Looking for some good reads... The Daily Keller page combed through some deals with suggestions.
I've combed through it for my own suggestions for anyone interested:
- The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness by Tim Keller – $0.99
- The King Jesus Gospel by Scot McKnight – $1.99
- Delighting in the Trinity by Michael Reeves – $2.99
- Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Christmas Sermons – $3.79
- The Meaning of Marriage by Tim Keller – $7.99
- Jesus the King by Tim Keller – $7.99
- Culture Making: Recovering Our Creative Calling by Andy Crouch – $2.99
- The Sermon on the Mount by Scot McKnight and Tremper Longman – $4.27
- Everyday Church by Tim Chester and Steve Timmis – $1.99
- Simple Church by Thom Rainer and Eric Geiger – $2.99
- The Complete Works of E.M. Bounds on Prayer - $2.99
- Live Like a Narnian: Christian Discipleship in Lewis’s Chronicles by Joe Rigney – $2.99
Monday, December 02, 2013
Thursday, September 05, 2013
Just think you're great at something and you are?
"We want our children to grow up learning that sport is not about
competition, rather it's about using your imagination. If you imagine
you're good at soccer, then, you are."
How does that statement sound to you?
It's from a recent article that states an Ontario association has removed the ball from soccer in order to not allow competition so every kid feels good about themselves.
I support the mind set in sports - especially for young kids - that promotes fun and positive encouragement over just winning (we've seen enough parents charge the field at a 5 year old soccer game!)
However, the idea that a kid is good at something just because they imagine they are might be sending the wrong message to how a kid discovers what they're good at, what they ending up pursuing in life, how they discern if they're a right fit for a team, company, or project down the road.
Seems rather strange to me. You?
How does that statement sound to you?
It's from a recent article that states an Ontario association has removed the ball from soccer in order to not allow competition so every kid feels good about themselves.
I support the mind set in sports - especially for young kids - that promotes fun and positive encouragement over just winning (we've seen enough parents charge the field at a 5 year old soccer game!)
However, the idea that a kid is good at something just because they imagine they are might be sending the wrong message to how a kid discovers what they're good at, what they ending up pursuing in life, how they discern if they're a right fit for a team, company, or project down the road.
Seems rather strange to me. You?
Tuesday, April 09, 2013
The Atheist Church?
I've been following the recent rise of religion among atheists lately.
Alain de Botton was the major teaser of this with his recent Ted Talk (Atheism 2.0) and his book, Religion for Atheists, stating that "even if religion isn't true, can't we enjoy the best bits."
There's a yearning, it seems, among atheists - for community, collective mission, living better lives, kindness, and more. More of what atheism currently doesn't offer, provide, or perhaps doesn't promote (at least some seem to think so)
Some atheists have started to realize that aspects of religion - though connected to God - are missing in their lives.
It's not that surprising, then, that a few atheists also hunger for church - of some sort.
Check out... The Sunday Assembly - a new church in Britain.
They meet in a church building, sing songs, listen to a talk, and nurture relationship.
Sound familiar?
Interesting that the original name for the church was ecclesia, which happens to mean assembly or gathering. (though the 1st century church's reason for assembly was much stronger than a community potluck and open mic)
Part of this experimental atheist church's mission is to pursue "wonder," yet Phyllis Tickle says they lack transcendence, mystery, and beauty.
How many inspirational talks or comedy routines can one participate in? Will they commit to it weekly? What will keep them together?
It's a new world, yet the same old questions.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Is this a good thing?
Where does this longing come from?
Is there something more to a church other than it's form (format)?
Do you think this will last or go global?
(if you comment, it would be great to state if you're an atheist or some kind of believer)
Alain de Botton was the major teaser of this with his recent Ted Talk (Atheism 2.0) and his book, Religion for Atheists, stating that "even if religion isn't true, can't we enjoy the best bits."
There's a yearning, it seems, among atheists - for community, collective mission, living better lives, kindness, and more. More of what atheism currently doesn't offer, provide, or perhaps doesn't promote (at least some seem to think so)
Some atheists have started to realize that aspects of religion - though connected to God - are missing in their lives.
It's not that surprising, then, that a few atheists also hunger for church - of some sort.
Check out... The Sunday Assembly - a new church in Britain.They meet in a church building, sing songs, listen to a talk, and nurture relationship.
Sound familiar?
Interesting that the original name for the church was ecclesia, which happens to mean assembly or gathering. (though the 1st century church's reason for assembly was much stronger than a community potluck and open mic)
Part of this experimental atheist church's mission is to pursue "wonder," yet Phyllis Tickle says they lack transcendence, mystery, and beauty.
How many inspirational talks or comedy routines can one participate in? Will they commit to it weekly? What will keep them together?
It's a new world, yet the same old questions.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Is this a good thing?
Where does this longing come from?
Is there something more to a church other than it's form (format)?
Do you think this will last or go global?
