I'm just going to say it: I think that many claiming the name "Christian" are such for reasons lacking in scriptural basis. I don't say that to proclaim that I have never had the "wrong reasons" for faith (although, even thinking about that day in 1990 where I met Jesus for real, I think it was more right reasons than wrong reasons for surrendering to him), but just because in my calling, I ask the question often, "So, why do you call yourself a Christian?" I get all kinds of answers, such as:
"I dunno, I've just always gone to church."
"I don't want to go to hell."
"I'm American. Aren't we a Christian nation?"
"My life stinks and I want Jesus to make it better/fix everything/take away the bad people/_______."
"I believe in God. Isn't that enough?"
And on and on and on...
I think we often miss some of the points of faith in Christ. I don't even pretend to have it correct all the time, but as I was reading this morning, I saw something that I haven't paid much attention to. I decided to read on my own "The Peters" (1 & 2 Peter) since a sermon podcast I listen to is spending EONS in those books. Pretty quick, in the first chapter of the first book, I read this:
8Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.: 1 Peter 1:8-9
The goal of faith? Salvation of your soul. That's it. Not your best life now. Not the death of your enemies. Not even just a Get Out of Hell Free Card (certainly that is part of it, and salvation IS with God in eternity as opposed to the opposite...but some folks just seem to "say a salvation prayer" to cover their bases or something...just in case...). It is the fact that our souls NEED saving at all...and that Jesus, the God-man, took care of it through his life, torture, death, and resurrection. And for our salvation, we must release ourselves to Christ. That is the goal of our faith. Oh God, help me to rejoice in that goal alone this day...
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Some Coasters I'd LOVE to Ride
And now, time for a few roller coasters that, for whatever reason (and that includes a few I could have-but didn't-ride) haven't had the pleasure of experiencing...
Voyage: ">
Beast and Son of Beast (two seperate coasters): ">
Millennium Force: ">
Kingda Ka: ">
Mindbender: ">
Viper: ">
Texas Tornado: ">
Loch Ness Monster: ">
Dragon Mountain: ">
Hades: ">
Ravine Flyer II: ">
Gwazi: ">
Dueling Dragons: ">
Voyage: ">
Beast and Son of Beast (two seperate coasters): ">
Millennium Force: ">
Kingda Ka: ">
Mindbender: ">
Viper: ">
Texas Tornado: ">
Loch Ness Monster: ">
Dragon Mountain: ">
Hades: ">
Ravine Flyer II: ">
Gwazi: ">
Dueling Dragons: ">
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Roller Coasters I've Been On
I LOVE roller coasters, always have. At first my allegiance was to steel rides (I admit, as a kid I was scared the wooden ones would break!), but as I've aged (and as my head spins more and more when I ride them), I have switched sides and now prefer a good, hilly, twisting, bumpy wooden coaster!
So, just because I feel like it, some videos of coasters (in no order) that I've been on...and, since most of these are "home-made", apologies if anyone on the rides said some wirty dords, etc. Not sure if they did...but if I were to watch all these I'd be here forever. If some have cursing, let me know which and I will remove them!
Big Thunder Mountain (again, this one is in EuroDisney but Identical to DisneyWorld): ">
Colossus:
">
King Cobra: ">
Manhattan Express: ">
Runaway Mine Train: ">
The Rattler: ">
Revolution: ">
Texas Cyclone: ">
Timber Wolf: ">
Titan: ">
Ultra Twister (same ride, but this is in Japan): ">
Vortex: ">
Batman The Ride (this is another version but the same layout): ">
That's all for now...may add more later...take your Dramamine!
So, just because I feel like it, some videos of coasters (in no order) that I've been on...and, since most of these are "home-made", apologies if anyone on the rides said some wirty dords, etc. Not sure if they did...but if I were to watch all these I'd be here forever. If some have cursing, let me know which and I will remove them!
Big Thunder Mountain (again, this one is in EuroDisney but Identical to DisneyWorld): ">
Colossus:
">
King Cobra: ">
Manhattan Express: ">
Runaway Mine Train: ">
The Rattler: ">
Revolution: ">
Texas Cyclone: ">
Timber Wolf: ">
Titan: ">
Ultra Twister (same ride, but this is in Japan): ">
Vortex: ">
Batman The Ride (this is another version but the same layout): ">
That's all for now...may add more later...take your Dramamine!
Monday, August 31, 2009
My Life Going By...
I am addicted to almanacs. Of all kinds. Texas, World, and ESPN Sports almanacs are in high rotation in my home (and have been most of my "reading life"). As a result, the reading of almanacs "for fun" has resulted in a vast array of (mostly) useless knowledge that does little for me except allow me to win Trivial Pursuit a bunch and to attempt to prop up my ego at times (which isn't what I should do, agreed, just honest that there have been times I've probably just tried to "impress").
One fun thing I like to do with almanacs lately is to almost treat them like a time capsule of sorts. I catch myself saying things like, "Let's look back 10/15/20 years and see what was going on. I recently did that with a 2000 sports almanac, looking at the headlines, winners, and seeing which players on teams are still playing at all. It is humbling to say the least. Ten years ago does NOT seem that long ago, but the vast majority of people in that almanac are no longer playing...
This is just another example of how I am discovering (and I've said it before) that the older I get, the faster life moves. This isn't all bad, but sometimes I get nostalgic and realize, "My goodness, that was TEN YEARS AGO? What happened? That went so fast!"
But, it is a good thing (life going by quickly) in that the "waiting on the Lord" attitude I am called to have seems easier. I have many passions/goals/thoughts/dreams/ideas in my head, and it is getting easier to say things like, "I need to be patient and allow things to develop in a healthy way", instead of rushing them all into existence (and they fall flat, or don't even reach completion at all).
So, I am taking some time today to ponder where I've been, to realize how fast life goes, and to seek the balance between waiting and getting things going (because if I blink, five years will have gone by)...
One fun thing I like to do with almanacs lately is to almost treat them like a time capsule of sorts. I catch myself saying things like, "Let's look back 10/15/20 years and see what was going on. I recently did that with a 2000 sports almanac, looking at the headlines, winners, and seeing which players on teams are still playing at all. It is humbling to say the least. Ten years ago does NOT seem that long ago, but the vast majority of people in that almanac are no longer playing...
This is just another example of how I am discovering (and I've said it before) that the older I get, the faster life moves. This isn't all bad, but sometimes I get nostalgic and realize, "My goodness, that was TEN YEARS AGO? What happened? That went so fast!"
But, it is a good thing (life going by quickly) in that the "waiting on the Lord" attitude I am called to have seems easier. I have many passions/goals/thoughts/dreams/ideas in my head, and it is getting easier to say things like, "I need to be patient and allow things to develop in a healthy way", instead of rushing them all into existence (and they fall flat, or don't even reach completion at all).
So, I am taking some time today to ponder where I've been, to realize how fast life goes, and to seek the balance between waiting and getting things going (because if I blink, five years will have gone by)...
Thursday, August 20, 2009
The God of This AND That
So, I am trying (for the first time "non-seminary paper related") to read one of the Christian Fathers, Augustine. I received, as a gift, back in 2003 (I think) from my former Sr. Pastor a copy of The Confessions of Saint Augustine. It has mostly just sat on a book shelf to make me look more scholarly. Well, earlier this week, when I started my morning routine again, I picked up the book and said, "I am going to try and fight through this old-ish English translation of a famous collection of writings."
So, I am slowly, SLOWLY, I tell you, trudging through. But I already found a nice thing in the first section, "Childhood". It is a concept I have previously labeled as "The Annoying YES!", which involves the fact that God, despite our best efforts, cannot be limited. That God can simultaneously possess seemingly opposite characteristics, which is tough for us humans as we rarely share that ability. And thus, we tend to make God one or the other...
Well, I am going to shut up now and share what I read the other day and have been pondering...enjoy!
What art Thou then, my God? what, but the Lord God? For who is Lord but the Lord? or who is God save our God? Most highest, most good, most potent, most omnipotent; most merciful, yet most just; most hidden, yet most present; most beautiful, yet most strong; most stable, yet incomprehensible; unchangeable, yet all-changing; never new, never old; all-renewing, and bringing age upon the proud, and they know it not; ever working, ever at rest; still gathering, yet nothing lacking; supporting, filling, and overspreading; creating, nourishing, and maturing; seeking, yet having all things. Thou lovest, without passion; art jealous, without anxiety; repentest, yet grievest not; art angry, yet serene; changest Thy works, Thy purpose unchanged; recievest again what Thou findest, yet didst never lose; never in need, yet rejoicing in gains; never covetest, yet exacting usury.--From The Confessions of Saint Augustine, pgs. 6-7
Now I just need to go find out what "usury" means...
So, I am slowly, SLOWLY, I tell you, trudging through. But I already found a nice thing in the first section, "Childhood". It is a concept I have previously labeled as "The Annoying YES!", which involves the fact that God, despite our best efforts, cannot be limited. That God can simultaneously possess seemingly opposite characteristics, which is tough for us humans as we rarely share that ability. And thus, we tend to make God one or the other...
Well, I am going to shut up now and share what I read the other day and have been pondering...enjoy!
What art Thou then, my God? what, but the Lord God? For who is Lord but the Lord? or who is God save our God? Most highest, most good, most potent, most omnipotent; most merciful, yet most just; most hidden, yet most present; most beautiful, yet most strong; most stable, yet incomprehensible; unchangeable, yet all-changing; never new, never old; all-renewing, and bringing age upon the proud, and they know it not; ever working, ever at rest; still gathering, yet nothing lacking; supporting, filling, and overspreading; creating, nourishing, and maturing; seeking, yet having all things. Thou lovest, without passion; art jealous, without anxiety; repentest, yet grievest not; art angry, yet serene; changest Thy works, Thy purpose unchanged; recievest again what Thou findest, yet didst never lose; never in need, yet rejoicing in gains; never covetest, yet exacting usury.--From The Confessions of Saint Augustine, pgs. 6-7
Now I just need to go find out what "usury" means...
Monday, August 17, 2009
Missing my Bible
Helllloooooo world. I'm back. It has been a good, busy summer. I have remained silent for longer than usual, but not for some of the typical reasons (aka, "spiritually dry"). Well, some of the lull is a result of busyness, but much of it was a proactive decision to just "sit" on some things for a bit. Simply put, I didn't want to post "just because". I think in the last few months I caught myself saying, "Well, I have to post something...", and as a result just wrote things that may not have had time to peculate. Oh, nothing scandalous or bad, just..."there"...
Well, I'm back. I won't promise how much of often, but I am ready to get back into my typical "school year routine" in the morning, which usually includes some permutation of coffee/classical-jazz-ambient-celtic music to inspire (aka "autumn morning")/reading/prayer/pondering/writing. I make efforts to minimize TV watching, and to, of course, let Jackson sleep (haha).
One thing is lacking from that routine as I begin again, however. My bible. You see, I think I left it on our junior high mission trip. Oh sure, I think I can call the place I left it and retrieve it fairly easily...but I keep forgetting for some reason. I have been trying to keep up with my spiritual feeding through books, listening to sermons via podcast, etc., but I noticed one thing last year that, for some reason in all the years of me following Jesus, I neglected to appreciate as much as I should.
Spending real, honest, prayerful time in the scriptures.
I mean, sure, I read it at times, and pondered many other times (although usually as a result of conversation, or a message, etc.), but had sadly struggled in all my years to make a true conscious point to study God's word as a vital part of my life. I mean, I would often try, using all kinds of tools, assists, study aids, devotional books, and plans, but they would always start off strong, then a few weeks later become something I just "did" and would not ponder. And before you knew it (usually after a month or so), I would skip a couple days and whammo, there goes my scripture time. And honestly, I would end up rationalizing and say something like, "Oh well, I still believe it all. I get to church a lot and have many deep, spiritual conversations, so I will be ok." And generally, I was. But this last year or so, I finally felt compelled to say, "Enough!" to all the excuses. I was tired of reading get-to-know-you surveys from others that seemed to honestly list "the Bible" as one's favorite book...when I would rather read sci fi or war novels or epic stories of elves and hobbits and knights.
So, I prayed for God to grant me the desire to truly dive into his divine revelation. And, he did!
So now, as I embark on another "school year" (not for me, but for my family, as my wife works at a school and my son prepares for his last year of pre-K), I am seeking God's help in re-igniting that passion. But, as I said, my Bible of choice is AWOL. Sure, there are others around, and if all else fails, I can hit up a store and get another one, but for those who have made it a point to dive into scripture on a personal level, it is hard to leave your "trusted, beat-up, marked-up" bible... So I will call the place I left it today...(ask me to see if I did!)
