The little issues of life can be frustrating and even life altering. The insignificant pot holes and hurdles we encounter each day have the power to pull us into an emotional funk and bog us down.
How we deal with the small stuff is important. On the surface the poky driver, inept co-worker, or squeaky windshield wiper might seem trivial, but beware. We all know how little issues can set our attitude for the whole day. As Solomon notes in his Song of Songs, it's the little foxes that ruin the vineyards. The little things running through our lives can steal any hope of having a productive day. They sneak up and catch us unaware.
We have virtually no control over the small stuff, they're just little "life events" that randomly run past us or play awhile at our feet. Like foxes, they are visible for only an instant, but they disrupt and damage our fruit-bearing vines. They zip in for split second, then vanish.
I encountered a little fox the other day as I was making my way through the vineyard. I had stopped at Wendy's and ordered a serving of their wonderful Chicken Tenders. Driving off with my nearly two gallon container of soda and small chicken order, I carefully balanced the bag between my knees and unpacked the much awaited crunchy chicken... whoops, did anyone see that? A little fox ran by; he jumped out of my lunch bag! As I removed the food from its wrapping I discovered my "to go" order had been carelessly packed, for there in my hand was some kind of burger!
I was burning... I mean how hard is it? I didn't have time to go back, and was not really in the mood for a burger. I fumed for quite some time as I drove. However, on this occasion I managed to catch that little fox and toss him out of my vineyard. I have no idea how that rascally fellow got in my car that day, I was simply going about my daily business.
Keeping focused on the important goals for our day, and staying true to the God of our affection will scare those pesky foxes away. As Solomon wrote in his romantic poem, "Show me your face, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet and your face is lovely." (Song of Songs 2:14,15)
November 30, 2005
November 27, 2005
Where Horses Run and Eagles Fly
The instincts that rule and preserve the animal kingdom have inspired the imagination of both scientists and animal lovers alike. Watching animals eek out their simple and unpredictable existence has inspired folk lore, scientists, and movie makers. We are amazed that small-minded creatures can accomplish such incredible feats; educated as we are, we're still baffled by their natural abilities. In awe we watch as: dogs herd sheep, pigeons fly home, bats navigate blind, and salmon swim upstream. They make us say wow!
Because of our love and appreciation for animals, we've gone to great lengths to domesticate them. We teach parrots to talk, horses to jump, and dogs to roll over, but it's not their natural behavior. No matter how we train our pets, when left alone or faced with survival, horses won't jump, they'll run; dogs won't roll over, they'll hunt; parrots won't talk, they'll sing.
In both the natural and spiritual realms, people are much the same. We have endowed gifts and abilities that make us tick as individuals - they motivate us and bring fulfillment. But like the world of domesticated pets, society often requires people to function in areas they aren't gifted. People are asked to jump when they would much rather run, roll over when instincts call for the hunt.
And so the church... God has provided His people with a wide array of gifts and abilities... but we have somehow concluded that the most sacred worship expression is the pulpit kind - music and oratory. Those so graced sit as (a kind of) nobility in our Christian world, viewed as the ultimate expression of God's gifting. Our focus is tuned to events on stage and large gatherings. We speak about "gathering to worship," and "attending worship services." In many cases, the church disappears between regularly scheduled meetings, embracing the notion that with our individual lives we can't worship and honor God.
Unwittingly perhaps, we have communicated that contributions made inside the church walls matter, while activities outside the walls do not. We have asked people to conform to the customary or group model. Individuality and creativity are deemed too costly, and viewed as a hindrance to the greater corporate vision.
God is desiring His church to recognize the individual giftings and abilities of believers, not only to build the local fellowship, but to make His name famous and captivate our cities for God. His vision is for a church that expresses creative and imaginative living that honors His name. He is longing for a culture where men and women like Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Raphael flood the land with creations that take our breath and stir imaginations. He desires a generation of builders and craftsmen who glorify Him through intricate design and flawless construction. He is watching for businessmen that sign a fair deal and deliver the goods.
