So Long Self

So Long Self

Love One Another

Today's scripture reading was a familiar one, but one that begs to challenge us to be more loving, compassionate, kind, humble, gentle, patient... to be more for others and less for ourselves.

¹² Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. ¹³ Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. ¹⁴ And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

¹⁵ Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. ¹⁶ Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. ¹⁷ And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:12-17)

It may seem at first glance that the first part of this scripture reading really does speak a lot about ourselves. But really, this is a depiction of how we should prepare ourselves in order to interact lovingly with each other. And the reason for that is that we are "God's chosen people" (v. 12) and we are to love and forgive "as the Lord forgave [us]" (v. 14).

From verse 15 onwards, it more clearly explains that this change in wardrobe is a change from the inside out. Instead of our own desires lying in our hearts, "the peace of Christ [should] rule in [our] hearts". Not only that, but the message of Christ should "dwell among [us] richly". The word should be in our hearts and on our lips and in our homes and everywhere we are... like another roommate... dwelling where you are. And finally, it should be in our actions... whatever we do, "do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus". This picture of our lives is less about us and more about Christ in our hearts, our home, our actions, our words, our songs.

A new song that I really appreciate by 'MercyMe' has a rather interesting title, but it does describe that to make room for this new wardrobe, this change in words, thoughts, actions, we must say 'So long self.' Humorously, the song sounds like a 'break-up'.

-But, in a way, we do have to break our ties with our own selfish desires in order to make room for Christ to rule in our hearts.
-We must let go of our own thoughts for those of God in order to have Christ dwell among us richly.
-And we must let go of our own ambition in order to do everything in the name of Christ.

So have you said "So long, Self"? As they say it in the song?

Well if I come across a little bit distant
It's just because I am
Things just seem to feel a little bit different
You understand
Believe it or not but life is not apparently
About me anyways
But I have met the One who really is worthy
So let me say

So long, self
Well, it's been fun, but I have found somebody else
So long, self
There's just no room for two
So you are gonna have to move
So long, self
Don't take this wrong but you are wrong for me, farewell
Oh well, goodbye, don't cry
So long, self (MercyMe)

Today we pray for God to enter our lives and rule our hearts and guide us in the ways to love each other more and more... helping us as we put on the clothes of compassion, gentleness, humility, kindness, patience and love.

Be a Thermostat - Not a Thermometer

Be a Thermostat - Not a Thermometer

Love One Another

This metaphor is borrowed from a speaker I once heard a long time ago at Creation... when I was in high school... yes that was quite a while ago now. But, it made quite an impression on me.

At first, you may think that thermostats and thermometers have a lot in common... measures of temperature, having something to do with the climate in a given environment. However, with a closer look... they are significantly different. While a thermometer tells you how warm it is in a given environment, usually your body temperature, a thermostat changes the temperature in that environment.

When you get home and your husband is frazzled after a hard day of work, or your mom is ranting about socks on the floor, or your children are screaming as you walk in the door, it's easy to be a thermometer... you get a cross expression on your face and join the yelling (right where the temperature was set). But it's harder to re-set that temperature. And yes, it does take a while... and happen gradually. But instead of jumping into the shouting match, a thermostat would speak softly, sweetly, offer hugs, smiles and encourage everyone to sit down together... call a family meeting.

I am admittedly bad at being a themostat, but I hope to learn to be better. After all, attitude makes such a difference. And I bet that you know at least a few thermostats... and they are amazing. After a minute of talking with them, life seems so much more sunny... things seem absolutely positive. I remember my friend Kammy, in response to my question, "How are you?" she would answer, "You know Katie? God is so good!" with a huge smile on her face. That is what we are called to be... to all those in our lives.

Today I was reading in Romans about this very challenge:

⁹ Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. ¹⁰ Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. ¹¹ Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. ¹² Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. ¹³ Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

¹⁴ Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. ¹⁵ Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. ¹⁶ Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.

¹⁷ Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. ¹⁸ If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. ¹⁹ Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. ²⁰ On the contrary:

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

²¹ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:9-21)

We may not have too many 'enemies' who do 'evil' to us... at least I hope you don't. But even responding to negativity with negativity is what is expected. Instead, our loving response should be one that lifts up that person and puts them at peace.

