the opportunity and grace to overcome our flesh-centered habits, and through His grace, He alone gives us the strength to create habits of holiness. I know I need to refocus myself, and start putting into practice more selfless habits. Now, just like any habit, it's not going to happen instantly, and I don't have to be completely perfect in everything I do, because I can't do it on my own. But, with God's help, I can become a creature of holy habits, and in time be transformed into who He wants me to be. I don't know about you, but I found it very cool that even though it took one man's sin to mess up the world, it also took one man to save it. I pray that we would would embrace the Savior of this world, for He alone gives us the power to overcome.
In reflecting on these past few days, and feeling like I needed to get back to my blog, I identified with the statement: "we are creatures of habit." I, probably more so than others, because I tend to follow strict schedules and guidelines for each day. Although these past few days were definitely not normal for me, I found myself slipping back into my selfish habits. The longer I went without blogging, the easier it became to just not do it. The longer I went with half-heartedly doing my devotions, the easier it became to switch back into "me mode". The more I had going on, the easier it became to justify satisfying my needs, my wants, my lack of motivation etc. For awhile there, I felt I was on a roll with being "on top" of things in my life, and now I've let them slip enough that I have felt utterly unmotivated and selfish. It's been one of those weeks where yah just want to eat the whole gallon of ice cream because "Whats the point? Let me drown my sorrows in this yummy goodness now, and maybe tomorrow will be better. "
So I must apologize for my lack of discipline when it comes to this blog. I never want to write anything unless it is from the heart, and lately, my heart has not felt like being shared (except maybe to throw a pity party). I say all of this because I don't want to be a creature of selfish habits. I think habits can be very beneficial if exercised in the right way. But I know for me, I tend to use mine as excuse...an excuse not to change, an excuse to give up, and an excuse to wallow in my selfishness.
But here's the cool thing, I don't have to be stuck in these selfish habits forever, because I am capable of creating new habits. Did you know that you can create a new habit in about 30 days? Granted, it takes consistency, reminders, maybe even a buddy, but we can change. That's the beauty of being human..we can always change. God sent His Son that we would have life and be free from the bondage of sin, that we could be triumphant over sinful, selfish habits.
This week in my Lent Devotional, it's about God's holiness and grace. Obviously, the two go hand in hand.In 1 Peter, God says "I am Holy, you be holy." But today I have to wonder if my habits are reflecting a holy life.,. I'm pretty sure I know the answer. So, how exactly do we become creatures of holiness?
Romans 5:17 " For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God's wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ."
Because of Christ's death, He gave us the opportunity and grace to overcome our flesh-centered habits, and through His grace, He alone gives us the strength to create habits of holiness. I know I need to refocus myself, and start putting into practice more selfless habits. Now, just like any habit, it's not going to happen instantly, and I don't have to be completely perfect in everything I do, because I can't do it on my own. But, with God's help, I can become a creature of holy habits, and in time be transformed into who He wants me to be. I don't know about you, but I found it very cool that even though it took one man's sin to mess up the world, it also took one man to save it. I pray that we would would embrace the Savior of this world, for He alone gives us the power to overcome.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Lean On Me
Today is a continuation of yesterday. As I read my devo this morning, I wanted to share another passage with you about dependence.
"Lean on me." God makes this invitation to you and me in every moment of our lives. We can choose to respond "Please, God, rescue me! Come quickly, Lord, and help me!" (Psalm 70:1 :)) But as for me, I often remain focused on myself, become caught up either in al that I accomplish or in all that I have left undone. When life is all about me, I am blinded from the reality of my complete dependence upon my Creator. The noise of arrogance and anxiety deafens the call to lean on the everlasting arms."
"There is freedom in dependence. It enables each of us to accept our vulneralbility. We no longer have to hide in shame or self-sufficency. You and I can choose to lean on our Father amid a full range of disaturous and delightful events, praying "Please, God, rescuse me! Come quickly Lord and help me." Even today Christians around the globe begin times of prayer with this verse. It serves as a clarion call to lean on God in the midst of our independent culture." Karen Sloan
Mark 8:35 "If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it."
Deuteronomy 10:12-13a "What does the Lord your God require of you? Only to fear the Lord your God, to walk in his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and will all your soul and to keep the commandments of the Lord your God."
"Lean on me." God makes this invitation to you and me in every moment of our lives. We can choose to respond "Please, God, rescue me! Come quickly, Lord, and help me!" (Psalm 70:1 :)) But as for me, I often remain focused on myself, become caught up either in al that I accomplish or in all that I have left undone. When life is all about me, I am blinded from the reality of my complete dependence upon my Creator. The noise of arrogance and anxiety deafens the call to lean on the everlasting arms."
"There is freedom in dependence. It enables each of us to accept our vulneralbility. We no longer have to hide in shame or self-sufficency. You and I can choose to lean on our Father amid a full range of disaturous and delightful events, praying "Please, God, rescuse me! Come quickly Lord and help me." Even today Christians around the globe begin times of prayer with this verse. It serves as a clarion call to lean on God in the midst of our independent culture." Karen Sloan
Mark 8:35 "If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it."
