In his book, “How can everything be alright, when everything is all Wrong?” Lewis Smedes shares these thoughts on filling your squares with what matters most.
I bought a brand-new date book yesterday, the kind I use every year— spiral-bound, black imitation leather covers wrapped around pages and pages of blank boxes. Every square has a number to tell me which day of the month I’m in at the moment. Every square is a frame for one episode of my life. Before I’m through with the book, I will fill the squares with classes I teach, people with whom I ate lunch, everlasting committee meetings I sit through, and these are only the things I cannot afford to forget. I fill the squares too with things I do not write down to remember: thousands of cups of coffee, some lovemaking, some praying, and, I hope, gestures of help to my neighbors. Whatever I do, it has to fit inside one of those squares on my date book. I live one square at a time. The four lines that make up the box are the walls of time that organize my life. Each box has an invisible door that leads to the next square. As if by a silent stroke, the door opens and I am pulled through, as if by a magnet, sucked into the next square in line. There I will again fill the time frame that seals me—fill it with my busy-ness just as I did the square before. As I get older, the squares seem to get smaller. One day I will walk into a square that has no door. There will be no mysterious opening and no walking into an adjoining square. One of those squares will be terminal. I do not know which square it will be."
The challenge to each of us it to fill our squares wisely. John Ortberg states that each of us should prioritize these four areas in our lives.
1. God
2. People
3. Calling
4. Joy
Simple living means filling our squares with what matters most.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Book Review - Rest of God by Mark Buchanan
I started this book about a year ago. I thought it was an interesting concept and began to slowly work through it. I would read other books and then come back to it. My reading the book is kind of an allegory to the point of the book. Buchanan feels that we need to develop a Sabbath principle in our lives, a day focused for Worship and rest. Society has placed us on a treadmill of activity and we work and leisure ourselves to the point of exhaustion. As I read the book I found myself thinking this is an important Biblical concept and then I would get drawn to something else. I've come to realize, as Buchanan has, that I am not a machine made for constant activity. I am a human being with limits. Not only do I have limits, God seems to have put within me a default setting that needs Sabbath. I am not complete with out it.
I found the book a little slow at times, Buchanan's long description of things a little tedious, but in the end I found myself saying, "I need to go through this again". I need to slow down even more and fully embrace the principle of Sabbath laid out at the end of each chapter. I must be obedient to God and work this principle out in my life.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Simplifying Your Life - What is Life?
Many have sought the meaning of life or to figure out just what life is. Some have broke it down into biological terms, others into psychological terms. In what I deem to be a great moment of epiphany a number of years ago, I think I came up with the right answer. I was giving a teenager a ride home and she asked me that question, "What is life?" I pondered for a moment and said, "Life is relationships" Jesus summed up life when he said that the two greatest commandments were to Love God (relationship)and love people (relationship).
In the Old Testament when the principle of Loving God with heart soul and mind was given. It was followed by a command to lay this principle down in our families (relationship).
Statistics in Canada show that 1 out of 3 marriages will end in divorce. People are switching churches with the seasons because of fractured relationships. In a transient society relationships have become disposal and they do not need to be maintained. The point I'm trying to make is that our relational distress, is causing us lots of stress and complicating our lives.
Paul taught that we should: "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is." Ephesians 5:15-17
After this verse, he goes through specific rules in maintaining key relationships in your life. Paul is encouraging us that a person who is living carefully, diligently maintains there significant relationships. Those who don't are fertile ground for complicated, stressful lives.
Life simply - maintain your significant relationships.
In the Old Testament when the principle of Loving God with heart soul and mind was given. It was followed by a command to lay this principle down in our families (relationship).
Statistics in Canada show that 1 out of 3 marriages will end in divorce. People are switching churches with the seasons because of fractured relationships. In a transient society relationships have become disposal and they do not need to be maintained. The point I'm trying to make is that our relational distress, is causing us lots of stress and complicating our lives.
Paul taught that we should: "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is." Ephesians 5:15-17
After this verse, he goes through specific rules in maintaining key relationships in your life. Paul is encouraging us that a person who is living carefully, diligently maintains there significant relationships. Those who don't are fertile ground for complicated, stressful lives.
Life simply - maintain your significant relationships.
Five Questions to Ask Yourself to Establish Sabbath
1. What do I need to cease?
2. What do I need to do to rest, physically, emotionally and spiritually?
3. What do I need to do to make it Holy (A day of worship)?
4. How do I make Sabbath meaningful for my family and in community?
5. How do I keep from becoming legalistic?
2. What do I need to do to rest, physically, emotionally and spiritually?
3. What do I need to do to make it Holy (A day of worship)?
4. How do I make Sabbath meaningful for my family and in community?
5. How do I keep from becoming legalistic?
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
The Sabbath Principle
I'm in my third week of a series of messages called Simplifying Your Life. I have just had some quasi-ideas as I went into the series. As I look around I see that most people are busy. Somewhere in their heart they know something is wrong, that the torrid pace of their life is doing irreparable damage to their souls. But most people are at a complete loss as to what to do to correct the problem.
I talked the first week about the need for us to move towards Simple Devotion, which is never to be confused with easy, that we need to allow God and His Word room in our lives. Last week, I spoke from Hebrews 12:1 and how we are to "let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles," The principle is that there are both good and bad things that clutter our lives that we need to rid ourselves of. This week I think I ran into the key principle of the whole thing.
The fourth commandment in the ten commandments states:
"Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. 11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
This command in North America is pretty well disregarded by all. And we are reaping what we have sown. We are a stressed, overworked, unfulfilled and busy generation. God has said to us, "Have it your way! Don't take a break, work and leisure yourselves until the cows come home (I don't know if God would say that phrase)and see what happens"
Well, I'll tell you what will happen. Our lives and society paint a picture of what happens when you disregard God's rules and boundaries.
I'm still working out the details of what the Sabbath principle will look like in my life, but this one thing I know, this is the key principle if I want to simplify my life.
I talked the first week about the need for us to move towards Simple Devotion, which is never to be confused with easy, that we need to allow God and His Word room in our lives. Last week, I spoke from Hebrews 12:1 and how we are to "let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles," The principle is that there are both good and bad things that clutter our lives that we need to rid ourselves of. This week I think I ran into the key principle of the whole thing.
The fourth commandment in the ten commandments states:
"Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. 11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
This command in North America is pretty well disregarded by all. And we are reaping what we have sown. We are a stressed, overworked, unfulfilled and busy generation. God has said to us, "Have it your way! Don't take a break, work and leisure yourselves until the cows come home (I don't know if God would say that phrase)and see what happens"
Well, I'll tell you what will happen. Our lives and society paint a picture of what happens when you disregard God's rules and boundaries.
I'm still working out the details of what the Sabbath principle will look like in my life, but this one thing I know, this is the key principle if I want to simplify my life.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Simplicity
Found this comic as I was beginning a new sermon series on Simplifying Your Life. I wish I would have tried this in high school.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Lessons from Elijah: Part 1 (Sermon August 3)
Man, it's hard to get back in to the routine after you've been out of it for a while. Over the summer months I'm going to be looking at the life of Elijah. A couple years ago I decided that during the summer I would take a Bible character and learn some lessons from their lives. Last year it was David, this year Elijah. His story is found in 1 Kings if you want to read it.
The first week of the series I went in to some background building up to his life. It's always important to discover the context of a person's life in order to be able fully understand their life and message. For example, The German Theologian, Dietrich Boenhoeffer's life and writings are only fully understood when they are place over the backdrop of World War 2. Or Brother Andrew's ministry in Russia only makes sense when placed in context of the Cold War.
Elijah's ministry is set in the context of a divided kingdom of Israel. He is sent at a prophet to the Northren Kingdom (Israel)in a time when the most evil king was ruling. This King, Ahab, had established Baal Worship as the religion of the Kingdom. He was one of 19 consecutive evil kings in the north. You could not have asked for a more difficult place and time to be a prophet of God.
Elijah is a nobody who comes out of nowhere to bring God's message to His people. God continues to look for people who are willing to bring God's message to the world. The question is are we willing.
The first week of the series I went in to some background building up to his life. It's always important to discover the context of a person's life in order to be able fully understand their life and message. For example, The German Theologian, Dietrich Boenhoeffer's life and writings are only fully understood when they are place over the backdrop of World War 2. Or Brother Andrew's ministry in Russia only makes sense when placed in context of the Cold War.
Elijah's ministry is set in the context of a divided kingdom of Israel. He is sent at a prophet to the Northren Kingdom (Israel)in a time when the most evil king was ruling. This King, Ahab, had established Baal Worship as the religion of the Kingdom. He was one of 19 consecutive evil kings in the north. You could not have asked for a more difficult place and time to be a prophet of God.
