We are family

Good enough

2011-11-05T07:51:00.000-07:00

I have been reading "Spiritual Depression" by D.Martyn Lloyd-Jones. I'm into the 2ndchapter. The first chapter made a first address of the problem by looking atPsalm 43:5 where the writer of the Psalm questions himself: "Why art thoucast down, O my Soul?" The essence of this statement and the applicationto our lives is 'Do we speak to ourselves? Do we allow ourselves and/or ourself talk to say things about ourselves that are not true. We must first learn to speak to ourselvesrather than let ourselves speak to us. We must be handled.

In the 2nd chapter, Lloyd-Jones states that before goingfurther we must first understand that man is a sinner, incapable of savinghimself. Jesus completely fulfilled the Law on this earth. As a sinner, man's sins must be punished.But, as a sinner man has no hope of justifying himself on his own. By Jesusfulfilling the Law he satisfied the Law. Jesus kept the law. Jesus obeyed it. And Jesus bore the penalty of it by his deathon the cross and then resurrection.

Our response is to see our need. We are to confess our needthat we can not save ourselves because we are sinners first. And sinners can'tsave themselves. If we confess it, God will give us His own Son'srighteousness. God imputes God'srighteousness to us when we declare to God that we need it. Then God declaresus as righteous. He declares us to be righteous in Him.

This is what it means to be justified by faith.

In his discourse and explanation, Lloyd-Jones makes thecomment that men and women often believe they are not good enough. He statesthat individuals are often not ready to be called a Christian because of abelief that they are not yet good enough. Lloyd-Jones is stating that people are still ingrained with the beliefthat before coming to Christ we must be good enough. This sermon of his was delivered in the early1960's in London.My guess is that at this time people saw themselves as "not goodenough."

In my conversations with people, the overriding sentiment Ihear from people now is instead, "I'm good enough." And by being good enough they already thinkthey have Christ or they think being "good enough" is the means inwhich they win the After-Life Lottery. I see this as I take people through the10 commandments and often they respond that they really haven't done anythingwrong or if they have they are not unlike anyone else.

It is an interesting dichotomy.

I think the secret here is the clear presentation of theGospel to people and the repetitive presentation of the Gospel to people.People need to hear that one sin makes them imperfect and that God can onlyaccept the complete fulfillment of the Law and not just a partial fulfillment.A partial fulfillment would then give rise to boasting. Many churches today andbeliefs state that they are the true church and in so doing they put forth theidea that allegiance or alignment to a church renders acceptance by God. But,this is not complete allegiance to Christ. This is partial. "You have torest exclusively upon the Lord Jesus Christ and His perfect work."Anything else, is partial.

In the words of the hymn:

I dare not trust my sweetest frame,

But wholly lean on Jesu's Name.

Family Picture from Easter 2011

2011-08-12T14:25:00.003-07:00

This is outside Heritage Christian Fellowship where my oldest son attends with my brother T and his family. Left to right is Pamela (42), Derek (10), Chris (43), Tyson (15), and Megan (13).

What are you?

2011-08-12T14:16:00.002-07:00

Do you ever get this question?

I was at the mall the other day sharing with someone. (A friend and I venture to the mall on Wednesday nights to strike up spiritual conversations with people.) We asked him what church he went to and then he goes, "What are you?" And suddenly I found myself wondering how I was going to answer that question besides the sarcastic "human" response.

25 years ago I would have said, "Christian." But, can I really say "Christian" these days when the LDS church is currently on a drive to align themselves with the label, "Christian." So, if it's not Christian then it seems to be a myriad of titles like

Follower of Christ
Disciple of Christ
Orthodox Christian (though I don't what that means)
Fundamentalist (yet I remember my college Baylor had a lot of problems with fundamentalists)
Baptist (this rarely works because now it sounds like I'm siding with a particular religious group)

I guess in our "have it your way" world that's what has become of a single question. I don't care, I'm saying, "Christian."

Promises First

2010-04-01T11:45:00.003-07:00

I started reading Joshua today, having just finished Deuteronomy. I'm taking it slow. In the first chapter of Joshua the Lord speaks to Joshua and is passing the baton of leadership onto Joshua as Moses has died. He tells him that he should lead the people to cross the Jordan and possess the land the Lord has given them.

The Lord gives the People these promises:
- I will be with you
- I will not fail you
- I will not forsake you

And then he tells them their response:
- Be strong and courageous
- Be careful to do according to the Law
- Don't let the law depart from your mouth
- Do not tremble
- Do not be dismayed

Get this: The promise comes before the response. What I don't see is something we must do in order to receive a blessing.

This is significant because as we walk in life we are often trained by the notion that if you want something then you need to first do something good.

As students in school we are given good grades after doing good work. As employees, we receive our pay after we have performed our jobs. In sports, the trophies are given to those who perform at the highest level. So life is training us to first perform and then you will see your reward.

But, not so with God. He gives a reward first and then in response to His gift we obey Him. The command is for protection and not a condition for a prize.

So, how does a person access this reward? Ephesians 2:8-9 says, "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God; not a result of works, so that no one may boast."

To get the gift, we must receive it. We must renounce the way we have been taught by the world. Instead of doing good things and making sure our good outweighs our bad in order to get a reward, we must instead say, "not my will, not my way, but your way O God. I will trust you."

The Turning

2008-12-31T16:39:00.000-07:00

Last day of 2008. I appreciate the new year for it is a chance to revisit priorities and determine what matters most and what will matter most this coming year. And yet where to start in this re-evaluation and re-determined approach to life is a challenge.

We were in Grand Junction for Christmas (Dec. 24th - Dec. 29th). It was a great time together. Great fellowship. Great food. It's always nice to retreat from life and reaffirm those things that matter most. I'm very grateful for in-laws that open their home and don't mind taking care of us all. And let us just take it easy to re-energize our lives.

December 28th we went to Redlands Community Church there in Grand Junction. This is my wife's parents church. I always enjoy going because the worship is intimate (Piano, 2 guitars, Drums) and three singers. The song selection is familiar to me and yet I can tell it is somewhat new to those attending, at least a few of the songs. It's familiar often because I'm up on the latest tunes. I always love singing new songs (Psalm 40). The size is quaint. Just enough for the regular attender to still meet new people and yet not so big that you feel like you could get lost. The pastor--Joe Gross--is very conversational in his delivery as he exposits the Word (verse by verse).

