Sometimes we reach stale places in our lives in which it may seem like there's a stalemate. We're doing good things, or maybe in a season of less work and more reflection and reading, but somehow there seems to be something lacking. I think it's good to pause and ask what God is doing, or where God is moving in reference to my life- which I need to plug into and become a part of.
This will take time. Of course the process is in no certain order. The question might come at the beginning of it, more likely into it, or towards the end. And we need to listen to what God may be saying through others, especially through his people, and especially the ones we have fellowship with regularly. Of course including our spouse or closest friends. And those from whom we seek spiritual counsel and prayer such as our pastor.
I am at this kind of place. I see God at work in my life, and moving in answer to prayers (Deb's and mine). But there just seems to be something missing, or lacking. Some work or direction I'm to find or go to. A key in this is to find what God is doing, or how he may be directing me.
We must beware of thinking that something "big" is out there. It's rather much more likely and usual for this to be part of our being directed along the path of good works and activities God has for us in our life and mission here in Jesus; something we must do in God and with others in Jesus. This becoming a part of who we are in the rhythm of our lives.
What might you like to add to this?
Showing posts with label good works. Show all posts
Showing posts with label good works. Show all posts
Monday, November 02, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
the power of good works
Good works is an important theme in Scripture, and a part of our lives in Jesus. They come in different boxes so to speak. It's about what we both do and don't do. It's about helping others to find Jesus and be united with us in him. And it's done out of love, love for God and for others.
Good works often help us with what ails us. I find that so in my own life. Of course I must work at maintaining my relationship with Christ in abiding. That is how we bear fruit, as John 15 tells us. God has made it so that we not only need him, but we need each other. And we need the good works that come in this, even if only a simple smile, a ready listening ear, a nonjudgemental spirit, a readiness to acknowledge an offense and repair and renew a bond with another, creativity in thinking of good things we can do for others, and with no strings attached.
Again, this is part of our life in Jesus in this world. Not something we can simply conjure up on our own. But it's something God is working in us as his handiwork, nothing less than a way of life.
How have you found this to be so in your own life, or what would you like to share about this?
Tomorrow we continue from chapter 2: "Why a Jewish Rabbi?" from Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus: How the Jewishness of Jesus Can Transform Your Faith, by Ann Spangler and Lois Tverberg.
Good works often help us with what ails us. I find that so in my own life. Of course I must work at maintaining my relationship with Christ in abiding. That is how we bear fruit, as John 15 tells us. God has made it so that we not only need him, but we need each other. And we need the good works that come in this, even if only a simple smile, a ready listening ear, a nonjudgemental spirit, a readiness to acknowledge an offense and repair and renew a bond with another, creativity in thinking of good things we can do for others, and with no strings attached.
Again, this is part of our life in Jesus in this world. Not something we can simply conjure up on our own. But it's something God is working in us as his handiwork, nothing less than a way of life.
How have you found this to be so in your own life, or what would you like to share about this?
Tomorrow we continue from chapter 2: "Why a Jewish Rabbi?" from Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus: How the Jewishness of Jesus Can Transform Your Faith, by Ann Spangler and Lois Tverberg.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
do or die
There are certain times and places in life where one is at an either/or. Too often we would like to avoid such places, and negotiate life on our own terms. Yes, we want God's will, but we also want our own way. Of course the two don't mix.
Sometimes I'm especially weak, and "under it", "under the circumstances." But by God's mercy and grace I can come to realize that I can't afford to be "under it"- for the sake of others. No matter what I'm going through I need to rise above it, in Jesus by the Spirit, for others.
As Paul tells us in God's word in Romans 8, if we live by the flesh, or the sinful nature, we will die, but if by the Spirit we put to death the (mis)deeds of the body, we will live. By faith we either do the good works God has for us, sometimes under much duress, or we lapse into faithlessness, or a weak faith, which can hardly "take hold of God" in prayer.
I hope to be among those who after receiving God's promises, do the will of God- and then receive what God has promised! God grant us the grace and perseverance that by faith we may be counted in that number.
What might you like to add to this?
Sometimes I'm especially weak, and "under it", "under the circumstances." But by God's mercy and grace I can come to realize that I can't afford to be "under it"- for the sake of others. No matter what I'm going through I need to rise above it, in Jesus by the Spirit, for others.
