Christmas

On Christmas we celebrate Christ's first coming. It was a humble and lowly advent, but joyous nonetheless.

Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. ~Luke 2:10

In the end we will celebrate His second coming. It will be a loud and victorious advent unlike anything the world has ever witnessed. And the end result will be the reality of the great joy the angles promised to the shepherds nearly two thousand years ago.


No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever. ~Revelation 22:3-5

Christmas is the celebration of Christ's first advent with the anticipation of Christ's second advent. And we can sum up our celebration and hope with John's words at the end of Revelation. It speaks to both advents and the wonderful reality of our living, present Savior.

Surely I am coming soon. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! ~Revelation 22:20

Merry Christmas!

coming to town

(Unrelated Note: The trailer for The Hobbit came out today. It is one of my favorite books of all time. I am excited about the movie (coming out in two parts), but am not excited about waiting until next December to see it. For the rest of you fans, feel free to torture yourself by dabbling one year away from release.)

Everyone knows who's coming to town early Sunday morning. Children will sleep very little as they anticipate the wonderful treasures they believe he is bringing them. But has anyone really thought about what his coming entails?

According to the song, crying, shouting, and pouting are all forbidden with Santa Claus. He is coming to either reward or punish me after observing all the things I have done over the past year. I've either been naughty or nice, and Santa Claus knows exactly which category I fall into. In fact, his arrival is the very motivation for my good behavior. Hopefully, the bad things I have done will be outweighed by the good things I managed to stumble upon.

Thinking through the lyrics of the song, the whole concept seems a bit extreme. And yet, often times my view of God mimics the song's presentation of Santa Claus.

With God I convince myself there is to be zero crying, shouting, or pouting. Basically all emotion is ruled out for the sake of piety or the appearance of piety. This leads to an extremely dry relationship between God and myself. I neglect the reality that God created emotions, and they are an important part (though not the foundation) of my relationship with Him, my heavenly Father.

Similarly, I view God sitting up in heaven with a giant tally chart. Every single word, thought, and deed is measure against His standard (which they are) only to be used for or against me depending on the examination (which they are not). Grace and mercy do not exist, because everything is based upon my performance. I press on in the spirit of good works, hoping they will balance the skills of my overall performance.

Furthermore, the motivation for doing good rests not in the pleasure of God, but in saving my own skin (or so I convince myself). God doesn't want my obedience because it balances any scales. He wants my obedience because it honors Him and brings glory to His name. It's also a wonderful expression of thanks for all the wonderful blessings God bestows upon me.

True, God is Judge. True, God does give and take away. True, God knows all things. However, He does not hold these over us to elicit compliance. God's judgment will come on the last day where everyone will give an account. His giving and taking away aren't based upon our merit, but His free grace. His knowledge is another reason to trust and give Him praise. Plus, Santa Claus has never given any gift anywhere near the magnitude of God sending Jesus Christ, the full revelation of the Father, full of grace and truth.

loss of an opponent

Yesterday's passing of Christopher Hitchens may be viewed in such a light. For those who weren't familiar with Hitchens, he was one of the leaders of the "new atheism" movement. This movement emphasizes resisting and countering religion wherever it exists. Hitchens devoted most of his career to doing just that. He was especially unkind toward Christianity, arguing against the presence of any positives flowing out of it. A few years ago, Hitchens was diagnosed with cancer, and his death was a result of complications of this disease.

When someone as staunchly opposed to Christianity passes, it's extremely easy to respond with callousness. However, Christians should not find joy in individuals leaving this earth in the same state they entered it: in rebellion against God. Our joy comes when the enemies of God turn to Him in repentance, placing their faith and hope in Jesus Christ. In addition, unbelievers are still image-bearers of God and leaving behind grieving loved ones. In Hitchens case, he has a wife and children as well as a brother who converted from atheism to Christianity. If anything our prayer should be for his strength to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with his family in their time of mourning.

A friend of mine sent an email to a group of us about Hitchens' passing. Two years ago we watched the film Collision which follows Hitchens and Rev. Doug Wilson as they travel the country together debating issues of God and faith (I would recommend it for a number of reasons, namely providing a glimpse into the various arguments against the faith Christians should be aware of). My friend challenged us that the lives of individuals such as Hitchens do remind us that opponents of Christ are vocal, ferocious, and intelligent. And our job is not to avoid or hide, but follow the counsel Peter gave the scattered church.

but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks your for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect. (1 Peter 3:15)

I pray that Christopher Hitchens experienced the "bedside conversion" he boldly said would never happen. Regardless, God is the holy, just, and righteous Judge. I pray as well for Christians to have a heart of compassion and grace for people like Hitchens. I pray they engage with these unbelievers knowing that as they honor Christ and give reasons for the hope they have, the only hope that exists, the Holy Spirit will bring about the fruit. 

need a little faith

If we are faithless, he remains faithful-for he cannot deny himself. ~2 Timothy 2:13

Faithless would be a suitable word to describe my overall state in recent weeks. I read, but doubt what I am reading holds true in all areas of my life. I pray without expecting anything to happen. I worship, but hold back over what I feel I'm missing. I serve, while selfishly hoping it will better my circumstances. The level of my faith in my heavenly Father rests upon how "blessed" I feel at any given moment. Simply put, my faith has been nothing more than a show for God, myself, and others.

But thankfully by God's amazing grace, He remains faithful! On Sunday, I was reminded that God's grace was extended to me, a hopeless sinner. Now I am resting on the opposite side of the pendulum. I hold, through Christ, the only lasting and fulfilling hope man can ever know. Regardless of how my circumstances may appear, I have a hope unparalleled. And nothing can take this hope from me because it does not rest upon me, but on my heavenly Father who gifts it to me. We sang quite possibly my favorite hymn, It Is Well, at the closing of our worship service yesterday morning. Whereas I usually struggle singing hymns targeted at my current wrestling, the Spirit moved  me to sing the song as a desperate plea for God to make those words the very cry of my soul. I wasn't singing because I believed the words are true, but because I desperately needed the faith to believe.

Today I received another taste of God being faithful in the midst of lacking faith. An unexpected gift was given to me this afternoon through the mail. Mail typically doesn't move me, but this particular item brought tears as I read the contents. The tears were both grief- and joy-filled. I grieved over my continual lack of faith in my Creator and Father being able to meet all of my needs. I rejoiced over the wonderful taste of His faithfulness through the people He has placed around me.

God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. ~1 Corinthians 1:9

I tend to overlook the deep, theological content contained in many of the favorite Christmas tunes. Every year, however, it seems as though a familiar Christmas song gets me thinking. It can be a particular line in the song or simply the overall message being made. Both serve as a wonderful reminder of exactly what is being celebrated over the Christmas season.

This year my brain began swirling as I sang O Come O Come Emmanuel at chapel. I used to think it was a slow song with dark images. Now I know its a slow song with dark images. However, the images a meant to stress the need for Emmanuel to come. To do this each of the five verses follows a similar structure.

First, there is a plea for the Lord's promised one to come. Interesting is how the name of the promised one changes with each verse. The names proceed in the following way: Emmanuel, Rod of Jesse, Day Spring, Key of David, Lord of might. I would love to do a Scriptural study on the meaning behind each of these names. On the surface, it is clear the promised one was from the line of David further depicting the servant's role as Messiah and King. God was coming to His people in flesh.

After the plea, the purposes for the coming of God's servant are laid out. Again a further look into Scripture will probably show a connection between the name and function requested. But here are a few of the reasons why the promised one had to come: ransom captives, free...from Satan's tyranny, victory over the grace, cheer our spirits, death's dark shadows put to flight, open wide our heavenly home. These various reasons all show the dark reality of Christ's coming. He came to confront sin, Satan, and death head on. He was coming to wrestle His people away from their spiritual exile. He was going to open up to them the promise land through His victory over the enemies of God.

With the plea and purposes (the coming alliteration was not intentional, but it does fit) set, the chorus heaps on the praise. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel, shall come to thee O Israel! Knowing God's promised one was coming provided all the reason to exalt the name of God. Christ's arrival on the scene brought with it the greatest news men would and will ever hear. It inaugurated the beginning of the end for Satan and his allies. No longer would God's people be left in exile, but received with open-arms in the presence of the King. Christ was going to do what no else could do to the praise of God's glorious grace!

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel, shall come to thee O Israel!

