During the occupation of Europe by Nazi Germany during World War II, millions of people experienced unspeakable horror. Concentration camps filled all over Europe with minority groups – mostly Jewish – where they were confined and later executed. I can only imagine the fear that gripped these people as it turned into paralyzing terror as Germany came closer and closer to their home city.
But there arose within that terror another response…an underground “resistance”. These bands made up of various secret groups that opposed the Nazi rule were widely diverse: civilians, armed bands of patriotic folks, and guerilla fighters. Their activities ranged from publishing illicit newspapers to assisting the escape of Jews and Allied airmen shot down over enemy territory to committing acts of sabotage and ambushing German patrols. The effort, ability and resources of the resistance would most likely have waned except for the one hope – the hope of the coming liberation. As the months and years dragged on, one of the most important efforts of the resistance fought on – they coordinated with the invasion by transmitting information to the Allies. Finally, on June 6, 1944, Operation Overlord, also known as D-Day began.
The resistance provides an amazing picture of the effectiveness of hidden power. It kept the Nazi war machine off balance, it gave inspiration to the common people throughout Europe, and it drew on the hope of the Allied invasion to bring liberation.
The power that Jesus brought to earth did not have the perception of power that many people expected. Jesus did do amazing things such as perform miracles, but to most they were not enough to satisfy their hunger. Most people were looking for a messianic age of blessing and Rome still dominated the land, and cruel leaders still held an iron fist. People still died. Hunger and disease were still daily experiences.
The coming Kingdom of Christ is hidden but powerful. It is small in its beginning, but will bring the reality of salvation to all those who have placed their faith in Christ with an open heart. God’s judgment of the evil one and his followers is certain and will come with power. Jesus’ return is a concrete promise that should energize us and give us purpose for our own lives. To quote William Barclay, “The best way to prepare for the coming of Christ is never to forget the presence of Christ.” Jesus is here, and He has more hidden power than we give Him credit for sometimes.
Joshua Kirsch
Middle School Director
Monday, August 31, 2009
Monday, August 24, 2009
Eschatology
This past week I studied what the Bible had to say about future events. I know that there is diversity of opinion on the topic, even among the Woodcrest staff!
Yet is not so much about the details, God will sort it all out and He is in control.
I think the study of eschatology is all about hope, hope of a more just future. That God's reign will be complete and that the marred creation will be fully restored.
That idea that excites me. In the journey of studying about God's future for his followers, I found joy, hope and peace. What a gift.
Yet is not so much about the details, God will sort it all out and He is in control.
I think the study of eschatology is all about hope, hope of a more just future. That God's reign will be complete and that the marred creation will be fully restored.
That idea that excites me. In the journey of studying about God's future for his followers, I found joy, hope and peace. What a gift.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Inner Attitudes and Spiritual Growth
The question from the study guide that I chose to reflect on this week is which inner attitudes inspire my growth in Christ, and which put up blocks to my growth. It's certainly a good question and one that is worthy of some good thought. So here we go:
In terms of what inner attitude inspires my growth, I'd have to say the biggest by far is thankfulness. When I have a thankful heart for God and His incredible faithfulness, then I find I spend less time worrying about what I don't have - either materially, physically (health-wise) or spiritually) - and more time being grateful for God's incredible provision in my life; even things that I wouldn't necessarily choose for myself. There's a song I heard a long time ago with a phrase in it that says "when you can't trace His hand, trust His heart". In other words, even when life in our broken world brings me lemons and I just can't see how God could use it for the good (and question why it had to happen in the first place), I'm way happier when I can remain thankful for God's heart and character; trusting in His love for me and knowing that He will see me through. This kind of thankfulness - when I am able to practice it - produces a whole new way of looking at the world and events around me and inspires great growth for me in my spiritual walk.
In the flip side, it's thinking about what I don't have, that is perhaps the biggest block to my growth. This most often for me takes a spiritual form. Sometimes I give so much attention to my own sinfulness and how I need to be better in one area or another, that I forget to rejoice in my salvation and be thankful for God's amazing grace. The result when this happens is a joyless and stagnant life. I start comparing myself to others who I perceive are better in those areas of my life where I struggle, and it leaves me feeling like I'm somehow not good enough. So it's easy to give up and say I can never be good enough. I guess this relates to pride, because it seems to me that these feelings must in some form stem from the thought that I could ever somehow be "good enough" to earn God's love acceptance and forgiveness. All of these thought patterns of course center around ME and MY will or ability to change, or MY need to feel good enough - and they take GOD totally out of the equation. I think the better attitude to have is thankfulness for being fearfully and wonderfully made in God's image, trust in His love for me, and remembering that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"....not in my own power but in God's alone through Christ. That way, as the Bible says, His strength really is made perfect in my weakness.
