Monday, March 12, 2007
Kerrville with 9 others
First, later this morning Missy and I will be taking a trip that we have wanted to put on for several years now: a sort-of "retreat" with some senior highs from our church. There will be an additional adult with us and 7 teens. I am excited. One of the hopes is that we can all just "get away" to a fun, relaxing setting up in the hills, which should be great. Even if it rains alot (might the first day or so), there are lots of games, we will have movies, plenty of rooms to hang in, etc. Oh yeah, and the NCAAs are firing up later in the week, so much good ESPN Bracketology to watch (I will post my "scientific method" bracket when I get back; you'll just have to trust me that I won't change anything...since it will be after games start). We won't have much scheduled-stuff, but two things I hope to have happen each day are a) one good discussion about "leadership" with the teens, as I truly believe that God has given us these kids to talk with about it this week, and b) a daily, solo, walk on my parent's cool "prayer path".
Thursday, March 8, 2007
Yes! I have needed this scripture!
"15But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect..."---1 Peter 3:15, NIV
Have I really missed this scripture the whole time?
Yep...and I have read (not bragging, just saying) the whole New Testament and most of the Old...if not all...at least once when all is said-and-done. So, this is proof that you can still "miss things" in your scripture reading, and that you shoudl never stop studying because you never know when something new will speak to you...
This was quoted by Sean McDowell at the Planet Wisdom conference last weekend. I was floored. I circled it repeatedly.
You see, I have always struggled to explain the "balance" needed to folks in the arena of "boldness in one's faith sharing vs. grace, care, respect, love". It is a fine line, and even with this scripture brought to light, there is still an air of, "ok...so what does this look like?" Where I struggle is in trying to encourage those who are "uber-bold" in their faith ("I am right, and you are not...and while I 'love' you, I will do all I can, using any means necessary, to prove that my faith (and often even to other Christians) is 'right' or 'better'...") to also seek a bit of respect and tact, considering that just maybe it is good to "back off" at times, to listen and consider others' opinions, and just lay low... But what is hard is that these uber-bolds are quick to fire back at me with all these scriptures about how we are to be bold, unashamed, how the Bible is a "sword" (and thus used to "fight"), etc., and it has been hard to argue with them. I basically just leave feeling stupid, because I know as well as they do that the "God is love" argument is also too easily taken to the opposite extreme ("Just love them...and let God do the rest"...and thus, nothing is said at all...), and thus I have been at a loss for words in encouraging these types to be just a bit gentler...
Well, 1 Peter 3:15 is music to my ears. I have always thought there should be a better balance between the uber-bolds and the "uber-loves", but rarely is that balance found. It is almost "either-or". So, while this is simply one scripture with no real formula as to how it shoudl work, just seeing this encouragement in scripture is awesome. How can we find the balance? Not totally sure, but maybe we all need to ask ourselves (and ultimately ask God) things like: What are my motives in trying to prove that I am "right"? Am I more interested in winning above ALL else? Can I even "lose" for now (and just make this more of a longer-term conversation), or do I have to "fix this person NOW"? Do I cop-out and say "nothing", because I don't know why I have faith, hope, etc. (and most who "don't know", truth be told, seem to be too lazy to find out why...)? Do I say nothing at all simply because I am afraid of being shunned?
This scripture strikes a great balance of both: We need to KNOW why we have this fiath and hope in Jesus, and be able (and willing) to share that. Folks need to hear our story of faith, warts and all. But conversely, we must seek a better balance, where the story of faith is proclaimed, but with grace, patience, respect, and love for those that may not want to hear it all the time. We must better listen to the Spirit's leadings... If we truly trust the Spirit and his whisperings (and shouts), I think we would all be either bolder in our faith (if you are an uber-love) and a bit more quiet and respectful in our faith (if you are an uber-bold).
Have I really missed this scripture the whole time?
Yep...and I have read (not bragging, just saying) the whole New Testament and most of the Old...if not all...at least once when all is said-and-done. So, this is proof that you can still "miss things" in your scripture reading, and that you shoudl never stop studying because you never know when something new will speak to you...
This was quoted by Sean McDowell at the Planet Wisdom conference last weekend. I was floored. I circled it repeatedly.
You see, I have always struggled to explain the "balance" needed to folks in the arena of "boldness in one's faith sharing vs. grace, care, respect, love". It is a fine line, and even with this scripture brought to light, there is still an air of, "ok...so what does this look like?" Where I struggle is in trying to encourage those who are "uber-bold" in their faith ("I am right, and you are not...and while I 'love' you, I will do all I can, using any means necessary, to prove that my faith (and often even to other Christians) is 'right' or 'better'...") to also seek a bit of respect and tact, considering that just maybe it is good to "back off" at times, to listen and consider others' opinions, and just lay low... But what is hard is that these uber-bolds are quick to fire back at me with all these scriptures about how we are to be bold, unashamed, how the Bible is a "sword" (and thus used to "fight"), etc., and it has been hard to argue with them. I basically just leave feeling stupid, because I know as well as they do that the "God is love" argument is also too easily taken to the opposite extreme ("Just love them...and let God do the rest"...and thus, nothing is said at all...), and thus I have been at a loss for words in encouraging these types to be just a bit gentler...
