God's care for us extends to us in so many ways in this life. We tend to focus on what might happen or what has happened, in the troubles which do beset us in a fallen world.
But with and in spite of the troubles that are inevitable, we need to see that God's goodness and love do follow us all the days of our lives, in Jesus. That God has likely kept us from much harm in ways we little know, surely at times through his ministering angels.
And we need to learn to rest in God and his care for us, bringing our every care to him. To make every effort, or struggle, paradoxically, to enter into God's rest.
We will have our moments, and maybe even hours, and for some even longer, when this seems impossible. But God will help us as we look to him in faith. He is present for us, and indeed watches over us, our coming and going both now, and forevermore, through Jesus and by the Spirit. I have found this to be so, that we can live in his peace.
How have you found this to be true in your own life? Or what might you like to say here?
Showing posts with label Sabbath rest. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sabbath rest. Show all posts
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
an important aspect of resting
Resting certainly involves physical sleep, something I did quite a lot of, since I've been home from work, yesterday (after doing taxes, and running into difficulties in doing that, the day before!). But resting for me also involves being quiet and saying little at times, and refusing to express myself nonverbally, as well.
What I'm resting from is my own activities, be they physical, mental, even spiritual. Although this exercise of resting is rather a spiritual exercise in itself. But in so doing, I find that God is finally given room in my life to begin to get through to me, as he wants to.
I easily can take that back along the way, and fall into my own muddledness. But I can easily move back into that rest, in which I come "to myself" again in God. God again being able to break through to me. So that my words and actions can be helpful, and more "of God".
What would you like to add to this?
What I'm resting from is my own activities, be they physical, mental, even spiritual. Although this exercise of resting is rather a spiritual exercise in itself. But in so doing, I find that God is finally given room in my life to begin to get through to me, as he wants to.
I easily can take that back along the way, and fall into my own muddledness. But I can easily move back into that rest, in which I come "to myself" again in God. God again being able to break through to me. So that my words and actions can be helpful, and more "of God".
What would you like to add to this?
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
"Clefts of the Rock - Responsibility" from L.L. Barkat
from Stone Crossings: Finding Grace in Hard and Hidden Places
L.L. reminisces about her days spent with her grandmother whose abode was stocked with all kinds of good things from her fields. What was enjoyed in cherry (my favorite) pies along with other good things came from hard work and sacrifice. Her privileged outlay resulted in a responsible, sacrificial effort which benefited others.
L.L. points out how each of us has a privilege like a king, be it ever so small. We can either be responsible in it, or not: "the hardworking shepherd...or...the bedbound royal." (p 89) We can follow the "Sabbath-Jesus" (p 93), so that out of our disciplined by faith emptiness and want can come God's blessing and plenty.
We need to remember that there are indeed, consequences for being irresponsible. If we choose to be lax we can lose out eternally, as well as in this life. But if we take seriously our responsibility that comes with privilege, and sacrificially empty ourselves, we can bless others, and ourselves be blessed both now and eternally.
This is a most interesting chapter to me, I don't say better than the others, because this is an unusual book, but L.L. approaches this subject in a way I've never seen before. Like the entire book, it is best read slowly, and especially so for me with this chapter. The chapters, by the way, are not long. Not a hard read, in fact you'll want to keep reading. But does engage my thinking and challenges my life.
Too often I can think such and such is coming to me, or that I need this or that. In other words I can take things for granted or live with a sense of entitlement. Not like Jesus. Also I can easily fail to see many times that with each privilege of life, there comes responsibility. This is true in all things, and particularly in relationships, starting at home.
One example is how easily I can forget that a good relationship is not just what I should have with God and others, but to have and maintain that, it must be cultivated. I can't just expect to have a good relationship with my wife, without in love working at that with her. Listening to her. Not taking offense at a perceived (and often misunderstood) slight. Listening attentively to some things which may not interest me. Spending time together and perhaps doing what she enjoys doing, when I'd rather be reading or doing something else.
Do we persevere in God's way, empty at times and in a sense, all the time, that we might know God's fullness, blessing and provision? Or do we think it's all about us and insist on having what we want and having that now, thinking it's our right and privilege- without accepting the responsibility that comes with it?
L.L. reminisces about her days spent with her grandmother whose abode was stocked with all kinds of good things from her fields. What was enjoyed in cherry (my favorite) pies along with other good things came from hard work and sacrifice. Her privileged outlay resulted in a responsible, sacrificial effort which benefited others.
L.L. points out how each of us has a privilege like a king, be it ever so small. We can either be responsible in it, or not: "the hardworking shepherd...or...the bedbound royal." (p 89) We can follow the "Sabbath-Jesus" (p 93), so that out of our disciplined by faith emptiness and want can come God's blessing and plenty.
We need to remember that there are indeed, consequences for being irresponsible. If we choose to be lax we can lose out eternally, as well as in this life. But if we take seriously our responsibility that comes with privilege, and sacrificially empty ourselves, we can bless others, and ourselves be blessed both now and eternally.
This is a most interesting chapter to me, I don't say better than the others, because this is an unusual book, but L.L. approaches this subject in a way I've never seen before. Like the entire book, it is best read slowly, and especially so for me with this chapter. The chapters, by the way, are not long. Not a hard read, in fact you'll want to keep reading. But does engage my thinking and challenges my life.