In terms of what inner attitude inspires my growth, I'd have to say the biggest by far is thankfulness. When I have a thankful heart for God and His incredible faithfulness, then I find I spend less time worrying about what I don't have - either materially, physically (health-wise) or spiritually) - and more time being grateful for God's incredible provision in my life; even things that I wouldn't necessarily choose for myself. There's a song I heard a long time ago with a phrase in it that says "when you can't trace His hand, trust His heart". In other words, even when life in our broken world brings me lemons and I just can't see how God could use it for the good (and question why it had to happen in the first place), I'm way happier when I can remain thankful for God's heart and character; trusting in His love for me and knowing that He will see me through. This kind of thankfulness - when I am able to practice it - produces a whole new way of looking at the world and events around me and inspires great growth for me in my spiritual walk.
In the flip side, it's thinking about what I don't have, that is perhaps the biggest block to my growth. This most often for me takes a spiritual form. Sometimes I give so much attention to my own sinfulness and how I need to be better in one area or another, that I forget to rejoice in my salvation and be thankful for God's amazing grace. The result when this happens is a joyless and stagnant life. I start comparing myself to others who I perceive are better in those areas of my life where I struggle, and it leaves me feeling like I'm somehow not good enough. So it's easy to give up and say I can never be good enough. I guess this relates to pride, because it seems to me that these feelings must in some form stem from the thought that I could ever somehow be "good enough" to earn God's love acceptance and forgiveness. All of these thought patterns of course center around ME and MY will or ability to change, or MY need to feel good enough - and they take GOD totally out of the equation. I think the better attitude to have is thankfulness for being fearfully and wonderfully made in God's image, trust in His love for me, and remembering that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"....not in my own power but in God's alone through Christ. That way, as the Bible says, His strength really is made perfect in my weakness.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Sanctification
Sometimes it is hard to understand what Paul is talking about when he exhorts us to “work out our salvation”. Isn’t it a one-time decision…an acceptance of God’s free gift? Isn’t it by faith…not by works. Paul is not talking about our salvation in terms of our rightness with God. When you make that decision to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, it is binding. You cannot lose or earn your salvation. What Paul is talking about is “sanctification”. It is the daily dying to ourselves and our sin and taking up Jesus’ cross and following Him.
What does “daily dying to self” look in my life? First of all I am not alone in the process. Thankfully the Holy Spirit goes before me, behind me, to the left and to the right. It is not possible to die to self on our own. We are after all fallen. Each day I get up and face the day – hand in hand with the Holy Spirit. I work in a job in which I am surrounded by Christians. I spend time in staff prayer. I have a job that does not “tempt me”, surround me in poor language, difficult situations, etc. For that I am thankful. However, I do live in a neighborhood, go to the grocery store, have friends outside the church and parent children who have friends with families. In all of these things I believe my life is a witness to others and my dying to the selfish attitudes, anger, etc. is not only a process for me, but a challenge to those around me. Dying to self helps me to portray Christ in my world.
Darla Benjamin
What does “daily dying to self” look in my life? First of all I am not alone in the process. Thankfully the Holy Spirit goes before me, behind me, to the left and to the right. It is not possible to die to self on our own. We are after all fallen. Each day I get up and face the day – hand in hand with the Holy Spirit. I work in a job in which I am surrounded by Christians. I spend time in staff prayer. I have a job that does not “tempt me”, surround me in poor language, difficult situations, etc. For that I am thankful. However, I do live in a neighborhood, go to the grocery store, have friends outside the church and parent children who have friends with families. In all of these things I believe my life is a witness to others and my dying to the selfish attitudes, anger, etc. is not only a process for me, but a challenge to those around me. Dying to self helps me to portray Christ in my world.
Darla Benjamin
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
The Look
I remember when I was a kid there were certain activities that just seemed like a lot of fun. Activities like playing football in the house, giving my dad a haircut while he wasn't paying attention, and giving my brother a swirly. And they were fun right up until I got "the look" from one of my parents. You know "the look"...we have all received "the look" from a parent, or a spouse. "The look" tells you that whatever you have just said or done that in the moment seemed like a brilliant, entertaining idea is not really as brilliant or entertaining as it was in your mind.
