Day 34 - Nugget - Faith Living

"We're not rich just because of God's blessings; we're rich because of God Himself."

I really like this statement, I find that is very encouraging and challenging in the big context of my relationship with Jesus.  Partly, it is because I know that monetarily I am not rich by American standards but, by the standards of God's blessings and by God's economy I am rich.
One thing that I find interesting is that God's blessings blessings are so real and so available - if I am searching for them, when I am aware of His presence I am overwhelmed by His blessing.   Whether it be encouragement or an overwhelming since of joy, I am blessed and filled with the  riches of God.  These riches come in many ways, it it time to get mining!

Day 33 - Monopoly: The Pursuit of More

Wow, this is an interesting reading for today.  I honestly do not have much to say about this reading, I feel like it is very straight forward and gives us the insight that we need.

John Wesley said regarding money, (This is a lose translation but you understand).  Make all you can, give all you can, save all you can.  His basic thought was money is what it is, make it, give it away and save it.  On top of all this was the importance of not allowing money to control you.  And I think that is the necessary thing for us to understand, when money controls us, we are slave to it and that is all we think about.

This was a great reading for the day.

Life Sign - "I am a faithful steward if all God has given me."

Day 32 - Making a Way

As I read this days reading regarding the hospitality of Gaius, I am reminded of a hospitality action I have the life of my extended family.

My wife's parents encountered missionaries that were home on furlough and they were in meed of a place yo stay for a period of time,  and I imagine with just a minimal amount of conversation, their home was opened and the missionaries had a place stay.  Not to boast about my in-laws, that is just the way they are going the extra mile to help.  And to be very honest my parents are similar.

I especially liked the critique of spiritual gifts of hospitality; because it reminds us that we are to be welcoming and hospitable.  "There is mo escape clause for those without a special spiritual gift, and the need for that kind of hospitality is just as important in today's world as it was in the time of Gaius. 

Hospitality goes a long way and is extremely important in the way we receive people where ever we are at; home, work, church, community, etc. 

Let's go beyond the norm and live the model if hospitality of Gaius!

Day 31 - Rich Man - Poor Man

Jim Elliot said, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose."

This is an imposing thought,  gigantic in scope and range.   It really encompasses the thoughts and ideas of this days reading.  Dr. Jeremiah is reminding us that we are given the choice of what we will do; give our everything to Jesus or just part of us.  Which in the long run is not what is asked of us, part was never an option.

Dietrich Bonhoffer wrote on his book "Cost of Discipleship" that "Jesus bids us come and die," and in a sense that is really what the rich young ruler was asked.   Give up everything that you value and come, follow me.

In my estimation we have been given the same options, we have been given the same choice, but we often get lost in the things of this world and ignore the true value of Jesus that over shadows all things.

So where do you stand?  The Life Sign is "Nothing stands in my way of following Jesus."  Not an easy question - but the answer is revealing to our priorities and what we value.

Day 30 - Empty-Pocket Living

I found this days reading to be challenging.  Challenging in the area of thought processes.  I have not often thought of my pockets to have so many partitions and please do not hear me disagreeing with Dr. Jeremiah, in fact I think he is on to some very good thoughts that could really change the focus of money in most peoples homes.

If the first thought that Dr. Jeremiah, I think that could transform the importance of money in our society.  Money then becomes about God and not about us.  It ceases to be about us, about our wants, our desires and our percieved needs.  And it becomes God's desire, God's plan, God's money and we are just stewards of His Stuff, His Money.

I never really understood what it means to be a Steward until I watched the movie, "Lord of the Rings."  It was this movie that helped me understand.  In the story, the Kings of Gondor where gone and a Steward was appointed to care for the kingdom.  They were given charge of the kingdom but it was not forever, when the Rightful King Returned, then the Kingdom would be given back to him.  But until that point in time the Steward was in charge of the Kings Kingdom.  In a sense that is what we have been given we have become stewards of God's kingdom and everything in it!  But ultimately it is His!  We are His and everything that we have is His!

Although, at the same time we are given the freedom to be a blessing to those around us that are in need.  I believe that in God's economy we have the ability to really look at those around us that need help and we can use the resources we have for others, which ultimately leads to God's Glory!!!

That is a Great thought!!!

Day 29 - Open Hands

It has been a few days since I have blogged, I am so sorry for the delay.

Open Hands, truly is a beautiful picture, the image of hands being slowly opened to the things of life around them, or the sense that we get when our hearts are opened for the first time to a new portion of God's Character.  As I reading this days reading - I had many images floating around in my head, images of hands being opened (I know it is very creative) but more then that - hands that are both giving and receiving, because I think it is about both, not just one or the other and Dr. Jeremiah talks about both in the reading but to have the mental image is extremely important, I think it solidifies the whole section.  Giving and Receiving.

In the story of Abraham, he was told by God, I will bless you, you be a blessing.  I have read that passage of Genesis 12 over and over, for a number of years and it never seems to be far from my mind.  "I will bless you, you be a blessing.  Within this passage is exactly what we are talking about in today's reading.  Receptivity = receiving the blessing of God and Generosity = being a blessing.

May that be our model - Genesis Chapter 12 - the call of Abraham - receive the blessing of God and be a blessing!

Day 28 - Jesus' Rolled up Sleeves

"This humble man was willing to lead by example, willing to put others before Himself."