As Paul tells us in God's word in Romans 8, if we live by the flesh, or the sinful nature, we will die, but if by the Spirit we put to death the (mis)deeds of the body, we will live. By faith we either do the good works God has for us, sometimes under much duress, or we lapse into faithlessness, or a weak faith, which can hardly "take hold of God" in prayer.
I hope to be among those who after receiving God's promises, do the will of God- and then receive what God has promised! God grant us the grace and perseverance that by faith we may be counted in that number.
What might you like to add to this?
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
a friendly word
I'm not into a lot of the psychological babble that is present and popular, and against some of it. Although we will pick up truth here and there akin in some cases to wisdom, even if not measuring up to the full wisdom found in the Proverbs.
But I think a good word spoken in season can't be underestimated. Early yesterday at work I was grilled by someone over what I consider a trivial matter and not a sin issue, who later apologized. That got me to thinking about how I've been wronged in the past, and just how much I hate loveless fundamentalism. The kind that goes after people regularly, and is always finding others on the short end (and they, evidently, on the longer end). So I stewed over that to a good extent, an extended portion of the day. Of course noting anything around me, that I could imagine fitting into my complaint.
By and by a person came and simply said a few friendly words in reference to the Ohio State- Texas game, in which my Buckeyes lost (a heart breaker). Just to hear his friendly words took me out of my stew and reminded me of God's grace which in Jesus transcends and overcomes all. And how apart from grace, we're all in a bad fix. Right along with that, I was grateful for the companionship of a fellow worker, one who is soon to leave us and who I will truly miss.
A friendly word. Let's reach out even to those who may seem unreachable. And even at odds with us. Maybe even as this person did to me yesterday. Seeing God's grace in Jesus prevail, a grace that will win out fully in the end.
What would you like to add to this? Have you seen this play out in your life?
But I think a good word spoken in season can't be underestimated. Early yesterday at work I was grilled by someone over what I consider a trivial matter and not a sin issue, who later apologized. That got me to thinking about how I've been wronged in the past, and just how much I hate loveless fundamentalism. The kind that goes after people regularly, and is always finding others on the short end (and they, evidently, on the longer end). So I stewed over that to a good extent, an extended portion of the day. Of course noting anything around me, that I could imagine fitting into my complaint.
By and by a person came and simply said a few friendly words in reference to the Ohio State- Texas game, in which my Buckeyes lost (a heart breaker). Just to hear his friendly words took me out of my stew and reminded me of God's grace which in Jesus transcends and overcomes all. And how apart from grace, we're all in a bad fix. Right along with that, I was grateful for the companionship of a fellow worker, one who is soon to leave us and who I will truly miss.
A friendly word. Let's reach out even to those who may seem unreachable. And even at odds with us. Maybe even as this person did to me yesterday. Seeing God's grace in Jesus prevail, a grace that will win out fully in the end.
What would you like to add to this? Have you seen this play out in your life?
Friday, October 31, 2008
working hard
Yesterday at work I had a job that kept me active doing much the same things, but not coming from a machine. So it was up to me as to how much I would get done. Actually I enjoyed it for the most part, except for the hand taper and the big roll which kept giving me fits. But it was fun, time went fast, and I tried to do so as one in the yoke with Jesus while also doing it with all my heart.
Work is a blessing from God, we were created to work, and sin and the curse it did bring only resulted adding difficulty to our work, maybe like my hand taper and big roll yesterday. We were created to work, and in the new creation we will continue to work, a reality in Jesus that begins now.
Work is to be an expression of love to God and to our neighbor. And so we're to do it with all our hearts, souls, strength and mind. Of course I'm glad for some jobs in which I can meditate on Scripture, and even sing a song, like this one I was singing some yesterday.
You get home, and you're tired. I had a pleasant visit with Deb, another wonderful meal from her, then I pretty much went "out" until I awakened later. But rest and sleep is a gift as well as our work.
Does our work glorify God? Are we busy, doing our Father's business? Are we doing the works of God who calls us into his work with him- amazingly, while it is still called "Day", since when "Night" comes, no one can do this kind of work, anymore?
What thoughts might you like to add to this?
Work is a blessing from God, we were created to work, and sin and the curse it did bring only resulted adding difficulty to our work, maybe like my hand taper and big roll yesterday. We were created to work, and in the new creation we will continue to work, a reality in Jesus that begins now.
Work is to be an expression of love to God and to our neighbor. And so we're to do it with all our hearts, souls, strength and mind. Of course I'm glad for some jobs in which I can meditate on Scripture, and even sing a song, like this one I was singing some yesterday.
