The scriptures have numerous examples of couples that were without children praying for the opportunity of parenthood. The model of their praying is a good start for any parent in recognizing prayer as a continuing expression of trust and faith in God.
Expectant parents can and should start by praying for their unborn child and for their wisdom in preparing for that child’s birth. A significant number of pregnancies do not reach full-term for many reasons. Not all couples are able to have children. Many couples seek adoption opportunities and pray for those who might be open to that option,
enabling them to be parents. Expecting parents would do well to seek God’s guidance for each day’s challenges during pregnancies or adoption processes. Trust God to guide you and to help you to discern your capacities for both providing for and caring for a child.
Having children is not parenting them. That responsibility is continuous and ongoing.
The good news is that God’s love is likewise our best model for Christian parenting. God teaches us the meaning of steadfast love and faithfulness. Caring for one’s health before and during pregnancy is essential for a growing fetus. Childbearing itself can be dangerous for both mother and child. The best of modern medicine remains at times confounded by the failure of some pregnancies to thrive. Nonetheless, we can trust in God and his provision. Fathers are likewise accountable to be available and protective of their spouse. As we are gifted in the wonder and grace of new life, we receive and welcome those tender lives into our care. While often the concern of our prayers,
now we also must share in teaching them to pray and to understand God’s love for them.
Teaching your child to pray is not so much a challenge as it is an opportunity.
It is an opportunity for you to put into practice your own spiritual discipline of prayer
and to model that practice for your child in age appropriate ways. Teaching your child to pray is not just about teaching them to perform for your pleasure. Teaching a child to pray begins with your own conversations with God. As you pray, and as your children listen to you pray, they begin to discern the meaning of your actions and words.
Things that are helpful in teaching your child:
Begin with simple words shared at regular times. For exmple, praying before meals and at bedtime would be good opportunities and times for regular prayer.
Begin with a posture of prayer. Joining hands in a family circle during prayers at meals can benefit in helping busy fingers to be occupied and to help little ones focus upon the action taking place.
Be consistent. The most important part of teaching is consistency. Over time, as patterns are taught, we learn, and over time we grow in understanding and knowledge.
For Pre-schoolers…
Teaching a child to fold their hands and to bow their heads and to close their eyes in prayer is helpful in many ways. It teaches them to express their own attitude of prayerfulness…they can pray. It teaches them to give attention to God and talking to Him, overagainst being distracted by all the other activities that might be going on around. To begin with bowing heads and closing eyes while a parent prays is a great start. It teaches respect for God in bowing before Him as an expression of humility and love for him.
Teaching your child to pray might include teaching simple patterned prayers that they learn to repeat.
God is great. God is good.
Let us thank Him for our food.
By his hands we are fed.
Thank you, God, for daily bread.
AMEN
Thank you God for food and all our many blessings. AMEN
Prayers never need to be long in order to be heard or spoken. More than once a parent would do well to model sentence prayers in the middle of the busiest times and places. For example, Praying before traveling was a frequent memory of my childhood. Sometimes it was prayer for safe travel, at other times it included prayer for a good day at school. Other times, it included prayers for friends or family or neighbors with special needs. Teach that praying can be done in many different settings. Explain and show by example your readiness to talk to God about the most ordinary and extraordinary events and concern of life.
For Elementary Age Children...
As children grow older, they should be encouraged to begin their own initiatives to offer prayer. Taking turns praying before meals, or designating a different person each day to say the prayers at set times would be helpful. Help a child to move to this process naturally, by asking them about things they would like to pray about before hand. Help them to think about asking God for his help and to thank God for his blessings. Guide children to understand that our praying is also a time to listen for God’s voice to us. Share in reading from the Bible together. Read portions of the scriptures or share a special verse that was meaningful from your own devotional reading. Allow children to talk about their needs and concerns. These conversations around family devotional times will be some of the most remembered of their and your lives together. Often reading from a collection of Bible Stories for Children is helpful at this age, reading a different story each day. Talking about the story and helping children to understand it will encourage them to ask questions and to explore the Bible as they grow older. Giving a child their own Bible to read, especially in a readable translation, is especially helpful as you move into this age. Help your child to learn the books of the Bible and to identify chapters and verses. Encourage them
to underline important passages or to identify those sections about which they have questions. Teaching how to use a Bible at this age is very important to their lifetime of using it in the future. It also encourages reading in general. Children would also be helped by learning a model of prayer from the scriptures in the Lord’s Prayer.
For Teens and Young Adults...
Enabling youth to engage in personal devotional reading and prayer time is an important step in their faith development. Developing the capacity for having their own time for daily bible reading and prayer allows them to grow beyond the supervision of parents into independent learners and self-motivated seekers. Having the skills to explore the Bible and knowing how to use bible study tools like Bible Dictionaries, Bible Concordances, and Bible Atlases will encourage their growth and understanding. Teaching youth to read aloud from the Bible is also important at this age. It encourages their participation in worship and also utilizes their capacities to give instruction and guidance to others. Reading devotional classics and collections of devotional readings can also serve as a help for daily quiet times. Many one-year collections are available in a wide variety of formats. A good basic study bible in a readable translation is again a very helpful tool for growing in understanding of the scriptures. Many good examples are available. At this age, youth, while often shy about publicly expressing themselves, should be encouraged to share their thoughts and prayers publicly. In group settings, sharing sentence prayers around the circle, or in family gatherings for family devotions, the practice of praying can continue. Teens and young adults learn best from the examples of their parents. Parents who demonstrate a personal devotional life, encourage it among their household. Coming together and praying together are important with friends, with relatives, with strangers who are a part of the gatherings of your family. The Psalms are a rich source of private and public prayers and praises in their meditations and reflections upon life and God’s provision. Reading from them with regularity can be an excellent basis for growing both in faith and knowledge of God’s love.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Did You Remember to Thank...?
A friend of mine is a farmer and when I watch him sit down to eat a meal, I see in his eyes a kind of thoughtfulness about the food he is about to eat.
I decided to think thoughtfully about my lunch today and I came to the conclusion very quickly that I have too often thought too little about what exactly it took for me to sit down and enjoy the meal that I just partook of.
Today I had lunch in a local eatery. I ordered an unsweetened tea and then perused the menu long enough to decide that perhaps a healthy choice would be a chef salad with honey mustard dressing.
As I sipped my tea, I suddenly realized that apart from the waitress that had served it, there had been someone who took the time to brew the tea. Someone else had purchased the ice machine that had been manufactured by any number of people and transported and sold and installed by someone…likely a local plumber. As I enjoyed the cool tea, I realized the cup had been produced from plastics that had required oil for their manufacturing and linked me to a host of people who had explored, drilled, pumped and distilled those products to make them usable for the manufacturing process that involved numbers of other people, exclusive of those who transported the oil and the finished products from manufacturer to end user. Someone worked in a warehouse counting and stacking and shipping the cups to the place where I was eating. And that was just for the cup and ice.
I then remembered that the process of tea growing was a laborious one. The tiny tea leaves that were used to make my tea were grown in a distant land. The leaves were carefully picked at the right time and gathered laboriously and sold in a marketplace to resellers who enabled the products to be utilized over time by those who placed the tea in utilizable formats, teabags…for use in the brewing of my glass of iced tea. Don’t forget the paper that went into the bag or the cardboard that packaged the tea in the boxes that were placed together in larger corrugated containers for delivery. And I have only begun to drink a glass of unsweetened tea.
As I reflected on the food as it was brought to my table, I was thankful for its appearance. The salad greens, the cucumbers cubed, the hard boiled egg slices, the tomato pieces, the deli ham, the grilled chicken, the grated cheese. Before I had taken in the first bite, I remembered that if I was going to thank the people responsible for my lunch, I would have to thank a lettuce grower and all who worked for him…planting the seed, transplanting the plants, fertilizing the crop, weeding and spraying and watering, pickers who gathered, others who washed and crated, others who transported and sold and resellers who bought and distributors who took orders and resold. I would have to thank those who bought and delivered that fresh produce to the marketplace where my local food establishment purchased the lettuce.
I would need to thank an egg farmer…raising chickens newly hatched from a hatchery where eggs had been incubated for days, feeding and watering the chickens was one small part, but the veterinarians who provided antibiotics and supervision of chicken house environments, food inspectors and egg processors who evaluated the size and quality of eggs, the distributors who from gathering to selling carried on any number of processes to insure a rapid farm to market exchange of goods…I must thank all of them too.
The grated cheese in my salad involved a dairy farmer who fed his cows, had them cared for by a veterinarian, and whose milking operation was of necessity a carefully choreographed twice daily operation of milking and gathering, pasteurizing and cooling, separating and selling the components of the milk that would be used for cheese making. The cheese making process would involve a host of others engaged in that process, often involving extensive time, even months and years of aging, before the cheese might be ready for use in my salad. How many people looked after that cheese in the weeks of waiting for it to be ready? How many were responsible for the electricity that cooled the place where it was stored? How many were engaged in the shipping, selling and final distribution and labeling of that cheese for market? How many artists and salesmen and marketing personnel were involved in bringing that product to my lunch?
The tomato in my salad was fresh, and likely grown in a hothouse or in some other more favorable climate than ours. If it were field grown, it would have meant a laborious preparation of the field by the farmer, often utilizing a raised bed and often, an extensive use of plastic sheeting utilized in large commercial operations. Thank the oil producers again and the plastics manufacturers and all those who work for them. We can’t forget the providers of the fuel for the tractors and the semis that transport load after load of goods across the country. We should thank the nurseries that often start the seed and prepare seedlings to be transplanted at favorable times. The system of watering often uses elaborate irrigation systems, either drip or spray systems that use local deep wells or water from melted snowpack found in rivers corralled by dams to provide moisture over long seasons with little rain and electricity to go along with it through turbines turned when the water flows downstream. Did we thank those who built the dams and hydropower plants? Hothouse tomatoes, while often having a little less taste than fieldgrown, require a regular dose of energy and heat often provided by artificial lighting (did we think to mention those who manufacture the light bulbs) and large fan driven heat systems to maintain appropriate temperatures for growing (thanks to the HVAC people). Some of that electricity might have come from nuclear energy. These power plants require the proper and careful management of fissionable materials. The elaborate systems needed to maintain such facilities requires enormous initial cost in building and continues to require ongoing attention for centuries due to residual radiation in spent fuel. Those guys will be working long after my lunch is over…I should thank them. The pickers, the craters, the shippers again bring that load of tomatoes my way to be used by the local restaurateur.
The same again applies to my cucumber. As I dipped my chicken into the honey mustard sauce I realized a whole other group of people to thank. Those who live next to a chicken house know the price of growing those birds. There is the heat and labor of feeding, inoculating, watering, cleaning, catching, crating, shipping live chickens to the processor…then comes the killing, defeathering, washing and cutting into those most frequently used types and sizes for regular commercial use. My deboned and chunked portions would have required any number of individuals to be a part of the process before the meat was sold fresh or flash frozen for storage or shipping.
The chunks of deli ham were delicious. I couldn’t tell if they had come from ham that was fresh sliced or perhaps smoked beforehand. But I’m getting well ahead of myself. I remember feeding pigs on my granddaddy’s farm. It was a daily duty. Today’s producers use more efficient operations, but the requirements are many….from piglets to full grown pigs, usually necessitates a level of constant oversight. Pigs can’t take the heat. Cooling is often required in the form of watercooled areas or temperature-controlled environments. Pigs require frequent feeding as they grow steadily. Again the trucking requirements to move the pigs from farm to processor are critical to the process. The meat packing plant that handled the meat from hoof to deli ready meat required butchers and cooks, packagers and shippers again. Along the way, food inspectors qualified the processors and evaluated the quality and safety of the food production. I should thank them all.
I thought I had it about wrapped up when I realized I was sitting at a table made by a furniture manufacturer using wood cut from a forest, shipped by a trucker, cut by a saw mill, dried by a wood drying operation, planed, glued and finished by a series of processes made possible by another host of people.
And I haven’t even gotten to my honey mustard sauce…someone gathered the honey. Someone produced the mustard plants. Someone harvested and prepared vegetable oils and spices and other ingredients. Who added salt? That made for another group of people working to make my dinner. Did I forget someone else? I had salad crackers with my salad. A bakery made them, from ingredients that would start this conversation all over again. Wheat was grown, harvested, taken to a granary, later to a mill, ground, made into flour. Corn syrup made from a corn crop was used to supply the sweetness. The preservatives were added to retain shelf life. The plastics wrapped the crackers. Cardboard wrapped the goods. Shippers transported…again.
