How beautiful it is to be released from myself. To be so far from the comforts of God, and then to suddenly be brought back into His loving arms. The joy of the Holy Spirit replaces the anxiety of approval, the burden of success and the tension of deadlines.
I have been so consumed with succeeding. I have been so obsessed with gaining my superiors' approval, that I have lost sight of Him whom all thanks must be given for my very life. But how sublime it is to find Him again--though He never really lost me; I only took my heart and mind and wondered from Him to drink the pleasures of the world, which as always, prove vain and temporal.
It is not that I should not seek excellence--no, may God be glorified in my excellence! But how sad it would be to gain the world, but lose my soul, as the cliché goes. It is God who has given me the brilliant opportunities I have in D.C., why should I now turn to myself to deliver?
Surrender. Surrender. And getting to a place by myself. That is what released all this tension for me today. I have been trying so hard to be more of a "people person," that I forgot how much I enjoy time alone. My body, my mind needs to be alone every so often. When I finally was alone for several hours today I had a chance to just breathe...for a moment. No need to look like a leader to everyone around me. No putting on my extrovert face to hide my real desire to just relax. And God met me in my solitude, reminding me of who I really am--in Christ.
My old self, my flesh fell as my regenerated Spirit claimed back my soul. Now if I could remember this peace, and not lose it as I enter another work week. That I would not again allow my flesh to savagely hunger after the world. But that my Spirit would temper my temperaments, and submit the Old Man. It is not me anymore.
"He who loses his life for My sake will find it."
Jesus
Friday, February 22, 2008
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Christmas
I could write about how joyful this time of year is. I could talk about how important the spirit of giving is, and how cool it is to see people in that mood. I could write about the sweet smell in the air and how I can't wait to get back home. I could. And you would all smile and say, "What a nice guy," or, "What a respectable young man." You might even send me a message telling me how beautiful you think my writing is. Then you'd get up from your computer and walk away.
But I am not going to write about those things. No, I'm in more of a mood to ram heads a little bit. Perhaps give complacency and apathy a bit of a kick in the face.
**
Christmas---what is it? If you're reading this you're probably a solid Christian and would answer pretty predictably, and correctly. "It's about celebrating Jesus' birth!" And I do confess, I've grown up in the Church and in a Christian home where efforts were always taken to include Jesus in Christmas; to make sure we focus on the "real meaning of Christmas."
But that's just the problem, isn't it? Include Jesus in Christmas? People, do you include Donald Trump in The Apprentice? Do you include Jerry Seinfeld in the sitcom Seinfeld? No, you don't include them, they are the show!
And yet, every Christmas in my life thus far, Jesus has felt a little...well...forced.
"It's not just about the presents kids, it's about Jesus' birth."
"Yes, mom, we know."
"Okay, well now be good kids, so Santa Claus will give you presents."
We tell kids Jesus' is the "reason for the season," but then go lay down like trained dogs at 4 a.m. the day after Thanksgiving. Seriously, people? In every other area of life we'd say actions speak louder than words, yet at Christmas time we seem to reverse this ideology. Are you really so ignorant as to think your feeble, slipped-in words speak louder to your kids than that shiny present in the shadow of the tree? Please, "Where you treasure is your heart will be also (Matt. 6:21)." And as far as I can tell, most of our treasure during Christmas time is being horded by Wal-Mart.
Where did all this come from? And why do Christians have such a hard time separating from it? Growing up in the Church (and even in my own family)I have seen how hesitant parents are to drop the whole Santa Claus spiel. I have seen how despite our Christmas Eve services and our manger scenes, we still stress and spend thousands of dollars each Christmas. Why? Why do we keep feeding the retailers? For what reason do we do this? Tradition? Who's tradition? God's? I don't think so.
Believe me, I can hear it already. "Michael, it's not that big of deal--it's just a little fun." Or maybe even you've already gotten to the defensive stage. "C'mon, can't people show they love one another a little bit? What's wrong with getting people stuff?"
Oh nothing is wrong, other than that view of love. What are you defining love by? I don't know about you, but I read the Bible:
"By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren" (1 John 3:16).
