The Difference between a faith and a religion, I think, comes into focus in the tough times. When things are down. When the chips fall on the negative side. When you lose, you're hurt, you're in pain, and nothing seems to go right.
I happen to think that if I simply had a religion, something that gave me comfort and knowledge of an afterlife, I'd be lost in times like this. I'd be wondering why the glories of others in my religion failed, repeatedly, to come to me.
I like to think I have faith in Jesus, and the ways he teaches. Faith that if I continue to do the things he taught, that if I continue to seek after him, it's going to be fine. And I'm going to continue to have relationships and encounters that matter.
I don't need to drink Kool-Aid to think that all that matters is the end.
I've got faith to know that my God is there by my side, keeping it from being any worse.
And, more importantly, I've got faith in my God that the people he's brought into my life are going to stand by my side and be the comfort and support that I need.
Showing posts with label Advancing Faith. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Advancing Faith. Show all posts
Monday, September 01, 2008
Monday, June 23, 2008
A Good Read
If I remember my stats correctly, and if the study I used was reliable, something like only 40% of college graduates ever read a book after they graduate. And only 16% of college graduates ever read a non-fiction book after they graduate. And, on top of that, college graduates are the segment of our adult population that reads the most.
Clearly, I don't fit into that exactly. I'm not the bookworm my wife is (I don't usually finish books in a day), but I do read quite often. Fiction (mainly of the Star Wars variety) and non-fiction (mainly of sales and religious variety) are both frequently found in my hands. But I can understand why some people stop. Life gets busy, television fills the entertainment (and information) need. Not to mention we're forced to read some really bad fiction and really dry non-fiction (how I still loathe my Western Civilization reading assignments) while we're in college.
But 16% is a really, really low number. I mean, 40% I can live with. But 16%? That's less than how often Casey Blake gets a hit with RISP and 2 outs in his career. That's way too low.
And maybe it's because most people simply don't know how to find good non-fiction. Or how to tell if they're reading good non-fiction.
I mean, most of us know how to find good fiction. We pick it up, and the characters, world, magic, or romance draws us in. We're able to see things in our head, and anticipate and hope for outcomes.
But we don't get that in non-fiction. We get opinion, belief, and hopefully advice and insight. If it was predictable, we wouldn't want to read it. Most of the non-fiction I like I didn't know was my type, it came on a recommendation.
Now, I know what bad non-fiction looks like. And feels like, more importantly. It feels and reads like the aforementioned books from the Western Civ classes. It makes me dread turning the page, constantly count to a break/end of chapter, and keeps me from hoping there's more of the same to follow.
But, I really couldn't describe to you what good non-fiction looks like. Or feels like, more importantly.
But, last night I started reading a new non-fiction book. My good buddy David and I did a book swap last weekend. I loaned him Christ the Lord by Anne Rice, which was so far down my reading list at the time, it wasn't getting read until at least October. In return, he loaned me Simply Christian, which he had just finished and thought would be a great fit for my mindset.
So, again, I pick up some non-fiction on recommendation.
But, I do think I've found what makes good non-fiction good.
And, you'll have to excuse me, because I'm only one chapter (plus the introduction) into it, but I'm ready to say I like the book.
And I think it's because of this litmus test for (certain types of) non-fiction:
The author is able to say something that you've wanted to be able to say, but haven't had the words or wisdom to be able to say.
It's why Rob Bell works so well for me.
And let me give you an example from this book:
Like I said, something I've always wanted to be able to express, but haven't been able to find the words, spirit, or wisdom to say so myself. And thus it passes my new litmus test.
Seriously, last night, I wouldn't have been surprised if there was literally a light bulb over my head explaining this new idea I had on why I like certain non-fiction.
And, like I said, I'm only one chapter in. But this book is off to a promising start. And, I'm thinking it will end up not only on my "perpetually recommend to anyone willing to listen to a book recommendation" list, but also on my "not enough to have read it, must also own it" list.
And so while it might not help me in recognizing from a distance what is good non-fiction, maybe it will help you all do a better job in recommending good non-fiction to me.
Clearly, I don't fit into that exactly. I'm not the bookworm my wife is (I don't usually finish books in a day), but I do read quite often. Fiction (mainly of the Star Wars variety) and non-fiction (mainly of sales and religious variety) are both frequently found in my hands. But I can understand why some people stop. Life gets busy, television fills the entertainment (and information) need. Not to mention we're forced to read some really bad fiction and really dry non-fiction (how I still loathe my Western Civilization reading assignments) while we're in college.
But 16% is a really, really low number. I mean, 40% I can live with. But 16%? That's less than how often Casey Blake gets a hit with RISP and 2 outs in his career. That's way too low.
And maybe it's because most people simply don't know how to find good non-fiction. Or how to tell if they're reading good non-fiction.
I mean, most of us know how to find good fiction. We pick it up, and the characters, world, magic, or romance draws us in. We're able to see things in our head, and anticipate and hope for outcomes.
But we don't get that in non-fiction. We get opinion, belief, and hopefully advice and insight. If it was predictable, we wouldn't want to read it. Most of the non-fiction I like I didn't know was my type, it came on a recommendation.
Now, I know what bad non-fiction looks like. And feels like, more importantly. It feels and reads like the aforementioned books from the Western Civ classes. It makes me dread turning the page, constantly count to a break/end of chapter, and keeps me from hoping there's more of the same to follow.
But, I really couldn't describe to you what good non-fiction looks like. Or feels like, more importantly.