The hands and lives of people who labored to make my lunch possible begins to sound like a whole city of people making contributions to me indirectly, but for me to have that meal…each one was necessary. I am thankful for them, but then understand…I have no doubt left out a host of others. My check came. I used a ten dollar bill to pay. Someone made the pen used to write the check, dozens of people made the paper to prepare the pad for orders, a multitude of workers at the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and the pressmen and printers, and press engineers and maintenance workers made possible the distribution of funds to the Federal Reserve and then to local banks and to the teller who handed me the bill when I last cashed my paycheck. I should thank them too, along with all those who made my salary possible.
I finished my meal, but as I stood to leave, I remembered that while I began the meal thanking God for the food, I was leaving the meal thanking God for all the people.
The meal was good. The food was nourishing and pleasant to the eye. The service was kind and attentive. The experience of remembering what it took for my lunch to be made possible reminded me that every part of our lives is such a miracle of relationships as we are bound together in countless, important, but often forgotten ways.
Thank you God for each and everyone whose life has touched me in this hour.
Bless them with the knowledge of your love and with thankfulness for all your blessings. AMEN
I decided to think thoughtfully about my lunch today and I came to the conclusion very quickly that I have too often thought too little about what exactly it took for me to sit down and enjoy the meal that I just partook of.
Today I had lunch in a local eatery. I ordered an unsweetened tea and then perused the menu long enough to decide that perhaps a healthy choice would be a chef salad with honey mustard dressing.
As I sipped my tea, I suddenly realized that apart from the waitress that had served it, there had been someone who took the time to brew the tea. Someone else had purchased the ice machine that had been manufactured by any number of people and transported and sold and installed by someone…likely a local plumber. As I enjoyed the cool tea, I realized the cup had been produced from plastics that had required oil for their manufacturing and linked me to a host of people who had explored, drilled, pumped and distilled those products to make them usable for the manufacturing process that involved numbers of other people, exclusive of those who transported the oil and the finished products from manufacturer to end user. Someone worked in a warehouse counting and stacking and shipping the cups to the place where I was eating. And that was just for the cup and ice.
I then remembered that the process of tea growing was a laborious one. The tiny tea leaves that were used to make my tea were grown in a distant land. The leaves were carefully picked at the right time and gathered laboriously and sold in a marketplace to resellers who enabled the products to be utilized over time by those who placed the tea in utilizable formats, teabags…for use in the brewing of my glass of iced tea. Don’t forget the paper that went into the bag or the cardboard that packaged the tea in the boxes that were placed together in larger corrugated containers for delivery. And I have only begun to drink a glass of unsweetened tea.
As I reflected on the food as it was brought to my table, I was thankful for its appearance. The salad greens, the cucumbers cubed, the hard boiled egg slices, the tomato pieces, the deli ham, the grilled chicken, the grated cheese. Before I had taken in the first bite, I remembered that if I was going to thank the people responsible for my lunch, I would have to thank a lettuce grower and all who worked for him…planting the seed, transplanting the plants, fertilizing the crop, weeding and spraying and watering, pickers who gathered, others who washed and crated, others who transported and sold and resellers who bought and distributors who took orders and resold. I would have to thank those who bought and delivered that fresh produce to the marketplace where my local food establishment purchased the lettuce.
I would need to thank an egg farmer…raising chickens newly hatched from a hatchery where eggs had been incubated for days, feeding and watering the chickens was one small part, but the veterinarians who provided antibiotics and supervision of chicken house environments, food inspectors and egg processors who evaluated the size and quality of eggs, the distributors who from gathering to selling carried on any number of processes to insure a rapid farm to market exchange of goods…I must thank all of them too.
The grated cheese in my salad involved a dairy farmer who fed his cows, had them cared for by a veterinarian, and whose milking operation was of necessity a carefully choreographed twice daily operation of milking and gathering, pasteurizing and cooling, separating and selling the components of the milk that would be used for cheese making. The cheese making process would involve a host of others engaged in that process, often involving extensive time, even months and years of aging, before the cheese might be ready for use in my salad. How many people looked after that cheese in the weeks of waiting for it to be ready? How many were responsible for the electricity that cooled the place where it was stored? How many were engaged in the shipping, selling and final distribution and labeling of that cheese for market? How many artists and salesmen and marketing personnel were involved in bringing that product to my lunch?
The tomato in my salad was fresh, and likely grown in a hothouse or in some other more favorable climate than ours. If it were field grown, it would have meant a laborious preparation of the field by the farmer, often utilizing a raised bed and often, an extensive use of plastic sheeting utilized in large commercial operations. Thank the oil producers again and the plastics manufacturers and all those who work for them. We can’t forget the providers of the fuel for the tractors and the semis that transport load after load of goods across the country. We should thank the nurseries that often start the seed and prepare seedlings to be transplanted at favorable times. The system of watering often uses elaborate irrigation systems, either drip or spray systems that use local deep wells or water from melted snowpack found in rivers corralled by dams to provide moisture over long seasons with little rain and electricity to go along with it through turbines turned when the water flows downstream. Did we thank those who built the dams and hydropower plants? Hothouse tomatoes, while often having a little less taste than fieldgrown, require a regular dose of energy and heat often provided by artificial lighting (did we think to mention those who manufacture the light bulbs) and large fan driven heat systems to maintain appropriate temperatures for growing (thanks to the HVAC people). Some of that electricity might have come from nuclear energy. These power plants require the proper and careful management of fissionable materials. The elaborate systems needed to maintain such facilities requires enormous initial cost in building and continues to require ongoing attention for centuries due to residual radiation in spent fuel. Those guys will be working long after my lunch is over…I should thank them. The pickers, the craters, the shippers again bring that load of tomatoes my way to be used by the local restaurateur.
The same again applies to my cucumber. As I dipped my chicken into the honey mustard sauce I realized a whole other group of people to thank. Those who live next to a chicken house know the price of growing those birds. There is the heat and labor of feeding, inoculating, watering, cleaning, catching, crating, shipping live chickens to the processor…then comes the killing, defeathering, washing and cutting into those most frequently used types and sizes for regular commercial use. My deboned and chunked portions would have required any number of individuals to be a part of the process before the meat was sold fresh or flash frozen for storage or shipping.
The chunks of deli ham were delicious. I couldn’t tell if they had come from ham that was fresh sliced or perhaps smoked beforehand. But I’m getting well ahead of myself. I remember feeding pigs on my granddaddy’s farm. It was a daily duty. Today’s producers use more efficient operations, but the requirements are many….from piglets to full grown pigs, usually necessitates a level of constant oversight. Pigs can’t take the heat. Cooling is often required in the form of watercooled areas or temperature-controlled environments. Pigs require frequent feeding as they grow steadily. Again the trucking requirements to move the pigs from farm to processor are critical to the process. The meat packing plant that handled the meat from hoof to deli ready meat required butchers and cooks, packagers and shippers again. Along the way, food inspectors qualified the processors and evaluated the quality and safety of the food production. I should thank them all.
I thought I had it about wrapped up when I realized I was sitting at a table made by a furniture manufacturer using wood cut from a forest, shipped by a trucker, cut by a saw mill, dried by a wood drying operation, planed, glued and finished by a series of processes made possible by another host of people.
And I haven’t even gotten to my honey mustard sauce…someone gathered the honey. Someone produced the mustard plants. Someone harvested and prepared vegetable oils and spices and other ingredients. Who added salt? That made for another group of people working to make my dinner. Did I forget someone else? I had salad crackers with my salad. A bakery made them, from ingredients that would start this conversation all over again. Wheat was grown, harvested, taken to a granary, later to a mill, ground, made into flour. Corn syrup made from a corn crop was used to supply the sweetness. The preservatives were added to retain shelf life. The plastics wrapped the crackers. Cardboard wrapped the goods. Shippers transported…again.
The hands and lives of people who labored to make my lunch possible begins to sound like a whole city of people making contributions to me indirectly, but for me to have that meal…each one was necessary. I am thankful for them, but then understand…I have no doubt left out a host of others. My check came. I used a ten dollar bill to pay. Someone made the pen used to write the check, dozens of people made the paper to prepare the pad for orders, a multitude of workers at the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and the pressmen and printers, and press engineers and maintenance workers made possible the distribution of funds to the Federal Reserve and then to local banks and to the teller who handed me the bill when I last cashed my paycheck. I should thank them too, along with all those who made my salary possible.
I finished my meal, but as I stood to leave, I remembered that while I began the meal thanking God for the food, I was leaving the meal thanking God for all the people.
The meal was good. The food was nourishing and pleasant to the eye. The service was kind and attentive. The experience of remembering what it took for my lunch to be made possible reminded me that every part of our lives is such a miracle of relationships as we are bound together in countless, important, but often forgotten ways.
Thank you God for each and everyone whose life has touched me in this hour.
Bless them with the knowledge of your love and with thankfulness for all your blessings. AMEN
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
The Case for Naked Truth
Allusion is that method of presenting thoughts or ideas or meaning through indirect methods. A person may allude to their faith yet never state it. People may allude to a commitment to being a follower of Christ but never clearly or directly identify themselves. Indirect preaching has been popularized as “surprising” the hearer with understanding at some point when it more or less “sneaks” in through allusive techniques of presentation and does not require the speaker to be confrontational or direct so as to avoid defensiveness on the part of the hearer. Allusion is a backdoor approach to relating or teaching.
I think it is true that some people are defensive at times when it comes to directness. Mostly they are just offended that someone would be so bold as to confront them about aspects of life that might require their reconsideration or rethinking. As I read the gospels, I am repeatedly confronted with the nature of Jesus’ message as not being a “backdoor approach.” Jesus taught with parables, but not to be indirect…but rather quite the opposite. Jesus offers us direct, forthright, bold, and, yes-- an unsettling declaration of God’s word to each of us. The naked truth…we are sinners in need of repentance and faith and God has sent his Son to save us as we trust in Him.
Delusion is the act or process of creating a false belief in spite of invalidating evidence. It is deception. It is quite popular. Athletes have recently taken to delusion as a means to “con the referee.” Faking being fouled, faking being hit by a ball, faking an extra yard by moving the ball while under the pile --- all are deceptive acts meant to create an advantage through a lie. Too much of the time, we see people in our world “working the crowd” and “playing the audience” with deceptive statements and something less than the truth. Half-truths are always easy to “sell” -- people are gullible and easily deceived.
The scriptures remind us that false teachers are a danger and ignorance is too often the greatest enemy in the room as we seek to learn about God in settings that we trust, but which may not be free of misinformation or misunderstanding. Delusion is a danger to those who are less than discerning in their spiritual journey. God does not play games with us. God does not hide from us. God does not seek to delude us into thinking he is something he is not. God is truth made known again and again to us in the walk, the works, and the life of Jesus Christ. We are not called to change his message or to “trick” anyone into believing. Jesus is the Son of God , the Savior, who died on a cross as a sacrifice for the sins of the world. He rose from the dead, destroying the power of sin and death over those who trust in Him as Savior and Lord. He calls us to believe. He calls us to follow Him. The naked truth…Jesus saves.
Illusion is a false impression frequently based on wishful thinking. Illusion is a methodology incorporated by some to entertain, but the illusion often is matched by a distraction from the truth…a misdirection of our attention. While sometimes entertaining, it goes to the point that we are easily mislead. If efforts are made to create illusions, rather than realities, everyone suffers. God did not create a world of illusions. He created a universe of magnificence for humankind to comprehend as the work of God.
He created us with capacities for exercising creativity and having understanding and living in relationship to Him. God does not invite us to be a party to share a ”false impression” but to come to the truth of our need and his provision for that need.
The naked truth….we are sinners in need of God’s grace.
We live in a world that too often uses allusion, delusion, and illusion to sidestep the realities, the truth, and the life God calls us to know in Jesus Christ. Whether we accept Christ or not, the naked truth is God isn’t playing tricks. God isn’t hiding. God isn’t pulling the wool over your eyes. God isn’t out to deceive you into being a Jesus follower.