On Sunday, he spoke from Hebrews 5:11-14. A familiar passage and yet one, I'm guessing, I hadn't read in several years. He didn't read the text, though he covered every line and word. The giest of the message was, "Are you still an infant in your faith or have you moved onto meat of God's teaching and words?" That's the high level look at the text. Along the way, he mentioned some interesting thoughts, one was whether or not we find ourselves living on milk still. He made the remark that milk is a pre-digested food which he meant to say that many disciples are still in the mode of milk-learning or learning from another (i.e. sitting and listening to someone else's quiet time observations from their study of the Bible, like in a sunday school lesson or a sermon). Thus, the challenge is how many of us are actually involved in bible reading on our own and experiencing God through the reading of His word? Or are we conditioned now to just listen to the reading of the word?

Since September 15th, I've started a Bible reading plan. Initially, I followed the rote read the Bible in a year plan. However, recently, as I've started through I Samuel I've started seeing that my reading has become a ritual versus a quest for engaging with My savior and understanding His Words. So, I've started taking notes and in that process, I'm currently way behind on the yearly plan. And yet I sense my understanding of it has expanded.

This moves me to my second observation which is found in verse 14. My favorite verse over the past several years has been I Timothy 4:7-8, "Train yourself for Godliness. For physical training has some value, but godliness has value for all things." Verse 14 of Hebrews 5 has the same sentiment, "But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil." Once again, the reminder is Read the Book.

As I turn the year, my prayer is that the new year will include time training myself in God's word so that I can more clearly distinguish good and evil. There are so many choices available for how I spend my time. In addition, as I train myself, I want to train my family. And yet my confidence in carrying this out is not real high. Changing myself is easier that affecting change in others.

No money...no really

2008-12-11T15:41:00.002-07:00

I'm a little behind on my news. Its what I get for not watching the news nor do I read the paper. But, I do get some emails about various news articles. I'm just behind.

This is a good article. Governors Against State Bailouts

A couple of noteworthy lines:

Take for example the proposed Big Three auto-maker bailout. We think it's very telling that each of the three CEO's flew on their own private jets to Washington to ask for a taxpayer handout. No amount of taxpayer largess could fix a business culture so fundamentally flawed.

To an unprecedented degree, government is currently picking winners and losers in the private marketplace, and throwing good money after bad. A prudent investor takes money from low-yield investments and puts them in those that yield better returns. Recent government intervention is doing the opposite -- taking capital generated from productive activities and throwing it at enterprises that in many cases need to reorganize their business model.

Borrowing money to "solve" a problem created by too much debt seems odd.

That last one is just a good principle to live by.

Looking out

2008-10-21T10:04:00.002-07:00

Since it is called "we are family" I thought I'd post one of our latest family pics. This is on top of Sandia Mountains in August. You can see Albuquerque there in the background. Note: We had been walking in the rain up on top of the mountain for over a mile so you can understand why someone's hair might not be as full as it normally is.

Science

2008-09-30T10:58:00.002-07:00

We started going to a new church about 18 months ago and I've been waiting to see where God would have me serve. A couple of months ago, a need came up in the Youth Sunday school hour to help out with 7th grade boys. I thought this would be a good time to get involved. We have 12 boys in our class. Me and another gentleman tag team in working with these boys for about 25 minutes per week.

Its been a crazy transition as these boys are quite unruly. There is a mix of educational backgrounds: about 1/3rd are home schooled, 1/3rd go to Christian schools, and 1/3rd go to public schools. For the most part, behaviorally, I don't see any difference between the home schooled, Christian school, and public school kids. Many of the kids have been church-ified most of their life, so they know most answers to the questions. But, my challenge with them and with anyone is to go beyond the text and doctrine and get into application. They all struggle seeing the big picture, so I understand it is going to be a process of re-training them (I Timothy 4:7-8).

Prior to getting to our time, they have gone to a worship time lasting about 10 minutes with all the other youth and then had a short devotional by the middle school pastor which last about 20 minutes. They get to us thinking it should last about 15-20 minutes.

However, our sessions have been lasting 25-30 minutes. Now, I'm sure those reading this are thinking, "Wow, that is awesome. You must be getting into some great conversations with them."

Well actually, to be honest, at this point in the training process, I'm just trying to see them get through the basic information I have to present. And that info comprises about 5 minutes of talking. The problem is that I spend another 30 minutes with them because most of the time is spent on crowd control.

I've gotten all of them Bibles. The first class I think 2 had a Bible. So, we now have everyone with a Bible and we read several verses and passages in class. We go over ground rules of "Only one person speaks at a time" and disruptive kids sit on the outer edge of our big room. Naturally, they see isolation as a reward and completely ignore the 1 person at a time speaking, so it continues to be a challenge to selectively discipline.

This past week we were talking about the surrendering your life; that you can't truly live until you surrender. The mid school pastor did a nice presentation. I then asked them in our small group time, what was the one key word that was said in the large group presentation? It starts with an "S."

One of the boys said, "Science?"

I tell you, I busted up laughing at that and had trouble getting serious after that. Another kid said "Solomon." I was trying to get them to say "Surrender."

There was another boy who in the middle of me talking, interrupts and says, "Is it time to leave?" I said, "Let me give you a clue. At the end is a prayer, when you hear me talk about 'closing in prayer,' then you can be ready to leave." Just amazing to me these kids. I know they can be a good. They are just not trained to be good in this setting, I believe.

Overall, though, it is a fun time with them. There are 2 or 3 that are totally uninterested and are constantly searching for ways to distract themselves or the class. At the end of October, we are having a "disciple now" weekend where I will spend a whole weekend with them at someone's house teaching them.

I hope we can have some individual time. I can't help but think that many of them are partly uninterested because they don't have a relationship with Jesus. And so are just being sent "through the motions." So, I guess they are representative of the church as a whole.

Good times.

Marching on.

Lord, You choose for me

2008-07-30T15:22:00.005-07:00

Within the last 3 months, 2 rather popular christian leaders have experienced the death of a child.

