I'm on the front lawn, adjusting the brakes on my bike, when a sudden flurry appears out the corner of my eye. I look up and take in the situation, but am too slow to react.
One of our cats, a spotted grey yearling, a personal favorite in the household, has a robin by the wing, and is running with it. A second robin is trying desperately to provide a distraction so the captive may escape. If you have any experience with cats and their prey, you know this is a highly futile attempt.
Soon, the cat has run under the porch, and under the house.
I am in conflict.. The circle of life dictates that animals will kill each other. Cats kill birds. It's just what they do. Were it another type of bird, I likely wouldn't care. If I were to intervene, he would probably get killed sooner or later.. and what difference does this bird make over another? The mate to this robin, having flown off as soon as the cat went under the house, is still hearable, crying for it's lost love.. Oh, this is too much. I've got to do something. But what?
I couldn't get under the house if I wanted to.. I try shouting sharply. I try kicking the metal skirting of our mobile home, to frighten the cat into releasing his prey. This also proves futile. I sit down in the shade.. the dog, sensing my mood, puts on a guilty expression. I call him over, pet him, and tell him that he's not the one I'm upset at.
The captured bird cries out from under the house. Silence. Nothing. He calls out again.. Silence.. Is he still alive? Could he survive?
Suddenly, unexpectedly, the bird comes free, flying out from under the house, under the porch, and between the steps on the stairs. He's broken free! Unfortunately, his wing is injured enough that he cannot gain more than a couple feet of altitude. Unfortunately again, the dog, sensing easy prey, chases after him, knocking him out of the air.
This time I act immediately. The dog is rebuked, and backs off.
The robin lays on the drive way, too exhausted to move. I pick him up. He doesn't even struggle. I go inside. For a moment I just stand there, unsure what to do next.
"Is he dead?" someone asks.
I open my hand to show that he is still breathing. He doesn't move.
A few moments later, rested up, the bird makes a sudden break for it. Bam! Into the window. I chase him around the house, moving as slowly and smoothly as possible, to avoid frightening him more than necessary. Because keeping him safe is a higher priority than recapturing him, it takes about 20 minutes.
I decide to call the local wild animal rescue. The person answering the phone informs me that they, the people who run the establishment, are out of town, but that I can hand off the bird to their interns. He is placed in a shoe box with a towel.. I drive off, delivering my "patient" to two girls younger than myself.
It gets me thinking...
There are numerous spiritual applications in this experience.
The first possible one relates to my failure to respond to the situation immediately. It is important that we always remain on guard, not only to avoid being caught by the predatory nature of sin, but also so we can step in on behalf of another who may be in harms way, who's very life, or salvation, is at risk.
Secondly, even though I ultimately had the power to save the life of the robin, by removing him from the threatening situation, only through his own struggle was he able to be saved. Don't get me wrong, he didn't save himself, nor could he. But, had he been indifferent to the plight he was in, at that point there was very little I could do rescue him. The same is true between us and God. He will do what He can to get our attention, or keep us out of too deep of trouble (analogous to my banging and yelling), but we cannot be saved without our own cooperation.
Third, do I ever fail to recognize the true character of God, or those people or things He puts in my life for my protection and salvation, mistaking them for another threat against my freedom and happiness? Do I ever fail to put my trust in Him, who has even more perfect feelings towards me, and a better understanding of the ideal course for my life than I had for the injured robin.. And yet it seems to not be such a good thing for me, from my limited perspective...
The bird who, on seeing the window, thought he was so close to freedom, failed to realize that not only could he not get through the window, but if he could have, he likely would have been killed by the same creatures who had nearly ended his life earlier. Do I ever think I can see through to my own happiness and prosperity, failing to realize that it is perhaps impossible to do so? And whether impossible or not, maybe following such a course would not be in my best interest anyway..
Then there's the way in which the experience has helped me to better understand God's care for me. As much as I wanted to do what was best for the bird, how much more does God want the same for me? When the bird escaped my grasp, I was not upset at him for trying to get away, I wasn't irritated by the fact that he didn't trust me.. I was only sad that he was injured. Does God really have more patience with me than I had for this injured creature?
There's a more sobering lesson as well.. Even though the life of the bird was saved, the damage had already been done - he was already separated from his mate. I'm sad as I realize this, in part because, had I acted immediately, perhaps the bird would have not needed to go to rehab, and could have simply recovered on his own. The lesson here is that going down a destructive course often leads to eternal loss, even if our life is spared.
Showing posts with label faith. Show all posts
Showing posts with label faith. Show all posts
Friday, May 31, 2013
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Am I a Christian? Really?
First off, apologies to those who have been missing my writing the last few months. I have nothing honestly to say, except that I haven't felt like writing. (Or at least, haven't been inclined to finish anything.. having thousands of words of unfinished posts set aside.. ideas which, though captivating for me a moment, came out forced, incomplete..)
But, more to the point of our story..