Too often I can think such and such is coming to me, or that I need this or that. In other words I can take things for granted or live with a sense of entitlement. Not like Jesus. Also I can easily fail to see many times that with each privilege of life, there comes responsibility. This is true in all things, and particularly in relationships, starting at home.
One example is how easily I can forget that a good relationship is not just what I should have with God and others, but to have and maintain that, it must be cultivated. I can't just expect to have a good relationship with my wife, without in love working at that with her. Listening to her. Not taking offense at a perceived (and often misunderstood) slight. Listening attentively to some things which may not interest me. Spending time together and perhaps doing what she enjoys doing, when I'd rather be reading or doing something else.
Do we persevere in God's way, empty at times and in a sense, all the time, that we might know God's fullness, blessing and provision? Or do we think it's all about us and insist on having what we want and having that now, thinking it's our right and privilege- without accepting the responsibility that comes with it?
Great "discussion questions" for this chapter in the back of the book and an excellent chapter for me to ponder. I tried to be more sparse in hopes that it will stimulate you to read. You'll have some interesting surprises as you read this chapter. And true of the entire book. It really does speak to me of "finding grace in hard and hidden places." Right where I, and I think we all live.
1. Stepping Stones - conversion
2. Christmas Coal - shame
3. Tossed Treasures - messiness
4. Heron Road - suffering
5. Sword in the Stone - resistance
6. Howe's Cave - baptism
7. Palisade Cliffs - doubt
8. Holding Pfaltzgraff - inclusion
9. Indiana Jones - fear
10. Old Stone Church - love
11. Goldworthy's Wall - sacrifice
Next week: Olive Press - gratitude
Monday, June 16, 2008
slowing down
Scot McKnight at Jesus Creed has an interesting post about a book advocating "slow spirituality". I think this British author, Ian Stackhouse is making an excellent point I need to hear.
I don't see myself as a hurried person, though the nature of my factory work at RBC Ministries sometimes demands that. But I have found myself simply trying to get as much done of this and that as possible, without sufficient thought and prayer as to the reality that I'm to be doing it all out of love for the Lord and as to the Lord, as well as out of love for others. And with the thought of savoring and enjoying it at least because I want to do it as to the Lord.
Slowing down for me is going to mean reading less Scripture. Many years of my Christian life I've been through Scripture at least two or more times a year, either by listening to it, or more recently by reading it. I've decided that I need to slow down, make it a reading - praying time, try to be consistent in keeping set times as a rule (but not as a binding law) which majors on drawing near to God, hearing his voice, and prayer.
For myself I find that I end up getting more done that is worthwhile and lasts when I slow down. There may be moments when we need to do something quickly. But in thinking about how Jesus lived his life on earth it seems like it was one thing at a time with always an openness to the Father and a life led by the Holy Spirit. Paul and Jesus' disciples seemed to learn from the Lord in regard to this. They were devoted to prayer and the ministry of the word of God, and I'm sure like their Lord, they spent time alone with God. And we need quality time with each other, as well, and that cannot be rushed. Being busy with our hands should be done in the same spirit.
So just starting this morning I broke my Scripture reading fast (actually it hasn't been a total fast, though relatively speaking it has) and it was wonderful not to be in a hurry as I was reading through the psalms and praying from them and for others and myself. As well as praying "the Lord's prayer".
What would you like to share with us about slowing down spiritually?
See A Time to be Quiet from Been Thinking About - Mart DeHaan
I don't see myself as a hurried person, though the nature of my factory work at RBC Ministries sometimes demands that. But I have found myself simply trying to get as much done of this and that as possible, without sufficient thought and prayer as to the reality that I'm to be doing it all out of love for the Lord and as to the Lord, as well as out of love for others. And with the thought of savoring and enjoying it at least because I want to do it as to the Lord.
Slowing down for me is going to mean reading less Scripture. Many years of my Christian life I've been through Scripture at least two or more times a year, either by listening to it, or more recently by reading it. I've decided that I need to slow down, make it a reading - praying time, try to be consistent in keeping set times as a rule (but not as a binding law) which majors on drawing near to God, hearing his voice, and prayer.
For myself I find that I end up getting more done that is worthwhile and lasts when I slow down. There may be moments when we need to do something quickly. But in thinking about how Jesus lived his life on earth it seems like it was one thing at a time with always an openness to the Father and a life led by the Holy Spirit. Paul and Jesus' disciples seemed to learn from the Lord in regard to this. They were devoted to prayer and the ministry of the word of God, and I'm sure like their Lord, they spent time alone with God. And we need quality time with each other, as well, and that cannot be rushed. Being busy with our hands should be done in the same spirit.
So just starting this morning I broke my Scripture reading fast (actually it hasn't been a total fast, though relatively speaking it has) and it was wonderful not to be in a hurry as I was reading through the psalms and praying from them and for others and myself. As well as praying "the Lord's prayer".
What would you like to share with us about slowing down spiritually?
See A Time to be Quiet from Been Thinking About - Mart DeHaan
Saturday, May 31, 2008
God's peace
There is nothing we need more of than God's peace, a peace which surpasses all our understanding. So that even when we don't understand, we can have God's peace.
I experience more and more of this peace as I go along in my life in Jesus, especially compared to the past, though I'm sure I have plenty of room to grow in this. It's a prevailing sense of God's rest and assurance. Of course a peace of mind and heart, in spite of the problems present.
