Expect this blog to come and go in many parts. I've decided to take time every now and then and laugh at things that make me realize i'm such a "guy". This blog will probably come at both the surprise, and satisfaction of my wife...and possibly to all women. I'm not trying to side with the women on who acts crazier...I believe we all have our nuances that are a bit silly. But, as stereo types go, I'm checking myself to see how many I fit. Some stereo types will be common knowledge, others will probably relate more specifically to things that I do and my wife's response would be, "you're such a guy". So, in good fun, I'm gonna laugh at some of these, and at others I'll reflect and see if there's any legitimacy to the accusations. In others words, is there room for improvement. I definitely think there will be. So, if you'd like gentlemen, come join me on this silly adventure. Women, chime in if you like. Who knows, maybe after this is done, I'll through out some stereo types for you women to reflect on too. Dangerous territory...yes. But, in the spirit of self-reflection and improvement...and some laughter along the way, I think it could be very useful. So, without further adieu...
#1 - I realized today when I was putting dishes away that after 7 years of living in the same house, I still don't know where all the dishes go. Amazingly, I seem to know where they are when I want to use one, but can't seem to remember where they go when putting them up.
Solution - apparently I really do need to pay more attention. Today I'll ask my wife where about three different items go, she'll tell me, and then I'll remember. I guess it's about time I make a mental note so next time I can complete the job. I'm such a GUY!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Wesleyan Wisdom: recovering the Arminian foundation of Grace theology
Here is an amazing article on Arminianism and it's importance. This is in reference to United Methodists, but I think it's important for all to read!
To Read This Article Click Here!
To Read This Article Click Here!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
It IS All About YOU, isn't it?
First, let me explain by taking the defensive. I write this in no way supporting pride and/or the prideful sinful nature that we are born into. This post is written from a different perspective…one of love. Most importantly, God’s overwhelming love and His desire, based on that love, to be in relationship with us.
Why am I writing this blog? The simple answer is because I’m tired of the “It’s not about you” slogans I see everywhere. I do agree that there is one side of this faith that is NOT about you. It’s about God. But, there is a relational side of this faith that I believe is all about YOU!
Let me pose some questions.
1) 1.Who did the creator create in order to be in relationship with him? YOU
2) 2. Who did he allow to help him in naming the animals? YOU
3) 3. Who did he give the 10 commandments to? YOU
4) 4. Who did he send his son to die on the cross for? YOU
5) 5. Who did he leave the living scriptures for? YOU
6) 6. Who did he entrust the continuation of his ministry on earth t0? YOU
7) 7. Who did he promise eternal life to? YOU
Maybe the correct slogan isn’t “it’s not about you”. It scares me to think when we continue to think we are worthless, terrible creatures we continue to put down God’s handiwork…and God doesn’t create junk. God obviously thought we were worth dying for. That love is all about us. God is all about us. I’m equally convinced my title is the wrong slogan too. It’s certainly not just about us, far from it. We were created to serve God. To bring him joy. To bring him worship which he deserves. It is only through HIS grace we are saved. It is HIS standards we’re to live up to. So, maybe in the end, the best slogan would, “It’s about God AND you.” Hasn’t that always been the way it is?
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
How To Grow A Church.
This video is a great lesson on leadership. I think it's excellent advice on how to grow a church. I snagged this from youtube. It's entitled, "Leadership Lessons From The Dancing Guy". Pay attention class...lol!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Inspired by the King of Rag - Scott Joplin
I enjoy a good Rag! I really love the joy you feel while listening to Rgtime music. The syncopation's in the music make you wanna tap your feet and smile. I've loved Ragtime since I was a kid. I wrote my first Rag while in high school. However, it has been a while since I actually set down for a good listen. I did just that a few days ago and the result was some inspiration for a new Rag. I played this in one take, so excuse the mistakes. I'm no Scott Joplin, that's for sure. But, nevertheless, I thought some of you might enjoy something to tap your foot to...and hopefully it brings a smile. Blessings!
Missional Vs. Attractional
So I've recently discovered a debate raging in the land of the Christian bubble. Which style of church is more effective in creating disciples of Christ. Disciples of Christ would be what we would like to think of as Christians. Those who follow Christ. What I'm running into is, how do we know? What I mean is, there are many "Christians" who attend church on Sunday and live a decent enough lifestyle, but aren't necessarily living the life of Christ embodied in their own life. The debate between the Attractional church and the Missional church is based around which is the most effective tool to create Christian disciples. Before we go any further, I'll briefly explaining the difference between the two.
The Attractional church is one that is Christ centered and is solid. It creates/mixes powerful worship services and/with programs to "attract" the outside world to their doors. This is the style of church most of the Western world is used to. It's probably what you attend if you attend church somewhere. They come in all sizes from small churches to mega churches.
There are some who believe the Attractional church will fade away and is only catering to a fading demographic. So, they suggest a Missional church is the answer. The Missional church is one that is liquid. That is, they adapt to the cultural/social surroundings and attempt to move in that culture. It exists in the culture, but without sacrificing any of it's core values or beliefs. In fact, the Missional church would say that living a Christ life in the midst of those needing discipleship is the only way to create true disciples...and they'd back that by pointing to Jesus as their primary example.