We are asked to be joyful, patient, faithful, sharing, zealous, and hospitable. This calls for action, not just reactions to others. We must embody the loving attitude God calls us to in order to show His light to the world... in every word, in every response, in every thought, in every action. Love must be sincere.

Set the thermostat to

joy patience love faith

hope generosity hospitality

The Spirit will help you find those settings and hold to them, when you pray that the Holy Spirit guide you.

Practicing the Presence of God in a Material World

Practicing the Presence of God in a Material World

Staying Close to God

"How much is enough?" is one a question that has been swimming in my mind lately. The sliding scale of 'enough' is ever evident by people's perceptions of when they are 'hard-pressed' for money. When I was in Brazil, I had my housing/food paid for, and then I had a spending budget of $60/month. Now, Brad and I have a combined income of around $27,000 a year. To me, that seems like enough... much more than what I had before, but to many, that's not 'enough'. But to many in the world, my BVS budget would've been cause for calling me 'rich'. It seems that a feeling of financial security is not determined by dollar amount, but by the society around us. What do others of my class, my position, my family believe is 'enough'?

While I was home, I took a look at the book "Fearless" by Max Lucado which my father was reading. It's interesting that in today's world with such advanced technology and understanding, it seems that we suffer from heightened anxiety and fear. And perhaps in part it's due to our society's focus on individualism. If we have to do it all on our own, that's a lot of pressure. Other cultures of the world handle this situation much differently. They live interconnected lives, where they can borrow/lend/help/give to one another. I realized this most vividly when I told someone about the wonderful joy Brad and I have had to get to watch our neighbor's awesome little 2-year-old boy during the week. We no longer live in a society where it's customary to help one another.

But, can we imagine such a world?

Perhaps it would be a world where we practice the presence of God in our every moment, in all we do... focusing not on the things that we can gain, but the interconnectedness that we all have in being children of the one true God.

"Think of the number of people who have been encouraged in this way by the simple writings and profound life of Brother Lawrence. How vastly enriched we are that he was finally persuaded, almost against his will, to write down how he had learned The Practice of the Presence of God. His famous words still throb with life and joy, 'The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer; and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees at the blessed sacrament'" ~From Freedom of Simplicity by Richard J. Foster

Many individuals have read this classic book by Brother Lawrence and been inspired by the ability to experience and 'possess' God through even times of 'business.' And there is good reason to believe that we should be able to practice the presence of God... such as we find in the scripture below:

¹⁵ The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. ¹⁶ For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. ¹⁷ He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. ¹⁸ And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. ¹⁹ For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, ²⁰ and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

²¹ Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. ²² But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation— ²³ if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.

²⁴ Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church. ²⁵ I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness— ²⁶ the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. ²⁷ To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

²⁸ He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. ²⁹ To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.

This scripture speaks of so many things- God is in all things. In Him all things were created; in Him all things held together. But it is more than that, the Lord entered into us and came to earth so that we would no longer be alienated from Him but able to know and experience the great mystery that Christ is in us now!

However, we may lose our soul if we do not serve the Lord only. In order for Christ to dwells within us and work powerfully in us, as He did in Paul, He must be the only master... just like the scripture from yesterday. 'Here O Israel, the Lord is one.'

'Lose My Soul' by Toby Mac speaks of this struggle, and let it be our prayer today... that we welcome Christ and only Christ into our hearts... so that we do not gain the whole material world at the cost of our souls:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coHKdhAZ9hU

Inside Out- He is Within Us

Inside Out- He is Within Us

Staying Close to God

What do you picture when I say "burn-out"?

There's a couple definitions in this day and age. 'Burn-out' may be used to describe a type of person who uses illegal drugs with reckless abandon. But it may also be used to describe the feeling of a physical or mental collapse after overwork or stress.

And though these two appear to be polar opposites, they have more in common than you may think. While it may be 'easy' to identify a "burn-out" of the first kind by their eyes, their clothes, their habits... it is more difficult to identify someone whose signs of "burn-out" are marked only on the inside, in their soul and their mind.

I have to admit that after this semester, I am feeling a "burn-out" that pushes me to ask... as I have been asking all year- Is this for me? Should I be in a PhD program? Is this where God wants me? Is this just the burn-out speaking, or should I really be somewhere else? I'm still praying for discernment on that one.

But the feeling reminds me people I have heard who have been burnt out in religion, burnt out with God. And then that makes me wonder... were they drawing upon the right source? For our faith to be really really, the outside must match the inside.

