I was going to write a blog about our missions team, who left this morning for Haiti. It’s a life-changing trip for them, and I wanted to talk about how it could be for the rest of us in the congregation, as well. Through our prayers for them during this week, by making sure we learn from the team when they return home, by asking God to open our hearts to the opportunities that will present themselves to us – all this and more can make a difference in our lives too.
But then I heard the news today about the mission team that was murdered in Afghanistan. These were people of God who were simply trying to give medical aid to those in need in that war-torn country. The Taliban executed them, claiming they were trying to convert people to Christianity, which is against the law in Afghanistan. Family, friends, and the mission organization deny this claim. These men and women were just trying to be the hands and feet of Christ, bringing healing and friendship to this village.
This is the reality of bringing Christ to the world. People die. Martyrdom isn’t just something that happened to the apostles or the early church. It’s happening today, in our “enlightened” era. And, if we live our faith, it’s possible that we could be called upon to give our lives, literally. There are people all over the world that do so, every single day.
So today, this week, pray for our mission team. Pray that God would keep them safe. Haiti may not be a Islamic terrorist stronghold, but it is a lawless, chaotic place. Pray that God keep them safe, but keep them true to their faith. May He give them the courage and the words they need to speak to people to reach them.
But also pray for the families of the mission team who has gone home to their Father. And pray for believers all over the world who face death for their beliefs. Next week, Dr. Pat will tell us more about the persecuted church and we will learn about many ways we can pray. But let’s begin now, that God may be glorified and triumphant, despite the evil that mankind does. God bless your week…
Comments? Please click below and share.
Showing posts with label POCC. Show all posts
Showing posts with label POCC. Show all posts
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Traditions
My husband’s family had a reunion this weekend. We gathered at the lake property that has been in the family for more than 68 years. The current cottage – the third, as the first two were burned down by vandals – has the exact same layout as the first. There is no electricity, just as always. There are propane lights and a refrigerator that runs on propane, same as years ago. No running water, most of the time. There’s a gas generator that runs a water pump, but it’s tricky and they don’t always have it working. So that means using the old outhouse, as has often been the case.
Family reunions are held there, because they have been for years. Pictures and stories of the past are shared and laughed over. New spouses and expanding families are brought into the circle through these stories. And these new people tell us their stories, and become part of ours. It was a delightful day.
Traditions help us feel part of a group. They keep us in touch with our past and let us know we’re not wandering around, rootless. And when they are enjoyed and relived with others of the group, they can, indeed, be delightful.
But next year, we’re going to get together in Iowa, at one of the cousins’ farms. And we’ll have just as much fun and maybe even get a little closer to one another because of the change. Some of the younger generations are beginning to do the planning, taking charge of the organization and the communications. In this way, the tradition will be passed on, but will grow as new people join our family.
We need to hold our traditions, no matter how much we love them, with a loose hand. If we hold on to them too tightly, insist on sticking to every single old way, we can lose all together. New people can feel excluded or can’t make it work, when a small change would let them in. New ideas, new stories, new people – we can keep the old, learn the new and enjoy both all the more.
What traditions have you added to – and enjoy? Share your thoughts by clicking “comments” below.
Family reunions are held there, because they have been for years. Pictures and stories of the past are shared and laughed over. New spouses and expanding families are brought into the circle through these stories. And these new people tell us their stories, and become part of ours. It was a delightful day.
Traditions help us feel part of a group. They keep us in touch with our past and let us know we’re not wandering around, rootless. And when they are enjoyed and relived with others of the group, they can, indeed, be delightful.
But next year, we’re going to get together in Iowa, at one of the cousins’ farms. And we’ll have just as much fun and maybe even get a little closer to one another because of the change. Some of the younger generations are beginning to do the planning, taking charge of the organization and the communications. In this way, the tradition will be passed on, but will grow as new people join our family.
We need to hold our traditions, no matter how much we love them, with a loose hand. If we hold on to them too tightly, insist on sticking to every single old way, we can lose all together. New people can feel excluded or can’t make it work, when a small change would let them in. New ideas, new stories, new people – we can keep the old, learn the new and enjoy both all the more.
What traditions have you added to – and enjoy? Share your thoughts by clicking “comments” below.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Saved and Restored
Today, MN Teen Challenge shared music and testimonies with us at our church service. What a moving experience! People from all walks of life with all kinds of backgrounds, coming to Christ as their only salvation. Those that shared their lives with us this morning spoke of the emptiness they felt without God in their hearts. And they spoke of the redemption they have experienced since they have allowed Christ to heal them.
Redemption is a word that speaks of release and liberation. But it also speaks of recovery and healing. God not only saves, but He rebuilds. He not only rescues, He revives. God reclaims us, and He restores our lives.
It is wonderful to see this coming true in the lives of our brothers and sisters in Christ today. But God has promised this for a long, long time. We’ve been studying the prophets this summer and we’ve read of how they exposed sin and called people back to God. But they also speak of this rescue and restoration, promises that God meant for the people of Israel, but also means for us. This morning, before service, we were reading in Isaiah. He told us of this promise in so many places in his book, but here’s one example.
“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” Isaiah 46: 4
Isn’t that a beautiful promise? I encourage you read through some of these prophets we are discussing this summer and see the wonderful promises God has made through them, for those who “bind themselves to the Lord to serve Him” (Isaiah 56:6).
How has God redeemed and rebuilt you? Please share your encouraging testimony by clicking on “comments” below.
Redemption is a word that speaks of release and liberation. But it also speaks of recovery and healing. God not only saves, but He rebuilds. He not only rescues, He revives. God reclaims us, and He restores our lives.
It is wonderful to see this coming true in the lives of our brothers and sisters in Christ today. But God has promised this for a long, long time. We’ve been studying the prophets this summer and we’ve read of how they exposed sin and called people back to God. But they also speak of this rescue and restoration, promises that God meant for the people of Israel, but also means for us. This morning, before service, we were reading in Isaiah. He told us of this promise in so many places in his book, but here’s one example.
