"Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves."
-Romans 12:10
Growing up in my church, the word "fellowship" meant some sort of post-worship-service gathering that involved food and coffee. And that was about it. It seemed pointless then; but looking back, I can see how important those times were. A church is a family made up of different types of people. And the only way such a diverse group can become a real family--and not just a crowd--is by spending time together.
This week we'll see the members of the early Church giving money to one another, sharing their possessions, and taking care of each other. This is what a real church family is supposed to look like. But how do we get there?
In every church God wants to build something called "community," the sense that we're all connected in a real way. Serving each other, helping, loving, and giving are all ways we express real community. Believe it or not, this can be the most exciting and life-changing aspect of your church experience. But community isn't easy to come by. It takes a deliberate choice to be a part of the people of God. Once you join, the benefits are endless. This week we're going to look at how to build real community in our own churches.
Read Acts 4:32-37
Sharing isn't natural. No one has to teach a child to be selfish with his toys. That trait just comes naturally to him. But it applies to teenagers and adults as well. So how do you figure 3,000 people voluntarily selling their possessions to help other people? When the Spirit of God moves, we discover how the Spirit provides all we need--including a family of parents, brothers, and sisters to help us through life. Recognizing God's provision, Barnabas gladly chose to sell his land to aid the church. Would you be willing to do the same with your stuff?
Our culture is selfish; it's time we challenged the status quo by loving each other sacrificially.
Do you believe God will provide all you need--even when you help others?
Do you truly love the people in your church?
What are some ways you can serve the people in your church this week?
**
Taken from "Community" Student Life, copyright 2008 Youth Specialties/Zondervan. Used by permission.
Showing posts with label Love. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Love. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Not always what it seems
I was talking with a friend this morning about a tough situation occurring in their life. I found myself being struck by how sad the situation is, while at the same time excited that this person recognized just how bad it really was. I rejoiced that God had blessed me with this conversation. There were questions of why God would allow certain things to happen and if God was really even there. In that same breath I was told by this friend that they see God in me. The statement really hit me because while it is my goal to reflect Christ, I am all too aware of how much I fail at it. I reminded me that the life I live is being noticed. The life you live is also being noticed. What are the messages, pictures and stories that people see or hear from you? The beauty of it all is that I have no idea at what moment or in what ways this person saw God reflected in my life. I saw that is beautiful because i cannot boast in my self. Whatever work was done happened because God is Love. Perfect Love casts out all fear, always be willing to trust that God is using you, even if you don't know how.
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
From Crossroads
SO YOU WANT TO BE A ROCK STAR?
On Parents Splitting Up: Take 2
by Tim Shutes
Stunned. There's no better word to describe how I felt. I was fresh out of college, an idealistic, bright, young, know-it-all youth pastor only weeks into my new job when the unthinkable happened.
It was Valentine's Day, three weeks before my 24th birthday, when my mom told me she was leaving my dad. They say I'm lucky because I wasn't a kid when it happened. In many ways they're right. God spared my sister and me a lot of psychological baggage, but I can't say it was any easier because I was older. It was just--different.
Therapists say, "Don't get caught in the middle." Well, I got caught in the middle. My sister was in school in South Carolina. I was 10 minutes from home. Suddenly I was the stable one, and instead of focusing on my brand new ministry, I was pulling overtime as a marriage counselor for my parents. I found myself going back and forth between desperately sharing my father's grief and uttering cold clichés to my mother in hope that something would stick and make everything better.
I thought life was supposed to be different. People aren't supposed to get divorced after 26 years of marriage, especially not Christians, especially not my parents. My dad was an emotional wreck, and my mom seemed like a different person altogether. I pleaded with God to rescue their marriage. In my idealistic world God always brought couples back together. How could a God who hates divorce not make that happen for my parents?
The truth is that if my parents had gotten back together right away, it would have short-circuited all the ways my family--me included--grew because of this painful situation. You see, living in the daily tragedy of divorce does something to a person--it first makes them numb, and then it reveals issues and sins that have been hidden for a long time. That's where I found God working on me and the rest of my family. Even in the midst of something God hates, God was present and working to bring about something good.
God says, "My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water" (Jeremiah 2:13). My parents' relationship was a broken cistern that I kept trying to fill and refill, only to watch it run dry. They had been my source of security, my source of stability. But they were--and are--broken people like all of us. They simply couldn't be everything I wanted them to be.
