(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.
Sunday, March 26, 2006
1 Samuel 16:7
But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not look at his apperance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
This past week I was reading in first Samuel and came across this passage again. It was one of those God moments when He says, "Slow down and read that again, think on that, ponder it awhile longer." As most of you know the context of this passage is right after God has rejected Saul as leader and Samuel is looking for the next leader of Israel. God sends Samuel to Bethlehem to Jesse and they parade his seven older sons in front of Samuel and God rejects them one by one as the next leader. Then they sent for David who was in the field tending the sheep and as soon as Samuel saw him God said, "Arise, anoint him; for this is he." Why did he chose David? David was the smallest and least likely of all the brothers. I wonder how many times we look around and think that people are more worthy or less worthy of God's anointing by thier looks alone. Have you ever looked at someone and pitied them for the way they looked when you should have shown mercy to them? There is a difference! Have you ever placed to much faith or trust in someone because they "looked" the part? Now don't get me wrong we all need mercy and grace. What the Lord has spoken into my life is twofold, one is outward focused and the other is inward focused. I need to see people thru HIS eyes and look not at the outside appearance but remember that the true person lies beneath the exterior and we must be people who are not superficial but willing to spend enough time to see the real person. The second part of this is that I felt God say, "now turn that around and apply it to yourself." Some of us struggle with the idea that we must "look" the part or we must put on a front so that others will not see our weaknesses. But it is in the weaknesses where He is made strong and it is there where He is wanting to meet us. We must apply both focuses in our lives. We must look at others as God does but we must also look at ourselves as God does. I would love to hear other comments or view points on this topic. Any thoughts anyone????
This past week I was reading in first Samuel and came across this passage again. It was one of those God moments when He says, "Slow down and read that again, think on that, ponder it awhile longer." As most of you know the context of this passage is right after God has rejected Saul as leader and Samuel is looking for the next leader of Israel. God sends Samuel to Bethlehem to Jesse and they parade his seven older sons in front of Samuel and God rejects them one by one as the next leader. Then they sent for David who was in the field tending the sheep and as soon as Samuel saw him God said, "Arise, anoint him; for this is he." Why did he chose David? David was the smallest and least likely of all the brothers. I wonder how many times we look around and think that people are more worthy or less worthy of God's anointing by thier looks alone. Have you ever looked at someone and pitied them for the way they looked when you should have shown mercy to them? There is a difference! Have you ever placed to much faith or trust in someone because they "looked" the part? Now don't get me wrong we all need mercy and grace. What the Lord has spoken into my life is twofold, one is outward focused and the other is inward focused. I need to see people thru HIS eyes and look not at the outside appearance but remember that the true person lies beneath the exterior and we must be people who are not superficial but willing to spend enough time to see the real person. The second part of this is that I felt God say, "now turn that around and apply it to yourself." Some of us struggle with the idea that we must "look" the part or we must put on a front so that others will not see our weaknesses. But it is in the weaknesses where He is made strong and it is there where He is wanting to meet us. We must apply both focuses in our lives. We must look at others as God does but we must also look at ourselves as God does. I would love to hear other comments or view points on this topic. Any thoughts anyone????
Saturday, March 25, 2006
Calling all home group members
Hey group we have a fifth Wednesday night this month and as we talked about at the last meeting we are going to have some food and fun. The time is 7:00 pm on Wednesday the 29th and the place is at Miss Meekers apartment. If you need directions call her at 270-4822. I hope all of you can make it, that is all of you that are not going to be out of state or out of country.
Monday, March 20, 2006
This is me quietly being interested.
Hey guys - anyone else want to go to a VLI intensive over at Cooper Rd. with me?
Life on the Mission Field: Practical Realities
Saturday, April 8 (8AM-4PM) & Sunday, April 9 (2PM-7PM), $30
Dr. Tad & Amy Blackburn; Mark Batcheck
While the missionary life can be tremendously satisfying and rewarding, many missionaries are not sufficiently prepared for the practical challenges of living on the field. This course is an honest look at missionary life and an in-depth oientation to all that is involved with living overseas: moving and setting up a new home, culture shock and stress, handling conflict, team life & effectiveness, marriage/sngleness, sexual purity, family and parenting, etc...
Language and Culture Learning May 13 & 14
Dwight Gradin
(no other information listed)
Life on the Mission Field: Practical Realities
Saturday, April 8 (8AM-4PM) & Sunday, April 9 (2PM-7PM), $30
Dr. Tad & Amy Blackburn; Mark Batcheck
While the missionary life can be tremendously satisfying and rewarding, many missionaries are not sufficiently prepared for the practical challenges of living on the field. This course is an honest look at missionary life and an in-depth oientation to all that is involved with living overseas: moving and setting up a new home, culture shock and stress, handling conflict, team life & effectiveness, marriage/sngleness, sexual purity, family and parenting, etc...
Language and Culture Learning May 13 & 14
Dwight Gradin
(no other information listed)
Friday, March 17, 2006
Serious Question
Hey, all. I have a post that isn't about Brandy's slippery-slope behavior (see picture below).