But, last night I started reading a new non-fiction book. My good buddy David and I did a book swap last weekend. I loaned him Christ the Lord by Anne Rice, which was so far down my reading list at the time, it wasn't getting read until at least October. In return, he loaned me Simply Christian, which he had just finished and thought would be a great fit for my mindset.
So, again, I pick up some non-fiction on recommendation.
But, I do think I've found what makes good non-fiction good.
And, you'll have to excuse me, because I'm only one chapter (plus the introduction) into it, but I'm ready to say I like the book.
And I think it's because of this litmus test for (certain types of) non-fiction:
The author is able to say something that you've wanted to be able to say, but haven't had the words or wisdom to be able to say.
It's why Rob Bell works so well for me.
And let me give you an example from this book:
"Haven't Christians been part of the problem rather than part of the solution?
Yes and no.
Yes: from very early on there have always been people who have done terrible things in the name of Jesus. There have also been Christians who have done terrible things knowing them to be terrible things, without claiming that Jesus was supporting them. There's no point hiding from this truth, however uncomfortable it may be.
But also no: because again and again, when we look at the wicked things Christians have done (whether or not they were claiming God was on their side), we can see in retrospect at least that they were muddled and mistaken about what Christianity actually is. It's no part of Christian belief to say that the followers of Jesus always got everything right. Jesus himself taught his followers a prayer which includes a clause asking God for forgiveness. He must have thought we would go on needing it"
Like I said, something I've always wanted to be able to express, but haven't been able to find the words, spirit, or wisdom to say so myself. And thus it passes my new litmus test.
Seriously, last night, I wouldn't have been surprised if there was literally a light bulb over my head explaining this new idea I had on why I like certain non-fiction.
And, like I said, I'm only one chapter in. But this book is off to a promising start. And, I'm thinking it will end up not only on my "perpetually recommend to anyone willing to listen to a book recommendation" list, but also on my "not enough to have read it, must also own it" list.
And so while it might not help me in recognizing from a distance what is good non-fiction, maybe it will help you all do a better job in recommending good non-fiction to me.
Monday, April 07, 2008
Watch your glass
I tend to think of myself as an optimist. I think it's one of my better traits. I always look at potential and possibilities when faced with a set back. It certainly helps to be this way in the world of Insurance Sales.
I think, however, I would help myself further if I took time to actually celebrate the good things in my life. To think about what is making my glass half-full instead of half empty. It's so easy in life to focus on the things that frustrate us, and gloss over the things that make us happy and help guide us through the day.
I don't bust my hump trying to get new groups and sell insurance policies because I want to come home to a messy apartment that's too small for all the stuff we've accumulated. I do it because one day I want Rachel and I to own a beautiful house.
I don't pour my sweat, tears, and blood into Sigma Theta Epsilon because I want to bicker about policy or have frustrations with other members. I do it because I love to see potential transformed into an honest Christian man, ready to be a clergy or lay leader.
I don't put my effort into jOURney because I want to be disappointed when the worship space is less than half full. I do it because I know there's a need for this kind of church, and I know the impact it's already having life-by-life.
And yet, I never really sit down to meditate on things like this. I sit down and grab my hair and try to figure out how I'm going to pay the bills, how I'm going to manage stress, and if the projects I love and care about will ever thrive like I know they can. But I don't sit down and be honestly thankful that I have a fairly spacious apartment to come home to, that I have worthwhile organizations to volunteer for, and taht I have a job that allows me to have a flexible schedule and the possibility for rags to riches.
And I think ... I need to do this more.
No, I don't think that. I know it.
And then, I can become a real optimist.
No more will I see my glass as half-full. I'll see it as on the way to being overflowing.
I think, however, I would help myself further if I took time to actually celebrate the good things in my life. To think about what is making my glass half-full instead of half empty. It's so easy in life to focus on the things that frustrate us, and gloss over the things that make us happy and help guide us through the day.
I don't bust my hump trying to get new groups and sell insurance policies because I want to come home to a messy apartment that's too small for all the stuff we've accumulated. I do it because one day I want Rachel and I to own a beautiful house.
I don't pour my sweat, tears, and blood into Sigma Theta Epsilon because I want to bicker about policy or have frustrations with other members. I do it because I love to see potential transformed into an honest Christian man, ready to be a clergy or lay leader.
I don't put my effort into jOURney because I want to be disappointed when the worship space is less than half full. I do it because I know there's a need for this kind of church, and I know the impact it's already having life-by-life.
And yet, I never really sit down to meditate on things like this. I sit down and grab my hair and try to figure out how I'm going to pay the bills, how I'm going to manage stress, and if the projects I love and care about will ever thrive like I know they can. But I don't sit down and be honestly thankful that I have a fairly spacious apartment to come home to, that I have worthwhile organizations to volunteer for, and taht I have a job that allows me to have a flexible schedule and the possibility for rags to riches.
And I think ... I need to do this more.
No, I don't think that. I know it.
And then, I can become a real optimist.
No more will I see my glass as half-full. I'll see it as on the way to being overflowing.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Cutting Down the Nets
March Madness is a fantastic time of the year. Thrilling games, wild upsets, Cinderella stories. So many things to love.
And one of the things I love best is the tradition of cutting down the nets. It happens at the end of each conference tournament with the winning team cutting down the nets, claiming victory and marching forward, guaranteed, to the NCAA Tournament. It happens at the end of each regional final, with the victorious team cutting down the nets, claiming victory and marching forward to the Final Four. And it happens at the end of the tournament, claiming victory and marking the end of the accomplishment.
But think about what else it does: it transforms the net from something useful to something destroyed. Sure, it's a great sign of victory, but it's also a sign saying "we've done all we can here, now we need to move forward. We can celebrate this victory, but we can't just dwell on it forever."
