Here is a nice short and easy to read blog post for some of my readers out there who have short attention spans, this one goes out to you.
A staff worker for my Intervarsity chapter delivered this talk to our Chapter. I really enjoyed the talk.
If you don't watch the whole thing, he addressed a couple of 'fake Jesuses' <-- No sure if this is a real word, but just go with it. He said the traits and believes that people who buy into a 'fake Jesus' would express. Then he talked about the Real Jesus. He talked about what followers of the one true and only Jesus are like. Brian is a great dude, and serves the real Jesus. It made me realize that in my past I have believed some lies about who Jesus is, and I have bought into the fake Jesus. But I know now, and it is confirmed after this talk, that the fake Jesus isn't who I want to serve, it isnt satisfying. I wanna serve the one and only Jesus of Nazareth.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Friday, August 20, 2010
A Letter to Freshman
Dear Student,
I remember clearly what I was feeling just 3 short years ago when I was in 'your shoes.' The excitement of being 'on my own' the fear of 'growing up', The anticipation of living with my roommate, and yet the frustration of still not knowing my class schedule or what textbooks I will need. The rush of emotions that was just enough to keep me hooked, and enough to keep me fearful and on my toes. I only expect that you are having the same rush that I was experiencing.
Know that although at this moment in time I do not know you, you are on my heart. I have been praying for you all summer. I wait eagerly for the day where I will be introduced to you, and I am excited to see how our friendship develops from there. Even if you never read these words, or wouldn't trust them even if you did, you are in good hands. Myself, and all of my friends at Intervarsity love you and are looking forward to spending the next few years with you.
Know that college can be a very dangerous place. The temptations of sex, drugs, and alcohol are constantly in sight. Not to mention the struggles of classes, homework and bad advising. The stresses of this time of your life will be difficult, and painful. But again know, that you will be surrounded by people who care about you and want to share in these burdens, please let them. Know that you may rely on these people to help you satisfy any needs that might arise. Make good choices to resist evil, and choose Jesus. Don't be afraid of your faith. This campus needs more good Light. Take a stand in boldness for purity, and righteousness. Remember that the path is narrow, and few will find it. Rely on your friends to help and guide you into what could be the most important time of your life.
Many students, including myself at one point, come to college to 'find themselves' or find who they will be for the rest of their life. I encourage you to instead find Jesus, and to let him transform you into who you will be for his Kingdom. Be proud of this transfiguration and do not keep it to yourself. Share the good news of Jesus love and glory to your classmates, roommates, and family.
Whether you are looking for good Christian community, or are eager to seek and possibly make a first time commitment to follow Jesus, you will be cared for the same. You will be defended and prayed for on a regular basis. I hope that you will never feel alone, or homesick as many other college students will feel. Know that it will be by God's architecture that you are here at Northern Arizona University. You are right where you need to be.
So enjoy your college experience, enjoy your short time here. I hope that when you are finally in 'my shoes' you will have the same heart for new students. I assure you that you will be here before you know it. So with all this being said...
Welcome to the Real World.
I remember clearly what I was feeling just 3 short years ago when I was in 'your shoes.' The excitement of being 'on my own' the fear of 'growing up', The anticipation of living with my roommate, and yet the frustration of still not knowing my class schedule or what textbooks I will need. The rush of emotions that was just enough to keep me hooked, and enough to keep me fearful and on my toes. I only expect that you are having the same rush that I was experiencing.
Know that although at this moment in time I do not know you, you are on my heart. I have been praying for you all summer. I wait eagerly for the day where I will be introduced to you, and I am excited to see how our friendship develops from there. Even if you never read these words, or wouldn't trust them even if you did, you are in good hands. Myself, and all of my friends at Intervarsity love you and are looking forward to spending the next few years with you.
Know that college can be a very dangerous place. The temptations of sex, drugs, and alcohol are constantly in sight. Not to mention the struggles of classes, homework and bad advising. The stresses of this time of your life will be difficult, and painful. But again know, that you will be surrounded by people who care about you and want to share in these burdens, please let them. Know that you may rely on these people to help you satisfy any needs that might arise. Make good choices to resist evil, and choose Jesus. Don't be afraid of your faith. This campus needs more good Light. Take a stand in boldness for purity, and righteousness. Remember that the path is narrow, and few will find it. Rely on your friends to help and guide you into what could be the most important time of your life.
Many students, including myself at one point, come to college to 'find themselves' or find who they will be for the rest of their life. I encourage you to instead find Jesus, and to let him transform you into who you will be for his Kingdom. Be proud of this transfiguration and do not keep it to yourself. Share the good news of Jesus love and glory to your classmates, roommates, and family.
Whether you are looking for good Christian community, or are eager to seek and possibly make a first time commitment to follow Jesus, you will be cared for the same. You will be defended and prayed for on a regular basis. I hope that you will never feel alone, or homesick as many other college students will feel. Know that it will be by God's architecture that you are here at Northern Arizona University. You are right where you need to be.
So enjoy your college experience, enjoy your short time here. I hope that when you are finally in 'my shoes' you will have the same heart for new students. I assure you that you will be here before you know it. So with all this being said...
Welcome to the Real World.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
What the heck is up with Hell
My inspiration for this post strangely enough comes from a movie trailer. The trailer was for a movie about an exorcism. It was a all dark screen and then these creepy red letters faded in that read, "If you believe in God, Then you Must believe in the Devil." Oddly enough this scary commercial is actually very correct. I have also been taking classes all month about various religions and their believes. Some of the faiths that we were examining did not believe in any form of Hell. This class and some conversations that spurred from it got me thinking more and more about Hell. What it means, and what it doesn't mean etc.