One of the sections of today's reading is titled "Being Like Jesus."  A simple phrase isn't it, a simple yet complex phrase that challenges the very nature of our being, Be Like Jesus.  Not as easy as it sounds but yet is as simple as it sounds. 

Bases on today's reading - we have a model set up for us.  Jesus took the opportunity to show the love that He had for His disciples by serving them.  "Taking the very nature of a servant," (Phil. 2 paraphrase) and literally washing the dirty grimmy feet of those who followed Him.  This was not done to scold the disciples because one of them did not do it - it was done as an example of love and compassion and as model for the disciples, and by extension you and I, to live by. 

The question that I have is being a Jesus Follower rapped up solely in the acts of compassion and service alone?  The easy answer is, No, not completely.  it is definitely part of it, but being a Jesus follower is comprised of a both/and attitude.  Love for God and Love for others - Serve God/ Serve Others.  Loving God is seen in the way that we love others - Serving God is seen in the way that we serve others.

So the Rolled up Sleeves of Jesus reminds us that we love others and Love God at the same time!  And they are not done in an attitude that draws attention to ourselves but draws attention to Jesus, first and foremost.

Our life Sign for the day - "Humility is the hall mark of my service!"

Day 27 - Ripple Effect

You may or may not remember the great 80's movie, "Back to the Future."  A fantastic sci-fi film, about time travel.  One of the main themes of this movie, is not disrupting the "space-time continuum."  Which means a few different things, First, don't mess anything up in the current past - that would mess up the future that was a reality for the main character, second, don't run into yourself from the past or the future.

Marty McFly, does everything he can to make the wrongs right, fix the mess ups and not see himself and thus save the future from the destruction that could be done by his actions.  At one point in the movie the ripple effect of actions is significant, life altering to the all the characters of the show.  If you have not watched it - you should, it is a good movie.

I mention this movie, because of Dr. Jeremiah's reference to the Ripple Effect, the things that we do now may have an effect on the things, people, events around us - for good or for bad!  The things that were going on in Back to the Future - were deeply impacted by a series of events - as it always in a movie, it is the cause and effect principle.

And I think the same thing can be said for the way that we live out the lives that we have, when we do something for the right reason the impact of that one things can be huge.  Maybe the person that you have a everyday conversation shares with you a need and you in the heart of your compassion decide that you can help and because of that willing hand - that person sees the true nature of a follower of Jesus - for the very first time!  If you remember back it was a simple conversation, not rocket science, a conversation, compassion and it changed the person's life.

Life Sign for today - "My life makes waves int he hearts of those around me."

May the day that you have today be a day where the ripples of your actions impact people for the Good.

Day 26 - On the Threshold of Opportunity

"You can be sure that God will open the right door at the right time."

Here are 5 different quotes about opportunity, take them for they are.

"Four things come not back: The spoken word, The sped arrow, The past life, The neglected opportunity." Arabian Proverb

"If God shuts one door, He opens another." Irish

"Teachers open the doors, but you must enter by yourself. Chinese Proverb

"Even when opportunity knocks, a man still has to get up off his seat and open the door." Anonymous

"For every problem there is an opportunity." Anonymous

The way I see it, there are opportunities all around us, things that we can do or can't do, choices we make or don't make.  The chance encounter with a person in need, what do you do (1) help, (2) keep on driving, (3) pray as you go by, (4) turn and go the other way.  The opportunity is before you, did you recognize the potential, did you recognize your chance of being a blessing in the life of someone else?

I think that the first observation by Dr. Jeremiah is profoundly correct, "Opportunities are often disguised as problems."  This is simply a great way of looking at opportunities, many times they are cased in the disguise of problems, they look like a huge boulder in the middle of the road that stops any advancement. While it might be a problem on the outside, underneath the surface there is a huge opportunity. 

I am not sure what boulder is in your road, but will you be willing to not look at as a problem but as an opportunity for something else, a chance to be a blessing?

Our life sign for the day - "I courageously walk through the open doors God puts before me."

Day 25 - Making the "E" List

I am sure you have come across that one person, that one person that when you are around them, you leave their presence with a smile, a bounce in your step, because of the encouragement that you have just received because of them.  There is something about them, they have that unique ability to encourage you with out know it, that is just who they are!

We love it when we have an interaction, don't we?!?!?!  Yes we do!!! it makes our day.

On the other hand not every person that we come across is not that encouraging person, we, as a society have a unique knack for being grumpy, grouchy, at times mean-spirited and just not that pleasant to be around.  I admit it, I am this way at times.  Why I am not sure, but I can be honest enough to know that I have made my home in the land of unpleasantness on occasion. 

The truth of the matter is that we love to be encouraged, we absolutely love it, but we often forget to be that encouraging person.  It is a viscous cycle that we live in.  But don't we have have a peace that passes understanding? Don't we have a joy that is insatiable? Aren't we loved even though we are deserving of death?  Don't we have a savior that took our punishment?  If the answer is, Yes, and it is then let's not be that grumpy old "Christian" that has no fun and does not enjoy anything - to people that Love Jesus, Love others and shows it in their encouragement and interactions with people.

Life Sign - Those who come in contact with me leave encouraged.

Day 24 - Profiling the Mind of a Christian

You can tell a lot about a person by the things that they do or by the things that they do no do.