20 reasons from Ruth

Today is the day we set aside an entire twenty-four hour time period for the purposing of being thankful. While everyday should bring with it reasons for thankfulness, there is something altogether refreshing about the "intentional-ness" of Thanksgiving. But instead of giving a list of things I am thankful, I figured I would give a somewhat different list. I've been reading through the book of Ruth this week, and it is filled with reasons why God is deserving of our thanks. I will limit the reasons to twenty while offering a brief explanation for those which are a bit more subtle.

1. Faithful: she had heard...that the LORD had visited his people and given them food (1:6)
2. Kindness: May the Lord deal kindly with you (1:8) ~you wouldn't wish the Lord's kindness upon someone unless you know and have tasted it for yourself
3. Rest: The Lord grant that you may find rest (1:9) ~again you wouldn't wish the Lord's rest unless you were aware of its reality
4. Active in time of distress/anguish/suffering: the hand of the Lord has gone out against me (1:13) ~This doesn't seem worthy of thanks, but isn't far more comforting knowing God is at work during the bad times than simply the harsh realities of life?
5. Covenant: Your people shall be my people, and your God my God (1:16) ~Ruth uses covenant language God established with His people generations before at Mount Sinai.
6. Sovereign even over our sufferings: the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me (1:20)...the Lord has brought me back empty (1:21) ~God is not only active in our sufferings, but He is ruling over them for the purpose of His glory and our good (Romans 8:28; James 1)
7. Providence: ...and she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz (2:3) ~what humans may call coincidence God calls part of His plan.
8. Nearness: The Lord be with you...The Lord bless you (2:4)
9. Grace: Why have I found favor in your eyes...since I am a foreigner? (2:10) ~Ruth asks Boaz the same question every redeemed sinner asks of God each and every day.
10. Repays according to works: The Lord repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the Lord (2:12) ~This has a positive and negative side to it, but knowing God will reward His people in His kingdom is definitely worthy of thanks.
11. Shelter: ...the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge (2:12)
12. Provides for our needs: so she gleaned in the field until evening...it was about an ephah of barely (2:17)
13. Everlasting Kindness: May he be blessed by the Lord, whose kindness has not forsaken the living or the dead (2:20)
14. He is alive: as the Lord lives, I will redeem you (3:13) ~Boaz takes an oath by the Lord because He is the living God.
15. Redemption: I will redeem you (3:13)...who has not left you this day without a redeemer (4:14) ~The kinsman redeemer was just a foretaste of the great Redeemer coming to save God's people from sin.
16. Life-giving: May the Lord make the woman...like Rachel and Leah (4:11)...and the Lord gave her conception and she bore a son (4:13)
17. His renown: and may his name be renowned in Israel! (4:14)
18. Restores life: He shall be a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age (4:15)
19. Faithful: They named him Obed. He was the Father of Jesse, the father of David (4:17)
20. King: Abraham was the father of Isaac...Jesse was the father of David the king...and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ (Matthew 1:2,6,16) ~While this isn't directly from Ruth, it's impossible to read Ruth and not see a clear pointing to Christ with the inclusion of the line of David.

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever! ~Psalm 118:1

like Tebow

At this point in time, there may not be a more polarizing athlete than Tim Tebow. You either love him or hate him. I would like to think the issue revolves around his talent. His critics will say he simply is not a good quarterback, and I would agree with them. It is painful to watch him for three and a half quarters. But you can't take away the fact that Tebow is a fierce competitor when the moment arrives (if you saw last night's game you witnessed it). I am willing to look past his deficiencies in talent simply because he knows how and competes to win. It's also hard to doubt his leardership on and off the field. With all that said, I am also not naive enough to understand that the larger dividing issue is Tebow's faith.

I am a skeptic when it comes to athletes who claim Christ. It seems like after every homerun, touchdown, slam dunk, or goal someone is pointing to the sky, dropping to a knee, or giving verbal "props" to Jesus. At the same time these athletes are seen "living it up" at strip clubs, holding out for boat-loads of money, getting arrested for all sorts of crimes, or walking around like they are God's gift to the world. For all their talk of Jesus, it appears as though a mention is all He is worthy of to them. And I say this knowing full well that I am prone to the same attitude. These men and women are fallen just like me. I am equally guilty of proclaiming Christ, but doing little more than that.

For me there is no skepticism when it comes to Tim Tebow. Is he perfect? No, I think he would be the first to admit that. However, he unlike most of the other athletes (Christian and non-Christian) we encounter. I watched the post-game interviews after his impressive 95-yard, game winning drive. If any man had reason to boast last night, it was Tebow. Instead, he lavished praise on Christ for salvation (from sin and death) not just his physical abilities. Then he preceded to give thanks to every person: coaches, teammates, bosses, fans, family alike. The former players interviewing him were trying to get him to talk about himself, but it wasn't happening.

But there were two things which really stood out. First, Tebow is purposefully living his life the way he is. He bluntly told the men that he wanted to be a role model kids could look up to for how to do things the right way. And it wasn't because it made him feel good or brought the praise of men. In his words, he is doing it because of the blessings he has received and the platform which God has given him. Second, he confessed that football is not his life or greatest passion. Instead it is bringing hope and life change to the people he encounters. He described the opportunity football has given him to build a hospital in the Philippines (where his parents were missionaries) for children to the point of tears. You just don't hear many athletes like this.

As I contemplated all of this, I couldn't help but feel the need to pray for Tebow and others like him. Often Christians can be jealous of Christian athletes because of their money, talent, or whatever. But as Tebow views it, God has placed him there for a reason. Just as Paul prayed for boldness in the churches he wrote too, why shouldn't Christians be praying for the same for one another, athletes included. There is no doubt Tebow has women throwing themselves at him, millions of dollars waiting to pull him away, and other temptations the evil one is hoping will destroy him. As a witness to Christ, someone such as Tebow needs the prayers of his brothers and sisters to ensure he is faithful to the very end.

I also felt ashamed of how I view where God has placed me. Everywhere I go is a potential platform for the gospel. As a teacher, I had the opportunity to live out and speak the gospel in that setting. Today, I have the same opportunity as a seminary student and swimming coach. But how often do I take advantage? In the West faith has become a private issue. Sadly enough the church has adopted this as their mode of operating too. We don't talk about faith and life because it's personal and no one else's business. The reality is the gospel, while personal, is cooperate and everyone else's business. Tebow isn't shying away from this fact. He doesn't care if it makes people uncomfortable or if people hate him for it. God has blessed him so that he can bless others. And this is the case for all Christians. The question is what are we doing?

It hasn't happened too often, but I am thankful when it does. The pace at which I am reading leaves little time for in-depth analysis and contemplation. I wish I could go slower. However, every so often I come across something which makes me pause. It can be something completely new or different. It can be something speaking directly to my life. It might be an interesting point reminding me of a friend or situation.

For one of my classes I am reading How People Change. It sounds like a self-help book. Some might argue that it is. Its purpose is to present how the gospel completely changes lives, especially as people cherish it and wrap their identity in it.

In one particular chapter the author, Timothy Lane, was discussing how the gospel changes our values and how we handle the different phases of this life. Setting up the correct Christian perspective, Lane breaks down Revelation 7:9-17.

But the saints on the other side are celebrating none of them [the good things of this earthly life] As they stand before the Lord, crowned and reigning with him, their restoration is complete. God has finished his work of transforming their lives as he transformed their hearts by his grace. As they stand before him, they are like him in true righteousness and holiness. And so they rise in a crescendo of worship and celebration saying, "You did it! You did it! You did what we could not do for ourselves. You broke our bondage to sin and restored us to be the willing worshipers you created us to be."


Amen! What a great picture! And this is the reality waiting for all those who claim Christ crucified and risen from the dead. This is where the road we are on is leading. It is our final destination. With this in mind everything about us changes: priorities, outlook, motivation, hope, endurance (to name a few). And yet it rarely does. While I nodded in affirmation at the above quote, I understand it fails to be my reality.

What about you? Where have you wondered if following the Lord is worth it? Where have you struggled to understand what he is doing? Where have confusion and disappointment weakened you faith? Where have you already let go? Where are you running from the Lord instead of turning to him? How has God's work of change been interrupted by your doubt, confusion, or fear?

We Are...

I've never liked Penn State. I had the chance to go there, but chose against it primarily because it was too big. Additionally, I am a self-declared Penn State "hater" when it comes to their football program. I simply never enjoyed their players, their style of football, or their coach. Therefore, I felt reluctant writing about the scandal swirling around State College. I didn't want whatever I wrote to be construed as my attempt to be negative about something I already did not have a fondness for. However, there are few things I have been thinking through as I have followed the coverage over the past week or so.