But I also experience at times a lack of peace. Struggling to understand is one of the biggest hinderances I find to having peace. What we need to trust in is not our own understanding, but in the Lord and in his word.
The mind here is important. We need a steadfast mind which comes from trusting in God and results in perfect peace. It's a mind that acts in faith, and rests in faith. And it's helpful and important to think of this in terms of community. We don't live this out and experience this peace as solitary individuals, in our own private world. But as those together with others in Jesus, in relationships, seeking to live out the faith in Jesus in the world.
God's peace will prevail as we look to God in his grace to us in Jesus.
What would you like to add to this?
I experience more and more of this peace as I go along in my life in Jesus, especially compared to the past, though I'm sure I have plenty of room to grow in this. It's a prevailing sense of God's rest and assurance. Of course a peace of mind and heart, in spite of the problems present.
But I also experience at times a lack of peace. Struggling to understand is one of the biggest hinderances I find to having peace. What we need to trust in is not our own understanding, but in the Lord and in his word.
The mind here is important. We need a steadfast mind which comes from trusting in God and results in perfect peace. It's a mind that acts in faith, and rests in faith. And it's helpful and important to think of this in terms of community. We don't live this out and experience this peace as solitary individuals, in our own private world. But as those together with others in Jesus, in relationships, seeking to live out the faith in Jesus in the world.
God's peace will prevail as we look to God in his grace to us in Jesus.
What would you like to add to this?
Thursday, March 13, 2008
God's strength
We as humans have our limitations. We need our sleep, and we can only do so much physically before we are overcome with the need for rest.
Right now at work we're on a busy schedule trying to catch up due to bringing in a new machine with the time it took to take out the old and install it. And it's running like mad. And that's good. And along with that comes so fast paced work at times, along with ten hour days.
I was reminded and blessed with this passage from the majestic chapter 40 of Isaiah, itself a majestic book in the Book:
We're to wait in faith and in expectation, knowing God will give us strength according to the day, in Jesus. And let's remember that God gives to his beloved in Jesus, sleep.
What do you find about this in your own life?
Right now at work we're on a busy schedule trying to catch up due to bringing in a new machine with the time it took to take out the old and install it. And it's running like mad. And that's good. And along with that comes so fast paced work at times, along with ten hour days.
I was reminded and blessed with this passage from the majestic chapter 40 of Isaiah, itself a majestic book in the Book:
but those who wait on the LORDI put it on our computer screen saver at work, and it's a good reminder to us, there in the Lord's work, and really to all of us, because in whatever we do, we're to do it to the glory of God.
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
We're to wait in faith and in expectation, knowing God will give us strength according to the day, in Jesus. And let's remember that God gives to his beloved in Jesus, sleep.
What do you find about this in your own life?
Friday, March 07, 2008
coming to
We read of the prodigal son that when he came to himself, or his senses, then he realized, or at least had enough sense to leave his dilapidated life behind, and return to his home.
Coming to. It's an important part of the work of the Holy Spirit of God in our lives, in Jesus. We need that grace at work in our hearts and lives, so that we can have that strong sense that we want to continue on in our Lord.
What happens before that? When we're lost, as all of us Christians are sometimes. Faith then can do many things. Faith presses on in seeking God diligently and expecting to be rewarded in doing so. But, as you recall in Jesus' story of the prodigal or lost son, at the heart of this coming to is relationship. The lost son humbly acknowledges that he is not worthy to be a son, but hopes to be received as a servant. But deep down inside, he must have had hope that his father would receive him back with love. Little did he know.
How great is the Father's love for us! It is so wonderful, and we must ever remember that. In Jesus, we must hold out for that love, always and ever, no matter what. May that love in Jesus fill each and everyone of us. That we might keep "coming to", knowing that God in Christ is ever there for us, with a heart of love far greater than we can conceive or take in.
What have you learned about this, or would like to add here?
Coming to. It's an important part of the work of the Holy Spirit of God in our lives, in Jesus. We need that grace at work in our hearts and lives, so that we can have that strong sense that we want to continue on in our Lord.
What happens before that? When we're lost, as all of us Christians are sometimes. Faith then can do many things. Faith presses on in seeking God diligently and expecting to be rewarded in doing so. But, as you recall in Jesus' story of the prodigal or lost son, at the heart of this coming to is relationship. The lost son humbly acknowledges that he is not worthy to be a son, but hopes to be received as a servant. But deep down inside, he must have had hope that his father would receive him back with love. Little did he know.
How great is the Father's love for us! It is so wonderful, and we must ever remember that. In Jesus, we must hold out for that love, always and ever, no matter what. May that love in Jesus fill each and everyone of us. That we might keep "coming to", knowing that God in Christ is ever there for us, with a heart of love far greater than we can conceive or take in.
What have you learned about this, or would like to add here?
Saturday, March 01, 2008
routine and rest
Routine and rest. I think both of these are important for us in living out the Christian life. But at the same time both often seem impossible to us, as we see from Erika Haub's wonderful post here. So for any of you in situations that resist routine and rest, we can only pray for those of you we know, that God will give you special times of rest and a sense of routine and rhythm during this time of your life and journey.
Routine is good for me. It helps me forget my troubles. It is a part of what makes us human, we have six days to work and a seventh day to rest built into the fabric of creation. So routine and rest, however played out in our experience, are important for us.
