A Welcome Intruder

Leonard Sweet begins his "community/relationship" discussion by stating, "Life is a handicap event. We can't get to our destination without the help of others" (19). The premise of the book is based upon those two sentences. Sweet then takes 11 Biblical characters (the 12th being the Holy Spirit) and gives examples of why each of those character traits should be incorporated into our own lives.

The first Biblical example is that of Nathan. Many times we talk about the importance of accountability relationships(see previous posts). Sweet likes to think of Nathan as being an editor rather than an accountability partner. In other words, while one is looking for the wrong in another's life and correcting the wrong (accountability), the other is taking the good in another's life and editing it to be even better (editor).

You remember Nathan. Nathan had a special relationship with King David. He was allowed to say things that others wouldn't have been allowed to think. Nathan was a welcome intruder. "It's an editor's job to get you to ask the question: Is God's name glorified or smeared in my life?" (Sweet 39). The Nathan in your life must ask difficult questions for your own good. The Nathan in your life has the right motive (to help you be all you can be). Again, the difference between accountability and editing is motive. "Christianity quickly becomes Niceianity, and a Nathan doesn't live on Planet Nice, at least when we're around" (41).

Your Nathan may be a donkey (Balam), a fish (Jonah), or your spouse. Your Nathan cares about you. They've got your best interests at heart because you're loved. A Nathan has permission to proclaim "You are the man!" The problem is most of us are island Christians. Most of us are arrogant enough to think we can make it alone. Most of us refuse Nathan's in our lives.

How about you? Who's your Nathan? Who has permission to intrude in your life to edit the good? Who do you allow to tell you like it is? Have you found a Nathan?

Created For Community

When I was in Bible College, one of the books that I really appreciated was Stan Grenz's "Created For Community." Grenz argues theology is part of everyday life. In other words, our worldviews determine how we live our lives, including what we think of ourselves, what we believe about the world in which we live, and how we interact with those around us. If you get a chance, this is a great read.

As you've noticed, I've recently been reading Leonard Sweet's "11". Sweet maintains there are 11 relationships that each of us need in our lives. I'll post about each of the relationships and would be interested in your thoughts.

Perhaps we can learn a litle more about how we are created for relationships.

God's Blessings

The third Thursday of November we celebrate the blessings in our lives. It's been a tradition since 1621 when the New England Puritans instituted the feast. Despite recent traditions (Turkey, Ham, Sweet Potatoes, Detroit and Dallas football), Thanksgiving was intended to remind participants of their bountiful blessings. Chances are pretty good that the old hymn "Count Your Blessings" will be sung the Sunday prior or the Sunday after Thanksgiving.

This past week, I've been reminded time and time again of God's blessings. Why is it that we wait until November to remember how good God is? When we truly understand God's love, grace, mercy etc., Thanksgiving happens in June, July, November and every day of our lives.

Still Hanging Out!

Man it's good to have family close. For those who don't know, we moved to find the house not ready (plumbing, painting, etc.). It wasn't to the point that we could move in. We've been staying at the in-laws the last few days. Praise God for their graciousness.

The work that's been done at the house is amazing. We've been so blessed to see what the church has done for us. God is good! I'll try to post pics in a few days.

I Hate Moving!

As you've noticed, I've been out for the week. Moving is such a hassle. Remind me to never do it again. Unless God says so of course.

The posts will be back to normal? next week.

Pls pray for the nephew and family. They're in San Antonio doing medical things for the week.

Until next week...

Friday Fodder

I had breakfast with a good friend today. In fact, we've had breakfast on most Fridays for a little over a year. It's always a good conversation. He challenges me. Hopefully I do the same for him. It's what I picture when I read of encouraging one another (1 Thes 5:11, Heb. 3:13). We eat, pray, and ask one another's advice. There are times we give advice, without being asked. I'm really going to miss our time together. Thanks friend!

Today, several people came over and shook hands or gave hugs saying, "I heard you were leaving. We're going to miss you. etc." After thinking about those relationships, I'm grateful for each. I'm thankful that many people have nice things to say. I'm thankful that God brought each one into my life.

Here's the dilemma life throws at us. When relationships change, there is some sadness. Anticipation of new challenges leads to anxiety and excitement. I could end with a cheesy cliche. But I won't put you through that. Life is ups and downs. God calls us to new places knowing the relationships built will change. And this is the way life is supposed to be.

Thoughts?

Priceless

It was SeaWorld San Antonio yesterday. I feel blessed that the kids had another chance to go before we moved. It was crowded in the morning but by 2ish, people started heading for the exits. After all, it was only about 102 and humid.

Ticket to SeaWorld San Antonio = $45.00
8 hours at the park at 102 degrees = a little sunburn and at least $130 in food
Seeing Christian's face see Shamu, touch a dolphin, and laugh = priceless