“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” Isaiah 46: 4
Isn’t that a beautiful promise? I encourage you read through some of these prophets we are discussing this summer and see the wonderful promises God has made through them, for those who “bind themselves to the Lord to serve Him” (Isaiah 56:6).
How has God redeemed and rebuilt you? Please share your encouraging testimony by clicking on “comments” below.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Signs of Significance
Do you notice church signs as you drive by? Almost every church has a permanent sign in front. These signs often give the church name, service times, maybe even the pastor’s name. Often, they have an area for personalized messages. Some pastors use this space to advertise the current sermon series or the next special event coming up. Sometimes a Bible verse is posted there. All advertising of a sort, and helpful to let passers-by learn a bit about the church itself.
And then there are the “clever” signs. We’ve all seen them. “Free trip to heaven! Details inside.” ” This is a ch—ch. What is missing?” “Searching for a new look? Have your faith lifted here!” The topper? During Thanksgiving season one year, I drove by a sign that said “Gobble up Jesus this season.” Really. I’m not making that up.
I wonder what kind of advertising these signs are for the church. I know the messages are meant to catch our attention – but once they’ve done that, do they really help a non-believer or non-churchgoer know more about the church and Christ followers? Or do they just make it easy for others to ignore the church and its serious message of repentance and salvation?
It makes me think about the messages I broadcast in my own life. Do my words and behavior send a true message of God’s grace and desire to have relationship with every one of us? Or do I allow people the option of ignoring God and His call on our lives because my “advertising” doesn’t offer anything substantial? There’s nothing wrong with being clever, but I want to be sure I’m living a message of significance to draw people to the true Jesus.
What’s the goofiest church sign you’ve seen? Share that and other thoughts by clicking on “comments” below.
And then there are the “clever” signs. We’ve all seen them. “Free trip to heaven! Details inside.” ” This is a ch—ch. What is missing?” “Searching for a new look? Have your faith lifted here!” The topper? During Thanksgiving season one year, I drove by a sign that said “Gobble up Jesus this season.” Really. I’m not making that up.
I wonder what kind of advertising these signs are for the church. I know the messages are meant to catch our attention – but once they’ve done that, do they really help a non-believer or non-churchgoer know more about the church and Christ followers? Or do they just make it easy for others to ignore the church and its serious message of repentance and salvation?
It makes me think about the messages I broadcast in my own life. Do my words and behavior send a true message of God’s grace and desire to have relationship with every one of us? Or do I allow people the option of ignoring God and His call on our lives because my “advertising” doesn’t offer anything substantial? There’s nothing wrong with being clever, but I want to be sure I’m living a message of significance to draw people to the true Jesus.
What’s the goofiest church sign you’ve seen? Share that and other thoughts by clicking on “comments” below.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Honor and Faith
Last weekend, we celebrated Memorial Day – dedicated to the memory of those men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Today we remember D-Day, the World War II operation that began the re-taking of France back from the Nazis. I’m glad of these and the many other opportunities we have to honor those who make our country and our freedom possible.
I’d like to honor my grandfather. John Groebner served in France in 1918, in World War I. He was in the US Army Corps of Engineers, the 34th Division. Grandpa died when I was only in my teens and too young to be thinking about the stories I should have learned from him. So I don’t know anything about his years of service – except for some poems he left behind. He wrote of sweethearts and mothers left at home. He wrote drinking songs and tributes to his regiment. He wrote with humor and he wrote with faith. I’d like to share a couple of his writings here, to celebrate our service men and women everywhere and in every time.
Our Country
To her we drink, for her we pray
Our voices silent never.
For her we’ll fight, come what may,
The Stars and Stripes forever!
His Flag
(about the service flag flown in honor of a member of the military)
It’s just a service flag but oh!
How much it means to those who know
The sovereign pride, the thrill, the grit,
The stabbing pangs that paid for it.
It means a buoyant soul that’s gone
Where shell and shrapnel crack the dawn
Fine courage, leaving with a smile
The things that youth finds most worthwhile.
It means a mother-heart that pressed
A dear, dear head against her breast
That he might never see or know
The tears that washed the whispered “Go”.
It stands, that service flag, for youth
That’s found new standards of Right and Truth.
It means to all, though king or clod,
A richer fellowship with God.
Thank you, Grandpa. And thank you to all our service men and women and the families who love them and let them go. Please feel free to click on "Comments" below and share your stories of honor.
I’d like to honor my grandfather. John Groebner served in France in 1918, in World War I. He was in the US Army Corps of Engineers, the 34th Division. Grandpa died when I was only in my teens and too young to be thinking about the stories I should have learned from him. So I don’t know anything about his years of service – except for some poems he left behind. He wrote of sweethearts and mothers left at home. He wrote drinking songs and tributes to his regiment. He wrote with humor and he wrote with faith. I’d like to share a couple of his writings here, to celebrate our service men and women everywhere and in every time.
Our Country
To her we drink, for her we pray
Our voices silent never.
For her we’ll fight, come what may,
The Stars and Stripes forever!
His Flag
(about the service flag flown in honor of a member of the military)
It’s just a service flag but oh!
How much it means to those who know
The sovereign pride, the thrill, the grit,
The stabbing pangs that paid for it.
It means a buoyant soul that’s gone
Where shell and shrapnel crack the dawn
Fine courage, leaving with a smile
The things that youth finds most worthwhile.
It means a mother-heart that pressed
A dear, dear head against her breast
That he might never see or know
The tears that washed the whispered “Go”.
It stands, that service flag, for youth
That’s found new standards of Right and Truth.
It means to all, though king or clod,
A richer fellowship with God.
Thank you, Grandpa. And thank you to all our service men and women and the families who love them and let them go. Please feel free to click on "Comments" below and share your stories of honor.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Stomp!
I just watched a performance by some cast members from the Broadway musical theater group, Stomp. You may have seen them over the years. They use trash can covers, pans, heavy boots, and even kitchen sinks to make surprisingly tuneful percussive music. They stomp their feet, dancing to music of their own making. They make bells out of cups and cans and alter tones by changing levels of water in the container. They wet down rubber gloves and add squeaky counterpoints to their harmonies.
