In order to fully understand God's grace, we must fully understand the sin nature from which we have been redeemed. We must absolutely embrace the fact that God has revealed himself to all of humanity through his creation.
We are fallen and sinful and saved by the grace of God. Anyone who has not received Christ is lost in sin. Many people live around us in respectable morality but have no relationship with Christ. It is our job, therefore, to live our lives wholly dedicated to God (Romans 12:1) as our spiritual act of worship. We must then follow God's command to "Go and make disciples" (Matt. 28:19). When will we stop rationalizing our inaction and begin to consider scriptures like Romans 1:18-25?
The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities-- his eternal power and divine nature-- have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images made to look like mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles. Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator- who is forever praised. Amen.
We have exchanged the glory of God for idols we have constructed, and these are getting in the way of the mission. Of course the world is pursuing idols. Why wouldn't they be? They're lost and seeking hope from all the wrong places. It is time for us to show them hope from the one in whom we hope.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Sunday, September 07, 2008
Let all the earth be silent
At our church right now, our pastor is doing a series on Habakkuk-- not a very common topic of study in today's churches, I know, but a very needed look into the Old Testament. The series is entitled "Vision in the Midst of Famine." The series sparked in me a renewed interest in studying the book of Jeremiah. I haven't studied this book since high school, and I'm sure that at that time, I didn't read it properly, nor was I equipped enough to reflect on it adequately. I'm doing this study with a group of several other women. A part of my role is to search for cross-references to enhance our study. While examining Jeremiah 2, and God's discourse on Israel's reliance on idols, I referenced Habakkuk 2:18-20. I heard this passage anew when about 2 months ago, I listened to the message from Ravi Zacharias called "The Lostness of Man." I have referenced this message before because it is packed with close-hitting truths I wish I could fully embody and embrace in my life. But back to Habakkuk: Here is what the verse says:
“What profit is the idol when its maker has carved it,
Or an image, a teacher of falsehood?
For its maker trusts in his own handiwork
When he fashions speechless idols.
“Woe to him who says to a piece of wood, ‘Awake!’
To a mute stone, ‘Arise!’
And that is your teacher?
Behold, it is overlaid with gold and silver,
And there is no breath at all inside it.
“But the LORD is in His holy temple.
Let all the earth be silent before Him.”
We are remiss in our treatment of God. We idolize life circumstances, friendships, possessions, and even money yet we expect that God will continue to pour out his blessings on us. But we are like our idols: dead and worthless. Israel worshipped idols by offering sacrifices to them. God calls US to BE a sacrifice unto him (Romans 12:1) as a spiritual act of worship. Worship isn't what we sing during church. Worship is what we DO when we're living life. We either ARE worshiping or we are not. We spend so much time praying, asking God: Do this, do that, help me with this, help my friend in this difficult time. But really what we SHOULD be doing is showing reverence to the Father with our life and trusting that God in His sovereignty is working out more details than we thought to remind Him of. Am I suggesting that we shouldn't pray and ask God for things? No. But what I am saying is that we ask for more than we should and have an over-inflated sense of entitlement in asking when we in fact do not align ourselves with whom we are called to be. And how might we begin to align ourselves with God's call? I think a good place to start is silence.
“What profit is the idol when its maker has carved it,
Or an image, a teacher of falsehood?
For its maker trusts in his own handiwork
When he fashions speechless idols.
“Woe to him who says to a piece of wood, ‘Awake!’
To a mute stone, ‘Arise!’
And that is your teacher?
Behold, it is overlaid with gold and silver,
And there is no breath at all inside it.
“But the LORD is in His holy temple.
Let all the earth be silent before Him.”
We are remiss in our treatment of God. We idolize life circumstances, friendships, possessions, and even money yet we expect that God will continue to pour out his blessings on us. But we are like our idols: dead and worthless. Israel worshipped idols by offering sacrifices to them. God calls US to BE a sacrifice unto him (Romans 12:1) as a spiritual act of worship. Worship isn't what we sing during church. Worship is what we DO when we're living life. We either ARE worshiping or we are not. We spend so much time praying, asking God: Do this, do that, help me with this, help my friend in this difficult time. But really what we SHOULD be doing is showing reverence to the Father with our life and trusting that God in His sovereignty is working out more details than we thought to remind Him of. Am I suggesting that we shouldn't pray and ask God for things? No. But what I am saying is that we ask for more than we should and have an over-inflated sense of entitlement in asking when we in fact do not align ourselves with whom we are called to be. And how might we begin to align ourselves with God's call? I think a good place to start is silence.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
What's Wrong With the World
I've been listening lately, over and over, to the sermon by Ravi Zacharias entitled "The Lostness of Man." It is aired in two parts and can be found at a link I'll post at the bottom of this post.* The reason I've listened over and over is that I've been compelled by Dr. Zacharias' message to think seriously about how I view myself and my relation to the world. In Dr. Zacharias' presentation, a couple of statements made by philosopher G.K. Chesterton are highlighted. One of them hits me in the forehead every time I hear it:
(Some of the world's prominent thinkers were sent inquiries for the purpose of an article to appear in the NY Times called "What's Wrong With the World." Chesterton's letter to the editor was so short, I'm sure the editor had to read it and re-read it to know it was for real:)
Dear Sir,
I am.
Yours,
G.K. Chesterton**
I have come to the conclusion that if we are honest with ourselves, we will agree with Chesterton. The following statement was made by Ghandi, and though he was a pagan, his statement bears consideration: "Be the change you wish to see in the world." In an age where many Christians look to the modern church or to the government to solve the moral issues in our country, we as Believers should do as Paul commends: "Wake oh Sleeper" (Eph. 5:14) and realize that we in fact are responsible for the world in which we live. I write this not as an accusation but as a challenge: What are we doing in our daily lives to bring unbelievers into the community of the church? What are we doing to hold the church together and uphold our fellow believers as we walk out the Grace we freely received? Rather than continue on in an attempt to bring some new query or thought to light, I'll stop as I am inadequate to the job. Instead, I implore you to give ear to Dr. Zacharias in his message "The Lostness of Man."