Greg Laurie's son, Christopher, 34, died in a car crash this past week, July 24, 2008. Steven Curtis Chapman's daughter, Maria Sue Chapman, 5, died in May from an incident at their home also involving an automobile. I watched the Maria Chapman family memorial service and was greatly encouraged and inspired by the manner in which the family laughed, smiled, and continued to sing praises to God, in spite of this loss.

I just heard Greg Laurie give a speech at his church this past Sunday, just 3 days after the loss of his son, and he offered these words regarding the loss of his son. He started off by saying, "I couldn't think of any place I'd rather be today than at church, worshiping the Lord."

Then later said "I've said, 'Lord, you choose for me' and He made this choice. And I say, "He does all things well. And I give glory to God. If I could, I'd have him (my son) back in a moment. I want to put my arms around him; there are things I want to say to him, but I'll see him again."

Lord, You choose for me.

Every one we see, He has made. His timing is always perfect. He is to praised...no matter what.

Cool Covers

2008-06-25T10:21:00.022-07:00

I don't think it is a surprise to anyone that I love music and have probably way too much music to my name.

Lately, I've been listening to White Heart's 1986 release, "Don't Wait for the Movie" when I noticed what a great cover this album had. {I understand album is an archaic term and my kids, if they read this, are wondering what I'm talking about; album is the same as CD cover.) Here is a sample of a few covers I have always admired.

Here is another White Heart, "Vital Signs." Sure, they put themselves on the cover, but at least its clever and they still tied the title into the shot.

Petra generally had great album covers. My favorites are here: "Never Say Die" and "More Power to Ya."

Isn't this better than just some cool shot of the band.

Steve Taylor did some nice covers and these are two I like. "I Want to Be a Clone" and "Meltdown."

The Meltdown cover is obviously very simple and yet I'm drawn to the colors.

Michael Roe and the 77s are showcased below. 77s are one of my favorite bands, though I tend to primarily like their 1st 3 albums.

That said, Here is "Drowning with Land in Sight"

The highly controversial (at the time) "Pray Naked." Interesting choice on the naked representatives for the cover shot.

And "Sticks and Stones" although the album title and the cover have nothing to do with one another.

Prodigal had some good covers in their short 3 album history. Here is Self-titled, Electric Eye, and Just Like Real Life.

I wish this would have been the whole album cover rather than just an inset picture.

Of course, there are times when a cover is good simply because that particular album is just great music.

Chris Tomlin, "Arriving." Again, simple tie-in to the project title.

Caedmon's Call, "Back Home."

Skillet, "Comatose." By the way, if you don't have this CD, run, don't walk to get it.

Here is probably my favorite cover so far. Thousand Foot Krutch, "Phenomenom."

Well, I'll have to revisit this at another time. As a plethora of covers have been left out. Where is a nice pic of Sweet Comfort Band's "Cutting Edge?"

Also, if anyone is confused on WHAT I THINK A BAD COVER is. Here is a prime example.

Actually, bad is too kind of a word to describe this cover.

3 Year History

2008-06-07T17:38:00.025-07:00

(Above/Below) 40th Birthday Party - Chris 2007.09.04; Above is Tyson with Fred & Mac and Jesse Turley; Below is Eddie Collins with T. Payton (My 38 year old brother).

Above: Jeff Rose and Nobody Special; Below - Tyson's 12th Birthday with Hunter looking on

Above - Balloon Fiesta 2007 or at least one balloon; Below - The fam' in Colorado - Summer 2007

Above - Tyson, Megan, Derek with Janice and Walt; Below - Tyson's first day of 6th grade

Above - Walking to the bus; The 40th Cake is below that Pamela designed and made

Above - Another cake wonder by Pamela, this time Derek's 7th Birthday - 2008.2.18 and me and the mrs on Easter 2008

Above - The Proud Son; Below - Derek starts swinging with Little League - Around May 2008

Derek the catcher; And one of Derek's friends

Another friend and four more (Austin, Cameron, Derek, Noah)

Derek and Noah at Putt-Putt (derek's 7th birthday bash); Below is Christmas 2007 at T's with my Dad, Brooke and T --- (Don't you love how these pictures are in no order at all; Just be happy you are seeing anything at all.)

Christmas Party (Above) - T's Brooke and Andrew; Karla and Rick Metz; Below- My other rib

(Above) - Fred is practicing patience; (Below) T.

(Above) - Tyson at a Band Concert - Winter 2007; (Below) - Christmas 2007 - MJ, D, Ty-Guy

(above) - Megan shows off a gift; (Below) Megan and Grammy (Becky)

(Above) - Noah and Tyson; (Below) - Derek and a school pageant

(Above) Derek as ... Turkey Lurkey; (Below) Megan's 7th Birthday Party 2007.07.15

Providence

2008-03-02T08:04:00.003-07:00

Over the last couple of months I've been ending my prayers each day with the following proclamation.

"Lord, I submit to You on this day and accept Your providence for my life."

I find that often the reason for the sins of my life is that I'm not accepting of what God has provided and instead I want to take control of situations.

God has provided me with a beautiful, caring, understanding wife that works hard for our family and desires to glorify God in her life. Period.
God has provided me with children that are healthy and enjoy being kids and willingly go to church. Period.
God has provided with us a nice home on a nice quiet street with friends nearby. Period.
God has provided me with everything that we need. Period.

I praise God for who He is and I praise God for what he has done.

Period.

I came across this in my reading this morning.

Psalm 127:2
It is vain for you to rise up early,
To retire late,
To eat the bread of painful labors;
For He gives to His beloved even in his sleep.

I think so often that all my hard work, my long hours is what needs to occur in order for us to have what we need. And God reminds me to go to sleep. He reminds me again that He gives and He blesses when I'm willing to simply drop my hands, look up, and allow Him to be the active agent.

Don't turn the corner and expect something more.

Submit and Accept His Providence and You will see that it is actually what you need.

Listen and listen again.

2007-12-31T08:25:00.001-07:00

Wow. I read this last Thursday and isn't it always just incredible to come across new truths in the Word that you've never seen before. I read them and go, "Wow. I love that this is in the Word." It's a great reminder.

Job 33:14-18

For God speaks again and again, though people do not recognize it. He speaks in dreams, in visions of the night, when deep sleep falls on people as they lie in their beds. He whispers in their ears and terrifies them with warnings. He makes them turn from doing wrong, he keeps them from pride. He protects them from the grave, from crossing over the river of death."