First, the real victims of this entire ordeal are those abused children. It's not the football players, the football coaches, or the university. I read the first three pages of the indictment, but had to stop because I didn't want to keep reading. What those children endured was absolutely horrendous and a painful reminder of the total depravity of mankind. Instead of calling foul against the individuals being fired, we should be praying for the healing of these young men. Most of them are my age and have suppressed their abuse for nearly half their lives. They need to know their is hope and healing found in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Second, men are not gods, and when we treat them as such the end result is always devastating destruction. Everything coming out is revealing that both Sandusky and Joe Paterno were men who couldn't be told "no." They wanted and demanded control of everything, whether it be a football program or their search for pleasure. And those is authority bent over backward to give it to them. They were essentially invincible, gods among men. As a result, those kids were sacrificed to maintain the status quo. One man did so by seeking out his own disgusting desires. The other ignored the problem to protect what he had built and hold onto his absolute power. There is a reason why the phrase "The Lord is God, there is no other" is repeated throughout the pages of Scripture. All other gods fail and devastate those who worship them.

Finally, as Cain found out, we are our brother's keeper. How many people had the opportunity to stop what was going on? How many failed to do what had to be done, not merely what they were legally responsible to do? What if one person played the role of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10? Those kids needed someone to step into their situation. They needed someone to physically stop the abuse when they saw it happen. They needed someone to follow through with them about the charges. They needed someone to believe that jobs, reputations, and well-being do not compare with the sanctity of a child's life. And so this begs us to ask whether or not we are willing should we face such a situation?

the west

I have little time (and sometimes desire) to write these days as the semester is winding up before it winds down. While I could use my study breaks to process my passing thoughts, writing rarely feels like much of a break. Today is not one of those days. I have an online quiz, an online midterm, and some reading waiting for me, but my apologetics class resonated too much in my mind to pass it off.

We had a guest lecturer who serves as a missionary to Muslim countries. He came in to give us a better idea of how apologetics can be used to reach Muslims with the gospel. Honestly, I enjoy when anyone with knowledge and experience of other religions talks about the need for the gospel to reach these people. Even without any resounding tidbits, I was going to be engaged. He ended giving a plethora of insight into Muslim history and beliefs as well as person stories of how God used him to bring the gospel through a variety of means. But what stood out was when he started talking about the reasons why many Muslims have such a strong dislike for us, mainly Christians.

Without addressing the history of the relations between the two (not overly pretty) and clearly opposed doctrinal beliefs, here are the four bullet points he presented with the addition of one he addressed at the end.

• Disrespectful
• Secular/humanistic
• Promiscuous
• Chaotic & dysfunctional
• Individualistic

Why do Muslims categorize Christians as such? Unfortunately, it's because they view western culture as the fruit of Christianity. America's claim as a Christian nation (which I would argue against even at its origins) coupled with the growing negative trends demonstrate to them the inability of the gospel to do anything significant in this life. Sadder still is the fact that these points do not just categorize western culture. Christians are just as guilty of them as well.

How do Christians, particularly younger Christians, respect the older and wiser ones among us? How do we make our faith more than a private, personal matter? How do Christians handle sex and modesty differently? How functional are our institutions? How much value do we place in community?

The main point of the lecture was not to show how Christians are terrible people. Everyone is flawed. Instead, it was to demonstrate the need for us to live out the gospel for the sake of those from different faiths. Our lives should look vastly different from the lives of those in our cultures. Why? Because the gospel enables us to live as such. 

And on top of that, we need to be praying continually for the good news of Jesus Christ to reach the ears and hearts of all people to the glory of God.

babies

I have a hilarious niece and nephew (sorry Heidi, you're almost there). Every time I get the privilege of being with them I enjoy myself. While their parents get to interact with their less-than wonderful sides, even they will be quick to acknowledge the fun to be had.

Along with the fun, I find myself learning lessons from these two extremely young persons. They don't know they are teaching me, and I doubt they have any intentions of doing it either.

Take my nephew. Two weeks ago we made a short visit to my brother's house to see my sister-in-law and nephew who were unable to attend a family wedding. Besides being extremely excited, my nephew ran around the house showing off all his tricks and toys. He had no idea what to do with himself he was so excited.

Then there is my niece. Last night we paid a short visit to celebrate her daddy's birthday. She received a present as well which was followed by a "so pretty" comment. Later, I was playing with her elephant costume and using the trunk to give "elephant kisses" to which she responded, "oh hello Mr. elephant!" On top of that, she would also run around bubbling over all the wonderful toys in her possession, both the simple and extravagant.

This morning I was reminded of two things as I reflected on my niece and nephew. First, I thought of Ephesians 1:3, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places. While they may not understand the full value of the blessings they receive, neither one of them shies away from being excited and grateful for them. Whether it's a pink elephant balloon or an unused dog leash, they are thankful for it. I wish I had an similar attitude when I think of all the blessings I have been given.

I also thought of 1 Thessalonians 5:16 & 18, Rejoice always...give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. This is similar to the previous thought. These two little ones not only give thanks through their words, but through the way they receive and enjoy their blessings. They share their gifts with others as well as their enthusiasm. It's a great reminder how I should be using the gifts I have been given. If they can rejoice always, why can't I?

Kids are cute. They are wonderful to be around. And if we pay attention, they are capable teachers.

pursued by God's Word

It seems to me that I am in the midst of a week-and-a-half long chase. I don't know why I am involved in a chase. I was not even aware of it until this morning. As such, I am clearly not the one doing the chasing. I seem to be the one running, but I still don't necessarily understand where I am running to. However, I clearly see it is God's Word which is hunting me down.

Last week I engaged in a conversation with a friend about the nature of preaching. We did not exactly see eye-to-eye on its necessity. Without embarking upon a wild tangent, my friend experiences little tangible growth because of preaching, and therefore he views it as less significant for the believer's sanctification. My basic argument was Isaiah 55:11 where God says, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it. I added other things as well, but I rested most of my case upon what God's Word says about itself.

On Saturday, I was asked if I would read a passage during our men's breakfast at church. The reading did not directly correlate to the devotional, but it was integrated in the middle of our short time of worship. As God saw fit, the brother requested that I read all of Isaiah 55. I didn't think much of it as I was reading until I got closer to the passage I had used with my friend. I made a mental note to do some more inquiry later on.

Unfortunately, my schedule picked up again, and I forgot about my mental note. And then I went to chapel this morning. Monday chapels are student-led. We sing more songs before wrapping up with a short devotional. Before singing, the student leading read from Isaiah 55:1-2, Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen diligently to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food. And since God doesn't work through coincidences, I decided to bring back that mental note from Saturday.

On my ride home, I started to understood I was the target of an on-going chase. Why? At first I wasn't sure. I didn't feel like I was running, but then again maybe I was being told I need to start. Either way, two things quickly became apparent to me. First, I still chase after things which do not satisfy. Seminary does not cure me. It can actually add to the things I am chasing. Second, as of late, my time in God's Word has been lacking at best. I haven't pursued it except when my classes required it or some other circumstance came about. It was far from the top of my priorities.

I still need to pour into this passage as though my life depended on (maybe that's because. to an extent, it does). But I am thankful that God's Word pursues me even when I am not pursuing it. And for all I know, the purpose of the chase was to chase me back into the arms of my God who I am in always desperate need of.

short notes

I attend a Presbyterian seminary. I, myself, am not a Presbyterian. I have nothing against Presbyterians. There are some points where we might see things differently, but I am not ready to fight over them. I think Presbyterians are wonderful people. They make up parts my family and friends, as a result of the last two months. They love Jesus, love God's Word, love His people, and desire to see more follow Him. And it's hard to argue against that.

I like to attend chapel as often as I can. It's only thirty or so minutes, and I am usually already on campus each day around that time. It provides me with a necessary reminder of why I am attending seminary, and where my focus should be. The days differ, but Wednesday is when chapel runs like a shortened Presbyterian service (basically no communion, two songs, and no creeds). I have attended a number of such services before, but three things have stood out to me over recent weeks. I have found them more than refreshing.