(if you comment, it would be great to state if you're an atheist or some kind of believer)
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Sacrifice or Prosperity?
Canadian News (CBC) leading up to the Pope's election commented on Catholic decline in Latin America - particularly in Brazil - a decline from 84% to 69% in the last 10-20 years. (approx.)
What struck me was one of the reasons: that many are no longer interested in the message of sacrifice and suffering coming from the Catholic church, instead, they are drawn to the message of prosperity from Evangelicals.
I fit into being an evangelical (broadly speaking), yet when I heard this my heart sunk.
1. I don't believe the main emphasis of evangelicals is prosperity, however there's a large charismatic movement that centers much of its message around prosperity.
2. It saddens me that the main evangelical message coming from Latin America is that Christianity (in those forms at least) has become materialistic (i.e. interpreting God's blessing as material accumulation or personal achievement)
3. There's enough emphasis from Jesus to help us know the difference: "die to yourself," "take up your cross," "give up your life if you want to lose it," "don't store up treasure in this world," "don't worry about tomorrow,"
4. I don't adhere to some of the traditional Catholic message that are 'works oriented' (suffer/sacrifice in order to receive from God); however, this broad stroke news from Brazil is discouraging.
5. If Christianity draws people in with a promise to prosper materially, where will that lead the church.
I wonder if this new Pope's emphasis on the poor will draw Catholics in, or if in places like Latin America it will draw them out to find prosperity elsewhere. He was recently quoted: I would like a poor church, for the poor. Curious to see how this message is received in those places.
Interestingly enough this doesn't mean he wants the Catholic church to become a non-profit organization only focused on compassion and poverty. The new Pope stated he wished to see the church go back to it's root centered in Christ so it doesn't merely turn into a large NGO (cautioning that such a move away from the gospel will weaken the church into a house of sand).
Thoughts? Questions?
What struck me was one of the reasons: that many are no longer interested in the message of sacrifice and suffering coming from the Catholic church, instead, they are drawn to the message of prosperity from Evangelicals.
I fit into being an evangelical (broadly speaking), yet when I heard this my heart sunk.
1. I don't believe the main emphasis of evangelicals is prosperity, however there's a large charismatic movement that centers much of its message around prosperity.
2. It saddens me that the main evangelical message coming from Latin America is that Christianity (in those forms at least) has become materialistic (i.e. interpreting God's blessing as material accumulation or personal achievement)
3. There's enough emphasis from Jesus to help us know the difference: "die to yourself," "take up your cross," "give up your life if you want to lose it," "don't store up treasure in this world," "don't worry about tomorrow,"
4. I don't adhere to some of the traditional Catholic message that are 'works oriented' (suffer/sacrifice in order to receive from God); however, this broad stroke news from Brazil is discouraging.
5. If Christianity draws people in with a promise to prosper materially, where will that lead the church.
I wonder if this new Pope's emphasis on the poor will draw Catholics in, or if in places like Latin America it will draw them out to find prosperity elsewhere. He was recently quoted: I would like a poor church, for the poor. Curious to see how this message is received in those places.
Interestingly enough this doesn't mean he wants the Catholic church to become a non-profit organization only focused on compassion and poverty. The new Pope stated he wished to see the church go back to it's root centered in Christ so it doesn't merely turn into a large NGO (cautioning that such a move away from the gospel will weaken the church into a house of sand).
Thoughts? Questions?
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Tension: both loving and critiquing your culture
Do you struggle with the balance of loving your country/culture and critiquing it?
Do you feel as though you either have to support or trash it?
I like this recent statement by Tony Campolo where he strikes a balance:
Although he simultaneously affirmed that (in his view) Capitalism might be one of the better social philosophies (or form of government) in the world at the moment, it can't be fully embraced without critique by a Christian if the Kingdom of God and the Values of Jesus is his/her's main worldview.
How do you balance your love and appreciation for the culture or country you live in with the honest critique that your values or faith lead you to have?
Do you feel comfortable living in the tension?
Are you comfortable stating where you do not agree while living within the benefits of what you do agree with?
Do you feel as though you either have to support or trash it?
I like this recent statement by Tony Campolo where he strikes a balance:
Most of us, if not all, would contend that we love America. We may call America “Babylon,” but we believe it’s the best Babylon on the face of the earth. Nevertheless, it is still Babylon, and we sense a call bidding us not to be conformed to this world.In Robert Webber's last book, Who Gets to Narrate the World, he affirmed a similar conviction. He critiqued capitalism and stated that one of the church's greatest inner dangers in the 21st century is complacency (largely the fruit of capitalistic or consumeristic values).
Although he simultaneously affirmed that (in his view) Capitalism might be one of the better social philosophies (or form of government) in the world at the moment, it can't be fully embraced without critique by a Christian if the Kingdom of God and the Values of Jesus is his/her's main worldview.
How do you balance your love and appreciation for the culture or country you live in with the honest critique that your values or faith lead you to have?
Do you feel comfortable living in the tension?