As we read through the scriptures we find that when people come face to face with God they encounter the divine version of "the look." When the prophet Isaiah, who was a very righteous man, encountered God in the Temple he cried out, "Woe to me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips." (Isaiah 6:6)
When Paul came face to face with Jesus on the road to Damascus the only thing that he could think to do was fall to the ground and hide his face so as to avoid making direct eye contact with him. (Acts 9:3-4)
When the Lord spoke to Job and his friends they realized that they did not know as much about God as they thought they did. (Job 38-41)
When Moses encountered God in the burning bush at first he was intrigued, but when he realized that he was in the presence of God the Bible says, "Moses hid his face because he was afraid to look at God." (Ex. 3:6)
When these men encountered a Holy God it highlighted the sin, mistakes, and shortcomings in their own lives. In other words they had received "the look." They experienced that moment where they realized that there were things in their lives that needed to change. They realized that certain thoughts, attitudes, or actions that are acceptable from a human perspective were not acceptable to God. As frightening or as painful as that might be I pray that we may all have that same experience. That we might have a moment of clarity where we come face to face with God and he reveals the areas in our lives that need to change. Going through the cleansing/refining process is never fun at the time. I don't think that I would ever choose to go through it, but each time I do I am always grateful for the changes God brings about. And then I wonder...why didn't I make this change sooner?
Ben Gores
High School Ministry Director
As we read through the scriptures we find that when people come face to face with God they encounter the divine version of "the look." When the prophet Isaiah, who was a very righteous man, encountered God in the Temple he cried out, "Woe to me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips." (Isaiah 6:6)
When Paul came face to face with Jesus on the road to Damascus the only thing that he could think to do was fall to the ground and hide his face so as to avoid making direct eye contact with him. (Acts 9:3-4)
When the Lord spoke to Job and his friends they realized that they did not know as much about God as they thought they did. (Job 38-41)
When Moses encountered God in the burning bush at first he was intrigued, but when he realized that he was in the presence of God the Bible says, "Moses hid his face because he was afraid to look at God." (Ex. 3:6)
When these men encountered a Holy God it highlighted the sin, mistakes, and shortcomings in their own lives. In other words they had received "the look." They experienced that moment where they realized that there were things in their lives that needed to change. They realized that certain thoughts, attitudes, or actions that are acceptable from a human perspective were not acceptable to God. As frightening or as painful as that might be I pray that we may all have that same experience. That we might have a moment of clarity where we come face to face with God and he reveals the areas in our lives that need to change. Going through the cleansing/refining process is never fun at the time. I don't think that I would ever choose to go through it, but each time I do I am always grateful for the changes God brings about. And then I wonder...why didn't I make this change sooner?
Ben Gores
High School Ministry Director
Monday, July 20, 2009
False Messages
In 1820, there was a man in the region of New York near Palmyra by the name of Joseph Smith Jr. known for being a treasure hunter. He was known for being obsessed with finding and using occult seer stones to divine for buried treasure. Joseph Smith recalls an encounter in the woods near his home to pray and inquire of God which of all the Christian churches was right and which one he should join. In chapter 2 of his book titled The Pearl of Great Price, he tells us that while he was praying that “thick darkness” gathered around him. His tongue was held bound so that he could not speak and he was sinking into despair, ready to succumb to this “actual being from the unseen world who had such marvelous powers”, when all of the sudden there appeared over his head a pillar of light in which were two personages. He asked these personages, these beings of light, which Christian church was right and which one should he join. Here is the answer he claims to have received:
“I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong; and the Personage who addressed me said that all of their creeds were an abomination in his sight, and that all their teachers were corrupt.”
This moment in 1820 was the moment that opened the door to Mormonism. A messenger of light told an occult stone user named Joseph Smith that all Christian churches were wrong and that all the teachings of Christianity were an abomination.
If only Joseph Smith would have heeded the words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 11:4, 13-15:
For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough. For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.
God’s Word makes it clear that angels are messengers of the Most High, and I’ve also learned that these powerful messengers are sent directly from God to carry out His plans. I wonder how many of the world’s cults and false teachings would have been curtailed if they had checked the messengers words to Scripture? I wonder how many people have been deceived because “Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light” just as he did for Joseph Smith? Are angels powerful? Yes. Is their primary purpose to deliver God’s important messages and carry out His plan? Yes. But as followers of Christ, we must always make sure the message of the messengers lines up with the one who sent the message.
Joshua Kirsch
Middle School Pastor
“I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong; and the Personage who addressed me said that all of their creeds were an abomination in his sight, and that all their teachers were corrupt.”
This moment in 1820 was the moment that opened the door to Mormonism. A messenger of light told an occult stone user named Joseph Smith that all Christian churches were wrong and that all the teachings of Christianity were an abomination.