What hits me hard is God is speaking to me constantly. And I know I'm not listening nor responding a whole lot. I'm working on it more.

Anyway, enjoy His word each day.

My Greatest Gifts

2007-12-20T06:21:00.000-07:00

Just to be clear as we approach Christmas day. God's hand of providence is abundant in my life. He is all and I celebrate Jesus' life and his gift of life to me. And each day he reminds me of His great love for me as I get to be a major player in the lives of these people. Thank you Jesus.

This is my beautiful wife Pamela. We have been married now for 16 years. I'm truly blessed to have her in my life. 17 years ago I fell in love with her simply by sitting down at Furr's Cafeteria and listening to her talk in an animated and delightful way. Nothing has changed. I love to listen to her. Psalm 37:23 says, "The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives." Pamela is a delight to me.

This is my oldest son, Tyson. He's 12 years old and began 6th grade this year. Its been a bumpy ride in his inaugural year of middle school, but he continues to persevere and work hard. He's discovering though that life isn't fair. Hard work doesn't always yield good times. He continues to amaze me on the soccer field. He is becoming a standout on his teams. When I played soccer as a kid I hung out on defense because I was more apt to wait for players to come to me. Tyson's coach can call on him to play any position and he plays each one well, even goalie. He's had some amazing saves this past season. He continues to make great strides in his saxophone playing. He is in Intermediate band and Beginning Jazz. Very proud of him playing a solo at the concert this month. But of everything, I treasure most his great and caring personality and wonderful smile. I continue to enjoy getting to know him.

This is Megan, the other beautiful girl in the family. For some reason Megan and I have had a sandpaper relationship over the years, but this past year things have been different. I honestly believe she's becoming daddy's princess. I'm honored. I love her hugs and the way she looks up at me for a kiss on the forehead. Going shopping with her, to breakfast together, and staying at her dance classes (instead of just dropping her off) have created great memories. She is enjoying her 5th grade status at school. She continues to be the friend everyone wants. I continue to enjoy coaching her soccer team. She is my go to girl for defense when we need to shut someone down or protect our lead. I love Megan.

This is Mr. D. That's Derek to you. Sure I miss the running hugs into my legs when I come home from work each day, but that has just been replaced with me running to him for a hug. There's something special about still being able to pick up and hold your child. He continues to be all boy. He's tough. A bruiser. I started coaching him as well this year in soccer and he's got that tenacity on the field that we all love. He's followed Tyson on his skateboard and at 6, is already becoming quite good on the board. We enjoy his loudness, most of the time. He even reads loud (as I've enjoyed working with him at night on this). This picture is when he had teeth. Currently, he has nothing up front which produces comical enunciations. Don't change D.

So, this is what its all about. I'm thrilled that everyone got my wife's beautiful smile. Merry Christmas crew. I'm really looking forward to the future. Thanks for bringing me along.

Willow Creek Assessment

2007-11-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

I need something to add to my blog. This is a response I put forth on Lance's blog regarding the Willow Creek Performance Report. It's still got me thinking and concerned about what the church calls church.

First of all, I appreciate WC and their honesty and frank talk on this subject. Its refreshing for a church to honestly speak of their perceived mission. At the same time, I think we as disciples need to be very careful as to what this church is saying, reporting, and proposing. It seems disheartening to hear WC say that their mistake or the results from their survey are consistent with the other churches they have surveyed. I guess I'm saddened that the church is looking more like a business and looking less and less "not of this world."

A couple of things I heard Hybels say, "We should have taught people to read their Bibles between services."

He mentions the idea that people need to be self-feeders. His remark is that as people mature in their faith, they want the church to feed them more.

He then remarks that people need to be "coached" using "customized spiritual growth plans."

Wow. This is sad. This church continues to think that they are the answer. I really have to be honest here but I'm really concerned these days that the church is trying to play God. And not only the church, but many that support the church as well. I'm referring to christian book sellers and the publishing companies as well. Churches have trained people in the idea that nourishment is acquired at church or acquired by reading a book.

Hebrews 10:24-25, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
I John 3:18, "Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth."

If people in the church are not active in their faith and their spiritual life has just become a part of their life like their job, their school, their recreation, their family time---then something is really wrong. And my concern is that the church is made up of people that know the right answers, but are not reading God's love letters to them and therefore, are not living His words throughout their lives. Thus, we have a church full of false converts. Who have come to Christ for the wrong reasons.

Church, open up God's letters and read them. And then you will pray. You will then repeat this not because you are following a customized spiritual growth plan, but because the Spirit is confirming your faith and you are moved to greater devotion. And we will walk away Praising God not elevating a church and its fantastic work.

WC's assessment confirms more and more my feeling that God and His Word are not people's oasis, but rather their last resort. And people have misrepresented the Church expecting it to do what only the Holy Spirit is capable of doing: change hearts.

Lance, I think your questions are right on. Church is too complex. And yet we are avoiding the central truths: Love God. Love One Another. (How can you love your neighbor and yet never ask him where he is going when he dies? How can you love God and yet not read His words?) Once again, its no different from the activities in our lives (work, play, food); we are trying to please everyone. God never promised a happy and problem-free life. Peace doesn't mean tons of worldly blessings. There is a lot of pain in being a disciple. Just ask the disciples. I mean, how many died of natural causes?

Which choice will it be

2007-10-12T15:41:00.000-07:00

A friend outlined the first part of Charles Colson's book, "How Now Should we Live".

My thoughts:

There is a quote where he says: "Only love changes human behavior...Only love can overcome sinful self-centeredness."

We must understand opposing views as total life systems and then "take our stand in a life system of equally comprehensive and far-reaching power."

Looks like a good book to review only if there is a corresponding application of the words we read. Two choices stare at me.

(1) We read the Word, books and then "take our stand."

(2) We stay home and watch TV and do whatever else we want to.

Going to church and yet having no change in my daily life is just not working anymore. It’s a charade. How is going to church and doing nothing different from me getting on the web and surfing for porn? Help me out with this one. I'm not saying I must see results. What I think I see is the need to be Abraham and tell God, "Yes, I will go build an altar and place my son on it." If we think about it long enough we have fear. Abraham just did it. He had no reason to not trust God. Yet, I continue to submit to fear.