The creators/composers/choreographers of this group obviously have a wonderful ability to look beyond the apparent use of an item and turn it toward making music. They must walk down the street with a completely different outlook on life. Where we might see garbage, they see an instrument. Where we might hear racket, they hear melody. Where we might ignore something as common, they are drawn with curiosity and creativity.
I think they are blessed with a bit of God’s vision. They see beauty where others see waste, just as God can look beyond what we see as useless in each other and ourselves to the wonderful value of it. God can use anything He desires to fulfill His kingdom on earth, just as Stomp can use anything to make music. We need to allow ourselves to see with God’s eyes, so when we hear His call, we don’t waste time denying our usefulness. We need to hear music in our lives, where now we might think we hear only noise.
How is God using you in an unexpected way? Where do you think He might want to use you? Share your thoughts by clicking “comments” below.
The creators/composers/choreographers of this group obviously have a wonderful ability to look beyond the apparent use of an item and turn it toward making music. They must walk down the street with a completely different outlook on life. Where we might see garbage, they see an instrument. Where we might hear racket, they hear melody. Where we might ignore something as common, they are drawn with curiosity and creativity.
I think they are blessed with a bit of God’s vision. They see beauty where others see waste, just as God can look beyond what we see as useless in each other and ourselves to the wonderful value of it. God can use anything He desires to fulfill His kingdom on earth, just as Stomp can use anything to make music. We need to allow ourselves to see with God’s eyes, so when we hear His call, we don’t waste time denying our usefulness. We need to hear music in our lives, where now we might think we hear only noise.
How is God using you in an unexpected way? Where do you think He might want to use you? Share your thoughts by clicking “comments” below.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Celebrate!
Psalms 146 – 150, the last five chapters of the book of Psalms, begin with the encouragement “Praise the Lord!” The subtitles of each of the chapters in my New Kings James read:
- Chapter 146 – The Happiness of Those Whose Help is the Lord
- Chapter 147 - Praise to God for His Word and Providence
- Chapter 148 – Praise to the Lord from Creation
- Chapter 149 – Praise to God for His Salvation and Judgment
- Chapter 150 – Let All Things Praise the Lord
I feel like every one of those titles applies to our celebration this morning. Of course we spoke of the events at POCC. We spoke of our lives and how they have changed. But filling every word, the reason for all we’ve done and been blessed with, is our God. Our stories are now, as Steve said, part of God’s Story because we have encountered and surrendered to the Living God.
Now I don’t deny that there are many smaller stories that don’t feel worth celebrating in our family. Jobs problems, financial issues, people having to leave, and health concerns. But as we celebrated God and all He has done at Prairie Oak and in our lives, I think we all understood that God works in our lives, sometimes in spite of these things and sometimes through these things. In the stories shared today, we heard again how God can take anyone, wherever they are, and change their lives for eternity.
Thank you all for sharing your stories with Prairie Oak and with us all. I am personally so grateful to be a part of your lives and have you a part of mine. I look forward to another year together to praise God for His Word, providence, salvation, and judgment. Another year to add to His Story through our own stories. Another year to see what God has in store for us.
How has God been at work in your life this year? Click on “comments” below and share your story.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Just Fishin'
“I will make you fishers of men.” Jesus was speaking to some of the men who would become His disciples. This was an apt analogy for them because they were, at the time, fishermen. So they understood the concept, though I’m sure it was odd to them to think of fishing for men. What might they have made of Jesus’ statement?
Well, fishing was something they did every day. They spent the majority of their time doing it. They spent time in preparation – buying and mending nets, maintaining their boats, talking with their comrades about the latest techniques in catching fish. So these men probably understood that Jesus was calling them to a full-time position.
Fishing was second nature to these guys. They’d been at it for their whole lives, in all likelihood. We know John and James for certain were sons of a fisherman. But I wouldn’t be surprised to learn the others were either sons or nephews of fishermen. Or they’d been apprenticed to a fisherman when they were quite young. They’d been fishing all their lives and almost certainly figured they’d be fishing for the rest of their lives. So fishing for men undoubtedly sounded to them like a life-long commission.
These men fished to live. They certainly ate some of the fish they caught, but it was more than that. Fishing was how they made their living. They sold their catches, earning money to purchase supplies and to support their families. Fishing was literally their life. So when Jesus called them to fish for men, they most likely understood that this would become their livelihood – this would be what they did to live.
I wonder, is this how we understand Jesus’ call on our lives to fish for men? Or do we think of it the way most of us think of fishing for fish? A part-time hobby, something to do every now and again for fun, making an occasional nice addition to our diets, but certainly not what we need to do to live.
What do you think of Jesus using the analogy of fishing for evangelism? How’s your fishing been going lately? Share your thoughts by clicking the “comments” link below.
Well, fishing was something they did every day. They spent the majority of their time doing it. They spent time in preparation – buying and mending nets, maintaining their boats, talking with their comrades about the latest techniques in catching fish. So these men probably understood that Jesus was calling them to a full-time position.
Fishing was second nature to these guys. They’d been at it for their whole lives, in all likelihood. We know John and James for certain were sons of a fisherman. But I wouldn’t be surprised to learn the others were either sons or nephews of fishermen. Or they’d been apprenticed to a fisherman when they were quite young. They’d been fishing all their lives and almost certainly figured they’d be fishing for the rest of their lives. So fishing for men undoubtedly sounded to them like a life-long commission.
These men fished to live. They certainly ate some of the fish they caught, but it was more than that. Fishing was how they made their living. They sold their catches, earning money to purchase supplies and to support their families. Fishing was literally their life. So when Jesus called them to fish for men, they most likely understood that this would become their livelihood – this would be what they did to live.
I wonder, is this how we understand Jesus’ call on our lives to fish for men? Or do we think of it the way most of us think of fishing for fish? A part-time hobby, something to do every now and again for fun, making an occasional nice addition to our diets, but certainly not what we need to do to live.