* http://www.rzim.org/USA/Resources/Listen/LetMyPeopleThink.aspx?archive=1
** http://www.chesterton.org/qmeister2/wrongtoday.htm
(Some of the world's prominent thinkers were sent inquiries for the purpose of an article to appear in the NY Times called "What's Wrong With the World." Chesterton's letter to the editor was so short, I'm sure the editor had to read it and re-read it to know it was for real:)
Dear Sir,
I am.
Yours,
G.K. Chesterton**
I have come to the conclusion that if we are honest with ourselves, we will agree with Chesterton. The following statement was made by Ghandi, and though he was a pagan, his statement bears consideration: "Be the change you wish to see in the world." In an age where many Christians look to the modern church or to the government to solve the moral issues in our country, we as Believers should do as Paul commends: "Wake oh Sleeper" (Eph. 5:14) and realize that we in fact are responsible for the world in which we live. I write this not as an accusation but as a challenge: What are we doing in our daily lives to bring unbelievers into the community of the church? What are we doing to hold the church together and uphold our fellow believers as we walk out the Grace we freely received? Rather than continue on in an attempt to bring some new query or thought to light, I'll stop as I am inadequate to the job. Instead, I implore you to give ear to Dr. Zacharias in his message "The Lostness of Man."
* http://www.rzim.org/USA/Resources/Listen/LetMyPeopleThink.aspx?archive=1
** http://www.chesterton.org/qmeister2/wrongtoday.htm
Monday, June 02, 2008
wandering
I teach students of many ability levels. This year, I have taught a couple students whose level of intelligence is actually too low to successfully learn what I'm supposed to teach them (they were simply placed incorrectly, which is a shame). Today as I was walking the halls, I was thinking about one of these students in particular, and I wondered: I think I would feel "Lost" all day long. How would my world be different if I were literally unable to process information in the way I currently do? How would my day be different if simple things were next to impossible? If I could, I would spend a day in this kid's shoes-- experience what it's like to be unable to understand simple instructions or to comprehend a paragraph's worth of knowledge in a text book-- I would probably spend the day wanting to cry from frustration. But I would appreciate the kid's needs more fully. I would probably be a better teacher.
My thoughts have a lot of free time in the afternoons at school-- I have hall duty every other day, and it was during such hall duty that I mulled over the above questions. Then I translated the thought another degree. I can't imagine what it is like to feel intellectually "lost"-- what would it be like to be spiritually Lost; obviously a predicament with mortal significance. How would my life be different: How would my day go if every concern and worry were mine to carry by myself? If I had to plan my life without Guidance? If I received seriously bad news or was told I was unacceptable in my professional or personal life? HOW would I even be able to stand? Could I put one foot in front of the other? I definitely would NOT want to spend a day in this person's shoes.
I am a very "mental" person by nature; it is very easy for me to process such ideas on an intellectual/surface level-- as if analyzing new data in a laboratory. However, my final questions is: If I internalize my SECOND question, HOW WOULD MY LIFE BE DIFFERENT?
"Although I am less than the least of all God's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence." Eph. 3:8-12
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love hij, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be confrormed to the likeness of his Son.... What shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all-- how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us al things? ... Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: 'For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.'..." Rom. 8:28-39
My thoughts have a lot of free time in the afternoons at school-- I have hall duty every other day, and it was during such hall duty that I mulled over the above questions. Then I translated the thought another degree. I can't imagine what it is like to feel intellectually "lost"-- what would it be like to be spiritually Lost; obviously a predicament with mortal significance. How would my life be different: How would my day go if every concern and worry were mine to carry by myself? If I had to plan my life without Guidance? If I received seriously bad news or was told I was unacceptable in my professional or personal life? HOW would I even be able to stand? Could I put one foot in front of the other? I definitely would NOT want to spend a day in this person's shoes.
I am a very "mental" person by nature; it is very easy for me to process such ideas on an intellectual/surface level-- as if analyzing new data in a laboratory. However, my final questions is: If I internalize my SECOND question, HOW WOULD MY LIFE BE DIFFERENT?
"Although I am less than the least of all God's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence." Eph. 3:8-12
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love hij, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be confrormed to the likeness of his Son.... What shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all-- how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us al things? ... Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: 'For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.'..." Rom. 8:28-39
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
What should be the Meaning (of life)?
A student at Georgia Tech asked the following question of Ravi Zaccharias: "You've identified loss of meaning as a problem; so... what should be the meaning?"
His answer (imperfectly transcribed):
"When you're dealing with meaning, I believe meanining needs four components to bring meaning to an individual life...we're living in a postmodernist time where people wonder what "meaning" really means. There are four components to finding meaning in life... (related to childhood) When you are in your years of childhood, the thing that keeps you going is... a sense of wonder about everything you see. But as you get older, you can no longer believe in all the fairy stories; as wonderful as they were, you know they were all figments of people's imaginations. ... In your 20's, the question of Truth becomes supreme, not whether this belief of mine or this experience of mine brings me a sense of wonder, but whether this experience of mine is also based in truth. Truthfulness becomes an important category... Truth in the metaphysical world {must be measured with some logical unit of measurement].... The you come into your 20's and 30's where your commitments are being made and your relationships are being developed, you're looking for love beyond romance, it is a love of relationships... . And finally, you're looking for the concept of security. How do I know that what I believe will ultimately stand the test of time; and is there a life beyond the grave.
