tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86304157507270382652023-11-16T00:41:02.610-06:00As The Crow FliesPonderings of a follower of Christ...Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.comBlogger169125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-13783700668477638672010-02-05T12:39:00.001-06:002010-02-05T12:41:15.403-06:00A New SeasonPlease follow us over to <a href="http://crowm.wordpress.com/">Wordpress</a>. This new site will allow greater options and more opportunities to grow. Thanks for reading!Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-27605659229591225062010-02-02T10:28:00.004-06:002010-02-02T11:14:15.215-06:00How Do You Feel About Sin?Christians should be the most joyful people in the world. Our receiving of the Gospel. Our hope found only in Christ Jesus. Our joy that will be complete when we are finally in His presence. But I do believe Christians should be joyful even in this imperfect world.<br /><br />That said, there are exceptions to that joy. In other words, what causes God grief? What causes Him disappointment? The Bible makes it clear that sin is the most responsible. My sin. Your sin.<br /><br />The rebellion of man went so far as to cause God to grieve. His heart was filled with pain (Genesis 6). And God destroyed everything but the ark and creation inside. You and I know the story. And yet I wonder if it really changes us.<br /><br />Richard Foster writes of <span style="font-weight:bold;">The Prayer of Tears</span>. When we understand our sinfulness, what Christ Jesus had to do to redeem our sin, and our responsibility as followers of Christ, a humbleness that can't be explained becomes reality. The Church Fathers believed in an acknowledgment of sin that led to deep sorrow and weeping. Consider who many call the weeping prophet - Jeremiah. <span style="font-style:italic;">...let your tears flow like a river day and night; give yourself no relief, your eyes no rest.</span> (Lamentations 2:18) The Apostle Paul wrote, <span style="font-style:italic;">"What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?"</span> (Romans 7:24) These are just two of many Biblical examples.<br /><br />As the Psalmist declares <span style="font-style:italic;">The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise</span>. (51:17)<br /><br />Does your sin break your heart? It breaks the heart of God!Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-85732919706259819162010-01-29T10:11:00.003-06:002010-01-29T10:28:10.052-06:00Gut CheckFriday is for confession. I know that doesn't rhyme or isn't cute. But it's true. In fact, every day (and many times a day) is a good time for confession. I have to share with you one of mine today. This will show you how lame I am.<br /><br />Something really bothered me this morning. Although I never heard an audible request, I was prompted to serve someone. The problem was it was 2:37 AM. It was cold. I was happy in bed. And I was prompted to serve. Ugh!<br /><br />I went about serving. But I did so muttering under my breath. Why couldn't...? What's wrong with them...? Why do I have to...? Sadly, I confess to being angry.<br /><br />And then something or SOMEONE stopped me dead in my tracks. "Here you are wanting to serve. You always pray for opportunities to serve. And when you're given an opportunity you whine, complain, and over react!" Needless to say, I was convicted.<br /><br />Upon returning to bed, I prayed that God wouldn't allow peace or sleep to come until I was really okay with what had happened. And I was wide awake for a little over an hour. Answered prayer. It was a time to reflect on my what I'd been called to do and how serious I was about my prayer to serve.<br /><br />I have a long way to go! Praise God for grace.Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-67202523563169317342010-01-28T11:21:00.003-06:002010-01-28T12:02:16.211-06:00Know Thyself - An ExamenToday, we look at what Foster calls <span style="font-weight:bold;">The Prayer of Examen</span>. If your mind has equated the word "examen" with that of "examination", you're on the right track. The opening chapter was beneficial for me. I thought I would quote it for you here.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">How very strange that the Prayer of Examen has been lost to we who live in an age of obsessive introspection. It is actually possible today for people to go to church services week in and week out for years without having a single experience of spiritual examen. What a tragedy! What a loss! No wonder people today are weak. No wonder they are barely hanging on.</span><br /><br />Go ahead. Read it again! This time, read it slowly and out loud.<br /><br />When is the last time you've taken a honest spiritual inventory? When have you truly examined? In this chapter, Foster writes of a spiritual examination. <br /><br />The examen of conscience has to do with evaluating what we've done with the opportunities God's given us. In other words, when a spiritual nudge encourages us to minister in a particular way, did we fulfill our responsibility? When we're prompted to speak truth, did we speak or simply allow the feeling to pass? When one is honest about who they are, when we stand before God with warts and all, grace takes on a greater meaning.