Are you comfortable stating where you do not agree while living within the benefits of what you do agree with?
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Measuring Success and Impact??
Westside runs a monthly outreach/community event in a local school. Flipside.
It's not flashy or expensive. But it's a great environment that fulfills at least 3 things:
1. we bless and connect with families in our community we could never do in other environments
2. these families benefit from a safe environment and an introduction to Christian community
3. our church families enjoy a fun night for their kids and a place they can bring friends from school
Last night we held a FAMILY DINNER before FLIPSIDE. We hoped for 100 kids/parents.
Goal not met. 30 kids, 12 parents, 10-12 volunteers. (we wanted a little more parents)
HOWEVER, after debriefing with friends and volunteers I heard stories...
STORIES:
- one mom told us how much our daily nutrition help at the school is needed in this difficult season of their lives - first time we hear a personal thank you from this specific effort
- one volunteer described last night as "CHURCH" because of the opportunity to meet, talk with, and engage the life of some people who struggle in many ways at home, emotionally, and beyond; she said "this is why we do what we do"
- the kids heard the Christmas story, some for the first time
- the school janitor offered his extra hours last night for FREE
- the school resource teacher served alongside our volunteers because she saw this event as a way to resource the kids she pays attention to at school
- returning and first kids/families came out
- student leaders are learning to be mentors/leaders, some led whole stations
- a first time volunteer had a spectacular night serving
- left over food went to families that needed it
GOAL, not met... or met? Depends how you view success!
Sometimes you need to reflect on what actually happened before you claim it was successful.
It's not flashy or expensive. But it's a great environment that fulfills at least 3 things:
1. we bless and connect with families in our community we could never do in other environments
2. these families benefit from a safe environment and an introduction to Christian community
3. our church families enjoy a fun night for their kids and a place they can bring friends from school
Last night we held a FAMILY DINNER before FLIPSIDE. We hoped for 100 kids/parents.
Goal not met. 30 kids, 12 parents, 10-12 volunteers. (we wanted a little more parents)
HOWEVER, after debriefing with friends and volunteers I heard stories...
STORIES:
- one mom told us how much our daily nutrition help at the school is needed in this difficult season of their lives - first time we hear a personal thank you from this specific effort
- one volunteer described last night as "CHURCH" because of the opportunity to meet, talk with, and engage the life of some people who struggle in many ways at home, emotionally, and beyond; she said "this is why we do what we do"
- the kids heard the Christmas story, some for the first time
- the school janitor offered his extra hours last night for FREE
- the school resource teacher served alongside our volunteers because she saw this event as a way to resource the kids she pays attention to at school
- returning and first kids/families came out
- student leaders are learning to be mentors/leaders, some led whole stations
- a first time volunteer had a spectacular night serving
- left over food went to families that needed it
GOAL, not met... or met? Depends how you view success!
Sometimes you need to reflect on what actually happened before you claim it was successful.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Harvest is in front of you.
Seth Godin encourages small businesses to "stop resorting to picking the fruit (from large businesses) that's already grown instead of planting their own seeds."
To "redefine the market into something much smaller and more manageable. You don't need to persuade everyone that you have a great idea, you merely need to persuade one person."
It's so easy to do this with our vision: new business, non-profits, or even the local church.
Isn't it incredible how we so often are looking to reach people, encourage people, serve people, grow people by picking the "low hanging fruit" instead of planting seeds ourselves. This isn't a bad way to fulfill part of your calling, but in the overall scheme of things, there's so much more around us.
Food banks might serve the same recipients.
Why not discern the most immediate need not being met within your reach and meet it. That would be progress.
Churches get excited when lots of people visit (from other churches).
Why not pray that you'd see the one person in your circle of relationship that God would have you impact and focus there. That might lead to a real celebration (Luke 15).
The harvest is plentiful. What a great way to look at life and opportunity.
To be aware that there's people to love and reach. Needs to be served. Opportunity to lead into. All within our radius.
I love the idea of redefining the opportunities around us into something smaller and more manageable. Discover - that person, need, goal - and lean into it with all your heart.
Do for ONE what you'd love to do for ALL.
Who knows, sooner or later you might have opportunity to do for even more?
Where does this apply to your life right now? New vision, new neighbors, new community needs.
*disclaimer: I'm not a fan of comparing the church with business, but this idea of focusing on a manageable harvest (what you have in your reach) is somewhat reflective of Jesus
To "redefine the market into something much smaller and more manageable. You don't need to persuade everyone that you have a great idea, you merely need to persuade one person."
It's so easy to do this with our vision: new business, non-profits, or even the local church.
Isn't it incredible how we so often are looking to reach people, encourage people, serve people, grow people by picking the "low hanging fruit" instead of planting seeds ourselves. This isn't a bad way to fulfill part of your calling, but in the overall scheme of things, there's so much more around us.
Food banks might serve the same recipients.
Why not discern the most immediate need not being met within your reach and meet it. That would be progress.
