Around our house we have been asking the question for awhile, "What is 'church'?" Since my surgery has limited my activity, I have been devouring books and Scripture and had plenty of time to think...
One thing I believe church is NOT is what many of us in America have made it: a weekly ritual of showing up in our Sunday best with our Sunday faces and Sunday graces for an hour or two and then fading back into what we consider our "real" lives. This is about as far from the New Testament teaching of Christ on the church as one can get. Jesus spoke most harshly not to the sinners He encountered but to the religious leaders of His day who, instead of lighting the path for seekers to move toward relationship with the Living God, busied themselves with ritual and showy acts of piety.
When we "go" to church and refuse to "be" the church, we are falling into the same trap. We become so enthralled with our habits of religion that we obscure the path for those who are thirsting for the Living Water Jesus offers.
Sunday worship is not a bad thing. It is good and proper for the people of God to join together in adoration and recognition of Him. But perhaps we need to examine HOW we do Sunday worship--do we always have to have 3 songs and a sermon? Could we not have an hour of praise and worship? How about an hour of prayer that wasn't relegated to a Wednesday night but occupied the primary gathering on Sunday morning? Does the pastor always have to be the one who speaks? Could we not (as the Bible suggests) allow each person to bring forth a testimony, hymn or spiritual word as the Spirit directs?
What would our services look like if they weren't so predictable? Who would they minister to? What life would pour forth as each congregant was empowered to use the gifts they have been given? What if children were encouraged and allowed to remain in the service instead of being shuttered away so the adults could listen undisturbed?
I long for the exhuberance displayed in the Psalms labeled "songs of ascent". These were sung as the Jews walked up the hill to the temple on holy days. They were songs of joy--"I was glad when they said unto me, let us go to the house of the Lord"--how many of us approach our Sunday worship services this way?
May the Lord Himself shake us from our slumber and quicken our hearts to beat like His!
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
A Shepherd's Heart
God has granted me the privilege of being a shepherd. Every day I understand more of the heart of our Lord Jesus expressed in His words, "I am the Good Shepherd." I know why God prepared His greatest leaders by schooling them through the care of sheep and goats.
There are so many lessons: (1) Goats and sheep are utterly unable to care for themselves--if I don't care for them, they will fall prey to their own poor choices and/or dangers around them;
(2) They depend on my reassurance when faced with a frightening or unusual situation--a loud sound, a misplaced item in their pen--all of these things cause them to turn toward me and to copy my reaction whether of alarm or calm; (3) They don't know how to "ask" for help--they simply stand apart, head down, looking forlorn--if I don't approach them, check them out and care for them, they would just lie down and die; (4) They long for my attention--they gather round and beg for treats and touch; and (5) They are brutal in their competition with one another--if I don't make sure the weakest among them get fed or are protected from bullying, they will be pushed out and away by the strongest among them.
I receive great joy from watching these funny creatures and I thank God for the blessing of learning from them each day.
There are so many lessons: (1) Goats and sheep are utterly unable to care for themselves--if I don't care for them, they will fall prey to their own poor choices and/or dangers around them;
(2) They depend on my reassurance when faced with a frightening or unusual situation--a loud sound, a misplaced item in their pen--all of these things cause them to turn toward me and to copy my reaction whether of alarm or calm; (3) They don't know how to "ask" for help--they simply stand apart, head down, looking forlorn--if I don't approach them, check them out and care for them, they would just lie down and die; (4) They long for my attention--they gather round and beg for treats and touch; and (5) They are brutal in their competition with one another--if I don't make sure the weakest among them get fed or are protected from bullying, they will be pushed out and away by the strongest among them.
I receive great joy from watching these funny creatures and I thank God for the blessing of learning from them each day.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
The Grace of God
It is truly unbelievable that I have not touched this blog for over a year...especially in light of my last post. But God is gracious and He is faithful in spite of our faithlessness.
This past season of life has been full of both blessings and trials. Blessings in the form of answered prayers and unexpected gifts from the LORD and trials in the form of health problems.