<br /><br />Foster encourages us to look inward. It's not that we become more absorbed with ourselves. But it's that a honest evaluation entails looking deep within our soul. A practical example is that of a spiritual journal. A journal differs from a diary in that it focuses on the how and why rather than on the who. Again, this is just one example of looking deep within ourselves. It's a misjudgment to think everyone should journal. But it does benefit some. Foster's point is not the journal itself, but a honest evaluation.<br /><br />I believe Foster to be onto something. Because reality is often uncomfortable for us, often times we choose to ignore it. Being intentional about these evaluations is paramount to spiritual growth.<br /><br />I pray I've done this chapter justice. Thoughts? Do you have ways in which you take a spiritual assessment?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-25557308040700079062010-01-26T10:31:00.003-06:002010-01-26T11:03:49.751-06:00There's No Genie In A Bottle!This week, we continue our discussion on <span style="font-weight:bold;">Prayer: Finding The Heart's True Home</span> by Richard Foster. After discussing "simple prayer", Foster turns his attention to what he deems "The Prayer of the Forsaken."<br /><br />The Psalmist writes, <span style="font-style:italic;">I say to God my Rock, "Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?"</span> (Psalm 42:9 NIV) Elijah and Jeremiah cried out to God at various times in their lives. Jesus himself voiced, <span style="font-style:italic;">My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?</span> (Matthew 27:46 NIV)<br /><br />If you've had a relationship with God for very long, I think you understand what Foster argues in this chapter. There are times God seems to be distant. Even a response in the negative would be welcomed. And yet at times we pray and sense we're only talking to ourselves. There are times we read God's Word and it doesn't appear to be living and active (cf. Hebrews 4:12).<br /><br />Foster does a great job of explaining the concept of relationship. One party cannot force the other into mutual love or sacrifice. According to Foster, God gives mankind a free will for this purpose. You and I have the ability to choose or not to choose a relationship with God (or with others).<br /><br />At the same time, even though we know God never leaves us nor forsakes us, we sense those feelings of absence mentioned above. Again, according to Foster, God provides those times as opportunities to grow. God cannot be contained or made to show up on a whim. He is no genie in a bottle! His belly can't be rubbed expecting three wishes in return.<br /><br />The prayer of the forsaken is something we all need to understand. It's one of those things that we must prepare for before we reach those times in our lives. It must be understood God's silence does not mean His absence. And it's during those "dark times" we can grow the most.<br /><br />What thoughts might you have about The Prayer of the Forsaken?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-8675189705517925552010-01-21T03:23:00.000-06:002010-01-21T03:23:00.315-06:00The KISS Method Still WorksThe church tradition to which I belong celebrates communion every week. And most churches have elders or other leaders who pray prior to serving communion. At times, those who pray have changed their voices in a way that one would think they speak the King's English. It's as if they believe all the thees, thous, and Faaaaaather God included in their prayer signifies a closeness to God that only they enjoy. The inflection in their voice could be a legitimate concern for scaring the unchurched (or make the churched snicker). I've always found this practice to be a bit strange.<br /><br />I'm asked to pray at family gatherings or other community events. Often times, the title of pastor or minister leads an organizer to invite a clergyman to pray. Please understand, I'm not offended. In fact, I consider it a great blessing to pray. But to think or assume that someone in ministry has a direct line to God or will be heard before any others is laughable. In fact, there are times when I've been asked to pray I politely ask one of my kids to pray. The purpose is two-fold. First of all, I believe if one wants to learn to pray, a good place to begin is to pray. In other words, there comes a time where we must stop talking about prayer and pray. Secondly, my hope is it teaches the more mature in attendance that the faith of a child shouldn't be minimized.<br /><br />Too often, people aren't comfortable praying in a corporate setting. They feel inadequate, not sure of what to say, or intimidated by what those in earshot might think about their words. This is a huge misconception of prayer and the reason for praying.