Thinking back on this today…
I love Fridays. They’re usually days filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation of good things ahead…but not so last week…
On Friday, our nation was shocked by the news of a heinous act in Newtown, Ct. at Sandy Hook Elementary School. The natural question is “Why would someone do such a thing?” It was the question I found myself pondering after hearing the news. We’re now hearing some of the back story of the shooter, which sheds a little light, but still not enough to really understand what caused it. As I thought and prayed for the families there, I was suddenly reminded of where I was the previous Friday and how I had asked the very same question then too…
On Friday of that week before, a small group of us were in Munich, Germany visiting the grounds of the Dachau Concentration Camp. After walking through the various displays, I looked out across…
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There’s a longing in our souls to know there’s more to this life than what we see. In the daily routine, there can be ups, downs, and even boredom. Relationships can bring encouragement, but quite often; discouragement. The first century Christians knew the taste of discouragement. They knew what it was like to look out over their own cities and know the tide of public opinion had turned against them. They knew what it felt like to be lied about, threatened and rejected by those who once welcomed them.
Peter, a man who knew the ups and downs of a spiritual journey, wrote letters of encouragement and challenge. He knew the crush of failure, the sting of rejection, but he also knew what it felt like to soar. To them, he said these words as a reminder:
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved for you in heaven.” – 1 Peter 1:3-4 NKJV
If the timbers of your soul need strengthening today, perhaps these anchors will help secure them:
May these truths reassure your spirit today and give you courage for tomorrow.
Originally posted on The Compass 365 as “Encouragement”
Sometimes the journey of faith is filled with “stumped toes” and “skinned knees”. Do you ever feel like sitting down, tending to your wounds, and giving up? If so, you’re not alone. Jesus understands the struggles we face. Think about that for a moment; He actually, literally, in a real-life-work-a-day-world understands your challenges. As a matter of fact, He may be the only one that really understands because He not only knows the circumstances, He knows you. For a disciple, it’s good to occasionally hear the following words:
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest in your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-30 NKJV
The original word-picture is of a young ox being teamed up with a strong, experienced one for learning and support. Jesus encourages us to relax in our spirit and find true rest in our souls while still moving forward. Only He can provide that. If you’re feeling tired and beat-up today, lean into Him. His yoke is easy and His burden is light.
Originally posted on The Compass 365 as “Burdens”
I’m really saddened by one of the new trends in Christian blogging, which seems to be bashing the Church while proclaiming love for Jesus (although they prefer more spiritual descriptions for their work). Here’s my suggestion for fellow bloggers who feel uniquely qualified to cast judgment on the Bride of Christ:
“If you observe a pastor, method, style, or model you don’t agree with, just please go quietly and do different. I’m confident the Father didn’t put you in charge of the Heavenly Bridal Room where He’s preparing her, so please join the rest of us and get busy as part of the Bride (instead of mouthing off about her).
The bottom line is that God is still in charge and knows exactly how best to deal with His beloved. If you still feel compelled to do something extra, how about prayer. I’m sure the pastor down the road would appreciate being lifted up, and while you’re at it, please pray for all us around the world trying to figure it out as we go.”
Thank you
The Coke you’re drinking most likely isn’t the same Coke your parents drank…unless it’s from Mexico. Believe it or not, there’s an interesting application to spiritual things, so please indulge me for a moment.
Backstory:
In the 1980s (with cane sugar prices climbing) Coca-Cola introduced something radical, “New Coke”…and the public hated it. You see, “New Coke” was sweetened with something much cheaper-High Fructose Corn Syrup (versus cane sugar in the original, hence the sweeter taste that was universally rejected). Then, with people nearly throwing themselves off buildings in despair, they relented and brought back Coke as “Coke Classic”; except it wasn’t exaaaaactly the same as the original because “Coke Classic” was sweetened with cane sugar and HFCS as not to offend experienced palates. However, the percentages kept changing slowly (HFCS increasing and cane sugar decreasing), until today’s Coke Classic that’s totally void of cane sugar.