Now the first thing to understand is that Hell is real. It is a real place where people really will go. Maybe this is a simple concept for some people, but there are lots of faiths that do not believe in Hell. Hell is important to my faith and here is why. Hell means that first off there is a choice. It means that I have to make a decision and live with the consequences of my actions. It also means that I have the power to determine where I end up. Hell also is accountability. If there is no Hell, and no punishment, then why should I follow the rules. Now please don't go off saying 'you should follow the rules because you want to,' my point is simply that I know what is in store for me if I choose to reject Jesus. Another thing is that Hell, means that God is perfect and just. Without some form of punishment / wrath then God is not acting justly. He is granting favoritism to certain people. The fact is that the knowledge of good and evil is made known to all, and there are real significant choices before us. Hell really is a punishment too. I have had conversations with people that believe that Hell is just a place where God doesn't 'visit'. While Hell is definitely separate from God and from Heaven, make no mistake, Hell is suffering. Final Hell is called the Lake of Fire. Vivid words to describe a intense form of suffering.
Now I suppose I could end my post here, but there are a few more points I want to make.
The first point is that Satan, much like Hell is also real. He really exists and is really on the prowl in the world right now. I know first hand just how twisted and deceitful he and followers can be. Satan is not some being with red skin and a pitch fork, like he is usually pictured in the movies, or comics about him. The 'Prince' of this world is very sneaky and is on the prowl to confuse and destroy Christ followers. A friend of mine said it to me in a way that really stood out, they said "[He is after you], because he hates you, and because you [as a Christian] are dangerous." Satan is trying to return people to the bondage of slavery where they once served.
Another thing I want to bring up is this argument that I heard from someone recently. "In our modern system of justice, penalties for breaking laws are based on the law that is broken. There is always a way to 'pay off' your debt to society. Even the death penalty, after someone is put to death, they have paid their debt. Why is it that People suffer eternally in Hell, and that debt cannot ever be paid off?"
To this my response is what someone who rejects Jesus is doing, is rejecting his salvation and his eternal life.
Since the life that he is offering is eternal, it seems to do justice to say that the penalty should also be eternal.
So all of this Hell/Satan/Punishment stuff being said, here are some things we can do.
1. Choose Jesus.
There really is alot at stake here. Following Jesus is about so much more than this life here on earth.
2. Reject Satan.
He will be right there to 'take you back' in a heartbeat. He will bring your deepest desires into view. He will speaking nothing but lies to you. Reject everything he says, and if it is bad enough, speak truth back, Satan is completely powerless against the power of truth, and the Word of God.
3. Be Open.
If you are confused about Jesus, or life after death, or Hell or Satan, talk to someone. Ask questions, look through Scripture. If you are conflicted by the enemy, get help from people, and become equip with truth and knowledge to defend yourself with the Sword of Righteousness that we call truth.
Now the first thing to understand is that Hell is real. It is a real place where people really will go. Maybe this is a simple concept for some people, but there are lots of faiths that do not believe in Hell. Hell is important to my faith and here is why. Hell means that first off there is a choice. It means that I have to make a decision and live with the consequences of my actions. It also means that I have the power to determine where I end up. Hell also is accountability. If there is no Hell, and no punishment, then why should I follow the rules. Now please don't go off saying 'you should follow the rules because you want to,' my point is simply that I know what is in store for me if I choose to reject Jesus. Another thing is that Hell, means that God is perfect and just. Without some form of punishment / wrath then God is not acting justly. He is granting favoritism to certain people. The fact is that the knowledge of good and evil is made known to all, and there are real significant choices before us. Hell really is a punishment too. I have had conversations with people that believe that Hell is just a place where God doesn't 'visit'. While Hell is definitely separate from God and from Heaven, make no mistake, Hell is suffering. Final Hell is called the Lake of Fire. Vivid words to describe a intense form of suffering.
Now I suppose I could end my post here, but there are a few more points I want to make.
The first point is that Satan, much like Hell is also real. He really exists and is really on the prowl in the world right now. I know first hand just how twisted and deceitful he and followers can be. Satan is not some being with red skin and a pitch fork, like he is usually pictured in the movies, or comics about him. The 'Prince' of this world is very sneaky and is on the prowl to confuse and destroy Christ followers. A friend of mine said it to me in a way that really stood out, they said "[He is after you], because he hates you, and because you [as a Christian] are dangerous." Satan is trying to return people to the bondage of slavery where they once served.
Another thing I want to bring up is this argument that I heard from someone recently. "In our modern system of justice, penalties for breaking laws are based on the law that is broken. There is always a way to 'pay off' your debt to society. Even the death penalty, after someone is put to death, they have paid their debt. Why is it that People suffer eternally in Hell, and that debt cannot ever be paid off?"
To this my response is what someone who rejects Jesus is doing, is rejecting his salvation and his eternal life.
Since the life that he is offering is eternal, it seems to do justice to say that the penalty should also be eternal.
So all of this Hell/Satan/Punishment stuff being said, here are some things we can do.
1. Choose Jesus.
There really is alot at stake here. Following Jesus is about so much more than this life here on earth.
2. Reject Satan.
He will be right there to 'take you back' in a heartbeat. He will bring your deepest desires into view. He will speaking nothing but lies to you. Reject everything he says, and if it is bad enough, speak truth back, Satan is completely powerless against the power of truth, and the Word of God.
3. Be Open.
If you are confused about Jesus, or life after death, or Hell or Satan, talk to someone. Ask questions, look through Scripture. If you are conflicted by the enemy, get help from people, and become equip with truth and knowledge to defend yourself with the Sword of Righteousness that we call truth.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
No One Can Serve Two Masters
So this was not intended to be my next post. I choose what order I post these in carefully, but after a conversation I had with a coworker yesterday I decided to talk about this.
