The life of a pastor is always interesting, sometimes more so than others. Yesterday I had the opportunity to visit with two groups of people who will not see their families for the next twelve months. That's not all they have in common. Both groups find themselves in this state because of choices they have made. This is where the similarities end though.
One group has lost their freedom because of bad choices and behavior. They are incarcerated in the county jail, awaiting an open bed at a larger facility. They abused the freedom that is ours in this great nation, and therefor lost their freedom. When they have completed their sentence they will be released back into society hopefully as productive members who cherish the freedom they so wantonly discarded in favor of the satisfaction of their own selfish desires.
I met with the other group at the send off for the 1168th Transportation company of the Iowa National Guard. These men and women have chosen to serve because of the freedom we enjoy. Their commitment to preserving this freedom has lead them to choose to put their lives on the line. Tears of pride as well as sorrow were shed last night as family and friends said farewell to these brave men and women.
Quite a contrast, on the one hand those who had freedom and gave it up by abusing the freedom of others, and on the other hand those who have freedom and cherish it enough to risk their lives to keep it, not only for themselves but for the rest of us. In fact these men and women will be fighting to ensure the future freedom of those from the first group. Selfishness versus selflessness.
There is a tremendous spiritual message here. We were created with the utmost of freedom. We gave that up in search of something greater, and therefor lost the freedom God gave us in the garden. However, He loved us so much, and wanted to re-establish the freedom He intended for us, that He sent His son who was willing to give His life for it.
We have a choice to make. Will we continue in the incarcerated state of sin, not being able to enjoy the inalienable freedom with which we were created, or will we accept the freedom that was purchased at Calvary? If we chose freedom, we should stand boldly and be willing to risk all in order to bring this freedom to others.
Do you choose freedom today?
Enjoy the Java.
Jim
Friday, October 31, 2008
Friday, October 24, 2008
Dreary Days and Sunshine
We in the midlands awoke to yet another cold, drizzly, dark grey day.
I suppose this is a regular occurrence this time of the year, yet every year it seems to be unusual. These are the mornings that I recall, vividly, all the abuse my body has taken over the years. Each area of my body relays it's ire to me for the way I have treated it by taking advantage of the cold to scream painful rebukes at me for the carelessness of the past. I really don't like these kinds of days, I'm a 'sunshine' sort of guy.
As I was driving to work this morning, generally feeling sorry that the Lord had not called me to the beaches of Florida or Hawaii, I began to wonder what it was like above the clouds. Ah, the wistful thoughts of one whose dreams of summer were waning.
The fact of the matter is this, the skies are thick with clouds, barely allowing the light and heat of the sun through. It is also a fact that the clouds, unlike the sun, are not a constant. The clouds will eventually float away revealing that which was always there, clear blue sky and a bright warm sun. The clouds are but a temporary situation, and the constant is always there.
This really is reflective of life. There is a constant Son in our lives if we will recognize Him. Though the clouds of life come, sometimes dimming the light and causing our souls to experience the pains of our previous abuses, they are transient and the Son is always there.
We need to focus our thoughts not on the clouds, but on what will be when those clouds roll away. We tend to assume whatever state we are currently in is the permanent state of our lives. This is of course not true. Our lives are dynamic, they change and shift. The dreams which we see as lost today, can in fact become the reality of tomorrow if we keep our eyes on this reality; God is always there.
Dare to dream today,
Enjoy the Java
Jim
I suppose this is a regular occurrence this time of the year, yet every year it seems to be unusual. These are the mornings that I recall, vividly, all the abuse my body has taken over the years. Each area of my body relays it's ire to me for the way I have treated it by taking advantage of the cold to scream painful rebukes at me for the carelessness of the past. I really don't like these kinds of days, I'm a 'sunshine' sort of guy.
As I was driving to work this morning, generally feeling sorry that the Lord had not called me to the beaches of Florida or Hawaii, I began to wonder what it was like above the clouds. Ah, the wistful thoughts of one whose dreams of summer were waning.
The fact of the matter is this, the skies are thick with clouds, barely allowing the light and heat of the sun through. It is also a fact that the clouds, unlike the sun, are not a constant. The clouds will eventually float away revealing that which was always there, clear blue sky and a bright warm sun. The clouds are but a temporary situation, and the constant is always there.
This really is reflective of life. There is a constant Son in our lives if we will recognize Him. Though the clouds of life come, sometimes dimming the light and causing our souls to experience the pains of our previous abuses, they are transient and the Son is always there.
We need to focus our thoughts not on the clouds, but on what will be when those clouds roll away. We tend to assume whatever state we are currently in is the permanent state of our lives. This is of course not true. Our lives are dynamic, they change and shift. The dreams which we see as lost today, can in fact become the reality of tomorrow if we keep our eyes on this reality; God is always there.
Dare to dream today,
Enjoy the Java
Jim
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Freedom
I love watching eagles and hawks fly.
Just north of Moline Illinois, there is a park nestled up against the Mississippi River. In this park there is a very high cliff that was probably carved out by the rushing waters of the ‘Mighty Miss’ over the eons. Spread across the face of this cliff are several nesting areas used by Bald Eagles.
Many are the times I traveled to this park in search of a distraction from the pressures of life. One of the diversions I would indulge was watching these beautifully majestic birds as they flew high above the river, watching for an unsuspecting dinner guest. I could do that for hours on end. It fascinates me to watch as they simply turn into the wind and rise from the ground to effortlessly glide higher and higher.
I would sit and try to imagine how that feels, the total freedom of being suspended in the air, defying the laws of gravity, sentient only to the wind in my face and the magnificent view below. Unfortunately my wife and my insurance agent have no sense of adventure, therefore I have never ventured into the world of hang gliding. Someday…yes someday.
It occurs to me in some ways, the trials of life act as gravity upon our souls. While we watch others who are free to rise above the fray, and ‘catch a thermal’ rising ever higher enjoying the wonderful gifts of a loving God, we are many times bound to earth by the situations we find ourselves in. Our imagination, and sense of adventure are not great enough to look beyond the ‘way things are’ and consider ‘how they might be’. How sad.
Throughout the scripture we are called to be as eagles; mighty, fearless, majestic and free. True, even the eagle must return to earth, and we will always have to deal with the realities of life. However, we need to spread our wings and allow the wind of the Spirit of God to lift us from the facts of living, and allow us to dwell within the truth of His freedom.
We don’t have to long for what is already available to us, if we will only allow God to expand our vision.
Let’s take a flight today…
Enjoy the Java
Jim
Just north of Moline Illinois, there is a park nestled up against the Mississippi River. In this park there is a very high cliff that was probably carved out by the rushing waters of the ‘Mighty Miss’ over the eons. Spread across the face of this cliff are several nesting areas used by Bald Eagles.
Many are the times I traveled to this park in search of a distraction from the pressures of life. One of the diversions I would indulge was watching these beautifully majestic birds as they flew high above the river, watching for an unsuspecting dinner guest. I could do that for hours on end. It fascinates me to watch as they simply turn into the wind and rise from the ground to effortlessly glide higher and higher.
I would sit and try to imagine how that feels, the total freedom of being suspended in the air, defying the laws of gravity, sentient only to the wind in my face and the magnificent view below. Unfortunately my wife and my insurance agent have no sense of adventure, therefore I have never ventured into the world of hang gliding. Someday…yes someday.
It occurs to me in some ways, the trials of life act as gravity upon our souls. While we watch others who are free to rise above the fray, and ‘catch a thermal’ rising ever higher enjoying the wonderful gifts of a loving God, we are many times bound to earth by the situations we find ourselves in. Our imagination, and sense of adventure are not great enough to look beyond the ‘way things are’ and consider ‘how they might be’. How sad.
Throughout the scripture we are called to be as eagles; mighty, fearless, majestic and free. True, even the eagle must return to earth, and we will always have to deal with the realities of life. However, we need to spread our wings and allow the wind of the Spirit of God to lift us from the facts of living, and allow us to dwell within the truth of His freedom.
We don’t have to long for what is already available to us, if we will only allow God to expand our vision.