Churches get excited when lots of people visit (from other churches).
Why not pray that you'd see the one person in your circle of relationship that God would have you impact and focus there. That might lead to a real celebration (Luke 15).
The harvest is plentiful. What a great way to look at life and opportunity.
To be aware that there's people to love and reach. Needs to be served. Opportunity to lead into. All within our radius.
I love the idea of redefining the opportunities around us into something smaller and more manageable. Discover - that person, need, goal - and lean into it with all your heart.
Do for ONE what you'd love to do for ALL.
Who knows, sooner or later you might have opportunity to do for even more?
Where does this apply to your life right now? New vision, new neighbors, new community needs.
*disclaimer: I'm not a fan of comparing the church with business, but this idea of focusing on a manageable harvest (what you have in your reach) is somewhat reflective of Jesus
Friday, October 26, 2012
Why? Clarifying the Unnecessary
Yesterday the dealership called me while my car was in for maintenance and asked I wanted them to change the battery in my remote.
I asked "how much?"
"20$"
WHY was what I started to think in my head.
My next question to them: "can I buy it at your service counter or Canadian Tire?"
"I guess you could but we'd make sure it works and gives you a garauntee"
On a 3$ battery install??
I figured it was one of those things I should at least know how to do as a man :)
I declined.
When I picked up my car, I asked to purchase the battery from their service counter. They brought me the battery for free and actually handed me a screw driver to change it.
DONE.
"WHY" doesn't have to be a response to every situation, but to at least some, it can bring clarity and wisdom that will likely save you unnecessary costs or work.
Where do you need to ask WHY? before you spend, act, plan, or add/subtract something to your life, priorities, or budget?
I asked "how much?"
"20$"
WHY was what I started to think in my head.
My next question to them: "can I buy it at your service counter or Canadian Tire?"
"I guess you could but we'd make sure it works and gives you a garauntee"
On a 3$ battery install??
I figured it was one of those things I should at least know how to do as a man :)
I declined.
When I picked up my car, I asked to purchase the battery from their service counter. They brought me the battery for free and actually handed me a screw driver to change it.
DONE.
"WHY" doesn't have to be a response to every situation, but to at least some, it can bring clarity and wisdom that will likely save you unnecessary costs or work.
Where do you need to ask WHY? before you spend, act, plan, or add/subtract something to your life, priorities, or budget?
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
You Are Both: In Christ and In...
I wonder if too often Christianity (life in Christ) is experienced in a bubble?
This is not to say everything has to be action, task, or project driven. But I wonder if the beautiful life - abundant life - that Jesus promises, is often only slightly experienced, because it's never in contrast to much else.
Christianity has a tendency to create sub cultures that make it easy to separate oneself from the culture around them. (christian music, books, conferences, groups, work places, etc.)
It's striking to me how the apostle Paul addresses Christ followers in his letters. His introductions say a lot.
Ephesians is no exception:
Where Am I?
Don't we all ask these questions at some point?
YOU ARE... in Christ.
YOU ARE... in Ephesus.
You are in Christ - shaped in him, empowered in him, given life in him, experience grace in him - living in _______________ (insert city here).
The life your faith in Christ creates is never experienced in a bubble or separate space. It's in the life you live now, in the place you live now.
A Christian's "holy people" identity (set apartness) is a reality because you are in a particular place and your new life is erupting in that context.
Who you are and where you are are both important. For who you are is only experienced and expressed where you are.
You will truly know the life Jesus creates in you in the context of your place (finances, circumstances, struggles, opportunities, relationships, neighborhood, workplace)
How do you answer the questions: Who Am I? Where Am I?
What's your place? Your city?
Do you struggle to experience new life there?
Are there things about your place that suppress the new life in you?
Are there things that highlight the new life? That affirm that new life?
Do you recognize opportunities for your new life to shine through you, in your city?
*this post is based on a message from Westside Gathering, in a teaching series called everything NEW
This is not to say everything has to be action, task, or project driven. But I wonder if the beautiful life - abundant life - that Jesus promises, is often only slightly experienced, because it's never in contrast to much else.
Christianity has a tendency to create sub cultures that make it easy to separate oneself from the culture around them. (christian music, books, conferences, groups, work places, etc.)
It's striking to me how the apostle Paul addresses Christ followers in his letters. His introductions say a lot.
Ephesians is no exception:
to God's holy people in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus (1:1)Who Am I?
Where Am I?
Don't we all ask these questions at some point?
YOU ARE... in Christ.
YOU ARE... in Ephesus.
You are in Christ - shaped in him, empowered in him, given life in him, experience grace in him - living in _______________ (insert city here).
The life your faith in Christ creates is never experienced in a bubble or separate space. It's in the life you live now, in the place you live now.
A Christian's "holy people" identity (set apartness) is a reality because you are in a particular place and your new life is erupting in that context.
Who you are and where you are are both important. For who you are is only experienced and expressed where you are.