What brings meaning is when you can combine a sense of wonder under girded by truth, experiencing the richness of love with the knowledge of security; those four components bring genuine meaning to life. The older you get, the more it takes to fill your heart with wonder; and only God is big enough to fill that heart. ... "
Hear the whole Q & A
His answer (imperfectly transcribed):
"When you're dealing with meaning, I believe meanining needs four components to bring meaning to an individual life...we're living in a postmodernist time where people wonder what "meaning" really means. There are four components to finding meaning in life... (related to childhood) When you are in your years of childhood, the thing that keeps you going is... a sense of wonder about everything you see. But as you get older, you can no longer believe in all the fairy stories; as wonderful as they were, you know they were all figments of people's imaginations. ... In your 20's, the question of Truth becomes supreme, not whether this belief of mine or this experience of mine brings me a sense of wonder, but whether this experience of mine is also based in truth. Truthfulness becomes an important category... Truth in the metaphysical world {must be measured with some logical unit of measurement].... The you come into your 20's and 30's where your commitments are being made and your relationships are being developed, you're looking for love beyond romance, it is a love of relationships... . And finally, you're looking for the concept of security. How do I know that what I believe will ultimately stand the test of time; and is there a life beyond the grave.
What brings meaning is when you can combine a sense of wonder under girded by truth, experiencing the richness of love with the knowledge of security; those four components bring genuine meaning to life. The older you get, the more it takes to fill your heart with wonder; and only God is big enough to fill that heart. ... "
Hear the whole Q & A
Sunday, May 04, 2008
now to live the life....
if you're like me --- grew up in church, attended youth group, youth conferences, youth camp-- you probably know myriad praise choruses, some meaningful, some drivel. most were drivel.
i'm not one to support driveling praise choruses but i am caught by the subtle meaning of some that, at first glance, may not appear to be so full-bodied as say, the old hymns. one such song is called "Now to Live the Life" and it isn't very well known, as far as i can tell-- it wasn't widely published on 15644 different praise/worship CD's and definitely never made it onto any of those WOW CD's.
i'm not one to support driveling praise choruses but i am caught by the subtle meaning of some that, at first glance, may not appear to be so full-bodied as say, the old hymns. one such song is called "Now to Live the Life" and it isn't very well known, as far as i can tell-- it wasn't widely published on 15644 different praise/worship CD's and definitely never made it onto any of those WOW CD's.
Many are the words we speak
Many are the songs we sing
Many kinds of offerings
But now to live the life
Many are the words we speak
Many are the songs we sing
Many kinds of offerings
But now to live the life
Help us live the life
All we want to do is bring you something real
Bring You something true
Precious are the words we speak
Precious are the songs we sing
Precious all these offerings
But now to live the life
Help us live the life
Now to go the extra mile
Now to turn the other cheek
And to serve You with a life
Let us share your fellowship
Even of your sufferings
Never let the passion die...
Now to live the life...
HOSEA 6.
1 "Come, let us return to the LORD.
He has torn us to pieces
but he will heal us;
he has injured us
but he will bind up our wounds.
2 After two days he will revive us;
on the third day he will restore us,
that we may live in his presence.
3 Let us acknowledge the LORD;
let us press on to acknowledge him.
As surely as the sun rises,
he will appear;
he will come to us like the winter rains,
like the spring rains that water the earth."
4 "What can I do with you, Ephraim?
What can I do with you, Judah?
Your love is like the morning mist,
like the early dew that disappears.
5 Therefore I cut you in pieces with my prophets,
I killed you with the words of my mouth;
my judgments flashed like lightning upon you.
6 For I desire mercy, not sacrifice,
and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.
7 Like Adam, they have broken the covenant—
they were unfaithful to me there.
8 Gilead is a city of wicked men,
stained with footprints of blood.
9 As marauders lie in ambush for a man,
so do bands of priests;
they murder on the road to Shechem,
committing shameful crimes.
10 I have seen a horrible thing
in the house of Israel.
There Ephraim is given to prostitution
and Israel is defiled.
11 "Also for you, Judah,
a harvest is appointed.
"Whenever I would restore the fortunes of my people,
Thursday, February 14, 2008
pure
There is a fountain filled with blood drawn from Emmanuel’s veins;
And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all their guilty stains.
Lose all their guilty stains, lose all their guilty stains;
And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all their guilty stains.
And there have I, though vile as he, washed all my sins away.
Washed all my sins away, washed all my sins away;
And there have I, though vile as he, washed all my sins away.
The first two verses of W. Cowper's hymn have filled my head this past week and I have come to this conclusion: If I am to live on Mission daily, I must first embrace the depth and breadth of my own redemption. It is only in this realization that I will view others-- especially those who are clean, tidy, well-behaved "normal" people-- as my mission field.
The dying thief of course refers to the one who hung beside Jesus and asked for salvation, which Jesus granted. What must this thief have done to have received such a miserable punishment as crucifixion? Obviously he was a thief-- how many people's lives did he ruin? How many families did he devastate through his actions? What a horrid wretch! I'm not that bad-- I was a "good kid," I attended church growing up, gave my tithe, helped others in need, and even used my spiritual gifts... But what does the song say? "But there may I, though vile as he, wash all my sins away." I am depraved and broken, in need of grace every day-- I cannot take any credit for righteous behavior, because any of this behavior is a result of a righteousness that is not my own-- it is granted to me based not on my own virtue or even good fortune, but only through the perfect will and love of the Father-- because of God's supreme sacrifice I am cleansed in the Blood of the One whose sufferings offer redemption to the world.
Monday, February 11, 2008
who me?
I'm currently making my way through the New Testament, but I invariably find myself cross-referencing the Old Testament and tonight was no exception...
I really love reading the book of Jeremiah and my reading of I Corinthians 1 (specifically 26-31) brought me to chapter 9, verses 23-24. Jeremiah ch. 9 is one of several occasions in which God bemoans the ruined state of His people; and after 22 verses of outlining the specific mis-deeds of the Israelites and the subsequent punishment thereof, Jeremiah finally reveals this imperative:
"Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom
or the strong man boast of his strength
or the rich man boast of his riches;
But let him who boasts boast about this:
that he understands and knows me
that I am the Lord who exercises kindness
justice and righteousness on the earth,
for in these I delight."