Well, 1 Peter 3:15 is music to my ears. I have always thought there should be a better balance between the uber-bolds and the "uber-loves", but rarely is that balance found. It is almost "either-or". So, while this is simply one scripture with no real formula as to how it shoudl work, just seeing this encouragement in scripture is awesome. How can we find the balance? Not totally sure, but maybe we all need to ask ourselves (and ultimately ask God) things like: What are my motives in trying to prove that I am "right"? Am I more interested in winning above ALL else? Can I even "lose" for now (and just make this more of a longer-term conversation), or do I have to "fix this person NOW"? Do I cop-out and say "nothing", because I don't know why I have faith, hope, etc. (and most who "don't know", truth be told, seem to be too lazy to find out why...)? Do I say nothing at all simply because I am afraid of being shunned?
This scripture strikes a great balance of both: We need to KNOW why we have this fiath and hope in Jesus, and be able (and willing) to share that. Folks need to hear our story of faith, warts and all. But conversely, we must seek a better balance, where the story of faith is proclaimed, but with grace, patience, respect, and love for those that may not want to hear it all the time. We must better listen to the Spirit's leadings... If we truly trust the Spirit and his whisperings (and shouts), I think we would all be either bolder in our faith (if you are an uber-love) and a bit more quiet and respectful in our faith (if you are an uber-bold).
Monday, March 5, 2007
Planet Wisdom 2007 Debrief
Wow. The Wisdom Works team hit another homerun. If you wonder what I speak of, each year we take a group of students to the Planet Wisdom Conference (www.planetwisdom.com), and so far we are 3-for-3 as far as incredible experiences. Mark Matlock is simply a great communicator for any age bracket, the Skit Guys (www.skitguys.com) are just hilarious and thought provoking at the same time, it's fun to be worshipping with a few thousand teens and adults in a rockin' atmosphere (not that I dispise more "traditional" worship, but for me, I do love the rock band...), and a new "tag-team" speaker, Sean McDowell, was actually better than I expected (and believe it or not, most of our kids seemed to resonate with him better than Mark!).
One thing that was such a joy to experience this year was that the messages seemed to hit home for such a large portion of our kids. I mean, they always "take something" from PW, but this year's theme of "What Does God Want From Me?", dealing with things like the Great Commandment (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2022:36-40;&version=31;), Great Commission (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2028:16-20;&version=31;), and Micah 6:8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=40&chapter=6&verse=8&version=31&context=verse). So often (more than usual) I found myself thinking/praying, "Oh God, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE have these kids hearing you right now!" And, as always, you have your certain ones that you feel need to hear certain things, and even if they have heard them from a) their parents and b) their youth minister (and thus usually ignoring it), it is good to hear the same stuff from "another source", and those kids I feel "heard" those messages and began pondering the implications.
SIDE COMMENT: This year the conference was at Irving Bible Church (http://www.irvingbible.org/), which for many of our kids was their first experience in a "mega-church" environment, with varying opinions. Some were just in awe of all the "bells and whistles", of the different environment, etc., while others were vocally harsh ("It doesn't feel like a church...", "...couldn't they be spending their money on more useful things?", etc.). It actually provided some good discussion fodder, expecially on the "judgement" theme. I myself have varying opinions on mega-churches (future post?), but more often than not I give them the "benefit of the doubt" and seek to find the positives. I don't think it is my business, for example, to judge how money is used unless I KNOW FOR A FACT it is being "wasted" on fluff... I also think that while more traditional churches with steeples, pews, icons, etc. are great and reach many folks who would never st foot in a church like IBC, there are equally (and maybe more) folks who are willing to set foot in an IBC-esque church WAY before a traditional church, and thus hear the story of God... So, it is not my job to decide which way is "best"... God's Word is being taught to folks in both arenas...good enough for me!
(for what it's worth, I thought IBC was VERY cool...maybe a bit-too, "why go hang out in 'the world'...we have everyhting here!", for me at times (like, workout facilities, coffee cafes, etc...not against them, but folks might just "go there" instead of having coffe with the rest of the world, being salt and light there...), but still cool. I saw some unique ways to "remind" us of various things (like the "Monsters, Inc." doors...loved that), the big "TAKE ACTION" sign as you left, the wonderful opportunities to serve others in the world EVERYWHERE in the church, and the fact that IBC is bucking the trend of most non-denoms by actually embracing some ancient traditions, like Lent (signs up all over...).