The church footprint should be much larger than weekly gatherings. We must be believers who honor him with our vocations as well as songs and sermons. Our neighbors are watching for a church that is not only alive behind walls, but powerful and relevant where they live and work - in the marketplace and cultural centers around the world.
Where are the artisans, renowned businessmen, architects, and craftsmen whose work draws our eye heavenward? Perhaps like our pets, we have domesticated them - trained them to work and function in our customary ways. We may be forcing them into our church molds, seeking behavior that is inconsistent with who they are -- devaluing their God given gifts and creativity.
Experience clearly teaches that the glory of man will never be reflected upon the walls of man-made systems, confining organizations, or thought-stifling oppression. Man's gifting, passion, and creativity will shine where love and freedom reign -- a place where horses run and eagles fly.
Because of our love and appreciation for animals, we've gone to great lengths to domesticate them. We teach parrots to talk, horses to jump, and dogs to roll over, but it's not their natural behavior. No matter how we train our pets, when left alone or faced with survival, horses won't jump, they'll run; dogs won't roll over, they'll hunt; parrots won't talk, they'll sing.
In both the natural and spiritual realms, people are much the same. We have endowed gifts and abilities that make us tick as individuals - they motivate us and bring fulfillment. But like the world of domesticated pets, society often requires people to function in areas they aren't gifted. People are asked to jump when they would much rather run, roll over when instincts call for the hunt.
And so the church... God has provided His people with a wide array of gifts and abilities... but we have somehow concluded that the most sacred worship expression is the pulpit kind - music and oratory. Those so graced sit as (a kind of) nobility in our Christian world, viewed as the ultimate expression of God's gifting. Our focus is tuned to events on stage and large gatherings. We speak about "gathering to worship," and "attending worship services." In many cases, the church disappears between regularly scheduled meetings, embracing the notion that with our individual lives we can't worship and honor God.
Unwittingly perhaps, we have communicated that contributions made inside the church walls matter, while activities outside the walls do not. We have asked people to conform to the customary or group model. Individuality and creativity are deemed too costly, and viewed as a hindrance to the greater corporate vision.
God is desiring His church to recognize the individual giftings and abilities of believers, not only to build the local fellowship, but to make His name famous and captivate our cities for God. His vision is for a church that expresses creative and imaginative living that honors His name. He is longing for a culture where men and women like Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Raphael flood the land with creations that take our breath and stir imaginations. He desires a generation of builders and craftsmen who glorify Him through intricate design and flawless construction. He is watching for businessmen that sign a fair deal and deliver the goods.
The church footprint should be much larger than weekly gatherings. We must be believers who honor him with our vocations as well as songs and sermons. Our neighbors are watching for a church that is not only alive behind walls, but powerful and relevant where they live and work - in the marketplace and cultural centers around the world.
Where are the artisans, renowned businessmen, architects, and craftsmen whose work draws our eye heavenward? Perhaps like our pets, we have domesticated them - trained them to work and function in our customary ways. We may be forcing them into our church molds, seeking behavior that is inconsistent with who they are -- devaluing their God given gifts and creativity.
Experience clearly teaches that the glory of man will never be reflected upon the walls of man-made systems, confining organizations, or thought-stifling oppression. Man's gifting, passion, and creativity will shine where love and freedom reign -- a place where horses run and eagles fly.
November 20, 2005
A Matter of Timing
We've all heard it said, "Timing is everything." From harvesting our garden's produce to requesting a salary increase at work, timing will in large part determine the results.
Timing is important for evangelism as well. There are many Christians who have lost the concept of timing in regard to sharing their faith. They see evangelism as an event planned and perpetrated on their terms, at the location and time they choose.
But should evangelism be an event or an ongoing conversation? Often we hear about ministry teams going out to evangelize their community. That usually means walking around the neighborhood confronting people with the gospel -- telling folks about Jesus. After a couple of hours on the street everyone returns to the church to share their story, eat cake and ice cream, and then home to bed feeling pretty good about themselves.