The bubbly paradox of it all is that the public is now drinking “New Coke” and considering it “The Real Thing” (years of incremental change accomplishing what marketing failed to do the 1980s). However, bottlers in other countries still use cane sugar, so when you pick up one bottled in Mexico it has cane sugar (and tastes different). The irony is the sweetener used at the Mother Ship in Atlanta isn’t the original, but what’s used in third-world countries is.
So what’s the connection to my church?
Consider how the story mirrors heresy. When something unbiblical is introduced to a healthy believer or congregation, it’s usually rejected outright, but over time can be tolerated and eventually accepted. It may not be denial of Christ in the technical sense, but denial of Christ in the practical sense. The Hebrews went through the process numerous times. They didn’t set out to serve false gods; they just slowly began incorporating a little bit here and there until the attitude of considering Jehovah God as supreme was “old-school”.
The bottom line:
Regardless of packaging or marketing, the original ingredients of a godly life and church are based specifically on Christ and His Word, not cheaper substitutes. The Bible gives clear details about following Christ and how to be a disciple. Regardless of preferences for suits/ties, skinny jeans, bad haircuts, pianos, guitars, etc., the “The Real Thing” is based on Christ and His actual teachings, not a more palatable version of them. We’re in this thing together; Christ and His Word absolutely must be the common ground, and that’s an original formula I can get excited about!
Disclaimer:
*Coke and Coca-Cola are registered trademarks of The Coca-Cola Company, Atlanta, GA
*The Bible is the registered trademark of the Creator of the Universe
Recently, I had the occasion to play in a flag football game. And for the record, (with the exception of being the oldest guy on the field), there’s nothing brag-worthy to report. However, I did get reminded of a basic principle worth “passing” along (pun totally intended). I needed some cleats! You see, several years ago, I threw my old pair out, and haven’t needed any…until that game. I tried to go it without any, but I was sliding around like a hockey player on grass. Other than my pride, no harm was done, but it got me to thinking.
Something to help grip, pivot, and anchor is important. For example, the point you tie a boat up to the dock is called a “cleat”, the anchor points in the bed of my truck are called “cleats”, and multiple sports rely on “cleats” to help with starting, cornering and stopping. The evidence of it was on full display when one of the guys completely “juked” me while carrying the ball (yep, I was busy sliding the other way). In our walk of faith, we also need cleats. We must have points to pivot, grip, and stop. The enemy is clever, fast, skilled, and highly motivated. To avoid getting “juked” I need a good pair of spiritual cleats (preferably high tops). The Bible charges us to:
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” – 2 Timothy 2:15 NKJV
So when you see a player running toward you with questions on his jersey like “Is Jesus really the only way?”, “How can a loving God send people to Hell?” and “Who are you to judge me?” are you ready to pivot and turn or play slip-and-slide? The Bible has great anchor points and it’s worth the effort to find them and “lace-up”.
Why do builders use levels, squares, measuring tapes, etc.? An experienced carpenter shouldn’t need such basic tools anymore right? With a lot of experience, he should be able to simply take a good look, mark, cut, place and nail without ever consulting a measuring instrument, right? Not exactly. The experienced builder knows that optical illusions abound when simply “taking a good look” and that relying on a standard is far better. When it comes to interacting with people, the spiritual “lay of the land” or “shape of the room” can create some optical illusions for the spiritual eyes.
So for a disciple of Christ, what’s the real standard for nailing down positions on various things? Is it the specific truth of scripture, or some form of it from memory that simply “appears level”? For example, most people would agree things like lying, stealing, committing murder or adultery are wrong, but a closer look at Jesus’ teaching reveals that even contemplating them is a problem (Matt. 5:28).
The truth God established as standards predates all of us and to properly identify the boundaries, here are a few measurement questions:
“’You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind’. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” –Matthew 22:37-39 NKJV
If we love Christ, we’ll love who/what He loves; and that’s the measurement to check for.
I grew up with dirt roads; walking on them, throwing rocks from them, wondering about the other end of them, and eventually needing help getting out of ditches along them. Lately, I’ve found myself needing one. Not to get more dust on my truck, but for the clear thoughts a dusty road can bring.
I found one the other day as a buddy and I were fishing in northeast Georgia. We were driving along a road (dirt of course) by a river I grew up camping on. Man, the memories that came rushing back and stories I could tell! As a matter of fact, I probably told too many stories while working our way up the mountain because my memory went to that incredibly stupid, mile-high-redneck-zip-line we constructed with rope and pulleys “back-in-the-day” (I’ll have to share about that another time).