What does routine look like for you? For me it's about things I do regularly, such as getting up, reading Scripture, getting ready to go to work, etc., with prayer interspersed through all of this, hopefully. And learning to open my little "prayer book" with written lists to help me remember to pray for others and for special requests. This routine goes until evening, and an important part I'm working on now is the need for proper, or I should say, better, as in more hours of sleep.
What does rest look like for you? For me it's about hopefully getting a little time to curl up my feet and under a blanket leisurely get some reading in. And at the end of the week, it's hopefully, either Saturday or Sunday (sometimes part of Friday included), get in some significant relaxation in more reading and doing something together with Deb, and usually more sleeping than I can get during the week.
I'm not getting into the Sabbath or what that means for us today. That's a big subject, and I'm not sure of it, though I'm more sure as to what I practice in relation to it, and how I look at it in general. It has more than one application, I believe. But the important thing here in this routine and rest, is the sense of rhythm, I believe, that we as human beings need. Both in how we practice our days, weeks, months and years- and how we look at our walk of faith in this life, with the good works in Jesus following.
These words, as limited as they are, give me strength right now. I have to avoid that which is contrary to them, and which can set me off into a self-pity party or something that is neither pleasing to God or helpful to anyone, including myself.
What other words might you like to share about routine and rest?
Routine is good for me. It helps me forget my troubles. It is a part of what makes us human, we have six days to work and a seventh day to rest built into the fabric of creation. So routine and rest, however played out in our experience, are important for us.
What does routine look like for you? For me it's about things I do regularly, such as getting up, reading Scripture, getting ready to go to work, etc., with prayer interspersed through all of this, hopefully. And learning to open my little "prayer book" with written lists to help me remember to pray for others and for special requests. This routine goes until evening, and an important part I'm working on now is the need for proper, or I should say, better, as in more hours of sleep.
What does rest look like for you? For me it's about hopefully getting a little time to curl up my feet and under a blanket leisurely get some reading in. And at the end of the week, it's hopefully, either Saturday or Sunday (sometimes part of Friday included), get in some significant relaxation in more reading and doing something together with Deb, and usually more sleeping than I can get during the week.
I'm not getting into the Sabbath or what that means for us today. That's a big subject, and I'm not sure of it, though I'm more sure as to what I practice in relation to it, and how I look at it in general. It has more than one application, I believe. But the important thing here in this routine and rest, is the sense of rhythm, I believe, that we as human beings need. Both in how we practice our days, weeks, months and years- and how we look at our walk of faith in this life, with the good works in Jesus following.
These words, as limited as they are, give me strength right now. I have to avoid that which is contrary to them, and which can set me off into a self-pity party or something that is neither pleasing to God or helpful to anyone, including myself.
What other words might you like to share about routine and rest?
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
the change in waiting
Yesterday in a comment, Rachel reminded me and us, of the change that can come as we're waiting on the Lord. I find this to be true in my life at times. I may be aware of something about myself that is either plainly not right, or I'm not sure about. And in the meantime, I may not be sure what to do about it.
It's always safe and sound to bring it to God, and then wait. To keep bringing it before God and keep waiting, if nothing else, just to remind ourselves why and what we're waiting for.
I find myself waiting for a clear answer from God, as I commit myself to following him in obedience, no matter what he puts on my heart and mind to do. And as children of God, I'm sure we've all been there, when God seemed to clearly put it on our hearts what we should do in a difficult matter. And even when it was hard, all of the edge was taken off simply because we had a clear, unwavering sense that God had given and was giving that direction to us.
But I've found just as often, if not more, that God's answer is not so much to change the course I'm to take, but to change me which then subtly, or perhaps not so subtly, changes what course I take or am taking.
This waiting is sometimes crucial at certain times. But in a sense we're to be so waiting before God all the time. As L.L. Barkat reminded me yesterday it's more about what God gives us then what we do ourselves. From what God gives to us in blessing, we then give to each other and to the world in which we live.
What about you? What have you found in the change that comes by waiting on the Lord?
It's always safe and sound to bring it to God, and then wait. To keep bringing it before God and keep waiting, if nothing else, just to remind ourselves why and what we're waiting for.
I find myself waiting for a clear answer from God, as I commit myself to following him in obedience, no matter what he puts on my heart and mind to do. And as children of God, I'm sure we've all been there, when God seemed to clearly put it on our hearts what we should do in a difficult matter. And even when it was hard, all of the edge was taken off simply because we had a clear, unwavering sense that God had given and was giving that direction to us.
But I've found just as often, if not more, that God's answer is not so much to change the course I'm to take, but to change me which then subtly, or perhaps not so subtly, changes what course I take or am taking.
This waiting is sometimes crucial at certain times. But in a sense we're to be so waiting before God all the time. As L.L. Barkat reminded me yesterday it's more about what God gives us then what we do ourselves. From what God gives to us in blessing, we then give to each other and to the world in which we live.
What about you? What have you found in the change that comes by waiting on the Lord?
Friday, January 11, 2008
slow down
I can imagine my wife, Deb, riding a horse, and doing whatever horseriders do, along with the words- something like: "Whoa. Slow down, Duke (name of her old, favorite horse). Slow down." If the Lord would speak directly to us individually- me, and many around me, I think he might say something much the same.