Let’s take a flight today…
Enjoy the Java
Jim
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Integrity
There are some things in life upon which we can rely. The sun comes up each morning, the lush green of summer turns into the vibrant colors of fall before giving in to the bare vista of winter, and regardless of how cloudy it is, somewhere above the ceiling of grey there is a clear blue sky.
Having constants in life is important. A firm foundation is required for a safe home. Regardless of how many times one might redecorate the outside, changing its appearance, the foundation must never change. A shifting foundation cannot be trusted and causes the house to fall.
In one of the many men’s ministry meetings I have attended, the speaker commented that integrity was proved by what one did when no one else could know. That really struck a chord with me. I want to be someone that others can depend upon regardless of what is happening in my own life. I want very badly to be the foundation that others can depend upon. This can only happen if I consistently look at myself and ask the question; ‘Is what I am doing something I would be proud to tell others about?’ I am sorry to say that at times that is not the case. We all have things that we deal with that must be purged.
Honesty is one of the fundamentals of my existence. I strive to be truthful in every situation I find myself in. Many times that truthfulness has not served me well at a given moment. It might have been easier to tell a lie to avoid the consequences of my own actions, however the fact that those consequences and the consequences of the lie would have to be dealt with at sometime anyway convinced me that as old Abe said, ‘Honesty is the best policy’, was in fact how I should live my life.
I've learned how painful it is to not be trusted because of a lie, especially if the one who would not trust me was someone I loved and respected. I always found that the disappointment I saw in the eyes of my parents when I let them down was far greater punishment that any trip to the woodshed I made with my dad. I preferred the woodshed, as at least it was over and done with, but the disappointment and loss of faith in me would continue until I proved myself worthy of their trust once again.
I have also learned how painful it is to lose faith in someone you love because of their untruthfulness. I have found that the loss of faith is far more painful than the truth would have been. This has always been something I have had a difficult time overcoming. These have been the times that God has taken the opportunity to teach me what grace is all about.
I thank God He has been gracious to me in forgiving me and restoring me to a place of honor in His sight even after I have let Him down. This is the ultimate expression of His love to us, His willingness to pay the debt that we owe, and then clothing us in His glory to boot. How hard it is to reciprocate this grace to others when we have been wronged.
Integrity is more than being honest and righteous; it is about treating others as God has treated us. Forgiveness must be the central theme of our relationships. It is a fact that those around us will at sometime hurt us. Another fact is; it will sometimes be those to whom we are the closest who will hurt us the most.
It is truth that we should show the same grace that we so willingly accept from God.
Forgive someone today.
Enjoy the Java
Jim
Having constants in life is important. A firm foundation is required for a safe home. Regardless of how many times one might redecorate the outside, changing its appearance, the foundation must never change. A shifting foundation cannot be trusted and causes the house to fall.
In one of the many men’s ministry meetings I have attended, the speaker commented that integrity was proved by what one did when no one else could know. That really struck a chord with me. I want to be someone that others can depend upon regardless of what is happening in my own life. I want very badly to be the foundation that others can depend upon. This can only happen if I consistently look at myself and ask the question; ‘Is what I am doing something I would be proud to tell others about?’ I am sorry to say that at times that is not the case. We all have things that we deal with that must be purged.
Honesty is one of the fundamentals of my existence. I strive to be truthful in every situation I find myself in. Many times that truthfulness has not served me well at a given moment. It might have been easier to tell a lie to avoid the consequences of my own actions, however the fact that those consequences and the consequences of the lie would have to be dealt with at sometime anyway convinced me that as old Abe said, ‘Honesty is the best policy’, was in fact how I should live my life.
I've learned how painful it is to not be trusted because of a lie, especially if the one who would not trust me was someone I loved and respected. I always found that the disappointment I saw in the eyes of my parents when I let them down was far greater punishment that any trip to the woodshed I made with my dad. I preferred the woodshed, as at least it was over and done with, but the disappointment and loss of faith in me would continue until I proved myself worthy of their trust once again.
I have also learned how painful it is to lose faith in someone you love because of their untruthfulness. I have found that the loss of faith is far more painful than the truth would have been. This has always been something I have had a difficult time overcoming. These have been the times that God has taken the opportunity to teach me what grace is all about.
I thank God He has been gracious to me in forgiving me and restoring me to a place of honor in His sight even after I have let Him down. This is the ultimate expression of His love to us, His willingness to pay the debt that we owe, and then clothing us in His glory to boot. How hard it is to reciprocate this grace to others when we have been wronged.
Integrity is more than being honest and righteous; it is about treating others as God has treated us. Forgiveness must be the central theme of our relationships. It is a fact that those around us will at sometime hurt us. Another fact is; it will sometimes be those to whom we are the closest who will hurt us the most.
It is truth that we should show the same grace that we so willingly accept from God.
Forgive someone today.
Enjoy the Java
Jim
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Looking Across HWY 59
Last week I found myself waiting to have lunch with a client. I had arrived early and was watching for her from the parking lot. I find it so interesting to just stop occasionally and observe what is around me. I generally find that I miss so many meaningful sights as I rush along my way. Perhaps that is why the writings of our predecessors who rode from place to place on horseback seems to be deeper and more descriptive. They took time to see life. We have few Louisa Mae Alcott's, or James Finamore Cooper's amongst our writers today. Alas I digress.
As I waited I became aware of a rather trichotomous vista spread out before me. You see, I was in the little town of Avoca Iowa, at a restaurant just off the interchange of I 80 and US Highway 59. Highway 59 is a very busy road being a major north south artery. As I watched the travelers speed past me rushing to their next appointment, I became aware of the back drop. Directly across from where I was sitting, was a cemetery on a hill. The thought occurred to me that the people who were passing this spot had on their minds what their next destination was, but were probably not too concerned about their ultimate destination. While they were speeding past me, headed to some specified objective, the final destination for each of them would someday be either this cemetery or one very similar. It really caused me to consider that whatever the goal of my life is, if it does not include touching others, it will have been futile.
I said this was a trichotomous vista, for in the background of the cemetery I noticed a farmer on his combine harvesting the crop that had been planted and was ready to be taken from the field and put to the use for which it was grown. The recondite symbolism of what I was watching was not lost on me. In the foreground we have people who are mindlessly rushing from point to point doing things they have made important, all the while ignoring the limitations of time placed on all of us because our physical lives have a definite beginning and ending point. While this is happening, God is harvesting His field. Some of that harvest will be the good grain that will live eternally, others will be the chaff that has no value and will be disposed of in the fire.
We need to be sure of our status. We need to be the good grain, and if we are,we need to be about the things which are eternally important. It's not the next contract, or the grocery list, or even getting the kids from place to place, it is who you touch along the way. You are an important part of what God is doing in your world today.
Enjoy the Java,
Jim
As I waited I became aware of a rather trichotomous vista spread out before me. You see, I was in the little town of Avoca Iowa, at a restaurant just off the interchange of I 80 and US Highway 59. Highway 59 is a very busy road being a major north south artery. As I watched the travelers speed past me rushing to their next appointment, I became aware of the back drop. Directly across from where I was sitting, was a cemetery on a hill. The thought occurred to me that the people who were passing this spot had on their minds what their next destination was, but were probably not too concerned about their ultimate destination. While they were speeding past me, headed to some specified objective, the final destination for each of them would someday be either this cemetery or one very similar. It really caused me to consider that whatever the goal of my life is, if it does not include touching others, it will have been futile.
I said this was a trichotomous vista, for in the background of the cemetery I noticed a farmer on his combine harvesting the crop that had been planted and was ready to be taken from the field and put to the use for which it was grown. The recondite symbolism of what I was watching was not lost on me. In the foreground we have people who are mindlessly rushing from point to point doing things they have made important, all the while ignoring the limitations of time placed on all of us because our physical lives have a definite beginning and ending point. While this is happening, God is harvesting His field. Some of that harvest will be the good grain that will live eternally, others will be the chaff that has no value and will be disposed of in the fire.
We need to be sure of our status. We need to be the good grain, and if we are,we need to be about the things which are eternally important. It's not the next contract, or the grocery list, or even getting the kids from place to place, it is who you touch along the way. You are an important part of what God is doing in your world today.