Paul references this verse in I Corinthians 1:31. This chapter is Paul's opener to the believers at Corinth, and in it, he is encouraging them not to be discouraged by their lack of social prominence but in light of God's purpose to prevail. God intends to use what seems weak or foolish to accomplish his plan.
This past Sunday, we were encouraged through the sermon to be continuously and thoroughly on mission for God-- to allow our daily walk with God (which likely requires first DEVELOPING a daily relationship with Jesus) to mold every other aspect of our lives. The result being that through our witness, we will show others the Way and be vessels for discipleship; in doing this, we will fulfill the "Great Commission." (Matt. 28: 18-20) But how many times have I written off this directive as someone else's job, or missed the mark entirely by being self-absorbed in my "personal relationship with Jesus"? When Jesus spoke to go into the world and make disciples, he was speaking to ME-- to all Believers, but we have mistreated this command. When Jesus spoke the Great Commission, He gave the Church a mission. And we are floundering-- we are in ruin, just as God's people in the time of Jeremiah. We are scattered and we lack vision, but we have a chance to change this: this begins in the heart of individuals and culminates in the collective. When Paul spoke to the Corinthians: "God chose the foolish things of the world to confound the wise," he was saying: so what if you have no confidence in yourselves? -- all the better for God to use you all-- to use ME-- for his Kingdom.
I really love reading the book of Jeremiah and my reading of I Corinthians 1 (specifically 26-31) brought me to chapter 9, verses 23-24. Jeremiah ch. 9 is one of several occasions in which God bemoans the ruined state of His people; and after 22 verses of outlining the specific mis-deeds of the Israelites and the subsequent punishment thereof, Jeremiah finally reveals this imperative:
"Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom
or the strong man boast of his strength
or the rich man boast of his riches;
But let him who boasts boast about this:
that he understands and knows me
that I am the Lord who exercises kindness
justice and righteousness on the earth,
for in these I delight."
Paul references this verse in I Corinthians 1:31. This chapter is Paul's opener to the believers at Corinth, and in it, he is encouraging them not to be discouraged by their lack of social prominence but in light of God's purpose to prevail. God intends to use what seems weak or foolish to accomplish his plan.
This past Sunday, we were encouraged through the sermon to be continuously and thoroughly on mission for God-- to allow our daily walk with God (which likely requires first DEVELOPING a daily relationship with Jesus) to mold every other aspect of our lives. The result being that through our witness, we will show others the Way and be vessels for discipleship; in doing this, we will fulfill the "Great Commission." (Matt. 28: 18-20) But how many times have I written off this directive as someone else's job, or missed the mark entirely by being self-absorbed in my "personal relationship with Jesus"? When Jesus spoke to go into the world and make disciples, he was speaking to ME-- to all Believers, but we have mistreated this command. When Jesus spoke the Great Commission, He gave the Church a mission. And we are floundering-- we are in ruin, just as God's people in the time of Jeremiah. We are scattered and we lack vision, but we have a chance to change this: this begins in the heart of individuals and culminates in the collective. When Paul spoke to the Corinthians: "God chose the foolish things of the world to confound the wise," he was saying: so what if you have no confidence in yourselves? -- all the better for God to use you all-- to use ME-- for his Kingdom.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
a vocabulary lesson
Anyone who has known me for 30 minutes knows I slip uncommon words into conversation... I think it comes from having grown up with two parents who are certified word-nerds... Use of language is important to me, probably more important than it should be-- deep down, I am enthralled by our language. So...
Over the last three weeks I have been mulling over the word ORDAINED. the first idea this word evokes is "minister," as in "ordained minister." it may even call to mind the phrase "ordained as sons (daughters) of Christ" as employed by Paul in several of his letters to the scattered church. but what does it MEAN? Ordained means "called," or "appointed." but what lies beyond this simple definition?
Just as a wine connoisseur savors the subtle "textures" in the bouquet, I enjoy delving into the textures of words. So when I delve into ORDAINED, it doesn't just mean called or appointed. It evokes a sense of purpose and design. As in: I am ordained to be part of this body of believers and therefore, specific design and purpose to the calling to which I respond.
"Before you were formed, I knew you. before you were made, I predestined you..."
Jer. 1:1.
Over the last three weeks I have been mulling over the word ORDAINED. the first idea this word evokes is "minister," as in "ordained minister." it may even call to mind the phrase "ordained as sons (daughters) of Christ" as employed by Paul in several of his letters to the scattered church. but what does it MEAN? Ordained means "called," or "appointed." but what lies beyond this simple definition?
Just as a wine connoisseur savors the subtle "textures" in the bouquet, I enjoy delving into the textures of words. So when I delve into ORDAINED, it doesn't just mean called or appointed. It evokes a sense of purpose and design. As in: I am ordained to be part of this body of believers and therefore, specific design and purpose to the calling to which I respond.
"Before you were formed, I knew you. before you were made, I predestined you..."
Jer. 1:1.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
get a job
Every year, I teach my students about "cohesion," the ability of a substance to adhere to another substance -- water on glass, for example. And for the vocabulary-impaired students, I always emphasize the "co" part of the word... co-captains, co-workers, etc. Paul refers to cohesion in Romans 12 when he instructs believers that we are all part of one body, all having different functions, and each of these functions being necessary and equal. Obviously within a body of believers there are those who are more prominent or well-known, but in God's perspective, all members of the body function in roles that are equally important. Any one job not being done fully or properly is a detriment to the body of believers.
So what is my job? What is my role or function that is essential to others? I think most of us share the role of simply creating a support network for one another; and how do we best accomplish this? Paul answers this throughout his letters. First of all, in Romans 12, he admonishes us that we are all given a gift which we should use fully and wisely. In Galatians 6, Paul calls us to "bear each other's burdens" which is often taken to mean something like "when someone is going through rough times, you need to be there for that person." True. However, this verse in context means something more like "in whatever your friend is struggling spiritually, be a support and accountability partner." I could make some kind of biology joke about the membranes that hold all a body's tissues and organs in place... or I could simply say that each and every one of us who belongs to a body of believers should perform two functions by default: exercise our gifts as God gives us opportunity, and maintain accountability among our friends.