While I was talking to this person she said that her friend stopped participating in a certain ministry because he seen some of the students involved in the ministry live 'double lives'. When I heard this I became very upset. The person in this story is not alone. I have heard many stories that end just like this. This brought up several interesting points I decided to share.
The first point is that we never know what opportunities we might be missing, or causing others to miss by our actions. Take the above story for example. Had this student stayed connected to this ministry his or others that he might have come across could have been very different. Now since I know the student in the story, I'm confident in saying that he turned out alright. But the fact remains that we want to always want to be opening doors for the Kingdom of Heaven not closing them.
Which brings up my next point. Secret sin hurts people. Some people are fooled into this idea that sinning behind closed doors is okay. 'If nobody knows about it, then its not hurting anyone right?' Wrong. The first key point is that, sin always hurts God. It doesn't matter if not a human on earth knows about it. More importantly, sin is separation from God. Meaning that if you are wrapped up in sinning, its hard to stop because you are separating yourself from your lifeline of help.
To go off of this, double lives, have a way of becoming exposed. When a double life is exposed there usually has to be more sin involved, (lying etc) to minimize the amount of damage that it might cause. When, (I say when, because double lives come out eventually) this happens, it can be very hurtful to lots of people. It will destroy creditability in your life, and ruin any authority that your words once carried. People will feel betrayed and hurt.
It's not just the church, or friends and family that will be hurt. I asked a friend of mine one time, what his biggest problem with [Christians] was. He replied, 'They are fake. I can go to church with [someone] on Sunday and then go partying with them on Friday. This double life that this person was living, is hurting my friends view of Christians, and the church, and ultimately God himself.
Now please don't read this and hear my words saying that myself or that Christians are suppose to be sinless. But what I'm trying to get at here is that there is a lot at stake. As Christians we carry the responsibility of exampling Gods character. This is a hefty responsibility that needs to be taken seriously. It has great and even unknown consequences if we fail to do this. So if you are struggling with a double life, or secret sin. Go tell someone. Get accountability and pray daily for this to stop. If you know who this is their story, then be praying for this person. It might be a good idea to approach this person in a healthy and loving way, and offer help in bringing them back to living a righteous life.
While I was talking to this person she said that her friend stopped participating in a certain ministry because he seen some of the students involved in the ministry live 'double lives'. When I heard this I became very upset. The person in this story is not alone. I have heard many stories that end just like this. This brought up several interesting points I decided to share.
The first point is that we never know what opportunities we might be missing, or causing others to miss by our actions. Take the above story for example. Had this student stayed connected to this ministry his or others that he might have come across could have been very different. Now since I know the student in the story, I'm confident in saying that he turned out alright. But the fact remains that we want to always want to be opening doors for the Kingdom of Heaven not closing them.
Which brings up my next point. Secret sin hurts people. Some people are fooled into this idea that sinning behind closed doors is okay. 'If nobody knows about it, then its not hurting anyone right?' Wrong. The first key point is that, sin always hurts God. It doesn't matter if not a human on earth knows about it. More importantly, sin is separation from God. Meaning that if you are wrapped up in sinning, its hard to stop because you are separating yourself from your lifeline of help.
To go off of this, double lives, have a way of becoming exposed. When a double life is exposed there usually has to be more sin involved, (lying etc) to minimize the amount of damage that it might cause. When, (I say when, because double lives come out eventually) this happens, it can be very hurtful to lots of people. It will destroy creditability in your life, and ruin any authority that your words once carried. People will feel betrayed and hurt.
It's not just the church, or friends and family that will be hurt. I asked a friend of mine one time, what his biggest problem with [Christians] was. He replied, 'They are fake. I can go to church with [someone] on Sunday and then go partying with them on Friday. This double life that this person was living, is hurting my friends view of Christians, and the church, and ultimately God himself.
Now please don't read this and hear my words saying that myself or that Christians are suppose to be sinless. But what I'm trying to get at here is that there is a lot at stake. As Christians we carry the responsibility of exampling Gods character. This is a hefty responsibility that needs to be taken seriously. It has great and even unknown consequences if we fail to do this. So if you are struggling with a double life, or secret sin. Go tell someone. Get accountability and pray daily for this to stop. If you know who this is their story, then be praying for this person. It might be a good idea to approach this person in a healthy and loving way, and offer help in bringing them back to living a righteous life.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Give to Caesar
Now I realize that this post is very late. But I wanted to post it at some point, and now felt like a good time.
So a few weeks ago was the 4th of July. The independence day of the United States of America. Now my relationship with my country has been a bumpy ride. I had some pretty conservative world views. I was pretty outspoken about my political views. But there was a point when I was in a debate with someone regarding open borders to Mexico. I felt like I was 'winning' the debate, but it was all the sudden when I realized that my words carried so much hate. I felt sick to my stomach. I could feel God's heart breaking with disappointment, as I am committed to preaching and extending Gods abundant Love. But my words were nothing but hate. I realized that it was due to some of my political views that I was erecting a barrier of hate from Gods people. People that if you read my last post, God loves as much, if not even more than me. I decided that it would be better to take some time away from politics. I wanted to spend more time learning how to effectively love people, and to stay away from political debates until I was able to do it maturely, and I felt that God would be pleased with my words.
I stayed away from chasing the political games for a while. I spent more time with God and through the help of some other close friends, I learned how to serve a King and not a country. Now I can blog about this another time, but a King is nothing like a president. Which is the only sort of political figurehead I have ever been a citizen. So it was quite a learning process discovering how to serve a King, and be a citizen in the Kingdom of Heaven.