Enjoy the Java,
Jim
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
The Only Thing
First I would like to express just how much I hate the city. As a boy who has spent much of his life living in cities, some of which were rather large, I want to express my utmost gratitude to God for delivering me from the rat race, and allowing me to live in a one horse paradise. Viva La small town Iowa!!
I have spent the last two days in Des Moines attending a conference our fellowship puts on for it's pastors. While I did not like venue city, (Des Moines is at the top of the list for my least favorite cities), the conference was timely and I feel will produce bushels of fruit.
The conference centered on the concept of church planting and growth. Over the years I have been a part of a great number of these sorts of conferences. Whether they be about growing a church, or growing a business, they are always informative but somehow irrelevant to what I am doing at the given time. It was not so at this conference. God prepared this conference for the team that I am a part of. I hope that others got something from it, I'm sure they did, but it was prepared for us.
One theme that came shining through, and a message that I have been preaching for some time is this; it is time for us to forget the way things have been done, we don't need to shift paradigms, we need to shatter them.
In both our personal and corporate ministries we need to be able to shift with the move of God as He applies His word in a relevant manner to our society. Remember the move of God is always fresh, but it is not new. The move of the Spirit started with the words of Jesus as He declared 'It is finished'. The Spirit has not ceased moving since, we have however placed our selves in protective shelters at times to avoid it.
When the Spirit is moving things change, just as a high wind moves things from where they are to a new location, so is the wind of God. It is sometimes uncomfortable for us as most of us do not like change. The days of Status Quo in ALL ministry is over. We cannot afford to be complacent about the return of Christ or the fate that awaits lost souls. Introducing people to Jesus Christ must be the air we breath, the purpose of our lives.
After a tragic event that befell our family several years ago, my wise mother turned to me and said something that God has burned into my mind. She said; "Telling people about Christ is not the most important thing...it's the only thing."
Make it a profitable day for the Kingdom in your neighborhood today.
Enjoy the Coffee,
Jim
I have spent the last two days in Des Moines attending a conference our fellowship puts on for it's pastors. While I did not like venue city, (Des Moines is at the top of the list for my least favorite cities), the conference was timely and I feel will produce bushels of fruit.
The conference centered on the concept of church planting and growth. Over the years I have been a part of a great number of these sorts of conferences. Whether they be about growing a church, or growing a business, they are always informative but somehow irrelevant to what I am doing at the given time. It was not so at this conference. God prepared this conference for the team that I am a part of. I hope that others got something from it, I'm sure they did, but it was prepared for us.
One theme that came shining through, and a message that I have been preaching for some time is this; it is time for us to forget the way things have been done, we don't need to shift paradigms, we need to shatter them.
In both our personal and corporate ministries we need to be able to shift with the move of God as He applies His word in a relevant manner to our society. Remember the move of God is always fresh, but it is not new. The move of the Spirit started with the words of Jesus as He declared 'It is finished'. The Spirit has not ceased moving since, we have however placed our selves in protective shelters at times to avoid it.
When the Spirit is moving things change, just as a high wind moves things from where they are to a new location, so is the wind of God. It is sometimes uncomfortable for us as most of us do not like change. The days of Status Quo in ALL ministry is over. We cannot afford to be complacent about the return of Christ or the fate that awaits lost souls. Introducing people to Jesus Christ must be the air we breath, the purpose of our lives.
After a tragic event that befell our family several years ago, my wise mother turned to me and said something that God has burned into my mind. She said; "Telling people about Christ is not the most important thing...it's the only thing."
Make it a profitable day for the Kingdom in your neighborhood today.
Enjoy the Coffee,
Jim
Monday, September 29, 2008
Don't Sleep Through the Storm
In what is becoming a rather frustrating pattern, I awoke in the wee hours of the morning. I'm not really sure what time it was, as the alarm clock is on my wife's side of the bed. As I lay there, unable to return to the sleep I so much desired, I began to listen to the sounds of the night.
It was one of those Indian summer nights we get here in the heartland. Not too warm, but certainly no bite in the air either. It was also very still. The windows were open allowing the sounds of the crickets and other nocturnal creatures to float in as they called across the darkness to some unseen cohort.
In a matter of seconds, the sound of chirping was replaced by the sound of a great gust of wind. As the first gust died down it was replaced by a steady and very heavy wind. Soon the rain began to fall, and moved from a sprinkle to the hard pelting of a downpour. Then came the lightning and thunder. For a space of about thirty minutes we were in the middle of a strong thunderstorm. After the storm subsided, the sound of the crickets returned, and I eventually drifted off to sleep.
In the morning I had commented to my wife about the storm. "What storm?" was her only reply. She had slept right through it without any disturbance at all. I envy her.
Sleep is a wonderful thing. It revitalizes us and allows us to perform to our fullest. However, sleeping is only good at the appropriate times. As I thought of Tina sleeping through the storm, my thoughts turned to those who sleep through the rushing mighty wind of the Holy Spirit. We pray for revival, yet so many follow that prayer with sound sleep, never hearing the telltale signs of the first gust of wind, and missing out on the refreshing rain. There is power in a thunderstorm, sometimes enough power to destroy. There is also power in the moving of God, a power that will certainly destroy the unrighteousness within us. We just need to be awake.
Over the past few weeks, I have felt that initial blast of the storm. I will remain awake...will you?
It was one of those Indian summer nights we get here in the heartland. Not too warm, but certainly no bite in the air either. It was also very still. The windows were open allowing the sounds of the crickets and other nocturnal creatures to float in as they called across the darkness to some unseen cohort.
In a matter of seconds, the sound of chirping was replaced by the sound of a great gust of wind. As the first gust died down it was replaced by a steady and very heavy wind. Soon the rain began to fall, and moved from a sprinkle to the hard pelting of a downpour. Then came the lightning and thunder. For a space of about thirty minutes we were in the middle of a strong thunderstorm. After the storm subsided, the sound of the crickets returned, and I eventually drifted off to sleep.
In the morning I had commented to my wife about the storm. "What storm?" was her only reply. She had slept right through it without any disturbance at all. I envy her.
Sleep is a wonderful thing. It revitalizes us and allows us to perform to our fullest. However, sleeping is only good at the appropriate times. As I thought of Tina sleeping through the storm, my thoughts turned to those who sleep through the rushing mighty wind of the Holy Spirit. We pray for revival, yet so many follow that prayer with sound sleep, never hearing the telltale signs of the first gust of wind, and missing out on the refreshing rain. There is power in a thunderstorm, sometimes enough power to destroy. There is also power in the moving of God, a power that will certainly destroy the unrighteousness within us. We just need to be awake.
Over the past few weeks, I have felt that initial blast of the storm. I will remain awake...will you?
Friday, September 26, 2008
Memories from the Bayou
I am sitting at my desk rather early this morning. The robust smell of strong chicory coffee fills the air, and my mind wanders to thoughts of the bayou country in Louisiana. Thoughts of early morning fishing trips on D'arbonne, Claiborne, and Black Bayou, the misty fog slowly lifting to reveal the splendor of the South's most diverse assortment of flora and Fawnia. The sight of 'gators slowly submerging themselves as they meandered through the stained water. The sounds of a hundred different birds waking to greet a new day in paradise. I truly love the bayou conutry.
I think about the thrill that fills every fiber of my being as I would feel the tug of a monster bass on the end of my line, or the camaraderie of good friends laughing as I fall in the bayou trying to free a lure from the tangles of a Cypress stump. Yes, the aroma of the coffee brewing easily transports me from this windowless office in the Midwest to the glorious open outdoors I so adore.
It is interesting to me how the sense of smell can trigger such remembrances, and in turn the inevitable emotional response. In this case it is a response of satisfied pleasure. A pleasure that was found during some of my most trying days. I have to force myself to remember the difficulties of that time in my life, many of which, perhaps the vast majority of which, were of my own making. Those memories seem to pale into insignificance when compared to the pure joy I would find in God's creation. I believe that pleasure was the means by which God was reminding me He was still there waiting for me regardless of how far and swiftly I was running away from Him. Somethings are just too big to run away from.