So what is my job? What is my role or function that is essential to others? I think most of us share the role of simply creating a support network for one another; and how do we best accomplish this? Paul answers this throughout his letters. First of all, in Romans 12, he admonishes us that we are all given a gift which we should use fully and wisely. In Galatians 6, Paul calls us to "bear each other's burdens" which is often taken to mean something like "when someone is going through rough times, you need to be there for that person." True. However, this verse in context means something more like "in whatever your friend is struggling spiritually, be a support and accountability partner." I could make some kind of biology joke about the membranes that hold all a body's tissues and organs in place... or I could simply say that each and every one of us who belongs to a body of believers should perform two functions by default: exercise our gifts as God gives us opportunity, and maintain accountability among our friends.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Beautiful Feet
When I was a kid, from the time I was three (old enough to string together a sentence, but barely), Sandi Patti was my hero-- I used to hold onto the wooden handle of a jump rope in my grandmother's kitchen and belt out the lyrics to her songs. Sandi Patti did a kids' tape once-- back when it was either a tape or a record no CD player was available at that time-- and on the tape was a song called Beautiful Feet. I think there was a cute story to go with the song but all I can remember are the words to the chorus... Beautiful feet. Beautiful feet. Beautiful, beaauuuuttiffuulll feeeeeeet...
Romans 11: 14-16
How then can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news."
Isaiah 52:7.
How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news
who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation
who say to Zion, "Your God reigns."
Romans 11: 14-16
How then can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news."
Isaiah 52:7.
How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news
who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation
who say to Zion, "Your God reigns."
Monday, October 01, 2007
fourth and goal... intercepted for a touchdown return
the above-named scenario produces two very precise outcomes, each totally different from the other. I'm sure you can imagine: utter elation (obviously it is your team that just ran for the touchdown) or utter despair (your team ALMOST had the touchdown which is probably worse than having no hope of a touchdown at all. ... Whether we have witnessed this in person or seen it on TV, almost everyone can relate to this severe dichotomy of emotions.
Such has been my own experience. Friday ended the fourth week of school, and on Friday, despite a shaky Monday, I came home feeling pretty good-- Finally, I had gotten then hang of the way things were going to be... I'm getting to know the kids, I'm getting in a routine, etc. Touchdown.
Today, my team-teacher skipped out on my 2nd class which sucked b/c these kids are really difficult, and any disruption of the routine is a bad thing. So a kid tried to test the waters and the principal had to be called. Turns out, the teacher decided this morning that he needed to get his car fixed without telling anyone. piss. So then my 3rd class was hellacious during their lab, then in my 4th class, I found out that the team teacher I've had with me in this class since the beginning of the year is no longer going to be with me-- not entirely bad because she was no good-- and that I would have a different lady for half the class only-- this is really bad because THIS teacher is the absolute worst ever-- she mumbles, has bad posture, and perpetually looks like her aunt just died. Interception.
Tonight, I sat down to grade some papers and check my email, at which time I figured out I will have to attend 6 two-hour classes for new teachers in the months of October and November. 4:00-6:00pm. these classes are ones I could probably teach, definitely not going to be beneficial. Touchdown (other team)
Obviously, I have left out a good deal of details, but... you get the point....
Such has been my own experience. Friday ended the fourth week of school, and on Friday, despite a shaky Monday, I came home feeling pretty good-- Finally, I had gotten then hang of the way things were going to be... I'm getting to know the kids, I'm getting in a routine, etc. Touchdown.
Today, my team-teacher skipped out on my 2nd class which sucked b/c these kids are really difficult, and any disruption of the routine is a bad thing. So a kid tried to test the waters and the principal had to be called. Turns out, the teacher decided this morning that he needed to get his car fixed without telling anyone. piss. So then my 3rd class was hellacious during their lab, then in my 4th class, I found out that the team teacher I've had with me in this class since the beginning of the year is no longer going to be with me-- not entirely bad because she was no good-- and that I would have a different lady for half the class only-- this is really bad because THIS teacher is the absolute worst ever-- she mumbles, has bad posture, and perpetually looks like her aunt just died. Interception.
Tonight, I sat down to grade some papers and check my email, at which time I figured out I will have to attend 6 two-hour classes for new teachers in the months of October and November. 4:00-6:00pm. these classes are ones I could probably teach, definitely not going to be beneficial. Touchdown (other team)
Obviously, I have left out a good deal of details, but... you get the point....
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
hanging out ... how does one decide?
Because of some recent conversations with various people and musings of my own, I dug into the Gospels for some answers to a question I have discussed over and over: How does one decide with whom to spend leisure time? We are given clear directives in Scripture that it is important to maintain close fellowship with fellow Believers, but what about keeping company with non-believers? Upon examination of the circumstances and reasons Jesus found for "hanging out with the wrong crowd," it is up to the individual to decide whether or not to befriend and fraternize with those who do not share one's same Faith.
Luke 19:5-10 "Zacchaeus... I must stay at your house today..." (says Jesus) All the people [muttered]: "He has gone to be the guest of a sinner." (At some point in their visit, Zacchaeus makes it clear to Jesus that he has repented of his swindling and will repay those whom he has cheated with interest.) Jesus said: "Today Salvation has come to this house... For the Son of Man came to seek and save the lost."
Luke 5:27-32 After [Jesus had healed a cripple, he] went out and saw a tax collector named Levi (Matthew)... "Follow me," Jesus said... and Levi got up and left everything and followed Him. Then Levi held a great banquet for Jesus and a large crowd of tax collectors and others were eating with them. But the Pharisees complained to his disciples: "Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?" Jesus answered them: "It is not the healthy who need a doctor but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance."