What do you think of Jesus using the analogy of fishing for evangelism? How’s your fishing been going lately? Share your thoughts by clicking the “comments” link below.
Monday, April 19, 2010
What Price Fame?
Ever heard of Brian Davis? If you’re a follower of pro golf, you might have. But even if you’re not, you may be hearing his name now. Brian was in a play-off for the win with Jim Furyk for the Verizon Heritage at Hilton Head yesterday. It could have been his first ever PGA win after 16 years as a pro. First. EVER.
Brian hit his ball into the rough on the first hole of the play-off. As he went to take his shot, he realized he’d brushed a weed on his back swing. Unavoidable – probably. Minor – not really. PGA rules state that you cannot move any surrounding material on your back swing. If you do, it’s a 2 stroke penalty. And for Brian, an automatic ending to his potential winning game.
Was it a particurlarly sharp-eyed official who called it? Nope – it was Brian himself. Standing there, in the weeds, all on his own, he called the official over and said “I think I have a penalty.” Called for the TV review himself. Owned up to his mistake and conceded the game to Jim Furyk. All out of his own sense of honor and honesty.
Now Brian is probably as famous as he’s ever going to be. Famous for coming in second at Hilton Head. Famous for doing the right thing. His choice cost him at least $685,000 (the difference between first and second place purses.) His choice also cost him his first PGA win, no small thing to a guy who’s been a pro as long as he has.
But what does Brian gain? One official says this will come back to him “in spades, tenfold” in reputation. One golf journalist alerts companies to the stupendous endorsement potential of this honest guy. I believe more of us will know his name now, than if he had won the tournament. I know I wouldn’t be blogging about him, if it weren’t for his act of honor.
But I think the most important thing Brian gained, he said best himself. One official said Brian’s remark on the course on why he called himself was “I could not have lived with myself if I had not.” At the end of the day, isn’t that what is most important? Can we live with ourselves – with the person God created us to be? Do our actions, in public and in private, allow us to live comfortably with ourselves and with our God? I know that would be my goal. I never want to hide or feel ashamed in the presence of my Father. I want to be able to stand in honor, no matter what the wordly cost.
I don’t know if Brian Davis is a Christ-follower. But I believe that, yesterday, he was a living example of what it means to be more like Christ. And more like the man God created him to be. Now that’s famous.
Comments on Brian’s act, moments of truth you’ve faced, fame? Click on “comments” below and share.
Brian hit his ball into the rough on the first hole of the play-off. As he went to take his shot, he realized he’d brushed a weed on his back swing. Unavoidable – probably. Minor – not really. PGA rules state that you cannot move any surrounding material on your back swing. If you do, it’s a 2 stroke penalty. And for Brian, an automatic ending to his potential winning game.
Was it a particurlarly sharp-eyed official who called it? Nope – it was Brian himself. Standing there, in the weeds, all on his own, he called the official over and said “I think I have a penalty.” Called for the TV review himself. Owned up to his mistake and conceded the game to Jim Furyk. All out of his own sense of honor and honesty.
Now Brian is probably as famous as he’s ever going to be. Famous for coming in second at Hilton Head. Famous for doing the right thing. His choice cost him at least $685,000 (the difference between first and second place purses.) His choice also cost him his first PGA win, no small thing to a guy who’s been a pro as long as he has.
But what does Brian gain? One official says this will come back to him “in spades, tenfold” in reputation. One golf journalist alerts companies to the stupendous endorsement potential of this honest guy. I believe more of us will know his name now, than if he had won the tournament. I know I wouldn’t be blogging about him, if it weren’t for his act of honor.
But I think the most important thing Brian gained, he said best himself. One official said Brian’s remark on the course on why he called himself was “I could not have lived with myself if I had not.” At the end of the day, isn’t that what is most important? Can we live with ourselves – with the person God created us to be? Do our actions, in public and in private, allow us to live comfortably with ourselves and with our God? I know that would be my goal. I never want to hide or feel ashamed in the presence of my Father. I want to be able to stand in honor, no matter what the wordly cost.
I don’t know if Brian Davis is a Christ-follower. But I believe that, yesterday, he was a living example of what it means to be more like Christ. And more like the man God created him to be. Now that’s famous.
Comments on Brian’s act, moments of truth you’ve faced, fame? Click on “comments” below and share.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Victory is...ours?
Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia!
Our triumphant holy day, Alleluia!
Jesus has to be the most unusual victor in history. Easter is His day – the ultimate victory, the conquest of death. And what does He do?
I can tell you what we mortals would do. We’d do a victory dance, fist-pumping and high-fiving. We’d whoop and howl, jumping and spinning. We’d grab the giant check and hoist it over our heads, reveling in our big win.
But Jesus, the biggest champion who ever was or will ever be, had something of a different reaction. He rose, conquering death, and pulled us all up on to the victory podium with him. He turned His own triumph into ours. Jesus saved us all from certain defeat at the devil’s hands and made us winners.
You might be able to imagine that if we’d all been behind Him all the way, cheering Him on and supporting His battle throughout His ministry. We get the idea of a support team – sponsors, booster organizations. When their team or champ wins, everyone’s a winner. But we weren’t there for Jesus. As a matter of fact, some of us spend much of our lives actively working against Jesus. The Lord’s victory is rightfully His alone, not something to be shared with others who turned their back on Him.
But by His grace and mercy, Jesus shares His triumph. With anyone who asks. Anyone. Even those who have played for years for the opponent’s team can share in His victory. They just have to ask. And Jesus reaches down, pulls them up onto the victor’s stand, and holds them close.
So Jesus is risen! And those of us who follow Him, who share in His triumph, will rise again too. Easter is our triumphant holy day, as surely as it is the Lord’s. Alleluia indeed!!!
How was your Easter celebration? Share your day by clicking on “comments” below.
Our triumphant holy day, Alleluia!
Jesus has to be the most unusual victor in history. Easter is His day – the ultimate victory, the conquest of death. And what does He do?
I can tell you what we mortals would do. We’d do a victory dance, fist-pumping and high-fiving. We’d whoop and howl, jumping and spinning. We’d grab the giant check and hoist it over our heads, reveling in our big win.