It took me a long time to realize that I can't change my parents. I can only change myself. And because of God's goodness, I have indeed changed. God shattered my cookie-cutter faith and replaced it with a world-worn, real-life version that I would never trade. Because of this trial I am not afraid of uncertainty and change anymore. The situation forced me to confront my fears and hurts, and I am a stronger man because of it. So many people forsake God when tragedy hits. But I would have never made it without God. C.S. Lewis wrote, "God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks to us in our conscience, but shouts in our pains" (Lewis, 93). I believe that's true. I have come to realize that as much as my heart breaks for my parents, God's heart breaks even more. God has comforted me with his tears, counseled me through his Word, and fortified me through this fiery trial.
I still have much brokenness, but I would never trade these wounds. They are reminders of how God is faithfully restoring my soul.**
Taken from "Crossroads," by Stephanie Smith and Suzy Weibel, copyright 2008 Youth Specialties/Zondervan. Used by permission.
On Parents Splitting Up: Take 2
by Tim Shutes
Stunned. There's no better word to describe how I felt. I was fresh out of college, an idealistic, bright, young, know-it-all youth pastor only weeks into my new job when the unthinkable happened.
It was Valentine's Day, three weeks before my 24th birthday, when my mom told me she was leaving my dad. They say I'm lucky because I wasn't a kid when it happened. In many ways they're right. God spared my sister and me a lot of psychological baggage, but I can't say it was any easier because I was older. It was just--different.
Therapists say, "Don't get caught in the middle." Well, I got caught in the middle. My sister was in school in South Carolina. I was 10 minutes from home. Suddenly I was the stable one, and instead of focusing on my brand new ministry, I was pulling overtime as a marriage counselor for my parents. I found myself going back and forth between desperately sharing my father's grief and uttering cold clichés to my mother in hope that something would stick and make everything better.
I thought life was supposed to be different. People aren't supposed to get divorced after 26 years of marriage, especially not Christians, especially not my parents. My dad was an emotional wreck, and my mom seemed like a different person altogether. I pleaded with God to rescue their marriage. In my idealistic world God always brought couples back together. How could a God who hates divorce not make that happen for my parents?
The truth is that if my parents had gotten back together right away, it would have short-circuited all the ways my family--me included--grew because of this painful situation. You see, living in the daily tragedy of divorce does something to a person--it first makes them numb, and then it reveals issues and sins that have been hidden for a long time. That's where I found God working on me and the rest of my family. Even in the midst of something God hates, God was present and working to bring about something good.
God says, "My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water" (Jeremiah 2:13). My parents' relationship was a broken cistern that I kept trying to fill and refill, only to watch it run dry. They had been my source of security, my source of stability. But they were--and are--broken people like all of us. They simply couldn't be everything I wanted them to be.
It took me a long time to realize that I can't change my parents. I can only change myself. And because of God's goodness, I have indeed changed. God shattered my cookie-cutter faith and replaced it with a world-worn, real-life version that I would never trade. Because of this trial I am not afraid of uncertainty and change anymore. The situation forced me to confront my fears and hurts, and I am a stronger man because of it. So many people forsake God when tragedy hits. But I would have never made it without God. C.S. Lewis wrote, "God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks to us in our conscience, but shouts in our pains" (Lewis, 93). I believe that's true. I have come to realize that as much as my heart breaks for my parents, God's heart breaks even more. God has comforted me with his tears, counseled me through his Word, and fortified me through this fiery trial.
I still have much brokenness, but I would never trade these wounds. They are reminders of how God is faithfully restoring my soul.**
Taken from "Crossroads," by Stephanie Smith and Suzy Weibel, copyright 2008 Youth Specialties/Zondervan. Used by permission.
Thursday, April 03, 2008
What do you 'run' by? What are you going to do?
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania (CNN) -- At 5 a.m. on any given day, Anne Mahlum could be found running the dark streets of Philadelphia -- with homeless men cheering her on as she passed their shelter. But one morning last spring, she stopped in her tracks.
"Why am I running past these guys?" recalls Mahlum, 27. "I'm moving my life forward every day -- and these guys are standing in the same spot."
Instead of continuing to pass them by, the veteran marathoner sprang into action so they could join her.
She contacted the shelter, got donations of running gear, and in July 2007 the "Back On My Feet" running club hit the streets.
The first day, Mahlum led nine shelter residents in a mile-long run. Today, Back on My Feet has teams in three Philadelphia shelters, including 54 homeless members and more than 250 volunteers. The group has logged more than 5,000 miles.
Requirements for shelter residents to join are simple -- they must live in an affiliated facility and be clean and sober for 30 days. Members receive new shoes and running clothes, and teams run together three times a week between 5:30 and 6 a.m.