As illustrated in Luke 14:1-14, Jesus is once again invited to dinner at the home of a Pharisee. This is another opportunity to glorify himself and the Father and at the same time teach a lesson to the dinner party by presenting a parable. Continuing in versus 15-23 of the same chapter, Jesus further illustrates Salvation by describing a rich man who invites his friends to a feast; the friends refuse the offer, so the man goes into the countryside and invites any and all who will come to his table to come.
In John 4:1-26, Jesus requests a Samaritan woman to draw him a drink of water from the well, despite the stigma of a man talking with a woman, and in particular this woman who has "known" many men. The verse illustrates how Jesus reveals to this woman knowledge of her sin (and yet he is still talking to her) and a charge to leave this shameful life and tell others about Him. In verse 39, John recalls: "Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in Him because of the woman's testimony."
Now that we have seen Scriptural evidence of Jesus' unlikely choices of company on more than one occasion, let us further examine those things that qualify Jesus to put himself into the company of the "wrong crowd" as well as His motivations for doing so:
Qualifications
1. The Son of God- perfect and sinless, though tempted in every way
2. Close company of devoted friends who supported him (the 12 apostles)
3. A strong relationship with God the Father, illustrated by: a) clear and continuous communication with the Father and b) a strong knowledge of the Scriptures
4. A clear understanding of His purpose on earth (Salvation for the lost)
5. Control of his own situation and his own decisions.
Motivations/Purpose
1. Salvation for all mankind-- including undesirable individuals (e.g. Prostitutes, tax collectors)
2. Conveyance of God's truth and principles to all who were willing and able to listen
3. Glorification of Himself and therefore also God the Father
Having examined the above qualifications and purposes behind Jesus' often odd choices of company, let us examine ourselves with regard to our ability to fraternize with people whose beliefs and principles may be different if not entirely contradictory to our own:
Qualifications:
1. Am I running the race set before me to press on to receive the prize set forth by Christ Jesus the author and perfecter of my faith?
2. Do I have at least a couple close friends who are strong believers, willing to hold me accountable and lift me up in prayer?
3. Am I walking out a strong relationship with God reinforced with frequent and detailed study of Scripture reinforced with continuous and purposeful prayer?
4. Do I have a clear understanding of my purpose here on earth? (and no, I do not believe this requires a career choice, life partner selected, etc)
5. Am I in control of my life, and do I make decisions without being unduly influenced by others?
Motivations
1. Salvation for my fellow man: When keeping the company of nonbelievers, am I careful to "shine as the stars in the universe" as I "hold out the Word of Life" to all I encounter?
2. Does my life demonstrate by its Fruits that I am actively applying God's principles and guidance to my everyday life?
3. Do I strive in all my actions and words to glorify the Savior?
Obviously anyone can answer all of the above questions "Yes! of course," but the final question to ask is: Am I examining my heart and motivations honestly?
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Nuptuals
This past weekend my brother in law became the husband of a girl (or woman or whatever) I've known since we were very small children. I was actually pretty sick all weekend long-- the kind of sick where food doesn't taste good and all you're really interested in is laying low as much as possible. That definitely was no good considering how long we've all been looking forward to this wedding. But on to the "thoughts" part of the entry...
This wedding was the third in a row for Roger and me and certainly the most anticipated event to-date this year. Weddings are such an excellent time to reflect on oneself as well as on the lives of those standing before the altar, and reflect I did. A lot of that reflection was actually put on the table for me, as the pastor who performed the ceremony was the same one who married Roger and me nearly two years ago. The past two years have flown by and Roger and I have accomplished a lot in those two years, but have also enjoyed quite a lot. I can't believe I've been a "Smug Married" (in the words of Bridget Jones) for so long! I was reminded this past Saturday that the one you choose as your lifemate should be your first and only real love, should be your first and only intimate lover, and should be your forever best friend. Roger has been all of those things to me, and I cannot actually put into proper words the gratitude I have for that. I was reminded continuously through the ceremony of the a wonderfulness of the man of God I have married.
more to come...
This wedding was the third in a row for Roger and me and certainly the most anticipated event to-date this year. Weddings are such an excellent time to reflect on oneself as well as on the lives of those standing before the altar, and reflect I did. A lot of that reflection was actually put on the table for me, as the pastor who performed the ceremony was the same one who married Roger and me nearly two years ago. The past two years have flown by and Roger and I have accomplished a lot in those two years, but have also enjoyed quite a lot. I can't believe I've been a "Smug Married" (in the words of Bridget Jones) for so long! I was reminded this past Saturday that the one you choose as your lifemate should be your first and only real love, should be your first and only intimate lover, and should be your forever best friend. Roger has been all of those things to me, and I cannot actually put into proper words the gratitude I have for that. I was reminded continuously through the ceremony of the a wonderfulness of the man of God I have married.
more to come...
Monday, April 30, 2007
God our enabler
"Before I shaped you in the womb, I knew all about you.
Before you saw the light of day, I had holy plans for you:
A prophet to the nations-- that's what I had in mind for you."
But I said, "Hold it, Master God! Look at me.
I don't know anything, I'm only a boy."
God told me, "Don't say, 'I'm only a boy.' I'll tell you where to go and you'll go there..."
This comes from the first chapter in Jeremiah and this is the Message paraphrase of a passage I find very comforting. It isn't that I take the passage so personally as to believe that God conveys in his message to Jeremiah that we will all become his 'prophets to the nations' but I do believe that the intent in God's rebuke conveys to all his Followers. God is saying "Why protest my plan? I'm giving you a command. Follow it. Why question what I have so clearly laid before you? It may not be the easiest job on earth, but rest assured, I will enable you along the way."
I like the Old Testament. Some people shy away from it but I enjoy it immensely, mostly because the language is so poetic and because the terms are laid out so discreetly. God speaks broadly to His people through his direct lessons to his prophets. In this passage, Jeremiah is being told of God's plan for him. He not only knows that there IS a plan-- he is told WHAT that plan is. God doesn't always spell things out so clearly; he does, however, open up ways and means and make clear paths that will and won't fit within His plan. .... to be continued...