Or, "Greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friend" (John 15:13).
I don't know how much clearer it can be. Love is sacrifice--sure spending money is sacrifice...but do you really see that as the primary message of these passages...honestly? Please answer that honestly, because I know I've angered some people already, and they really need to stop and think.
Done?
Okay. Now, why do we keep doing all this? Why do we keep perverting a great Christian tradition? Well, let me take a shot at it. I think we western Christians have become so used to living in a so-called "Judeo-Christian" culture that, for the most part, accepts and even celebrates Christianity. I think because of this, we've allowed our world-view and traditions to get intertwined with America's. So much so, that I think a lot of us can't tell the difference between Christian culture and American culture--we, subconsciously or otherwise, see them as the same.
"Oh, but Michael, I'm totally against culturally accepted things like gay-marriage and abortion." Well, that's great, but that is not what I'm talking about here. I would call those things progressive culture, as there still are a lot of people, like you I'm sure, who are against them. I'm talking about our underlying, traditional culture that is generally accepted by mostly everyone without much thought. Things like marriage ceremonies, holidays, three meals a day--that type of stuff. Got it?
Now, I'm not saying we need to tear down the trees and lights. Nor am I suggesting there is anything wrong with having traditions, secular or otherwise, that are distinctives of our culture and heritage. That is, unless these things are hurting our faith. And I think, in the case of American Christmas, it is. We act pious by attending Christmas Eve services and putting manger scenes in our home. We talk about wishing our kids were less selfish and worldly during Christmas, but then consistently each year stock the tree with all the latest new toys. "Where ever do they pick up this attitude?" Duh.
Celebrate Jesus or celebrate Santa. But not both, please. Love should not be supplied via consumerism. Give someone yourself. Your time. Your care.
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. The eye is the lamp of the body; so then if your eye is clear,your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad,your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light that is in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!
"No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth."
Jesus, Matthew 6:19
Listen, there's nothing in the Bible about celebrating Christmas. But if we're going to set aside a day to honor Christ's birth anyway, let's be sure that is what we are actually doing.
---Grace and Peace---
But I am not going to write about those things. No, I'm in more of a mood to ram heads a little bit. Perhaps give complacency and apathy a bit of a kick in the face.
**
Christmas---what is it? If you're reading this you're probably a solid Christian and would answer pretty predictably, and correctly. "It's about celebrating Jesus' birth!" And I do confess, I've grown up in the Church and in a Christian home where efforts were always taken to include Jesus in Christmas; to make sure we focus on the "real meaning of Christmas."
But that's just the problem, isn't it? Include Jesus in Christmas? People, do you include Donald Trump in The Apprentice? Do you include Jerry Seinfeld in the sitcom Seinfeld? No, you don't include them, they are the show!
And yet, every Christmas in my life thus far, Jesus has felt a little...well...forced.
"It's not just about the presents kids, it's about Jesus' birth."
"Yes, mom, we know."
"Okay, well now be good kids, so Santa Claus will give you presents."
We tell kids Jesus' is the "reason for the season," but then go lay down like trained dogs at 4 a.m. the day after Thanksgiving. Seriously, people? In every other area of life we'd say actions speak louder than words, yet at Christmas time we seem to reverse this ideology. Are you really so ignorant as to think your feeble, slipped-in words speak louder to your kids than that shiny present in the shadow of the tree? Please, "Where you treasure is your heart will be also (Matt. 6:21)." And as far as I can tell, most of our treasure during Christmas time is being horded by Wal-Mart.
Where did all this come from? And why do Christians have such a hard time separating from it? Growing up in the Church (and even in my own family)I have seen how hesitant parents are to drop the whole Santa Claus spiel. I have seen how despite our Christmas Eve services and our manger scenes, we still stress and spend thousands of dollars each Christmas. Why? Why do we keep feeding the retailers? For what reason do we do this? Tradition? Who's tradition? God's? I don't think so.
Believe me, I can hear it already. "Michael, it's not that big of deal--it's just a little fun." Or maybe even you've already gotten to the defensive stage. "C'mon, can't people show they love one another a little bit? What's wrong with getting people stuff?"
