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.
September 30, 2011
September 29, 2011
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?
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?
September 28, 2011
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?
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?
September 27, 2011
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!!
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!!
September 26, 2011
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?"
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?"
September 25, 2011
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."
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!
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!
September 23, 2011
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?
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?
September 22, 2011
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?
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?
September 21, 2011
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?
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?
September 20, 2011
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?
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?
September 19, 2011
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.
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.
September 18, 2011
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?"
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?"
September 17, 2011
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?
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?
September 16, 2011
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?
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?
September 15, 2011
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.
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.
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