One thing that was such a joy to experience this year was that the messages seemed to hit home for such a large portion of our kids. I mean, they always "take something" from PW, but this year's theme of "What Does God Want From Me?", dealing with things like the Great Commandment (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2022:36-40;&version=31;), Great Commission (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%2028:16-20;&version=31;), and Micah 6:8 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=40&chapter=6&verse=8&version=31&context=verse). So often (more than usual) I found myself thinking/praying, "Oh God, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE have these kids hearing you right now!" And, as always, you have your certain ones that you feel need to hear certain things, and even if they have heard them from a) their parents and b) their youth minister (and thus usually ignoring it), it is good to hear the same stuff from "another source", and those kids I feel "heard" those messages and began pondering the implications.
SIDE COMMENT: This year the conference was at Irving Bible Church (http://www.irvingbible.org/), which for many of our kids was their first experience in a "mega-church" environment, with varying opinions. Some were just in awe of all the "bells and whistles", of the different environment, etc., while others were vocally harsh ("It doesn't feel like a church...", "...couldn't they be spending their money on more useful things?", etc.). It actually provided some good discussion fodder, expecially on the "judgement" theme. I myself have varying opinions on mega-churches (future post?), but more often than not I give them the "benefit of the doubt" and seek to find the positives. I don't think it is my business, for example, to judge how money is used unless I KNOW FOR A FACT it is being "wasted" on fluff... I also think that while more traditional churches with steeples, pews, icons, etc. are great and reach many folks who would never st foot in a church like IBC, there are equally (and maybe more) folks who are willing to set foot in an IBC-esque church WAY before a traditional church, and thus hear the story of God... So, it is not my job to decide which way is "best"... God's Word is being taught to folks in both arenas...good enough for me!
(for what it's worth, I thought IBC was VERY cool...maybe a bit-too, "why go hang out in 'the world'...we have everyhting here!", for me at times (like, workout facilities, coffee cafes, etc...not against them, but folks might just "go there" instead of having coffe with the rest of the world, being salt and light there...), but still cool. I saw some unique ways to "remind" us of various things (like the "Monsters, Inc." doors...loved that), the big "TAKE ACTION" sign as you left, the wonderful opportunities to serve others in the world EVERYWHERE in the church, and the fact that IBC is bucking the trend of most non-denoms by actually embracing some ancient traditions, like Lent (signs up all over...).
Monday, February 26, 2007
The Fine Line Between, "Speaking the Truth in Love", and, "Speaking the Truth in (other)"
So one of my weaknesses can be a lack of boldness, I admit. There have been times, in given situations needing some "truth" or "Truth" (notice the difference), where I sit on my hands. Sometimes this is because I simply have no idea what to say, sometimes it is because I think I know what to say (but am afraid to for whatever reason), and sometimes it is probably because I also have this nasty habit of, "checking my motives to a fault" (i.e., I know what to say/do, but I don't want to do it fo the wrong reasons, so I often do nothing at all...essentially, I "neuter myself"). It is something that I have been asking God to give me more of (boldness), and I do think that in small doses, he has given me the confidence to be so. But I am wired the way I am wired, so while I may have been a "level 3 in boldness" in the past, I may never get past "level 6" due to my personality makeup. Yet, boldness is something that has worth in the life of a follower of Jesus. He is indeed a loving, grace-giving one, yet he certainly had plenty of Truth-telling moments that were a bit on the blunt side. Still, it seems that even when the Truth had to be told, there was great love evident. He was clever in his methods of exposing hypocracy, like with the woman caught in adultery (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%208:%201-11;&version=31;), yet even with a command to, "...leave your life of sin", love and grace are evident all-over the place.
"And your point is, Ben?"
Well, I guess I struggle greatly with those "turn-or-burn"-types (NOT those who talk about sin, eternal punishment, etc, which I do believe need to be talked about...I am talking of those who bluntly use fear to 'get folks into Heaven'), and folks who seem to just be interested in spouting off harsh words just to get their point (personal agenda?) across. Simply put, while Jesus says that even folks that use unorthodox methods, or even seem to have "iffy" motives behind what they say, do, teach, live (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%209:38-41;&version=31;), can still be used by God to get His story across (which gives myself hope when I am not of "sound heart", and also helps me to love and respect those from different Christian traditions that are different than what I am used to), I greatly struggle with the fact that some folks act like they would rather "puff their chest and authority", and proclaim Truth (or sometimes, maybe not...maybe just a personal agenda that is not of eternal value...but spun right, can sound like it). I just don't think that is at the heart of the Gospel message.
Paul, when writing to the church in Ephesus, talks about how we need to be more unified as believers (when, much like today, back then they must have been typical humans, better at dividing than uniting...), how we all have gifts that need to be valued, used, and respected by others, and how we need to move from being spiritual "infants" to full-grown disciples. And I am sure that some gifts do involve a bit more challenging Truth-telling (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%204:%201-16;&version=31;). But still...there has to be a more Christ-like way to proclaim, even if the message is a challenging one, than one that is harh in tone, finger-pointing, and, well, seems to be more interested in, "speaking the Truth in (other)", as opposed to Paul's challenge to speak Truth in love (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%204:%2015-16;&version=31;).