Before you saw the light of day, I had holy plans for you:
A prophet to the nations-- that's what I had in mind for you."
But I said, "Hold it, Master God! Look at me.
I don't know anything, I'm only a boy."
God told me, "Don't say, 'I'm only a boy.' I'll tell you where to go and you'll go there..."
This comes from the first chapter in Jeremiah and this is the Message paraphrase of a passage I find very comforting. It isn't that I take the passage so personally as to believe that God conveys in his message to Jeremiah that we will all become his 'prophets to the nations' but I do believe that the intent in God's rebuke conveys to all his Followers. God is saying "Why protest my plan? I'm giving you a command. Follow it. Why question what I have so clearly laid before you? It may not be the easiest job on earth, but rest assured, I will enable you along the way."
I like the Old Testament. Some people shy away from it but I enjoy it immensely, mostly because the language is so poetic and because the terms are laid out so discreetly. God speaks broadly to His people through his direct lessons to his prophets. In this passage, Jeremiah is being told of God's plan for him. He not only knows that there IS a plan-- he is told WHAT that plan is. God doesn't always spell things out so clearly; he does, however, open up ways and means and make clear paths that will and won't fit within His plan. .... to be continued...
Friday, April 27, 2007
SIMPLY PUT...
"Aim at heaven and you get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither."
--C.S. Lewis
Set your eyes on things above, not on earthly things...
--C.S. Lewis
Set your eyes on things above, not on earthly things...
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Edwards versus modern thought
If there really be a hell of such dreadful and never-ending torments, as is generally supposed, of which multitudes are in great danger... then why is it not proper for those who have the care of souls to take great pains to make men sensible of it? If I am in danger of going to hell, I should be glad to know as much as possible I can of the dreadfulness of it. If I am very prone to neglect due care to avoid it, he does me the best kindness, who does most to represent to me the truth of the case, that sets forth my misery and danger in the liveliest manner.
-- Jonathan Edwards
These two men present starkly different models of evangelism. Edwards demonstrates in countless sermons a sense of the dreadful nature of hell and the dire need human beings have for the saving grace of God through Jesus' blood. Edwards' use of words to direct his audience toward a spectacular realization of human depravity requires no "drumming up" of emotions, no mood music, no ushers or volunteers waiting to urge people forward in an altar call. Rather, Edwards merely pointed sinful souls away from certain doom and unto sweet freedom and salvation. The quote from Edwards above can be summed up in this way: "The person who clearly shows a sinner the depravity of his own soul and the certain damnation that awaits has done him a great service in pointing him away from death and toward the Light."
It could be argued that Edwards uses a bit of a scare tactic in his presentation of hell to non-believers; I contend however that a bit of a scare is not a bad thing. I do believe however that the "party" approach utilized by some modern churches is a bad thing-- it fails to leave a lasting impact. A person who relies on "experiences" of God will falter when experiences no longer bolster his faith-- at best, the Believer who receives dose after dose of party will stagnate; at worst, he will flail and fall. Edwards, scare-tactic or no, equips believers to grow in faith and spurs non-believers toward becoming believers. Edwards appealed to the mental faculties of his audience through effective reading of the Word. Abbot and Co appeal to the emotions their audience through various levels of emotional manipulation. In my opinion, only Edwards' model holds potential for lasting and effective exhortation of saints and sinners alike.
-- Jonathan Edwards
We didn't think it was going to look like this. We were praying for God to move, and our assumption was, when God moves we'll see more people saved and more people healed, and there would be the excitement that that would generate. We didn't think he would come and throw a massive party.
--John Arnott
These two men present starkly different models of evangelism. Edwards demonstrates in countless sermons a sense of the dreadful nature of hell and the dire need human beings have for the saving grace of God through Jesus' blood. Edwards' use of words to direct his audience toward a spectacular realization of human depravity requires no "drumming up" of emotions, no mood music, no ushers or volunteers waiting to urge people forward in an altar call. Rather, Edwards merely pointed sinful souls away from certain doom and unto sweet freedom and salvation. The quote from Edwards above can be summed up in this way: "The person who clearly shows a sinner the depravity of his own soul and the certain damnation that awaits has done him a great service in pointing him away from death and toward the Light."
Arnott believes that effective evangelism can be accomplished through inviting non believers to a huge party-- what better way to be attracted to God than through a wild party?? The problem with this idea is that excitement fades quickly in the face of reality. Arnott and others like him believe that evangelism and encouragment Believers can be accomplished by basking (or partying) in the "fire" and excitement of God. I contend that a young Christian can only ride the waves of excitement in his new faith for so long. A Christian at any age needs to be fed and equipped through teaching of God's word-- the Bible should make more than a cameo appearance during any given church service. By steering away from emotion and using reasonable presentation of the tragic fate of mankind, Edwards leaves a much longer-lasting impression, one based in cold-hard, biblical facts. A God-party is weak at best in its attempts to build up Believers for anything other than an emotional high because it often relies on worship songs and testimonies of other humans to accomplish the same purpose as the Word.
It could be argued that Edwards uses a bit of a scare tactic in his presentation of hell to non-believers; I contend however that a bit of a scare is not a bad thing. I do believe however that the "party" approach utilized by some modern churches is a bad thing-- it fails to leave a lasting impact. A person who relies on "experiences" of God will falter when experiences no longer bolster his faith-- at best, the Believer who receives dose after dose of party will stagnate; at worst, he will flail and fall. Edwards, scare-tactic or no, equips believers to grow in faith and spurs non-believers toward becoming believers. Edwards appealed to the mental faculties of his audience through effective reading of the Word. Abbot and Co appeal to the emotions their audience through various levels of emotional manipulation. In my opinion, only Edwards' model holds potential for lasting and effective exhortation of saints and sinners alike.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Romans 12 from the Message
I realize that the Message is a paraphrase, but here is how it words one of my favorite passages:
So here is what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday ordinary life-- your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life-- and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit in without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you and quickly respond to it. Unline the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
I particularly like the part in which the author has pointed out that God brings out the best in us. However, it is our job to embrace this truth and ALLOW him to take charge. As the NIV put it: "This is your spiritual act of worship." We must lead a life worthy of His name, regardless of circumstance, even in the mundane aspects of life so that we may always be "holy and pleasing to God."