The runners are diverse -- doctors, janitors, students and shelter residents -- but such distinctions aren't apparent.
"All you can tell is who's the fastest," says Mahlum. "You can't tell who's homeless and who's not."
For Mahlum and others, Back On My Feet is more than a running club.
"We're a community of support, love, respect," she says. Runners greet each other with hugs and words of encouragement. While members say they've lost weight, quit smoking and have more energy, Mahlum believes they're also learning important life skills such as discipline and goal-setting that can help them get on the road to self-sufficiency.
"Running really is a metaphor for life," she says. "There is always another mile. You just have to take it one step at a time."
That's something Mahlum herself has learned over the past 10 years as she's dealt with her father's alcoholism. Running has been her therapy, she says.
"I'm learning more about my life through all of this."Back On My Feet also has a job training program for a partner. Three members are taking classes, learning computer and interview skills, while three others have found jobs.
Mike Solomon, an original member, is one of the group's success stories. A former crack user who spent his youth in and out of trouble on the streets of Wilmington, Delaware, Solomon is employed, in school and training to run a marathon in his hometown. He considers Back on My Feet part of his support group. "Anne is helping people see the hero in themselves," says Solomon. Mahlum aims to have Back On My Feet in 10 local shelters by the end of the year and expand beyond Philadelphia in 2009. She believes her approach could be part of a solution to homelessness. "Do we need homes? Yes. We need jobs? Yes," she says. "But imagine if you didn't have anybody in your life who said, 'I'm really proud of you.' Back On My Feet does just that."
"Why am I running past these guys?" recalls Mahlum, 27. "I'm moving my life forward every day -- and these guys are standing in the same spot."
Instead of continuing to pass them by, the veteran marathoner sprang into action so they could join her.
She contacted the shelter, got donations of running gear, and in July 2007 the "Back On My Feet" running club hit the streets.
The first day, Mahlum led nine shelter residents in a mile-long run. Today, Back on My Feet has teams in three Philadelphia shelters, including 54 homeless members and more than 250 volunteers. The group has logged more than 5,000 miles.
Requirements for shelter residents to join are simple -- they must live in an affiliated facility and be clean and sober for 30 days. Members receive new shoes and running clothes, and teams run together three times a week between 5:30 and 6 a.m.
The runners are diverse -- doctors, janitors, students and shelter residents -- but such distinctions aren't apparent.
"All you can tell is who's the fastest," says Mahlum. "You can't tell who's homeless and who's not."
For Mahlum and others, Back On My Feet is more than a running club.
"We're a community of support, love, respect," she says. Runners greet each other with hugs and words of encouragement. While members say they've lost weight, quit smoking and have more energy, Mahlum believes they're also learning important life skills such as discipline and goal-setting that can help them get on the road to self-sufficiency.
"Running really is a metaphor for life," she says. "There is always another mile. You just have to take it one step at a time."
That's something Mahlum herself has learned over the past 10 years as she's dealt with her father's alcoholism. Running has been her therapy, she says.
"I'm learning more about my life through all of this."Back On My Feet also has a job training program for a partner. Three members are taking classes, learning computer and interview skills, while three others have found jobs.
Mike Solomon, an original member, is one of the group's success stories. A former crack user who spent his youth in and out of trouble on the streets of Wilmington, Delaware, Solomon is employed, in school and training to run a marathon in his hometown. He considers Back on My Feet part of his support group. "Anne is helping people see the hero in themselves," says Solomon. Mahlum aims to have Back On My Feet in 10 local shelters by the end of the year and expand beyond Philadelphia in 2009. She believes her approach could be part of a solution to homelessness. "Do we need homes? Yes. We need jobs? Yes," she says. "But imagine if you didn't have anybody in your life who said, 'I'm really proud of you.' Back On My Feet does just that."
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Service
"In the Kingdom of God, service is not a stepping-stone to nobility: it is nobility." ~T.W. Manson
In what ways are you currently serving?
If you're not, find somewhere to do it.
In what ways are you currently serving?
If you're not, find somewhere to do it.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Romans 13
This chapter begins with a discussion about governments and our responsibility to the law.
Why do you think it is important to obey the law if we are freed from the law in God's eyes?
(a good answer is not "because those are the rules")
What are some laws that could exist that would conflict with obedience to God? (Other than banning Christianity, which is sort of a gimmie)? Hint: think about laws that relate to the way certain people are treated.
Why do you think it is important to obey the law if we are freed from the law in God's eyes?
