As we near the end of another year , thought I would just put down some highlights that come from my personal reflection on the year. As cliched as it is to say , where did the time go ?
Two things that happened in 2011 that were major highlights for me , were 2 events that I really did not think I would see perhaps in my lifetime. The first was back in March , when I traveled to Moncton , New Brunswick to see my all time favorite artist , Steven Curtis Chapman. Truly thinking he would never venture close to my neck of the woods , needless to say I was pumped. It was a great concert . Front row tickets thanks to my oldest son . Truly something I will never forget.
The second thing coming just a couple of months after in June was watching the Boston Bruins defeat the Vancouver Canucks in 7 games to hoist the Stanley cup . As any one can tell you , if one is a hockey fan , you live and die as your team goes . It was an amazing run that included 3 seven game series , a thrilling defeat of the Bruins arch nemesis , Montreal in overtime in the 7th game and defeating the Canucks on their home ice to hold the holy grail of hockey. The house was a rocking that night .
So how could it get better than that you ask ? Simple , it has been 4 years now that my wife has been cancer free. In the grand scheme of things , that is the most important thing in my life , to have my wife whom I treasure , still in my life . For that I thank God for His grace and mercy . To go through life with someone who has been your constant friend and companion through these 27 years has been a true blessing . Best decision I ever made was going on that date my sister set up ( thanks Sis ) .
My sons are now young men . My oldest is in his third year of University . Hard to really fathom that within less than 2 years he will be hopefully making his mark within the business world . My youngest is still searching to figure out what road to travel on . I see in him amazing gifts to write and just pray that he will find the confidence and courage to pursue his dreams. I'm truly proud of them and the men they are becoming.
The year itself had many ups and downs but through it all , God was faithful even when I wasn't . His grace and mercy are truly amazing . So as this year closes and a new one begins here a few of my favorite things from 2011.
Music : Downhere - At The Alter of Love
Jason Gray - A Way to See in The Dark
Steven Curtis Chapman - Re : Creation
Aaron Shust - This is What We Believe
Josh Wilson - See You
Matt Redman - 10000 Reasons
Matt Mahar - The Love in Between
Phil Wickham - Response
New Christmas Albums played the most for 2011 : David Crowder - Oh For Joy , The Getty's - Joy and Matthew West - The Heart of Christmas
Movies : Didn't see very many this year but Thor , Captain America and Rise of the Planet of the Apes were all good . Still looking forward to seeing MI4 , War Horse and Sherlock Holmes.
Books : Michael Horton - The Christian Faith : Systematic Theology for Pilgrims on the Way
Fav Website/Blog : Tim Challies
On a final note I'm truly thankful for my family both blood and Church. May 2012 be one full of God's grace and I pray that He will be proclaimed to the ends of the earth . Nuff said.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Thursday, December 22, 2011
So What is Your Christmas About
This video presentation concerning Christmas and how apart from Jesus , it is a empty and vapid holiday , is excellent. But for those in Christ and celebrating the incarnation , that changes everything . Enjoy.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Christmas Wars
Much has been said lately over the erosion of Christmas . With many adopting Happy Holidays or Season Greetings so as not to offend those of other traditions . Even Christmas specials seem to be the generic love is the meaning of the season , blah,blah ,blah . In schools , Christmas concerts have been changed to winter celebrations or whatever politically correct term they can come up with . So is there a war against Christmas , on the surface the war on Christmas is not on the day . It is more personal .
Yes it is true there is no clear mandate for Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus but as said before , taking in account all the events form the prophecies and expectation , to the joy and worship that came with Jesus arrival , one can infer its a wonderful thing to celebrate the birth of the Savior. So once the Church began to invade the pagan celebrations , although there is evidence that as early as 200 AD - 300 AD , there was a movement to mark the birth of Christ , once Dec 25th was designated the day that Christians would declare Jesus was born to the world , it overtook all pagan traditions and transformed them . Light turned darkness to something amazing .
However with the onslaught of secular humanism within our culture , aggressive atheist , multiculturalism and a general falling away of the Church being the center piece in the community it used to be , Christian holy days have been under attack . But the days are under assault not for the day and all the fun its brings . Our Pastor pointed out this morning people are fine with the day off , the parties , the food , the gifts , the warm and fuzzy its all about love , family but insert the person of Jesus Christ and well , that changes everything .