I am not sure the best way to live up to this challenge, because I have seen in myself where the desire to simply "love" has resulted in little-or-no action or challenging words at all. I am seeking God's counsel, encouragement, and courage on that struggle, and it is changing. But still, there has to be a better way to "challenge in an encouraging way", to guide those around us to Truth, to Jesus, to salvation, than being ugly, condescending, and (other). Let's NEVER stop seeking how to best speak, live, show Truth....in LOVE!
For what it's worth, friends...
"And your point is, Ben?"
Well, I guess I struggle greatly with those "turn-or-burn"-types (NOT those who talk about sin, eternal punishment, etc, which I do believe need to be talked about...I am talking of those who bluntly use fear to 'get folks into Heaven'), and folks who seem to just be interested in spouting off harsh words just to get their point (personal agenda?) across. Simply put, while Jesus says that even folks that use unorthodox methods, or even seem to have "iffy" motives behind what they say, do, teach, live (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%209:38-41;&version=31;), can still be used by God to get His story across (which gives myself hope when I am not of "sound heart", and also helps me to love and respect those from different Christian traditions that are different than what I am used to), I greatly struggle with the fact that some folks act like they would rather "puff their chest and authority", and proclaim Truth (or sometimes, maybe not...maybe just a personal agenda that is not of eternal value...but spun right, can sound like it). I just don't think that is at the heart of the Gospel message.
Paul, when writing to the church in Ephesus, talks about how we need to be more unified as believers (when, much like today, back then they must have been typical humans, better at dividing than uniting...), how we all have gifts that need to be valued, used, and respected by others, and how we need to move from being spiritual "infants" to full-grown disciples. And I am sure that some gifts do involve a bit more challenging Truth-telling (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%204:%201-16;&version=31;). But still...there has to be a more Christ-like way to proclaim, even if the message is a challenging one, than one that is harh in tone, finger-pointing, and, well, seems to be more interested in, "speaking the Truth in (other)", as opposed to Paul's challenge to speak Truth in love (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%204:%2015-16;&version=31;).
I am not sure the best way to live up to this challenge, because I have seen in myself where the desire to simply "love" has resulted in little-or-no action or challenging words at all. I am seeking God's counsel, encouragement, and courage on that struggle, and it is changing. But still, there has to be a better way to "challenge in an encouraging way", to guide those around us to Truth, to Jesus, to salvation, than being ugly, condescending, and (other). Let's NEVER stop seeking how to best speak, live, show Truth....in LOVE!
For what it's worth, friends...
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Most Underrated Musical Artists According to...Me...
I know, I've been busy and/or lazy lately with my posts...I'll try to get better...
Ok, on to something I have had fun pondering the past few weeks: What are some bands/solo artist I think don't get the due they are, well, due? In no order (just as they come to mind):
* The Cult: When I think of bands that simply ROCK, I usually think of the usual Metallica's, Van Halen's, Led Zeppelin's, etc., of the hard rock world. But one band that, each time I listen to their at-times metal, bluesy, boogie-rock, or even bordeline goth/new-wave stuff, I just go "wow, that was cool" is The Cult. I remember my mom seeing a CD of their once in my collection and in her innocent, sometimes naive persona, saying, "Uh, Ben, is that some satanic band?" No mom...they actually, while not a Christian band, have some good stuff to sing about (and plenty of "pointless rock songs" as well...), and they tend to shy away from the sex/drugs/rock n' roll of most bands formed in the 80s. In most cases (not all), their sound is a unique one. Guitarist Billy Duffy most definitely has a "sound" that has been imitated. IF you want to see what I mean, take a listen to albums like "Sonic Temple", "Electric", "Love", and their surprisingly strong 2001 offerering, "Between Good and Evil". Get ready to have your face rocked off...
* Pre-"Hysteria" Def Leppard: I know, I know..."Def Leppard?" Well, once they got all glossed-over (which is still kinda fun to listen to), I think the hype was too much, but their first three albums are just as good as any hard rock that was out there at the time (and "Pyromania" is still a great "windows down, turn it up to 11" listen). Easily as good as AC/DC in their prime, in my opinion...but Leppard seems to be more remembered for their 1987-92 selves...
