Well, here we are preparing to say goodbye to another year and hello to a new one. One of the most popular rituals observed during this time of transition from one year to the next is the development of new year's resolutions.
Typically we resolve to do things like lose weight, exercise more, eat healthier, and give up bad habits. And, typically, we gain weight, exercise sporadically, eat healthier on occasion, and hold on to our bad habits like dear old friends or Siamese twins.
This year, at the dawning of a new decade, let's drop the old way of preparing for the new--especially if it hasn't been working so well. You might, however, be better than the average person and are able to make resolutions and stick to them. But, either way, regardless of our previous failures or successes with resolutions, let's try to develop deeper goals that extend beyond an annual checklist.
Instead of resolving to quit smoking, resolve to discover and explore the broader issues behind the smoking-- for example, stress. Ask God to reveal the sources of stress and show His plan for overcoming them.
A single person might resolve to get married in the new year. Perhaps a better resolution would be to allow God to prepare one's heart, mind and finances for holy matrimony--which is a lifelong commitment--instead of focusing on a one-day ceremony.
Perhaps we have resolved to be more patient. In order to achieve that goal, we must first allow God to uncover the source of our impatience--fear, pride, control, etc.
God's Holy Spirit will always lead us and guide us into all truth. Perhaps this year, instead of a laundry list of lofty goals, why don't we simply ask God, "Show me the truth--of who I am and who I am not." Be prepared for what you will see. No matter how good we think we are, when we see ourselves as God sees us, it will not all be so pretty. The good news is that God still loves us just as we are, unconditionally, warts and all.
Even more good news is that, not only does the Holy Spirit lead us and guide us into all truth, the Holy Spirit is also our comforter and guide. So, once the light of God's truth reveals to us who we really are, we have a helper to walk alongside us and help us through the process of transformation into that which we were destined to be. We don't have to rely on our own strength. Praise the Lord!
Happy New You!
Rev. Karen
A weekly posting of encouraging and challenging thoughts about life from Rev. Karen W. Curry, a pastor's wife and mother of two who is also --in her "spare time"-- a dynamic preacher, teacher, motivational speaker, facilitator, writer, reviewer, poet, MC, liturgical dance/drama consultant and storyteller. Contact Rev. Karen at BNcouraged247@msn.com to speak at your next service or retreat.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Christ Mas means More Christ
Have you ever noticed that the word Christmas contains two words, Christ and mas? We know the basics about who and what Christ is, but what about the rest of the word? Interestingly, in Spanish, the word "mas" means "more."
With "more" information about the word, Christmas, your wheels are probably already turning and churning visions of "more Christ." However, if we truly want to see more of Christ and be more of Christ, we have to focus on Him more than once a year on December 25. In fact, there are some who even argue that December 25 might not be the actual birthdate of Jesus Christ. Regardless of what day Jesus was born, it's remarkable that Christians worldwide have all agreed to observe His birth on the same day. To get any small group to agree on one item is remarkable, but to have worldwide agreement is miraculous, making December 25 a special day regardless of any question of historical accuracy!
The holiday cheer that we have this time of year, the "seasons greetings" of "peace on earth and good will toward men", the spirit of giving, all of these should be a way of life, not limited edition holiday specials that we readily exchange after the new year like so many unwanted presents.
With the economy in its' current condition, many people are not in a position to maintain the level of gift giving they have grown accustomed to. That makes this Christmas a perfect opportunity to give "more" Christ. How do we do that? One way is to simply give less of the things we know are not of Christ-- less arguing and complaining, less selfish thinking, less faultfinding, less impatience. Ask the Lord to help you identify even more "lesses" because less can truly be more!
Today, on this Christmas Eve eve, why not begin reflecting on Jesus' birth and what God has been preparing to birth in you. Perhaps there are some things (or people) you need to leave behind so you can have less of what you got caught up in along the way and more of what God knows you need to have to walk in The Way, The truth and The Life. Maybe the best gift you can give this year is a renewed you.
Have a merry Christmas and BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
With "more" information about the word, Christmas, your wheels are probably already turning and churning visions of "more Christ." However, if we truly want to see more of Christ and be more of Christ, we have to focus on Him more than once a year on December 25. In fact, there are some who even argue that December 25 might not be the actual birthdate of Jesus Christ. Regardless of what day Jesus was born, it's remarkable that Christians worldwide have all agreed to observe His birth on the same day. To get any small group to agree on one item is remarkable, but to have worldwide agreement is miraculous, making December 25 a special day regardless of any question of historical accuracy!
The holiday cheer that we have this time of year, the "seasons greetings" of "peace on earth and good will toward men", the spirit of giving, all of these should be a way of life, not limited edition holiday specials that we readily exchange after the new year like so many unwanted presents.
With the economy in its' current condition, many people are not in a position to maintain the level of gift giving they have grown accustomed to. That makes this Christmas a perfect opportunity to give "more" Christ. How do we do that? One way is to simply give less of the things we know are not of Christ-- less arguing and complaining, less selfish thinking, less faultfinding, less impatience. Ask the Lord to help you identify even more "lesses" because less can truly be more!
Today, on this Christmas Eve eve, why not begin reflecting on Jesus' birth and what God has been preparing to birth in you. Perhaps there are some things (or people) you need to leave behind so you can have less of what you got caught up in along the way and more of what God knows you need to have to walk in The Way, The truth and The Life. Maybe the best gift you can give this year is a renewed you.
Have a merry Christmas and BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
What You Turn To is What You Turn INto
What do you turn to for strength? Whatever (or whomever) you repeatedly turn to, especially at your weakest moments, is what you eventually turn into.
For example, people who rely on alchohol to numb their emotional pain or give them a sense of "courage" can become alcoholics; likewise those who turn to drugs can become drug addicts; those who espouse "sexual healing" as a routine method of escape or look to it to build their self-worth can become sex addicts; those who turn to violence to release their pain, frustration or fears can become abusers; those who bury themselves in work can turn into workaholics.
The list goes on and on because there is no shortage of things available for us to turn to as a means of handling this rollercoaster called life. The only problem is, none of the things on the list above, including others that could have been added, ever provide a permanent solution or truly set us free from whatever ails us. In fact, often, just the opposite occurs. Some of the things we turn to for freedom or release actually end up putting us more into bondage and further away from freedom than when we started. We simply trade one set of chains for another.
So, what are we to do? Well, remember the saying, "you are what you eat"? If we want to be healthy, we have to eat healthy. As Christians, if we truly want to be able to withstand the trials, tribulations and temptations of this life, God tells us to look to Jesus Christ ("I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," Phillippians 4:13). After all, we are called Christians because we aim to look like Christ. The more we lean on Christ, the more Christ-like we become.
In John 15:4, Jesus tells us to "remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me." What's on your vine? Whatever is on your vine gets into your veins.
When a drug gets into the body, it works its way through to the brain and affects how information and situations are processed. God's Word works the same way. When we meditate on God's Word, it gets into the brain and the heart and it begins to affect how we view and respond to situations.
What did Jesus Christ do in times of anguish and trouble? He talked to God. He trusted God. He waited on God. He was obedient to God. He stood on the Word of God. Following this example means that we may not always have a quick fix and that sometimes the fix might be painful for a while. But, if we want to do more than just exchange chains, we'll finally stop leaning on our own understanding and in all our ways acknowledge Him so He can direct our paths.
BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
For example, people who rely on alchohol to numb their emotional pain or give them a sense of "courage" can become alcoholics; likewise those who turn to drugs can become drug addicts; those who espouse "sexual healing" as a routine method of escape or look to it to build their self-worth can become sex addicts; those who turn to violence to release their pain, frustration or fears can become abusers; those who bury themselves in work can turn into workaholics.