Lately, the last few weeks/months, (two separate blocks of time), I've come to realize something I instinctively knew all along, but was afraid of admitting to.. of acknowledging in its full starkness. I am not a Christian. By the Biblical definition, I am no more a Christian than Christ was a sinner.
Yes, I just said that.
In fact, it gets worse. Not only do I not fit the Biblical definition of a Christian, the only thing that really sets me apart from the sinful world at large is that I have access to that truth which has the power to set one free. So? What this means is that I have a greater responsibility to be a true light to the world. As an informed and intelligent person (if you want, you may claim this title as well.. but read the following first), I am held to a higher standard. That is to say, I am more guilty for the same actions than another person might be, as I can make no plea of ignorance - unless ignorant by indolence.
And, as a person who sometimes impresses others as a fine Christian young man, as one who knows how to distinguish between right and wrong, as a person who is upright in everything (at least, I can make this appearance, at times), I am already a hypocrite, and at risk of deceiving others. And what could be worse than to take the name of Christ as a justification for sin - that is to say, I sin, because of Christ? What could be worse than projecting a wrong view of Him.. of deceiving others into thinking that this sad, unfulfilled, and desperate life I live is that "life more abundant" that Christ offers..
Wait.. so.. that's what you say.. but what is your justification for that view? How do you know?
Again, I've instinctively known this all my life. The conscience exists in a man for this very reason. Even though I knew this was the truth, however, it never felt real. I knew I was a sinner, but did not feel like a bad person. And if one is not truly evil, what need have they of salvation?
A few things have happened to change this perception: I began praying that God help me realize my condition.. I began to notice a deep, heart felt expression of remorse and gratitude in others far better than myself, which I simply could not experience.. (I, being the empathetic, somewhat emotional person with a good imagination, as it is..). Spending more time with those I respect for their faith and commitment drives this realization stronger, increases its importance in my mind, and gives me hope at the same time. I've pursued an understanding of the concept of righteousness by faith; a concept so far outside of myself, that I find the entire thought baffling - but I have come to understand enough to realize that it is not the life I am living, yet is precisely that which I desire.
Most powerful, however, is the time I've spent familiarizing myself with the book of 1 John, as part of a memorization effort with a group of friends.
Here are a "few" select passages that have jumped out at me:
1 John 1:
5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
1 John 2:
4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.
6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
9 He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.
11 But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.
15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
1 John 3:
4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.
6 Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.
8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.
9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
10 In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.
17 But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?
18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
Explanation:
First, God is perfect. He is light, and there is no sin in him. (1 John 1:5). He cannot sin, and neither can anyone who is living in Him. (2:5; 3:6, 9)
Second, if I fail to recognize my sinful tendency, I am deceiving myself, and still living in sin. (1:8, 10).
Third, if I claim that I am nonetheless living in Christ, (and even if I don't), and yet do not keep his word/commandments (2:4, 5; 3:4), have a disregard for my fellow man (2:9, 11; 3:10, 16, 17), have too high of a regard for the things of the world (2:15, 16), or am generally continuing in sin in some form (1:6), I am clearly not living in Christ, but, in transgressing the law (3:4), am of the devil (3:8).
Summarized, a Christian should live as Christ did (2:6), as anything less is of the devil, and counts no more toward righteousness than a handful of Mexican pesos could be counted towards the US national debt.
In a brutally honest self examination of heart, it is very clear to me that my own heart is not only not pure and holy, but is as truly guilty as anyone else the world over, if not more so.
And yet I know that God has the power, and the desire to reach me even now. I have not lost hope. To the contrary, I am more hopeful than ever. To quote from a favorite book of mine:
"Christ is the source of every right impulse. He is the only one that can implant in the heart enmity against sin. Every desire for truth and purity, every conviction of our own sinfulness, is an evidence that His Spirit is moving upon our hearts." - Steps to Christ, p. 26.3
But, more to the point of our story..
Lately, the last few weeks/months, (two separate blocks of time), I've come to realize something I instinctively knew all along, but was afraid of admitting to.. of acknowledging in its full starkness. I am not a Christian. By the Biblical definition, I am no more a Christian than Christ was a sinner.
Yes, I just said that.
In fact, it gets worse. Not only do I not fit the Biblical definition of a Christian, the only thing that really sets me apart from the sinful world at large is that I have access to that truth which has the power to set one free. So? What this means is that I have a greater responsibility to be a true light to the world. As an informed and intelligent person (if you want, you may claim this title as well.. but read the following first), I am held to a higher standard. That is to say, I am more guilty for the same actions than another person might be, as I can make no plea of ignorance - unless ignorant by indolence.
And, as a person who sometimes impresses others as a fine Christian young man, as one who knows how to distinguish between right and wrong, as a person who is upright in everything (at least, I can make this appearance, at times), I am already a hypocrite, and at risk of deceiving others. And what could be worse than to take the name of Christ as a justification for sin - that is to say, I sin, because of Christ? What could be worse than projecting a wrong view of Him.. of deceiving others into thinking that this sad, unfulfilled, and desperate life I live is that "life more abundant" that Christ offers..