But Jesus, the biggest champion who ever was or will ever be, had something of a different reaction. He rose, conquering death, and pulled us all up on to the victory podium with him. He turned His own triumph into ours. Jesus saved us all from certain defeat at the devil’s hands and made us winners.
You might be able to imagine that if we’d all been behind Him all the way, cheering Him on and supporting His battle throughout His ministry. We get the idea of a support team – sponsors, booster organizations. When their team or champ wins, everyone’s a winner. But we weren’t there for Jesus. As a matter of fact, some of us spend much of our lives actively working against Jesus. The Lord’s victory is rightfully His alone, not something to be shared with others who turned their back on Him.
But by His grace and mercy, Jesus shares His triumph. With anyone who asks. Anyone. Even those who have played for years for the opponent’s team can share in His victory. They just have to ask. And Jesus reaches down, pulls them up onto the victor’s stand, and holds them close.
So Jesus is risen! And those of us who follow Him, who share in His triumph, will rise again too. Easter is our triumphant holy day, as surely as it is the Lord’s. Alleluia indeed!!!
How was your Easter celebration? Share your day by clicking on “comments” below.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Hosanna to Hades
I love the celebration of Palm Sunday. Whether it’s done by literally waving palm branches or in songs of “Hosanna!”, rejoicing in Christ’s moment of triumph is a joy and a privilege. The celebration of the Good News has begun!!
But hard on its heels comes Holy Week - the days leading from the wild celebration of Jesus to His horrifying death. Jesus goes from acclaimed hero to abandoned criminal in the space of five days. The crowd that cheered His entry into Jerusalem dried up and disappeared. They may not have called for His death – but they did not shout down those who did. Their fear led them to desert the One they thought had come to save them. It’s a tragic tale that speaks to me every year.
It’s easy to cheer and celebrate God on a morning like Palm Sunday. Today, with the sun shining, new music from our worship team, and the story of Christ’s triumph, how could I not cheer? But what if most days are more like Good Friday than Palm Sunday? That Friday smelled only of death and endings. What if more days seem to lead to dead ends rather than joyful beginnings? Do I still celebrate my God? Do I trust His promised salvation, even when all I can see is bitterness or pain?
Jesus had the success and the loss, all in five days. But He stayed true to God’s plan, even when He felt forsaken and alone. Even when it had to feel like nothing was ever going to be right again. He kept His eyes on His Father and trusted Him even in the depths of hell.
For this week, let’s follow Jesus from the Hosannas through to Hades, so we can reach the ultimate Hallelujah of Easter with a greater understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice and gift. May every moment of your week be blessed with His presence!
Any Easter week thoughts or memories you’d like to share? Click on the “comments” link below.
But hard on its heels comes Holy Week - the days leading from the wild celebration of Jesus to His horrifying death. Jesus goes from acclaimed hero to abandoned criminal in the space of five days. The crowd that cheered His entry into Jerusalem dried up and disappeared. They may not have called for His death – but they did not shout down those who did. Their fear led them to desert the One they thought had come to save them. It’s a tragic tale that speaks to me every year.
It’s easy to cheer and celebrate God on a morning like Palm Sunday. Today, with the sun shining, new music from our worship team, and the story of Christ’s triumph, how could I not cheer? But what if most days are more like Good Friday than Palm Sunday? That Friday smelled only of death and endings. What if more days seem to lead to dead ends rather than joyful beginnings? Do I still celebrate my God? Do I trust His promised salvation, even when all I can see is bitterness or pain?
Jesus had the success and the loss, all in five days. But He stayed true to God’s plan, even when He felt forsaken and alone. Even when it had to feel like nothing was ever going to be right again. He kept His eyes on His Father and trusted Him even in the depths of hell.
For this week, let’s follow Jesus from the Hosannas through to Hades, so we can reach the ultimate Hallelujah of Easter with a greater understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice and gift. May every moment of your week be blessed with His presence!
Any Easter week thoughts or memories you’d like to share? Click on the “comments” link below.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
This is Personal!
A friend of mine has an ongoing argument with her husband. Yes, it’s the dreaded toilet seat battle.
“Why can’t you put the ring and cover back down?” “Why does it matter so much?”
“I don’t want the dog drinking out of it.” “It’s obviously not killing him.”
“But it’s unsanitary.” “Stop letting him lick your face.”
“Just put the seat down!” “As a matter of fact, even without the toilet water issue, stop letting him lick your face.”
“Don’t change the subject on me. This is about you and the toilet seat.” “Not really. It’s about YOU and the toilet seat.”
And that’s the heart of it, isn’t it? My friend cares about the toilet seat; her husband doesn’t. It just isn’t a personal issue for him.
Now you would think that would mean he could just drop that seat, since he really doesn’t care one way or the other. But that would require a change in his many-years-ingrained habits. He’s spent way more years not closing covers than hearing his wife complain about it. Humans are creatures of habit and we don’t easily change our lives – even in small ways – unless it’s personal to us.
This is why there’s an evangelizing challenge that I think must be particularly ineffective. You’ve probably heard it – Nicole Nordeman’s got a beautiful song built around it. “What if you’re wrong? What if God is real?” The argument is we should just believe in God – if He’s real, you have eternal salvation. If He’s not, at least you lived a really good life.
Even if that were a complete picture of what following Christ means, it’s foolish to think people will do it. We’re just not wired that way. Even a minimal following of God means some substantial adjustments to our thinking and habits. And changing our habits on the off chance something might be better for us some day… Uh-uh – no way humans are going make changes based on that.
That’s why Prairie Oak leadership spends a lot of prayer and effort on giving people the opportunity to personally encounter God. If we don’t meet Him personally, we’re not going to change. Most of us would barely bother with the Christmas and Easter church appearances, except that these visits are themselves habits.
So if you’ve been talking and talking with someone about believing in God, time to stop arguing for the faith. Help them meet your Father, instead. Make it personal.
Any comments on how God is personal for you? Or arguments you’ve never been able to win? Click below and share them!