* Ben Harper (& the Innocent Criminals): There is already one good funky/rock, guitar-god-esque, multiracial, extremely spiritual (Christian?), sometime husband and boyfriend of celebs out there. His name is Lenny Kravitz. I love him, but if anything, he is overrated. Ben Harper is cut from seemingly the same cloth, but is soooooooooo good. Way better guitarist (and plays a 1920s lap-electric), much deeper lyrically (Lenny has some good ones...but the "let love rule"-mantra, while good to hear, needs to be mixed up more), just darn good in general. I was firts truly turned on to Harper's talents when I was in Houston from 2001-2004, even though I had heard his song "Steal My Kisses" on the radio before that era. The "Live From Mars" double disk is outstanding (one disk straight up rockin', the other just Ben and a guitar playing to a smaller crowd"), but just about everything I've heard is greatness. He also did a fun collaboration album with the Blind Boys of Alabama ("There Will be a Light") that is pretty much a blues-gospel offering. Dig it!
* Rich Mullins: R.I.P.... This guy is about as "KLTY/KSBJ" as I get (folks in DFW and Houston know what I mean), but his lyrics (as well as some of his later music) is outstanding. So deep, light years more than most of the "I love Jesus, yay!" stuff out there. "A Liturgy, a Legacy, and a Ragamuffin Band" may be one of the best Christian albums I know of.
* Simple Minds: Always overshadowed by others (U2, anyone?), this band nonetheless has some great stuff out there. A few big hits ("Don't You Forget About Me", anyone), but it is their more minor, obscure stuff that is so great. "Belfast Child", "Sanctify Yourself", "Waterfront"...great stuff. I haven't heard any of their post-mid-90s stuff, but would love to check it out. Also, a whole lot more spiritual than you might realize...
* King's X: Maybe the most underappreciated hard rock band of all time. I remember first hearing them in 1988, and being like, "dang, that is like nothing i've heard: great guitars, harmonies, deep lyrics...". They do get props from some of the heavyweights: they were ranked in either the 70s or 80s on VH1's "Greatest Artists of Hard Rock" a few years back, and the bands that gushed over them were quite impressive. Very spiritual (if not afraid, especially their post-1995 stuff, to openly question their faith...without seeming to completely abandon it). Ty Tabor is one of the most unsung guitarists out there. Saw them in concert during my college days, and WOW (and they are a trio!). "Dogman", "Ear Candy", and "Faith, Hope, Love" are my favorites...and the few songs I have heard from more recent albums are darn good, too.
* Soundgarden: I am shocked how many teens today have no idea that the lead singer of Audioslave (Chris Cornell) used to front one of the most groundbreaking bands of the early/mid-90s to come out of the Seattle "grunge" movement. Soundgarden was a pretty huge band by their breakup, but I rarely hear them discussed anymore, which is a shame. I love the album "Superunknown".
* "Vegas-Era" Elvis Presley: I bet you are perplexed now..."Elvis? He is THE KING!" Yes...but he is mostly respected for his early work. His later (late 60s-70s) era is loved by many, but often remembered for his personal excesses, health issues, etc., and thus it is almost a "joke" to many. But listen to some of that stuff. I know he almost (maybe never at all...not sure) never wrote his own stuff, but thanks to marrying into a family of 70s-era Elvis freaks, I must say I quite enjoy most of this time in his career. "Kentucky Rain", "Polk Salad Annie"...fun fun!
* The Beatles: Yes, I just said The Beatles. I know, I know, like Elvis, they are "the Elite" of rock n' roll, so how can they be underrated? Because I don't really think most folks born after their time truly realize how much they revolutionized music. They were talented, great, had tons of hits, yes, but I think my appreciation truly started after a high school history class's "cultural day" on the 60s. Coach Schwartz, a self-proclaimed Beatles buff (and conspiracy theorist...aliens, JFK, etc.) showed us examples of the rock music climate of the early 60s, right before the Beatles arrived: BORING! Lots of the same-ol' rockabilly, etc. Then the Beatles...wow. The songs weren't even structured the same, played the same, etc. In fact, what I heard was...the same basic structure we have today! They were maybe the first to do that...so THAT is why I think they are underrated, still. They are respected for all they did in a short time (8 years?), for all their wonderful sound experimentation, etc., but the fact that our basic "rock/pop song format" is what it is today due to their unique approach...that is why they are on this list. Folks just don't realize that.
Ok, I have wasted enough time. I promise a more serious, "thinking" post soon.
Ok, on to something I have had fun pondering the past few weeks: What are some bands/solo artist I think don't get the due they are, well, due? In no order (just as they come to mind):
* The Cult: When I think of bands that simply ROCK, I usually think of the usual Metallica's, Van Halen's, Led Zeppelin's, etc., of the hard rock world. But one band that, each time I listen to their at-times metal, bluesy, boogie-rock, or even bordeline goth/new-wave stuff, I just go "wow, that was cool" is The Cult. I remember my mom seeing a CD of their once in my collection and in her innocent, sometimes naive persona, saying, "Uh, Ben, is that some satanic band?" No mom...they actually, while not a Christian band, have some good stuff to sing about (and plenty of "pointless rock songs" as well...), and they tend to shy away from the sex/drugs/rock n' roll of most bands formed in the 80s. In most cases (not all), their sound is a unique one. Guitarist Billy Duffy most definitely has a "sound" that has been imitated. IF you want to see what I mean, take a listen to albums like "Sonic Temple", "Electric", "Love", and their surprisingly strong 2001 offerering, "Between Good and Evil". Get ready to have your face rocked off...