Wait.. so.. that's what you say.. but what is your justification for that view? How do you know?
Again, I've instinctively known this all my life. The conscience exists in a man for this very reason. Even though I knew this was the truth, however, it never felt real. I knew I was a sinner, but did not feel like a bad person. And if one is not truly evil, what need have they of salvation?
A few things have happened to change this perception: I began praying that God help me realize my condition.. I began to notice a deep, heart felt expression of remorse and gratitude in others far better than myself, which I simply could not experience.. (I, being the empathetic, somewhat emotional person with a good imagination, as it is..). Spending more time with those I respect for their faith and commitment drives this realization stronger, increases its importance in my mind, and gives me hope at the same time. I've pursued an understanding of the concept of righteousness by faith; a concept so far outside of myself, that I find the entire thought baffling - but I have come to understand enough to realize that it is not the life I am living, yet is precisely that which I desire.
Most powerful, however, is the time I've spent familiarizing myself with the book of 1 John, as part of a memorization effort with a group of friends.
Here are a "few" select passages that have jumped out at me:
1 John 1:
5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
1 John 2:
4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.
6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
9 He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.
11 But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.
15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
1 John 3:
4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.
6 Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.
8 He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.
9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.
10 In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.
16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.
17 But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?
18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
Explanation:
First, God is perfect. He is light, and there is no sin in him. (1 John 1:5). He cannot sin, and neither can anyone who is living in Him. (2:5; 3:6, 9)
Second, if I fail to recognize my sinful tendency, I am deceiving myself, and still living in sin. (1:8, 10).
Third, if I claim that I am nonetheless living in Christ, (and even if I don't), and yet do not keep his word/commandments (2:4, 5; 3:4), have a disregard for my fellow man (2:9, 11; 3:10, 16, 17), have too high of a regard for the things of the world (2:15, 16), or am generally continuing in sin in some form (1:6), I am clearly not living in Christ, but, in transgressing the law (3:4), am of the devil (3:8).
Summarized, a Christian should live as Christ did (2:6), as anything less is of the devil, and counts no more toward righteousness than a handful of Mexican pesos could be counted towards the US national debt.
In a brutally honest self examination of heart, it is very clear to me that my own heart is not only not pure and holy, but is as truly guilty as anyone else the world over, if not more so.
And yet I know that God has the power, and the desire to reach me even now. I have not lost hope. To the contrary, I am more hopeful than ever. To quote from a favorite book of mine:
"Christ is the source of every right impulse. He is the only one that can implant in the heart enmity against sin. Every desire for truth and purity, every conviction of our own sinfulness, is an evidence that His Spirit is moving upon our hearts." - Steps to Christ, p. 26.3
Thursday, February 21, 2013
The Battle Within..
"Prone to wander, Lord I feel it,
Prone to leave thy courts above.
Here's my heart, oh, take and seal it,
Seal it for thy courts above..."
I've always had a bit of a wandering heart. I've always known that my greatest threats were from within, not from without. And it's not just that this is my greatest threat, it carries with it a virtually undefeatable force..
And yet this spiritual wandering, apathy, craving for the unclean, is not all powerful within. There is something else - an internal Masada, an undefeatable, undestroyable fortress, an anchor, that provides the only true constant in my life. A desire to be not only clean and pure, not simply to be useful and productive, but to be a definition of life long, total, all out service to Christ. Unlike the historic Masada, no rampart can be built to the fortress, and the defenders are immortal, not given to acts of mass suicide.
At times this outnumbered force has the support of the indigenous population, and the occupying forces of impurity are pushed back. But indigenous populations are very fickle when it comes to determining which nation they prefer to rule over them, and, inevitably the support switches, and gained territory is lost.
One force is undefeatable by immortality, the other by size, existing familiarity with the indigenous peoples, and presence generally. And so the battle rages on, in deadlock, in back and forth fighting, in face-offs.. and will continue on indefinitely until the indigenous population chooses to fully support with one side or the other. The occupiers have an advantage by default; the outnumbered, by persistence.
The occupying army promises that, if given dominance, life for the locals would be one of ease, of happiness, enjoyment of all there is to enjoy, it paints a very enchanting picture..
Yet the harsh opposition between the two forces leaves a bitter taste, making enjoyment impossible. The minority force clearly has the advantage when it comes to influencing moral..
"The pleasures of earth,
I have seen fade away.
They bloom for a season,
But soon they, decay.
"But pleasures more lasting
In Jesus are given:
Salvation on earth,
And a mansion in heaven.."
The immortal force paints no such bright, enchanting allure, but rather promises the people that life under their control would be one filled with much hard work, pain, privation. And yet, through this, a sweetness and satisfaction will be gained, like nothing else in the world. Further, with sufficient work, it is promised, these Holy lands may be built up to a excellence and greatness not to be rivaled, past, present, or future, and not achievable by any other means.
Work. Effort. Such a dreadful thought. Why strive for something if not necessary?