Here's the message: If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? - I John 3:17

Romans 7:19-20 (NASB)

19 For the good that I want, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want.

20 But if I am doing the very thing I do not want, I am no longer the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me.

How much longer do I continue to throw down excuses for not following Matthew 28:19-20?

READ IT

2007-10-03T09:45:00.000-07:00

While reading through an article today in one of my business journals associated with my job, I came across something of interest.

This is from ICMA Public Management Magazine, September 2007, page 22.

"There's too much evidence. With hundreds of English-languauge magazines and journals devoted to business and management issues, dozens of business newspapers, roughly 30,000 business books in print and thousands more being published every year, and the Web-based outlets for business knowledge continuing to expand (ranging from online versions of Fortune and the Wall Street Journal to specialized sites like hr.com and Gantthead.com), it is fair to say that there is simply too much information for any manager to consume."

Choices abound. Everywhere you turn, whether you are looking or not, there are multiple information points that are assaulting you.

Think about it.

With the internet now, there is a plethora of information. Very little is new. Most is recycled. This blog that you are reading is mostly made up of recycled information. It is my current perspective on what I am experiencing at this moment in time. And it is mostly retrospective.

As a parent and observer of life, I seek to train my children. They often hear from me that "when i was a kid, things were much simpler" and the funny thing is, I heard these same ramblings from my parents.

So, what's the point Chris?

The point is that in this world in which we live, I think we need to be careful about the information that enters into our being. I know I'm selective. We all are. We all make choices constantly throughout our day. For a very tiny group of you, you are reading this blog hoping that something that is said will result in you being entertained, educated, challenged, or even encouraged.

Maybe it will happen. Maybe it won't.

I think about two verses from a book I think we can all agree can always impact each of us.

Psalm 119:105,

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."

I Timothy 4:7,

"Discpline yourself (or train yourself) for the purpose of godliness."

I can read those verses and be entertained, educated, challenged and encouraged.

So, why don't I spend my reading time reading His Word?

Turning 40.

2007-09-28T07:05:00.000-07:00

I turned 40 on September 4th. I must admit, I wasn't looking forward to it. In fact, I really didn't want it to happen. Leading up to it, I walked around the house disenchanted, a little testy at times. Until my wife was kind enough to throw me a surprise birthday party on Sept. 3rd with a myriad of my closest friends. I was honored, though it took me a little bit to get in the swing of things because I wasn't ready to celebrate that moment.

So, has life changed?

Sure. It's always changing. Right now, my big soap box is wondering why I am continuing to do things that don't matter.

Yeah, that's me, cynical Chris.

But really, I've been going to church now for close to 40 years. In that span I've probably heard at least 2000 messages. And how often have I shared my faith one on one with someone? 20 times maybe. Oh, yeah, there was that summer I did a mission trip to Myrtle Beach. Probably 20-30 times then. And my good buddy Bruce and I used to go the mall and try and engage people in spiritual discussions. Probably 20-30 of those. But day in and day out, what have I been doing.

Yes, I've got a family. A fantastic and beautiful wife. Girl of my dreams for sure. I still look at her many times and say to myself, "God, I guess you do love me. I can't believe what you have given me. " Great kids. Do they drive me crazy at times? Yes. But, I wouldn't trade anything in the world for them.

Work has been challenging. I've done a lot of various things and I am definitely getting closer to what I really want to do. And very thankful that God's hand of providence has shined on us. Is it hard to stay out of debt? Yes indeed it is. Especially when the world tells me everyday I need everything. But, I think I have the right perspective.

I've got wonderful friends. People to joke around with and also yet many that enjoy talking about the deeper issues of life and the things that matter most to me.

Which brings me to my current dilemma.

The things that matter most.

My brother is just an awesome man of God. He often credits me for many things in his life. He often says that I was the spark or he followed my lead into some avenue of faith. There might be some truth in that, but the difference between he and I is kind of like watching a two-man relay race where the first guy runs the 100 yds and then passes the baton to someone who runs then 400 yds to the finish. He takes things and runs with them.

Recently, he turned me on to the Way of the Master radio show. Whoa. Good stuff. I've been listening to the radio show each day and it has challenged me greatly to bring evangelism to the forefront of life.

To the point that I've got this quiver going on in my soul about talking to people about what matters most. And I'm currently on a quest to talk about this more. I've been trying to engage people more. Right now its once a week. But, its gotta become daily. And its training my brain of the importance. I've been working on memorizing scripture more to be ready.

I've reached 40. But the plan remains the same. Do everything for the glory of God. And don't forget Jesus' last words to those still on earth, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.(Matthew 28:19-20)"

A gentle reminder that as we engage in the daily attributes of life, ultimately conversations of this nature is what matters most.

Obsession

2007-09-19T10:42:00.001-07:00

This is a must watch.

If you can't rent or buy it, broadband users can watch it online for $4.95 (as long as you don't have a new Mac).

Forgive Me

2007-08-09T08:37:00.000-07:00

Riding to work this morning (That's right I am momentarily back on the bike making the 10 mile trek to work each day--it's harder than it sounds) I listened to a tune from the CD I happened to write an earlier blog entry. The song is "Forgive Me" and it just hit a nerve this morning.

I've been really making an attempt to be more regular with my time with God over the last month and yet this last week out of fatigue and other busyness God has been placed on the backburner or at least my time with Him. Stinks. I really have missed the our time together. Although, I've tried to continue to pray consistently.