I am nearly always in a mode that I think is a step or two, or maybe even a half a step ahead of the Lord. Result is the same: I'm out of step, and therefore end up not really walking with the Lord at all. Maybe some of us lag behind, and in my getting ahead, I can end up knowing I'm lost, and then end up lagging behind as well. I suspect most Christians in my culture have this problem of getting ahead of the Lord, in our hurry to get this, that and something else done. And in our misplaced priorities.
Slowing down involves faith that insists that all in this life at the core is of God. If God is not in it, and if it's not a work of God, then it's not worth our while, or activity. Yet by nature we think we can do it. Of course there are necessary things to do that do crowd in on us at times. The question might be, How do we do those things? And in so doing, are we endeavoring to walk by the Spirit, and not by the flesh.
I feel lost even as I'm typing this post. It's almost automatic of me that I'm ahead of the Lord, and therefore not really myself, as God would have myself to be and as he is remaking me in Jesus.
So what then, and now? I have to stop. Listen. Wait. On the Lord. Pray. Read Scripture slowly, and preferably out loud, even if in my mind. I know that as I do this, in faith, God will help me to get back to where I belong as his child, and as a brother with our Brother, in fellowship with each other in him.
Then and there there is a quiet sense of rest, grace and peace. And that is where I want to dwell. But from which I so easily stray.
Well, hopefully there are a number of you who can help us in this. What would you add to these piecemeal thoughts?
I am nearly always in a mode that I think is a step or two, or maybe even a half a step ahead of the Lord. Result is the same: I'm out of step, and therefore end up not really walking with the Lord at all. Maybe some of us lag behind, and in my getting ahead, I can end up knowing I'm lost, and then end up lagging behind as well. I suspect most Christians in my culture have this problem of getting ahead of the Lord, in our hurry to get this, that and something else done. And in our misplaced priorities.
Slowing down involves faith that insists that all in this life at the core is of God. If God is not in it, and if it's not a work of God, then it's not worth our while, or activity. Yet by nature we think we can do it. Of course there are necessary things to do that do crowd in on us at times. The question might be, How do we do those things? And in so doing, are we endeavoring to walk by the Spirit, and not by the flesh.
I feel lost even as I'm typing this post. It's almost automatic of me that I'm ahead of the Lord, and therefore not really myself, as God would have myself to be and as he is remaking me in Jesus.
So what then, and now? I have to stop. Listen. Wait. On the Lord. Pray. Read Scripture slowly, and preferably out loud, even if in my mind. I know that as I do this, in faith, God will help me to get back to where I belong as his child, and as a brother with our Brother, in fellowship with each other in him.
Then and there there is a quiet sense of rest, grace and peace. And that is where I want to dwell. But from which I so easily stray.
Well, hopefully there are a number of you who can help us in this. What would you add to these piecemeal thoughts?
Thursday, January 03, 2008
carried
Newness in Jesus includes being carried by God, or coming to know more and more that rest in him that carries us through those inevitably difficult places in life. This reminds us of the promise in Isaiah that those who wait in hope on the Lord will renew their strength and mount up with wings like eagles, running and not becoming weary, walking and not fainting.
There are numerous reasons why we need this. For all kinds of reasons we can become discouraged. The passage referred to in Isaiah says that the young themselves can lose their strength and fall. This is an occasion to look to the Lord, to wait on him in the hope and assurance of faith. When we do, we find the faithful God, and we find the rest in him that we need. To carry us through, and at times even over, the low and sometimes gloomy or gray parts of life in this world.
Carried. I like that. I have my part, but it's one of learning more and more how to be carried in God. How to wait on him for that new strength and posture in faith, to live above and beyond so that we can run and walk through this life as those pleasing to the Lord.
What thoughts might you like to share on this? Or is there a metaphor in Scripture about our lives in God related to newness, that has been helpful to you?
There are numerous reasons why we need this. For all kinds of reasons we can become discouraged. The passage referred to in Isaiah says that the young themselves can lose their strength and fall. This is an occasion to look to the Lord, to wait on him in the hope and assurance of faith. When we do, we find the faithful God, and we find the rest in him that we need. To carry us through, and at times even over, the low and sometimes gloomy or gray parts of life in this world.
Carried. I like that. I have my part, but it's one of learning more and more how to be carried in God. How to wait on him for that new strength and posture in faith, to live above and beyond so that we can run and walk through this life as those pleasing to the Lord.
What thoughts might you like to share on this? Or is there a metaphor in Scripture about our lives in God related to newness, that has been helpful to you?
Friday, December 28, 2007
looking forward to the new year
If you're like me, New Year's Day is just a day off in which one is hopefully with family and can watch some decent college football (with hopefully some good reading). But beyond that New Year's Day doesn't take on much more significance to me than beginning a new calendar year, and getting used to writing a new date for the year: 2008 or 08 instead of 07.
And I'm not one given to New Year's resolutions. I can't remember any one I've actually made in particular, and it's not really in my understanding of how to live, particularly how to follow Christ. Though I know it's a custom in our culture.
What the turning of the calendar does remind me of is the periodic new, fresh starts we need in our lives, in Christ. There are times when we become aware that we need a change of heart, or a new working in our heart from God. This past year has been a year like that for me. And I've had one significant breakthrough after which I must by grace, keep heading in a long obedience in the same direction. I am in the midst of more change. It's hard, but good, as the Lord works on areas to make me more like himself.