Outside

¹⁹ My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, ²⁰ because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. ²¹ Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

²² Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. ²³ Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror ²⁴ and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. ²⁵ But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.

²⁶ Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. ~James 1:19-26

This is a strong passage, filled with the passion and spirit that makes me want to study James more in-depth. And James is famous for his 'faith in action' position which firmly reminded people that 'faith without works is dead'. As the brother of Jesus, I'm sure he understood his brother fairly well... and perhaps was even frustrated by all these people who said they were following Him, yet not really doing what Jesus had said.

He uses the image of a mirror. The outside of the actual person must reflect what was inside that mirror, and so James reminds individuals not to "forget" but "to continue in" the perfect law that Jesus described.

However, although James is always seen as an action guy, we see the spirit in verse 21... "humbly accept the word of God planted in you that can save you." Two important aspects are seen here. If we are to act as Christians, we must draw our strength from the word of God. Secondly, the word of God cannot be outward only (heard, listened to, read), it must be in our hearts and in our spirit... which happens when we ask Jesus and the Holy Spirit to come into our heart. So, it must not only be outward ... but "inside out"

Inside

I know that I often forget that God is not only near to me, but now that I have asked Christ into my heart... the Holy Spirit dwells in me. And although many people feel uncomfortable with the Quaker terminology of 'inner light', I feel that the 'inner light' described in so many Quaker books is the Holy Spirit that I know... Christ within us. For instance, here is a passage that captures the idea of Christ (the inner light) within us, which helps us to live out His perfect law

Meister Eckhart wrote, 'As thou art in church or cell, that same frame of mind carry out into the world into its turmoil and fitfulness.' Deep within us all there is an amazing inner sanctuary of the soul, a holy place, a Divine Center, a speaking voice, to which we may continuously return. Eternity is at our hearts, pressing upon our time-torn lives, warming us with intimations of an astounding destiny, calling us home unto Itself . Yielding to these persuasions, gladly committing ourselves in body and soul, utterly and completely to the Light Within , is the beginning of true life. It is the dynamic center, a creative Life that presses to birth within us. It is a Light Within which illumines the face of God and casts new shadows and glories upon the face of [humanity]. It is a seed stirring to life if we do not choke it. It is the Shekinah of the soul, the Presence in the midst. here is the Slumbering Christ, stirring to be awakened, to become the soul we clothe in early form and action. And He is within us all. ~From A Testament of Devotion by Thomas R. Kelly

So, when you face burn-out in our faith... and every day... ask the Holy Spirit every day to help and guide and teach you to be more like Christ in all you do, in all you say.

Because that word, that Spirit within us gives us the strength to continue our walk without burn-out.

God is the ultimate renewal resource! In fact, more than that... He is the renewing resource!

There is a Place of Quiet Rest

There is a Place of Quiet Rest:

Staying Close to God

This week's theme in my guided reading book is "Staying Close to God", and it is seems to fit my life... as I wonder and seek out answers to how I can remain close to God at all times. While I was home, I was blessed to go to Chris & Nancy's wedding celebration. And there, Ken reminded us that when we spend time with the Lord and remain close to Him, then we are better able to love and be close to our spouses. I'd propose that it's not even unique to marriage... that it's essential for our relationships with our family, friends, co-workers. We are only able to live out God's love in all our relationships when our hearts are filled with His love... which happens when we stay close to Him.

What does it mean to be close to God?

A quote by Gordon MacDonald describes it this way:

"There is a place of quiet rest," the poet Cleland McAfee wrote, "near to the heart of God. A place where sin cannot molest." It can be a place to meet the One whom Helmut Thielike called 'The Waiting Father'. No one can live well without such places; but many try. ~From "Restoring Your Spiritual Passion"

Lord, this morning we ask your forgiveness for the times that we try to live without you, far from you. We ask that you would enter and fill our hearts, our minds, our souls, our being with Your love.

Who can be close to God?

In fact, that's what I was reading this morning in my scripture passage...

²⁸ One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”

²⁹ “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. ³⁰ Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ ³¹ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

³² “Well said, teacher,” the man replied. “You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but him. ³³ To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.”

³⁴ When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions. ~Mark 12:28-34

There are two very important aspects to this passage that stand out to me this morning. And, perhaps surprisingly, it's not the two most important commandments.