Elijah is a nobody who comes out of nowhere to bring God's message to His people. God continues to look for people who are willing to bring God's message to the world. The question is are we willing.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Are You a Mosquito Magnet?
Why is it that some people wind up covered in mosquito welts and others get away - bite-free? According to Newsweek, it’s not a coincidence. Each person’s individual body chemistry determines how many mosquitoes will come calling. Joe Conlon is a medical entomologist – someone who deals with insects. He says mosquitoes are drawn to the scent of carbon dioxide and lactic acid. These two compounds are released whenever we breathe or sweat, but the emission rates vary by person.
Larger people and pregnant woman, for example, have higher levels and are more likely targets. When you couple the scents of these compounds with extra body heat – watch out! So if you’ve recently exercised, the combination of lactic acid, which builds up when muscles are exerted – sweat, which is filled with carbon dioxide - and an increased temperature make you an ideal mosquito meal. With more than 300 body compounds that influence insect attraction, scientists haven’t figured out every body chemistry combination that the bugs like. There are some things to consider. For example:
* Since mosquitoes drink dew, they may have a preference for artificially sweet-scented bodies. Which means you might wanna lay off the perfume if you’ll be spending time outdoors.
* Also, research has shown that mosquitoes prefer landing on darker fabrics than light ones, so stay away from black or blue clothing. Also, make sure your shirt isn’t too tight. If it is, the insects will siphon right through it.
* Smelly feet are also a mosquito magnet. The bacteria in Limburger cheese is also found on the human foot - and mosquitoes love it! So keep your feet clean and dry, and in ventilated shoes.
* Wear one of the 4 Centers for Disease Control-approved repellents - DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or IR3535, which has made Avon’s Skin-so-Soft lotion a popular choice. Sprays and lotions containing these have all been deemed effective and safe to keep the bugs at bay.
Larger people and pregnant woman, for example, have higher levels and are more likely targets. When you couple the scents of these compounds with extra body heat – watch out! So if you’ve recently exercised, the combination of lactic acid, which builds up when muscles are exerted – sweat, which is filled with carbon dioxide - and an increased temperature make you an ideal mosquito meal. With more than 300 body compounds that influence insect attraction, scientists haven’t figured out every body chemistry combination that the bugs like. There are some things to consider. For example:
* Since mosquitoes drink dew, they may have a preference for artificially sweet-scented bodies. Which means you might wanna lay off the perfume if you’ll be spending time outdoors.
* Also, research has shown that mosquitoes prefer landing on darker fabrics than light ones, so stay away from black or blue clothing. Also, make sure your shirt isn’t too tight. If it is, the insects will siphon right through it.
* Smelly feet are also a mosquito magnet. The bacteria in Limburger cheese is also found on the human foot - and mosquitoes love it! So keep your feet clean and dry, and in ventilated shoes.
* Wear one of the 4 Centers for Disease Control-approved repellents - DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or IR3535, which has made Avon’s Skin-so-Soft lotion a popular choice. Sprays and lotions containing these have all been deemed effective and safe to keep the bugs at bay.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Sorry...I've been on Holidays
After four weeks of holidays I'm back. I'm hoping to get back in the routine of writing again. We spent two great weeks at camp Mishewah. The Kid's loved it. Wet weather made the bugs awful. More on that later.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Treasure and Worry
I remember a number of years ago I was pastoring in another city. An individual left our church because he had become a vegetarian. In his new vegetarian believes he found the treatment of animals in the Bible, particularly the Old Testament, unacceptable. Just after that I had gone over for a visit and he was working in his garage. He was a sign painter by trade and I noticed he was working on painting a number of signs for a client. The client happened to be Harveys Restaurant. He had left church over issues of animals, but was painting signs for a place that makes "hamburgers a beautiful thing". Something was not cohesive!
Money has a way of clouding our principles, maybe clouded is too soft of a word,maybe twisted or distort, would be more appropriate. It's no wonder Jesus said, "You can't serve both God and money". Money is god in our society.
I thought if this as I was speaking on Sunday. If I was to send out two individuals and one was to give God away and the other $1000.00, who would have the bigger following. The answer is obvious. I bet you (interesting use of words)that more people buy lottery tickets than go to church. I don't have stats - but I have waited in a lot of lines at convenience stores. Why? Money is tangible, it's real, it can't be touched. We know the power that it yields.
Most of us in the church would say that we serve God and not money, but the reality is we are like everyone else, 80% of our lives are spent making, spending or worrying about money.
The fact that stress, anxiety and worry are rampant in our lives is a sign of our misplaced allegiance. If we were truly Seeking first His Kingdom (which is unseen)we would have less stress and more generosity.
God help us! God help me!
Money has a way of clouding our principles, maybe clouded is too soft of a word,maybe twisted or distort, would be more appropriate. It's no wonder Jesus said, "You can't serve both God and money". Money is god in our society.
I thought if this as I was speaking on Sunday. If I was to send out two individuals and one was to give God away and the other $1000.00, who would have the bigger following. The answer is obvious. I bet you (interesting use of words)that more people buy lottery tickets than go to church. I don't have stats - but I have waited in a lot of lines at convenience stores. Why? Money is tangible, it's real, it can't be touched. We know the power that it yields.
Most of us in the church would say that we serve God and not money, but the reality is we are like everyone else, 80% of our lives are spent making, spending or worrying about money.
The fact that stress, anxiety and worry are rampant in our lives is a sign of our misplaced allegiance. If we were truly Seeking first His Kingdom (which is unseen)we would have less stress and more generosity.
God help us! God help me!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Fasting
Richard Foster writes in his book A Celebration of Discipline, “In a culture where the landscape is dotted with shrines to the Golden Arches and an assortment of Pizza Temples, fasting seems out of place, out of step with the times. In fact, fasting has been in general disrepute both in and outside the church for many years. For example, in my research I could not find a single book published on the subject of Christian fasting from 1861 to 1954, a period of nearly one hundred years.”
Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:16-18 "When you fast". It seems that Jesus is implying that this should be a part of our regular spiritual reality. I have not recieved significant teaching on this topic. It was just something that I deemed to be for the spooky and wierd people. I have to admit that fasting has not been a very regular part of my spiritual journey. When I have it has usually been more mechanical, not very focused or purposeful. I think most of us have seen it as very optional issue. The question that I'm asking myself is, "since when has obedience become optional?"
I am feeling deeply challenged in my spirit to take more serious look at fasting. Jesus warns us to not fast for external accolades or to show how spiritual we are, but out of obedience and out of our hunger for God and a hunger to see Him move.
Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:16-18 "When you fast". It seems that Jesus is implying that this should be a part of our regular spiritual reality. I have not recieved significant teaching on this topic. It was just something that I deemed to be for the spooky and wierd people. I have to admit that fasting has not been a very regular part of my spiritual journey. When I have it has usually been more mechanical, not very focused or purposeful. I think most of us have seen it as very optional issue. The question that I'm asking myself is, "since when has obedience become optional?"
I am feeling deeply challenged in my spirit to take more serious look at fasting. Jesus warns us to not fast for external accolades or to show how spiritual we are, but out of obedience and out of our hunger for God and a hunger to see Him move.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
This is so sad...
Steven Curtis Chapman's Daughter Killed in Accident
5-year-old daughter Maria Sue struck and killed Wednesday by a sport utility vehicle at home.
By Andree Farias, from press reports
posted 05/22/08
Maria Sue Chapman, Steven Curtis Chapman's youngest daughter, died Wednesday evening from injuries sustained when a sports utility vehicle hit her in the driveway of the family's home near Franklin, Tennessee. She was 5.
The girl was struck by a Toyota Land Cruiser driven by one of her teenage brothers around 5:30 p.m., authorities said. The teen's identity was not released.
Laura McPherson, a spokesperson for the Tennessee Highway Patrol, told The Tennessean that the girl was airlifted to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital in Nashville, where she was pronounced dead.
"It appears to be a terrible accident," McPherson said, adding that no charges are expected.
According to the Associated Press, several family members witnessed the accident, but the Tennessean report said only two children saw what happened. McPherson said the entire family was home at the time.
"I'm confident I can speak for everyone in the community to say we will do everything we can to support this family, as we would do at any time, but especially at a time like this," Gospel Music Association President John W. Styll told The Tennessean.
Maria was Steven and wife Mary Beth Chapman's third adopted daughter and sixth child overall, behind siblings Will Franklin, Caleb, Emily, Shaohannah, and Stevey Joy.