The blessings have brought smiles and even shouts of joy (when our eldest son was accepted to veterinary school!) but the trials have had their own sweet rewards. Light shines brightest in the darkest night.
Four weeks out from major abdominal surgery that was a result of complications from diverticulitis, I can testify to the sustaining power of Christ in every circumstance. He is the Friend that sticks closer than a brother.
I can also testify to the precious gift of a family's love--eight days in the hospital and never alone for one minute. Even my sons took turns staying with me. My daughter has given up this semester to stay home and keep house for us. My husband got up at 4 in the morning to walk me downstairs when I couldn't lie in the bed anymore. And my parents provided meals and respite at their home near the hospital for everyone so that they were free to come and go as needed.
Healing is a gift from God even when administered through the hands of skilled doctors. As my body grows stronger, I am reminded of how fragile we are and how vulnerable. This morning I copied part of 2 Chronicles 20 from the story of Jehoshaphat. He tells his people: "Do not be afraid...For the battle is not yours, but God's....stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you". What a reminder of the way God works in our lives--He gives the victory, the healing, the strength. Do not be discouraged!
This past season of life has been full of both blessings and trials. Blessings in the form of answered prayers and unexpected gifts from the LORD and trials in the form of health problems.
The blessings have brought smiles and even shouts of joy (when our eldest son was accepted to veterinary school!) but the trials have had their own sweet rewards. Light shines brightest in the darkest night.
Four weeks out from major abdominal surgery that was a result of complications from diverticulitis, I can testify to the sustaining power of Christ in every circumstance. He is the Friend that sticks closer than a brother.
I can also testify to the precious gift of a family's love--eight days in the hospital and never alone for one minute. Even my sons took turns staying with me. My daughter has given up this semester to stay home and keep house for us. My husband got up at 4 in the morning to walk me downstairs when I couldn't lie in the bed anymore. And my parents provided meals and respite at their home near the hospital for everyone so that they were free to come and go as needed.
Healing is a gift from God even when administered through the hands of skilled doctors. As my body grows stronger, I am reminded of how fragile we are and how vulnerable. This morning I copied part of 2 Chronicles 20 from the story of Jehoshaphat. He tells his people: "Do not be afraid...For the battle is not yours, but God's....stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you". What a reminder of the way God works in our lives--He gives the victory, the healing, the strength. Do not be discouraged!
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
What a difference a year (and a half!) makes...
God has been calling me back to writing for over six months now but I have resisted and used life's busy-ness as an excuse. I will try to be more obedient in the future.
So many changes. The last of our children entering college has put me out of at least one of my jobs--I'm no longer a home educator full time. I still offer editorial advice and encouragement to stay on track with assignments and time management, but no more daily lessons. It is a great blessing to be able to see the fruit that God has granted for our years of sowing. It is easier than ever to understand the joy that the Bible expresses when talking about harvest time!
For me, I am learning to live with the reality of limitations. But in light of my infinite, unlimitable Heavenly Father, it is a small thing. He is faithful to give me abundant grace, peace and strength for each new day and I am so thankful for that.
So many changes. The last of our children entering college has put me out of at least one of my jobs--I'm no longer a home educator full time. I still offer editorial advice and encouragement to stay on track with assignments and time management, but no more daily lessons. It is a great blessing to be able to see the fruit that God has granted for our years of sowing. It is easier than ever to understand the joy that the Bible expresses when talking about harvest time!
For me, I am learning to live with the reality of limitations. But in light of my infinite, unlimitable Heavenly Father, it is a small thing. He is faithful to give me abundant grace, peace and strength for each new day and I am so thankful for that.
Monday, July 6, 2009
looking back, plunging ahead
How interesting to look back over a year ago at my New Year's Resolution post! Eighteen months later I can see where God has graciously granted progress toward many of the goals I set. But, oh! at the failures along the way! My flesh is a nasty beast and rears its head at the most awkward times. It just won't stay dead :(
But the God I serve is greater than my flesh! Hallelujah! And He has given me every provision for life and godliness through Christ Jesus my Lord. So I rest in Him, confident that He will complete the work He has begun in me and will be faithful to the end. Thank you, Lord.