Truth is; there’s just something about a winding country road that aligns my thinking. When I’m there, I feel connected to earthy goodness and the simple stuff floats to the surface of my thoughts. In that environment, I seem to ask the right questions and dream the right dreams. Perhaps you would like to close your eyes for a minute and picture yourself there. If so, here are a few questions to ponder while enjoying the mountain laurel and river mist:
You may have your own questions. If so, feel free to hang around…it’s a great place to find answers.
“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-meditate on these things.” – Philippians 4:8
I know there are things about squirrels I should appreciate, but to be honest, they’re punks. I mean, try to spend a few moments out on the deck reading and see what happens. Recently I did, and as usual here they come with their endless chatter and “barking” at me for sitting in the area they consider theirs. As I listened, I thought, “You know, that reminds me of some people I know…” but then it happened. From the corner of my eye I noticed a hummingbird less than three feet away and I totally forgot the squirrels. Hummingbirds are amazing. Their flight, their movement, the special nature of encountering them, all speaks of God’s creative genius and I thought, “You know, that reminds me of some people I know…”
Here’s the deal, you’re probably going to encounter a “squirrel” today; perhaps a co-worker, a friend or a family member. It may even be a voice from the past still barking in your mind. Unfortunately you can’t use a BB gun on them (like I do with squirrels), but you can ignore them. Sure, they’ll still be doing squirrel impersonations, but somewhere around the edges of your life is a “hummingbird”. They’re the ones quietly going about their day with a quality and demeanor easily missed. It’s the person whose voice may not always be heard, but is full of Christlikeness. Take a minute to drop by their office or invite them to lunch and appreciate the way God has developed their character.
For the record, I formally apologize to all I’ve been a “squirrel” to and will try to knock-off the chatter. For those of you who are hummingbirds to me…I sincerely thank God for you. You’ve brought much insight about our Savior and the uniqueness of His creative genius!
“Buy the truth and do not sell it, also wisdom and instruction and understanding.” – Proverbs 23:23
I’m a Patriot. There are many reasons (like an appreciation of our founders and a family line of soldiers back to the Revolutionary War), but for brevity I’ll narrow it to one…purpose. It’s stated in the famous, thoroughly-deliberated-over, intentional words of the document declaring it:
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
As a Christian, I consider it important to be able to articulate what “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” means in view of scripture. Sure it means opportunity, but not to fulfill materialistic dreams. It’s a chance to live a life reflecting God’s precepts and pass along a great heritage. Besides, if we don’t who will?
First, is the “created equal” part which many progressives claim while pushing an agenda. Yes the “equal” part is important regarding human rights and discrimination. However, if the “created” part is left out, then all that’s left is a humanistic “you-can’t-judge-me” philosophy. The truth of being created is the sole premise of “endowed” and “unalienable”. That’s why my position is to celebrate life…old, young, unborn or infirmed. Life is a precious gift from God and I’ll never accept the idea that there’s a right to take it on demand. Along with the gift, as Creator He also designed the family unit to care and nurture young life through the growth process. This is a sacred trust given to my wife and I, and we don’t take it lightly.
Equal also means that as a follower of Christ I have a seat at the table in the public square. The battering ram of political correctness is a weapon used by many to silence opposition. The pressure is on for those of us who believe the Bible to sanitize our message and empty it of the true reason for the “why” behind the Gospel. Our love of country should motivate us to share truth in love, declaring that sin is real and our need for a savior is urgent.
Second, is the “pursuit” part. Since we do indeed have a Creator, what are His precepts for “Life, Liberty and Happiness”? Consider:
The words “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” initiated a long costly battle for the ones who signed onto them. I pray I have the same resolve to carry the heritage forward!
From the Archives: Edited from the original-posted on 1/17/13
Most of us know the National Anthem. We’ve sung along with celebrities at ballgames (as they’re forgetting the lyrics) or listened to the tune while fireworks lit the sky, but let’s remember the context of the writing.