(a good answer is not "because those are the rules")
What are some laws that could exist that would conflict with obedience to God? (Other than banning Christianity, which is sort of a gimmie)? Hint: think about laws that relate to the way certain people are treated.
Read through the rest of the chapter. What was Paul trying to communicate? How does it apply to you right now?
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Romans 12
Sorry for the delay, its been a crazy couple of days.
Romans 12 probably my favorite chapter of the whole Bible. Its full of stuff that will both convict and give hope. It is a sort of plea from Paul to the believers in Rome to give their lives to Christ. Not in some purely symbolic way either, Paul is calling on Christians to act like the church should which is as the body. Read through it a couple times.
What does it mean to offer your minds and bodies to God?
I think a verse that answer this to an extent is "Everything is permissible but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible, but not everything is constructive. (I Corinthians 10:23)"
There are certain things that people around you may do or say that though they don't seem so bad may send the wrong message. If people know you are a Christian, you then represent Christianity to that person. One they identify that you believe, you become the face of Jesus to them in a very real way.
How has your life changed?
What excuses do you make for your self?
Paul tells us that offering ourselves is a spiritual act of worship. How does that statement affect/reflect your definition of worship?
Verse 9 begins a passage on love. What are a few examples of love that is sincere. What about insincere?
Romans 12 probably my favorite chapter of the whole Bible. Its full of stuff that will both convict and give hope. It is a sort of plea from Paul to the believers in Rome to give their lives to Christ. Not in some purely symbolic way either, Paul is calling on Christians to act like the church should which is as the body. Read through it a couple times.
What does it mean to offer your minds and bodies to God?
I think a verse that answer this to an extent is "Everything is permissible but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible, but not everything is constructive. (I Corinthians 10:23)"
There are certain things that people around you may do or say that though they don't seem so bad may send the wrong message. If people know you are a Christian, you then represent Christianity to that person. One they identify that you believe, you become the face of Jesus to them in a very real way.
How has your life changed?
What excuses do you make for your self?
Paul tells us that offering ourselves is a spiritual act of worship. How does that statement affect/reflect your definition of worship?
Verse 9 begins a passage on love. What are a few examples of love that is sincere. What about insincere?
Saturday, March 08, 2008
Romans 6 - 7
I find Romans 6 to be one the most powerful statements concerning the nature of our relationship to God now that we have Jesus.
Romans 6:4 is commonly recited during baptisms. Our life in Christ is an entirely new one. Its not just about forgiveness, its about a whole new life. Verse 5 explains it even further by telling us that as we join together in Jesus' sufferings we also get to join Him in conquering death.
v. 11 "Consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus."
The end of ch 6 uses slavery a number of times to describe the nature of our relationship to sin and eventually righteousness. Given this countries history of slavery our idea of slavery is a bit skewed. Here is a description of what Roman slavery was like (http://www.richeast.org/htwm/Greeks/Romans/slavery/slavery2.html).
While it is death we are owed for our sin, we are given the gift of grace.
Ch 7.
Our faithfulness to Him is what God desires. Pursuing both our sinful nature and God is adultery. Are you cheating on Him? When I was in high school I used to tell people I was a Christian. I even made up a church that I went to. The problem is that while I was talking good about church I had no place in my life for God. Going to camps, youth group. Sunday mornings, Sunday School and more are great way to be in community, but if that your whole relationship with God, you may need to evaluate your priorities. We are told in Romans that we cannot serve 2 masters. Who is your master? I know that early in my Christian life I could talk the Christian talk quite well. What I've learned is that God is very real, and my relationship with Him is one that requires commitment.
Paul then goes on to describe the nature of the laws God as given us. The way Paul explains the law is brilliant. Read through it as many times as it takes to follow whats being said. While Romans can be tough to follow at times, it is very rich in theology and the lessons you are given through will stick with you forever.
We'll do Ch's 8-9 Monday. Re-read 1-7 this weekend and see if there is anything new that stands out.
Romans 6:4 is commonly recited during baptisms. Our life in Christ is an entirely new one. Its not just about forgiveness, its about a whole new life. Verse 5 explains it even further by telling us that as we join together in Jesus' sufferings we also get to join Him in conquering death.
v. 11 "Consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus."
The end of ch 6 uses slavery a number of times to describe the nature of our relationship to sin and eventually righteousness. Given this countries history of slavery our idea of slavery is a bit skewed. Here is a description of what Roman slavery was like (http://www.richeast.org/htwm/Greeks/Romans/slavery/slavery2.html).
While it is death we are owed for our sin, we are given the gift of grace.
Ch 7.