As I was learning what this all means, I got very wrapped up in it. I began to despise not only our government but all government. I began to crave serving a just King. I got wrapped up and began to hate people again, this time it was political figures. I decided that all politicians, and lobbyists were corrupt jerks that couldn't be trusted. Even if I wasn't as outspoken with my hate, it still existed in my heart. It was then when I was reading my Bible. Jesus was questioned about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus begins to talk about giving to Caesar what belongs to him, but do not give to Caesar what doesn't belong to him.
Now it might be worthwhile to note that the early church was under the ultimate reign of Caesar. Roman citizens would even profess that Caesar was 'lord.' Early Christians were persecuted and even killed for not making this claim. This point and Jesus teaching about government got me thinking about what responsibilities I have to my government and my country.I know that the Bible commands me to obey the laws of the land assuming they don't conflict with God's Law. I felt that Jesus was talking right to me. Give to your Country what is theirs, but do not give them what isn't theirs.
As I was wrestling with this, some of my friends traveled to China. A nation where the public professing of faith is not allowed. Churches have to be registered with the government and have regulations for what can be taught. There are limits imposed on things like Bible sales, and where Christians can gather. It was during this time when sending emails to my friends had to be coded to prevent suspicion, that I realized how truly good we have it here in America. For everything that this nation does wrong, there is alot more that this nation does right, regardless of your political position.
So this 4th of July had a new meaning for me this year. I really thanked God for living in a place where I can openly share the Gospel with my campus mates. Even now as I am typing this and going to post it in a public forum I am not afraid of censorship, or of being imprisoned for this post. I was actually very thankful to be a citizen of the United States, even if I am ultimately a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven. Just like the young Roman church I can ultimately serve one who is greater, while still paying my taxes to Caesar.
So I'm here to leave you with a challenge. Do not waste this opportunity that you have been blessed with. Since we live a Christian tolerant nation, go and openly profess that Jesus is Lord. Go and share the Gospel with friends, classmates, and neighbors. Go and learn what it means to pay taxes to Caesar while serving a King.
So a few weeks ago was the 4th of July. The independence day of the United States of America. Now my relationship with my country has been a bumpy ride. I had some pretty conservative world views. I was pretty outspoken about my political views. But there was a point when I was in a debate with someone regarding open borders to Mexico. I felt like I was 'winning' the debate, but it was all the sudden when I realized that my words carried so much hate. I felt sick to my stomach. I could feel God's heart breaking with disappointment, as I am committed to preaching and extending Gods abundant Love. But my words were nothing but hate. I realized that it was due to some of my political views that I was erecting a barrier of hate from Gods people. People that if you read my last post, God loves as much, if not even more than me. I decided that it would be better to take some time away from politics. I wanted to spend more time learning how to effectively love people, and to stay away from political debates until I was able to do it maturely, and I felt that God would be pleased with my words.
I stayed away from chasing the political games for a while. I spent more time with God and through the help of some other close friends, I learned how to serve a King and not a country. Now I can blog about this another time, but a King is nothing like a president. Which is the only sort of political figurehead I have ever been a citizen. So it was quite a learning process discovering how to serve a King, and be a citizen in the Kingdom of Heaven.
As I was learning what this all means, I got very wrapped up in it. I began to despise not only our government but all government. I began to crave serving a just King. I got wrapped up and began to hate people again, this time it was political figures. I decided that all politicians, and lobbyists were corrupt jerks that couldn't be trusted. Even if I wasn't as outspoken with my hate, it still existed in my heart. It was then when I was reading my Bible. Jesus was questioned about paying taxes to Caesar. Jesus begins to talk about giving to Caesar what belongs to him, but do not give to Caesar what doesn't belong to him.
Now it might be worthwhile to note that the early church was under the ultimate reign of Caesar. Roman citizens would even profess that Caesar was 'lord.' Early Christians were persecuted and even killed for not making this claim. This point and Jesus teaching about government got me thinking about what responsibilities I have to my government and my country.I know that the Bible commands me to obey the laws of the land assuming they don't conflict with God's Law. I felt that Jesus was talking right to me. Give to your Country what is theirs, but do not give them what isn't theirs.
As I was wrestling with this, some of my friends traveled to China. A nation where the public professing of faith is not allowed. Churches have to be registered with the government and have regulations for what can be taught. There are limits imposed on things like Bible sales, and where Christians can gather. It was during this time when sending emails to my friends had to be coded to prevent suspicion, that I realized how truly good we have it here in America. For everything that this nation does wrong, there is alot more that this nation does right, regardless of your political position.
So this 4th of July had a new meaning for me this year. I really thanked God for living in a place where I can openly share the Gospel with my campus mates. Even now as I am typing this and going to post it in a public forum I am not afraid of censorship, or of being imprisoned for this post. I was actually very thankful to be a citizen of the United States, even if I am ultimately a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven. Just like the young Roman church I can ultimately serve one who is greater, while still paying my taxes to Caesar.
So I'm here to leave you with a challenge. Do not waste this opportunity that you have been blessed with. Since we live a Christian tolerant nation, go and openly profess that Jesus is Lord. Go and share the Gospel with friends, classmates, and neighbors. Go and learn what it means to pay taxes to Caesar while serving a King.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Jesus is Love
Ok so I realize that my title isn't very catchy, its somewhat cliche' and something that I'm sure Christian or not you have heard. In the last few weeks I have had several conversations about this topic. I decided to elaborate on two separate sets of three little words.
The first is 'I Love You'. I had a bit of a emotional problem a few days ago. I decided to try and logically think through the concept of Love. Now I know that we are suppose to love. I know that God designed us to love each other, even love our enemies. But why, was the question floating around my brain. So lets think about what 'love' really means. First off, you don't love chocolate. Love is sacrificial. It's placing the needs of others above your own. It's unconditional whether someone is deserving of it or not. It's giving someone power over you and your well being. It's giving everything with no expectation of reward.