You will truly know the life Jesus creates in you in the context of your place (finances, circumstances, struggles, opportunities, relationships, neighborhood, workplace)
How do you answer the questions: Who Am I? Where Am I?
Consider that who you are IN CHRIST is experienced and expressed where you are [insert your place/city/network here].Ephesians goes on to describe how EVERYTHING IS NEW when Jesus is discovered and followed. That newness doesn't wait for the other side eternity to start. It starts now.
May you experience the joy and life of Jesus that is yours in him IN YOUR PLACE - in the middle of your day, while you create and produce and relate and rest.
What's your place? Your city?
Do you struggle to experience new life there?
Are there things about your place that suppress the new life in you?
Are there things that highlight the new life? That affirm that new life?
Do you recognize opportunities for your new life to shine through you, in your city?
*this post is based on a message from Westside Gathering, in a teaching series called everything NEW
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Planting Jesus in us and others
Westside recently finished a series called Planting Jesus.
The 5 weeks was an overview of what it means to have Jesus - his life, message, and kingdom - planted in our lives and overflowing into others.
"In" you, me, the church, our homes, ...and then outward into the city and those around us.
It's a simple idea, but has profound implications!
(PODCAST HERE)
Here's 2 ways you can grow in this:
1. Allow the person and message of Jesus to get sowed deeply in your heart and life.
Keep praying Eph. 3:16-17, and continually invite God by his Spirit to root Jesus deeply in your heart.
(Scripture you can reflect on: "Seed" in the NT letters, Message Texts)
2. Actively sow the message of Jesus in others.
Acts 11 gives us a picture of a city being impacted by the spread of the gospel.
Matthew 13 shows us how people respond to the gospel so we're more prepared in our role of spreading it.
PRAY for one friend - everyday - until December 31.
I've been reminded over this series that God is the one who grows the gospel in people's hearts. I'm excited to fulfill my role, partnering with his mission, but the inner work of revelation and transformation depends on God.
Write down at least one person's name that you hope would discover Jesus and follow him: __________________________.
Can you commit to praying for them daily for the next 3 months?
I dream of people and neighborhoods - a whole city - that is widely effected by Jesus in revolutionary ways that only his life and message have the power to make happen!
It can happen
The 5 weeks was an overview of what it means to have Jesus - his life, message, and kingdom - planted in our lives and overflowing into others.
"In" you, me, the church, our homes, ...and then outward into the city and those around us.
It's a simple idea, but has profound implications!
(PODCAST HERE)
Here's 2 ways you can grow in this:
1. Allow the person and message of Jesus to get sowed deeply in your heart and life.
Keep praying Eph. 3:16-17, and continually invite God by his Spirit to root Jesus deeply in your heart.
(Scripture you can reflect on: "Seed" in the NT letters, Message Texts)
2. Actively sow the message of Jesus in others.
Acts 11 gives us a picture of a city being impacted by the spread of the gospel.
Matthew 13 shows us how people respond to the gospel so we're more prepared in our role of spreading it.
100% of the seeds planted will bear some fruit
100% of the seeds never planted will bear no fruit
PRAY for one friend - everyday - until December 31.
I've been reminded over this series that God is the one who grows the gospel in people's hearts. I'm excited to fulfill my role, partnering with his mission, but the inner work of revelation and transformation depends on God.
Write down at least one person's name that you hope would discover Jesus and follow him: __________________________.
Can you commit to praying for them daily for the next 3 months?
- Pray God draws them to himself.
- Pray Jesus reveals himself to them.
- Pray for genuine love and concern for them, for an authentic growing friendship (not only for their response to Jesus).
- Pray for their well being, health, and relationships.
- Pray that you will reflect Jesus.
- Pray for opportunities and then boldness when you can speak about Jesus.
- Pray for an openness to the gospel.
I'll commit to praying for my friends, but also for yours! (you can even email me their name)
We'll believe together that God will work in them.
We'll believe together that God will work in them.
I dream of people and neighborhoods - a whole city - that is widely effected by Jesus in revolutionary ways that only his life and message have the power to make happen!
It can happen
Leave a comment if you plan on taking the challenge
Saturday, October 06, 2012
Fear of Corruption (PBS Survey)
Ravi Zacharias was in Montreal 2 weeks ago.
Out of the amazing talk he gave on WHAT IT MEANS TO BE HUMAN? one of the most startling facts he pointed out was a recent PBS survey (will post if I find the link)
This survey asks annually: What do you fear most in the world (i.e. what do you fear in the world that affects the world/society most).
For 10 years in a row the majority indicated Poverty and the Environment.
For the 1st time the majority indicated Corruption.
This is both interesting and scary.
This says we there's a hidden belief that humanity is "uncontrollable"
Boundaries, integrity, character, and ethics is losing ground.
For any society or culture, this can only indicate trouble.
Is there a solution? How can this change?
Does religion, atheism, secularism, or something else have an answer?