<br /><br />Richard Foster begins his discussion on prayer (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/PRAYER-FINDING-HEARTS-RICHARD-FOSTER/dp/B000V1OSBA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1263937819&sr=8-3">Prayer: Finding The Heart's True Home</a>) with a chapter on simple prayer. According to Foster, too often we forget that God wants to hear about the details. He wants to know our struggles, our victories, and our challenges. Nothing will surprise him. And just like we desire to be approached and loved by our children, God desires the same.<br /><br />Sometimes, the best way to accomplish something is the KISS method. You remember the KISS method. Keep it simple stupid! There's no need for the King's English. God's okay with simplicity. In fact, being real makes God really proud.<br /><br />Thoughts?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-44560216601750576102010-01-19T10:39:00.003-06:002010-01-19T10:53:37.392-06:00Foster [on] PrayerPrayer is one of the spiritual disciplines I believe no matter how hard one works at it, it never is perfected. There are times I pray that I feel so inadequate. And yet I am asked to pray at gatherings for various reasons. In recent weeks, I've been led to become more disciplined in my life of prayer. Authors like E.M. Bounds automatically come to mind. And then I remembered a book I have on my shelf by Richard Foster (Prayer: Finding the Hearts True Home). Foster always gives me something to think about. And as I read this book again (and more importantly focus on what Scripture says regarding prayer), I pray I will be challenged again. In the next few weeks, I hope you'll read my reflections on prayer. And I pray you'll be encouraged to strengthen your own prayer life.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">"Healthy prayer necessitates frequent experiences of the common, earthy, run-of-the-mill variety. Like walks, and talks, and good wholesome laughter. Like work in the yard, and chitchat with neighbors, and washing windows. Like loving our spouse, and playing with our kids, and working with our colleagues. To be spiritually fit to scale the Himalayas of the spirit, we need regular exercise in the hills and valleys of ordinary life."</span><br /> - Richard Foster<br /><br />Any thoughts on prayer?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-78843422162007085072010-01-12T11:08:00.003-06:002010-01-12T11:57:31.204-06:00Mark McGwire is no King David!Being an avid fan of the greatest game on Earth, you're probably not surprised to know that I've posted in the past about baseball. When the things of God and my favorite game can be brought up in the same discussion, I'm like a dead pig in warm sunshine. :)<br /><br />Yesterday, perhaps the biggest sports story of the week sent sports writers everywhere into a tailspin. Mark McGwire sat down with Bob Costas and admitted he had used performance enhancing drugs in the past. You can find the link and story <a href="http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100111&content_id=7900244&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb">here</a>. <br /><br />McGwire was hired as the hitting coach for his former St. Louis Cardinals. He told Costas he had been struggling with his decision to come "clean" since 2005 (when Major League Baseball began their formal investigation of steroid abuse). His rationale was based on his family, friends, and peers being questioned about his practices in the past. While testifying to a Senate committee, McGwire continued to deny his use of steroids and stated he "wanted to focus on the future and not the past."<br /><br />After watching the interview, I was a bit dumbfounded. During the first part of the interview, McGwire seems remorseful, apologizes to the commissioner, his teammates, and his family. He also made an effort to call the widow of Roger Maris (who was listed as holding the home run record) and apologize to her. I observed a tearful man who seemed sincere in his apology. Honestly, I was reminded of King David's remorse for sin in Psalm 32:3. <span style="font-style:italic;">When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.</span><br /><br />During the second part of the interview, McGwire was asked if he believed he would have accomplished all that he did without the performance enhancing drugs. He states that he believes he would have and then offers his home run record from Little League, American Legion, high school, and college baseball. In fact, McGwire says "The man upstairs has given him a gift to hit home runs."<br /><br />The reason for my confusion is two-fold. Again, it sounds as if he's sincere in his apology and then quickly becomes adamant about "not taking the drugs for power but for health." Frankly, I don't care why he took them and never believed him when he denied taking them. He states during the interview "This is the worst day of my life." I wonder why. Does "coming clean" hurt so much? King David writes about consequences and then the peace that eventually comes with integrity restored. It's interesting that many writers say they will never vote for McGwire until he tells the truth. Was this the reason his timing is what it is?