The list goes on and on because there is no shortage of things available for us to turn to as a means of handling this rollercoaster called life. The only problem is, none of the things on the list above, including others that could have been added, ever provide a permanent solution or truly set us free from whatever ails us. In fact, often, just the opposite occurs. Some of the things we turn to for freedom or release actually end up putting us more into bondage and further away from freedom than when we started. We simply trade one set of chains for another.
So, what are we to do? Well, remember the saying, "you are what you eat"? If we want to be healthy, we have to eat healthy. As Christians, if we truly want to be able to withstand the trials, tribulations and temptations of this life, God tells us to look to Jesus Christ ("I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," Phillippians 4:13). After all, we are called Christians because we aim to look like Christ. The more we lean on Christ, the more Christ-like we become.
In John 15:4, Jesus tells us to "remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me." What's on your vine? Whatever is on your vine gets into your veins.
When a drug gets into the body, it works its way through to the brain and affects how information and situations are processed. God's Word works the same way. When we meditate on God's Word, it gets into the brain and the heart and it begins to affect how we view and respond to situations.
What did Jesus Christ do in times of anguish and trouble? He talked to God. He trusted God. He waited on God. He was obedient to God. He stood on the Word of God. Following this example means that we may not always have a quick fix and that sometimes the fix might be painful for a while. But, if we want to do more than just exchange chains, we'll finally stop leaning on our own understanding and in all our ways acknowledge Him so He can direct our paths.
BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Lord, Give Me Patience--Right Now!
What irony -- "Lord, Give Me Patience--Right Now!" We know there are situations that require us to wait on the Lord and be of good courage. But, we want the wait to be as short as possible so we can get on with our regularly scheduled program already in progress.
"Good things come to those who wait." True, but easier said than done, isn't it? Remember when we were kids and "couldn't wait" for Christmas to come? Regardless of how anxious we were, we didn't speed up Christmas' coming one bit. In fact, counting down the days to Christmas actually made the wait seem longer at times. Even though we thought we absolutely "could not wait," wait is what we did. And, at the end of the waiting, we, indeed received good things.
So, why didn't we learn our lesson about patience then? We waited and endured, sometimes even waited up all night long waiting for "Santa Claus" to come, and even though we never saw him, we saw the evidence of his presence in our presents. And, we had no problem doing the same thing again year after year. Now, if we run into a rough spot with a family member or spouse, we are ready to throw in the towel because we don't have the patience or endurance to wait out the storm, forgetting that the sunshine and a rainbow are never far behind.
Sometimes, when it comes to us waiting on God for answered prayers (to get married, get promoted, etc.) I wonder who is waiting on whom? Are we waiting on God, or is He waiting on us?
Romans 2:4 in the New Living Translation states, "Don't you realize how kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Or don't you care? Can't you see how kind he has been in giving you time to turn from your sin?" Hebrews 10:36 goes on to say, "Patient endurance is what you need now, so you will continue to do God's will. Then you will receive all that he has promised."
Sometimes the waiting period is God's plan to allow us to get rid of bad habits and bad thinking that will only cause us to destroy the blessing if we received it too soon. Don't artificially speed up the process due to your impatience and end up with something half-baked.
Waiting involves trust--trusting that God is in full control and never slumbers nor sleeps. Waiting is also equated with serving (at a restaurant the person who serves the food is called a waiter). During the time between your request and your answer, serve the Lord. Don't try to negotiate a deal whereby you will serve God after you get what you want as a way of thanks. Show your appreciation and confidence in God by serving even when there is no trace of what you've been waiting for. Once you get caught up in God, delighting yourself in Him, He will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4) and before you know it, God will move you from "some day..." to "right now!" But be careful. Remember God can do exceedingly, abundantly above all we could ask, think or imagine...(Ephesians 3:20)
In other words, when the wait is over, God is going to blow your mind!
BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
"Good things come to those who wait." True, but easier said than done, isn't it? Remember when we were kids and "couldn't wait" for Christmas to come? Regardless of how anxious we were, we didn't speed up Christmas' coming one bit. In fact, counting down the days to Christmas actually made the wait seem longer at times. Even though we thought we absolutely "could not wait," wait is what we did. And, at the end of the waiting, we, indeed received good things.
So, why didn't we learn our lesson about patience then? We waited and endured, sometimes even waited up all night long waiting for "Santa Claus" to come, and even though we never saw him, we saw the evidence of his presence in our presents. And, we had no problem doing the same thing again year after year. Now, if we run into a rough spot with a family member or spouse, we are ready to throw in the towel because we don't have the patience or endurance to wait out the storm, forgetting that the sunshine and a rainbow are never far behind.
Sometimes, when it comes to us waiting on God for answered prayers (to get married, get promoted, etc.) I wonder who is waiting on whom? Are we waiting on God, or is He waiting on us?
Romans 2:4 in the New Living Translation states, "Don't you realize how kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Or don't you care? Can't you see how kind he has been in giving you time to turn from your sin?" Hebrews 10:36 goes on to say, "Patient endurance is what you need now, so you will continue to do God's will. Then you will receive all that he has promised."
Sometimes the waiting period is God's plan to allow us to get rid of bad habits and bad thinking that will only cause us to destroy the blessing if we received it too soon. Don't artificially speed up the process due to your impatience and end up with something half-baked.
Waiting involves trust--trusting that God is in full control and never slumbers nor sleeps. Waiting is also equated with serving (at a restaurant the person who serves the food is called a waiter). During the time between your request and your answer, serve the Lord. Don't try to negotiate a deal whereby you will serve God after you get what you want as a way of thanks. Show your appreciation and confidence in God by serving even when there is no trace of what you've been waiting for. Once you get caught up in God, delighting yourself in Him, He will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4) and before you know it, God will move you from "some day..." to "right now!" But be careful. Remember God can do exceedingly, abundantly above all we could ask, think or imagine...(Ephesians 3:20)
In other words, when the wait is over, God is going to blow your mind!
BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Free to Be...
Whom the Son sets free is free, indeed (John 8:36). Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty (2 Corinthians 3:17).
These two scriptures speak to my ongoing pursuit of freedom--not necessarily a freedom from something, but more like a freedom to something. I've been riding this freedom train for many years, never quite sure where it was headed, only knowing that I was supposed to get on board.
Ultimately, through prayer and the support of my wonderful pastor/husband, I have come to understand that the freedom I desire is the freedom to be. The majority of my life is spent doing, but deep inside me is a yearning to have more time for being. Unfortunately, this treadmill we call life is naturally contrary to being and is fully centered on doing. "How are you doing?" we often ask one another. "What do you do for a living?" we inquire.
I remember spending summers down south with my grandmother who always made sure we had plenty to do. I realized that, in her mind, not constantly doing something was equated with laziness. But, I thought the whole point of being sent down to "the country" for the summer was to experience the beauty of the outdoors--walking along dusty country trails to visit relatives "up the road a piece," gazing at the star-studded pitch-black midnight sky unblemished by the glare of city lights, and marvelling at lightning bugs gliding through the air in a twinkling ballet.
I thought visits to grandma's house was all about gently swaying on a creaky wooden swing and waving at the cars and trucks passing by, making friends with the farm animals (and refusing to eat them when they became dinner), and going to the "country store" for the best ice cream known to mankind.
The fact that I can remember those details so vividly is a hint that, in spite of all the doing I was charged with during the summer, I still found ways to slip in being. While the chores were good for bolstering a sound work ethic, the moments of being are what strengthened my relationship with God and my "joie de vivre," or joy of living. When I walked along those dusty trails that my ancestors feet wore into existence, when I oohed and awed at the lightning bugs and the midnight sky, when I waved hello to everyone who drove by whether I knew them or not, I was experiencing God's presence and taking in glimpses of the wonderful tapestry of life that unites God's creation in ways that could only be appreciated by being in the moment.
