Friday Fodder

Paul warns Timothy, "Wicked people and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving others and being deceived" (2 Tim. 3:13 NRSV).

He gives the following gory details to the Ephesian leaders, "I know that after I have gone, savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Some even from your own group will come distorting the truth in order to entice the disciples to follow them" (Acts 20:29-30 NRSV).

I know a lady that is extremely intellegent. Even though she didn't graduate from high school, I believe this gentle soul could pass any college Bible exam. She has gained her knowledge from corporate Bible studies, sermons, and personal study. During my time with her, she was constantly encouraging me to "go deeper" with Christ.

She was also known to frequent the Christian bookstore. You might find her reading no less than two best sellers simultaneously. Herein lies the problem: Whatever she read she believed. Whatever she heard, she believed. Each and every time a new "fad" in Christianity would arrive, she would jump on board. Stability in her life was somewhat suspect. After all, she had read...she had heard...

Do you have an ability to filter what you read or hear? Do you investigate the claims of Christ for yourself? Or is it simply someone else's faith? Are you aware of the impostors or savage wolves Paul speaks of? Only this time, they're attempting to deceive through many media outlets.

Thoughts?

Good Theology

Over the past month, you may have noticed a theme throughout the blogs on restoration, redemption, and reconciliation. That's no coincidence. In fact, I believe the whole of Scripture is based upon these things (*John 3:16-17; John 2:2; 1 John 4).

Paul's hymn in Colossians 1:15-23 is a good example. Paul points out that Christ was responsible for creation (through Him and for Him). He maintains order of the creation and restoration of creation only comes through Christ (dying on the cross). Anything less than restoration includes being "estranged and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds" (Col 1:21 NRSV).

When we understand how much God loves creation, only then will we see the overarching theme of restoration, redemption, and reconciliation throughout Scripture.

Memorial Day

Happy Memorial Day! Today marks the beginning of Summer (although its been well into the 90s here for a few weeks). On this national holiday, many barbecue, enjoy family, and homemade ice cream shouldn't be a question.

In my church tradition, we celebrate a different "Memorial Day" every Sunday. In a corporate setting, those in attendance are encouraged to remember Jesus and what He did for each one of us. Jesus told His earlier followers (and followers today) "Do this to remember me." Instead of pulled pork and potato salad, the elements for this Memorial Day are a piece of bread and some juice.

I recently heard of a small church having a patriotic fellowship dinner. Placed in front of each place setting was a card that read, "Only two died for you: The American G.I. and Jesus Christ." After thinking about that statement, I've come to the following conclusion. First of all, I think I understand what the author of the statment meant. I undertand the importance of those in the military fighting for my freedom. After all, I served myself. However, to equate the freedom of being an American to the freedom Christ relegates the importance of what Christ has done for mankind.

When we understand what the Atonement (restoration) truly means for believers, Memorial Day is not some Monday in May. It's not even a Sunday. It's every day! Happy Memorial Day!

Friday Fodder

Did you guys see this? I'm beginning to think I'm a little conservative. I'm currently 5920 piercings behind this fine looking lady. The thought of all the needles makes me squeamish.

Restoration 101

Genesis 1:26 tells us God created mankind in His image. The last three words of the previous sentence has led to much debate (too much to discuss in this post). Genesis 3 then tells us that God's ideal relationship with man was severed based upon mankind's rebellion.

From that point on, God has been concerned about restoring the relationship man had destroyed. He brings about a nation of believers (Israel). He protects them, provides for them, and directs them - despite their unfaithfulness. Eventually, Jesus Christ (God's own son) comes to Earth in the flesh. He displays God's plan for life. He redefines the nation of Israel, restores sight to the blind, mobility for the lame, and even life to the dead.

He offers restoration to those who choose life. That's the Good News! As I read Scripture, the choice is up to each one of us. Will I choose restoration (available only in Christ) or will I attempt life on my own? One leads to life...the other, not so much.

More Than Enough

As you may have noticed, I've been reading through the Gospel of Mark. Mark tries to get readers to understand Jesus in a unique way. It's what I love about this particular Gospel account. Jesus has performed several miracles when the reader comes to chapter 8. He's commissioned the apostles, healed the bleeding woman, and fed four and five thousand people in separate settings (just to name a few). It's then that the religious people need a "sign." Their thinking seemed to be: "We won't believe until we see something spectacular. Come on Jesus. Cut a woman in half or pull a rabbit out of a hat."

ABC carried a story several months ago about a man near Miami, Florida claiming to be the Messiah. There are people coming from all over the Southeast to hear the man and see his next big trick. I couldn't help but think "How sick!" People are actually throwing their life savings at this guy, believing his claim is valid. Scripture warns us of false teachers becoming more and more popular.

In Mark 8, Jesus is attempting to get those around Him to understand He's all they need. Whether it's healing, feeding, or relationships, Christ can provide. When I read Scripture and particularly how Christ returns, I'm not led to believe that we'll be asking for a "sign." We'll all know who His is. We'll know what He came for. After all, He's more than enough!

Friday Fodder

Christian graduates from preschool today. Oh to be 4 again with your entire life ahead of you. When asked what he was going to do after graduation, Christian had a perplexed look and said, "I'm going to real school," as if the one asking the question should know the answer.

He's "grown up" alot in the last few months. But to describe him as being a "blank slate" would be a huge understatement. I've thought recently about mistakes I've made. I would describe myself as a flawed slate instead of a blank slate. God has only so much to work with here. There were times that I thought of taking a "do over" in life. Now, I'm not so sure.