As I study the Old Testament, I find that God has a sense of smell also. Many times throughout the book of Leviticus, the smoke from the offerings is referred to as 'a sweet smelling savor'. In at least one other passage, God tells the children of Israel that 'their offerings are a stench in my nostrils'.
I wonder if the sense of smell excites God's memory of us? If it does, I pray that memory be a joyful memory of a son who, hard as he tried to destroy what God had given him, in the end found his way back to the only true joy in his life, Abba, Daddy.
What are the memories you are making with 'Abba' today?
Jim
I think about the thrill that fills every fiber of my being as I would feel the tug of a monster bass on the end of my line, or the camaraderie of good friends laughing as I fall in the bayou trying to free a lure from the tangles of a Cypress stump. Yes, the aroma of the coffee brewing easily transports me from this windowless office in the Midwest to the glorious open outdoors I so adore.
It is interesting to me how the sense of smell can trigger such remembrances, and in turn the inevitable emotional response. In this case it is a response of satisfied pleasure. A pleasure that was found during some of my most trying days. I have to force myself to remember the difficulties of that time in my life, many of which, perhaps the vast majority of which, were of my own making. Those memories seem to pale into insignificance when compared to the pure joy I would find in God's creation. I believe that pleasure was the means by which God was reminding me He was still there waiting for me regardless of how far and swiftly I was running away from Him. Somethings are just too big to run away from.
As I study the Old Testament, I find that God has a sense of smell also. Many times throughout the book of Leviticus, the smoke from the offerings is referred to as 'a sweet smelling savor'. In at least one other passage, God tells the children of Israel that 'their offerings are a stench in my nostrils'.
I wonder if the sense of smell excites God's memory of us? If it does, I pray that memory be a joyful memory of a son who, hard as he tried to destroy what God had given him, in the end found his way back to the only true joy in his life, Abba, Daddy.
What are the memories you are making with 'Abba' today?
Jim
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Old Barns
I was driving to Clarinda Iowa last Monday. Clarinda is a small city in Southwest Iowa not far from the Missouri border. It is nestled in the rolling hills that are marked by their landscaped terraces. Like most towns in this part of the country, Clarinda is surrounded by farms.
As I was driving along State HWY 2, I began to notice a number of old barns. I suspect most of these barns are in the area of one hundred years old. Some of them, most of them actually had been taken care of with varying levels of effectiveness. Some however had been badly neglected. What a shame. These are the barns that have served to house the industries that have fed the world, these majestic icons of Americas fruitfulness and the blessings of God, falling into such a state as to be rendered useless.
I began to notice a pattern in the barns that were in bad shape. It seemed that invariably the roof was the first to go, more specifically the side that faced the west. I suppose this is because our weather patterns bring storms from the west sweeping east, so that is the face that receives the most stress.
When the roof began to fail, the corresponding outside wall would collapse inward. The easterly facing side of the roof was intact, as were three of the four walls, but the one side of the roof, and the one wall which had fallen transformed this once useful structure into a hazard for any who would venture into it. I saw this pattern in three separate barns, it seems there is a lesson here.
Having spent most of my life in a management position of one kind or another, I understand the importance of proper leadership. When the roof begins to collapse, it will almost always take a wall with it, causing the entire structure to become useless. We must realise that though the roof is important, it is supported by the walls on which it sets. It is an awesome responsibility to be 'The Roof', a responsibility that is too oft looked at in terms of the privilege it carries instead of the function it is to fulfill. The roof protects the walls and all that is inside.
Having said that, it should also be noted that those in position of leadership NEED the attention of others. Specifically on the storm ward side. We must lift these people up and meet their needs to ensure they are kept in good repair.
A properly cared for barn can last several lifetimes, one that is neglected will fall to the ground, destroying all that is in it.
Jim
As I was driving along State HWY 2, I began to notice a number of old barns. I suspect most of these barns are in the area of one hundred years old. Some of them, most of them actually had been taken care of with varying levels of effectiveness. Some however had been badly neglected. What a shame. These are the barns that have served to house the industries that have fed the world, these majestic icons of Americas fruitfulness and the blessings of God, falling into such a state as to be rendered useless.
I began to notice a pattern in the barns that were in bad shape. It seemed that invariably the roof was the first to go, more specifically the side that faced the west. I suppose this is because our weather patterns bring storms from the west sweeping east, so that is the face that receives the most stress.
When the roof began to fail, the corresponding outside wall would collapse inward. The easterly facing side of the roof was intact, as were three of the four walls, but the one side of the roof, and the one wall which had fallen transformed this once useful structure into a hazard for any who would venture into it. I saw this pattern in three separate barns, it seems there is a lesson here.
Having spent most of my life in a management position of one kind or another, I understand the importance of proper leadership. When the roof begins to collapse, it will almost always take a wall with it, causing the entire structure to become useless. We must realise that though the roof is important, it is supported by the walls on which it sets. It is an awesome responsibility to be 'The Roof', a responsibility that is too oft looked at in terms of the privilege it carries instead of the function it is to fulfill. The roof protects the walls and all that is inside.
Having said that, it should also be noted that those in position of leadership NEED the attention of others. Specifically on the storm ward side. We must lift these people up and meet their needs to ensure they are kept in good repair.
A properly cared for barn can last several lifetimes, one that is neglected will fall to the ground, destroying all that is in it.
Jim
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Driving In The Fog
It is a very foggy day in the midlands today. The fog is so thick that at times it was very difficult to see more than a car length ahead of me. Driving in this kind of weather is possibly the more dangerous than any other. The temptation is to drive the normal speed, until the road turns or something else wishes to use the space that you occupy. Visability is worse than at night as the headlights do little else other than alert others of your precence.
As I drove south on the lake road, I noticed something that I had certainly seen, though it had never really registered before. As I approached an intersection, that I could not see, and had not anticipated as I could not tell where I was on the road, I saw a sign that said, 'Stop Ahead'. Thank goodness for the sign.
Have you ever considered how we many times speed through life not paying attention to the fog? Thank God He has provided signs to alert us of upcoming danger. His word is given for that purpose. Perhaps we should all pay more attention to the signs.
Jim
As I drove south on the lake road, I noticed something that I had certainly seen, though it had never really registered before. As I approached an intersection, that I could not see, and had not anticipated as I could not tell where I was on the road, I saw a sign that said, 'Stop Ahead'. Thank goodness for the sign.
Have you ever considered how we many times speed through life not paying attention to the fog? Thank God He has provided signs to alert us of upcoming danger. His word is given for that purpose. Perhaps we should all pay more attention to the signs.
Jim
Thursday, September 18, 2008
First Things First
Fall is fast approaching. Next week, summer will officially end, and Autumn will begin. In our house, the final vestige of summer will be packed away this weekend as daddy finishes taking down the pool and packing it away.
Last year, we bought one of those pop up pools for our daughter's birthday. Everyone was excited as the days were hot and the pool was big enough for the entire family to get in and cool off as well as have a good time. As I hauled the heavy box to the backyard the squeals of anticipatory delight emanated from our youngest daughters lips. "When can we set it up daddy, can we swim today?"
Our backyard is a study in landscaping nightmares. Through a series of three terraces, it drops in elevation 15' from the back of the house to the fence. One of the instructions on the pool was that it MUST be level. Of course being a real manly sort of guy, I hadn't bothered to even look for the instructions much less read them. However my wife had not only read them, she was trying in vain to verbalize them to her hardheaded husband who simply answered, "I know what I'm doing, how hard could this be?"
I found what looked like a relatively flat spot, unfolded the pool, and began to fill it. Sarah, our daughter, was already in her swimsuit ready to jump in. I just knew that the only thing that stood in the way of a great family afternoon was 5900 gallons of water. Shows how much I know. There was a very good reason to pay attention to the instructions here. You see, if the pool was not level, the water would settle to one end of the pool, and collapse the walls. After proving that Einstein was right about his definition of insanity, actually I tried to disprove him several times that afternoon, I realized that perhaps the folks who wrote the instructions might have a point. After explaining to a disappointed twelve year old that I would have to do some digging before we set up the pool, I chose a spot in the yard, and called a friend with a backhoe.