This has not been done in a vacuum, nor is it being done so, but through others, and especially one who having shared their own story, through the blog world entered my story. And in the Lord has had, and continues to have an impact in my life which has been, and continues to be life changing. Isn't the blog world funny? Maybe not as surreal as some think it to be. It does seem like in "the real world" there are friends few and far between as well as opportunities in which through fellowship, life change can take place. But this is an important part of what the Jesus community is all about.
So I look forward to a new year in which God will be present in Jesus by the Spirit to us together, in our lives- through the good times and the bad times. That we will be present for each other, sharing our stories and God's working in our lives. And helping someone along their difficult way, through loving fellowship, listening, prayer and words of humble counsel.
I also look forward to another year, Lord willing- in which I will continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In which I will not only continue to change, but that by grace I'll be a different and better- in Jesus terms- person, all the way around. In quietness and confidence before our God.
What about you? Are you looking forward to a new year, and why- or why not?
And I'm not one given to New Year's resolutions. I can't remember any one I've actually made in particular, and it's not really in my understanding of how to live, particularly how to follow Christ. Though I know it's a custom in our culture.
What the turning of the calendar does remind me of is the periodic new, fresh starts we need in our lives, in Christ. There are times when we become aware that we need a change of heart, or a new working in our heart from God. This past year has been a year like that for me. And I've had one significant breakthrough after which I must by grace, keep heading in a long obedience in the same direction. I am in the midst of more change. It's hard, but good, as the Lord works on areas to make me more like himself.
This has not been done in a vacuum, nor is it being done so, but through others, and especially one who having shared their own story, through the blog world entered my story. And in the Lord has had, and continues to have an impact in my life which has been, and continues to be life changing. Isn't the blog world funny? Maybe not as surreal as some think it to be. It does seem like in "the real world" there are friends few and far between as well as opportunities in which through fellowship, life change can take place. But this is an important part of what the Jesus community is all about.
So I look forward to a new year in which God will be present in Jesus by the Spirit to us together, in our lives- through the good times and the bad times. That we will be present for each other, sharing our stories and God's working in our lives. And helping someone along their difficult way, through loving fellowship, listening, prayer and words of humble counsel.
I also look forward to another year, Lord willing- in which I will continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In which I will not only continue to change, but that by grace I'll be a different and better- in Jesus terms- person, all the way around. In quietness and confidence before our God.
What about you? Are you looking forward to a new year, and why- or why not?
Monday, November 19, 2007
"in Jesus" so important
Christian spiritualities need to stress the fact that by faith we are "in Jesus". Being "in Christ" is so key to our walk in God, and by God's grace is the only hope we have to go on, leaving the old life in Adam behind, and putting on the new life in Christ.
It's important that God helps us understand who we are, where we are, and where we should be going. Adam and Eve when they sinned felt ashamed and hid themselves. God immediately pursued them and asked them where they were. These are the first words showing God's seeking of lost humanity. Then knowing who we are, that we are Eikons of God, that is made in God's image, but broken or cracked as Scot McKnight puts it, due to sin. Cracked in our relationships to God, to ourselves, to each other and to the world. This is so important for our understanding of both who we are as well as the provision of God for us in Christ.
There is really no hope for myself apart from "in Jesus" or "in Christ". No hope at all. I know my own heart. Though in a sense only God does since it is so easily led astray or deceitful. But in Jesus God promises to change our hearts, to give us a new heart.
It's good for me and for us to know that. But we must press on "in Jesus". This is our only hope. We look not to ourselves or even to our just condemnation as sinners before God, though we need to understand this is true. Nor our broken or cracked relationship towards God and others, fundamental as that is. We look for God's salvation and restoration in Jesus. This is our hope, and our only hope. By this alone can we depart from sin and all that accompanies it. And by this alone, we embark on a new life, yes the very life of Jesus himself, lived out in this world even as he lived. A life of death to self and life to God; death to sin and living unto righteousness.
In Jesus. Believe in that. Rest in that. Know that all we need for this life is found in Jesus. Let's not give up but give ourselves to God through and in Jesus. God will take us through, whatever we're facing or wherever we are. We'll be going in a new direction, a new way, and God will see us through, through all the pain and even through failures along the way. Our hope is only in Jesus.
It's important that God helps us understand who we are, where we are, and where we should be going. Adam and Eve when they sinned felt ashamed and hid themselves. God immediately pursued them and asked them where they were. These are the first words showing God's seeking of lost humanity. Then knowing who we are, that we are Eikons of God, that is made in God's image, but broken or cracked as Scot McKnight puts it, due to sin. Cracked in our relationships to God, to ourselves, to each other and to the world. This is so important for our understanding of both who we are as well as the provision of God for us in Christ.
There is really no hope for myself apart from "in Jesus" or "in Christ". No hope at all. I know my own heart. Though in a sense only God does since it is so easily led astray or deceitful. But in Jesus God promises to change our hearts, to give us a new heart.
It's good for me and for us to know that. But we must press on "in Jesus". This is our only hope. We look not to ourselves or even to our just condemnation as sinners before God, though we need to understand this is true. Nor our broken or cracked relationship towards God and others, fundamental as that is. We look for God's salvation and restoration in Jesus. This is our hope, and our only hope. By this alone can we depart from sin and all that accompanies it. And by this alone, we embark on a new life, yes the very life of Jesus himself, lived out in this world even as he lived. A life of death to self and life to God; death to sin and living unto righteousness.
