"Pointing to his disciples, he said, 'Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.'"
Matthew 12:49-50
Jesus surrounded himself with people who were like family to him. Although he was a leader, a rabbi, to them, they were also a support system for him. They got him food, talked with him, prayed with him, traveled with him, and challenged him, whether knowingly or not. As he died, he appointed one of his disciples to replace him as Mary's son. He also had an "inner circle," of three of his disciples, who were even closer to him that the rest. Jesus didn't mess around as far as friendships went.
That being said, my task today was to evaluate the people with whom I spend my time. Are they uplifting me? Am I helping them? Do I have anybody in my "group" who is dragging me down, making my work and my life more difficult? Is there someone in my group who would betray me? I'm not saying that's a necessity by any means, but Jesus definitely knew what he was getting into having Judas amongst his disciples, and I should make sure I know my friends, too.
Without a great support system, Jesus would have had a much harder time doing ministry. In the Gospels, he sends all of his disciples out two by two and, "They went out and preached that people should repent" (Mark 6:12). How many more people heard the good news because Jesus had such a great community? Many times after he healed someone, he would send them back with the command to tell their families and friends about what had happened and who had done it. The love and support of a vast group of people from different walks of life helped Jesus' ministry to be exceptional.
30.7.11
28.7.11
Day 21
"While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples...Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, and they all drank from it."
Mark 14:22-23
I am extremely blessed. I have a wonderful husband, a house I don't pay for, food, two cars, more jobs than I can keep up with, great friends, a wonderful family, a healthy body, and much, much more. Yet there are plenty of days where I decide that I have nothing to be thankful for. I go hours, days, weeks, without realizing how blessed I am, much less taking 3 seconds to thank God for all the blessings he rains down upon me.
Yet Jesus thanked God for the simple blessings of food, drink, and friends with which to share them. Even though one of them was about to betray him. Even though another was about to deny him. Even though the rest of them wouldn't even take the time to be near him during his time of need. Even though his own mother was going to watch him suffer and die. Even though he wasn't going to live long enough to fully digest his food. Wow.
So today I did my best to be thankful. I started just by thinking about all the amazing blessings in my life (the short list is above). Then, as I drove to work this morning, I thanked God for a beautiful day and for the blessing of work. As always, I thanked him for my food. I even remembered to be thankful for the opportunity to borrow a beachouse and spend the day on the beach--even after the water was freezing and it started to rain on us. I'm going to write out a list of all the blessings in my life and hang them somewhere in the house. Maybe I'll go old school and cut out words from magazines and make a collage. In any case, I want to remind myself of how wonderful God has been to me. Then maybe when times get tough, I'll remember that life is good, and God is great.
Mark 14:22-23
I am extremely blessed. I have a wonderful husband, a house I don't pay for, food, two cars, more jobs than I can keep up with, great friends, a wonderful family, a healthy body, and much, much more. Yet there are plenty of days where I decide that I have nothing to be thankful for. I go hours, days, weeks, without realizing how blessed I am, much less taking 3 seconds to thank God for all the blessings he rains down upon me.
Yet Jesus thanked God for the simple blessings of food, drink, and friends with which to share them. Even though one of them was about to betray him. Even though another was about to deny him. Even though the rest of them wouldn't even take the time to be near him during his time of need. Even though his own mother was going to watch him suffer and die. Even though he wasn't going to live long enough to fully digest his food. Wow.
So today I did my best to be thankful. I started just by thinking about all the amazing blessings in my life (the short list is above). Then, as I drove to work this morning, I thanked God for a beautiful day and for the blessing of work. As always, I thanked him for my food. I even remembered to be thankful for the opportunity to borrow a beachouse and spend the day on the beach--even after the water was freezing and it started to rain on us. I'm going to write out a list of all the blessings in my life and hang them somewhere in the house. Maybe I'll go old school and cut out words from magazines and make a collage. In any case, I want to remind myself of how wonderful God has been to me. Then maybe when times get tough, I'll remember that life is good, and God is great.
27.7.11
Day 20
"'Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like men waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. I tell you the truth, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the second or third watch of the night.'"
Matthew 12:35-38
Well, halfway through the experiment, I'm definitely feeling closer to God. I am aware of my negative qualities and challenges as both a Christian and a future minister, but I am also more apt to pray, serve, and try to be more like Jesus, even when I fail. I'm only human--I'm not Jesus, and I never claimed to be. But I am a Christ follower, and as such, I should follow his commands and example for my life. Thanks to all of you who are cheeirng and praying me on, because this has not been an easy journey, but it was one I felt compelled to take.
I know that the verse above is more about being patient for Jesus' return, but I think it applies to patience in general, as well. I babysat from 8:30 this morning until 7 this evening, so I figured that would be a good test of my patience. At the first house, the little girl didn't want to go to sleep for her morning OR afternoon nap, so I had to wait out the sadness and crying, which is always sad.
At the next house, the baby boy cried as soon as he woke up from his nap, and then he cried a ridiculous amount afterward. Having a baby scream in my ear is definitely a test of patience. It didn't help that I finally calmed him down by going outside, and he immediately freaked out when we went back outside. Didn't he understand that I had to listen for his sister on the baby monitor? Another test...
The last family went great. Daniel was super excited to see me, and clearly missed me while I was gone for several weeks. He didn't make me want to scream, and it was probably one of the best days I've had with him. No more tests of patience.
I'm not by nature a patient person. But Jesus reminds me that life brings plenty of situations that require watching and waiting. Besides the day to day problems that we face, there is the greater waiting for Jesus' return. We have to be alert and waiting expectantly to usher in that great day. I will have to develop much better patience if I can wait for that day without going crazy. More praying!
Matthew 12:35-38
Well, halfway through the experiment, I'm definitely feeling closer to God. I am aware of my negative qualities and challenges as both a Christian and a future minister, but I am also more apt to pray, serve, and try to be more like Jesus, even when I fail. I'm only human--I'm not Jesus, and I never claimed to be. But I am a Christ follower, and as such, I should follow his commands and example for my life. Thanks to all of you who are cheeirng and praying me on, because this has not been an easy journey, but it was one I felt compelled to take.
I know that the verse above is more about being patient for Jesus' return, but I think it applies to patience in general, as well. I babysat from 8:30 this morning until 7 this evening, so I figured that would be a good test of my patience. At the first house, the little girl didn't want to go to sleep for her morning OR afternoon nap, so I had to wait out the sadness and crying, which is always sad.
At the next house, the baby boy cried as soon as he woke up from his nap, and then he cried a ridiculous amount afterward. Having a baby scream in my ear is definitely a test of patience. It didn't help that I finally calmed him down by going outside, and he immediately freaked out when we went back outside. Didn't he understand that I had to listen for his sister on the baby monitor? Another test...
The last family went great. Daniel was super excited to see me, and clearly missed me while I was gone for several weeks. He didn't make me want to scream, and it was probably one of the best days I've had with him. No more tests of patience.
I'm not by nature a patient person. But Jesus reminds me that life brings plenty of situations that require watching and waiting. Besides the day to day problems that we face, there is the greater waiting for Jesus' return. We have to be alert and waiting expectantly to usher in that great day. I will have to develop much better patience if I can wait for that day without going crazy. More praying!
26.7.11
Day 19
"Again Jesus said, 'Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.' And with that he breathed on them and said, 'Receive the Holy Spirit.'"
John 20:21-22
As I thought about this Scripture this morning, I realized that peace is a very elusive thing. Jesus urges his disciples, who had recently lost their rabbi, the man they thought would save the world, and were definitely not at peace. But there is nothing the disciples have done or can do to achieve this peace on their own. Jesus bestows peace through the Holy Spirit upon the disciples. Sure, the disciples had seen their risen lord, but that certainly didn't solve all the problems they had. Now there were just more questions than answers: Where did he come from? How did he come back? Why didn't he rescue us from the Romans the first time around? Yet Jesus offers them peace. We have all received the Holy Spirit and peace in the same way. We just have to accept that life will not be perfect, and things will still go wrong. Easy enough, right? But true peace, the peace that "passes all understanding" is not affected by the day to day. It is rooted in God's awesome love, Christ's self-giving gesture, and the Spirit's constant presence. I hope I can remember that always.