Truth - “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”
John 3:16-17 KJV
I think it is true that some people are defensive at times when it comes to directness. Mostly they are just offended that someone would be so bold as to confront them about aspects of life that might require their reconsideration or rethinking. As I read the gospels, I am repeatedly confronted with the nature of Jesus’ message as not being a “backdoor approach.” Jesus taught with parables, but not to be indirect…but rather quite the opposite. Jesus offers us direct, forthright, bold, and, yes-- an unsettling declaration of God’s word to each of us. The naked truth…we are sinners in need of repentance and faith and God has sent his Son to save us as we trust in Him.
Delusion is the act or process of creating a false belief in spite of invalidating evidence. It is deception. It is quite popular. Athletes have recently taken to delusion as a means to “con the referee.” Faking being fouled, faking being hit by a ball, faking an extra yard by moving the ball while under the pile --- all are deceptive acts meant to create an advantage through a lie. Too much of the time, we see people in our world “working the crowd” and “playing the audience” with deceptive statements and something less than the truth. Half-truths are always easy to “sell” -- people are gullible and easily deceived.
The scriptures remind us that false teachers are a danger and ignorance is too often the greatest enemy in the room as we seek to learn about God in settings that we trust, but which may not be free of misinformation or misunderstanding. Delusion is a danger to those who are less than discerning in their spiritual journey. God does not play games with us. God does not hide from us. God does not seek to delude us into thinking he is something he is not. God is truth made known again and again to us in the walk, the works, and the life of Jesus Christ. We are not called to change his message or to “trick” anyone into believing. Jesus is the Son of God , the Savior, who died on a cross as a sacrifice for the sins of the world. He rose from the dead, destroying the power of sin and death over those who trust in Him as Savior and Lord. He calls us to believe. He calls us to follow Him. The naked truth…Jesus saves.
Illusion is a false impression frequently based on wishful thinking. Illusion is a methodology incorporated by some to entertain, but the illusion often is matched by a distraction from the truth…a misdirection of our attention. While sometimes entertaining, it goes to the point that we are easily mislead. If efforts are made to create illusions, rather than realities, everyone suffers. God did not create a world of illusions. He created a universe of magnificence for humankind to comprehend as the work of God.
He created us with capacities for exercising creativity and having understanding and living in relationship to Him. God does not invite us to be a party to share a ”false impression” but to come to the truth of our need and his provision for that need.
The naked truth….we are sinners in need of God’s grace.
We live in a world that too often uses allusion, delusion, and illusion to sidestep the realities, the truth, and the life God calls us to know in Jesus Christ. Whether we accept Christ or not, the naked truth is God isn’t playing tricks. God isn’t hiding. God isn’t pulling the wool over your eyes. God isn’t out to deceive you into being a Jesus follower.
Truth - “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”
John 3:16-17 KJV
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
The Emotional Marketplace
Every day in the business world, we see a constantly changing wave of emotion being represented by the moods and attitudes of people responding to the things they are hearing, seeing, and feeling. The kinds of emotions that we attach to our “security” regarding our means of livelihood or our fears about not having sufficient means for our desires leads to a multiplicity of responses depending upon the moment and the circumstances. The pendulum of extremes often comes into play when many others join us in having the same emotions at the same time. Intensity of emotion will do more to depress or inflate the marketplace responses of people over many other more practical and measurable factors.
When we hear about an executive of a large corporation with substantive name recognition having a personal crisis…the stock price of that corporation often declines.
News on the street has a way of suggesting that some factor may reduce the abilities of that corporation to act in a consistent and positive manner.
When the government acts to restrain or support credit opportunities, speculators on both sides of banking begin to swing their responses in favor of or in opposition to such actions. They “bank” their support by buying and selling bonds as an expression of their commitment to the future. They respond emotionally rather than technically.
In such matters as these, human emotion drives initial responses to extremes, followed by corrective actions, in light of what are recognized as overly acted upon emotions. Thinking usually follows strong emotional responses and often, additional actions are taken that reflect more measured calculation after a period of reflection.
Recognizing the emotional triggers that stimulate us and cause us to take extreme actions should remind us that our anxieties are often a product of our making. We upset ourselves because we fear and we want and we desire for ourselves in ways that essentially are unhealthy.
Jesus taught us that when we comprehend the true security of a life lived in a relationship of faith in Him, we are promised the means by which our needs will be met. What we fear often is our aloneness when we exercise an unwillingness to trust God and instead seek to make our way independently of God and his calling upon our lives. Such an existence is not the abundant life God has for his children. Such a life will be self-destructive and self-absorbed.
God has made himself known to us in His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Get to know
Him and you will find what is missing in your struggle to feel secure…to feel safe…to feel at home and at peace. In Christ we find the peace that so much of our world is at a loss to know. Share Christ …for the sake of the world that needs to know Him.
When we hear about an executive of a large corporation with substantive name recognition having a personal crisis…the stock price of that corporation often declines.
News on the street has a way of suggesting that some factor may reduce the abilities of that corporation to act in a consistent and positive manner.
When the government acts to restrain or support credit opportunities, speculators on both sides of banking begin to swing their responses in favor of or in opposition to such actions. They “bank” their support by buying and selling bonds as an expression of their commitment to the future. They respond emotionally rather than technically.
In such matters as these, human emotion drives initial responses to extremes, followed by corrective actions, in light of what are recognized as overly acted upon emotions. Thinking usually follows strong emotional responses and often, additional actions are taken that reflect more measured calculation after a period of reflection.
Recognizing the emotional triggers that stimulate us and cause us to take extreme actions should remind us that our anxieties are often a product of our making. We upset ourselves because we fear and we want and we desire for ourselves in ways that essentially are unhealthy.
Jesus taught us that when we comprehend the true security of a life lived in a relationship of faith in Him, we are promised the means by which our needs will be met. What we fear often is our aloneness when we exercise an unwillingness to trust God and instead seek to make our way independently of God and his calling upon our lives. Such an existence is not the abundant life God has for his children. Such a life will be self-destructive and self-absorbed.
God has made himself known to us in His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Get to know
Him and you will find what is missing in your struggle to feel secure…to feel safe…to feel at home and at peace. In Christ we find the peace that so much of our world is at a loss to know. Share Christ …for the sake of the world that needs to know Him.
Monday, October 18, 2010
The Integrity of Leadership
Leadership has long been a popular “buzz word” in the context of business. It is always interesting to follow the “institutionalization” of popular subjects into the academic arena. Today there are any number of “Leadership Institutes”, “Leadership Seminars,” Masters Degrees in Educational Leadership,” others in “Global Leadership and Entrepreneurship,” among many others.
The scriptures point us to the role of leadership with many examples. They include figures such as Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egypt. It includes those who served Israel as judges, those who were named kings, and any number of prophets who were called upon to lead by bearing witness to the people of the word from the Lord.
Leadership is often measured by worldly standards of success. For the most part, that is how it is referred to in present academic discussion. Good leaders are often those who help define the realities of the present, help determine the goals for the future, and who help take the steps toward achieving those goals in the day to day. Those essential steps are also included for effective leadership in the context of those who would seek to honor God with their leading. The difference is, those who are interested in honoring God with their leadership understand that it is based not upon their own influence and power, but upon the power of God at work in and through them. They also understand that the objectives or goals to be achieved are not measured only by their ability to reach them by any method. The manner in which the goals are both identified and achieved is as important as the result. Too often we see individuals “in the name of Christ” selling the processes of their “success” to the devil. The results may be “apparently achieved” but at the loss of integrity or witness because of the “way” in which they acted.
Too often the results sought are only temporary in scope. God’s leading requires that we focus on eternal measures. We are called to be a part of divine initiatives. We are called to be participants in sharing God’s light and life and love with the world. To do so requires our integrity of purpose, our willingness of spirit, and our openness to God. Following His lead is the strongest measure of any “leadership” we might seek to initiate. Allowing others to follow our example as God-honoring leaders is limited to those aspects of our personality and actions that honor Christ. The standard is higher than we have usually been willing to consider. We are called to follow the example of Jesus.
To do so is more than challenging. It is a high calling.
Success will not be the measure of earthly successes, but the measure of doing those things that God calls us to do each day.
The scriptures point us to the role of leadership with many examples. They include figures such as Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egypt. It includes those who served Israel as judges, those who were named kings, and any number of prophets who were called upon to lead by bearing witness to the people of the word from the Lord.
Leadership is often measured by worldly standards of success. For the most part, that is how it is referred to in present academic discussion. Good leaders are often those who help define the realities of the present, help determine the goals for the future, and who help take the steps toward achieving those goals in the day to day. Those essential steps are also included for effective leadership in the context of those who would seek to honor God with their leading. The difference is, those who are interested in honoring God with their leadership understand that it is based not upon their own influence and power, but upon the power of God at work in and through them. They also understand that the objectives or goals to be achieved are not measured only by their ability to reach them by any method. The manner in which the goals are both identified and achieved is as important as the result. Too often we see individuals “in the name of Christ” selling the processes of their “success” to the devil. The results may be “apparently achieved” but at the loss of integrity or witness because of the “way” in which they acted.
Too often the results sought are only temporary in scope. God’s leading requires that we focus on eternal measures. We are called to be a part of divine initiatives. We are called to be participants in sharing God’s light and life and love with the world. To do so requires our integrity of purpose, our willingness of spirit, and our openness to God. Following His lead is the strongest measure of any “leadership” we might seek to initiate. Allowing others to follow our example as God-honoring leaders is limited to those aspects of our personality and actions that honor Christ. The standard is higher than we have usually been willing to consider. We are called to follow the example of Jesus.
To do so is more than challenging. It is a high calling.
Success will not be the measure of earthly successes, but the measure of doing those things that God calls us to do each day.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Will We Ever Catch Up?
It is almost a daily statement among the social commentators of our time. They bemoan the fact that our ethics seem behind our technology, or our social systems, or our economic trends. The conversation goes something like this: “We are behind in discussing the ethical aspects of the use of autonomous robotics in warfare.” Or, we have demonstrated that our ability to exercise ethical behavior in the marketplace has gone woefully lacking in light of our obvious manipulations and abuses of the present system.”
Such social commentary seems to be a popular way of saying that sin remains a distinctive problem in our time and our attempts at making decisions without a moral grounding leave us with less than satisfying results.
The popularity of “ethics courses” in the academic circles likewise has achieved little to change the circuitous weaknesses of morality built upon humanistic models, derived from a lowest common denominator approach coupled with relativism for every situation. It will always be easy to justify our actions, whatever they may be, if we assume that all we have to do is find others willing to join in to make it acceptable. Likewise, our ability to create technologies that disregard our very human weaknesses in their creation, leads us to assume that a “programmed response by a computer” is surely destined to be a “safe” decision. Is it using our best human choices to use a gaming platform to send weapons to distant countries from thousands of miles away, with limited capacity to recognize the consequences of those decisions? Are we allowing the politics of our time to drive the rationale for war in the first place? Our attempt to inject ethics into the realms of science, medicine, business, technology, or even into our own church practices will always be second rate when we ignore the model of Jesus.
Could it be that we will one day ”come to ourselves” and realize that we do not have the last word on what is good or right or just? On the other hand, we find God readily presenting us with his truth to guide and direct us toward the things we are seeking. Could it be that those who discover the capacities for exercising justice in light of God’s love will come to understand the nature of loving God and loving neighbor with insights on how that translates into every day living?
Our behaviors seem to be woefully out of step with what even in our own sinful perceptions is just, and yet, how much more might be accomplished if we would dare to seek the will of God in bringing his love to the world in daily witness of his grace, his mercy, and his truth. We are not so much in the dark as we are unwilling to come to the light. That light is Jesus. Consider learning from him. Consider following him. Consider knowing that he is the way, the truth, and the life.
Such social commentary seems to be a popular way of saying that sin remains a distinctive problem in our time and our attempts at making decisions without a moral grounding leave us with less than satisfying results.
The popularity of “ethics courses” in the academic circles likewise has achieved little to change the circuitous weaknesses of morality built upon humanistic models, derived from a lowest common denominator approach coupled with relativism for every situation. It will always be easy to justify our actions, whatever they may be, if we assume that all we have to do is find others willing to join in to make it acceptable. Likewise, our ability to create technologies that disregard our very human weaknesses in their creation, leads us to assume that a “programmed response by a computer” is surely destined to be a “safe” decision. Is it using our best human choices to use a gaming platform to send weapons to distant countries from thousands of miles away, with limited capacity to recognize the consequences of those decisions? Are we allowing the politics of our time to drive the rationale for war in the first place? Our attempt to inject ethics into the realms of science, medicine, business, technology, or even into our own church practices will always be second rate when we ignore the model of Jesus.