So again, the debate is over the most effective method. My question again is, how would we know? There seems to be a very thin line between an authentic Christian and the average church goer these days. Honestly, I know there are days that I myself would be in question. Again, a disciple of Christ is one who follows Christ's example and lives that out in their daily life. They're not someone who merely mimics Christ, but truly embraces a lifestyle like Christ. I'm positive both churches produce such people. However, there is the other side of that line where people are genuinely excited about church and the fellowship, but they haven't quite caught the concept of embracing Christ in the totality of their lives. I believe both churches are producing these people as well.
For me, I think both churches provide a need to people. I think the attractional church is actually fluid if it's what the demographic of that particular area needs. However, I also find the idea of the Missional church to most closely represent Christ's life through his church. So I also agree that the church should be living amidst the very people it seeks to impact. But, even so, that doesn't answer my question within the debate. How do we know which church is more effective? Maybe the answer lies in both.
The Attractional church is one that is Christ centered and is solid. It creates/mixes powerful worship services and/with programs to "attract" the outside world to their doors. This is the style of church most of the Western world is used to. It's probably what you attend if you attend church somewhere. They come in all sizes from small churches to mega churches.
There are some who believe the Attractional church will fade away and is only catering to a fading demographic. So, they suggest a Missional church is the answer. The Missional church is one that is liquid. That is, they adapt to the cultural/social surroundings and attempt to move in that culture. It exists in the culture, but without sacrificing any of it's core values or beliefs. In fact, the Missional church would say that living a Christ life in the midst of those needing discipleship is the only way to create true disciples...and they'd back that by pointing to Jesus as their primary example.
So again, the debate is over the most effective method. My question again is, how would we know? There seems to be a very thin line between an authentic Christian and the average church goer these days. Honestly, I know there are days that I myself would be in question. Again, a disciple of Christ is one who follows Christ's example and lives that out in their daily life. They're not someone who merely mimics Christ, but truly embraces a lifestyle like Christ. I'm positive both churches produce such people. However, there is the other side of that line where people are genuinely excited about church and the fellowship, but they haven't quite caught the concept of embracing Christ in the totality of their lives. I believe both churches are producing these people as well.
For me, I think both churches provide a need to people. I think the attractional church is actually fluid if it's what the demographic of that particular area needs. However, I also find the idea of the Missional church to most closely represent Christ's life through his church. So I also agree that the church should be living amidst the very people it seeks to impact. But, even so, that doesn't answer my question within the debate. How do we know which church is more effective? Maybe the answer lies in both.
What if The Church Was More Than Just A Building?
My whole life I’ve heard people say, “The church isn’t a building, it’s the people.” There is no truer statement than this…right? We get this idea from the Greek word ecclesia, which when translated refers to God’s people or…fellowship. This is the New Testament term that is used for “church”. So, naturally, when we talk about the church, we want to assume we’re talking about the people that make up the church. For some reason, I was pondering what the church might actually look like if it were just a building. Join me on the venture, would ya?
1) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than an event where we meet strangers and acquaintances once or twice a week, not a gathering place of family and friends where we all know each other intimately. (Eph. 2:19)
2) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than a battlefield for disagreements, not a place where we care, love and respect one another through our unified diversity. (Eph. 1: 10)
3) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than a cooperation run like any other business with committee meetings and business heads, not a community of fathers, brothers, mothers, sisters or children that work to meet the needs of not only them, but others. (1 John 2: 13-14)
4) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than a place where affection is pushed to the edges for fear of controversy, not a place where we “greet all brothers and sisters with a holy kiss.” (1 Thess. 5: 26)
5) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than a place where we accept those we choose (for various reasons), not a place where we accept everyone just as Christ has accepted us. (Romans 15:7)
6) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than a space where we sit and listen, not a gathering where the community participates and contributes to the living worship of Christ. (Eph. 4: 11-16)
7) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than a place for programs to attract people inside, not a fellowship where the community goes out to meet the needs of others. (Matthew 28: 16-20)
I guess that’s what the church would look like if it were simply a building and not the living hands and feet of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Lucky for us, our churches today look nothing like that….right?
1) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than an event where we meet strangers and acquaintances once or twice a week, not a gathering place of family and friends where we all know each other intimately. (Eph. 2:19)
2) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than a battlefield for disagreements, not a place where we care, love and respect one another through our unified diversity. (Eph. 1: 10)
3) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than a cooperation run like any other business with committee meetings and business heads, not a community of fathers, brothers, mothers, sisters or children that work to meet the needs of not only them, but others. (1 John 2: 13-14)
4) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than a place where affection is pushed to the edges for fear of controversy, not a place where we “greet all brothers and sisters with a holy kiss.” (1 Thess. 5: 26)
5) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than a place where we accept those we choose (for various reasons), not a place where we accept everyone just as Christ has accepted us. (Romans 15:7)
6) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than a space where we sit and listen, not a gathering where the community participates and contributes to the living worship of Christ. (Eph. 4: 11-16)
7) If the church were just a building, it’d be nothing more than a place for programs to attract people inside, not a fellowship where the community goes out to meet the needs of others. (Matthew 28: 16-20)
I guess that’s what the church would look like if it were simply a building and not the living hands and feet of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Lucky for us, our churches today look nothing like that….right?