John 20:21-22
As I thought about this Scripture this morning, I realized that peace is a very elusive thing. Jesus urges his disciples, who had recently lost their rabbi, the man they thought would save the world, and were definitely not at peace. But there is nothing the disciples have done or can do to achieve this peace on their own. Jesus bestows peace through the Holy Spirit upon the disciples. Sure, the disciples had seen their risen lord, but that certainly didn't solve all the problems they had. Now there were just more questions than answers: Where did he come from? How did he come back? Why didn't he rescue us from the Romans the first time around? Yet Jesus offers them peace. We have all received the Holy Spirit and peace in the same way. We just have to accept that life will not be perfect, and things will still go wrong. Easy enough, right? But true peace, the peace that "passes all understanding" is not affected by the day to day. It is rooted in God's awesome love, Christ's self-giving gesture, and the Spirit's constant presence. I hope I can remember that always.
25.7.11
"'Abba, Father,' he said, 'everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.'"
Mark 14:36
Jesus doesn't hold anything back when he's praying to his Father, and his example is a great one to follow. Sometimes, I spend too much time faking my way through my prayers. Instead of honestly telling God, "This sucks! Please change this!", I thank God for all the wonderful things in my life. Not that thanking God is a bad thing, but it is bad to be genuine with the world and false with God. God already knows what I want/need before I ask for it, but that shouldn't stop me from asking. Wes knows when I'm getting hungry, tired, want a backrub, etc., but I still tell him. How much more should I do the same with God?
The second half of this is that Jesus doesn't assume he is going to get what he asks. He says, "Yet not what I will, but what you will." When I am honest with God, God is completely honest in return. When I was younger, I used to love the song "Unanswered Prayers" by Garth Brooks. In it, he says that God sometimes leaves prayers unanswered. Now, I disagree with this song wholeheartedly. God never leaves us hanging. But sometimes, God says, "No. That's not my plan for you. I love you completely, and that's not what's best for you."
Wes and I have had a couple of issues we have been praying about over the past few weeks. As I prayed about these things today, I made sure that I prayed sincerely, but also left myself open to God's answer, no matter what that is. I encourage all of you to do the same!
Mark 14:36
Jesus doesn't hold anything back when he's praying to his Father, and his example is a great one to follow. Sometimes, I spend too much time faking my way through my prayers. Instead of honestly telling God, "This sucks! Please change this!", I thank God for all the wonderful things in my life. Not that thanking God is a bad thing, but it is bad to be genuine with the world and false with God. God already knows what I want/need before I ask for it, but that shouldn't stop me from asking. Wes knows when I'm getting hungry, tired, want a backrub, etc., but I still tell him. How much more should I do the same with God?
The second half of this is that Jesus doesn't assume he is going to get what he asks. He says, "Yet not what I will, but what you will." When I am honest with God, God is completely honest in return. When I was younger, I used to love the song "Unanswered Prayers" by Garth Brooks. In it, he says that God sometimes leaves prayers unanswered. Now, I disagree with this song wholeheartedly. God never leaves us hanging. But sometimes, God says, "No. That's not my plan for you. I love you completely, and that's not what's best for you."
Wes and I have had a couple of issues we have been praying about over the past few weeks. As I prayed about these things today, I made sure that I prayed sincerely, but also left myself open to God's answer, no matter what that is. I encourage all of you to do the same!
24.7.11
Day 18
"'Is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?'”
He saw through their duplicity and said to them, 'Show me a denarius. Whose portrait and inscription are on it?'
'Caesar’s,' they replied.
He said to them, 'Then give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.'"
Luke 20:22-25
Wes and I are pretty good about tithing. We also pay our taxes. So why do I write about this particular passage today? Because giving to "Caesar" what belongs to him and giving to God what belongs to him extend much farther than just giving back a portion of what we have earned. Being a part of American society means that we should be giving our time and energy to supporting jobs, people, education, and life in America. This, of course, should not be done to the exclusion of other countries, and Jesus also calls us to support the poor throughout the world. However, we are Americans, and we owe a debt of gratitude to the country and the people who allow us the rich lives that we lead.
At the same time, and on a much bigger scale, tithing does not come anywhere near encompassing the return of all that belongs to God. Everything we have, from our money to our lives, is a gift from God. Even that which we return to "Caesar" was never "Caesar's" or ours to give. God grants us all things, so we will never be able to pay him back for all that he has done. We are not called to try to repay the great debt we owe God. We are called to remember the great things he has done, and give all things, from our time to our lives, back to God.
Today, I thought about how I live my life. Yes, I devote at least an hour per week to worshipping God, I tithe, etc. But have I really been surrendering all that is God's to him? I frequently spend more money on eating out and going to movies in a month than I do supporting ministry and doing God's work in the world. I spend most of my week working, watching TV, reading, and hanging out with Wes. Do I really dedicate that time to God? Part of being a Christian is giving of myself, and I definitely need some work in this area. Praying more frequently is a good start. But I am also committing myself to spending at least one hour of time outside of church each week devoted specifically to God.
He saw through their duplicity and said to them, 'Show me a denarius. Whose portrait and inscription are on it?'
'Caesar’s,' they replied.
He said to them, 'Then give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.'"
Luke 20:22-25
Wes and I are pretty good about tithing. We also pay our taxes. So why do I write about this particular passage today? Because giving to "Caesar" what belongs to him and giving to God what belongs to him extend much farther than just giving back a portion of what we have earned. Being a part of American society means that we should be giving our time and energy to supporting jobs, people, education, and life in America. This, of course, should not be done to the exclusion of other countries, and Jesus also calls us to support the poor throughout the world. However, we are Americans, and we owe a debt of gratitude to the country and the people who allow us the rich lives that we lead.
At the same time, and on a much bigger scale, tithing does not come anywhere near encompassing the return of all that belongs to God. Everything we have, from our money to our lives, is a gift from God. Even that which we return to "Caesar" was never "Caesar's" or ours to give. God grants us all things, so we will never be able to pay him back for all that he has done. We are not called to try to repay the great debt we owe God. We are called to remember the great things he has done, and give all things, from our time to our lives, back to God.
Today, I thought about how I live my life. Yes, I devote at least an hour per week to worshipping God, I tithe, etc. But have I really been surrendering all that is God's to him? I frequently spend more money on eating out and going to movies in a month than I do supporting ministry and doing God's work in the world. I spend most of my week working, watching TV, reading, and hanging out with Wes. Do I really dedicate that time to God? Part of being a Christian is giving of myself, and I definitely need some work in this area. Praying more frequently is a good start. But I am also committing myself to spending at least one hour of time outside of church each week devoted specifically to God.
22.7.11
Day 17
"When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, 'Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.'"
John 6:12
As some of you may know, Wes and I have been making a pretty good effort to be easier on the environment. I've always been a recycler, but I just recently read about how recycling should actually be our last-ditch effort. We frequently forget about "reduce" and "reuse," which are much better ways to help our environment. For example, buying a used car is much better than buying a new car and then recycling it when you're done. Using less water is better than developing a system to recycle water within your house. Although a lot of poeple have made great strides in recycling, we usually forget that there are earlier steps in the process that would help the earth more.
After reading many articles and books about being environmentally responsible, I have started to look more closely at my day-to-day habits. Do I really need to print something out, or can I save a file instead of using a piece of paper? Can I shower by the light of the sun in the mornings, or do I really need to turn the overhead light on? The little things we do on an everyday basis are really the things that make a difference.