Oh, but the back and forth conflict is killing the inhabitants, and destroying the land. The war must be ended. The occupying army simply cannot win - and anything short of total victory would only be temporary - which means the only route to victory of any sort is through hard work. And lots of it. Ties must be broken, works of art destroyed, long favored generals and political leaders must be assassinated and opposed, stagnant swamps drained, desert lands irrigated, new institutions constructed, the local population must learn a new language, new customs, a new culture must be established..
"Allure me no longer
Ye false glowing charms;
The Savior invites me,
I go to His arms.
"At the banquet of mercy
I year there is room.
Oh, there may I feast,
with His children at home..."
Oh, it is hard work. Truly it is the work of a life time. Yet this work is of necessity. The young men are being killed, the land laid waste.. this must be put to a stop.
Men and women, young and old, rally to the banner! Stand, fight, by pen and vote, by word and deed, by thought and action, for freedom, justice, liberty, for true happiness.. Fight, that the work of a lifetime may be accomplished, that the hard labors which reap eternal rewards may be taken on. Rebuke the occupying force! Stand against them! Turn not a blind eye to the false pleasures laying waste to the land! Ignore no longer the inevitable destruction! Turn a deaf ear to the false charms, which you well know result in only greater pain and suffering.
Fight, that God's army may be given control. That the King of all the universe, the all knowing, all powerful, immortal, perfect God, may reign over you. A God who cannot be defeated, but cannot have victory unless you, the citizens of the land, swear to Him your unwavering allegiance!
Think not that happiness can be gained by siding with the easy majority. Think not that peace can be experienced by assaulting the undefeatable fortress. Yes, the voices can be ignored till the words are no longer heard, but the presence will remain, eternal.. The greater army is weaker, and yet it is your decision, not the strength of either side, which will sway the battle!
Yield not! Stand Firm! Strive on!
"Fear thou not;
for I am with thee:
be not dismayed;
for I am thy God:
I will strengthen thee;
yea, I will help thee;
yea, I will uphold thee
with the right hand
of my righteousness."
(Isaiah 41:10)
Prone to leave thy courts above.
Here's my heart, oh, take and seal it,
Seal it for thy courts above..."
I've always had a bit of a wandering heart. I've always known that my greatest threats were from within, not from without. And it's not just that this is my greatest threat, it carries with it a virtually undefeatable force..
And yet this spiritual wandering, apathy, craving for the unclean, is not all powerful within. There is something else - an internal Masada, an undefeatable, undestroyable fortress, an anchor, that provides the only true constant in my life. A desire to be not only clean and pure, not simply to be useful and productive, but to be a definition of life long, total, all out service to Christ. Unlike the historic Masada, no rampart can be built to the fortress, and the defenders are immortal, not given to acts of mass suicide.
At times this outnumbered force has the support of the indigenous population, and the occupying forces of impurity are pushed back. But indigenous populations are very fickle when it comes to determining which nation they prefer to rule over them, and, inevitably the support switches, and gained territory is lost.
One force is undefeatable by immortality, the other by size, existing familiarity with the indigenous peoples, and presence generally. And so the battle rages on, in deadlock, in back and forth fighting, in face-offs.. and will continue on indefinitely until the indigenous population chooses to fully support with one side or the other. The occupiers have an advantage by default; the outnumbered, by persistence.
The occupying army promises that, if given dominance, life for the locals would be one of ease, of happiness, enjoyment of all there is to enjoy, it paints a very enchanting picture..
Yet the harsh opposition between the two forces leaves a bitter taste, making enjoyment impossible. The minority force clearly has the advantage when it comes to influencing moral..
"The pleasures of earth,
I have seen fade away.
They bloom for a season,
But soon they, decay.
"But pleasures more lasting
In Jesus are given:
Salvation on earth,
And a mansion in heaven.."
The immortal force paints no such bright, enchanting allure, but rather promises the people that life under their control would be one filled with much hard work, pain, privation. And yet, through this, a sweetness and satisfaction will be gained, like nothing else in the world. Further, with sufficient work, it is promised, these Holy lands may be built up to a excellence and greatness not to be rivaled, past, present, or future, and not achievable by any other means.
Work. Effort. Such a dreadful thought. Why strive for something if not necessary?
Oh, but the back and forth conflict is killing the inhabitants, and destroying the land. The war must be ended. The occupying army simply cannot win - and anything short of total victory would only be temporary - which means the only route to victory of any sort is through hard work. And lots of it. Ties must be broken, works of art destroyed, long favored generals and political leaders must be assassinated and opposed, stagnant swamps drained, desert lands irrigated, new institutions constructed, the local population must learn a new language, new customs, a new culture must be established..
"Allure me no longer
Ye false glowing charms;
The Savior invites me,
I go to His arms.
"At the banquet of mercy
I year there is room.
Oh, there may I feast,
with His children at home..."
Oh, it is hard work. Truly it is the work of a life time. Yet this work is of necessity. The young men are being killed, the land laid waste.. this must be put to a stop.