A couple of weeks back at jOURney, we talked about Philipians 3, and how Paul lists some of his great accomplishments and calls them basically trash. And I got to thinking last night, that the cutting down of nets is a great analogy to our accomplishment list that is similar (but pales in comparison) to Paul.
I'd never say that what we've done and what we've accomplished is completely worthless. It's great to have memories and to learn and grow. But we can't keep standing on the ground of what we won/accomplished/did/learned/etc. That will never move us forward.
By "cutting down our nets", we get to celebrate an accomplishment in the moment, but we also get a reminder that we need to move forward. We're left with a personal trophy that won't mean much to anyone else, but it's a reminder of success we had in the past that will help us in the future. But we can't just throw that old net back up there, because it won't work anymore. We have to rely on our faith and the talents God has given us to move forward, not the stockpile of trophies.
(And Trevor, can you believe it ... it's been weeks and I still remember this teaching? Amazing, isn't it?)
And one of the things I love best is the tradition of cutting down the nets. It happens at the end of each conference tournament with the winning team cutting down the nets, claiming victory and marching forward, guaranteed, to the NCAA Tournament. It happens at the end of each regional final, with the victorious team cutting down the nets, claiming victory and marching forward to the Final Four. And it happens at the end of the tournament, claiming victory and marking the end of the accomplishment.
But think about what else it does: it transforms the net from something useful to something destroyed. Sure, it's a great sign of victory, but it's also a sign saying "we've done all we can here, now we need to move forward. We can celebrate this victory, but we can't just dwell on it forever."
A couple of weeks back at jOURney, we talked about Philipians 3, and how Paul lists some of his great accomplishments and calls them basically trash. And I got to thinking last night, that the cutting down of nets is a great analogy to our accomplishment list that is similar (but pales in comparison) to Paul.
I'd never say that what we've done and what we've accomplished is completely worthless. It's great to have memories and to learn and grow. But we can't keep standing on the ground of what we won/accomplished/did/learned/etc. That will never move us forward.
By "cutting down our nets", we get to celebrate an accomplishment in the moment, but we also get a reminder that we need to move forward. We're left with a personal trophy that won't mean much to anyone else, but it's a reminder of success we had in the past that will help us in the future. But we can't just throw that old net back up there, because it won't work anymore. We have to rely on our faith and the talents God has given us to move forward, not the stockpile of trophies.
(And Trevor, can you believe it ... it's been weeks and I still remember this teaching? Amazing, isn't it?)
Monday, March 03, 2008
Lost in Jesus
I know, a lot of churches and/or attendees of lots of different churches think they have the best worship band in the world. Or at least, best amateur worship band.
I would disagree with all of them, unless they are referring to jOURney. We have the best worship band in the world. Amateur or not. David Crowder and Chris Tomlin listen to R. C. Foshizzle for inspiration.
Last night they were on like nothing else. I found myself lost in Jesus and lost in worship as they played. It's an amazing feeling, being lost like that. And not a mindless lost, but somehow being totally aware of everything around you, and yet totally focused on one thing.
If you're too far from Findlay to actually check out Journey yourself and hear our awesome band, I'd encourage you to buy their first CD. "Lives of Grace" is an amazing song, and "Stoop a Little" has also become one of my favorites. Maybe you'll find your own favorite. They're only ten bucks. And the proceeds to go AIDS relief in Africa, including Blood:Water Mission, one of my favorite charities. And, I bet if you ask nicely, R. C. Foshizzle would even autograph your copy.
I would disagree with all of them, unless they are referring to jOURney. We have the best worship band in the world. Amateur or not. David Crowder and Chris Tomlin listen to R. C. Foshizzle for inspiration.
Last night they were on like nothing else. I found myself lost in Jesus and lost in worship as they played. It's an amazing feeling, being lost like that. And not a mindless lost, but somehow being totally aware of everything around you, and yet totally focused on one thing.
If you're too far from Findlay to actually check out Journey yourself and hear our awesome band, I'd encourage you to buy their first CD. "Lives of Grace" is an amazing song, and "Stoop a Little" has also become one of my favorites. Maybe you'll find your own favorite. They're only ten bucks. And the proceeds to go AIDS relief in Africa, including Blood:Water Mission, one of my favorite charities. And, I bet if you ask nicely, R. C. Foshizzle would even autograph your copy.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Do You Ever Inspire Yourself?
I'm not trying to sound egotistical with that question. I'm seriously wondering: do you ever inspire yourself?
I ask because this morning I inspired myself. In my role as National Vice President for Sigma Theta Epsilon, I'm posting a discussional (my word for devotional that hopefully invites discussion and feedback) each day for Lent. That's going to be 46 of these discussionals in 46 days, counting one on each Sunday, as well. This has been a serious time of growth for me, as well as drawing close to the Lord. I'm really amazed at how much it's done that for me.
But, beyond that, the lastest discussional entry in the series inspired me to attempt a project. It's not that I hadn't had similar thoughts before, but they had never been as clear or as focused or as "I need to do this" as they were when I re-read what I had posted for discussional.
I'm just wondering how common this is. Do you ever do something that gives you inspiration to do something else? Do you ever inspire yourself?
(Of course I realize I may be giving myself too much credit in the inspiration side ... but I think I sound just as vain if I try to say "God prompted to me to write this", so there goes another question and conundrum ... )
I ask because this morning I inspired myself. In my role as National Vice President for Sigma Theta Epsilon, I'm posting a discussional (my word for devotional that hopefully invites discussion and feedback) each day for Lent. That's going to be 46 of these discussionals in 46 days, counting one on each Sunday, as well. This has been a serious time of growth for me, as well as drawing close to the Lord. I'm really amazed at how much it's done that for me.