In Jesus. Believe in that. Rest in that. Know that all we need for this life is found in Jesus. Let's not give up but give ourselves to God through and in Jesus. God will take us through, whatever we're facing or wherever we are. We'll be going in a new direction, a new way, and God will see us through, through all the pain and even through failures along the way. Our hope is only in Jesus.
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
the inactivity of faith
As a rule, faith by nature is active. If you know me, and you are getting to know me a bit through blogging, you'll soon see me as prefering to be active. And that preference I find (and others too) can have its downside. All too often I keep doing or talking when I ought to be still and quiet.
Faith has as part of its practice the need for inactivity. Sometimes we need to be quiet and still. And I do mean this in the context of prayer, reading and meditating on Scripture, in humble fellowship with others in Jesus with both ears eager to listen and a mouth shut or slow to speak. I have found that a grace and peace comes as we try to, in a submissive stance before God simply look to him, waiting for him and for his help.
Now I can enter into this sense of grace and peace, but I can just as quickly abandon it by my overactivity. Yes, we need to become active again, but we need to seek to do so as those who do not speak or act on every impulse. I find that what I say and do as a rule goes much further if the quantity is turned down. I can get in the way of what God wants to do in and through others as well as in and through myself. I have to hold myself back, and especially so at times, when I want to speak or act. God's humbling work in our lives also helps us to do this.
This aspect of faith is for my own good which in turn ends up being for the good of others.
What about you? What have you learned about the inactivity of faith?
Faith has as part of its practice the need for inactivity. Sometimes we need to be quiet and still. And I do mean this in the context of prayer, reading and meditating on Scripture, in humble fellowship with others in Jesus with both ears eager to listen and a mouth shut or slow to speak. I have found that a grace and peace comes as we try to, in a submissive stance before God simply look to him, waiting for him and for his help.
Now I can enter into this sense of grace and peace, but I can just as quickly abandon it by my overactivity. Yes, we need to become active again, but we need to seek to do so as those who do not speak or act on every impulse. I find that what I say and do as a rule goes much further if the quantity is turned down. I can get in the way of what God wants to do in and through others as well as in and through myself. I have to hold myself back, and especially so at times, when I want to speak or act. God's humbling work in our lives also helps us to do this.
This aspect of faith is for my own good which in turn ends up being for the good of others.
What about you? What have you learned about the inactivity of faith?
Friday, August 31, 2007
down days
Today (Thursday) I guess was kind of a "down day" for me. It was one of those days that while nothing bad happened, indeed some good things actually did happen, yet for myself it was a struggle to do much more than the work I had to do. A big part of that for me is because of lack of sleep due to our crazy (at times) schedule right now.
But was it a bad day? It sure seemed like it in some ways to me, as I was just trying to function. But I've learned through the years that one can't take seriously down days because they will come. Of course it's another story if one is having one bad day after another.
It's not a question of whether or not it was a "down day" for us, since we more than likely mean our experience of the day. But we have to ask ourselves did we in God through Christ seek to do the right thing. If at the end of each day we can say that by grace we did, or made things right when we had to, then we can thank God at the end of the day for that, regardless of whether the day was difficult or not.
Looking back on this day, I can recall good and sweet fellowship in the Lord with others. Grace and peace from God. So although my experience especially in the afternoon was challenging for me (I dozed off slightly twice at left green turn signals!), I can thank God that no matter what I may be experiencing God is bigger than that. And that he can take this day and make it by grace good in his eyes, as I commit it to him from beginning to end, and throughout.
What about you? How do you handle your down days?
But was it a bad day? It sure seemed like it in some ways to me, as I was just trying to function. But I've learned through the years that one can't take seriously down days because they will come. Of course it's another story if one is having one bad day after another.
It's not a question of whether or not it was a "down day" for us, since we more than likely mean our experience of the day. But we have to ask ourselves did we in God through Christ seek to do the right thing. If at the end of each day we can say that by grace we did, or made things right when we had to, then we can thank God at the end of the day for that, regardless of whether the day was difficult or not.
Looking back on this day, I can recall good and sweet fellowship in the Lord with others. Grace and peace from God. So although my experience especially in the afternoon was challenging for me (I dozed off slightly twice at left green turn signals!), I can thank God that no matter what I may be experiencing God is bigger than that. And that he can take this day and make it by grace good in his eyes, as I commit it to him from beginning to end, and throughout.
What about you? How do you handle your down days?
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
God's work and ours
In thinking and living lately, I've been reminded of the fact that there is a mystery in God's work in our lives. We need to work out what God works in, but to think we can figure all that out is simply not the case. We should be glad to not really get exactly what God is doing. It's important that we just rest assured in God's goodness in our lives, in working in us what is pleasing in his sight through Jesus Christ our Lord.
When I start to think my works or anything else depends on me and on my knowledge, that's when I really end up getting nowhere. But when I begin to trust in God and in his good work in me to really move and change me, that's when I begin to see his hand, inexplicably, in a true sense, in my life.
There have been a number of major issues in my life over the years that I had to come to realize that there was no hope as long as I thought that in a sense it depends on me. Instead I had to come to see that it all depends on God, but then from that, as I begin to experience his good work in me, then inexplicably I begin to move, think and live in a direction that before I could not achieve.