Men and women, young and old, rally to the banner! Stand, fight, by pen and vote, by word and deed, by thought and action, for freedom, justice, liberty, for true happiness.. Fight, that the work of a lifetime may be accomplished, that the hard labors which reap eternal rewards may be taken on. Rebuke the occupying force! Stand against them! Turn not a blind eye to the false pleasures laying waste to the land! Ignore no longer the inevitable destruction! Turn a deaf ear to the false charms, which you well know result in only greater pain and suffering.
Fight, that God's army may be given control. That the King of all the universe, the all knowing, all powerful, immortal, perfect God, may reign over you. A God who cannot be defeated, but cannot have victory unless you, the citizens of the land, swear to Him your unwavering allegiance!
Think not that happiness can be gained by siding with the easy majority. Think not that peace can be experienced by assaulting the undefeatable fortress. Yes, the voices can be ignored till the words are no longer heard, but the presence will remain, eternal.. The greater army is weaker, and yet it is your decision, not the strength of either side, which will sway the battle!
Yield not! Stand Firm! Strive on!
"Fear thou not;
for I am with thee:
be not dismayed;
for I am thy God:
I will strengthen thee;
yea, I will help thee;
yea, I will uphold thee
with the right hand
of my righteousness."
(Isaiah 41:10)
Friday, February 15, 2013
Generosity and Gratitude
I often find myself on the receiving end of the generosity of others: my first computer was free, my favorite camera lens I've been allowed to use for free, right now I'm about my 6th day into a two week cross country road trip, which will cost me less than the cost of living alone, recently I was offered a cellphone upgrade at a quite unbeatable deal, most everything I would need is provided to me by others..
Thinking of all this, I am reminded of statements such as "If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?" (Matthew 7:11). Or, "...Through the things of nature, and the deepest and tenderest earthly ties that human hearts can know, He has sought to reveal Himself to us. Yet these but imperfectly represent His love. ..." (Steps to Christ, 10.3).
As a recipient it can at times be difficult to appreciate what is really gained (by the receiver), or lost/given up (by the giver) in the non-necessary transaction. It's easy to undervalue generosity, and not appreciate the sacrifice of others. When appreciated, even limitedly, however, it can be quite an inspiration to return the kindness, and pass the same onto others.
It's interesting.. By definition, generosity is altruistic. Disinterested benevolence was a term used once. And yet, as a recipient, any responsible human will feel a necessity to somehow even the score - even if paying it forward instead of paying back. The absence of wanting to even the score somehow is the root of entitlement. At any rate, no functional relationship on any level can exist where one person does all the giving, and another does all the receiving.
If you don't believe it, think about loaning money to a friend who ends up unable to pay you back. Even if no hard feelings are harbored against him whatsoever, the receiver will start feeling uncomfortable in the presence of the giver. He will feel guilty at his inability to pay back the loan. Unless the score can be settled somehow - forgiving the loan, or some form of repayment, the two will begin to drift apart. Adding a servant/master element puts a strain on a friendship. If the receiver, on the other hand, is indifferent to his inability to pay back the loan, it will seem as though he is just there to take advantage of the giver.
So here's where the interesting part comes in. How does it work to have a relationship with God? This is where it is easy for us to err. See, with God it works the same way. He sent His son to die for us, to give us something we could never earn on our own, and which we could never repay. But just like the phone a friend is giving me, even though the cost would be more than I could reasonably afford otherwise, and even though a financial return would hardly mean a thing, I still have a duty to be grateful, and, also, to pass on the same sort of spirit to others through my actions. If I do not do these things, I am bordering on an entitlement mentality.
Are we really thankful for the gift God has given us? Do we have the slightest clue how much we have gained, or how much He paid? Do we really return thanks? Do we pass it on?
In John 14, Jesus twice says that those who love Him should keep his commandments. This is not a burden imposed on us, but rather a direction on how to release that stored up love and gratitude that should exist as a result of our gratefulness, which comes as a result of realizing what God has truly done for us.
In John 13:34, 35, Jesus gives the following directive: "A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another."
If you truly are thankful to someone, is there anything which is too much to do in expressing that thankfulness? Why do we seem to always be looking for corners to cut? Why does duty seem like such a difficulty? Maybe it's because we don't truly understand what God has done for us - we don't really understand what we have gained, and what he lost.. Perhaps we should spend more time contemplating the sacrifice of God on our behalf.
There are times when I go to write something up, and get to my conclusion and think, "wow, where did that come from?" This is one of those times. Really, I write for my own benefit, and if anyone gets anything of value out of it, that's an extra. I have definitely benefited from writing this piece already...
Thank you all for taking the time to read this, may God be with you. Remember Luke 7:37-50 and Matthew 18:23-35.
Thinking of all this, I am reminded of statements such as "If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?" (Matthew 7:11). Or, "...Through the things of nature, and the deepest and tenderest earthly ties that human hearts can know, He has sought to reveal Himself to us. Yet these but imperfectly represent His love. ..." (Steps to Christ, 10.3).
