(Craig - Cristi is having trouble actually posting as a contributor - can you take a look at that??)
This post is from Cristi all. She saw this article this week and wanted to share it with you before she left for her interview on Monday. Enjoy.
People's opinions are not generally formed or controlled by arguments or reasonings, as they fondly suppose. They are imbibed by sympathy from those whom they like or love, and who are, or have been, their associates. Thus people, when they arrive at maturity, adhere in the main to the associations, both in religion and in politics, in which they have been brought up, from the influence of sympathy with those whom they love. They believe in this or that doctrine or system, not because they have been convinced by proof, but chiefly because those whom they love believe in them. On religious questions the arguments are presented to them, it is true, while they are young, in catechisms and in other forms of religious instruction, and in politics by the conversations which they overhear; but it is a mistake to suppose that arguments thus offered have any material effect as processes of ratiocination in producing any logical conviction upon their minds. An English boy is Whig or Tory because his father, and his brothers, and his uncles are Whigs or Tories. He may, indeed, have many arguments at his command with which to maintain his opinions, but it is not the force of the arguments that has convinced him, nor do they have any force as a means of convincing the other boys to whom he offers them. _They_ are controlled by their sympathies, as he is by his. But if he is a popular boy, and makes himself a favorite among his companions, the very fact that he is of this or that party will have more effect upon the other boys than the most logical and conclusive trains of reasoning that can be conceived.
So it is with the religious and political differences in this and in every other country. Every one's opinions--or rather the opinion of people in general, for of course there are many individual exceptions--are formed from sympathy with those with whom in mind and heart they have been in friendly communication during their years of childhood and youth. And even in those cases where persons change their religious opinions in adult age,the explanation of the mystery is generally to be found, not in seeking for the _argument that convinced them_, but for the _person that led them_, in the accomplishment of the change. For such changes can very often, and perhaps generally, be traced to some person or persons whose influence over them, if carefully scrutinized, would be found to consist really not in the force of the arguments they offered, but in the magic power of a silent and perhaps unconscious sympathy. The way, therefore, to convert people to our ideas and opinions is to make them like us or love us, and then to avoid arguing with them, but simply let them perceive what our ideas and opinions are.
Sunday, April 30, 2006
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Time to rally the prayer team...
Group,
As I was praying yesterday afternoon I recalled a time a few weeks back where I really felt that our little community was going to face a time of trials and where the world was going to come against us. This feeling has been a persistent one for a long time now and I think we are seeing the evidence of that continue to grow. I don't want to be an alarmist or to make a mountain out of a mole hill but.... the evidence is there. In order for our community to thrive we must be willing to weather these storms together and fight the urge to turn inward. I know personally I am fighting that urge. There is a lot of personal hardships that have hit numerous people in this fellowship and a lot of doubt has crept in. Please do not get me wrong. This is a very strong community and nothing is crumbling or falling apart. But I get a overwhelming sense that NOW is the time to pray. Now is the time to come along side each other and say I am here with you in this!!!
There is a lot of changes that are in store for our group. A lot of things that the enemy doesn't want to see happen. There are tremendously strong Christians within this group and the enemy would like nothing better then to drive us apart. People are dealing with a lot of issues right now and are hurting. This group IS the body of Christ. I see many people in this group praying at work and praying for others at thier work, I see missionaries in two countries taking ground from Satan, I see people stepping outside thier comfort zones and being obedient to what God has called them to do. This group of believers are the body of Christ! So as the body I am asking that you would post a prayer on this Blog for the group, for a individual or however you feel led. Speak from your heart, encourage one another as you yourself have been encouraged.
As I was praying yesterday afternoon I recalled a time a few weeks back where I really felt that our little community was going to face a time of trials and where the world was going to come against us. This feeling has been a persistent one for a long time now and I think we are seeing the evidence of that continue to grow. I don't want to be an alarmist or to make a mountain out of a mole hill but.... the evidence is there. In order for our community to thrive we must be willing to weather these storms together and fight the urge to turn inward. I know personally I am fighting that urge. There is a lot of personal hardships that have hit numerous people in this fellowship and a lot of doubt has crept in. Please do not get me wrong. This is a very strong community and nothing is crumbling or falling apart. But I get a overwhelming sense that NOW is the time to pray. Now is the time to come along side each other and say I am here with you in this!!!
There is a lot of changes that are in store for our group. A lot of things that the enemy doesn't want to see happen. There are tremendously strong Christians within this group and the enemy would like nothing better then to drive us apart. People are dealing with a lot of issues right now and are hurting. This group IS the body of Christ. I see many people in this group praying at work and praying for others at thier work, I see missionaries in two countries taking ground from Satan, I see people stepping outside thier comfort zones and being obedient to what God has called them to do. This group of believers are the body of Christ! So as the body I am asking that you would post a prayer on this Blog for the group, for a individual or however you feel led. Speak from your heart, encourage one another as you yourself have been encouraged.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Many Thanks...