Why was Jesus so concerned with collecting the leftovers from this feast of bread and fish? Was it simply so that the amount of leftovers could be recorded, or was there a higher purpose? In this story in John, Jesus clearly states that the purpose is to avoid waste. During Jesus' lifetime, food and wealth were hard to come by, so one can assume that he collected these leftovers to continue to feed himself, his followers, and/or the poor. Yet Jesus is also the Son of God, who created the universe and everything in it. Perhaps his concern for not wasting is related to the beauty and fragility of the earth, and reminds us that part of our duty as faithful people is to care for the earth and all that is in it.
John 6:12
As some of you may know, Wes and I have been making a pretty good effort to be easier on the environment. I've always been a recycler, but I just recently read about how recycling should actually be our last-ditch effort. We frequently forget about "reduce" and "reuse," which are much better ways to help our environment. For example, buying a used car is much better than buying a new car and then recycling it when you're done. Using less water is better than developing a system to recycle water within your house. Although a lot of poeple have made great strides in recycling, we usually forget that there are earlier steps in the process that would help the earth more.
After reading many articles and books about being environmentally responsible, I have started to look more closely at my day-to-day habits. Do I really need to print something out, or can I save a file instead of using a piece of paper? Can I shower by the light of the sun in the mornings, or do I really need to turn the overhead light on? The little things we do on an everyday basis are really the things that make a difference.
Why was Jesus so concerned with collecting the leftovers from this feast of bread and fish? Was it simply so that the amount of leftovers could be recorded, or was there a higher purpose? In this story in John, Jesus clearly states that the purpose is to avoid waste. During Jesus' lifetime, food and wealth were hard to come by, so one can assume that he collected these leftovers to continue to feed himself, his followers, and/or the poor. Yet Jesus is also the Son of God, who created the universe and everything in it. Perhaps his concern for not wasting is related to the beauty and fragility of the earth, and reminds us that part of our duty as faithful people is to care for the earth and all that is in it.
21.7.11
Day 16
"Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the desert, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry.
The devil said to him, 'If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.'
Jesus answered, 'It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone.''"
Luke 4:1-4
Unlike some of the "great" Christians today, Jesus does not spout Scripture in every situation. But he was clearly knowledgable about Scripture, for he was able to argue with Satan with his understanding. At other points in the Gospels, Jesus tells his followers to obey the law, and knows the passages to support his claims, as well. The power of knowledge is clear throughout Jesus' ministry.
In my defense, I have more Scripture to learn that Jesus did. Haha. My point is that, armed with Scripture, I can fend off even the greatest of enemies. I don't want to become a person who uses Scripture in such a way that I scare of new and potential Christians, but I do want to be knowledgable enough to share important passages when necessary for comfort, discussions, sermons, etc.
I have studied the Bible fairly well throughout college, and I know that this learning will definitely continue during my seminary studies. But I will only learn based on the amount of effort I put into my studies. The Bible is vast; the nuances are limitless, and all I can do is study and learn as much as possible. No one can teach me everything there is to know about the Bible, nor can I possibly hope to learn it. With endless possibilities, there is something new to learn each day, and all I can do is dive in and enjoy the awesome power of God's word.
The devil said to him, 'If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.'
Jesus answered, 'It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone.''"
Luke 4:1-4
Unlike some of the "great" Christians today, Jesus does not spout Scripture in every situation. But he was clearly knowledgable about Scripture, for he was able to argue with Satan with his understanding. At other points in the Gospels, Jesus tells his followers to obey the law, and knows the passages to support his claims, as well. The power of knowledge is clear throughout Jesus' ministry.
In my defense, I have more Scripture to learn that Jesus did. Haha. My point is that, armed with Scripture, I can fend off even the greatest of enemies. I don't want to become a person who uses Scripture in such a way that I scare of new and potential Christians, but I do want to be knowledgable enough to share important passages when necessary for comfort, discussions, sermons, etc.
I have studied the Bible fairly well throughout college, and I know that this learning will definitely continue during my seminary studies. But I will only learn based on the amount of effort I put into my studies. The Bible is vast; the nuances are limitless, and all I can do is study and learn as much as possible. No one can teach me everything there is to know about the Bible, nor can I possibly hope to learn it. With endless possibilities, there is something new to learn each day, and all I can do is dive in and enjoy the awesome power of God's word.
Day 15- from yesterday
“Then one of the synagogue rulers, named Jairus, came there. Seeing Jesus, he fell at his feet and pleaded earnestly with him, ‘My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.’ So Jesus went with him.
A large crowd followed and pressed around him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought, ‘If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.’ Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.”
Mark 5:22-29
In Lifestories, Mark Hall uses one chapter to talk about how much of Jesus’ ministry happens when he’s on his way somewhere else. On the road to Jairus’ house, he heals this woman who has had a flow of blood for 12 years. On his way through Samaria, he brings an entire city to believe in him. And the list goes on. Jesus never let his destination or timeline get in the way of his ministry.
Ministry is not something that Jesus did when he got somewhere. If he was on his way to Capernum and someone asked for healing, that person received healing. Jesus wasn’t waiting for “the next thing” or “the right time” to do ministry. His ministry happened exactly when someone needed ministry, and the same should be true for us.
I frequently catch myself thinking about that day when I’ll be a pastor. But it doesn’t take an MDiv and ordination to make a person a minister. Jesus does that for us. A piece of paper doesn’t change who God has already created me to be, and I am called to be a minister to God’s people. There’s no waiting. It’s happening right now, and whenever I think of school as “planning” for ministry, or seeing the churches here as “practice.” There’s no waiting. My ministry is now, every day, in every action.
A large crowd followed and pressed around him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought, ‘If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.’ Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.”
Mark 5:22-29
In Lifestories, Mark Hall uses one chapter to talk about how much of Jesus’ ministry happens when he’s on his way somewhere else. On the road to Jairus’ house, he heals this woman who has had a flow of blood for 12 years. On his way through Samaria, he brings an entire city to believe in him. And the list goes on. Jesus never let his destination or timeline get in the way of his ministry.
Ministry is not something that Jesus did when he got somewhere. If he was on his way to Capernum and someone asked for healing, that person received healing. Jesus wasn’t waiting for “the next thing” or “the right time” to do ministry. His ministry happened exactly when someone needed ministry, and the same should be true for us.
I frequently catch myself thinking about that day when I’ll be a pastor. But it doesn’t take an MDiv and ordination to make a person a minister. Jesus does that for us. A piece of paper doesn’t change who God has already created me to be, and I am called to be a minister to God’s people. There’s no waiting. It’s happening right now, and whenever I think of school as “planning” for ministry, or seeing the churches here as “practice.” There’s no waiting. My ministry is now, every day, in every action.
19.7.11
Day 14
"'Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.'"
Matthew 23:27-28
I've been reading an absolutely wonderful book by Mark Hall, the lead singer of Casting Crowns. The book is Lifestories: Finding God's "Voice of Truth" Through Everyday Life, and he talks about writing many of the songs on Casting Crowns' first CD. This verse came up regarding the song "Stained Glass Masquerade." The song and the chapter deal extensively with our outward appearance as Christians. Do we plaster on a mask every day, pretending that being Christians means our lives are perfect? Do I have some sort of facade up to make sure people think my life is perfect just because I love Jesus?
Today's goal was to determine whether or not I live my life in a genuine way. We had the local ministerium breakfast this morning, and I listened not only to what I was saying, but what everyone was saying about their lives. We spent a lot of time talking about books we're reading, events we'd like to have, our connections in space and time, etc. But we didn't talk about the problems we're experiencing in ministry, the issues we have in our personal life, and the hurts and griefs we encounter on a daily basis. Even the local pastors can't minister to each other in their places of pain. What kind of facade do we put on for everyone else?