<br /><br />We may never know the reason for his timing. And we may not know the full truth about who took steroids and for how long. I do know however that sin when left alone will destroy a person. I've experienced that in my own life and I read that time and time again in Scripture.<br /><br />After his confession, King David is restored and is eventually called "a man after God's heart." His motive(s) must have been righteous. McGwire's motives are yet to be determined. However, Mark McGwire is no King David. Nor am I!<br /><br />Writer <a href="http://blog.beliefnet.com/jesuscreed/2010/01/the-right-thing-for-mark-mcgwi.html">Scot McKnight</a> has a short blog on what he believes McGwire should do. Any thoughts?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-76209460252231025272010-01-07T11:36:00.004-06:002010-01-07T12:03:42.594-06:00A Godly VisionAround the start of a new year, many times we're encouraged to reflect on God's will for our lives - specifically, what God's will is for the next year. I believe God has a general will for mankind (ie salvation etc.) and a specific will (ie a "calling" God places on one's life). It's the latter that must be evaluated on a constant basis. And based upon the evaluation, perhaps changes need to take place.<br /><br />God places dreams or visions in our lives (short-term and long-term). And when one walks in God's will to realize those dreams or visions, there's no better feeling. Many times, however, my experience has been I drift to the right or left on the proverbial road of life. And it's only through an honest evaluation which includes prayer and fasting that I'm convicted to redirect my path to God's will.<br /><br />Our church is currently studying the book of Nehemiah. I'm amazed at this faithful man who should at least be considered a spiritual mentor. When Nehemiah learns the immense challenge of God's people remaining in Jerusalem, he prays, fasts, and seeks God's will. After determining Nehemiah's role in God's plan, he arrives in Jerusalem and waits three more days, before evaluating the situation with his own eyes.<br /><br />At first glance, it might appear Nehemiah to be dragging his feet or perhaps lazy. But a deeper study reveals Nehemiah to be more concerned about God's timing, rather than jumping in and eventually failing. Often times, we have huge dreams or visions about what we will do for God. Perhaps a better question is "What will God have me do?" In other words, the visionary changes from me to Him.<br /><br />Just some thoughts. Now yours?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-67639626108677446012010-01-05T11:39:00.004-06:002010-01-05T11:52:26.118-06:00Read The Bible In A YearI've chosen to read through the Bible again this year. The discipline that I've learned from this exercise in the past has been priceless. And honestly, it's something I desperately need in my life now. I've found several good plans to accomplish this exercise. However, this year I've chosen a plan proposed by Augsburg Fortress Press in the back of their New Revised Standard Version of the Bible. If you're interested in reading along, let me know. It'd be great to be on the same page. :)<br /><br />I'm interested in knowing what's worked for you. 1) Have you read through the Bible in a year? If so, what's the biggest benefit? If not, why not? 2) What plan have you used? Do you continue to use the same plan every year or choose another "road map"?<br /><br />What can a discipline such as reading Scripture teach us about ourselves?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-11456521771470250512010-01-02T12:03:00.002-06:002010-01-02T12:29:50.024-06:00A New StartIt's been said "A good place to begin is the beginning." Turning the calendar and observing a new start surely would be defined as a beginning. Without further delay, I wish you a Blessed New Year, a great beginning and finish, and many victories over the challenges that are sure to come.<br /><br />Recently, I was asked, "When are you going to write again?" Honestly, I was taken back. I had no idea this person actually read my meanderings here. And I am honored. As a new year begins, I will attempt (notice no promise here) to be more consistent with posting here. After all, my resolutions have been boiled down to DISCIPLINE. This might be a good place to start. And if you'll mention this post within the next thirty days (you know who you are), I'll find a gift card for a great steakhouse for your loyalty.<br /><br />The overall plan is to offer some thoughts - however profound they might be, what I'm reading - no limits here, offer some blogs I follow, and point you to people whose work I respect. <br /><br />I do hope you'll hang on, hang out, or offer your own thoughts from time to time. And when I get a bit slow, a good kick in the pants from you would be good as well. Let's get the party started!Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-4334666445043438192009-08-05T11:00:00.002-05:002009-08-05T11:40:10.636-05:00The Problem of SinWow! What a huge topic. How can anyone "deal" with sin in one post? Truth is, they (at least I) can't. And I'm not going to try to do so now.<br /><br />I ran across a great article in <a href="http://www.christianitytoday.com/le">Leadership</a> a few weeks ago. Sadly, I couldn't find the article on line. But it's truly worth your time.<br /><br />I became familiar with John Ortberg a few years back and appreciate the way he writes, teaches, and shares his encouragement with those "plunging ahead" in this less than perfect world. Ortberg is Senior Pastor for Menlo Park Presbyterian Church in California. He's also editor at large of Leadership.<br /><br />Within the article, Ortberg argues that the Church has had a view of sin that should be reconsidered. Ortberg writes, "The problem with what might be called 'the victorious Christian living' mindset is not that it takes sin too seriously. The problem is it inevitably becomes selective about which sins God hates the most, and they always end up being somebody else's sins."<br /><br />And again, "...people cannot grasp the goodness of the life that sin corrupts. When we do not understand the destructiveness of sin, we are more concerned about getting punished for our sins than the way we are punished by them."<br /><br />Finally, Ortberg argues sin cannot be tamed in this life. However, he believes one should focus not on the sin but on the one who provides redemption. For Ortberg, it's really a problem of perspective.<br /><br />Again, I regret the article is unavailble to be linked. The article is in the Spring '09 edition of Leadership on pages 31-34. Consider picking it up.<br /><br />Any thoughts here?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-83801784054456241732009-07-29T09:45:00.003-05:002009-07-29T09:56:00.383-05:00Church ShoppingSomething that has bothered me for years has been those in the Church who "church shop." I saw it as a kid. When someone left the church over something petty, chances were good they would eventually return. After all, they would never be happy.<br /><br />This morning I received an illustration that I think is right on. Friend and fellow pastor Brian Jones writes Non-Religious Devotional Thoughts. You can find out more at <a href="http://www.BrianJones.com">www.BrianJones.com</a> This installment is called Connoisseurs of Fine Churches. Enjoy!<br /> <br /><br /><br />Connoisseurs of Fine Churches<br />By Brian Jones<br /><br /> <br />After church services one Sunday a couple greeted me on their way out the door. By their cologne and big jewelry and cliché Christian lingo I knew they weren't our typical non-religious visitors. "Pastor, what an anointed word from God you delivered today," the husband said. I cringed. The only people that talk that way are on Christian television. <br /> <br />I swallowed and said, "Hope to see you next week." <br /> <br />His wife looked at me with a grin, "Nope. We won't be back. Years ago the Lord told us to attend a different church every week. So we'll be somewhere else next Sunday." <br /> <br />I said, "Let me get this straight. You go to a different church every week?" <br /> <br />"Yep," he said, "been doing it for five years now." <br /> <br />I said, "How sad." <br /> <br />"Why do you say that?" she angrily shot back. <br /> <br />"Because," I said, "you never get to experience real Christian community. You're, like, connoisseurs of fine churches or something. My hunch is it wasn't the Lord who called you to do this. You need to find a church and put down roots."<br /> <br />Needless to say they didn't come back. <br /> <br />It's sad, really. <br /> <br />We've become a nation of church shoppers. If the preaching gets boring at our church, we pull out the yellow pages. If the worship style changes, we go to First Church's early service. If our Sunday school class starts to get too impersonal, we don't sweat it, we try the hot new church in town.<br /> <br />We Christians change churches like we change favorite restaurants. <br /> <br />I'm sure that makes God sad.<br /> <br />In the New Testament there are dozens and dozens of things Christians are told to do. Leaving one another is not one of them.<br /> <br />In fact, we're told to do the exact opposite. <br /> <br />Is there someone at your church you can't stand? 1 John 3:11 tells us to "Love one another." <br /> <br />Did the pastor at your fellowship hurt your feelings? Colossians 3:13 says, "Forgive one another." <br /> <br />Do the attitudes of the people in your body need to change? James 5:16 says, "Pray for one another." <br /> <br />In other words, roll up your sleeves and do the hard work of building community where you are. Don't go AWOL spiritually. Stick it out, through exciting times and boring times. Pray, serve, love, forgive, sacrifice, and resolve like authentic followers of Jesus.