“Why can’t you put the ring and cover back down?” “Why does it matter so much?”
“I don’t want the dog drinking out of it.” “It’s obviously not killing him.”
“But it’s unsanitary.” “Stop letting him lick your face.”
“Just put the seat down!” “As a matter of fact, even without the toilet water issue, stop letting him lick your face.”
“Don’t change the subject on me. This is about you and the toilet seat.” “Not really. It’s about YOU and the toilet seat.”
And that’s the heart of it, isn’t it? My friend cares about the toilet seat; her husband doesn’t. It just isn’t a personal issue for him.
Now you would think that would mean he could just drop that seat, since he really doesn’t care one way or the other. But that would require a change in his many-years-ingrained habits. He’s spent way more years not closing covers than hearing his wife complain about it. Humans are creatures of habit and we don’t easily change our lives – even in small ways – unless it’s personal to us.
This is why there’s an evangelizing challenge that I think must be particularly ineffective. You’ve probably heard it – Nicole Nordeman’s got a beautiful song built around it. “What if you’re wrong? What if God is real?” The argument is we should just believe in God – if He’s real, you have eternal salvation. If He’s not, at least you lived a really good life.
Even if that were a complete picture of what following Christ means, it’s foolish to think people will do it. We’re just not wired that way. Even a minimal following of God means some substantial adjustments to our thinking and habits. And changing our habits on the off chance something might be better for us some day… Uh-uh – no way humans are going make changes based on that.
That’s why Prairie Oak leadership spends a lot of prayer and effort on giving people the opportunity to personally encounter God. If we don’t meet Him personally, we’re not going to change. Most of us would barely bother with the Christmas and Easter church appearances, except that these visits are themselves habits.
So if you’ve been talking and talking with someone about believing in God, time to stop arguing for the faith. Help them meet your Father, instead. Make it personal.
Any comments on how God is personal for you? Or arguments you’ve never been able to win? Click below and share them!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
A Free Weekend
I was blessed with a free weekend. I didn’t have any work I had to bring home with me on Friday. I didn’t have any deadlines on home projects. My husband was even out of town Friday and Saturday. I could sleep as late as I needed to. My meals were totally what I wanted, when I wanted. No compromises, no other opinions, no rules. Wow, it’s been great!
But now that it’s over – now that I’ve got laundry to get done before Monday, Sunday dinner to make, a new work week to prepare for – I’m making a rather interesting discovery. As wonderful as Friday and Saturday were, they feel a little wasted. Kind of like I squandered my time. The rest and relaxation were not without benefit. But did I utilize all that free time as well as I could have?
It got me thinking about freedom. Paul speaks throughout his Epistles about freedom in Christ – how we have been set free from the bondage of sin. Because of Christ and our faith in Him, we are free. But because of our faith and love, we should use that gift of freedom well – to glorify God’s name and grow more like His Son each day.
Now, a “lost” weekend now and then is probably not going to make a huge difference in the grand scheme of my life. But it’s probably good that it made me feel a little uncomfortable, a little sorry for time slipping through my fingers. Freedom is too precious to waste on doing nothing, don’t you think? Click on “comments” below and share your thoughts on free time.
But now that it’s over – now that I’ve got laundry to get done before Monday, Sunday dinner to make, a new work week to prepare for – I’m making a rather interesting discovery. As wonderful as Friday and Saturday were, they feel a little wasted. Kind of like I squandered my time. The rest and relaxation were not without benefit. But did I utilize all that free time as well as I could have?
It got me thinking about freedom. Paul speaks throughout his Epistles about freedom in Christ – how we have been set free from the bondage of sin. Because of Christ and our faith in Him, we are free. But because of our faith and love, we should use that gift of freedom well – to glorify God’s name and grow more like His Son each day.
Now, a “lost” weekend now and then is probably not going to make a huge difference in the grand scheme of my life. But it’s probably good that it made me feel a little uncomfortable, a little sorry for time slipping through my fingers. Freedom is too precious to waste on doing nothing, don’t you think? Click on “comments” below and share your thoughts on free time.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Ingrate!
Okay, sometimes I have to accept that I am not a grateful person. Ingrate is a pretty harsh word, but… well, you decide if it isn’t the right description. I recently went back to work after a six week medical leave. Now, when I left, I had some big issues with how my company does certain things. I really didn’t expect anything to have changed while I was out. I knew those same old troubles would be there. And I was right. They were. And I’ve been pretty cranky about it.
Maybe it would have been better if I could have spent at least a couple of days being grateful to have a job to go back to. Thankful for a company that, while not perfectly managed, does offer disability pay for longer illnesses. I mean, in the back of my brain, of course I’m thankful for those things. But at the front of my brain and the tip of my tongue, I am crabby.
Now I know I’m not the first believer to be ungrateful. There’s a long line of ingratitude in our heritage, starting with Adam and Eve. Rather than be grateful for all the beauty and abundance God had given them in the garden, they were totally indignant about how God wouldn’t let them eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. And in that unthankfulness, the devil found his opening and tempted Adam and Eve into the destruction of their lives.
So what is Satan tempting me to, in my ungratefulness? I KNOW it’s not for my good, whatever it is. So my plan is pretty well laid out for me – look for those reasons to be thankful and actively push back against those thoughts of ingratitude. What have you got to be grateful for? Click comments below and share a few thoughts.
Maybe it would have been better if I could have spent at least a couple of days being grateful to have a job to go back to. Thankful for a company that, while not perfectly managed, does offer disability pay for longer illnesses. I mean, in the back of my brain, of course I’m thankful for those things. But at the front of my brain and the tip of my tongue, I am crabby.
Now I know I’m not the first believer to be ungrateful. There’s a long line of ingratitude in our heritage, starting with Adam and Eve. Rather than be grateful for all the beauty and abundance God had given them in the garden, they were totally indignant about how God wouldn’t let them eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. And in that unthankfulness, the devil found his opening and tempted Adam and Eve into the destruction of their lives.