Deuteronomy 10:12-13a "What does the Lord your God require of you? Only to fear the Lord your God, to walk in his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and will all your soul and to keep the commandments of the Lord your God."
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Road Trip
Yesterday I drove a long 8 1/2 hours from Chicago back home to Olathe. As the miles stretched on, my phone battery weakened, and my musical selection grew old. On that never ending highway, I found myself completely alone...aside from the occasional electronic devices. Yet, even in the midst of their distraction, the stifling silence was unavoidable, and I longed for human contact. After 3 long hours of phone convos and music stations, I decided to turn to the one ear that would hear me... God. I began to talk to Him, to cry out to Him, to pour my heart out to Him, because in those isolated hours, He was my only companion. As we talked, I knew He was right there with me, and my soul became so thrilled that I could have some completely uninterrupted time to really talk with Him. It was beautiful, and before I knew it, my trip was well on it's way. Yet even as I continued my journey, the loneliness didn't seem so lonely anymore, because I knew that the minute I had a thought, or wanted to gab, I had a friend right there waiting.
This week is about total dependence, and on yesterday's road trip, I realized that I was left with no other relational being but God. As I was reading my Lent devotional this morning, a beautiful verse was mentioned:
"Come to my help, oh God. Lord hurry to my rescue!" Psalm 70:1. Although short and simple, this phrase truly speaks to our soul's longing for God. This cry is not only for times of desperation, but can be used in all circumstances. It's a reminder that we need God. We need Him to take our worries, to give us strength, to carry our burdens, to change our attitudes/perspective, to give us wisdom, and on and on. It pierces to the very heart of our condition and humbly reveals our vulnerability as we cry out to our protector..our rescue.
Had I continued my journey without acknowledging His presence, had I filled my time with meaningless thought and constant chatter, I would have missed out on something so beautiful. My soul would have been restless, my trip would have drudged on, and my loneliness would have won. But, when I humbled myself, recognized my passenger, and cried out to Him, He came quickly to my rescue as if He'd been there all along.
Let's memorize this verse, let's let it soak into our souls, and use it daily. God knows that not a day goes by that we don't need rescuing, but how comforting to know that He sent us a Savior.
Suggested Reading: Psalm 121
This week is about total dependence, and on yesterday's road trip, I realized that I was left with no other relational being but God. As I was reading my Lent devotional this morning, a beautiful verse was mentioned:
"Come to my help, oh God. Lord hurry to my rescue!" Psalm 70:1. Although short and simple, this phrase truly speaks to our soul's longing for God. This cry is not only for times of desperation, but can be used in all circumstances. It's a reminder that we need God. We need Him to take our worries, to give us strength, to carry our burdens, to change our attitudes/perspective, to give us wisdom, and on and on. It pierces to the very heart of our condition and humbly reveals our vulnerability as we cry out to our protector..our rescue.
Had I continued my journey without acknowledging His presence, had I filled my time with meaningless thought and constant chatter, I would have missed out on something so beautiful. My soul would have been restless, my trip would have drudged on, and my loneliness would have won. But, when I humbled myself, recognized my passenger, and cried out to Him, He came quickly to my rescue as if He'd been there all along.
Let's memorize this verse, let's let it soak into our souls, and use it daily. God knows that not a day goes by that we don't need rescuing, but how comforting to know that He sent us a Savior.
Suggested Reading: Psalm 121
Monday, March 14, 2011
Dependence
Dependence, that is the theme this week in my Devotions for Lent, however I feel that this is the underlying theme for the entire season of Lent...to remember to whom we need to depend on. I really liked what the devotional said this morning..just a little passage about dependence, and I wanted to share it with you...
"It's no secret that our culture values independence. The iconic Lone Ranger is an American hero. But it doesn't take long before the Lone Ranger is dwelling in a pit of misery. Even the culture so entrenched in its I-can-do-it-myself attitude was quick to assume that the pronounced isolation of Seung-Hui Cho (the perpetrator of the 2007 Virginia Tech massacre) was the reason his severe unhappiness went unnoticed and ultimately led to the tragedy.
From the very beginning of our faith story, Adam's loneliness is a sorrow to which all humanity can relate. Both God's creation of Eve for companionship and God's continued interference in human history by way of personal relationship shows that we were created to be relational human beings.
While relationship doesn't demand the sacrifice of independence, it offers the gift of meeting our inadequaces. In such moments of weakness, we reallize the strength of dependence."
"Christianity promises to make men free; it never promises to make them independent." William Ralph Inge(USA.1860-1965)
Prayer: " Almighty God, to you all hearts are openm all desires known all secrets exposed; cleanse the thoughts of my heart by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that I may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name, through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen" Ashes to Fire
Suggested Reading: Romans 4:1-25 this speaks about Abraham's faithfulness to God, and is a testament to the beauty and importance of dependence/relationship with God.