* Pre-"Hysteria" Def Leppard: I know, I know..."Def Leppard?" Well, once they got all glossed-over (which is still kinda fun to listen to), I think the hype was too much, but their first three albums are just as good as any hard rock that was out there at the time (and "Pyromania" is still a great "windows down, turn it up to 11" listen). Easily as good as AC/DC in their prime, in my opinion...but Leppard seems to be more remembered for their 1987-92 selves...
* Ben Harper (& the Innocent Criminals): There is already one good funky/rock, guitar-god-esque, multiracial, extremely spiritual (Christian?), sometime husband and boyfriend of celebs out there. His name is Lenny Kravitz. I love him, but if anything, he is overrated. Ben Harper is cut from seemingly the same cloth, but is soooooooooo good. Way better guitarist (and plays a 1920s lap-electric), much deeper lyrically (Lenny has some good ones...but the "let love rule"-mantra, while good to hear, needs to be mixed up more), just darn good in general. I was firts truly turned on to Harper's talents when I was in Houston from 2001-2004, even though I had heard his song "Steal My Kisses" on the radio before that era. The "Live From Mars" double disk is outstanding (one disk straight up rockin', the other just Ben and a guitar playing to a smaller crowd"), but just about everything I've heard is greatness. He also did a fun collaboration album with the Blind Boys of Alabama ("There Will be a Light") that is pretty much a blues-gospel offering. Dig it!
* Rich Mullins: R.I.P.... This guy is about as "KLTY/KSBJ" as I get (folks in DFW and Houston know what I mean), but his lyrics (as well as some of his later music) is outstanding. So deep, light years more than most of the "I love Jesus, yay!" stuff out there. "A Liturgy, a Legacy, and a Ragamuffin Band" may be one of the best Christian albums I know of.
* Simple Minds: Always overshadowed by others (U2, anyone?), this band nonetheless has some great stuff out there. A few big hits ("Don't You Forget About Me", anyone), but it is their more minor, obscure stuff that is so great. "Belfast Child", "Sanctify Yourself", "Waterfront"...great stuff. I haven't heard any of their post-mid-90s stuff, but would love to check it out. Also, a whole lot more spiritual than you might realize...
* King's X: Maybe the most underappreciated hard rock band of all time. I remember first hearing them in 1988, and being like, "dang, that is like nothing i've heard: great guitars, harmonies, deep lyrics...". They do get props from some of the heavyweights: they were ranked in either the 70s or 80s on VH1's "Greatest Artists of Hard Rock" a few years back, and the bands that gushed over them were quite impressive. Very spiritual (if not afraid, especially their post-1995 stuff, to openly question their faith...without seeming to completely abandon it). Ty Tabor is one of the most unsung guitarists out there. Saw them in concert during my college days, and WOW (and they are a trio!). "Dogman", "Ear Candy", and "Faith, Hope, Love" are my favorites...and the few songs I have heard from more recent albums are darn good, too.
* Soundgarden: I am shocked how many teens today have no idea that the lead singer of Audioslave (Chris Cornell) used to front one of the most groundbreaking bands of the early/mid-90s to come out of the Seattle "grunge" movement. Soundgarden was a pretty huge band by their breakup, but I rarely hear them discussed anymore, which is a shame. I love the album "Superunknown".
* "Vegas-Era" Elvis Presley: I bet you are perplexed now..."Elvis? He is THE KING!" Yes...but he is mostly respected for his early work. His later (late 60s-70s) era is loved by many, but often remembered for his personal excesses, health issues, etc., and thus it is almost a "joke" to many. But listen to some of that stuff. I know he almost (maybe never at all...not sure) never wrote his own stuff, but thanks to marrying into a family of 70s-era Elvis freaks, I must say I quite enjoy most of this time in his career. "Kentucky Rain", "Polk Salad Annie"...fun fun!
* The Beatles: Yes, I just said The Beatles. I know, I know, like Elvis, they are "the Elite" of rock n' roll, so how can they be underrated? Because I don't really think most folks born after their time truly realize how much they revolutionized music. They were talented, great, had tons of hits, yes, but I think my appreciation truly started after a high school history class's "cultural day" on the 60s. Coach Schwartz, a self-proclaimed Beatles buff (and conspiracy theorist...aliens, JFK, etc.) showed us examples of the rock music climate of the early 60s, right before the Beatles arrived: BORING! Lots of the same-ol' rockabilly, etc. Then the Beatles...wow. The songs weren't even structured the same, played the same, etc. In fact, what I heard was...the same basic structure we have today! They were maybe the first to do that...so THAT is why I think they are underrated, still. They are respected for all they did in a short time (8 years?), for all their wonderful sound experimentation, etc., but the fact that our basic "rock/pop song format" is what it is today due to their unique approach...that is why they are on this list. Folks just don't realize that.