You get home, and you're tired. I had a pleasant visit with Deb, another wonderful meal from her, then I pretty much went "out" until I awakened later. But rest and sleep is a gift as well as our work.
Does our work glorify God? Are we busy, doing our Father's business? Are we doing the works of God who calls us into his work with him- amazingly, while it is still called "Day", since when "Night" comes, no one can do this kind of work, anymore?
What thoughts might you like to add to this?
Monday, May 12, 2008
don't despise the simple things
We may want to do something great, not necessarily to call attention to ourselves- which would be a sin, but because we want to please the Lord and do well in his eyes. What was pressed home to me Saturday was the need to do well in the simple, humble things. In which the main thing one is doing is simply seeking to be faithful.
I met with a brother. We went over a study guide on forgiveness, beginning a lesson on Psalm 32. All we said I think was Scripturally sound, and it seemed to me inanely simple. So I have to admit I had a kind of contempt for it, probably thinking to myself I'd be glad when it's over. Yet I did enjoy fellowship with the guy I met with, and he seemed to genuinely appreciate our exchange as I sought to be a good listener and encourager, as well as our time of prayer afterwards. And I sensed that the Lord was pleased with that time.
This goes to show that I must beware of thinking I need to do something that is great in the sense of using my gift as well as I can. Yes, I want to do that, but what came home to me from this is that I simply need to be faithful. That this should be my goal. And not to despise the time of what seems to be simple things.
We do like to get beyond the milk to the meat of the word of God. We want to be challenged to grow to be like Jesus, which means to be missional since Jesus himself was missional (as our pastor Jack Brown pointed out to us yesterday). We want to move on. Yet even in the simplicity of those nearly two hours at a nearby bagel, coffee place, I could see that what we did really did move us to that end, as this man expressed the vision he has for a ministry that can impact others.
I want to have that sense of the Lord's approval in my life. Not just to hear it someday, which by grace we hope to. But also to sense it now, that God is pleased with us and what we do. And in that, let's be careful not to despise the humble things and seemingly little tasks. For in such we find ourselves in the way of Jesus.
What might you like to add to this?
I met with a brother. We went over a study guide on forgiveness, beginning a lesson on Psalm 32. All we said I think was Scripturally sound, and it seemed to me inanely simple. So I have to admit I had a kind of contempt for it, probably thinking to myself I'd be glad when it's over. Yet I did enjoy fellowship with the guy I met with, and he seemed to genuinely appreciate our exchange as I sought to be a good listener and encourager, as well as our time of prayer afterwards. And I sensed that the Lord was pleased with that time.
This goes to show that I must beware of thinking I need to do something that is great in the sense of using my gift as well as I can. Yes, I want to do that, but what came home to me from this is that I simply need to be faithful. That this should be my goal. And not to despise the time of what seems to be simple things.
We do like to get beyond the milk to the meat of the word of God. We want to be challenged to grow to be like Jesus, which means to be missional since Jesus himself was missional (as our pastor Jack Brown pointed out to us yesterday). We want to move on. Yet even in the simplicity of those nearly two hours at a nearby bagel, coffee place, I could see that what we did really did move us to that end, as this man expressed the vision he has for a ministry that can impact others.
I want to have that sense of the Lord's approval in my life. Not just to hear it someday, which by grace we hope to. But also to sense it now, that God is pleased with us and what we do. And in that, let's be careful not to despise the humble things and seemingly little tasks. For in such we find ourselves in the way of Jesus.
What might you like to add to this?
Monday, May 05, 2008
don't be overwhelmed
When I look at problems we face of different kinds, or challenges ahead for me, I can tend to become a bit overwhelmed and want to run and hide from it.
I have felt somewhat overwhelmed lately. I knew Sunday would be a busy day, going to the nursing home not long after church in the morning, then soon after that heading back out for homegroup in the evening.
So I ended up sleeping much of Friday evening with Deb at work. And then felt guilty as I slept in fairly late Saturday morning. Then, instead of getting done some needed reading for this coming week I slept some more Saturday, too much more, and not all on purpose, either. While tired and knowing just how tired I can end up being the first part of a week, I think there was a strong sense of just wanting to avoid the challenge so that I was procrastinating, something I can do well.