#1-

This morning, it's interesting to see that this 'man'... actually a pharisee or teacher of the law is right! After all the criticism of those 'white washed tombs', someone has answered wisely. And this teacher of the law gets it... he gets exactly what so many do not... it's not about the burnt offerings and sacrifices... it's about the love and glory we give to God, because He is one... and He is holy... and He is love.

#2-

Jesus tells the teacher of the law that he is "not far from the kingdom of God". Not far... that means near or close. By paying more attention to the spirit of the law (love for our God) than the letter of the law (the burnt offerings), we are closer to God. The usual bad guy in the story is not in this case. So no matter who we are, we can be close to God, but understanding, obeying, and living out these 2 commandments.

Where/when can we be close to God?

Similarly, Psalm 34 (which I have been reading every day this week... it is soo uplifting!) reminds us that these places/spaces/times where we can be close to God are not just when all is right we the world. Although times are sometimes difficult, God is close to us in those times... and He is faithful.. and He is near. Even if at a certain moment things are not perfect, it is comforting to know that... "The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth."

¹ I will extol the LORD at all times;
his praise will always be on my lips.
² I will glory in the LORD;
let the afflicted hear and rejoice.
³ Glorify the LORD with me;
let us exalt his name together.

⁴ I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
⁵ Those who look to him are radiant;
their faces are never covered with shame.
⁶ This poor man called, and the LORD heard him;
he saved him out of all his troubles.
⁷ The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him,
and he delivers them.

⁸ Taste and see that the LORD is good;
blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.
⁹ Fear the LORD, you his holy people,
for those who fear him lack nothing.
¹⁰ The lions may grow weak and hungry,
but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.
¹¹ Come, my children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the LORD.
¹² Whoever of you loves life
and desires to see many good days,
¹³ keep your tongue from evil
and your lips from telling lies.
¹⁴ Turn from evil and do good;
seek peace and pursue it.

¹⁵ The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous,
and his ears are attentive to their cry;
¹⁶ but the face of the LORD is against those who do evil,
to blot out their name from the earth.

¹⁷ The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them;
he delivers them from all their troubles.
¹⁸ The LORD is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

¹⁹ The righteous person may have many troubles,
but the LORD delivers him from them all;
²⁰ he protects all his bones,
not one of them will be broken.

²¹ Evil will slay the wicked;
the foes of the righteous will be condemned.
²² The LORD will rescue his servants;
no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned. ~Psalm 34

Praise be to the Lord who desires closeness with us!

"Taste and see that the Lord is good!" Seek to be close to Him today... and every day... and all day... and love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind and strength! Amen!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8mr839-TVs

A Heart Like His

The True Shepherd
A Heart Like His

Today I am particularly touched by reading in my Guided Prayer Devotional by John Baille, especially since it reminds me of my cousin Amanda. To me, it embodies her hunger and thirst for righteousness. She would not stand idly by when she saw something injust, but instead she stood up for and worked for the good. That is something I learned from my older cousin... and today we'll remember her and thank her in our own way for all she did and all she taught us- in the concert this evening, but also in our hearts today.

"Let me stand to-day-
for whatever is pure and true and just and good:
for the advancement of science and education and true learning:
for the redemption of daily business from the blight of self-seeking:
for the rights of the weak and the oppressed:
for industrial co-operation and mutual help:
for the conservation of the rich traditions of the past:
for the recognition of new workings of Thy Spirit in the minds of the [people] of my own time:
for the hope of yet more glorious days to come.

To-day, O Lord-
let me put right before interest:
let me put others before self:
let me put the things of the spirit before the things of the body:
let me put the attainment of noble ends above the enjoyment of present pleasures:
let me put principle above reputation:
let me put Thee before all else.

O Thou the reflection of whose transcendent glory did once appear unbroken in the face of Jesus Christ, give me to-day a heart like His- a brave heart, a true heart, a tender heart, a heart with great room in it, a heart fixed on Thyself; for His name's sake. Amen."
(from 'A Diary of Private Prayer' by John Baillie)

In fact, this should be my prayer every day... for a heart like His... that would put others before myself, that would stand for justice. In a way, this prayer is a prayer that our lives would not be only our own... that we would not be serving ourselves only, but seeking to serve the Lord and others through our work, our actions, our love, our words, our prayers, our lives.