Ok, I have wasted enough time. I promise a more serious, "thinking" post soon.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Forgiveness to the "Nth" Degree
Forgiveness. Such an interesting subject. We talk about God’s unlimited resources to forgive our worst wrongs, provided we simply and earnestly seek it. Is it really so easy? Well yes... and no.
It is easy in the sense that God’s grace and love for us is just begging to be received. All we must do is confess our wrongs and receive! There is no scorecard, no limit to this. But...
...it does require an attitude in our hearts that may not be so easy. We are called to forgive others as a result; in fact, scripture tells us something that might not sit too well with us: we must forgive in order to be forgiven. A couple years back, I heard a sermon using text from Matthew 18. Jesus tells an inquiring person that we are to forgive “seventy times seven times” (basically, there is no end to how much we are to forgive). At the end of chapter 18, Jesus then warns that if we treat others without mercy and forgiveness (while expecting God’s forgiveness in return), we deserve punishment.
My old pal C.S. Lewis puts it this way, while discussing a part of the Lord’s Prayer that we know so well: We believe that God forgives our sins; but also that He will not do so unless we forgive other people their sins against us... He doesn’t say that we are to forgive other people’s sins provided they are not too frightful, or provided there are extenuating circumstances, or anything of that sort. We are to forgive them all, however spiteful, however mean, however often they are repeated. If we don’t, we shall be forgiven none of our own.” –from “On Forgiveness” (The Weight of Glory)
I have to ask myself, “Self, am I expecting God’s forgiveness, but neglecting to forgive others?” It is a good question to ask daily. Seek God’s help in forgiving. We may never be “best friends” with those who wrong us (we don’t have to be!), but we must seek to truly forgive others. We certainly don’t deserve God’s forgiveness, but he offers it anyway.
It is easy in the sense that God’s grace and love for us is just begging to be received. All we must do is confess our wrongs and receive! There is no scorecard, no limit to this. But...
...it does require an attitude in our hearts that may not be so easy. We are called to forgive others as a result; in fact, scripture tells us something that might not sit too well with us: we must forgive in order to be forgiven. A couple years back, I heard a sermon using text from Matthew 18. Jesus tells an inquiring person that we are to forgive “seventy times seven times” (basically, there is no end to how much we are to forgive). At the end of chapter 18, Jesus then warns that if we treat others without mercy and forgiveness (while expecting God’s forgiveness in return), we deserve punishment.
My old pal C.S. Lewis puts it this way, while discussing a part of the Lord’s Prayer that we know so well: We believe that God forgives our sins; but also that He will not do so unless we forgive other people their sins against us... He doesn’t say that we are to forgive other people’s sins provided they are not too frightful, or provided there are extenuating circumstances, or anything of that sort. We are to forgive them all, however spiteful, however mean, however often they are repeated. If we don’t, we shall be forgiven none of our own.” –from “On Forgiveness” (The Weight of Glory)
I have to ask myself, “Self, am I expecting God’s forgiveness, but neglecting to forgive others?” It is a good question to ask daily. Seek God’s help in forgiving. We may never be “best friends” with those who wrong us (we don’t have to be!), but we must seek to truly forgive others. We certainly don’t deserve God’s forgiveness, but he offers it anyway.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
There's a Box? (uno)
(The "intro" to this series is in the prior post...)
Of Boxes…
So I was at a staff retreat for a church in Houston, Texas, I was serving. I am not sure today if it was an “all-staff” retreat or just a youth-staff retreat, but it doesn’t matter. We were talking about the various ways each staff member approached their life in ministry, and the time came to describe mine. Several fellow staffers had their say, all well-meaning words, but one person, Lori Anderson, said something like this: “Ben, some folks live inside the box, some folks live outside the box, but you say, ‘Wait, there’s a box?’”
It was almost as if I had been validated, freed. You see, in the world I live in (the “West”, America, and even more specifically, Texas as of 2006), you likely have one of two ways to approach your life:
a) You do everything you can to live “in” the box, or
b) You do everything you can to live “outside” the box
There is little wiggle room. You are either Hank Hill, or you are John Redcorn (watch the show “King of the Hill” to see what I mean). You are either Lisa Simpson, or you are Bart (“The Simpsons”). You either live every aspect of your life (ministering to others, your work, your family, etc.) within an unswerving box of rules that simply cannot be changed or shaken, or you live every aspect of your life doing all you can to not live within a set of boxed life-rules. There are surely exceptions to this “either-or” approach, but our “default” is usually one or the other.