But, beyond that, the lastest discussional entry in the series inspired me to attempt a project. It's not that I hadn't had similar thoughts before, but they had never been as clear or as focused or as "I need to do this" as they were when I re-read what I had posted for discussional.
I'm just wondering how common this is. Do you ever do something that gives you inspiration to do something else? Do you ever inspire yourself?
(Of course I realize I may be giving myself too much credit in the inspiration side ... but I think I sound just as vain if I try to say "God prompted to me to write this", so there goes another question and conundrum ... )
Sunday, August 12, 2007
The Great Misunderstanding
There seems to be something that gets lost in translation when an imperfect people (that's all of us, folks) try to represent a perfect being, and explain what and why He is.
There seems to be something that gets lost in translation when people with an agenda (that's all of us, folks) try to explain what exactly a being that is 100% love expects and wants from us.
Ryan asked a question tonight at jOURney. I'm not going to quote it exactly, but I'm going to try my best to capture what I believe was the intent. He wanted to know (in the context of Acts 11), how to respond when God asks us to do something that is outside of our norm. When we've spent years doing things a certain way, and then suddenly, God asks us to change.
How can we know it's really God? How can we know that a change is needed? Why wouldn't God have stopped us before if he wanted it a different way?
My thoughts are that the truth is, we have a misunderstanding of God. And we've thought he was a certain way. That his way lead to a certain stance. And when we start to see Him more clearly, more perfectly, more accurately, we have a need, a desire, to change the way we've done something.
Maybe that change is to be more accepting. Or perhaps it's to be less accepting. I've known people on both ends of that spectrum who claim to be representing the almighty. Hell, I've been on both ends of the spectrum, on both parts of reception!
Maybe that change is to accept that we're just sinners, and that's how it is, and we can't be perfect. Or maybe that change is to accept that we need to strive to live for more than just sin and mediocrity. Again, I've lived both ends of that spectrum.
Maybe that change is to listen more, and advise less. Or to advise more, and listen less. Or maybe that change is to ponder less and act more, or act more and ponder less. Or so many things, that upon reflection, I almost feel bipolar, or at least spiritually bipolar.
Maybe I've just reached a place on my journey where I don't need to focus on the destination, because I know it. But I need to focus on the journey towards it. And because of that, I reflect on the path I've taken so far, and I'm afraid I've misrepresented God so often, and over corrected so often, that I just hunger to find the right spot, and I'm not even certain that spot exists.
Or maybe ... maybe faith is about maybe. True faith is about accepting maybe, and understanding that we'll never understand in certainty. And that the great misunderstanding, is that we can understand it all.
There seems to be something that gets lost in translation when people with an agenda (that's all of us, folks) try to explain what exactly a being that is 100% love expects and wants from us.
Ryan asked a question tonight at jOURney. I'm not going to quote it exactly, but I'm going to try my best to capture what I believe was the intent. He wanted to know (in the context of Acts 11), how to respond when God asks us to do something that is outside of our norm. When we've spent years doing things a certain way, and then suddenly, God asks us to change.
How can we know it's really God? How can we know that a change is needed? Why wouldn't God have stopped us before if he wanted it a different way?
My thoughts are that the truth is, we have a misunderstanding of God. And we've thought he was a certain way. That his way lead to a certain stance. And when we start to see Him more clearly, more perfectly, more accurately, we have a need, a desire, to change the way we've done something.
Maybe that change is to be more accepting. Or perhaps it's to be less accepting. I've known people on both ends of that spectrum who claim to be representing the almighty. Hell, I've been on both ends of the spectrum, on both parts of reception!
Maybe that change is to accept that we're just sinners, and that's how it is, and we can't be perfect. Or maybe that change is to accept that we need to strive to live for more than just sin and mediocrity. Again, I've lived both ends of that spectrum.
Maybe that change is to listen more, and advise less. Or to advise more, and listen less. Or maybe that change is to ponder less and act more, or act more and ponder less. Or so many things, that upon reflection, I almost feel bipolar, or at least spiritually bipolar.
Maybe I've just reached a place on my journey where I don't need to focus on the destination, because I know it. But I need to focus on the journey towards it. And because of that, I reflect on the path I've taken so far, and I'm afraid I've misrepresented God so often, and over corrected so often, that I just hunger to find the right spot, and I'm not even certain that spot exists.
Or maybe ... maybe faith is about maybe. True faith is about accepting maybe, and understanding that we'll never understand in certainty. And that the great misunderstanding, is that we can understand it all.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Good Food, and Good Friends
As I posted a little while back, I've been in a funk. I struggled with work, I felt no forward motion in many areas of my life, and I was frustrated that my wife couldn't get a job. I hadn't been blogging because I didn't want to just emo all over the place. I know how Quinn gets around Emo, and I didn't want to have to face that.
However, I think the corner is being turned. The black cloud of funk is being lifted. The ... well, I'm sure you can think of a better cliche than I can.
And it all revolves around what I should have figured in the first place:
Good food, and good friends.
This past Wednesday, Rachel and I made the trip to Ada to have dinner with the Hoseks. We'd made a bet a few years ago, and I finally got him to pay up. We went down, had dinner, played boche ball, and talked with another married couple for a few hours about the struggles of early years in marriage, tight finances, and all sorts of topics. It was a really good way to break up a week.