Their belief in adoption led the couple to found Shaohannah's Hope in 2000, an organization aimed at helping families facing the financial burden of adopting a child. So far, the charity has assisted thousands of families with grants, according to the nonprofit's Web site.
"My heart is just aching for them," said Velvet Kelm, Chapman's publicist.
"I don't know of anybody who loves his children more than he does and is so committed to the adoption concept, and to lose one, no matter what the circumstances, is heartbreaking beyond all comprehension," Styll said.
In April, Chapman was inducted in the Music City Walk of Fame for more the 20 years in Christian music — a career that has spawned five Grammy awards, 54 Dove awards, 44 No. 1 singles, and more than 10 million albums sold.
"There may or may not be issues ahead for us," Mary Beth Chapman told Today's Christian in 2005 about her and her husband's future as adoptive parents. "But even if Shaoey turns 16 and says, 'I hate you, I'm going back to China,' I know God put Shaoey in our lives; God put Stevey Joy here, and God put Maria here. Whether it's all peaches-and-cream or it's miserable, this is God's work."
5-year-old daughter Maria Sue struck and killed Wednesday by a sport utility vehicle at home.
By Andree Farias, from press reports
posted 05/22/08
Maria Sue Chapman, Steven Curtis Chapman's youngest daughter, died Wednesday evening from injuries sustained when a sports utility vehicle hit her in the driveway of the family's home near Franklin, Tennessee. She was 5.
The girl was struck by a Toyota Land Cruiser driven by one of her teenage brothers around 5:30 p.m., authorities said. The teen's identity was not released.
Laura McPherson, a spokesperson for the Tennessee Highway Patrol, told The Tennessean that the girl was airlifted to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital in Nashville, where she was pronounced dead.
"It appears to be a terrible accident," McPherson said, adding that no charges are expected.
According to the Associated Press, several family members witnessed the accident, but the Tennessean report said only two children saw what happened. McPherson said the entire family was home at the time.
"I'm confident I can speak for everyone in the community to say we will do everything we can to support this family, as we would do at any time, but especially at a time like this," Gospel Music Association President John W. Styll told The Tennessean.
Maria was Steven and wife Mary Beth Chapman's third adopted daughter and sixth child overall, behind siblings Will Franklin, Caleb, Emily, Shaohannah, and Stevey Joy.
Their belief in adoption led the couple to found Shaohannah's Hope in 2000, an organization aimed at helping families facing the financial burden of adopting a child. So far, the charity has assisted thousands of families with grants, according to the nonprofit's Web site.
"My heart is just aching for them," said Velvet Kelm, Chapman's publicist.
"I don't know of anybody who loves his children more than he does and is so committed to the adoption concept, and to lose one, no matter what the circumstances, is heartbreaking beyond all comprehension," Styll said.
In April, Chapman was inducted in the Music City Walk of Fame for more the 20 years in Christian music — a career that has spawned five Grammy awards, 54 Dove awards, 44 No. 1 singles, and more than 10 million albums sold.
"There may or may not be issues ahead for us," Mary Beth Chapman told Today's Christian in 2005 about her and her husband's future as adoptive parents. "But even if Shaoey turns 16 and says, 'I hate you, I'm going back to China,' I know God put Shaoey in our lives; God put Stevey Joy here, and God put Maria here. Whether it's all peaches-and-cream or it's miserable, this is God's work."
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Sunday May 18, Sermon Recap: And When You Pray
Jesus talks in Matthew 6 about some of the externals of faith. Jesus says those who are a part of His Kingdom will give to the needy, they will pray and they will fast. Jesus doesn't give much options about these activities, particularly prayer. Jesus repeats the phrase, "And when you pray". Not "if" you pray, "when" you pray.
Bill Hybels in his book "Too Busy Not to Pray" gives these principles from Matthew 6:5-15.
1. Pray Secretly
2. Pray Sincerely
3. Pray Specifically
I have struggled in this area, my whole Christian life. I have waited for a breakthough in this area. Becoming a professional (Pastor) has only enhanced the problem because it is hard to differentiate betweeen work and my relationship with Christ. It is easy when you do "God" for a living to become the very thing Jesus is warning against. But my outer and upfront spitituality needs to flow out of a vibrate and intimate personal relationship with God through Christ, not the opposite. God help me be a "House of Prayer".
Bill Hybels in his book "Too Busy Not to Pray" gives these principles from Matthew 6:5-15.
1. Pray Secretly
2. Pray Sincerely
3. Pray Specifically
I have struggled in this area, my whole Christian life. I have waited for a breakthough in this area. Becoming a professional (Pastor) has only enhanced the problem because it is hard to differentiate betweeen work and my relationship with Christ. It is easy when you do "God" for a living to become the very thing Jesus is warning against. But my outer and upfront spitituality needs to flow out of a vibrate and intimate personal relationship with God through Christ, not the opposite. God help me be a "House of Prayer".
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
NHL Third Round
I know i'm late, but I had my predictions on the radio station.
Dallas over Detroit in six (you can tell I'm being honest)
Pittsburgh over Philadelphia in six.
But it looks like it's going to be a Detroit - Pittsburgh final. Both these teams have been destroying the competition.
Dallas over Detroit in six (you can tell I'm being honest)
Pittsburgh over Philadelphia in six.
But it looks like it's going to be a Detroit - Pittsburgh final. Both these teams have been destroying the competition.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Round Two NHL Playoff Picks - I can't do as bad as I did in the first round, can I?
East
Montreal over Philadelphia in six.
Pittsburgh over NY Rangers in six.
West
Colorado over Detroit in Seven.
Dallas over San Jose in Seven.
New Prediction: Montreal and Dallas in the cup. Montreal in six.
Montreal over Philadelphia in six.
Pittsburgh over NY Rangers in six.
West
Colorado over Detroit in Seven.
Dallas over San Jose in Seven.
New Prediction: Montreal and Dallas in the cup. Montreal in six.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Love Your Enemies - Sermon April 20, 2008
I'm filing away another sermon. I once heard someone describing preaching with the image of "giving birth on Sunday and finding out you are pregnant on Monday." I found that to be true this week. The birthing of this weeks message was not easy and the prospect of doing it all again daunting.
Jesus teaching on loving your enemies found in Matthew 5:43-48 deepens His call to His followers to radical love. Jesus tells us the kind of love which will show the world that we are His disciples. It's love that is shown equally to both neighbours and enemies. It is love that doesn't just love those who like us , but also to those who persecute us, disagree with us and annoy us.
I remembering reading a book called "Who Moved My Church?". An easy lttle book patterned after the business classic "Who Moved My Cheese?" In one section of the book there is a group of Christians whose rallying cry is "Jesus hates you and so do I". I have to admit when I first read that phrase it shocked me and made me feel very uncomfortable. But I have begun to think about it and I have realized by our behaviour the non-churched world believes this mantra to be true. This is the message the world is hearing from us. And this is exactly what Jesus is teaching against.
Jesus told the people that they should love their enemies, which they interpreted to be: Love your friends. Hate those who you deem to be your enemy. God's command to love had been interpreted as a liscense to hate. We have to be careful not to but into the same thing. I have heard many well-intentioned Christians condemning those foreign people who have wrecked our Christian way of life in Canada. Telling them to go home. God forgive us! The mission field came to our door and instead of showing love - we told them to go home.
Jesus tells us to love our enemies, to pray for those who persecute us. He is kind of vague on what loving your enemies looks like besides the direct command to pray. I think he did those on purpose so that we have to be creative, so we can't just check it off the list.
Here is some ideas I had:
1. Blessing and encouraging people with our mouths.
2. Doing good to them.
3. Actively seeking to build relationships with them.
What about you? What creative ways can we love our enemies?
Jesus teaching on loving your enemies found in Matthew 5:43-48 deepens His call to His followers to radical love. Jesus tells us the kind of love which will show the world that we are His disciples. It's love that is shown equally to both neighbours and enemies. It is love that doesn't just love those who like us , but also to those who persecute us, disagree with us and annoy us.
I remembering reading a book called "Who Moved My Church?". An easy lttle book patterned after the business classic "Who Moved My Cheese?" In one section of the book there is a group of Christians whose rallying cry is "Jesus hates you and so do I". I have to admit when I first read that phrase it shocked me and made me feel very uncomfortable. But I have begun to think about it and I have realized by our behaviour the non-churched world believes this mantra to be true. This is the message the world is hearing from us. And this is exactly what Jesus is teaching against.
Jesus told the people that they should love their enemies, which they interpreted to be: Love your friends. Hate those who you deem to be your enemy. God's command to love had been interpreted as a liscense to hate. We have to be careful not to but into the same thing. I have heard many well-intentioned Christians condemning those foreign people who have wrecked our Christian way of life in Canada. Telling them to go home. God forgive us! The mission field came to our door and instead of showing love - we told them to go home.