So if there is a war against Christmas its not with the day , it is with the person of Jesus . The very word Christmas indicates a Christ - mass . A celebration of the the Lord's table within Catholic tradition . So in a way saying Merry Christmas is to invoke worship of Jesus , even if I disagree with Catholics understanding of the mass , it still reveres Jesus . So when someone is trying to erase saying Merry Christmas or take it out of a school concert , its a removal is a clear indication that the day is special because it points to a point in time when God came to earth , clothed himself in flesh as the Son , the second person of the trinity .
Its a personal war not against a day or event or gifts but against the very person of Jesus . One could say the very first attack against Christmas , if you will , happened when Herod had all the boys under 2 put to death in Bethlehem because he was a evil , jealous man who was threatened by the King of Kings . In his desire to remain in power , he wanted to kill this newborn King . God of course had other plans and it was not Jesus time yet to die . Those who wish to put to death Christmas in a sense wish the same as Herod . To be confronted with Jesus will not let a man or woman sit on any fence . But by trying to remove Him , we exult our idols which make us happy and safe . Family , kids , love all those things that try to kill Jesus at this time of year but Jesus cannot be ignored . Just as Herod could not , the world will rail and scream against Jesus but He is the Lord God , He is control not you or me.
If the world hates Christmas or wants to change it , it has to do with our hatred of God's Son . The world hates Christ , the devil and all his demons hate Jesus and we , in our sinful , fallen state are enemies against God. We rage , we will not bow down and worship , we want to live our own way and give the One who we owe our very existence to , no time .
But the beauty and wonderful , amazing , spectacular good news that was announced by the Angels on the hillside outside of Bethlehem is a Savior has come for all mankind . That Jesus , the sinless God-man , came to undo the fall of Adam by living a perfectly obedient life , gave His life on the Cross , took the wrath of God due us and through His blood , His death and resurrection all who repent and believe this good news are reconciled to a God that is holy.
That's what people rail against . Its not the day , but the person of Christ and His gospel . So no question in my mind there is a war , but its not against the generic fuzzy hallmark special Christmas. Its against the sin forgiving , all powerful , incarnate cross baring person of Jesus Christ.
Jesus warned His followers that we should not be surprised at hatred and hostility , " If the world hates you , you know that it has hated Me before it hated you " , John 15:18.
So what should we as Christians do ? Should we get upset at the world , the unbelieving world that they are not joining in , sulk and stamp our feet. Here is my take . Let them rail against the "day" and remove the name and get a hate on , its their natural state . A state we were once in apart from God's grace . So understanding God's grace to towards us , I think the Shepherds in the field some 2000 years ago give us the answer . Use the day as a conversation piece and proclaim the good news of Jesus and the gospel. The Shepherds made haste Luke tells us , went to see Jesus and after that astonishing event , told all who encountered the blessing they had of the Angels announcement and witnessing the Savior .
So sing the carols , give and love , share the good news and know that our joy is Jesus and His love for us . The war was won , when Christ broke forth from the grave on that 3rd day . The battles are still being waged but our King is on the throne reigning till He comes at the second advent. So wish people Merry Christmas , proclaim and give no quarter , light always overcomes darkness .
However with the onslaught of secular humanism within our culture , aggressive atheist , multiculturalism and a general falling away of the Church being the center piece in the community it used to be , Christian holy days have been under attack . But the days are under assault not for the day and all the fun its brings . Our Pastor pointed out this morning people are fine with the day off , the parties , the food , the gifts , the warm and fuzzy its all about love , family but insert the person of Jesus Christ and well , that changes everything .
So if there is a war against Christmas its not with the day , it is with the person of Jesus . The very word Christmas indicates a Christ - mass . A celebration of the the Lord's table within Catholic tradition . So in a way saying Merry Christmas is to invoke worship of Jesus , even if I disagree with Catholics understanding of the mass , it still reveres Jesus . So when someone is trying to erase saying Merry Christmas or take it out of a school concert , its a removal is a clear indication that the day is special because it points to a point in time when God came to earth , clothed himself in flesh as the Son , the second person of the trinity .