Certainly, preaching to people can be an effective method for delivering the gospel - especially in a large group setting. However, preaching to individuals one-on-one, or forcing the gospel into unnatural situations will, with rare exception, do little more than alienate them from the lifechanging news they need to hear.
The gospel (good news) will not be perceived by unbelievers as good news unless they are at a place in life where they are seeking such news. You and I rarely respond to people who barge uninvited into our lives - why do we think that our neighbors or those strolling in the park are any different?
Consider Philip's ministry recorded in Acts. He had been holding large group meetings in Samaria with great success. People were coming to Christ in large numbers as a result of his preaching and healing ministry. But when God set up a personal meeting with the Ethiopian eunuch, He gave Philip an entirely new strategy for ministry - different than the outdoor crusade template that worked so well. He sent Philip with explicit instructions: "Go over and walk alongside the carriage." Another version puts it this way: "Go to that Chariot and stay near it."
God sent Philip to be near the chariot, not set up a road block to stop it. God's intent was for Philip to be nearby when the eunuch encountered a life situation that he couldn't understand or handle. We don't know how long Philip walked beside the chariot, chatting from time to time, getting to know his unusual new friend. It could have been several days, given the long journey back to Ethiopia. The important point is that one day God moved upon the eunuch and he began a search for truth. By God's design, Philip was there ready to share the good news with him.
The turning point of this story occurs when the eunuch requested that Philip "Come up into the chariot and sit with me." I've got to believe that when Philip heard that invitation, the time spent walking that dusty wilderness road was all but forgotten. From the moment he first spotted the chariot, he knew the eunuch's conversion was just a matter of time. (Act 9:26-31)
Timing is important for evangelism as well. There are many Christians who have lost the concept of timing in regard to sharing their faith. They see evangelism as an event planned and perpetrated on their terms, at the location and time they choose.
But should evangelism be an event or an ongoing conversation? Often we hear about ministry teams going out to evangelize their community. That usually means walking around the neighborhood confronting people with the gospel -- telling folks about Jesus. After a couple of hours on the street everyone returns to the church to share their story, eat cake and ice cream, and then home to bed feeling pretty good about themselves.
Certainly, preaching to people can be an effective method for delivering the gospel - especially in a large group setting. However, preaching to individuals one-on-one, or forcing the gospel into unnatural situations will, with rare exception, do little more than alienate them from the lifechanging news they need to hear.
The gospel (good news) will not be perceived by unbelievers as good news unless they are at a place in life where they are seeking such news. You and I rarely respond to people who barge uninvited into our lives - why do we think that our neighbors or those strolling in the park are any different?
Consider Philip's ministry recorded in Acts. He had been holding large group meetings in Samaria with great success. People were coming to Christ in large numbers as a result of his preaching and healing ministry. But when God set up a personal meeting with the Ethiopian eunuch, He gave Philip an entirely new strategy for ministry - different than the outdoor crusade template that worked so well. He sent Philip with explicit instructions: "Go over and walk alongside the carriage." Another version puts it this way: "Go to that Chariot and stay near it."
God sent Philip to be near the chariot, not set up a road block to stop it. God's intent was for Philip to be nearby when the eunuch encountered a life situation that he couldn't understand or handle. We don't know how long Philip walked beside the chariot, chatting from time to time, getting to know his unusual new friend. It could have been several days, given the long journey back to Ethiopia. The important point is that one day God moved upon the eunuch and he began a search for truth. By God's design, Philip was there ready to share the good news with him.
The turning point of this story occurs when the eunuch requested that Philip "Come up into the chariot and sit with me." I've got to believe that when Philip heard that invitation, the time spent walking that dusty wilderness road was all but forgotten. From the moment he first spotted the chariot, he knew the eunuch's conversion was just a matter of time. (Act 9:26-31)
November 16, 2005
The Winking Eye
Solomon had a unique ability to probe the core issues of successful living. His poetry quietly calms the unsuspecting soul, then slyly and doggedly tugs at the roots of apathy and self-deception. At first reading, many of his short and simple statements seem benign and shallow. But upon meditation, they will uproot life's troublesome briars and brambles.