"It's no secret that our culture values independence. The iconic Lone Ranger is an American hero. But it doesn't take long before the Lone Ranger is dwelling in a pit of misery. Even the culture so entrenched in its I-can-do-it-myself attitude was quick to assume that the pronounced isolation of Seung-Hui Cho (the perpetrator of the 2007 Virginia Tech massacre) was the reason his severe unhappiness went unnoticed and ultimately led to the tragedy.
From the very beginning of our faith story, Adam's loneliness is a sorrow to which all humanity can relate. Both God's creation of Eve for companionship and God's continued interference in human history by way of personal relationship shows that we were created to be relational human beings.
While relationship doesn't demand the sacrifice of independence, it offers the gift of meeting our inadequaces. In such moments of weakness, we reallize the strength of dependence."
"Christianity promises to make men free; it never promises to make them independent." William Ralph Inge(USA.1860-1965)
Prayer: " Almighty God, to you all hearts are openm all desires known all secrets exposed; cleanse the thoughts of my heart by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that I may perfectly love you and worthily magnify your holy name, through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen" Ashes to Fire
Suggested Reading: Romans 4:1-25 this speaks about Abraham's faithfulness to God, and is a testament to the beauty and importance of dependence/relationship with God.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
You are What You Eat
This week, in Devotions for Lent, the theme is identifying discontent. One of the corresponding readings is in Genesis, about the fall of man. At first, I wanted to skim/skip over this reading, thinking "yah I get it, we are sinful, this is the beginning of sin, blah blah." I think God likes to smile at me when I actually listen to Him and do what I'm told, because I decided to read it, and I learned from it. :) So here's what I thought/learned:
1. Why would God even put a tree in the garden if He didn't want Adam and Eve to eat from it? Why even put that temptation there? He could have just let them live in harmony with Him forever!
2. Eve was discontent.
3. I found where the saying "from dust you were made, and to dust you shall return" comes from. (Genesis 2:19)
Now, I am no theologian by any means, and I may be simplifying this too much, but it occured to me that God put that tree there as a choice. Out of His great love for us, He gave us free will, and this is the first example of exercising that liberty. Now let's couple that thought with the next relization- Eve was discontent. I believe she was definitely curious, but instead of being 'content' with the fruit she already had, she wanted more. Thus, she chooses to disobey God, and then the downward spiral unfurls as her and Adam are awakened to their nakedness, experience shame, guilt, and lose their beautiful home. I think discontentment and choice go hand and hand. If she had been content, she would have chosen to enjoy the fruits God so abudantly bestowed on them. Because of this choice, not only does God banish them from the garden and punish them with pain and hard labor, but He makes them mortal. Thus, Adam is forced to work the ground, and thus the phrase "from dust you were made, to dust you will return."
So now I have to ask myself: what is it in my life that I am discontent with? Where should I be choosing God, instead of forbidden fruit? Once again we are reminded of our "dirt" status. During this season, we need to be asking God to reveal the restless, discontent areas of our lives, and to give us the strength to surrender those to Him.
We always have a choice.
Reading for Today:
Psalm 51- This is one of the key verses in Lent, it speaks to our desperate need for repentance and renewal
Genesis- 2:4-3:24
1. Why would God even put a tree in the garden if He didn't want Adam and Eve to eat from it? Why even put that temptation there? He could have just let them live in harmony with Him forever!
2. Eve was discontent.
3. I found where the saying "from dust you were made, and to dust you shall return" comes from. (Genesis 2:19)
Now, I am no theologian by any means, and I may be simplifying this too much, but it occured to me that God put that tree there as a choice. Out of His great love for us, He gave us free will, and this is the first example of exercising that liberty. Now let's couple that thought with the next relization- Eve was discontent. I believe she was definitely curious, but instead of being 'content' with the fruit she already had, she wanted more. Thus, she chooses to disobey God, and then the downward spiral unfurls as her and Adam are awakened to their nakedness, experience shame, guilt, and lose their beautiful home. I think discontentment and choice go hand and hand. If she had been content, she would have chosen to enjoy the fruits God so abudantly bestowed on them. Because of this choice, not only does God banish them from the garden and punish them with pain and hard labor, but He makes them mortal. Thus, Adam is forced to work the ground, and thus the phrase "from dust you were made, to dust you will return."
So now I have to ask myself: what is it in my life that I am discontent with? Where should I be choosing God, instead of forbidden fruit? Once again we are reminded of our "dirt" status. During this season, we need to be asking God to reveal the restless, discontent areas of our lives, and to give us the strength to surrender those to Him.
We always have a choice.
Reading for Today:
Psalm 51- This is one of the key verses in Lent, it speaks to our desperate need for repentance and renewal
Genesis- 2:4-3:24
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Ashes to Ashes
"Dust thou art, and to dust thou shalt return." It seems a bit too obvious to point out the meaning of this phrase; Adam was formed from the earth thus our lifeless bodies shall return to it when we die. However, in light of Ash Wednesday, I think it is important for us to meditate on it. To us, each day is a theatrical performance in which we so easily embrace our specific role. We know our part well; a mother, an employee, a husband, a student, and we all think our part is the most important. How easily we forget that in this play of misfit toys, we are but a lingering thought, for the leading role goes to our Father. Our very existence would be nothing without His breath of life, His entricate craftmanship.