Paul was like this. Although people were plotting against him, although there were threats that he could be thrown in prison, although he would face hardships, he followed the will of God.

"And now, compelled by the spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prisons and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me - the task of testifying the good news of God's grace." (Acts 20:22-24)

A week ago, I considered the importance of having a singularity of purpose. And in this scripture, I see Paul embodying that mentality. Paul's heart and purpose was in line with the task that Jesus had given to Him. Perhaps if we pray more that the Holy Spirit guides us, we too will find our way to serve our ultimate purpose (to glorify, obey and serve God) through the task He has given us... be that teaching in a godly manner, spreading Christ's love to our colleagues and friends, being a godly wife, husband, mother, father, cousin, sister or friend.

And certainly all of the tasks the God has given us have Christ at their center, not ourselves.

"Today Lord...
let us put right before interest,
let us put others before self..."

just as Amanda taught to do us so well.

Investment: Serving with your Whole Heart

The True Shepherd

Investment: Serving with your Whole Heart

In familiar psalms and hymns like "Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us", we are given the beautiful image of the Lord as our shepherd. But reading through the scriptures reminds us that this is more than a lovely picture. This is a powerful metaphor for the overwhelming love that God has for us.

Jesus- Our Shepherd

For example, take the following passage. By comparing the good shepherd to the hired hand, Jesus explains his relationship with us:

¹¹ “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. ¹² The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. ¹³ The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. (John 10:11-13)

In the field of language and identity, there is a theory called 'investment' theory by Bonny Norton (2000). Depending on how 'invested' you are in the target language (the one you're trying to learn) determines a great deal how well you learn that language and also your attitude toward that language. For example, if you are a high school student who feels forced to take French for one hour a day without any real purpose for it, you are less likely to learn it to the extent that a study abroad student in France will.

While this theory relates specifically to language, it's not only to language that the idea of investment can be applied. For example, we can see in the verses above that the hired hand is less invested in the sheep for an obvious reason... he does not own the sheep. He cares less about them, so he may run away when frightened.

But Jesus is not a hired hand. He loves and knows the sheep and will not abandon them, because they are His. What a comforting and overwhelming thought. God does not take care of us because He needs to any more than our parents love us because they need too. They just love us and care for us, because we are theirs and they are invested in us.

He will not abandon us when the wolves come, when tough times come, when the decisions come, when uncertainty comes. This is hard for me, especially when I'm in a position where I want to make a decision, but I can't just yet... usually because others aren't ready for a decision. When I can't even imagine into the future, it makes me very anxious. But I need to trust that the good shepherd will not leave me, even if I can't see Him through the fog.

Ourselves - As Under-Shepherds

Similarly, another scripture verse from the other day reminded me that we are to imitate Christ and be shepherds.

¹ To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: ² Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; ³ not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. ⁴ And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

⁵ In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,

“God opposes the proud
but shows favor to the humble.”

⁶ Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. ⁷ Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:1-6)

I have heard 'deacons' or 'elders' in many churches referred to as "under-shepherds", and after reading this verse, it seems quite fitting. Here we are instructed on how to be a shepherd with the same motive and attitude of Christ.

It should not be done out of obligation ('because we must') or for gain or power, but it should be done because we are willing, eager to serve, and examples to the others. Humble servants of the Lord will be lifted up, given strength to serve.

Today I pray for all the new upcoming leaders of GCF. I am so thankful for their hearts of genuine service, willing and eager to serve in ministry in our Graduate Christian Fellowship. I pray for them as they pray for our new group of students this upcoming year. I pray for them as they prepare their bible studies and even hold bible studies during this summer at their homes. I pray that God would encourage them and give them peace and strength during the busy times of the semester and joy and excitement as they serve the Lord. And I pray that these young shepherds remember that they have a shepherd to turn to, to pray to... that they may cast all their cares on Jesus, because He cares for them. They are His sheep, and He will not abandon them... when the wolves (or midterms or finals) come.

Destroying the Power of Sin- Jesus Paid it All

Companionship with the Living Lord:
Destroying the Power of Sin- Jesus Paid it All

Today's passage often seems somewhat obscure upon first read... or perhaps even a second read.