Charles Spurgeon, a famous preacher from the 1800s, said, "I bible that is in shambles is usually owned by someone whose life is not" (or, something like that...forgive me if the quote is not 100%). Prayerfully, I hope that is true of me, as my AWOL Bible is pretty marked up and "not pretty". Also, while exercising the other day and listening to one of the sermons I podcast, the pastor was talking on perseverance out of 2 Peter. He said (and not in an arrogant way) that ever since he met Christ at age 19, he had never backslid. He had sinned, sure, but never once walked away from the Lord, denied Christ, anything like that. His wife, on the other hand, had a time in her life (before they met) where she felt like she did wander away. He struggled to understand how she could do that once a believer, and she likewise wondered how he could not. So, in their conversation, he asked his wife, "What was the one thing missing that assisted in you straying from God?" He answer? She wasn't in her bible.
My response? I can see that. The bible itself isn't magic, but the Holy Spirit speaks through the words. We are encouraged, challenged, convicted through God's revelation to us humans. But, if we don't spend time in it, and I mean way more than just checking-off that we "read our bible today", well, I can completely see how we open up our hearts to straying, or at least, a "meh" attitude toward the things of God...
Have I kept Jesus on my mind? Oh, sure. I am grateful that in this past couple weeks of "little/no bible", God has kept a desire in my heart to not become "meh" through the podcasts and the reading of books (I am currently re-visiting "Don't Waste Your Life" by Piper, discussing it with a college student I know, and also attempting to read one of the Christian "fathers", Augustine...). But, I miss my bible. I know that nothing I can read will compare...
Well, I'm back. I won't promise how much of often, but I am ready to get back into my typical "school year routine" in the morning, which usually includes some permutation of coffee/classical-jazz-ambient-celtic music to inspire (aka "autumn morning")/reading/prayer/pondering/writing. I make efforts to minimize TV watching, and to, of course, let Jackson sleep (haha).
One thing is lacking from that routine as I begin again, however. My bible. You see, I think I left it on our junior high mission trip. Oh sure, I think I can call the place I left it and retrieve it fairly easily...but I keep forgetting for some reason. I have been trying to keep up with my spiritual feeding through books, listening to sermons via podcast, etc., but I noticed one thing last year that, for some reason in all the years of me following Jesus, I neglected to appreciate as much as I should.
Spending real, honest, prayerful time in the scriptures.
I mean, sure, I read it at times, and pondered many other times (although usually as a result of conversation, or a message, etc.), but had sadly struggled in all my years to make a true conscious point to study God's word as a vital part of my life. I mean, I would often try, using all kinds of tools, assists, study aids, devotional books, and plans, but they would always start off strong, then a few weeks later become something I just "did" and would not ponder. And before you knew it (usually after a month or so), I would skip a couple days and whammo, there goes my scripture time. And honestly, I would end up rationalizing and say something like, "Oh well, I still believe it all. I get to church a lot and have many deep, spiritual conversations, so I will be ok." And generally, I was. But this last year or so, I finally felt compelled to say, "Enough!" to all the excuses. I was tired of reading get-to-know-you surveys from others that seemed to honestly list "the Bible" as one's favorite book...when I would rather read sci fi or war novels or epic stories of elves and hobbits and knights.
So, I prayed for God to grant me the desire to truly dive into his divine revelation. And, he did!
So now, as I embark on another "school year" (not for me, but for my family, as my wife works at a school and my son prepares for his last year of pre-K), I am seeking God's help in re-igniting that passion. But, as I said, my Bible of choice is AWOL. Sure, there are others around, and if all else fails, I can hit up a store and get another one, but for those who have made it a point to dive into scripture on a personal level, it is hard to leave your "trusted, beat-up, marked-up" bible... So I will call the place I left it today...(ask me to see if I did!)
Charles Spurgeon, a famous preacher from the 1800s, said, "I bible that is in shambles is usually owned by someone whose life is not" (or, something like that...forgive me if the quote is not 100%). Prayerfully, I hope that is true of me, as my AWOL Bible is pretty marked up and "not pretty". Also, while exercising the other day and listening to one of the sermons I podcast, the pastor was talking on perseverance out of 2 Peter. He said (and not in an arrogant way) that ever since he met Christ at age 19, he had never backslid. He had sinned, sure, but never once walked away from the Lord, denied Christ, anything like that. His wife, on the other hand, had a time in her life (before they met) where she felt like she did wander away. He struggled to understand how she could do that once a believer, and she likewise wondered how he could not. So, in their conversation, he asked his wife, "What was the one thing missing that assisted in you straying from God?" He answer? She wasn't in her bible.
My response? I can see that. The bible itself isn't magic, but the Holy Spirit speaks through the words. We are encouraged, challenged, convicted through God's revelation to us humans. But, if we don't spend time in it, and I mean way more than just checking-off that we "read our bible today", well, I can completely see how we open up our hearts to straying, or at least, a "meh" attitude toward the things of God...
Have I kept Jesus on my mind? Oh, sure. I am grateful that in this past couple weeks of "little/no bible", God has kept a desire in my heart to not become "meh" through the podcasts and the reading of books (I am currently re-visiting "Don't Waste Your Life" by Piper, discussing it with a college student I know, and also attempting to read one of the Christian "fathers", Augustine...). But, I miss my bible. I know that nothing I can read will compare...
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Thoughts on Kerrville, Summer 09
Well, I've had a few days to reflect on my family's annual summer trip to Kerrville, so as I am prone to do, here are some unfiltered, random thoughts:
*** This year's trip was about a month earlier than normal (we usually go in late July/early August) and was even a couple days shorter (parts of 5 days instead of 6 or 7), but it just felt right. I was more worn out than usual after my first mission trip, so having a break between the two was great (Missy and I may try to take a "mini-vacation" in August of a day or two, if needed). Also, while we LOVE being in Kerrville, we have realized over the years that spending a week there tends to be a day or two too long... By day 5 or so, we start getting restless, the "now what?" feeling. You don't necessarily want to rush home...but you aren't really doing anything in Kerrville, either. So, this was a good time-frame.
*** I finally got off my rear ans started reading a book many have recommended, "Same Kind of Different as Me". I am a bit more than halfway through it, and it truly is an amazing, inspirational story. I can already envision a film being made, but it deserves a true movie treatment, not (sorry folks) the "Cheesy Christian film"-treatment. While I certainly hope the message and focus on Jesus remains in any film, the story is so timeless and inspirational that a film maker may just be able to pull it off, leaving all the "Christian" stuff intact...and still inspiring those who may be quick to judge the story as "too Christian". Simply put, it is a great story. Theologically it seems ok (I have had a couple "huh?" moments, but I would need to explore them further), but I don't think that is the point of a book like this...
*** I continue to be impressed of my son's increasing bravery. One of the best days was when we went down to the Guadalupe River in downtown Kerrville (below the waterfall where it is shallow with rapids, "chutes", etc.). I figured Jax would be too scared to get in; boy was I wrong. He couldn't get enough! And while at times Jax's emerging personality make my hair turn grayer (just ask Missy...she likes to point it all out, haha), as Jax nears FIVE, he is truly such a fun boy to be around. Don't think for one moment that I get bummed when I hear someone say, "You know, that Jackson is really a cool kid," which happens often (I know, I know..."easy, dad...don't get too proud!"...I hear ya...). One gesture I remember vividly from the river was when I was praising him for being so brave, and without words, as he trudged back upriver to the start of the "chute" where Pops was stationed, he gives me a non-chalant "muscle pose"...so great!
*** Finally got to see my favorite movie of 2009 (and while there are better "films" I respect more, few movies have been as fun, to me, as this one in some time), Star Trek with my dad and Jax. Jax did surprisingly well given the NOISE of the film, and dad said he liked it, too! It was fun to go to a movie that "felt" like the ones my dad and I went to as a kid (Star Wars, Indiana Jones, some of the older Star Trek's, etc.).
*** For the most part, we were LAZY...and it was glorious. I know we had some friends that were pondering visits once we announced we would be in Kerrville...but we decided to make this as "outing-free" as possible...we just needed to chill (sorry Travis' and Austin's! We will hit ya next time...).
*** Missy and I had some great, deep conversations about life, God, future, parenting, you name it. It;s not that those don't happen at home...but sometimes the environment of being "away" just helps. I am grateful.
*** This year's trip was about a month earlier than normal (we usually go in late July/early August) and was even a couple days shorter (parts of 5 days instead of 6 or 7), but it just felt right. I was more worn out than usual after my first mission trip, so having a break between the two was great (Missy and I may try to take a "mini-vacation" in August of a day or two, if needed). Also, while we LOVE being in Kerrville, we have realized over the years that spending a week there tends to be a day or two too long... By day 5 or so, we start getting restless, the "now what?" feeling. You don't necessarily want to rush home...but you aren't really doing anything in Kerrville, either. So, this was a good time-frame.
*** I finally got off my rear ans started reading a book many have recommended, "Same Kind of Different as Me". I am a bit more than halfway through it, and it truly is an amazing, inspirational story. I can already envision a film being made, but it deserves a true movie treatment, not (sorry folks) the "Cheesy Christian film"-treatment. While I certainly hope the message and focus on Jesus remains in any film, the story is so timeless and inspirational that a film maker may just be able to pull it off, leaving all the "Christian" stuff intact...and still inspiring those who may be quick to judge the story as "too Christian". Simply put, it is a great story. Theologically it seems ok (I have had a couple "huh?" moments, but I would need to explore them further), but I don't think that is the point of a book like this...
*** I continue to be impressed of my son's increasing bravery. One of the best days was when we went down to the Guadalupe River in downtown Kerrville (below the waterfall where it is shallow with rapids, "chutes", etc.). I figured Jax would be too scared to get in; boy was I wrong. He couldn't get enough! And while at times Jax's emerging personality make my hair turn grayer (just ask Missy...she likes to point it all out, haha), as Jax nears FIVE, he is truly such a fun boy to be around. Don't think for one moment that I get bummed when I hear someone say, "You know, that Jackson is really a cool kid," which happens often (I know, I know..."easy, dad...don't get too proud!"...I hear ya...). One gesture I remember vividly from the river was when I was praising him for being so brave, and without words, as he trudged back upriver to the start of the "chute" where Pops was stationed, he gives me a non-chalant "muscle pose"...so great!
*** Finally got to see my favorite movie of 2009 (and while there are better "films" I respect more, few movies have been as fun, to me, as this one in some time), Star Trek with my dad and Jax. Jax did surprisingly well given the NOISE of the film, and dad said he liked it, too! It was fun to go to a movie that "felt" like the ones my dad and I went to as a kid (Star Wars, Indiana Jones, some of the older Star Trek's, etc.).
*** For the most part, we were LAZY...and it was glorious. I know we had some friends that were pondering visits once we announced we would be in Kerrville...but we decided to make this as "outing-free" as possible...we just needed to chill (sorry Travis' and Austin's! We will hit ya next time...).
*** Missy and I had some great, deep conversations about life, God, future, parenting, you name it. It;s not that those don't happen at home...but sometimes the environment of being "away" just helps. I am grateful.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
The War Against Stickers (Re-Posted and Slightly Updated)
I realize it has been less than a year since this was posted, but in both a literal (aka, the stickers in my yard are firing up again and the 2009 sticker battle is upon us) and metaphorical spiritually sense (some me, sure, but seems like many folks in my life are needing this challenge right now), this post, one of my favorites, is timely...
As anyone living in North Texas (especially areas that are more rural, or at least recently were) can relate, sticker weeds are a BIG problem in yards. When we moved to our current home in winter 2005, we barely had a yard at all, and what we did have was mostly dirt and stickers. We tried all kinds of things. We dropped seeds. Spread fertilizer and "weed-and-feed". Even sought advice from others...my Granny read about using "dried molasses"...and we did. We hydro-mulched the yard with Bermuda grass hoping it would take over...and to a point it did...but the stickers remained. Occasionally we would have "sticker pulling sessions", but no matter how much we gritted our teeth and tried to pull them, it was always only a fraction of the problem...a multitude of stickers remained. In the front yard, it wasn't as much of an issue since we didn't spend much time there, but our back yard was often "unplayable" to us (especially our young son) due to stickers...
But we didn't give up.