So what is Satan tempting me to, in my ungratefulness? I KNOW it’s not for my good, whatever it is. So my plan is pretty well laid out for me – look for those reasons to be thankful and actively push back against those thoughts of ingratitude. What have you got to be grateful for? Click comments below and share a few thoughts.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Who's Irrational?
Pastor Steve got us thinking about faith in today’s message. He read to us from Hebrews 11, which talks about being certain of a thing we don’t have in our hands, a thing we can’t yet see. As he mentioned, there are a boatload of books out there, written by atheists, who would have us believe that this kind of faith is just plain foolish. They’ll tell you we’re completely illogical to believe in a God we can’t touch and in promises not yet fulfilled.
These non-believers say, in essence, that even though we don’t currently have all the answers for how this universe works, we are the only ones capable of having those answers. Our understanding is the standard by which all answers must be judged. If it seems irrational to our intellect, then it IS irrational.
Wow, is it just me or does that sound really arrogant? Humanity is the pinnacle – everything is subject to our judgment and our abilities. Even when every day we are confronted with a creation we can’t begin to imagine how it was made or keeps working.
Faith, on the other hand, says that we don’t know it all. But that’s okay. If we don’t understand something, we can know that God does. His Scripture, His presence in our lives and in our world, His promises – we can have faith it is all true, without having to understand how it’s true. Faith is, in part, about having the humility to admit that we don’t have all the answers.
So you decide. We’re faced with an unimaginably huge universe, filled with unknowable mysteries at every turn. Thousands and thousands of things we don’t know and don’t understand. What’s more rational – to believe that our limited, finite minds must provide all the answers? Or that an unlimited, infinite God already knows the answers, having set it all in motion? Click on “comments” below to let us know what you think about faith.
These non-believers say, in essence, that even though we don’t currently have all the answers for how this universe works, we are the only ones capable of having those answers. Our understanding is the standard by which all answers must be judged. If it seems irrational to our intellect, then it IS irrational.
Wow, is it just me or does that sound really arrogant? Humanity is the pinnacle – everything is subject to our judgment and our abilities. Even when every day we are confronted with a creation we can’t begin to imagine how it was made or keeps working.
Faith, on the other hand, says that we don’t know it all. But that’s okay. If we don’t understand something, we can know that God does. His Scripture, His presence in our lives and in our world, His promises – we can have faith it is all true, without having to understand how it’s true. Faith is, in part, about having the humility to admit that we don’t have all the answers.
So you decide. We’re faced with an unimaginably huge universe, filled with unknowable mysteries at every turn. Thousands and thousands of things we don’t know and don’t understand. What’s more rational – to believe that our limited, finite minds must provide all the answers? Or that an unlimited, infinite God already knows the answers, having set it all in motion? Click on “comments” below to let us know what you think about faith.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
What have you done for me lately?
It’s Valentine’s Day. A day when, if you believe the ads, love is measured by the size of the floral bouquet or the box of chocolates or the number of diamonds in a necklace. It is, if you believe all the jokes, a day when men rush to buy a belated present, which women then use to determine just how much he loves her. Listening to the hype, if you don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day right, your relationship is doomed.
We laugh at the extreme message, but how much do we use this standard when “judging” love? Does your loved one say “I love you” enough and at the most appropriate times? Does he or she know exactly what you’re thinking, without you even having to say it? Do your kids behave perfectly and never embarrass you?
We know that’s not the right way to look at our loving relationships. And most of us don’t look at our husbands, wives, kids, significant others in that way. But are we looking at God and His relationship with us that way? When I’m struggling, I’m all too prone to ask God “why me?!” than to trust in His loving mercy. It’s really easy to say “do something for me” than to remember all He has already done.
Love is a great thing to celebrate. But it’s more than flowers and candy and it surely deserves more than one day a year. I think I’ll just take this day as a good reminder to live in love – and enjoy the potato chips my husband got me for Valentine’s.
How do you celebrate love? Click on comments below to share.
We laugh at the extreme message, but how much do we use this standard when “judging” love? Does your loved one say “I love you” enough and at the most appropriate times? Does he or she know exactly what you’re thinking, without you even having to say it? Do your kids behave perfectly and never embarrass you?
We know that’s not the right way to look at our loving relationships. And most of us don’t look at our husbands, wives, kids, significant others in that way. But are we looking at God and His relationship with us that way? When I’m struggling, I’m all too prone to ask God “why me?!” than to trust in His loving mercy. It’s really easy to say “do something for me” than to remember all He has already done.
Love is a great thing to celebrate. But it’s more than flowers and candy and it surely deserves more than one day a year. I think I’ll just take this day as a good reminder to live in love – and enjoy the potato chips my husband got me for Valentine’s.
How do you celebrate love? Click on comments below to share.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
A Cosmic Accident? I Don’t Think So
Do you believe God made you on purpose? That you weren’t some cosmic accident, but that He made you with you specifically in mind? Sometimes I don’t know which is harder to believe. That evolution – a random happenstance of DNA combinations – accidently developed life and ultimately intelligent life (and eventually even me). Or that the great God who made the universe and all that is in it knows me personally and cared enough to create me, specifically me, with a real purpose in mind.
Since I am a Christ follower, I’m of the “God created me” viewpoint rather than the blind evolution theory. But I still have trouble grasping the fact that God meant to get me when He created the world and the circumstances that brought me life. Seriously, why would the great omnipotent One care about one little human, know my name, and have developed me with a plan and purpose? It’s hard to fathom, hard to accept.
So I have to trust what God’s Word tells me. That I am fearfully and wonderfully made. That He knew me in the womb, before I was born. That Jesus went to the cross, for me personally, not just “me” in the abstract. God’s Word tells us all this and more. So I have to take it on faith, as my relationship with God matures and I come to understand it all better “by and by” as the old hymn says.
But if God knows me and has a purpose for me, I have to think seriously about what that purpose is. Why did He make me? What has He got in mind for me to do? Am I doing it? No wonder this maturing in God is a process, not a quick single step.