Its a personal war not against a day or event or gifts but against the very person of Jesus . One could say the very first attack against Christmas , if you will , happened when Herod had all the boys under 2 put to death in Bethlehem because he was a evil , jealous man who was threatened by the King of Kings . In his desire to remain in power , he wanted to kill this newborn King . God of course had other plans and it was not Jesus time yet to die . Those who wish to put to death Christmas in a sense wish the same as Herod . To be confronted with Jesus will not let a man or woman sit on any fence . But by trying to remove Him , we exult our idols which make us happy and safe . Family , kids , love all those things that try to kill Jesus at this time of year but Jesus cannot be ignored . Just as Herod could not , the world will rail and scream against Jesus but He is the Lord God , He is control not you or me.
If the world hates Christmas or wants to change it , it has to do with our hatred of God's Son . The world hates Christ , the devil and all his demons hate Jesus and we , in our sinful , fallen state are enemies against God. We rage , we will not bow down and worship , we want to live our own way and give the One who we owe our very existence to , no time .
But the beauty and wonderful , amazing , spectacular good news that was announced by the Angels on the hillside outside of Bethlehem is a Savior has come for all mankind . That Jesus , the sinless God-man , came to undo the fall of Adam by living a perfectly obedient life , gave His life on the Cross , took the wrath of God due us and through His blood , His death and resurrection all who repent and believe this good news are reconciled to a God that is holy.
That's what people rail against . Its not the day , but the person of Christ and His gospel . So no question in my mind there is a war , but its not against the generic fuzzy hallmark special Christmas. Its against the sin forgiving , all powerful , incarnate cross baring person of Jesus Christ.
Jesus warned His followers that we should not be surprised at hatred and hostility , " If the world hates you , you know that it has hated Me before it hated you " , John 15:18.
So what should we as Christians do ? Should we get upset at the world , the unbelieving world that they are not joining in , sulk and stamp our feet. Here is my take . Let them rail against the "day" and remove the name and get a hate on , its their natural state . A state we were once in apart from God's grace . So understanding God's grace to towards us , I think the Shepherds in the field some 2000 years ago give us the answer . Use the day as a conversation piece and proclaim the good news of Jesus and the gospel. The Shepherds made haste Luke tells us , went to see Jesus and after that astonishing event , told all who encountered the blessing they had of the Angels announcement and witnessing the Savior .
So sing the carols , give and love , share the good news and know that our joy is Jesus and His love for us . The war was won , when Christ broke forth from the grave on that 3rd day . The battles are still being waged but our King is on the throne reigning till He comes at the second advent. So wish people Merry Christmas , proclaim and give no quarter , light always overcomes darkness .
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
One of My Favorite Stories Concerning Luther
An exchange between Martin Luther and his wife Katharina:
“Once, when Martin was so depressed that none of Kate’s counsel would help, she put on a black dress.
Luther noticed it and asked, ‘Are you going to a funeral?’
‘No,’ Kate replied, ‘but since you act like God is dead, I wanted to join you in your mourning.’
Luther got the message and recovered.”
—Rudolf K. Markwald and Marilynn Morris Markwald, Katharina Von Bora: A Reformation Life (Saint Louis: Concordia Publishing House, 2002), 139-140.A godly wife is such a blessing when it comes to a man who can be "moody" (right dear). This little story has always been one of my favorites concerning Luther and his wife .
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Making Sad Things Untrue
Is everything sad going to come untrue? What's happened to the world.
The Lord of the Rings Sam Wise
The quote from Lord of the Rings really resonants with this compelling story and video about little Dax who was too young to have to say good bye to. As a parent who has watched his boys grow into young men , I'm truly thankful but these stories remind me that the world is not right , that it is broken . This story is not alone . We know from watching the news , reading news on the net or papers, and in our own circle of family and friends , that many this Christmas will be faced with an empty table spot and one less gift under the tree.
We long for sad things coming untrue , as Samwise said. When we hear of the sad stories we want them to come untrue , we want a happy ending.This Christmas as we think of the coming of God's son , entering humanity to undue the curse of sin and death , and make all things sad untrue, may we praise His holy name. Jesus was born to die , on a cross outside Jerusalem to satisfy God righteous judgement against our sin , our rebellion and break the chains of sin and death in His resurrection. Trusting in Him , we pass from death to life, from sitting under sins curse and His wrath , to forgiveness and reconciliation.