Our faithfulness to Him is what God desires. Pursuing both our sinful nature and God is adultery. Are you cheating on Him? When I was in high school I used to tell people I was a Christian. I even made up a church that I went to. The problem is that while I was talking good about church I had no place in my life for God. Going to camps, youth group. Sunday mornings, Sunday School and more are great way to be in community, but if that your whole relationship with God, you may need to evaluate your priorities. We are told in Romans that we cannot serve 2 masters. Who is your master? I know that early in my Christian life I could talk the Christian talk quite well. What I've learned is that God is very real, and my relationship with Him is one that requires commitment.
Paul then goes on to describe the nature of the laws God as given us. The way Paul explains the law is brilliant. Read through it as many times as it takes to follow whats being said. While Romans can be tough to follow at times, it is very rich in theology and the lessons you are given through will stick with you forever.
We'll do Ch's 8-9 Monday. Re-read 1-7 this weekend and see if there is anything new that stands out.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
What does grace mean to you?
Sometimes it can be hard to recognize that we even need grace. I think overall, we understand the we have done wrong things in our lives, but it can be challenging to see the full extent of our need. It amazes me that God puts so much value on us, truly Loves (capitalization intentional) us to the extent that he does. In a world where love has come to mean the word by which sex becomes OK we have a savior who values us far more than that. We have a savior who wants to know us far more intimately than that. Grace is God saying He has already made things right. Grace is God telling you and I that the things we have done to hurt Him are no longer able to be used against us. That is the beauty and horror of the cross. We killed God and yet God willingly died.
Sometimes it can be hard to recognize that we even need grace. I think overall, we understand the we have done wrong things in our lives, but it can be challenging to see the full extent of our need. It amazes me that God puts so much value on us, truly Loves (capitalization intentional) us to the extent that he does. In a world where love has come to mean the word by which sex becomes OK we have a savior who values us far more than that. We have a savior who wants to know us far more intimately than that. Grace is God saying He has already made things right. Grace is God telling you and I that the things we have done to hurt Him are no longer able to be used against us. That is the beauty and horror of the cross. We killed God and yet God willingly died.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
1. SOMETHING FOR YOUR HEART
EXTREME FRIENDSHIP--LOVE IS MEANT FOR EVERYONE
Matthew 5:44
"Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
START
Ever since third grade you've been feuding with the sorry excuse for a human being who's just plunked down in the desk in front of you. Last week your squabble erupted afresh when the guy pelted your house with three dozen eggs--resulting in two giant swaths of dimpled siding, three shattered windows, and one traumatized family dog. If that wasn't bad enough, the police interrogated you. Your parents blamed you. The only plus about sitting behind him now is that he can't see your laser-like eyes smoking holes in his skull.
How do you treat people who inflict pain on you?
READ Matthew 5:43-48
Jesus said: 43 "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
THINK
Perfect? Like God? If this command sounds over the top, breathe deeply. Then answer this: Why does Jesus tell you to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you"? (Look for what follows "that you may be...")
On whom does God shower his care--his warm sun and life-giving rain?
Even pagans who don't know God care about people who love them. How can you do better than that?
LIVE
If you love people who cause you pain, are you excusing the wrongs they do? Explain.
You've learned that God wants his care to spread around the world and to every person on the planet. No doubt there are some people you'd rather skip. Yet when you love the unlovable and care for the incurable, you're like God. Perfect. Holy. Mature. God never brushes off evil. In fact, he's the only being in the universe who knows how it feels to have the whole human race stand against him (Romans 5:10). But his undeserved kindness busts through our sinfulness and makes us his friends (Colossians 1:21-22). He wants us to pass on to others the love he's given to us.
When you scan your world, who looks easy to love? Why?
Who is more challenging to love? Make a list. Next to each name, jot down one tiny way you can show this person the same brand of kindness God shows us.
WRAP
You might figure that Jesus received a lot of playground thrashings as a kid. After all, he tells you not just to love your enemies but to "turn your other cheek" (Matthew 5:39 NIRV). One thing shows us for sure that Jesus was no wimp: He was radically tough in his willingness to suffer for our sake. Loving an enemy doesn't mean you're pathetically weak. It proves you're incredibly strong.
copyright 2008 :: Youth Specialties
300 S. Pierce St. // El Cajon, CA 92020
888.346.4179
EXTREME FRIENDSHIP--LOVE IS MEANT FOR EVERYONE
Matthew 5:44
"Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
START
Ever since third grade you've been feuding with the sorry excuse for a human being who's just plunked down in the desk in front of you. Last week your squabble erupted afresh when the guy pelted your house with three dozen eggs--resulting in two giant swaths of dimpled siding, three shattered windows, and one traumatized family dog. If that wasn't bad enough, the police interrogated you. Your parents blamed you. The only plus about sitting behind him now is that he can't see your laser-like eyes smoking holes in his skull.