Isn't it amazing how well things tend to work when you do the first things first? The next afternoon the pool was filled with 59 degree water (too cold for this old man, but somehow just right for his daughters) and everyone was happy.
This morning I was reading in Haggai. It seems that the children of Israel had the same problem as I. They were so anxious to get their lives back in order after the Babylonian exile, that they neglected to rebuild the Temple of God. Their houses were in order, but God's house lay in ruins. The blessings of God were withheld, there was a draught in the land, food was in short supply, but they pressed forward with their houses and businesses. It wasn't until God spoke through the prophet that they returned to the most important task at hand, rebuilding the Temple of God.
Whatever situation you find yourself in today, whether you are a businessman, a housewife, a student or perhaps your looking for that perfect person to share your life with. Put God first, allow Him to inhabit the Temple,(YOU), allow him to direct your life, and have patience. God's plan in your life is a perfect plan. He writes the perfect business plan, and more importantly the perfect life plan. Keep the first things first and He will guide you to His perfect will and blessings.
Last year, we bought one of those pop up pools for our daughter's birthday. Everyone was excited as the days were hot and the pool was big enough for the entire family to get in and cool off as well as have a good time. As I hauled the heavy box to the backyard the squeals of anticipatory delight emanated from our youngest daughters lips. "When can we set it up daddy, can we swim today?"
Our backyard is a study in landscaping nightmares. Through a series of three terraces, it drops in elevation 15' from the back of the house to the fence. One of the instructions on the pool was that it MUST be level. Of course being a real manly sort of guy, I hadn't bothered to even look for the instructions much less read them. However my wife had not only read them, she was trying in vain to verbalize them to her hardheaded husband who simply answered, "I know what I'm doing, how hard could this be?"
I found what looked like a relatively flat spot, unfolded the pool, and began to fill it. Sarah, our daughter, was already in her swimsuit ready to jump in. I just knew that the only thing that stood in the way of a great family afternoon was 5900 gallons of water. Shows how much I know. There was a very good reason to pay attention to the instructions here. You see, if the pool was not level, the water would settle to one end of the pool, and collapse the walls. After proving that Einstein was right about his definition of insanity, actually I tried to disprove him several times that afternoon, I realized that perhaps the folks who wrote the instructions might have a point. After explaining to a disappointed twelve year old that I would have to do some digging before we set up the pool, I chose a spot in the yard, and called a friend with a backhoe.
Isn't it amazing how well things tend to work when you do the first things first? The next afternoon the pool was filled with 59 degree water (too cold for this old man, but somehow just right for his daughters) and everyone was happy.
This morning I was reading in Haggai. It seems that the children of Israel had the same problem as I. They were so anxious to get their lives back in order after the Babylonian exile, that they neglected to rebuild the Temple of God. Their houses were in order, but God's house lay in ruins. The blessings of God were withheld, there was a draught in the land, food was in short supply, but they pressed forward with their houses and businesses. It wasn't until God spoke through the prophet that they returned to the most important task at hand, rebuilding the Temple of God.
Whatever situation you find yourself in today, whether you are a businessman, a housewife, a student or perhaps your looking for that perfect person to share your life with. Put God first, allow Him to inhabit the Temple,(YOU), allow him to direct your life, and have patience. God's plan in your life is a perfect plan. He writes the perfect business plan, and more importantly the perfect life plan. Keep the first things first and He will guide you to His perfect will and blessings.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Sacrifice of Praise
Let me begin by saying that this is NOT a treatise on musical style. That discussion is perhaps one of the most senseless discussions one could enter into. My own musical taste is varied. I can listen to jazz one minute and metal the next. I cut my teeth on southern gospel, which has the same structure as C&W. The important thing is that this is a matter of taste, not righteousness. Music is music, what makes it right or wrong is what we do with it.
Music is given to us by God for the purpose of stirring the soul (mind). It evokes within us emotions, excitement, reflection, love, repentance, and yes sometimes hatred. A story that is told musically is far more memorable than one that is not. When I refer to ‘Christian’ music, I refer to music whose lyrics are of such a nature as to incite praise or reflection on the role that God plays within our lives.
The genre of Contemporary Christian Music has seen an astronomical increase in popularity from the days of the ‘70’s when the first of the gospel rockers hit the scene. I attribute part of this rise to the fact that the secular music industry has abandoned a large segment of the population that is not into hip hop. Many of today’s praise songs have the same musical pedigree as the pop songs of yesterday. In that sense I would say that I would much rather hear the Christian lyrics than those of an immoral nature. Along with this incredible rise (which is truly demonstrated by the fact that such secular labels as Sony has become a major player in the Christian music market) has come another trend. Many of today’s artists have gained the same rock star following as groups like the Stones, or Styx did years ago. This can become a form of star worship. This speaks more to the fan than the artist. Some tend to think of these artists as being righteous and Godly because of what they do instead of who they are. There is a difference. The words may be right, but the fruit is what we need to inspect. The bottom line is we must worship God, not the messenger.
I personally know a man who was with several popular Christian groups. It is interesting to watch people’s reaction when they learn who he is. It is as if he were somehow different than we. This is wrong. It is wrong for us, it is wrong for the artist, and it ALWAYS leads to destruction. Whether that person is an artist or a preacher, when they become the object of worship, our eyes are no longer on God, but on his creation. (See Romans Chapter 1). Any such person who promotes this attitude should be watched carefully. What we do should turn people’s faces toward God, not us.
Along with this fame sometimes comes the fortune. All too often we see living proof of Christ’s admonition to the rich young ruler when He said it would be easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom. I believe that in some cases songs are being written to sell a CD instead of as a true outpouring of one’s soul.
I know several people who write songs. All of them have been blessed with a talent which allows them to take their emotions or their life’s focus and transform them into the words and musical strains that touch our lives. Some of these people write from a very deep place of experience and feeling, others write in order to come up with something that is catchy or popular. The difference is that one sings their song to the Lord, the other to the congregation or the audience. Each will receive their reward.
I love music, I love to play music. I have some ability to do so, and when I do the music should flow not as a performance for others, but as an expression of praise. Now, so no one thinks that I think I am special, let me say my talent is very limited and I don’t always exercise it as I should. It is during those times that I walk away feeling that something was missing. Of course there was, the music was supposed to be for the Lord, we sing to the Lord, we bring the SACRIFICE of praise, not the performance of praise. PRAISE IS A SACRIFICE…NOT A PERFORMANCE!
I pray that we once again return to the place of putting music in its rightful place in our worship. It is a part of worship, it is expression, and it should excite us or bring us to repentance. Music, or the artists that perform that music, should never be the object of praise, and no matter what your talent level you should always be able to express yourself in this way to the Lord. God does not differentiate the quality of the praise based upon our talent level. My dear grandmother, who could not carry a tune to save her life, spent most of her days singing at the top of her lungs to the Lord. She once told me that she may be tone deaf, but by the time her song reached the Lord, He had corrected all the mistakes and He heard it as the sweet song of praise that it was. She could never record an album, however her songs live throughout eternity in the ears of God, and she is as respected as any big time recording artist.
Today as you listen to your music, or sing it, remember what it was intended to be.
Tomorrow I will return to a lighter style.
Enjoy the coffee,
Jim
Music is given to us by God for the purpose of stirring the soul (mind). It evokes within us emotions, excitement, reflection, love, repentance, and yes sometimes hatred. A story that is told musically is far more memorable than one that is not. When I refer to ‘Christian’ music, I refer to music whose lyrics are of such a nature as to incite praise or reflection on the role that God plays within our lives.
The genre of Contemporary Christian Music has seen an astronomical increase in popularity from the days of the ‘70’s when the first of the gospel rockers hit the scene. I attribute part of this rise to the fact that the secular music industry has abandoned a large segment of the population that is not into hip hop. Many of today’s praise songs have the same musical pedigree as the pop songs of yesterday. In that sense I would say that I would much rather hear the Christian lyrics than those of an immoral nature. Along with this incredible rise (which is truly demonstrated by the fact that such secular labels as Sony has become a major player in the Christian music market) has come another trend. Many of today’s artists have gained the same rock star following as groups like the Stones, or Styx did years ago. This can become a form of star worship. This speaks more to the fan than the artist. Some tend to think of these artists as being righteous and Godly because of what they do instead of who they are. There is a difference. The words may be right, but the fruit is what we need to inspect. The bottom line is we must worship God, not the messenger.