First, they sing the deeply theological hymns and songs many churches have pushed aside. They sing of atonement, justification, sanctification, redemption, and all the other words which end in "tion." It's nearly impossible to sing and not come away with an overwhelming sense of what it is we exactly believe. What is preached is synonymous with what is sung. I use the RUF when I am fiddling with my guitar. Many of these songs are the ones we sing. And it is wonderful!

Second, the Word of God is read as a collective group. When I was a kid, I hated "responsive readings." I thought they were boring and just another time consuming activity in the service. Thankfully God does not operate according to my standards. There is something beautiful when God's Word is read by His people in one voice. It's a unified declaration of who God is and what His Word tells us. Plus, it is never a bad idea to have God's Word read again. The more the merrier!

Finally, prayer is offered by the entire body. There are times when one person prays for the entire body, which is also good. And while I am not the biggest fan of pre-written prayers, I think they have their place for the corporate body. Too often the praying is done by the leaders (which should happen), while the people observe. The set aside time of repeating a prayer together reminds me of the unity that exists within the body of Christ.

Sometimes we like to pick at the diversity within the body of Christ. While certain times call for picking, it's a great blessing when the diversity leads to the glory of God.

when money blinds

Athletes get paid far too much money. Even an avid sports fan such as myself must admit it. The contract numbers of athletes around the world are preposterous. Baseball players receive contracts with a sum of hundreds of millions of dollars. This year's football rookie class is considered unfortunate because their contracts get maxed out in the twenty million dollar range (signing bonuses not included). Even cricket players make their millions! Throw on the extra millions for advertisements, and the numbers keep growing. I have engaged in many discussions about the money athletes make which usually ends with a demands/market conclusion. Athletes get paid what they do because there exists a demand for their skills and a market where people will competitively pay for them. (And that's as much our fault as anyone else's, but that's a topic for another day)

As a result of all this we have problems. In this year alone, the NFL wrestled for months over contract disputes before settling. Now, the NBA is in a similar stare-down with the NHL murmuring in the shadows (or at least those are the rumblings).  You can look back over the history of sports and document plenty of examples where the issue of money created chaos.

Today I read an article about the current NBA lockout. It's more about the effect the lockout will have on fans, but the first two paragraphs grabbed my attention immediately.

The bond market indicator that has predicted every recession since 1970 is forecasting a 60 percent chance of the economy having another contraction within the next 12 months. Moody's Analytics says there's a 40 percent chance the U.S. will tumble back into the depths of a recession within the next six months. The unemployment rate, some analysts say, is likely to remain above 6 percent until 2015. The hourly pay of people who are employed can't keep pace with inflation. The most recent drop in household income is the largest in several decades and, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, has caused a "significant reduction in the American standard of living."

So with that as the economic backdrop, the NBA has decided to sit it out for a while because the owners and players can't agree on how to split up $4.3 billion. It's difficult to imagine that folks who live in constant fear of losing their jobs, of not being able to make their mortgage payments or pay their kids' tuition or do anything with their money beyond what is absolutely necessary have the stomach for this self-indulgent behavior. The country is in no mood for the NBA's stupid dispute.

The first paragraph alone is a doozie. I am idiot when it comes to economics so I won't even begin to address that issue. What I do know is that God is sovereign and promises to care for the needs of His people according to His good pleasure. This isn't always easily to place our complete faith in, but God's Spirit helps us when we are weak.

As to the basketball issue, it goes to show how money can be blinding. The Bible is filled with passages warning us of the dangers of loving money (Prov. 23:4; Eccl. 5:10; Luke 16:13; 1 Tim. 6:10; Heb. 13:5 to name a few). And the issues between owners and players comes down to two parties wanting more of what they love than the other guys. Yes, both sides have some legitimacy to what their arguing points are, but it really boils down to the love of money. Worse yet, they are doing it on the grand stage in the midst of one of the worst economic crises in our nation's short history.

More than the common person, I want basketball back. I do enjoy watching it. I'll even DVR a game so I can watch it at another point in time (shocking, I know). But the current dispute (and I felt the same way with the NFL over the summer) is embarrassing. It's embarrassing to both the owners and the players in particular. For all their claims of caring for the fans, their actions work contrary to their words. What's worse is their lack of care for the real people who will be affected by their lust for more money: those who make a living by working at sporting venues. These two groups of grown men are fighting over billions of dollars while thousands of individuals are having trouble making enough to provide for their families. Greed for more money, regardless of any justified reasons they have for needing that money, has blinded them to reality.

I like to defend sports as the truest and most entertaining form of reality television. The truth of the matter is sports aren't reality either. At the end of the day, they are merely games. Unfortunately, these games get elevated (at least in my own life). And this elevation coupled with the unfolding of yet another professional sports labor dispute only proves the growing gulf between sports and reality.

pride in calling

On Friday, I conversed with one of my classmates about the slate of material confronting us. Aside from class differences, the two of us hold the same schedules. As we continued on, our conversation evolved into which classes provided us with the most "nuggets" one month into the semester. It was a very pleasant conversation. Our different responses indicated the passions, desires, and movements of our hearts. At times we agreed upon certain classes, but a confused "really?" was also fairly common.

While all my classes have had their moments, I have been surprised by my more joyful response to formation of ministry (I know, the title alone sounds like a real sleeper). Particularly, I have found the readings to be a pleasant treat. They rarely deal with the high and lofty theological arguments (which definitely have their place), but the practical life of ministry. They expose the blessings, struggles, dangers, and everything else involved with ministry. As a person who likes reading for the challenges contained, I have found myself challenged more than once.

This week I had to read Os Guinness' The Call. It definitely targets people involved in full-time ministry, but it doesn't not ignore all Christians because we are called to ministry in one form or another. As a fallen human (stumbling block #1) of the male variety (stumbling block #2) with my heart, mind, and will (stumbling block #3) the chapter on pride effectively did a number.

The devilish strategy of Pride is that it attacks us, not in our weakest points, but in our strongest. It is preeminently the sin of noble mind.


Pride doesn't come through my weakness. I don't push for my own way in things I don't feel strong in. I'll happily give way to other people. However, when it comes to those places I consider myself strong (or even gifted) in my pride is far more likely to come shining through. It's not when things are going poorly that I am more likely to give into my pride (though it's still a threat), but when all seems to be going swimmingly. When it appears as though my strengths are the catalysts, I am in danger. And I love the reminder Mr. Guinness ends this chapter with.

Do we feel the wonder of being called? It is all a gift and all of grace.

Whereas my human tendency is to place pride in my calling (both daily and life), God's purpose in calling is to humble me. He wants to show me how inadequate I truly am, especially in my areas of strengths. He wants me to see His calling as a call to humility as I receive His wonderful grace. My strengths are not what has achieved His grace or brought on my calling. Both have come in spite of my strengths. And therein lies the reality that my calling is wrapped in humility, removing all room for pride.

others are noticing

I feel like I am posting articles a lot. It's probably because I don't have loads of time with which to right more of my own thoughts. However, I think there is value is reading what the news-folk are saying about everything and anything. Anyways, I read an article about men this morning during a class break. The author might be the same Bill Bennett who can be heard on the radio (at least that's where I have heard his name before). I don't listen to him, but maybe with thoughts like these I should.

Without over-doing it, I came away discouraged because what he talks about in the article is a sad reality. Men are hard to find, but boys are running around like crazy. You can see it in college dorms, bars, churches, and almost everywhere else. Besides painting men in a bad light (we don't need help in that department), men such as these destroy women and families. As Christians, we should read these articles and embrace the challenge of seeking boys and turning them into men by the power of God's Word and Spirit.

And we might even need to be forceful about it. After reading this article, God's call to Job kept coming back to me because it's a call all males need to hear, whether men or boys.

Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind and said:
"Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge? Dress for action like a man;
I will question you, and you make it known to me.  Job 38:1-2 (emphasis mine)

prayer and challenge

On Thursdays, chapel at seminary consists of groups meeting together for prayer. On this morning, one of my professors leading the group mentioned the need to be praying for a brother and fellow minister of the gospel in a distant land. If you haven't heard about this man, you can read about him on CNN, FoxNews, BBC, MSNBC, or any other news media you want (I tried to attach all the big ones for those who have their preferences).