This days reading is very straight forward, not a single punch is missed, they land one by one straight to the gut of the reader.  I really feel that Dr. Jeremiah is helping us and encouraging us to ask the hard questions of ourselves. What would my profile read about me if someone studied me for a long period of time, what would it reveal about me and the way that I live?

As I read this reading for today, there is a part of me that wants to do the investigating, but there is another side of me that is hesitant, and for good reason, I have a pat just like you do, we have regrets and disappointments and the hope is that we would learn from them.  The question is: Have I learned from them and am I committing to live with the "profile of Christ" as me blueprint for life?

"My behavior reflects the teachings of Jesus."  Our Life Sign for the day!

Day 23 - Artistic Impressions

The "Life Sign" for today reads, "The major theme of my life is love."

I have been stuck, honestly stuck today, not knowing what to blog about.  Sometimes there are mental blocks or writing blocks that can get the best of me.  (More times than not it is a mental block.)

So here is my thought, I am only going to write on one of the five palettes of love (Words, Deeds, Thoughts, Gifts or Steps) and I will count on you to fill in the gaps.

Thoughts of Love - it was the great philosopher, Descartes that once said, "I think therefor I am."  Depending on your philosophical ideologies, we could discuss a lot of different issues and understandings on this one simple statement.  I think Descartes, at least according to my Philosophy Professors (who shall remain nameless), helped the understanding of that statement, as this was a proof of existence.  Because philosophers doubted and debated much - this was a philosophical break through.  But for the sake of our discussion, thoughts are extremely important.

Without really thinking we do nothing, everything becomes a reaction - no thought, no thoughtfulness, just reaction.  I often say to my own kids that we have to think before we act,  no matter what it is, we must think.  Although, thought can easily be thrown out the window without morality (although, that is a subject for another day.)

Thoughts of love, actions are birthed out of seeds of thought.  Actions begin as a thought, a spark of intuition and brain power, should I or shouldn't I, it begins somewhere.  One of the things that I think we need to do is, put the thoughts of Love in our minds and commit ourselves to trust God for the outcome.  Our thoughts must be pure and holy and acceptable to God.  Love begins somewhere, may it begin in our minds and come out in our hands and feet!

Day 22 - Rolled up Sleeves

It sounds very simple doesn’t it?  I have the slogan of Nike in my head as I reflect on this days reading; Just Do It! 

Nike always does a good job of making us feel like we can do it, the commercials, the advertising, and the mental changes that comes with their ads, I feel like I can do it, I can do it, or can’t I?  What does it take for me to actually believe that I can, how many motivational commercials do I have to watch before I actually think I can?  I am not sure, but I think with a change of mindset, unbeliever and non-involved to believer and involved is the change needed.

I think this is our challenge today, we have heard and listened to the lies so long that what we do does not make a difference, it does nothing for no one and you do not have the time to actually do anything, it does not matter, Stop listening to the lie!  What you do matters, how you serve matters, how you impact a person for the goodness of the Gospel of Jesus matters, even if it is just a kind word, it matters.  In God’s economy, when things are done for a purpose and done in His name, they matter.  They are a catalyst for the Gospel to be realized and the Gospel to be advanced in the hearts of His creation.

I am not sure about you but the fact that we can be a blessing to unsuspecting people really is a great opportunity to care for someone we can have an impact on them, but we must rise up to the challenge.  Matthew 25 is such a poignant chapter of Matthew’s Gospel, I am not sure why but it is so challenging, although at the same time it is so affirming, because it reminds me that when I do serve others I am serving Him!  May we see His face shine on us when we Serve and love others.

Day 21 - Greater Works Than Jesus

"Whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son."

I have heard this somewhere before (haha, today's reading is mentioned a few times in the message from last Sunday morning!).  And as I am reading this it is a great reminder of the words were spoke this Sunday.  And I will be honest with you, I have thought about the words of Jesus, regarding our being able to do greater works and I looked at it in a different way.  I had looked at it as physical miracles, after all, Peter and John did a few miracles in their days of ministry.  Where I was insufficient in my understanding was on the spiritual side of things.  Can God still work physical miracles? Absolutely and there is evidence of it in the world, if you listen to the stories you will find them.

On the other hand, a person being born into the kingdom of God, salvation coming to a person of any age is truly a miracle, a fantastic miracle worthy of being praised.  But like many others who have heard this passage have not really thought of it in the spiritual sense - we missed the importance of the coming of the Holy Spirit and the impact The Spirit brings to the life of a disciple.  It is the difference maker, it allows us to see the will of God and the direction that we should follow.

When it comes to the will of God, we understand it through prayer, making ourselves humble and willing to listen to the direction of God.  A commitment to prayer is how we gain the perspective of God and His desires for us as His followers.  I think of what this days reading has to do with is the Impact of Ministry - the Reach and the Result, of ministry is greater because of the Holy Spirit and the Power of Prayer.

That should be a great encouragement to us all!

Day 20 - The Potter's Hand

I always wanted to sit at the potters wheel, but I never did, they were available in the High School that I went to, but I never took the classes, I guess I was always doing something else.  I do remember that in my 6th grade art class we got to make something out of clay, paint it and then our teacher put it in to the kiln and eventually we got to see our clay creations.  Looking back on in in my memory, I remember how proud of this dragon I was - to me it was a prized object, after all "I made this with my own hands."  To me it was special. 