So all that being said, love makes no sense, none! (At least according to the standards of this world) This world tells us that it's all about us. That we don't need to sacrifice anything. That we don't need to do anything in less there is a promise of return. That we can pick and choose who we give love to. Not to mention when and where. Unfortunately this means that I feel I am confident and correct in saying that without God humans are not capable of loving anyone.
The kicker there was 'without God'. Whether you accept Jesus, or believe in God or not, you are not without God. He designed and loves everyone unconditionally. Elements of his personality are embedded in your life. Meaning that anyone can love. In fact it is through love that we connect with Gods heart. If we can learn how to love, we can learn more about ourselves, and what other characteristics God instilled in us, specifically ones that we share with Him.
This brings us to the next block of three words. 'Jesus is Love' There is no more true statement ever. The Gospel is certainly a Love story. Jesus is the embodiment of love. It is through his example that we can truly love others. It is only once we come to a decent place of understanding of Jesus, and the cross that we can even begin to try and love others. This is why the cross is so crucial to Christian faith. Jesus, and the cross is so much more than salvation. (This blog post coming soon :-p ) But the fact is that one of the most important things about the cross is the example it sets for love.
So love isn't logical. People don't deserve it. It isn't fair. It does require something of us. But think about the ultimate example of love. A sinless man, bearing the penalty for all sin is certainly the most unfair thing I can think of. Doing it for people that are literally his enemies, and don't deserve it. Doing it for people regardless of circumstance. Sacrificing everything, for people that may never even accept it. Jesus, truly is love.
A friend of mine told me that 'love isn't always easy, but it is always worth it.' She is absolutely correct. When we truly love people, it is worth it.We get to experience the way that God designed us. We get to establish something that will outlast even our physical body, and we get to experience what the King of Kings felt. Not to mention, think of the smile it brings to our Fathers face when his children are getting along nicely.
So lets throw out the 'worlds' guidebook when it comes to love. Lets throw out the wishy-washy 'love' that ultimately ends often in heartbreak and disaster. Lets call upon the name of Jesus Christ in prayer. Lets says Jesus, You are love. We want to know you first before we ever try to love. We accept our orders to love others and even love enemies. Let us be consumed be you and the cross to understand how to even love. Let us establish a relationship with Love so that we can truly love others. Let our love for them be the love that is overflowing from the love that you pour into me. Let us be willing to be sacrificial and take a risk with a broken people. Thank you for setting the eternal example, and defining truly what love is.Jesus we love you.
You might be surprised how easy it is to sacrifice your life, and die to yourself after having offered this prayer in faith. You also might be surprised with how God will bless you with love abundantly that you can share with others.
Consider reading this blog post. To get some more wisdom about true love.
The first is 'I Love You'. I had a bit of a emotional problem a few days ago. I decided to try and logically think through the concept of Love. Now I know that we are suppose to love. I know that God designed us to love each other, even love our enemies. But why, was the question floating around my brain. So lets think about what 'love' really means. First off, you don't love chocolate. Love is sacrificial. It's placing the needs of others above your own. It's unconditional whether someone is deserving of it or not. It's giving someone power over you and your well being. It's giving everything with no expectation of reward.
So all that being said, love makes no sense, none! (At least according to the standards of this world) This world tells us that it's all about us. That we don't need to sacrifice anything. That we don't need to do anything in less there is a promise of return. That we can pick and choose who we give love to. Not to mention when and where. Unfortunately this means that I feel I am confident and correct in saying that without God humans are not capable of loving anyone.
The kicker there was 'without God'. Whether you accept Jesus, or believe in God or not, you are not without God. He designed and loves everyone unconditionally. Elements of his personality are embedded in your life. Meaning that anyone can love. In fact it is through love that we connect with Gods heart. If we can learn how to love, we can learn more about ourselves, and what other characteristics God instilled in us, specifically ones that we share with Him.
This brings us to the next block of three words. 'Jesus is Love' There is no more true statement ever. The Gospel is certainly a Love story. Jesus is the embodiment of love. It is through his example that we can truly love others. It is only once we come to a decent place of understanding of Jesus, and the cross that we can even begin to try and love others. This is why the cross is so crucial to Christian faith. Jesus, and the cross is so much more than salvation. (This blog post coming soon :-p ) But the fact is that one of the most important things about the cross is the example it sets for love.
So love isn't logical. People don't deserve it. It isn't fair. It does require something of us. But think about the ultimate example of love. A sinless man, bearing the penalty for all sin is certainly the most unfair thing I can think of. Doing it for people that are literally his enemies, and don't deserve it. Doing it for people regardless of circumstance. Sacrificing everything, for people that may never even accept it. Jesus, truly is love.
A friend of mine told me that 'love isn't always easy, but it is always worth it.' She is absolutely correct. When we truly love people, it is worth it.We get to experience the way that God designed us. We get to establish something that will outlast even our physical body, and we get to experience what the King of Kings felt. Not to mention, think of the smile it brings to our Fathers face when his children are getting along nicely.
So lets throw out the 'worlds' guidebook when it comes to love. Lets throw out the wishy-washy 'love' that ultimately ends often in heartbreak and disaster. Lets call upon the name of Jesus Christ in prayer. Lets says Jesus, You are love. We want to know you first before we ever try to love. We accept our orders to love others and even love enemies. Let us be consumed be you and the cross to understand how to even love. Let us establish a relationship with Love so that we can truly love others. Let our love for them be the love that is overflowing from the love that you pour into me. Let us be willing to be sacrificial and take a risk with a broken people. Thank you for setting the eternal example, and defining truly what love is.Jesus we love you.
You might be surprised how easy it is to sacrifice your life, and die to yourself after having offered this prayer in faith. You also might be surprised with how God will bless you with love abundantly that you can share with others.