It is still true , we will physically die , for all things have not been completed but those who have believed in the message of the gospel have hope of eternal life and not damnation. The first advent has happened and with it God's story is moving towards the conclusion . At the second coming , Jesus Christ will make all things new . Death and sin will be no more and God Himself will wipe the tears from our eyes . Sadness will be no more .
So for little Dax it may have been his last Christmas here but he is in the arms of God with Jesus where no more pain nor the wages of sin have claim on him. One day his Mom and Dad will see him again as they worship the one who makes all sad things come untrue.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Killjoys Go Away !
Now I know many Christians even today will rain on the day , telling us that the 25th wasn't the day , that the scripture doesn't give any clear commands to celebrate Jesus birth , all the pagan traditions that have been absorbed , well you get the picture . The constant barrage is constant and annoying to be honest to someone who loves the day set apart to declare , something amazing had happened , the Messiah has come.
So let me list a few things that I hold that indicated that its not only alright to celebrate the coming of Jesus but that it is a good and wonderful thing to do so .
If a day is to be special , even in culture , announcements are made and signs are posted to let others know that something cool is going to happen. Well going all the way back to Genesis 3 , right after the fall of Adam and Eve , God promises a coming of a Messiah that would redeem and crush the evil ones head. Jumping ahead to Abraham , God promises to make him a nation through one to come , who's descendant will not be able to be counted. The prophet Isaiah tells us a virgin will conceive and bare a son and His name will be wonderful counselor , Mighty God , Everlasting Father , Prince of Peace . Micah promises one who would rule would be born in Bethlehem . There are more promises of the coming of the Messiah but its clear that a major event was being foretold to the people that God was going to do something amazing .
Jumping to the New Testament there is a huge amount of activity . The appearance of Angels to numerous people is astounding . Lets look at them. Zecharias had an Angel appear to him in the temple to tell him Elizabeth would have a son and his name would be John . He would be great in the eyes of the Lord and be the forerunner. Then the Angel Gabriel appears to Mary and announced that she would conceive and bare a Son , by the power of the Holy Spirit , fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah about a virgin conceiving a son. The Shepherds are told of the great news of a Savior born in the city of David ( Bethlehem ) and a multitude of the heavenly host praise God over the birth of Jesus. The Shepherds make haste and go to Bethlehem and see the a babe , telling others of the wonders they had seen . Add into the mix both Simeon and Anna rejoicing over Jesus , all of these events have a celebratory nature . A proclamation of something great , awesome and amazing had occurred.
Then the magi enter into the scene . Having scene "His star " they traveled to find the one who was born King of the Jews so that the could worship Him . How many Magi or wise men there were is never mentioned but we do know they came baring gifts of frankincense , myrrh and gold . In this part of the story we have a major celestial event , a star and a group of wise men who came to worship and give Him gifts.
Consider also the appearance of Angels . Typically they only appeared when something major was about to occur and they are all over the birth of Jesus. Can one read the story of the Shepherds and marvel that perhaps thousands of Angels praise God in unison over this birth. Is that not a celebration.
So stepping back and looking at all the rejoicing , the heralding and the joy of this good news of the Son of God coming , I do not think its a leap to say , to celebrate the birth of Christ is not only a good thing to do but although not explicitly commanded , taking all the promises of Jesus birth and the actual joy over His birth , I believe and hold its the right thing to do .
So to all the naysayers and "humbugs" out there within the flock of God , go back and re read the promises , the fulfillment and see a pattern of expectation and rejoicing when Jesus comes . Christmas is awesome not for family , for kids ,for gifts , for food , for decorations but for who came over 2000 years ago so that sinners like you and me might be reconciled to God . Christmas is a marvelous and amazing story of God showing His love and grace to a fallen world . If you can't celebrate that , then you don't get how awesome the birth of Jesus was.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
A Hard Thing but a Good Thing
Ok , this blog post is going to be very indulgent . Indulgent in my praise and respect I have for my wife . So let me explain .