And as I think about the importance of that object to me, it helps me to know that the dragon was never going to win a First prize award at art show or anything like that, although it should (hahaha).  But as i am thinking and typing this I can still the movement of my hands to form different aspects of the dragon, the tools I used to score the wings and the claws, the eyes and mouth.  There really was great care given to this project.  

But my hands were not "skilled" like the hands of a master potter, not even close.  The master potter knows when things are going just right, or when the project needs to start again from the beginning.  Clay itself is an inanimate object, it does not get to say what it wants to become, or any say in the shape or size of the vessel or the purpose of the vessel.  On the other hand we, as the clay of the master potter, God Almighty, we don't have a say in what God does and how God uses us.  Although, I firmly believe that we have a say in whether or not we are willing to be shaped, formed, designed and used by God. 

Going through the work to make the clay vessel is not an easy thing - there is squeezing, pinching, making groves and much more, but are we willing to be put on the wheel and formed, are we willing once we are formed to sit in kiln to be fired up and hardened for a purpose?

May God have his way in our hearts as he molds and makes us, for his purposes.

Day 19 - On Pins and Needles

There are some people in this world that on a level one to ten, if we asked them how much they worried - the number would exceed the limits of ten, on the other hand there are other people that would be below the limits of one.  Where do you fit?  We all have our place in the grid, but what we do with that worry is something that we can control.  We may not be able to adequately tell ourselves to stop worrying, but when we do we can choose to channel the worry to the appropriate places. 

I think this is a very important choice that we have in our lives, we need to choose, when I am worrying, what am I going to do with that worry, keep it for myself or give the worry to God and trust in His provision?  That is ultimately the question when it comes to worry and for some of us because we are a worry wart, there will be plenty of time spent at the throne of God giving over the worry of our lives and trusting in the promises of God.  On the other hand those of us that do not worry need to remember that just because you do not worry, you to can come before God with the things around you and still trust in the promises of God, you are just coming before God in a different way for a different reason - but you still trust in God's promises.

I think worry is a paralyzing reality for people and Dr. David Jeremiah really challenges us to trust in the Promises of God, the Presence of God and The Truth of God.  These are great places to be no matter who we are.  I truly believe that the more we know about ourselves and honest with who we are regardless of where we are at on the spectrum, we must all trust completely on the truth of God, this is where we need to find ourselves.

Day 18 - Love's Boundaries

One of the greatest dangers we face everyday is the ploys of this world.  The bombardment of it is constant and difficult to withstand.  But if are able to do it, if we are not swayed one way or the other it is a true testimony of the victory of Christ.  Sadly I think there are times when we do not live in the victory that we should. many times we do live in defeat.

One of the questions that I do ask my self, "Do I love God more than I love this "stuff", "my stuff," "the world?"  This is a very difficult question, and I think it is not just a question for me but it is a question for every person that calls themselves "Disciple," "Christian," "Follower."  The reason I think it is a difficult question is that we have been engrained since our youth to love the things of this world, whether we realize it or not.  Bit by bit we let go and and hold on to the thing that really matter the most.  That is love of God and love for other people.

Another mind twisting question that I recently thought about, "Would I give up my relationship with God for the things of this world?  My honest answer is Absolutely Not, with a lot exclamation points!  But wait a minute, hold on before I start feeling to proud and good about my answer, I know that I have a deep down love for God, but there have also been times when I have abandoned Him for a desire, a want.  And before we start accusing and start pointing fingers, bring it back to you and yourself.  Where are you truly at?  Is your love for God more than the love of the world? What is the evidence of it?  Is it growing and growing?

I know these are difficult questions - but based on this days reading - we need to ask them!!!  We place boundaries on all areas of life, except on our boundary of love for God!!

Day 17 - Closer to You Than to Me

It is an odd thought by worlds standards, "Unconditional surrender to God brings me spiritual victory."  While it may be an odd thought, there is a cavern of truth within that statement, it is immense and real.

The world that we live in is filled with "conventional wisdom" that tells us that the only way we are successful is by "winning," and at the same time the "conventional wisdom" tells us that if you are not "winning" you are "losing" and no one wants to be a "loser."  Although, this is not the thought of Paul, we are told that he was crucified with Christ and he gains all by losing all.  That is not conventional wisdom, you don't gain anything by losing, except a few bruises, and a beaten up ego.

On the other hand, Surrendering to Christ does have it's own difficult implications.  Surrender to Christ means death.  Not necessarily physical death, at least not immediately, nor at the onset of surrender.  Death in the sense that the normal way of life is no longer the way for you.  Surrender means letting you; your selfishness, your desires that are not of God, your attitudes, your stuff that is not of God; die and exist no longer.

"Jesus offers one term of surrenders: the cross you died on positionally must be the cross you live on personally each and every day."

Surrender does lead to life - a new life, a good life, a pure life.

I do not regret the day that I surrendered my life to Christ, not the day that began to follow Christ, but the day that I said, "enough is enough, I can't do it on my own, I give up, I give all of me over to you Jesus."  What that day has become is the first day of the rest of life serving Jesus.  It was the day that I recognized a call on my life, to follow and pursue Him with all of who I am holding nothing back. 