Could it be that we will one day ”come to ourselves” and realize that we do not have the last word on what is good or right or just? On the other hand, we find God readily presenting us with his truth to guide and direct us toward the things we are seeking. Could it be that those who discover the capacities for exercising justice in light of God’s love will come to understand the nature of loving God and loving neighbor with insights on how that translates into every day living?
Our behaviors seem to be woefully out of step with what even in our own sinful perceptions is just, and yet, how much more might be accomplished if we would dare to seek the will of God in bringing his love to the world in daily witness of his grace, his mercy, and his truth. We are not so much in the dark as we are unwilling to come to the light. That light is Jesus. Consider learning from him. Consider following him. Consider knowing that he is the way, the truth, and the life.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Ministry Opportunities
Countless persons have discovered the joys of volunteering and the subsequent pleasure of doing things that they derive genuine pleasure in being a part of. One of the most significant traits of this movement lies in the sense of accomplishment that comes with doing. One person once said to me after an extensive eat and meet gathering that they would rather clean toilets than just sit and once more hear about what others were doing. If you are among those itching to “do” in light of God’s gifts and abilities given to you, I challenge you to consider those things that allow you to serve in the name of Christ those near you. If some suggestions would be in order, let me share a few thoughts.
Volunteer to serve at a local food kitchen, or to stock shelves for a food pantry, or coordinate purchases for a local food bank assisting others in distributing food to needy families.
Volunteer at a local school to assist students who need extra help with establishing reading skills, or as a volunteer in a classroom that allows you to assist the teacher with any number of classroom activities. With budget crises in schools, assistants are often in short supply.
Volunteer to work with a local scouting organization sponsored by your church.
Work to coordinate with church ministries to enhance rather than detract from church ministries. Engage with church leaders in opportunities to offer scouts opportunity to explore and grow in their faith.
Volunteer to teach a bible study class at a local nursing home as a ministry of your church. Your consistent presence and interest in those who are in a facility would allow you to minister to them in countless ways and to serve as a liason for other church ministry groups.
If your time is limited, but flexible, consider offering your assistance with practical aspects of church ministry often needed at special times of emphasis in the life of the church. Offer special assistance with church history preservation efforts, recording of historical interviews, filing church documents for long term preservation, to name a few.
Church evangelistic efforts may include assisting with special mailings or calling efforts. Bible School always can utilize volunteers with a love for children and a patient spirit to teach and instruct. Church libraries often need those with skills in cataloging new materials and preparing them for circulation. Others can assist with shelving books, assisting with checking out books and even acting as a one person committee to take books to interested readers. Those with interest in assisting those with visual impairment might assist them in initial use of resources from the library for the blind.
Hospital volunteers are often utilized in gift shops, information desks, and flower delivery and mail delivery capacities. Chaplains often appreciate church volunteers offering their time and resources to their ministries.
Those working with foster children and many denominational children’s homes have need of assistance with special projects and coordinating such endeavors for members of your congregation to participate in is a great way to encourage doing by others as well.
Churches often have landscaping needs beyond the routine lawn and hedge cutting. Those who can assist with watering flowers, delittering parking lots, or replacing outdoor lightbulbs can be of great help.
Churches often need help tastefully decorating for special events. Preparing bulletin boards relating to ministry needs and church focus can often make great impacts on the cooperative endeavors of the congregation. Offering educational materials relating to Mission emphases and highlighting special events can go far to encourage others to be a part. Talk with your minister about becoming the “Bulletin Board Designer” if you have skills in that area.
Consider volunteering with a Habitat for Humanity building project. Volunteers often are needed to coordinate and serve meals for workers. Others do carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work as they have abilities. Others simply offer their skills at the level of ability they have to offer. What matters in willingness. What matters is helping others in Jesus’ name. What matters is finding your gifts and using them in service to God and his body, the church.
Yes, there likely are toilets that need cleaning….packages that need wrapping…bible lessons to be taught….conversations that need to be shared…visits that need to be made…prisoners and soldiers that need encouragement and prayer…missionaries that need support and assistance…neighbors who need your time and your Christian witness. Do what you can, where you can, as often as you can….
The blessings of being “doers of the word” and not “hearers only” will be quickly apparent in your life. There is joy in serving others in Jesus’ name. It makes a difference. Remember…do what you do, not for personal praise, but for the glory of God. That is what brings a satisfaction and joy beyond measure.
Volunteer to serve at a local food kitchen, or to stock shelves for a food pantry, or coordinate purchases for a local food bank assisting others in distributing food to needy families.
Volunteer at a local school to assist students who need extra help with establishing reading skills, or as a volunteer in a classroom that allows you to assist the teacher with any number of classroom activities. With budget crises in schools, assistants are often in short supply.
Volunteer to work with a local scouting organization sponsored by your church.
Work to coordinate with church ministries to enhance rather than detract from church ministries. Engage with church leaders in opportunities to offer scouts opportunity to explore and grow in their faith.
Volunteer to teach a bible study class at a local nursing home as a ministry of your church. Your consistent presence and interest in those who are in a facility would allow you to minister to them in countless ways and to serve as a liason for other church ministry groups.
If your time is limited, but flexible, consider offering your assistance with practical aspects of church ministry often needed at special times of emphasis in the life of the church. Offer special assistance with church history preservation efforts, recording of historical interviews, filing church documents for long term preservation, to name a few.
Church evangelistic efforts may include assisting with special mailings or calling efforts. Bible School always can utilize volunteers with a love for children and a patient spirit to teach and instruct. Church libraries often need those with skills in cataloging new materials and preparing them for circulation. Others can assist with shelving books, assisting with checking out books and even acting as a one person committee to take books to interested readers. Those with interest in assisting those with visual impairment might assist them in initial use of resources from the library for the blind.
Hospital volunteers are often utilized in gift shops, information desks, and flower delivery and mail delivery capacities. Chaplains often appreciate church volunteers offering their time and resources to their ministries.
Those working with foster children and many denominational children’s homes have need of assistance with special projects and coordinating such endeavors for members of your congregation to participate in is a great way to encourage doing by others as well.
Churches often have landscaping needs beyond the routine lawn and hedge cutting. Those who can assist with watering flowers, delittering parking lots, or replacing outdoor lightbulbs can be of great help.
Churches often need help tastefully decorating for special events. Preparing bulletin boards relating to ministry needs and church focus can often make great impacts on the cooperative endeavors of the congregation. Offering educational materials relating to Mission emphases and highlighting special events can go far to encourage others to be a part. Talk with your minister about becoming the “Bulletin Board Designer” if you have skills in that area.
Consider volunteering with a Habitat for Humanity building project. Volunteers often are needed to coordinate and serve meals for workers. Others do carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work as they have abilities. Others simply offer their skills at the level of ability they have to offer. What matters in willingness. What matters is helping others in Jesus’ name. What matters is finding your gifts and using them in service to God and his body, the church.
Yes, there likely are toilets that need cleaning….packages that need wrapping…bible lessons to be taught….conversations that need to be shared…visits that need to be made…prisoners and soldiers that need encouragement and prayer…missionaries that need support and assistance…neighbors who need your time and your Christian witness. Do what you can, where you can, as often as you can….
The blessings of being “doers of the word” and not “hearers only” will be quickly apparent in your life. There is joy in serving others in Jesus’ name. It makes a difference. Remember…do what you do, not for personal praise, but for the glory of God. That is what brings a satisfaction and joy beyond measure.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
When We Last Spoke
Conversations these days are often truncated by the media we use to communicate. Phone conversations often become brief text messages utilizing abbreviations and symbols. General vocabulary in use by newspapers and magazines has continuously been “dumbed down” in this past decade to accommodate the lack of vocabulary understood by the general population of readers. In other words, your grandmother likely could understand more of the words in the encyclopedia than you could. Large percentages of adults now rarely open books, including the bible.
Conversations likewise are stymied by the over utilization of observed media. In other words, we spend our time listening to programmed material, to the neglect of human to human conversation. It is harder than ever for husbands and wives to communicate, not just because he’s from Mars and she’s from Venus.
Consider the needs we might meet by a reinvestment in human-to-human conversation. Whether by phone or in person, to take advantage of the opportunity to hear one another directly would be a positive step. Newer forms of media connections, with video, may enhance even long distance communication, allowing for some “face to face” time, even with the limits of distance. That fact continues to challenge our generation to find a balance between communication with electronic “filters” and communication that is authentically “present” and allows human contact and engagement of personalities. It is becoming challenging for many people to even have conversations when they have lost the “fine art” of verbal communication. Written communication, via letters and personal notes, is likewise becoming compromised by a preponderance of limited expression.
Facebook, at its best allows individuals to “find” others that they once knew. But overall it is a group conversation of still physically isolated persons. At its worst, it becomes a kind of voyeuristic observation of persons without clear motives or personal investments of time, energy, or relationship. It also can be a dangerous place for children and adolescents with naivety in regard to the threats and dangers of some personalities that might be encountered. The internets new realities of our “observing” being “observed” by technical tracking programs with salespersons seeking markets brings yet another level of contact that aims to exploit rather than relate.
Do you really want to be instant messaging your friend about your interest in buying a car and then to be bombarded automatically by sales information about new vehicles, just because it was a part of your conversation? Do you want to receive an email from the last business where you purchased shoes every month for the next three years? Do your shoes wear out that fast? Do you want to spend your time anonymously relating to a glowing screen, or would you like the opportunity to engage in a person-to-person time of sharing with an individual or group of persons that allows for interactive learning and multiple expressions?
People are hungry for human contact. Isolation has become the norm for too many. Consider the place of the church in building community. It allows us to come together to share in ways that encourage and bless and build up one another in faith and knowledge of God. Such aims are worthy of our best pattern of presenting ourselves in person to be a part of this community of faith. Invest yourself in sharing your thoughts and understanding with others. Give of yourself in the power of your personality to be engaging and welcoming and listening and learning.
Conversations likewise are stymied by the over utilization of observed media. In other words, we spend our time listening to programmed material, to the neglect of human to human conversation. It is harder than ever for husbands and wives to communicate, not just because he’s from Mars and she’s from Venus.
Consider the needs we might meet by a reinvestment in human-to-human conversation. Whether by phone or in person, to take advantage of the opportunity to hear one another directly would be a positive step. Newer forms of media connections, with video, may enhance even long distance communication, allowing for some “face to face” time, even with the limits of distance. That fact continues to challenge our generation to find a balance between communication with electronic “filters” and communication that is authentically “present” and allows human contact and engagement of personalities. It is becoming challenging for many people to even have conversations when they have lost the “fine art” of verbal communication. Written communication, via letters and personal notes, is likewise becoming compromised by a preponderance of limited expression.
Facebook, at its best allows individuals to “find” others that they once knew. But overall it is a group conversation of still physically isolated persons. At its worst, it becomes a kind of voyeuristic observation of persons without clear motives or personal investments of time, energy, or relationship. It also can be a dangerous place for children and adolescents with naivety in regard to the threats and dangers of some personalities that might be encountered. The internets new realities of our “observing” being “observed” by technical tracking programs with salespersons seeking markets brings yet another level of contact that aims to exploit rather than relate.
Do you really want to be instant messaging your friend about your interest in buying a car and then to be bombarded automatically by sales information about new vehicles, just because it was a part of your conversation? Do you want to receive an email from the last business where you purchased shoes every month for the next three years? Do your shoes wear out that fast? Do you want to spend your time anonymously relating to a glowing screen, or would you like the opportunity to engage in a person-to-person time of sharing with an individual or group of persons that allows for interactive learning and multiple expressions?
People are hungry for human contact. Isolation has become the norm for too many. Consider the place of the church in building community. It allows us to come together to share in ways that encourage and bless and build up one another in faith and knowledge of God. Such aims are worthy of our best pattern of presenting ourselves in person to be a part of this community of faith. Invest yourself in sharing your thoughts and understanding with others. Give of yourself in the power of your personality to be engaging and welcoming and listening and learning.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Doing Righteousness & Justice
In one of the earliest passages of the Old Testament, we are given insight into the call of God to Abraham to take the initiative in “doing righteousness and justice.” (See Genesis 18:19) God gave Abraham instruction to teach his children and household members to “do righteousness and justice” as the means for “keeping the way of the Lord” personally and in the context of God’s promise for the future that would be enabled by their obedience.