Jesus tells us to love our enemies, to pray for those who persecute us. He is kind of vague on what loving your enemies looks like besides the direct command to pray. I think he did those on purpose so that we have to be creative, so we can't just check it off the list.
Here is some ideas I had:
1. Blessing and encouraging people with our mouths.
2. Doing good to them.
3. Actively seeking to build relationships with them.
What about you? What creative ways can we love our enemies?
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Here's How to Grill Your Daughter's Date with Tips from FBI Profilers
These agents specialize in profiling individuals in order to predict behavior. Use these tips to rest easy until your daughter comes home at curfew, courtesy of Rodale Publishing:.
* Tip #1 from FBI agents – ask your daughter for her date’s full name ahead of time and then Google him, look him up on My Space, Facebook and You Tube. Any personal profiles or videos that come up will give you a good sense of his personality. Check out his favorite movies, books and videogames. According to Clint Van Zandt, who worked for the FBI for 25 years, reality mimics fantasy. He says he can’t tell you how many times he’s asked a criminal where they got their ideas and they’ve said they saw it in a movie.
* Then, when he gets to the house, evaluate his clothing. John Douglas, a former FBI investigative chief, says what a person wears reflects their overall level of judgment. So a jacket, combed hair, and cologne say – ‘I care. I’m trying to put my best foot forward.’ Camouflage pants, unwashed hair and body odor say ‘I only care about myself – and even then, not so much.’
* If the guy has any visible tattoos or piercings – ask about them. Generally the more in-your-face they are, the more they represent a cry for attention. People who demand that others notice them, may have trouble being sensitive to another person’s needs. Ask about the meaning behind the body art. It’ll provide insight into his character.
* As you’re talking to your daughter’s date – let the conversation stop. See how he fills the pause. That puts a person on edge and you can see how they handle stress.
* Finally, the FBI agents recommend that you directly state what your expectations are when he’s out with your daughter. Watch his body language. If he folds his arms and moves away, no matter how subtly, he’s resisting what you’re saying. So take down his license plate number, just in case.
* Tip #1 from FBI agents – ask your daughter for her date’s full name ahead of time and then Google him, look him up on My Space, Facebook and You Tube. Any personal profiles or videos that come up will give you a good sense of his personality. Check out his favorite movies, books and videogames. According to Clint Van Zandt, who worked for the FBI for 25 years, reality mimics fantasy. He says he can’t tell you how many times he’s asked a criminal where they got their ideas and they’ve said they saw it in a movie.
* Then, when he gets to the house, evaluate his clothing. John Douglas, a former FBI investigative chief, says what a person wears reflects their overall level of judgment. So a jacket, combed hair, and cologne say – ‘I care. I’m trying to put my best foot forward.’ Camouflage pants, unwashed hair and body odor say ‘I only care about myself – and even then, not so much.’
* If the guy has any visible tattoos or piercings – ask about them. Generally the more in-your-face they are, the more they represent a cry for attention. People who demand that others notice them, may have trouble being sensitive to another person’s needs. Ask about the meaning behind the body art. It’ll provide insight into his character.
* As you’re talking to your daughter’s date – let the conversation stop. See how he fills the pause. That puts a person on edge and you can see how they handle stress.
* Finally, the FBI agents recommend that you directly state what your expectations are when he’s out with your daughter. Watch his body language. If he folds his arms and moves away, no matter how subtly, he’s resisting what you’re saying. So take down his license plate number, just in case.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
The Disguise of Interruption
I was reading Mark Buchanan's book "The Rest of God". He mentions that Jesus often appears to us in the "disguise of interruption". When we are busy in our daily activities He appears to us through various circumstances that attempt to pull us out of our routine.
Isn't that the point of the story of the Good Samaritan - ministry was found in the interruption.
Henri Nouwen summed up well when he said, "My whole life I have been complaining that my work was constantly being interrupted, until I discovered the interruptions were my work."
God help me to not miss you when you are in the "disguise of interruption."
Isn't that the point of the story of the Good Samaritan - ministry was found in the interruption.
Henri Nouwen summed up well when he said, "My whole life I have been complaining that my work was constantly being interrupted, until I discovered the interruptions were my work."
God help me to not miss you when you are in the "disguise of interruption."
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Keeping Busy?
The other day two people I hadn't seen in a long time both asked me the same question, it was "Keeping Busy?" It's a question we ask people because in our society busy is good. I am busy for the most part. I have lots of things to do. My life choices have made me busy. I own a house which needs to be cleaned and maintained - this makes me busy. I could never leave my house and remain busy. I have a wife and five children, that need my attention, love and care. I could do nothing but see to these responsibilities and be busy. I help out at the radio station, I own a vehicle, oh and by the way I serve as a Pastor in a church which each section of that position I could sub-divide into a full-time job. I also have other leisure activities such as this blog and face book, which can consume vast amounts of time and I admit I religiously watch the TV show LOST. I was watching the Toronto Maple Leafs as well, but that futile activity self-destructed.
What's my point? Busyness is not a good gage of anything except being busy. Busyness is not a sign of effectiveness, it is not a gage of good priorities and it sure doesn't mean I am accomplishing much.
I use to ask people if they were keeping busy. I think I need to stop asking that, because I don't want to be busy anymore. But I do want to "Number my days - so that I may gain a heart of wisdom"
What's my point? Busyness is not a good gage of anything except being busy. Busyness is not a sign of effectiveness, it is not a gage of good priorities and it sure doesn't mean I am accomplishing much.
I use to ask people if they were keeping busy. I think I need to stop asking that, because I don't want to be busy anymore. But I do want to "Number my days - so that I may gain a heart of wisdom"
Sermon: April 6 - A Call To Radical Love
Our society is filled with expressions like "Don't get mad, get even!" "Shoot first, ask questions later." "Fight fire with fire!" This type of thinking is woven into the fabric of our culture. Our natural tendency is to retaliate. Our life philoshophy has become, "Nobody messes with me and gets away with it!"
Jesus's teaching in Matthew 5:38-42 teaches anything but that type of philosophy.
You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
Jesus gives four extreme examples to startle his listeners about the kind of love His diciples should display. He tells them take a slap in the face, give your tunic, go the extra mile and give generously to people. Jesus tells them love radically.
For those of us who have been steeped in this relatiation world view it is difficult for us to begin to embrace this kind of call to love radically.
We have to begin to try and break the cycle of hostility in our lives, we have to begin to break our cycle of self-centredness and selfishness. This can only be accomplished by allowing the grace of God work in our activities daily.
When we do we see that God's love is compelling to others and connects us to the heart of God.
Jesus teaches us love radically.
Jesus's teaching in Matthew 5:38-42 teaches anything but that type of philosophy.
You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
Jesus gives four extreme examples to startle his listeners about the kind of love His diciples should display. He tells them take a slap in the face, give your tunic, go the extra mile and give generously to people. Jesus tells them love radically.
For those of us who have been steeped in this relatiation world view it is difficult for us to begin to embrace this kind of call to love radically.
We have to begin to try and break the cycle of hostility in our lives, we have to begin to break our cycle of self-centredness and selfishness. This can only be accomplished by allowing the grace of God work in our activities daily.
When we do we see that God's love is compelling to others and connects us to the heart of God.
Jesus teaches us love radically.
John's Stanley Cup Predictions
My first round predictions of the NHL playoffs
East
Montreal over Boston in Six.
Ottawa over Pittsburgh in Seven.
Washington over Philadelphia in Six.
New Jersey over Rangers in Six.
West
Detroit over Nashville in Five.
Calgary over San Jose in Seven.
Anaheim over Dallas in Seven.
Colorado over Minnesota in Six.
Overall Prediction: Anaheim meets Montreal in the Stanley Cup Final. Anaheim wins in six.
My Dark Horse Pick - San Jose. ( I know I predict they are out in the first-round but if they get past Calgary. They may go far)
What do you think?
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Sunday Message - March 30 Oaths
Jesus encourages his followers to a new level of truth and integrity. In our words and actions we need to have integrity. In Jesus' day they were making oaths that they had no intent of keeping. Kind of like when you were a kid and you would cross your fingers behind your back as a way of getting out of the promise you made. Jesus desires that we be truthful and that we shouldn't have to swear or make oaths to make the truth believable. The character of a Christ-follower should be sufficient.
Live with integrity.
Live with integrity.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Resurrection Power: Easter Sunday 2008
I talked about the power of Christ's resurrection in our lives. It's amazing that the same power that was exerted to raise Christ from the dead is also available to us on our spiritual journey. When we come into a relationship with Christ we experience a personal resurrection. It is the power of the resurrection that raises us to new life.