Since her cancer diagnoses over 4 years ago , I have watched her grow deeper and deeper in her faith that truly amazes me. But not only deeper in her faith and love for Jesus but she has been a tour de force in witnessing and sharing her faith . Its not that she Bible thumps but I have seen her engage others and then enter into dialog with them concerning the truth of the gospel. I still recall her telling a VON nurse that was talking about positive thinking , that she trust in God no matter in life or death because of Jesus . I don't know if Kathy saw the VON's face but it was funny to see her reaction.
In her place of work , since she returned she has has numerous chances to speak the truth in love and respect , sharing the hope that she has . Just the other day she was talking about the biblical teaching on headship and how it is not oppressive . She gives no quarter but is never arrogant , she shows grace and understanding .
But I think what has impressed me the most has been her help and support she is extending to her best friend , who's Mom is nearing the end of her life. This is never a easy thing to walk into a house where its obvious death is closing in on someone . You can feel it and sense it. I recall when my Mom was diagnosed with only a few months to live , many of her so called friends did not even come around. Why? Because they did not want to be faced with their own mortality.
But when you have stared death in the face yourself , have the Lord in your life , it should give you a strength that is alien to you and I have seen my wife filled with the Holy Spirit and given wisdom and compassion. I know its not going to be easy for her , for she has considered her friends Mom a friend as well. But she is doing what a good Christian is called to do , to show love , compassion , to mourn with those who weep . By doing so she is being a witness .
What she is doing is simply the command of our Lord to be salt and light to a world that is in darkness. The world and those around us need to see that light because sometimes this world can be a pretty dark and sad place . But , don't you love that word , in Christ all things change . So a tip of hat to a wife that is putting doctrine into practice .
Since her cancer diagnoses over 4 years ago , I have watched her grow deeper and deeper in her faith that truly amazes me. But not only deeper in her faith and love for Jesus but she has been a tour de force in witnessing and sharing her faith . Its not that she Bible thumps but I have seen her engage others and then enter into dialog with them concerning the truth of the gospel. I still recall her telling a VON nurse that was talking about positive thinking , that she trust in God no matter in life or death because of Jesus . I don't know if Kathy saw the VON's face but it was funny to see her reaction.
In her place of work , since she returned she has has numerous chances to speak the truth in love and respect , sharing the hope that she has . Just the other day she was talking about the biblical teaching on headship and how it is not oppressive . She gives no quarter but is never arrogant , she shows grace and understanding .
But I think what has impressed me the most has been her help and support she is extending to her best friend , who's Mom is nearing the end of her life. This is never a easy thing to walk into a house where its obvious death is closing in on someone . You can feel it and sense it. I recall when my Mom was diagnosed with only a few months to live , many of her so called friends did not even come around. Why? Because they did not want to be faced with their own mortality.
But when you have stared death in the face yourself , have the Lord in your life , it should give you a strength that is alien to you and I have seen my wife filled with the Holy Spirit and given wisdom and compassion. I know its not going to be easy for her , for she has considered her friends Mom a friend as well. But she is doing what a good Christian is called to do , to show love , compassion , to mourn with those who weep . By doing so she is being a witness .
What she is doing is simply the command of our Lord to be salt and light to a world that is in darkness. The world and those around us need to see that light because sometimes this world can be a pretty dark and sad place . But , don't you love that word , in Christ all things change . So a tip of hat to a wife that is putting doctrine into practice .
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Carols , Decorating and 18 Days
Last year I was late getting to watch the numerous Christmas Carols that have been made over the years. This year I have made it a silent pack to myself to watch them all before Christmas. Each one has some scenes that I really love. The only one I do not like very much is the musical ones and the comedy featuring Bill Murray. It just didn't work for me . So we started with my youngest son's favorite starring Patrick Stewart. It is one of the most faithful to the book and Stewart captures the meanness and cold heart nature of Scrooge very well. The cast is stellar and it has numerous scenes that really stick out.So one down and 4 to go.
Today I hope to get the tree. It has been a tradition to take the boys with me and let them choose , fortunately , Jordan ( the youngest ) always had a decent eye . Now that they are older , Jacob ( the oldest and in his 3rd year of University) will just let Jord do his magic. As the boys near the day they will leave our house , each Christmas is very special to me . I savor them and Lord willing hope one day they will have grand children to fill my house at Christmas time.