But the God I serve is greater than my flesh! Hallelujah! And He has given me every provision for life and godliness through Christ Jesus my Lord. So I rest in Him, confident that He will complete the work He has begun in me and will be faithful to the end. Thank you, Lord.
Monday, January 7, 2008
New Year's Resolutions
I love new beginnings. I enjoy the idea of a fresh start, a blank page, an unmarked calendar. It reminds me of the opportunity I have to make a change, choose a new direction, refocus my energies on things that really matter.
The year just past was the last in a series of extremely challenging ones for our family, and for me, in particular. We had to face the deaths of close family members, climb the mountain of health problems and adjust to changes in our family routines because of children reaching adulthood. Additionally, we left our church home of nearly ten years and began attending another fellowship.
This, in combination with the new year has prompted me to make some resolutions. First, I resolve to live each day in the full awareness of God's great mercy to me and to my family. I want to wake and inhale the fresh air of my country home, enjoy the warmth of my husband's arm around me and cherish the sounds of my children getting ready in the morning for school and for home life. I will choose to focus on the blessings I have been given--new life in Christ Jesus--and all the material provision that has been made for me to live without fear of tomorrow.
Second, I resolve to treat each person I come in contact with as an individual, made in the image of God--with a soul and a purpose and a life that matters as much to them as mine does to me. I will take time to talk to them--look them in the eye, not use my cell phone in the checkout line and thank them sincerely for any service done for me. I will try to ask pertinent questions and to bless them by paying attention to their answers. Just as my Father in heaven cares for me, knows my name and listens to my concerns, I want to listen to others.
Third, I resolve to rid myself and my surroundings of clutter. I am making a concious effort to dump from my memory any grudges or old hurts. I am throwing away those old papers that I haven't looked at in years--I'm no more likely to look at them now. I will pick up after myself as I go through the day instead of piling things up and assuming I will put them away "later". It'll mean more trips up the stairs, but stronger legs in the end :-) I am not going to buy something just because it's on sale (even on clearance!!) thinking I will use it one day. I am going to rearrange my kitchen, bath and bedroom so that those items I use daily are easily accessible and easy to put away.
Fourth, I resolve to spend time each day in unscheduled "play". Whether I take a walk, go out and play with the horses, read a book, write notes to friends or make a few phone calls--I'm going to push back the urgent to make room for the important.
Fifth, I resolve to enjoy these fleeting years that are remaining when all of us are at home (at least part of the time) before marriage and jobs and graduate school mean months and maybe years of separation. I will laugh at the jokes, listen to the friendly banter, smile at the little rivalries and jabs the boys pass back and forth. I will relish the bedtime conversations and the love and trust they build between us.
Finally, I resolve to commend my husband to others. Too often, it is easy to make passing jests that gently poke fun at the man God has given me for a husband. I will focus on his strong points, encourage his pursuits, do the things that make his day easier and bless him by serving him.
I pray that God will help me live up to these resolutions. They are ones which will make life more meaningful. I've given up on the "lose 20 pounds" kinds of promises. If I am 20 pounds lighter in a year, it won't make much difference to anyone except my doctor. But if I am a sweeter, more relaxed, more involved person--it will make a difference to everyone I meet.
The year just past was the last in a series of extremely challenging ones for our family, and for me, in particular. We had to face the deaths of close family members, climb the mountain of health problems and adjust to changes in our family routines because of children reaching adulthood. Additionally, we left our church home of nearly ten years and began attending another fellowship.
This, in combination with the new year has prompted me to make some resolutions. First, I resolve to live each day in the full awareness of God's great mercy to me and to my family. I want to wake and inhale the fresh air of my country home, enjoy the warmth of my husband's arm around me and cherish the sounds of my children getting ready in the morning for school and for home life. I will choose to focus on the blessings I have been given--new life in Christ Jesus--and all the material provision that has been made for me to live without fear of tomorrow.