It's interesting that baptism is a public resurrection. It is an outward sign of the inward commitment that we have made. The imagery is one of resurrection. When we are out of the water it is a symbol of being "dead in our sins". In the water we are symbolizing being buried with Christ and out of the water is a symbol of being raised to new-life.
We are also to experience his resurrection on a practical, daily basis. The power of Christ's resurrection is available to us every day to help transform us to be conformed to His image. I don't have to settle and justify those parts of me that are not pleasing to God, they can be morphed by His power in my life.
But it is also a permanent resurrection that we are promised eternal life, an inheritance that will not fade, spoil or be corrupted.
The Power of His resurrection. It's personal, it's public, it's practical and it's permanent.
It's interesting that baptism is a public resurrection. It is an outward sign of the inward commitment that we have made. The imagery is one of resurrection. When we are out of the water it is a symbol of being "dead in our sins". In the water we are symbolizing being buried with Christ and out of the water is a symbol of being raised to new-life.
We are also to experience his resurrection on a practical, daily basis. The power of Christ's resurrection is available to us every day to help transform us to be conformed to His image. I don't have to settle and justify those parts of me that are not pleasing to God, they can be morphed by His power in my life.
But it is also a permanent resurrection that we are promised eternal life, an inheritance that will not fade, spoil or be corrupted.
The Power of His resurrection. It's personal, it's public, it's practical and it's permanent.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Starfield: New Release
It's new release Tuesday. Canadian Christian Rock/Worship Band: Starfield has released it's latest album: I Will Go. I saw them in concert in Stayner before they made it big. Great live band. They are going to be in concert in Ottawa in May - worth the trip.
Good Friday
We used Max Lucado's book 3:16 as the theme for our service at the Callander Community Centre for Good Friday. It's really based on John 3:16 the most memorized verse in scripture. "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only son that whoever believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." We wanted to bring back to the simple truth of this verse that:
He Loves
He Gave
We Believe
We Live
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Kitchen Renovations
We still have to do a little bit of painting. But our Christmas Present was installed. New kitchen cabinet doors that Jenn's Dad built and countertop.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Crazy Monday
On Monday, we were driving the Kids down to visit their grandparents for the March Break. Everything was going smoothly till we passed the big bend in Gravenhurst. Traffic slowed down and came to a stop. We stopped and waited. A few minutes later we notice Emergency vehicles coming up behind us. Normally it is not that difficult of a process to pull over to the right to allow them to pass, but we are stuck in two solid lanes of traffic, a cement median is to our left, to my right is a transport truck, to the right of the transport is a snow bank. Somehow we squish together onto the shoulder and slow lane to allow two firetrucks, an ambulance and a police cruiser go by. We turn on a local radio station to discover that a transport has rolled across the highway. We wait.
After about forty five minutes. We notice about six - eight firefighters walking down the highway. My first thought is they are informing the traffic about what is going on and how long it will be. But I also notice that they are only sporatically talking to vehicles and only when spoken to. As they pass we find out they are walking back to Gravenhurst because they are not needed at the crash sight and they need to be prepared in case another call comes in. (Note to self - make sure I am not in the second fire or accident in Gravenhurst). More time passes - kids getting cranky and hungry. Only one timbit left.
Drivers are becoming impatient and backing out or turning around and driving the wrong way done the divided highway. Another emergency vehicle comes along and informs it may be a couple hours before the road is open and we have permission to drive the wrong way down the highway to get to a detour. I turn around and drive out. I feel rebellious. I tell the kids to enjoy the moment this may be the only time they will get to drive the wrong way on a divided highway.
We end up driving into the boonies for a detour. I never knew that Housey Rapids Rd. and Cooper Falls Rd existed. It was a beautiful drive. We got a lot of looks from the locals as a huge line of traffic made its way down these narrow, winding backroads. Later, I found out that my Brother Inlaw had tried calling me on my cell but we were out of range. We were officially - "Off the beaten track".
After about forty five minutes. We notice about six - eight firefighters walking down the highway. My first thought is they are informing the traffic about what is going on and how long it will be. But I also notice that they are only sporatically talking to vehicles and only when spoken to. As they pass we find out they are walking back to Gravenhurst because they are not needed at the crash sight and they need to be prepared in case another call comes in. (Note to self - make sure I am not in the second fire or accident in Gravenhurst). More time passes - kids getting cranky and hungry. Only one timbit left.
Drivers are becoming impatient and backing out or turning around and driving the wrong way done the divided highway. Another emergency vehicle comes along and informs it may be a couple hours before the road is open and we have permission to drive the wrong way down the highway to get to a detour. I turn around and drive out. I feel rebellious. I tell the kids to enjoy the moment this may be the only time they will get to drive the wrong way on a divided highway.
We end up driving into the boonies for a detour. I never knew that Housey Rapids Rd. and Cooper Falls Rd existed. It was a beautiful drive. We got a lot of looks from the locals as a huge line of traffic made its way down these narrow, winding backroads. Later, I found out that my Brother Inlaw had tried calling me on my cell but we were out of range. We were officially - "Off the beaten track".
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Running to Win - State of the Union Address 2008
Every year at Callander Bay Church I give what I call the State of the Union Address. I know it's an American thing, but I like it better than throne speech. We've gone through a hard year at our church. It was a little bit hard to be positive. But when I began to reflect I realized that some of the greatest teaching moments and learning curves take place in the midst of difficulty. Out of this year came a new determination to not be detered and distracted. A new sense that the spiritual journey is one that needs to be run to win. The apostle Paul sums up this attitude in his letter to the Corinthians when he wrote:
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
I challenge our congregation and myself that if we want to run to win we must have:
1. Purposeful Focus - this entails an outward focus and setting clear goals.
2. Proper Equipment - a model of ministry that allows effective ministry to be done using the multiplicity of gifts in our church.
3. Personal Cost - it is going to cost my time (no one can do my prayer, fasting, solitude, bible reading, telling others about Christ for me:), my energy, and my finances.
I don't know if you have ever played ping pong, but there is a certain point when you have been goofing around and hitting the ball back and forth that you stop and say, "Do you want to play for real?" I think I'm beginning to reach that point on my spiritual journey. It's time to run to win.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Back in the Day - Retro CCM Show on CJTK
I'm kicking around the idea of putting together a retro Christian Music program for the radio called - Back in the Day. With the death of Larry Norman, i've been feeling a little bit motivated. There are a lot of great music that is being lost to this generation and I think it would be cool to bring it back to our community. I'd love to get your feedback.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
The First Christian Rock Album in my heart.
This was the first Christian Rock album I had ever seen or heard of. When I saw his glowing long blond hair - I thought, "What is this?" Then my brother slapped in on the turntable (for you young people that was what record albums were played on)and I heard "He's a rock that doesn't Roll". I thought this is totally, the best thing I have ever in my life. It began my journey into Christian Music. It's still on my top ten of Christian Albums ever. Larry Norman - may heaven be filled with your rocking praises.
Larry Norman "Father of Christian Rock" dies at age 60.
Christian music legend Larry Norman died Sunday of heart failure, according to his brother Charles Norman. He was 60.
Norman, a blonde, long-haired rocker who is often called the father of Christian rock music, was a giant in the Christian music industry, said Chris Willman, senior music writer for Entertainment Weekly.
"His influence outweighed his sales so much that it's comical," Willman said. "He certainly had a heart for evangelism — almost to his detriment, I might say. He really could've been a star if he were singing about something other than Jesus."
Norman's 1972 Only Visiting This Planet album is regarded as one of the top contemporary Christian music albums of all time. His many hits were at the cutting edge, said Larry Eskridge, associate director of the Institute for the Study of American Evangelicals at Wheaton College.
"The song 'Why Should the Devil Have All the Good Music?' was one of his enduring trumpet blasts against the stodgy, old Christian establishment," Eskridge said. "'I Wish We'd All Been Ready' fit with the end times, apocalyptic feel that was in the air at the time."
"I Wish We'd All Been Ready" was also featured in the 1972 end times film A Thief in the Night. In concerts, the singer gave his trademark "One Way" gesture, pointing an index finger toward heaven.
Eskridge said Norman was an icon during the Jesus People of the 1960s but distanced himself from the movement when it became a fad and eventually faded.
Norman became less prominent on the music scene after suffering head injuries in an airplane accident 30 years ago, and he later had severe heart problems. He dictated a message to a friend just before his death.