Sunday ended up being a blessed day both in our singing and in the word: Psalm 104 at the nursing home, and Psalm 90 with the homegroup. The Lord certainly answered prayer. But I still have that sense of feeling overwhelmed and in over my head with what lies ahead. And also the desire for some real sabbath, so that we can kick back and relax. And enjoy this wonderful Spring, which though just a bit chilly was wonderful in its beauty yesterday, with blue skies all day.
What is there that is good about being overwhelmed, and what are the dangers of that? For me it's good in that I am cast on God in prayer. I know I can't do it, that all is a work of God, but that by prayer he takes us up into his work and does it through us. Not of ourselves, yet we can work in the working of God- even together with him. What is dangerous for me is simply the temptation to want to hide. To think it's too much. We each have our part; it may seem small, but it's significant to the whole. I could see that last night in our homegroup as people participated in our time there.
What helps you to not be overwhelmed with the ongoing responsibilities and challenges of life?
Halfmom, AKA, Susan speaks to this subject on her posting today, so much better than I!
I have felt somewhat overwhelmed lately. I knew Sunday would be a busy day, going to the nursing home not long after church in the morning, then soon after that heading back out for homegroup in the evening.
So I ended up sleeping much of Friday evening with Deb at work. And then felt guilty as I slept in fairly late Saturday morning. Then, instead of getting done some needed reading for this coming week I slept some more Saturday, too much more, and not all on purpose, either. While tired and knowing just how tired I can end up being the first part of a week, I think there was a strong sense of just wanting to avoid the challenge so that I was procrastinating, something I can do well.
Sunday ended up being a blessed day both in our singing and in the word: Psalm 104 at the nursing home, and Psalm 90 with the homegroup. The Lord certainly answered prayer. But I still have that sense of feeling overwhelmed and in over my head with what lies ahead. And also the desire for some real sabbath, so that we can kick back and relax. And enjoy this wonderful Spring, which though just a bit chilly was wonderful in its beauty yesterday, with blue skies all day.
What is there that is good about being overwhelmed, and what are the dangers of that? For me it's good in that I am cast on God in prayer. I know I can't do it, that all is a work of God, but that by prayer he takes us up into his work and does it through us. Not of ourselves, yet we can work in the working of God- even together with him. What is dangerous for me is simply the temptation to want to hide. To think it's too much. We each have our part; it may seem small, but it's significant to the whole. I could see that last night in our homegroup as people participated in our time there.
What helps you to not be overwhelmed with the ongoing responsibilities and challenges of life?
Halfmom, AKA, Susan speaks to this subject on her posting today, so much better than I!
Monday, April 14, 2008
walking worthy of God
Again, in hearing God's word this morning, I ran across the truth that in Jesus believers can walk worthy of the Lord in this life. What does this mean? Certainly not like any of us will arrive in this life, and never sin.
It is good to read passages that speak of living worthy in their context to see what is being spoken of. I do believe it means that by grace we can live as true followers of Jesus. Involved in that for us will be repentance, though what is evident in the passages is the new life lived out in this present existence. It is a life lived out from God's life given to us in Jesus by the Spirit. A life of the new creation, destined by God to make all things new, but beginning with us now. This is a life in the here and now that can actually honor the Lord. And is seen in some true measure in every child of God in Jesus in this life.
In our zeal to honor the message of the Reformation, that works are not a part of salvation, we can cut off the importance of works altogether. We're not declared righteous by our works in this life, but only by faith. But in the judgment to come people will be declared righteous or judged by their works, by the lives they lived. Of course such lives and works acceptable to God through Christ are possible only by faith. Our works by themselves are dead, but saving faith works through love, or else it is dead.
There is a difference in our lives in Jesus, but we must grow in this grace if we're to walk worthy of God in this life, and avoid falling into sin. It's of grace and by the Spirit. I personally am working on making as a habit of my life to consciously seek to walk by the Spirit. And then, as I do, good works through the fruit of the Spirit will follow.
Anyone out there who would like to shed some light for us in this matter? Or who may question anything I say here?
(The links are like end notes. They can be helpful, and in this case are links to passages of Scripture, which demonstrate I hope, the truth of what is being said here.)
It is good to read passages that speak of living worthy in their context to see what is being spoken of. I do believe it means that by grace we can live as true followers of Jesus. Involved in that for us will be repentance, though what is evident in the passages is the new life lived out in this present existence. It is a life lived out from God's life given to us in Jesus by the Spirit. A life of the new creation, destined by God to make all things new, but beginning with us now. This is a life in the here and now that can actually honor the Lord. And is seen in some true measure in every child of God in Jesus in this life.