Now I have to keep reminding myself of this, and so keep seeing God's help to the helpless, God's grace to a sinner, and his work making any of my works possible.
Can you relate to this? And how?
When I start to think my works or anything else depends on me and on my knowledge, that's when I really end up getting nowhere. But when I begin to trust in God and in his good work in me to really move and change me, that's when I begin to see his hand, inexplicably, in a true sense, in my life.
There have been a number of major issues in my life over the years that I had to come to realize that there was no hope as long as I thought that in a sense it depends on me. Instead I had to come to see that it all depends on God, but then from that, as I begin to experience his good work in me, then inexplicably I begin to move, think and live in a direction that before I could not achieve.
Now I have to keep reminding myself of this, and so keep seeing God's help to the helpless, God's grace to a sinner, and his work making any of my works possible.
Can you relate to this? And how?
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
lighten up
One of the hardest lessons I've had to learn in my life as a Christian and as a human being is the necessity of "lightening up." I've tended to be too heavy and serious in a wrong kind of way, as if so much depends on me. It reminds me of the lesson Martin Luther had to learn, not at all to put me in the same breath as him, but he had to learn to go to sleep and rest well at night since it was not he, but God who is in charge of the world.
I've learned from some good Christians the art of lightening up and simply having a good old high time, simply enjoying life. And this spirit needs to carry over into all of life, so that I realize that as serious as I want to be in my walk in Christ, it of necessity requires an attitude of faith that while necessarily exercised with concern at times, ends up entrusting the outcome of all things into the good hands of God to bring out his good for us in Jesus.
This is a good attitude to have when we feel like it, and when we don't feel like it. Even when we pray about serious matters indeed, we should do so as the very children of God, knowing we can rest assured in his goodness to us and concern of love in regard to all things in this world.
Do you have trouble lightening up? Or what has helped you to do so?
I've learned from some good Christians the art of lightening up and simply having a good old high time, simply enjoying life. And this spirit needs to carry over into all of life, so that I realize that as serious as I want to be in my walk in Christ, it of necessity requires an attitude of faith that while necessarily exercised with concern at times, ends up entrusting the outcome of all things into the good hands of God to bring out his good for us in Jesus.
This is a good attitude to have when we feel like it, and when we don't feel like it. Even when we pray about serious matters indeed, we should do so as the very children of God, knowing we can rest assured in his goodness to us and concern of love in regard to all things in this world.
Do you have trouble lightening up? Or what has helped you to do so?
Saturday, July 14, 2007
relax
This sounds like a good word for a Saturday and for a weekend. As well as for those of us who in Jesus hold to a rest on Sunday (or Saturday).
Relax is important in life for us in Jesus, because life doesn't depend on us. We need to be layed back, in a way. Too often we walk around, talk and live as if it all depends on us. But while what we do or don't do is important, and especially the inward dispositions of our hearts, it still in a true sense all depends and hinges on God and his grace, as well as on the help we're called to give each other.
Let's emphasize relax. Even, and maybe especially so when we are busy. In that busyness and hard work, let us learn to relax with the truth that God is with us in Christ. And we know that only because of that will anything prosper according to God's will.
How do you relax in this way, or what thoughts might you add here?
Relax is important in life for us in Jesus, because life doesn't depend on us. We need to be layed back, in a way. Too often we walk around, talk and live as if it all depends on us. But while what we do or don't do is important, and especially the inward dispositions of our hearts, it still in a true sense all depends and hinges on God and his grace, as well as on the help we're called to give each other.
Let's emphasize relax. Even, and maybe especially so when we are busy. In that busyness and hard work, let us learn to relax with the truth that God is with us in Christ. And we know that only because of that will anything prosper according to God's will.
How do you relax in this way, or what thoughts might you add here?
Friday, July 06, 2007
Jesus' invitation
Jesus callls us, even today:
Jesus understands firsthand our human weaknesses and frailties. He was tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin. He became one of us to the very core of his being and helps us as such. He understands our struggle in a unique way, from both his human perspective, as well as from the perspective of Godness. (Hebrews)
Our hope is in Jesus and in this invitation. We come to Jesus and he gives us his life for ours. He gives us his rest, victory and work in place of our weariness, burden, defeat and despair. It's a completely different life, the beginning of such that we thus enter into.
If we're weary or burdened down for whatever reason, this invitation remains opened for us today. Come to Jesus; make every effort to enter into his rest. And let's make this the practice and endeavor of our lives, as we seek to follow Christ together.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30)I am finding this to be true in my own life. When Jesus calls us he does so no matter why we're burdened down. It can be due to difficulties faced as in adversities, temptations, whatever. Or it can be even due to sin in our hearts and lives; of course of that he wants us to be open in confession before him. But we're to come to him with the promise that he will give us rest.
Jesus understands firsthand our human weaknesses and frailties. He was tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin. He became one of us to the very core of his being and helps us as such. He understands our struggle in a unique way, from both his human perspective, as well as from the perspective of Godness. (Hebrews)
Our hope is in Jesus and in this invitation. We come to Jesus and he gives us his life for ours. He gives us his rest, victory and work in place of our weariness, burden, defeat and despair. It's a completely different life, the beginning of such that we thus enter into.
If we're weary or burdened down for whatever reason, this invitation remains opened for us today. Come to Jesus; make every effort to enter into his rest. And let's make this the practice and endeavor of our lives, as we seek to follow Christ together.
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