There is a beautiful segement in the book of Job that puts into perspective this idea of ashes.
(I would encourage you to read Job 38-42, in both a standard version and the message)
Job is exhausted, he has cried out to God with no relief, he has lost everything. He begins to express all that he has done right that God may have mercy on him. His mind and body are in anguish as he begins to question God.
And then, God speaks.
He looks down on this desperate speck of dust and proclaims (my heart is welling within as I post this proclaimation):
Job 38:1-15 (The Message)
1 And now, finally, God answered Job from the eye of a violent storm. He said:
2-11 "Why do you confuse the issue?
Why do you talk without knowing what you're talking about?
Pull yourself together, Job!
Up on your feet! Stand tall!
I have some questions for you,
and I want some straight answers.
Where were you when I created the earth?
Tell me, since you know so much!
Who decided on its size? Certainly you'll know that!
Who came up with the blueprints and measurements?
How was its foundation poured,
and who set the cornerstone,
While the morning stars sang in chorus
and all the angels shouted praise?
And who took charge of the ocean
when it gushed forth like a baby from the womb?
That was me! I wrapped it in soft clouds,
and tucked it in safely at night.
Then I made a playpen for it,
a strong playpen so it couldn't run loose,
And said, 'Stay here, this is your place.
Your wild tantrums are confined to this place.'
12-15 "And have you ever ordered Morning, 'Get up!'
told Dawn, 'Get to work!'
So you could seize Earth like a blanket
and shake out the wicked like cockroaches?
As the sun brings everything to light,
brings out all the colors and shapes,
The cover of darkness is snatched from the wicked—
they're caught in the very act!
For three more chapters God speaks about all the wonders of His hand, of His power, of His majesty, and when He is done, Job remembers his role:
Job 42:1-6(NIV)
1 Then Job replied to the LORD:
2 “I know that you can do all things;
no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
3 You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’
Surely I spoke of things I did not understand,
things too wonderful for me to know.
4 “You said, ‘Listen now, and I will speak;
I will question you,
and you shall answer me.’
5 My ears had heard of you
but now my eyes have seen you.
6 Therefore I despise myself
and repent in dust and ashes.”
Wow. I am sitting in the middle of an Olathe public school classroom right now, and my insides tremble at the power in these words. I want to shout, I want to worship, and I want to cry. What a great way to begin this Lenten season! How amazing is our God to give us such a beautiful description of His power and His grace, and to remind us who we are? When I meditate on all that His hands have made, and the power that streams from them, I am humbled and in awe. And so today, as we reflect on our status in this vast world, I pray that we would kneel before our Creator, humble our hearts, confess who we are, and adron ourselves with ashes- ashes of mourning, ashes of sorrow at the death that sin brings into His beautiful world, and ashes from our own burnt offering-ourselves.
Oh, and I almost forgot the best part! After Job humbles himself before God, and confesses his utter dependance on him....Job gets what he wants..total restoration. For God so loved Job, that he poured down his blessings upon his faithful servant, and he lived happily ever after :).
May we be reminded today that "God has done some marvelous things with dust-when dust yielded to the touch of its Creator." Ashes to Fire
All my Love
There is a beautiful segement in the book of Job that puts into perspective this idea of ashes.
(I would encourage you to read Job 38-42, in both a standard version and the message)
Job is exhausted, he has cried out to God with no relief, he has lost everything. He begins to express all that he has done right that God may have mercy on him. His mind and body are in anguish as he begins to question God.
And then, God speaks.
He looks down on this desperate speck of dust and proclaims (my heart is welling within as I post this proclaimation):
Job 38:1-15 (The Message)
1 And now, finally, God answered Job from the eye of a violent storm. He said:
2-11 "Why do you confuse the issue?
Why do you talk without knowing what you're talking about?
Pull yourself together, Job!
Up on your feet! Stand tall!
I have some questions for you,
and I want some straight answers.
Where were you when I created the earth?
Tell me, since you know so much!
Who decided on its size? Certainly you'll know that!
Who came up with the blueprints and measurements?
How was its foundation poured,
and who set the cornerstone,
While the morning stars sang in chorus
and all the angels shouted praise?
And who took charge of the ocean
when it gushed forth like a baby from the womb?
That was me! I wrapped it in soft clouds,
and tucked it in safely at night.
Then I made a playpen for it,
a strong playpen so it couldn't run loose,
And said, 'Stay here, this is your place.
Your wild tantrums are confined to this place.'
12-15 "And have you ever ordered Morning, 'Get up!'
told Dawn, 'Get to work!'
So you could seize Earth like a blanket
and shake out the wicked like cockroaches?