Consider his seemingly simple statement: "People who wink at wrong cause trouble, but a bold reproof promotes peace." On first reading, one might visualize the practical joker conjuring up a humorous prank while bystanders wink a complicitous eye. In western culture, the wink is a good-natured gesture that denotes acceptance of mischievous, but innocent behavior.
The wisdom of this proverb burrows much deeper than the superficial white lie or youthful mischief. Solomon's "winking eye" confronts our tendency for indifference to wrong - so long as it doesn't affect us. The wink could be a willingness to overlook wrongdoing for personal gain, or the result of a "peace at any cost" viewpoint. At times, people in power will wink as other leaders break the trust of those they govern - rallying to protect one another.
No matter the wrong, Solomon identifies the winking eye as a poker that stirs up the flames of turmoil and trouble. To the winker the wrong may seem insignificant - glossing over it may seem like the easy path. In reality, the wink serves to fuel its victim's discontent. The winking eye communicates a disregard for justice; it robs its victims of self-esteem and hope. For the high-minded peace lover, Solomon points to the eventual hostility that such a mindset breeds.
The leader who winks at wrong may gain some short-term peace and prosperity. But with the moral high ground lost, he best prepare himself to fight a fierce and unholy battle sometime in the not too distant future. (Proverbs 10:10)
Consider his seemingly simple statement: "People who wink at wrong cause trouble, but a bold reproof promotes peace." On first reading, one might visualize the practical joker conjuring up a humorous prank while bystanders wink a complicitous eye. In western culture, the wink is a good-natured gesture that denotes acceptance of mischievous, but innocent behavior.
The wisdom of this proverb burrows much deeper than the superficial white lie or youthful mischief. Solomon's "winking eye" confronts our tendency for indifference to wrong - so long as it doesn't affect us. The wink could be a willingness to overlook wrongdoing for personal gain, or the result of a "peace at any cost" viewpoint. At times, people in power will wink as other leaders break the trust of those they govern - rallying to protect one another.
No matter the wrong, Solomon identifies the winking eye as a poker that stirs up the flames of turmoil and trouble. To the winker the wrong may seem insignificant - glossing over it may seem like the easy path. In reality, the wink serves to fuel its victim's discontent. The winking eye communicates a disregard for justice; it robs its victims of self-esteem and hope. For the high-minded peace lover, Solomon points to the eventual hostility that such a mindset breeds.
The leader who winks at wrong may gain some short-term peace and prosperity. But with the moral high ground lost, he best prepare himself to fight a fierce and unholy battle sometime in the not too distant future. (Proverbs 10:10)
November 15, 2005
Embrace The Process
Those of us living for more than a few decades have a special appreciation for modern technology. For example: the television remote control, digital cameras, the microwave - hardly a week goes by that I don't say to myself, "what did we do without these things?"
A much appreciated convenience is the ability to "fast forward" past unwanted information on our electronic media. Whether data, voice, or video recorders, we have the ability to easily fast forward past the parts we don't particularly care to see or hear. Just hit the fast-forward button and presto, we're past the boring stuff.
I was prompted to seriously think about this subject the other night as Linda and I were watching a favorite TV program. At the close of the episode, a teaser was presented about the following week's program. Intrigued by the promotion, I turned and asked Linda, "can we fast forward to next week?" As soon as the words were out of my mouth, I recognized the off-the-cuff comment had expressed more than idle conversation. The fact is, we all have the desire to "fast forward" past the yucky areas of life and get to the parts of interest or intrigue.
The poet wrote, "Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans." To the non- believer that maxim might ring true, but for the Christian, "what happens" becomes tantamount to the "plan" itself -- life's events are much more than obstacles blocking destiny's doorway. The process of life is vitally important... it transforms us into people "of" God, rather than people "for" God. It allows us to radiate the plan, not merely carry it.
For those who lead, the process becomes increasingly valuable. Christians are hesitant to follow men or women whose lives don't reflect the destiny of which they speak. When "who" a leader is stands in contrast to "where" he is going, people will tend to step back and watch rather than follow.