;-)
Seriously... What does God tell you when you pray for me? Specifically about my time and purpose here in K'Stan. I really need the help of my homies on this one.
And, by "homies," I mean y'all.
If you think it's beneficial, post the answer as a comment or you can e-mail me directly.
Thanks!
;-)
Seriously... What does God tell you when you pray for me? Specifically about my time and purpose here in K'Stan. I really need the help of my homies on this one.
And, by "homies," I mean y'all.
If you think it's beneficial, post the answer as a comment or you can e-mail me directly.
Thanks!
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Ye Ol' Mohawk.
You know, it's just too hard to ignore the stories about Brandy Shrader's past when the evidence says otherwise... (that's right, it's my picture, I'll tell the story anyway I want! and if want to say it's a beer bottle, then it's a beer bottle!). ;-)
Sunday, March 12, 2006
The Price of Admission
Hi guys, Since I was quiet during the "share your calling and apostolic passion" talks, and since I told Megan and Craig tonight at church that I would go back to my own blog and paste in some old post about my my passion and calling, here it is as promised. Nothing earth shattering, I'm sure, and since you guys seem to know me pretty well, I think it will just confirm what you know. But here you! Have fun!
_______
(written on January 12)
This doesn't really make me a nerd, but there are moments when I really, really like my job. I've spent most of today getting my information together for the Nicaragua Parents' Meeting on Sunday...which isn't really about getting the information together for a Parents' meeting, it's about planning a mission trip for students. I can't believe I get paid to do this. I feel the same thing when summer camp rolls around, or any number of things where I feel like I'm equipping students to fulfill the call of God for ministry. I've known for a long time that's part of my actual calling - equipping the saints for the work of the ministry (I know, I know...I should go be a pastor or something like that)... It's why I know that I don't have to just be a youth pastor or just be this or that. MY calling extends to whatever allows me to equip people for the work of the ministry - and on days like today - I'm having fun because I'm doing just that. :-)
(written on Feb. 1)
But then as I continued to pray last night, I also felt like He was saying to me, "Your time working at the church will be shorter than you expected." And as I prayed, asking "WHY!?" he spoke more clearly the last part of the verse, "continuing on as I was when I was first called." The calling I have is to equip believers to reach the unchurched; the gifting I have is to do that by starting new ministries; and the skills I have allow me to bring order to chaos. My passion is for young people and for people who have never heard the gospel or for new churches. Does that have to be in another country? It could be. Does that have to be here in the US? It can be. That's the freedom of my particular calling. I just know what my calling is, and that in the past, my vocation has allowed me to work out my calling, gifting and skills even though the positions have looked very different from one another.
(written on Feb. 4)
OH...and I was just poking around again on the Navigators website...Like I told Craig and the crew on the AV blog, my problem is that I have no passion for areas outside the 10/40 window. Literally, I don't even look at those opportunities because I know the need to be greatest in the window. Could there possibly be a way to squish together everything that I want to do into ONE job?! I was talking with Devan yesterday about missions and she said, "I was just wondering when missions when come back into play in your own life, and I always figured it would be when you had to take your youth group on a mission trip. The passion you displayed when you were neck deep in it back then, I knew that hadn't gone away." But that doesn't mean that all of the other stuff I'm about just goes away either... I'm still going to be about youth, technology and communication in the church, leadership development, new church development and ministries, equipping believers to do the work of the ministry themselves; teaching new believers... These things aren't going to just go away because I'm rediscovering a passion for missions. (Maybe rediscovering isn't even the right word...it's more like coming to a place where that passion has space to breathe again. My first church did missions, but in an old school way - they just threw $ at it. East Lake didn't at all.) Sigh... This is part of Tom's series that kicked my butt. The "desire" part. I have a plain "desire" for all of my passions to come together in one, and maybe, God wants for those desires to come together, too, "if I delight myself in the Lord." I find myself delighting in God LOTS these days - He's such a good God and has such grace for my shortcomings and goofs...(I mean that statement to have much more theological depth than I'm writing it with). He deserves my delight.
_______
(written on January 12)
This doesn't really make me a nerd, but there are moments when I really, really like my job. I've spent most of today getting my information together for the Nicaragua Parents' Meeting on Sunday...which isn't really about getting the information together for a Parents' meeting, it's about planning a mission trip for students. I can't believe I get paid to do this. I feel the same thing when summer camp rolls around, or any number of things where I feel like I'm equipping students to fulfill the call of God for ministry. I've known for a long time that's part of my actual calling - equipping the saints for the work of the ministry (I know, I know...I should go be a pastor or something like that)... It's why I know that I don't have to just be a youth pastor or just be this or that. MY calling extends to whatever allows me to equip people for the work of the ministry - and on days like today - I'm having fun because I'm doing just that. :-)
(written on Feb. 1)
But then as I continued to pray last night, I also felt like He was saying to me, "Your time working at the church will be shorter than you expected." And as I prayed, asking "WHY!?" he spoke more clearly the last part of the verse, "continuing on as I was when I was first called." The calling I have is to equip believers to reach the unchurched; the gifting I have is to do that by starting new ministries; and the skills I have allow me to bring order to chaos. My passion is for young people and for people who have never heard the gospel or for new churches. Does that have to be in another country? It could be. Does that have to be here in the US? It can be. That's the freedom of my particular calling. I just know what my calling is, and that in the past, my vocation has allowed me to work out my calling, gifting and skills even though the positions have looked very different from one another.