Consider reading this blog post. To get some more wisdom about true love.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
I Do
A friend of mine asked me, 'how have the first 6 months of married life been.' I responded with a few great stories involving; toothpaste, drawer space, and Elise pulling an awesome prank and scaring me really bad. All in all marriage has felt very natural, and as it should. Men and women are designed to be together. A woman will desire her husband, and a husband will Love his wife. A union between a man and a woman is the way things were designed by God to be. These stories of love, respect, and faithfulness got me thinking about my wedding.
I got married only six months ago, so many of the details are fresh in my head. I was thinking about how beautiful my bride looked. Someone told me that the 'wedding day is all about the Bride.' The groom should go out of his way, to ensure that the entire day is satisfying to the bride. I remember the joy, the fellowship, the love of that day. They talk about getting jitters before your wedding, but I guess I was lucky enough to miss that.
When I was St. Louis, Gerry taught us about the word Shalom. (A word with I honestly thought was some sort of Jewish greeting or something) Shalom can be described as 'the way things ought to be' or the 'the way things were intended to be.' This is an assumption of perfection, the sort of perfection as designed by God. The sort of thing, were everything feels completely right. Where no one thing is out of place.
I was glad Gerry taught me about the meaning of this word, and the feelings associated with it. Because when I think about my first kiss with my new wife, Shalom is the only word/emotion that comes to mind. Here I was joining into an eternal union with a great woman God has blessed me with much like Adam was blessed with Eve. Now Elise wasn't created from my rib, but I certainly would have offered one for her! In that moment, when my pastor said "you may kiss your bride," I felt shalom. Everything was as it ought to be. That moment was so special and so unique.
My wedding was certainly awesome for Elise and I, but it was a great time for our guests too. Elise and I got to attend two weddings so far this year as guests, and with two more on the way also. At the last wedding things were running a little late. The groom was patiently waiting for his bride to finish preparing herself. The father of the bride was also patiently preparing everything to be perfect for his child. The wait was well worth it. The bride was beautiful, and everything about the wedding was awesome. Everyone had a great time, and the night was special to so many people.
It made me think about the amazing wedding that is planned for us. We are the bride of Christ. Our groom Jesus, is very patiently waiting for us to be perfect. For us to be beautiful and eye pleasing. He is sacrificially waiting for us, because as I was told at my wedding, "The wedding is all about the bride." Our Father, is busy making everything perfect for this great day of love, and joy. Just anticipating this amazing epic wedding ceremony just returns that feeling of shalom. A eternal union formed between Jesus and his bride. The way things out to be. I for one simply cannot wait!
On a special side note shout-out:
Congratulations to these couples for entering into a union already this year:
Kaitlyn and AJ Russell
Wesley and Brittany Hall
Congratulations to these couples who will be entering into this amazing union shortly:
Jenny Charvoz and Dustin Mast
Crystal Faust and Theo Davis
And a Special Congratulations to Steven and Jessica Grahmann who have been married for 10 years!
I got married only six months ago, so many of the details are fresh in my head. I was thinking about how beautiful my bride looked. Someone told me that the 'wedding day is all about the Bride.' The groom should go out of his way, to ensure that the entire day is satisfying to the bride. I remember the joy, the fellowship, the love of that day. They talk about getting jitters before your wedding, but I guess I was lucky enough to miss that.
When I was St. Louis, Gerry taught us about the word Shalom. (A word with I honestly thought was some sort of Jewish greeting or something) Shalom can be described as 'the way things ought to be' or the 'the way things were intended to be.' This is an assumption of perfection, the sort of perfection as designed by God. The sort of thing, were everything feels completely right. Where no one thing is out of place.
I was glad Gerry taught me about the meaning of this word, and the feelings associated with it. Because when I think about my first kiss with my new wife, Shalom is the only word/emotion that comes to mind. Here I was joining into an eternal union with a great woman God has blessed me with much like Adam was blessed with Eve. Now Elise wasn't created from my rib, but I certainly would have offered one for her! In that moment, when my pastor said "you may kiss your bride," I felt shalom. Everything was as it ought to be. That moment was so special and so unique.
My wedding was certainly awesome for Elise and I, but it was a great time for our guests too. Elise and I got to attend two weddings so far this year as guests, and with two more on the way also. At the last wedding things were running a little late. The groom was patiently waiting for his bride to finish preparing herself. The father of the bride was also patiently preparing everything to be perfect for his child. The wait was well worth it. The bride was beautiful, and everything about the wedding was awesome. Everyone had a great time, and the night was special to so many people.
It made me think about the amazing wedding that is planned for us. We are the bride of Christ. Our groom Jesus, is very patiently waiting for us to be perfect. For us to be beautiful and eye pleasing. He is sacrificially waiting for us, because as I was told at my wedding, "The wedding is all about the bride." Our Father, is busy making everything perfect for this great day of love, and joy. Just anticipating this amazing epic wedding ceremony just returns that feeling of shalom. A eternal union formed between Jesus and his bride. The way things out to be. I for one simply cannot wait!
On a special side note shout-out:
Congratulations to these couples for entering into a union already this year:
Kaitlyn and AJ Russell
Wesley and Brittany Hall
Congratulations to these couples who will be entering into this amazing union shortly:
Jenny Charvoz and Dustin Mast
Crystal Faust and Theo Davis
And a Special Congratulations to Steven and Jessica Grahmann who have been married for 10 years!
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Psalm 151
Today in church our pastor Mark Smith stood up to talk. Last week we started the book of Jonah. We did Jonah 1.1 so I was expecting the board to say Jonah 2.1 but instead it said psalm 151. I was confused at first because there is only 150 psalms in the book of psalms. I assumed that it was a typo since I figured we were doing Jonah again. The Pastor began talking about how Jonah 2.1 is the prayer of Jonah. It was written in an interesting format and Pastor Mark called this prayer/song psalm 151. He told us to write our own psalm 151. Which I decided to do here.