In our zeal to honor the message of the Reformation, that works are not a part of salvation, we can cut off the importance of works altogether. We're not declared righteous by our works in this life, but only by faith. But in the judgment to come people will be declared righteous or judged by their works, by the lives they lived. Of course such lives and works acceptable to God through Christ are possible only by faith. Our works by themselves are dead, but saving faith works through love, or else it is dead.
There is a difference in our lives in Jesus, but we must grow in this grace if we're to walk worthy of God in this life, and avoid falling into sin. It's of grace and by the Spirit. I personally am working on making as a habit of my life to consciously seek to walk by the Spirit. And then, as I do, good works through the fruit of the Spirit will follow.
Anyone out there who would like to shed some light for us in this matter? Or who may question anything I say here?
(The links are like end notes. They can be helpful, and in this case are links to passages of Scripture, which demonstrate I hope, the truth of what is being said here.)
Friday, April 04, 2008
new beginnings
There's a restaurant chain in our area called "New Beginnings". They have a large breakfast menu and I guess, emphasize breakfasts in helping people get a good start on their day.
Anyhow, I was thinking of this, this morning, just the idea of new beginnings. Each day in Jesus is a renewing. And the seasons in our lives change as well, for some who are single in getting married, for some married in losing their spouse, in other lives job changes, for others sickness. And then there are those beginnings important for us in making some breaks from what has kept us from following as closely to the Lord as we should.
In my own life I can point to some things that I think are less than good, or even sins. Sometimes we can excuse that or rationalize that which in God's eyes may not be pleasing to him. There are those times when we need to be hard on ourselves only as God helps us see what is wrong or less than helpful. We give it over to God through Christ, and let him take it, while we leave it behind and go forward in God's will for us.
This is related to my post yesterday about walking in/by the Spirit. I know I can only live this life in Jesus, and follow on, through the Spirit. I hardly know where I'm going or what's up next, or even what I'm leaving behind or the change I need. But that's not that important. What is important, I believe, is that I'm set to go, by the Spirit, in the direction God has for me. Of course toward the goal of conformity to Christ with others of Christ's Body in mission on earth, and related to that, fulfilling the work God has for me, in the love and blessing of our Lord Jesus.
I go that way, knowing it's only possible through God, in fellowship with Christ's Body to do his work in the world.
New beginnings. What might that mean for you, now?
Anyhow, I was thinking of this, this morning, just the idea of new beginnings. Each day in Jesus is a renewing. And the seasons in our lives change as well, for some who are single in getting married, for some married in losing their spouse, in other lives job changes, for others sickness. And then there are those beginnings important for us in making some breaks from what has kept us from following as closely to the Lord as we should.
In my own life I can point to some things that I think are less than good, or even sins. Sometimes we can excuse that or rationalize that which in God's eyes may not be pleasing to him. There are those times when we need to be hard on ourselves only as God helps us see what is wrong or less than helpful. We give it over to God through Christ, and let him take it, while we leave it behind and go forward in God's will for us.
This is related to my post yesterday about walking in/by the Spirit. I know I can only live this life in Jesus, and follow on, through the Spirit. I hardly know where I'm going or what's up next, or even what I'm leaving behind or the change I need. But that's not that important. What is important, I believe, is that I'm set to go, by the Spirit, in the direction God has for me. Of course toward the goal of conformity to Christ with others of Christ's Body in mission on earth, and related to that, fulfilling the work God has for me, in the love and blessing of our Lord Jesus.
I go that way, knowing it's only possible through God, in fellowship with Christ's Body to do his work in the world.
New beginnings. What might that mean for you, now?
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
God has something for you to do
In Jesus, God has something for each one of us to do, something very special. Indeed, we're told that there are works prepared for us in advance by God, that we should walk in those works, that is, that doing them should be a way of life for us.
This is true no matter how down and out you may seem to be. No matter what seems to be against you and me. Or even true, no matter how we may be sinning at the moment, or tempted to sin. Or having to work through a disappointment or ongoing difficulty in our lives. Yes, God is there in Christ, with a special work for each of us to do.
There are general works, and there are specific or special works. Passages such as 1 Corinthians 12 and Romans 12 open up general categories of giftedness from the Spirit to each person in Jesus. I believe there are both constitutional gifts and situational gifts (as in 1 Corinthians 14). They may go together or be related, but not necessarily always the case.