If only Joseph Smith would have heeded the words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 11:4, 13-15:
For if someone comes to you and preaches a Jesus other than the Jesus we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it easily enough. For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.
God’s Word makes it clear that angels are messengers of the Most High, and I’ve also learned that these powerful messengers are sent directly from God to carry out His plans. I wonder how many of the world’s cults and false teachings would have been curtailed if they had checked the messengers words to Scripture? I wonder how many people have been deceived because “Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light” just as he did for Joseph Smith? Are angels powerful? Yes. Is their primary purpose to deliver God’s important messages and carry out His plan? Yes. But as followers of Christ, we must always make sure the message of the messengers lines up with the one who sent the message.
Joshua Kirsch
Middle School Pastor
Monday, July 13, 2009
Fearfully & Wonderfully Made
As I sat down to tackle this week’s blogging question I had to take a moment and “put in check” my upbringing (conservative Christianity) and my pedigree (stoic Scandinavian) in order to really wrap my mind around the concept of “boasting” about human achievements and accomplishments. That’s not a natural thing for me to do. I tend to always want to boast about God and downplay the role of humanity.
But here is my best attempt to reflect on what God is teaching me through Joshua’s sermon on Sunday and as I study and reflect on the His Word this week through the summer devotional guide.
There are two ideas that come to mind when I reflect on the accomplishments and achievements of humanity and how they reflect on the greatness of the One who created us. The first comes from the life arena of modern medicine.
As many of you know, the past year has been a very challenging one for my sister. She was diagnosed with kidney cancer late last summer and has gone through a very long and difficult journey. However, by God’s grace she is surviving the battle and should enjoy many years of productive living.
As I look back over the past 10 months I marvel at all of the medical advancements that were used to save her life. When we learned that she had to have a kidney removed I was amazed that a person can live without one of their kidneys. When another tumor was discovered next to her spine the tumor was not only removed, the doctors also performed reconstructive surgery on her spine – with metal rods and screws – I couldn’t quite fathom it! As I think about the human ingenuity, knowledge and skill needed to perform all these medical procedures I am amazed at how God has created us and how humanity’s countless accomplishments are truly a reflection of God’s greatness.
The second arena of human accomplishments and achievements that teaches me about the greatness of the One who created us, is the way in which humans love and serve one another.
The past several days 20 individuals (high school students and adults) from the Woodcrest family have been ministering to the people of Belize, Central America. This group has shown the love of Jesus to people they had never met before by, performing manual labor, teaching vacation bible school, sharing their faith and countless other activities. While they may not define their accomplishments as “great” I see them as extra-ordinary and truly reflective of the One who created them.
Yes, God does deserve all of the glory for our world’s many great accomplishments and achievements – but when we rightly “boast” about these accomplishments they serve as a powerful reminder of His greatness.
Pete Parker
Executive Pastor
Woodcrest Church
But here is my best attempt to reflect on what God is teaching me through Joshua’s sermon on Sunday and as I study and reflect on the His Word this week through the summer devotional guide.
There are two ideas that come to mind when I reflect on the accomplishments and achievements of humanity and how they reflect on the greatness of the One who created us. The first comes from the life arena of modern medicine.
As many of you know, the past year has been a very challenging one for my sister. She was diagnosed with kidney cancer late last summer and has gone through a very long and difficult journey. However, by God’s grace she is surviving the battle and should enjoy many years of productive living.
As I look back over the past 10 months I marvel at all of the medical advancements that were used to save her life. When we learned that she had to have a kidney removed I was amazed that a person can live without one of their kidneys. When another tumor was discovered next to her spine the tumor was not only removed, the doctors also performed reconstructive surgery on her spine – with metal rods and screws – I couldn’t quite fathom it! As I think about the human ingenuity, knowledge and skill needed to perform all these medical procedures I am amazed at how God has created us and how humanity’s countless accomplishments are truly a reflection of God’s greatness.
The second arena of human accomplishments and achievements that teaches me about the greatness of the One who created us, is the way in which humans love and serve one another.
The past several days 20 individuals (high school students and adults) from the Woodcrest family have been ministering to the people of Belize, Central America. This group has shown the love of Jesus to people they had never met before by, performing manual labor, teaching vacation bible school, sharing their faith and countless other activities. While they may not define their accomplishments as “great” I see them as extra-ordinary and truly reflective of the One who created them.
Yes, God does deserve all of the glory for our world’s many great accomplishments and achievements – but when we rightly “boast” about these accomplishments they serve as a powerful reminder of His greatness.