This spring, my wife went to a local nursery and asked about further anti-sticker strategies, specifically so we could win the fight in the back yard so Jackson could run amok at will. She was shown a method that was risky, almost illegal (apparently not though), and had to be done a certain way. Well, we did it (you'll have to ask Missy exactly what it was...I can't even remember!), and waited. At first, it was a big "uh-oh", as much of our back yard began to die. The stuff we liked was turning brown! Did we just kill off our whole yard? We were confused...we were glad to be killing stickers, but in the wiping out of them we had to wipe some "good" stuff away, too...
Well, a neat thing happened, and it wasn't something we even realized immediately. Well, the first part we did: the "good yard" stuff came back...and we even added some new grass (pallets of St. Augustine) in areas that were dominated by dirt and wouldn't grow anything but a few wispy weeds. But then a funny thing happened...one day mid-summer while I was out walking the yard, I suddenly realized something: THERE WERE NO MORE STICKERS! I mean, zero. All other attempts had produced little "sticker removal", and even if they sort-of worked, ultimately they were futile attempts. But when we finally "gave up", and did the extreme thing, it may have hurt a bit, but it worked.
But it hasn't been completely without need to do "yard sweeps" occasionally...
You see, our neighbors' yards (at least on two sides...can't speak for behind us) are chock-full of stickers, and it doesn't seem like they care to fight them. So, occasionally one wanders under a fence, or sticks to a shoe when I need to go retrieve a ball, etc., and drops roots. But you know what? It is no biggie now...the fight doesn't seem "futile". Oh sure, sometimes a bit of pain is still involved, because pulling stickers involves, well, little pokey things that like to dig into your skin! BUT, since we pay close attention (even Jax is in on it now...he is a good "sticker hunter"), we just expose, pluck, and it's gone. And the yard is again clear and safe for free play.
(Waiting for the "life/faith parallel"? Here it comes haha)
We need to do "sticker sweeps" in our own life. We all have crud that holds us back. But the problem often is that we want the easy solution...hoping to "luck out" and it works. One of less commitment, or of less pain being involved. But at some point, we all must realize that dying to "self" is exactly that: dying. But we don't like that. We want to hold on. We want easy. But the only solution is one that is risky... Surrendering to Jesus. Completely. I know we like to say grace is a "free gift", and it is, and that all we must do is believe, and that's true...but anyone who is holistically surrendered to the Lord knows that the process of surrender involves a bit of pain, or change of comfortable attitudes and habits...because once we really give in to God, our "yuck" is exposed. The process of total surrender can even mean some "good" things need to die for a season (like our yard did) to get it to where it needed to be, but the good came back with abundance...and the stickers were gone. Not gone for good since our friends and neighbors may simply not care or understand about our personal sticker removal focus (and temptation and evil will always try to fight through...much like the stickers all around us still try to "jump the fence"), but after total surrender, with realization that Jesus wiped our sins GONE with his death and resurrection, when the stickers try to fight back, as long as we keep "searching our yard" of life often, they are quickly plucked away. And we are again able to run free!
All this also brings a few biblical concepts to mind. First is the concept of "thorns". Several places in the New Testament allude to "thorns". Here are some samples:
Matthew 13:22The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful.
2 Corinthians 12:7To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.
Hebrews 6:8But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned.
Thorns, like stickers, seem to be those things that take our true focus and allegiance from God. Essentially, sin. Sometimes we "know" God, but are just so hamstrung by the crud holding us back, like the Matthew passage. Sometimes we are tormented, usually when God is doing amazing things, by "thorns in the flesh", like Paul had. And sometimes, we need to realize that when the culture around us is just "thorns and thistles", like the writer of Hebrews says, we need to be wary because it will get thrown to the fire...and we need to often ask, "Lord, is that me/us?"
In the end, however, the hardest part isn't sensing the stickers, thorns, sin in our lives that hold us back from true freedom...it is the willingness to truly die to ourselves and do "whatever is necessary" to come back into utter allegiance to Jesus. It can't be just gritting our teeth and "Taking care of things ourselves", like we tried to do with our sticker-pulling parties: in the end, they were just band-aids and the stickers still remained in force. Ponder this:
Matthew 5:29-30: 29If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.
That's the tough part...the desperate part...the, "but if I totally surrender, I may need to take some drastic measures in my life, and folks will wonder about me" part. But look at yourself. What is your thorn? What needs to be "cut off"? Do you need to quit running with a certain crowd because they bring you down attitudinally or through your actions? Is there a relationship that is pulling you from the Lord? Do you need to put your computer in a public place or get accountability software so you don't look at inappropriate websites? Do you need to humble yourself and seek help from a professional in some area? These are all things that are a part of the "cutting off" process...and it will hurt, expose, etc. BUT, just like our back yard died and came back...we need to "die" and let God regenerate us...so we can truly run, play, dance, FREELY, without fear, with great joy! I still have personal stickers that pop up here-and-there, but I admit a few places I've had to "cut off" or "gouge out", and man, I'm so glad I did. It may have been hard, may have involved some confession to God and others, and the risk of unacceptance, rejection, and embarrassment was there...but it was all worth it so I could again experience the freedom that Jesus speaks of...
"And the more I considered Christianity, the more I found that while it had an established rule and order, the chief aim of that order was to give room for good things to run wild."
--G.K. Chesterton, from "Orthodoxy"
Let's do what it takes and free ourselves so we can run wild for Jesus!
As anyone living in North Texas (especially areas that are more rural, or at least recently were) can relate, sticker weeds are a BIG problem in yards. When we moved to our current home in winter 2005, we barely had a yard at all, and what we did have was mostly dirt and stickers. We tried all kinds of things. We dropped seeds. Spread fertilizer and "weed-and-feed". Even sought advice from others...my Granny read about using "dried molasses"...and we did. We hydro-mulched the yard with Bermuda grass hoping it would take over...and to a point it did...but the stickers remained. Occasionally we would have "sticker pulling sessions", but no matter how much we gritted our teeth and tried to pull them, it was always only a fraction of the problem...a multitude of stickers remained. In the front yard, it wasn't as much of an issue since we didn't spend much time there, but our back yard was often "unplayable" to us (especially our young son) due to stickers...
But we didn't give up.
This spring, my wife went to a local nursery and asked about further anti-sticker strategies, specifically so we could win the fight in the back yard so Jackson could run amok at will. She was shown a method that was risky, almost illegal (apparently not though), and had to be done a certain way. Well, we did it (you'll have to ask Missy exactly what it was...I can't even remember!), and waited. At first, it was a big "uh-oh", as much of our back yard began to die. The stuff we liked was turning brown! Did we just kill off our whole yard? We were confused...we were glad to be killing stickers, but in the wiping out of them we had to wipe some "good" stuff away, too...
Well, a neat thing happened, and it wasn't something we even realized immediately. Well, the first part we did: the "good yard" stuff came back...and we even added some new grass (pallets of St. Augustine) in areas that were dominated by dirt and wouldn't grow anything but a few wispy weeds. But then a funny thing happened...one day mid-summer while I was out walking the yard, I suddenly realized something: THERE WERE NO MORE STICKERS! I mean, zero. All other attempts had produced little "sticker removal", and even if they sort-of worked, ultimately they were futile attempts. But when we finally "gave up", and did the extreme thing, it may have hurt a bit, but it worked.
But it hasn't been completely without need to do "yard sweeps" occasionally...
You see, our neighbors' yards (at least on two sides...can't speak for behind us) are chock-full of stickers, and it doesn't seem like they care to fight them. So, occasionally one wanders under a fence, or sticks to a shoe when I need to go retrieve a ball, etc., and drops roots. But you know what? It is no biggie now...the fight doesn't seem "futile". Oh sure, sometimes a bit of pain is still involved, because pulling stickers involves, well, little pokey things that like to dig into your skin! BUT, since we pay close attention (even Jax is in on it now...he is a good "sticker hunter"), we just expose, pluck, and it's gone. And the yard is again clear and safe for free play.
(Waiting for the "life/faith parallel"? Here it comes haha)
We need to do "sticker sweeps" in our own life. We all have crud that holds us back. But the problem often is that we want the easy solution...hoping to "luck out" and it works. One of less commitment, or of less pain being involved. But at some point, we all must realize that dying to "self" is exactly that: dying. But we don't like that. We want to hold on. We want easy. But the only solution is one that is risky... Surrendering to Jesus. Completely. I know we like to say grace is a "free gift", and it is, and that all we must do is believe, and that's true...but anyone who is holistically surrendered to the Lord knows that the process of surrender involves a bit of pain, or change of comfortable attitudes and habits...because once we really give in to God, our "yuck" is exposed. The process of total surrender can even mean some "good" things need to die for a season (like our yard did) to get it to where it needed to be, but the good came back with abundance...and the stickers were gone. Not gone for good since our friends and neighbors may simply not care or understand about our personal sticker removal focus (and temptation and evil will always try to fight through...much like the stickers all around us still try to "jump the fence"), but after total surrender, with realization that Jesus wiped our sins GONE with his death and resurrection, when the stickers try to fight back, as long as we keep "searching our yard" of life often, they are quickly plucked away. And we are again able to run free!
All this also brings a few biblical concepts to mind. First is the concept of "thorns". Several places in the New Testament allude to "thorns". Here are some samples:
Matthew 13:22The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful.
2 Corinthians 12:7To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.
Hebrews 6:8But land that produces thorns and thistles is worthless and is in danger of being cursed. In the end it will be burned.
Thorns, like stickers, seem to be those things that take our true focus and allegiance from God. Essentially, sin. Sometimes we "know" God, but are just so hamstrung by the crud holding us back, like the Matthew passage. Sometimes we are tormented, usually when God is doing amazing things, by "thorns in the flesh", like Paul had. And sometimes, we need to realize that when the culture around us is just "thorns and thistles", like the writer of Hebrews says, we need to be wary because it will get thrown to the fire...and we need to often ask, "Lord, is that me/us?"
In the end, however, the hardest part isn't sensing the stickers, thorns, sin in our lives that hold us back from true freedom...it is the willingness to truly die to ourselves and do "whatever is necessary" to come back into utter allegiance to Jesus. It can't be just gritting our teeth and "Taking care of things ourselves", like we tried to do with our sticker-pulling parties: in the end, they were just band-aids and the stickers still remained in force. Ponder this:
Matthew 5:29-30: 29If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.
That's the tough part...the desperate part...the, "but if I totally surrender, I may need to take some drastic measures in my life, and folks will wonder about me" part. But look at yourself. What is your thorn? What needs to be "cut off"? Do you need to quit running with a certain crowd because they bring you down attitudinally or through your actions? Is there a relationship that is pulling you from the Lord? Do you need to put your computer in a public place or get accountability software so you don't look at inappropriate websites? Do you need to humble yourself and seek help from a professional in some area? These are all things that are a part of the "cutting off" process...and it will hurt, expose, etc. BUT, just like our back yard died and came back...we need to "die" and let God regenerate us...so we can truly run, play, dance, FREELY, without fear, with great joy! I still have personal stickers that pop up here-and-there, but I admit a few places I've had to "cut off" or "gouge out", and man, I'm so glad I did. It may have been hard, may have involved some confession to God and others, and the risk of unacceptance, rejection, and embarrassment was there...but it was all worth it so I could again experience the freedom that Jesus speaks of...
"And the more I considered Christianity, the more I found that while it had an established rule and order, the chief aim of that order was to give room for good things to run wild."
--G.K. Chesterton, from "Orthodoxy"
Let's do what it takes and free ourselves so we can run wild for Jesus!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
First Real World Parents Seminar
This is a bit late...but here is what I posted on the Real World Presenters forum. (If you have NO IDEA) what I'm talking about, surf around at www.realworldparents.com or read this).
I presented May 3 at Southcliff Baptist Church in Ft. Worth. I think 60+ registered and 50ish attended (not bad considering it was the prime swine flu time down here in Texas). I had a great time and felt really good about how things went. I presented it pretty straight-forward except for a few changes to session 3. Stuzilla and I agreed that ending the seminar with the Skit Guys' "Dad and Son" video really hit the goal home, sort-of a, "Here's one goal we all have, a hope that when our kids are adults they can have a perspective like this, will remember our wisdom, etc." Apparently it was a hit among attendees and provided future discussion. I also greatly edited the "7 Marks" slides to have more elements similar to the workbook, which I think also helped. But what may have helped me most of all is that Stu and I met together twice to essentially give each other our "mock-up seminar", critique, offer suggestion, etc. That was huge...and I think absolutely made me a better presenter on game day...