"I feel like a prize in a box of Cracker Jacks with God's hand reaching down to pick me up," Norman said. "I have been under medical care for months. My wounds are getting bigger. I have trouble breathing. I am ready to fly home."
He officially retired in 2001, the same year he was inducted into the Gospel Music Association's (GMA) Hall of Fame along with Elvis Presley and Keith Green.
"His flame burned the brightest in the '70s, but he set a lot of things in motion that reverberated through those decades," said GMA President John Styll. Norman's songs have also been recorded by contemporary Christian artists such as Rebecca St. James, DC Talk, and Audio Adrenaline.
Styll called Norman a Bob Dylan figure for the Christian world because he combined political and social commentary with good music.
"He sang about gonorrhea on Valentine's Day," Styll said. "Another group today wouldn't sing that. It was pretty raw."
Although Norman left a large footprint, he also became estranged from the music industry because of strained relationships. He was diagnosed with bipolar trauma and clashed with fellow singers in the Daniel Amos band and Randy Stonehill, who said they were mistreated financially and personally, according to the Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music.
Stonehill declined to take questions from Christianity Today about his relationship with Norman, but in a statement, he said he knew Norman better than anyone else and that the singer introduced Stonehill to Christianity.
"For as brilliant and insightful as Larry was, I'm not sure that he understood himself completely," Stonehill said. "This issue became apparent in the way he consistently seemed to 'derail' relationships throughout his life."
Stonehill said that he and Norman experienced friction and distance for 20 years before standing on stage together for the last time in 2001.
Norman, a blonde, long-haired rocker who is often called the father of Christian rock music, was a giant in the Christian music industry, said Chris Willman, senior music writer for Entertainment Weekly.
"His influence outweighed his sales so much that it's comical," Willman said. "He certainly had a heart for evangelism — almost to his detriment, I might say. He really could've been a star if he were singing about something other than Jesus."
Norman's 1972 Only Visiting This Planet album is regarded as one of the top contemporary Christian music albums of all time. His many hits were at the cutting edge, said Larry Eskridge, associate director of the Institute for the Study of American Evangelicals at Wheaton College.
"The song 'Why Should the Devil Have All the Good Music?' was one of his enduring trumpet blasts against the stodgy, old Christian establishment," Eskridge said. "'I Wish We'd All Been Ready' fit with the end times, apocalyptic feel that was in the air at the time."
"I Wish We'd All Been Ready" was also featured in the 1972 end times film A Thief in the Night. In concerts, the singer gave his trademark "One Way" gesture, pointing an index finger toward heaven.
Eskridge said Norman was an icon during the Jesus People of the 1960s but distanced himself from the movement when it became a fad and eventually faded.
Norman became less prominent on the music scene after suffering head injuries in an airplane accident 30 years ago, and he later had severe heart problems. He dictated a message to a friend just before his death.
"I feel like a prize in a box of Cracker Jacks with God's hand reaching down to pick me up," Norman said. "I have been under medical care for months. My wounds are getting bigger. I have trouble breathing. I am ready to fly home."
He officially retired in 2001, the same year he was inducted into the Gospel Music Association's (GMA) Hall of Fame along with Elvis Presley and Keith Green.
"His flame burned the brightest in the '70s, but he set a lot of things in motion that reverberated through those decades," said GMA President John Styll. Norman's songs have also been recorded by contemporary Christian artists such as Rebecca St. James, DC Talk, and Audio Adrenaline.
Styll called Norman a Bob Dylan figure for the Christian world because he combined political and social commentary with good music.
"He sang about gonorrhea on Valentine's Day," Styll said. "Another group today wouldn't sing that. It was pretty raw."
Although Norman left a large footprint, he also became estranged from the music industry because of strained relationships. He was diagnosed with bipolar trauma and clashed with fellow singers in the Daniel Amos band and Randy Stonehill, who said they were mistreated financially and personally, according to the Encyclopedia of Contemporary Christian Music.
Stonehill declined to take questions from Christianity Today about his relationship with Norman, but in a statement, he said he knew Norman better than anyone else and that the singer introduced Stonehill to Christianity.
"For as brilliant and insightful as Larry was, I'm not sure that he understood himself completely," Stonehill said. "This issue became apparent in the way he consistently seemed to 'derail' relationships throughout his life."
Stonehill said that he and Norman experienced friction and distance for 20 years before standing on stage together for the last time in 2001.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Thursday, February 21, 2008
John Ortberg on Lying
I've been reading John Ortberg's book "When the Game is Over it all Goes Back in the Box". I thought these thoughts on lying were funny and poignant.
Some time ago, we had a moment of conflict in the car. I was quite sure one of my kids had crossed a line, but they denied it. I didn't have a smoking gun, but the circumstantial evidence was overwhelming. I was doing cross examination, trying to get the child to break down, but this child was pretty savvy. At one point they looked up with deeply hurt, misty eyes and said with a quivering voice: "Daddy, you don't think I'd lie to you, do you?"
I started to say, "Oh,Child, no the thought never crossed my mind."
Then I stopped to think. What I said was, "Do I think you'd lie? Of course I do."
"I lie. Your mom lies, that's for sure. Everybody I've ever known has lied. The most famous story about lying in American History is the story of George Washington cutting down a cherry tree. His father asked him who did it. George is supposed to have said, 'I cannot tell a lie; it was me.' That was in a biography by Parson Weems in the nineteenth century - he made the story up. The most famous story about not lying in America was a lie."
One of my recommended books - you should take a read.
Some time ago, we had a moment of conflict in the car. I was quite sure one of my kids had crossed a line, but they denied it. I didn't have a smoking gun, but the circumstantial evidence was overwhelming. I was doing cross examination, trying to get the child to break down, but this child was pretty savvy. At one point they looked up with deeply hurt, misty eyes and said with a quivering voice: "Daddy, you don't think I'd lie to you, do you?"
I started to say, "Oh,Child, no the thought never crossed my mind."
Then I stopped to think. What I said was, "Do I think you'd lie? Of course I do."
"I lie. Your mom lies, that's for sure. Everybody I've ever known has lied. The most famous story about lying in American History is the story of George Washington cutting down a cherry tree. His father asked him who did it. George is supposed to have said, 'I cannot tell a lie; it was me.' That was in a biography by Parson Weems in the nineteenth century - he made the story up. The most famous story about not lying in America was a lie."