As a recipient it can at times be difficult to appreciate what is really gained (by the receiver), or lost/given up (by the giver) in the non-necessary transaction. It's easy to undervalue generosity, and not appreciate the sacrifice of others. When appreciated, even limitedly, however, it can be quite an inspiration to return the kindness, and pass the same onto others.
It's interesting.. By definition, generosity is altruistic. Disinterested benevolence was a term used once. And yet, as a recipient, any responsible human will feel a necessity to somehow even the score - even if paying it forward instead of paying back. The absence of wanting to even the score somehow is the root of entitlement. At any rate, no functional relationship on any level can exist where one person does all the giving, and another does all the receiving.
If you don't believe it, think about loaning money to a friend who ends up unable to pay you back. Even if no hard feelings are harbored against him whatsoever, the receiver will start feeling uncomfortable in the presence of the giver. He will feel guilty at his inability to pay back the loan. Unless the score can be settled somehow - forgiving the loan, or some form of repayment, the two will begin to drift apart. Adding a servant/master element puts a strain on a friendship. If the receiver, on the other hand, is indifferent to his inability to pay back the loan, it will seem as though he is just there to take advantage of the giver.
So here's where the interesting part comes in. How does it work to have a relationship with God? This is where it is easy for us to err. See, with God it works the same way. He sent His son to die for us, to give us something we could never earn on our own, and which we could never repay. But just like the phone a friend is giving me, even though the cost would be more than I could reasonably afford otherwise, and even though a financial return would hardly mean a thing, I still have a duty to be grateful, and, also, to pass on the same sort of spirit to others through my actions. If I do not do these things, I am bordering on an entitlement mentality.
Are we really thankful for the gift God has given us? Do we have the slightest clue how much we have gained, or how much He paid? Do we really return thanks? Do we pass it on?
In John 14, Jesus twice says that those who love Him should keep his commandments. This is not a burden imposed on us, but rather a direction on how to release that stored up love and gratitude that should exist as a result of our gratefulness, which comes as a result of realizing what God has truly done for us.
In John 13:34, 35, Jesus gives the following directive: "A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another."
If you truly are thankful to someone, is there anything which is too much to do in expressing that thankfulness? Why do we seem to always be looking for corners to cut? Why does duty seem like such a difficulty? Maybe it's because we don't truly understand what God has done for us - we don't really understand what we have gained, and what he lost.. Perhaps we should spend more time contemplating the sacrifice of God on our behalf.
There are times when I go to write something up, and get to my conclusion and think, "wow, where did that come from?" This is one of those times. Really, I write for my own benefit, and if anyone gets anything of value out of it, that's an extra. I have definitely benefited from writing this piece already...
Thank you all for taking the time to read this, may God be with you. Remember Luke 7:37-50 and Matthew 18:23-35.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Three Years to Live..
"If you knew you had only three years to live, what would you do with your life?"
On impulse, I bought a book titled "Power Questions", but Andrew Stobel. The thought is that through reading the book, I can become inspired to ask the sorts of questions that lead to more meaningful conversations. Towards the end of the book, I met the above question (in slightly different words).. It gets me thinking....
I've decide that I will start asking people this question. First up, the two friends with whom I am currently in dialog. After hearing out their answers, I offer to share my own thoughts, which they are of course dying to hear.
What is interesting is that when I think about this question, I'm in a way starting to live it already in my head. I almost feel that if I were to find out that my fate were to be that short of a life, I'd be ready to take it right now (not necessarily ready in efficiency, but ready, as in, I wouldn't have to struggle to accept it), and I find the challenge almost exciting. The unlived live is not worth worrying about, and I'd let God be in control, so why worry? It would really make life much simpler. All my thoughts for the future would be taken care of..
Perhaps I'd become more frantic towards the end, but at the beginning, at least, I have no fear.
Here's a refined version of what I ended up writing, as my answer to the question.
Since I'm already only thinking about 2-3 years out with life generally right now, it makes it easier. I'd start out by just going ahead with the plans I have. I'd prepare for and take my bike trip, ending up in Florida, where I would go through the School of the Prophets training program run by JR Cofer..
Then after that, I'd see no need for going to college, so I'd be freed of that decision, and it makes no sense to get married if you're only going to live for 3 years, so I wouldn't pursue that. However, since I'd have nothing to loose, and it could be encouraging to someone else, I would allow the girl on my mind to know exactly what I thought about her, and why..
I'd have to spend lots of time with my family, for sure...
Ideally, I would then spend the rest of my life traveling around, introducing people to the God I love, and because of whom, dying before the age of 23 was not a problem. I'd keep up a blog, and a journal.. I'd provide materials such that someone would have an easier time writing a book if they wanted to. I'd certainly become more bold about everything - social interaction, potentially dangerous people and situations - because, well, I won't die earlier, and I have limited opportunities, so, hey, lets go for it! I'd probably spend the last of it in the Walla Walla area, unless I found some place that really appealed to me to stay there..