Now, some lessons I will take with me to remember before I do another RWP:
*** I will try my best to order resources for sale MUCH earlier, and seek for mailing confirmation. I waited as long as I thought I could (6 days prior to seminar) so I would have a better idea about numbers attending, etc., and the stuff never came. After some phone calls post-seminar, we figured out there was some sort-of payment question, BUT it would have been nice to know that immediately (I never got any emails, calls, etc. letting me know like some online purchases do when there is a question) so I could have remedied it pre-seminar. The cool thing is that YS did give me free next-day shipping due to the snafu and I was able to just take "orders" for materials, sell them at a discount since I did not have resources in hand, and deliver them to Southcliff...
*** I am going to try and find a way to better present the "Isolation/Regulating/Accepting" section of session two. I don't think I did the best job there...essentially, I in the future need to probably still acknowledge that there are still times that we need to isolate or regulate, but what RWP is talking about refers more to parents who "live in those worlds" of isolation/regulation/accepting. There was one comment made to me that apparently I presented it all as if you ever did any of those things, then it was wrong. You and I know that's not true...just when it becomes all-encompassing. So just maybe something to think about...make a disclaimer about, etc.
*** It was REALLY tough for me (and Stu Cocanougher when he presented at our church) to finish in 3 hrs. Sure, we need to start on time (a late-arriving crowd made me have to delay the start about 15 min). Sure, I need to make sure breaks that are meant to be 5-7 min long don't become 10 min like they are prone to (I do think having a "countdown" slide here helped, though...). But by session three, I had to rush just to get done somewhat close to the advertised time (because 3 hrs having kids in the nursery=chaos about to ensue!). We just finished a bit late but wow I feel like session 3 was a blur. But where to cut? Some of the stats in session one? Less personal examples? I realize some of it is just being timely...but sometimes it is hard to control that (like, when a large portion of the group is not present...do you just begin?).
But overall, I LOVED IT! Summer will be tough to schedule any, but I will certainly look at Fall 09/Spring 10 to get some more presentations lined up...
I presented May 3 at Southcliff Baptist Church in Ft. Worth. I think 60+ registered and 50ish attended (not bad considering it was the prime swine flu time down here in Texas). I had a great time and felt really good about how things went. I presented it pretty straight-forward except for a few changes to session 3. Stuzilla and I agreed that ending the seminar with the Skit Guys' "Dad and Son" video really hit the goal home, sort-of a, "Here's one goal we all have, a hope that when our kids are adults they can have a perspective like this, will remember our wisdom, etc." Apparently it was a hit among attendees and provided future discussion. I also greatly edited the "7 Marks" slides to have more elements similar to the workbook, which I think also helped. But what may have helped me most of all is that Stu and I met together twice to essentially give each other our "mock-up seminar", critique, offer suggestion, etc. That was huge...and I think absolutely made me a better presenter on game day...
Now, some lessons I will take with me to remember before I do another RWP:
*** I will try my best to order resources for sale MUCH earlier, and seek for mailing confirmation. I waited as long as I thought I could (6 days prior to seminar) so I would have a better idea about numbers attending, etc., and the stuff never came. After some phone calls post-seminar, we figured out there was some sort-of payment question, BUT it would have been nice to know that immediately (I never got any emails, calls, etc. letting me know like some online purchases do when there is a question) so I could have remedied it pre-seminar. The cool thing is that YS did give me free next-day shipping due to the snafu and I was able to just take "orders" for materials, sell them at a discount since I did not have resources in hand, and deliver them to Southcliff...
*** I am going to try and find a way to better present the "Isolation/Regulating/Accepting" section of session two. I don't think I did the best job there...essentially, I in the future need to probably still acknowledge that there are still times that we need to isolate or regulate, but what RWP is talking about refers more to parents who "live in those worlds" of isolation/regulation/accepting. There was one comment made to me that apparently I presented it all as if you ever did any of those things, then it was wrong. You and I know that's not true...just when it becomes all-encompassing. So just maybe something to think about...make a disclaimer about, etc.
*** It was REALLY tough for me (and Stu Cocanougher when he presented at our church) to finish in 3 hrs. Sure, we need to start on time (a late-arriving crowd made me have to delay the start about 15 min). Sure, I need to make sure breaks that are meant to be 5-7 min long don't become 10 min like they are prone to (I do think having a "countdown" slide here helped, though...). But by session three, I had to rush just to get done somewhat close to the advertised time (because 3 hrs having kids in the nursery=chaos about to ensue!). We just finished a bit late but wow I feel like session 3 was a blur. But where to cut? Some of the stats in session one? Less personal examples? I realize some of it is just being timely...but sometimes it is hard to control that (like, when a large portion of the group is not present...do you just begin?).
But overall, I LOVED IT! Summer will be tough to schedule any, but I will certainly look at Fall 09/Spring 10 to get some more presentations lined up...
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Comfort
The God of All Comfort
3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 7And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
8We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. 9Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 10He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, 11as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our[a] behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.
Footnotes:
2 Corinthians 1:11 Many manuscripts your
Have you ever had one of those, "I think God is trying to tell me something"-moments? This passage is one of those. I read it a couple days back and since then it has been a major part of two separate sermons I've listened to while exercising. One interesting thing is that different parts of that passage are standing out to me today than did when I read it originally (a cool aspect of scripture...always something new despite repeated readings!).
You see, at first glance, I was drawn to verses 3 and 4, dealing with all the ways the Lord gives compassion and comfort. But after stewing more, being spoken to through the sermons I mentioned, I am today drawn to verses 5-7:
5For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 7And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
I too often cry out to God to make me feel better, have peace, experience comfort. But why? Usually for selfish reasons, I have realized these past couple days. I just want to feel better. I want to worry less about the unknown. I want folks to not get upset with me for various reasons. I basically want God to slap a band-aid on me. But is there something deeper to the things gnawing at my heart that God will comfort me in? These two verses talk about that purpose. It is so I can empathize (instead of just sympathize) with others going through similar things. It is about the ministry God wants to do through me where I can relate to others, tell of how God got me through, share wisdom, etc. But, I just don't think about it that way enough...
Take right now, for example. The big issue in the Davis household is my wife Missy's struggles to find a full-time teaching gig. She searched so hard a couple years back, decided to just sub, and through that was hired at a local school. But, they didn't renew her contract for whatever reason, and the past year has been spent frantically searching for another full-time teaching job to fill that void, to satisfy Missy's desire to teach, etc. But so far, no dice. And it's getting frustrating. But we need to ask not just, "God, comfort, please!", or, "Hey God, fix this, ok? Thanks," but instead live in the comfort provided by the Comforter AND then seek to minister to others who may be able to relate. In the midst of all this, we also need to re-visit the concept of contentment . As Mark Matlock on a recent post of his said, "When I look back on my life, I can trace my current place in ministry back to specific moments of obedience to live for God in the "now"." This is where I need to live again. Seeking to be faithful to God NOW. Looking for ways I can live in the comfort he promises and minister to those who may benefit from my experiences.
3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 5For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 7And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
8We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. 9Indeed, in our hearts we felt the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 10He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, 11as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our[a] behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.
Footnotes:
2 Corinthians 1:11 Many manuscripts your
Have you ever had one of those, "I think God is trying to tell me something"-moments? This passage is one of those. I read it a couple days back and since then it has been a major part of two separate sermons I've listened to while exercising. One interesting thing is that different parts of that passage are standing out to me today than did when I read it originally (a cool aspect of scripture...always something new despite repeated readings!).
You see, at first glance, I was drawn to verses 3 and 4, dealing with all the ways the Lord gives compassion and comfort. But after stewing more, being spoken to through the sermons I mentioned, I am today drawn to verses 5-7:
5For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. 6If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 7And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
I too often cry out to God to make me feel better, have peace, experience comfort. But why? Usually for selfish reasons, I have realized these past couple days. I just want to feel better. I want to worry less about the unknown. I want folks to not get upset with me for various reasons. I basically want God to slap a band-aid on me. But is there something deeper to the things gnawing at my heart that God will comfort me in? These two verses talk about that purpose. It is so I can empathize (instead of just sympathize) with others going through similar things. It is about the ministry God wants to do through me where I can relate to others, tell of how God got me through, share wisdom, etc. But, I just don't think about it that way enough...
Take right now, for example. The big issue in the Davis household is my wife Missy's struggles to find a full-time teaching gig. She searched so hard a couple years back, decided to just sub, and through that was hired at a local school. But, they didn't renew her contract for whatever reason, and the past year has been spent frantically searching for another full-time teaching job to fill that void, to satisfy Missy's desire to teach, etc. But so far, no dice. And it's getting frustrating. But we need to ask not just, "God, comfort, please!", or, "Hey God, fix this, ok? Thanks," but instead live in the comfort provided by the Comforter AND then seek to minister to others who may be able to relate. In the midst of all this, we also need to re-visit the concept of contentment . As Mark Matlock on a recent post of his said, "When I look back on my life, I can trace my current place in ministry back to specific moments of obedience to live for God in the "now"." This is where I need to live again. Seeking to be faithful to God NOW. Looking for ways I can live in the comfort he promises and minister to those who may benefit from my experiences.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Lessons Learned During an Unintentional Blog Silence...
So after a whirlwind end of 2008/first few months of 2009 blogging-wise, last month something happened: I just didn't blog much. If you've been keeping up with good ol' haphazardangus for awhile, you know that the vast majority of recent posts have been in the form of "faith ponderings". Essentially, a re-visit of some scripture passage I've read recently. As I had a personal resurgence in late 2008 for personal scripture study, I felt like blogging about my thoughts, challenges, etc., that I found within the readings. It became a pseudo-journaling experience (something I've often been challenged by others to do as a good spiritual exercise, but for whatever reason, just couldn't "get into"); one that I know some read and were blessed by, and I am humbled by that! But in late March and into April (and, if I'm not careful, it could easily bleed into May as well...), I simply got busy. Now, I didn't get too busy to spend time in the Word nearly daily (whew!), but I just didn't "have the time" to revisit the passages later on and reconnect, seek wisdom, share thoughts. At first it was no biggie, but looking back at the past six weeks or so of general silence, I have learned and noticed a few things:
While I am grateful for the continued discipline to seek God first thing in the morning, so seek his wisdom in the scriptures, etc., I now know that all the "you need to journal, Ben"-types were onto something. I realize now that that exercise of regular posting of those ponderings really helped me engage Truth more deeply. I would be forced to make the placing of scripture on my heart an "all-day" affair, as I would ponder Truth multiple times a day. I would more easily remember what God was trying to say to me. And I would also be more apt to look back at old posts and be reminded of stuff, encouraged, challenged. Now? Well sure, I still get up and give God the firstfruits of the day...but too often, what I read in the morning just stays on that couch. I often can't tell you, say, at dinnertime what I read before the sun came up like I used to. That bothers me...
I also have learned that I am crazy busy right now. It's not even "bad stuff", and in many cases, it's necessary stuff. But there is a lot of it right now. Prepping and leading my first Real World Parents seminar (I think it went well; I may post my thoughts soon). Working on a curriculum with other area youth ministers that needs to be ready for "prime time" by early June (and I'm struggling for inspiration). Being a big part of our church's confirmation program going on right now. Trying to help Missy find a teaching job somewhere (I'm helping fill out online applications, etc. They are tedious!). Jax's soccer "stuff". Some new stuff at church I'm somewhat involved in (new parent group, occasionally filling in for the drummer in our contemporary service band, even giving a message later this month, hosting our own Real World Parents seminar, and trying to figure out how to "raise leaders" in our ministry to take them to the next level...). CTCYM mission trip planning that is looming large on the horizon. Some health issues recently (not serious, but more "annoying" that required way too many doctor visits that cut into my time...). And all the while, seeking to be the best dad and hubby I can by giving Jax and Missy as much attention and service I can. But it's a bunch of things, and unfortunately, blogging went by the wayside. What used to be a nice mid-day "break" became, "Oh jeez, now I need to post something..." My breaks became less about renewal (blogging, exercising, etc.) and more just sitting, staring into space or at a facebook page. Something needs to give here...