Oh nothing is wrong, other than that view of love. What are you defining love by? I don't know about you, but I read the Bible:
"By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren" (1 John 3:16).
Or, "Greater love has no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friend" (John 15:13).
I don't know how much clearer it can be. Love is sacrifice--sure spending money is sacrifice...but do you really see that as the primary message of these passages...honestly? Please answer that honestly, because I know I've angered some people already, and they really need to stop and think.
Done?
Okay. Now, why do we keep doing all this? Why do we keep perverting a great Christian tradition? Well, let me take a shot at it. I think we western Christians have become so used to living in a so-called "Judeo-Christian" culture that, for the most part, accepts and even celebrates Christianity. I think because of this, we've allowed our world-view and traditions to get intertwined with America's. So much so, that I think a lot of us can't tell the difference between Christian culture and American culture--we, subconsciously or otherwise, see them as the same.
"Oh, but Michael, I'm totally against culturally accepted things like gay-marriage and abortion." Well, that's great, but that is not what I'm talking about here. I would call those things progressive culture, as there still are a lot of people, like you I'm sure, who are against them. I'm talking about our underlying, traditional culture that is generally accepted by mostly everyone without much thought. Things like marriage ceremonies, holidays, three meals a day--that type of stuff. Got it?
Now, I'm not saying we need to tear down the trees and lights. Nor am I suggesting there is anything wrong with having traditions, secular or otherwise, that are distinctives of our culture and heritage. That is, unless these things are hurting our faith. And I think, in the case of American Christmas, it is. We act pious by attending Christmas Eve services and putting manger scenes in our home. We talk about wishing our kids were less selfish and worldly during Christmas, but then consistently each year stock the tree with all the latest new toys. "Where ever do they pick up this attitude?" Duh.
Celebrate Jesus or celebrate Santa. But not both, please. Love should not be supplied via consumerism. Give someone yourself. Your time. Your care.
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. The eye is the lamp of the body; so then if your eye is clear,your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad,your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light that is in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!
"No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth."
Jesus, Matthew 6:19
Listen, there's nothing in the Bible about celebrating Christmas. But if we're going to set aside a day to honor Christ's birth anyway, let's be sure that is what we are actually doing.
---Grace and Peace---
Monday, November 26, 2007
Like an Insect Carried by the Wind
Sometimes I feel like I'm just floating along. Like some kind of insect. Blown by the wind in one direction, I begin flapping my puny wings, altering my course just so slightly so as to get pummeled by another gust of wind going a different direction.
I stretch and I buzz so furiously so as to draw the curious glances of other insects caught in the same breeze. I smile at them, continuing to fight for control. But I am tired, and behind my grin there is a weariness with it all--a feeling of vanity as I watch others lay back comfortably and float along. Yet here I am, struggling, striving, winning control; only to suddenly be shot up in a large pillar of air that deliriates my senses.
***
How life is so strange. Especially for a child of God. How I strive and stress and worry. Succeed, prevail, deliver and fail. All this effort, and God throws curve balls. You ask yourself, "Where did this come from?" Despite all your best efforts to influence your life for the better, God throws something in front of you that you didn't expect, making you wonder why you even try. And to top it off, everyone else looks like they're on cruise contol. And don't seem to be suffering for it.
In Ephesians 2:10 Paul says God has laid out good works for me to do. Seemingly saying that he already knows what He wants me on this earth for. Now I have an idea of what I want and what I am good at, and for the most part it seems like God's will is lining up with that. However, the way He plans to take me there...well, I just refuse to even guess. So many times the most random, unpredictable things will happen that I could have never planned for--which, of course, is the way God loves to work: surprising us.
And yet I worry. I worry and worry. Girls, job, money. But I'm reminded constantly that God has got it taken care of. How in the world does a guy like me end up affording a private Christian university? God. How does a professor that I could hardly stand suddenly start complimenting me and recommending me for jobs? God. How come my social worries seem to pan themselves out when I'm not worrying about them? God.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercies has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ (Eph. 1:2).
Be reminded, when you are feeling drained, that God just wants your trust. He'll give you everything you need; He just wants to know your priorities are right. Those who prove trustable with little, can then be trusted with more.