During the dark days of the War of 1812, intense pressure was crushing in on Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor. Throughout the night, relentless bombardment rained down on the defenders and the question of it holding or falling (like Washington D.C. had previously done) lingered. Yes, our ancestors had much to be concerned about with the Capital City already burning and the same British commander, (General Ross) anticipating complete victory. But daybreak soon came and there it was…Old Glory. The moment was so incredibly moving that Frances Scott Key scratched down these familiar lines:
“O say can you see by the dawn’s early light,
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming,
Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight,
O’er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?
And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there;
O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave,
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?”
However, there’s more. Several more lines were penned in the original poem, with the last ones being the strongest. Take a look:
“O thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand
Between their loved home and the war’s desolation.
Blest with vict’ry and peace, may the Heav’n rescued land
Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation!
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto: “In God is our trust.”
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!”
That morning, when the smoke cleared, a breath of fresh air lifted the spirits of those anxiously waiting for sunrise, and at least one person knew who to praise for it. So this year when you sing “…the land of the free and the home of the brave!” don’t forget the line in that last stanza, “And this be our motto: ‘In God is our trust.’” …it’s a good one!
Recently I spent some time visiting with friends I’ve not seen in many years. Naturally it was great to get caught up, but there was one specific thing that made the visit extra special for me. There was a man there who (along with another man) invested in my friends and I on Wednesday nights at church when we were just boys (rowdy-active boys I might add). You see it wasn’t that I can remember great stories, wisdom, or dramatic things, it was simply time spent among us. Yes they shared the lessons (and we learned…some), but it was their hearts that validated the truth and left the most lasting imprint. I watched them, saw how they handled situations, and how eager they were to laugh at themselves (and us).
As we talked and reminisced about those times, we were amazed at how young he and the other guy who led were. They were both young dads (not necessarily “ready”), but they were willing and I’m confident my friends carry the same good memories and appreciation I do. So if you serve in any capacity with Kingdom potential and influence, please be encouraged today and know that your efforts are not in vain…even if it’s among some rowdy-active boys!
“And whatever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”
– Colossians 3:23-24 NKJV
When in a leadership position, one’s core beliefs can often be threatened. It may not always be directly aimed at you, but the pressure to compromise can build up over time. It may feel like the result of current cultural norms, but it’s not unique to the modern era. In New Testament times there were many political alliances in the fragile balance of power (not unlike today). One of those groups was a powerful court called the Sanhedrin Council. In the Apostle John’s gospel, he refers to the Council this way:
“…many believed in [Jesus], but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they be put out of the synagogue: for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.” (12:42-43)
So what we glean from the description is that several had convictions, but were afraid to express them for fear of losing political influence. However, in the middle of that politically charged environment, we also learn what happened after the crucifixion. Take a look:
“There was a good and righteous man named Joseph, a member of the Sanhedrin, who had not agreed to their plan and action. He was from Arimathea, a Judean town, and was looking forward to the kingdom of God. He approached Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. Taking it down, he wrapped it in fine linen and placed it in a tomb cut into the rock, where no one had ever been placed.” -Luke 23:50-53
You see, the difference between Joseph and many others was simply this; he acted on what he knew to be true regardless of the threat to his position and status. He may have been a little timid before, but at the end of the day he found the courage to stand on his faith. He was not only willing to step forward and be identified with Christ; he was also willing to be involved in the work of burial. Afterward, the resurrection proved Joseph to be right and he’s remembered not for his silence, but his bold request to Pilate.
Today, if you’re a follower of Christ in a leadership position; I encourage you to prayerfully act on what you know to be true, stand firm on your faith and be willing to ask the tough questions.
Mother’s Day
Caring Moms are a gift from God,
and a reflection of His love.
As you express your appreciation or ponder her memory,
remember to thank the One who created her.
“Love is patient…kind…selfless…” – I Cor. 13
When you picture Heaven, what do you see? Do you imagine a garden paradise of rest? Joyful reunions? Or maybe a Bible-celebrity mansion tour? For sure, there are many wonderful things about Heaven, but not everything you hear is consistent with the Bible. So what does the scripture reveal and how should we visualize Heaven? Let’s take a look:
I. Heaven is God-centered
From the beginning of the biblical narrative, it’s clear that all of Heaven is focused on God. Whether an Old Testament prophet is encountering God through a vision (Ez. 1, Is. 6) or John’s account of seeing Christ in the Revelation (Ch. 4); there is absolutely no question of the central focus. All attention is toward the throne of Holy God.