Above all, we should be praying for this man, his family, the Iranian government, and the Christian churches in Iran. Pray for his physical, emotional, and spiritual strength. I cannot fathom all he has gone through, but his unwavering belief in Christ is clear. Pray for his wife, who has been interrogated in the past, and his children. They have been without their father since 2009. Pray for the Iranian government's eyes to be open to the reality of what they are doing. The effects of their decision reaches far beyond the realm of Christianity, but the right of believe for all human beings. Pray for the churches within Iran that continue to bear the burden of persecution from their government. And thank God churches continue to grow there in spite of man's attempts. And finally, pray for the gospel to penetrate deeper and further into Iran because of this. God is more than capable of using man's attempt to resist Him to bring more people unto to Himself.

Then, let us be challenged by our Iranian brother. Would we be willing to take the same stand he is taking? Would we would ready to defend Christ at the sake of our own lives? The reports says his response to recanting was "Repent means to return. What should I return to? To the blasphemy that I had before my faith in Christ?...I cannot" We may never face the same situation as this brother, but our passionate fervor should be the same nonetheless.

unending love

In case I haven't stated it enough (I highly doubt it), I greatly appreciate music. If my guitar skills were any better, I would probably play far more than I listen. But thankfully there are plenty of talented people out there to cover where I am lacking.

Recently, my internal wrestling revolves around my utter failure to grasp the immensity (in breath, width, and depth) of God's love for me through Christ. Yes, I understand Christ (the incarnate God) left heaven to live perfectly on this broken planet ultimately to suffer and die on my behalf. Without even comprehending the full weight of that statement, I should be blown away. And by going deeper into the innumerable underlying truths, I should be "undone" like Isaiah thanking God every moment for His grace.

And yet I don't. I live with an attitude of entitlement to the grace I have received. I treat God's love with little, if any, regard to how I should respond to it. What I should be doing is willingly surrendering everything because that is the least I can do to thank (not earn or merit) Him for His unending love.

On my way home from class today, I listened to the song which has been my reminder in the midst of my own stubbornness to God's Word. It's overly lyrical, often repeating a series of lines over. While I typically prefer the the former, sometimes it helps to have the same words constantly confronting me. I would be stupid to somehow miss what they were trying to convey.

I could list the lyrics of the whole song, but the reality is the pre-chorus and chorus squarely hit the head of the nail.

Jesus, nothing compares to this grace that rescues me
Savior, now and forever Your face is all I see.


Now all I am, I lay at your feet
I'm humbled by the wonder of Your majesty
One thing I know, I find all I need
In Your unending love, Your unending love


Spirit, help that be my prayer.

a nugget

I am learning to read at a lightning-fast pace. It has its benefits such as being able to adequately accomplish the assignments for my classes (I can't say enough about how much I love Google calendar's Tasks option. Sheer genius). However, fast reading does make it difficult to soak in the material. Therefore I am learning to be selective, while trying to get the most out of each assignment as I can.

But even at fast paces, nuggets of gold can be found in nearly everything I am reading. And just as gold-diggers (not the kind Kayne West sings about) do, I celebrate when I happen to stumble upon such nuggets.

Hence that dread and wonder with which Scripture commonly represents the saints as stricken and overcome whenever they felt the presence of God...We must infer that man is never sufficiently touched and affected by the awareness of his lowly state until he has compared himself with God's majesty              ~John Calvin

If you have never read anything by John Calvin, may I encourage you to dabble? Now those who don't hold to Reformed Theology may cringe because they rightfully equate Calvin with predestination and election. However, his scope is far more reaching than these (though I would argue there is great benefit and treasure in them as well). He is not overly complex or wordy, but rich in unpacking biblical truths.

Anyways I loved the quote above for it reminds us of perspective. I can think of myself as lowly without comparing myself to God. I recognize I fail often simply by observing how I behave compared to those around me. I know lots of people of greater morality and service than I. And it's humbling to acknowledge.

However, people don't hold a candle compared to God. Comparing myself to a "good" person is nothing like comparing myself to the holy God. When we honestly perform this task, we are left, as Isaiah said, "undone." We see the full depths of our depravity and the immeasurable beauty of God's perfection. Too often I go about comparing myself to others (in a non-judgmental way) to keep myself humble. But the reality is, I will still be good enough by doing this. Humility only comes by comparing myself to God before whom I am can never be good enough.

And this also makes me all the more thankful for Jesus Christ.

quick breather

One full week (last Thursday through today) of seminary is in the books. How's it going? Thanks for asking. Already I have read more in the last week than I did the entire summer. (And it may be even further back than that). I am trying to learn one new language (Greek) while continuing to master another (Hebrew). I sleep sounder than when I swam at least 4,000 yards per day in high school. As someone who hates calendars, I have all my assignments outlined on my Google calendar in order to keep track and check them off when I complete them (definitely my favorite part). I spend at least two hours a day in the library compared to college where I don't know if I spent more than two hours for an entire semester. I could keep going with these, but basically I am more than busy.

However, in all the busyness, one thing I failed to grasp is the blessing of people, namely the people I am meeting. Naturally, I was going to meet people at seminary. It's pretty much impossible (not to mention ridiculously silly) to avoid human contact. You share classes, library tables, meals, seats, and almost everything else. Now I tend to be more introverted, so I thank God that He created extroverts as well. When I tend to be shy (I am learning not to be), they find ways to seek me out and engage with me. And the engagement has been a wonderful blessing.

It is a treat meeting people from all over God's creation. Every continent (except maybe Antarctica) is covered and who knows how many countries. I love learning about the different backgrounds and cultures, and then seeing how Christ can bring them all together by His grace. Simply awesome.

On top of that, people bring their personal backgrounds with them. I've met folks in the fields of teaching, engineering, accounting, philosophy, psychology, pastoring, missions, church planting, labor, technology, and many others who have either given up those fields for ministry or are looking for ways to bring the gospel back into as their ministry. Sharing stories with them is an encouragement for me as I press on for where God is leading me.

Basically, I was not expecting the blessing of people to be as strongly felt as it is. I limited my expectations of personal growth and development to the classroom and books of seminary. But God always plans better things than we can hope or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). And it's a great joy and privilege to watch them unfold.

what is going on?

It has been a busy month for the Eastern United States and its residents. First, there was the abnormal earthquake in Virginia. It's force was felt up and down the entire coast even spreading as far as Chicago. On top of that, a smaller one hit Virginia again only a few weeks later. It wasn't nearly as powerful, but surprising nonetheless.

After the shakes, Irene paid a visit to the entire East Coast. By God's grace, she wasn't nearly as devastating as expected, but she wasn't exactly a party either. Numerous tornado warnings followed in her path as well floods, high winds, and an assortment of falling objects. And apparently she brought her friends along as forecasters are watching other hurricane/tropical storm systems building up steam in the Caribbean.

But a little over a week later, people have almost forgotten Irene completely. Consecutive days of heavy rainfall have placed most of the East Coast on the spin cycle. Major river systems flow significantly beyond flood stages taking over major roadways in the process. Cars, homes, schools, and business stand in the raging water's path. It seems like months since the sun was last seen shining in its typical position surrounded by skies of blue.

No one really knows why this string of events occurred. People will offer a variety of explanations for why these things happened. Each will have valid points behind them. For example, science can explain the phenomena by talking about fronts, plate tectonics, and other fascinating details I know little about. However, no one will be able to ultimately define why these things are occurring. And this includes Christians.

I have no idea why an earthquake, hurricane, and flooding hit the United States in near succession. Could it be a warning? It could considering God has used natural disasters as warnings throughout history. Could it be judgment? It could considering God has used natural disasters as means of His judgment on earth. Could it be a reminder? It could considering He tells us all of creation points to Him. But it could also be something entirely different and unrelated. No one can say for sure.

But there is one can we can say with certainty in spite of all that is going on around us, as a collective group and individuals. God is in control of it all. He knew the about the earthquake, hurricane, and floods. He controls them all by the power of His Word. He sends them out according to His will for His glory. Here are few examples of His control over them (emphasis mine).

I also withheld the rain from you when there were yet three months to the harvest; I would send rain on one city, and send no rain on another city; one field would have rain, and the field on which it did not rain would wither  ~Amos 4:7

He will give the rain for your land in its season, the early rain and the later rain, that you may gather in your grain and your wine and your oil.  ~Deuteronomy 11:14

Can you raise your voice to the clouds and cover yourself with a flood of water? Do you send the lightning bolts on their way? Do they report to you, ‘Here we are’? ~Job 38:34-35

And the men marveled, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him? ~Matthew 8:27

So while we don't know the exact reasons, we can rest assured the events are not beyond His control. Therefore we can trust and take comfort that He knows exactly what is going on.