Second, I resolve to treat each person I come in contact with as an individual, made in the image of God--with a soul and a purpose and a life that matters as much to them as mine does to me. I will take time to talk to them--look them in the eye, not use my cell phone in the checkout line and thank them sincerely for any service done for me. I will try to ask pertinent questions and to bless them by paying attention to their answers. Just as my Father in heaven cares for me, knows my name and listens to my concerns, I want to listen to others.
Third, I resolve to rid myself and my surroundings of clutter. I am making a concious effort to dump from my memory any grudges or old hurts. I am throwing away those old papers that I haven't looked at in years--I'm no more likely to look at them now. I will pick up after myself as I go through the day instead of piling things up and assuming I will put them away "later". It'll mean more trips up the stairs, but stronger legs in the end :-) I am not going to buy something just because it's on sale (even on clearance!!) thinking I will use it one day. I am going to rearrange my kitchen, bath and bedroom so that those items I use daily are easily accessible and easy to put away.
Fourth, I resolve to spend time each day in unscheduled "play". Whether I take a walk, go out and play with the horses, read a book, write notes to friends or make a few phone calls--I'm going to push back the urgent to make room for the important.
Fifth, I resolve to enjoy these fleeting years that are remaining when all of us are at home (at least part of the time) before marriage and jobs and graduate school mean months and maybe years of separation. I will laugh at the jokes, listen to the friendly banter, smile at the little rivalries and jabs the boys pass back and forth. I will relish the bedtime conversations and the love and trust they build between us.
Finally, I resolve to commend my husband to others. Too often, it is easy to make passing jests that gently poke fun at the man God has given me for a husband. I will focus on his strong points, encourage his pursuits, do the things that make his day easier and bless him by serving him.
I pray that God will help me live up to these resolutions. They are ones which will make life more meaningful. I've given up on the "lose 20 pounds" kinds of promises. If I am 20 pounds lighter in a year, it won't make much difference to anyone except my doctor. But if I am a sweeter, more relaxed, more involved person--it will make a difference to everyone I meet.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Getting Started
I'm enjoying a new craft this month--I've been making soap. I have always wanted to make it the old fashioned way, with lye and fat and goat's milk, but that's not happening any time soon...so I went the shortcut route. I purchased soap base, melted it and am having a wonderful time adding things from my garden to make unique and sweet-smelling creations!
So far the two types that are my most favorite are the sage and the milk & honey soaps. Sage smells wonderful and is a lovely green color. The milk& honey is a pretty opaque cream w/ darker brown flecks.
I am also digging out some old fabric that has been in my closet for ages and making cute bird ornaments for package tie-ons. It's a great way to keep my hands busy in the evenings now that it gets dark so soon.
Supper is homemade soup tonight--getting ready for the cooler weather. A quick and tasty addition to soup is fried tortilla strips: Cut flour tortillas into strips w/ kitchen shears. Heat an inch of oil in a pot and drop in and fry until golden. Drain on a paper towel. They taste better than french fries to me, dress up even plain old tomato soup and no one will ever guess how easy they are to make!
So far the two types that are my most favorite are the sage and the milk & honey soaps. Sage smells wonderful and is a lovely green color. The milk& honey is a pretty opaque cream w/ darker brown flecks.
I am also digging out some old fabric that has been in my closet for ages and making cute bird ornaments for package tie-ons. It's a great way to keep my hands busy in the evenings now that it gets dark so soon.
Supper is homemade soup tonight--getting ready for the cooler weather. A quick and tasty addition to soup is fried tortilla strips: Cut flour tortillas into strips w/ kitchen shears. Heat an inch of oil in a pot and drop in and fry until golden. Drain on a paper towel. They taste better than french fries to me, dress up even plain old tomato soup and no one will ever guess how easy they are to make!
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