I learned a valuable lesson from this meal, and I hope to correct this problem in my life. If we put forth a perfect facade, how will people be introduced to a true Christian faith? Unless we share our sins and struggles, we will never be able to help other people let Jesus into their lives.
Matthew 23:27-28
I've been reading an absolutely wonderful book by Mark Hall, the lead singer of Casting Crowns. The book is Lifestories: Finding God's "Voice of Truth" Through Everyday Life, and he talks about writing many of the songs on Casting Crowns' first CD. This verse came up regarding the song "Stained Glass Masquerade." The song and the chapter deal extensively with our outward appearance as Christians. Do we plaster on a mask every day, pretending that being Christians means our lives are perfect? Do I have some sort of facade up to make sure people think my life is perfect just because I love Jesus?
Today's goal was to determine whether or not I live my life in a genuine way. We had the local ministerium breakfast this morning, and I listened not only to what I was saying, but what everyone was saying about their lives. We spent a lot of time talking about books we're reading, events we'd like to have, our connections in space and time, etc. But we didn't talk about the problems we're experiencing in ministry, the issues we have in our personal life, and the hurts and griefs we encounter on a daily basis. Even the local pastors can't minister to each other in their places of pain. What kind of facade do we put on for everyone else?
I learned a valuable lesson from this meal, and I hope to correct this problem in my life. If we put forth a perfect facade, how will people be introduced to a true Christian faith? Unless we share our sins and struggles, we will never be able to help other people let Jesus into their lives.
18.7.11
Day 13
'"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?
'And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.'"
Matthew 6:25-34
Ahhhh, worrying. What a nice little pastime so many of us have in this life. I have to admit, I'm a huge culprit about worrying. And I don't worry about important things like getting enough food, clothes, or shelter. I worry about things like how Wes and I are going to pay for vacation 5 months from now, how we're going to raise our children, where we're going to be living when a certain event happens, when I should start thinking about/buying Christmas presents, etc., etc., etc. Just recently, I spent a few semi-sleepless nights up worrying about how we're going to afford adoption. Since we solved that problem, I've slept better. But I'm sure worries about whether or not my school books will arrive on time will keep me up again...
Worrying is such a waste of time. I don't think there is a single activity that is less productive that worrying. Worrying is counterproductive in the worst way. Jesus reminds us that we can't add even a second to our lives by worrying. And studies show that all that worrying actually takes years away from us. Yet it's so addictive. How many times have you laid awake worrying about something, only to get completely carried away and worry about even the most ridiculous, practically impossible things?
Much like my defense of having a healthy dose of cynicism, I think there is room in life for a little worrying. Not the nagging, distracting, keeping you awake kind of worry, but the kind that brings caution. Worrying about a teenaged child going off alone with their friends for the first time means you'll establish rules that will most likely keep them safe. Worrying about running out of gas means you'll probably never let your tank get low enough for that to be a problem. These worries are (hopefully) the come-and-go type. You address the issues, and the worry goes away.
My day of trying not to worry went pretty well. I didn't worry about being late to my appointment, and--lo and behold-- I wasn't. I didn't worry about my stomach hurting a little this morning, and the situation resolved itself. Focusing on not worrying gave me time for a wonderful worship experience in the car on the way to my appointment, and reading time this afternoon. Yet there are still the nagging worries in the back of my head: what if I fail at seminary? What if Wes and I never do the things we want to do? What if something bad happens to someone I love? The only way to combat these fears is to keep working on my prayer life. God will take care of me, but I need to let go of my need to always be in control.
'And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.'"
Matthew 6:25-34
Ahhhh, worrying. What a nice little pastime so many of us have in this life. I have to admit, I'm a huge culprit about worrying. And I don't worry about important things like getting enough food, clothes, or shelter. I worry about things like how Wes and I are going to pay for vacation 5 months from now, how we're going to raise our children, where we're going to be living when a certain event happens, when I should start thinking about/buying Christmas presents, etc., etc., etc. Just recently, I spent a few semi-sleepless nights up worrying about how we're going to afford adoption. Since we solved that problem, I've slept better. But I'm sure worries about whether or not my school books will arrive on time will keep me up again...
Worrying is such a waste of time. I don't think there is a single activity that is less productive that worrying. Worrying is counterproductive in the worst way. Jesus reminds us that we can't add even a second to our lives by worrying. And studies show that all that worrying actually takes years away from us. Yet it's so addictive. How many times have you laid awake worrying about something, only to get completely carried away and worry about even the most ridiculous, practically impossible things?
Much like my defense of having a healthy dose of cynicism, I think there is room in life for a little worrying. Not the nagging, distracting, keeping you awake kind of worry, but the kind that brings caution. Worrying about a teenaged child going off alone with their friends for the first time means you'll establish rules that will most likely keep them safe. Worrying about running out of gas means you'll probably never let your tank get low enough for that to be a problem. These worries are (hopefully) the come-and-go type. You address the issues, and the worry goes away.
My day of trying not to worry went pretty well. I didn't worry about being late to my appointment, and--lo and behold-- I wasn't. I didn't worry about my stomach hurting a little this morning, and the situation resolved itself. Focusing on not worrying gave me time for a wonderful worship experience in the car on the way to my appointment, and reading time this afternoon. Yet there are still the nagging worries in the back of my head: what if I fail at seminary? What if Wes and I never do the things we want to do? What if something bad happens to someone I love? The only way to combat these fears is to keep working on my prayer life. God will take care of me, but I need to let go of my need to always be in control.
17.7.11
Day 12
"'Why do you call me good?' Jesus answered. 'No one is good—except God alone.'"
Mark 10:18
Today's challenge is probably the most difficult so far: humility. Jesus claims that he is not even worthy of being called "good." All of his actions point to God and God's role in life.
There are times in my life when I feel like I'm doing a pretty good job of being humble. Whenever I sing at church, I am awed by the wonderful gifts God has given me. Yet there are many times in life when I am very proud of something I feel I have accomplished. I spend a lot of time being extremely not-humble about all the gifts God has bestowed upon me.
Throughout the day, I spent time thanking God for all that he does in my life, and all that he gives me. I didn't really have any major opportunities to be humble, but I definitely thought about all of the times when I should be humble. God is absolutely wonderful to me, and all that I have comes from his graciousness. I hope I can remember that in the coming days, as well.
Mark 10:18
Today's challenge is probably the most difficult so far: humility. Jesus claims that he is not even worthy of being called "good." All of his actions point to God and God's role in life.
There are times in my life when I feel like I'm doing a pretty good job of being humble. Whenever I sing at church, I am awed by the wonderful gifts God has given me. Yet there are many times in life when I am very proud of something I feel I have accomplished. I spend a lot of time being extremely not-humble about all the gifts God has bestowed upon me.
Throughout the day, I spent time thanking God for all that he does in my life, and all that he gives me. I didn't really have any major opportunities to be humble, but I definitely thought about all of the times when I should be humble. God is absolutely wonderful to me, and all that I have comes from his graciousness. I hope I can remember that in the coming days, as well.
Day 11
"'Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.'"
Matthew 7:1-5
This is actually yesterday's post. I forgot to do it before I went to bed last night...sorry, fans!
I think that this goes hand-in-hand with my first day's post about treating others well. Yet I find myself judging others pretty often. Even when I was thinking about it yesterday, I found myself judging a mom for the way she was ignoring her children, a driver who felt the need to pull around me to run a red light, a man who was dressed differently...and the list goes on. I can't even imagine how often I judge people when I'm not paying attention to it.
Although I know the blame rests heavily on my shoulders, I think we as Americans are at a disadvantage with this command. We are bombarded day after day with shows that tell people they look terrible, news articles about how awful our neighbors are, and tabloids full of gossip and judgement of every minor celebrity they can trash. It's hard to not judge others when we feel like we're constantly being judged ourselves. Maybe if I judge first, the other person won't have time to think about how to trash me.