Let me first give credit where credit is do:

Words and music by Manwell Reyes, Pablo Villatoro, Blanca Reyes, Andy Anderson, Sky Michaels
© 2006 Dayspring Music, LLC (BMI) / Voive Music Publishing/ Justin Boller Publishing Designee (ASCAP)

Father, I’m going through some heavy things
It seems like this world ain’t getting any better
The more we try to get closer to You
The farther we run from Your throne

I’ve spent so many nights wonderin’ when will it end
When will the day come when happiness begins
I’m running the race but it seems too hard to win
I’m sick of mourning my stomach is throwing up in the morning

I’m calling for help and watching it melt away
My heart’s been put on display and put away
In many ways, many times I told myself it was ok
And anger was the price that was paid
While these faded dreams just screamed to bring them home

The burden was too heavy I kept running from the throne
I can’t take it any longer
I can taste my spirit hunger
God please help me get home

Chorus:
Lord though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
I’m not scared cause You’re holding my breath
I only fear that I don’t have enough time left
To tell the world that there’s no time left, Lord please

I’ve come to terms that I’m burning both sides of the rope
And I’m hoping that self-control would kick in before I’m choking off
The sin that be destroying every fiber I got
I need the Lord in every way I’ll never make it I’m not
Going back to the way I was before Christ in my life
I couldn’t do it I would lose it there’s no point to the fight
And I’m writing this song, for the people who don’t belong
I pray away the pain you feel from all the things that went wrong
Inside a life that’s filled with anger and disappointment
Cause daddy treated you weaker than all of the other kids
It’s annoying and I feel for all of you who wanna give up
You feel stuck I feel the same way Lord help us stay up
You couldn’t pay me to abandon the idea of true hope
That I could make it through this life into a place where there’s no crying
I’m dying to find You with open arms when I go
Knowing You love me and You waiting to give rest to my soul

Lord I don't know what I'm struggling for
There’s go to be more
Than this life I know
But still I’m here fighting to never give up
I find strength in Your love
And You will see me through

I need to simply continue to be reminded there is comfort and peace in Him. In the midst of all struggles, He is there and has been there for me.

Totally Accepted

2007-07-12T16:16:00.001-07:00

Was reading the other morning from one of the books I'm working on at the moment. BTW, been having some success this week reading my Bible each day. One chapter. Taking notes. Thinking. Pondering. Waking up earlier. Been good.

Anyway, from the recommendation of a friend been reading "The Ragamuffin Gospel" by Brennan Manning and came across this gem the other day on page 63 (Brennan's been discussing what it meant to the poor and to the sinners to have Jesus inviting them to feast with Him and the scandal this fellowship created):

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8)." If Jesus appeared at your dining room table tonight with knowledge of everything you are and are not, total comprehension of your life story and every skeleton hidden in your closet; if He laid out the real state of your present discipleship with the hidden agenda, the mixed motives, and the dark desires buried in your psyche, you would feel his acceptance and forgiveness.

Whoa.

Summer Vacation to Atlanta

2007-06-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

Okay. I can't figure out this posting multiple pictures thing. This is us at a mall in Woodstock (N of Atlanta) with Pamela's sisters kids. Two of them. Izaac and Noah. [I'll post more pics later.]

Starting out in Oklahoma City for our 2nd drive of driving. Early start. Just had the Super8 version of a Continental Breakfast - cereal bars and juice.

My current daily prayer...

2007-06-11T10:55:00.001-07:00

It's taken me a while to pray this prayer. I guess its pride and my desire to solve my own problems my way. But in the process, I have not truly loved. And therefore, often, I really don't know God because I don't love the way He intended. As 1 John 4:10 speaks,

"This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins."

I keep trying on my own to just give my family my version of love. True love comes from God.

Lord, I can't do it. I can't love my children nor my wife the way I need to nor the way I want to. I can't go and work all day and then come home and not have a short fuse. Lord, I'm impatient. I don't have the self-control to respond correctly. I love myself too much. I'm not kind. I'm not good. I'm not gentle.

So Lord, I commit my weaknesses to You. I am not Your child because of deeds I have done, but I'm Yours because of the sacrifice of Your Son. I now yield to You. I turn over every fiber, every grain. Work through me as You promised You would do. Lord, I look forward to witnessing Your love through me. In advance, thank You.

It's in the sacrifice of Jesus and in His name I pray.

Amen.

Welcome Home

2007-05-09T11:12:00.000-07:00

Over the last couple of days I've received a needed wake up call from my two sons.

My oldest son, Tyson, after soccer practice on Monday wanted to pass the ball with me for a bit and I was busy talking to one of the other parents. He launched a pass at me that knocked the wind out of me a little and after I berated him, he started to weep in the car saying,

"Dad, you don't play with me like you used to. You're always busy with something."

Yesterday, I arrived at home exhausted, not so much from the day of work, but I've started to ride my bike to and from work to get into shape and primarily to save on fuel costs as they continue to rise. It's 10 miles each way and coming home is all uphill. Yesterday, the wind was hitting me in the face at around 20mph. So, just getting home in under an hour was an accomplishment. As I'm standing in the bathroom washing my face off, my youngest son Derek opens the door and hands me my baseball glove and says,

"Dad, can we throw the ball out back?"

I started to say "no" but then remembered who I am to my kids--their dad and amazingly the one they want to spend time with and be like. As I'm getting dressed to go play catch, Derek says,

"Dad, I'm going to look like you when I grow up, right?"

I had that on my mind when I watched this video this morning.

glumbert.com - Welcome Home

It's a great responsibility, but at this season of life, my most important role.

Thanks guys.

A Beautiful Thing

2007-04-25T11:08:00.000-07:00

In 1987, I heard Russ Taff interviewed and he made the statement,

"Music has a way of speaking to us like nothing else."

I definitely agree, and my wife and family know I agree by the amount of music that I continue to purchase (though it has declined a little post-kids).

Formerly, I bought music based on whatever was being released in that particular genre. Now, there usually has to be at least 1 or 2 good songs I've heard that I want to keep hearing over and over. And fortunately, music buying has changed over the years. When I was a kid, buying 45s of your favorite songs for a buck was the norm. With the rise of cassette tapes and then the glamor of CD's, buying a single became more costly. Nowadays, I can once again get my favorite song for $0.99 (Itunes, etc.) and then see if I want to plop down additional monies for the whole album (I still call it an album even though its nowhere near being an LP album).

One of the better new releases is the 1st offering from Group 1 Crew. I really enjoyed the first single that came out last winter, "Everybody's Gotta Song to Sing." It's Hip Hop/Rap. I'm usually more of a pop/rock guy with an occasional harder rock beat (no raspy incoherent screaming though). This is fun and lively music. And I thought it deserved a comment as it is one of the few albums both the wife and I have enjoyed (she's had it on autorepeat the past month or so).