Pete Parker
Executive Pastor
Woodcrest Church
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Jumper Cables for the Soul
Although the Holy Spirit is the member of the Trinity that we talk about the least (and perhaps the one that is the one that is most difficult to comprehend), the Holy Spirit gives me the greatest assurance of my faith. It is on days when I don't feel like acting like a Christian or on days when I don't have the strength to do the right thing that I find the Holy Spirit there to encourage and strengthen me. For me the most convincing arguments for the authenticity are the intellectual arguments. It is that I see the results of the renewing power of the Holy Spirit in my life. The Holy Spirit helps me to be a better person than I know I could ever become in my own efforts. Like Pastor Pete described for us on Sunday the Holy Spirit acts as the jumper cables for my soul when I need a lift. I can think of no better example than this week as I prepare to take a group of high school students to Central America on a missions trip. Every year preparing and leading our high school missions trip proves daunting task. But every year when I return it also proves to be one of the most rewarding, because the Holy Spirit is the one leading, guiding, and giving us strength. I trust that this year will be no different. Please pray for our Belize Missions team July 8-14 as we serve in the city of Orange Walk.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Jesus - The Perfect Mirror
Posted by Joshua Kirsch
(Ben Gores was scheduled to blog today, but since he brought us the message on Sunday, he and I agreed to switch dates. Ben will blog next Monday instead of today.)
I remember being in Jr. High about to enter High school and being obsessed with my appearance. Girls all of the sudden had gotten more interesting to me and I always wanted my appearance to look its best at the chance I might catch some of their interest. As a guy, I’ll admit it’s a little embarrassing how much time I actually spent in front of the mirror before school each day. I couldn’t always count on my looks to have girl appeal, but one thing I could count on…the mirror never lied.
As I studied Christology during the week, I was struck by all the ways that Christ “mirrored” His Father. Jesus says in John 14:7, “If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” Why did Jesus says this? Because He is the perfect mirror of God the Father. Now I don’t know about you, but for me, this brings comfort and peace to my soul knowing that God mirrored Himself in a human body so that He could help someone like me to understand and know Him greater.
Because Jesus gave up some of His divine qualities all to reach me (Philippians 2:6-8), I know that God is not far off and distant (deistic). This shows me that God is theistic meaning that He is a personal God who continues to be personal in my life. Because Jesus became flesh, God is more tangible, real, and can relate to my sufferings and pains as well as my joys and triumphs. What other religion can offer you that?!?! Praise be to Jesus for setting aside his throne just to reach a lowly, flawed human like me.
In Jr. High, my reflection in the mirror didn’t hide any blemishes, zits and bad hairdos I had as a teenager. Likewise, Jesus is the perfect reflection of God. For me to deepen my understanding and love of God, I need to deepen my understanding and love of Jesus.
- Joshua
(Ben Gores was scheduled to blog today, but since he brought us the message on Sunday, he and I agreed to switch dates. Ben will blog next Monday instead of today.)
I remember being in Jr. High about to enter High school and being obsessed with my appearance. Girls all of the sudden had gotten more interesting to me and I always wanted my appearance to look its best at the chance I might catch some of their interest. As a guy, I’ll admit it’s a little embarrassing how much time I actually spent in front of the mirror before school each day. I couldn’t always count on my looks to have girl appeal, but one thing I could count on…the mirror never lied.
As I studied Christology during the week, I was struck by all the ways that Christ “mirrored” His Father. Jesus says in John 14:7, “If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.” Why did Jesus says this? Because He is the perfect mirror of God the Father. Now I don’t know about you, but for me, this brings comfort and peace to my soul knowing that God mirrored Himself in a human body so that He could help someone like me to understand and know Him greater.
Because Jesus gave up some of His divine qualities all to reach me (Philippians 2:6-8), I know that God is not far off and distant (deistic). This shows me that God is theistic meaning that He is a personal God who continues to be personal in my life. Because Jesus became flesh, God is more tangible, real, and can relate to my sufferings and pains as well as my joys and triumphs. What other religion can offer you that?!?! Praise be to Jesus for setting aside his throne just to reach a lowly, flawed human like me.
In Jr. High, my reflection in the mirror didn’t hide any blemishes, zits and bad hairdos I had as a teenager. Likewise, Jesus is the perfect reflection of God. For me to deepen my understanding and love of God, I need to deepen my understanding and love of Jesus.
- Joshua
Monday, June 22, 2009
The Trinity
Does the idea of the Trinity excite you or confuse you?
Honestly, a little of both...to understand the Trinity is humanly impossible, the concept is God created and beyond human comprehension, yet I find great comfort in what I am learning about God's three in oneness.