¹¹ In him you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands. Your whole self ruled by the fleshwas put off when you were circumcised by Christ, ¹² having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.

¹³ When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, ¹⁴ having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. ¹⁵ And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. (Colossians 2:611-15)

So I chose to also look at 'The Message' which is a re-written version without the olden terms and jargon from so long ago. It's 'the main point', the 'gist' and should be treated like that. It's important to also see and read the real translation.

^11-15Entering into this fullness is not something you figure out or achieve. It's not a matter of being circumcised or keeping a long list of laws. No, you're already in—insiders—not through some secretive initiation rite but rather through what Christ has already gone through for you, destroying the power of sin. If it's an initiation ritual you're after, you've already been through it by submitting to baptism. Going under the water was a burial of your old life; coming up out of it was a resurrection, God raising you from the dead as he did Christ. When you were stuck in your old sin-dead life, you were incapable of responding to God. God brought you alive—right along with Christ! Think of it! All sins forgiven, the slate wiped clean, that old arrest warrant canceled and nailed to Christ's cross. He stripped all the spiritual tyrants in the universe of their sham authority at the Cross and marched them naked through the streets. (The Message, Colossians 2:11-15)

What stood out to me, especially as I read the message version was the part I have highlighted above... destroying the power of sin. Well, it might just seem evident, but that's what's so striking... it wasn't evident at one point. Hmm... a little confusing perhaps, but I'll try to explain.

In critical discourse analysis, there is a 'power' is a hot topic, some might say... 'the' topic. DCA is all about how language is power-laden and its interpretation, understanding and meaning is intricately tied into society's power structure. Ok, it might still seem a little far-fetched, but stick with me here.

Whatever is unnoticed or taken as a 'given' in a certain speech community is usually there for a specific purpose, and the fact that a practice is important to be carried out in a certain matter means that it holds power. For instance, it might've been developed by a distinguished person in that society.

So, all the laws, the rites, the customs that the Jews had to carry out were not benign. I would argue that they were power-laden . (Ah, there's our key word.) The fact that these were obligatory and had crucial consequences if they were not practiced correctly. In fact, the consequences were very real and could range from chastisement to stoning. (Now that's power!)

But, that's not what they were meant for. They were not given to people for them to follow them out of fear of what these powerful laws (or the 'keeper's of the law') could do.

In fact, it seemed that these people were not capable of understanding God's law in the way that He had meant it. So, he sent a new law. God sent His son, who 'paid it all'. He destroyed the power of sin over our lives... that power that could cause our embarrassment or pain or exculsion. Instead, we are all included. In fact, "the law" is one difficulty we Christians have so so often. Our societies are structured around 'laws', so it is hard to understand this Christianity that is about love... that is not earned but freely given.

Unlike all of our earthly societies, this is a community that invites all in... none need to earn their way. There is no hierarchical structure. In fact a critical discourse analysis of the kingdom of heaven would be extremely different... God is powerful and He reigns, but He does not hold that power over us in the way that our earthly societies do.

Praise the Lord for His marvelous, amazing, and beautiful way... that is so much more wonderful than we can even completely understand. He has saved us from the power of sin, of the law, of our societies.

I Think, Therefore I Am

Companionship with the Living Lord: I Think, Therefore I Am

Today's scriptures prompt me to think about 'thoughts'. A recently popularized debate in my field is "Does language change the way we think?" For instance, does the fact that my language allows certain grammatical structures or uses certain words for things change the way I think about it. But, this morning, let's consider a more important and often forgotten concern... "Does Christianity change the way we think?" We know that it can, when we pray and ask the Holy Spirit. But do we do that? Do we allow Christ to change the way we think?

Phillipians 4:1-9 is one of my favorite scriptures, and perhaps if I thought about it each day, my day's thinking would be very different. But let's consider two distinct ways that Christ-like thinking can change our lives- in reactive and proactive situations.

Allow Christ to Change Your Thoughts

When You're Re-acting

⁴ Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! ⁵ Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. ⁶ Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ⁷ And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phillippians 4:1-9)

When I sang the chorus, "Rejoice in the Lord always and again I say rejoice" jubilantly in Vacation Bible School, our joyous voices had it right... but little did I know the depth of that verse in its context. After all, it is not said when considering only those blessings that God has poured out on us. No... when you are anxious, when you have petitions (things you are longing for), when you are in every situation... rejoice in the Lord! Not only those days where we feel well, not only those days when we've caught up on sleep, not only vacation days. But rejoice in the Lord.