Then, this past weekend was STE National Officer Advance. It's always a blessing to see and interact with those guys, even if i couldn't do better than second place at a poker table. Even if Krispy Kreme donuts are better than Dunkin. There was plenty of bonding, plenty of laughter, and plenty of growth. Not to mention the fact that Shan makes a wicked awesome steak, Skyline is awesome for lunch, and LaRosa's isn't bad for dinner.
The funk is lifting. I can feel it. Good things are gonna happen. Rachel's got a job. A full time job. And I've got hope for my job that something soon will break and be good. Very good.
I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on. There will be an end to the struggles. But until that day comes. Still I will praise you.
However, I think the corner is being turned. The black cloud of funk is being lifted. The ... well, I'm sure you can think of a better cliche than I can.
And it all revolves around what I should have figured in the first place:
Good food, and good friends.
This past Wednesday, Rachel and I made the trip to Ada to have dinner with the Hoseks. We'd made a bet a few years ago, and I finally got him to pay up. We went down, had dinner, played boche ball, and talked with another married couple for a few hours about the struggles of early years in marriage, tight finances, and all sorts of topics. It was a really good way to break up a week.
Then, this past weekend was STE National Officer Advance. It's always a blessing to see and interact with those guys, even if i couldn't do better than second place at a poker table. Even if Krispy Kreme donuts are better than Dunkin. There was plenty of bonding, plenty of laughter, and plenty of growth. Not to mention the fact that Shan makes a wicked awesome steak, Skyline is awesome for lunch, and LaRosa's isn't bad for dinner.
The funk is lifting. I can feel it. Good things are gonna happen. Rachel's got a job. A full time job. And I've got hope for my job that something soon will break and be good. Very good.
I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on. There will be an end to the struggles. But until that day comes. Still I will praise you.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Sex God
It's very rare for me to get a book, and tear through it. I was brought up fully immersed in the video game/movie/television generation. It's not that I don't enjoy reading a book, it's just that it's not the easiest thing to keep my attention for extended stretches.
Well, in less than a day, I tore through Sex God.
And I have two major things to say about it:
1) When I have money in the budget to buy a book, I'm buying it.
2) If you haven't read it, go read it.
Seriously. Read it. It will impact your life in some way. It will challenge your life in some way. I've already mapped out more than half a dozen ways I can see myself using it.
Seriously. Rob Bell mixes funny anecdotes with deep thoughts, scriptural basis and nuances, as well as historical and common sense knowledge. It doesn't matter where you are on a faith journey or if you have even formally started one.
Go read this book.
Well, in less than a day, I tore through Sex God.
And I have two major things to say about it:
1) When I have money in the budget to buy a book, I'm buying it.
2) If you haven't read it, go read it.
Seriously. Read it. It will impact your life in some way. It will challenge your life in some way. I've already mapped out more than half a dozen ways I can see myself using it.
- Advice book for a friend getting married
- Advice book for friend(s) in a rocky marriage
- Make a strong marriage stronger
- Encouragement for the down days in a career path
- Book to read together when it's time to talk to kids about sex
- Encouragement for a single friend
- Understanding and conquering sexual demons in a way even Every Man's Battle couldn't and didn't
Seriously. Rob Bell mixes funny anecdotes with deep thoughts, scriptural basis and nuances, as well as historical and common sense knowledge. It doesn't matter where you are on a faith journey or if you have even formally started one.
Go read this book.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Who's with me?
Rob Bell for President.
No, seriously.
I'd vote for this guy against just about anyone. Even Aaron Aldridge. And maybe even the guy Aaron beats out. (Honk if you get that joke)
I picked up Sex God from the library today (my next Star Wars LotF novel isn't available for me yet), and I'm already almost halfway through it. I'm forcing myself to put it down between chapters so I can absorb what's written in it, and not just fly through it like fast food fiction.
I'm convinced, more than ever, that Rob Bell is a centrist. He's level headed. He gets things. He gets common sense things. He gets practical things. He gets philosophical things. He gets intellectual things. He gets spiritual things. And he presents them all in a manner that not only can I understand. But in a manner that I want to hear more.
Seriously ... Rob Bell for President. Who's with me?
No, seriously.
I'd vote for this guy against just about anyone. Even Aaron Aldridge. And maybe even the guy Aaron beats out. (Honk if you get that joke)
I picked up Sex God from the library today (my next Star Wars LotF novel isn't available for me yet), and I'm already almost halfway through it. I'm forcing myself to put it down between chapters so I can absorb what's written in it, and not just fly through it like fast food fiction.
I'm convinced, more than ever, that Rob Bell is a centrist. He's level headed. He gets things. He gets common sense things. He gets practical things. He gets philosophical things. He gets intellectual things. He gets spiritual things. And he presents them all in a manner that not only can I understand. But in a manner that I want to hear more.
Seriously ... Rob Bell for President. Who's with me?
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Hidden Blessings
It's really easy to say "God knows what's best for me".
It's a decent bit tougher to live it.
About 18 months ago, when I realized that a career in academia via mathematics was not the life for me, I started to look for jobs. Like, serious looks. Putting out resumés to company after company. A few jobs I thought I could do. A few jobs I knew I was qualified for. A bunch of jobs that would have paid the bills. A career job or two that I really thought I would have enjoyed and thought I was qualified for. I looked at jobs near by. In Findlay, in Ohio, in the Midwest, in the country.
Yet, none of them panned out.
And I doubted myself. I doubted my choices. I doubted a lot of things. I wondered what was wrong with me.
I finally found a job. With Aflac. It's still isn't at the point where I've got a steady paycheck. Rachel and I still struggle to find enough money to pay all the bills every month.