So, as I sift through this first week of May, my prayer is that my heart will be stirred up to make it all happen again. I am not in a "bad place", but I can tell the "meh" is creeping up if I don't be proactive and do something. That is another lesson I've learned that I wish more Christians would do: When you see the "meh" attitudes toward faith creeping in...DO SOMETHING. Too many times I see myself and others just let the ambivalence creep in...and don't fight it. And then, six months later, you just don't care at all... Thankfully God bashes through at some point, but why wait for that? Let's go NOW!
See you guys here again soon!
While I am grateful for the continued discipline to seek God first thing in the morning, so seek his wisdom in the scriptures, etc., I now know that all the "you need to journal, Ben"-types were onto something. I realize now that that exercise of regular posting of those ponderings really helped me engage Truth more deeply. I would be forced to make the placing of scripture on my heart an "all-day" affair, as I would ponder Truth multiple times a day. I would more easily remember what God was trying to say to me. And I would also be more apt to look back at old posts and be reminded of stuff, encouraged, challenged. Now? Well sure, I still get up and give God the firstfruits of the day...but too often, what I read in the morning just stays on that couch. I often can't tell you, say, at dinnertime what I read before the sun came up like I used to. That bothers me...
I also have learned that I am crazy busy right now. It's not even "bad stuff", and in many cases, it's necessary stuff. But there is a lot of it right now. Prepping and leading my first Real World Parents seminar (I think it went well; I may post my thoughts soon). Working on a curriculum with other area youth ministers that needs to be ready for "prime time" by early June (and I'm struggling for inspiration). Being a big part of our church's confirmation program going on right now. Trying to help Missy find a teaching job somewhere (I'm helping fill out online applications, etc. They are tedious!). Jax's soccer "stuff". Some new stuff at church I'm somewhat involved in (new parent group, occasionally filling in for the drummer in our contemporary service band, even giving a message later this month, hosting our own Real World Parents seminar, and trying to figure out how to "raise leaders" in our ministry to take them to the next level...). CTCYM mission trip planning that is looming large on the horizon. Some health issues recently (not serious, but more "annoying" that required way too many doctor visits that cut into my time...). And all the while, seeking to be the best dad and hubby I can by giving Jax and Missy as much attention and service I can. But it's a bunch of things, and unfortunately, blogging went by the wayside. What used to be a nice mid-day "break" became, "Oh jeez, now I need to post something..." My breaks became less about renewal (blogging, exercising, etc.) and more just sitting, staring into space or at a facebook page. Something needs to give here...
So, as I sift through this first week of May, my prayer is that my heart will be stirred up to make it all happen again. I am not in a "bad place", but I can tell the "meh" is creeping up if I don't be proactive and do something. That is another lesson I've learned that I wish more Christians would do: When you see the "meh" attitudes toward faith creeping in...DO SOMETHING. Too many times I see myself and others just let the ambivalence creep in...and don't fight it. And then, six months later, you just don't care at all... Thankfully God bashes through at some point, but why wait for that? Let's go NOW!
See you guys here again soon!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
"DONKEY!" // Numbers 22:21-35
Balaam's Donkey 21 Balaam got up in the morning, saddled his donkey and went with the princes of Moab. 22 But God was very angry when he went, and the angel of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him. Balaam was riding on his donkey, and his two servants were with him. 23 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with a drawn sword in his hand, she turned off the road into a field. Balaam beat her to get her back on the road.
24 Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path between two vineyards, with walls on both sides. 25 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, she pressed close to the wall, crushing Balaam's foot against it. So he beat her again.
26 Then the angel of the LORD moved on ahead and stood in a narrow place where there was no room to turn, either to the right or to the left. 27 When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, she lay down under Balaam, and he was angry and beat her with his staff. 28 Then the LORD opened the donkey's mouth, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?"
29 Balaam answered the donkey, "You have made a fool of me! If I had a sword in my hand, I would kill you right now."
30 The donkey said to Balaam, "Am I not your own donkey, which you have always ridden, to this day? Have I been in the habit of doing this to you?"
"No," he said.
31 Then the LORD opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with his sword drawn. So he bowed low and fell facedown.
32 The angel of the LORD asked him, "Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? I have come here to oppose you because your path is a reckless one before me. [a] 33 The donkey saw me and turned away from me these three times. If she had not turned away, I would certainly have killed you by now, but I would have spared her."
34 Balaam said to the angel of the LORD, "I have sinned. I did not realize you were standing in the road to oppose me. Now if you are displeased, I will go back."
35 The angel of the LORD said to Balaam, "Go with the men, but speak only what I tell you." So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.
Footnotes:
Numbers 22:32 The meaning of the Hebrew for this clause is uncertain.
Stuff that stood out:
*** 28 Then the LORD opened the donkey's mouth, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?": Ok, some backstory: Balaam was a sort-of prophet, oracle, etc., and he was dealing with a king (Balak) from another land who wanted to conquer Israel. God had: yes, told Balaam to walk with Balak, but not to speak unless God told him to. Apparently, Balaam was doing just that: "sort of" following God, but not all the way. So God did what he does...and used the unexpected to get his point across.
He had Balaam's Donkey do the talking. SAY WHAT? But, it got his attention! Sometimes I think I'm "in God's will"...but honestly, I'm only sort-of doing his will. I need to pay more attention to this passage...
*** 32 The angel of the LORD asked him, "Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? I have come here to oppose you because your path is a reckless one before me. [a] 33 The donkey saw me and turned away from me these three times. If she had not turned away, I would certainly have killed you by now, but I would have spared her.": Ouch. Balaam gets completely called out for his trying to do God's will "Balaam's way". That never works. I know that I too often "seek" God's will, but then try to make it happen my way. Not good. And I too have probably treated those around me the same way as Balaam did his donkey...where I wasn't getting my way, and instead of surrendering immediately to the Lord, I make excuses, beat up (metaphorically) those around me who were just trying to help "Get me there", etc. And what does God say? "Without them carrying you...I would have killed you and spared them." Yowsers...
*** 34 Balaam said to the angel of the LORD, "I have sinned. I did not realize you were standing in the road to oppose me. Now if you are displeased, I will go back."
35 The angel of the LORD said to Balaam, "Go with the men, but speak only what I tell you." So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.: Balaam finally repents and falls on his knees, and essentially states his willingness to abdicate his calling. God then says, "Nope...JUST DO IT MY WAY and you'll be all good..." How sad is it that too often the Lord has to get right in our way to get his point across...but how awesome is it that in his grace and mercy, he still wants US and wants to use us... Oh Lord, help me to seek your way at all times so you don't have to use "talking donkeys"!
Questions for me today:
Am I on;y in "part" of God's will? Am I trying to do it my way?
Who are "donkeys" that are just trying to help and get my attention...but I am punishing instead?
Do I realize, REALLY realize that God doesn't need me, but still WANTS me? How do I respond to that?
Thursday, April 9, 2009
...always more for you... // 1 Kings 19:1-18
This passage just rocked my world recently...
Elijah Flees to Horeb
1 Now Ahab told Jezebel everything Elijah had done and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. 2 So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah to say, "May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like that of one of them."
3 Elijah was afraid [a] and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, 4 while he himself went a day's journey into the desert. He came to a broom tree, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. "I have had enough, LORD," he said. "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors." 5 Then he lay down under the tree and fell asleep.
All at once an angel touched him and said, "Get up and eat." 6 He looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.
7 The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, "Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you." 8 So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. 9 There he went into a cave and spent the night.
The LORD Appears to Elijah
And the word of the LORD came to him: "What are you doing here, Elijah?"
10 He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too."
11 The LORD said, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by."
Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. 13 When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.
Then a voice said to him, "What are you doing here, Elijah?"
14 He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too."
15 The LORD said to him, "Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. 16 Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet. 17 Jehu will put to death any who escape the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death any who escape the sword of Jehu. 18 Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him."
Footnotes:
1 Kings 19:3 Or Elijah saw
Stuff that stood out:
*** "I have had enough, LORD," he said. "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors."; in verse 4: Oh, how many times have I wondered aloud to God, "What's the point of this?", in reference to me "trying hard to be obedient, do his will, etc.", and feeling like none of it matters? Sadly, too many times. I can surely relate to Elijah here as times when he decides that "enough is enough, already". He is drained. Thinks the message he feels called to deliver is falling on death ears, and at times worse: folks are out to get him! He feels abandoned, purposeless...
*** 7 The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, "Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you." 8 So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.: ...and just then, God shows up, shows his promise to provide and strengthen. I need to always look back at the times I was "done" and frustrated, and remember where God showed up and said, "I am not done with you yet!"
*** 14 He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too."
15 The LORD said to him, "Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. 16 Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet. 17 Jehu will put to death any who escape the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death any who escape the sword of Jehu. 18 Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him.": A big chunk here, I realize...but I think it is all so pertinent. Basically, Elijah once again pleads his case for being justified in his complaining. "I'm working hard, man, and for what? No one cares...no one seems to share the fire I have for You. And they don't really like that I'm calling them on the carpet..." I think everywhere I've ever been in ministry has had a moment or two like that... But God doesn't ignore. He gives purpose, either reaffirmed or brand new. I have likewise ALWAYS found that to be true when I'm feeling like Elijah here...God shows himself to me, gives (or re-gives) purpose, and off I go...
Questions for me today:
Are there areas of my life where I feel like I've been "doing what God wants", but I'm not seeing the results I'd like so I want to bail?
When has God shown himself and his purposes to me at times I've felt "lost"?
Elijah Flees to Horeb
1 Now Ahab told Jezebel everything Elijah had done and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. 2 So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah to say, "May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like that of one of them."
3 Elijah was afraid [a] and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, 4 while he himself went a day's journey into the desert. He came to a broom tree, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. "I have had enough, LORD," he said. "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors." 5 Then he lay down under the tree and fell asleep.
All at once an angel touched him and said, "Get up and eat." 6 He looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.
7 The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, "Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you." 8 So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. 9 There he went into a cave and spent the night.
The LORD Appears to Elijah
And the word of the LORD came to him: "What are you doing here, Elijah?"
10 He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too."
11 The LORD said, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by."
Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. 12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. 13 When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.
Then a voice said to him, "What are you doing here, Elijah?"
14 He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too."
15 The LORD said to him, "Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. 16 Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet. 17 Jehu will put to death any who escape the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death any who escape the sword of Jehu. 18 Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him."
Footnotes:
1 Kings 19:3 Or Elijah saw
Stuff that stood out:
*** "I have had enough, LORD," he said. "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors."; in verse 4: Oh, how many times have I wondered aloud to God, "What's the point of this?", in reference to me "trying hard to be obedient, do his will, etc.", and feeling like none of it matters? Sadly, too many times. I can surely relate to Elijah here as times when he decides that "enough is enough, already". He is drained. Thinks the message he feels called to deliver is falling on death ears, and at times worse: folks are out to get him! He feels abandoned, purposeless...
*** 7 The angel of the LORD came back a second time and touched him and said, "Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you." 8 So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.: ...and just then, God shows up, shows his promise to provide and strengthen. I need to always look back at the times I was "done" and frustrated, and remember where God showed up and said, "I am not done with you yet!"
*** 14 He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too."
15 The LORD said to him, "Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. 16 Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet. 17 Jehu will put to death any who escape the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death any who escape the sword of Jehu. 18 Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him.": A big chunk here, I realize...but I think it is all so pertinent. Basically, Elijah once again pleads his case for being justified in his complaining. "I'm working hard, man, and for what? No one cares...no one seems to share the fire I have for You. And they don't really like that I'm calling them on the carpet..." I think everywhere I've ever been in ministry has had a moment or two like that... But God doesn't ignore. He gives purpose, either reaffirmed or brand new. I have likewise ALWAYS found that to be true when I'm feeling like Elijah here...God shows himself to me, gives (or re-gives) purpose, and off I go...
Questions for me today:
Are there areas of my life where I feel like I've been "doing what God wants", but I'm not seeing the results I'd like so I want to bail?
When has God shown himself and his purposes to me at times I've felt "lost"?
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Ranking the U2 Albums UPDATED TO INCLUDE NEW ALBUM
I have updated these rankings to reflect the inclusion of the newest album, "No Line On the Horizon", as I feel I have listened to it a sufficient amount to give it some justice...
I've been toying with this idea for some time, as U2 are my favorite band. I finally came up with a system (DORK WARNING! DORK WARNING!) that I liked and decided to rank the albums via "song ranking averages"; aka, 1 is "who were the ad wizards who thought this song was a good idea?" to 10, which is "simply one of my favorite songs ever, across the board". I ranked each song and averaged, and each album thus has a score.