(written on Feb. 4)
OH...and I was just poking around again on the Navigators website...Like I told Craig and the crew on the AV blog, my problem is that I have no passion for areas outside the 10/40 window. Literally, I don't even look at those opportunities because I know the need to be greatest in the window. Could there possibly be a way to squish together everything that I want to do into ONE job?! I was talking with Devan yesterday about missions and she said, "I was just wondering when missions when come back into play in your own life, and I always figured it would be when you had to take your youth group on a mission trip. The passion you displayed when you were neck deep in it back then, I knew that hadn't gone away." But that doesn't mean that all of the other stuff I'm about just goes away either... I'm still going to be about youth, technology and communication in the church, leadership development, new church development and ministries, equipping believers to do the work of the ministry themselves; teaching new believers... These things aren't going to just go away because I'm rediscovering a passion for missions. (Maybe rediscovering isn't even the right word...it's more like coming to a place where that passion has space to breathe again. My first church did missions, but in an old school way - they just threw $ at it. East Lake didn't at all.) Sigh... This is part of Tom's series that kicked my butt. The "desire" part. I have a plain "desire" for all of my passions to come together in one, and maybe, God wants for those desires to come together, too, "if I delight myself in the Lord." I find myself delighting in God LOTS these days - He's such a good God and has such grace for my shortcomings and goofs...(I mean that statement to have much more theological depth than I'm writing it with). He deserves my delight.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
prayer/fast
The Joellenbecks and the team from the church is holding the BBQ today at 5:00pm. Sorry for the late notice!!! If you read this post in time please stop and say a prayer or if you have the opportunity to fast a meal and feel led to do so, please do.
1:00pm- Cell group leaders are going house to house in the country to invite people to BBQ.
4:00pm- cell group starts, led by Nil. They will welcome people and preach and will end with an invitation to accept Jesus.
5:00pm- BBQ for all
Scott asks for prayer that the weather is good. Especially since everyone will be arriving by foot. He also asks us to pray that peoples hearts will be open and that the day will go smoothly.
1:00pm- Cell group leaders are going house to house in the country to invite people to BBQ.
4:00pm- cell group starts, led by Nil. They will welcome people and preach and will end with an invitation to accept Jesus.
5:00pm- BBQ for all
Scott asks for prayer that the weather is good. Especially since everyone will be arriving by foot. He also asks us to pray that peoples hearts will be open and that the day will go smoothly.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
prayers needed
Hi group,
We have a couple of people in the congregation that are in need of your prayers. I will give you some of the information here but please contact Brandy or myself if you need more information.
A couple weeks ago I sent out a prayer request for Teri Furrey who had a episode driving home after a prayer meeting on Tuesday. The tests that she has taken since then have shown some abnormalities. Tomorrow (Wednesday) she will be going in to have a heart catheter done. Teri has had heart problems in the past and has had the balloon procedure done. This time the Doctors aren't sure they will be able to do that and they are looking more to putting in stints. The procedure is to be at 5:30 am tomorrow and she will be able to have visitors but probably won't be awake enough until thursday.
Last weekend Brian Paquette was riding a horse at his parents home and had a bad accident. In essence his entire arm from the elbow down was crushed. He went thru a 6 hour surgery to repair the tendons and muscle and to reattach them to the elbow. At the last I heard he hadn't had the other surgery done for the wrist. Tom told us that he is under the best care in Columbus and that the doctor he has is very well known for his ability to reattach tendons and such. But as we all know the master physician is God and we want to make sure to lift them both up at this time. Brian will probably be in the hospital for about another week.
We have a couple of people in the congregation that are in need of your prayers. I will give you some of the information here but please contact Brandy or myself if you need more information.
A couple weeks ago I sent out a prayer request for Teri Furrey who had a episode driving home after a prayer meeting on Tuesday. The tests that she has taken since then have shown some abnormalities. Tomorrow (Wednesday) she will be going in to have a heart catheter done. Teri has had heart problems in the past and has had the balloon procedure done. This time the Doctors aren't sure they will be able to do that and they are looking more to putting in stints. The procedure is to be at 5:30 am tomorrow and she will be able to have visitors but probably won't be awake enough until thursday.
Last weekend Brian Paquette was riding a horse at his parents home and had a bad accident. In essence his entire arm from the elbow down was crushed. He went thru a 6 hour surgery to repair the tendons and muscle and to reattach them to the elbow. At the last I heard he hadn't had the other surgery done for the wrist. Tom told us that he is under the best care in Columbus and that the doctor he has is very well known for his ability to reattach tendons and such. But as we all know the master physician is God and we want to make sure to lift them both up at this time. Brian will probably be in the hospital for about another week.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)