For myself I have something in mind that I can begin to work on for the rest of my life, however long or short that may be. And if I'm right, it's something I rather shrink back from and am disinclined to specifically, though regarding the task generally, it is something I'm very much drawn to.
Be open to the gift and creativity and blessing you can be to others. Whatever it is on your heart that is good, pray and work on fulfilling it. We can be, in Jesus, a blessing to others. God has something special for each of us in Jesus to do today. Let's pray that we have the faith to see what it is, and of course, prayer itself should be one part of it, and sometimes it's the only work we can do for a time. And for some, it is a big part of what they do.
What about you? What works does God have for you to walk in, or do, today and beyond?
This is true no matter how down and out you may seem to be. No matter what seems to be against you and me. Or even true, no matter how we may be sinning at the moment, or tempted to sin. Or having to work through a disappointment or ongoing difficulty in our lives. Yes, God is there in Christ, with a special work for each of us to do.
There are general works, and there are specific or special works. Passages such as 1 Corinthians 12 and Romans 12 open up general categories of giftedness from the Spirit to each person in Jesus. I believe there are both constitutional gifts and situational gifts (as in 1 Corinthians 14). They may go together or be related, but not necessarily always the case.
For myself I have something in mind that I can begin to work on for the rest of my life, however long or short that may be. And if I'm right, it's something I rather shrink back from and am disinclined to specifically, though regarding the task generally, it is something I'm very much drawn to.
Be open to the gift and creativity and blessing you can be to others. Whatever it is on your heart that is good, pray and work on fulfilling it. We can be, in Jesus, a blessing to others. God has something special for each of us in Jesus to do today. Let's pray that we have the faith to see what it is, and of course, prayer itself should be one part of it, and sometimes it's the only work we can do for a time. And for some, it is a big part of what they do.
What about you? What works does God have for you to walk in, or do, today and beyond?
Monday, February 25, 2008
against a privatized faith
Often what we hear as to what faith in Jesus amounts to in living in this world, is some kind of personal, privatized faith, kept to oneself without interfering into the personal, private lives of others. But this is not the faith of the Bible, or of Jesus.
When Jesus said his kingdom is not of this world, the Greek translated better in this case in the NRSV means that his kingdom is not from this world. But in Jesus this kingdom has already entered into this present age. And it's a kingdom that has to do with the holy nation in Jesus, scattered throughout the earth. Not with any one recognized nation.
Jesus along with the apostles following, and the prophets in the Old Testament, beginning with Abraham there- the faith they held from God was not meant to stay with them, but to bless all nations, all peoples. And not only that, but to bless in terms of taking care of the land, being God's caretakers of it, and in the favor of God seeing their work overflow into blessings for all peoples, and even for the good earth and God's good creatures on it. This is something of what I see when it comes to the kind of faith we in Jesus actually have.
This gives meaning and value to all we do in helping others in any way. When done in the Lord there will somehow be meaning and value not only for this life, but also for the life to come in the resurrection of all things.
For too many people, Christianity is some kind of otherworldly religion that has nothing really to do with the down to earth, practical matters and existence here, except maybe to make people better so they can serve the status quo here and now. But in Jesus there is nothing less than a different dynamic, shaping different stories and outcomes than what would have been possible prior to Jesus' coming. This is why, while we see the Old Testament as foundational for what was to come, the fulfillment in Jesus in the New Testament, brings a new, living dynamic into the world. Of course the complete fulfillment won't occur until Jesus returns, but it begins now in us- in the people of God in Jesus.
So let's beware of any individualized, privatized faith. Yes, our faith is personal, but it's meant to become public. And in so doing bring God's new creation in Jesus to bear, in all of creation here and now.
What do you think about this? What would you like to share here?
When Jesus said his kingdom is not of this world, the Greek translated better in this case in the NRSV means that his kingdom is not from this world. But in Jesus this kingdom has already entered into this present age. And it's a kingdom that has to do with the holy nation in Jesus, scattered throughout the earth. Not with any one recognized nation.
Jesus along with the apostles following, and the prophets in the Old Testament, beginning with Abraham there- the faith they held from God was not meant to stay with them, but to bless all nations, all peoples. And not only that, but to bless in terms of taking care of the land, being God's caretakers of it, and in the favor of God seeing their work overflow into blessings for all peoples, and even for the good earth and God's good creatures on it. This is something of what I see when it comes to the kind of faith we in Jesus actually have.