But I wouldn't trade my current situation for any of the jobs I applied for earlier. Definitely not the ones that would have moved me across the country. not for any salary. The friendships I've made are worth far more than any paycheck. If I get one of those jobs last summer and move to Iowa or Arizona or Montana or something like that ... Rachel and I never get involved in Five02/jOURney, which means we miss out on great friendships with awesome people like Ryan, Andrea, Reece, Trevor, Lori, Cathy, Jim, and so on and so forth. I probably never would have gotten as intimately involved with the fraternity as I am now; I probably would have never run for reelection. That means we wouldn't have the awesome friendships we've developed. We wouldn't have had the amazing fun we had this past weekend. We wouldn't have our upcoming trip(s).
I laughed when I was younger when people would insinuate that money couldn't buy happiness. I thought they were nuts. I figured you'd always be able to prioritize around work, and be able to have money and fun. And maybe you can. But I wouldn't be willing to risk it. I'm not trading my joy for anything.
And I do have faith. Faith that a career with Aflac is exactly where God wants me. Faith that it will work out. And that it will lead to Rachel and I having our dreams come true: owning a home, raising a family, traveling, having money to help others, etc.
But in the meantime? I'll gladly trade the uncertainty in my bank account for the character and friendships I've developed.
Thank you, God, for know what was best for me.
It's a decent bit tougher to live it.
About 18 months ago, when I realized that a career in academia via mathematics was not the life for me, I started to look for jobs. Like, serious looks. Putting out resumés to company after company. A few jobs I thought I could do. A few jobs I knew I was qualified for. A bunch of jobs that would have paid the bills. A career job or two that I really thought I would have enjoyed and thought I was qualified for. I looked at jobs near by. In Findlay, in Ohio, in the Midwest, in the country.
Yet, none of them panned out.
And I doubted myself. I doubted my choices. I doubted a lot of things. I wondered what was wrong with me.
I finally found a job. With Aflac. It's still isn't at the point where I've got a steady paycheck. Rachel and I still struggle to find enough money to pay all the bills every month.
But I wouldn't trade my current situation for any of the jobs I applied for earlier. Definitely not the ones that would have moved me across the country. not for any salary. The friendships I've made are worth far more than any paycheck. If I get one of those jobs last summer and move to Iowa or Arizona or Montana or something like that ... Rachel and I never get involved in Five02/jOURney, which means we miss out on great friendships with awesome people like Ryan, Andrea, Reece, Trevor, Lori, Cathy, Jim, and so on and so forth. I probably never would have gotten as intimately involved with the fraternity as I am now; I probably would have never run for reelection. That means we wouldn't have the awesome friendships we've developed. We wouldn't have had the amazing fun we had this past weekend. We wouldn't have our upcoming trip(s).
I laughed when I was younger when people would insinuate that money couldn't buy happiness. I thought they were nuts. I figured you'd always be able to prioritize around work, and be able to have money and fun. And maybe you can. But I wouldn't be willing to risk it. I'm not trading my joy for anything.
And I do have faith. Faith that a career with Aflac is exactly where God wants me. Faith that it will work out. And that it will lead to Rachel and I having our dreams come true: owning a home, raising a family, traveling, having money to help others, etc.
But in the meantime? I'll gladly trade the uncertainty in my bank account for the character and friendships I've developed.
Thank you, God, for know what was best for me.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Faith
So, my last post mentioned not wanting to have a "faith" that if we just pray/do good things/hope enough, that things will get done. And since I posted it, the idea of faith has been on my mind and my heart.
Not faith as I've ever thought of it before.
Faith in man.
I know, I know ... it sounds like a bizarre thing to want to have. Man is stupid, imperfect, continually lets others down. God is all-knowing, perfect, and always there.
Yet, I think we are called, as followers of Christ, to let others have faith in us.
I think it's all part of the fully-God, fully-human thing Jesus pulled off. He showed us that someone who was fully human could live a life such that we could have faith in that person.
How did he do it?
He met people where they were.
He invested his time into real answers, not superficial catch phrases.
He did as he taught.
He balanced challenging authority when it was necessary, with respecting authority when it was required.
He established credibility with people, before he asked them to take on tasks.
None of these are things we, as human followers of Christ, cannot do. There are people in my life daily who do these things, and challenge me to do the same.
So why can't we have faith in man?
Not faith as I've ever thought of it before.
Faith in man.
I know, I know ... it sounds like a bizarre thing to want to have. Man is stupid, imperfect, continually lets others down. God is all-knowing, perfect, and always there.
Yet, I think we are called, as followers of Christ, to let others have faith in us.
I think it's all part of the fully-God, fully-human thing Jesus pulled off. He showed us that someone who was fully human could live a life such that we could have faith in that person.
How did he do it?
He met people where they were.
He invested his time into real answers, not superficial catch phrases.
He did as he taught.
He balanced challenging authority when it was necessary, with respecting authority when it was required.
He established credibility with people, before he asked them to take on tasks.
None of these are things we, as human followers of Christ, cannot do. There are people in my life daily who do these things, and challenge me to do the same.
So why can't we have faith in man?
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
The Internet and The Church
So, recently, I was catching up on Mark Cuban's Blog (one of my personal favorites to read), and he made some good points (as he almost always does). He talked about how the internet hasn't changed, simply the hardware and the price of the hardware we use to connect to the internet has. It's not that there's been a new discovery of ways to use the internet, it's that it's cheaper to do websites like YouTube, and more common to have homes with high speed internet.
And I couldn't help but think that the church is much the same way. Our God hasn't changed. But our means of communications, and the technology and methods we can use have. But are we? Are we using what's developing around us?