There is some quick background to help this all make sense. Jonah is a character who disobeys God per se. He is commanded by God to do something which he says that he will do but then decides not to. Jonahs prayer is full of thanksgiving for more chances, full of apology, and full of praise to a God who's will is done no matter what.
Recently I have been feeling a little like Jonah. A while ago God asked me to do something. At first I said "yeah God you're right, I'll do this." I said I will but then decided not to. I realized that this thing He was asking me to do was going to be awkward, or difficult. So I postponed this as long as possible. Even in my dreams, and prayers God reminded me that I was being disobedient in not doing what he asked. So finally he broke me down, and I did it. It turned out that it wasn't even awkward or difficult at all. It feels like a huge weight has been removed, and my mood has greatly improved. God brought the storm to be, but like Jonah brought be to dry land safely. So in response to this situation I offer up my psalm 151.
PSALM 151
God from the depths of my heart I cry out to you,
For you have and will always know what is best for me,
But I ignore you will and your plans,
I choose my own plans, or even the plans of my enemies.
But God you are truly patient,
And you wait for me even in my disobedience,
You hold my hand, you light my path,
You extend grace to me through my ignorance.
You deliver me into the storm,
But you bring me out unscathed,
You deserve the glory for my success,
And yet you share the burden of failure.
God you take all of me even against my will,
For it is by your will that you act,
And your will takes my heart and seals it,
You consume my soul, and pour your love over me.
So it is from the deepest depths of my heart I cry to you,
I am thankful for you and your perfect plans,
And how you love and lead all your people,
God I surrender to you and your will now and forever.
Amen.
There is some quick background to help this all make sense. Jonah is a character who disobeys God per se. He is commanded by God to do something which he says that he will do but then decides not to. Jonahs prayer is full of thanksgiving for more chances, full of apology, and full of praise to a God who's will is done no matter what.
Recently I have been feeling a little like Jonah. A while ago God asked me to do something. At first I said "yeah God you're right, I'll do this." I said I will but then decided not to. I realized that this thing He was asking me to do was going to be awkward, or difficult. So I postponed this as long as possible. Even in my dreams, and prayers God reminded me that I was being disobedient in not doing what he asked. So finally he broke me down, and I did it. It turned out that it wasn't even awkward or difficult at all. It feels like a huge weight has been removed, and my mood has greatly improved. God brought the storm to be, but like Jonah brought be to dry land safely. So in response to this situation I offer up my psalm 151.
PSALM 151
God from the depths of my heart I cry out to you,
For you have and will always know what is best for me,
But I ignore you will and your plans,
I choose my own plans, or even the plans of my enemies.
But God you are truly patient,
And you wait for me even in my disobedience,
You hold my hand, you light my path,
You extend grace to me through my ignorance.
You deliver me into the storm,
But you bring me out unscathed,
You deserve the glory for my success,
And yet you share the burden of failure.
God you take all of me even against my will,
For it is by your will that you act,
And your will takes my heart and seals it,
You consume my soul, and pour your love over me.
So it is from the deepest depths of my heart I cry to you,
I am thankful for you and your perfect plans,
And how you love and lead all your people,
God I surrender to you and your will now and forever.
Amen.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
You take the Red Pill...
Here is a video link to the scene from The Matrix where they discuss the blue pill vs the red pill. This is purely to give you some context. If you havent seen the movie this might not make any sense.
Red Pill vs Blue Pill
The first Intervarsity I ever attended was my freshman year. The speaker was Steven Grahmann. He was talking about how non-Christians perceive Christians. He said many people will ask 'What do Christians do for fun? Play the organ? Read a Hymnal?' It was funny and even 4 years later I'm still talking about this little joke. But the reality of it is that it is so true. Many non-Christians don't understand Christians. It can easily make you the center of a joke, or a debate. Some people when the find out I'm a Christian just cant wait to pick apart everything I believe in and disprove it with 'science' and 'fact'. Some people tease me about my 'wasted life'. Some people are tolerant, but distance themselves from me unknowingly.
The fact is sometimes being a Christian is really hard. Not only is being a Christian hard, but being a Christian that's passionate about changing the world can be even harder. At Chapter Camp this year Steven Grahmann spoke again about being 'world changers'. I missed these talks as I was on my honeymoon, and at a friends wedding, but I heard all about them, and was able to pick out some of the wisdom that seemed to be pouring out of these talks.
Steven talked about some 'walls' or barriers that you might hit if you want to be a world changer. Feeling alone, Feeling helpless, Feeling temped to go back to your old life. I could pretty much relate either now or at some point with all of em. It made me think for a second. Why... why is being a Christian so hard.
I got to talking with a friend about some of these walls. Especially the last one. Being tempted to "go back". To just forget this life, return to your old life, for you were better off. I have seen this happen to people. We brought up that character of Cypher from the Matrix. Cypher, had been set free the Matrix. He knew the truth, he knew what was real and what wasn't. But he couldn't do it. Even though he was 'free' he felt more imprisoned than ever. "Why oh Why didn't I take the Blue Pill?" Cypher says at one point, the blue pill meaning passing everything by, and living comfortably in the dark.Cypher wanted to go back. He got tempted with what his old life was like. The pleasures of being ignorant and blind. When it came time to make a choice to either be fully committed to the truth or the Matrix, Cypher chooses the Matrix.