I personally know a man who was with several popular Christian groups. It is interesting to watch people’s reaction when they learn who he is. It is as if he were somehow different than we. This is wrong. It is wrong for us, it is wrong for the artist, and it ALWAYS leads to destruction. Whether that person is an artist or a preacher, when they become the object of worship, our eyes are no longer on God, but on his creation. (See Romans Chapter 1). Any such person who promotes this attitude should be watched carefully. What we do should turn people’s faces toward God, not us.
Along with this fame sometimes comes the fortune. All too often we see living proof of Christ’s admonition to the rich young ruler when He said it would be easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom. I believe that in some cases songs are being written to sell a CD instead of as a true outpouring of one’s soul.
I know several people who write songs. All of them have been blessed with a talent which allows them to take their emotions or their life’s focus and transform them into the words and musical strains that touch our lives. Some of these people write from a very deep place of experience and feeling, others write in order to come up with something that is catchy or popular. The difference is that one sings their song to the Lord, the other to the congregation or the audience. Each will receive their reward.
I love music, I love to play music. I have some ability to do so, and when I do the music should flow not as a performance for others, but as an expression of praise. Now, so no one thinks that I think I am special, let me say my talent is very limited and I don’t always exercise it as I should. It is during those times that I walk away feeling that something was missing. Of course there was, the music was supposed to be for the Lord, we sing to the Lord, we bring the SACRIFICE of praise, not the performance of praise. PRAISE IS A SACRIFICE…NOT A PERFORMANCE!
I pray that we once again return to the place of putting music in its rightful place in our worship. It is a part of worship, it is expression, and it should excite us or bring us to repentance. Music, or the artists that perform that music, should never be the object of praise, and no matter what your talent level you should always be able to express yourself in this way to the Lord. God does not differentiate the quality of the praise based upon our talent level. My dear grandmother, who could not carry a tune to save her life, spent most of her days singing at the top of her lungs to the Lord. She once told me that she may be tone deaf, but by the time her song reached the Lord, He had corrected all the mistakes and He heard it as the sweet song of praise that it was. She could never record an album, however her songs live throughout eternity in the ears of God, and she is as respected as any big time recording artist.
Today as you listen to your music, or sing it, remember what it was intended to be.
Tomorrow I will return to a lighter style.
Enjoy the coffee,
Jim
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
A Sad Day...A Call To Prayer
For the next few days my blog will be written with a slightly different flavor. It has been my goal to write in a light, easygoing style. The reason has been twofold, first I selfishly enjoy writ ting in this style and find it a nice way to begin my day. Secondly, anyone who might read this will be able to have their fill of serious writing and commentary throughout the day. For a few days I ask you to bear with me as I feel there is a very important issue at hand that needs to be dealt with, and it cannot be done without seriousness.
Yesterday afternoon, a good friend of mine sent me a news article that I found to be incredible. I therefore researched it to be sure that what I was reading was not the writings of a kook. Sadly, I was able to verify through several other reputable sources that Ray Boltz had indeed proclaimed his preference to a homosexual lifestyle. I was taken back by this revelation.
Many of you have enjoyed listening to Ray use the talents that God gave him. I myself found solace and a life message through the song, 'The Anchor Holds', after the death of my son Mat.
How should we who are Christians respond to this revelation? The initial response is to condemn the man. Many may feel as though they have been betrayed and lied to by someone who claimed a personal experience with Christ, and gave us the image of a righteous husband, father and minister of the gospel. First let me say that in terms of betrayal, Ray has betrayed God, his family, and himself. That is enough betrayal for any person. For whatever betrayal lies beyond that, we have the responsibility to forgive. While I certainly have the responsibility to condemn the sin, and homosexuality is sin, it is only within God's purview to condemn the man. We as the body should hold Ray and his family up in prayer.
I would also like to address the comments made by Ray in his 'coming out' article in the magazine 'Blade'. Ray stated that this was how God made him and if that was how God made him that was the way he was going to live. God did not make anyone a homosexual, or a murderer, or a thief, or an adulterer, or a liar. These are things that we are born with a propensity to indulge in as we are born into sin. The temptation to sin comes from the enemy, the natural inclination to yield to that sin comes from within us. God did not put it there, mankind put it there when we chose to disobey God in the Garden. It was because of this sin nature, the natural desire to be our own god, that the sacrifice Jesus offered willingly became necessary. It is to this change of nature that Jesus speaks of in John chapter three where He tells Nicodemus that one must be 'Born Again'. Paul also writes in Romans 12 that we must not be 'conformed to this world, but transformed by the renewing of our mind'. It is this natural desire to yield to sin that is destroyed when we totally surrender to God.
The lie of the enemy is loud and strong. The voice that sang the song that so bolstered my faith in a time of great need, is today speaking words that will undoubtedly give others the justification of their sinful desire, to follow in his footsteps and be deceived by an enemy who knows nothing of love, but thrives upon destruction.
We as the body of Christ need to mount a prayer offensive that will speak louder than the lies of the enemy, and allow those who struggle with temptation to see there is a better way...Christ's way.
It is interesting that it took something this monumental for me to write something like this...or for us to begin to pray.
Tomorrow I will write about Christian Music.
Jim
Yesterday afternoon, a good friend of mine sent me a news article that I found to be incredible. I therefore researched it to be sure that what I was reading was not the writings of a kook. Sadly, I was able to verify through several other reputable sources that Ray Boltz had indeed proclaimed his preference to a homosexual lifestyle. I was taken back by this revelation.
Many of you have enjoyed listening to Ray use the talents that God gave him. I myself found solace and a life message through the song, 'The Anchor Holds', after the death of my son Mat.
How should we who are Christians respond to this revelation? The initial response is to condemn the man. Many may feel as though they have been betrayed and lied to by someone who claimed a personal experience with Christ, and gave us the image of a righteous husband, father and minister of the gospel. First let me say that in terms of betrayal, Ray has betrayed God, his family, and himself. That is enough betrayal for any person. For whatever betrayal lies beyond that, we have the responsibility to forgive. While I certainly have the responsibility to condemn the sin, and homosexuality is sin, it is only within God's purview to condemn the man. We as the body should hold Ray and his family up in prayer.
I would also like to address the comments made by Ray in his 'coming out' article in the magazine 'Blade'. Ray stated that this was how God made him and if that was how God made him that was the way he was going to live. God did not make anyone a homosexual, or a murderer, or a thief, or an adulterer, or a liar. These are things that we are born with a propensity to indulge in as we are born into sin. The temptation to sin comes from the enemy, the natural inclination to yield to that sin comes from within us. God did not put it there, mankind put it there when we chose to disobey God in the Garden. It was because of this sin nature, the natural desire to be our own god, that the sacrifice Jesus offered willingly became necessary. It is to this change of nature that Jesus speaks of in John chapter three where He tells Nicodemus that one must be 'Born Again'. Paul also writes in Romans 12 that we must not be 'conformed to this world, but transformed by the renewing of our mind'. It is this natural desire to yield to sin that is destroyed when we totally surrender to God.
The lie of the enemy is loud and strong. The voice that sang the song that so bolstered my faith in a time of great need, is today speaking words that will undoubtedly give others the justification of their sinful desire, to follow in his footsteps and be deceived by an enemy who knows nothing of love, but thrives upon destruction.
We as the body of Christ need to mount a prayer offensive that will speak louder than the lies of the enemy, and allow those who struggle with temptation to see there is a better way...Christ's way.
It is interesting that it took something this monumental for me to write something like this...or for us to begin to pray.
Tomorrow I will write about Christian Music.
Jim
Monday, September 15, 2008
Unconditional Surrender
It is a beautiful day, albeit a bit chilly, in the midlands today.
I am a bit of a history buff, especially WWII and Civil war history. I have been reading a very good book called 'The Civil War Archive'. It is a collection of personal records and letters from soldiers of both sides of the war.