(I have very little doubt of the true intent of the article I am attaching a link to. A handful of people avoid the media because of stories such as these. Honestly, I think there is far more value in confronting them, than running in the other direction.)

I do find it difficult to read articles such as these. Righteous anger (or at least I pray it is the case) nearly boils over by the time I get to the end. And there is nothing wrong with that.

However, this article proved to be different. Instead of leaving it with ruffled feathers, I lingered with a heavy heart. Here is a story about a man relishing in the success of a false church, when the reality is how the church failed him. And the writer aptly (though I doubt intentionally) states this reality in one sentence.

"It was a very empowering experience for me to be in a church, and I didn't have to deny my sexuality," he said. "I could be very honest with myself, with all church members and also with God."

The first half of the sentence attempts to portray the good news, which is actually bad news. A true church of Jesus Christ will lead it's people into self-denial. As the gospel of Jesus is faithfully proclaimed, people will want to leave who they are behind (that is their sin nature). There's nothing about it worth holding on to when compared to the gospel. This is the Spirit-driven reaction to the truth of God's grace. We won't want to be the same, sinful people we once were. Glorying in a church which says God demands nothing from His people is glorying in a church that preachers a lie. Christ wants people who faithfully follow Him, which means giving up all of ourselves (not limited to, but including our sexuality).

The second half of the verse is another attempt at good news, when it is actually bad news for The Church. The word fundamentalism is synonymous with "conservative Christianity" for this particular individual. He sees no difference between the two. Typically, conservatives have the foundation to argue. But when it comes to homosexuality we, conservative Christians, appear too much like the fundamentalists we try to avoid.

I've said it before; homosexuality is a sin. We are not fundamentalists for declaring this biblical truth. God calls us to preach the truth to those around us because God's truth is always about His glory and the fullest extent of joy for His people (John 15:10-11). We aren't trying to rob people of joy and satisfaction, but rather point them in the only direction where it can be found. And this is in regards to all sin. Each and every sin is us robbing God of His glory and ourselves of true joy.

But we like to add on condemnation and judgment to declaring God's truth. This is why we are viewed as fundamentalists. For some reason we exalt homosexuality as a sin worthy of our judgment. We ignore how equally defaming adultery, fornication, pornography, and other sexual sins are to the God-ordained covenant of marriage, which is the picture of the relationship between Christ and His bride. They all stain the covenant by disregarding it completely.

Our problem is we don't do a good job of listening to the second half of the statement quoted earlier. The church should be a place where congregants are honest with themselves, one another, and God. It should be a place where people can struggle without fear of judgment. Yes, they need to be told (if they don't already know) what they are doing is wrong. But they also need to be told, there is hope in Jesus Christ. We speak of this hope to addicts, adulterers, liars, thieves, even murderers. Churches are filled with ministries geared towards serving these and many more. But when homosexuals come we scream the truth at them, tell them to stop, and avoid them until they do.

We refuse to let them struggle. In my own life, I can't think of one sin I stopped simply because God's Word said to. I wish that were the case. Sin is too ingrained in my nature. More often than not, I continued (and I can speak in present tense as well) to struggle and found freedom through God's Spirit and the encouragement of His people around me. I believe if the churches confronted all sinners (regardless of type) with their sin, and then supported them as they struggled to find freedom there would be less stories such as these. Because honestly, what is there to celebrate in divorce equated with freedom, the truth of God's Word trumped by human reason/experience, and sin embraced as freedom? Obviously, not all will ever desire to be rid of their sin, and God will deal justly with them. But do we desire to see them change and are we willing to struggle with them for God's glory and their joy?

vacation

My Hebrew final was yesterday. I don't yet know exactly how I did, but I do know I survived. Now I get a week to relax (aka find a job and apply for loans) before the semester starts in full swing on the 8th. Between now and then, I also get a weekend trip to the Lake where I don't have to spend most of the time studying under a tree. It's safe to say I am eagerly looking forward to my extended weekend.

My brain functioning has dwindled since ceasing my intense Hebrew study, so I have nothing at this moment to write about. So while I take a break here (unless something should inspire me), my writing will continue at 4thanddone.com for the next week or so. My brother and I are doing our annual preview of the entire NFL season prior to the start on Thursday, September 8th.

In all honestly, I look forward to this (both the preview and the season) every year. We used to do the same thing as kids sharing a room with bunk-beds. For eight nights before the start of the season we would break down one of the eight divisions as we prepared for sleep. It is a very fond memory I have, and I thoroughly enjoy any chance I get to relive it.

Plus, I really enjoy football.

seemingly simple

God's Word is filled with difficult passages. You would be hard-pressed (at least I hope) to find someone who hasn't found at least one passage they consistently wrestle with. Some are hard to read. Some are hard to follow. Some are hard to understand. Some are hard to accept. Some are hard to respond to. And some are just plain hard.

Surprisingly (to myself), I am wrestling with a seemingly simple and familiar passage. Anyone who knows anything about the Bible has heard the passage more than once. It isn't filled with mystery or deep theological concepts. It's clear and to the point.

Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? ...Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’...But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.                      ~Matthew 6:25, 31, 33-34

In the English, it sounds as if Jesus is stating one imperative three times; Do not be anxious. In between He uses pictures from nature to explain why. You could really sum all ten verses as, "Do not worry because God knows, God cares, and He is faithful" (and for all I know the Message might say just that). 

Again, it's not rocket-science. God is Creator, therefore He knows exactly what each and every creature needs. God is Father, therefore He gives exactly what each of His children need. God is God, therfore He is who He's always been: lovingly faithful. And yet I would rather add on to today's troubles the troubles of tomorrow.

When I read it, I keep coming back to the three imperatives. They don't seem like our imperatives where Jesus would be wagging His finger, screaming "DO NOT WORRY!" at His disciples. However, they are still imperatives. He isn't suggesting or being passive. He is saying "don't do it." And He is saying it more than once.

Our culture tells us the opposite. We are supposed to worry about everything. Because nothing in this life is certain, all we can do is plan as best we can and worry about the rest. Look at advertisements and see how many start with something along the lines of "are you worried about...?" Look at our conversations with other people. We replace the word "worry" with the friendlier version "concern" (and the dictionary backs me up on that one). "Does it concern you that...your marriage...your job...your kids...your money...your house..." and the list goes on. We fully embrace worry as a perfectly acceptable and normal response to life.

And this is exactly what Christ is telling His followers not to do. Worry is normal because we are sinners. Worry is acceptable because our sin teaches us to rely on ourselves. But we belong to Christ which also means we belong to the Father, and God's Spirit reminds of this each and every day. That eliminates any and all room for worry.

But with all that said, it's not easy. I want to seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, but the concerns of this life appear weightier. I know by doing so all these things will be added to you, but my needs can't seem to wait.

Thankfully, God graciously allows me to wrestle with Him even when the issue is seemingly simple. He doesn't berate for lack of faith, but draws me in. For it never did (or ever will) depend on me. 

Out of my shameful failure and loss,
Jesus, I come; Jesus, I come.
Into the glorious gain of Thy cross,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of earth’s sorrows into Thy balm,
Out of life’s storms and into Thy calm,
Out of distress into jubilant psalm,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

no faith

I thoroughly enjoy CNN-Opinion. I am fairly confident they are not the only ones, but, since CNN is my news of choice, I go there. The page offers pieces that touch on an assortment of subjects from all points of views. And I typically enjoy understanding what others believe, even if I don't necessarily agree with them.

Penn Jillette, of the infamous Penn & Teller, wrote a piece about why he is both a libertarian and atheist. While the entire article is interesting, the following paragraph stood out the most.

What makes me libertarian is what makes me an atheist -- I don't know. If I don't know, I don't believe. I don't know exactly how we got here, and I don't think anyone else does, either. We have some of the pieces of the puzzle and we'll get more, but I'm not going to use faith to fill in the gaps. I'm not going to believe things that TV hosts state without proof. I'll wait for real evidence and then I'll believe.

In regards to his libertarian point, I have no pressing response. If someone wants to belong to the Democratic, Republican, Tea, Libertarian, Independent, or whatever party they are more than welcome to it. All of them have ideas worth being heard, especially given the current state of our government.

But how do we respond to his atheistic claim? Anger? Aggression? Scoff? Mockery? Ridicule? Religious arrogance?

Yes, his beliefs contradict what the Bible declares. Creation is filled with proof of its Creator. We don't know all the answers, mostly because we (humanity as a whole) are the reason for our problems. But God is faithful and sovereign. Faith in Him is not meaningless faith.