Consider the "process" encountered by the heroes of scripture. Joseph reached his full potential as a leader only after he survived the difficult process in his life. David became the divine template for Israel's monarchy as a result of his arduous process. All the treachery and evil endured by these young men transformed them into powerful leaders for both the kingdoms of heaven and earth.
So hey! Don't even think about hitting that "fast forward" button. Hang in there and pay attention. Life is better lived as we allow our uncomfortable "today's" to change us into people who can thoroughly embrace the exciting tomorrows. (Genesis 45: 4-8)
A much appreciated convenience is the ability to "fast forward" past unwanted information on our electronic media. Whether data, voice, or video recorders, we have the ability to easily fast forward past the parts we don't particularly care to see or hear. Just hit the fast-forward button and presto, we're past the boring stuff.
I was prompted to seriously think about this subject the other night as Linda and I were watching a favorite TV program. At the close of the episode, a teaser was presented about the following week's program. Intrigued by the promotion, I turned and asked Linda, "can we fast forward to next week?" As soon as the words were out of my mouth, I recognized the off-the-cuff comment had expressed more than idle conversation. The fact is, we all have the desire to "fast forward" past the yucky areas of life and get to the parts of interest or intrigue.
The poet wrote, "Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans." To the non- believer that maxim might ring true, but for the Christian, "what happens" becomes tantamount to the "plan" itself -- life's events are much more than obstacles blocking destiny's doorway. The process of life is vitally important... it transforms us into people "of" God, rather than people "for" God. It allows us to radiate the plan, not merely carry it.
For those who lead, the process becomes increasingly valuable. Christians are hesitant to follow men or women whose lives don't reflect the destiny of which they speak. When "who" a leader is stands in contrast to "where" he is going, people will tend to step back and watch rather than follow.
Consider the "process" encountered by the heroes of scripture. Joseph reached his full potential as a leader only after he survived the difficult process in his life. David became the divine template for Israel's monarchy as a result of his arduous process. All the treachery and evil endured by these young men transformed them into powerful leaders for both the kingdoms of heaven and earth.
So hey! Don't even think about hitting that "fast forward" button. Hang in there and pay attention. Life is better lived as we allow our uncomfortable "today's" to change us into people who can thoroughly embrace the exciting tomorrows. (Genesis 45: 4-8)
November 9, 2005
Principles That Make a Difference
Consider the following passage from the prophet Habakkuk, "Then the LORD said to me, write my answer plainly on tablets, so that a runner can carry the correct message to others. This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed." (Habakkuk 2:2,3)
Habakkuk was aware of God's plan for rebellious Judah, but he had some issues with His rationale - how God could justify using sinful Babylon to destroy Israel. The above passage prefaces God's answer to the prophet. It provides instruction to those called to speak for God - preachers, teachers, and Christian leaders everywhere.
Nine Biblical Leadership Principles Emerge From The Passage:
Habakkuk was aware of God's plan for rebellious Judah, but he had some issues with His rationale - how God could justify using sinful Babylon to destroy Israel. The above passage prefaces God's answer to the prophet. It provides instruction to those called to speak for God - preachers, teachers, and Christian leaders everywhere.
Nine Biblical Leadership Principles Emerge From The Passage:
- Communicate the message clearly.
- Communicate in relevant ways.
- It takes a team.
- Be strategic.
- Impart the message to key leaders tasked to echo it.
- Get everyone on the same page.
- Be patient and allow the Holy Spirit to work.
- Encourage people to trust God.
- It's a journey not an event.
Embrace the message and vision God has given to you. Proclaim it using the guidelines given to the prophet around 600 BC. They're timeless truths from an eternal God. (Habakkuk 2: 2,3)
November 4, 2005
The Power of Discussion
It was resurrection day. Soon after sunrise, Jesus' followers scattered across the Judean countryside were beginning to hear the first rumors about Jesus missing from his tomb. Some later reports out of Jerusalem were even suggesting he was alive again!