This gives meaning and value to all we do in helping others in any way. When done in the Lord there will somehow be meaning and value not only for this life, but also for the life to come in the resurrection of all things.
For too many people, Christianity is some kind of otherworldly religion that has nothing really to do with the down to earth, practical matters and existence here, except maybe to make people better so they can serve the status quo here and now. But in Jesus there is nothing less than a different dynamic, shaping different stories and outcomes than what would have been possible prior to Jesus' coming. This is why, while we see the Old Testament as foundational for what was to come, the fulfillment in Jesus in the New Testament, brings a new, living dynamic into the world. Of course the complete fulfillment won't occur until Jesus returns, but it begins now in us- in the people of God in Jesus.
So let's beware of any individualized, privatized faith. Yes, our faith is personal, but it's meant to become public. And in so doing bring God's new creation in Jesus to bear, in all of creation here and now.
What do you think about this? What would you like to share here?
Saturday, February 16, 2008
be faithful where you're at
When we read the Story from God in Scripture we find the Story involving a bunch of people who lived much of their lives on the margins, not in the center of the world. This was true of Abraham, moving from the center of civilization in his day, in answer to what must have been a rather obscure, even though clear call from God to leave and find a new promised land.
Even as great as David is in Scripture there is hardly a whimper of him in the annals of world history. And Jesus himself lived in the margins most of his life. Around the age of thirty he did most of his ministry in Galilee, north of the center of the nation, Judea- and Jerusalem. And even in his ministry in Galilee he avoided the big cities with hardly a mention of them in the New Testament. Jesus did most of his work in villages and small towns and in the countryside.
Too often I'm afraid I can be quite discontent where I'm at and think of my work and life as of very little consequence. Yet it's of big consequence to my wife and daughter and to those around me, especially those I see daily. As well as to those Christians who gather with me. Even to the few I have contact with in the blog world and on emails. Everything is important in its place and time.
Teaching a toddler to walk, letting them try and fall and praising them for the one or two steps they manage is like how our Father sees us. We believe in Jesus, becoming newborn babies. Then the time comes for us to learn to walk in Jesus. God is there to encourage and help us by his Spirit and his word, and through others he places in our lives. Learning this walk is big in God's eyes. And to trust and obey him in that- big.
Often this faithfulness is needed in the midst of difficulty and disappointment. That's big in God's eyes too, as we learn to better follow God as dearly loved children, even through these problems.
We need to take it step by step in our lives. We need to have eyes and a heart to see what God has set before us to do, and to not despise the day of small things. God doesn't. Indeed that's how God works in this world. He starts from the small and seemingly insignificant. And from that, God's kingdom and work in Jesus even through us becomes evident and real. Jesus himself is seen in us.
What would you like to add to this?
Even as great as David is in Scripture there is hardly a whimper of him in the annals of world history. And Jesus himself lived in the margins most of his life. Around the age of thirty he did most of his ministry in Galilee, north of the center of the nation, Judea- and Jerusalem. And even in his ministry in Galilee he avoided the big cities with hardly a mention of them in the New Testament. Jesus did most of his work in villages and small towns and in the countryside.
Too often I'm afraid I can be quite discontent where I'm at and think of my work and life as of very little consequence. Yet it's of big consequence to my wife and daughter and to those around me, especially those I see daily. As well as to those Christians who gather with me. Even to the few I have contact with in the blog world and on emails. Everything is important in its place and time.
Teaching a toddler to walk, letting them try and fall and praising them for the one or two steps they manage is like how our Father sees us. We believe in Jesus, becoming newborn babies. Then the time comes for us to learn to walk in Jesus. God is there to encourage and help us by his Spirit and his word, and through others he places in our lives. Learning this walk is big in God's eyes. And to trust and obey him in that- big.
Often this faithfulness is needed in the midst of difficulty and disappointment. That's big in God's eyes too, as we learn to better follow God as dearly loved children, even through these problems.
We need to take it step by step in our lives. We need to have eyes and a heart to see what God has set before us to do, and to not despise the day of small things. God doesn't. Indeed that's how God works in this world. He starts from the small and seemingly insignificant. And from that, God's kingdom and work in Jesus even through us becomes evident and real. Jesus himself is seen in us.
What would you like to add to this?