Yet Jesus tells us that all of our judgement will be returned to us. When I judge someone else, not only am I ignoring my own wrongdoing, I am multiplying it through the act of judging. Instead, I should be focusing on making myself a better person--and then leading by example, through Christ's strength.
Matthew 7:1-5
This is actually yesterday's post. I forgot to do it before I went to bed last night...sorry, fans!
I think that this goes hand-in-hand with my first day's post about treating others well. Yet I find myself judging others pretty often. Even when I was thinking about it yesterday, I found myself judging a mom for the way she was ignoring her children, a driver who felt the need to pull around me to run a red light, a man who was dressed differently...and the list goes on. I can't even imagine how often I judge people when I'm not paying attention to it.
Although I know the blame rests heavily on my shoulders, I think we as Americans are at a disadvantage with this command. We are bombarded day after day with shows that tell people they look terrible, news articles about how awful our neighbors are, and tabloids full of gossip and judgement of every minor celebrity they can trash. It's hard to not judge others when we feel like we're constantly being judged ourselves. Maybe if I judge first, the other person won't have time to think about how to trash me.
Yet Jesus tells us that all of our judgement will be returned to us. When I judge someone else, not only am I ignoring my own wrongdoing, I am multiplying it through the act of judging. Instead, I should be focusing on making myself a better person--and then leading by example, through Christ's strength.
14.7.11
Day 10
"'Do you understand what I have done for you?' he asked them. 'You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.'"
John 13:12-15
Martin Luther stated that we should look to the things that Jesus said rather than using him as an example. As a strong Lutheran, I have to wholeheartedly disagree. I think Jesus is an example for us in a completely different way than the great fathers like Abraham and Jacob, but he is an example nonetheless.
Today, I focused on setting a good example as a Christian. Any good parent, teacher, leader, or boss knows that leading by example is the best way to achieve results. Rewards and punishments, threats, yelling, etc. are not the right way to lead. If a parent wants their child to chew with her mouth closed, the parent needs to chew with his mouth closed. If a teacher wants her students to treat one another with respect, she needs to treat them with respect. And the list goes on.
Jesus knew this concept. Usually, he lead by example without saying anything to his disciples. He taught, preached, healed, and loved without explaining to his disciples that they should follow his lead. In this instance, as well as a few others, he says to his (admitedly slow to learn) disciples that they should follow his example.
So the question is, do I lead by example? I know that when I'm babysitting, I do my best to do so. But what about when I'm driving? Do I live liek a Christian then? What about when I eat out, watch a movie, or go to the park? I like to think that I set a good example most of the time. I treat servers with respect, as I would like to be treated. I try to nod hello to people when I'm out walking with Wes. There are definitely times when this is not the case. You may have guessed...one of those times is when I'm driving. I'm sure there are more, but I need to remember to lead by example, not get upset when people aren't acting the way I think they "should."
John 13:12-15
Martin Luther stated that we should look to the things that Jesus said rather than using him as an example. As a strong Lutheran, I have to wholeheartedly disagree. I think Jesus is an example for us in a completely different way than the great fathers like Abraham and Jacob, but he is an example nonetheless.
Today, I focused on setting a good example as a Christian. Any good parent, teacher, leader, or boss knows that leading by example is the best way to achieve results. Rewards and punishments, threats, yelling, etc. are not the right way to lead. If a parent wants their child to chew with her mouth closed, the parent needs to chew with his mouth closed. If a teacher wants her students to treat one another with respect, she needs to treat them with respect. And the list goes on.
Jesus knew this concept. Usually, he lead by example without saying anything to his disciples. He taught, preached, healed, and loved without explaining to his disciples that they should follow his lead. In this instance, as well as a few others, he says to his (admitedly slow to learn) disciples that they should follow his example.
So the question is, do I lead by example? I know that when I'm babysitting, I do my best to do so. But what about when I'm driving? Do I live liek a Christian then? What about when I eat out, watch a movie, or go to the park? I like to think that I set a good example most of the time. I treat servers with respect, as I would like to be treated. I try to nod hello to people when I'm out walking with Wes. There are definitely times when this is not the case. You may have guessed...one of those times is when I'm driving. I'm sure there are more, but I need to remember to lead by example, not get upset when people aren't acting the way I think they "should."
13.7.11
Day 9
“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.
Mark 1:17
Today, I focused on the fact that Jesus speaks to people wherever they are. When he preached or talked to his followers, he speaks to them at a level they could understand. He used references to their everyday lives: fishing, sowing, reaping, herding, tending, etc. I fully believe that Jesus continues to speak to our situations even today.
Every one of us has had the teacher that couldn't teach or write below his/her professional degree level, making it impossible for a student to understand. We've also all had the teacher who speaks to teenagers like they are kindergardeners. Neither of these teachers were effective. We were unable to learn from the first, and we were unable to respect the second. If Jesus spoke like that, no one would have taken him seriously. The same is true for those of us who are sharing the Gospel today.
Am I maknig myself available to those who want to hear the Gospel message from me? Am I speaking to them in a way that makes sense to them? Speaking in fishing or farming metaphors may work for my friend Andrew or the Ellis family, but how do I share the message with the children I babysit, their parents, other parishoners, servers, friends, family...? Can I speak to the people who need to hear God's message?
Mark 1:17
Today, I focused on the fact that Jesus speaks to people wherever they are. When he preached or talked to his followers, he speaks to them at a level they could understand. He used references to their everyday lives: fishing, sowing, reaping, herding, tending, etc. I fully believe that Jesus continues to speak to our situations even today.
Every one of us has had the teacher that couldn't teach or write below his/her professional degree level, making it impossible for a student to understand. We've also all had the teacher who speaks to teenagers like they are kindergardeners. Neither of these teachers were effective. We were unable to learn from the first, and we were unable to respect the second. If Jesus spoke like that, no one would have taken him seriously. The same is true for those of us who are sharing the Gospel today.
Am I maknig myself available to those who want to hear the Gospel message from me? Am I speaking to them in a way that makes sense to them? Speaking in fishing or farming metaphors may work for my friend Andrew or the Ellis family, but how do I share the message with the children I babysit, their parents, other parishoners, servers, friends, family...? Can I speak to the people who need to hear God's message?
12.7.11
Day 8
"When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, 'Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.' When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled.
'Where have you laid him?' he asked.
'Come and see, Lord,' they replied.
Jesus wept."
John 11:32-35
I think that last verse is one of the most powerful in the entire Bible. It contains so much feeling, so much meaning, and yet we frequently ignore this passage in our biblical studies. This is just a few verses after Jesus, in his knowledge of the proper time and season, waits two extra days before going to visit his sick friend. Jesus knows that he will raise Lazarus from the dead, knows that the mourners will have no cause for mourning in mere minutes. Yet he cries. Weeps. I think it's safe to assume that Jesus is weeping more for his friends who have had to mourn their brother for four days than for his dead friend. Lazarus is going to be fine--but nothing can take away the pain and sadness Martha and Mary have had to endure.
Jesus exhibits something much greater than sympathy: he literally feels the pain and heartache his friends and followers feel. As a Christ-follower, I think it's very important that I empathize with God's people. Today, instead of just ignoring when people bother me, or nodding sympathetically when someone has a problem, I tried to truly recognize their feelings. When someone cut me off on the road, I remembered times when I've cut others off--when I've been distracted, in a hurry, or upset. Instead of getting angry, I realized that this person could be in pain, and unaware of his/her surroundings.
A great parishoner from my home church underwent surgery for cancer today. Not only did I practice praying without ceasing for him throughout the day, but I tried my best to empathize with him and his wife during this trying day. The pain and sadness that exists in the world truly does make me sad, and I feel closer to Christ when I realize how messed up the world is. Next step: fixing that messed up-ness.