Each day, in the midst of all my doing, I now look forward to being. I no longer ask the question, "What I am placed here to do," but instead I ask God, "Who am I?" That's a much more fitting question considering that I'm created in the image of the great I AM.
Once I fully come into the realization and actualization of all that I am in God, the doing will flow more naturally and effectively and I will finally be free to BE. Until then, I will enjoy the ride as the freedom train winds its way through life. Anyone else want to get on board?
BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
These two scriptures speak to my ongoing pursuit of freedom--not necessarily a freedom from something, but more like a freedom to something. I've been riding this freedom train for many years, never quite sure where it was headed, only knowing that I was supposed to get on board.
Ultimately, through prayer and the support of my wonderful pastor/husband, I have come to understand that the freedom I desire is the freedom to be. The majority of my life is spent doing, but deep inside me is a yearning to have more time for being. Unfortunately, this treadmill we call life is naturally contrary to being and is fully centered on doing. "How are you doing?" we often ask one another. "What do you do for a living?" we inquire.
I remember spending summers down south with my grandmother who always made sure we had plenty to do. I realized that, in her mind, not constantly doing something was equated with laziness. But, I thought the whole point of being sent down to "the country" for the summer was to experience the beauty of the outdoors--walking along dusty country trails to visit relatives "up the road a piece," gazing at the star-studded pitch-black midnight sky unblemished by the glare of city lights, and marvelling at lightning bugs gliding through the air in a twinkling ballet.
I thought visits to grandma's house was all about gently swaying on a creaky wooden swing and waving at the cars and trucks passing by, making friends with the farm animals (and refusing to eat them when they became dinner), and going to the "country store" for the best ice cream known to mankind.
The fact that I can remember those details so vividly is a hint that, in spite of all the doing I was charged with during the summer, I still found ways to slip in being. While the chores were good for bolstering a sound work ethic, the moments of being are what strengthened my relationship with God and my "joie de vivre," or joy of living. When I walked along those dusty trails that my ancestors feet wore into existence, when I oohed and awed at the lightning bugs and the midnight sky, when I waved hello to everyone who drove by whether I knew them or not, I was experiencing God's presence and taking in glimpses of the wonderful tapestry of life that unites God's creation in ways that could only be appreciated by being in the moment.
Each day, in the midst of all my doing, I now look forward to being. I no longer ask the question, "What I am placed here to do," but instead I ask God, "Who am I?" That's a much more fitting question considering that I'm created in the image of the great I AM.
Once I fully come into the realization and actualization of all that I am in God, the doing will flow more naturally and effectively and I will finally be free to BE. Until then, I will enjoy the ride as the freedom train winds its way through life. Anyone else want to get on board?
BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Thanks Living
"Gobble Gobble!" Now, is that the sound of live turkeys or is it the sound of countless individuals gleefully over-indulging at Thanksgiving feasts?
Most of our Thanksgiving traditions center around the table--lovingly arranged with dramatic displays of delicious delights which we daringly devour. My family is no different. In fact, when I was a teen, my best friend and I delighted in going from house to house during the holiday in an annual attempt to top the previous year's record of over-indulgence. The focus was certainly not on giving but on getting!
As I reflect on the original intent of Thanksgiving, I am challenged to look beyond the table and a once-a-year gathering and look at how God provides bountiful blessings to me all year long. Some blessings come clearly marked, while others are blessings in disguise. A job loss never looks or feels like a blessing when it comes, but if we stand on God's promise that "all things work together for good to them that love God" (Romans 8:28), then we can follow God's directive to "in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus.... " (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
The interesting thing about the word thanks is that, in the Bible, it is often associated with praise and it also mentioned as something done "among the heathen" (2 Samuel 22:50), "among the people" (1 Chronicles 16:8), "in the great congregation" (Psalm 35:18), and "to all generations" (Psalm 79:13). That means that our thankfulness to God, our praise to Him is not something we keep to ourselves. Thankfulness is something we give to God--thanksgiving--and when we publicly and proudly praise God, we give Him not only the glory He is due, but we inspire and encourage others to see God at work.
To be thankful is to be mindful of God's presence at every point in our lives. To be thankful is to be mindful of God's power to transform our lives. To be thankful is to be mindful of God's plan for our lives--a plan so awesome that no obstacle can deter it. To be thankful is to be faith-filled and to live a life so centered in God that we come to know what life truly is--a magnificent love story about the Creator and His beloved creation. We know how the story began, and if we are saved, we know how it ends. Our faith should help us not to get so distracted by the challenges that lead to stressful living but to focus instead on a praise-filled way of life I like to call, thanks living.
What does thanks living look like in your life? How can you set a better of example of faith and "make known His deeds among the people"? Take a moment to praise Him while you have the chance. You don't have to wait until Thursday. You don't have to stop with Thursday. Make every day a day of thanksgiving and watch how you will continue to receive more to be thankful for.
BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
Most of our Thanksgiving traditions center around the table--lovingly arranged with dramatic displays of delicious delights which we daringly devour. My family is no different. In fact, when I was a teen, my best friend and I delighted in going from house to house during the holiday in an annual attempt to top the previous year's record of over-indulgence. The focus was certainly not on giving but on getting!
As I reflect on the original intent of Thanksgiving, I am challenged to look beyond the table and a once-a-year gathering and look at how God provides bountiful blessings to me all year long. Some blessings come clearly marked, while others are blessings in disguise. A job loss never looks or feels like a blessing when it comes, but if we stand on God's promise that "all things work together for good to them that love God" (Romans 8:28), then we can follow God's directive to "in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus.... " (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
The interesting thing about the word thanks is that, in the Bible, it is often associated with praise and it also mentioned as something done "among the heathen" (2 Samuel 22:50), "among the people" (1 Chronicles 16:8), "in the great congregation" (Psalm 35:18), and "to all generations" (Psalm 79:13). That means that our thankfulness to God, our praise to Him is not something we keep to ourselves. Thankfulness is something we give to God--thanksgiving--and when we publicly and proudly praise God, we give Him not only the glory He is due, but we inspire and encourage others to see God at work.
To be thankful is to be mindful of God's presence at every point in our lives. To be thankful is to be mindful of God's power to transform our lives. To be thankful is to be mindful of God's plan for our lives--a plan so awesome that no obstacle can deter it. To be thankful is to be faith-filled and to live a life so centered in God that we come to know what life truly is--a magnificent love story about the Creator and His beloved creation. We know how the story began, and if we are saved, we know how it ends. Our faith should help us not to get so distracted by the challenges that lead to stressful living but to focus instead on a praise-filled way of life I like to call, thanks living.
What does thanks living look like in your life? How can you set a better of example of faith and "make known His deeds among the people"? Take a moment to praise Him while you have the chance. You don't have to wait until Thursday. You don't have to stop with Thursday. Make every day a day of thanksgiving and watch how you will continue to receive more to be thankful for.
BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Moving Forward
This past Sunday, I had the privilege of preaching at the First Rock Baptist Church's Women's Day program in Southeast, Washington, DC. The title the Lord gave me was, "Moving Forward" based on Colossians 3:12-13 which focuses on forgiveness. The message encouraged the women of First Rock to move forward past the bondage of unforgiveness and into the freedom of forgiveness.
The congregation received the message heartily and everyone left the service excited about "moving forward." So, why is it that only a few days later it seems that countless little nagging obstacles keep rising up to keep me from moving forward with some of the "round tuits" (See Oct. 6, 2009 blog, "THIS is the Day") I'm trying to get to?