So here is what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday ordinary life-- your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life-- and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit in without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you and quickly respond to it. Unline the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.
I particularly like the part in which the author has pointed out that God brings out the best in us. However, it is our job to embrace this truth and ALLOW him to take charge. As the NIV put it: "This is your spiritual act of worship." We must lead a life worthy of His name, regardless of circumstance, even in the mundane aspects of life so that we may always be "holy and pleasing to God."
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
timing
Let your eyes look straight ahead,
fix your gaze directly before you.
Make level paths for your feet
and take only ways that are firm.
Do not swerve to the right or the left;
keep your foot from evil. (Proverbs 4:25-27)
I had this verse on my mind last night as I was drifting off to sleep-- I have a lot on my mind when I am drifting off to sleep and fortunately all that occupied my mind last night was this and a couple other verses. Interestingly enough, I woke up this morning (spring break-- hooray) and went to the "A Slice of Infinity" page which I read via RSS feed on Bloglines.com. I really appreciate this particular verse because as was described in the editoral on "A Slice of Infinity," our tendency is to veer a little toward some extreme or another. Either we are too liberal or too legalistic. A balanced approach to Christianity is a difficult thing to achieve, much less maintain.
fix your gaze directly before you.
Make level paths for your feet
and take only ways that are firm.
Do not swerve to the right or the left;
keep your foot from evil. (Proverbs 4:25-27)
I had this verse on my mind last night as I was drifting off to sleep-- I have a lot on my mind when I am drifting off to sleep and fortunately all that occupied my mind last night was this and a couple other verses. Interestingly enough, I woke up this morning (spring break-- hooray) and went to the "A Slice of Infinity" page which I read via RSS feed on Bloglines.com. I really appreciate this particular verse because as was described in the editoral on "A Slice of Infinity," our tendency is to veer a little toward some extreme or another. Either we are too liberal or too legalistic. A balanced approach to Christianity is a difficult thing to achieve, much less maintain.
Where are my eyes now? How is my vision? Am I on the proper course?
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Emperor's New Clothes
"Imagine finding out that the one thing you have desperately attempted to keep veiled in secrecy was not actually veiled at all. The thought bears the unsettling sense of finding yourself unclothed before a crowded room. Would you feel foolish? Would you run and hide? Or would you insist the veil was still there? Andersen ends with a glimpse into the mind of the king: "[The words of the child] made a deep impression upon the emperor, for it seemed to him that they were right. But he thought to himself regardless, 'Now I must bear up to the end.'" Idols are not easy to own up to; how much more so, when what we idolized was never even there.
I believe, however, that there can be another response--besides denial or shame--to the startling realization that we stand unveiled before family, friends, or God Himself. We can find ourselves enveloped in gratitude, clothed by meekness. The masks we were so certain were necessary, the act we put on to appease the crowd, the lies we told to protect ourselves were maybe not quite as necessary as we thought. Could you take off the costume you thought you were wearing if you realized you were only wearing it for yourself?
Perhaps Paul's instruction to "put off falsehood" is sometimes a call to "put off" what is not even there. The call of Christ is no different. He calls us unto himself and requires that we give him everything, but we must come without costume or pretense. We must come as much ready to be honest with ourselves as with him. In the journey through Lent, we walk again with Christ toward the Cross, and like the disciples on the road to Emmaus our eyes are opened. It is as if Jesus himself is a mirror and we are inspecting our new clothes. But he will take from our shoulders our robes of self-importance and false security. He will tear from our grasp our garments of self-pity and shame. Then he will clothe us with garments of salvation and array us in robes of righteousness, and he will remind us that we are his bride."
--Jill Carratini, RZIM
This is an excerpt from an RSS feed published by Ravi Zacharias International Ministries. I love the simplicity and the challenge of Hans Christian Anderson's fable of the Emperor's New Clothes. The story has always amazed me-- what pride and arrogance wrapped around foolishness and self-doubt. Yet isn't that the very problem that faces every single one of us at some time or another. Vulnerability is a frightening state; yet it is a requirement if one is to receive the full benefit of Who God is.
I believe, however, that there can be another response--besides denial or shame--to the startling realization that we stand unveiled before family, friends, or God Himself. We can find ourselves enveloped in gratitude, clothed by meekness. The masks we were so certain were necessary, the act we put on to appease the crowd, the lies we told to protect ourselves were maybe not quite as necessary as we thought. Could you take off the costume you thought you were wearing if you realized you were only wearing it for yourself?
Perhaps Paul's instruction to "put off falsehood" is sometimes a call to "put off" what is not even there. The call of Christ is no different. He calls us unto himself and requires that we give him everything, but we must come without costume or pretense. We must come as much ready to be honest with ourselves as with him. In the journey through Lent, we walk again with Christ toward the Cross, and like the disciples on the road to Emmaus our eyes are opened. It is as if Jesus himself is a mirror and we are inspecting our new clothes. But he will take from our shoulders our robes of self-importance and false security. He will tear from our grasp our garments of self-pity and shame. Then he will clothe us with garments of salvation and array us in robes of righteousness, and he will remind us that we are his bride."
--Jill Carratini, RZIM
This is an excerpt from an RSS feed published by Ravi Zacharias International Ministries. I love the simplicity and the challenge of Hans Christian Anderson's fable of the Emperor's New Clothes. The story has always amazed me-- what pride and arrogance wrapped around foolishness and self-doubt. Yet isn't that the very problem that faces every single one of us at some time or another. Vulnerability is a frightening state; yet it is a requirement if one is to receive the full benefit of Who God is.
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