The attempts to “be great” in our world too often are associated with anything but
“doing righteousness and justice.” The characteristics required in these endeavors are to understand that honoring God with obedience and positive actions that please him opens the way for his continuing blessing. The verses in Genesis that follow also reflect God’s judgment as the consequence of self made choices in directions other than “the way of the Lord.”
God’s initiative in extending to each of us an opportunity for a relationship of faith is bound to accountability for acting upon what we know. As God has revealed his instruction to us, it is for our good, for our blessing, and for the blessing of future generations. It is not in our images of greatness or in our plans for the future that we find our hope, it is in the “way of the Lord” that brings abundant life and the fulfillment made possible by God’s grace and love.
God reveals in countless ways his righteousness and his call for justice. Extending to our neighbors and friends and family a witness of that justice is a reflection of our relationship with God. It is our daily opportunity for influencing our world. It is our testimony of commitment to “the way of the Lord.”
God desires that your life be blessed and a blessing to others. Trust him and follow in his way.
The attempts to “be great” in our world too often are associated with anything but
“doing righteousness and justice.” The characteristics required in these endeavors are to understand that honoring God with obedience and positive actions that please him opens the way for his continuing blessing. The verses in Genesis that follow also reflect God’s judgment as the consequence of self made choices in directions other than “the way of the Lord.”
God’s initiative in extending to each of us an opportunity for a relationship of faith is bound to accountability for acting upon what we know. As God has revealed his instruction to us, it is for our good, for our blessing, and for the blessing of future generations. It is not in our images of greatness or in our plans for the future that we find our hope, it is in the “way of the Lord” that brings abundant life and the fulfillment made possible by God’s grace and love.
God reveals in countless ways his righteousness and his call for justice. Extending to our neighbors and friends and family a witness of that justice is a reflection of our relationship with God. It is our daily opportunity for influencing our world. It is our testimony of commitment to “the way of the Lord.”
God desires that your life be blessed and a blessing to others. Trust him and follow in his way.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Right Paths
In the path of righteousness there is life, in walking its path there is no death.
Proverbs 12:28
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Psalm 23:3b
But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.
Amos 5:24
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Matthew 5:6
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:10
Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. I can testify that they have a zeal for God, but it is not enlightened. For, being ignorant of the righteousness that comes from God, and seeking to establish their own, they have not submitted to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.
Romans 10:1-4
As I thought about the word “righteousness” and a few representative passages that speak about it, I am reminded that to discover righteousness as a part of us is best not a labor of burdensome attempts at self-improvement, but glorious thanksgiving in the context of continuing and ongoing daily relationship with Christ as Lord. Following Jesus always challenges us to a high road of action and attitude. His righteousness becomes ours as we acknowledge our sin and confess it and repent of it and receive his forgiveness. Jesus made possible a perfect righteousness before God that we alone could never achieve. In Christ, we live in the provision of his amazing love and grace. In his mercy, we discover and follow the way of life. He is our righteous and wondrous Savior.
Proverbs 12:28
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Psalm 23:3b
But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.
Amos 5:24
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Matthew 5:6
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:10
Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. I can testify that they have a zeal for God, but it is not enlightened. For, being ignorant of the righteousness that comes from God, and seeking to establish their own, they have not submitted to God’s righteousness. For Christ is the end of the law so that there may be righteousness for everyone who believes.
Romans 10:1-4
As I thought about the word “righteousness” and a few representative passages that speak about it, I am reminded that to discover righteousness as a part of us is best not a labor of burdensome attempts at self-improvement, but glorious thanksgiving in the context of continuing and ongoing daily relationship with Christ as Lord. Following Jesus always challenges us to a high road of action and attitude. His righteousness becomes ours as we acknowledge our sin and confess it and repent of it and receive his forgiveness. Jesus made possible a perfect righteousness before God that we alone could never achieve. In Christ, we live in the provision of his amazing love and grace. In his mercy, we discover and follow the way of life. He is our righteous and wondrous Savior.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Measuring Progress
Making progress is difficult to measure in certain contexts. It is easy to see the progress of construction of a house or business or church building. On the other hand it is another thing to size up the changes in a person’s personality, behaviors, mental and spiritual development. Tests have long provided attempted measures of cognitive development, testing groups of individuals over time on the same or similar material to validate learning progress.
But where does one get a handle on how well a person has understood and responded to the spiritual disciplines? How do we measure the validity of change, if the changes require continuous observation over time? What the apostle Paul suggested was the capacity of each person to evaluate themselves in light of their own choices. While some self-indulgent types might attempt to deny negative choices when they were apparent in an attempt to avoid criticism, it stands to reason that they still know what they did. Yet there must be a greater measuring standard.
The New Testament offers the model of Jesus as the highest standard for our self-analysis, with the equally compelling reminder that God knows the heart of every person. There is no gaming God. There is no cheating divine knowledge. Pretenders don’t stand a chance of “getting by” the one who made them and gave them capacity for life.
Our progress will ultimately be a measure of humility in confession and repentance. Our ultimate benefit will be experienced in the forgiveness made possible by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross for our sins. Understanding our sinfulness makes possible the confession of faith in our Savior and Lord.
Progress for human beings will by every measure be a gift from God. Our willingness to receive such a gift begins in the open heart and open mind that understand sin for what it is…the destroying divide between the present life apart from God and the eternal and abundant life made possible through faith in Jesus.
The measure of the progress we are making toward the future as God has promised is the measure of our trust and obedience in following Christ. Our peers will observe much in the manner of choices we make, in the measure of our presence and witness and worship….but God will know our heart….through and through.
Remembering that…should keep us mindful of every day as a day for taking aim…and moving forward…as we follow Jesus. In a world with few reliable measures…he will always bear the test as the one to show us the way.
But where does one get a handle on how well a person has understood and responded to the spiritual disciplines? How do we measure the validity of change, if the changes require continuous observation over time? What the apostle Paul suggested was the capacity of each person to evaluate themselves in light of their own choices. While some self-indulgent types might attempt to deny negative choices when they were apparent in an attempt to avoid criticism, it stands to reason that they still know what they did. Yet there must be a greater measuring standard.
The New Testament offers the model of Jesus as the highest standard for our self-analysis, with the equally compelling reminder that God knows the heart of every person. There is no gaming God. There is no cheating divine knowledge. Pretenders don’t stand a chance of “getting by” the one who made them and gave them capacity for life.
Our progress will ultimately be a measure of humility in confession and repentance. Our ultimate benefit will be experienced in the forgiveness made possible by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross for our sins. Understanding our sinfulness makes possible the confession of faith in our Savior and Lord.
Progress for human beings will by every measure be a gift from God. Our willingness to receive such a gift begins in the open heart and open mind that understand sin for what it is…the destroying divide between the present life apart from God and the eternal and abundant life made possible through faith in Jesus.
The measure of the progress we are making toward the future as God has promised is the measure of our trust and obedience in following Christ. Our peers will observe much in the manner of choices we make, in the measure of our presence and witness and worship….but God will know our heart….through and through.
Remembering that…should keep us mindful of every day as a day for taking aim…and moving forward…as we follow Jesus. In a world with few reliable measures…he will always bear the test as the one to show us the way.
Monday, June 7, 2010
In Pursuit of Less Junk Mail
I love to read, and I really enjoy a number of periodicals that contain good information and news and interesting content. What is distressing is the vast amount of unsolicited, unusable, and from a general sense “undesirable” junk mail that also comes my way. There is no doubt that advertisements for fast food and hardware are less glamorous in scope than the multi-million dollar ad campaigns generated for countless industries interested as much in manufacturing my desire for their products as they are in making the products in the first place. What is facing me constantly is the landfill factor or constant recycling demanded by the sheer volume of material. Why should a company send dozens of copies of their monthly catalogs to the same address? Is there a benefit to them in doing that?
Back in the days of infinite credit offers, I kept a stack of the “imitation credit cards” that came with the offers. In less than a year I had more than 100 cards. All of them suggested that I was “pre-approved” for their offers; which in bank speak means, I can apply. The fact is I just don’t care to have a credit card with frequent flyer points that requires an interest rate above the average in order to also be able to have a logo from my college alma mater that will get some infinitely small contribution if I should sign up.
Sales gimmickry is as close to a magician’s slight of hand as we can get these days. The fine print is ever more maddening when you realize that your recently used discount coupon also enrolled you in an “automatically deducted” or “billed to your account” something that you never wanted and will now require your spending two hours canceling while trying to talk to a machine that requires you to punch through fifteen number sequences before finding out that there is no human being home to talk to.
I spent 30 minutes one evening trying to explain to a person from another distant country that I was not interested in the free $1000 of life insurance that was mine because I had a certain account. What she could not understand is why I wanted to cancel it before I received the free year, knowing that a year later, when the charge for the monthly service rose to a very high rate and would automatically be billed to my account that would again hide the charge in the fine print…I would likely have already been billed one or two months in advance before noticing the extra charges.
After being responsible for helping my elderly in-laws handle such things for several years, I realized that many of these offers are predatory in nature, because they appear as one thing, only to be discovered later as something else. Those with less than excellent vision, a magnifying glass, and a lot of time will inevitably be “caught” at some time or another.
Retail establishments often use similar means. The buy one, get one at half price will only be a 5% difference than the frequent 20% off on certain days offer, but you will have bought twice as much as you might have otherwise…and be assured the store profited from your decision.
One day I tried for an entire day to “just say no” to the kinds of things were “baited offers of one sort or another.” It was amazing how much time I saved by not responding to those things that implied I would “get something for nothing.” I did not scratch off for the free year of gas at the gas station with my fill up. I did not go online to check my bottle cap numbers on my soft drink to see if I had won movie tickets. I did not fill out the customer survey on my receipt to be entered into a drawing for a free shopping card. I did not sign up for the discount rate at a national hotel chain if I stayed with them during the next month. I saved a lot of time that day for better things. I also felt empowered to remember and recognize the subtle pressures every day of being lured by something less than quality and value. I learned to ignore what in effect was a subtle but powerfully abusive manipulation of my time. It made me a little angry at the thought of the energy wasted on such nonsense. Perhaps if we all would heed the words of Jesus and remember to pay attention to the present moment for exercising faith in Him, and trusting in who really is our hope…we would glorify God in some visible ways and find our time better spent in service to Him.
Back in the days of infinite credit offers, I kept a stack of the “imitation credit cards” that came with the offers. In less than a year I had more than 100 cards. All of them suggested that I was “pre-approved” for their offers; which in bank speak means, I can apply. The fact is I just don’t care to have a credit card with frequent flyer points that requires an interest rate above the average in order to also be able to have a logo from my college alma mater that will get some infinitely small contribution if I should sign up.
Sales gimmickry is as close to a magician’s slight of hand as we can get these days. The fine print is ever more maddening when you realize that your recently used discount coupon also enrolled you in an “automatically deducted” or “billed to your account” something that you never wanted and will now require your spending two hours canceling while trying to talk to a machine that requires you to punch through fifteen number sequences before finding out that there is no human being home to talk to.
I spent 30 minutes one evening trying to explain to a person from another distant country that I was not interested in the free $1000 of life insurance that was mine because I had a certain account. What she could not understand is why I wanted to cancel it before I received the free year, knowing that a year later, when the charge for the monthly service rose to a very high rate and would automatically be billed to my account that would again hide the charge in the fine print…I would likely have already been billed one or two months in advance before noticing the extra charges.
After being responsible for helping my elderly in-laws handle such things for several years, I realized that many of these offers are predatory in nature, because they appear as one thing, only to be discovered later as something else. Those with less than excellent vision, a magnifying glass, and a lot of time will inevitably be “caught” at some time or another.
Retail establishments often use similar means. The buy one, get one at half price will only be a 5% difference than the frequent 20% off on certain days offer, but you will have bought twice as much as you might have otherwise…and be assured the store profited from your decision.