II. Heaven is a real place
The Bible describes Heaven as an actual place, not a “state-of-mind” or vague spiritual realm. It has structure, order and protocol. For example, Isaiah, Ezekiel and John all describe a physical throne room with special created beings, elders, lamps, altar with burning coals, door posts and smoke. Each has their function and place among the activities going on around the throne of God.
III. Heaven is filled with worship
Ezekiel, Isaiah and John all display an immediate response of worship, submission and realization of shortcomings. When they encountered the holiness of God there was nothing but embracing of the obvious. Listen to Isaiah’s words:
“I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up and the train of His robe filled the temple…so I said: Woe is me, for I am ruined because I am a man of unclean lips and live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of Hosts.” – Isaiah (6:1-5)
John the Apostle (who knew Jesus well) reacted by falling down as a dead man (Rev. 1:17). He described four living creatures calling out non-stop worship with these words:
“Holy, Holy, Holy,
Lord God almighty,
Who was, and is, and is to come!”
-Revelation 4:8
IV. Heaven is exclusive
Contrary to the idea of an open destination for all “good” people, Jesus says only those who’ve placed their trust in Him will be granted access (John 14:6). That may not be politically correct, but the Good News is that ANYONE who places their trust in Christ can receive cleansing from sin and be welcomed into the presence of God after this life.
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” – I John 1:9
V. Heaven is home
For those of us who’ve placed our trust in Jesus, this world is not home and some day we’ll leave it behind. We’re sojourners and our final place of residence is with God. Our efforts should be focused on His Kingdom. Our treasure should be laid up “where moth and rust can’t destroy and thieves can’t steal” (Matt. 6:20).
VI. Conclusion
It’s not really “what” you envision, but “Who”. When we truly pause to meditate on the reality of God and His Holy presence; worship, submission, confession and obedience naturally follow. Thankfully, through Christ we are welcomed into the throne room where there is cleansing, acceptance, security and love (Hebrews 4:14-16). What a powerful picture that is…and we’re just getting started!
For other posts in “The Essentials” series, click here
Ever been dared to do something challenging? Maybe it even included the classic “double-dog-dare” to increase the pressure. I have, and still retain the scars, detention history, etc. to prove it (as a matter-of-fact, I recently jumped into a cold swimming pool on a 40 degree day for the fun of a “Polar Plunge Challenge”). This week (while studying the Hebrews’ wilderness journey), I’ve been thinking of a different kind of dare, a “double-dog dare” if you will. It doesn’t involve cold water, self-inflicted-injuries or embarrassment. It’s just a simple question, but I’ll warn you up front; it’s tough. Ready? Here it is:
“What would your church look like if every other member was just like you?”
See what I mean? The reason I know it’s a tough question is because I’ve been wrestling with it for a couple of weeks myself (and I still don’t like the answer). It all started while considering the Jews traveling through the wilderness. They were so blessed and taken care of by God, but they still complained and expected more. Paul mentions them in 1 Corinthians 10 as examples for us. Not to make us feel better as we verbally beat up on them during Bible study, but because we’re so much like them (at least I see myself in them). The pride in me wants to think otherwise, but the Holy Spirit reminds me to prayerfully ponder it a little more. Truth is, without Christ, I wouldn’t have any hope of being different than them, but thankfully He empowers us to grow, mature and actually be different. So, if you’re willing to linger on the question for a little while, consider these additional pieces with it.
“What would our church look like, if every other member was just like me…
…in attendance?”
…in attitude?”
…in prayer?”
…in giving?”
…in serving?”
…in conversation about others?”
Perhaps at this point you could use a spiritual bandage or two. If so, remember, “There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ” (Rom. 8:1) and “We can come boldly to the throne of grace to obtain mercy…” (Heb. 4:16), but we need to act on those powerful truths. I encourage you to honestly ask this question in personal time with the Lord and let the Holy Spirit “…guide you into all truth” (John 16:13). As a matter-of-fact…I double-dog dare you (in love of course)!
cchrisholland 