As the sun brings everything to light,
brings out all the colors and shapes,
The cover of darkness is snatched from the wicked—
they're caught in the very act!
For three more chapters God speaks about all the wonders of His hand, of His power, of His majesty, and when He is done, Job remembers his role:
Job 42:1-6(NIV)
1 Then Job replied to the LORD:
2 “I know that you can do all things;
no purpose of yours can be thwarted.
3 You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’
Surely I spoke of things I did not understand,
things too wonderful for me to know.
4 “You said, ‘Listen now, and I will speak;
I will question you,
and you shall answer me.’
5 My ears had heard of you
but now my eyes have seen you.
6 Therefore I despise myself
and repent in dust and ashes.”
Wow. I am sitting in the middle of an Olathe public school classroom right now, and my insides tremble at the power in these words. I want to shout, I want to worship, and I want to cry. What a great way to begin this Lenten season! How amazing is our God to give us such a beautiful description of His power and His grace, and to remind us who we are? When I meditate on all that His hands have made, and the power that streams from them, I am humbled and in awe. And so today, as we reflect on our status in this vast world, I pray that we would kneel before our Creator, humble our hearts, confess who we are, and adron ourselves with ashes- ashes of mourning, ashes of sorrow at the death that sin brings into His beautiful world, and ashes from our own burnt offering-ourselves.
Oh, and I almost forgot the best part! After Job humbles himself before God, and confesses his utter dependance on him....Job gets what he wants..total restoration. For God so loved Job, that he poured down his blessings upon his faithful servant, and he lived happily ever after :).
May we be reminded today that "God has done some marvelous things with dust-when dust yielded to the touch of its Creator." Ashes to Fire
All my Love
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Awe-full
"Jesus calls us to simplicity, to listen. Don't be too quick to set goals or make arbitrary decisions about giving things up for Lent. Instead, maybe we need to start by giving up explaining what we think we need. More often than not, prayer should be more listening, less talking. Silence is golden, precious and hard to come by.
Jesus calls us to self-denial. Self-denial ultimately is just that: denying one-self in favor of someone (Someone) else's decision. It is giving up my way and agreeing to go God's way. Often we think of self-denial as giving up chocolate or Facebook or some time-consuming pastime so we can be reminded of our purpose and spend more quiet time in prayer and meditation. Probably that is a good start. Whatever the level of self-denial, all of them seek to bring us into harmony with God's purpose. God-inspired self-denial will create confidence in praying." Ashes to Fire
Even as I type this morning, and reread these passages, I am torn. The past few days I have desperately been torn between my flesh and my spirit. I find myself knowing that I need to heed the Holy Spirit, and empty myself, yet I want to do what I WANT. I am finding it difficult to find a balance..how do you take care of yourself and yet still give of your time, resources, etc.? Is that the point? That we need to get to a place where our own wants shouldn't matter? That our desires should not be for ourselves, but for others? I am struggling with finding a balance..or if there even is one! I feel I want to get what I want to do out of the way FIRST and then if I have time, use it to do for others.
The quote from above "maybe we need to start by giving up explaining what we think we need." really hit me. Maybe I should start giving up what I think I need and trust that God knows what I need more than I do. This, I fear, will be the biggest struggle of my spiritual journey.
I want to conclude with a prayer from "Devotions for Lent." I LOVE how truthfully the author speaks of our self-seeking, egotisical humaness, and how we desperately need to hunger for the Almighty.
AWE-FULL
Great and Holy God
awe and reverence
fear and trembling
do not come easily to us
for we are not
Old Testament Jews
or Moses
or mystics
or sensitive enough.
Forgive us
for slouching in Your presences
with little expectation
and less awe
than we would eagerly give a visiting dignitary.
We need neither Jehovah nor a buddy-
niether the "Great and Powerful Oz" nor "the man upstairs."
Help us to want what we need...
You
God
and may the altar of our hearts
tremble with delight
at
Your visitation
amen.
-Frederick Ohler
Resources:
I would highly recommend these if you are looking for something to "add" during these forty days.
Devotions for Lent from the Mosaic Holy Bible -This is a small book that includes quotes, thoughts, and daily scripture reading for each week of Lent. I found it at a Christian bookstore. I went through this last year and I loved it!
Ashes to Fire- Just starting this. It's is a little longer and more detailed. It has scripture and prayers for morning and night of each day of Lent. Then Sundays its has a devtional and reflective journal writing. I'm excited to see what I will learn from this one. I'm not sure if you can get this online.. we ordered it through our church, but I know they have a website. ashestofire.com
Jesus calls us to self-denial. Self-denial ultimately is just that: denying one-self in favor of someone (Someone) else's decision. It is giving up my way and agreeing to go God's way. Often we think of self-denial as giving up chocolate or Facebook or some time-consuming pastime so we can be reminded of our purpose and spend more quiet time in prayer and meditation. Probably that is a good start. Whatever the level of self-denial, all of them seek to bring us into harmony with God's purpose. God-inspired self-denial will create confidence in praying." Ashes to Fire
Even as I type this morning, and reread these passages, I am torn. The past few days I have desperately been torn between my flesh and my spirit. I find myself knowing that I need to heed the Holy Spirit, and empty myself, yet I want to do what I WANT. I am finding it difficult to find a balance..how do you take care of yourself and yet still give of your time, resources, etc.? Is that the point? That we need to get to a place where our own wants shouldn't matter? That our desires should not be for ourselves, but for others? I am struggling with finding a balance..or if there even is one! I feel I want to get what I want to do out of the way FIRST and then if I have time, use it to do for others.