How do you treat people who inflict pain on you?
READ Matthew 5:43-48
Jesus said: 43 "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."
THINK
Perfect? Like God? If this command sounds over the top, breathe deeply. Then answer this: Why does Jesus tell you to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you"? (Look for what follows "that you may be...")
On whom does God shower his care--his warm sun and life-giving rain?
Even pagans who don't know God care about people who love them. How can you do better than that?
LIVE
If you love people who cause you pain, are you excusing the wrongs they do? Explain.
You've learned that God wants his care to spread around the world and to every person on the planet. No doubt there are some people you'd rather skip. Yet when you love the unlovable and care for the incurable, you're like God. Perfect. Holy. Mature. God never brushes off evil. In fact, he's the only being in the universe who knows how it feels to have the whole human race stand against him (Romans 5:10). But his undeserved kindness busts through our sinfulness and makes us his friends (Colossians 1:21-22). He wants us to pass on to others the love he's given to us.
When you scan your world, who looks easy to love? Why?
Who is more challenging to love? Make a list. Next to each name, jot down one tiny way you can show this person the same brand of kindness God shows us.
WRAP
You might figure that Jesus received a lot of playground thrashings as a kid. After all, he tells you not just to love your enemies but to "turn your other cheek" (Matthew 5:39 NIRV). One thing shows us for sure that Jesus was no wimp: He was radically tough in his willingness to suffer for our sake. Loving an enemy doesn't mean you're pathetically weak. It proves you're incredibly strong.
copyright 2008 :: Youth Specialties
300 S. Pierce St. // El Cajon, CA 92020
888.346.4179
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Style
"Fundamentally, the rituals of our worship teach us. In fact, all rituals have a primary teaching function. Whether our personal rituals involve brushing our teeth before bedtime or after every meal, whether we raise our hand during worship or kneel on little benches under a pew, every little ritual teaches and reinforces."1 Liturgy (or order of service) literally means 'the service of the people.' At times certain styles of service (notice I didn't say style of worship) can seem repetitive or boring. I have been frustrated at various times in my life with different aspects of a service; yet it is important to remember what worship is. Worship is your joining with the global church in adoration of God. That can happen anywhere. If you find yourself frustrated by a style issue, think about those who may connect deeply with God as a result of the thing you don't connect with. It is out of love for those people and love for our Savior that we must worship in spite of ourselves. Worship isn't about you or me, it's about God. Do you come to worship to be blessed, or to be a blessing?
"The glory of God is {people} fully alive"
-St Irenaeus
1. "Facing the Music: Where is Worship taking students?" by Brad Griffin and Kara Powell. The Journal of Student Ministries; January/February 2007. p42 - 46.
"The glory of God is {people} fully alive"
-St Irenaeus
1. "Facing the Music: Where is Worship taking students?" by Brad Griffin and Kara Powell. The Journal of Student Ministries; January/February 2007. p42 - 46.
Friday, December 07, 2007
Self-love
What is the best thing about you?
Don't be modest about it, if there were one thing about you that everyone would see or notice, what would you want it to be?
The value which God sees in us is immense. Jesus said he came to heal the sick because the healthy have no need for a doctor. It is the same with the way God looks at our self-imposed 'flaws'. Jesus doesn't use perfect people, He doesn't hang out with perfect people, He does call imperfect people to follow Him.
In order to truly love another person, you have to understand what it means to love yourself. Remember I'm talking about love hear not lust. Self love follows the 1 Corinthians 13 definition of love. Self-lust is just the opposite. (Take some time to read that definition...now insert the opposites to see what love is not.)
It's OK to like things about yourself. God has gifted you and rejoices in you. How can you use that quality or qualities of yourself to love both yourself and love others?
How can you allow Jesus to guide you through the insecurities you may have?
Don't be modest about it, if there were one thing about you that everyone would see or notice, what would you want it to be?
The value which God sees in us is immense. Jesus said he came to heal the sick because the healthy have no need for a doctor. It is the same with the way God looks at our self-imposed 'flaws'. Jesus doesn't use perfect people, He doesn't hang out with perfect people, He does call imperfect people to follow Him.