A few disclaimers before I post:
*** This is MY ranking...there are some songs by U2 that are deemed "10" by many out there that just don't capture me as much...and I'm sure the reverse is true as well...
*** I am only including true studio albums save "Rattle and Hum", which had enough studio material (vs. "live") to be ranked. As a result, though, I only ranked studio songs for "RaH".
*** What is interesting about this list is how the album I usually consider as my favorite did not get #1 on this list...or 2 or 3 for that matter...this is probably due to the fact that it has such a wide range of rankings...but some of my absolute favorite songs are on that album (I'll leave it to your imagination for now), but it has just enough "meh"-songs to drop it down a bit...
*** My criteria for "highlight songs" on each album was a ranking of 8 or better. Essentially, these are the songs that most "move me"...
HERE WE GO...
# 12: Pop (1997), 4.58 avg: Highlight song: "Wake Up Dead Man"
# 11: Zooropa (1993), 4.7 avg: Highlight song: "The First Time"
# 10: October (1981), 5.18 avg: Highlight song: "Gloria"
# 9: Boy (1980), 5.82 avg: : Highlight songs: "I Will Follow", "Out of Control"
# 8: No Line On the Horizon (2009), 6.00 avg: Highlight Songs: "Magnificent", "Get On Your Boots"
# 7: Rattle and Hum (1988), 6.11 avg: Highlight songs: "Heartland", "When Love Comes to Town", "All I Want is You"
# 6: How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (2004), 7.18 avg: Highlight songs: "Vertigo", "City of Blinding Lights"
# 5: Achtung Baby (1991), 7.25 avg: Highlight songs: "Until the End of the World", "Zoo Station", "Mysterious Ways", "The Fly"
# 4: The Unforgettable Fire (1984), 7.3 avg: Highlight songs: "Pride", "Bad", "A Sort of Homecoming", "The Unforgettable Fire", "Wire"
# 3: War (1983), 7.4 avg: Highlight songs: "New Years' Day", "Like a Song", "Sunday Bloody Sunday", "Two Hearts Beat as One", "40"
# 2: All That You Can't Leave Behind (2000), 7.64 avg/7 median:Highlight songs: "Beautiful Day", "Grace", "Walk On", "Elevation", "Stuck in a Moment You Can't Get Out Of"
# 1: The Joshua Tree (1987), 7.64 avg/8 median: Highlight songs: "Where the Streets Have No Name", "With or Without You", "In God's Country", "Bullet the Blue Sky", "Red Hill Mining Town", "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For"
So there you go. The last 6 are quite close, with 1 and 2 being so close I needed a tiebreaker (the median).
I've been toying with this idea for some time, as U2 are my favorite band. I finally came up with a system (DORK WARNING! DORK WARNING!) that I liked and decided to rank the albums via "song ranking averages"; aka, 1 is "who were the ad wizards who thought this song was a good idea?" to 10, which is "simply one of my favorite songs ever, across the board". I ranked each song and averaged, and each album thus has a score.
A few disclaimers before I post:
*** This is MY ranking...there are some songs by U2 that are deemed "10" by many out there that just don't capture me as much...and I'm sure the reverse is true as well...
*** I am only including true studio albums save "Rattle and Hum", which had enough studio material (vs. "live") to be ranked. As a result, though, I only ranked studio songs for "RaH".
*** What is interesting about this list is how the album I usually consider as my favorite did not get #1 on this list...or 2 or 3 for that matter...this is probably due to the fact that it has such a wide range of rankings...but some of my absolute favorite songs are on that album (I'll leave it to your imagination for now), but it has just enough "meh"-songs to drop it down a bit...
*** My criteria for "highlight songs" on each album was a ranking of 8 or better. Essentially, these are the songs that most "move me"...
HERE WE GO...
# 12: Pop (1997), 4.58 avg: Highlight song: "Wake Up Dead Man"
# 11: Zooropa (1993), 4.7 avg: Highlight song: "The First Time"
# 10: October (1981), 5.18 avg: Highlight song: "Gloria"
# 9: Boy (1980), 5.82 avg: : Highlight songs: "I Will Follow", "Out of Control"
# 8: No Line On the Horizon (2009), 6.00 avg: Highlight Songs: "Magnificent", "Get On Your Boots"
# 7: Rattle and Hum (1988), 6.11 avg: Highlight songs: "Heartland", "When Love Comes to Town", "All I Want is You"
# 6: How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (2004), 7.18 avg: Highlight songs: "Vertigo", "City of Blinding Lights"
# 5: Achtung Baby (1991), 7.25 avg: Highlight songs: "Until the End of the World", "Zoo Station", "Mysterious Ways", "The Fly"
# 4: The Unforgettable Fire (1984), 7.3 avg: Highlight songs: "Pride", "Bad", "A Sort of Homecoming", "The Unforgettable Fire", "Wire"
# 3: War (1983), 7.4 avg: Highlight songs: "New Years' Day", "Like a Song", "Sunday Bloody Sunday", "Two Hearts Beat as One", "40"
# 2: All That You Can't Leave Behind (2000), 7.64 avg/7 median:Highlight songs: "Beautiful Day", "Grace", "Walk On", "Elevation", "Stuck in a Moment You Can't Get Out Of"
# 1: The Joshua Tree (1987), 7.64 avg/8 median: Highlight songs: "Where the Streets Have No Name", "With or Without You", "In God's Country", "Bullet the Blue Sky", "Red Hill Mining Town", "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For"
So there you go. The last 6 are quite close, with 1 and 2 being so close I needed a tiebreaker (the median).
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Do You Hear? // Matthew 13:18-23
18"Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: 19When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is the seed sown along the path. 20The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21But since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away. 22The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful. 23But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown."
Stuff that stood out:
*** I'm going to do this one a bit different than normal. First, instead of posting the entire reading when I had this section (it really started in verse 1), I just did the "what does it mean" section. Second, instead of listing a bunch of separate phrases, I just feel like pondering the whole thing. Who knows where this will lead...
*** I've always been drawn to this parable for some reason. I just think the imagery is so challenging and so true for those who are presented with God's Truth and offer of salvation. I often try to figure out which one is "me"...truth is, I think at one time or another, I've been each of them. I also, though, think these examples are true for folks as a whole. Some hear the Gospel and basically go, "Yeah, whatever..." Some have big, emotional, mountain-top experiences, but in reality it was all "in the moment", or maybe they did it because their friends seemed all wrapped up in God, or maybe they entered into a relationship under the wrong pretense, like, "Jesus will fix EVERYTHING and make your life better!" True? Well, yes...but not like most of us think...sadly so many "accept Christ" it seems so that nothing bad will ever happen to them...or they will get "stuff"...etc. These folks bail (aka, not sure their conversion was "real") when things get tough, don't go their way, or they get challenged to deal with some sin they aren't willing to... I think I relate most with the "fell among thorns" part, albeit I relate at times too well. Why? Well, the "thorny" ones are the ones that really do have a relationship with God, truly have reached a point of real surrender to Christ and want to give everything to him...but too often, because of worry, or distraction, or others' expectations, don't Want to (if you read my blog much, you know what I mean by want vs. Want). We thorny types are too easily brought down to a level of fear, doubt, lack-of-confidence, etc., that hinders us allowing God to speak to (and though) us. My prayer (and thankfully, I have seen glimpses of this in my life, and at times, whole "seasons" where I am here...woohoo God!) is that myself and others will increasingly be like the seed on good soil. The ones who are willing to trust and risk for Christ. The ones who are confident and bold. The ones who make sacrifices to "their wants" in the name of showing others Jesus, and in the name of better seeing the Lord themselves.
So, which one are you?
Questions for me to ponder today:
Which "soil" am I right now? Has this changed?
What "soil" do I need to be? What things may need to happen to get me there?
Do I want to be "good soil", or do I Want to be good soil? Am I willing to do what it takes?
Stuff that stood out:
*** I'm going to do this one a bit different than normal. First, instead of posting the entire reading when I had this section (it really started in verse 1), I just did the "what does it mean" section. Second, instead of listing a bunch of separate phrases, I just feel like pondering the whole thing. Who knows where this will lead...
*** I've always been drawn to this parable for some reason. I just think the imagery is so challenging and so true for those who are presented with God's Truth and offer of salvation. I often try to figure out which one is "me"...truth is, I think at one time or another, I've been each of them. I also, though, think these examples are true for folks as a whole. Some hear the Gospel and basically go, "Yeah, whatever..." Some have big, emotional, mountain-top experiences, but in reality it was all "in the moment", or maybe they did it because their friends seemed all wrapped up in God, or maybe they entered into a relationship under the wrong pretense, like, "Jesus will fix EVERYTHING and make your life better!" True? Well, yes...but not like most of us think...sadly so many "accept Christ" it seems so that nothing bad will ever happen to them...or they will get "stuff"...etc. These folks bail (aka, not sure their conversion was "real") when things get tough, don't go their way, or they get challenged to deal with some sin they aren't willing to... I think I relate most with the "fell among thorns" part, albeit I relate at times too well. Why? Well, the "thorny" ones are the ones that really do have a relationship with God, truly have reached a point of real surrender to Christ and want to give everything to him...but too often, because of worry, or distraction, or others' expectations, don't Want to (if you read my blog much, you know what I mean by want vs. Want). We thorny types are too easily brought down to a level of fear, doubt, lack-of-confidence, etc., that hinders us allowing God to speak to (and though) us. My prayer (and thankfully, I have seen glimpses of this in my life, and at times, whole "seasons" where I am here...woohoo God!) is that myself and others will increasingly be like the seed on good soil. The ones who are willing to trust and risk for Christ. The ones who are confident and bold. The ones who make sacrifices to "their wants" in the name of showing others Jesus, and in the name of better seeing the Lord themselves.
So, which one are you?
Questions for me to ponder today:
Which "soil" am I right now? Has this changed?
What "soil" do I need to be? What things may need to happen to get me there?
Do I want to be "good soil", or do I Want to be good soil? Am I willing to do what it takes?
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Hakuna Matata on Steroids // Matthew 6:19-34
Treasures in Heaven
19"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
22"The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. 23But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
24"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
Do Not Worry
25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[a]?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Footnotes:Matthew 6:27 Or single cubit to his height
Stuff that stood out:
*** 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.: I usually have approached this first section (v. 19-24) as simply a challenge to not be so focused on the material, on "stuff". And that is certainly something I need to remember. But is there something bigger, something connected to the next part (dealing more with "worry")? Absolutely. As I read this morning, I started pondering how the material things in life, whether tangible or more abstract, cause me to have worry. Because the more you "have", the more you have to take care of, right? And what about the temptation to keep up with the Joneses, or be "relevant"? Can that cause me unwanted (or un-needed) worry? You betcha. My allegiances thus get split between God and...my stuff that I have to worry about. Oh sure, I need to be grateful for what I've been blessed with and treat it with respect and as a good steward...but it's when I start spending more time with these temporal things (and thus taking time away from the eternal) that it can get out-of-whack. I need to seek often to have these areas exposed to me...and ask God for re-focus.
*** 25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life...; 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[a]?: Worry is such a strong and potentially paralyzing emotion. I tend to think of myself who doesn't worry, but I know I do. Now, I may not let it consume me like it does some, but I would be lying if I said I never worry. I worry about how I am raising Jax. I worry if I am a good enough husband. I worry if I am doing enough for the kids in the youth group. I worry about money. I worry that one day I will "jump the shark" and say or do some unfiltered, irresponsible thing and alienate a friend or employer. I worry about whether people trust me or not. I worry about my health. I worry about my family's future in general.
So yeah, I worry.
But what tends to keep me from being consumed and neutered by it? See below...
*** 33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.: This is where its' at. Seeking the Lord FIRST, and in ALL THINGS, at ALL TIMES. It is tough to do, as you have to Want it with a capital "W". This concept I use of "want" vs. "Want" can apply to so many things, but when it applies to our relationship with Christ, it can change everything. When I say I want something (lower-case "w"), oh sure, I may like the idea or concept of, say, seeking Him first and his righteousness, but I may only really do it in times of convenience, or only in times when I am at the end of my rope, or when it feels good, etc. But I won't move mountains in life to truly do it. To me, Wanting something (upper-cased "W") involves doing whatever it takes to achieve it. So, Wanting to seek Christ first, seek his perfect ways, etc., involved choices. Sacrifices. Probably looking foolish to some folks. And also in that? Not being a slave to worry! I mean, think about it: What so often keeps people claiming the name "Christian" stuck in just wanting to be true disciples as opposed to Wanting to be disciples? WORRY. Worrying about offending others around them. Worrying about possibly losing a job as a result. Worrying about losing the favor of a coach. Worrying about having to give up some fun sin. Worrying about being truly different in light of following Jesus. Worrying about losing some "freedom" in the quest for Freedom. Worrying that you may have to break off a relationship to truly follow Jesus (a non-married one, of course...).