One of my recommended books - you should take a read.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Lunar Eclipse Tonight
The moon is to appear high in the southern sky when the Earth's shadow begins to travel across the lunar surface from left to right at 8:42p.m. Total eclipse is to last from 10p.m. to 10:51p.m., with the moon emerging from shadow at 12:09a.m. Unlike a solar eclipse, no special eye protection is necessary to watch the event, caused when the Earth comes between the sun and the moon.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
2008 Dove Award Nominations
Song of the Year
"Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)"; Chris Tomlin, Louie Giglio,
"Bring The Rain"; Bart Millard, James Bryson, Nathan Cochran, Barry Graul, Michael John Scheuchzer, Robin Shaffer;
"East To West"; Mark Hall, Bernie Herms;
"Give You Glory"; Jeremy Camp
"How You Live (Turn Up The Music)"; Cindy Morgan
"I’m Not Who I Was"; Brandon Heath
"In Better Hands"; Catt Gravitt, Jim Daddario, Thom Hardwell;
"Made To Love"; Toby McKeehan, Cary Barlowe, Jamie Moore, Aaron Rice
"Tears Of The Saints"; Leeland Mooring, Jack Mooring;
"Undo"; William Davis, Kevin Huguley, Wes Willis
Male Vocalist of the Year
Chris Tomlin
Gerald Wolfe
Jon Foreman
Mark Hall
Mark Schultz
Marvin Sapp
TobyMac
Female Vocalist of the Year
Amy Grant
Christy Nockels
Darlene Zschech
Krystal Meyers
Mandisa
Natalie Grant
Sandi Patty
Group of the Year
Casting Crowns
David Crowder*Band
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
Hillsong United
Point Of Grace
Selah
The Clark Sisters
Artist of the Year
Casting Crowns
Chris Tomlin
Natalie Grant
Point Of Grace
Skillet
The Clark Sisters
TobyMac
New Artist of the Year
33 Miles
Austins Bridge
Brandon Heath
DeWayne Woods
Group 1 Crew
Mandisa
Rush Of Fools
Producer of the Year
Bernie Herms
Ed Cash
Ian Eskelin
Israel Houghton
Nathan Nockels
Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year
"Name Droppin’"; Bone-Appetit Servin’ Up Tha Hits; T-Bone; Rene F. Sotomayor, Teak Underdue, Dee Underdue; Flicker Records
"Open Bar"; Redemption; Grits; Teron Carter, John Dust, Anthony Johnson, Jr., Stacy Jones; Gotee Records
"Wake Up"; The Yearbook; KJ-52 featuring Toby Morrell; Jonah Sorrentino, Toby Morrell, Aaron Sprinkle; BEC Recordings
"Who Am I?"; Open Book; Da’ T.R.U.T.H. featuring Tye Tribbett; Emmanuel Lambert, Jr., Courtney Peebles; Cross Movement Records
"Word of Mouth"; Word of Mouth; John Reuben; John Reuben, Seth Earnest; Gotee Records
Rock Recorded Song of the Year
"Break Me Down"; End of Silence; Red; Jasen Rauch, Anthony Armstrong, Rob Graves; Essential
"Comatose"; Comatose; Skillet; John L. Cooper, Brian Howes; Ardent Records, Atlantic, Lava, SRE Recordings
"I Need You"; Five Score And Seven Years Ago; Relient K; Matthew Thiessen; Gotee Records
"Million Voices"; How Can We Be Silent; BarlowGirl; BarlowGirl; Fervent Records, Curb Records, Warner Brothers Records
"Procrastinating"; We Can't Stand Sitting Down; Stellar Kart; Adam Agee, Jordan Messer; Word Records, Curb Records
Rock/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year
"After The World"; Scars Remain; Disciple; Timothy Barrett, Joey Fife, Bradley Noah, Travis Wyrick, Kevin Young; INO Records, SRE Recordings
"Awakening"; Oh! Gravity; Switchfoot; Jonathan Foreman; Sparrow Records, Columbia Records
"Everything Glorious"; Remedy; David Crowder*Band; David Crowder*Band; Sparrow Records, sixstepsrecords
"Glorious One"; We Shine; Fee; Steve Fee; INO Records
"Signature of Divine (Yahweh)"; The Heat; NEEDTOBREATHE; Bear Rinehart, Bo Rinehart; Atlantic Records
Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year
"East To West"; The Altar And The Door; Casting Crowns; Mark Hall, Bernie Herms; Beach Street Records, Reunion Records
"I'm Not Who I Was"; Don't Get Comfortable; Brandon Heath; Brandon Heath; Reunion Records
"In Better Hands"; Relentless; Natalie Grant; Jim Diddario, Thom Hardwell, Catt Gravitt; Curb Records
"Tears Of The Saints"; Sound Of Melodies; Leeland; Leeland Dayton Mooring, Jack Anthony Mooring; Essential Records
"Undo"; Rush Of Fools; Rush Of Fools; Scott Davis, Kevin Huguley, Wes Willis; Midas Records
Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year
"Be Lifted High"; Stand; Michael W. Smith; Leeland Dayton Mooring; Reunion Records
"Be Thou Near To Me"; Bless The Broken Road; Selah; David Grow; Curb Records
"By His Wounds"; Glory Revealed; Steven Curtis Chapman, Mark Hall, Brian Littrell, Mac Powell; Davis Nasser, Mac Powell; Reunion Records
"Give Me Jesus"; Beyond Measure; Jeremy Camp; Public Domain; BEC Recordings
"God Speaking"; God Speaking; Ronnie Freeman; Ronnie Freeman; White Apron Entertainment
"Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)"; Chris Tomlin, Louie Giglio,
"Bring The Rain"; Bart Millard, James Bryson, Nathan Cochran, Barry Graul, Michael John Scheuchzer, Robin Shaffer;
"East To West"; Mark Hall, Bernie Herms;
"Give You Glory"; Jeremy Camp
"How You Live (Turn Up The Music)"; Cindy Morgan
"I’m Not Who I Was"; Brandon Heath
"In Better Hands"; Catt Gravitt, Jim Daddario, Thom Hardwell;
"Made To Love"; Toby McKeehan, Cary Barlowe, Jamie Moore, Aaron Rice
"Tears Of The Saints"; Leeland Mooring, Jack Mooring;
"Undo"; William Davis, Kevin Huguley, Wes Willis
Male Vocalist of the Year
Chris Tomlin
Gerald Wolfe
Jon Foreman
Mark Hall
Mark Schultz
Marvin Sapp
TobyMac
Female Vocalist of the Year
Amy Grant
Christy Nockels
Darlene Zschech
Krystal Meyers
Mandisa
Natalie Grant
Sandi Patty
Group of the Year
Casting Crowns
David Crowder*Band
Ernie Haase & Signature Sound
Hillsong United
Point Of Grace
Selah
The Clark Sisters
Artist of the Year
Casting Crowns
Chris Tomlin
Natalie Grant
Point Of Grace
Skillet
The Clark Sisters
TobyMac
New Artist of the Year
33 Miles
Austins Bridge
Brandon Heath
DeWayne Woods
Group 1 Crew
Mandisa
Rush Of Fools
Producer of the Year
Bernie Herms
Ed Cash
Ian Eskelin
Israel Houghton
Nathan Nockels
Rap/Hip Hop Recorded Song of the Year
"Name Droppin’"; Bone-Appetit Servin’ Up Tha Hits; T-Bone; Rene F. Sotomayor, Teak Underdue, Dee Underdue; Flicker Records
"Open Bar"; Redemption; Grits; Teron Carter, John Dust, Anthony Johnson, Jr., Stacy Jones; Gotee Records
"Wake Up"; The Yearbook; KJ-52 featuring Toby Morrell; Jonah Sorrentino, Toby Morrell, Aaron Sprinkle; BEC Recordings
"Who Am I?"; Open Book; Da’ T.R.U.T.H. featuring Tye Tribbett; Emmanuel Lambert, Jr., Courtney Peebles; Cross Movement Records
"Word of Mouth"; Word of Mouth; John Reuben; John Reuben, Seth Earnest; Gotee Records
Rock Recorded Song of the Year
"Break Me Down"; End of Silence; Red; Jasen Rauch, Anthony Armstrong, Rob Graves; Essential
"Comatose"; Comatose; Skillet; John L. Cooper, Brian Howes; Ardent Records, Atlantic, Lava, SRE Recordings
"I Need You"; Five Score And Seven Years Ago; Relient K; Matthew Thiessen; Gotee Records
"Million Voices"; How Can We Be Silent; BarlowGirl; BarlowGirl; Fervent Records, Curb Records, Warner Brothers Records
"Procrastinating"; We Can't Stand Sitting Down; Stellar Kart; Adam Agee, Jordan Messer; Word Records, Curb Records
Rock/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year
"After The World"; Scars Remain; Disciple; Timothy Barrett, Joey Fife, Bradley Noah, Travis Wyrick, Kevin Young; INO Records, SRE Recordings
"Awakening"; Oh! Gravity; Switchfoot; Jonathan Foreman; Sparrow Records, Columbia Records
"Everything Glorious"; Remedy; David Crowder*Band; David Crowder*Band; Sparrow Records, sixstepsrecords
"Glorious One"; We Shine; Fee; Steve Fee; INO Records
"Signature of Divine (Yahweh)"; The Heat; NEEDTOBREATHE; Bear Rinehart, Bo Rinehart; Atlantic Records
Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year
"East To West"; The Altar And The Door; Casting Crowns; Mark Hall, Bernie Herms; Beach Street Records, Reunion Records
"I'm Not Who I Was"; Don't Get Comfortable; Brandon Heath; Brandon Heath; Reunion Records
"In Better Hands"; Relentless; Natalie Grant; Jim Diddario, Thom Hardwell, Catt Gravitt; Curb Records
"Tears Of The Saints"; Sound Of Melodies; Leeland; Leeland Dayton Mooring, Jack Anthony Mooring; Essential Records
"Undo"; Rush Of Fools; Rush Of Fools; Scott Davis, Kevin Huguley, Wes Willis; Midas Records
Inspirational Recorded Song of the Year
"Be Lifted High"; Stand; Michael W. Smith; Leeland Dayton Mooring; Reunion Records
"Be Thou Near To Me"; Bless The Broken Road; Selah; David Grow; Curb Records
"By His Wounds"; Glory Revealed; Steven Curtis Chapman, Mark Hall, Brian Littrell, Mac Powell; Davis Nasser, Mac Powell; Reunion Records
"Give Me Jesus"; Beyond Measure; Jeremy Camp; Public Domain; BEC Recordings
"God Speaking"; God Speaking; Ronnie Freeman; Ronnie Freeman; White Apron Entertainment
Sunday Sermon - Feb. 17, 2008 Divorce
Trying to come up with a Biblical understanding of Divorce is difficult. I have to admit that when I began planning this series, I didn't think it would be a big deal to preach on this topic. But when I began my preparations, I realized how wide sweeping the impact of this issue is. Entering into the reality of divorce is painful on almost all levels.