Why? Well, I'll let you in on a little secret. Preachers always have to live what they preach about--whether the message is about triumph or struggle. In fact, one of the reasons we know the Bible is real and not a fairy tale is because the struggles of the men and women in it are not cleaned up or edited out. We see them enjoying the thrill of victory and enduring the agony of defeat.
Don't worry, I'm not facing any major struggle or defeat, just having "one of those days" when no matter what I try something rises up to set me back. I was on my way to a funeral this morning when my car decided it didn't want to go with me. Thankfully, I was able to get it to the mechanic, get a loaner and make it to the service early.
I needed to send some photos to someone and I took the time to patiently sort through the photos to select just the right ones, downloaded them and sent them off--or so I thought. They never made it to their destination and are still lingering in cyberspace right now as I write this blog.
I asked my children to give mommy some "quiet time" so I could finish some writing I had been putting off. You know what "quiet time for mommy" means to young children--"just come back two minutes later." And they did. And two minutes after that, and two minutes after that...and, well, you can figure out the rest.
There were several things I tried to do on the computer to improve my efficiency, because I decided that today was the day I would finally "move forward" in my computer skills. But, after nearly an hour of trying to navigate the tools that were designed to make me "more efficient", I counted the cost and decided to trade efficiency (speed) for effectiveness (hey, it gets there).
While all of those obstacles were small individually, they began mounting up and frustrating me to the point that I wanted to just throw my hands in the air, and wave them like I just didn't care.
But....I didn't. I did what I told the congregation at First Rock to do. I kept moving forward. I began to imagine each hurdle as a literal hurdle that I was well equipped to jump over, just like an Olympic athlete. I remembered that He who began a good work in me will perform it until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6), which reminded me that God is the one pushing me onward and upward and no matter what the goal, no matter what the obstacle I will reach the goal. And, so will you. Don't let any obstacle--from unforgiveness to daily frustrations keep you in bondage.
Look to Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith, and no matter what just keep--Moving Forward.
BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
The congregation received the message heartily and everyone left the service excited about "moving forward." So, why is it that only a few days later it seems that countless little nagging obstacles keep rising up to keep me from moving forward with some of the "round tuits" (See Oct. 6, 2009 blog, "THIS is the Day") I'm trying to get to?
Why? Well, I'll let you in on a little secret. Preachers always have to live what they preach about--whether the message is about triumph or struggle. In fact, one of the reasons we know the Bible is real and not a fairy tale is because the struggles of the men and women in it are not cleaned up or edited out. We see them enjoying the thrill of victory and enduring the agony of defeat.
Don't worry, I'm not facing any major struggle or defeat, just having "one of those days" when no matter what I try something rises up to set me back. I was on my way to a funeral this morning when my car decided it didn't want to go with me. Thankfully, I was able to get it to the mechanic, get a loaner and make it to the service early.
I needed to send some photos to someone and I took the time to patiently sort through the photos to select just the right ones, downloaded them and sent them off--or so I thought. They never made it to their destination and are still lingering in cyberspace right now as I write this blog.
I asked my children to give mommy some "quiet time" so I could finish some writing I had been putting off. You know what "quiet time for mommy" means to young children--"just come back two minutes later." And they did. And two minutes after that, and two minutes after that...and, well, you can figure out the rest.
There were several things I tried to do on the computer to improve my efficiency, because I decided that today was the day I would finally "move forward" in my computer skills. But, after nearly an hour of trying to navigate the tools that were designed to make me "more efficient", I counted the cost and decided to trade efficiency (speed) for effectiveness (hey, it gets there).
While all of those obstacles were small individually, they began mounting up and frustrating me to the point that I wanted to just throw my hands in the air, and wave them like I just didn't care.
But....I didn't. I did what I told the congregation at First Rock to do. I kept moving forward. I began to imagine each hurdle as a literal hurdle that I was well equipped to jump over, just like an Olympic athlete. I remembered that He who began a good work in me will perform it until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6), which reminded me that God is the one pushing me onward and upward and no matter what the goal, no matter what the obstacle I will reach the goal. And, so will you. Don't let any obstacle--from unforgiveness to daily frustrations keep you in bondage.
Look to Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith, and no matter what just keep--Moving Forward.
BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Darkness = Daylight Coming
Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. (Psalm 30:5b)
Are you or someone you know struggling through a dark time? If your answer is "no", just keep living. Sooner or later we will all face a time in our lives when we can't see our way through to the next step. No one is exempt. Not presidents, not pastors, not me, not you.
The more we read of God's Word the more we find that even those who watched for a Savior (David), walked with the Savior (Peter) and were transformed by the Savior (Paul) went through times of doubt, despair, disappointment and discouragement.
Though darkness is real, it is temporary. I repeat....Though darkness is real, it is temporary. Even in places like Alaska where there are cities that remain in darkness for months at a time, even the lengthiest dark spells are still temporary.
The blessing that we have as believers in Jesus Christ is that the Word of God is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. So, even when we are unable to see 10 feet ahead in the darkness, through prayer and the Word we can go through one step at a time. That's what faith is, isn't it? Faith is the evidence of things not seen.
Don't retreat when darkness comes. If you can't move forward, just stand firm. If there are things you don't know, stand on what you do know--that no weapon formed against you shall prosper, that God shall supply all your needs, that without faith it is impossible to please God, that God will turn your mourning into dancing.
Every midnight is followed by a sunrise. So, if you are in darkness now, just hold on because darkness is simply an announcement that daylight is coming.
BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
Are you or someone you know struggling through a dark time? If your answer is "no", just keep living. Sooner or later we will all face a time in our lives when we can't see our way through to the next step. No one is exempt. Not presidents, not pastors, not me, not you.
The more we read of God's Word the more we find that even those who watched for a Savior (David), walked with the Savior (Peter) and were transformed by the Savior (Paul) went through times of doubt, despair, disappointment and discouragement.
Though darkness is real, it is temporary. I repeat....Though darkness is real, it is temporary. Even in places like Alaska where there are cities that remain in darkness for months at a time, even the lengthiest dark spells are still temporary.
The blessing that we have as believers in Jesus Christ is that the Word of God is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. So, even when we are unable to see 10 feet ahead in the darkness, through prayer and the Word we can go through one step at a time. That's what faith is, isn't it? Faith is the evidence of things not seen.
Don't retreat when darkness comes. If you can't move forward, just stand firm. If there are things you don't know, stand on what you do know--that no weapon formed against you shall prosper, that God shall supply all your needs, that without faith it is impossible to please God, that God will turn your mourning into dancing.
Every midnight is followed by a sunrise. So, if you are in darkness now, just hold on because darkness is simply an announcement that daylight is coming.
BNcouraged!
Rev. Karen
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Mirror, Mirror
Mirrors are fascinating. Just try putting a mirror in front of an infant and watch his or her reaction. You will see a variety of expressions, from quizzical, to fearful, to excited. My children are still at the stage where mirrors are an invitation to make funny faces or perform other self-amusing antics. They never consider using mirrors to examine themselves to see if they have effectively removed all of the morning crust from the corners of their eyes and mouths or if their hair looks like "who did it, why'd they do it, and please don't do it again!"
Once they reach the teenage years, however, I fully expect to have to perform surgery to remove them from their mirrors--or for that matter any reflective object that will allow them to admire themselves.
Even as adults, most of us wouldn't think of leaving the house without at least one glance in the mirror to make sure we are "presentable." Those brief glances have spared us the embarrassment of leaving the house with a hair roller still hanging on, remnants of breakfast still hanging on, or clothing inadvertently caught up and hiked up in places that simply shouldn't be mentioned.