And there is sound reason for this. When you are upset, anxious, concerned, you can get caught up in a cycle of negativity that is binding. Jesus comes to set us free from our sins, some of which hide in our negative thoughts... which are harmful to both us and others. When we are nervous or anxious about so many things (finances, job, final papers, housing, etc), it is easy to get caught up in that negative worried rut.

But if we first thank God for our struggles, for being present and listening to our prayers, and for the many blessings he has given to us (a Godly spouse, a beautiful healthy child, an opportunity to study, a scholarship), our thinking is changed by those thoughts. We are then able to see the matter with eyes of hope and accept the peace that God wants to bring into our lives.

Now, it may seem crazy to thank God for our struggles. But, for example, when deciding between several job opportunities, we could thank God for the opportunities, options and decisions He has provided to us. When we are waiting back to hear from jobs, we could thank God for the blessing of finding open positions in a difficult time. By finding the silver lining, we remind ourselves of the good and the hope that outlines each situation... especially when we keep our purpose [glorifying God and obeying Him] in our mind. Any day that we can do that, is a blessed day!

Allow Christ to Change Your Thoughts

When You're Acting

⁸ Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ⁹ Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

However, it isn't just when we're reacting to hard situations. Perhaps you feel okay this morning. But we can be proactive. We can decide to take some time during our devotions, during our run, during our bikeride to campus to consider things that are praiseworthy.

Do you see a cute bunny hopping along and reminding you of Spring?

Praise God for that sign of new birth!

Do you hear a child's laugh or a baby's cry?

Praise God for His providence for that family's health and well-being.

Do you see a random act of kindness performed by a stranger?

A selfless act by a group of friends?

For instance, I praise God for the beautiful gift of love given last week by our friends. Brad and I switched apartments within our complex to save a little money each month with a swamp cooler. And at 8am in the middle of Finals week, five of our friends came to help us move all of our furniture from one house to another. They didn't give of what time they had, they gave of what time they didn't have. In fact, two of those individuals went to help another friend move in the morning. What a beautiful, lovely, true, right, and pure act! Brad and I felt so loved, and our friends' kindness was a true testimony to Christ. Because they were doing what they have seen Christ do in the scriptures... and putting it into practice (v.9).

So I pray for you all this morning... that the Holy Spirit may come and change your thinking, so that you may rejoice in the Lord in every circumstance and give praise for all the lovely, pure, right and true things you see!

Companionship with the Living Lord- Assurance & Simplicity

Today's Bible reading includes a story that we oftentimes avoid- the story of Potiphar's wife, who wanted handsome Joseph to "come to bed with [her]" (v. 7). However, it is the end of the story that is so inspiring. After the shock of the misbehaving wife and her lie that Joseph tried to take advantage of her, we see how God continues to watch over and work in Joseph's life... even in prison.

When his master heard the story his wife told him, saying, “This is how your slave treated me,” he burned with anger. ²⁰ Joseph’s master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were confined.

But while Joseph was there in the prison, ²¹ the LORD was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. ²² So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. ²³ The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s care, because the LORD was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did. (Genesis 39:19-23)

Assurance

What I hear in this passage is great assurance. Even in prison, the most stressful, unfortunate and unpleasant situation, "the Lord was with [Joseph]" (v. 21). Joseph was given favor and special responsibilities as a caretaker of things in the prison, certainly the best of an undesirable situation.

No, it wasn't everything that Joseph had ever dreamed of... and certainly the many dreams that he began to explain were preferable to this life in a prison. And no, he wouldn't have put this stop on his 5-year-plan to success. But, God was with Joseph. And we see in this story that even in prison, "the Lord was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did" (v. 23).

Life likes to throw curveballs at us. Sometimes things are unexpected, sometimes uncertain, and sometimes downright unpleasant. But when we are Jesus' own children, He watches over us wherever we are... during finals, in another country, in the midst of health struggles. As Christ Tomlin says in his popular song based on scripture... "If our God is for us, who can ever stop us?" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=op4n0EF3PdU Certainly, who/what can ever stop us... that is in our desire to obey and glorify Him, which is our one purpose.