Psalm 15 is a great reminder of the kind of character that our culture needs. Living in Montreal right now, during the reports of corruption in government, organized crime, and construction - this psalm became an instant prayer for my city:
Out of the amazing talk he gave on WHAT IT MEANS TO BE HUMAN? one of the most startling facts he pointed out was a recent PBS survey (will post if I find the link)
This survey asks annually: What do you fear most in the world (i.e. what do you fear in the world that affects the world/society most).
For 10 years in a row the majority indicated Poverty and the Environment.
For the 1st time the majority indicated Corruption.
This is both interesting and scary.
This says we there's a hidden belief that humanity is "uncontrollable"
Boundaries, integrity, character, and ethics is losing ground.
For any society or culture, this can only indicate trouble.
Is there a solution? How can this change?
Does religion, atheism, secularism, or something else have an answer?
Psalm 15 is a great reminder of the kind of character that our culture needs. Living in Montreal right now, during the reports of corruption in government, organized crime, and construction - this psalm became an instant prayer for my city:
Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent?
Who may live on your holy mountain?
2 The one whose walk is blameless,
who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from their heart;
3 whose tongue utters no slander,
who does no wrong to a neighbor,
and casts no slur on others;
4 who despises a vile person
but honors those who fear the Lord;
who keeps an oath even when it hurts,
and does not change their mind;
5 who lends money to the poor without interest;
who does not accept a bribe against the innocent.Whoever does these things
will never be shaken.
Disciples or Decisions
Ministry teams from Westside Gathering recently got together to kick off our fall season with a morning of connecting, eating, and equipping. The theme centered around the YOU in Acts 1:8.
That YOU can only be defined as a follower of Christ (I'll write more about this later)
A follower can be described in many ways, but as Alan Hirsch once blogged (I think) - to respond to the gospel leads you to become a DISCIPLE, WORSHIPER, and MISSIONARY. (HT: @bobrobertsjr for quoting this in his book).
It leads me to consider if I'm making disciples. If my church is making and nurturing disciples or merely people who've made decisions about Jesus and faith.
Are we into Disciples or Decisions?
Read this excellent post highlighting the 'gospel of sin management' made popular by Dallas Willard. Jeff Clark writes a great summary, forcing us to ask what kind of life we call people to in Christ (what kind of life I'm called to in Christ). Here's a quote:
What has your understanding been of what it means to be a Christian?
Have you reduced your life in Christ to a decision?
What's your understanding of discipleship?
That YOU can only be defined as a follower of Christ (I'll write more about this later)
A follower can be described in many ways, but as Alan Hirsch once blogged (I think) - to respond to the gospel leads you to become a DISCIPLE, WORSHIPER, and MISSIONARY. (HT: @bobrobertsjr for quoting this in his book).
It leads me to consider if I'm making disciples. If my church is making and nurturing disciples or merely people who've made decisions about Jesus and faith.
Are we into Disciples or Decisions?
Read this excellent post highlighting the 'gospel of sin management' made popular by Dallas Willard. Jeff Clark writes a great summary, forcing us to ask what kind of life we call people to in Christ (what kind of life I'm called to in Christ). Here's a quote:
However, by reducing the story of Jesus, a story that calls people to a life of devoted discipleship, to a system of salvation that only asks people to make a decision, we effectively short-circuit the power of the gospel. As McKnight says, ‘we have created a salvation culture, not a gospel-discipleship culture.’Disciples or Deciders?
What has your understanding been of what it means to be a Christian?
Have you reduced your life in Christ to a decision?
What's your understanding of discipleship?
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Power of "One a Day"
Seth Godin blogged about the power of doing one thing every day for the 200 working days in the year to build your marketing.
Maybe you're not into marketing.
But you have priorities or dreams or needed character development or spiritual development.
This is an amazing discipline to help you grow.
My brother was inspired by a friend to read 2 Psalms a day last summer. They hash tagged it on twitter as #2aday. He and others got through the whole Psalms (150 short readings) in one summer. He's now doing it with Acts #actsaday.
Try this.
Fill in the blank: ________________ A DAY.
Here are some ideas...
Spiritual Formation.
Read 2 or 4 chapters of the bible every day.
Break it down. Gospel a day. Read a portion each day. Or a whole one if you have 45min. (only 45min. to read through Mark)
"10 min. private prayer a day."
Don't let anything distract you. Just do it.
Personal Connections
If you're a pastor (or leader of people). To help stay in touch with your church (network) try 1 personal phone call a day. Just to say hi and see how someone is doing.
Imagine what you'll learn (or appreciate it) out of 200 random conversations (10-15min.) with the people in your community.
Development.
One leadership article a day (if that's your need)
One proverb (to help you grow in wisdom)
Write one journal reflection (to help you develop a reflective mind/heart or articulate your thoughts on paper.)
One scale a day (to build your musical technique)
Inspiration.
Post one quote a day on twitter or facebook that inspires your network.