The fact is that there are Christians that relate to Cypher right now. Some people have decided that being a Christian is too hard or they believe in the salvation part, but don't want to get their hands dirty and change the world. I can't let that happen to me. Some people are comfortable living a passive Christian life style. But I strongly believe that we are a generation of world changers. Christians from our generation are total Red Pill People. We aren't ok with 'going back', we aren't ok with living in the dark. We are about changing the world. We are about establishing the Kingdom of Heaven here on earth one stone at a time. As my friend put it "We have tasted the fruit of the Promised Land and we can never go back." Referring to some Old Testament scriptures, about the Isrealites, and the desert etc.
So when the temptation of 'going back' comes up. When your friends tease you about wasting your life. When you ask yourself why you didn't take the blue pill. Just remember that we are a generation of world changers. Remember that as a living sacrifice your giving everything up. But remember that what you are gaining is everything. So just like the characters in the Matrix, lets push our faith to the limits. Lets be excited about our potential. Lets rise up together, and see what we can accomplish when we push this life to the limits. Lets say no to the passive Christian lifestyle. Rather than say we were better off, let us say we are ready, and we will be better off in the day the Lord returns.
Red Pill vs Blue Pill
The first Intervarsity I ever attended was my freshman year. The speaker was Steven Grahmann. He was talking about how non-Christians perceive Christians. He said many people will ask 'What do Christians do for fun? Play the organ? Read a Hymnal?' It was funny and even 4 years later I'm still talking about this little joke. But the reality of it is that it is so true. Many non-Christians don't understand Christians. It can easily make you the center of a joke, or a debate. Some people when the find out I'm a Christian just cant wait to pick apart everything I believe in and disprove it with 'science' and 'fact'. Some people tease me about my 'wasted life'. Some people are tolerant, but distance themselves from me unknowingly.
The fact is sometimes being a Christian is really hard. Not only is being a Christian hard, but being a Christian that's passionate about changing the world can be even harder. At Chapter Camp this year Steven Grahmann spoke again about being 'world changers'. I missed these talks as I was on my honeymoon, and at a friends wedding, but I heard all about them, and was able to pick out some of the wisdom that seemed to be pouring out of these talks.
Steven talked about some 'walls' or barriers that you might hit if you want to be a world changer. Feeling alone, Feeling helpless, Feeling temped to go back to your old life. I could pretty much relate either now or at some point with all of em. It made me think for a second. Why... why is being a Christian so hard.
I got to talking with a friend about some of these walls. Especially the last one. Being tempted to "go back". To just forget this life, return to your old life, for you were better off. I have seen this happen to people. We brought up that character of Cypher from the Matrix. Cypher, had been set free the Matrix. He knew the truth, he knew what was real and what wasn't. But he couldn't do it. Even though he was 'free' he felt more imprisoned than ever. "Why oh Why didn't I take the Blue Pill?" Cypher says at one point, the blue pill meaning passing everything by, and living comfortably in the dark.Cypher wanted to go back. He got tempted with what his old life was like. The pleasures of being ignorant and blind. When it came time to make a choice to either be fully committed to the truth or the Matrix, Cypher chooses the Matrix.
The fact is that there are Christians that relate to Cypher right now. Some people have decided that being a Christian is too hard or they believe in the salvation part, but don't want to get their hands dirty and change the world. I can't let that happen to me. Some people are comfortable living a passive Christian life style. But I strongly believe that we are a generation of world changers. Christians from our generation are total Red Pill People. We aren't ok with 'going back', we aren't ok with living in the dark. We are about changing the world. We are about establishing the Kingdom of Heaven here on earth one stone at a time. As my friend put it "We have tasted the fruit of the Promised Land and we can never go back." Referring to some Old Testament scriptures, about the Isrealites, and the desert etc.
So when the temptation of 'going back' comes up. When your friends tease you about wasting your life. When you ask yourself why you didn't take the blue pill. Just remember that we are a generation of world changers. Remember that as a living sacrifice your giving everything up. But remember that what you are gaining is everything. So just like the characters in the Matrix, lets push our faith to the limits. Lets be excited about our potential. Lets rise up together, and see what we can accomplish when we push this life to the limits. Lets say no to the passive Christian lifestyle. Rather than say we were better off, let us say we are ready, and we will be better off in the day the Lord returns.
Pray for our Missionaries
Right now several of my close friends, are all the way around the world. They are in Xian China. They are there to share the gospel with Chinese college students. This missionaries, are from Intervarsity, they willing dedicated several weeks of their summer, not to mention lots of other time preparing, raising funds, praying etc. These students are taking a risk as they cannot openly share the Gospel with these Chinese students. I am very proud of everyone who went on this trip.
You can check this blog here. This blog belongs to Brian Sun. A good friend of mine who is currently in China. You can get some updates from his trip at his blog.
Please Consider praying for these missionaries, as well as the Chinese Students.
Father,
It is only in you that we find comfort and safety. We pray together now for your comfort and safety to pour over our brothers and sisters that are sharing the good news of the resurrection of Jesus. Please pour out the Spirit onto these students so that they will be sharing your words with their Chinese partners. Please open the hearts and remove distractions of these Chinese students. Please let these words of grace, and love penetrate deep into their hearts. All for your glory and kingdom we pray Lord.
Amen.
You can check this blog here. This blog belongs to Brian Sun. A good friend of mine who is currently in China. You can get some updates from his trip at his blog.
Please Consider praying for these missionaries, as well as the Chinese Students.
Father,
It is only in you that we find comfort and safety. We pray together now for your comfort and safety to pour over our brothers and sisters that are sharing the good news of the resurrection of Jesus. Please pour out the Spirit onto these students so that they will be sharing your words with their Chinese partners. Please open the hearts and remove distractions of these Chinese students. Please let these words of grace, and love penetrate deep into their hearts. All for your glory and kingdom we pray Lord.
Amen.
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