I hear that you all have taken great care of my sister in the wake of her job loss.
Thank you all so much for your kindness. It's hard to be so far away when someone you love gets bad news like that, so it's good to know that you are all there for her and that you'll buy her favorite ice cream in my absence.
You truly are the Body of Christ!
Monday, April 24, 2006
From the Church At Grove City...
To the Church in IQ... Here's a link to what we did tonight. I'm emailing Robert right now, too...so hopefully he'll get it in the next day or so. Like I said tonight, I found out today that they've been crazy busy in the latter part of this past week, so I'm not sure when he'll get it.
One of the cool things I remember about when I first met all of you is hearing you all talk about being the crew that would encourage the workers in our church...it's neat to see that you really are that. Thanks for making this happen tonight, even if it's not our normal rowdy get together. I promise - all the drinking, licking, selling of goods, and scatting (if that's a word??) will resume next time we gather! Love ya guys! Have a great week! haha...
One of the cool things I remember about when I first met all of you is hearing you all talk about being the crew that would encourage the workers in our church...it's neat to see that you really are that. Thanks for making this happen tonight, even if it's not our normal rowdy get together. I promise - all the drinking, licking, selling of goods, and scatting (if that's a word??) will resume next time we gather! Love ya guys! Have a great week! haha...
Saturday, April 22, 2006
The truth is stranger than fiction.
Brandy thinking "What? When do I ever tell the truth?"
Craig taking a look at the glass on the other side of the Steak N Shake to see if it's any cleaner than the glass near our table...if so, it just might be worth taking a stroll over there to take a tasty lick.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Creepy.
Fortune cookies say "People who say it cannot be done should not interrupt those who are doing it.”
The Sacred-Secular Dichotmy
or "Conversations at Dairy Queen Revisted."
Here's an article I read today out of Relevant Magazine, I thought you guys might find a quick and interesting read (part of me likes this article - part of me thinks it's kind of flaky, but overall I think it furthers the conversation we were having at DQ). I pasted it below so you don't have to go offsite to read the whole thing - sorry to take up the whole page with it though!
There is a difference between observation and inhalation.
When a person observes something, they watch or see. It involves looking and bearing witness to an event. Inhalation is another matter; it is the essence of life. It is the rendering of passion and the breadth and scope of synergized being.
There is a difference between missions and holistic Christianity; as a matter of fact, I propose that the word "missions"—when used in a certain sense—does not represent a fully biblical idea. The word (and sadly the idea that is associated with it at times) implies a beginning and a conclusion. There is a focused effort on an objective and a target. There is strategy and a plan—we will “win souls.” Do you ever wonder why Christians sound so militant? I guess that’s a whole other story. I understand the concept of mission, and I don’t get too hung up when the word is used because largely the intention behind the said user is noble and genuine.
I propose a simple idea … holistic Christianity. Rather than falling into the lie that has been perpetrated since the first century—the lie that says that there is a spiritual world and a secular world—we should take another look at Jesus’ words in Matthew when he mandated the disciples to “go and make disciple of all nations.” What does this truly entail? How is an entire nation discipled?
When the followers of Jesus heard this, it made perfect sense; it wasn’t befuddling at all, but likely very encouraging. They thought back to the only nation that had been ultimately discipled by God: Israel.
When Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt, they were a virgin nation. They were exposed to every element that existed. They were laid bare and had no way to live. The law given to Moses, by God, was not just for the Israelites spiritual survival. The law encompassed rules for war and the environment. It addressed health care and education, mass media and communication. The law gave instruction for government and the ethical treatment of the poor. Justice was covered. Business and economics … not a problem! Discipling nations means becoming involved in every aspect of a society’s culture. Inhalation over observation.
Holistic Christianity is nothing more than simple obedience to God. It means that you are true to the gifts that He has endowed you with. There is no secular arena from which we, as followers of Jesus are exempt or restricted form entering. The word secular means "without God," and there is no place on this planet that God cannot operate. We are not to go on missions; we are to live and exist. We are to love God and others with all of our heart, souls, mind and strength. This validates every aspect of an individual … God, himself, tells us that we are to use the very gifts He has given.
Being a friend to others who believe differently is essential. Do you value converts over conversation? Are you a confidant with ulterior motives? Or can you simply be a pal? Christians are so quick to become enraged with the state of the world. Many blow gaskets due to the inordinate number of people who “smoke, drink, cuss and chew.” Here’s a tip that makes life a whole lot easier: Do not expect people who are not Christians to live as Christians.