For me, the aspect of the Trinity that truly excites me, is that the Holy Spirit dwells within me, and every follower of Jesus Christ. To think that God himself is so near is amazing and humbling to me.
The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit is my comforter, counselor, advocate, encourager and teacher.. and more, to be fully aware of His presence in my life and to guide me is my deepest heart's desire.
Honestly, a little of both...to understand the Trinity is humanly impossible, the concept is God created and beyond human comprehension, yet I find great comfort in what I am learning about God's three in oneness.
For me, the aspect of the Trinity that truly excites me, is that the Holy Spirit dwells within me, and every follower of Jesus Christ. To think that God himself is so near is amazing and humbling to me.
The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit is my comforter, counselor, advocate, encourager and teacher.. and more, to be fully aware of His presence in my life and to guide me is my deepest heart's desire.
Monday, June 15, 2009
God...at large and in charge!
Do you ever wonder why it's so hard sometimes to see God's hand in your life in the moment, every day? I mean like He's really there right next to you in everything you do, every decision you make? I think most of us have had those moments in life where we have come face to face with the breathtaking beauty of nature, and could not escape the conclusion that God is real, present and revealed through His marvelous creation. Or perhaps you've had a dramatic life moment like the birth of a child, that has caused you to be in awe of God, and you become very aware of His presence in that moment. But what about in our every day reality, and the life decisions we have to make? What does God look like then?
I never considered myself the brightest bulb on the tree; especially where discovering God's will for my life is concerned. Those who know me have doubtless heard me say on a few occasions that God has to hit me over the head with a
2X4 (a large piece of wood used for - of all things...CONSTRUCTION) - to get my attention! So as I consider the blogging question for today, I have to smile to myself and thank God for this opportunity to look back and reflect on a time I was reminded that God is real, present and in control of my life.
Of course there have been a few times I have been reminded of this, but the biggest one was my calling about 4 years ago now, into full-time ministry. I think I must have fought with God every step of the way on this, until (surprise of all surprises....) He got his way! My dad is now retired and had a very successful law practice. In our house, my brothers and I were taught the value of a great education and of course, pursuit of corporate success that for any reasonable young man, should follow, right? So I spent over 11 years in the private sector working my way up the corporate ladder as best I could, and striving for all of the worldly goods that I thought would be sure sign of that success. That is until our small group started the Purpose-Driven Life study. Now, of course there's nothing whatsoever wrong with a successful business career, as long as God has placed you there and you're fulfilling your purpose in the process. However, God began showing me that He had gifted me for a different purpose, and that began the slow and painful process of changing my definition of "success", and trusting in God alone for my security and well-being. I had a unique opportunity to literally put my money where my mouth was, where matters of faith were concerned.
During that time, God was present in every way I could have imagined...He spoke to me through the Spirit (that still small voice), through other people, through the Word and even through the radio! Evey where I turned I had confirmations that I should be making the switch to ministry! Everything from Bible verses reminding me God has plans to prosper and not to harm me (Jeremiah 29:11), and that God works all things for the good of those that love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28)to radio songs about surrendering my life completely to God.
Ben reminded me today that when you're looking to buy a new car, it seems like that's all you see on the road. Ever experienced that? I have. It was kind of like that, but it was a car I did NOT want...but that I kept seeing! It was more like
Adam Sandler in a recent movie called Bedtime Stories, where the kids told him how his stories would end, and then it came true in real life. One night they told him his story's hero would have a fire ball thrown at him. After that, try though he did, he could not escape it, Every radio station he tried had a song about fire! This was kind of what it was like for me. I knew in my heart where God wanted me but I wasn't thrilled at the prospects!
So in one last act of desperation, as if to shake my fist at God and test Him, I said, "Okay God, I have no previous experience on staff at a church, very little if any formal musical training...there's no way this is going to happen anyway. So I dare you God...if this is what you want then fine...I'll apply. But I know I won't get the job and then everything will go back to normal". Well, look where that got me! And the rest, as they say, is history!
During that time in my life, I kept a journal of all the confirmations I sensed God throwing my way..you know...just so I could be SURE...and convinced this was from God. :-) When I look back at that little journal, it's almost comical the steps God had to use to get my attention! It's also incredibly encouraging to look back and realize God was there in it, and really DID have my best interests at heart, then AND now. I've never been happier in my life, and to top it all off, Lese and I have never lacked for anything...God has met all of our needs and even most of our wants! It's as if God is saying, "See, I can do it!"