In order to truly love another person, you have to understand what it means to love yourself. Remember I'm talking about love hear not lust. Self love follows the 1 Corinthians 13 definition of love. Self-lust is just the opposite. (Take some time to read that definition...now insert the opposites to see what love is not.)
It's OK to like things about yourself. God has gifted you and rejoices in you. How can you use that quality or qualities of yourself to love both yourself and love others?
How can you allow Jesus to guide you through the insecurities you may have?
Friday, November 02, 2007
Try this next week!! (Nov 5-11)
One of the many spiritual disciplines is daily reading and prayer. The following is from "A guide to Prayer" which is available in my office. Use it through this next week. Each day has the same structure with different scriptures and readings readings. Try this for the next week. Comment on you experience with the exercise.
Invocation:
I. (start with this each day) O Lord, you who has organized this wondrous world, and who knows all things in earth and heaven: fill our hearts with trust in you by day and night, at all times and in all seasons, so that we may, without fear, commit all that we have and hope to be your unfailing love in this life and the next. We pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
II. (each day) Read Psalm 136
III. Scripture readings:
Monday: Galatians 5:13-24
Tuesday: Romans 5:1-11
Wednesday: Ephesians 5:1-20
Thursday: Hebrews 13:1-6
Friday: Deuteronomy 7:6-16
Saturday: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
Sunday: Acts 7:55-60; Psalm 31:1-8; 1 Peter 2:2-10
IV. Spend some time in prayer: pray for the Church (think big), for others, for yourself
V. Reflect: write down your thoughts, not for anyone else.
VI. Find a favorite worship song or hymn, listen to the words.
VII. Take the time to thank God for what He has done.
Invocation:
I. (start with this each day) O Lord, you who has organized this wondrous world, and who knows all things in earth and heaven: fill our hearts with trust in you by day and night, at all times and in all seasons, so that we may, without fear, commit all that we have and hope to be your unfailing love in this life and the next. We pray in Jesus' name, Amen.
II. (each day) Read Psalm 136
III. Scripture readings:
Monday: Galatians 5:13-24
Tuesday: Romans 5:1-11
Wednesday: Ephesians 5:1-20
Thursday: Hebrews 13:1-6
Friday: Deuteronomy 7:6-16
Saturday: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
Sunday: Acts 7:55-60; Psalm 31:1-8; 1 Peter 2:2-10
IV. Spend some time in prayer: pray for the Church (think big), for others, for yourself
V. Reflect: write down your thoughts, not for anyone else.
VI. Find a favorite worship song or hymn, listen to the words.
VII. Take the time to thank God for what He has done.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
The Church erupted out of love
"The Church erupted out of an act of love. It shouldn't surprise us that the church only moves toward God when it is fueled by love. In a world of imitations, real love draws a crowd. It stands out. It is undeniable. It is defining. I have to admit that for the first ten years of my Christian life, I was far more attracted to faith than love. If my life were a bible, it would say 'You will be known by your faith and love is important too.' I wanted to be known by faith.
In some ways, that drove me into some pretty extreme situations. It put me in the middle of machine guns, Jamaican drug dealers, a world of prostitution, pimps, and johns. My life of faith has carried me to the street corners to preach the Gospel; and it has even put me face to face with death many times. Yet in the middle of that journey, Jesus changed my core motivation. While he wanted me to live by faith, the only way I could really know Him was to also become known by love."
-Erwin McManus
An Unstoppable Force
Jesus told us the greatest of faith, hope and love, was love. Our faith brings us to place of acknowledging that God exists, God is present, God is good. In hope we find that God has a plan and will guide. In love we become His body. In love we participate in Christ.
In some ways, that drove me into some pretty extreme situations. It put me in the middle of machine guns, Jamaican drug dealers, a world of prostitution, pimps, and johns. My life of faith has carried me to the street corners to preach the Gospel; and it has even put me face to face with death many times. Yet in the middle of that journey, Jesus changed my core motivation. While he wanted me to live by faith, the only way I could really know Him was to also become known by love."
-Erwin McManus
An Unstoppable Force
Jesus told us the greatest of faith, hope and love, was love. Our faith brings us to place of acknowledging that God exists, God is present, God is good. In hope we find that God has a plan and will guide. In love we become His body. In love we participate in Christ.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Love is
"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails."
-1 Corinthians 13:4-8
There were 3 different words in the Greek language for love...
agape - unconditional
phileo- the type of love one has for a brother or sister
eros- erotic, lust
The love referred to in the above passage is agape. It is the love we should all strive to achieve. Its is also the love we have been shown. Its the type of love that no matter how hard you fight it or resent it, never stops. Read that passage a few times, insert the word agape where "love" appears. This is God's message to you, for you. Our obedience to this love should be a response to its unfailing nature. This verse should never become cliche because it should never cease to be amazing. It is used far too often (just watch the Bachelor) and not enough people understand what type of love they are getting into by saying it. How are you affected by this impossible to escape love?