Taking up our Crosses,as Luke describes in Chapter 9 verse 23 of his Gospel, reminds us of what we are to do; deny ourselves and follow.  Don't allow yourself to get in the way, Follow Him.

And in the midst of this we are in the week talking about "worn out knees," what do they have in common?  Surrender takes place when we are on our knees, humbling ourselves before our Savior, acknowledging His Sovereignty and His plea on our lives to come and follow Him!

Questions to close this blog today - "Can I honestly describe my life as yielded and surrendered to God?  Am I more yielded to the opinions of others or my own will than I am to my Lord?  What area(s) of my life do I need to give over to God?

Day 16 - The Heavenly Frequency

Yesterday and today have been the beginning of a new focus for this week, "Worn Out Knees," and today's reading really gets to the nuts and bolts of Prayer.

I really appreciate how Dr. Jeremiah spends time expressing the ways in which Jesus was and is and always will be our example when it comes to our life.  In every aspect of life, Jesus is our example, you want to know how to treat other people, how to have compassion, how to love your friends; in all these situations look to Jesus.  He gives us the example that we need and that we can learn from.

Prayer is no different, Jesus is the standard, Jesus is the example, Jesus is the mold that we should place ourselves into - so that we may be more like Him.  

Based on today's reading I have a question, What does it mean to have "Worn Out Knees?"   I think it means that we be like Jesus, I think he epitomizes the idea of being a person with worn out knees.  Dr. Jeremiah includes that Jesus was praying all the time, that is one of the points of today's reading.  Although, from a merely subjective point of view, I am not sure that is the only criteria of being a worn out knees person.  I think there is more, I think the whole package makes a person have "worn out knees."

In a similar manner when it comes to athletics, say Tennis for example; a tennis player that can really play the game is going to be able to maneuver themselves from one aspect of the game to the other aspects fluidly, from the serve, to the volley, to the ground strokes (forehand and backhand), the over head and return of their opponents serve.  All of these aspects of the game are important to the over all game, although mastering all of these components may make you a good player there is a certain amount of knowledge that is needed to play the game well.  


And so it is with our prayer life, there are aspects of it that help us and develop us to be a person of "worn out knees" and as Jesus modeled these things we should as well.  Developing our desire to know God personally and to desire an intimacy with God, in how we speak His name.  And we should be progressing to the aspects of our growth as people of prayer; taking the time out of our busy schedules to have additional time to pray, especially in our overworked and busy schedules that we live.  Jesus retreated with God, to not only maintain balance in life but also perspective for the coming days.  

It was Jesus' ability to remain in communion with God that really challenges me and I hope it does for you as well, to be in constant connection with God through prayer.  Over the years there have been times where prayer in my life has seen an increase or a decrease, sad to say it but it is true, there are times it was a priority and times when it got over looked, but we never see that happening with Jesus - it was a part of who He was.  Not to hurt myself by patting myself on the back, but I have worked at building things into my day and week that are ways to remind me to pray - is it perfect, no it's not but it is helping.  


Submission - Jesus prayed expecting to hear from God, He prayed knowing that God would speak back, He prayed seeking God's will, not his own.  And we should as well, I am guilty of being a talker, sometimes I think I could have a conversation all by myself and solve a lot of problems (hahaha) but when it comes to prayer, Jesus demonstrates that it is not a one way street, it is a two way street!!

There are many facets of prayer, let's be open to exploring and working on them as a whole package, so we can look more and more like Jesus.

Day 15 - Worn-Out Knees

"One of the reasons we're so worn out from life is that our knees aren't."

I have been thinking about today's reading for a while now, sitting and thinking, walking and thinking, doing other things and thinking.  I think I am thinking about it so much, because today's reading is very good, very challenging, very real, very practical and very much something that I agree with. 

I think that we would all agree that prayer is something that we all could spend more time doing.  Prayer is so important and yet it is one of the things that we might over look at times.  I know that I have spoken in some generalities, and the reason I am speaking that way is that I have spoken with enough people to know that there is a deficiency in our prayer lives.  It is not an absolute truth but it is something that we can get better at.

Worn out knees, the thought is fantastic!  I love the picture that I see in my mind!  Unfortunately, what I tend to see are the knees of my kids, their playground worn out knees, the grass stains from soccer and football at recess.  I see those pants, those worn out kneess that have holes in them from the passion of being a kid and playing with your friends and getting the holes from fun!  - Oh that we would have the passion of fun and getting our jeans dirty in the fun of prayer and the joy of being in intercession for loved ones and the supplication of our Heavenly Dad, that loves us no matter how crusty and dirty our jeans are!

What evidence of a yielded life, if any, do your knees bear?

Day 14 - Physical Evidence

"Evidence always trumps personal impressions when it comes to establishing a solid verdict."

Who you are
What you do
Where you go
Whom you associate with

Each of these things in our individual lives and in our collective lives matters.  They really matter!!  I am not sure I can put as much emphasis in typing as we can in the spoken word, but Who you are, What you do, Where you go and Whom you associate with, REALLY MATTERS.