You get the picture.
Think about this season. What ONE A DAY discipline do you need to implement to help you grow.
__________________ A DAY
Maybe you're not into marketing.
But you have priorities or dreams or needed character development or spiritual development.
This is an amazing discipline to help you grow.
My brother was inspired by a friend to read 2 Psalms a day last summer. They hash tagged it on twitter as #2aday. He and others got through the whole Psalms (150 short readings) in one summer. He's now doing it with Acts #actsaday.
Try this.
Fill in the blank: ________________ A DAY.
Here are some ideas...
Spiritual Formation.
Read 2 or 4 chapters of the bible every day.
Break it down. Gospel a day. Read a portion each day. Or a whole one if you have 45min. (only 45min. to read through Mark)
"10 min. private prayer a day."
Don't let anything distract you. Just do it.
Personal Connections
If you're a pastor (or leader of people). To help stay in touch with your church (network) try 1 personal phone call a day. Just to say hi and see how someone is doing.
Imagine what you'll learn (or appreciate it) out of 200 random conversations (10-15min.) with the people in your community.
Development.
One leadership article a day (if that's your need)
One proverb (to help you grow in wisdom)
Write one journal reflection (to help you develop a reflective mind/heart or articulate your thoughts on paper.)
One scale a day (to build your musical technique)
Inspiration.
Post one quote a day on twitter or facebook that inspires your network.
You get the picture.
Think about this season. What ONE A DAY discipline do you need to implement to help you grow.
__________________ A DAY
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
truth vs. benefits of the gospel
This is nuanced description of the gospel that came as a response to a recent post by Scot McKnight.
…the announced gospel is all about God becoming King through Jesus the “Christ.” Picture the invasion, the battle and the victory of the resurrection. Jesus ascends and is installed as King of Kings and Lord of Lords and in that exaltation liberally gives out the spoils of war. The Gospel *to be declared* is the Victory Won; the benefits of the gospel received by humanity are the spoils of war. The Gospel then is all about God in Christ and we humans don’t enter the benefits of the gospel victory until we repent of any form of self-salvation and believe the Gospel announcement that the Messiah got the job done. The Gospel is good news whether anyone ever believes it or not. [John Fry]What do you think?
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Bold as Love, Bob Roberts Jr. (book review)
Bob challenges us to see people as God does, to treat them as God does, to love and pursue them as God does.
The book highlights Bob's journey as he makes increased inroads serving and loving the world - literally. From his church long term commitment to serving and reaching Vietnam, to Bob's numerous trips, projects, and personal relationships in the Arab world, he shares personal experiences learning to love and connect with people very different from him.
The core challenge he gives us to is lovingly serve the Muslim world and people. Befriending regular Muslims, leaders, Imams, mosques, and countries. The idea that love will bring us to places of discomfort is without a doubt. However, in Bob's experience, a gracious spirit, an honest approach, and a genuine commitment to one's faith-convictions will gain both respect and relationship.
From Bob's perspective, the most opposition is usually from your own tribe (denomination or church) because of the cultural and embedded fears Christians have from what they hear in the media or indirect sources.
The book did leave me with one question. Why have many Christians experienced such persecution in Muslim environments while he's experienced lots of favor (not without difficulty of course). I don't have an answer for this nor have all the facts. Perhaps it all depends on context, relationship, and circumstances.
Regardless of that one question, I highly recommend Bold as Love for anyone who thinks they really love people as Jesus commands us. For anyone who wants to reach across the ethnic or religious divides but wonders if they are. For churches that long to be God's living and local presence to everyone around them - including the local mosque or temple or night club. Pick up a copy.
Some of my favorite or challenging quotes:
What would it look like if the body of Christ were released upon the grid of society to serve humanity in all the domains of life. (p. 170)
Leadership... is seeing and recognizing unique moments of opportunity, then seizing them with boldness and courage. (p. 163)
Serve not to convert, serve because you are converted. (160)Finally, Bob's approach to "MULTI-FAITH" vs the traditional approach with "INTER-FAITH" is worth reflecting on. The idea that we can still relate to and even serve with people of other faiths while staying true our own faith conviction (e.g. Jesus being Lord and Savior) is worth the read, if only to challenge some of our assumptions and approaches of what it means to follow Jesus, love people, and do mission in a pluralistic global society.
You don't have to trash another religion to promote Jesus. (p. 154)
To pray for "peoples" is important, but to love a specific "person" changes the way you pray. (p. 94)
We shouldn't 'do' church, we should 'be' the church on the grid of society. (p. 85)
Beware, Bold as Love is an action movie of sorts. Though he shares some good theory and learning, Bob is all about living it and challenges the reader to live it tangibly.
We're responsible to love, serve and share Jesus - no strings attached. "Gratitude asks," Bob challenges, "what I am doing with this gift of life God has given me?"
Wednesday, August 01, 2012
Seek first the Kingdom or the Church?