Amen.
I stretch and I buzz so furiously so as to draw the curious glances of other insects caught in the same breeze. I smile at them, continuing to fight for control. But I am tired, and behind my grin there is a weariness with it all--a feeling of vanity as I watch others lay back comfortably and float along. Yet here I am, struggling, striving, winning control; only to suddenly be shot up in a large pillar of air that deliriates my senses.
***
How life is so strange. Especially for a child of God. How I strive and stress and worry. Succeed, prevail, deliver and fail. All this effort, and God throws curve balls. You ask yourself, "Where did this come from?" Despite all your best efforts to influence your life for the better, God throws something in front of you that you didn't expect, making you wonder why you even try. And to top it off, everyone else looks like they're on cruise contol. And don't seem to be suffering for it.
In Ephesians 2:10 Paul says God has laid out good works for me to do. Seemingly saying that he already knows what He wants me on this earth for. Now I have an idea of what I want and what I am good at, and for the most part it seems like God's will is lining up with that. However, the way He plans to take me there...well, I just refuse to even guess. So many times the most random, unpredictable things will happen that I could have never planned for--which, of course, is the way God loves to work: surprising us.
And yet I worry. I worry and worry. Girls, job, money. But I'm reminded constantly that God has got it taken care of. How in the world does a guy like me end up affording a private Christian university? God. How does a professor that I could hardly stand suddenly start complimenting me and recommending me for jobs? God. How come my social worries seem to pan themselves out when I'm not worrying about them? God.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercies has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ (Eph. 1:2).
Be reminded, when you are feeling drained, that God just wants your trust. He'll give you everything you need; He just wants to know your priorities are right. Those who prove trustable with little, can then be trusted with more.
Amen.
Monday, October 29, 2007
"Eveyone did what was right in his own eyes"
In my Old Testament class we just finished reading through Judges.
One phrase that stood out to me, and that was used four times in the text, is the title for this post.
If you know anything about Judges you will know what I mean when say the Israelites had issues. It seems that their faith was completely reliant on the authority figure over them. It also speaks of the fallibility and vanity of moral subjectivity--a huge issue nowadays (post-modernism anyone?). Our truth and moral discernment should come from the Word of God.
Take for example 4:1: "When Ehud was dead, the children of Israel again did evil in the sight of the LORD.".
What does that speak of their faith, I ask? My conclusion is that their faith was not too solid; not penetrating their heart and soul like the Word says it should: "For the Word of God is sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."Hebrews 4:12.
What they seemed to have is what we call here at Biola a "heart problem"--their faith was not authentic. They needed someone to keep in check, otherwise they just did what they felt like.
I liken their faith to the child who grows up in a Christian home, meticulously going to church with little thought or commitment. They leave for college, hear some professor trash God and all of the sudden this "Christian" has completely disowned his/her faith. Or did he/she? Maybe they never had it at all. Who knows? God is judge of the soul.
But still, I think you can see what is wrong when we lean on someone else for their faith. Whether it be parents, a great pastor, a Christian role-model, they're all people--and as such, fallible. If we rely on them to support our faith as soon as that person falls we will be utterly discouraged and be a mess of questioning and rebellion against our creator.
Now there is something to be said of godly leadership. God rose up great leaders in Biblical history that obviously were to the benefit of those under them--Moses, David, Paul are all great examples. Exhortations such as found in Philippians 3:15-17 demonstrate the importance of not only having a role-model, but actually modeling your behavior after them.
However, Moses, David, and Paul all had imperfect lives--we must be discerning and think for ourselves. Our faith is in God, not in men!
"Now I say this, that each of you says, 'I am of Paul,' or 'I am of Apollos,' or 'I am of Christ.' Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?" 1 Corinthians 1:12-3
With all this in mind we must be vigilant in examining our own heart. Are we mindlessly eating what we're fed each day at the pulpit? Are we like Paul says: "children tossed to and fro and carried about by every wind of doctrine."
Own it.
I heard a speaker say this once about owning your faith:
"There are no grandchildren in the Kingdom of God--only sons."