Holding to God's ideal and yet being able to minister with grace and sensitivity on this topic is difficult.
Divorce stats are crazy:
"It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery.
God's Original Intent for Marriage (Gen. 2:22-24)
Marriage in Moses Day (Deut. 24)
Holding to God's ideal and yet being able to minister with grace and sensitivity on this topic is difficult.
Divorce stats are crazy:
- 33% of marriages end up in divorce. (same for Christians and secular society)
- In 2006, there were 1,629,490 divorced Canadians
- There were 70,828 divorces in 2003 -- down from 71,144 in 2000.
- More than one-third of marriages in Canada will end in divorce before the thirtieth anniversary.
- Statistics are higher for second marriage
(Stats from Stats Canada and Barna Institute)
My Text was from Matthew 5:31-32"It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery.
God's Original Intent for Marriage (Gen. 2:22-24)
- Leave-Cleave-Become
Marriage in Moses Day (Deut. 24)
- Divorce allowed
Marriage in Jesus' Day
- Divorce allowed for any reason.
Jesus' Teaching
- Divorce is a sin.
- There is an exception - marital unfaithfulness
- God prefers lifelong faithfulness
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Sermon Rehash - Sunday, February 10
Continued my series in the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew 5.
It was called Adultery, Lust and Desire...that should get most people's attention.
I really think in our society this message is so important because we have made lust into a national pastime. Here's what the scripture says:
27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’ 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.
The Holy Bible : New International Version. Grand Rapids : Zondervan, 1996, c1984, S. Mt 5:27-30
Here's what we learn about lust:
1. It's raging in our hearts
2. It's imposssible to satisfy
3. It's outcome is disastrous
A Startegy to Win over Lust
1. Monitor your eyes
2. Eliminate Temptation
3. Get Accountable
Do some study yourself - this is a marriage issue facing the church (you and I)
It was called Adultery, Lust and Desire...that should get most people's attention.
I really think in our society this message is so important because we have made lust into a national pastime. Here's what the scripture says:
27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’ 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.
The Holy Bible : New International Version. Grand Rapids : Zondervan, 1996, c1984, S. Mt 5:27-30
Here's what we learn about lust:
1. It's raging in our hearts
2. It's imposssible to satisfy
3. It's outcome is disastrous
A Startegy to Win over Lust
1. Monitor your eyes
2. Eliminate Temptation
3. Get Accountable
Do some study yourself - this is a marriage issue facing the church (you and I)
Johnny The Bagger - Great Motivational Video
I almost cried watching this...almost. Well worth the couple minutes to watch it.
http://www.stservicemovie.com/
http://www.stservicemovie.com/
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
John Piper is Bad
I love John Piper's book and his resources at his website www.desiringgod.com are awesome but I found this video which I thought was hilarious.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
So, you wanna be a preacher eh! Here's Your Chance...
2008 PREACHER IDOL Calling All Pew Sitters - Canada Needs You!Maybe you’ve always wondered if you have what it takes to be the next Billy Graham, Martin Luther King Jr., Charles Price, Chuck Swindoll, Bruxy Cavey, Kay Arthur, Tony Campolo, Paul B. Smith, A. W. Tozer, Mike Yaconelli, Malcolm Muggeridge, or Rick Warren!
TDMS is offering you the chance to step out of the pew and into the pulpit!Any good preacher worth their salt knows that there are many people sitting in the pews, each and every Sunday, who are better at preaching than they are! The Drew Marshall Show is on a quest to find "the average Joe - pew sitter" who could be Canada’s next great preacher. God knows, we need authentic, transparent, vulnerable preachers of integrity - maybe that’s you!
TDMS is offering you the chance to step out of the pew and into the pulpit!Any good preacher worth their salt knows that there are many people sitting in the pews, each and every Sunday, who are better at preaching than they are! The Drew Marshall Show is on a quest to find "the average Joe - pew sitter" who could be Canada’s next great preacher. God knows, we need authentic, transparent, vulnerable preachers of integrity - maybe that’s you!
Follow this link http://www.drewmarshall.ca/preacheridol.html
Sunday's Rehash
Although I didn't think my sermon went real well on Sunday. I did think my outline would have been one that Warren Wiersbe would have been proud of. I was continuing a series of messages from the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew entitled Keys to Kingdom Living. Sunday's message was called Murder and Relationships. Jesus stresses
1. Real Spirituality over Rules (5:21-22)
2. Reconciliation over Religion (5:23-24)
3. Relationships over Rights. (5:25-26)
Read it for yourself and see how God speaks to you.
1. Real Spirituality over Rules (5:21-22)
2. Reconciliation over Religion (5:23-24)
3. Relationships over Rights. (5:25-26)
Read it for yourself and see how God speaks to you.
This sounds like me
Recently, I was diagnosed with AAADD: Age Activated Attention Deficit Disorder.
This is how it manifests: I decided to wash my car. As I started toward the garage, I spotted the mail on the hall table. I should go through the mail before I wash the car. I lay the car keys on the table, put the junk mail in the trash can under the table, and notice that the trash can is full. So, I put the bills back on the table and take out the trash first. Since I'm going to be near the mailbox when I take out the trash anyway, might as well pay the bills first.
I see my checkbook on the table, but there is only one check left. My extra checks are in my desk in the study, so I go to my desk, where I find the bottle of juice that I had been drinking. I'm going to look for my checks, but first I need to push the juice aside so that I don't accidentally knock it over.
But the juice is getting warm, and should be put in the refrigerator to kept it cold. Heading toward the kitchen with the juice, a vase of flowers on the counter catches my eye. They need to be watered. I set the juice down on the counter, and find my reading glasses, for which I've been searching all morning. I had better put them back on my desk, but first I'm going to water the flowers. I set the glasses back down on the counter, fill a container with water, and suddenly spot the TV remote. Someone left it on the kitchen table. Tonight when we sit down to watch TV, we will be looking for the remote, but nobody will remember that it's on the kitchen table. I should put it back in the den where it belongs, but first I'll water the flowers. I splash some water on the flowers, but most of it spills on the floor. So, I put the remote back down on the table, and get some towels to wipe the spill. Then I head down the hall trying to remember what I was planning to do.
At the end of the day: - the car isn't washed, - the bills aren't paid, - there is a warm bottle of juice sitting on the counter, - the flowers aren't watered, - there is still only one check in my checkbook, - I can't find the remote, - I can't find my glasses, - and I don't remember what I did with the car keys. -I'm trying to figure out why nothing got done today; -it's quite baffling because I know I was busy all day long, and I'm really tired. - I know this is a serious problem, and I'll try to get some help for it, - but first I'll check my e-mail.
This is how it manifests: I decided to wash my car. As I started toward the garage, I spotted the mail on the hall table. I should go through the mail before I wash the car. I lay the car keys on the table, put the junk mail in the trash can under the table, and notice that the trash can is full. So, I put the bills back on the table and take out the trash first. Since I'm going to be near the mailbox when I take out the trash anyway, might as well pay the bills first.
I see my checkbook on the table, but there is only one check left. My extra checks are in my desk in the study, so I go to my desk, where I find the bottle of juice that I had been drinking. I'm going to look for my checks, but first I need to push the juice aside so that I don't accidentally knock it over.
But the juice is getting warm, and should be put in the refrigerator to kept it cold. Heading toward the kitchen with the juice, a vase of flowers on the counter catches my eye. They need to be watered. I set the juice down on the counter, and find my reading glasses, for which I've been searching all morning. I had better put them back on my desk, but first I'm going to water the flowers. I set the glasses back down on the counter, fill a container with water, and suddenly spot the TV remote. Someone left it on the kitchen table. Tonight when we sit down to watch TV, we will be looking for the remote, but nobody will remember that it's on the kitchen table. I should put it back in the den where it belongs, but first I'll water the flowers. I splash some water on the flowers, but most of it spills on the floor. So, I put the remote back down on the table, and get some towels to wipe the spill. Then I head down the hall trying to remember what I was planning to do.
At the end of the day: - the car isn't washed, - the bills aren't paid, - there is a warm bottle of juice sitting on the counter, - the flowers aren't watered, - there is still only one check in my checkbook, - I can't find the remote, - I can't find my glasses, - and I don't remember what I did with the car keys. -I'm trying to figure out why nothing got done today; -it's quite baffling because I know I was busy all day long, and I'm really tired. - I know this is a serious problem, and I'll try to get some help for it, - but first I'll check my e-mail.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
And so it begins...
Woody Allen once quipped that 75 percent of success is showing up. Well, today, after much talk my blogging journey begins. Today, I show up!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