Kingdom people seek first the kingdom of God and it's justice; church people often put the church work above concerns of justice, mercy and truth. Church people think about how to get people into the church; kingdom people think about how to get the church into the world. Church people worry that the world might change the the church; kingdom people work to see the church change the world.Howard Snyder via Michael Frost (The Road to Missional)
This quote is challenging. Jesus said seek first his Kingdom! Simple.
Sometimes in our pursuits to build a healthy, active, missional church we end up seeking the church first.
I believe the church is the hope of the world and God's kingdom is reflected through the church. I don't believe the church and kingdom are separated. God doesn't have 2 divisions.
However, I believe there's the temptation to stunt how much we can impact the world by making sure the church stays full and healthy.
We are God's living and local presence. Let's be a church that is God's active presence in the world - in our communities and cities. Sometimes that means building the church in corporate worship and teaching, sometimes it means releasing the church into the world.
Really, there's no tension. We're always meant to be a gathering and scattering church!
Tuesday, June 05, 2012
Trees and Streams
I've always loved Psalm 1 and the images it gives us for life, spiritual formation, and the kind of person God wants us to become.
Here's a recent article on it that recently published.
Let me know if the article is helpful.
Read more about Psalm 1 HERE and a related application HERE
Here's a recent article on it that recently published.
Let me know if the article is helpful.
Read more about Psalm 1 HERE and a related application HERE
Thursday, May 31, 2012
June 1st - anxiety and possibility?!?!?
There's something about June 1st.
Not sure what it is.
It's a date that creeps up on you. Slowly. From January... into spring... then BANG!
June 1st makes me feel like I haven't done as much as I'd like to yet.
It's the start of getting to 1/2 the year.
It's only a date. But for me it's a symbol of anxiety.
It's also hopeful. The weather is beautiful, the sun is out more. I can walk, bike, and soon enough... swim.
As for my work - church - it's a month where I feel I want to say so much, do so much... all b/c the next month - July - is around the corner.
July is slower, restful.
June has potential. Pregnant with opportunity to make your summer count.
If you start early with BBQ's and walks and festivals you have more opportunity to impact people around you - friends, neighbors, even random people.
Take what you want from this post, or this month.
My decision:
Tame the anxiety - it's only a date.
Enjoy and leverage the opportunity - it's a wonderful date that sets in motion 90 days of open possibility.
Not sure what it is.
It's a date that creeps up on you. Slowly. From January... into spring... then BANG!
June 1st makes me feel like I haven't done as much as I'd like to yet.
It's the start of getting to 1/2 the year.
It's only a date. But for me it's a symbol of anxiety.
It's also hopeful. The weather is beautiful, the sun is out more. I can walk, bike, and soon enough... swim.
As for my work - church - it's a month where I feel I want to say so much, do so much... all b/c the next month - July - is around the corner.
July is slower, restful.
June has potential. Pregnant with opportunity to make your summer count.
If you start early with BBQ's and walks and festivals you have more opportunity to impact people around you - friends, neighbors, even random people.
Take what you want from this post, or this month.
My decision:
Tame the anxiety - it's only a date.
Enjoy and leverage the opportunity - it's a wonderful date that sets in motion 90 days of open possibility.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
singleness is a good thing
I think it's sad when people put marriage on a pedestal. I mean an unwarranted pedestal.
I'm married. I love my wife. I love my marriage. I'm fulfilled. YES.
Marriage is a good thing. It can be fulfilling. It's a lifetime vow when you make it. It's a gift. YES.
However, sometimes this gets said at the expense of SINGLES. Singleness is a valid vocation that should not be given 2nd place. It's a vocation that be temporary or permanent.
Perhaps, some are single and aren't getting married b/c they struggle with commitment or choosing wisely. Some are single b/c they don't want to settle for less than their vision. AND Some are single b/c they like it that way or choose it. (there are more reasons I'm sure)
That's why I like this POST by Scot McKnight summarizing Tim Keller's recent chapter on singleness in a book on Marriage.
If you're single and need some proper perspective, read the post. If you're married and seem to only see marriage as an option for your single friends, read it. The Goodness of Singleness.
I'm married. I love my wife. I love my marriage. I'm fulfilled. YES.
Marriage is a good thing. It can be fulfilling. It's a lifetime vow when you make it. It's a gift. YES.
However, sometimes this gets said at the expense of SINGLES. Singleness is a valid vocation that should not be given 2nd place. It's a vocation that be temporary or permanent.
Perhaps, some are single and aren't getting married b/c they struggle with commitment or choosing wisely. Some are single b/c they don't want to settle for less than their vision. AND Some are single b/c they like it that way or choose it. (there are more reasons I'm sure)
That's why I like this POST by Scot McKnight summarizing Tim Keller's recent chapter on singleness in a book on Marriage.
If you're single and need some proper perspective, read the post. If you're married and seem to only see marriage as an option for your single friends, read it. The Goodness of Singleness.
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