No one's getting by on their parents'/pastor's/role-model's faith.
One phrase that stood out to me, and that was used four times in the text, is the title for this post.
If you know anything about Judges you will know what I mean when say the Israelites had issues. It seems that their faith was completely reliant on the authority figure over them. It also speaks of the fallibility and vanity of moral subjectivity--a huge issue nowadays (post-modernism anyone?). Our truth and moral discernment should come from the Word of God.
Take for example 4:1: "When Ehud was dead, the children of Israel again did evil in the sight of the LORD.".
What does that speak of their faith, I ask? My conclusion is that their faith was not too solid; not penetrating their heart and soul like the Word says it should: "For the Word of God is sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."Hebrews 4:12.
What they seemed to have is what we call here at Biola a "heart problem"--their faith was not authentic. They needed someone to keep in check, otherwise they just did what they felt like.
I liken their faith to the child who grows up in a Christian home, meticulously going to church with little thought or commitment. They leave for college, hear some professor trash God and all of the sudden this "Christian" has completely disowned his/her faith. Or did he/she? Maybe they never had it at all. Who knows? God is judge of the soul.
But still, I think you can see what is wrong when we lean on someone else for their faith. Whether it be parents, a great pastor, a Christian role-model, they're all people--and as such, fallible. If we rely on them to support our faith as soon as that person falls we will be utterly discouraged and be a mess of questioning and rebellion against our creator.
Now there is something to be said of godly leadership. God rose up great leaders in Biblical history that obviously were to the benefit of those under them--Moses, David, Paul are all great examples. Exhortations such as found in Philippians 3:15-17 demonstrate the importance of not only having a role-model, but actually modeling your behavior after them.
However, Moses, David, and Paul all had imperfect lives--we must be discerning and think for ourselves. Our faith is in God, not in men!
"Now I say this, that each of you says, 'I am of Paul,' or 'I am of Apollos,' or 'I am of Christ.' Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?" 1 Corinthians 1:12-3
With all this in mind we must be vigilant in examining our own heart. Are we mindlessly eating what we're fed each day at the pulpit? Are we like Paul says: "children tossed to and fro and carried about by every wind of doctrine."
Own it.
I heard a speaker say this once about owning your faith:
"There are no grandchildren in the Kingdom of God--only sons."
No one's getting by on their parents'/pastor's/role-model's faith.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Theology in Life
I feel that what I fear to lose the most, is that which I have yet to gain...
My Old Testament professor, Dr. Talley, always talks about how the Old Testament is theology in life--as opposed to the New Testament, which is often just straight, preached theology. Perhaps I am beginning to understand that more in my own life.
Rubbish just gets tangled in my mind. I mean, it doesn't matter that I have a great family, an awesome God, and have been rather successful in the field I am pursuing. It doesn't matter. Somehow I still manage to feel grieved or empty over something. Some girl I'm in love with, friends, study habits, homesickness, worries about the future...it's like my soul can't operate without finding something to worry itself about! I suppose this is just an inevitable consequence of the Fall, but still--it's frusturating.
Once in a while, however, I get knocked in the head--a rather well-meaning knock on the head from the Holy Spirit. "Don't you remember My promise," calls out that familiar voice, "Have I not always provided all that you need?"
Then of course I feel horrible; "why do I doubt...why do I worry." A guilt trip ensues with unreasonable amounts of emotional implications, spurring on, of course, a few vague Facebook status updates that speak of my sorrow.
After I'm done feeling sorry for myself, however, I usually get the smarts to do something. This past week, I did something to stop the cylce. Remembering the words of Philippians 4, that God provides peace to those who lift up their concerns to God, I determined in my mind to give God as much time as He needed with me.
I went before God in prayer. I even did something new: I would read a Psalm out loud, reflect on it, and then pray a prayer related to what the Psalm stirred in me. Wow, it was powerful. Though it was only a little more than an hour, an hour before the presence of God is as fulfilling as hundreds elsewhere.