That morning, a confused and distraught Cleopas began the seven mile trip back home to Emmaus. Accompanied by his friend, the two hour walk was little more than a backdrop for the tragedy that had devastated them two days earlier in Jerusalem. They witnessed the senseless murder of a prophet and absorbed a death blow to their religious hopes and dreams.
All that was left was discussion and debate. The "what ifs" and the "what could have beens" were flowing freely as they reached the halfway point of their journey. Luke tells us that in the midst of their "deep discussion," the risen Lord joined them. That struck me as a significant detail to consider. Jesus was not offended by their doubts, fears, and passionate discourse. The facts show that He specifically found that environment favorable for His arrival and intervention.
Rarely do our church leadership meetings reflect the serene "one accord" climate we've come to expect at our gatherings. More often, intense discussion and diverse opinions reverberate off the walls, similar to the passionate ad hoc Emmaus Road meeting held 2000 years ago.
So can we depend on God's presence at our elder and deacon meetings? Or, because of our doubt and debate, feel unprepared for His company? Should we look outward and wait for the prophet to knock on the board room door or stand in our midst and speak the much needed word from the Lord?
We can be confident of the Holy Spirit's presence as we pray, discuss, and deliberate. He will arrive, just as He did with Cleopas and friend. The first century church was very aware of the power of discussion, it routinely and effectively guided the young church's ministry. That leadership model can be observed in both the Jerusalem and Antioch churches.
Were there times when prophets appeared and pointed the way? Yes, but prophets appeared rarely and randomly, even in the first century. A scriptural template for the ministry gift of prophet is obscure at best, so wisdom would insist that like other 5-fold ministry gifts, the prophet generally functions within our church leadership teams, his influence imparted in harmony with the other four - in the midst of deep discussion with God and man.
So, go ahead pastor. Tee up the next topic. Seek God; engage your fellow elders in debate and discussion. You can be sure that God will join with you on the journey. Like Cleopas, you might not immediately recognize His presence. But when you reach your destination, you will in wonder say, " didn't our hearts feel strangely warm as He spoke."
(Luke 24:13-34)
That morning, a confused and distraught Cleopas began the seven mile trip back home to Emmaus. Accompanied by his friend, the two hour walk was little more than a backdrop for the tragedy that had devastated them two days earlier in Jerusalem. They witnessed the senseless murder of a prophet and absorbed a death blow to their religious hopes and dreams.
All that was left was discussion and debate. The "what ifs" and the "what could have beens" were flowing freely as they reached the halfway point of their journey. Luke tells us that in the midst of their "deep discussion," the risen Lord joined them. That struck me as a significant detail to consider. Jesus was not offended by their doubts, fears, and passionate discourse. The facts show that He specifically found that environment favorable for His arrival and intervention.
Rarely do our church leadership meetings reflect the serene "one accord" climate we've come to expect at our gatherings. More often, intense discussion and diverse opinions reverberate off the walls, similar to the passionate ad hoc Emmaus Road meeting held 2000 years ago.
So can we depend on God's presence at our elder and deacon meetings? Or, because of our doubt and debate, feel unprepared for His company? Should we look outward and wait for the prophet to knock on the board room door or stand in our midst and speak the much needed word from the Lord?
We can be confident of the Holy Spirit's presence as we pray, discuss, and deliberate. He will arrive, just as He did with Cleopas and friend. The first century church was very aware of the power of discussion, it routinely and effectively guided the young church's ministry. That leadership model can be observed in both the Jerusalem and Antioch churches.
Were there times when prophets appeared and pointed the way? Yes, but prophets appeared rarely and randomly, even in the first century. A scriptural template for the ministry gift of prophet is obscure at best, so wisdom would insist that like other 5-fold ministry gifts, the prophet generally functions within our church leadership teams, his influence imparted in harmony with the other four - in the midst of deep discussion with God and man.
So, go ahead pastor. Tee up the next topic. Seek God; engage your fellow elders in debate and discussion. You can be sure that God will join with you on the journey. Like Cleopas, you might not immediately recognize His presence. But when you reach your destination, you will in wonder say, " didn't our hearts feel strangely warm as He spoke."
(Luke 24:13-34)
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