If a person has chosen not to live their life by the teachings of Jesus, then how should they live? And how should you treat them? Jesus treated people with dignity and respect. If you are unhappy with the state of the union, then do something about besides complaining. Get involved with politics or education. Become a writer (hopefully better than this rambling one) or a business owner. For Christ’s sake (literally) do something, anything. Just don't whine about how bad things are "out there."
There is nothing more spiritual than obeying God. Period. Whether you are a pastor or a plumber, just be obedient. Don’t fall into the lie that there are certain occupations that are more spiritual than others.
Please, inhale life. Don’t just watch it pass you by.
Here's an article I read today out of Relevant Magazine, I thought you guys might find a quick and interesting read (part of me likes this article - part of me thinks it's kind of flaky, but overall I think it furthers the conversation we were having at DQ). I pasted it below so you don't have to go offsite to read the whole thing - sorry to take up the whole page with it though!
There is a difference between observation and inhalation.
When a person observes something, they watch or see. It involves looking and bearing witness to an event. Inhalation is another matter; it is the essence of life. It is the rendering of passion and the breadth and scope of synergized being.
There is a difference between missions and holistic Christianity; as a matter of fact, I propose that the word "missions"—when used in a certain sense—does not represent a fully biblical idea. The word (and sadly the idea that is associated with it at times) implies a beginning and a conclusion. There is a focused effort on an objective and a target. There is strategy and a plan—we will “win souls.” Do you ever wonder why Christians sound so militant? I guess that’s a whole other story. I understand the concept of mission, and I don’t get too hung up when the word is used because largely the intention behind the said user is noble and genuine.
I propose a simple idea … holistic Christianity. Rather than falling into the lie that has been perpetrated since the first century—the lie that says that there is a spiritual world and a secular world—we should take another look at Jesus’ words in Matthew when he mandated the disciples to “go and make disciple of all nations.” What does this truly entail? How is an entire nation discipled?
When the followers of Jesus heard this, it made perfect sense; it wasn’t befuddling at all, but likely very encouraging. They thought back to the only nation that had been ultimately discipled by God: Israel.
When Moses led the children of Israel out of Egypt, they were a virgin nation. They were exposed to every element that existed. They were laid bare and had no way to live. The law given to Moses, by God, was not just for the Israelites spiritual survival. The law encompassed rules for war and the environment. It addressed health care and education, mass media and communication. The law gave instruction for government and the ethical treatment of the poor. Justice was covered. Business and economics … not a problem! Discipling nations means becoming involved in every aspect of a society’s culture. Inhalation over observation.
Holistic Christianity is nothing more than simple obedience to God. It means that you are true to the gifts that He has endowed you with. There is no secular arena from which we, as followers of Jesus are exempt or restricted form entering. The word secular means "without God," and there is no place on this planet that God cannot operate. We are not to go on missions; we are to live and exist. We are to love God and others with all of our heart, souls, mind and strength. This validates every aspect of an individual … God, himself, tells us that we are to use the very gifts He has given.
Being a friend to others who believe differently is essential. Do you value converts over conversation? Are you a confidant with ulterior motives? Or can you simply be a pal? Christians are so quick to become enraged with the state of the world. Many blow gaskets due to the inordinate number of people who “smoke, drink, cuss and chew.” Here’s a tip that makes life a whole lot easier: Do not expect people who are not Christians to live as Christians.
If a person has chosen not to live their life by the teachings of Jesus, then how should they live? And how should you treat them? Jesus treated people with dignity and respect. If you are unhappy with the state of the union, then do something about besides complaining. Get involved with politics or education. Become a writer (hopefully better than this rambling one) or a business owner. For Christ’s sake (literally) do something, anything. Just don't whine about how bad things are "out there."
There is nothing more spiritual than obeying God. Period. Whether you are a pastor or a plumber, just be obedient. Don’t fall into the lie that there are certain occupations that are more spiritual than others.
Please, inhale life. Don’t just watch it pass you by.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Quote..
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, "Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented and fabulous?" Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to manifest the glory of God that is within us...And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
-Nelson Mandela
I post this because it relates to Megan's post. Be sure to read what Megan's written and comment on it. I think she's addressing something very important!
-Nelson Mandela
I post this because it relates to Megan's post. Be sure to read what Megan's written and comment on it. I think she's addressing something very important!
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Yoo Hoo...Over Here...
Hey...when you hooligans get done taking shots at one another in the comments section of that last post, you should check out that blog I mentioned at DQ tonight. And for those who weren't there and are wondering where that link will take you...you know how we have a friend who's visiting another country? I found a random blog of a guy who is also visiting that same country, for a similar general calling, only he's teaching humanities at an elementary school...and he writes with a lot more detail than our friend can because he was ASKED to open teach from a Christian worldview...He has the same great sense of humor and wit that our friend does...(I mean, I AM biased a little about our friend, I know...) but anyway... for those who are interested in reading more about the life and times of where our friend is, this blog might have something for you. Pictures, too, btw.