With all of this reflecting and glancing going on, how often do we really take a good long look at ourself in the mirror in an effort to see past the surface and into the depth of who we truly "are"?
We are made in the image of God, the Great I AM. So, how do we reflect that image in our lives?If we are honest with ourselves, we probably reflect more of the projections of others and the trappings of this world than the image of our creator. We may reflect the desperation of trying to find a mate or approval from our mate by wearing revealing clothing or doing other things that scream, "Look at me!" (or for the church folks, "Do not pass me by!") Some people may do just the opposite and withdraw or display anti-social, rebellious behavior that says, "Don't look at me! Just walk on by!"
I wonder if some of us become addicted to piercings and tatooing (and if we can afford it, plastic surgery) because we are not pleased with what we see in the mirror. We think we are not desireable enough, so perhaps a little ink here, a little stud there, a little lift here, a little tuck there and we will finally be good enough--but for who or what? We are already fearfully and wonderfully made by God. Why isn't that good enough?
Let's be honest, when we were little children running wild and free, how many of us grew up desiring to have bodies filled with silicone, permanent ink or metal studs? How many of us planned to fry our brains with drugs or our lungs with nicotine? The media has paraded those images in front of us for so long that we started thinking that the desire for those things started from within us. Those images were projected onto us. I don't recall any of my childhood friends mentioning those things as personal, admirable goals in life when we were little.
Look in the mirror today. Take off the rose-colored glasses and take a good, long look. Be honest. If you see desperation, bitterness, depression, jealousy, insecurity, hatred, lust, impatience, conceit, the need to "fit in", or anything else that doesn't reflect the image of God, it's time to make an adjustment. The adjusment is not demanding that everyone "accept me for who I am!" if who you've become is not who God says you are.
When we are ready to know what we really look like, we will look to God's Word for it has the power to reflect the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. So help us God.
Once they reach the teenage years, however, I fully expect to have to perform surgery to remove them from their mirrors--or for that matter any reflective object that will allow them to admire themselves.
Even as adults, most of us wouldn't think of leaving the house without at least one glance in the mirror to make sure we are "presentable." Those brief glances have spared us the embarrassment of leaving the house with a hair roller still hanging on, remnants of breakfast still hanging on, or clothing inadvertently caught up and hiked up in places that simply shouldn't be mentioned.
With all of this reflecting and glancing going on, how often do we really take a good long look at ourself in the mirror in an effort to see past the surface and into the depth of who we truly "are"?
We are made in the image of God, the Great I AM. So, how do we reflect that image in our lives?If we are honest with ourselves, we probably reflect more of the projections of others and the trappings of this world than the image of our creator. We may reflect the desperation of trying to find a mate or approval from our mate by wearing revealing clothing or doing other things that scream, "Look at me!" (or for the church folks, "Do not pass me by!") Some people may do just the opposite and withdraw or display anti-social, rebellious behavior that says, "Don't look at me! Just walk on by!"
I wonder if some of us become addicted to piercings and tatooing (and if we can afford it, plastic surgery) because we are not pleased with what we see in the mirror. We think we are not desireable enough, so perhaps a little ink here, a little stud there, a little lift here, a little tuck there and we will finally be good enough--but for who or what? We are already fearfully and wonderfully made by God. Why isn't that good enough?
Let's be honest, when we were little children running wild and free, how many of us grew up desiring to have bodies filled with silicone, permanent ink or metal studs? How many of us planned to fry our brains with drugs or our lungs with nicotine? The media has paraded those images in front of us for so long that we started thinking that the desire for those things started from within us. Those images were projected onto us. I don't recall any of my childhood friends mentioning those things as personal, admirable goals in life when we were little.
Look in the mirror today. Take off the rose-colored glasses and take a good, long look. Be honest. If you see desperation, bitterness, depression, jealousy, insecurity, hatred, lust, impatience, conceit, the need to "fit in", or anything else that doesn't reflect the image of God, it's time to make an adjustment. The adjusment is not demanding that everyone "accept me for who I am!" if who you've become is not who God says you are.
When we are ready to know what we really look like, we will look to God's Word for it has the power to reflect the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. So help us God.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Trick? Or, Treat?
Well, it's that time of year. Time when scores of people prepare to dress like or celebrate ghosts, witches, devils, aliens, celebrities (some times it's hard to tell one from the other), and do a variety of other miscellaneous things to pay homage to the eery side of life. Most of the people who celebrate Halloween are innocently looking for a treat and have no idea that the treat is an illusion while the trick is all too real.
One of the blockbuster movies still making a strong showing at the box office is Paranormal Activity, a simple movie with a homemade feel to it that depicts the demonic posession of an innocent young lady. People have reported having difficulty sleeping after watching the movie, being scared like never before, and just being creeped out overall. Why? Perhaps it's because they didn't read the fine print at the end of the movie that explained that the account is fictional. Or, perhaps it's because, regardless of whether this particular movie is fact or fiction, something deep within each of us recognizes that the spirit realm is real, which means that not only is God's Holy Spirit real, but so are unholy, demonic spirits.
With that in mind, why is it that so many people eagerly and gleefully look forward to celebrating and playing around with demonic spirits, but are deathly afraid and ashamed to walk in the light with the Holy Spirit? Something seems a little backwards there. This goes well beyond Halloween. That's only one night out of the year. I am referring to the deeds that we do regularly under the cover of darkness, the things that we do on the "down low" that can only make others ask, "How low can you go?"
As the Apostle Paul was ministering to the church in Galatia, at one point, their behavior caused him to ask,"Who has bewitched you....?" I ask the same question of us. When did we start believing that bad was good and good was bad? Are we under some kind of spell? I've tried bad and I've tried good. Bad usually appeared to be good at first, but later turned out to be, well, bad. Good often seemed boring and bad at first, but believe me, time continually proved that good was not only better, but best!
For example, why do we believe that it's o.k. to disobey God who tells us to flee (run as quickly and as far as possible away from ) fornication? Is it because we believe that we are "grown and sexy" or that consenting adults have the right to do whatever they please. What happened to the fact that those of us who call ourselves Christian have been bought with a price--Jesus' blood--and that God has a purpose and plan for our lives that does not include sexually transmitted diseases, unplanned pregnancies and the overall drama that comes from becoming "one flesh" with a variety of different people because we don't trust God enough to lead us to our mate. God still blesses us in spite of our mistakes, but that is not a "license to ill."
The belief "if it feels good, do it" appears to lead to all sorts of tasty, thrilling treats, but in reality it's just a tired, terrible trick.
God tells us that rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft. So, when we go against God's plan and design for us, it is like being under a spell. Imagine if a dog began behaving strangely. (What would be considered strange for a dog? Anything that seems unnatural for a dog to do. The same goes for us.) We would do all we could to figure out what was making the dog behave strangely and how to make it stop.
Well, isn't it strange for those of us who love God to want to dress up like God's enemy and decorate our homes in a manner that says, "death and demons are welcome here?" Isn't it unnatural for God's creation (us) to continually engage in behaviors that essentially say, "God, you knew what You were doing when you created me, but after that, You fell out of touch with reality. I can't possibly be expected to find any joy in living for You. The only joy I can expect to get comes with a price, alright, but it's not Jesus' blood. It's the cover charge to get into the night club so I can 'legitimately' get wasted; it's the cost of the drugs I take so my mind can get 'twisted'; it's the cost of the condoms so I can get a few, fleeting moments of pleasure; it's the cost of ____________(fill in the blank here with the rebellion of your choice).