Hopefully we can read (or hear) such statements of belief and respond with compassion and grace. Jesus did not berate his disciples for doubt. He stood up and gave them the proof they needed. He calmed the storm (Matthew 8:26), healed the demon possessed boy (Matthew 17:17-20), and let Thomas touch His wounds (John 20:27).

We are more than capable of doing the same, but not with a spirit of arrogance. Grace tells us we were in the same boat before Christ saved us. And apart from Him, we would believe similarly. Grace teaches us humility, which is exactly how we need to respond to those lacking the faith necessary for belief.

A year of travels

It's not New Year's, but today feels like a good day to reminisce on my past year (maybe the midterm I just took is having an effect). Today does mark five months since I returned from my time in India. If you believe me, I haven't been counting. I simply saw the date and said "well look at that." But I have seen other places as well in the last year.

Last August, I traveled to Italy with two friends for a crash-course in sight-seeing, delicious food, good wine, and fun. If you've never gone, may I encourage you to do so. My taste-buds continue to thank me.

After a brief stop in Harrisburg to start off the year teaching, I traveled to Boston for a weekend visit of a friend attending Gordon Conwell. We toured Quincy Market, Fenway Park, and downtown making room for oysters and chowder. (Please read all those names and foods with a thick, Boston accent please).

My traveling took a break over the holidays are I prepared for the major excursion of the year. I serve three months in India with a God-glorifying ministry. I lived with a wonderful family, served alongside a hilarious and devoted group of godly men and women, saw God move time and time again, and saw my call for ministry grow. I hope to return someday.

After three months filled with recuperation, a sprained ankle, a Spruce Lake trip as a substitute teacher, and a plethora of Messiah girl's lacrosse games I traveled once again to my favorite place in all of New York. I studied religiously for my Hebrew course, but filled the extra time enjoying the best family (immediate and extended) a guy could ask for.

And finally, before the grind of another Hebrew semester, I ventured to Wildwood, NJ for a quick frolicking in the surf and sand. I would have liked to stay longer, but I am grateful for the twenty-four hour period I had. (And since my time was so limited this picture is the only proof of my attendance.)

God is good. I can't say it enough. I don't always take the time to see it, but it doesn't mean it's not true. He has blessed me with plenty of opportunities to see His creation, enjoy His people, and find rest through His good gifts over the course of the past year. I am grateful for each and every one.

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good ~Psalm 136:1

the seminary bubble

I wish I could say I read these two articles over and over again in attempt to fully dissect the writer's point. Unfortunately, the limitations of my time remain. I could wait until my summer class is over, but I will most likely forget to come back and revisit it altogether. Even so, my opinion is limited seeing as I am only two "theoretical" semesters into my program. I am not (yet) in debt from seminary, although that day is fast approaching. It will add to my existing debt, but apparently debt is "in" (or so says our government).

Instead of writing a rather lengthy response, I am simply going to list a few lines from the article and respond to those. I picked ones which I either nodded in agreement with, clearly disagreed with, or a little of both.

...young men graduate from seminary $60,000 or $70,000 in debt with few employment options other than very low-pay youth minister positions. Everyone has debt, and labors through low-pay positions. I taught for two years. Many teachers (and other careers) are in the exact same position. What I don't like about this argument (which really has nothing to do with the author's main point) is the reality of youth ministry being used as a launching pad or a place to stash people until they are "ready." First, it hurts the youth. Too many churches see the youth pastor position as a revolving door. Every 2-3 years someone new comes in. This directly affects the ability of the kids to grow as nothing is ever stable. Second, youth isn't the only place where passion and energy are needed. The older generations (college on up) need to be rejuvenated and kicked in the pants every so often as well. Some men are gifted towards one group or the other. Placing him where he doesn't belong frustrates both him and the group he is expected to minister to.

Interestingly enough, statistics indicate that these less “professional” churches are growing and the top-heavy cousins are rapidly shrinking. Personally, I don't think this has anything to do with whether or not the pastor went to seminary. I think it's more of a reflection of the individual church. There are plenty of seminary and non-seminary education pastors leading thriving churches which are passionate about seeing the gospel of Jesus Christ reach all corners of the globe. There are also plenty of seminary and non-seminary educated pastors leading churches that are passionate about all the wrong things or nothing at all. These churches don't need a man with the gift of speech or a specific degree, they need Jesus Christ as their top priority.

Seminary training has almost nothing to do with the talent for public speaking, and often leaves any evaluation of that talent later in the student’s training. Interesting point. It can make it tough when you are learning about sermon preparation, but rarely given a chance to implement a sermon. People want good speakers, which only comes through practice and God's grace. I hope it's not the case for Westminster, but I won't know until I keep moving along. But I do have opportunities in my local church to foster my speaking skills should the need arise. This is another one of the many blessings of being committed to a local body instead of floating around until you are welcomed in as a shepherd.

Another common criticism is that enduring the financial privations of a seminary education is somehow a spiritual obligation. (This is technically a rebuttal against one of the criticisms) Christianity is not about obligation. It's about grace. Attending seminary does not earn me any extra points nor does not attending seminary subtract points. Christ requires I faithfully serve Him and follow where He leads. For some, it may mean seminary. For others, secular careers where God's people are just as needed. Still others, a plethora of other things. If we head into them with a mindset of obligation, we won't be serving with joy or with the proper motivation of bringing glory and praise to Christ.

Christ was not, Himself, a seminary graduate, nor did He establish an institution of higher learning. This one sounds like a cop-out. I could say Jesus never went to college. I could say Jesus never bought a home. I could say Jesus never ran an official church service. The point is Christ didn't establish a lot of things during His time on earth. It wasn't His purpose. He came to do the Father's will (John 6:38), which eventually meant His death and resurrection. Plus, Jesus grew up as a devote Jewish boy. He spent a good deal of His upbringing receiving formal training in the Scriptures (Old Testament at that time). And that training was more akin to higher education than apprenticeship.

Otherwise it was parties, stories, healings and alms. Here, Jesus sounds like a hippie from the 60's walking around with a guitar, a tie-dye shirt, a peculiar aroma, a radiant glow, and pockets full of coins. Limiting Jesus' ministry to "parties, stories, healing, and alms" is not faithful to Scripture. Jesus' ministry was to serve and give His life as a ransom (Matthew 20:28). And He left His disciples with a call to follow in His steps. They were to go, make disciples, baptize, and teach (Matthew 28:19-20) through the means by which the Spirit led. The aforementioned list was Jesus' declaration that the kingdom of God has come, but not yet to its fullest. Jesus was showing how God will one day redeem all which has been corrupted by sin.

Why, then, do we put classrooms in the middle of pastoral formation and apprenticeship at the edge? I actually really like this point. Seminaries will require a semester (maybe two) of ministry experience. That semester is important, but it would be wonderful (at least I think it would) for a student to be active in some means along the way. Getting a chance to use the intellectual knowledge gained in practical ways is extremely important. And yes, it would be nice if seminaries could help bridge the gap. However, it doesn't necessarily have to rest solely on the seminary to provide the opportunity. Churches are always looking for more hands and people to lead. Getting more involved in a local church body (this seems to be a running theme) is a great way to learn more about ministry. Help run the children's program. Become a youth leader. Start a Bible study. Join committees to get a flavor for church meetings and functions. Ask to try something new which would benefit the body and those it is trying to reach. Sure, it won't lead to extra pay, but what's more important anyway?

In fact, I think theology is so important that I’d like to see it taught efficiently, at low cost, to far larger numbers of people. Isn't that what the church is supposed to do!?!?!? Confession. I used to hate Sunday School. I thought it made Sunday mornings seem that much longer. Now my church isn't perfect, but I like our Sunday school (or at least the one I attend). We pour over books of the Bible in order to wrestle with theological topics (soteriology, ecclesiology, eschatology etc.) contained in them so that we may grow more in love with God and better serve those around us. A lot of churches would rather use Sunday school as a social event or take it off the table altogether.

I’d put my money on the 30-something apprentice with an iPod, some business experience and a day job over the 20-something with a piece of paper and a huge load of debt every time. Any God-fearing church puts their money on the whatever-something God has called to faithfully shepherd their flock. If he attended seminary, great. If he didn't, but it still able to faithfully teach God's Word and lead His people, then great. God is the one who calls (any and all of His people, pastors or not), and He does so for His purpose and glory. Our job is to faithfully respond and serve.