Lyrically, its very simple: Love one another, sing a new song, clap and dance around in a circle before the Lord. Its quite infectious and the lyrics fit with the beat nicely. (I mean what would you expect? John Piper lyrics.) Rating each song from 1 to 5 stars, I came up with 3 Five-star, 4 Four-star, 5 Three-star, and 1 Two-Star. Though I can't imagine a second album being better than this, I'd be content if this was their only release.

Besides "Everybody," the other notables are "Forgive Me" and the current single, "Love is a Beautiful Thing" (see the video). And at $7.98 on Amazon.com, that's less than $1 per song (which is closer to buying a LP in the 70s with a price of $6.99). So much for inflation.

Word.

Tame the Volcano

2007-04-18T11:11:00.000-07:00

Among the many books I'm currently attempting to read through (outside of my desire each day to be reading the Word) is "Steering through Chaos" by Os Guinness. Dr. Guinness is the co-founder of the Trinity Forum, a leadership academy that works to cultivate networks of leaders whose integrity and vision will help renew culture and promote human freedom and flourishing (I got that from the website). One of their quests is to go beyond intellectual titillation.

In the book, under the context of the question, "are there any ethical standards upon which we can build our lives" or stated differently, "is anything truly right or wrong" Dr. Guinness takes the reader through an expository journey of the seven deadly sins and then the contrasting seven virtues of Jesus' Beatitudes.

I'm currently reading chapter three which looks at Anger versus Meekness. Guinness states,

"Anger becomes a deadly sin when the will is directly responsible for the rise and expression of the emotion."

Let's break that sentence up into manageable bite size portions. First of all, emotions are natural and often occur involuntarily. Being disappointed or upset is not a sin. The dilemma is when our will or our actions manifest themselves in an inordinate manner; when our outrage exceeds love for God or for our neighbor.

1st Example: Several months ago, a good friend gave me understanding of a key event that occurs very early in our Bible--Cain kills his brother Abel (see Uncompromising Yet Gracious). As you might recall, two offerings were brought before the Lord. One accepted (Abel's) and one not accepted (Cain's). Cain is naturally upset and I think in some ways experiencing self-pity -- "this should not be happening to me." And then we see God asking Cain to think and then respond correctly. Cain however basically says, "I don't deserve this. I'm angry and I'm not going to take it." And he kills his brother.

2nd Example: Monday's killings at Virginia Tech signify unchecked or uncontrolled anger.

In both examples, we tend to get caught up in figuring out the "why." With Cain, the text is not clear as to why Cain's offering was not acceptable. However, I think it's clear that Cain knew why it wasn't acceptable by the wording of God's questions to him in verse 6 of Genesis 4. But, our lesson is not in the "why." The lesson is our response when anger occurs.

Now, both of the above examples led to killing. But each of us gets angry every day and while it doesn't lead to killing, it can sometimes lead to something destructive and maybe violent. Lately, I've been trying to teach Tyson, my oldest (he's 11) that throughout life things are going to happen to you and occur that you don't like. You will get upset. The most important thing is to respond correctly when you get angry. So, what does that response look like?

Matthew 5:5, says "Blessed are the meek" and Matthew 5:9, "Blessed are the peacekeepers." (NIV)

Guinness writes,

"Both meekness and peacemaking are rooted in an appreciation of the infinite value of human life."

This sounds like "love." Paul summarizes Jesus' teaching in Romans 13:10, "Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law." (NAS)

Another good friend wrote me an email today and in response to the killings at Virginia Tech put forth,

"God is still love."

My response to anger is not simply to love, but first to submit that anger to the One who is Love.

Meek may rhyme with weak, but actually it stands closer to being strong. The lion that lies next to the lamb must have an emotion of dominance towards its neighbor and yet in submission yields love.

Anger will continue to occur. And just like a roaring lion, we need to continually tame it.

As I see it

2007-04-15T20:17:00.000-07:00

Today in Sunday School we had some concluding thoughts on Revelation. This is a new class for us. Our second time there and they were wrapping up a study on Revelation. So, they went over a concluding quiz asking questions regarding heaven, like "Will we be married? Will we have memories of our present life? Are animals in heaven? What will we be doing?" In addition, there was also a concern raised that maybe we don't emphasize a longing for heaven in our daily lives.

Throughout these discussions, I kept thinking about "perspective." It seems many conjure up a lot of different ideas about heaven often from a human ideal of "wishful thinking" with an eye on inclusive of all we prefer in our current life. This is comfortable and pleasing to ourselves. The perspective is often one of securing possessions and current interpersonal relationships.

Currently, I've been thinking that the way I live my daily life can be much more content when I'm trusting in God for the unknown rather than working my hardest to ensure my own understanding of any given situation. On one hand, this seems to be my same outlook regarding heaven. While there are references in the Book regarding heaven, more often than not it seems I need to simply trust God that he has my best in mind.

So, do I long for heaven? I believe the correct question is, "Do I emphasize daily what I now have--both today and for all eternity?" Do I remember daily that grace has given me something that I don't deserve? Fellowship with God both today and in the future. A gift I don't understand and yet a gift that changes things for all eternity. So, do I remind myself of this gift in my daily life? Through reading His word, praying, and worship I can be reminded of this incredible relationship that is now mine. And in turn, this would yield a desire to not keep this to myself, but communicate it to others, to at least let them know.

And then, just like the attributes of heaven or the raising of children or my future positions at work, or in sharing my faith, I am deciding to trust God for the fulfillment of all those varied details. Trust in Him for the results. My perspective is not a natural one but a spirit-filled one.

Choo Choo Choo Choo...I think i can.

2007-04-12T07:14:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I feel like I'm making life more difficult than it should be. Earlier this year, I wrote out some life goals and broke them down to short and long term. One of the immediate goals was to yearly read through the Bible. I've read through the Bible in a year before, or at least I like to remember that I have. The plan I use has me reading one New Testament portion in the morning and one Old Testament portion in the evening. I think I stayed with the plan about 2 weeks. And before long, I found myself needing to read 10 chapters of Old Testament and then several New Testament chapters to catch up. And then, the inevitable, I'm looking at the schedule and thinking, "wow, am I really a whole book behind?"

I think I know the answer. Keep reading. Don't get bogged down in the 'where I should be' and just keep reading.

However, it could be that maybe there are just too many things racing through my life right now and something I value as important is being squeezed out. That's probably a pretty good assessment. I wonder if I'll do anything with that...