So now that its only 18 days away I remind myself that no matter if there is snow or not , the blessing of Christmas is wrapped up in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Recently had a very short conversation with someone who was debating to even put up a tree or buy gifts etc... why? Because their kids are all working on Christmas day and they have no need for anything. After saying I look forward to Christmas no matter what , I wished him a merry Christmas and left. After leaving it saddened me to think how many think this way .
The truth of the matter without one celebrating the birth of Jesus , God in that stable , why really continue to partake in the day. Yes I know the pagans say we "stole" their traditions , get over it. For when ever God touches the ordinary He transforms it. If Christians didn't start to go against the pagan celebrations . would we even have special day in December . Let me tell you emphatically not.
So I will continue to enjoy and celebrate Christmas , taking the traditions borrowed and transformed for Christ and no matter how old I get , I will play carols , buy gifts , put up a real tree ,use some mistletoe to kiss my lovely wife hang decorations and enjoy the day that commemorates when the Savior came to save sinners like me. What is not to celebrate and tell the world that good news.
Today I hope to get the tree. It has been a tradition to take the boys with me and let them choose , fortunately , Jordan ( the youngest ) always had a decent eye . Now that they are older , Jacob ( the oldest and in his 3rd year of University) will just let Jord do his magic. As the boys near the day they will leave our house , each Christmas is very special to me . I savor them and Lord willing hope one day they will have grand children to fill my house at Christmas time.
So now that its only 18 days away I remind myself that no matter if there is snow or not , the blessing of Christmas is wrapped up in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Recently had a very short conversation with someone who was debating to even put up a tree or buy gifts etc... why? Because their kids are all working on Christmas day and they have no need for anything. After saying I look forward to Christmas no matter what , I wished him a merry Christmas and left. After leaving it saddened me to think how many think this way .
The truth of the matter without one celebrating the birth of Jesus , God in that stable , why really continue to partake in the day. Yes I know the pagans say we "stole" their traditions , get over it. For when ever God touches the ordinary He transforms it. If Christians didn't start to go against the pagan celebrations . would we even have special day in December . Let me tell you emphatically not.
So I will continue to enjoy and celebrate Christmas , taking the traditions borrowed and transformed for Christ and no matter how old I get , I will play carols , buy gifts , put up a real tree ,use some mistletoe to kiss my lovely wife hang decorations and enjoy the day that commemorates when the Savior came to save sinners like me. What is not to celebrate and tell the world that good news.
Good news from heaven the angels bring,
Glad tidings to the earth they sing:
To us this day a child is given,
To crown us with the joy of heaven.
~ Martin Luther
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Celebrating the Birth of Christ
Feature Song Christmas Like a Child - Third day
When your a little kid , the wonder of Christmas is ever present. The specials on TV , the tree trimming , the build up to presents but once one gets older , it can lose its wonder . But the wonder of Christmas doesn't have to diminish or go away if we worship the one who came . To comprehend that the God who created the universe entered into this world as a baby that amazing night should leave one overwhelmed with awe . Does its , it should . So whenever I listen to this song by Third Day , I remind myself what Jesus said , that unless one comes as a little child , one will not see the kingdom of God.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Don't Get The Problem
Over the last little while I have read numerous blogs,articles concerning what the Church main task should be in this world. While it is true , some have emphasized a social gospel over the cross and preaching Christ to confusing good works as the primary force , I don't get the struggle.
Perhaps its because I do not have the mental capacity to think this through but the tension between keeping the gospel the main thing , discipleship inside the Church and at the same time calling them to do good works ,share what they have . love one another , love your neighbor is not something that seems that hard to do. The two do not function against each other but one is powered by the other.
The call of the gospel and proclaiming Jesus Christ , His life ,death and resurrection must be of the first order. The urgency to call sinners to repent and be saved from the wrath of God to come has to be the first order message of any true Church. The next step is the matter of preaching the word and feeding the flock so that they move unto to maturity and holiness . To grow in doctrine and be firm in the faith.