Since I am a Christ follower, I’m of the “God created me” viewpoint rather than the blind evolution theory. But I still have trouble grasping the fact that God meant to get me when He created the world and the circumstances that brought me life. Seriously, why would the great omnipotent One care about one little human, know my name, and have developed me with a plan and purpose? It’s hard to fathom, hard to accept.
So I have to trust what God’s Word tells me. That I am fearfully and wonderfully made. That He knew me in the womb, before I was born. That Jesus went to the cross, for me personally, not just “me” in the abstract. God’s Word tells us all this and more. So I have to take it on faith, as my relationship with God matures and I come to understand it all better “by and by” as the old hymn says.
But if God knows me and has a purpose for me, I have to think seriously about what that purpose is. Why did He make me? What has He got in mind for me to do? Am I doing it? No wonder this maturing in God is a process, not a quick single step.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Resolved...
Come on, it’s January. There had to be some discussion of resolutions, didn’t there? I am not, in fact, a big fan of New Year’s resolutions. I don’t like to set rather lofty goals and then feel like a complete loser when I fail to continue them a month later. But I will go so far as to look at what I’ve been doing right and see if I can make it better or apply to more of my life.
One decision I made a few years ago had to do with my reading material. I am a BIG reader. But after I finished my bachelor’s degree, when I had to read a LOT of textbooks, I realized my reading material should change. No, I’m not reading textbooks every day. But I do try and alternate my pleasure reading with books of more substance. Books that help me think more deeply about my faith, or clarify some point from the Bible. Books that stretch my mind and keep it nimble. Chuck Colson’s “The Faith”. Dr. Henry Cloud’s “9 Things You Simply Must Do”. Almost anything by C.S. Lewis.
So give that some thought as we start the new year and the new decade. There must be some area of your life that you’d like more information on. Some phenomena in culture that bears deeper examination. Check out the bookstore at Prairie Oak, if you’re wondering where to get started. You’ll be glad you made this kind of resolution, I promise.
Click on "comments" below to let u know if you have any non-traditional resolutions for 2010.
One decision I made a few years ago had to do with my reading material. I am a BIG reader. But after I finished my bachelor’s degree, when I had to read a LOT of textbooks, I realized my reading material should change. No, I’m not reading textbooks every day. But I do try and alternate my pleasure reading with books of more substance. Books that help me think more deeply about my faith, or clarify some point from the Bible. Books that stretch my mind and keep it nimble. Chuck Colson’s “The Faith”. Dr. Henry Cloud’s “9 Things You Simply Must Do”. Almost anything by C.S. Lewis.
So give that some thought as we start the new year and the new decade. There must be some area of your life that you’d like more information on. Some phenomena in culture that bears deeper examination. Check out the bookstore at Prairie Oak, if you’re wondering where to get started. You’ll be glad you made this kind of resolution, I promise.
Click on "comments" below to let u know if you have any non-traditional resolutions for 2010.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Re-Gifting
I have a group of friends that always celebrate Christmas together after the New Year. We had a great time this weekend, catching up and sharing gifts with one another. One of our traditions is to exchange stocking stuffers – often items we’ve collected through the year on our various travels and vacations. But since we celebrate together after our other celebrations, there are often re-gifts among the stocking stuffers.
Be honest – you’ve done it. Received something that, while very nice, just wasn’t for you. So you pass it along. You re-gift it. And, at least in our case, the gift lands in the hands of someone who will make great use of it.
Frankly, as Christians, we had better be re-gifting. What is Matthew 28:19 – “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations.” – if not a command to re-gift? We’ve been given the most wondrous gift of all in the love and sacrifice of Christ Jesus. And the best news is that we can re-gift that love and sacrifice and still keep it ourselves. In fact, the gift just grows greater, the more people we re-gift it to.
So don’t be embarrassed. Be a happy and generous re-gifter. Share the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ today!
Be honest – you’ve done it. Received something that, while very nice, just wasn’t for you. So you pass it along. You re-gift it. And, at least in our case, the gift lands in the hands of someone who will make great use of it.
Frankly, as Christians, we had better be re-gifting. What is Matthew 28:19 – “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations.” – if not a command to re-gift? We’ve been given the most wondrous gift of all in the love and sacrifice of Christ Jesus. And the best news is that we can re-gift that love and sacrifice and still keep it ourselves. In fact, the gift just grows greater, the more people we re-gift it to.
So don’t be embarrassed. Be a happy and generous re-gifter. Share the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ today!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Emmanuel - our God is with us!
Pastor Steve has been teaching a series on the gift we need at Christmas. Jesus came as that gift – God’s love, joy, and peace all wrapped up in one unexpected package. No one of that day thought of a baby as the Messiah, the Promised One who would save them from the world. The thing the Jews of the day didn’t realize was that they themselves were part of the world they need to be saved from!
We often don’t realize our need for this gift today either. God’s perfect love, to cast out all fear, give us heavenly peace and deep-rooted joy no matter what our circumstances. We’ll say we want this gift – but too often we want to pick and choose how the gift impacts our lives.
Think about this name of God – Emmanuel, God with us – as you celebrate with family and friends this week. What does it mean in your life to have God with you? How does that (or should that) change you? Let God, the giver of all good things, present you with the gift you need today. Accept His wondrous gift of love, Jesus Christ.
Merry Christmas!
By the way best wishes to the newly married Rachael and Clint – Pastor Steve and Jane have gained a new son. It was delightful celebration of love in this most loving season. God bless!
We often don’t realize our need for this gift today either. God’s perfect love, to cast out all fear, give us heavenly peace and deep-rooted joy no matter what our circumstances. We’ll say we want this gift – but too often we want to pick and choose how the gift impacts our lives.
Think about this name of God – Emmanuel, God with us – as you celebrate with family and friends this week. What does it mean in your life to have God with you? How does that (or should that) change you? Let God, the giver of all good things, present you with the gift you need today. Accept His wondrous gift of love, Jesus Christ.
Merry Christmas!
By the way best wishes to the newly married Rachael and Clint – Pastor Steve and Jane have gained a new son. It was delightful celebration of love in this most loving season. God bless!
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