Edited on later... Only when I first wrong this post - I didn't know where this guy was in that country, and I certainly didn't expect that he'd be in the same city as our friend...let alone that our friend would KNOW him, or that our friend would have actually hung out with this fella! Strange, huh?
Edited on later... Only when I first wrong this post - I didn't know where this guy was in that country, and I certainly didn't expect that he'd be in the same city as our friend...let alone that our friend would KNOW him, or that our friend would have actually hung out with this fella! Strange, huh?
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Good Friday: The Lion, The Witch, The Wardrobe
Hi everyone - I'd like to invite you all over to the apartment after the Good Friday service to watch the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Maybe if each person could pick one one of the following items to bring, we'd even have a meal:
one oven-baked pizza (we already have one cheese pizza)
two two liters of pop
a dessert to share
a salad
a bag of chips or two
I just thought it would be really cool to check out that movie together after the service (even thought all of you have seen it already! :-(....
Oh...listen to this. Allanah Coker was in the office yesterday, and she came up to me and said, "I watch the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe this weekend, and my daddy told me a secret about it, and said that I should tell everyone the secret. Do you wanna know the secret?" At this point, I was actually interested, so I said, "There's a SECRET in that movie? What is it?" She said, "All of the big, scary monsters that shave the lion - you know, the really scary mean ones?! They're like Satan and all of the bad angels. And the lion and all of his friends? The lion is like Jesus and all of the good angels. THAT'S the secret!" Yup. Leave it up to Jason to teach his kids to share the gospel through movies at age 5.
one oven-baked pizza (we already have one cheese pizza)
two two liters of pop
a dessert to share
a salad
a bag of chips or two
I just thought it would be really cool to check out that movie together after the service (even thought all of you have seen it already! :-(....
Oh...listen to this. Allanah Coker was in the office yesterday, and she came up to me and said, "I watch the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe this weekend, and my daddy told me a secret about it, and said that I should tell everyone the secret. Do you wanna know the secret?" At this point, I was actually interested, so I said, "There's a SECRET in that movie? What is it?" She said, "All of the big, scary monsters that shave the lion - you know, the really scary mean ones?! They're like Satan and all of the bad angels. And the lion and all of his friends? The lion is like Jesus and all of the good angels. THAT'S the secret!" Yup. Leave it up to Jason to teach his kids to share the gospel through movies at age 5.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Once In A Lifetime
On Wednesday of this week, at two minutes and three seconds after 1:00 in the morning, the time and date will be 01:02:03 04/05/06.
That won't ever happen again. You may now return to your regularly schedule life.
That won't ever happen again. You may now return to your regularly schedule life.
Monday, April 03, 2006
Where is everyone???
I see my post on 1 Samuel 16:7 went over very well. I don't know how I will ever digest everything written. Ok, I see participation has waned over the last month or two and I am putting out an official call to all members!!! I would like to see a post or comment on here from everyone telling the group how life is going for them. How the 40 days of Mercy have gone or any stories of encouragement you might have. Basically I just want you to let everyone else know how we can be praying/supporting you in your walk.
On a personal note. I have had to move out of my apartment and my number is no longer valid.My new number is 614-235-8973 and my new address is 4475 Broadhurst Dr. Whitehal, Oh 43213. I have a cell phone number but it is a pay as you go (614-599-0673). My story is that I know without a doubt that everything I have been going thru the last 8 months is serving a greater purpose. Including having to move out of my apartment and back into my Dads house rooming with my brother. (My Dad doesn't stay here, just my brother). I hope to have some news on my next step towards my calling this summer. I have to believe that the changes my life is going thru is working toward that goal.
I will go for now back I hope that EVERYONE will respond to this post. This is a great way to stay connected to the community. See you all on Wednesday, please keep thinking about Mercy and how God has been merciful to you and bring any stories of how you have shown mercy to others and be prepared to share to the group.
On a personal note. I have had to move out of my apartment and my number is no longer valid.My new number is 614-235-8973 and my new address is 4475 Broadhurst Dr. Whitehal, Oh 43213. I have a cell phone number but it is a pay as you go (614-599-0673). My story is that I know without a doubt that everything I have been going thru the last 8 months is serving a greater purpose. Including having to move out of my apartment and back into my Dads house rooming with my brother. (My Dad doesn't stay here, just my brother). I hope to have some news on my next step towards my calling this summer. I have to believe that the changes my life is going thru is working toward that goal.
I will go for now back I hope that EVERYONE will respond to this post. This is a great way to stay connected to the community. See you all on Wednesday, please keep thinking about Mercy and how God has been merciful to you and bring any stories of how you have shown mercy to others and be prepared to share to the group.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)