That is what gives the engine steam to move to the second stage as I see it.Not just playing lip service but actual works. It could be very simple things from helping someone carrying groceries , shoveling , to donating to a food bank , sponsoring a child , giving time to a friend or neighbor in need , loving your family etc. If one has means what is the mandate of scripture to hoard it , to buy bigger better and take it to your grave . No , one will be hard pressed to read scripture and not be hammered over the head about giving , sharing and helping. Yes its true , one must and should work , keep oneself from being idle and seek not to be a burden but in this fallen , sinful broken world sometimes things happen and people need more than just empty prayers.
The truth is if one calls oneself a Christian and has no works to validate that claim , then you are speaking empty words. For if one truly knows Jesus and the gospel , it cannot help but change you . If your heart is not prone to giving , to sharing , to loving , to forgiving the take a close look in the mirror.
So why all the confusion . The Church needs to about making disciples and being a light on the hill to a world that is consumed with self and greed .
Perhaps its because I do not have the mental capacity to think this through but the tension between keeping the gospel the main thing , discipleship inside the Church and at the same time calling them to do good works ,share what they have . love one another , love your neighbor is not something that seems that hard to do. The two do not function against each other but one is powered by the other.
The call of the gospel and proclaiming Jesus Christ , His life ,death and resurrection must be of the first order. The urgency to call sinners to repent and be saved from the wrath of God to come has to be the first order message of any true Church. The next step is the matter of preaching the word and feeding the flock so that they move unto to maturity and holiness . To grow in doctrine and be firm in the faith.
That is what gives the engine steam to move to the second stage as I see it.Not just playing lip service but actual works. It could be very simple things from helping someone carrying groceries , shoveling , to donating to a food bank , sponsoring a child , giving time to a friend or neighbor in need , loving your family etc. If one has means what is the mandate of scripture to hoard it , to buy bigger better and take it to your grave . No , one will be hard pressed to read scripture and not be hammered over the head about giving , sharing and helping. Yes its true , one must and should work , keep oneself from being idle and seek not to be a burden but in this fallen , sinful broken world sometimes things happen and people need more than just empty prayers.
The truth is if one calls oneself a Christian and has no works to validate that claim , then you are speaking empty words. For if one truly knows Jesus and the gospel , it cannot help but change you . If your heart is not prone to giving , to sharing , to loving , to forgiving the take a close look in the mirror.
So why all the confusion . The Church needs to about making disciples and being a light on the hill to a world that is consumed with self and greed .
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Featured Song by Matthew west
Featured song. Over the next couple of weeks I will feature a song about Christmas . Most will be new songs and I hope they will speak to you as we prepare to sing God's praises this holy season.
Matthew West - Day After Christmas
This song is so true . Jesus doesn't get packed away like tinsel or garland . He is alive , He is Lord , He is King , He is the same yesterday, today and forever. He is with us now . He is coming again and one day we will see Him face to face . So remember that the day after is just as full of Christ presence as any day . So may we reflect this truth and may Christmas just remind us that one day , when all things are made new when Jesus comes again and God dwells with us forever , it will be Christmas everyday , but better.
Its Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas
Dec 1st , which means the real countdown begins to Christmas day . Since I'm what they say , between jobs in this politically correct world , I will be handling , along with my youngest son , Jordan , the decor of the house. My lovely wife will have veto if we go too gaudy , but we will attempt not to .
Its something that I truly look forward to . Most men are so Scrooges when it comes to Christmas but not me . My wife calls me "Mr.Christmas" and its true. I love the music . I love the Lights , I love being on Christmas day with family and most importantly I love the Lord Jesus Christ and what he came to do on my behalf.
So hopefully over the next week or so I will post some pics of our decorating ability. I will not let the commercialization of Christmas ruin my Christmas as Charlie Brown said, to that I say AMEN!
Its something that I truly look forward to . Most men are so Scrooges when it comes to Christmas but not me . My wife calls me "Mr.Christmas" and its true. I love the music . I love the Lights , I love being on Christmas day with family and most importantly I love the Lord Jesus Christ and what he came to do on my behalf.
So hopefully over the next week or so I will post some pics of our decorating ability. I will not let the commercialization of Christmas ruin my Christmas as Charlie Brown said, to that I say AMEN!
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