One day I tried for an entire day to “just say no” to the kinds of things were “baited offers of one sort or another.” It was amazing how much time I saved by not responding to those things that implied I would “get something for nothing.” I did not scratch off for the free year of gas at the gas station with my fill up. I did not go online to check my bottle cap numbers on my soft drink to see if I had won movie tickets. I did not fill out the customer survey on my receipt to be entered into a drawing for a free shopping card. I did not sign up for the discount rate at a national hotel chain if I stayed with them during the next month. I saved a lot of time that day for better things. I also felt empowered to remember and recognize the subtle pressures every day of being lured by something less than quality and value. I learned to ignore what in effect was a subtle but powerfully abusive manipulation of my time. It made me a little angry at the thought of the energy wasted on such nonsense. Perhaps if we all would heed the words of Jesus and remember to pay attention to the present moment for exercising faith in Him, and trusting in who really is our hope…we would glorify God in some visible ways and find our time better spent in service to Him.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
How to Respond?
“The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it; for he
has founded it on the seas and established it on the rivers.” Psalm 24: 1 NRSV
As we share the experience of watching the gulf coast become increasingly debilitated by the effects of the offshore oil spill, now ongoing more than a month, we observe both the the consequences and the limitations of human efforts. I personally would hope that all those involved in the efforts to exploit oil resources almost a mile beneath the sea would not being doing so without due concern for an event such as the one presently experienced. Accidents happen. Mistakes occur. And when they do, we reap the consequences. All of us share those consequences. That’s the part where we need to stop and think about what it means to love our neighbor as ourselves. Do we care about our acts of omission? Are we thinking of our abilities to act responsibly each day? Do we recognize the connections between our own demands and desires and the outcomes upon others?
From another perspective, do we care what is happening to our neighbors in the gulf? Or do we only care when the oil starts to enter currents that deposit oil on beaches where we like to play? Does our concern only go so far as our self-interest and sense of our own pain or suffering or inconvenience or damage?
Human beings are frequently imperfect in judgment. Humility is the right response most of the time as we examine our motives and exercise our influence across the world that God has entrusted to us. It is a holy obligation that we share. It is a precious gift to be careful with. It is not unreasonable that we begin consciously and willfully as Christians to be the light and the salt for helping others in our world come to terms with realities.
Our job is to speak the truth. Our responsibility is to practice wise stewardship over the creation we use every day. Our opportunity is to use the gifts and abilities and understanding that God allows us to have to make positive and good choices and to help one another when we make mistakes to overcome them, to avoid repeating them, and to always learn from them. History stands as the testament of countless poor choices which bear our not repeating. Similarly, each generation is called to teach the next. Jesus commended us to teach all the nations the things he taught. He taught us to love one another. He taught us to do good to even those that we understand to be our enemies. He taught us to forgive. He taught us to heal, comfort, and show mercy.
In the midst of recent experiences, it stands to reason that Christians have an opportunity to step forward with diligence, wisdom, and love, born from above…these are our grace gifts to share for such times as now.
If you can plug an oil leak…offer your services. If you can employ a fisherman who has lost his livelihood, plan to do it. If you can build a business to reduce the occurrence of ever more costly mistakes to the health of our planet, build it. If you can offer a word of hope in the midst of tragedy, offer it. If you can show the love of Christ to someone near you, show it. If you can teach, teach. If you can preach, preach. If you can pray, pray. If you can do the work that needs doing, do it.
The earth is the Lords…and those who live in it. Make sure you and those near you know who is both the giver and sustainer of life. He holds us accountable….to use everything entrusted to us…to give Him glory.
has founded it on the seas and established it on the rivers.” Psalm 24: 1 NRSV
As we share the experience of watching the gulf coast become increasingly debilitated by the effects of the offshore oil spill, now ongoing more than a month, we observe both the the consequences and the limitations of human efforts. I personally would hope that all those involved in the efforts to exploit oil resources almost a mile beneath the sea would not being doing so without due concern for an event such as the one presently experienced. Accidents happen. Mistakes occur. And when they do, we reap the consequences. All of us share those consequences. That’s the part where we need to stop and think about what it means to love our neighbor as ourselves. Do we care about our acts of omission? Are we thinking of our abilities to act responsibly each day? Do we recognize the connections between our own demands and desires and the outcomes upon others?
From another perspective, do we care what is happening to our neighbors in the gulf? Or do we only care when the oil starts to enter currents that deposit oil on beaches where we like to play? Does our concern only go so far as our self-interest and sense of our own pain or suffering or inconvenience or damage?
Human beings are frequently imperfect in judgment. Humility is the right response most of the time as we examine our motives and exercise our influence across the world that God has entrusted to us. It is a holy obligation that we share. It is a precious gift to be careful with. It is not unreasonable that we begin consciously and willfully as Christians to be the light and the salt for helping others in our world come to terms with realities.
Our job is to speak the truth. Our responsibility is to practice wise stewardship over the creation we use every day. Our opportunity is to use the gifts and abilities and understanding that God allows us to have to make positive and good choices and to help one another when we make mistakes to overcome them, to avoid repeating them, and to always learn from them. History stands as the testament of countless poor choices which bear our not repeating. Similarly, each generation is called to teach the next. Jesus commended us to teach all the nations the things he taught. He taught us to love one another. He taught us to do good to even those that we understand to be our enemies. He taught us to forgive. He taught us to heal, comfort, and show mercy.
In the midst of recent experiences, it stands to reason that Christians have an opportunity to step forward with diligence, wisdom, and love, born from above…these are our grace gifts to share for such times as now.
If you can plug an oil leak…offer your services. If you can employ a fisherman who has lost his livelihood, plan to do it. If you can build a business to reduce the occurrence of ever more costly mistakes to the health of our planet, build it. If you can offer a word of hope in the midst of tragedy, offer it. If you can show the love of Christ to someone near you, show it. If you can teach, teach. If you can preach, preach. If you can pray, pray. If you can do the work that needs doing, do it.
The earth is the Lords…and those who live in it. Make sure you and those near you know who is both the giver and sustainer of life. He holds us accountable….to use everything entrusted to us…to give Him glory.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Living at the Airport
There’s a big difference in living at the airport and living near one. My wife and I enjoyed years of proximity to Hartsfield International at Atlanta. The airport represented a regional economic engine that helped to grow the city into one of the key transportation and business hubs of America. The nature of airports, however, is to move passengers, not to accommodate them for extended periods. This past week across Europe, thousands of travelers have been stranded due to the unusual factor of volcanic eruptions in Iceland. Volcanic ash in large quantities and in clouds reaching high altitudes has a caustic effect on jet engines and has grounded flights across England and Northern Europe. A day or two might be unsettling, but the disruption has extended into more than a week of challenges for travelers, now cascading into backlogged airports around the globe.
We offer our condolences to those who have been making do without bathing facilities and regular meals. Airport food has often been less than affordable and accessible. The humorous movie some years ago that depicted a stranded traveler who found himself without a country to return to for an extended period gives insight into some of the options available to long term airport campers: check the phones for loose change; get a job with an airport contractor; make friends with the airport manager and security personnel; learn a new language. As the situation resolves over the next weeks and months, we assume more people will be taking boats, trains, and buses, but even those systems seem strained in light of the present load. One lesson for us all -- keep your destination in mind, but remember to live each day…right where you are. Consider the opportunities that such interruptions make possible and perhaps make some new friends, share some good news, and offer a helping hand. Every now and then it would do us all good to be stopped or slowed down long enough to evaluate the blessings of being at home, or while being away, to look forward to getting there.
We offer our condolences to those who have been making do without bathing facilities and regular meals. Airport food has often been less than affordable and accessible. The humorous movie some years ago that depicted a stranded traveler who found himself without a country to return to for an extended period gives insight into some of the options available to long term airport campers: check the phones for loose change; get a job with an airport contractor; make friends with the airport manager and security personnel; learn a new language. As the situation resolves over the next weeks and months, we assume more people will be taking boats, trains, and buses, but even those systems seem strained in light of the present load. One lesson for us all -- keep your destination in mind, but remember to live each day…right where you are. Consider the opportunities that such interruptions make possible and perhaps make some new friends, share some good news, and offer a helping hand. Every now and then it would do us all good to be stopped or slowed down long enough to evaluate the blessings of being at home, or while being away, to look forward to getting there.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Confessions of a Guilty Bystander
Almost three years ago, I read the news story of an 8-year-old orphan who lived in a large Ugandan city and worked daily breaking large rocks into small ones. He earned 35c a day by filling two five gallon buckets with his rock breaking labors. Earlier, his mother had taught him this work, that she too had taken up to provide her sustenance, only she had died in a rock slide and now the child was alone to fend for himself. The news reporter shared his account of the government official who took him to the place having difficulty finding it, not really being familiar with where it was. The child was a member of a minority population trapped in the urban sprawl and limited opportunities of his place. The government official was quoted as saying, there was not much he could do to help; but he emptied his own pockets and shared what he had with the people there.
Every time I think about an 8-year-old child faced with that type of existence, it haunts me. I wanted to go and find him and bring him to my house, knowing I could provide food and bread and education and opportunity. But there are children like him in countless places…almost everywhere, and my impulse is to weep for them, and to beg God to help them, and to know that their help may well be in my hands…in my heart…in my capacities. I have friends in Uganda. They struggle daily to share the love of Christ with multitudes who need to know him. They have limited resources, but a God who can make anything possible. I pray for that little boy. I pray he lives. I pray he finds those who care about his future. I pray that I may someday find a way to let him know God cares for him. In the meantime, I pray for God to open the way for a new life for him.
Every time I think about an 8-year-old child faced with that type of existence, it haunts me. I wanted to go and find him and bring him to my house, knowing I could provide food and bread and education and opportunity. But there are children like him in countless places…almost everywhere, and my impulse is to weep for them, and to beg God to help them, and to know that their help may well be in my hands…in my heart…in my capacities. I have friends in Uganda. They struggle daily to share the love of Christ with multitudes who need to know him. They have limited resources, but a God who can make anything possible. I pray for that little boy. I pray he lives. I pray he finds those who care about his future. I pray that I may someday find a way to let him know God cares for him. In the meantime, I pray for God to open the way for a new life for him.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Baptists and Offerings
Some people wonder why there are so many Baptist churches. But without beginning to step into that deep river of Baptist experiences and growth, we would do well to explore some of the common threads of Baptist-ness that deserve understanding.
One of those threads is the Baptist way of giving. Baptists arose as a small stream of believers flowing out of the great Reformation era of change who gathered around a common biblical conviction regarding believer’s baptism. Also connected to their developing community was a strong aversion to the support of a state church with which they did not hold common beliefs and feel the necessity to support. Nonetheless, taxes levied on behalf of state churches was the practice across England and Europe and was transported into the American colonies as a standard practice until the Revolutionary period brought some modifications. In that regard, the church and the state were closely aligned by the sheer connectionalism of the line of support designated to sustain their co-existence.
Early in America, Baptists, having long suffered the harsh outcomes of dissenting views…such as jail time, confiscation of homes and property, the levy of taxes and fines, the demand for an end to preaching without proper state-church licensure, among other humiliations…had suffered long because of the “state-church” stranglehold over their religious conscience and freedom to exercise their religion as they believed appropriate. In other words…Baptists resisted a religious practice against their conscience. Baptists also felt less than inclined to support a state-mandated taxation for the support of an official “state” church. This led to charges of delinquency in paying taxes, even when they offered evidence of their giving to support their own congregations. Fortunately for all Americans today, Baptist influence had an effect on the leaders of our new nation in calling for religious liberty for all. Along with that came the provisions that ended “state churches” and called for the state to make no law prohibiting the free exercise of religion or any law establishing religion (as a state tax-supported entity).
So today, when you hear Baptists who remember this history or who have studied it long and hard rallying against calls for tax credits or vouchers to support church related schools and faith-based endeavors, do not interpret it as a failure to appreciate Christianity or the work of Christian education or the moral support of positive causes in the community. Rather understand it is the deeply felt and long established concern that no one should be directly or indirectly taxed by the state to support the religious activities of others with which they do not agree nor can hold in conscience supportable.
The protections of the first amendment to the constitution for the freedom of religious expression must not be sacrificed on the altar of parental dissatisfaction seeking alternatives to public education. Nor should tax dollars go to support the specific aims of religious bodies in the promotion of their religious aims. State funded church work should be regarded as inappropriate. Too often when it has occurred, both state and church essentially prostituted themselves in the responsibilities they were to carry out.