Come on! Silly rabbits! Tricks are for kids! Let's wake up, grow up and realize that God is not our enemy! God is not trying to stop us from enjoying life. In fact, just the opposite is true. God sent Jesus that we "might have life and have it more abundantly." What does that mean? Well, take the time and make the effort to figure it out. Too many of us have wasted way too much money, time, sweat and tears searching for "treats" in anything, any place and anyone else but God.
Let October 31, 2009, be the day that you declare your freedom from the tricks and traps from the enemy! Use Hallows Eve--the original name for Halloween (Hallowed=Holy, E'en=Evening)--for what it would be most appropriate for, preparing to celebrate All Saints Day, Nov. 1. Find a church that you can attend this weekend to begin celebrating and learning about the great heroes and heroines of the Bible who overcame the tricks and found the real treats in life. Connect with other people who, just like you, have finally had enough of the tricks of the enemy and are working together to help each other stand strong through God's promises.
You many not find all the answers you need from one church visit, but be patient. Remember there is no perfect church, not because God is not perfect, but because we are not. Don't let imperfect Christians be an excuse to keep you away from church. Horrible food never made you give up eating! Horrible dancers never kept you off of the dance floor at the night clubs! (They certainly didn't stop me!). Some things that should have stopped us only made us more determined! At least give God the same amount of time and commitment you gave everything else you've tried.
Let me know how it goes. Hearing your testimony will be a real treat!
Rev. Karen
One of the blockbuster movies still making a strong showing at the box office is Paranormal Activity, a simple movie with a homemade feel to it that depicts the demonic posession of an innocent young lady. People have reported having difficulty sleeping after watching the movie, being scared like never before, and just being creeped out overall. Why? Perhaps it's because they didn't read the fine print at the end of the movie that explained that the account is fictional. Or, perhaps it's because, regardless of whether this particular movie is fact or fiction, something deep within each of us recognizes that the spirit realm is real, which means that not only is God's Holy Spirit real, but so are unholy, demonic spirits.
With that in mind, why is it that so many people eagerly and gleefully look forward to celebrating and playing around with demonic spirits, but are deathly afraid and ashamed to walk in the light with the Holy Spirit? Something seems a little backwards there. This goes well beyond Halloween. That's only one night out of the year. I am referring to the deeds that we do regularly under the cover of darkness, the things that we do on the "down low" that can only make others ask, "How low can you go?"
As the Apostle Paul was ministering to the church in Galatia, at one point, their behavior caused him to ask,"Who has bewitched you....?" I ask the same question of us. When did we start believing that bad was good and good was bad? Are we under some kind of spell? I've tried bad and I've tried good. Bad usually appeared to be good at first, but later turned out to be, well, bad. Good often seemed boring and bad at first, but believe me, time continually proved that good was not only better, but best!
For example, why do we believe that it's o.k. to disobey God who tells us to flee (run as quickly and as far as possible away from ) fornication? Is it because we believe that we are "grown and sexy" or that consenting adults have the right to do whatever they please. What happened to the fact that those of us who call ourselves Christian have been bought with a price--Jesus' blood--and that God has a purpose and plan for our lives that does not include sexually transmitted diseases, unplanned pregnancies and the overall drama that comes from becoming "one flesh" with a variety of different people because we don't trust God enough to lead us to our mate. God still blesses us in spite of our mistakes, but that is not a "license to ill."
The belief "if it feels good, do it" appears to lead to all sorts of tasty, thrilling treats, but in reality it's just a tired, terrible trick.
God tells us that rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft. So, when we go against God's plan and design for us, it is like being under a spell. Imagine if a dog began behaving strangely. (What would be considered strange for a dog? Anything that seems unnatural for a dog to do. The same goes for us.) We would do all we could to figure out what was making the dog behave strangely and how to make it stop.
Well, isn't it strange for those of us who love God to want to dress up like God's enemy and decorate our homes in a manner that says, "death and demons are welcome here?" Isn't it unnatural for God's creation (us) to continually engage in behaviors that essentially say, "God, you knew what You were doing when you created me, but after that, You fell out of touch with reality. I can't possibly be expected to find any joy in living for You. The only joy I can expect to get comes with a price, alright, but it's not Jesus' blood. It's the cover charge to get into the night club so I can 'legitimately' get wasted; it's the cost of the drugs I take so my mind can get 'twisted'; it's the cost of the condoms so I can get a few, fleeting moments of pleasure; it's the cost of ____________(fill in the blank here with the rebellion of your choice).
Come on! Silly rabbits! Tricks are for kids! Let's wake up, grow up and realize that God is not our enemy! God is not trying to stop us from enjoying life. In fact, just the opposite is true. God sent Jesus that we "might have life and have it more abundantly." What does that mean? Well, take the time and make the effort to figure it out. Too many of us have wasted way too much money, time, sweat and tears searching for "treats" in anything, any place and anyone else but God.
Let October 31, 2009, be the day that you declare your freedom from the tricks and traps from the enemy! Use Hallows Eve--the original name for Halloween (Hallowed=Holy, E'en=Evening)--for what it would be most appropriate for, preparing to celebrate All Saints Day, Nov. 1. Find a church that you can attend this weekend to begin celebrating and learning about the great heroes and heroines of the Bible who overcame the tricks and found the real treats in life. Connect with other people who, just like you, have finally had enough of the tricks of the enemy and are working together to help each other stand strong through God's promises.
You many not find all the answers you need from one church visit, but be patient. Remember there is no perfect church, not because God is not perfect, but because we are not. Don't let imperfect Christians be an excuse to keep you away from church. Horrible food never made you give up eating! Horrible dancers never kept you off of the dance floor at the night clubs! (They certainly didn't stop me!). Some things that should have stopped us only made us more determined! At least give God the same amount of time and commitment you gave everything else you've tried.
Let me know how it goes. Hearing your testimony will be a real treat!
Rev. Karen
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
That's Not Fair!
Remember when you were a kid and your brother or sister or neighbor got something that you didn't? Three words came tumbling out of your mouth before you could blink or think--"That's not fair!" Oooh! I can just hear the whiney, pouty tone.
I have two young children and I have declared the word "fair" off limits in my household. Why? Because "fair" is always dependent upon what side of the fence you stand. If you're on the side with no grass while your neighbor has a lush emerald green lawn, you might think it's "not fair" that the grass is greener on the other side. Meanwhile, your neighbor thinks it's "not fair" that you don't have to cut grass in the sweltering summer sun and the neighbor's children envy the natural mud wrestling pit that emerges on your side after every heavy rain.
Years ago at a previous job I was given an assignment that I thought was unfair. A team of writers on another floor in our building needed to draft a letter of condolence to a family that had experienced a tragedy. There were plenty of writers on their team that could (and I thought should) have taken responsibility for the assignment. But, instead, the assignment skipped their team entirely and somehow landed on my desk. I was already swamped, yet I was asked to take on someone else's responsibility--and on a tight deadline! "This is so unfair!" I thought.
But, thank God that the Holy Spirit leads us and guides us into all truth. While trying to gather the right words for the letter I was steadily stewing and asking "Why?! Why?! Why?!" Then, the thought came to me, "Have you forgotten who you really work for? You are My servant. You are My chosen vessel. This is no ordinary circumstance and this is no ordinary letter. This letter may be signed by an executive, but it will come from Me. I placed you in this position for such a time as this."
I was so humbled! I was so ashamed! There I was worried about my workload and what was "fair" while a family was hurting and simply needed a few words of empathy and encouragement to help them get through. I didn't know it at the time, but the family was Christian, which was perfect because, although I was working for a secular organization, the words that came out of me most definitely had a Christ-like feel.