The quote from above "maybe we need to start by giving up explaining what we think we need." really hit me. Maybe I should start giving up what I think I need and trust that God knows what I need more than I do. This, I fear, will be the biggest struggle of my spiritual journey.
I want to conclude with a prayer from "Devotions for Lent." I LOVE how truthfully the author speaks of our self-seeking, egotisical humaness, and how we desperately need to hunger for the Almighty.
AWE-FULL
Great and Holy God
awe and reverence
fear and trembling
do not come easily to us
for we are not
Old Testament Jews
or Moses
or mystics
or sensitive enough.
Forgive us
for slouching in Your presences
with little expectation
and less awe
than we would eagerly give a visiting dignitary.
We need neither Jehovah nor a buddy-
niether the "Great and Powerful Oz" nor "the man upstairs."
Help us to want what we need...
You
God
and may the altar of our hearts
tremble with delight
at
Your visitation
amen.
-Frederick Ohler
Resources:
I would highly recommend these if you are looking for something to "add" during these forty days.
Devotions for Lent from the Mosaic Holy Bible -This is a small book that includes quotes, thoughts, and daily scripture reading for each week of Lent. I found it at a Christian bookstore. I went through this last year and I loved it!
Ashes to Fire- Just starting this. It's is a little longer and more detailed. It has scripture and prayers for morning and night of each day of Lent. Then Sundays its has a devtional and reflective journal writing. I'm excited to see what I will learn from this one. I'm not sure if you can get this online.. we ordered it through our church, but I know they have a website. ashestofire.com
Monday, March 7, 2011
Not Your Average Belly Button Lent
"What is Lent? For some Christians, Lent has always been a part of their spiritual life and practice, but for others it is unfamiliar. Lent is the season when Christians have historically prepared their hearts for Easter with reflection, repentance, and prayer. Lent begins with Ash Wednesday and proceeds for forty days, culminating in Good Friday and Holy Saturday. Since Sundays are weekly celebrations of the resurrection of Jesus, the six Sundays in Lent are not counted as part of the forty-day season. Many Christians choose to fast throughout the season of Lent, but the focus in not so much on depriving themselves of something as it is on devoting themselves to God and his purposes in the world." Devotions for Lent- Holy Mosaic Bible
Growing up our family observed Lent. I remember every year we had to decide what we were going to "give up." The result was often candy, chocolate,pop, sometimes t.v. *cringe,* and we rose to the challenge. I always looked forward to Lent because I thought it was cool to try to be disciplined enough to give something up for forty days. With each chocolate bar I refused, I patted myself on the back a little, and when Easter finally arrived, I dug into that chocolate with no abandon. If I learned anything, it was that I could survive without something for a short period of time. But, it was never really a sacrifice, because when the time was up, I could have all that I wanted. Lent used to be viewed as a challenge, a competition if you will, a test of our will power.
As I reflect on what I have 'given up' in the past, and what I will give up this year, I admit that it is still kind of a game for me. What can I 'give up' that would either A. be the most challenging, or B. "get by" giving up fairly easily. But this is not the point. The purpose of Lent is not to see how disciplined I can be, and to be awarded a gold star each day. The purpose of Lent is to be intentional, reflective, repentive, and above all dependent. During this season of preparation, we are to either surrender something or take on something that will draw us closer to Jesus, that will shape our thoughts and change our hearts. We are to set apart these 40 days to really remember our dependence on Him, and the significance of His death for us. Then, after 40 days of seeking, praying, and fasting, we will be ready to truly rejoice in the miracle of that glorious ressurection Sunday. We'll see past the colored eggs, and pastel candy, for the King we have been lamenting is risen! How wonderful that each year, we get to set aside a time like this to re-focus our lives, our human condition, and remember our own ressurection stories? My prayer is that this year, and each year to come, we will not go through the motions of Easter, but that we will live it!
So, having said all of this, for the next forty days, I am going to be posting scripture or passages relating to the Lenten season. If you have never partcipated before, than I would encourage you to do so this year. I still don't know what I'm going to 'give up,' but I do know that I want these next forty days to be different. Whatever I do give up, I want to replace it with God, not just a gold star. I'll finish with a quote from one of my Lent devotionals:
E.M. Bounds "All God's plans have the mark of the cross on them, and all His plans have death to self in them."
May that cross be etched on our hearts as we remember whose hands held the nails.