-1 Corinthians 13:4-8
There were 3 different words in the Greek language for love...
agape - unconditional
phileo- the type of love one has for a brother or sister
eros- erotic, lust
The love referred to in the above passage is agape. It is the love we should all strive to achieve. Its is also the love we have been shown. Its the type of love that no matter how hard you fight it or resent it, never stops. Read that passage a few times, insert the word agape where "love" appears. This is God's message to you, for you. Our obedience to this love should be a response to its unfailing nature. This verse should never become cliche because it should never cease to be amazing. It is used far too often (just watch the Bachelor) and not enough people understand what type of love they are getting into by saying it. How are you affected by this impossible to escape love?
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Identity
If I were to ask someone from your school what makes you "you", how would they respond?
What if I asked someone from church?
Your parents?
Obviously the responses would be a little different depending on who was asked. These questions get at your identity. In a time when so many false identities are being presented for you to follow, it is important to recognize who you really are. I was asked durung my first few weeks of college (go JBU!) what I would like people to say about me once I graduated. There were many things that came to my mind. Did I want to be popular, respected (those two can be very different things), admired, desired, behind the scenes, upfront, etc? I talked about it for a while with my roomate (Gundy, for those of you who met him at CHIC) and we came to a similar conclusion that our identity must point people towards Christ. If our identity is found in Him, we receive a real sense of value. There is a lot of responsibility involved with it as well. I had a friend in high school that refused to put the Jesus fish on his car because they people might judge Christianity by his driving, he was being funny, but its sort of true. When people identify us as Christians, we do represent Him. We could really shock some people if we represent Him well. A few months ago I was with some students driving to Manchvegas from Nashua, we pulled up to a toll booth blaring music. The woman at the toll booth looked very annoyed as we pulled up, however, as we got closer and she realized we were blaring classical music her whole attitude changed. Its that kind of thing that can occur when we take our identity as Christians seriously. People might stop viewing the Church as judgmental and start seeing the real love that is should be present.
Ask yourself the questions at the beginning of this post.
If someone asks you who you are, does your identity go beyond your name?
What if I asked someone from church?
Your parents?
Obviously the responses would be a little different depending on who was asked. These questions get at your identity. In a time when so many false identities are being presented for you to follow, it is important to recognize who you really are. I was asked durung my first few weeks of college (go JBU!) what I would like people to say about me once I graduated. There were many things that came to my mind. Did I want to be popular, respected (those two can be very different things), admired, desired, behind the scenes, upfront, etc? I talked about it for a while with my roomate (Gundy, for those of you who met him at CHIC) and we came to a similar conclusion that our identity must point people towards Christ. If our identity is found in Him, we receive a real sense of value. There is a lot of responsibility involved with it as well. I had a friend in high school that refused to put the Jesus fish on his car because they people might judge Christianity by his driving, he was being funny, but its sort of true. When people identify us as Christians, we do represent Him. We could really shock some people if we represent Him well. A few months ago I was with some students driving to Manchvegas from Nashua, we pulled up to a toll booth blaring music. The woman at the toll booth looked very annoyed as we pulled up, however, as we got closer and she realized we were blaring classical music her whole attitude changed. Its that kind of thing that can occur when we take our identity as Christians seriously. People might stop viewing the Church as judgmental and start seeing the real love that is should be present.
Ask yourself the questions at the beginning of this post.
If someone asks you who you are, does your identity go beyond your name?
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
To Love
"Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact you must give it to no one, not even an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements. Lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket--safe, dark, motionless, airless--it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. To love is to be vulnerable."
"It is probably impossible to love any human being simply too much. We may love him too much in proportion to our love for God; but it is the smallness of our love for God, not the greatness of our love for the man, that constitutes the inordinacy."
-from The Four Loves by C. S. Lewis
This should apply to all our relationships, to God, to friends, to enemies, to strangers, to family, and more.
Reaction....?
"It is probably impossible to love any human being simply too much. We may love him too much in proportion to our love for God; but it is the smallness of our love for God, not the greatness of our love for the man, that constitutes the inordinacy."
-from The Four Loves by C. S. Lewis
This should apply to all our relationships, to God, to friends, to enemies, to strangers, to family, and more.
Reaction....?
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