Restoration 101

Is anyone else sick and tired of the health and wealth stuff that has seemed to gain popularity? It seems that if I just have enough faith and send a "love gift" for at least $9.99, I'll then receive a "point of contact." In other words, the ministry will put a prayer hankerchief, a vial of water, or some smelly soap in the mail for me. It seems that when I receive said above, there's something that happens if I'll just pray with whatever it is.

As always, I've got a few questions about this. First of all, can anyone tell me about this point of contact? Why is my "healing" based on a point of contact. I realize Christ Jesus touched those who needed a miracle. But did Christ have to touch to heal? Didn't He have authority to command and know something would be done? Didn't God speak the world into existence (without physical touch)?

When it comes to healing, often times we think something happens in the physical. But is that what Jesus was really about? Throughout His public ministry, Jesus did heal physical ailments. But what was the reason? Could it be that it was a story within a larger story? In other words, from the physical healing might we learn about the sovereignty of God, the restoration/healing He might provide for the infirm on a spiritual level, etc.? Something else to consider is although we have accounts of healings, did Jesus heal everyone He came into contact?

I realize one post is not enough to get this done. Consider this a discussion starter. And please let me know what you think before I put my $9.99 in the mail.

Friday Fodder

I'm a big believer in what I would call "restorative theology." There may be another or a better name for it, but let me explain just a bit. I believe that when mankind sinned in the Garden of Eden, causing chaos to reign, God began a plan to restore all of creation to the way it was intended (cf. Genesis 1 and 2). That "plays out" in the Old Testament Law, the incarnation, Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, and the opportunity we have for life. I also believe restoration has to happen between God and mankind, and man to man.

Here's the "fodder." When we speak of restoration between man and man, when does ministry (restorative ministry) end and socialism begin? I know what I believe. It's now your turn.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Created for Relationship

We all know independent people. Shae is one of those people. When it comes to changing the oil in the truck, she can do it. When something needs to be done, give her enough time and its accomplished. You've been warned not to challenge her with, "That can't be done!" She will prove you wrong. She will either do it or find someone who will. I have to admit, when I try to do some of those things, I screw it up worse than it was. Eventually, it's time to find someone else to fix the problem.

For the most part, independence is a good thing. But more importantly, we need those we can count on to encourage us to live to our highest potential. We get to the point where we can't accomplish tasks on our own. Even the most independent people eventually need other resources. I need you and you need me.

Fact is: Mankind was created for community. Consider the examples of the Trinity, Adam and Eve, God and the Israelites, Jesus and the Church, marriage, the nuclear family, and _____________(add your own example here).

Americana has led us to believe "To accept, or worse yet, to request help signifies a weakness." How wrong we are when we buy into this idea. Christian pollster George Barna found 1 out of 6 believers has no accountability relationship with another believer.

It's just another way we've allowed society to infiltrate the Church.

Amazing Love

A small group I'm involved in has been studying the book of Hosea. Today, we look at the restoration of Israel. The restoration is based on nothing but God's grace and love. Considering that Israel continued to turn their "back" on God, it's amazing that He continues to love them.

You've probably noticed I've been reading through Ezekiel during my time alone with God. The similarities with Hosea are numerous. God points to life. Israel rebels and does her own thing. The consequences are harsh but deserving. Israel is restored in chapter 36.

I'm currently preaching through some of the Psalms. I was led to Psalm 90 for this week. The Psalmist declares God and His prominence, power, and providence. The people of God have been unfaithful and see God as the faithful One. The Psalm is concluded by praying for God's deliverance.

I mention these as a group for a reason. Regarding the similarities, I don't believe it's a coincidence. God's grace is made new to me everyday. Even though I continue to choose my ways over God's ways, God restores that which is lost. Even though I'm undeserving, God continues to provide life. Wow! It seems so simple to say, "What an amazing love."