Growing up our family observed Lent. I remember every year we had to decide what we were going to "give up." The result was often candy, chocolate,pop, sometimes t.v. *cringe,* and we rose to the challenge. I always looked forward to Lent because I thought it was cool to try to be disciplined enough to give something up for forty days. With each chocolate bar I refused, I patted myself on the back a little, and when Easter finally arrived, I dug into that chocolate with no abandon. If I learned anything, it was that I could survive without something for a short period of time. But, it was never really a sacrifice, because when the time was up, I could have all that I wanted. Lent used to be viewed as a challenge, a competition if you will, a test of our will power.
As I reflect on what I have 'given up' in the past, and what I will give up this year, I admit that it is still kind of a game for me. What can I 'give up' that would either A. be the most challenging, or B. "get by" giving up fairly easily. But this is not the point. The purpose of Lent is not to see how disciplined I can be, and to be awarded a gold star each day. The purpose of Lent is to be intentional, reflective, repentive, and above all dependent. During this season of preparation, we are to either surrender something or take on something that will draw us closer to Jesus, that will shape our thoughts and change our hearts. We are to set apart these 40 days to really remember our dependence on Him, and the significance of His death for us. Then, after 40 days of seeking, praying, and fasting, we will be ready to truly rejoice in the miracle of that glorious ressurection Sunday. We'll see past the colored eggs, and pastel candy, for the King we have been lamenting is risen! How wonderful that each year, we get to set aside a time like this to re-focus our lives, our human condition, and remember our own ressurection stories? My prayer is that this year, and each year to come, we will not go through the motions of Easter, but that we will live it!
So, having said all of this, for the next forty days, I am going to be posting scripture or passages relating to the Lenten season. If you have never partcipated before, than I would encourage you to do so this year. I still don't know what I'm going to 'give up,' but I do know that I want these next forty days to be different. Whatever I do give up, I want to replace it with God, not just a gold star. I'll finish with a quote from one of my Lent devotionals:
E.M. Bounds "All God's plans have the mark of the cross on them, and all His plans have death to self in them."
May that cross be etched on our hearts as we remember whose hands held the nails.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Quick Devotional
This was in my devotinal book for today. "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young. She takes verses and retells them as if Jesus is speaking to us. I know I've posted about worry before, but we humans just can't seem to get away from it! In light of yesterday's post, I also had to smile at the last line...read on and see. :)
"Refuse to worry! In this world there will be always something enticing you to worry. that is the nature of a fallen, fractured planet: Things are not as they should be. So the temptation to be anxious is constantly with you, trying to worm its way into your mind. The best defense is continual communication with Me, richly seasoned with thanksgiving. Awareness of My Presence fills your mind with Light and Peace, leaving no room for fear. This awareness lifts you up above your circumstances, enabling you to see problems from My perspective. Live close to Me! Together we can keep the wolves of worry at bay.
Those pesky wolves can creep up in various shapes and sizes, but take heart, for with our Shepherd we can overcome!
Luke 12:25-26
1Thessalonians 5:16-18
"Refuse to worry! In this world there will be always something enticing you to worry. that is the nature of a fallen, fractured planet: Things are not as they should be. So the temptation to be anxious is constantly with you, trying to worm its way into your mind. The best defense is continual communication with Me, richly seasoned with thanksgiving. Awareness of My Presence fills your mind with Light and Peace, leaving no room for fear. This awareness lifts you up above your circumstances, enabling you to see problems from My perspective. Live close to Me! Together we can keep the wolves of worry at bay.
Those pesky wolves can creep up in various shapes and sizes, but take heart, for with our Shepherd we can overcome!
Luke 12:25-26
1Thessalonians 5:16-18
Thursday, March 3, 2011
I Just Wanna be a Sheep (ba ba ba ba)
John 10:1-10 (The Message) 1-5 "Let me set this before you as plainly as I can. If a person climbs over or through the fence of a sheep pen instead of going through the gate, you know he's up to no good—a sheep rustler! The shepherd walks right up to the gate. The gatekeeper opens the gate to him and the sheep recognize his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he gets them all out, he leads them and they follow because they are familiar with his voice. They won't follow a stranger's voice but will scatter because they aren't used to the sound of it."
6-10Jesus told this simple story, but they had no idea what he was talking about. So he tried again. "I'll be explicit, then. I am the Gate for the sheep. All those others are up to no good—sheep stealers, every one of them. But the sheep didn't listen to them. I am the Gate. Anyone who goes through me will be cared for—will freely go in and out, and find pasture. A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.These days, shepherds are not very common, but their occupation is still used in many parallels. A shepherd's job was to keep watch over his flock round the clock. He was to guard that herd with his life, tend to them, protect them, and make sure they made it to their destination safely. So, the shepherd has a very important role in the lives of these sheep, without him, they would have to fend for themselves against predators, and they would be lost, ever roaming sheep, no purpose. In the above passage, Jesus describes how sheep only come to the call of the shepherd, because they recognize His voice, they spend every hour of their lives with this protector, they know him., they trust him.