'Where have you laid him?' he asked.
'Come and see, Lord,' they replied.
Jesus wept."
John 11:32-35
I think that last verse is one of the most powerful in the entire Bible. It contains so much feeling, so much meaning, and yet we frequently ignore this passage in our biblical studies. This is just a few verses after Jesus, in his knowledge of the proper time and season, waits two extra days before going to visit his sick friend. Jesus knows that he will raise Lazarus from the dead, knows that the mourners will have no cause for mourning in mere minutes. Yet he cries. Weeps. I think it's safe to assume that Jesus is weeping more for his friends who have had to mourn their brother for four days than for his dead friend. Lazarus is going to be fine--but nothing can take away the pain and sadness Martha and Mary have had to endure.
Jesus exhibits something much greater than sympathy: he literally feels the pain and heartache his friends and followers feel. As a Christ-follower, I think it's very important that I empathize with God's people. Today, instead of just ignoring when people bother me, or nodding sympathetically when someone has a problem, I tried to truly recognize their feelings. When someone cut me off on the road, I remembered times when I've cut others off--when I've been distracted, in a hurry, or upset. Instead of getting angry, I realized that this person could be in pain, and unaware of his/her surroundings.
A great parishoner from my home church underwent surgery for cancer today. Not only did I practice praying without ceasing for him throughout the day, but I tried my best to empathize with him and his wife during this trying day. The pain and sadness that exists in the world truly does make me sad, and I feel closer to Christ when I realize how messed up the world is. Next step: fixing that messed up-ness.
11.7.11
Day 7
"Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them. Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'"
Matthew 19:14
I apologize for disappearing for a couple of days. I was pretty sick yesterday and Saturday, so I didn't have time to do any Jesusified-related things, and I felt bad writing when I didn't work on anything. Anyway, I'm much better now, and I'll just pick off where I left off.
As a Christ-follower, I think this might be the one thing I am best at. I can't imagine rebuking anyone for bringing children to Jesus. People brought their sick, poor, injured, weak, etc. to Jesus, yet the disciples would dare stop people from bringing children? The weakest, most easily sick, least important members of society?
I love kids. I can see that how the kingdom of heaven can be for children. They are so open, so willing, so ready to learn. They see the world as a new and exciting place each day, never growing bored with their toys, wearing out their favorite movies before tiring of them, playing the same game endlessly. If only we could recapture some of that "childishness," perhaps we would be able to better bring the kingdom of heaven to earth. That openness, honesty, and genuine enjoyment of life is what we all could use a little more of.
Matthew 19:14
I apologize for disappearing for a couple of days. I was pretty sick yesterday and Saturday, so I didn't have time to do any Jesusified-related things, and I felt bad writing when I didn't work on anything. Anyway, I'm much better now, and I'll just pick off where I left off.
As a Christ-follower, I think this might be the one thing I am best at. I can't imagine rebuking anyone for bringing children to Jesus. People brought their sick, poor, injured, weak, etc. to Jesus, yet the disciples would dare stop people from bringing children? The weakest, most easily sick, least important members of society?
I love kids. I can see that how the kingdom of heaven can be for children. They are so open, so willing, so ready to learn. They see the world as a new and exciting place each day, never growing bored with their toys, wearing out their favorite movies before tiring of them, playing the same game endlessly. If only we could recapture some of that "childishness," perhaps we would be able to better bring the kingdom of heaven to earth. That openness, honesty, and genuine enjoyment of life is what we all could use a little more of.
8.7.11
Day 6
"Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. Yet when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed where he was two more days."
John 11:5-6
So today was a good test of one of the qualities I think I lack the most: patience. There have been times in my life where I was more patient. When I was in Argentina, for example, I got used to other people--including professors--being 20 or 30 minutes late. I even started to adopt this habit, and I never rushed anywhere after my first month of living down there. Yet when I came back to the US, I was reminded that I'm supposed to be in a hurry and on time, and if I'm not both of these things, then I'm doing something wrong. I think this got even worse when we moved up to NJ, because people are ALWAYS in a hurry up here.
I have a hard time waiting on people who are late, but I also hate being late or running behind. If I'm not out the door in the morning at the exact time I thought was best, then I get stressed out. If I'm stuck in traffic and might be a few minutes late for something, I start running through short-cut or bypass options, forget to enjoy the music I'm listening to, and generally just start to get upset with everything and everyone around me.
Jesus never seems to be in a hurry, though. In the passage above, Jesus waits two days to leave after hearing that his friend Lazarus is sick. There is no mention of what he did during those two days, but I'm going to guess that he wasn't just waiting to leave. He was probably healing, teaching, and ministering to those who needed him. The time was not yet appropriate for him to leave and go to his friends. There was work to be done where he already was, and he was definitely going to finish it. The same is true when his followers want to hear him preach so badly that they walk around the sea to meet him at his destination. Jesus is constantly aware of the needs of his followers, and if taking care of them means delaying his plans a little, he will do just that.
I know that I should be more patient about the little things in life. Today, Wes got caught in line at Chipotle and traffic on his way to pick me up. I tried to keep myself from being impatient--I walked partway to where he would turn off the highway, I listened to some music, I even remembered to say a little prayer. But I was still anxious and waiting rather impatiently when he got there. It wasn't even like I was going to be late somewhere. I just don't like waiting. This leads me to ask: Do I rush the bigger things in life, as well? Am I cutting off my ministries before they are complete? Am I not enjoying the precious moments of life because I'm worried about the moments to come?
John 11:5-6
So today was a good test of one of the qualities I think I lack the most: patience. There have been times in my life where I was more patient. When I was in Argentina, for example, I got used to other people--including professors--being 20 or 30 minutes late. I even started to adopt this habit, and I never rushed anywhere after my first month of living down there. Yet when I came back to the US, I was reminded that I'm supposed to be in a hurry and on time, and if I'm not both of these things, then I'm doing something wrong. I think this got even worse when we moved up to NJ, because people are ALWAYS in a hurry up here.
I have a hard time waiting on people who are late, but I also hate being late or running behind. If I'm not out the door in the morning at the exact time I thought was best, then I get stressed out. If I'm stuck in traffic and might be a few minutes late for something, I start running through short-cut or bypass options, forget to enjoy the music I'm listening to, and generally just start to get upset with everything and everyone around me.
Jesus never seems to be in a hurry, though. In the passage above, Jesus waits two days to leave after hearing that his friend Lazarus is sick. There is no mention of what he did during those two days, but I'm going to guess that he wasn't just waiting to leave. He was probably healing, teaching, and ministering to those who needed him. The time was not yet appropriate for him to leave and go to his friends. There was work to be done where he already was, and he was definitely going to finish it. The same is true when his followers want to hear him preach so badly that they walk around the sea to meet him at his destination. Jesus is constantly aware of the needs of his followers, and if taking care of them means delaying his plans a little, he will do just that.
I know that I should be more patient about the little things in life. Today, Wes got caught in line at Chipotle and traffic on his way to pick me up. I tried to keep myself from being impatient--I walked partway to where he would turn off the highway, I listened to some music, I even remembered to say a little prayer. But I was still anxious and waiting rather impatiently when he got there. It wasn't even like I was going to be late somewhere. I just don't like waiting. This leads me to ask: Do I rush the bigger things in life, as well? Am I cutting off my ministries before they are complete? Am I not enjoying the precious moments of life because I'm worried about the moments to come?
7.7.11
Day 5
"Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, 'Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?'