In the present, we can find every justification under the sun to defend, who we are, what we do, etc. so that we look good or hide something.  Yeah we can do that, we can hide sin and disobedience under the rug of "Justification," it is easy.  Here let me show you:  At the office - an inappropriate joke was shared and you laughed, - inside you knew that you shouldn't but you didn't want to look "holier than thou" - so you let out a short laugh - so you fit in.  Deep inside you know that it is wrong and it disrespectful and so on.  The Justification - "you didn't want to look holier than thou."  and that similar case can be made time and time again.  I am not sure about you but in my past - I was and can be very good at justifying, Who I am, What I do, Where I go and Whom I associate with.

Although, Who I am, What I do, Where I go and Whom I associate with matters more so in the light of eternity.  In the light of eternity we can see a common goal, live life not to get there - the destination, but to impact others and show them Jesus, so they to can be a part of it.  Who you are effects people around you - whether you believe it or not you are and can be a catalyst for change in the life other people.  What you do gives hope to other people, your hands and feet moving for Jesus.  Where you go brings the truth of the gospel to lands and people that need something real and tangible that reflects Jesus.  Whom you associate with can be the one true mosaic of Jesus that people will ever see, the different pieces of your life that are put together that displays the beauty and grace of Christ.

It all matters - is there physical evidence?  What can we do to improve our chances of being convicted of being a follower of Christ?

Day 13 - Attention to Decals

"If you were a walking advertisement for the Lord what would people learn about Him?"

This is the question of the day, it falls right after the title for the days reading and I think that for today it is a very valid question.  But please don't get lost in the language of advertising - if you do the reading will not make much sense to you, but allow the language to enhance the metaphor the Dr. Jeremiah is attempting to create.  The metaphor is a powerful one, because it has to do with you and what your life says about God.

Remember that you were created for a purpose (see Ephesians 2:10, Psalm 139:14).  I don't think that we have an adequate view of what God believes about us!  and I believe when we do have an adequate view of God's perspective that will change our view of us and our view of how we reflect that view of God to others!

It is time to take into consideration that we are being watched by so many people, whether we realize it or not!  No matter where we are at in life people do observe people!  So be the advertisement that you were created to be!!

Day 12 - The "Other" Mentality

Having the mentality of serving the "other" is not a hard mentality to obtain but I think it is a hard mentality to keep,  Here's what I mean, we can easily serve other people, we can go on that mission trip or serve at that location but consistently doing it is a different story.

Not that serving in this way cannot be done, it is at times difficult to maintain the ability to do it on a consistent basis.  Either; we forget, or we get distracted, or we change our focus.  But what we read today reminds us that we need to have the focus to be able to stay consistent. 

I think title of the second section really puts the whole thing into perspective.  "Changing our Focus Changes Us."  I am not sure that we are completely capable to do this type of thing on our own - but instead we have to have the focus of Christ in us, in order for us to do any time of "other" work.  Regardless of what it might be, serving the poor in our own city or in another country. 

Let me pause here for a moment and say this, yes people can serve and care for the poor and the disenfranchised in many ways, but if the compassion is not driven by the love of Christ, it is driven by something else, and I don't they are the same thing.

Let's move for the right reasons, for the right purpose, with the right motivation, that is the motivation of Christ.

"What steps can I take to move from self to others?"

Day 11 - Tongue-Tied

"The Lord can use a stammering tongue better than a silent one."

Can you say... Con-victing!!  Wow, no pulling punches on today's reading!  A challenging reading that reminds us more and more that the faith that we have is not something that we carry in a private manner!  Yes, it is a personal faith, but it is not a private faith.  I know there are difficulties in the world that we live in - where faith is not always so easy to talk about especially in the work place, but let's not let it stop us from being a physical witness - and when the opportunity presents itself, use words to speak volumes.

I especially like the section, on developing a burden for others, asking God to really lay on our hearts and minds the people that surround us!  Develop that burden and do something about it, Pray about, Act on it, and Remember that the Holy Spirit is in you and can give you the boldness you need!

"Have I not commanded you?  Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

Day 10 - The Keynote Speaker

1 Peter 3:15 "Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear."

So, a keynote speaker!  It's you, you are the man; your the woman!  Your it, your the one.  Deep down, I know and remember that it is my role to be always ready and open to be able to share the truth of the gospel, I know that.  But when Dr. Jeremiah puts it this way, it kind of makes the butterflies that constantly live in my stomach begin to flutter, I get a little nervous - the hands sweat and the brow beads with perspiration.  Sad isn't!?!?

Not so sure it is sad, I am pretty sure that it is a reality for a lot of us, we have that opportunity to tell someone about the hope that we have and we get nervous and scared.  Although, we have to remember that we are not alone, we have the Holy Spirit in us, the active, presence of God in us, the very same power that raised Christ from grave, lives in us and dwells in us, why should we fear?  We shouldn't, but we do!

Take heart you are not alone, but it is very important that as we live with Dusty Shoes, we will get questions about why we do the things that we do, why we act the way that we do, why, why, why!

Be ready, have the answer - share the hope of Jesus!  It is your divine appointment for the day!

Day 9 - Walk around the Clock

Honestly, walking is something that can be very enjoyable.  It is not only a great way to get out and exercise, but it is a great way to spend time with other people, a spouse, kids or a friend.  Although, it is not too often that we really take the time to walk.  We are in a hurry when it comes to our lives, we drive from place to place because it is faster and we can get more done through out the course of a day.