What about you? Any regrets?

Praise God for grace!

Small Church Syndrome

Recently, church growth "guru" Ed Stetzer posted a study of small churches. The study was completed by Lifeway Research. It specifically reflects on challenges for small churches. I'll summarize here. Opinions are welcome.

1. Time - Many pastors are bi-vocational causing pressure to juggle responsibilities
2. Resistance - Most churches are resistant to change leading to stagnation. The encouragement provided includes being faithful to God's Word and raising the "bar" of expectations.
3. Lack of Commitment - Apathy and indifference is prevalent in all churches. Small churches experience a greater impact with their ministry.
4. Too few workers - Many times, the pastor is seen as a "hired gun." This leads to fewer people with responsibilities.
5. Age of congregation - Young people aren't attracted to older congregations.
The church has to be intentional about reaching the younger demographics of their community.
6. Lack of money - Lack of "giving units" leads to less money leading to less ministry. Churches must continue to teach the importance of tithing.
7. Worldliness - The study points out "cultural seepage." In other words, catering to the community has caused the church to be influenced by the world.
8. Age of the pastor - Many pastors said they were too old to concentrate on outreach.
9. Too few people - Many said not enough help was available.
10. Demographics - In many ways, the community around the church was growing but the church was not growing.

Thoughts?

Celebrate Recovery!

It's been a few days since the last post. Let me explain why.

Scene: A large room, obviously intended for a public gathering. You notice 10-12 chairs in a circle near the middle of the room. The people standing near the chairs are dressed in everything from shorts and sandals to business suits. There are hispanics, whites, and african americans. All in all, the group seems to be pretty diverse. Some are talking to their neighbors. Others seem to be uncomfortable and almost reclusive.

At one point, someone asks for the session to begin and the participants take their seats. The leader begins with her own introduction and each participant follows in succession. Your mind's "eye" takes you to one of the last participants to introduce himself. You notice he looks alot like Mike Crow. After a closer look, you realize it is in fact someone whose blog you observe from time to time.

"Good evening everyone. My name is Mike Crow and I'm a LOSER. I've fallen off of the wagon again." The rest of the group shows signs of empathy and collectively responds, "Welcome Mike."

The leader directs her attention to me and asks, "You mention the wagon Mike. Tell us exactly what you mean."

"I've had several major decisions to make lately - for my family and for me personally. My family is preparing for my daughter's graduation. She's excited about the graduation, but anxious about what's next. We all are. My twelve year old is excited about attending a summer camp for three weeks. She's attended the camp before, but only for a week at a time. I know it will be good for her. But I'm not sure I'm as excited as she. School has just ended. Studying for sermons and Bible studies, doing ministry, and trying to complete major projects near the end of the semester has been overwhelming. I haven't done my best work. I turned the last project in late. I struggled more than ever on that paper. For the last few weeks, I haven't exercised regularly or eaten right. I'm to the point where I'm tired. A better word is weary. I need a drink. I'm thirsty. My lips are so dry they're cracked and bleeding. I think about the Samaritan woman at the well and I understand a little of where she was. Man, I really need Jesus to show up now! I don't think I can get back up. I'm trusting on Him to pick me up and place me back on the 'wagon'."

So folks, that's where I'm at. I heard a familiar song today. The David Crowder Band sings, "He'll never let go. He'll never let go. He'll never let go." That's what I need to hear. It's what we call a "God thing" and "God timing."

I think about God's grace and I think He's trying to teach me that I can't but He can. I'm such a slow learner. I'm ready to celebrate recovery.

A Portrait of Jesus

I remember growing up and seeing the half profile of a white bearded man with long hair. The picture was always hung in a prominent place. I was told the picture was that of Jesus.

Chances are, you've seen the same picture or something very similar. There wasn't a blemish on his face. In fact, if a picture could be perfect, this was it.

In the Gospels we read of Jesus and his humanity. He grew up as a typical Jewish child. In other words, he stubbed his toe, hit his hand with a hammer, probably didn't shave everyday, and may have even talked back to Mary. Oh yeah! He wasn't a white American male either.

When I realized that for the first time, my hopes were crushed. Jesus died for me. He had me in mind when he gave up his Spirit. At least, that was what I'd been led to believe. He had to be a white middle class American right? The picture I had in my mind (looking much like the portait I'd been raised on) had been crushed.

Is that your picture of Jesus? Does he just identify with people like you? Does he talk like you? Does he walk like you? Does he dress like you?

If so, maybe it's time for a spiritual spring cleaning.

National Day of Prayer 2008

Today, I find it appropriate to continue the discussion on dependence. More specifically, being that it's the National Day of Prayer, our dependence on God. Maybe you haven't heard much about the National Day of Prayer. I haven't heard much about it either - that is, except a few short announcements at church.

Today is the day that we're asked as followers of Christ to set aside a time to lift up needs within our nation, our state, our community, and our families. There are gatherings early to late (I chose one with breakfast tacos this morning). People have and will continue to gather and pray. A few will even go out of their way to find a group and pray.

I don't mean to be cynical. But here goes: What about tomorrow? What about next week? What about when things seem to be going well? What about when we forget our need for God and revert back to independence? What then?

After the coffee is gone and the smell of tacos dissipates, will we continue to pray? Will we set aside time to gather and pray for these things? If not, who will?

"Lord, teach us to pray..." (Luke 11:1 NRSV)