Singularity & Simplicity

And that is key. People/things can stop us from many things but not those things which are in accordance with our one purpose... to obey and glorify the Lord.

But we often forget. We often lose our singular of focus. Instead, we may be tricked into thinking that our 'purpose' is our work, our research, our studies, our own plans. But while our 'plans' may be interrupted and stopped, our true purpose... to obey and glorify the Lord... cannot be stopped. Prison stopped Joseph's plan of earning a good living in favor with his master, but his purpose to live for and in obedience to the Lord was not stopped.

It is this that we must keep clear in order to live a life singularly focused on Christ, simply living for Him and assured that He will give us 'success' in whatever we do, in so much as 'success' is defined by our ability to love, glorify, and be obedient to Christ in even undesirable circumstances.

Reflecting on the relationship between simplicity and singularity of heart, Richard Foster puts it this way:

"Our study of money leads us to one inescapable conclusion: we who follow Jesus Christ are called to a vow of simplicity. This vow is not for the dedicated few but for all. It is not an option to take or leave depending on our personal preference. All who name Christ as Lord and Savior are obliged to follow what he says, and Jesus' call to discipleship in money can be best summed up in the single word simplicity. Simplicity seeks to do justice to our Lord's many-faceted teachings about money- light and dark, giving and receiving, trust, contentment, faith.

Simplicity means unity of heart and singleness of purpose. We have only one desire: to obey Christ in all things. We have only one purpose: to glorify Christ in all things. We have only one use for money: to advance his kingdom upon the earth. Jesus declares, 'If thine eye be single thy whole body shall be full of light' (Matt., 6:22)." ~From Money, Sex and Power by Richard Foster

It may seem unrelated... the story of Joseph's imprisonment and simplicity. You may say, "He didn't choose to live a simple life... he was forced into it."

But I propose that it is connected to our view of God's providence. If we [falsely, I would argue] believe that God is only giving us 'success' and watching over us when we are 'rolling in the dough', living our dreams and our plans, I believe we are mistaken.

Instead, what Richard Foster offers us in his view of simplicity is that simplicity is singularity. It is easy to get caught up in the worries of... Will I be able to get a job? Will I be able to get my dream job? What if we are on one salary? What will happen next year, or the year after that, or the year after that?

But when we view our lives with a single purpose, a singular focus, a single eye, we can rest in the assurance that no matter where I am, no matter what job I take, no matter what I do, I am God's child. I will live a life that gives glory to God and obey Christ in all things... even in a smaller apartment, even in an un-ideal work situation, even out of work... and even in prison.

If our God is for us, then who can ever stop us... from fulfilling our purpose every day?

Back to Journalling- Between the Written Word & the Heart

At the end of a long semester, I appreciate taking some time to refocus, to recenter.

This year I've been invited to do different things with my devotional time, which has been nice. Brad and I began to have our devotional time together in the morning, reading and praying together before we started the day. But now, as we embark on our adventurous summers, I return to my journalling, and not just because we will be apart. I also have missed it. I find it healing, inspiring and calming to write and process so many thoughts that are a part of my days. And somewhere between or within the written words and my heart, I feel a deep connection with God.

And so, I come back to journalling, which was where my story with Christ began. When my pastor Ken gave a series called "Providence 101", in the segment about spiritual growth, he mentioned the practice of journalling. Perhaps strangely enough, this middle school aged girl was inspired and excited about this idea. "I journal already, and I really enjoy it. How much more wonderful to connect my daily Bible reading with my journalling!" And from that moment, I spent time journalling about my daily Bible readings. I was hooked.

In fact, one summer afternoon as I read the segment on Mary and the alabaster jar during a devotional journalling session, tears filled my eyes. I was filled with the same love for Jesus who I had come to know so well in writing and reading and praying to Him. I wanted to pour the alabaster jar, to give all that I had to Jesus. I ran over to my parents' room and asked them in an anxious tone, tears still in my eyes, "Why can't I be baptized?" I don't know why I put it that way. I think I just knew deep down inside that was what I wanted. My heart had already decided to put my Lord in Jesus' hands and give it all to Him. And I wanted to participate in a sign, just like Mary, to show just that. My parents answered, of course, that I could be baptized. And I affirmed that was what I wanted.

Yes, journalling and me... we go way back.