There is no question that the work of the church in sharing Christ has positive effect upon communities across the nation, but we should not muddy the waters with state funds for accomplishing that work that comes from those who do not hold to our beliefs. At the same time, if churches are to be sustained in their work, it is necessary to utilize the biblical bases for church support described in scripture, namely tithes and offerings, freely given in thanksgiving and obedient response to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Such giving is proportional, regular, and dedicated to the work of the Gospel.
When such giving undergirds the work of the church by the willful, purposeful, and intentional giving of its members…the church will have resources in abundance for doing the work God has called them to do. When it is otherwise, there will be pandering, begging, fund-raising, and otherwise distasteful and often shameful attempts to manipulate resources for the “survival of institutions” rather than for edifying the body of Christ.
One of those threads is the Baptist way of giving. Baptists arose as a small stream of believers flowing out of the great Reformation era of change who gathered around a common biblical conviction regarding believer’s baptism. Also connected to their developing community was a strong aversion to the support of a state church with which they did not hold common beliefs and feel the necessity to support. Nonetheless, taxes levied on behalf of state churches was the practice across England and Europe and was transported into the American colonies as a standard practice until the Revolutionary period brought some modifications. In that regard, the church and the state were closely aligned by the sheer connectionalism of the line of support designated to sustain their co-existence.
Early in America, Baptists, having long suffered the harsh outcomes of dissenting views…such as jail time, confiscation of homes and property, the levy of taxes and fines, the demand for an end to preaching without proper state-church licensure, among other humiliations…had suffered long because of the “state-church” stranglehold over their religious conscience and freedom to exercise their religion as they believed appropriate. In other words…Baptists resisted a religious practice against their conscience. Baptists also felt less than inclined to support a state-mandated taxation for the support of an official “state” church. This led to charges of delinquency in paying taxes, even when they offered evidence of their giving to support their own congregations. Fortunately for all Americans today, Baptist influence had an effect on the leaders of our new nation in calling for religious liberty for all. Along with that came the provisions that ended “state churches” and called for the state to make no law prohibiting the free exercise of religion or any law establishing religion (as a state tax-supported entity).
So today, when you hear Baptists who remember this history or who have studied it long and hard rallying against calls for tax credits or vouchers to support church related schools and faith-based endeavors, do not interpret it as a failure to appreciate Christianity or the work of Christian education or the moral support of positive causes in the community. Rather understand it is the deeply felt and long established concern that no one should be directly or indirectly taxed by the state to support the religious activities of others with which they do not agree nor can hold in conscience supportable.
The protections of the first amendment to the constitution for the freedom of religious expression must not be sacrificed on the altar of parental dissatisfaction seeking alternatives to public education. Nor should tax dollars go to support the specific aims of religious bodies in the promotion of their religious aims. State funded church work should be regarded as inappropriate. Too often when it has occurred, both state and church essentially prostituted themselves in the responsibilities they were to carry out.
There is no question that the work of the church in sharing Christ has positive effect upon communities across the nation, but we should not muddy the waters with state funds for accomplishing that work that comes from those who do not hold to our beliefs. At the same time, if churches are to be sustained in their work, it is necessary to utilize the biblical bases for church support described in scripture, namely tithes and offerings, freely given in thanksgiving and obedient response to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Such giving is proportional, regular, and dedicated to the work of the Gospel.
When such giving undergirds the work of the church by the willful, purposeful, and intentional giving of its members…the church will have resources in abundance for doing the work God has called them to do. When it is otherwise, there will be pandering, begging, fund-raising, and otherwise distasteful and often shameful attempts to manipulate resources for the “survival of institutions” rather than for edifying the body of Christ.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Bible Stories
More than a few children in this generation are not privileged to hear bible stories on a regular basis. Fewer than half of those enrolled in Sunday School across the country attend weekly and even more are forced by parental decisions to be “elsewhere” when it comes to religious instruction opportunities. A significant number of parents have adopted the principle attitude that “if my child doesn’t want to go, I don’t make them.” The same applies to the attitudes of some parents toward regular educational responsibilities, and it shows now in the public school’s struggle for even regular attendance by some students. A generation has now been marked by a declining rate of literacy. Further exacerbating problems are declining vocabulary, more visual technology, and more technologically linked communication, but less personal conversation, less personal attention to children’s needs for feedback, conversation about life choices from responsible, caring adults. I make the case that every child needs a host of people to help them grow and mature. Community is vital to the health and perspectives of those who otherwise would depend upon television as their source of comprehending the world. Soap operas do not define or describe life as it should be modeled for the masses. The level of violence portrayed in video games and many forms of “entertainment media” compete with the worst battlefields of history. Such is the daily diet of many children. While I make no case that the Bible is free from violence, sexuality, betrayal and pain, I will make the case that it relates to those experiences in redemptive measure. The stories of the scriptures teach important lessons for life. I remember the words of a man who spent much of his life struggling with alcohol addiction and years in prison because of behaviors associated with that addiction. He said, “If I had only read the Book of Proverbs thirty years ago, I would have saved myself a lifetime of pain.”
I remember the big red bible story book with the full page pictures every so often.
It was from there that I learned the stories of Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, Lot’s wife,
Noah and the Ark, The Parting of the Red Sea, Moses and the Ten Commandments, Joshua and Caleb, David and Goliath, Samson and Delilah, Elijah and the Prophets of Baal, and on and on. I remember those stories read again and again through the years and the impact these and countless others have had upon my life. They formed a framework of understanding about God and His mighty acts in the world. As I heard the story of Jesus, and began to understand who He was and is, I looked forward to each new day as a gift of God, coupled with His promises and his blessings to experience and share.
I may not have a lot of other things that some find so attractive, but Bible Stories are one of those precious gifts I hope to keep on sharing with others.
I remember the big red bible story book with the full page pictures every so often.
It was from there that I learned the stories of Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, Lot’s wife,
Noah and the Ark, The Parting of the Red Sea, Moses and the Ten Commandments, Joshua and Caleb, David and Goliath, Samson and Delilah, Elijah and the Prophets of Baal, and on and on. I remember those stories read again and again through the years and the impact these and countless others have had upon my life. They formed a framework of understanding about God and His mighty acts in the world. As I heard the story of Jesus, and began to understand who He was and is, I looked forward to each new day as a gift of God, coupled with His promises and his blessings to experience and share.
I may not have a lot of other things that some find so attractive, but Bible Stories are one of those precious gifts I hope to keep on sharing with others.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Something for Nothing
The pursuit of something for nothing has permeated our culture to the degree that even church ministries are adopting its themes and practices. Gaming interests have long understood the connection between bait and switch techniques to lure participants down the path toward greater and greater involvement in behaviors detrimental to their economic condition. The appeal of the sweepstakes was widely accepted in relationship to promoting magazine sales, but the lid came off when states adopted lotteries that lure millions of dollars into coffers, not necessarily for state use, but often for advertisers, promoters, and fees associated with “staying on top” of the marketing schemes necessary to keep money flowing.
Like English ivy growing into a brick wall, the tentacles of seeking something for nothing grow long and tenaciously. Allowing door prizes for bingo parlors charging for cards and expenses, in the name of “non-profit” interests, is ludicrously veiled gambling for the most gullible among us.
So in the same vein, churches are sought that will promote the latest pyramid scheme to raise funds for their building program or mission trip. Lotteries and “chances” on cars, boats, and get-a-way weekends are the frequently devised methods for separating people from their money for the sake of “Christian enterprises?” Where are we when the capacity of the people of God to be faithful in their stewardship has so fallen so as to allow the church to become the casino of chances, the proliferator of prizes, the auctioneers and street corner hucksters and merchandisers of everything from magazines to makeup, in the name of ministry?
It is a sad day when our church young people know more about candy sales than Jesus. It is a tragic hour when there is a more enthusiastic response to the “silent auction” than to the Sunday offering. It is a telling sign that less and less are we finding the next generation thinking the church is any different from the world they live in, when so often it simply isn’t.
Like English ivy growing into a brick wall, the tentacles of seeking something for nothing grow long and tenaciously. Allowing door prizes for bingo parlors charging for cards and expenses, in the name of “non-profit” interests, is ludicrously veiled gambling for the most gullible among us.
So in the same vein, churches are sought that will promote the latest pyramid scheme to raise funds for their building program or mission trip. Lotteries and “chances” on cars, boats, and get-a-way weekends are the frequently devised methods for separating people from their money for the sake of “Christian enterprises?” Where are we when the capacity of the people of God to be faithful in their stewardship has so fallen so as to allow the church to become the casino of chances, the proliferator of prizes, the auctioneers and street corner hucksters and merchandisers of everything from magazines to makeup, in the name of ministry?
It is a sad day when our church young people know more about candy sales than Jesus. It is a tragic hour when there is a more enthusiastic response to the “silent auction” than to the Sunday offering. It is a telling sign that less and less are we finding the next generation thinking the church is any different from the world they live in, when so often it simply isn’t.
Monday, March 1, 2010
In the Land of Tall Birds
The sound startled me. I had heard it before, but never so close and never so surprisely interrupting my ordinary day. It was twilight, too dark to see past the edge of woods from where the sound came, but no doubt about it….a turkey was near.
And then another day…I saw another bird…tall and gray, standing on its spindly stalk of legs. A heron, if my ornithology serves me right. Solitary birds for the most part it seems…always alone, at least in public. I find them almost daily in my neck of the woods, along the shallow water-filled ditches that line the roads to and from my house. Others are found standing in the swamp shallows along the roads heading to the coast not so far down the highway.
I like these big birds. And others that I see here: the buzzards that share breakfasts of road killed possums and the seasonal influx of hawks adept at clearing out a host of field mice. These birds can soar, or mind their business. In the late winter storms when winds howl, they sometimes seem to battle mightily to stay in the same place in the sky….like great sky-watchers providing security for sacred ground. These birds provide comfort when I see them. They remind me to enjoy the place where I am. They remind me that even in the most shallow of places, nourishment can be found. They remind me of struggling against the forces that may be unseen, but upon which we can soar if we so choose. They remind me of the grace of God that provides for their needs as He does mine. If that turkey keeps hanging around, I might be tempted come thanksgiving to…well, you know what I’m thinking. Maybe its right to understand that what looking at the birds is good for is to teach us things that aren’t just for the birds.
And then another day…I saw another bird…tall and gray, standing on its spindly stalk of legs. A heron, if my ornithology serves me right. Solitary birds for the most part it seems…always alone, at least in public. I find them almost daily in my neck of the woods, along the shallow water-filled ditches that line the roads to and from my house. Others are found standing in the swamp shallows along the roads heading to the coast not so far down the highway.
I like these big birds. And others that I see here: the buzzards that share breakfasts of road killed possums and the seasonal influx of hawks adept at clearing out a host of field mice. These birds can soar, or mind their business. In the late winter storms when winds howl, they sometimes seem to battle mightily to stay in the same place in the sky….like great sky-watchers providing security for sacred ground. These birds provide comfort when I see them. They remind me to enjoy the place where I am. They remind me that even in the most shallow of places, nourishment can be found. They remind me of struggling against the forces that may be unseen, but upon which we can soar if we so choose. They remind me of the grace of God that provides for their needs as He does mine. If that turkey keeps hanging around, I might be tempted come thanksgiving to…well, you know what I’m thinking. Maybe its right to understand that what looking at the birds is good for is to teach us things that aren’t just for the birds.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Crises of Faith
Most people have a lack of faith in the face of dominant self-centeredness. It is a controlling factor in most of our lives. We give attention to our needs over the needs of others. We are interested in satisfying our hungers and desires over those of others. We are interested in the things we focus upon, whether or not it is helpful to anyone else.
In some measure “self worship” is the greatest idolatry of our time. Perhaps behind the deep need to persuade others to adopt our point of view is the desire not only to be right, but to be approved by those with whom we share company. We want more than acceptance, more than approval, we want others to think like we do… because we have the corner on what we need and want focused upon so well.
At the same time we share this healthy sense of self that allows us to discern in some measure the value we place on any number of relationships based upon what we understand as their worth…to us…from our self-centered point of view. Interestingly,
some unique capacities appear to propagate attitudes of compassion, empathy, understanding and love. When we are the recipients of affirmation and genuine unqualified love, we are changed by it. When we discover in persons their trustworthiness, our own sense of trust grows. When we find others willing to help us, we discover the ability to receive graciously and likewise to understand grace.