So, a week later I'm feeling better. Pesky thoughts of evasive girls have lessened, a contentment in the midst of my busy schedule has begun, and I haven't had to spend another lonely walk around campus just to get my mind off grief. Praise be to God who is faithful and true. Praise be to the God whose glory renews. May I grow in this knowledge...not let it be in vain.
Philippians 4:6-7
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension,will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
My Old Testament professor, Dr. Talley, always talks about how the Old Testament is theology in life--as opposed to the New Testament, which is often just straight, preached theology. Perhaps I am beginning to understand that more in my own life.
Rubbish just gets tangled in my mind. I mean, it doesn't matter that I have a great family, an awesome God, and have been rather successful in the field I am pursuing. It doesn't matter. Somehow I still manage to feel grieved or empty over something. Some girl I'm in love with, friends, study habits, homesickness, worries about the future...it's like my soul can't operate without finding something to worry itself about! I suppose this is just an inevitable consequence of the Fall, but still--it's frusturating.
Once in a while, however, I get knocked in the head--a rather well-meaning knock on the head from the Holy Spirit. "Don't you remember My promise," calls out that familiar voice, "Have I not always provided all that you need?"
Then of course I feel horrible; "why do I doubt...why do I worry." A guilt trip ensues with unreasonable amounts of emotional implications, spurring on, of course, a few vague Facebook status updates that speak of my sorrow.
After I'm done feeling sorry for myself, however, I usually get the smarts to do something. This past week, I did something to stop the cylce. Remembering the words of Philippians 4, that God provides peace to those who lift up their concerns to God, I determined in my mind to give God as much time as He needed with me.
I went before God in prayer. I even did something new: I would read a Psalm out loud, reflect on it, and then pray a prayer related to what the Psalm stirred in me. Wow, it was powerful. Though it was only a little more than an hour, an hour before the presence of God is as fulfilling as hundreds elsewhere.
So, a week later I'm feeling better. Pesky thoughts of evasive girls have lessened, a contentment in the midst of my busy schedule has begun, and I haven't had to spend another lonely walk around campus just to get my mind off grief. Praise be to God who is faithful and true. Praise be to the God whose glory renews. May I grow in this knowledge...not let it be in vain.
Philippians 4:6-7
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension,will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Lessons Learned
Wow. It's hard to know what to say after all this time. I like keeping this blog up because I don't feel like my other blog is really the place to get into deep theological discussions, since I mainly use it to let people back home know what is going on in my life. But haven't posted here in a while.
I'm thinking about the title of my blog: "A Godly Conformance." Have I becomed more conformed into the image of God this semester at Biola? I seriously am thinking about this as I am typing. I can say one thing, I really have enojoyed my Biblical Interpretation and Spiritual Formation class. I loved learning about how all the different genres of Scripture contribute to the Bible. While I use to spend all my time reading epistles, I now have ventured into Proverbs and am discovering a wealth of wisdom within. I also have been required to practice spiritual disciplines, which I feel overall has been a very beneficial practice for me--the intentionality of it really.
So, I think I have grown spiritually this semester. While I've had to fight through some tough trials, I look around at the relationships I've formed, the ways I've grown as a holistic individual, and the exapansiveness of my interest in Scripture and can only conclude that I have indeed grown closer towards perfection.
I have spent a lot of time recently thinking about The Kingdom of God. For whatever reason, this concept, which was so important in Jesus' ministry and in Revelation, never really struck me. I think it was something my pastor said, or maybe it was the images I ran across in Revelation...whateve it was I have gained this incredible longing to get out of this life and live in that New Jerusalem that is described in Revelation. To be rid of this body, this corrupted world, and the pithy struggles that tie me down--to obtain a perfected, glorified body that can forever be in physical fellowship with God.
Now I know, the Kingdom is technically here...and I am already part of it--I know. But the Kingdom is not compltely here--it has yet to come in full. I just have gained this completely reverential respect for my God. No matter if I think what He does or is to do is just, I am willing to put my own emotions aside and serve Him. My attitude is this: "Who am I to question the justice of the God of Justice. Who am I to judge the morality of the God of righteousness. Why does God need to fit into man's view of morality?" He doesn't. God is God and that is just it. The very fact that He created us in His own image, allowed us free will, then saved us from the detriments of our free will is enough for me to believe He is a good God. I have no business telling God how to direct His affairs--I really have just found comfort in trusting in His plan for the universe--accepting what He has done and giving Him the glory--for He has given me reason to live; He has promised me glory in His kingdom even though I'm a born sinner.