I think one of the things that today's reading reminds me of is that walking is a deliberate process, it is a step by step movement from one place to the next.  One foot in front of the other.  No speeding tickets necessary, just the natural movement of the body; muscles working together for a common purpose to get from point A to point B.  Within the natural movement of walking - there is no rushing - if you begin to rush, you are no longer walking but instead you begin to run, sure running will get you there sooner but walking is walking and nothing can take it's place.

And so it is with the spiritual life, as we saw in today's reading, we are more or less asked to walk with God, not run ahead of Him, not drive to a certain point and then wait for Him, but we are to walk with Him.  "No good thing will he with hold from those who walk uprightly," Psalm 84:11.  "Walk before me and be blameless," Genesis 17:1.  This is a great reminder for us all - to walk, not get ahead of where God wants you to be - but neither are we to be sitting still and doing nothing, Walk.  Get up and walk.

Of the 4 sections in today's reading - "Walk in Newness of Life" really stands out to me.  Recognizing the goodness of creation takes walking to be attained, speeding by the beauty is not appreciating the majesty of creation.  Take the time to walk.  Take the time to see the world in a different light, take the stroll at dusk to see the colors of the sky, wake up early and go fishing to see the radiance of the sun on the lake and commit your day and your week to walking.

What can we do to stay focused on our walk with God around the clock?

Day 8- Dusty Shoes

Luke 14:23 "Then the master said to the servant, "Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house be filled."

Today's reading is two fold it is magnificent and challenging.  Magnificent because it tells a great and worthy story of the Salvation Army and their mission to the world that they have live in , a dirty, grimmy, difficult world that thought it did not need the gospel of Jesus Christ.  I was challenged by the story of Catherine Booth designing a bonnet for the women of the Salvation Army, that would protect them from things that people would throw, things such as, stones, debris, and rotten food.  I find that interesting and challenging.

Today's reading is challenging because of the nature of what is written, I think we all have heard that we are to "Go" and reach the world for Jesus, to "Go" to the least of these and to "Go" and make disciples of all the world teaching them the things of Jesus.  Yes, we have heard that portion of the scripture, although, the challenging portion comes when we read the stories of people who actually do it, we get that sinking feeling - that feeling of why can't I do that, why can't I be that bold, why can't I have that type of faith.  So, it is a challenge, a magnificent challenge.

The life of Jesus displayed in the Gospels, displays the true witness and the true guide for us as followers of Him,  He came to seek those that did not already know the truth, He came to seek and save the lost.  I am often reminded that Jesus talked about those who needed a doctor, it was those who are sick, not the well and healthy, but the sick. 

Dusty Shoes, getting out in the mess of life for the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Am I willing to get my feet dusty in the streets of my community?  What opportunities can I actively pursue to be salt and light in my neighborhood?  Which one will I pursue this week?

Day 7 - The Mark you Leave Behind

"We don't stay on earth forever; but after we're gone, our imprint remains."

How will your imprint remain?
Will your life leave a positive imprint?
Will your life leave a negative imprint?
Do you care how much of imprint you may or may not leave?

These are questions that we have to wrestle with as we read this reading for today.  Because we have to come to realization that we do have impact on people around us, honestly we do.  Whether it is on our children, our friends,our co-workers, our fellow church go-ers, etc.  We can impact a persons life with the slash of our tongue, or the kindness of a smile, or the glare of a stare. 

I liked the story of the Blind man walking with a flashlight in the dark and his comment about not wanting people stumble because of him.  Oh, how I desire people to live with that similar mindset.  To live in such a way that they care about what they do and how they do it because they know that can have an impact on other people.

In what specific ways am I leaving behind a positive or negative fingerprints in the live so my family, friends, co-workers and community?

Day 6 - Witness Statements

Today's Life Sign is very simple - "Those who witness my life see Jesus."

It is simple, because it has everything to do with you.  Now I know that sounds a bit selfish and we may or may not agree on the following statements, but that is okay.

It has everything to do with you because, it is your life that you live.
It has everything to do with you because, it is your decisions that you make.
It has everything to do with you because, it is your reactions.
It has everything to do with you because, it is your kindness...

I think I could go on for a while - because it is about your life.  But where selfishness does not fit in this discussion, is in the following; it is your life, yes, but what is your life about?  Is it only about you - or is it about who you live for?  Is it about what you do for your self or is about what you do for the kingdom of God?  Is it about who you know or is it about who knows Jesus because of you? 

Wow, what would the jury do with you - if you were on trial for being a Disciple of Jesus?  Would you be convicted or acquitted?

The question for us is (internalize it)...
What can I do to be more a effective representative for God?

Day 5 - Pass the Salt

Today's reading is very good.  I am certain that I take salt for granted, since we do not use it the way that people of ancient days did, we have modern conveniences that help us with the preservation of our food, other spices that we use to provide flavor, and so on.

Although, the analogy is still very valid, because of the validity of the many uses of salt.  And so it really comes down to how we relate analogy to our own lives.

Salt as Prevention of Decay - This is a a form of preservation - how are we preserving the truth of the Gospel for the next generations?  how are preserving the truth of the Gospel in our communities, the moral compass that is so lacking around us?  What about these things?

Salt as Flavor -  How is my live bringing flavor to those around me?  How am I bring the flavor of Christ with me as I interact with others?  Is there a specific character about me that shows my character and life in Christ, like that of salt?