So I think ultimately worry can play into how much we Want to surrender to Christ vs. if we just want to... And too often, we simply just don't Want to...
Questions for me today:
Where is my treasure? How do I see my true "heart" reflecting my treasure, priorities, wants, etc.?
Where am I letting worry consume me and hinder my walk with Christ?
Do I really Want to seek God in all things...or do I just want to? What would it look like in my life to switch to Wanting instead of just wanting?
Thursday, March 19, 2009
What Do I Know? // James 4:13-17
Boasting About Tomorrow
13Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." 14Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." 16As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. 17Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.
Stuff that stood out:
*** Well, actually this whole section stuck out... In fact, my daily reading contained the first 6 verses of chapter 5 as well, but they just didn't seem to "fit" together today...maybe another time...
*** I will split my musings into two parts. The first is verses 13-15. I see so much of this in life. I make grand plans and don't a) ponder other paths and/or b) give room for God to "do his thing". It seems like James is telling us two things: First, that we often are waaaaay too flippant about our decisions, our plans, and our schemes. I mean, I may get broadsided by a truck while running tomorrow! I have no clue what may happen even in the next five minutes... Oh sure, I should just live my life as best I can, preferably as an act of worship and gratitude for Christ's undeserved love of my soul... Second, verse 15 tells us that in many ways it's all about our attitude as we approach life, decisions, etc. "If it's the Lord's will..." Notice the difference in focus there? It means we can still make decisions, but acknowledges (and is OK with...) that ultimately God is sovereign and in control, and thus he will do whatever he wills in our future for his glory alone. I may have hopes, goals, and dreams for what lies ahead for my family (trust me: I do), and sure, I need to be diligent in seeking wise possibilities, action plans, and decisions. BUT, I must do it all with a focused attitude and heart that says, "If what I kinda want to happen is in your will, ROCK ON, but if not? That's still the best way, YOUR way!"
*** The second musing is focused on verse 17: Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. I think I've mentioned this before, but when I am confused about God's will, I unfortunately tend to mean the "big, long-term decisions and direction for my life", instead of, "Hey God, what do I need to be a part of TODAY? What are the attitudes and actions that are also your will?" Verse 17 speaks to that for me. There are things I can do every day that are ALWAYS God's will. Treating others with respect. Making Christ first in my life. Loving my wife through thick and thin. Giving my best for Jesus. Listening to others. Repentance. Seeking to let the Word saturate my heart (and that means some tough decisions about behavior, attitude, etc.). And the one mentioned in this verse is so key: Knowing what is right, and still choosing to ignore it...
Questions for me today:
What dreams/goals/hopes, etc., in my life do I need to truly give over to the Lord (aka, so I would be "cool" with a different path of his choosing)?
What are some areas of my daily life that I can seek to be more in tune with who God wants me to be?
13Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." 14Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." 16As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. 17Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.
Stuff that stood out:
*** Well, actually this whole section stuck out... In fact, my daily reading contained the first 6 verses of chapter 5 as well, but they just didn't seem to "fit" together today...maybe another time...
*** I will split my musings into two parts. The first is verses 13-15. I see so much of this in life. I make grand plans and don't a) ponder other paths and/or b) give room for God to "do his thing". It seems like James is telling us two things: First, that we often are waaaaay too flippant about our decisions, our plans, and our schemes. I mean, I may get broadsided by a truck while running tomorrow! I have no clue what may happen even in the next five minutes... Oh sure, I should just live my life as best I can, preferably as an act of worship and gratitude for Christ's undeserved love of my soul... Second, verse 15 tells us that in many ways it's all about our attitude as we approach life, decisions, etc. "If it's the Lord's will..." Notice the difference in focus there? It means we can still make decisions, but acknowledges (and is OK with...) that ultimately God is sovereign and in control, and thus he will do whatever he wills in our future for his glory alone. I may have hopes, goals, and dreams for what lies ahead for my family (trust me: I do), and sure, I need to be diligent in seeking wise possibilities, action plans, and decisions. BUT, I must do it all with a focused attitude and heart that says, "If what I kinda want to happen is in your will, ROCK ON, but if not? That's still the best way, YOUR way!"
*** The second musing is focused on verse 17: Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. I think I've mentioned this before, but when I am confused about God's will, I unfortunately tend to mean the "big, long-term decisions and direction for my life", instead of, "Hey God, what do I need to be a part of TODAY? What are the attitudes and actions that are also your will?" Verse 17 speaks to that for me. There are things I can do every day that are ALWAYS God's will. Treating others with respect. Making Christ first in my life. Loving my wife through thick and thin. Giving my best for Jesus. Listening to others. Repentance. Seeking to let the Word saturate my heart (and that means some tough decisions about behavior, attitude, etc.). And the one mentioned in this verse is so key: Knowing what is right, and still choosing to ignore it...
Questions for me today:
What dreams/goals/hopes, etc., in my life do I need to truly give over to the Lord (aka, so I would be "cool" with a different path of his choosing)?
What are some areas of my daily life that I can seek to be more in tune with who God wants me to be?
Saturday, March 14, 2009
In a Rare (as of lately) Blogging Lull
It was funny, after a flurry of posts the first week of March (something like 6 in 5 days!), I thought that March might end up being the first time I got close to a "post-a-day" average...
...well, then this week I didn't post at all! Plenty of reasons: Busy working on mission trip sign-ups/planning, some health stuff I needed to deal with, etc. Nothing huge, and I actually did have my daily readings, um, daily. I was planning on visiting some of those readings this morning as a blog but Jax woke up (and I can't give the scriptures "justice" when we're watching Imagination Movers together haha).
So I hope to get back to some posts next week, even when I'm in the Houston area for a little Spring Break visit!
...well, then this week I didn't post at all! Plenty of reasons: Busy working on mission trip sign-ups/planning, some health stuff I needed to deal with, etc. Nothing huge, and I actually did have my daily readings, um, daily. I was planning on visiting some of those readings this morning as a blog but Jax woke up (and I can't give the scriptures "justice" when we're watching Imagination Movers together haha).
So I hope to get back to some posts next week, even when I'm in the Houston area for a little Spring Break visit!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Re-Booted // 2 Corinthians 5:11-6:2
The Ministry of Reconciliation
11Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. 12We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. 13If we are out of our mind, it is for the sake of God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. 14For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
16So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 18All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21God made him who had no sin to be sin[a] for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
2 Corinthians 6
1As God's fellow workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. 2For he says,
"In the time of my favor I heard you,
and in the day of salvation I helped you."[b] I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation.
Footnotes:
2 Corinthians 5:21 Or be a sin offering
2 Corinthians 6:2 Isaiah 49:8
Stuff that stood out:
*** 16So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!: What does this mean? What about times when I don't "feel" any different than the guy that existed before Christ became my Lord? These are questions every Christian needs to ponder often. Why? Well, this scripture tells/reminds us that if we have truly been claimed by Christ, then we will be different people on the inside. Oh sure, there are times when I just want to do my thing, don't "feel" like doing the difficult things that are part of being a disciple of Jesus, but I can look back and see the overall change of heart and attitude...to me, this is one of the evidences of my "re-boot" back in 1990...it just takes time (like, truthfully, ones' entire lifespan!). Things are so different now... But, the hard answer we may get to asking if we are truly new creations is when we realize that nothing on the inside has changed. Oh sure, for a new believer much may be the same save a new hope in ones' life due to their realization of salvation, but I know so many that when asked if they are any different now on a heart level then when they "said a salvation prayer", sadly they cannot find any real change...that should keep us awake at night...
*** 18All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.: Who re-boots us, reconciles us? GOD. No one else, nothing else. He has done what is necessary to bring us back into the fold despite the countless strikes against us due to sin. Shouldn't that realization be enough to result in the "new" talked about in v. 17? It should... Also, it should compel us to seek reconciliation with others around us, and quickly...because just like it's close cousin forgiveness, since God has offered us reconciliation, we need to be reconcilers as well out of gratitude...
*** 20We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God.: What is an ambassador? When I think of that title, I think of people selected by a higher authority to represent their "true home" in a foreign land. This not only involves the sharing of the things of "home" with the folks in this foreign land, but also being a student of their culture as well, learning how to appreciate and "speak their language" (not just literally...). So, how am I an ambassador for Christ? I know many consider America a "Christian land", but sadly, I do not think it is, at least not anymore. Maybe where you live there is not a hostility to the true message of Jesus (even if the folks around you "take it for granted" and haven't truly wrestled with what it all means...), but I can assure you there are whole sections of this country that are quite hostile to Christianity for various valid and in-valid reasons...but the hostility exists nonetheless. So, as one reconciled to God, a rebooted person, I need to represent Jesus to "foreigners" in my own land. I need to learn the "language". I need to see what the customs are. Do I need to use this as an excuse to do things that may not be beneficial to my faith or Christ's message? No...but I do need to take a long look at how (and more importantly, if) I represent my Lord to those around me. Am I welcoming, or do I put up walls? Am I joyful and hopeful at ALL times (even in the midst of great strife), or do I easily become bitter? Do I try to learn about the culture around me, or do I avoid it altogether? Good questions for an ambassador to ponder...
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Ranking the U2 Albums (in honor of their new release)
I've been toying with this idea for some time, as U2 are my favorite band. I finally came up with a system (DORK WARNING! DORK WARNING!) that I liked and decided to rank the albums via "song ranking averages"; aka, 1 is "who were the ad wizards who thought this song was a good idea?" to 10, which is "simply one of my favorite songs ever, across the board". I ranked each song and averaged, and each album thus has a score.
A few disclaimers before I post:
*** This is MY ranking...there are some songs by U2 that are deemed "10" by many out there that just don't capture me as much...and I'm sure the reverse is true as well...
*** I have so far chosen to not rank the new album, "No Line on the Horizon"...although I may leave some small commentary at the end based on my initial opinions...
*** I am only including true studio albums save "Rattle and Hum", which had enough studio material (vs. "live") to be ranked. As a result, though, I only ranked studio songs for "RaH".
*** What is interesting about this list is how the album I usually consider as my favorite did not get #1 on this list...or 2 or 3 for that matter...this is probably due to the fact that it has such a wide range of rankings...but some of my absolute favorite songs are on that album (I'll leave it to your imagination for now), but it has just enough "meh"-songs to drop it down a bit...
*** My criteria for "highlight songs" on each album was a ranking of 8 or better. Essentially, these are the songs that most "move me"...
HERE WE GO...
# 11: Pop (1997), 4.58 avg: Highlight song: "Wake Up Dead Man"
# 10: Zooropa (1993), 4.7 avg: Highlight song: "The First Time"
# 9: October (1981), 5.18 avg: Highlight song: "Gloria"
# 8: Boy (1980), 5.82 avg: : Highlight songs: "I Will Follow", "Out of Control"
# 7: Rattle and Hum (1988), 6.11 avg: Highlight songs: "Heartland", "When Love Comes to Town", "All I Want is You"
# 6: How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (2004), 7.18 avg: Highlight songs: "Vertigo", "City of Blinding Lights"
# 5: Achtung Baby (1991), 7.25 avg: Highlight songs: "Until the End of the World", "Zoo Station", "Mysterious Ways", "The Fly"
# 4: The Unforgettable Fire (1984), 7.3 avg: Highlight songs: "Pride", "Bad", "A Sort of Homecoming", "The Unforgettable Fire", "Wire"
# 3: War (1983), 7.4 avg: Highlight songs: "New Years' Day", "Like a Song", "Sunday Bloody Sunday", "Two Hearts Beat as One", "40"
# 2: All That You Can't Leave Behind (2000), 7.64 avg/7 median:Highlight songs: "Beautiful Day", "Grace", "Walk On", "Elevation", "Stuck in a Moment You Can't Get Out Of"
# 1: The Joshua Tree (1987), 7.64 avg/8 median: Highlight songs: "Where the Streets Have No Name", "With or Without You", "In God's Country", "Bullet the Blue Sky", "Red Hill Mining Town", "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For"
So there you go. The last 6 are quite close, with 1 and 2 being so close I needed a tiebreaker (the median). Where does "No Line on the Horizon" rank? Well, it's entirely too early to make a true ranking (only heard most songs on it once), but at first glance, I'd say in the "Rattle and Hum"-range ("6ish"). But, one interesting thing is while I have generally enjoyed the songs at some level, I'm not finding ANY "8 or aboves" so far on it...even my least favorite U2 albums have at least one song that I think is worthy of mention as a classic U2 song...not sure yet if "NLotH" will deliver that... I may update this list later when I feel I have a better grasp of things!