I really am beginning to understand Paul's dillema of wanting to depart this world, but knowing that God still wants him here. I can understand when he writes that the dead in Christ groan inwardly, waiting for the ushering in of the new dispensation. I groan for it to. I want to go home...
I'm thinking about the title of my blog: "A Godly Conformance." Have I becomed more conformed into the image of God this semester at Biola? I seriously am thinking about this as I am typing. I can say one thing, I really have enojoyed my Biblical Interpretation and Spiritual Formation class. I loved learning about how all the different genres of Scripture contribute to the Bible. While I use to spend all my time reading epistles, I now have ventured into Proverbs and am discovering a wealth of wisdom within. I also have been required to practice spiritual disciplines, which I feel overall has been a very beneficial practice for me--the intentionality of it really.
So, I think I have grown spiritually this semester. While I've had to fight through some tough trials, I look around at the relationships I've formed, the ways I've grown as a holistic individual, and the exapansiveness of my interest in Scripture and can only conclude that I have indeed grown closer towards perfection.
I have spent a lot of time recently thinking about The Kingdom of God. For whatever reason, this concept, which was so important in Jesus' ministry and in Revelation, never really struck me. I think it was something my pastor said, or maybe it was the images I ran across in Revelation...whateve it was I have gained this incredible longing to get out of this life and live in that New Jerusalem that is described in Revelation. To be rid of this body, this corrupted world, and the pithy struggles that tie me down--to obtain a perfected, glorified body that can forever be in physical fellowship with God.
Now I know, the Kingdom is technically here...and I am already part of it--I know. But the Kingdom is not compltely here--it has yet to come in full. I just have gained this completely reverential respect for my God. No matter if I think what He does or is to do is just, I am willing to put my own emotions aside and serve Him. My attitude is this: "Who am I to question the justice of the God of Justice. Who am I to judge the morality of the God of righteousness. Why does God need to fit into man's view of morality?" He doesn't. God is God and that is just it. The very fact that He created us in His own image, allowed us free will, then saved us from the detriments of our free will is enough for me to believe He is a good God. I have no business telling God how to direct His affairs--I really have just found comfort in trusting in His plan for the universe--accepting what He has done and giving Him the glory--for He has given me reason to live; He has promised me glory in His kingdom even though I'm a born sinner.
I really am beginning to understand Paul's dillema of wanting to depart this world, but knowing that God still wants him here. I can understand when he writes that the dead in Christ groan inwardly, waiting for the ushering in of the new dispensation. I groan for it to. I want to go home...
Thursday, February 22, 2007
A life of sacrifice
Today has been quite insightful for me. I had a good talk with my good friend Javier about how Christianity shouldn't be comfortable. We both agreed that the American church has gotten so into this "comfortable Christianity" that is so contrary to Scriptures.
Maybe some would disagree with me, but I think Christianity is weakened when it becomes a cultural norm--as it has been in the US. Think about it, the early Christians we're always fearing for their safety. Under Nero they were being killed, tortured, imprisoned....looking at history it is easy to see why Paul talks so much in his letters about tribulations and persecution (he himself was in prison half the time because of his faith).
Jesus told us specifically that life would not be easy. He said we are being delivered as sheep to wolves (Matthew 10:16) and that we will be "brought before govenors and kings" (Matt. 10:18). In vs.23 of that same passage it doesn't say "if" they persecute you, it says "when" they persecute you. Persecution and hardship is to be expected! Jesus also says that because the world hated him, we, as His disciples, can expect the same treatment (John 15:18-22).
That my friends is not comfortable Christianity. The kind of Christianity Jesus describes is the hardcore, rebellious, hiding-out-in-catacombs type of Christianity that the early believers were living. This was not the "freedom of religion," IN GOD WE TRUST, "God bless America" type of cultural Christianity that we have in this country.