Now, I've always heard the story of the lost sheep, and have read passages about Jesus being our shepherd, and I love that as our shepherd He protects us, seeks after us, and watches over us. However, I've always thought, that's great, but that means we are sheep, and sheep are pretty lame. They are sheep! Why would God care about some hairy, stinky, grass eating, animal who can only communicate through baaas? Well I did a little research about shepherds and sheep and it hit me; the shepherd cares for his sheep because they are valuable.
Now, this may not be a new revelation to you, but it was to me. You see sheep have three purposes; wool, milk, and meat. They are not all the same, there are many different kinds of sheep. And, just like sheep, we humans have different breeds, gifts, and talents. The Shepherd's job is to make sure that these sheep stay whole and healthy until they reach their destination, where they will use their resources. Are you catching what I'm saying? Jesus watches over us, prepares us, and guides us throughout our lives because we are valuable to Him, we have a purpose! Sheep are sounding better by the minute!
In the above passage, Jesus talks about being our shepherd, how we (the sheep) only come to his call, that anyone/anything else that tries to sneak past Him is a theif, a devouring wolf. I wonder, how many times do we sheep forget who our shepherd is? How many times do we let the wolf in and allow him to destroy our talents, our purpose? To tell us we are "just sheep," we have no value?
My favorite part in this passage is the last verse: 10"A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of. " In the NIV version it says that he came to give life ABUNDANTLY! Love that word! I must admit this week I have allowed the thief to come in and steal my joy. I have gotten bogged down by expectations, allowed tiredness and selfishness to creep in, and as a result, I have missed out on some of that life so abundant. Whenever I am feeling insecure, selfish, lost, just in a stinky mood, I try to remember that I am letting the wolf win. Then, when I stop and listen, I can hear the shepherd calling. I am reminded that I am His sheep, and that wolf has no power over me, for I belong to the shepherd. This was a good reminder for me today, I hope it is for you too.
So today, the rest of the week, whenever, I pray that we would stop letting the theif steal our joy, that we would be proud to be a sheep and embrace the life of joyful abundance!
I don't know about you, but I just wanna be a sheep :) (ba ba ba ba) Love you all!
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Simply Praise
This blog today is a shout out to my dad.. he told a great story last night that he had heard Ahsley Conant's facebook., and I want to share it. So, I found the video. It's only like 2 min, so I hope you enjoy!
Here in America we pray to God when we need something like a job, more of this, more of that, and we praise him when we get it. Over there, they have NOTHING, and yet they were praising God simply because of who He is. I think it would do us good to remember to praise Him just for being the Creator, for being the wonderful, loving, amazing God that He is. So today or sometime this week, I would challenge myself and you to just take a few moments, find someplace quiet, or maybe blare some worship music, and just allow yourself to be overcome with WHO He is.
Isaiah 6:3 (New International Version, ©2011)
How Great Thou Art
O Lord my God,
When I in awesome wonder
Consider all
The works Thy Hand hath made,
I see the stars,
I hear the mighty thunder,
Thy pow'r throughout
The universe displayed;
Stanza 2:
When through the woods
And forest glades I wander
I hear the birds
Sing sweetly in the trees;
When I look down
From lofty mountain grandeur
And hear the brook
And feel the gentle breeze;
SHOUT IT OUT!Refrain:
Then sings my soul,
My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art!
How great Thou art!
Then sings my soul,
My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art!
How great Thou art!
Stanza 3:
When Christ shall come,
With shouts of acclamation,
And take me home,
What joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow
In humble adoration
And there proclaim,
"My God, how great Thou art!"
Here in America we pray to God when we need something like a job, more of this, more of that, and we praise him when we get it. Over there, they have NOTHING, and yet they were praising God simply because of who He is. I think it would do us good to remember to praise Him just for being the Creator, for being the wonderful, loving, amazing God that He is. So today or sometime this week, I would challenge myself and you to just take a few moments, find someplace quiet, or maybe blare some worship music, and just allow yourself to be overcome with WHO He is.
Isaiah 6:3 (New International Version, ©2011)
3 And they were calling to one another:
“Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty;
the whole earth is full of his glory.”
“Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty;
the whole earth is full of his glory.”
How Great Thou Art
O Lord my God,
When I in awesome wonder
Consider all
The works Thy Hand hath made,
I see the stars,
I hear the mighty thunder,
Thy pow'r throughout
The universe displayed;
Stanza 2:
When through the woods
And forest glades I wander
I hear the birds
Sing sweetly in the trees;
When I look down
From lofty mountain grandeur
And hear the brook
And feel the gentle breeze;
SHOUT IT OUT!Refrain:
Then sings my soul,
My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art!
How great Thou art!
Then sings my soul,
My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art!
How great Thou art!
Stanza 3:
When Christ shall come,
With shouts of acclamation,
And take me home,
What joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow
In humble adoration
And there proclaim,
"My God, how great Thou art!"
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