Jesus answered, 'I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'"
Matthew 18:21-22
I already used one of my favorite "merciful" Bible passages, but I thought this would be a good one. I have to admit, I'm not great at forgiveness and mercy. I'm not good at letting go of injustices. I have a hard time saying, "I've been upset about that, but the time has passed. Now I need to move on." Yet Jesus calls his followers to be exceedingly merciful. In some translations, Jesus says, "Seven times seventy." Wes and I have a long standing joke that we will absolutely forgive one another 490 times, but the 491st offense will forever remain unforgiven. Most people agree that Jesus was not suggesting we keep accounts of how many times a person has wronged us, but that we should forgive indefinitely, as Jesus forgives.
I don't know about anyone else, but this is very difficult for me to do. If Wes leaves his shoes where I ask him not to, that's easily forgiven. But I still occasionally get upset about the way one of my previous babysitting families treated me, about my high school boyfriend who cheated on me, or about some other pretty significant event from years past. That's not to say that I wasn't justified in my anger. Heck, Jesus curses a fig tree just because it wasn't producing fruit the day he was hungry. Jesus overturned tables and whipped people in the temple. Yet it doesn't seem like Jesus ever let his anger take control of his life. He exhibited more than forgiveness--he showed mercy. He showed mercy to the adulteress woman who was about to be stoned. He showed mercy to his disciples who deserted him in his hour of need. And he even showed mercy to the people who crucified him.
I think the forgiveness/mercy aspect of Jesus is perhaps the most difficult to emulate. There is a lot that we can adopt simply by practice--praying, serving, exhibiting kindess--but there is no way to fake forgiveness and mercy. Sure, you can pretend everything is all right for awhile, but there's eventually going to be that thing that puts you over the edge and causes you to bring up all the past offenses. True forgiveness is tough, and I'm going to have to get in the habit of praying for the ability to do so, because there is no earthly way I'm getting there on my own.
Jesus answered, 'I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'"
Matthew 18:21-22
I already used one of my favorite "merciful" Bible passages, but I thought this would be a good one. I have to admit, I'm not great at forgiveness and mercy. I'm not good at letting go of injustices. I have a hard time saying, "I've been upset about that, but the time has passed. Now I need to move on." Yet Jesus calls his followers to be exceedingly merciful. In some translations, Jesus says, "Seven times seventy." Wes and I have a long standing joke that we will absolutely forgive one another 490 times, but the 491st offense will forever remain unforgiven. Most people agree that Jesus was not suggesting we keep accounts of how many times a person has wronged us, but that we should forgive indefinitely, as Jesus forgives.
I don't know about anyone else, but this is very difficult for me to do. If Wes leaves his shoes where I ask him not to, that's easily forgiven. But I still occasionally get upset about the way one of my previous babysitting families treated me, about my high school boyfriend who cheated on me, or about some other pretty significant event from years past. That's not to say that I wasn't justified in my anger. Heck, Jesus curses a fig tree just because it wasn't producing fruit the day he was hungry. Jesus overturned tables and whipped people in the temple. Yet it doesn't seem like Jesus ever let his anger take control of his life. He exhibited more than forgiveness--he showed mercy. He showed mercy to the adulteress woman who was about to be stoned. He showed mercy to his disciples who deserted him in his hour of need. And he even showed mercy to the people who crucified him.
I think the forgiveness/mercy aspect of Jesus is perhaps the most difficult to emulate. There is a lot that we can adopt simply by practice--praying, serving, exhibiting kindess--but there is no way to fake forgiveness and mercy. Sure, you can pretend everything is all right for awhile, but there's eventually going to be that thing that puts you over the edge and causes you to bring up all the past offenses. True forgiveness is tough, and I'm going to have to get in the habit of praying for the ability to do so, because there is no earthly way I'm getting there on my own.
6.7.11
Day 4
“’First let the children eat all they want,’ he told her, ‘for it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to their dogs.’
‘Yes, Lord,’ she replied, ‘but even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.’
Then he told her, ‘For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter.’”
Mark 7:27-29
When I got up this morning and jumped on my computer, I was greeted by some wonderful, uplifting messages regarding my blog. The first was from my good friend Amy, who thanked me for sharing my troubles with my prayer life. I think it’s an essential part of any Christian’s faith to share their struggles with others, and I appreciate that Amy and I were able to do this, even through the means of Facebook.
The second was from an old high school friend, Sarah. I had a wonderful message in my FB inbox this morning telling me that Wes and I are the kind of Christians she really appreciates because we still follow Christian values, and that our blogs bring her a sense of peace. She reminded me that just because I don't always do organized volunteer work doesn't mean I'm not serving God and others. This was a great reminder to me that--like in the story above--even Jesus did things without thinking, and made a few errors. He was occasionally too hard on himself, and it's good to remember that I do that, as well.
Today was a day of reflection for me, because of these wonderful comments from some great friends. So far, I have been choosing a principle I want to reflect at the beginning of each day, and then doing so. Today, nothing really spoke to me, except these wonderful letters. It's always good to have a day to reflect, pray, and think. Thanks to Amy and Sarah for uplifting me and reminding me of my worth.
‘Yes, Lord,’ she replied, ‘but even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.’
Then he told her, ‘For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter.’”
Mark 7:27-29
When I got up this morning and jumped on my computer, I was greeted by some wonderful, uplifting messages regarding my blog. The first was from my good friend Amy, who thanked me for sharing my troubles with my prayer life. I think it’s an essential part of any Christian’s faith to share their struggles with others, and I appreciate that Amy and I were able to do this, even through the means of Facebook.
The second was from an old high school friend, Sarah. I had a wonderful message in my FB inbox this morning telling me that Wes and I are the kind of Christians she really appreciates because we still follow Christian values, and that our blogs bring her a sense of peace. She reminded me that just because I don't always do organized volunteer work doesn't mean I'm not serving God and others. This was a great reminder to me that--like in the story above--even Jesus did things without thinking, and made a few errors. He was occasionally too hard on himself, and it's good to remember that I do that, as well.
Today was a day of reflection for me, because of these wonderful comments from some great friends. So far, I have been choosing a principle I want to reflect at the beginning of each day, and then doing so. Today, nothing really spoke to me, except these wonderful letters. It's always good to have a day to reflect, pray, and think. Thanks to Amy and Sarah for uplifting me and reminding me of my worth.
5.7.11
Day 3
"This, then, is how you should pray." Matt. 6:9
"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Mark 10:45
I only had to work for 2 hours today, so I decided to take on a nice challenge and choose two of Jesus' principles. Both of these are pretty central to Jesus' teachings: praying and serving. There's no way I'd be able to come close to what I should be doing as a Christian, but I will definitely do my best.
I've never been a great pray-er. When we were kids, my brother and I alternated praying for dinner. We would always use one of two prewritten prayers. We said them as fast as possible in the most monotone manner we could, opening our eyes during the "Amen" so we could start eating ASAP. As I discerned my call to ministry and developed my personal theology, etc., I began to branch out slightly, but I frequently forgot to pray at meals and rarely did so throughout the day. Even now, Wes and I pray together at meals and before we go to sleep, but I frequently forget to do so on my own.
It's not that I don't think praying is important, it's just that I don't always remember to do so. It's not a habit, and that's my own fault. But Jesus clearly shows us how to pray, and that we should do so often. In his final night of life, he prayed for hours on end. So today I tried to pray throughout the day. I wouldn't spend a day only speaking to Wes at meals and right before bedtime, so why in the world would I do so with God? I prayed randomly today--for a beautiful day, for the wonderful things he's given me, for food, for books, for Wes, etc. Then I forgot later on in the day...but I'll try again tomorrow. My goal is to be in conversation with God each day.
As far as serving, one of my New Year's resolutions was to do one day of service per month. I've done none. Jesus spent almost every waking moment of the day serving. He told his disciples to follow his example, and endowed them with his powers. Yet I spend way too much of my time watching TV, lounging around, and thinking about how the world would be better if people would do more---without bothering to do anything about it.