I'm not suggesting that I want everyone in the country to go secular so that we can live that "underground" movement out...it's more of just a desire that the Church would get out of cultural and start stirring up the pot and making people angry again (in a good, God-like way of course)! "...tribulation builds perseverance, perseverance, character, and character, hope (Romans 5:3-4). Notice how the first item on the list is tribulation? In order to start this cycle of gaining Godly attributes we need to be TESTED!! beat up, tried, pushed! That is how character is built. How do you know your faith is real if it is never tested? If it is always easy?
And yet what does Paul say just verses before? "Glory in tribulations" (Romans 5:3). And just reading Philippians, a book he wrote when he was imprisoned, you can see was living it out. James also said a similar thing in James 1:2-5: "Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. Let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." Bring on trials...I want to be Christ-like!! What an attitude...
So, how is this lived out? Well, a good example lies in Phlippians. Paul speaks of a fellow Christian, Epaphroditus: "Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem; because of the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service towards me."
In order to do the work of God, in order to tend to Paul, Epahroditus almost got himself killed--that's living out the faith--and that's the kind of self-sacrificial love Jesus commands His followers to have for one another (John 13:34, 1 John 3:16).
Thinking about this I know that I have live in deep, comfortable Christianity for so much of my life. I want to really live out my faith, not just know it...I just know that Christ calls me to engage the world, not simply hide in desfense of it. I think that I'll definitely be in the front lines when I get into my profession--journalism is not known for being a particularly faith based or Christian friendly :) . But what can I do now? What works does God have for me now--what trials must I endure....?
Maybe some would disagree with me, but I think Christianity is weakened when it becomes a cultural norm--as it has been in the US. Think about it, the early Christians we're always fearing for their safety. Under Nero they were being killed, tortured, imprisoned....looking at history it is easy to see why Paul talks so much in his letters about tribulations and persecution (he himself was in prison half the time because of his faith).
Jesus told us specifically that life would not be easy. He said we are being delivered as sheep to wolves (Matthew 10:16) and that we will be "brought before govenors and kings" (Matt. 10:18). In vs.23 of that same passage it doesn't say "if" they persecute you, it says "when" they persecute you. Persecution and hardship is to be expected! Jesus also says that because the world hated him, we, as His disciples, can expect the same treatment (John 15:18-22).
That my friends is not comfortable Christianity. The kind of Christianity Jesus describes is the hardcore, rebellious, hiding-out-in-catacombs type of Christianity that the early believers were living. This was not the "freedom of religion," IN GOD WE TRUST, "God bless America" type of cultural Christianity that we have in this country.
I'm not suggesting that I want everyone in the country to go secular so that we can live that "underground" movement out...it's more of just a desire that the Church would get out of cultural and start stirring up the pot and making people angry again (in a good, God-like way of course)! "...tribulation builds perseverance, perseverance, character, and character, hope (Romans 5:3-4). Notice how the first item on the list is tribulation? In order to start this cycle of gaining Godly attributes we need to be TESTED!! beat up, tried, pushed! That is how character is built. How do you know your faith is real if it is never tested? If it is always easy?
And yet what does Paul say just verses before? "Glory in tribulations" (Romans 5:3). And just reading Philippians, a book he wrote when he was imprisoned, you can see was living it out. James also said a similar thing in James 1:2-5: "Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. Let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." Bring on trials...I want to be Christ-like!! What an attitude...
So, how is this lived out? Well, a good example lies in Phlippians. Paul speaks of a fellow Christian, Epaphroditus: "Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem; because of the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service towards me."
In order to do the work of God, in order to tend to Paul, Epahroditus almost got himself killed--that's living out the faith--and that's the kind of self-sacrificial love Jesus commands His followers to have for one another (John 13:34, 1 John 3:16).
Thinking about this I know that I have live in deep, comfortable Christianity for so much of my life. I want to really live out my faith, not just know it...I just know that Christ calls me to engage the world, not simply hide in desfense of it. I think that I'll definitely be in the front lines when I get into my profession--journalism is not known for being a particularly faith based or Christian friendly :) . But what can I do now? What works does God have for me now--what trials must I endure....?
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