The question that comes to mind is, why not live like this already? Specifically in regards to singleness of focus, boldness, and not worrying about everything. If I could just put my life in God's hands right now, certainly he could use me just as effectively as if I knew I had only 3 years to live. Why can't I trust Him as fully to manage my life, which may indeed last for 4, 5, 6, 7, even 8 more decades, as I could to manage 3 years? Why is it that I can give Him the remnant happily, but feel much more reluctant to give Him the majority of the stock? Why is it that only the risk of dying could spur me to be focused and efficient? (whether or not this is the exact case, it's a good place to start analysis..)
Interestingly, this topic, of not living a long life full of endless possibilities, is not new to me. I've actually wondered why it seems I think about it so often. Not obsessively, by any means, but from time to time, every now and then.. I've thought about it enough to realize that, in dying young, some have had their greatest witness for truth. I want my life to be a witness, but to have my death be a greater witness to others? Thinking about it, I find to be both frightening and captivating. But in the past frightening was the greater of the two. Today however, the idea didn't even really bother me.
Then there was the thought, not as a last reluctant hope, but simply a thought.. If I were to know I had only 3 years to live, and then dedicated my life fully and completely to God in that time, maybe He would see fit to do as he has with many a personal vehicle or other item which had given it's owner troubles, until given to God to take care of, after which it worked without a hitch for decades. God can do amazing things, you know? Fear of circumstances is so out of place in dealing with Him..
Then there's the thought.. Perhaps this question will have the power to completely change the way I see the world around me, and interact with it on a daily basis..
So, something new, and I don't care if you're reading this 10 years after I first posted it. I'd like to hear what you would do if you had only 3 years left to live. Please post in a comment, in as much or little detail as you would like. Do so anonymously if you prefer. Or, if that is still too much to share publicly, contact me through my profile. And even if you don't do that.. At least think about it.
If you could compress all your life goals, dreams, and aspirations into the next three years, what would you do? What is keeping you from doing it now?
On impulse, I bought a book titled "Power Questions", but Andrew Stobel. The thought is that through reading the book, I can become inspired to ask the sorts of questions that lead to more meaningful conversations. Towards the end of the book, I met the above question (in slightly different words).. It gets me thinking....
I've decide that I will start asking people this question. First up, the two friends with whom I am currently in dialog. After hearing out their answers, I offer to share my own thoughts, which they are of course dying to hear.
What is interesting is that when I think about this question, I'm in a way starting to live it already in my head. I almost feel that if I were to find out that my fate were to be that short of a life, I'd be ready to take it right now (not necessarily ready in efficiency, but ready, as in, I wouldn't have to struggle to accept it), and I find the challenge almost exciting. The unlived live is not worth worrying about, and I'd let God be in control, so why worry? It would really make life much simpler. All my thoughts for the future would be taken care of..
Perhaps I'd become more frantic towards the end, but at the beginning, at least, I have no fear.
Here's a refined version of what I ended up writing, as my answer to the question.
Since I'm already only thinking about 2-3 years out with life generally right now, it makes it easier. I'd start out by just going ahead with the plans I have. I'd prepare for and take my bike trip, ending up in Florida, where I would go through the School of the Prophets training program run by JR Cofer..
Then after that, I'd see no need for going to college, so I'd be freed of that decision, and it makes no sense to get married if you're only going to live for 3 years, so I wouldn't pursue that. However, since I'd have nothing to loose, and it could be encouraging to someone else, I would allow the girl on my mind to know exactly what I thought about her, and why..
I'd have to spend lots of time with my family, for sure...
Ideally, I would then spend the rest of my life traveling around, introducing people to the God I love, and because of whom, dying before the age of 23 was not a problem. I'd keep up a blog, and a journal.. I'd provide materials such that someone would have an easier time writing a book if they wanted to. I'd certainly become more bold about everything - social interaction, potentially dangerous people and situations - because, well, I won't die earlier, and I have limited opportunities, so, hey, lets go for it! I'd probably spend the last of it in the Walla Walla area, unless I found some place that really appealed to me to stay there..
The question that comes to mind is, why not live like this already? Specifically in regards to singleness of focus, boldness, and not worrying about everything. If I could just put my life in God's hands right now, certainly he could use me just as effectively as if I knew I had only 3 years to live. Why can't I trust Him as fully to manage my life, which may indeed last for 4, 5, 6, 7, even 8 more decades, as I could to manage 3 years? Why is it that I can give Him the remnant happily, but feel much more reluctant to give Him the majority of the stock? Why is it that only the risk of dying could spur me to be focused and efficient? (whether or not this is the exact case, it's a good place to start analysis..)
Interestingly, this topic, of not living a long life full of endless possibilities, is not new to me. I've actually wondered why it seems I think about it so often. Not obsessively, by any means, but from time to time, every now and then.. I've thought about it enough to realize that, in dying young, some have had their greatest witness for truth. I want my life to be a witness, but to have my death be a greater witness to others? Thinking about it, I find to be both frightening and captivating. But in the past frightening was the greater of the two. Today however, the idea didn't even really bother me.