Can you imagine how foolish someone would sound if they said "I refuse to use YouTube, because it wasn't around when I bought my first computer"??? Yet, how many times do people in churches (myself included) do similar things? And, often times, it's not a matter of stepping out of our comfort zones, it's a matter of merging our comfort zones. Letting our "Christian" side mesh with the "rest" of us.
And what's the problem with that? Why can't we use what we know about Star Wars, to try to explain God? Why can't we do a combination bible study football game party? Why can't we create "Christian" YouTubes and broadcast them (or video capture the pastor's message and YouTube that???)?
What is it about our faith that makes us want to segregate it?
I just don't get it.
I want to integrate, from here on out.
And I couldn't help but think that the church is much the same way. Our God hasn't changed. But our means of communications, and the technology and methods we can use have. But are we? Are we using what's developing around us?
Can you imagine how foolish someone would sound if they said "I refuse to use YouTube, because it wasn't around when I bought my first computer"??? Yet, how many times do people in churches (myself included) do similar things? And, often times, it's not a matter of stepping out of our comfort zones, it's a matter of merging our comfort zones. Letting our "Christian" side mesh with the "rest" of us.
And what's the problem with that? Why can't we use what we know about Star Wars, to try to explain God? Why can't we do a combination bible study football game party? Why can't we create "Christian" YouTubes and broadcast them (or video capture the pastor's message and YouTube that???)?
What is it about our faith that makes us want to segregate it?
I just don't get it.
I want to integrate, from here on out.
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Still Here, Still Not Dead
So, here's a newsflash:
I'm not great at keeping my blog updated.
So sue me.
Nothing really of news to update on. Still looking for a job (more on this in a minute ... I'm going to provide actual thoughts on this), traveled a bunch last weekend (Findlay to Delaware to West Jefferson to Columbus to West Union, WV to Clarksburg to Salem to Athens, OH to Columbus to Findlay). All-in-all, a good, fun, and productive meeting. West Virgina was my family reunion, Athens was to recruit for STE on the campus of Ohio University, and the other stops were to see family, eat, and/or sleep.
Glad to see Pittsburgh off to a good start without Big Ben in the lineup. I'd talk more about that, but instead I'm going to do an all-sports blog, so I'll put thoughts up on that later. Check that out at: http://bettsonsports.blogspot.com
So, on the job front ... it's extremely frustrating that neither myself nor Rachel (my wife), two hard-working, intelligent people ... both with college degrees ... cannot seem to get a job to save their lives. Somehow ... the entire thing seems to be God's plan.
That's right. I said it. I think God wants us to be struggling through right now. But it's more than just the lessons in humbleness and dependence. It's trying to get through our thick (very thick) skulls that sooner, not later, we need to be starting our calls to Ministry. We need to stop looking for and seeking out career-type jobs that we'll hold for years to come, and instead look for jobs that will help us settle our feet, and let us get back on track to get into a Seminary very soon.
So, keep praying for us. Pray that we'll find the jobs to help us stand on our feet. Pray that we'll listen ... intently ... to what God wants to tell us. Pray that we'll accept the calls he placing in our hearts.
On the good news front, bills are paid this month, and the fridge and cupboards are full! God rocks!
I'm not great at keeping my blog updated.
So sue me.
Nothing really of news to update on. Still looking for a job (more on this in a minute ... I'm going to provide actual thoughts on this), traveled a bunch last weekend (Findlay to Delaware to West Jefferson to Columbus to West Union, WV to Clarksburg to Salem to Athens, OH to Columbus to Findlay). All-in-all, a good, fun, and productive meeting. West Virgina was my family reunion, Athens was to recruit for STE on the campus of Ohio University, and the other stops were to see family, eat, and/or sleep.
Glad to see Pittsburgh off to a good start without Big Ben in the lineup. I'd talk more about that, but instead I'm going to do an all-sports blog, so I'll put thoughts up on that later. Check that out at: http://bettsonsports.blogspot.com
So, on the job front ... it's extremely frustrating that neither myself nor Rachel (my wife), two hard-working, intelligent people ... both with college degrees ... cannot seem to get a job to save their lives. Somehow ... the entire thing seems to be God's plan.
That's right. I said it. I think God wants us to be struggling through right now. But it's more than just the lessons in humbleness and dependence. It's trying to get through our thick (very thick) skulls that sooner, not later, we need to be starting our calls to Ministry. We need to stop looking for and seeking out career-type jobs that we'll hold for years to come, and instead look for jobs that will help us settle our feet, and let us get back on track to get into a Seminary very soon.
So, keep praying for us. Pray that we'll find the jobs to help us stand on our feet. Pray that we'll listen ... intently ... to what God wants to tell us. Pray that we'll accept the calls he placing in our hearts.
On the good news front, bills are paid this month, and the fridge and cupboards are full! God rocks!
Sunday, August 20, 2006
More
Well, today the streak ended ... I guess. We got lunch, instead of dinner, at the church for free, just for helping out a little bit. So, *technically* the streak ended, but you can still totally see God providing at every moment.
Still, I say it technically ended because I cooked dinner at home. We had baked pork chops, baked with diced potatoes and a lettuce and cucumber salad. It was very yummy. And, very affordable. The taters were on sale, and we got the pork chops on a "we need to seel now" yellow tag at Wal-Mart. The lettuce was on sale, too.
But that's not the whole story of God's provision. You see, while yes, we had to use our food for dinner tonight, we still didn't pay for it. Saturday, a friend randomly gave Rachel fifty dollars to buy groceries, something we hadn't done in two plus weeks. So, we went to the store with a list of "needs" and some grocery wants (like produce and frozen pizza), got all our "needs" (like milk, eggs, rice) and a good number of our wants and still only spent $47.85 of the fifty dollars we were given. So even the meal we cooked ourselves was provided for by God's hand.