A few disclaimers before I post:
*** This is MY ranking...there are some songs by U2 that are deemed "10" by many out there that just don't capture me as much...and I'm sure the reverse is true as well...
*** I have so far chosen to not rank the new album, "No Line on the Horizon"...although I may leave some small commentary at the end based on my initial opinions...
*** I am only including true studio albums save "Rattle and Hum", which had enough studio material (vs. "live") to be ranked. As a result, though, I only ranked studio songs for "RaH".
*** What is interesting about this list is how the album I usually consider as my favorite did not get #1 on this list...or 2 or 3 for that matter...this is probably due to the fact that it has such a wide range of rankings...but some of my absolute favorite songs are on that album (I'll leave it to your imagination for now), but it has just enough "meh"-songs to drop it down a bit...
*** My criteria for "highlight songs" on each album was a ranking of 8 or better. Essentially, these are the songs that most "move me"...
HERE WE GO...
# 11: Pop (1997), 4.58 avg: Highlight song: "Wake Up Dead Man"
# 10: Zooropa (1993), 4.7 avg: Highlight song: "The First Time"
# 9: October (1981), 5.18 avg: Highlight song: "Gloria"
# 8: Boy (1980), 5.82 avg: : Highlight songs: "I Will Follow", "Out of Control"
# 7: Rattle and Hum (1988), 6.11 avg: Highlight songs: "Heartland", "When Love Comes to Town", "All I Want is You"
# 6: How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (2004), 7.18 avg: Highlight songs: "Vertigo", "City of Blinding Lights"
# 5: Achtung Baby (1991), 7.25 avg: Highlight songs: "Until the End of the World", "Zoo Station", "Mysterious Ways", "The Fly"
# 4: The Unforgettable Fire (1984), 7.3 avg: Highlight songs: "Pride", "Bad", "A Sort of Homecoming", "The Unforgettable Fire", "Wire"
# 3: War (1983), 7.4 avg: Highlight songs: "New Years' Day", "Like a Song", "Sunday Bloody Sunday", "Two Hearts Beat as One", "40"
# 2: All That You Can't Leave Behind (2000), 7.64 avg/7 median:Highlight songs: "Beautiful Day", "Grace", "Walk On", "Elevation", "Stuck in a Moment You Can't Get Out Of"
# 1: The Joshua Tree (1987), 7.64 avg/8 median: Highlight songs: "Where the Streets Have No Name", "With or Without You", "In God's Country", "Bullet the Blue Sky", "Red Hill Mining Town", "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For"
So there you go. The last 6 are quite close, with 1 and 2 being so close I needed a tiebreaker (the median). Where does "No Line on the Horizon" rank? Well, it's entirely too early to make a true ranking (only heard most songs on it once), but at first glance, I'd say in the "Rattle and Hum"-range ("6ish"). But, one interesting thing is while I have generally enjoyed the songs at some level, I'm not finding ANY "8 or aboves" so far on it...even my least favorite U2 albums have at least one song that I think is worthy of mention as a classic U2 song...not sure yet if "NLotH" will deliver that... I may update this list later when I feel I have a better grasp of things!
All About Attitude: // Philippians 2:1-11
Imitating Christ's Humility
1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
6Who, being in very nature[a] God,
did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,
7but made himself nothing,
taking the very nature[b] of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
Footnotes:Philippians 2:6 Or in the form of
Philippians 2:7 Or the form
Stuff that stood out:
*** 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.: Paul, you know you are talking about us silly humans here, right? You know, the ones that would rather have "their own way" on everything, always want to be "right", will talk behind someone's back like it's no biggie? Oh...you still want us to be unified? Ok...I guess we need to be praying like crazy!
In all seriousness, this challenge is so important to the expansion of Christ's message. We can say the "right things" all day long...but if all we do is quarrel and live in selfishness, well, we aren't going to get far, are we? I think one of the most important (and at times, difficult...) attitudes all followers of Jesus MUST seek is great humility. I may not always agree with someone...but is it my job to nit-pick, to tell them what I would do, and to freely go tell others how I think something should be done (when the "something" may have nothing to do with the ministry I've been called to, nothing to do with my gifts, etc.)? I think not...sadly, though, I have too often been "that guy"... I think most of us are guilty of this bad attitude. I have been praying so much lately that God would a) expose my heart to me when I start "going there" and b) that I wouldn't go there in the first place... While perfection hasn't been achieved, I have seen areas in my life improving in this... I don't want you to think I am some "raging gossip/slanderer/etc.", but I also know I am not immune to being just like some of the folks I can so easily complain about...
*** ...in humility consider others better than yourselves.; verse 3: There's that word again, humility. I think Paul's challenge to "consider others better than yourselves" is at the heart of humility. I may have wants, dreams, desires, thoughts, etc., but "me" should not be first. I think the best place (and sometimes the toughest place) to start practicing humility is in my own family. I need to lay down "me" for Missy and Jax, just because. Well, not "just because", but more specifically, because I am to model Christ's love for his Bride, the Church, to them...and, well, we all know what he went through on her/our behalf... The struggle for me is that sometimes I get caught in a bad-attitude of thinking, "Hey, I've been sacrificing alot lately! When is it my turn?!" Not what my attitude and priority should be...
*** 5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus...: And if all that above wasn't tough enough...there's this, haha! Really, though, this is what we should all pray for and earnestly seek: the attitude and heart of Christ in ALL THINGS. Not easy...and it doesn't mean we "get points" and get always tangibly "blessed" in return...but that isn't the point. Is doing the Lord's work truly a priority? Then we need the attitude of Jesus all over us...
Questions for me today:
Are there any relationships I need to seek reconciliation and forgiveness in, so that God's purpose can be more plainly achieved?
Where can I be more humble, especially those areas where I feel entitled to lack humility?
1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
6Who, being in very nature[a] God,
did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,
7but made himself nothing,
taking the very nature[b] of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
8And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
9Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
and gave him the name that is above every name,
10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
Footnotes:Philippians 2:6 Or in the form of
Philippians 2:7 Or the form
Stuff that stood out:
*** 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.: Paul, you know you are talking about us silly humans here, right? You know, the ones that would rather have "their own way" on everything, always want to be "right", will talk behind someone's back like it's no biggie? Oh...you still want us to be unified? Ok...I guess we need to be praying like crazy!
In all seriousness, this challenge is so important to the expansion of Christ's message. We can say the "right things" all day long...but if all we do is quarrel and live in selfishness, well, we aren't going to get far, are we? I think one of the most important (and at times, difficult...) attitudes all followers of Jesus MUST seek is great humility. I may not always agree with someone...but is it my job to nit-pick, to tell them what I would do, and to freely go tell others how I think something should be done (when the "something" may have nothing to do with the ministry I've been called to, nothing to do with my gifts, etc.)? I think not...sadly, though, I have too often been "that guy"... I think most of us are guilty of this bad attitude. I have been praying so much lately that God would a) expose my heart to me when I start "going there" and b) that I wouldn't go there in the first place... While perfection hasn't been achieved, I have seen areas in my life improving in this... I don't want you to think I am some "raging gossip/slanderer/etc.", but I also know I am not immune to being just like some of the folks I can so easily complain about...
*** ...in humility consider others better than yourselves.; verse 3: There's that word again, humility. I think Paul's challenge to "consider others better than yourselves" is at the heart of humility. I may have wants, dreams, desires, thoughts, etc., but "me" should not be first. I think the best place (and sometimes the toughest place) to start practicing humility is in my own family. I need to lay down "me" for Missy and Jax, just because. Well, not "just because", but more specifically, because I am to model Christ's love for his Bride, the Church, to them...and, well, we all know what he went through on her/our behalf... The struggle for me is that sometimes I get caught in a bad-attitude of thinking, "Hey, I've been sacrificing alot lately! When is it my turn?!" Not what my attitude and priority should be...
*** 5Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus...: And if all that above wasn't tough enough...there's this, haha! Really, though, this is what we should all pray for and earnestly seek: the attitude and heart of Christ in ALL THINGS. Not easy...and it doesn't mean we "get points" and get always tangibly "blessed" in return...but that isn't the point. Is doing the Lord's work truly a priority? Then we need the attitude of Jesus all over us...
Questions for me today:
Are there any relationships I need to seek reconciliation and forgiveness in, so that God's purpose can be more plainly achieved?
Where can I be more humble, especially those areas where I feel entitled to lack humility?
Monday, March 2, 2009
A Big Spiritual Week for Jax
I thought I'd share a bit about two cool things that happened last week. First was Ash Wednesday at our church. I had heard rumors that Jax had told our senior pastor that, "He didn't want his ashes" when Jax was asked if he was going to get ashes at the service. So, as a result, we figured he "wasn't ready" and sent him to the nursery.
Well, after the service I went to pick him up. Jax saw my ashes (in a cross on my forehead) and got upset... "I want ashes, too!" I told him I had heard he didn't want any, and he said he did now. So, we went to see if the pastor was still in the sanctuary, which thankfully he was (along with two others). I motioned him over and told Jax to ask if he would put ashes on him, and Jax did just that. Glenn (our pastor) gladly went to get the "ash bowl" and kneeled down to Jax and placed a sign of the cross on his forehead. Jax then went, "Hey, that didn't hurt!" Haha...I think he was scared it would! But the really cool thing was that yesterday (Sunday) at church, he was sad that his ashes had washed off. "I want them on all the time!" Missy and I couldn't help but smile... A guy behind us, upon hearing Jax, suggested he get a forehead tattoo, haha...
Yesterday also was very cool to me as Jax decided to participate in the beautiful sacrament of communion for the first time at church. We had explained it to him before (well, in the best way we figured a 4 1/2 year-old would understand), and he decided it was time. He quietly kneeled at the altar between Missy and I and took communion...I almost started full-on crying (I did tear up some...) after he took the bread (body of Christ)...he said "Thank you" to our associate pastor, who administered it to him...
I certainly don't believe Jax was "born saved" (I do know many smart folks who think that God has mercy on young children until they acheive some sort-of "age of accountability" when they can comprehend The Cross, sin, etc... I'm just not sure what I think about it biblically right now), or even pretend to fully understand what his relationship to God is right now at such an early age...but I pray that through experiences like this, through how Missy and I live, speak, and worship Christ, etc., that our sweet little boy will one day realize that Jesus work on the cross makes true reconciliation to God possible for him...
Well, after the service I went to pick him up. Jax saw my ashes (in a cross on my forehead) and got upset... "I want ashes, too!" I told him I had heard he didn't want any, and he said he did now. So, we went to see if the pastor was still in the sanctuary, which thankfully he was (along with two others). I motioned him over and told Jax to ask if he would put ashes on him, and Jax did just that. Glenn (our pastor) gladly went to get the "ash bowl" and kneeled down to Jax and placed a sign of the cross on his forehead. Jax then went, "Hey, that didn't hurt!" Haha...I think he was scared it would! But the really cool thing was that yesterday (Sunday) at church, he was sad that his ashes had washed off. "I want them on all the time!" Missy and I couldn't help but smile... A guy behind us, upon hearing Jax, suggested he get a forehead tattoo, haha...
Yesterday also was very cool to me as Jax decided to participate in the beautiful sacrament of communion for the first time at church. We had explained it to him before (well, in the best way we figured a 4 1/2 year-old would understand), and he decided it was time. He quietly kneeled at the altar between Missy and I and took communion...I almost started full-on crying (I did tear up some...) after he took the bread (body of Christ)...he said "Thank you" to our associate pastor, who administered it to him...
I certainly don't believe Jax was "born saved" (I do know many smart folks who think that God has mercy on young children until they acheive some sort-of "age of accountability" when they can comprehend The Cross, sin, etc... I'm just not sure what I think about it biblically right now), or even pretend to fully understand what his relationship to God is right now at such an early age...but I pray that through experiences like this, through how Missy and I live, speak, and worship Christ, etc., that our sweet little boy will one day realize that Jesus work on the cross makes true reconciliation to God possible for him...
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