<br /> <br />My parents started attending Eastpointe Christian Church when they were both in the 7th grade. They're now in their 60's. They've never attended another church. Over the past 50 years they've seen quite a lot. They lived through the "clapping in church" controversy of 1975 as well as the mediocre church softball team of the early 90's. They've seen people get married, have children, and those children get married and have children. They've seen hundreds of people come to Christ and some of those people fall by the wayside. They've buried dear friends. They've served with great pastors and mediocre pastors and experienced great worship and boring worship. Through calm years and tumultuous years, my parents have given and served and prayed their entire lives in that one church. <br /> <br />One day in the future my mom and dad will pass, as you and I will. But right before that happens they'll be able to do something someone who has spent their life church shopping cannot; they'll look back and savor the memories a lifetime of faithful service in one congregation brings. <br /> <br />They'll look back and relish the dangerous conversations they didn't avoid, sins they were encouraged to confront, and authentic Christians friendships it took a generation to develop.<br /> <br />Jesus wants you to experience the same thing.<br /> <br />I'm sure you know this already, but it's worth repeating. That "perfect church" you're looking for already exists. You attended it last Sunday. <br /><br /><br />Any thoughts?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-65491097189723644282009-07-27T14:35:00.007-05:002009-07-27T15:16:27.259-05:00Simple is Better!I've become convinced that many in the Church have made the Gospel much more difficult than it actually is. In other words, churches elevate traditions to something equal with Scripture. Oh, they would never admit to doing it. But ask someone in the Church what it means to be saved and check me on this. More than likely, their response will be something other than "Love God and Love others." If they respond with that phrase, they might be on to something. After all, when questioned by the legalists of the day, Jesus' response was as simple as "Love God and love others." The Gospel of John points out that Jesus was going to show his followers "the full extent of his love", just prior to serving them by washing their feet.<br /><br />Recently, I had a conversation with someone who was struggling with their faith. Their objection to God wasn't to be found. However, this person had "issues" with the Church - specifically people who claim to belong to the Church. Let me share with you a few things this person said to me. "Church is all about rules. I can't smoke. I can't drink. I can't dance. I can't have fun. I can't...I can't...I can't...It's like the Church is the moral police."<br /><br />The more I've thought about her words and although they're perhaps a bit over-generalized, I think her words carry some weight. Why is it that we tell those searching for God to conform to our ways (and not His)? Why is it that we think we have it all figured out and no one else does? Why is it that the Church is always right (or at least we think we are)? Why is it that we turn souls away from God by acting the way we do from time to time?<br /><br />The message Jesus brought was pretty simple really. Notice I didn't say living up to the messsage was simple. I said the message itself is easy to understand. When those in the Church make the Gospel more about morality, rules, and regulations, we miss the message altogether. The irony is we condemn the Pharisees for their attitudes and then we're quick to establish some rules. Maybe it's time for a return to simplicity.<br /><br />What do you think?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-68427540233020763542009-05-20T11:12:00.001-05:002009-05-20T11:13:08.083-05:00Short BreakShort break....back in a few! Thanks for checking in from time to time.<br /><br />Blessings,<br /><br />mCrowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-46077224920079254082009-04-27T09:22:00.003-05:002009-04-27T09:40:20.860-05:00Help!I've come across something that I need some help on from my "blogosphere counselors". In no way will I try to bias your view by what I believe. However, because I'm a bit confused, my feelings might be evident in the following.<br /><br />The community here has participated in Relay For Life for several years. For those who don't know, RFL is an opportunity to raise money for the American Cancer Society, while recognizing survivors and remembering those who have passed. Without boring you with too many details, teams will raise money and gather at the city park to walk for their pledges. It's an all-night event where organizers hope to have 250-500 people in attendance.<br /><br />A local church in town had plans to minister at this event. Their plans didn't include having a team walk (although they have participated in the past and plan to do so again in the future). This year, the church had planned to be on site throughout the night and <strong>give</strong> water, juice, and fruit to those participating in other ways.