I never considered myself the brightest bulb on the tree; especially where discovering God's will for my life is concerned. Those who know me have doubtless heard me say on a few occasions that God has to hit me over the head with a
2X4 (a large piece of wood used for - of all things...CONSTRUCTION) - to get my attention! So as I consider the blogging question for today, I have to smile to myself and thank God for this opportunity to look back and reflect on a time I was reminded that God is real, present and in control of my life.
Of course there have been a few times I have been reminded of this, but the biggest one was my calling about 4 years ago now, into full-time ministry. I think I must have fought with God every step of the way on this, until (surprise of all surprises....) He got his way! My dad is now retired and had a very successful law practice. In our house, my brothers and I were taught the value of a great education and of course, pursuit of corporate success that for any reasonable young man, should follow, right? So I spent over 11 years in the private sector working my way up the corporate ladder as best I could, and striving for all of the worldly goods that I thought would be sure sign of that success. That is until our small group started the Purpose-Driven Life study. Now, of course there's nothing whatsoever wrong with a successful business career, as long as God has placed you there and you're fulfilling your purpose in the process. However, God began showing me that He had gifted me for a different purpose, and that began the slow and painful process of changing my definition of "success", and trusting in God alone for my security and well-being. I had a unique opportunity to literally put my money where my mouth was, where matters of faith were concerned.
During that time, God was present in every way I could have imagined...He spoke to me through the Spirit (that still small voice), through other people, through the Word and even through the radio! Evey where I turned I had confirmations that I should be making the switch to ministry! Everything from Bible verses reminding me God has plans to prosper and not to harm me (Jeremiah 29:11), and that God works all things for the good of those that love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28)to radio songs about surrendering my life completely to God.
Ben reminded me today that when you're looking to buy a new car, it seems like that's all you see on the road. Ever experienced that? I have. It was kind of like that, but it was a car I did NOT want...but that I kept seeing! It was more like
Adam Sandler in a recent movie called Bedtime Stories, where the kids told him how his stories would end, and then it came true in real life. One night they told him his story's hero would have a fire ball thrown at him. After that, try though he did, he could not escape it, Every radio station he tried had a song about fire! This was kind of what it was like for me. I knew in my heart where God wanted me but I wasn't thrilled at the prospects!
So in one last act of desperation, as if to shake my fist at God and test Him, I said, "Okay God, I have no previous experience on staff at a church, very little if any formal musical training...there's no way this is going to happen anyway. So I dare you God...if this is what you want then fine...I'll apply. But I know I won't get the job and then everything will go back to normal". Well, look where that got me! And the rest, as they say, is history!
During that time in my life, I kept a journal of all the confirmations I sensed God throwing my way..you know...just so I could be SURE...and convinced this was from God. :-) When I look back at that little journal, it's almost comical the steps God had to use to get my attention! It's also incredibly encouraging to look back and realize God was there in it, and really DID have my best interests at heart, then AND now. I've never been happier in my life, and to top it all off, Lese and I have never lacked for anything...God has met all of our needs and even most of our wants! It's as if God is saying, "See, I can do it!"
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
A Whisper from God's Word
The Word of God always has a way of cutting to the heart of the matter. It can shout, it can whisper, but it always makes an impact if we take the time to listen. My favorite verse made its first impact in a whisper from God, but its lasting effects are a daily reminder for me.
“Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10. That’s the Scripture verse that keeps calling me back to a place of solitude and surety when I find myself maxed out and stretched thin. God whispers to me in the midst of the busyness and tells me:
“Be still…” Anyone who knows me could tell you that this is a difficult task for me…and I usually see “stillness” as another task to put into my busy life. But God tells me in these two words… “Be still and I will meet you. “ Being still for me meant that I needed to be able to slow down and really see God – in nature, in my children, at the cross…my stillness, was and still is, a stilling of my heart. “Stillness” isn’t a task to do, it is an opening up of myself to the “quieting” that God does in my busy life.
“…and know that I am God.” When I get caught up in the craziness that is our world, worrying about schedules and timelines and responsibilities, I have to stop and “know that He is God”. There is a surety and strength in God that anchors me when I feel like I’m being tossed in the waves. When I am caught up in the chaoticness of life, God whispers… “know that I am God” and I am drawn into the powerful presence of the One who steadies me. He is God! That is a constant reminder that He has it under control…He knows my life…every detail and He sees how it’s all going to work out…He knows my limitations and needs…He knows my weaknesses and strengths and He looks at it all and says “I am God”. In those three words, God reminds me that He is my strength, my rejuvenation, my sustenance, and solid rock.
Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God." God's whisper from His Word into my busy life. A constant reminder of who God is and if I am willing to still my heart, in quietness, He will meet me and fill and refuel me.
“Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10. That’s the Scripture verse that keeps calling me back to a place of solitude and surety when I find myself maxed out and stretched thin. God whispers to me in the midst of the busyness and tells me:
“Be still…” Anyone who knows me could tell you that this is a difficult task for me…and I usually see “stillness” as another task to put into my busy life. But God tells me in these two words… “Be still and I will meet you. “ Being still for me meant that I needed to be able to slow down and really see God – in nature, in my children, at the cross…my stillness, was and still is, a stilling of my heart. “Stillness” isn’t a task to do, it is an opening up of myself to the “quieting” that God does in my busy life.
“…and know that I am God.” When I get caught up in the craziness that is our world, worrying about schedules and timelines and responsibilities, I have to stop and “know that He is God”. There is a surety and strength in God that anchors me when I feel like I’m being tossed in the waves. When I am caught up in the chaoticness of life, God whispers… “know that I am God” and I am drawn into the powerful presence of the One who steadies me. He is God! That is a constant reminder that He has it under control…He knows my life…every detail and He sees how it’s all going to work out…He knows my limitations and needs…He knows my weaknesses and strengths and He looks at it all and says “I am God”. In those three words, God reminds me that He is my strength, my rejuvenation, my sustenance, and solid rock.
Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God." God's whisper from His Word into my busy life. A constant reminder of who God is and if I am willing to still my heart, in quietness, He will meet me and fill and refuel me.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Prolegomena ... Now there's a word!
I must admit that much of what I "think of" when I hear the word "theology" is tied to my training as a pastor; theology classes, doctrinal papers, ordination councils. As a result, I'm reminded of large text books with big words, lengthy reading assignments and the pressure associated with writing and orally defending my theological positions - i.e. not always the most fun-filled memories and sometimes a little boring (ok, maybe a lot boring)!
That's why I'm so excited about our summer series and the chance we have to deepen our understanding of theology so that we can broaden our understanding of God. As Ben Gores reminded us this past Sunday from a quote by A. W. Tozer; "The most important thing about us is the idea that comes into our head when we think about God." Powerful truth ... and I can't wait to see how the idea I have of God changes and grows this summer.
Having had the privilege of writing and designing the devotional guide (along with Ben and other staff members) I'm already starting to take some practical steps to broaden my view of God. Here's what's helping me ...
*I've put this week's memory verse (Colossians 1:9) as the background for my computer. I am committed to memorizing this verse to remind me that God is "at work filling me with the knowledge of Himself."
*I'm spending time in the devotional guide - and simply asking God to reveal more of Himself to me.
*I'm using my thumb and first finger as visual reminder to look at life through the lens of what the bible says about God - and little by little the space is increasing.
Good theology that helps us know God better is crucial for those who seek to better connect with God and others. That's right! It helps me not only know God better - it also helps me to know people better. Should be a fun summer!!!
Pete Parker
Executive Pastor
Woodcrest Church
That's why I'm so excited about our summer series and the chance we have to deepen our understanding of theology so that we can broaden our understanding of God. As Ben Gores reminded us this past Sunday from a quote by A. W. Tozer; "The most important thing about us is the idea that comes into our head when we think about God." Powerful truth ... and I can't wait to see how the idea I have of God changes and grows this summer.
Having had the privilege of writing and designing the devotional guide (along with Ben and other staff members) I'm already starting to take some practical steps to broaden my view of God. Here's what's helping me ...
*I've put this week's memory verse (Colossians 1:9) as the background for my computer. I am committed to memorizing this verse to remind me that God is "at work filling me with the knowledge of Himself."
*I'm spending time in the devotional guide - and simply asking God to reveal more of Himself to me.
*I'm using my thumb and first finger as visual reminder to look at life through the lens of what the bible says about God - and little by little the space is increasing.
Good theology that helps us know God better is crucial for those who seek to better connect with God and others. That's right! It helps me not only know God better - it also helps me to know people better. Should be a fun summer!!!
Pete Parker
Executive Pastor
Woodcrest Church
Monday, May 18, 2009
Welcome to Theology for Dummies!!
Welcome to the Theology for Dummies Blog!! Throughout history many of the defining moments of the Church have come when great minds came together and engaged in vigorous debate about the nature of God, the divinity of Christ, the role of the Holy Spirit, and so on. In that spirit, this blog is a great tool to use to gain insights from other people and to share your own thoughts as we study important theological issues and challenge ourselves to think more deeply about who God is. Every week a Woodcrest staff member will post their thoughts on the questions found in the summer devotional journal. Please feel free to respond and post your own thoughts in the comments section.
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