Salt Promoting Thirst - This is a tough one - do I make people thirsty for Christ?  That is honestly a concept that I have not really given much thought to before reading this - but it is a good question to ask.  By my very nature, my actions, my life, my character etc. - am I helping other people become thirsty for Jesus?

Salt Permeates Food - "a little bit goes a long way."  can that be said of me - in a good way.  Do people see me and see Christ?  Do they see my actions, my love and do they see Jesus - His Love, His actions?  what do they see.

This has been a great section for today - a good way to start the week off, I know that this is coming a bit later in the day - but it has taken this long for the words to come to me today!! I hope you enjoyed the reading as much as I did.

Day 4 - Living in the Moment

"Live your spiritual life in the "always on" position with God.

This idea has really struck me this morning, I like the thought.  It reminds me of the Apostle Paul and some the opening comments in some of his Letters, comments like, "I pray for you always.," comes up often.  There is a connection there, to be live in the time of "Always."  To Always be present with God, to Always be in connection with the Holy Spirit, to Always...

One of the things that is highly encouraged among the teens when we are serving in a different context (like on a mission trip), is the exact same idea, Live in the Moment.  Keep close attention to the things that are going on around you, so that you can be aware of what God is doing in your midst.  When this truly happens, it is amazing the things that you will see - things that you once would have thrown in to the pile of coincidence - no longer ends up there - but it ends up in the precious place of Divine Appointment!

When Dr. Jeremiah gets in to the portion of this days reading, speaking of the dangers and benefits - did you notice that the benefits far out weighed the dangers, but did you also notice how much a person is missing if they are not "Always On."

So what do you think?  How do you see the benefits and the dangers?  Is this something that you can do in your life?  What steps do you need to take to ensure your "Always on?"  How could this change your Spiritual Life?"

Day 3 Turn on the Lights

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."  Matt 5:16

Because of this days reading, I can't help but think about the phenomenal moments of light that I have seen over the course of my life.  The rainbows, the laser light shows, the Christmas parades, the lightening flashes across the dark sky, brightness of the sun on a hot summer day.  Some of you have seen the great northern lights, something that I have not seen before, but would love to see some day.  Light is mesmerizing and awe inspiring, there truly is something about the light and the ways in which it shines.

Jesus, tells us that we are the light of the world and to let our light shine before men.  Light, I think is very attractive, it is something that amazes people and draws them in.  Kind of like a campfire at night, people cannot help but stare at it and be amazed at its glow and flames. 

Because of today's reading, I am reminded that we are to be like that light; shining, not covering it up, not blocking the shine, not hiding it.  What good is a light if it is covered up, what good is a camp fire if there is a shelter built over it?  Honestly, it becomes something private, it becomes a light for only a select few.  I think that is one of the dangers, as followers of Christ we are the light of the world - but ultimately it is our decision on whether or not we will let the light shine or keep it for ourselves.  What will you do?  Keep the light or let it shine before men?

Even the smallest light can be seen in the midst of a great darkness, may the lives that we live, the things that we say and the actions that we do be light to the world that needs to see Jesus through us.

When people see you do they see the light Jesus shining through you?

Day 2 - A Faith that Works

Here is a quote from today's reading, "The world around us can't see our inner faith, but it can see our good works that flow from our faith."

It really wraps up today's reading, faith and works go hand in hand.

I loved the opening paragraphs of today's reading, it is a great reminder for me personally, balance can easily be something that is ignored.  There is so much to do in life and a person can easily get out of balance.  Good things or bad things, it does not matter too much.  Isn't the old saying, "too much of a good thing can be a bad thing."  I think that is how it goes - if it doesn't, the principle is still pretty valid.  There has to be balance, without it we are out of balance.

So why is it so difficult to live have faith and live it out?  Why do people struggle with living out both?  Is there a certain amount of fear that we have?  Are we concerned with what other people may think? 

To be very honest, if we showed the kind gesture, went out of our way to help someone with no thought of getting anything in return, served the poor, the elderly; we would recognize that it is not as hard as we thought.  The truth would be that it is very easy and we just might enjoy it, that is never a bad thing.  Especially when we do it for the right reasons.  God's Glory!

How about you, what do you think?  What struck you?  Was there anything in particular that challenged you today?  What are you doing for others that clearly reveals the presence of God in your life?

Day 1 - Signs of Life

Have you ever played that "detective game?"  You know, that game where you try to figure out people by the way they look, the way they walk or some other distinguishable characteristic?  While it is a fun game, I have often wondered if other people are playing the same games and I have wondered what they would say about me.  Surely they would only say nice things, right?  Or would they?

I honestly believe that it would be devastating to our mental faculties if we lost ourselves in the guessing game that would take place, that is trying to figure out what others would say, while it is impossible to predict, it could be maddening.  But it is an interesting concept. 

I think one of the things that Dr. Jeremiah is working to get at in this first days reading is helping us to ask the hard question of ourselves - how do other people perceive me?  What are the things in my life that really show that I am Alive in Christ?  How do I carry myself in everyday interactions that are a reflection of my life in Christ?  Is the personal belief that is within my heart evident outside of my heart?

These are questions that we have to ask ourselves because they matter.  We have to ask these questions because they challenge us to be more like He who sent us, to love like Him.

So, what challenged you today?  What do you resonate most with on this days readings?  Feel free to comment below.