For any of us to move past ourselves to a level and quality of life that supports relationships of friendship, trust, and committed love, it requires the discover of those capacities in the lives of others who not only model them, but teach us to comprehend the value of such immeasurable, but vital qualities.
When God sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to model the highest qualities of human experience and to exercise his love toward all of humanity with redemptive intervention on our behalf, he enabled our capacities to comprehend that love. We are still learning, but that is the struggle of moving past ourselves to see the purpose for which we were created. God has something important for us all to comprehend…his love. When we do, we share it gladly in the knowledge that it won’t run out or run away. God’s love brings life…full and good and eternal.
In some measure “self worship” is the greatest idolatry of our time. Perhaps behind the deep need to persuade others to adopt our point of view is the desire not only to be right, but to be approved by those with whom we share company. We want more than acceptance, more than approval, we want others to think like we do… because we have the corner on what we need and want focused upon so well.
At the same time we share this healthy sense of self that allows us to discern in some measure the value we place on any number of relationships based upon what we understand as their worth…to us…from our self-centered point of view. Interestingly,
some unique capacities appear to propagate attitudes of compassion, empathy, understanding and love. When we are the recipients of affirmation and genuine unqualified love, we are changed by it. When we discover in persons their trustworthiness, our own sense of trust grows. When we find others willing to help us, we discover the ability to receive graciously and likewise to understand grace.
For any of us to move past ourselves to a level and quality of life that supports relationships of friendship, trust, and committed love, it requires the discover of those capacities in the lives of others who not only model them, but teach us to comprehend the value of such immeasurable, but vital qualities.
When God sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to model the highest qualities of human experience and to exercise his love toward all of humanity with redemptive intervention on our behalf, he enabled our capacities to comprehend that love. We are still learning, but that is the struggle of moving past ourselves to see the purpose for which we were created. God has something important for us all to comprehend…his love. When we do, we share it gladly in the knowledge that it won’t run out or run away. God’s love brings life…full and good and eternal.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Homeless for Three Hours
Last week I had opportunity to be homeless for three hours. The lessons are important ones. In that brief time you have to locate a public bathroom to use because you do not have ready access to one where you no longer live. Cooking is out of the question, unless making grilled cheese on your engine block is up your alley. Having a small cooler in the car meant an available access to a bottle of water, but when my wife drove away with the cooler, I was waterless. There was computer access at my office, but no television available. When you are homeless possessions are burdens. You had rather travel light, because everything has to be carried in some fashion, in the car or on your person. My pockets were filled with the usual wallet and keys, but what was I doing with a screwdriver, a toothbrush, and my dental floss in my coat pocket along with a tape measure, two pens, notepad, and a small pack of Kleenex. Then there was the checkbook with three back check registers and my address book, the old one and the new one….
Homelessness is not for the fainthearted. Then again, my circumstances were entirely voluntary. By 3:30 I had signed on the dotted lines of numerous pages at the closing attorney’s office and I was once more in possession of a mortgage and perhaps doorknob ownership. That said, there is something to be learned by considering the plight of millions of homeless persons around the globe that struggle daily for water, food, clothing and shelter to meet their needs. Pray for them. And pray for those who can help to make their circumstances better in the future. Pray for those who enable employment
by their entrepreneurship and hard work. Pray for those who enable good agricultural practices that can supply food to multitudes of the hungry. Pray for those who serve within political systems of government that oversee policies that can improve the lives of many. Pray for those involved in financial services that can allow responsible lending and borrowing to be utilized effectively. Pray for those who have yet to hear about the provision of an eternal home with God who loves us and gave His Son to be our Savior.
Homelessness is not for the fainthearted. Then again, my circumstances were entirely voluntary. By 3:30 I had signed on the dotted lines of numerous pages at the closing attorney’s office and I was once more in possession of a mortgage and perhaps doorknob ownership. That said, there is something to be learned by considering the plight of millions of homeless persons around the globe that struggle daily for water, food, clothing and shelter to meet their needs. Pray for them. And pray for those who can help to make their circumstances better in the future. Pray for those who enable employment
by their entrepreneurship and hard work. Pray for those who enable good agricultural practices that can supply food to multitudes of the hungry. Pray for those who serve within political systems of government that oversee policies that can improve the lives of many. Pray for those involved in financial services that can allow responsible lending and borrowing to be utilized effectively. Pray for those who have yet to hear about the provision of an eternal home with God who loves us and gave His Son to be our Savior.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Haiti
For such a small place on the map, Haiti has seen more than its fair share of struggle in the past few decades. The earthquake seems almost like an insult to injury in light of the circumstances endured by the population there. At the same time, there is in the midst of such great trauma, the opportunity to see great strength on the part of those who exercise their human capacity to love, to show compassion, and to demonstrate the highest forms of human character in the face of tragedy, death, disease, and destruction.
It is heartening to be a part of efforts by groups around the globe to offer aid and assistance. At the same time, the strategic challenges remain great in getting to those most immediately in need of help.
Aftershocks have been a regular part of the environment for those offering relief, and the impact will inevitably bring about the exodus of many from the most immediately affected regions into the rural areas and smaller cities of the country. Housing needs are obviously an urgent concern for the near future and for a country already largely deforested and without strong agricultural infrastructure, food needs will remain unmet.
One of the most significant aims of those carrying out relief efforts should be to create sustainable food sources and training skilled workers to carry on the rebuilding processes needed. Long-term as well as short term solutions are needed for Haiti and this crisis may bring opportunity for focus to be brought upon important and significant positive improvements for the long-term health and well-being of the people there.
Christians have ministered in so many ways to this impoverished island nation, but the circumstances of economic poverty have also given way to many testimonies of incredible spiritual strength in the face of recent events. As we pray and give to meet needs in Haiti, may we give thanks for many who live and serve daily to share the light and love of Christ in this challenged nation.
It is heartening to be a part of efforts by groups around the globe to offer aid and assistance. At the same time, the strategic challenges remain great in getting to those most immediately in need of help.
Aftershocks have been a regular part of the environment for those offering relief, and the impact will inevitably bring about the exodus of many from the most immediately affected regions into the rural areas and smaller cities of the country. Housing needs are obviously an urgent concern for the near future and for a country already largely deforested and without strong agricultural infrastructure, food needs will remain unmet.
One of the most significant aims of those carrying out relief efforts should be to create sustainable food sources and training skilled workers to carry on the rebuilding processes needed. Long-term as well as short term solutions are needed for Haiti and this crisis may bring opportunity for focus to be brought upon important and significant positive improvements for the long-term health and well-being of the people there.
Christians have ministered in so many ways to this impoverished island nation, but the circumstances of economic poverty have also given way to many testimonies of incredible spiritual strength in the face of recent events. As we pray and give to meet needs in Haiti, may we give thanks for many who live and serve daily to share the light and love of Christ in this challenged nation.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
A Call for Strength
There seems to be an often-imitated image of Christian faith that associates any number of weaknesses with those who follow Christ. Weakness may be an experience physically, but should not be associated with the spirit of those who follow their Lord.
In the book of Proverbs, there is a pointed reprimand of those who would think it appropriate to declare their inabilities, when such weakness is not preventive of one’s ability to act.
“If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength being small; if you hold back from rescuing those taken away to death, those who go staggering to the slaughter; if you say, “Look, we did not know this” –does not he who weighs the heart perceive it?
Does not he who keeps watch over your soul know it? And will he not repay all according to their deeds? (Proverbs 24:10-12 NRSV)
I do not think I have ever read a more powerful mandate to seize the day; to take action at the time of opportunity; to never fail to do what good can be done as we have the chance. We are called to rescue. As Paul said, we are “ambassadors for Christ.” Jesus said we are to minister to “the least of these.” We are to face the moment we find ourselves able act and to do it. Excuses are not good in the face of the God who knows every aspect of our hearts. Veiled pleas of ignorance fail in light of the knowledge of his knowing. Even our own declarations of weakness will not stand in the face of our abilities to do something.
For those of us who know we owe our Lord everything…it stands to reason that we owe Him our best, our most willing and valiant efforts, our highest commitment to go in His name to share with this world of dying men and women the truth of God’s love and forgiveness and new life. No excuses will stand.
In the book of Proverbs, there is a pointed reprimand of those who would think it appropriate to declare their inabilities, when such weakness is not preventive of one’s ability to act.
“If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength being small; if you hold back from rescuing those taken away to death, those who go staggering to the slaughter; if you say, “Look, we did not know this” –does not he who weighs the heart perceive it?
Does not he who keeps watch over your soul know it? And will he not repay all according to their deeds? (Proverbs 24:10-12 NRSV)
I do not think I have ever read a more powerful mandate to seize the day; to take action at the time of opportunity; to never fail to do what good can be done as we have the chance. We are called to rescue. As Paul said, we are “ambassadors for Christ.” Jesus said we are to minister to “the least of these.” We are to face the moment we find ourselves able act and to do it. Excuses are not good in the face of the God who knows every aspect of our hearts. Veiled pleas of ignorance fail in light of the knowledge of his knowing. Even our own declarations of weakness will not stand in the face of our abilities to do something.
For those of us who know we owe our Lord everything…it stands to reason that we owe Him our best, our most willing and valiant efforts, our highest commitment to go in His name to share with this world of dying men and women the truth of God’s love and forgiveness and new life. No excuses will stand.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Prepared?
Several years ago, a dear friend said to me that when her husband died, she had no idea what to do. “I had no knowledge of our family financial matters and no way to appropriately handle all the questions that came about his business when he died.” But she went on to say, “After I started working through all the things surrounding the business, I decided that the only way to support myself was to keep it going, so I did.” Years later, she has maintained a successful business enterprise that continues to provide for her needs and that of her family. She said, “God has blessed me to be able to take up where my husband left off and to keep the business operating. He has been so faithful to help me every day.”
Another friend shared, “When my husband suffered a stroke, all the things he had told me we were going to do were not possible. I had bills to pay, debts on cars, machinery, a camper, and a home and children with circumstances that needed my help. I sold the camper and a car, kept him at home and cared for him around the clock, and by God’s grace and with the help of Christian friends, we have been able to take care of things with what we had. God is so good!”
In the most challenging of times and the most difficult of circumstances, God is faithful to help us. As you think about helping your family in responsible ways, recognize the value and importance of a will, along with a living will describing your wishes in regard to medical care decisions, and a power of attorney and a medical power of attorney if you are unable to make decisions for yourself. Wise counsel can help many families deal with very difficult and often complex business and legal matters if there are plans in place to provide for suddenly changing circumstances. It is not “bad luck” to plan for the future.
Making decisions about your spiritual journey are also vital to planning for any future.
Do you know your Savior, Jesus Christ? Have you publicly acknowledged him in your witness to family, friends, and those important to you to share with? Have you recognized the blessing of a church family with which to share your life’s journey and testimony of faith? Do you recognize the importance and value of friendships that are worth your time now to build and share daily?
God enables us and equips us to be heirs with Christ! Such a provision is beyond our dreams and yet it is God’s gift through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a gift to be lived now and in the future. Undertake preparation in the ways you can and trust God for His help and wisdom and provision of eternal hope.
Another friend shared, “When my husband suffered a stroke, all the things he had told me we were going to do were not possible. I had bills to pay, debts on cars, machinery, a camper, and a home and children with circumstances that needed my help. I sold the camper and a car, kept him at home and cared for him around the clock, and by God’s grace and with the help of Christian friends, we have been able to take care of things with what we had. God is so good!”
In the most challenging of times and the most difficult of circumstances, God is faithful to help us. As you think about helping your family in responsible ways, recognize the value and importance of a will, along with a living will describing your wishes in regard to medical care decisions, and a power of attorney and a medical power of attorney if you are unable to make decisions for yourself. Wise counsel can help many families deal with very difficult and often complex business and legal matters if there are plans in place to provide for suddenly changing circumstances. It is not “bad luck” to plan for the future.
Making decisions about your spiritual journey are also vital to planning for any future.
Do you know your Savior, Jesus Christ? Have you publicly acknowledged him in your witness to family, friends, and those important to you to share with? Have you recognized the blessing of a church family with which to share your life’s journey and testimony of faith? Do you recognize the importance and value of friendships that are worth your time now to build and share daily?
God enables us and equips us to be heirs with Christ! Such a provision is beyond our dreams and yet it is God’s gift through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a gift to be lived now and in the future. Undertake preparation in the ways you can and trust God for His help and wisdom and provision of eternal hope.