I also didn't realize that God was preparing my heart and my gifts for ministry, which has proven to be my true vocation. When I really came to terms with the fact that God is the giver of every good and perfect gift, is in full control, and is all-knowing, I realized my perspective on "fair" was, well, unfair.
Have you ever had a sibling take the blame and punishment for something you did? I have a sneaking suspicion that you did not blurt out, "That's not fair!" Were you ever forgiven for a debt that you owed? I am confident that your response was not, "That's not fair!" When I think about how Jesus went to the cross, not for any crimes that He had done, but for my sins, somehow--ironically--the words, "That's not fair!" are nowhere on my lips.
I am glad that God is a just God, yet a merciful God who does not judge us in relation to others--which is inherent in our notion of "fairness"--and doesn't ever give us more than we can bear. No matter how overwhelming things may seem, God doesn't ask anything of us that we haven't already been equipped to do. Of course not. Just think about it. THAT simply would not be "fair."
Rev. Karen
I have two young children and I have declared the word "fair" off limits in my household. Why? Because "fair" is always dependent upon what side of the fence you stand. If you're on the side with no grass while your neighbor has a lush emerald green lawn, you might think it's "not fair" that the grass is greener on the other side. Meanwhile, your neighbor thinks it's "not fair" that you don't have to cut grass in the sweltering summer sun and the neighbor's children envy the natural mud wrestling pit that emerges on your side after every heavy rain.
Years ago at a previous job I was given an assignment that I thought was unfair. A team of writers on another floor in our building needed to draft a letter of condolence to a family that had experienced a tragedy. There were plenty of writers on their team that could (and I thought should) have taken responsibility for the assignment. But, instead, the assignment skipped their team entirely and somehow landed on my desk. I was already swamped, yet I was asked to take on someone else's responsibility--and on a tight deadline! "This is so unfair!" I thought.
But, thank God that the Holy Spirit leads us and guides us into all truth. While trying to gather the right words for the letter I was steadily stewing and asking "Why?! Why?! Why?!" Then, the thought came to me, "Have you forgotten who you really work for? You are My servant. You are My chosen vessel. This is no ordinary circumstance and this is no ordinary letter. This letter may be signed by an executive, but it will come from Me. I placed you in this position for such a time as this."
I was so humbled! I was so ashamed! There I was worried about my workload and what was "fair" while a family was hurting and simply needed a few words of empathy and encouragement to help them get through. I didn't know it at the time, but the family was Christian, which was perfect because, although I was working for a secular organization, the words that came out of me most definitely had a Christ-like feel.
I also didn't realize that God was preparing my heart and my gifts for ministry, which has proven to be my true vocation. When I really came to terms with the fact that God is the giver of every good and perfect gift, is in full control, and is all-knowing, I realized my perspective on "fair" was, well, unfair.
Have you ever had a sibling take the blame and punishment for something you did? I have a sneaking suspicion that you did not blurt out, "That's not fair!" Were you ever forgiven for a debt that you owed? I am confident that your response was not, "That's not fair!" When I think about how Jesus went to the cross, not for any crimes that He had done, but for my sins, somehow--ironically--the words, "That's not fair!" are nowhere on my lips.
I am glad that God is a just God, yet a merciful God who does not judge us in relation to others--which is inherent in our notion of "fairness"--and doesn't ever give us more than we can bear. No matter how overwhelming things may seem, God doesn't ask anything of us that we haven't already been equipped to do. Of course not. Just think about it. THAT simply would not be "fair."
Rev. Karen
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Walking By Faith....
We walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7).
Many of us have head knowledge of what this scripture means, but I challenge you to allow the notion of walking by faith to move down from your head and sink into your heart. Perhaps it will require you to literally take a walk--by faith. That's what has been helping me to more fully appreciate what God desires of us.
Following major surgery this summer, I reached a plateau in my recovery. I got better than I was, but then I reached a point where I wasn't getting where I needed to be. So, my doctor prescribed exercise--particularly walking.
I hadn't done any serious walking since my college days, so I could not see myself getting anywhere close to the goal he set for me -- a two-hour walk. Well, a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. So, I started out with a 20-minute walk. Then, I advanced to 30 minutes, 45 minutes, and now three weeks later I am up to 1 hour and 15 minutes!
In the beginning, I couldn't see myself doing it, but I began walking anyway--by faith. I'm already feeling better and excited about reaching my goal. I'm also enjoying the view as I walk through areas I normally drive through--usually too quickly to notice the beauty around me.
Walking has forced me to "sloooww dowwn" and see the changing colors on the leaves, the beautiful architecture of historic buildings, and the quaint neighborhood corner stores that make the surrounding concrete jungle a little more homey. God has even orchestrated it that, at times, I would turn a corner or cross a street and run into people I haven't seen in 10-20 years.
I used to think it was a blessing to get a parking spot close to where I was headed. Now that I'm a "walker," as long as there is no inclement weather, it doesn't matter where I park, as long as I get a spot (preferably without a meter). Yesterday, while running errands and looking for a place to park, the nearest spot I could find was at least three blocks away. "What a blessing," I thought to myself, "I can get in a little more walking!" I had to laugh at my new perspective on parking "blessings."
When I set out to walk, I never plan my route. I just walk by faith as the Lord leads. Of course I follow basic safety such as keeping an eye on my surroundings and avoiding secluded areas. But, I never know where the next step will take me--and that's just fine. I listen keenly to God's Spirit which tells me when to turn and when to keep straight; when to move and when to stop. It's really exciting wondering where God will lead me. It's also very liberating to not have to be in full control (or at least thinking I am) of everything.
How can you step out in faith this week? Find a way to free yourself from having to be in control or knowing what every single step will bring. Examine your perspective on how God is "blessing" you--maybe it's not by making you comfortable but by stretching you.
Go ahead. Walk by faith! You will "see" things you never could by sight alone. Let me know how it goes!
Rev. Karen
Many of us have head knowledge of what this scripture means, but I challenge you to allow the notion of walking by faith to move down from your head and sink into your heart. Perhaps it will require you to literally take a walk--by faith. That's what has been helping me to more fully appreciate what God desires of us.
Following major surgery this summer, I reached a plateau in my recovery. I got better than I was, but then I reached a point where I wasn't getting where I needed to be. So, my doctor prescribed exercise--particularly walking.
I hadn't done any serious walking since my college days, so I could not see myself getting anywhere close to the goal he set for me -- a two-hour walk. Well, a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. So, I started out with a 20-minute walk. Then, I advanced to 30 minutes, 45 minutes, and now three weeks later I am up to 1 hour and 15 minutes!
In the beginning, I couldn't see myself doing it, but I began walking anyway--by faith. I'm already feeling better and excited about reaching my goal. I'm also enjoying the view as I walk through areas I normally drive through--usually too quickly to notice the beauty around me.
Walking has forced me to "sloooww dowwn" and see the changing colors on the leaves, the beautiful architecture of historic buildings, and the quaint neighborhood corner stores that make the surrounding concrete jungle a little more homey. God has even orchestrated it that, at times, I would turn a corner or cross a street and run into people I haven't seen in 10-20 years.
I used to think it was a blessing to get a parking spot close to where I was headed. Now that I'm a "walker," as long as there is no inclement weather, it doesn't matter where I park, as long as I get a spot (preferably without a meter). Yesterday, while running errands and looking for a place to park, the nearest spot I could find was at least three blocks away. "What a blessing," I thought to myself, "I can get in a little more walking!" I had to laugh at my new perspective on parking "blessings."