Friday, January 25, 2008
the small things
We read in Scripture that God does not despise the day of small things. What is small in our eyes, often is not so in God's eyes. And what is large in our eyes, often is not so in God's eyes.
There are those times to be there for someone in helping pull the ox out of the ditch by prayer and in works of love. But most of life hinges on the smaller matters. Faithfulness in the everyday things. Seeking to do well in all we're called to do. And thinking of small things we could do or say that in Jesus can go a long way in helping another. Praying faithfully for our loved ones, for brothers and sisters in Jesus and for friends and enemies- keeping at that in small ways, regardless how insignificant it may seem at the time.
Jesus said that those who are faithful in small things are also faithful in greater things. And those not faithful in small matters are unfaithful in larger matters. What we do in the small areas really does matter.
Am I negligent on a small matter because I'm too engaged in the big things? Too bad. That is normally wrong. We need to not let the small matters slip by, such as a faithful prayer, a faithful listening ear and heart, faithfully seeking to come into God's presence to hear his word in our reading of Scripture and his voice. Blessing others with attitudes of love, grace and forgiveness.
This is part of what God has been working on in my life lately. Never to despise the day of small things. But to seek diligently to follow our Lord, together, in everything.
What would you add to this?
There are those times to be there for someone in helping pull the ox out of the ditch by prayer and in works of love. But most of life hinges on the smaller matters. Faithfulness in the everyday things. Seeking to do well in all we're called to do. And thinking of small things we could do or say that in Jesus can go a long way in helping another. Praying faithfully for our loved ones, for brothers and sisters in Jesus and for friends and enemies- keeping at that in small ways, regardless how insignificant it may seem at the time.
Jesus said that those who are faithful in small things are also faithful in greater things. And those not faithful in small matters are unfaithful in larger matters. What we do in the small areas really does matter.
Am I negligent on a small matter because I'm too engaged in the big things? Too bad. That is normally wrong. We need to not let the small matters slip by, such as a faithful prayer, a faithful listening ear and heart, faithfully seeking to come into God's presence to hear his word in our reading of Scripture and his voice. Blessing others with attitudes of love, grace and forgiveness.
This is part of what God has been working on in my life lately. Never to despise the day of small things. But to seek diligently to follow our Lord, together, in everything.
What would you add to this?
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
blessed to be a blessing
We're blessed in Jesus to be a blessing to each other, and to the world. The good news or gospel was announced to Abraham, that all nations would be blessed through him! Abraham was part of what God is all about. Blessing others. We're here in Jesus to bless others.
As Miroslav Volf reminds us, we need the outpouring of blessing on ourselves in order to be a blessing to others, and we also need to be sure that blessing is flowing out to others, lest it become a trickle and weak in our own lives. Not that we're in this to be blessed ourselves, but we're in it to be in a reciprocal relationship with others, and the channel of God's blessing in the love of Jesus to all people.
How can I be a blessing today- and everyday? At home, work, school, everywhere. An important and exciting question. It can involve what is unpleasant. After all, part of it is taking up our crosses in following Jesus by the Spirit in our lives and circumstances, even now, becoming like Jesus in his death, in God's love for the world. Of course we're just little christs, Jesus alone is the Christ, the God-human whose work of salvation is a finished work for all. We follow in his train, and in the way of Jesus, to bring that salvation in Jesus to everyone. Let's not forget the important work of prayer. That can make a true difference in people's live, as we keep at it. And to be zealous for good works, a large part of what the book of Titus is all about.
What would you like to share with us here?
As Miroslav Volf reminds us, we need the outpouring of blessing on ourselves in order to be a blessing to others, and we also need to be sure that blessing is flowing out to others, lest it become a trickle and weak in our own lives. Not that we're in this to be blessed ourselves, but we're in it to be in a reciprocal relationship with others, and the channel of God's blessing in the love of Jesus to all people.
How can I be a blessing today- and everyday? At home, work, school, everywhere. An important and exciting question. It can involve what is unpleasant. After all, part of it is taking up our crosses in following Jesus by the Spirit in our lives and circumstances, even now, becoming like Jesus in his death, in God's love for the world. Of course we're just little christs, Jesus alone is the Christ, the God-human whose work of salvation is a finished work for all. We follow in his train, and in the way of Jesus, to bring that salvation in Jesus to everyone. Let's not forget the important work of prayer. That can make a true difference in people's live, as we keep at it. And to be zealous for good works, a large part of what the book of Titus is all about.
What would you like to share with us here?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