There goes the neighborhood

2007-02-26T12:28:00.000-07:00

Reading Numbers 7. Israelite leaders bringing their offerings for the dedication of the altar. Over 12 days, they brought:

Grain Offering
12 silver plates
12 silver sprinkling bowls
12 gold dishes
Burnt Offering
12 young bulls
12 rams
12 male rams
Sin Offering
12 male goats
Fellowship Offering
24 oxen
60 rams
60 male goats
60 male lambs a year old

12 days mind you. Whoa. I'm thinking they didn't have a zoo back then. Plus, you had all the female goats and lambs walking around going, "Now, what do we do?"

Interesting. That's a lot of work. Plus I'm thinking that place kind of smelled.

Unintentionally

2007-02-10T07:38:00.000-07:00

In raising children, I find myself defining wrongdoing with my kids by showing them what happens when a standard is violated.

In my quest to read the bible through in a year, I pour through the details of the various offerings denoted at the beginning of Leviticus. The reasons and then the procedure of offerings (sin, peace, meal, burnt) are spelled out.

In talking about the sin offering I came across a phrase in Leviticus 4 that reminded me and surprised me.

In verse 2
Speak to the sons of Israel, saying, 'If a person sins unintentionally in any of the things which the Lord has commanded not to be done, and commits any of them,
Verse 3
...then let him offer to the Lord a bull without a defect as a sin offering for the sin he has committed.

Wow. Unintentionally. I don't recall using these words with the kids. There seem to be enough wrongs committed intentionally or so it appears. But, do I ever enforce restitution for the unintentional sins? Often we hear the phrase, "I didn't mean to." That pretty much sums it up.

Snow

2007-01-04T21:40:00.000-07:00

Not the best photo. Naturally, the camera battery starts going off on the heaviest snow day for Albuquerque in 30 years. But, it was deep. 18 inches or so. This is what it looked like in the backyard before the dogs got a hold of it.

More Debt (continuing 'Under Obligation')

2007-01-04T19:01:00.000-07:00

I woke up today and wanted to now submit and surrender to Him.

I've been using the analogy of a mortgage payment. When I make the payment and thus, adhere to the obligation, the result is clearly that my family and I remain in our house.

So, what happens when we submit and surrender to Him? What happens when I honestly turn over ME to Him? And how do I do this?

Perhaps it's a simple prayer. "Lord, I submit to You my life. I surrender my will to You. I seek to be conformed, not to this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of my mind (Romans 12:2). Lord, I want to be shaped by You. May my life simply be clay and you shape me to live a life in accordance with Your Son, the Perfect One."

There I go.

And now, with confidence I can know that sanctification will result (Romans 6:19). With the same surety in the result of continuing to have a house to live in when I make that mortgage payment, I can know for sure that God will bear fruit in my life and I will be sancitfied or made holy or made seperate from being in the flesh. I remember the 80s tune from Simple Minds, "Sanctify yourself, set yourself free." For me, that means submitting.

Whoa.

Under Obligation

2006-12-29T18:51:00.000-07:00

Romans 8:12 says, "So then, brethren, we are under obligation, not to the flesh..."

This is the second time Paul has used the word "obligation" in Romans. He used it in his opening statement to the church in 1:14 when he said "I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and the foolish." 7 chapters later and we hear it again.

The context of chapter 8 is an exciting one. In the first 11 verses Paul seems to be responding to his statement in 7:23 which talks about the war that is in the life of the believer.

In the first 4 verses he reiterates what he spoke following 3:24--when the Roman citizen (who I see as the person Paul is speaking to throughout Romans) is saved--up to Chapter 8. He simply reminds that Jesus has fulfilled the Law. And this freedom now reigns in the citizen. And then in v.5-8 he challenges the citizen to surrender and submit to God. And then in v.9-11 it all comes together by citing that because of our saved position and our submission we are able then to combat that war of our body that is spoken of in 7:23.

Throughout these verses it is the Holy Spirit and our submission to Him which yields a completely changed person. And when we submit and surrender we change to such a degree that He "gives life to your mortal body." The body that has been at war within ourself, between the law of my mind and the members of my body (7:23) can now be given life. Wow. How amazing this is when we simply submit and surrender. Easier said than done.

So, we now move to verse 12 and realize that "we are under obligation, not to the flesh." The surrender and submission is not an option when we arise each day. The KJV uses the word "debt to the flesh."

Debt is a pretty easy word to understand these days. And now we must think of our submission and surrender to Him in the same way. It is imperative. Think of what happens to life if we skip the mortgage payment on the house, so therefore every effort is made not to let this happen. We must then submit to our Father in the same way, with the same level of urgency; with the same sort of obligation.

I admit I don't think of my time with God each day with that type of requirement. Often, I look at it more as an option. Or a choice. I guess it is a choice, but how many of us would choose to lose our house?

Thank You Jesus!

2006-11-16T22:36:00.000-07:00

A foot. Yes, that's a foot. As of 11/2/06, i have now been married to that foot and the rest of the beautiful person that is included with this foot for 15 years. Wow. 15 years. God is so good. He knew exactly what I needed and then He gave me Pamela. Thank you Jesus.

Can't Figure

2006-11-16T22:29:00.000-07:00

I've been working at this job now since August 20th or so. I remember that first day when this project was handed to me to begin working on. I had no idea at the time the extent of that little assignment, but here I am some 3 months later and I'm still struggling with it.

My brain just doesn't seem to be functioning or I'm just so trained to think another way. Or I'm living in a little fear wondering if the words or conclusions I put forth will get the eye of question from my boss.

What next? I want the answer. While I've worked hard on putting together quality reports, I still don't have any recommendations that will fly.

Hmm...

All together now!

2006-01-31T09:15:00.000-07:00

We took a great trip during the summer of 2005. Over 24 days, we covered over 5000 miles. We saw great sites and great friends and family. The trek included Tulsa, Fayetteville, St. Louis, Indianapolis, Pittsburgh, Frederick, Washington D.C., Germantown, Jamestown, Myrtle Beach, Stone Mountain (GA), Atlanta, Shreveport, Dallas, and Waurika (OK). The picture is one of the better family photos taken in Atlanta at North Point Community Church.