Then there was the thought, not as a last reluctant hope, but simply a thought.. If I were to know I had only 3 years to live, and then dedicated my life fully and completely to God in that time, maybe He would see fit to do as he has with many a personal vehicle or other item which had given it's owner troubles, until given to God to take care of, after which it worked without a hitch for decades. God can do amazing things, you know? Fear of circumstances is so out of place in dealing with Him..
Then there's the thought.. Perhaps this question will have the power to completely change the way I see the world around me, and interact with it on a daily basis..
So, something new, and I don't care if you're reading this 10 years after I first posted it. I'd like to hear what you would do if you had only 3 years left to live. Please post in a comment, in as much or little detail as you would like. Do so anonymously if you prefer. Or, if that is still too much to share publicly, contact me through my profile. And even if you don't do that.. At least think about it.
If you could compress all your life goals, dreams, and aspirations into the next three years, what would you do? What is keeping you from doing it now?
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Always There
Always There
Lord, when I feel alone,
You are always there.
When I am happy,
You are always there with me.
When all seem turned against me,
You are always close by my side.
When I refuse to listen to you,
When I want nothing to do with you,
You are always there waiting.
When out of desperation I seek you,
You're always there, drawing me to your side.
When no one can understand,
When no one cares to listen,
When I simply cannot put my thoughts to words,
You're always there, knowing exactly what I mean.
When I dream of the future,
When I try to do things on my own,
When I worry about the problems of tomorrow,
You are always there to support me, even when I don't know my need.
When I am actively seeking out evil,
When I chase after my own destruction,
When I throw all righteousness aside,
When I have no desire for any good thing,
You are always there, waiting for my return.
You are always there, begging me to return.
Lord, when you call to my heart,
I refuse to listen.
When you show me your love,
I turn away my eye.
When you give to me your words of inspiration,
I turn from them as though they were nothing.
When you give me directions on how to live,
I ignore them, and do what I feel is best.
When you tell me to care for your children,
I go do my own thing, and leave them to suffer.
When you show me your unfailing love for a fallen world,
I shirk the burden of responsibility.
When you set my task before me,
I run away and hide.
When you show me the path of life,
I whine and complain that it is too hard..
Father, forgive me for my indolence.
Forgive me for my stubborn selfishness.
Forgive my persistence to do evil.
Forgive my indifference to your extended hand..
Forgive me for my pride and arrogance, thinking I have a better way.
Forgive me for my carelessness in dealing with others.
Help me to be obedient.
Help me to let your love shine through me..
Help others to see you through me.
Help others to see you instead of me in my interactions with them.
Help me to submit totally to your will.
Help me to stand for right though the heavens fall.
Help me to fear only your look of disapproval.
Help me to only ever and always seek your face,
That through my hands your work may be accomplished,
Through my lips your words may be said,
Through my feet your message carried,
Through my life your love shown.
This is my prayer, that through me, in spite of myself, your name may be praised forever.
- Andrew Hendrickson, December 2012
Lord, when I feel alone,
You are always there.
When I am happy,
You are always there with me.
When all seem turned against me,
You are always close by my side.
When I refuse to listen to you,
When I want nothing to do with you,
You are always there waiting.
When out of desperation I seek you,
You're always there, drawing me to your side.
When no one can understand,
When no one cares to listen,
When I simply cannot put my thoughts to words,
You're always there, knowing exactly what I mean.
When I dream of the future,
When I try to do things on my own,
When I worry about the problems of tomorrow,
You are always there to support me, even when I don't know my need.
When I am actively seeking out evil,
When I chase after my own destruction,
When I throw all righteousness aside,
When I have no desire for any good thing,
You are always there, waiting for my return.
You are always there, begging me to return.
Lord, when you call to my heart,
I refuse to listen.
When you show me your love,
I turn away my eye.
When you give to me your words of inspiration,
I turn from them as though they were nothing.
When you give me directions on how to live,
I ignore them, and do what I feel is best.
When you tell me to care for your children,
I go do my own thing, and leave them to suffer.
When you show me your unfailing love for a fallen world,
I shirk the burden of responsibility.
When you set my task before me,
I run away and hide.
When you show me the path of life,
I whine and complain that it is too hard..
Father, forgive me for my indolence.
Forgive me for my stubborn selfishness.
Forgive my persistence to do evil.
Forgive my indifference to your extended hand..
Forgive me for my pride and arrogance, thinking I have a better way.
Forgive me for my carelessness in dealing with others.
Help me to be obedient.
Help me to let your love shine through me..
Help others to see you through me.
Help others to see you instead of me in my interactions with them.
Help me to submit totally to your will.
Help me to stand for right though the heavens fall.
Help me to fear only your look of disapproval.
Help me to only ever and always seek your face,
That through my hands your work may be accomplished,
Through my lips your words may be said,
Through my feet your message carried,
Through my life your love shown.
This is my prayer, that through me, in spite of myself, your name may be praised forever.
- Andrew Hendrickson, December 2012
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