(insert sound of brakes screeching to a halt)

My older sister is a real peach. There is no doubt in my mind of her love for her youngest brother. I can recount many events in my past, which would speak to this as being true. She fed me at least twice a week my freshman year of college (and even let me bring friends along at times). Along with her husband, she chose me as a member of her infamous wedding party. Despite having two daughters and a busy husband, I am frequently invited to her city dwelling for food and fellowship. I could come up with a lot more, but those will suffice for now. But more importantly, I know my sister is interested in my development as a man, particularly one gearing up for a life of full-time ministry.

However, she does have a feisty streak in her as well. She has been know to mutilate teddy bears after convincing a mere toddler the bear would look better scarf-less. She breaks cribs (along with her younger brother) when all you want to do is sleep in them. She also might practice her developing punching skills when you least expect it. Or she sends emails attaching articles which challenge a trajectory you recently dove head-first into.

She sent me this and this in an email. I read both during a break in my seminary (note the irony) class. I plan on writing a reflection on the two articles considering they directly apply to my situation. And in actuality, the issues being raised are not foreign to me. I took many of them into account as I wrestled over whether or not attending seminary was right for me. In all honesty, I still wrestle with some of the issues. Certain points the author makes I found myself nodding in agreement with. For others, I was less enthused. While I may not agree with every point being made, I think the articles raise good questions about education, in general, and seminary education, in specific.

If anything it's a good challenge to assess where my heart lies and the motivation behind my attending seminary. Am I doing it all for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31) or something entirely different?

(P.S. Danielle, I am appreciative of the articles. I just wanted to get in some good-natured ribbing seeing as I've been left to myself this week with nobody to pick on. You won my "find someone to playfully tease" drawing. Don't you feel special?)

government (part 2)

Here is where I stop talking about America as a whole. But first, I do not want to diminish the work of non-Christians in trying to fix our nations mistakes. There are plenty of good individuals and organizations working for the good of the people around them. They are using their talents and gifts to serve others. They aren't motivated by greed and self, but the overall well-being of others. Their efforts should be praised, and Christians shouldn't fear to come alongside them. Praise God for people such as these who are living proof of His grace!

However, their efforts can only go so far. To go with Cal Thomas' quote, their attempts can alter the reflection of our decadence, but they won't transform the root. And the transformation of the root is where the cry for the followers of Christ can be heard the loudest.

The Bible is clear what the root problem is (Genesis 6:5, Jeremiah 17:9, Matthew 5:18-19, Romans 3 to name a few). Government can't fix sin. Programs can't fix sin. Individuals can't fix sin. Jesus Christ is the only one who can fix sin. And praise God, He already has through His perfect life, sacrificial death, and victorious resurrection!

We tend to lose this focus. Our aim at welcoming God back into our nation's operations is through petitions, elections, letters, and debates (all of which should compliment, but never supplement the gospel). Again, we should desire laws which reflect God's character and desires. But more than that, we should desire people with transformed hearts.

Our primary focus must be planting the gospel into every aspect of our culture. It is the only way it can be redeemed. Two examples from Scripture make this point clear.

In 2 Kings 22-23, the High Priest finds the book of the law among the temple ruins. He reads it and repents. From there he goes to King Josiah, but not to ask him to change the laws to reflect what he read. Instead, he reads it to Josiah who also repents. From there, they read the book before all the people who have their sin exposed by the truth, and respond with repentance. And the overall result is a massive transformation of culture. Nothing is left untouched by the truth of God's Word. Business changes, worship changes, government changes, and live are changed through the power of God's Spirit. Reforms were made by Josiah, but the reforms were a result of new hearts bent towards pleasing God.

In Jonah 3, we see a very similar event. Jonah is told to preach judgment upon the city. After a few self-inflicted detours, Jonah finally ends up in Nineveh. His message is simple, Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown! And yet, the results are astounding. First, all the people mourn and fast over their sin. Then the kings hears of what's happening and follows suit. From top to bottom, people are transformed by God's Word. And we see another transformation of culture. God is made the top priority of every individual, which filters into how everything else is conducted. Nothing escapes the transformation power of the gospel.

I could also use examples from the New Testament. Peter saw thousands respond to the message of the gospel on Pentecost. Paul saw church after church turn away from idols and slavery to sin because of Christ. The books of Acts is filled with many more examples of cultural transformation due to the good news of Jesus Christ.

And this is the message, Christians are called to declare to everyone around us. Instead of throwing fits about the atrocities going on around us, we should take action the way God's Word tells us to. Share the gospel of Jesus Christ, and see what happens. We don't serve a weak God. He will accomplish what He desires, but He calls us to serve His purposes. As we are faithful in sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, He will be faithful in transforming lives. For as He told Isaiah,

So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it. (55:11)

government (part 1)

Recently, I have been using my down time (what little there is) to follow the debt crisis. I really can't get enough. I read almost everything the various media sites put out. Unfortunately, my knowledge of the financial world is extremely limited. I took economics in college, but only came away with supply & demand, the "trickle-down-effect," and guns & butter. Therefore, I read to educate myself in order to better understand the madness swirling around us.

I also read because I find the two sides extremely arrogant in their thinking. It's comical and saddening. Again, I have no clue what should be done. However, I am knowledgeable enough to understand there is not a "one-way" solution to the problem. Multiple tactics will be needed to correct our growing debt. Apparently, the two sides don't agree. They declare their "solution" as the only means by which America can be saved. All other ideas are stupid, worthless, and, ultimately, going to make things terribly worse. No wonder action has been moving at a tortoise pace.

But as I read, my mind keeps coming back to a quote I thought was far more famous than it is. I don't remember anything about the man (Cal Thomas), nor can I say where I first heard his comment. It's not Scripture so we can't take it as inerrant or inspired, but it does contain truths in it.

In a free society, government reflects the soul of its people. If people want change at the top, they will have to live in different ways. Our major social problems are not the cause of our decadence. They are a reflection of it.


People hate government these days. They see it as corrupt, self-motivated, and captivated by greed. Very little is done in the interest of the people. I would be one to agree with those statements. However, I will not pass all the blame on those serving in Washington. True. They should be held responsible as elected officials. Equally true. The finger should be pointing just as emphatically back at us.

Our government is doing exactly what it's people have been doing for decades: spending money they don't have. Both load up massive debts they will never be able to pay back in order to maintain lifestyles they can't afford. And the blame, I believe, goes much deeper than finances.

There is a large outcry, often from Christians, about the trajectory of our nation's morality. We claim laws have been passed which undermine the Judeo-Christian values our country was founded upon. Things clearly viewed as wrong in the past are now embraced as products of enlightenment, tolerance, and progress. Again, laws have been passed to allow such things. There is no denying that. However, the laws are merely responding to the "soul of its people."

Government hasn't ruined our morality. It has only added water to an already slippery slope. 

• Prayer got removed from schools. Was it even in most of our homes? 
• God's name was left out of the pledge. When was God's name last used other than as a profanity or comfortable tag at the end of a patriotic speech? 
• God's laws were torn down from courthouses. How many of us even know God's laws, let along follow them? 
• New laws have redefined marriage. How do we define what it used to be? Divorce? Adultery? Abuse? Swinging? Promiscuity? Self-serving? (And I could go on). 
• Laws turned killing innocent children into a matter of "choice" and "rights." Have we not been begging for the rights and freedoms to serve our own interests above all else?
• Government is isolating God to the private sector. When have we ever been public about God other than showing up at church?
• And the list doesn't stop here.

Government didn't pull the rug out from under us. It gave us exactly what our lives demanded. Romans 1 is playing out before our eyes. We've been serving, worshiping, and glorifying self regardless of the consequences (And I am willing to throw Christians into this mix as well. We have allowed various compromises in our own lives which blatantly contradict Scripture. We look eerily similar to the rest of the world without any problem. We seek after, indulge in, and honor the same things as everyone else). Now, our government has fallen in line. And all of the results are terrible.

I pray for God's name to be exalted in government again. I pray for His perfect laws to be upheld. I pray for marriage to be valued as sacred and God-ordained. I pray for abortion to cease. I pray for the poor, needy, and sick to receive mercy. Ultimately, I pray for God's grace to be made evident in our government. But even as Mr. Thomas said, the change must come from the people first. God's grace must be evident in the lives of His people. And herein lies the problem.

(part 2 still to come)