I found one particular collection very interesting. It concerned the taking of Fort Donelson on the Cumberland River in Western Tennessee. After four days of fighting, it became apparent that the Confederate army would be beaten and the Fort would be taken over by the Union Army lead by General U.S. Grant. On the morning of the 16 February, 1862, Confederate General S.B. Brukner sent a communique to Grant suggesting an armistice while the terms of surrender were discussed. The response by General Grant was short and to the point. 'No terms except immediate and unconditional surrender can be accepted.'
Reading this caused me to think about how we handle our spiritual battles. On the one side, God wants us to put ourselves into His hands. His terms, which were purchased at Calvary are also very simple, 'Immediate and unconditional surrender'. The enemy on the other hand is more than willing to accept a conditional surrender. I believe this is true because if Satan gets anything, any part of us, he can use it to destroy what is left. Complete surrender to God puts us outside the grip of Satan, and therefore protects us from defeat.
As you go about your day today, ask yourself this question...'What have I not surrendered to God'. Then surrender it.
Jim
I am a bit of a history buff, especially WWII and Civil war history. I have been reading a very good book called 'The Civil War Archive'. It is a collection of personal records and letters from soldiers of both sides of the war.
I found one particular collection very interesting. It concerned the taking of Fort Donelson on the Cumberland River in Western Tennessee. After four days of fighting, it became apparent that the Confederate army would be beaten and the Fort would be taken over by the Union Army lead by General U.S. Grant. On the morning of the 16 February, 1862, Confederate General S.B. Brukner sent a communique to Grant suggesting an armistice while the terms of surrender were discussed. The response by General Grant was short and to the point. 'No terms except immediate and unconditional surrender can be accepted.'
Reading this caused me to think about how we handle our spiritual battles. On the one side, God wants us to put ourselves into His hands. His terms, which were purchased at Calvary are also very simple, 'Immediate and unconditional surrender'. The enemy on the other hand is more than willing to accept a conditional surrender. I believe this is true because if Satan gets anything, any part of us, he can use it to destroy what is left. Complete surrender to God puts us outside the grip of Satan, and therefore protects us from defeat.
As you go about your day today, ask yourself this question...'What have I not surrendered to God'. Then surrender it.
Jim
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Never Alone in a Crowd
I was recently sitting on our back porch reading a book. As I took a moment to consider what I had read, I glanced into the sky. There, several thousand feet above me, I saw the sun glint off the body of a silver airplane, its vapor trails telling the tale of where it had been. I’m sure that I suffer from some degree of ADD as my mind instantly wandered to thoughts of the people on that plane. Who were they, where were they going? Was this a journey of pleasure, or a mission of grief? How many were businessmen who, as I have often done, were working on the next project that was due while ignoring the glorious beauty of God’s creation?
I thought that for a brief second, these travelers occupied the same vertical space as I, though thousands of feet away, and we did not know each other existed. I then took notice of the traffic on the highway near our home and realized that these travelers were much closer, but again we knew nothing of each other. It somehow makes one feel isolated even when they are in a crowd.
David proclaimed in Psalm 139 that God ‘covered me while still in the womb’. There is one who knows us, and whom we should know. I am never alone as God has known me forever and always.
Jim
I thought that for a brief second, these travelers occupied the same vertical space as I, though thousands of feet away, and we did not know each other existed. I then took notice of the traffic on the highway near our home and realized that these travelers were much closer, but again we knew nothing of each other. It somehow makes one feel isolated even when they are in a crowd.
David proclaimed in Psalm 139 that God ‘covered me while still in the womb’. There is one who knows us, and whom we should know. I am never alone as God has known me forever and always.
Jim
Friday, September 12, 2008
Birds of a Feather
By now you have probably figured out that I love the outdoors. My granddaddy always told me that a bad day fishing beats a good day at work...though I never knew him to have a bad day fishing.
The geese were sitting on the lake again this morning. It was quite impressive to see the Canada's all together and the snow geese on the other side also together. The division was very visible and caused me to consider how we Christians divide ourselves.
You see the geese were all on the same pond, feeding from the same schools of fish, and headed for the same destination. Yet in spite of all these commonalities, they did not mix with the other species.
I suppose this is just natural, the differences make us uncomfortable, and we seek comfort. Denominational differences, such as doctrine, tradition, and style separate members of the body of Christ. We tend to stay within the flock that we are comfortable with. At times we become very protective of our differences to the point of conflict. While there is nothing wrong with worshipping with those with whom you have things in common, we must always remember that we are, as the church, a single branch grafted into the vine. If we can agree that salvation is only through the shed blood and resurrection of Christ, and that this is a gift given to us, not earned, then we are of the same branch regardless of what we call ourselves.
With this in mind, we must also remember that we are also headed for the same destination, and swimming in the same pond. Our commission is clear, 'go into all the world and preach the gospel'.
We must be about the fathers business.
The geese were sitting on the lake again this morning. It was quite impressive to see the Canada's all together and the snow geese on the other side also together. The division was very visible and caused me to consider how we Christians divide ourselves.
You see the geese were all on the same pond, feeding from the same schools of fish, and headed for the same destination. Yet in spite of all these commonalities, they did not mix with the other species.
I suppose this is just natural, the differences make us uncomfortable, and we seek comfort. Denominational differences, such as doctrine, tradition, and style separate members of the body of Christ. We tend to stay within the flock that we are comfortable with. At times we become very protective of our differences to the point of conflict. While there is nothing wrong with worshipping with those with whom you have things in common, we must always remember that we are, as the church, a single branch grafted into the vine. If we can agree that salvation is only through the shed blood and resurrection of Christ, and that this is a gift given to us, not earned, then we are of the same branch regardless of what we call ourselves.
With this in mind, we must also remember that we are also headed for the same destination, and swimming in the same pond. Our commission is clear, 'go into all the world and preach the gospel'.
We must be about the fathers business.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Memories of 9-11
There are a few events in my life that have had a profound impact on me. These have been the moments when my life’s journey has been stopped in its tracks and I have been forced to evaluate where I was headed. Perhaps I’m strange (I’m sure there is no shortage of evidence to this effect) but even as a child, events such as the first moon landing, the assassination of Martin Luther King, the Olympic hostage situation in ’72 and other such events have brought life’s meaning into clearer focus. I suppose no such event impacted me more than those of 9-11-2001.
The attacks of 9-11 shattered the feeling of security and stripped away the naïve idea that we in America were immune to the horrors that grip much of the rest of the world each day. Watching the towers fall caused a very uncomfortable emotion to arise within me, the tears that welled up in my eyes were a mixture of sorrow and fury. The hatred that I felt at that moment as the man within me rose to demand retribution was overwhelming. I still remember that feeling vividly today, seven years after the fact. I am not a man that is easily intimidated; but the fear that gripped me on that day has changed me forever. I rather liked being naïve, living in an untouchable world where the bad things always happened to someone else. The feeling that I controlled my destiny and outsiders could have no effect on that was a fundamental part of my existence. Those days are gone, we are vulnerable…all of us.
How should we handle this realization? Should we now cower in fear that something else will happen? Should we relinquish control of our lives to the loudmouths who shout fear into our very beings? Should we bury our heads in the sand and return to the naivety of yesterday and be unprepared for what the enemy, the real enemy Satan, has in store for us in the future?
I think David had the right approach. He writes in Psalm 18; ‘I will love you oh Lord. The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength…’ Though we no longer can assume that we are safe from all outside threats (which was probably false anyway), we who are bought by the blood of a loving savior can be assured that He will remain our rock, our solid foundation, and even though the winds of trouble may blow, He will right our course and be our protector.
Jim
The attacks of 9-11 shattered the feeling of security and stripped away the naïve idea that we in America were immune to the horrors that grip much of the rest of the world each day. Watching the towers fall caused a very uncomfortable emotion to arise within me, the tears that welled up in my eyes were a mixture of sorrow and fury. The hatred that I felt at that moment as the man within me rose to demand retribution was overwhelming. I still remember that feeling vividly today, seven years after the fact. I am not a man that is easily intimidated; but the fear that gripped me on that day has changed me forever. I rather liked being naïve, living in an untouchable world where the bad things always happened to someone else. The feeling that I controlled my destiny and outsiders could have no effect on that was a fundamental part of my existence. Those days are gone, we are vulnerable…all of us.