Why use the term “box” to describe these things? Well, let’s look at the various things boxes do:
They are used to keep things safe and unbroken
They hide valuables
They keep things secret
They store things away, where they are often forgotten
They are usually brown, flimsy cardboard
In our lives, we, too, have boxes, whether we like it or not. We are very good at compartmentalizing our life into many different areas that each have a specific set of rules. We may have a faith life, where we are a part of a certain denomination (and, let’s be honest: even “non-denominational” seems like a denomination these days…but that is another discussion altogether), and within that denomination are certain “ways” of faith, certain theological bents, and structures. As sub-group of denomination could even be your local church. Anyone ever hear that fun phrase, “We don’t do it that way, here”? We all have our traditions, our “sacred cows” that we are slaves to without thinking, even in the local congregation. We have a family life, with its’ own set of rules and traditions, and they only get more complex when families collide in marriage. How often have conflicts in a marriage come about because, despite our best efforts to “leave our parents and cleave to your spouse”, you just struggle with a certain thing because, “you weren’t raised that way”? We have a work-life. How many times have I heard from people, claiming to be believers, tell me in regards to unethical practices they may be involved in, that, “…it’s just how you have to do business”, or “That’s just the rules of (insert occupation here).”
The list can go on-and-on. Sports and competition. Friend groups (be honest: you sometimes act different around different friends because “the rules are different with them”). Even stuff as mundane as how you drive your car (ever seen someone with road rage who has Christian stickers on the car? Hmmm?). The bottom line is this: the world has placed all things into boxes, and most of us either do all we can to fit into the expectations of a given box, or we do all we can to avoid the rules of a box. The challenge I propose in this book is this: why even see boxes in the first place?
As I have (and will) say: this is a risky proposition. I do think it is worth it, however, and can totally change the way you approach your entire life, not just any one part. To truly begin, you need to hear how I came to this point...which I will do in a later post...
Of Boxes…
So I was at a staff retreat for a church in Houston, Texas, I was serving. I am not sure today if it was an “all-staff” retreat or just a youth-staff retreat, but it doesn’t matter. We were talking about the various ways each staff member approached their life in ministry, and the time came to describe mine. Several fellow staffers had their say, all well-meaning words, but one person, Lori Anderson, said something like this: “Ben, some folks live inside the box, some folks live outside the box, but you say, ‘Wait, there’s a box?’”
It was almost as if I had been validated, freed. You see, in the world I live in (the “West”, America, and even more specifically, Texas as of 2006), you likely have one of two ways to approach your life:
a) You do everything you can to live “in” the box, or
b) You do everything you can to live “outside” the box
There is little wiggle room. You are either Hank Hill, or you are John Redcorn (watch the show “King of the Hill” to see what I mean). You are either Lisa Simpson, or you are Bart (“The Simpsons”). You either live every aspect of your life (ministering to others, your work, your family, etc.) within an unswerving box of rules that simply cannot be changed or shaken, or you live every aspect of your life doing all you can to not live within a set of boxed life-rules. There are surely exceptions to this “either-or” approach, but our “default” is usually one or the other.
Why use the term “box” to describe these things? Well, let’s look at the various things boxes do:
They are used to keep things safe and unbroken
They hide valuables
They keep things secret
They store things away, where they are often forgotten
They are usually brown, flimsy cardboard
In our lives, we, too, have boxes, whether we like it or not. We are very good at compartmentalizing our life into many different areas that each have a specific set of rules. We may have a faith life, where we are a part of a certain denomination (and, let’s be honest: even “non-denominational” seems like a denomination these days…but that is another discussion altogether), and within that denomination are certain “ways” of faith, certain theological bents, and structures. As sub-group of denomination could even be your local church. Anyone ever hear that fun phrase, “We don’t do it that way, here”? We all have our traditions, our “sacred cows” that we are slaves to without thinking, even in the local congregation. We have a family life, with its’ own set of rules and traditions, and they only get more complex when families collide in marriage. How often have conflicts in a marriage come about because, despite our best efforts to “leave our parents and cleave to your spouse”, you just struggle with a certain thing because, “you weren’t raised that way”? We have a work-life. How many times have I heard from people, claiming to be believers, tell me in regards to unethical practices they may be involved in, that, “…it’s just how you have to do business”, or “That’s just the rules of (insert occupation here).”
The list can go on-and-on. Sports and competition. Friend groups (be honest: you sometimes act different around different friends because “the rules are different with them”). Even stuff as mundane as how you drive your car (ever seen someone with road rage who has Christian stickers on the car? Hmmm?). The bottom line is this: the world has placed all things into boxes, and most of us either do all we can to fit into the expectations of a given box, or we do all we can to avoid the rules of a box. The challenge I propose in this book is this: why even see boxes in the first place?
As I have (and will) say: this is a risky proposition. I do think it is worth it, however, and can totally change the way you approach your entire life, not just any one part. To truly begin, you need to hear how I came to this point...which I will do in a later post...
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