So today I started one of many service projects I plan on doing during this journey, and hopefully beyond. I want to go to the Trenton soup kitchen, work at Habitat, etc., but I started small today. I signed up to help clean up the church, so I walked down today and cleaned out the welcome center. I sweated up a storm and threw out a bunch of stuff, and now it's possible to find stuff. Later this week, I plan on going back to scrub the floors and possibly the walls. Next up: helping people.
All in all, it was a good day. I caught myself getting upset driving today, but hopefully I can keep working on that--especially with the whole praying throughout the day thing. Prayers, please??
"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Mark 10:45
I only had to work for 2 hours today, so I decided to take on a nice challenge and choose two of Jesus' principles. Both of these are pretty central to Jesus' teachings: praying and serving. There's no way I'd be able to come close to what I should be doing as a Christian, but I will definitely do my best.
I've never been a great pray-er. When we were kids, my brother and I alternated praying for dinner. We would always use one of two prewritten prayers. We said them as fast as possible in the most monotone manner we could, opening our eyes during the "Amen" so we could start eating ASAP. As I discerned my call to ministry and developed my personal theology, etc., I began to branch out slightly, but I frequently forgot to pray at meals and rarely did so throughout the day. Even now, Wes and I pray together at meals and before we go to sleep, but I frequently forget to do so on my own.
It's not that I don't think praying is important, it's just that I don't always remember to do so. It's not a habit, and that's my own fault. But Jesus clearly shows us how to pray, and that we should do so often. In his final night of life, he prayed for hours on end. So today I tried to pray throughout the day. I wouldn't spend a day only speaking to Wes at meals and right before bedtime, so why in the world would I do so with God? I prayed randomly today--for a beautiful day, for the wonderful things he's given me, for food, for books, for Wes, etc. Then I forgot later on in the day...but I'll try again tomorrow. My goal is to be in conversation with God each day.
As far as serving, one of my New Year's resolutions was to do one day of service per month. I've done none. Jesus spent almost every waking moment of the day serving. He told his disciples to follow his example, and endowed them with his powers. Yet I spend way too much of my time watching TV, lounging around, and thinking about how the world would be better if people would do more---without bothering to do anything about it.
So today I started one of many service projects I plan on doing during this journey, and hopefully beyond. I want to go to the Trenton soup kitchen, work at Habitat, etc., but I started small today. I signed up to help clean up the church, so I walked down today and cleaned out the welcome center. I sweated up a storm and threw out a bunch of stuff, and now it's possible to find stuff. Later this week, I plan on going back to scrub the floors and possibly the walls. Next up: helping people.
All in all, it was a good day. I caught myself getting upset driving today, but hopefully I can keep working on that--especially with the whole praying throughout the day thing. Prayers, please??
4.7.11
Day 2
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31
Yesterday at the ballpark went pretty well. I was actually surprised at my own ability to be less judgmental simply by thinking about my thoughts and actions more closely. For example, it started raining pretty heavily during the 6th inning, and Wes and I went to a covered area to watch the game. While we were there, a man decided that the space I was occupying was actually his little square of sightline. Immediately feeling an urge to elbow him in the guts, I decided instead to take a moment to pray for peace and the ability to forgive.
Today, I decided to adopt one of my favorite Bible verses, and one of my favorite things Jesus ever says. For those of you who don't know, this is actually a quotatation from Deuteronomy 6:5, but it is one of the simplist yet most complex statements in the entire Bible. It's something I'm going to have to be focusing on for...well, forever. But there's a difference between tolerating people when they do annoying things and loving them as Jesus has called us to. So there's definitely no time for me to write anymore. I have to start loving!
Yesterday at the ballpark went pretty well. I was actually surprised at my own ability to be less judgmental simply by thinking about my thoughts and actions more closely. For example, it started raining pretty heavily during the 6th inning, and Wes and I went to a covered area to watch the game. While we were there, a man decided that the space I was occupying was actually his little square of sightline. Immediately feeling an urge to elbow him in the guts, I decided instead to take a moment to pray for peace and the ability to forgive.
Today, I decided to adopt one of my favorite Bible verses, and one of my favorite things Jesus ever says. For those of you who don't know, this is actually a quotatation from Deuteronomy 6:5, but it is one of the simplist yet most complex statements in the entire Bible. It's something I'm going to have to be focusing on for...well, forever. But there's a difference between tolerating people when they do annoying things and loving them as Jesus has called us to. So there's definitely no time for me to write anymore. I have to start loving!
3.7.11
Day 1
“If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” John 8:7
I've noticed something about myself over the past few months: I've become a cynic. I don't know if it's a natural consequence of my life, if it has something to do with New Jersey, or what. When I get in my car, I assume that people are cutting me off, purposefully speeding up so I can't get around them, and planning on running stop signs. I decide before I go in a door that no one is going to bother to open it for me, even if they're literally walking through it at exactly the same moment. I get annoyed at other people in public, because I just know they're going to talk too loud, say rude things, and just generally drive me crazy.
In some ways, this is probably good. One of the best ways to stay out of a car accident is to be cautious and assume other people are going to disobey the law. Being prepared to open the door for myself is just a good way to make sure I don't run into a closed one. Being prepared to be annoyed by something someone says or does helps me to block it out. But this isn't the way to live my life as a Christian. Jesus calls us to recognize our own faults before those of others several times throughout the gospels, whether in the above passage from John, when he talks about removing the stake in one's own eye before the speck in his friends', and reminding us to not by hypocrites.
I've decided to take on one or two of Jesus' principles each day, because I don't want to overwhelm myself. On this first day of my experiment, I'm focusing on treating others as I would like to be treated, regardless of how they treat me. Jesus did so--even in the story of this adulteress. Sure, people can be awful--they cut you off, they flip you off, they slam doors, they say horrible things, they have no idea how to act in public--but each one of them is God's creation. Each one has gifts, powers, and an amazing story of life. It's not my job to judge the world. It wasn't even Jesus' job: “As for the person who hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge him. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it" (John 12:47).
So far today, I've been paying attention to people's good qualities, and to their status as God's children. The real challenge comes tonight, because Wes and I are driving to a baseball game. Plenty of chances to remember that I have no right to cast the first stone.
I've noticed something about myself over the past few months: I've become a cynic. I don't know if it's a natural consequence of my life, if it has something to do with New Jersey, or what. When I get in my car, I assume that people are cutting me off, purposefully speeding up so I can't get around them, and planning on running stop signs. I decide before I go in a door that no one is going to bother to open it for me, even if they're literally walking through it at exactly the same moment. I get annoyed at other people in public, because I just know they're going to talk too loud, say rude things, and just generally drive me crazy.
In some ways, this is probably good. One of the best ways to stay out of a car accident is to be cautious and assume other people are going to disobey the law. Being prepared to open the door for myself is just a good way to make sure I don't run into a closed one. Being prepared to be annoyed by something someone says or does helps me to block it out. But this isn't the way to live my life as a Christian. Jesus calls us to recognize our own faults before those of others several times throughout the gospels, whether in the above passage from John, when he talks about removing the stake in one's own eye before the speck in his friends', and reminding us to not by hypocrites.
I've decided to take on one or two of Jesus' principles each day, because I don't want to overwhelm myself. On this first day of my experiment, I'm focusing on treating others as I would like to be treated, regardless of how they treat me. Jesus did so--even in the story of this adulteress. Sure, people can be awful--they cut you off, they flip you off, they slam doors, they say horrible things, they have no idea how to act in public--but each one of them is God's creation. Each one has gifts, powers, and an amazing story of life. It's not my job to judge the world. It wasn't even Jesus' job: “As for the person who hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge him. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it" (John 12:47).
So far today, I've been paying attention to people's good qualities, and to their status as God's children. The real challenge comes tonight, because Wes and I are driving to a baseball game. Plenty of chances to remember that I have no right to cast the first stone.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)