When I set out to walk, I never plan my route. I just walk by faith as the Lord leads. Of course I follow basic safety such as keeping an eye on my surroundings and avoiding secluded areas. But, I never know where the next step will take me--and that's just fine. I listen keenly to God's Spirit which tells me when to turn and when to keep straight; when to move and when to stop. It's really exciting wondering where God will lead me. It's also very liberating to not have to be in full control (or at least thinking I am) of everything.
How can you step out in faith this week? Find a way to free yourself from having to be in control or knowing what every single step will bring. Examine your perspective on how God is "blessing" you--maybe it's not by making you comfortable but by stretching you.
Go ahead. Walk by faith! You will "see" things you never could by sight alone. Let me know how it goes!
Rev. Karen
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
THIS is the Day....
For many years I was in search of a "to it." I waited... and waited... and waited because not just any "to it" would do. It couldn't be square. It could not be triangular. It had to be round.
Why the puzzled expression? You know exactly what a "to it" is. Many of you are in search of one, too. And, like me, you will not budge until you get that round "to it"! You know the one--the one that will allow you to finally finish (or finally start) that project you promised you'd handle once you got -- around to it. You remember the plans and dreams that have been on hold for far too long waiting for you to get -- around to it.
Don't procrastinate any further. Don't continue to put off onto tomorrow that which you can do today. You've passed by enough tomorrows that at least one of them is long overdue for finally becoming your "today".
THIS is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it! Why not let today be the day that you take one small step toward that which you have resisted, hid, denied or delayed--knowing that God has placed it within you and within reach?
TODAY is your day to rise and shine and give God the glory for a brand new mercy and a brand new opportunity to get a round "to it"!
This series of blogs that you are now reading finally emerged once I got a round "to it". I have much more to accomplish, but this blog is an important first step--which, by the way, means that I don't need this particular "to it" any longer.
Well, well, well! This is truly your day! It would be my honor to give you my "to it" so that THIS will be the day that you finally begin at least one of the things you've always wanted to do, once you got a round "to it." Congratulations, my friend!!!
Once you've taken that first step, let me know how it feels to finally get a round "to it". I have a feeling that you will rejoice and be glad in it and declare that THIS is the day the Lord has made. :-)
Rev. Karen
Why the puzzled expression? You know exactly what a "to it" is. Many of you are in search of one, too. And, like me, you will not budge until you get that round "to it"! You know the one--the one that will allow you to finally finish (or finally start) that project you promised you'd handle once you got -- around to it. You remember the plans and dreams that have been on hold for far too long waiting for you to get -- around to it.
Don't procrastinate any further. Don't continue to put off onto tomorrow that which you can do today. You've passed by enough tomorrows that at least one of them is long overdue for finally becoming your "today".
THIS is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it! Why not let today be the day that you take one small step toward that which you have resisted, hid, denied or delayed--knowing that God has placed it within you and within reach?
TODAY is your day to rise and shine and give God the glory for a brand new mercy and a brand new opportunity to get a round "to it"!
This series of blogs that you are now reading finally emerged once I got a round "to it". I have much more to accomplish, but this blog is an important first step--which, by the way, means that I don't need this particular "to it" any longer.
Well, well, well! This is truly your day! It would be my honor to give you my "to it" so that THIS will be the day that you finally begin at least one of the things you've always wanted to do, once you got a round "to it." Congratulations, my friend!!!
Once you've taken that first step, let me know how it feels to finally get a round "to it". I have a feeling that you will rejoice and be glad in it and declare that THIS is the day the Lord has made. :-)
Rev. Karen
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
You Know Better Than That....
My mother always said, "When you know better, you do better."
The challenge, however, lies in the "knowing" part. Sometimes we behave as if we either don't know who we really are or have completely forgotten. The stresses and strains of life, compounded with other people's notions about who we are or should be, have a way of clouding our minds and our vision so that we lose sight of God's thoughts and provisions for us.
God says, "I know the plans I have for you....Plans for a future and a hope." Even with that profound promise, we sometimes allow ourselves to be intimidated by expectations--from ourselves as well as from others--and we shy away from the future and give up hope. We do nothing because we know nothing. We don't know if we're smart enough, fast enough, tough enough, prepared enough, articulate enough, or just plain good enough.
Enough, already! We don't have to worry about being or doing anything well enough when we realize that we are simply vessels of the Master. That doesn't mean we don't give our best, but one of the things that God is helping me to understand is that if I want to be a good speaker, I prepare by being a good listener. It's less about my "doing" and more about my "being"--being available and open to hear from God and allowing God to do the speaking.
Whenever I feel inadequate for a task, listening to God and being in his presence helps me to stay anchored in what I know--that I am created in His image, that I am fearfully and wonderfully made, that I can do all things through Christ, that the joy of the Lord is my strength, and that God has not given me a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind.
When thoughts of doubt and discouragement start creeping into your mind about what you can't do, just remind yourself of who and whose you are and tell yourself, "You know better than that!" When you know better, you'll do better because you'll be better.
Rev. Karen
The challenge, however, lies in the "knowing" part. Sometimes we behave as if we either don't know who we really are or have completely forgotten. The stresses and strains of life, compounded with other people's notions about who we are or should be, have a way of clouding our minds and our vision so that we lose sight of God's thoughts and provisions for us.
God says, "I know the plans I have for you....Plans for a future and a hope." Even with that profound promise, we sometimes allow ourselves to be intimidated by expectations--from ourselves as well as from others--and we shy away from the future and give up hope. We do nothing because we know nothing. We don't know if we're smart enough, fast enough, tough enough, prepared enough, articulate enough, or just plain good enough.
Enough, already! We don't have to worry about being or doing anything well enough when we realize that we are simply vessels of the Master. That doesn't mean we don't give our best, but one of the things that God is helping me to understand is that if I want to be a good speaker, I prepare by being a good listener. It's less about my "doing" and more about my "being"--being available and open to hear from God and allowing God to do the speaking.
Whenever I feel inadequate for a task, listening to God and being in his presence helps me to stay anchored in what I know--that I am created in His image, that I am fearfully and wonderfully made, that I can do all things through Christ, that the joy of the Lord is my strength, and that God has not given me a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind.
When thoughts of doubt and discouragement start creeping into your mind about what you can't do, just remind yourself of who and whose you are and tell yourself, "You know better than that!" When you know better, you'll do better because you'll be better.
Rev. Karen
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Slooow dowwwn...
Time can be our enemy or our friend--depending on the pace of our lives. We can fly through the moments in our day, rushing to finish one thing so we can quickly move on to the next. Or, we can slow down and be fully engaged in what we are doing, taking time to notice and appreciate the finer details we usually ignore. The joys of life are often found in the details that we "don't have time" to notice.
When we race against the clock, we often lose. Chronological time will march steadily forward regardless of what we do and in spite of how many things we try to squeeze into each minute. God's time, or kairos time, is that sense of being in tune with the rhythm of life--more like being IN time as opposed to merely ON time.
Being in kairos time allows you to move with the flow, not against it. Seeking God at the beginning of each day is a great means of setting your clock to kairos time.
Tomorrow, ask God to help you slow down and notice at least one inspiring detail you're usually too busy to notice. Drop me a line and let me know how it goes, IF you have the time.... ;-)
Rev. Karen
When we race against the clock, we often lose. Chronological time will march steadily forward regardless of what we do and in spite of how many things we try to squeeze into each minute. God's time, or kairos time, is that sense of being in tune with the rhythm of life--more like being IN time as opposed to merely ON time.
Being in kairos time allows you to move with the flow, not against it. Seeking God at the beginning of each day is a great means of setting your clock to kairos time.
Tomorrow, ask God to help you slow down and notice at least one inspiring detail you're usually too busy to notice. Drop me a line and let me know how it goes, IF you have the time.... ;-)
Rev. Karen
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