<br /><br />The organizers have been made aware of the church's intentions and will not allow the church to complete their plans. The church has been told they're welcome as long as they <strong>sell</strong> water, juice, and fruit. Leadership at the church has the concern if they sell and then give the money to RFL those who purchase the drinks and fruit will perceive the church selling (instead of ministering by giving). In other words, this is a question of perception. How might the community respond to a church who sacrifices their time to give versus a church that sells products?<br /><br />In an effort to appease the local organizers, the church has offered to write a check for several hundred dollars and then give. They don't want to be perceived as the rebellious church in town. Once again, they have been told this would not be possible. The organizers have turned down the money because of their policy of giving things away.<br /><br />Any thoughts here?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-18232767034253899092009-04-07T09:41:00.002-05:002009-04-07T10:14:52.481-05:001 Peter (4)<em>By his great mercy he has given us <strong>a new birth</strong>...</em><br /><br />A new birth signifies a new life. Jesus told Nicodemus "No one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above" (Jn 3:3). Does Peter have this dialogue in his mind when he pens his letter? Maybe so. <br /><br />Later in his letter, Peter defines what he means by "new birth". <em>You have been born anew, not of perishable but of imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God </em>(1:23)<br /><br />Peter states this birth is <em>into a living hope </em>(1:4) Have you ever observed someone without hope? The Apostle Paul mentions non-believers as having no hope (Eph 2:12). Peter could have begun his letter in many ways. However, one of the first things he offers is hope. The Christian must understand what Christ has done for them - even in the midst of persecution.<br /><br />One other thing, when it comes to new birth, John writes, "...for whoever is born of God conquers the world, our faith" (1 Jn 5:4). That's the hope Peter is speaking of.<br /><br />During this Easter season, we remember what Christ Jesus has done for us. We remember the thirty-nine lashes, the mocking, the sin placed upon Him, the gruesome death, and the burial. And then we remember the tomb being empty, Jesus appearing to his followers, the restoration of Peter (among others), and the hope He gives. That's the hope Peter speaks of. That's the hope that we must continue to attempt to understand.<br /><br />Any thoughts?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-79130615177370231902009-04-03T08:32:00.003-06:002009-04-03T09:07:31.237-06:00Theology Snack #8People often disagree (and sometimes argue) about the affect of water baptism in a person's life. One side believes baptism happens only after "regeneration" takes place. Others, obviously, would disagree. In my tradition, baptism is seen as part of the salvation process - so much so that often times Restoration churches are accused of water regeneration. <br /><br />The label water regenerationist makes me squirm. In other words, I don't believe there's anything in the water that is magical that will save an individual. However, making Jesus Lord/master of one's life includes adhering to his examples and commands. It's for this reason, I believe water baptism to be important. One other thing about water baptism: Is it strictly for an individual or is there some impact on the community?<br /><br />If a person is convicted of his/her need for Christ as savior, doesn't it make sense that the person be obedient to what Scripture teaches?<br /><br />Thoughts about these questions? Or any questions yourself?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-52431264521581125292009-03-30T00:15:00.001-06:002009-03-29T23:59:24.800-06:00Heaven's Perfect MelodyGod loves us more than we can ever know. What Christ did for us cannot be minimized. Matt Redman tries to describe it for us here.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fCO3eSftHiM&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fCO3eSftHiM&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Be blessed!Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-1271932208550373622009-03-27T00:05:00.001-06:002009-03-27T00:05:00.325-06:00Theology Snack #7Today, I wanted to offer the following and get your thoughts. First of all, here's Paul's words to the Church in Ephesus.<br /><br /><em>...He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him.</em> 1:4 NASB<br /><br />Now on to a thought of the "50-cent" word predestination. Catch this:<br /><br /><strong>If we see God's grace in Christ as the basis for our 'election' to salvation, we will not dream of looking for it in ourselves and in our superiority to other people.</strong><br /> - Shirley Guthrie<br /><br />Guthrie goes on to say, <strong>If we understand the meaning of predestination in light of the biblical witness to God's grace in Christ, we will understand it as both a gift and a task.