How amazing is He?
So, anyways, tomorrow I finally get to *officially* start my job. I'll be in Dayton training tomorrow and Tuesday (I think that's it, but I guess we'll see). Wish me luck!
Still, I say it technically ended because I cooked dinner at home. We had baked pork chops, baked with diced potatoes and a lettuce and cucumber salad. It was very yummy. And, very affordable. The taters were on sale, and we got the pork chops on a "we need to seel now" yellow tag at Wal-Mart. The lettuce was on sale, too.
But that's not the whole story of God's provision. You see, while yes, we had to use our food for dinner tonight, we still didn't pay for it. Saturday, a friend randomly gave Rachel fifty dollars to buy groceries, something we hadn't done in two plus weeks. So, we went to the store with a list of "needs" and some grocery wants (like produce and frozen pizza), got all our "needs" (like milk, eggs, rice) and a good number of our wants and still only spent $47.85 of the fifty dollars we were given. So even the meal we cooked ourselves was provided for by God's hand.
How amazing is He?
So, anyways, tomorrow I finally get to *officially* start my job. I'll be in Dayton training tomorrow and Tuesday (I think that's it, but I guess we'll see). Wish me luck!
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Weddings
I love weddings.
And for a variety of reasons. I love to watch two people commit to a life of commitment to each other. I love to sit next to my wife and be reminded of the vows we took almost two years ago. I love to see old friends, and hear catch-up stories from people I haven't seen in months or years. I love being able to impart some of my new-found advice and "wisdom" and I absolutely love dancing with my wife.
We attended a wedding this past Saturday. I believe this was the first wedding we attended within driving distance of our actual home since we got married! Normally, we end up driving back to Columbus to stay with my mother-in-law for the night (she's a nice half-way stop between Pittsburgh and Findlay!), or we just stay with her for the entire weekend, since a couple of weddings are in Columbus. I mention this only because it gave Rachel and I a chance to reflect on weddings and have a good, serious discussion. And I think we came to the conclusion that we love weddings not because of the event itself, but because of the future it holds. We've seen first-hand the empowering nature of being with your spouse, and how it can improve your life spiritually, physically, emotionally, and so on. And not just your life, but the lives of those around you. Without my wife enabling me, I wouldn't be able to serve Sigma Theta Epsilon as a National Officer, and without my enabling of her, she wouldn't be able to serve on the board of our local Chrysalis. Neither of us, let alone both of us, would be involved with the planning of the new emergent worship service at our church, and, more likely, neither of us would probably even be involved at St. Marks!
As a result, we've started a prayer calendar. We've got five categories in some kind of progressive list, and each day we pray specifically for the designated entry in each category. The categories are STE (Chapters and Officers), Married Friends, Family, St. Marks (our church), and our Activities. I believe this will be a powerful tool to see God moving in each of these areas, and strengthening those around us, and those whom we love.
Yes, I love weddings. But I love the power of prayer more.
And for a variety of reasons. I love to watch two people commit to a life of commitment to each other. I love to sit next to my wife and be reminded of the vows we took almost two years ago. I love to see old friends, and hear catch-up stories from people I haven't seen in months or years. I love being able to impart some of my new-found advice and "wisdom" and I absolutely love dancing with my wife.
We attended a wedding this past Saturday. I believe this was the first wedding we attended within driving distance of our actual home since we got married! Normally, we end up driving back to Columbus to stay with my mother-in-law for the night (she's a nice half-way stop between Pittsburgh and Findlay!), or we just stay with her for the entire weekend, since a couple of weddings are in Columbus. I mention this only because it gave Rachel and I a chance to reflect on weddings and have a good, serious discussion. And I think we came to the conclusion that we love weddings not because of the event itself, but because of the future it holds. We've seen first-hand the empowering nature of being with your spouse, and how it can improve your life spiritually, physically, emotionally, and so on. And not just your life, but the lives of those around you. Without my wife enabling me, I wouldn't be able to serve Sigma Theta Epsilon as a National Officer, and without my enabling of her, she wouldn't be able to serve on the board of our local Chrysalis. Neither of us, let alone both of us, would be involved with the planning of the new emergent worship service at our church, and, more likely, neither of us would probably even be involved at St. Marks!
As a result, we've started a prayer calendar. We've got five categories in some kind of progressive list, and each day we pray specifically for the designated entry in each category. The categories are STE (Chapters and Officers), Married Friends, Family, St. Marks (our church), and our Activities. I believe this will be a powerful tool to see God moving in each of these areas, and strengthening those around us, and those whom we love.
Yes, I love weddings. But I love the power of prayer more.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Inspiration
Because of the sacrifice of the Messiah, his blood poured out on the altar of the Cross, we're a free people—free of penalties and punishments chalked up by all our misdeeds. And not just barely free, either. Abundantly free! He thought of everything, provided for everything we could possibly need, letting us in on the plans he took such delight in making. He set it all out before us in Christ, a long-range plan in which everything would be brought together and summed up in him, everything in deepest heaven, everything on planet earth.From the first chapter of the book of Ephesians, in the Message translation.
It's in Christ that you, once you heard the truth and believed it (this Message of your salvation), found yourselves home free—signed, sealed, and delivered by the Holy Spirit. This signet from God is the first installment on what's coming, a reminder that we'll get everything God has planned for us, a praising and glorious life.
Words I've needed recently, to remind me of the victory and freedom I have in Christ, my Savior.
I'm glad I have the close Christian fellowship to keep me on the right page, and to point me towards the passages I need to read.
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