Taking Things For Granted
Hebrew 13: 16 - Make sure you don't take things for granted and go slack in working for the common good; share what you have with others. God takes particular pleasure in acts of worship
My wife and I have decided that we might be allowing the TV to take too much time in our lives. As a matter of fact, while I type this, the TV is on. No one is watching, but it just seems to be the habit in our house. We come home and the TV immediately gets turned on. The more we thought about this, the more we thought we should take some steps to illuminate the control the TV has on our lives. We’re not anti-TV in anyway, we just want our family to find some more creative time and space to spend together. Our answer…NO TV DAYS. This is actually no electronics of any kind. We don’t turn on the TV, radio, no WII, no DS and even no computer until I go to work. It’s certainly an adjustment.
Our No TV Days are Mondays and Thursdays. On Mondays I watch my boys in the morning while my wife takes an early shift at her job. So, when Sunday nights roll around and I’m finished with my responsibilities, I begin to settle in and worry about Monday morning. I’m always concerned with what in the world I’m gonna do with my 5 and 1 1/2 year olds. How am I gonna make it without the TV? The funny thing is, these moments are quickly becoming my favorite time in my week. My boys get up and ask to turn on the TV (is that a problem?). But, I remind them it’s a No TV Day and they immediately head to their rooms for a different adventure. Just this last Monday they both came back with books. So, we sat and read a few books together. Next I was drug by the hand back to the room where we jumped into a heated lightsaber battle. It was a beautiful day, so we got dressed and went to the library. Then we took a stroll downtown where my boys went to the bakery for the first time. We ended up at a nearby park to play on the playground after we finished our wonderful cookies from the bakery. The morning flew by and I felt I was getting the short end of the stick as my wife came home and I headed off to work. Holy Cow! What had I been missing? What had I been taking for granted?
Every No TV Day has turned into precious time with my sons. Time I otherwise was freely giving away to something that returns no love back to them. Ephesians 5:16 says, “Make good use of every opportunity you have, because these are evil days.” (KJV) I don’t think the TV in and of itself is evil. But I do believe that anything that takes time away from those we love and from the relationships we can build might be something we should, at least, be weary of. I had let my dependence on our TV to control me relationship with my boys, to the point that I didn’t feel I could make it through a few hours in the morning without it. How foolish of me! This new time was, and is a gift from God! I was taking it for granted and dreading it. James 1:17 says, ““Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (NIV) This is my new understanding of this time. These are moments I’m truly thankful for. They’re moments that I’ll never get back, and that I’ll never forget! Praise be to God.
What are you taking for granted today?
My wife and I have decided that we might be allowing the TV to take too much time in our lives. As a matter of fact, while I type this, the TV is on. No one is watching, but it just seems to be the habit in our house. We come home and the TV immediately gets turned on. The more we thought about this, the more we thought we should take some steps to illuminate the control the TV has on our lives. We’re not anti-TV in anyway, we just want our family to find some more creative time and space to spend together. Our answer…NO TV DAYS. This is actually no electronics of any kind. We don’t turn on the TV, radio, no WII, no DS and even no computer until I go to work. It’s certainly an adjustment.
Our No TV Days are Mondays and Thursdays. On Mondays I watch my boys in the morning while my wife takes an early shift at her job. So, when Sunday nights roll around and I’m finished with my responsibilities, I begin to settle in and worry about Monday morning. I’m always concerned with what in the world I’m gonna do with my 5 and 1 1/2 year olds. How am I gonna make it without the TV? The funny thing is, these moments are quickly becoming my favorite time in my week. My boys get up and ask to turn on the TV (is that a problem?). But, I remind them it’s a No TV Day and they immediately head to their rooms for a different adventure. Just this last Monday they both came back with books. So, we sat and read a few books together. Next I was drug by the hand back to the room where we jumped into a heated lightsaber battle. It was a beautiful day, so we got dressed and went to the library. Then we took a stroll downtown where my boys went to the bakery for the first time. We ended up at a nearby park to play on the playground after we finished our wonderful cookies from the bakery. The morning flew by and I felt I was getting the short end of the stick as my wife came home and I headed off to work. Holy Cow! What had I been missing? What had I been taking for granted?
Every No TV Day has turned into precious time with my sons. Time I otherwise was freely giving away to something that returns no love back to them. Ephesians 5:16 says, “Make good use of every opportunity you have, because these are evil days.” (KJV) I don’t think the TV in and of itself is evil. But I do believe that anything that takes time away from those we love and from the relationships we can build might be something we should, at least, be weary of. I had let my dependence on our TV to control me relationship with my boys, to the point that I didn’t feel I could make it through a few hours in the morning without it. How foolish of me! This new time was, and is a gift from God! I was taking it for granted and dreading it. James 1:17 says, ““Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (NIV) This is my new understanding of this time. These are moments I’m truly thankful for. They’re moments that I’ll never get back, and that I’ll never forget! Praise be to God.
What are you taking for granted today?
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