</strong><br /><br />Big snack today. Chew slowly and then let me hear your comments.Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-89000759564253545072009-03-24T08:51:00.003-06:002009-03-24T09:08:57.591-06:001 Peter (cont)<strong><em>"...who, according to his great mercy..."</em></strong> 1 Pet 1:3<br /><br />Mercy is defined as not getting something one deserves. Paul writes of guilt on the behalf of all persons when it comes to sin (Romans 3:23). He also points out the result of sin is death (6:23).<br /><br />When Peter begins his letter to those who have been scattered due to oppression or persecution, he takes the time to mention God's great mercy. This phrase is often glanced over quickly or forgotten about before the reader looks to other phrases later in the text.<br /><br />When faced with judgment or guilt, man's tendency is to look at the opportunity for pardon. In other words, we focus on a "new birth" to which Peter speaks. We'd rather reflect on the hope in Christ rather than the truth of sin. However, isn't it true that to appreciate a new birth or hope found in Christ, one must also spend time considering his own crimes against God prior to reflecting on God's great mercy? Often times, we focus on the pardon God provides so we won't have to deal with the reality of our own guilt. Might this attitude lead to what Bonhoeffer calls "Cheap Grace"?<br /><br />Any thoughts?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-69501739925323032062009-03-17T11:07:00.003-06:002009-03-17T11:23:25.128-06:00Recognizing God IncarnateWe begin today looking at a passage that William Barclay says, "...there are few passages in the New Testament where more of the great fundamental Christian ideas come together." The next few weeks, I plan to post on 1 Peter 1:3-5 (and hope to hear your thoughts as well).<br /><br />We begin with the first affirmation of the author. <br /><br /><em>Blessed </em>(<em>Praise</em>, NIV) <em>be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus </em>Christ... (NASB)<br /><br />The Jews recognized God in their prayer from the beginning. <em>"Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the LORD is one!"</em> (Deuteronomy 6:4). When Peter writes to God's chosen people residing as aliens (1:1), He implores them to remember who their God is. For the Christian in the New Testament, the difference between a Jew recognizing YHWH and to whom the Christian prays is important to note. In other words, Christians recognize not only the Father, but also the Son as being God incarnate.<br /><br />This is important throughout the letter Peter pens. Any initial thoughts?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-19580555238395806792009-03-13T00:19:00.000-06:002009-03-13T00:19:00.176-06:00Theology Snack #6We've all heard the phrase "Let go and let God." In regards to our spiritual growth, sometimes it's tough to do exactly that. We try to overcome on our own strength. And when we fail, we try harder and harder. Check this out and pay close attention to the words.<br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/CdjRmM0Q0qs&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/CdjRmM0Q0qs&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Maybe we should let go and let God. Be Blessed!Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-74375619533988587792009-03-12T09:23:00.003-06:002009-03-12T09:54:35.798-06:00God's Gift To Us<em>Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his <strong>great mercy</strong> he has given us <strong>new birth</strong> into a <strong>living hope</strong> through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade - kept in heaven for you, who <strong>through faith</strong> are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be <strong>revealed in the last time</strong>.</em> 1 Peter 1:3-5<br /><br />I've been in 1 Peter for a few days now. There's much to think about in the few verses above. What about the great mercy, new birth, and a living hope that all comes through faith?<br /><br />Let's talk about these things the next few weeks. Any initial thoughts?Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8630415750727038265.post-15185386647407931592009-03-09T00:32:00.001-06:002009-03-09T00:32:00.969-06:00A BlessingRelationships are often taken for granted. Truth is, we don't miss them until they're gone. I lost my Dad a few years ago. We disagreed on some things - many times, things that weren't all that important. But thankfully, the last few years we had the chance to reconcile some misunderstandings. I sure miss him.<br /><br />If you have your Dad close, you're blessed. If something needs to be said today, don't wait until tomorrow. Listen to the words here and be blessed!<br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TJK8Ev1l1hA&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/TJK8Ev1l1hA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Feel free to share any thoughts.Crowmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17972336038762974441noreply@blogger.com3