How should we handle this realization? Should we now cower in fear that something else will happen? Should we relinquish control of our lives to the loudmouths who shout fear into our very beings? Should we bury our heads in the sand and return to the naivety of yesterday and be unprepared for what the enemy, the real enemy Satan, has in store for us in the future?
I think David had the right approach. He writes in Psalm 18; ‘I will love you oh Lord. The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength…’ Though we no longer can assume that we are safe from all outside threats (which was probably false anyway), we who are bought by the blood of a loving savior can be assured that He will remain our rock, our solid foundation, and even though the winds of trouble may blow, He will right our course and be our protector.
Jim
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Season of Harvest
The most important time of the year is rapidly coming upon us here in the Midwest. I look out the office window and see that the dark green of the cornstalks is slowly being replaced by paler shades of green, soon to become yellow then brown. It will then be time for harvest. The fields, which stretch as far as the eye can see, that a month ago seemed to dance with every gust of wind, will soon be turned into mountains of yellow corn, ready to be used as feed, meal, or fuel.
We who are not farmers are oft times too busy to truly ‘see’ the fields. I personally drive many miles each week with these fields on either side of the road, lost in my own thoughts paying no attention as the corn fields transform from bare field to tall corn. So much happens around us that we simply do not take time to notice, and when we do, a feeling of regret grips us for what we have missed. The growing seasons seem to go by faster and faster each year, not just of the corn, but that of my children also. The toddlers who were bumping into things yesterday have become the grown men and young ladies of today.
There are two lessons we can take from this. The first is for parents, enjoy and be involved in every minute of every day of your children’s lives. There is no more important vocation on earth than that of parent, and none so rewarding.
The second lesson is for all of us. This lesson is taught by Jesus Himself in Matthew 9:37-38. The fields are ready for harvest. There are lost souls who need to be reached, but we are many times too caught up in the daily toils of life to notice. This is why the laborers are so few. The harvest is not just the job of the preacher. We have all been called to take the Gospel forth and to be a living witness to the lost.
Only the foolish farmer plants a field then fails to harvest it when ripe. The harvest will take place, just as our children do grow. The question is this…will you look in regret at the fields that had to be harvested by someone else?
Today, we welcome to this world Luke Joseph Robbins. Congrats Lyle and Stacy, God Bless.
Jim
The most important time of the year is rapidly coming upon us here in the Midwest. I look out the office window and see that the dark green of the cornstalks is slowly being replaced by paler shades of green, soon to become yellow then brown. It will then be time for harvest. The fields, which stretch as far as the eye can see, that a month ago seemed to dance with every gust of wind, will soon be turned into mountains of yellow corn, ready to be used as feed, meal, or fuel.
We who are not farmers are oft times too busy to truly ‘see’ the fields. I personally drive many miles each week with these fields on either side of the road, lost in my own thoughts paying no attention as the corn fields transform from bare field to tall corn. So much happens around us that we simply do not take time to notice, and when we do, a feeling of regret grips us for what we have missed. The growing seasons seem to go by faster and faster each year, not just of the corn, but that of my children also. The toddlers who were bumping into things yesterday have become the grown men and young ladies of today.
There are two lessons we can take from this. The first is for parents, enjoy and be involved in every minute of every day of your children’s lives. There is no more important vocation on earth than that of parent, and none so rewarding.
The second lesson is for all of us. This lesson is taught by Jesus Himself in Matthew 9:37-38. The fields are ready for harvest. There are lost souls who need to be reached, but we are many times too caught up in the daily toils of life to notice. This is why the laborers are so few. The harvest is not just the job of the preacher. We have all been called to take the Gospel forth and to be a living witness to the lost.
Only the foolish farmer plants a field then fails to harvest it when ripe. The harvest will take place, just as our children do grow. The question is this…will you look in regret at the fields that had to be harvested by someone else?
Today, we welcome to this world Luke Joseph Robbins. Congrats Lyle and Stacy, God Bless.
Jim
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Signs of the Seasons
What a beautiful morning! I spent most of my formative years in the south, where mornings like this, crisp and bright, meant that the time for autumn hunting was around the corner. Days like this still stir in me the memories of childhood. Memories of the morning walks through the field kicking up coveys of quail, or sitting quietly waiting for a squirrel to scamper through the trees. I loved to just sit on the side of the mountain and listen to the myriad of sounds as the refreshing cool breeze would stir the leaves. I loved summer, but truth be told the sheer beauty of the mountains in the fall are unparalleled.
My drive into the office takes me by a small lake here in western Iowa. This morning the lake was full of Canada geese as they begin their journey south for the winter. I must admit that this southern boy is a bit jealous of them, because while these mornings bring up fond memories of childhood, the harsh reality that Iowa is not Arkansas and that the memories of adulthood include that of shovels, snow blowers, subzero wind chills and being snowed in at work comes into sharp focus. The geese are smart, while I'm shoveling they will be strutting around some beach in Cabo San Lucas.
Geese seem to be smarter than mankind. They instinctively know the signs of the seasons. I read in Revelation chapter one that the Lord wanted us to recognize the signs of the seasons, though He was not referring to climate. He wanted us to recognize the signs of His return so we would be ready, and so that our work for the Kingdom would be complete.
The day is coming when the body of Christ will, as the geese, take wing and flee the winter of despair that shall fall upon the earth. Are you among that flock? If so, are you working to ensure that your flight will be full?
Jim
My drive into the office takes me by a small lake here in western Iowa. This morning the lake was full of Canada geese as they begin their journey south for the winter. I must admit that this southern boy is a bit jealous of them, because while these mornings bring up fond memories of childhood, the harsh reality that Iowa is not Arkansas and that the memories of adulthood include that of shovels, snow blowers, subzero wind chills and being snowed in at work comes into sharp focus. The geese are smart, while I'm shoveling they will be strutting around some beach in Cabo San Lucas.
Geese seem to be smarter than mankind. They instinctively know the signs of the seasons. I read in Revelation chapter one that the Lord wanted us to recognize the signs of the seasons, though He was not referring to climate. He wanted us to recognize the signs of His return so we would be ready, and so that our work for the Kingdom would be complete.
The day is coming when the body of Christ will, as the geese, take wing and flee the winter of despair that shall fall upon the earth. Are you among that flock? If so, are you working to ensure that your flight will be full?
Jim
Monday, September 8, 2008
Welcome
Praise God! David's Creek Church has been launched. We are looking for great and mighty things that God is going to do through our obedience to Him as we travel the path He has set before us.
Today I received a message from a brother who knows very little of what we are doing here, and within that single message was a confirmation to several things the Lord has shown us. This is the time, this is the place, we ARE going to see the move of the Spirit and He is going to change us.
Today I was reading in Isaiah Chapter 14. It is here that we find the account of the fall of Lucifer. One particular scripture stood out; 16 They that see you shall narrowly look at you and consider you, saying, 'is this the man who made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms'?
Today the enemy has many people convinced that the bondage they are under is a permanent situation. He has them believing his lie that he is stronger than all else. Today, we stand on the truth that God is our strength and He is our refuge. The lie of Satan, and the bondage that he has inflicted on many will be broken, and then many will look in wonder at what they were as they bask in the power and glory of God.
Jim
Today I received a message from a brother who knows very little of what we are doing here, and within that single message was a confirmation to several things the Lord has shown us. This is the time, this is the place, we ARE going to see the move of the Spirit and He is going to change us.
Today I was reading in Isaiah Chapter 14. It is here that we find the account of the fall of Lucifer. One particular scripture stood out; 16 They that see you shall narrowly look at you and consider you, saying, 'is this the man who made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms'?
Today the enemy has many people convinced that the bondage they are under is a permanent situation. He has them believing his lie that he is stronger than all else. Today, we stand on the truth that God is our strength and He is our refuge. The lie of Satan, and the bondage that he has inflicted on many will be broken, and then many will look in wonder at what they were as they bask in the power and glory of God.
Jim
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